#rinbiki

“I did. Six times.” Saya said sheepishly. “It would have been more if Chrom hadn’t stopped me.” “I didn’t mean to worry you.” Nozomi stepped forward, hugging Saya tightly. As Saya hugged her back she closed her eyes, relishing in the warmth emanating from her girlfriend. “I’m sorry.” “It’s okay. Can I come in?” Saya requested, slowly drawing back. She waited for Nozomi to nod and move back before she stepped into the apartment, glancing around. She half expected to see one of Nozomi’s friends there. “So what happened? You said you have a lot going on?” “Just...it’s a long story.” Nozomi said, grimacing slightly. “I have time.” Saya reached out, gently smoothing down Nozomi’s hair. “Let me make you some coffee and we’ll talk. You look like you need someone to talk to.” Nozomi bit the inside of her cheek, her throat tightening with emotion. She could only nod and slowly follow Saya into the kitchen where the brunette immediately got to work brewing some coffee for her. “Honoka-chan quit Muse.” She blurted out. “And Umi-chan slapped her. Rin-chan got hurt too. And Elichi punched Nicocchi in the face.” Saya paused, having been reaching up to get a cup. After a second she took hold of the cup she was looking for and turned to Nozomi. “Did you get hurt?” “No, I-I’m fine.” Nozomi took Saya’s free hand and pulled her in, kissing her sweetly. “I’m okay, I promise. I just hate seeing my friends fighting like that.” Saya nodded understandingly. “Our group have...obviously gotten into a fair amount of fights over the years. It’s never gotten physical, mainly because we’re careful with things like that around Chrom, Hisa and Raven but...it’s hard to see your friends falling out. It’ll work out, I’m sure.” Nozomi closed her eyes for a moment. She hoped it would but after what she had witnessed the previous day she didn’t see how it would work out. “Maybe I should go and check on Honoka-chan today…”

“Want me to come with you?” Saya asked hopefully. “I have the day off. I could come with you if you want.”

“It’s okay. But thank you. For offering.” Nozomi kissed Saya briefly once more. “Can I drop you off at least?” Saya pouted. “And then maybe we get dinner later?” She grimaced slightly. “If you want. I don’t want to be overbearing.” Nozomi gave a light laugh. “You’ll be sick of me by the time we move in together.”

Hisa noticed, frowning. “Is that what’s wrong? Did you two get into a fight?”

“I knew this would happen.” Nico said angrily, burying her head in her arms atop her knees again. “I knew this was a bad fucking idea. I’m such an idiot!” “Whoa, whoa. Calm down!” “How?!” Nico growled tearfully, looking up at Hisa. “She found her soulmate!” “Sometimes soulmates aren’t the ones you want, you know? Just chill.” Hisa placed a calming hand on Nico’s shoulder only to be angrily shrugged off. “I have a friend...Uni. She’s just...insanely in love with my other friend, Saya. Even if she found her soulmate there’s no way she’d want to be with anyone but Saya. She would choose her every time.” Nico stared at Hisa blankly. “So I’m Uni in this scenario? And Umi is Saya who found her Yuki in NOZOMI?!” “Crap, bad example. Bad example!” Hisa hit herself on the forehead with the heel of her hand. “Uh, I don’t like using this as an example but my sister and Izetta! Did you know my sister found her soulmate and turned them down because she loves Izetta?” Nico sniffled softly. “Does Izetta love her?” “Yes. They’re actually dating much to my annoyance as a big sister.” Hisa replied honestly. “Itsuki is seventeen and Izetta is twenty. Raven’s age.” “It doesn’t make a difference.” Nico said in despair. “You should have seen them in there, Umi looked like...like she was seeing everything for the first time. She said everything was brighter. And she couldn’t keep her eyes off…” Her voice cracked and she angrily slammed her fist onto the floor, tears forming in her eyes again. “Damn it. What the hell am I gonna do?” “Just relax for a…” “If you tell me to relax one more time, I swear I’ll punch you.” Nico growled furiously. “Just leave me alone.” “Yeah, not happening. And for the record, I was in the army, I can take a few punches.” Hisa sat down with her back against the wall next to Nico. “Just understand that when people see color for the first time it’s hard to adjust. Maybe she was in shock.” “SHE’S SEEN COLOR ALREADY!” “What?” “When I kissed her or held her hand or even just looked at her!” Nico said, her voice thick with emotion. That wouldn’t be happening again. Not for Umi. Hisa thought about that for a moment. “Well now it’s not going away, right? It’s hard to focus when everything is brighter and has more complications and elements. Besides she seems more worried about you.” She pointed past them to Umi who was standing alone near the door, looking around. “No, no, no...don’t let her see me. I can’t let her think that I…” “What? That you care?” Hisa cupped her hand in front of her mouth. “UMI!” “HISA!” Nico growled angrily as the redhead stood up. “Why the hell would you do that?!” “It’s for your own good. Well I have to head in there.” Hisa headed for the door as Umi ran toward the two of them. “Don’t say anything.” Nico bowed her head as Umi reached her. Umi noticed tears on Nico’s cheeks and fell to her knees, pulling Nico into a hug. She felt Nico resist but refused to let go. Finally, Nico fell still. “Nico, I’m sorry…” “I know, alright?” Nico closed her eyes, trying to ignore the colors she’d be able to see. “It’s not your fault, I get it.” “I don’t want Anju.” Umi said, her voice slightly muffled. “I want you, I love YOU!” Nico froze in Umi’s arms. “You love me?” “Yes.” Umi murmured, reaching up to gently run her hand over Nico’s hair. “I love you, Nico. I don’t want to be with anyone else.” “But she’s your soulmate…” “Screw that!” Umi’s sharp tone and cursing shocked both Nico and Umi herself. “I mean...I don’t want that. I wish this had never happened. I don’t want to see color if I don’t get it from you. I love when you touch me and everything brightens. But that’s…” “Not going to work anymore.” Nico said softly, drawing away. She was surprised to see tears in Umi’s eyes too. “Why are you crying?” “Because my life never goes the way I want it to!” “Umi, I-I...damn it.” Nico averted her eyes. She wanted to say it but she couldn’t bring herself to. She took a deep breath. “I think...no, I know...I love you. But she’s your soulmate. You know how this works. You’ve seen it with your sister and Hisa. Kotori and Maki. Honoka and Eli. Nozomi and Saya.” “But she doesn’t get it. She’ll never understand me. Not like you.” Umi said with a hint of desperation. “I don’t want to give this up, Nico. It’s more important to me than anything else. I choose you. Please believe me! Don’t just run away because of this!” “What would you do if you were in my position?” Nico rasped, her throat sore from crying. “If my soulmate turned up? How would you feel?” “I would...be terrified because I don’t want to lose you.” Umi said honestly. “But I would fight to keep you because I know there’s nobody better for me than you. I will fight for you.” Nico wiped at her eyes, sniffling softly. She didn’t know what to say to Umi. She wanted to believe her but how could she when Umi had just met her soulmate? “Umi, I don’t…” Nico was cut off by the sound of the door to the right of them being thrown open. She looked up in time to catch Rin’s eyes. “Are you coming, nya?!” Rin exclaimed as she hurried over to them. “We have to go onstage in a minute. Nico-chan, are you crying?” “No.” Nico answered gruffly as she got to her feet. “I overheard Honoka-chan say that you met your soulmate, nya.” Rin said, turning to Umi, her brow furrowed in confusion. She noticed that Umi was watching Nico carefully. “What about…?” “Rin, don’t.” Umi warned softly, getting to her feet as Nico walked away. She grimaced as she watched Nico’s retreating back. “I don’t want that. I don’t want to be the soulmate of a rich, sheltered girl. Nico is my soulmate.” Rin tilted her head, still confused. “But if she was you would have seen colors when…” “Shut up, Rin.” Umi angrily pushed past Rin and hurried back into the building after Nico. “What did I say…?” ---- Miyu watched Hanayo closely, noticing the glow in the girl’s cheeks. She looked happy. Vibrant even. They had made their way back to Miyu’s house shortly after the performance. Thankfully Chrom had opted to go out with Raven, Akari and the others. They had tried to persuade Hanayo and Miyu to go too but Hanayo had politely declined. Miyu knew that Nozomi, Honoka, Rin and some of the other girls from Muse had chosen to go though. “You were amazing.” Miyu complimented honestly, leaning back into the couch. She had to admit, it was nice to have the house to themselves for a change. Hanayo smiled warmly at the compliment and tucked her hair behind her ear. “Thank you, Miyu-chan. I’m happy you liked the performance.” “That’s an understatement.” Miyu said with a soft chuckle. “Onii-san and the others loved it too. I heard them singing on the way back to the car…” She shook her head in dismay at the idea but she was relieved that Chrom and their friend group had accepted Hanayo so easily. Hanayo sat up slightly, removing her jacket. Miyu watched as it was slowly taken off. She was so busy watching that she didn’t notice when Hanayo moved toward her until she found herself on her back, Hanayo looming over her. Her eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected gesture. She swallowed thickly, able to feel Hanayo’s weight subtly pressing her down into the couch. “Hanayo? Wha…?” “I want my kiss.” Hanayo pouted down at Miyu. “You promised, remember?” Miyu relaxed, a smile tugging at her lips as she remembered telling Hanayo that she would want some alone time with her after the performance. She cleared her throat before she spoke, trying to imitate Hanayo’s sudden confidence. “So come and get it then.” Hanayo didn’t need to be asked twice. She leaned in and kissed Miyu deeply, one hand going to rest at the side of Miyu’s neck. Miyu’s arms wrapped around Hanayo’s back to tug her closer to her. The warmth of Hanayo’s body pressed against hers and the softness of Hanayo’s lips had her heard racing frantically as she leaned up to kiss back. Slowly, Hanayo eased back and the two shared a soft smile. “I like this new confident Hanayo.” Miyu said honestly, watching the way Hanayo’s purple eyes sparkled as she looked down at her. She reached up, brushing her fingers over Hanayo’s cheek only for Hanayo to turn and kiss her palm. “You haven’t seen anything yet.” Miyu blushed at the comment and let her hand trail down, gripping the front of Hanayo’s shirt. She tugged her back down to her, their lips brushing. “Maybe we could go back to the kissing?” Hanayo was momentarily distracted by the slight kiss before she remembered what she wanted to say. “Go on a date with me.” Miyu’s eyes widened. “Your fans will kill me.” “Let them get jealous.” Hanayo answered, unworried by the prospect. “You’re mine.” Miyu groaned at Hanayo’s grin and let her head fall back to the couch “Okay, what are you doing to me…?” “Letting out my wild side. What else?” Miyu pouted. “I want you to take me. Damn it. We haven’t known each other for long enough. Damn the rules when it comes to soulmates...compared to the married couple we barely even know each other.” “Rin-chan and Hibiki-chan?” Hanayo guessed. She saw Miyu answer with a nod. Miyu bit her lip, thinking for a moment. “What are your hobbies besides idol stuff?” “I like cooking...mostly rice.” Hanayo blushed as Miyu snorted in amusement. “D-Don’t laugh! I also like tech stuff.” “Oh, so you’re a nerd?” “Well after Maki-chan I am the second smartest of the group.” Hanayo answered with a small smile. “I like coding.” “Can you hack?” “Y-Yes.” Miyu straightened up, her eyes wide. “Let’s hack Chrom’s computer!” “Why?” Hanayo looked puzzled. “I don’t know him very well but it seems like the only thing he’d have hidden on his computer are nerdy movies and study material.” Miyu visibly deflated. “Ugh, you’re not wrong. Maybe Hisa. She would have some interesting stuff on hers. Probably something really girly like wedding dresses for when she finally gets around to marrying Kaiyo-san.” “If you can find a way to get her laptop, I’ll hack it.” Miyu grinned at the comment. “You’re the best girlfriend in the world. Would you eve-” “I’m not going to hack Rin’s soulmate’s computer.” Miyu pouted. “I was going to say smartphone...but fine. I’ll get the laptop. Somehow.” Hanayo sighed. “I don’t usually tell people about that side of me. It just kind of happened because I liked messing around with my laptop. It’s when I stumbled upon coding tutorials that got me obsessed. Not as much as rice and idols but close…” Miyu grinned. “Your nerdy secret is safe with me.” Hanayo pouted before she tackled Miyu back down to the couch. ---- Umi glanced around the room she had been staying in for the past few days. Kaiyo and Hisa had gone to pick up her things from her parents’ house the previous so with her belongings in the room the place was beginning to feel more like home. She picked up her bag and was just about to walk toward her open bedroom door when her phone rang in her pocket. She took her phone out, finding the number to be one she didn’t recognize. She answered it anyway and put the phone to her ear. “Hello?” “Umi-san?” Anju’s voice sounded hesitant on the other end of the line. “It’s Anju. You remember, from A-Rise?” Umi blinked, almost dropping the phone. Her face turned red. “How could I forget?” She asked, confused by Anju’s introduction. “H-How did you get my number?” “Your friend gave it to me.” Anju answered quietly. “Kousaka-san? We didn’t get a chance to talk before you left last night. I’m sorry for getting you in trouble with your...girlfriend?” “W-What?!” Umi spluttered in surprise. “You mean Nico? She’s not...we’re not...together. It’s not like that. It’s just...I think you misunderstood.” “Oh...sorry.” Anju replied, seemingly surprised herself. “W-Would you care to get coffee with me this evening? I mean if you have practice or you’re busy, it’s…” “It’s fine.” Umi interrupted before Anju could finish speaking. She walked over to her bed, sitting down on the edge. “But I prefer tea.” “Me too, usually.” Anju said brightly. Umi heard a soft thump in the background and wondered if Anju was doing exactly what she was. “Is this what meeting your soulmate feels like...I feel like we should have known each other our whole lives.” Umi swallowed thickly. “Yeah.” She whispered. She couldn’t deny that she felt a connection to Anju. “Yeah. It seems like we have a lot in common.” “Do you want me to meet you at your school later?” Anju asked, her tone brightening once more. “No!” Umi exclaimed quickly to that, thinking of what Nico’s reaction would be. “I-I mean...you have fans at my school, you know? I’ll meet you at yours. I don’t have practice today so it’ll be fine.” “Neither do I.” Anju sighed. “Tsubasa’s called off practice. She says I should focus on my soulmate.” Umi grimaced. “She seems...fun.” “You have no idea.” “So I’ll…” Umi looked up at the sound of someone clearing their throat. Her eyes widened when she saw Hisa standing in the doorway. “Um...I’ll talk to you later, Anju. I have to leave for school. Bye!” “The soulmate, I assume?” Hisa drawled, leaning against the doorframe with her arms crossed in front of her chest. She watched as Umi blushed and looked away. “You know...when I met your sister for the first time it was like...opening my eyes for the first time. It was shocking. I wanted nothing but to spend time with her even though I barely knew her. It all happens so fast…” “What’s your point?” Umi grumbled, looking down at her phone in her hands. “Soulmates are usually chosen to us because we have something in common.” Hisa continued. “A trait we both share. Kaiyo and me both want to help people. Me physically and her mentally. I’m assuming Minami and her girlfriend both want to reach their goals and are determined to do it? And Saya and Nozomi both have this trait of...devotion.” “Honoka and Eli both share the ability to lead and the need to succeed.” Umi whispered without looking up. “And me and Anju…” “Both come from upper classes. And both want to break free from it.” Hisa finished knowingly. “Seems like...the opposite of your current girlfriend, right?” Umi looked up sharply. “So you’re saying I should just break up with her?” Hisa gave a short laugh and shrugged her shoulders. “If you want my advice I’d tell you to block that number and not go on your date. But it’s not my decision, it’s yours. And Kaiyo says I’m not meant to influence you too much. Besides, we both know you won’t do it.” Umi tightened her grip on the phone in her hand. “How do you know?” “Because I know. I wouldn’t have deleted Kaiyo’s after all.” Hisa took her weight off of the door, straightening up. “Get ready for school. You’re going to be late.” Umi closed her eyes, picturing two people. One with kind eyes and a taller build. The other with hard but kind eyes, a bit shorter than the other girl. Both waiting for her. Umi groaned and fell back onto the bed. “Damn it.” ---- Later that day “I lied about Nico.” Anju blinked as Umi sat down across from her. She had noticed that the second year had seemed preoccupied on their way to the cafe but she hadn’t said anything about it. “What?” “She is my girlfriend.” Umi said in a hushed, hurried tone of voice “And I’m in love with her. I don’t want this...any of this soulmate thing if it means I can’t be with her.” Anju’s eyes widened at the admission before she let out a sigh of relief. “Oh, thank the gods…” “Huh?” “I’m not ready to come out...or even consider being with a woman despite going both ways.” Anju explained, noticing Umi’s confusion. “I don’t even know if I do go both ways. Tsubasa just wouldn’t stop going on about this which is why I asked you out.” “So we agree?” Umi asked hopefully. She had expected Anju to be upset at the very least. “We’re not going to pursue this? Even if we are...soulmates?” Anju nodded her head in confirmation. “Do you think I’ll be able to...do what you did? With Yazawa-san? Cause someone to see color?” “I don’t see why you shouldn’t be able to.” Umi said with a warm smile. “If you find someone who hasn’t met their soulmate. It could happen. You need a strong emotional bond and physical attraction. That’s how it happened between me and Nico.” “Oooh, how romantic! I would love to hear the whole thing!” Anju exclaimed brightly. “Of course. Let me just get us some dri…” Umi trailed off as her phone chimed. She grimaced, finding it was from Nozomi, telling her to come over to talk to Nico. “Um…” “You have to go?” Anju asked knowingly. “I…” “Hey, Umi!” Umi looked up in time to see a blue haired man approach with a steaming cup of coffee. “Chrom! Oh, um...this is Yuki Anju. Anju, this is Chrom.” “The soulmate, right...Hisa mentioned her.” Anju’s eyes widened as Chrom’s colbert blue eyes turned to her. “Y-You have gorgeous eyes.” Chrom looked puzzled, questioningly pointing to himself. “I’m so sorry.” Anju apologized, embarrassed by her outburst. “I just started seeing color and your eyes are just so different.” Chrom smiled easily as Anju’s cheeks seemed to darken. He leaned toward Umi, lowering his voice. “She’s cute.” He told her before he addressed Anju. “It’s a pity I can’t see yours. They are light though.” Umi looked between them in confusion for a moment. “Um...I’ve been called away for a while. Chrom, could you keep my...could you keep Anju company?” “Sure. I have some time.” Chrom answered with a shrug of his shoulders. He sat down in the seat Umi vacated. “Have fun.” Umi lightly teased Anju before she picked up her bag and turned, walking out of the cafe. At the door she turned back to see the two smiling at each other, Anju blushing as she spoke. She shook her head in amusement, feeling lighter than when she had entered the cafe. She just had to find Nico now. ---- “Finally!” Nozomi exclaimed as she opened the door to find Umi standing there. She grabbed Umi’s arm, tugging her into the apartment and closed the door. “Can you go and talk to your girlfriend, please? We’ve done our best but she’s...we don’t know what else to do.” “I think she’s crying in the bathroom again.” Saya said with a sigh as she walked around the corner with Hisa next to her. “Hisa wanted to kick the door down.” Umi frowned at Hisa. “Do you always think with your fists?” “Hey, I’m trying to help.” Hisa indignantly crossed her arms in front of her chest. “How did your date go?” “I think she prefers boys. Especially blue eyed boys.” Umi answered. “Now where is Nico.” “The bathroom.” Saya said slowly, frowning at Umi. “Remember? She’s locked herself in. Hisa wanted to knock down the door…?” Nozomi smirked, covering her mouth with her hand to hide it. Umi steeled herself and walked toward the bathroom determinedly. Reaching it she raised a hand, knocking on the door. “Nico?” “GO AWAY!” Nico called back loudly, her voice thick with emotion. Umi gripped her chest, overcome with emotion. She knew it wasn’t her own, at least not completely. She sighed, pressing her forehead to the doorframe. “Nico, open the door. Please. Nothing happened at all. I chose you. I even told her I’m in love with you. Just...let me in, okay? I just want to talk. Please?” There was a moment of silence before the door opened and Nico appeared. Umi moved into the bathroom and wrapped her arms around her tearful girlfriend, kicking the door shut behind her. She felt Nico resist for a moment before the girl seemed to melt into her arms. Someone knocked hard on the door. “APPARENTLY SHE’S STRAIGHT!” Hisa yelled through the door. Nico pulled away from Umi, frowning. “Why aren’t you on your date anyway? Hisa said you were going for coffee.” “I was but…” Umi reached out, sighing as Nico stepped away. “I want to be with you. I felt your emotions. I want to hold you, Nico. Please…” “You mean Nozomi called you even though I TOLD HER NOT TO!” Nico raised her voice so Nozomi could heard her through the door. “Nico, she’s straight.” Umi insisted. “Neither of us wanted this. She’s with CHROM right now!” “I KNEW IT!” Another yell came from outside. “Saya!” Nozomi exclaimed loudly. “Just trust me, Nico.” Umi continued softly, staring at Nico imploringly. “If I was interested in her, why am I even here? I only went on that date because I felt like I had to...and then to tell her I don’t want anything to do with this ‘soulmate’ thing. I have my soulmate. I chose my soulmate!” Nico blinked against fresh tears. “I love you.” “I love you too.” Umi hugged Nico again, blinking back her own tears. “So much. I don’t ever want to let go of this. I want to make you see color. Brighten your world.” Nico drew back slightly and kissed Umi hard, a sharp whimper passing her lips. She opened her eyes slightly just to see color spike around them before she closed them again. Slowly she pulled away, looking around. “It’s brighter than usual…” “Our bond is only growing stronger, Nico.” Umi said softly, brushing her thumb against Nico’s cheek. “I’m never going to leave you. I promise.” Nico smiled faintly at that and nodded her head. “I trust you.” She leaned against Umi’s shoulder, their fingers interlocking between them and felt a gentle kiss being pressed to her head. ----- “Just a little bit further, Honoka-chan.” Hanayo panted as she jogged down the street. Honoka was a step or so behind her, just as out of breath. Hanayo felt something vibrate in her pocket and briefly worried that if she stopped Umi would yell at her. Realizing Umi wouldn’t be able to see her though she stopped and took her phone out of her pocket. Seeing that it was Miyu calling she beamed and answered the phone. “Miyu-chan!” “Hey.” Miyu said quietly. “You sound out of breath. Are you okay?” “Just running with Honoka-chan.” Hanayo answered, glancing at Honoka who was bent over with her hands on her knees. “You’re not still thinking about what I said, are you?” Miyu asked guiltily. “All I meant was that you eat a lot of rice. I wasn’t saying there way anything wrong with you. I...like the way you look.” Hanayo blushed, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “It’s okay, Miyu-chan.” Miyu awkwardly cleared her throat. “Uh...I have the laptop. Maybe you could come over?” “Sure. I’ll be over in twenty minutes…” “Oh, can I come?!” Honoka asked, looking up hopefully. “Please?! Umi’s gonna make me run more if she finds me.” Hanayo sighed and rolled her eyes. “Can Honoka-chan come over? She’s hiding from Umi-chan.” “Sure.” Miyu said brightly. “I’ll see you soon.” “Bye.” Hanayo ended the call and slipped her phone into her pocket, noticing Honoka beaming excitedly. “Let’s hurry, I think I hear Umi-chan coming…” Honoka’s eyes widened and she quickly dashed off down the street. Hanayo quickly followed, catching up with Honoka after a moment, grabbing her wrist. “Time to hit the train!” ---- Upon being led into the living room by Miyu, Honoka did a double-take when she saw a blue haired woman sitting on the couch. For a moment, she thought it was Umi. She quickly realized who it must have been. “You must be Umi-chan’s sister!” She exclaimed brightly as she walked forward. “I’m Kousaka Honoka. Umi-chan is my…” “Best friend, I know.” Kaiyo said with a small smile. “It’s nice to meet you, Honoka-san.” Honoka smiled back before she looked to the laptop on the table. “What are you doing?” “My girlfriend is gonna hack her girlfriend’s computer!” Miyu said excitedly, earning herself a groan from Hanayo. Kaiyo smiled sheepishly. “I kinda do want to know where she wants to get married. She won’t tell me anything about what she has planned for Canada. I can’t wait to see all of the girly stuff in there. I’m sure there’s a ring she’s saving up for in there. Every time I try to look at what she’s doing she slams the laptop closed…” Honoka smirked. “Maybe she’s watching po…” “She’s not.” Kaiyo interrupted while Hanayo shook her head in disdain. “This might take a while.” Hanayo warned as she sat down on the couch in front of the laptop. “You should make yourselves comfortable.” Honoka sighed and sank down to sit on the arm of the couch next to Kaiyo. “You look a lot like Umi-chan.” She remarked thoughtfully. She noticed out of the corner of her eye as Miyu wrapped her arms around Hanayo’s shoulder, looking at the laptop screen. “Technically Umi looks like me.” Kaiyo glanced away from what Hanayo was doing, looking to Honoka instead. “But I see your point. So how long have you been friends with my sister?” “Since we were kids.” Honoka answered cheerfully. “Me, Umi-chan and Kotori-chan are all best friends.” Kaiyo nodded thoughtfully. She was glad that Umi had had people in her life who cared for her at least. It made it a little bit easier to think of Umi being alone in that house with their parents. Honoka glanced to the laptop but she couldn’t figure out what Hanayo was doing so she settled for continuing to make small talk with Kaiyo instead. “So you’re getting married? When?” “Ah...we don’t know yet.” Kaiyo answered hesitantly. “We need to save up for plane tickets and Hisa’s...trying to save up for a ring but it’s going to take a while.” Honoka curiously tilted her head. “Why?” Kaiyo was surprised by Honoka’s inquisitiveness but decided to answer anyway. “She’s kind of...out of work at the moment. She was in the navy but she had an accident.” She quickly decided to change the subject. “Umi-chan was saying that you found your soulmate too?” “Eli-senpai.” Honoka answered with a small smile. She looked down at the floor. “Yeah. We only just started dating recently. She didn’t really...like me before. And she’s kind of avoiding me right now so I don’t know…” Her brow furrowed and she looked back up, realizing she now had the attention of Hanayo too. “Ah, it’s probably nothing.” “Maybe she doesn’t know what to do.” Kaiyo suggested with a shrug of her shoulders. “Maybe she’s scared of messing things up.” “Maybe.” Honoka mumbled. “You should be assertive.” Kaiyo said confidently. “That’s what worked for me with Hisa. And the other way around. Just give it a try.” “Thanks, Kaiyo-san.” Honoka stood up from the couch and stretched. “Do you mind if I use your bathroom, Miyu-chan? I just need to freshen up.” “Sure.” Miyu waved Honoka to go ahead and the girl quickly left the room. “Maybe Umi-chan’s not the only one having relationship issues.” Hanayo mused before she turned back to the screen in front of her. Kaiyo frowned at that and made a mental note to ask Umi about it. “If this is going to take a while I’ll leave you to it. Will you call me later, Miyu?” “Sure. Hisa won’t miss her laptop for one night, will she?” Miyu asked, glancing up. “I’ll tell her I let you borrow it and you’re using the guest account. She’ll be fine with it.” Kaiyo answered, unconcerned. “I’ll talk to you later, Miyu.” Miyu lifted her hand in a wave and watched as Kaiyo left the room. ---- “He-” “So did you manage to find anything out?” Kaiyo blurted out as soon as she heard the sound of the phone being answered. “Suddenly you seem more eager to know what was on that laptop than me.” Miyu replied, amusement seeping into her tone. “Who would have thought that it took me almost an hour to convince you to let me borrow it?” “Miyu.” “Fine, fine.” Miyu chuckled softly at Kaiyo’s insistence. “Yes, I managed to find a few things out. She’s saving up for a ring. She’s almost halfway to her goal. Which is...pretty expen...what?” “What?” Kaiyo stressed, clutching the phone tighter. “Hanayo-chan wants me to tell you that the ring is beautiful. And Hisa is getting it engraved. I know, I know. I’m not going to tell her what the engraving is.” Kaiyo smiled softly, glancing briefly toward the kitchen were Hisa was busy making dinner. “What else?” “She has a dress saved in her bookmarks.” Miyu continued thoughtfully. “She’s really not sparing any cost. And she’s looking for another job.” Kaiyo’s brow furrowed slightly in confusion. “She already has a part time job.” “She’s looking for another one.” Miyu replied carelessly. “I think she just applied to work in an office.” Kaiyo gave a short laugh. “It would drive Hisa crazy.” “I think she wants to save up the money.” Hanayo’s voice sounded this time on the other end of the line. “She’s even making a budget. If she keeps saving she should have enough money in nine or ten months. But she wants to do it sooner, I think. She really does look up a lot of wedding stuff…” “Who’s on the phone?” Kaiyo looked up, surprised to see Hisa standing in the doorway. “Um…” Hisa noticed Kaiyo’s hesitation and raised an eyebrow. “I heard my name.” “I’m just talking to Miyu.” Kaiyo answered with a small, guilty smile. “She wants to know what to um...get for Hanayo’s birthday.” “Liar.” Miyu muttered into the phone. She watched as Hanayo looked up, her glasses on the bridge of her nose. Miyu looked down, noticing the way Hanayo’s shirt hung off one shoulder. Miyu’s pants were a little long on her too. A sudden surge of desire rushing through her, Miyu ended the call. “Miyu...Miyu?!” Kaiyo sighed and let the phone fall to her side. “Guess she hung up on me to make out with her girlfriend.” “Her girlfriend must have looked hot. You know how hormonal teenagers are.” Hisa said as she walked over to the couch and sat down next to Kaiyo. She reached out, placing her hand on Kaiyo’s. “Is Umi here for dinner? I didn’t notice when I got home.” Kaiyo smiled softly and shook her head. “She’s with her girlfriend’s family.” Hisa’s brow furrowed slightly in concern. “I don’t think she’s stayed here more than twice since she moved in with us. Do you think she’s uncomfortable here?” “I think she just likes the Yazawa siblings.” Kaiyo answered, shrugging. “Nico’s mother especially wanted to see Umi tonight after the whole soulmate fiasco.” “Messy.” Hisa grimaced slightly. Kaiyo nodded in agreement and reached up, gently touching Hisa’s cheek. “Have you been getting enough sleep? You look tired.” “I’m fine.” Hisa answered, smiling. “You know me, I have to stay busy. No time to be tired.” Kaiyo shook her head in exasperation. She knew that with Hisa’s injury it was hard for her to manage even one job. She wasn’t sure how Hisa was going to handle too. “I’ve been thinking about...the wedding.” Hisa perked up slightly. “You have?” “Maybe we could plan it together?” Kaiyo suggested hopefully. “I know you said that you wanted to take control of things so I don’t have to but you don’t have to shoulder everything yourself. I can help out a little if you want me to.” Hisa’s eye twitched. “Why are you suddenly so interested?” “I did propose. I’m the bride.” “So am I.” Hisa replied, her brow furrowed. “Let me be the bridezilla damn, it.” “Fine, fine.” Kaiyo sighed in frustration. She supposed she should have known better than to push the subject. Hisa had already said that she wanted to manage the wedding so that Kaiyo didn’t have to worry so much about it.

“Don’t pout at me.” Hisa said, gently squeezing Hisa’s hand. “You just never really cared about girl stuff, Kai. Even in college you barely wore makeup. At least with me worrying about all of that stuff, you don’t have to. It’ll be easier, right?” Kaiyo covered her mouth, stifling her laughter. “What’s with the cute faces all of a sudden, Hisa? You’re melting me.” She managed to compose herself and lowered her hand. “I’ve never really liked girly stuff. Honestly, while growing up I much preferred to take my grandfather’s dojo over than grandmother’s dance studio. I guess that was when my parents started to see me weirdly. I guess I was a bit...odd.” “You’re still a bit odd.” Hisa teased lightly. “You’re perfect. I love the way you are. And I don’t want you to have to change just because of a wedding. You said it yourself, right? You don’t like skirts. And makeup makes you itchy.” Kaiyo gave a soft laugh. “I told you that around the time we first met. I didn’t think you’d remember. I’m still going to wear a dress to the wedding though. I know it’d make you happy.” Hisa smiled softly and leaned in to press a brief kiss to Kaiyo’s lips. “I love you.” “I love you too.” Kaiyo mumbled. She still felt like Hisa was taking too much on her shoulder and opened her mouth to say as much. Before she could say anything though her phone rang. She fished it out of her pocket. “It’s Kousaka…” “Honoka?” Hisa asked in surprise as Kaiyo answered the call. “Hello?” “I need advice!” Honoka complained loudly. “You know...sex advice.” “Sex advice?!” Kaiyo echoed in surprise. Hisa pressed a gentle kiss to Kaiyo’s cheek before she walked back into the kitchen. “Yeah.” Honoka answered with a heavy sigh. “You know...I have a soulmate now and I don’t really know what to...do.” Kaiyo grimaced. “Ugh, why don’t you just...do what comes naturally? Kiss her and see where it goes? That’s usually how it works.” “I haven’t really kissed her since our first kiss...not like that at least.” Kaiyo groaned in exasperation. “So kiss her. What’s the problem? You’re not that attracted to her?” “Huh? Have you seen Eli-senpai?” “I have but she’s...seventeen. What would I know?” “Fine then.” Honoka sighed in exasperation. “What would you do with Hisa-san?” “I would sit on her lap. Maybe nip her ear or kiss her neck. Look for where she’s sensitive.” Kaiyo replied casually. She heard coughing and looked up see Hisa in the doorway, a glass of wine in her hand. She smirked at the response. “Just try new things out. You’ll figure out what she likes soon enough. Does she seem like she wants to kiss you? Make out with you?” “Yes.” Honoka answered hesitantly. “Well do something but since you’re only sixteen and she’s seventeen you might want to wait for the big one until you’re eighteen.” “But Rin-chan and Biki-chan…” “Are a special case.” Kaiyo interrupted pointedly. “Trust me. Do something but don’t go too far. If you need anything else just call me back.” “Okay.” Honoka grumbled. “Thanks, Kaiyo-san…” “Bye, Honoka.” Kaiyo chuckled and ended the call. ---- “Are your eyes closed?” Honoka called from just outside of the bedroom door. She glanced around the doorway to see Eli sitting on the edge of the bed, her hand covering her eyes. Thankfully her parents and Yukiho were out so Honoka didn’t have to worry about them seeing her. “My eyes are closed.” Eli promised, a bright smile tugging at her lips as she spoke. “I still don’t understand why you got your outfit before I’ve even seen them though…” “Benefits of being best friends with our fashion designer.” Honoka replied as she stepped around the door into the room. “Plus who do you think models for this stuff?” Eli pouted. “Can I look now?” “No.” Eli’s lower lip jutted out further until she felt Honoka’s weight on her lap suddenly. Her free hand automatically went to Honoka’s waist to steady her and she felt bare skin just above. Honoka leaned in and lightly nipped at Eli’s ear, remembering Kaiyo’s words. “Why don’t you feel your way?” Eli heard a jingle of Honoka’s earrings and swallowed thickly. She kept her eyes shut and moved her hand still pressed to warm skin. She moved her left hand down, over Honoka’s skirt and down her thigh until she felt cotton and ribbons. “High thighs. She went there…” Honoka moaned softly at the subtle squeeze to her thigh. Eli moved her hand back up until it reached the hem of Honoka’s skirt. “Damn, Kotori made it that short. Umi is going to blow a gasket…” “Yeah.” Honoka murmured, her mouth still close to Eli’s ear. “She thought they’d be sexy. Senpai, move higher.” Eli felt her face warm at the request. She bit her lip and moved her hand further up, feeling leather and cloth as well as a flowy material underneath it. “Use your lips.” Eli did as she was asked, leaning into to press her lips against Honoka’s neck only to feel a choker there. She hesitated for a moment before brushing her lips over it until she found the latch. She carefully pulled it off with her teeth, feeling Honoka’s grip on her shoulders tighten. The ribbon fell between them. “Keep going.” Honoka instructed, her voice slightly hoarse. Eli felt a sensation coursing through her that she knew wasn’t her own. She quickly realized she was feeling the pleasure she was causing in Honoka. She let her hand travel to grip what she assumed was the lapel of Honoka’s vest. “Open your eyes.” Honoka instructed softly. “Th-That’s what we’re going to be wearing?” Eli asked, looking down at Honoka. She leaned back slightly to get a better view. “I don’t know how to feel about this. I don’t want people to drool over you.” Honoka gave a light laugh. “They’ll all be distracted by Eli-senpai.” Eli made a sound of disagreement and shook her head. “You’re the center, idiot. You’re the star. People will be watching your every move and that dance has...hip shaking?” “Are you seriously going to forbid me from this crucial performance?” Honoka asked, amused. “Maybe.” Eli pouted. Honoka gave a soft chuckle at the suggestion. “You really are a brat, senpai.” She paused for a moment, her smile slipping away. “Hey, um...why were you so distant before? Did I do something wrong?” “What?” Honoka frowned, looking down. “I’ve never done this before and...maybe I don’t seem open to you all of the time but I want to get it right for you. I don’t want to look stupid. Or like I don’t know what I’m doing. So if I did something wrong.” “You didn’t do anything wrong.” Eli flipped them over, pressing Honoka into the bed and crawled over, straddling Honoka’s hips. She took out her own hair tied, sliding it to her wrist. “I just didn’t know you wanted this. Well more of this...I didn’t want to rush you.” “You’re not.” Honoka said sincerely despite the fact that she could feel her stomach fluttering. “I want this. With Eli-senpai.” Eli smiled softly and brushed her fingers over Honoka’s cheek. “Don’t hold back, senpai.” Honoka instructed quietly, her eyes meeting Eli’s. Eli let a slight smile tug at her lips and she did as she was asked. She stopped holding herself back and she leaned down to kiss Honoka. She felt Honoka’s arms go around her neck to draw her closer and let herself sink down slightly more. As niggling as the worry was about Kotori and her situation, Eli wanted to focus on Honoka. She had wanted this level of intimacy for a while. Like Nozomi had with Saya and Kotori had with Maki. She had craved it. She felt Honoka nip at her lip and parted them, letting Honoka deepen the kiss. Her head spun at the sensation as she pressed herself closer to Honoka, whimpering softly. ---- Maki watched, biting her lip as Kotori walked back and forth between her closet and the suitcase on the bed, carefully packing her clothes away. “Isn’t it a little early to be packing? You haven’t even told Honoka you’re leaving yet…” “I just want to get it done.” Kotori said honestly as she placed another folded shirt into her suitcase. “I’ll be leaving the day after tomorrow. I’m going to tell Honoka-chan after the performance tomorrow.” “Right.” Maki mumbled, looking down at her hands in her lap. “The time difference between here and New York is fourteen hours. So I’ve worked out we’ll be able to talk in the mornings...over here. Which will be the evening for you. So we can still talk every day. More than once a day. I’ll stay up late.” Kotori walked over to Maki and drew her into a soft kiss. “Maki-chan, I-I want to do it before tomorrow. With you.” Maki felt her face flush at the suggestion. “W-Wha…?” Kotori pushed Maki to the bed and crawled over her, gently pecking her lips again. “I want to do it with you before tomorrow.” She repeated slowly though she knew that Maki had heard her the first time. “I’m going to be leaving soon. And...we won’t see each other for a long time. I don’t want to waste the time we have.” Maki nodded slowly. “But your mom…” “Is out.” Kotori finished, ghosting her lips over Maki’s. “The door is locked. You’re mine for tonight, Maki-chan.” Maki parted her lips to let Kotori deepen the kiss, feeling Kotori’s hands reach for the hem of her shirt. It was pushed up slowly, Kotori’s hands slowly tracing her stomach, leaving her skin tingling in their wake. As Kotori leaned back, Maki automatically sat up to follow her, not wanting to lose their connection. She felt Kotori tug her shirt off, their lips briefly parting before Kotori kissed her again. Gentle hands made their way to her back, unclipping her bra and Maki felt it being tugged off. As Kotori pulled away from her she opened her eyes to see Kotori look down as she removed her bra. Maki blushed at the fact that Kotori was paying so much attention. “You too.” Maki whispered, nodding to Kotori’s shirt. Kotori smiled at the suggestion and stripped her own shirt off without hesitation, tossing it to the side. Her bra soon joined it. “Wow.” Maki murmured. “You said that last time.” Kotori reminded Maki gently, her hand going to the back of the redhead’s neck. “I meant it both times.” Maki said, her eyes flitting up. “You’re really…” “Wow?” Kotori teased lightly as Maki trailed off, blushing. She kissed the redhead again, pressing her back down onto the bed. “I love you, Maki-chan.” Maki swallowed thickly, both overjoyed and saddened by the comment. Colors swirled around her, brighter than ever. “I love you too.” Kotori smiled and kissed Maki again, slowly trailing her fingers down over Maki’s stomach. ---- Maki woke slowly to the feeling of warm arms around her. She hummed in delight at the feeling and felt a kiss pressed to her forehead. She blinked up at Kotori, finding her staring down at her lovingly. “You’re so beautiful even when you’re sweaty.” Kotori said softly. She could feel a tug in her chest, drawing her closer to Maki. Maki blushed at the sentiment and gave the hand in her own a light squeeze. “I could say the same thing about you. Last night was…” “I know.” Kotori said softly. She didn’t need Maki to describe it. She knew what she was going to say. “I’m really glad I got to share it with you, Maki-chan.” “Me too.” Maki whispered. She suddenly remembered she was naked under the blankets and blushed. “I love you.” Kotori whispered. Maki felt a lump form in her throat. She wasn’t sure she would ever get used to hearing Kotori say that. “I love you too. Maybe I could stay over tonight and tomorrow night again?” Kotori chuckled softly. “What? You want as many repeat performances of last night as possible before I leave?” “I want to be as close to you as possible before you leave.” Maki admitted sincerely. “I won’t see you again for at least two years. I want to make the most of it.” “Maki, you perv.” “Also for our first time...you weren’t clumsy.” Maki said inquisitively. “I thought you didn’t know what you were doing either.” “I did research.” Kotori confessed, blushing. “I didn’t want to mess it up. And I want it to be good for you too.” “It was.” Maki said with a soft smile. Kotori glanced down at the suitcase. Or where it had been before it had fallen from the bed. “I’ll have to pack again later.” “I’ll help.” Maki murmured softly. She turned, tenderly kissing Kotori’s jaw. “You sure you can’t postpone the flight?” “Only if you ask me to.” Kotori said with a half smile. “I told you, if you asked me to stay I would. You or Honoka. I would only stay if one of you asked me to.” Maki bit her lip, resisting the urge to do just that. She didn’t want to be selfish. She pressed her lips to Kotori’s neck, trying to distract herself instead. Kotori hummed gently as Maki kissed and nipped at her neck. “We have to get up in thirty minutes, Maki-chan. We don’t want to be late.” “We have thirty minutes then.” Maki mumbled, running her fingers over Kotori’s side to her hip. “I told you, I want you as much as I can have you.” “Fine.” Kotori drew Maki on top of her and cupped her face in her hands, kissing her. “So take me, Maki-chan.” ---- “Thanks for the ride.” Nozomi said gratefully as she got off the blue moped Saya was driving. She stepped down, using Saya’s shoulder to steady herself and took off the helmet. “Who’s your boyfriend, Tojo-san?!” An especially loud, passing girl called out. “Boyfriend?” Saya grumbled, looking down at her chest. She patted the front of her jacket, earning herself a soft laugh from Nozomi. “Don’t worry, your boobs are just fine.” Nozomi lodged the helmet under her arm. “Are you going to pick me up later?” Saya pushed up the visor of her helmet to meet Nozomi’s eyes. “Of course. Hey, you don’t really think I look like a guy in this, right?” “You’re wearing a heavy jacket. They can’t see your chest.” Nozomi replied with a gentle smile. “If people saw your pink eyes, they’d know you’re totally a girl. And that long hair. And that body…” “Oh my god, now?” Saya flushed brightly. “Right now, Nozomi?!” “You knew the moment you got with me I was going to flaunt you. Especially this…” Nozomi grabbed Saya’s waist. “Okay!” Saya exclaimed, both amused and embarrassed. “I’ll see you later. Gotta go to class...though since I’m allowed to be late I could get breakfast.” “Don’t rub it in.” Nozomi muttered. “Don’t I get a kiss before you leave?” Saya chuckled and pushed her helmet up just a little. Just enough to let Nozomi lean down and kiss her. She heard whistles from passing boys and could practically hear the girls at the school gates swooning. She drew away, sliding her helmet back into place. “I’ll see you later.” “Yeah…” With a goofy grin, Nozomi watched Saya drive away. “TOJO IS GOING OUT WITH A COLLEGE STUDENT?!

“WELL SHE IS A SCHOOL IDOL!” “You just had to make a scene, huh?” Nozomi turned at the familiar voice, seeing Eli behind her. “Sorry, Elichi. I stayed up late.” “Same…” “Really?” Nozomi smirked. “Yes. And I’m not talking about it.” Eli said, rolling her eyes. “Oh, no fair. I tell you about me and Saya…” “I really wish you would stop.” Eli sighed as the two started walking toward the school entrance. Nozomi pouted. “You at least touched her, right?” “N-Not like that…” “Over the clothes at least?” “NOZOMI!” Eli exclaimed, noticing how close they were getting to other. “Stop. I didn’t do anything with her. Just...kissing. That’s all. I didn’t want to push things too far.” “Boring.” Nozomi rolled her eyes. “I don’t know how you can keep your hands off her.” Eli frowned. “Why? Have you been looking at my girlfriend?” “No, not like that.” Nozomi scoffed. “I just mean the soulmate thing. I feel like I can barely look at Saya without wanting to touch her. And kiss her. And…” “Gross.” Eli muttered, wincing. “I don’t need to know any of this.” “Oh, grow up, Elichi. You’ll be eighteen in a year. You can’t act like a baby forever.” Nozomi said matter of factly. “So what was she wearing?” “Our um...costume for tonight. The finished product of it at least.” “So that means I’m gonna look sexy in front of Saya.” Nozomi concluded, nodding happily. “Good.” Eli groaned and blushed before she heard someone call out to her. “Senpai!” Eli turned to see Honoka running toward her. She relaxed into a smile as Honoka reached her, breathing heavily. “Good morning.” “G-Good morning.” Honoka smiled brightly at Eli. Nozomi looked between them, raising an eyebrow. “You sure you two didn’t…?” “Nozomi!” Eli snapped, hoping that Honoka wouldn’t realize what Nozomi was talking about. “Nozomi-senpai, everyone is saying you got a ride from your boyfriend.” Honoka said excitedly. “Was it Saya-san?” Nozomi nodded. “She dropped me off because I was running late for school.” Honoka gaped at the helmet under Nozomi’s arm. “She’s so cool.” “She is.” Nozomi answered, smiling proudly. She noticed Eli’s brow furrowing. “But you know, um...Elichi is pretty cool too. I mean she’s the student council president.” “Eli-senpai is the coolest person in school.” Honoka beamed warmly at Eli who blushed in response and looked away. “And the prettiest.” “Honoka…” Eli grumbled in embarrassment. “You know my classmates have been saying I should run for student council president.” Honoka mentioned casually despite keeping a careful eye on Eli. “Would that be okay?” Eli nodded with a small smile. “I think that’s a great idea. You’d have my vote.” “Thank you, Eli-senpai.” Honoka said, blushing. She glanced around to make sure nobody was looking before she leaned up and kissed Eli’s cheek. Nozomi grinned at the sweet gesture. “Well I’m gonna head to class. Elichi, you should walk with Honoka-chan. I have to run. See you two lovebirds later.” “Bye!” Honoka called as Nozomi took off. She turned back to Eli. “Maybe I could walk you to class.” “I’ll walk you to yours. I don’t want you to be late.” Honoka opened her mouth to protest but she was silenced by Eli taking her hand, tangling their fingers together before she tugged her in the direction of the school. 

“Please let me perform.” Honoka straightened up but leaned some of her weight on Eli. “I know I pushed myself but I can do this. I can do this, Eli-senpai!”

Eli hugged Honoka. She could feel pain from her. “Honoka…” “Please.” Honoka whispered. “We’re so close. SO close. Everything has been fast but now we can do this. I know we can. I’m not going to hold everyone back.” Eli sighed softly. She didn’t know what to do for the best. “Are you sure you’ll be okay?” Honoka nodded quickly. “I’m fine. I just feel a little bit weak. I’ll be okay.” Eli felt tears prickle at her eyes and drew Honoka closer to her. “Promise me.” “I promise.” Honoka said sincerely. “Please just don’t tell the others. Especially Umi-chan. She won’t let me perform if she knows. Especially in the rain.” Eli cursed under her breath. She had forgotten about that. She couldn’t help but think that maybe she shouldn’t let Honoka perform either. She gently rubbed Honoka’s back, trying to soothe her. “I’m not going to tell anyone.” “Tell anyone what?” Nico asked loudly as she walked into the room. She scowled as she noticed the position they were in. “Can’t that wait until you get back home?” Eli glared daggers at Nico as Honoka weakly drew away from her. She watched Honoka move away as everyone else walked into the room. Rin sniffed Maki. “Nya, I knew it!” “Shut it.” Maki growled, pushing Rin away. “Pastries and sugar.” Rin continued knowingly. “Boy she is too sweet.” “SHUT IT!” Eli watched as Kotori walked over to Honoka who was leaning against the wall. She felt a flutter of nerves as Kotori said something to Honoka. Thankfully Honoka gave a soft smile in response and nodded her head. “At least it’s not herbal tea.” Maki muttered. “What’s wrong with tea?!” Nico scowled. “Okay, everyone. Calm down. We have to be ready and get to the roof.” Nozomi chimed in, shaking her head. “I’ll meet you there.” Honoka piped up, flashing Nozomi a small smile. “I have something I need to do first.” “Don’t be late.” Nico warned pointedly. “This isn’t practice.” “I know, I know.” Honoka looked to Eli. “Go ahead, Eli-senpai.” “Not without you.” Eli looked between Honoka and Kotori as everyone else filtered out of the room. She noticed the worried look on Kotori’s face. “Tell me you’re not doing this now.” “Doing what now?” Honoka asked obliviously. “I’m not.” Kotori answered, her eyes widening with surprise. “I need to fix her skirt.” “Well I’m staying.” Eli walked to the wall and leaned against it. Maki who was just about to leave, paused in the doorway and turned around, walking back inside. “Same.” “Just what do you two think I’m going to do?” Kotori frowned, glancing at them suspiciously as she moved into the centre of the room with Honoka. “My girlfriend, my rules.” Eli said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “Well...you are going to maybe touch her bare skin accidentally and I just want to make sure she doesn’t do anything. It is Honoka.” Maki chimed in. Kotori ignored them and stooped down to start fixing Honoka’s skirt. “What the hell are you saying about my girlfriend?” Eli growled at Maki. “Stop fighting.” Honoka said, glancing between them with a frown. “Maki-chan, I don’t like Kotori in that way. And I wouldn’t do that to you anyway, even if I did.” Maki scoffed and looked away for a moment. “Fine.” The room fell into tense silence for a few moments until Honoka spoke up. “Kotori-chan, are you almost done?” “Almo…” Kotori looked up as Honoka gripped her shoulder. Just a second before she had noticed Honoka’s knees buckle. “Are you okay?” “Fine.” Honoka straightened up as Eli darted forward to steady her. “Sorry. Are we done here?” Kotori straightened up, worry flashing across her features. “Honoka-chan, sh-should I get Um-” “NO!” Honoka exclaimed loudly. “She’s going through enough right now. She doesn’t need to worry. I’m FINE!” “Sure you are.” Maki said sarcastically. “You’re obviously sick.” “She has a cold.” Eli reasoned, taking Honoka’s hand. “It’s nothing. Come on, we have to get up to the roof. You heard what Nozomi said.” “It’s raining out there!” Kotori said frantically. “This performance will make her cold worse!” “WE CAN’T LOSE!” Honoka replied desperately. “THIS IS FOR OUR SCHOOL. JUST LET ME DO IT!” “Hey, don’t yell at her.” Maki frowned, stepping forward. Honoka pushed past them, running from the room and Eli quickly followed. Maki placed her hand on Kotori’s lower back. “Koto-” “I can’t leave now!” Kotori exclaimed, turning to Maki. “I can’t leave right now when she might-” “She’ll be okay.” Maki drew Kotori into a brief hug. “Don’t worry. Let’s just get through this performance, okay?” “How am I supposed to tell her I’m leaving, Maki-chan?” Kotori whispered, her voice trembling. “She’s my best friend.” “It’ll be okay. She’ll be fine. She has Eli and Umi, right?” Maki pressed a gentle kiss to Kotori’s cheek. “You don’t need to worry about anything. I’m here too, I’ll make sure she’s okay.” “Thank you, Maki-chan.” Kotori whispered, drawing away from Maki. “Let’s go and join the others.” Maki nodded, forcing a small smile. She wasn’t sure how she would deal with Kotori leaving either. She couldn’t imagine not seeing her every day. Or talking to her in person. She tugged Kotori back to her, kissing her and felt the ache in her chest ease. “Okay.” She whispered, pulling back. “I’m ready.” ---- Eli couldn’t help but keep looking to Honoka as they set up to perform. Honoka looked determined but Eli could see a tremble in her hands as well as the flush to her cheeks. She still looked sick. Honoka caught her eye and gave her a nod and a small smile but Eli still felt worried. As the performance started, Eli went through the motions but she could barely focus, too worried about how Honoka was feeling. They still had a while to go before the performance was over. Two more songs. Thankfully Honoka seemed to be fine. She seemed steady. Happy even. It was only when the song ended that she watched Honoka lose her footing, falling to the floor. Eli felt her knees buckle too and she fell to her knees, catching herself with one hand. “Honoka…” She reached up, gripping her chest over her heart. Her head pounded, her skin suddenly feeling too warm. “Someone help her…” She heard yelling around them but she couldn’t put voices to what they were saying. “The two of them must be connected!” Eli felt an arm go around her and looked up. Through blurry vision she saw Nozomi at her side. “Nozomi. Help Honoka…” “Chrom’s got her.” Nozomi replied worriedly. Eli looked up to see the other members of Muse gathered around Honoka. She vaguely noticed that Honoka’s lips were moving and felt a wave of anguish wash over her. Honoka’s. She saw Honoka’s hand go limp and then noticed the blue haired man lean down, picking Honoka up. “Nozomi, get your friend. We need to get them downstairs and we need to get Honoka to the hospital.” Saya instructed, placing her hand briefly on Nozomi’s shoulder. “Elichi, can you stand?” Nozomi asked hopefully. She felt Eli try but finally the blonde shook her head. “We’ll take her down.” Nozomi looked up to see Hisa and Raven had clambered onto the stage. She nodded and let them kneel down next to Eli, tugging one of her arms over each of their shoulders. She watched with a tight chest as they left with her. “Come on.” Saya helped Nozomi up, squeezing her hand. “Raven’s going to drive Eli, okay? She’ll be fine. They both will. Come on. I’ll get you to the hospital.” Nozomi nodded and as she let Saya drag her toward the doorway leading to the stairs she glanced over her shoulder. Kotori and the others were still on the stage. She could see that Kotori was on her knees where Honoka had been a moment ago, tears tracking their way down her cheeks. Maki was next to her, trying to sooth her while Umi was trying to do the same at Kotori’s other side. Rin and Hanayo were standing close together, both looking distressed too while Nico was focusing on Umi. She watched as Miyu, Hibiki and A-Rise hurried onto the stage, the former two going to their soulmates. “Nozomi-san!” Arisa caught Nozomi’s hand as she passed, pulling her to a stop. “W-What happened to Onee-chan?! What’s going on?” “Nozomi?” Saya pressed, turning back to Nozomi in confusion. “Their sisters. H-Honoka-chan’s sister.” Nozomi nodded to Yukiho. “And Elichi’s. They should come too.” Saya looked to the two panicked younger girls. “Uh...they can go with...Raven should have room in his car. He’ll take them. We need to hurry and get down there before they leave though. Come on!” Nozomi nodded and ushered Arisa and Yukiho toward the door. “There’s no room in the cars…” Hibiki said solemnly as she watched the small group leave. Every one of the older members of Miyu’s group of friends had left. “We can arrange a ride.” Tsubasa said seriously. “What?” Umi looked up in confusion. “Why are you helping us?” “You’re not our enemies, you’re our rivals. Kousaka Honoka is a friend.” Tsubasa said sincerely. “We have our limo waiting outside. We can only take the Muse members though and that’s pushing it…” Hbiki nodded and turned to Rin. “I’ll meet you at the hospital.” “Hibiki, I’m scared.” Rin whispered, her eyes widening. She grasped Hibiki’s hands tightly. “I-I don’t want you to leave me. I’ll come with you.” Tsubasa watched as Rin tugged Hibiki close to her. She glanced at Hanayo who was holding tightly to Miyu’s arm. “I take it you feel the same way?” Hanayo nodded frantically. “Fine. But some of you are going to have to sit on someone’s lap.” Tsubasa warned before she gestured for the group to follow her. “My driver’s not going to be happy…” Maki grasped Kotori’s arms, gently helping her up from the floor. Anju looked down at her phone. “Chrom-kun got there already. We should hurry.” Together, the group quickly fled the stage and made their way off of the roof. ---- Nico felt the arms around her waist tighten as the limo turned a corner, causing her to tilt slightly on Umi’s lap. She could feel Umi’s face pressed into the back of her costume, the second year trembling slightly as she held onto her. Nico glared over at Anju who was busy texting on her phone. “You’re seriously texting right now?” Anju looked up in surprise. “I’m checking on Kousaka-san.” She answered briefly. Umi turned her attention to Anju. “How? What’s happening with her? Chrom is telling you, right? Is he still with her?” “He’s only a paramedic in training so he can’t stay with her.” Anju answered regretfully. “But she’s being checked over now.” Nico scoffed and rolled her eyes. “Whatever.” Maki glanced over at Umi, noticing she was biting her lip, tears at the corners of her eyes. “Are you okay, Umi?” Umi sniffled softly and nodded her head. “Yeah. Just...Honoka. I’m worried about her.” “How am I going to tell her now?” Kotori asked tearfully. “You know you have to.” Umi said bitterly as she glanced over at Kotori. She ignored Maki’s answering glare. “You’re leaving in two days, Kotori. You can’t keep this from her forever. You’ve made your choice. What are you so afraid of? That she’ll ask you to stay? We both know she’s the only person who could keep you from leaving.” “Well one of two.” Hibiki piped up from Rin’s lap. “Maki just loves you too much.” Kotori looked to Maki who answered with a slight smile and a shrug of her shoulders. Rin wrapped her arms further around Hibiki and pressed her forehead to Hibiki’s back just as the limo stopped. “We’re here.” Hanayo said softly. The door opened for them and she got out quickly, the others following. The group made their way to the entrance to the Accident and emergency department together. Noticing their friends, they went their separate ways. Miyu, Hanayo and Anju made their way to Chrom while Umi and Nico headed for Hisa and Kaiyo. Rin and Hibiki went to Raven and Akari in the back row of seats in the waiting room while Kotori and Maki went to where Nozomi, Yukiho, Arisa and Saya were standing together. Tsubasa and Erena went to the front desk. “Do you know anything yet?” Umi asked as she reached Hisa and Kaiyo with Nico. “Ayase is burning up. It’s abnormal.” Kaiyo answered with a frown. “No, it’s perfectly normal if they’ve had sex.” Hisa said bluntly, causing Umi’s eyes to widen. “Once you make your bodies one you can feel pain. Not just emotionally but physically.” “But it has to be an extreme situation. That’s why this is abnormal.” Kaiyo added. “Plus, I don’t think they’ve had sex. Which is why the doctor is confused. This is unusual. The blonde must really love he-” She was cut off by a loud scream from down the hallway. “LET ME SEE HONOKA!” Nozomi groaned, lifting a hand to her head. “Elichi…” Saya rubbed Nozomi’s shoulders from behind and gently kissed the top of her head. “She’s in pain, Nozomi. She’s scared. This connection...is tough sometimes. From what I’ve heard.” “I know.” Nozomi whispered, tears lacing her eyes. Hibiki felt Rin shiver. “Don’t get sick too. I don’t want you to be in pain.” “Nya, wearing this costume was stupid.” Hibiki took off her UTX blazer and draped it over Rin’s revealing outfit. Saya grimaced as she watched them. She looked to Nozomi, noticing that she was still dripping wet. The drive to the hospital on her moped hadn’t helped. She quickly followed Hibiki’s lead and took off her black leather jacket, draping it over Nozomi’s shoulders before she wrapped her arms around her from behind, holding her close to warm her up. Maki looked around at the group, all of whom were soaked from the rain. She noticed Kotori was shivering, most of her clothes wet from having been on the floor with Honoka but Kotori didn’t seem to have noticed. She left Kotori for a moment, walking to the front desk. “Hello, I’m Nishikino Maki. Can you please get us some towels? My father runs the hospital.” “Y-Yes, Nishikino-san!” “Thank you.” Maki glanced back at Kotori to see she was standing where she had left her. Noticing movement out of the corner of her eye she watched as the dark haired man who’d been sitting with Rin approached Kotori, gently touching her shoulder. She vaguely recognized him as Raven, Hisa’s brother. She watched as he took his jacket off, handing it to Kotori who put it on and offered him a small smile. She made her way back to them, taking Kotori’s hand. “Thank you, Raven-san.” “No problem.” Raven answered nonchalantly. Kotori noticed Maki shiver and pulled her close, wrapping the jacket around both of them. Maki blushed but nuzzled Kotori’s shoulder, sliding her arms around her girlfriend’s waist. Nico glanced around, frowning. Umi was already wearing Kaiyo’s coat and Miyu was hugging Hanayo for warmth. Hanayo had even been handed Akari’s light jacket. She noticed Chrom wasn’t wearing a coat. “Hey, who’s going to give me a jack-” She trailed off as a dark red colored leather jacket was pushed against her chest. “Not a word.” Hisa warned her, letting go. Nico smirked and put the warm jacket on. “You know this smells pretty girly considering it’s yours. What kind of perfume do you use?” “Shut it, Yazawa.” Nico smiled softly. “Thank you.” Hisa rolled her eyes. “Your leader is an idiot.” “She just wanted to save the school.” Nozomi growled, looking to Kotori. “You need to tell her. It’s been hurting Eli. Because you need to tell her, not Eli.” Kotori didn’t say anything in response. “Nishikino-san, your towels?” The nurse called from the desk. Maki reluctantly left Kotori’s embrace to go and get the towels and hand them out to the group. “Nozomi.” Saya said gently, holding Nozomi closer as she felt emotions that weren’t hers well up in her chest. Nozomi gritted her teeth. “She’s my best friend. I promised her Honoka-chan would be fine and now Kotori’s going to tell her best friend she’s leaving just after Honoka-chan collapsed from hypothermia!” “Try to calm down.” Saya instructed, keeping a tight hold of Nozomi. “You don’t want to do this here, Nozomi.” “Please, just let me go! I NEED TO SEE HER!” Nozomi cringed at the tearful scream that echoed down the hallway once more. She couldn’t help but think about what Eli would do if she was separated from Honoka. If Honoka blamed Eli for not telling her the truth. She wasn’t just worried about Eli though. She worried about how broken the secrets and Kotori not being there would leave Honoka. “D-Damn it. DAMN it!” Saya noticed Nozomi’s voice thicken with tears before Nozomi let out a sob, lifting a hand to her mouth. She looked wide eyed to Maki. “On call room down the hallway.” Maki pointed to the right. She looked just as shocked as Saya, if not more. “Go.” Saya pulled Nozomi up before guiding her down the hall. Rin watched in shock, noticing tears falling down Nozomi’s cheeks as she left. “I-I’ve never seen Nozomi-chan cry before, nya.” She said, her voice trembling. She looked between the rest of Muse who all grimly shook their heads. Hanayo turned away, her own lip trembling. She didn’t want Miyu to see her cry so she quickly wiped her tears away with a trembling hand. Umi stepped forward. “Kotori, you…” Maki bristled, ready to jump to Kotori’s defence. Thankfully Umi was stopped by Honoka’s mother and father walking in, along with Eli’s father. Kotori noticed them and walked away to sit next to Raven and Akari. ----- Closing the door to the on call room behind them, Saya led Nozomi to the bed and lowered her down to sit on the edge. She adjusted her hold on her sobbing girlfriend, drawing her closer and dropping a gentle kiss atop her head. She realized that in the admittedly short time that she had known Nozomi, she had never seen her fall apart like this. From the looks on Nozomi’s friends faces, it was clear that they hadn’t seen anything like that either. “It’s okay.” She soothed gently, rubbing Nozomi’s back. She was relieved at least that she was accustomed to comforting her friends, of playing the supportive role. It was a role she’d had to undertake many times with Raven, Uni, Chrom, Izetta, even Hisa once or twice. “Just take a breath, Nozomi. It’s okay.” “Everything is falling apart and I don’t know what to do.” Nozomi sobbed into Saya’s shoulder, her hands grasping at the back of her girlfriend’s shirt as tightly as possible. “I should know what to do!” “You don’t always have to know.” Saya said gently. “Let somebody else take control for a change. From what you’ve said it doesn’t seem like this is something you have control of. It’s Kotori who needs to make a choice, not you. Maybe she just needs some time to figure out what to say.” “She doesn’t have time!” Nozomi pulled back, her hands moving to Saya’s shoulders instead. She saw Saya’s eyes widen at the loud volume of her voice and felt a hint of guilt. “Everything’s going wrong, Saya. Elichi, Honoka-chan, Kotori-chan…Honoka-chan’s going to be so hurt when she finds out that Kotori-chan is leaving and she’s going to blame Elichi for not telling her the truth. They’re both going to be broken! Not to mention Maki-chan when Kotori-chan leaves.” Saya felt her head spin at the overload of information she was receiving. She nodded though, trying to think of a way she could comfort Nozomi. “All you can do is be there for them afterwards. They’re soulmates. Something like this isn’t going to break them up. You should know that.” Nozomi sniffled softly, meeting Saya’s eyes. “It’s not Elichi’s fault. She just doesn’t want to hurt Honoka-chan anymore and she knows it’s not her place to say anything.” “Honoka will understand eventually.” Saya said reasonably. “It might take some time but she’ll understand. And she’ll get through Kotori leaving. She has her other best friend, right? Umi? Plus. She’ll have you too. And you have me. No matter what, okay?” Nozomi swallowed against the lump in her throat and nodded her head. “I-I’m sorry...about this. I don’t usually.” “Don’t apologize.” Saya interrupted Nozomi with a finger to her lips. “Especially not to me. I’m glad you could do this with me. Even if I do hate seeing you cry…” “You do?” Nozomi murmured. “Of course I do. I hurt when you hurt. It’s...a soulmate thing.” Saya muttered, looking down between them. “And if I can’t do anything to fix it, it’s worse.” Nozomi hugged Saya again, lightly nuzzling her neck. “I’m glad I have you.”

Realizing her hand was resting on Nico’s back, Umi swallowed thickly. She wondered how Nico had even wound up on the floor with her and wondered if she had been the one to draw the girl so close to her. Feeling Nico stir she closed her eyes tightly and tried to even out her breathing. She couldn’t let Nico know that she was awake. Maybe Nico would just go back to her own bed and not even mention anything. Nico opened her eyes, confused for a moment until she saw Umi. She vaguely remembered climbing out of bed but didn’t recall the conscious decision to sleep next to Umi. She could only imagine that she had been partially sleepwalking or something. She inspected Umi closely for a moment before relaxing when she realized that Umi was still asleep. Not wanting to move too much she stayed where she was though realizing her hand was resting against something warm she looked down. Her stomach flipped when she realized that Umi’s shirt had ridden up slightly and her hand was resting on Umi’s stomach. Biting her lip she looked up at Umi again before she brushing her fingers lightly over the smooth skin. Umi bit the inside of her cheek to stay silent. Experimentally, Nico let her hand trail further up. The second year really was attractive. She stopped herself as she reached the hem of Umi’s shirt. “No, stop that.” She muttered to herself. She pulled her hand away, her heart beating madly just in time to hear a vibration from the bed. It took a moment to realize it was her phone. “SHIT, SCHOOL! Umi, wake up!” Umi jolted upright as Nico got off of her. “Huh? What...uh...what’s happening?” “School.” Nico repeated, quickly picking her clothes up. “We need to hurry up or we’re going to be late!” “Late?” Umi moved to her knees, reaching for her own phone nearby. She had left it to charge near Nico’s bed. Her stomach sank when she saw the time. “I’m meant to be meeting Honoka and Kotori! Can I use your bathroom?” “Fine, I’ll get changed in here. Just hurry.” Nico said with a sigh as she gestured for Umi to go on ahead. “But wait, didn’t you say last night that Kousaka is walking to school with Ayase? And your other friend is walking with that rude first year?” Umi rolled her eyes. “You’re rude too, Nico.” “Oi! No more senpai?” “Nope.” Umi smirked, shrugging her shoulders. Nico turned to stare at Umi for a moment before she shook her head in disdain. “Are you just going to stand there and watch me change?” “Huh?” Umi’s eyes widened. Nico lifted her shirt, showing a cute polkadot bra. “You sure you can handle being late?” “N-NO!” Umi’s eyes widened for a moment before she quickly turned away from Nico, blushing. Nico laughed softly, the genuine sound causing Umi’s heart to skip. “I’m still not going to join, you know?” Umi hesitated before she turned around. “You will. I’ll get you to join, Nico. Willingly.” Nico’s eyes widened in shock as Umi opened the door and let herself out. “Crazy girl.” She mused, sighing. “Kousaka is a bad influence.” ------ Honoka looks to the blonde next to her. She seemed ridged for a reason. Biting her lip she looks up at the blue sky and green trees. It was really beautiful seeing their true light. She just wished she knew how to be....romantic or whatever soulmates do. Like she was excited but she never really cared to meet her soulmate. She always knew it would happen because of her parents. She wasn’t like Kotori who seemed to dream about meeting hers. “Are you still mad at Nozomi-senpai?” Honoka asked curiously. “Why would I be mad?” Eli’s tone came out as clipped as she stared ahead of them. “It’s not like I’m her best friend and that she would never tell me that she met her soulmate, making me feel bad that I could see color and she couldn’t. NO. Of course I’m not still mad.” “If it makes you feel better I still haven’t told Umi-chan about you.” Eli sighed. “Why do we have to hide it anyway?” Honoka’s eyes widened in surprise. “Y-You don’t want to hide it?” “I-I don’t know. I just hate it when everyone keeps secrets from me. Call me selfish, I just want Nozomi to trust me. You trust me, right?” “Sure.” Honoka answered, her brow furrowing. “But you don’t trust me, right? I mean since the school idol idea is my i-” “I do.” Eli interrupted, shaking her head. “I just think the idea is ridiculous. I’m against it.” Honoka scoffed. “So you don’t trust me.” “Honoka.” Eli stopped and grabbed Honoka, pulling her into a firm kiss. It only lasted a second before she pulled away. “Let’s just not argue, okay?” Honoka blinked at Eli. “Y-You just kissed me!” “I like you, okay?” Eli asked indignantly. “You’re attractive.” “Thanks…” Honoka said, a little skeptically. “So wait...a-are we dating now?” “Yes?” Eli asked hesitantly. “I thought that was obvious.” “Right.” Honoka mumbled, turning to face forward again as they continued their walk toward the school. She wasn’t sure how the decision that they were dating was made but she decided that she wouldn’t object to it. It couldn’t hurt to try dating someone even if she seemed to have nothing in common with that someone who is supposed to be her soulmate. She let out a resigned sigh at the thought, earning herself a confused look from Eli. “What is it?” “Nothing.” Honoka said, shrugging her shoulders. She wondered if it was so complicated for other people meeting their soulmates. “I just wanted to start off as friends. But I feel like kissing you that day really messed things up, huh? But if you want to date me, we can try. I just never thought I’d be in this situation. Like this, I mean. I never thought my soulmate would be someone so...distant.” “H-Hey! I’m not distant!” Eli’s lip jutted out in a pout. “I can be warm.” “Whatever you say, senpai.” Honoka remarked skeptically. “I can!” Eli reclaimed indignantly. “I’ll show you!” Honoka couldn’t help but smirk slightly. This was a new emotion from the school’s ice queen. Maybe all of this would be worth it in the end. Before she could walk much further she felt an arm slide around her waist. She noticed Eli was blushing. “Well this is a start.” Honoka mumbled to herself, a small smile tugging at her lips. ---- Kotori couldn’t help but feel a little giddy as she walked at Maki’s side. The redhead had been the one to meet outside of her apartment that morning, to walk to school and on top of that they were both carrying their bags with their training outfits inside. “What are you smiling about?” Maki asked curiously, noticing Kotori beaming at nothing in particular as they walked down the street. Kotori shrugged. “I’m just happy, that’s all. Looking forward to training with you.” Maki smiled a little at that before she looked down, blushing. “Would you like to meet my family?” “Huh?!” Kotori’s smile faded, replaced by shock. “Isn’t that a little too fast, Maki-chan?!” “A-As friends first, I mean.” Maki said hastily. “Um, my parents...well my mom is pretty happy I can see color and wants to meet you.” “Oh, um…” Kotori nervously bit her lip. “You don’t have to if you don’t want to.” Maki added, not wanting Kotori to feel pressured. “You can say no. I’m just pretty happy that I met you and want to show everyone you’re my soulmate even if we will just be friends first with some kissing...ugh, I need to control myself. Sorry.” “No.” Kotori stopped and turned to Maki, gently squishing her cheeks and causing her words to fade. “You can be yourself around me. No acts. Okay?” Kotori watched as Maki nodded, clearly shocked. She gently wiped the tears brimming in Maki’s eyes before she smiled at her and started to walk again. “I would like to meet your mom. I’m just worried that she might not like me, that’s all. I want to make a good first impression and it’s a lot of pressure to meet your soulmate’s mom.” “She’ll like you, I’m sure of it.” Maki said. She hesitated for a moment before she reached out and took Kotori’s hand. Kotori was surprised but gripped Maki’s hand back, her eyes darting to the girl’s reddened face. She cleared her throat and settled on not saying anything. Holding Maki’s hand was nice and she didn’t want to startle her into letting go. For a few minutes they walked in silence until Kotori spoke up. “We’re almost to school. Do you want to let go of my hand?” “No, I’m fine.” Maki shook her head determinedly as they continued to walk but a moment or so later a couple of students walked past them and Maki squeaked in alarm, letting go of Kotori’s hand. Kotori chuckled at the gesture and shook her head. “Cute.” “Not cute!” Kotori smiled and patted Maki’s head, surprised by how soft her hair was. “Did you use a new shampoo?” “No.” Maki mumbled, trying not to blush again. It seemed like that happened a lot around Kotori. She cleared her throat, gripping the strap of her bag with the hand which had been previously clutching Kotori’s. “W-We should get to school.” “Right.” Kotori answered brightly as the two picked up their pace a little toward the school. “Hey, Maki-chan…?” “Hmm?” “I’m really happy that I met you too.” Kotori said honestly, her voice and features completely sincere. “Maybe you could...meet my mom too. If you want.” Maki stared at Kotori for a moment before she broke into a smile. “I would like that.” ---- “Are you still thinking about Nozomi-san?” Honoka asked softly, noticing that Eli was barely picking at her food and seemed somewhat distracted. She had been since Honoka had entered the student council room. “Hmm?” Eli looked up in surprise at the question. “Oh. A little. It’s just different, that’s all. Usually we eat lunch together and now she’s away making calls to her new girlfriend.” She noticed Honoka’s brow furrow in thought, as if she were trying to work out a solution to the problem. She couldn’t help but smile slightly at that. “At least I have you here to keep me company.” Honoka smiled brightly at the comment. She hadn’t been expecting Eli to be so open or honest but it was a pleasant surprise. “I like spending my lunches in here with you. Even if I do feel a little guilty about leaving Umi-chan.” “I think I saw her going into Nico’s club room.” Eli mentioned thoughtfully. “I think they’re maybe...friends or something.” Honoka’s eyes widened. “Maybe she can joi-” “Ah, no talking about anything about school.” Eli said, holding up her hand to silence Honoka. They both had vastly differing opinions about certain things and she didn’t want to ruin the moment. She lowered her hand, pouting slightly. “Spoil me, Honoka. Please.” Honoka blinked at Eli, surprised to hear her say that. “Huh?” Eli was vaguely satisfied that she had caught Honoka off guard. She grasped Honoka’s hand, turning her to her and leaned in, resting her head on Honoka’s shoulder. “You know, I never do this with Nozomi. I never get to really be childish or imperfect really. Not since I was a child. Not even when I was a child.” Honoka let out a shaky breath at Eli’s close proximity. She could smell her shampoo. She closed her eyes and leaned into Eli, feeling blonde hair tickle and brush against her cheek. She felt Eli gentle squeeze her hands and heard a soft sigh escape the girl. Honoka swallowed thickly. It was the most sincere she had witnessed Eli. it was beautiful. She didn’t dare move in case she disturbed her. The last thing she wanted was for Eli to draw away from her. Still, she couldn’t stay quiet for too long. “S-Senpai, why do you dislike the performing arts?” Eli froze before she responded softly. “It’s because I wasn’t good enough.” Honoka’s eyes widened before she promised herself that she wouldn’t speak about it. It was obviously something that hurt Eli. Not sure what to say, she let the subject drop and lifted her free hand, gently stroking Eli’s hair, fingers gently moving through her ponytail. “Please know you don’t have to hide anything from me. I-I do want to understand you, Senpai. Not just because of our fate. I want to protect you.” Her own words surprised her but she knew deep down that she wanted to shield Eli from anything that could hurt her. Eli was definitely holding onto something that had hurt her in the past and Honoka wanted to be the one to make her feel safe again. Eli shuddered but pressed closer to Honoka. “Thank you for being here. I’m sorry about this morning, I just...I really want  to save our school and I just don’t know how. I wish I had your optimism.” “It’s okay.” Honoka said patiently, a small smile tugging at her lips. She was relieved that Eli had wanted to apologize at least. “I understand. I don’t want the school to close either.” “I do trust you.” Eli added quietly. “I don’t want you to think that I don’t.” Honoka wasn’t sure she believed that but she gave a slight nod. “I just don’t want you to be crushed like I was. Competing when lost is the worst feeling. It makes you feel like a failure.” Eli murmured honestly. “I’ll be okay.” Honoka said confidently. She had to try at least. She couldn’t just let the school close without doing the only thing she could to keep it open. “You say that now…” Eli mumbled though she willingly let the subject drop. “Lunch is going to end soon.” Honoka reminded Eli in a whisper even as she herself made no effort to pull away from the embrace. She liked when Eli was like this. Soft and warm. Open. “We have a couple of minutes.” Eli murmured, in no hurry to pull away from Honoka. “Let’s just stay like this for a minute, okay?” “Okay.” Honoka couldn’t help but smile widely, nuzzling her nose into Eli’s hair. ----- Umi sighed to herself as she finished eating a rice ball she had been nibbling at for the past five minutes or so. She was eating lunch in Nico’s club room, alone this time. It was something she had grown accustomed to over the past few days though Nico had joined her the second day. Umi had been hoping the third day would be the same but with no such luck. Instead of talking to Nico she had steeled for looking over idol videos online, trying to get more ideas for their training. She clicked on another video and watched for a moment before her eyes widened. It had seemed like any of the other videos she had watched before but suddenly a familiar girl with dark hair had appeared on her screen. “Nico.” She mumbled under her breath, surprised to see the girl in question. She had known that Nico was in an idol group briefly but she hadn’t known it was anything other than just an after school club to her. She brought the phone closer to her face as she watched Nico perform with the other girls in the group. She looked happy, Umi noticed, frowning. Happier than she seemed now, at least. Ending up as the only person left in the school idol club must have really had an effect on her. “What are you doing?” Umi jumped in surprise and turned in her seat only to find Nico standing in the doorway. She looked angry. “Turn it off!” “Bu…” “Turn it off, damn it!” Nico growled, closing the door as she stepped further into the room. Umi fumbled with her phone, hastily switching the video off. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to...I-I was just researching idol groups and…I’m sorry.” Nico gritted her teeth, glaring at Umi’s phone. She hadn’t wanted to see anything like that video again. Her idol days were in the past. She shook her head in exasperation. “Whatever.” Umi bit her lip. The last thing she wanted was for Nico to be angry with her. She stood up and stepped forward, hugging Nico. It was what Honoka would do, she supposed. Honoka was always quite spontaneous and it seemed to work out for her most of the time. Nico resisted the embrace for a moment before giving in when it became apparent Umi wasn’t going to let go. “What the hell are you doing?” “I’m just hugging you.” Umi said innocently. “I don’t want you to be angry with me.” Nico sighed. “Why do you care?” Umi pulled away slightly, looking down at the black and white third year. Yet the monochrome colors seemed to sparkle with life. “Because I want to be your friend.” “You just want to screw me.” “Don’t ruin the moment.” Umi said, her voice trembling slightly with nerves. “Can you just trust me? Believe me.” Nico sighed. “I want to. I don’t know, Umi.” “If you want to, just do it.” Umi encouraged with a small, carefree smile. “I’m a trustworthy person. Just ask my friends.” “You’re an idiot.” Nico muttered though she felt herself soften slightly at Umi’s attempts to lighten the situation. “You seriously want me to join this idol group of yours?” “I would love for you to join. But only if you want to.” Umi said honestly. “You don’t have to decide anything right away. I can wait.” “Fine, I’ll think about it.” Nico sighed, burying her face into Umi’s warmth as the girl hugged her once more. ---- “Wait, wait, wait, Maki-chan.” Maki sighed as she felt Kotori stop, effectively pulling her back by the grip on her hand. “What’s wrong?” “What if your mom doesn’t like me?” Kotori asked worriedly, tugging Maki a couple of steps away from the door to the cafe. “What if she thinks I’m a bad influence or something?” “A bad influence?” Maki echoed in confusion, her brow furrowing. “Why would she think that? You’re a model student. Your mom’s the principal!” Kotori swallowed nervously. “I just don’t want to make a bad first impression. And I’m hardly a model student, Maki-chan. That’s you.” “Come on. It’s not like you’re rebellious or anything.” Maki said with a roll of her eyes. “Have you ever even been in trouble at school?” “No.” Kotori mumbled. “See?” Maki squeezed Kotori’s hand. “My mom’s going to love you, trust me. She’s so excited to meet you. And I’ll be right there with you.” Kotori hesitated for a moment before she gave a nod of her head. “Okay.” Before Kotori could change her mind, Maki tugged her into the cafe they’d arranged to meet her mother at. Fortunately they had gotten there early so Kotori’s hesitation hadn’t made them late. The cafe was fairly quiet, she noticed as she entered. It didn’t take her more than a moment to spot her mom at a table near the back. She tugged Kotori along toward it. “Maki.” Rei smiled at the sight of her daughter approaching the table. Her gaze shifted to the girl next to Maki. “You must be Kotori. It’s been a long time since I last saw you.” “Saw me?” Kotori echoed in surprise. “I saw you as a baby.” Rei explained with a small smile as Kotori and Maki sat down. “Well before Maki was born. After that, I barely had any time because of her hyperactivity.” Maki’s eyes widened in surprise. “Mama?!” Rei chuckled at the embarrassed look on Maki’s face. “So you knew my mother?” Kotori asked curiously. She hadn’t been aware of that. Her mother hadn’t mentioned it. “I still do.” Rei answered honestly. “Though we haven’t had much time to chat in a while. Your mother tells me you’re thinking about pursuing a career in fashion?” “Oh...yes.” Kotori noticed Maki’s slightly surprised look and realized that she hadn’t mentioned that to her. “I’m considering it. After high school, of course. Maybe I’ll study it at college.” “Are you thinking about going to America?” Rei questioned, raising an eyebrow. She looked to her daughter. “There are nice colleges there for doctors too, Maki.” “Mama!” Kotori’s lips turned up slightly at Maki’s protest. “If I do go it would be nice to go with Maki-chan. A-After she graduates of course!” “Huh?” Maki asked, wide eyed. “You don’t have to wait for me!” Kotori shrugged her shoulders. “It’s only a year. I could get a job for a while. Get some experience...b-besides, we don’t have to think about it right now.” “Don’t you work at a maid cafe?” Rei pointed out. “Um…” “Huh?” Maki glanced between her mother and Kotori. “Used to!” Kotori exclaimed quickly. “I mean...please, don’t tell mama!” “A maid cafe…?” Maki stared at Kotori thoughtfully, her mind sinking to the gutter. “Maki, are you thinking bad thoughts about your soulmate?” Rei asked pointedly. “No!” Maki blushed, looking away. She was sure the truth was written across her face. She cleared her throat. "I-I mean I wouldn't but the thought is um..." Kotori smirked. "You think I'm sexy Maki-chan? I can show you it in private." "WHAT!? “You two are too young for that…” Rei frowned. “Unfortunately Maki is at the age where she can't control herself.” "MAMA!" "You take too long in the shower dear." Kotori grimaced at the suggestion. She wasn’t sure how she would react if her mom said anything like that to her. “Um...maybe I should go and order our drinks, Maki-chan.” Maki groaned as Kotori got up and walked away. “Why did you say that?!” “It’s because you’ve never been that way.” The smile had slipped from Rei’s face, replaced with more of an annoyance. “So I want you to stop. I know it’s difficult but don’t give into those thoughts. Treat her like she’s important to you, not just because she’s attractive, dear.” Maki felt her face heat up with embarrassment. “Yes, mom. I-I’m going to um...help Kotori with the order.” She stood from the chair and went to Kotori who was waiting for their drinks at the counter. “Hey, um...I’m sorry about before. What I said.” Kotori shot Maki a confused look. “Oh. It’s okay, Maki-chan.” She reached out, gripping Maki’s hand and offered a soft smile. “I’m happy you think of me like that.” “Really?” Maki visibly relaxed when Kotori nodded. “G-Good. We just have to make sure I’m not obvious in front of my mom.” Kotori chuckled softly under her breath. “I think we can manage that. And if it makes you feel any better I think of you that way occasionally too. Especially the first time I saw you in your training clothes...oh, our drinks are here.” “Wait…” Maki slowly shook her head as Kotori let go of her hands to take the drinks. By the time she realized what Kotori had said the girl in question was already on her way back to the table. “What?!” ---- Honoka bit her lip as she glanced at Umi. She wanted to tell Umi what was on her mind but she wasn’t sure how to phrase it. “Why aren’t you walking with Yazawa-chan?” Umi glanced at Honoka in confusion. “You asked me to walk home with you. I just told her I was busy. Haven’t you been walking with the student council president recently? Trying to get her to join?” “Actually...that’s not the only reason I’ve been walking home with her.” Honoka admitted, taking the opportunity that had presented itself. She paused, stopping Umi too with a hand on her arm. “Actually I’ve been meaning to talk to you about this. I have to tell you something.” Umi stared at Honoka for a moment before she nodded for her to continue. Honoka glanced around, grimacing. She wasn’t sure this was the right place to do it. Maybe she should have waited until they reached her house. Still, she took a deep breath before she spoke again. “I-I can see color. It’s...kind of new. I’ve only been able to for the past few days…” Shocked, Umi could only stare at Honoka for a moment until she realized something. “After our first live?” “Yeah.” Honoka admitted awkwardly. “It’s...Eli-senpai. She’s my um...soulmate. She can see color too now.”

“Oh.” Umi felt a strange wave of jealousy wash over her but did her utmost to ignore it. It wasn’t Honoka’s fault that she couldn’t see color. “So do you...like her?” “Well we’ve made out and stuff bu-” “Shameless!” Umi cringed at the information. “Sorry, Umi-chan.” Honoka smiled sheepishly. “I think I could like her, yeah. And I think maybe she’s...starting to like me? Maybe. I don’t know, it’s...complicated, I guess. I just wanted you to know. I mean you’re my best friend so...” Umi nodded her understanding. “I’m happy for you. Finding one’s soulmate is rare, so I’ve heard.” She turned, starting to walk again and heard Honoka hurry to catch up. They fell silent for a few moments until Umi blurted out the question on the tip of her tongue. “Do you think it’s weird to like someone who isn’t your soulmate?” Honoka glanced at Umi. “Huh? Um...I guess not? A lot of people date and marry people who aren’t their soulmates so it has to happen. Right?” “Maybe.” Umi mumbled, her brow furrowing slightly. Honoka lightly nudged Umi as they walked. “Does Umi-chan like someone?” “HONOKA!” “Who?!” Honoka exclaimed loudly as she watched Umi blush. “Who who who?!” “I-I’m not telling you.” Umi muttered, looking away. The last thing she wanted was for Honoka to blurt something out to Nico and scare her off. “If anything happens I’ll tell you. Maybe.” Honoka huffed but she knew from experience that Umi wasn’t going to relent. “Fine. But if it helps I think you should make a move. It’s not like they would reject you. I mean you’re ho-” “Honoka!” Umi warned, her eyes wide as she looked at Honoka again. “I’m just saying, Umi-chan.” Honoka beamed at Umi. “Anyone would be lucky to have you like them.” “Thanks…” Umi said hesitantly. She wasn’t sure that Nico would feel the same way. ---- Eli was walking past the doorway to Nico’s club room when the door in question was thrown open and Nico stepped out, bumping right into her. “Watch it.” Nico warned irritably as she closed the door behind her. “You walked into me.” Eli reminded Nico skeptically, her brow furrowing. “Why are you in such a hurry anyway? Do you have somewhere to be.” “Maybe I do. Why?” Nico asked defensively. “I’m just asking.” Eli sighed in exasperation. Speaking to the other third year was exhausting at times. She had no idea how Nozomi had the patience. “You usually don’t give a shit about me, Ayase.” Nico grumbled, pushing past. “So leave me alone.” “Nico…” “It’s Yazawa to you.” Nico turned around to face Eli. “What’s wrong with you?!” Nico crossed her arms in front of her chest. “You see color, right?” Eli stared at Nico for a moment. “Yes.” Nico growled. “What kind of reaction is that?” “A normal one. I...I think.” Eli replied, slightly confused by that herself. Nico looked away. “Then go to your soulmate. Leave me alone.” “She’s practicing…” Eli trailed off in confusion. “What’s your problem anyway? Are you jealous or something?” Nico scoffed in disbelief. “Why would I be jealous? You know what, just forget it.” “Forget what…?” Eli asked, at a loss for what else to say. She wasn’t sure they had even said anything substantial during their conversation. “Maybe you’re jealous because I have someone and you don’t.” “I HAVE someone!” Nico retorted loudly. “I have Umi!” Eli blinked at Nico in confusion. “Honoka never told me Umi could see color.” “She...she can’t.” Nico’s hands closed into fists at her sides. “Neither can I. Obviously. Look, it doesn’t matter, okay? It’s not like we need to...I don’t know why I’m explaining this to you. I have to go. I’m meeting Umi.” “What? But…” Eli trailed off as Nico stormed off down the hallway. Her shoulders slumped in defeat. ------ “Maaan, I can’t believe I got detention cause I skipped math.” Rin and Hanayo shared a look before they looked down at the phone on the blanket on the roof, which Hibiki was speaking through. “Nya, it was your fault!” “Oi, I skipped because I was talking to you!” Hibiki replied. Hanayo rolled her eyes. “You two really are like an old married couple.” “N-NYAAAA?!” “Well, I haven’t popped the question yet buuuuttt…” Rin’s eyes widened as she realized something. “Nya! Aren’t you supposed to not have your phone on during detention?!” “Hot shot, I’m a bad girl, remember?” “YOU’LL GET ANOTHER ONE!” “RIN, stop yelling!” Maki called loudly from the other side of the roof. Kotori chuckled and gently bumped Maki’s shoulders. “They are cute together. Her and her UTX girlfriend.” “You’re cuter.” Muttered Maki. Kotori blushed before she felt Maki place her hat on her head. “Huh? But the sun…” “Black looks good on you.” Maki said sheepishly, briefly averting her eyes. “With your complexion and your gold eyes.” Kotori smiled slightly at that. “Thanks, Maki-chan. I still think it looks better on you though.” Maki frowned before taking the hat from Kotori’s head. She positioned it in front of them and leaned in, giving the older teen a chaste kiss on the lips. “You really are lucky you’re cute.” She whispered before she pulled the hat away and put it back onto her own head. As she turned her attention back to eating her bar she was vaguely aware of Kotori staring at her in a daze but did her best not to acknowledge it. She couldn’t help but smirk slightly at finally managing to get such a reaction from Kotori though. Usually it was the other way around. ----- Umi sighed to herself as she stared up at the ceiling. She’d once again found herself sleeping in a futon on the floor at Nico’s house after the third year had asked her to come over. Not that it took much to convince her. She had all but jumped at the chance to spend time with the third year. It was a bit embarrassing when she thought back on it. She turned over in her futon, able to see Nico’s back in the dimly lit room. Nico was sleeping in her bed of course, her hair down and natural. Umi let out a slow breath. She wasn’t sure what it was that she was feeling for Nico but it unnerved her a little. She closed her eyes, trying to block everything out. She didn’t have school the next day but she needed to sleep rather than thinking about her confusing feelings for Nico. She was just about dozing off when she heard a whimper from the bed a few feet from her. Her brow furrowed but she chose to ignore it until she heard it again, louder this time. She opened her eyes, pushing herself into a sitting position when she saw Nico tossing and turning in her bed. She was muttering something unintelligible to Umi.   For a moment Umi considered not moving from where she was until she saw the glisten of tears on Nico’s cheeks. She got up from her futon and padded quickly across the room to sit on the edge of the bed next to Nico. “Nico.” Umi gently grasped Nico’s arm, giving her a gentle shake. “Nico, wake up!” It took a moment but after another light shake, Nico’s eyes opened and she bolted upright with a gasp of surprise. “It’s okay.” Umi said gently, grasping Nico’s arms. Teary light grey eyes focused on her. “It was just a nightmare. It’s okay.” She gently drew Nico toward her and hugged her. She felt her tense for a moment before relaxing into the embrace offered. Nico took a shuddering breath. Part of her was annoyed that she had shown such weakness but Umi was too warm and comforting to pull away from. With her cheek pressed to Umi’s chest and the combined sensation of Umi hugging her and stroking her hair, Nico almost dozed off again. Until Umi broke the silence between them. “Do you want to talk about it?” Nico shook her head and drew back, wiping at the drying tears on her cheeks. She felt Umi’s fingers gently join her in her attempts, the tenderness of the gesture giving her pause. “Don’t tell anyone about this, okay?” She spoke gruffly. “I promise.” Umi said softly, letting her hand fall back to the bed. “What’s wrong with you?” “Huh?” Umi frowned at the blunt question. “I mean why do you like me so much?” Nico asked awkwardly. The softness of Umi’s stare was confusing to say the least. “Oh.” Umi blinked at Nico. “Um...I-I don’t know. I just do.” “Idiot.” Nico muttered, rolling her eyes. “If you must know what I was dreaming about it was....my dad.

I was on a stage and he was watching me cheering for me as I danced and sing with my suppose club members...then he disappeared I was no longer a child and I was falling...falling off the stage into the darkness watching him disappear as I try to reach for him an---” She sniffled softly. “"I miss him.....I wish he was there whe---" Umi gently hugged Nico again. “It was just a dream though…” “Umi, he’s dead It wasn’t a dream.” Nico frowned. “it was reality. I will never have him back...and neither will I dance or sing again, not after everyone just fucking abandoned me...dammit why am I even telling you this!?" Umi stared at Nico as the girl pulled away from her once more. “No, don’t...listen, Honoka...Honoka will not abandon her group. Neither will me or Kotori. You might not trust Honoka but you can trust me in saying we will win Love Live. And you would be a great addition to Muse.” Nico scoffed. “Why do you want me to join so badly? Is it because of the stupid room?” “No!” Umi exclaimed quickly. “I want you to join because I saw how happy you were in those videos! You love being an idol, right Nico?” Nico bit her lip, averting her teary eyes. Hesitantly, she nodded. “You miss it, right?” Umi asked gently. “Those girls who hurt you...it won’t happen in Muse, I promise.” Nico watched Umi smile. Even with the dull colors of black and white it seemed Umi could still dazzle her. “Fine.” She said after a moment. “I...I trust you.” Umi’s eyes widened at the admission. “So you’ll…” “I’ll join. But if I hate it, I’m…” Nico was cut off by an exuberant hug from Umi which knocked her down onto the bed. She groaned, rolling her eyes. She didn’t want Umi to know she didn’t mind the hug, after all. “Don’t get too excited about it.” “Sorry.” Umi smiled sheepishly and lifted herself slightly from Nico so that she was hovering above her. Nico swallowed thickly, distracted by the fact that somehow Umi was on top of her once again. Umi looked down, noticing that Nico’s hoodie had hiked up slightly to show her stomach. She glanced up again, meeting Nico’s eyes. Nico blushed, her heart racing. “Are you um...going to get off me?” “Huh? Oh right. Sorry.” Umi scrambled to get off of Nico and stood up from the bed. “I guess...if you’re okay, I’ll go back to bed.” “Wait.” Nico winced as soon as the word left her mouth. “You’re up here now, you may as well sleep in the bed. With me. If you want.” “Okay.” Umi said softly. As Nico got back into the bed, she walked around to the other side and slipped underneath the blankets with her. “Goodnight, Nico.” “Goodnight.” Nico echoed, turning onto her side so that she was facing away from Umi in order to hide the blush still visible on her cheeks. ----- Honoka watched as Eli walked back into her bedroom, having come back from the bathroom. She had been invited to Eli’s house after practice. She took in the sight of Eli in her nightgown, her hair down and hugged the pillow she was clutching to her chest. She had changed too, a few moments ago, into her shorts and her green sleep shirt. She noticed how tired and worn Eli looked. “Th-Thank you for letting me stay. It was nice of your dad to allow it.” “It usually is only him.” Eli admitted with a sigh. “At least grandma didn’t visit this month.” Honoka cleared her throat. “So none of your family knows about me?” “My parents aren’t soulmates, Honoka. In fact I think they might get a divorce soon.” Eli admitted. She glanced back to make sure the door was still shut. “Maybe after Arisa graduates from high school.” Honoka felt her heart sink at the emotion in her soulmate’s eyes before she caught sight of ballet slippers on the shelf. “Ooh, you dance?” Eli was taken aback by the way Honoka’s eyes suddenly sparkled. She turned to look at her old shoes. “I-I used to. I’m not that good now though.” “Oh, don’t be shy.” Honoka said with a warm smile. “I bet you’re amazing. In fact I would love for you to dance for me one day. I mean...ah, that’s too much, right? I mean we just started dating.” Eli’s expression slowly changed to an amused smile as she went to sit next to Honoka, taking her hand. “You really don’t need to be nervous, Honoka. I’m also pretty eager to get to know you.” Honoka blushed and glanced down at their joined hands. Eli was so different than the Eli she knew at school. It was almost as if Eli was trying to be playful with her. She looked up to see Eli smiling softly at her only to then feel herself being pushed backwards, the blonde girl following suit. It took her a moment to realize that Eli was hugging her, burying her head against her shoulder. Honoka hesitated for a moment before she spoke. “You okay?” “Just...spoil me for a minute, please.” Eli mumbled sheepishly. “I had a hard day.” Honoka hummed her agreement in response and reached up to gently stroke Eli’s hair. Her gaze remained fixed to the top of Eli’s head. As nice as the embrace was she couldn’t help but worry that they were going through the motions somewhat. She wondered if Eli really wanted to be hugging her or if she just needed to be hugged by anyone. Honoka quickly shook her head, trying to block the thoughts out. She couldn’t let her own worries get the best of her. Still, she wasn’t sure what to think about the two of them being soulmates. Part of her wanted to ask Eli if she was happy about it but she didn’t want to embarrass herself by doing so. “Thank you.” Eli said softly, relief seeping into her voice. She leaned up, gently kissing Honoka’s cheek. Honoka turned her head slightly, her eyes meeting Eli’s, She lifted her hand and carefully brushed her fingers over Eli’s cheek, catching the sound of Eli’s breath hitching as she did so. A slight smile tugged at her lips and she leaned in, kissing Eli softly. It was fleeting, barely lasting a few seconds before Honoka drew away again. She hesitantly met Eli’s surprised stare. “Sorry. It just felt right.” “It’s okay.” Eli was blushing but she smiled at the honesty of Honoka’s comment. “I’m glad you did.” Honoka relaxed slightly as Eli lay her head in her shoulder. During moments like this she could see herself quickly growing attached to the blonde. ----- “I’m so sorry I’m late!  My lecture ran on way later than I thought it would and my phone’s out of charge. I’m sorry!” Nozomi looked up in time to see Saya stop next to the table. She broke into a smile, relieved to see the girl. She had worried for a moment that Saya might not show up, especially given that she hadn’t replied to the texts she had sent. “You’re paying.” “Deal.” Saya smiled in relief and hesitated for a moment before she leaned down and pressed her lips to Nozomi’s cheek. Blushing, she went to sit down next to Nozomi. “You look nice.” “Thanks.” Nozomi looked down at what she was wearing. “It’s just a skirt and blouse though. It’s nothing special.” “Well it’s not your school uniform.” Saya pointed out sheepishly. “Did you know I was gonna be late?” “Had a hunch.” Nozomi said with a small smile as she leaned back in her seat. “I didn’t know you’d be this late though.” “Yeah, sorry about that…” Saya said with a slight grimace. She reached out and took Nozomi’s hand, gently stroking the back of it with her thumb. “But I’m here now. And you have my attention for the rest of the night.” She noticed Nozomi bite her lip and her eyes widened slightly. “I-I mean not like that. Technically you’re still too young for me to…” “I know what you mean.” Nozomi said, fondly rolling her eyes. “And for the record, I’m almost eighteen. Remember?” “I know, I know. But still…” “So this is where you were going.” Saya looked up sharply at the sound of a new voice, all too familiar to her. Her blood ran cold when she saw Uni standing next to the table. “Uni? W-What are you doing here?” Nozomi blinked up at the dark haired girl standing next to the table. She remembered meeting her at the party she had attended with Saya but Uni hadn’t seemed to like her much. “I noticed you were acting off.” Uni glanced briefly at Nozomi before she turned to Saya. “I guess I know now why you’ve been distracted lately.”

“Uni, I…” Saya swallowed thickly. “This isn’t really the place for this, okay? Maybe we can talk later but right now I’m busy, I’m…” “On a date?” Uni raised an eyebrow though it was easy to see the hurt on her face. “With a high schooler? Seriously?” “H-Hey, I’m almost eighteen!” Nozomi said defensively. “Stop calling me a high schooler. I was born in June, okay?!” “Nobody’s talking to you right now.” Uni snapped irritably. “Hey, don’t talk to her like that, Uni…” Nozomi gritted her teeth in annoyance, her hands curling into fists. She hated being belittled like she was now. “Saya.” Uni’s voice softened slightly as she spoke to Saya. “What are you doing? Seriously. I don’t understand. You can’t be serious about this.” Saya felt Nozomi start to pull her hand away and quickly tightened her grip. “I like her. My soul is entwined to hers. She changed my world, Uni.” “I see.” Uni seemed to take a moment to gather herself before she nodded. “We’ll talk about this later. I-I have to go.” Saya sighed as Uni walked hurriedly away from the table. She glanced over at Nozomi. “I’m really sorry about that. She’s just kind of...upset. I’m sorry.” “Why?” Nozomi asked softly, looking down at Saya’s hand clutching her own. “We had a weird thing.” Saya admitted softly, glancing at where Uni had disappeared. “And it’s gotten a bit...complicated, I suppose. Guess I should have known not to get involved with one of my closest friends, huh?” Nozomi frowned at the comment. “Do you have feelings for her?” “You’re my soulmate.” Saya reminded Nozomi softly. “Look...if I’m honest I never had any real feelings for anyone until I met you. I just really went with the flow in a way. I think it’s the same for Uni, she just...doesn’t have anyone else yet. Besides me. With Uni, she...steered it and I just went with it. With you though, I feel like we’re equals...you’re one of the rare people who can make me feel weak. Plus you’re mature for your age. You’re a lot stronger than you look. You took this head on, like grabbing the bull by its horns. You’re...in the most articulate way possible, you rock my world.” “O-Oh.” Nozomi blinked at Saya in surprise. She hadn’t expected that at all. “Well I um...I feel the same way obviously. About you I mean, I really...I really like you and…” She trailed off, struggling to say what she wanted to. She glanced briefly around before she leaned in and pressed her lips to Saya’s. She let herself linger for a moment before she sank back into her seat. “I think I get it.” Saya smiled, touching her fingers to her lips. “Do you want to order? My treat, remember?” “Good.” Nozomi smiled, giving Saya’s hand a gentle squeeze before she let go and picked up her menu. “You still owe me movie night tonight too.” “Of course.” Saya chuckled softly at the comment. “If you don’t mind me falling asleep on your couch.”

“Or not on my couch.” Nozomi mumbled. “What?” “Nothing.” Nozomi smirked, looking down at her menu. Saya stared at Nozomi for a moment before she turned her attention back to her own menu. ----- Honoka closed her bedroom door, grimacing at the sound of her younger sister storming past. She didn’t have time to entertain her parents questions about Eli, nor did she have time for Yukiho’s suspicious comments about who Eli was to her. “You don’t think of me as a friend from school?” “Huh?” Honoka  looked up to see Eli sitting on the edge of her bed. “When your dad asked you if I was a friend from school you said no.” Eli explained innocently. She wasn’t sure what to think about the comment. “Do you not...think we’re friends?” “What? No.” Honoka answered as if it were obvious. “We’re not just friends, are we? I-I mean we kiss and...you’re my soulmate. That’s more than friends. Isn’t it? Ah, I don’t know. Maybe I messed up.” She cleared her throat awkwardly when Eli stayed silent. “I um...my mom is the only one who knows I see color. I think she knows it’s you. She was brimming with happiness downstairs, I-I guess I just panicked.” “It’s okay.” Eli said softly, offering Honoka a small smile. “I um...don’t think of you as a friend either. I mean not just a friend.” Honoka gave a slightly laugh, relaxing at Eli’s slip up. She moved to the bed and sat next to Eli, her hand finding it’s way to the blonde’s. She gave a slight squeeze and felt Eli’s fingers thread through hers. “I-I think my parents would like you. Even if they knew...what we are to each other.” “I wish I could say the same about my family.” Eli muttered under her breath. She could only imagine how her parents would react when they found out Honoka was her soulmate. Her mother would be furious. “What?” “Nothing.” Eli turned slightly toward Honoka. She reached up, gently caressing Honoka’s cheek and smiled softly. “I’ll tell you when I’m ready.” Honoka looked confused for a moment before she smiled and nodded her agreement. She reached up and took Eli’s hand, hesitating for a second before she kissed her palm. “Hey, why don’t you sleep over tonight? It’ll be getting dark soon and my mom said you could stay for dinner if you want.” Eli’s eyes widened in surprise. “Is that okay? Oh, I don’t have anything to wear.” “I can lend something of mine.” Honoka said with a small smile. “I think you would look good in my clothes. Come on...please? It’s just one night.”

She noticed skin as she paused next to her. Glancing down she saw that the blonde’s shoulder was exposed, her bra strap showing. She swallowed thickly and glanced away. The girl was hot, there was no denying that but she couldn’t help but worry that she would only end up screwing things up again. 

Hibiki looked up from her phone and smirked at the sight of the two girls walking toward her. “Finally, Nishikino.” “Shut up, Amagi.” Hibiki rolled her eyes before she turned to Rin. “Hey, hot shot. You decided to come out! I have a fun night planned for the three of us.” Maki grimaced, looking at Hibiki. “Three?” “You’re not ditching us. Right, Rin?” “Nya, you better not!” Rin exclaimed, looking a little bit worried. “Okay, okay.” Maki rolled her eyes. “So where are we going?” “Indie rock club.” Hibiki answered with a casual shrug. “Pretty different from what you might be used to. The owner of the place is British. But many local bands go there for their battle of the band competition. I was thinking of maybe going to an art gallery but I figured you like music since...idols and all.” Rin glanced between Hibiki and Maki, still a little puzzled as to what was going on. “We do, nya.” She answered when Maki stayed silent. She pasted a bright smile to her face, trying to appear upbeat. “Let’s go!” “Hold on, hot shot. It’s this way.” Rin turned to Hibiki in confusion. “Amagi-san?” “Please. Call me Hibiki.” Hibiki purred. “Too much.” Maki mouthed, shaking her head at Hibiki. Hibiki blushed in response. “Just follow me.” She turned away to hide her flushed cheeks and stared to make her way down the street. Rin followed in silence for a few minutes before the silence got to her. “So um...how do you know Maki-chan? Are you two friends?” Maki winced. She hadn’t told Rin the reason they were out with Hibiki was that she wanted Hibiki to help Rin get over the girl she had confessed to. Hibiki glanced at Maki, raising an eyebrow. It seemed that Maki hadn’t told Rin that she was interested in her. “Not exactly friends. Nishikino caught me out of my school persona. She thought you and me could get along.” “I still can’t believe you dyed your hair blonde.” Maki said with a slight frown as she eyed Hibiki’s bleached hair. Hibiki shrugged. “Black is boring. I wanted it teal blue. Or lavender. Teachers would have had heart attacks.” “Wait...AMAGI HIBIKI?!” Rin exclaimed in shock. “But aren’t you supposed to be…” “A good smart shy girl, not in any way what I look like right now?” Hibiki asked pointedly. She watched as Rin hesitantly nodded. “I suppose. As I said, Nishikino caught me out of my school persona.” “And thought we could get along. Right.” Rin said, a little puzzled. She glanced at Maki who looked guilty but nodded in response. Hibiki sighed. “Listen hot shot. Let’s have a good time. I want you to not force yourself if you don’t want to go. We could always go to my place and watch a movie with popcorn.” She relaxed slightly, flashing Rin a soft smile. “I want to be your friend, Rin. I’ve always wanted to. I asked Nishikino to introduce me, okay?” “Okay.” Rin said softly though she was still confused. She couldn’t but wonder why Hibiki of all people would want to be her friend. “But...why, nya?” “Because you’re interesting. And I want to get to know you better.” Hibiki said honestly. “That’s really all there is to it.” “Right.” Rin nodded, deciding to accept that. She glanced to her left to see Maki smirking to herself as they walked. “What?” “Nothing. I didn’t say anything.” Maki replied, struggling to wipe the smirk from her face. ---- Eli was staring at the escalator ahead of her so she noticed right away when Nico appeared at the top. She brightened for a moment but as the girl approached her, her smile slowly faded. Nico was clad in a trench coat, glasses and mask. “You have got to be kidding me.” “Shut up.” Nico mumbled as she paused in front of Eli. She gasped when Eli pulled her glasses off. “HEY!” She sighed but didn’t do anything as Eli tugged open her trench coat. “Do you have to do this here?!” Eli’s eyes widened as she saw Nico’s outfit which consists of a black vest and matching short skirt cute low rise black converse and a white tank top. For the first time she noticed that Nico’s hair wasn’t in her usual pigtails. It was tied up into a ponytail. “You look...really nice.” “Thanks.” Nico said with a slight smile. “You do too. Wearing your hair down suits you.” “I thought it’d be better not to wear it up today.” Eli said, blushing slightly. “Well I have been pulling out your scrunchy so maybe it was a good choice.” Nico said smirking. She looked away after, feeling her face warm. It was still a little embarrassing to talk like that with Eli. “So um...which movie are we seeing?”

Nico watches as Eli goes into her purse to take out the tickets.  She tilts her head and notices Eli’s tight beige pants and her dark blue blouse. Her jacket was black and she could see suspenders underneath it. Nico always liked those on the girl. “You’re wearing suspenders.” Nico said in realization. “Oh. Yeah. I thought they looked good.” Eli sheepishly looked down at what she was wearing. “They look ridiculous, don’t th-” “They’re sexy. I-I mean adorable.” Nico said hastily, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. “They look nice. Pretty. I like them.” Eli chuckled softly to herself. Nico being honest was so new to her but she liked it a lot. She remembered with a hint of guilt how she had acted toward Nico in the early years of school. How she hadn’t been interested in Nico’s idol club. She glanced back and forth before she tugged Nico close to her, pecking her sweetly on the lips. When Eli pulled away Nico almost chased Eli’s lips before she remembered where they were. “What was that for?” “I just wanted to do it.” Eli admitted sincerely. “You’re pretty special to me, Nico. I’m never going to not notice you.” Nico bit the inside of her cheek, struggling to keep herself from beaming at the comment. She had to admit it felt a bit strange for Eli to be saying that to her. “Y-You’re really pushing the boundaries, Ayase.” “I feel daring...maybe even more spontaneous when I’m around you.” Eli said with a small smile. Nico felt herself blush before she felt Eli’s hand touch hers. Timidly the two entwined their fingers. She glanced away, focusing on something over Eli’s shoulder. “Your eyes are really annoying me.” “But I like staring at you.” “Eli?” “Hmm?” Eli asked, perking up slightly. “Do you think I’m...pretty?” Nico asked, certain her face was completely red by now. “I mean I’m not fishing for compli-” “I think you look beautiful.” Eli answered brightly without hesitating. “Even wearing makeup I see.” “Thanks.” Nico mumbled bashfully, her eyes flitting back to Eli’s. She lightly squeezed the hand in her own, flashing Eli a warm smile. “You look really nice too.” “I know. You told me.” Eli smirked. She looked around before she pecked Nico’s cheeks. “Come on!” “Don’t drag me around!” Nico yelped as Eli tugged her off in the direction of the movie theater. “Then start catching up.” Eli quipped. Nico smirked before she began to match Eli’s strides toward the theater, warmth lingering in her chest. ---- Honoka tried to subtly wipe her hands on her shirt, swallowing thickly. Umi was kneeling across from her, both of them on her bed. Umi wasn’t looking directly at her, choosing to look off to the right instead. Honoka could hear that her best friend’s breathing was quicker than it usually would be. “I’m kinda nervous.” She said, hoping to break the tension. “You are?” Umi asked in surprise and relief as she looked toward Honoka. “Why?” Honoka shrugged sheepishly. “I don’t want to mess up in front of you. What if I’m really bad at it? I was already bad at taking your first kiss. You said it yourself. Ugh...maybe we shouldn’t do this. You probably want to with someone you actually like.” Umi didn’t know what else to do. She wanted to reassure Honoka but she couldn’t find the words. Instead she leaned in and kissed her, cupping Honoka’s face in her hands. She felt Honoka inhale sharply but soon enough, Honoka was grasping at her shoulders, kissing her back. Umi closed her eyes, letting herself relax into the kiss. It was much better than their first, she noticed as Honoka’s hands slid over her back. It was soft and warm though soon enough as the kiss deepend Umi felt that warmth turn to something hotter. She pulled back, gasping softly for breath. Honoka stared at Umi, panting softly herself. “That was um…you’re really…” “Please don’t say whatever you’re thinking of saying.” “Hot.” Honoka finished seriously, meeting Umi’s eyes. Umi groaned and buried her head in her hands. “Honoka!” “What?” Honoka asked innocently. “I already told you I like girls.” “You said a girl. Like Kotori?” Umi looked up at Honoka, her brow slightly furrowed. “Kotori-chan? No, um...not Kotori-chan.” Honoka felt herself blush. “I like a lot of girls.” “But you LIKE a specific one.” Umi said, frowning slightly. “Right?”

“I guess. But I like doing this with Umi-chan too.” Honoka said, looking away. She bit her lip. She couldn’t tell Umi that she was the one she liked. “Do you want to keep going?” Umi murmured. She placed her hand on Honoka’s cheek, gently encouraging her to look at her. “It’s just practice so it’s fine. Right?” “Right.” Honoka breathed, giving a slight nod of her head. She pressed her hand against Umi’s, leaning into the touch. “But you’re still Umi-chan.” “I-I don’t know what that means.” Umi rasped. Honoka didn’t try to explain. She leaned in and kissed Umi again, gentler than before. She didn’t want to scare Umi into recoiling from her. She kissed her slowly, feeling Umi kiss her back. Warm hands drifted to her shoulders, lightly resting there and Honoka allowed herself for a moment to pretend that this was real. That Umi was kissing her because they were together, not because they were practicing. Umi pulled away after a moment, her cheeks flushed. “That’s um...enough for now.” “Right!” Honoka exclaimed, her eyes wide. “Do you want to...stay for a while though? We don’t have to do anything, just...maybe you could stay for dinner?” “I should be getting back. I have homework to be doing.” Umi said with an apologetic smile as she stood from the bed. She noticed Honoka looked oddly downcast. “This is just a little weird for me, that’s all.” Honoka nodded silently. Umi kissed Honoka once more. “I’m sorry.” She said softly, not sure what else to say. She heard the door open behind them and quickly straightened up, turning around to find Honoka’s mother standing there. “Oh!” Hikaru exclaimed in surprise. “Your girlfriend is here. Are you staying for dinner, Umi-chan?” “Um…” Umi turned to look at Honoka. “No, I have to go. Thank you anyway.” “Umi-chan…” Honoka grimaced, noticing the panicked look on Umi’s face. She reached for Umi but before she could grasp her hand, Umi bolted out of the door. Honoka sighed. Umi had always been easily embarrassed. She should have known that this would embarrass her too. “Damn it.” “Did you two get into a fight?” Hikaru asked in concern. “No, we’re fine.” Honoka said, sighing softly. She hoped that was true.

---- “Don’t worry, my parents aren’t home.” Eli said as she ushered Nico into her house. “They’ll both be at work until late. Nico swallowed thickly as she pulled the jacket Eli had given her closer around her shoulders. Of course it would end up with them alone at Eli’s house. She shook her head, her face heating up at the dirty thoughts playing in her mind. She looked down, noticing Eli’s butt in those tight pants as the girl bent down to pull off her brown boots. Eli turned around, noticing Nico’s face was red. “Are you okay?” “F-Fine. So um...your bedroom, right?” Eli blushed too. “Oh. Sure. I can get some tea and meet you…” She gasped as Nico grabbed her collar and pulled her into a hard kiss. The kiss only lasted a couple of seconds but it acted as an unspoken promise to the blonde. Eli felt a shiver run down her spine as Nico pulled away and slipped past her. She looked down at her phone as she pulled it from her pocket, a thought occurred to her. She quickly typed a question into her search bar. “Do first dates end with...sex?” She blushed, growling under her breath as she quickly shoved her phone into her pocket without looking at the results. It was embarrassing enough that she had thought to do that in the first place. She placed her cool palm against her burning forehead and took a deep breath. It certainly seemed that the kiss Nico had given her was hinting at the fact that they might have sex. Still, Eli didn’t want to assume. “You coming?” Nico called from the bedroom. “I-I’ll be right there!” Eli nervously called back. She stayed where she was for a moment, trying to compose herself before she turned. She headed up the stairs to her bedroom but found Nico waiting at the top for her. “So even cool Ayase Eli has a cute side?” Nico said with a smirk. Eli glanced away. “It’s like you know what you’re doing. I’ve never...dated before.” “I have no clue either.” Nico grabbed Eli’s hand and began to walk backwards toward the bedroom, tugging Eli with her. She grinned mischievously at her. “I’m just letting my primitive nature take control. And it makes me want to do this.” Eli felt Nico grab her suspenders and tug her close to kiss her as the girl’s back came into contact with the bedroom door. Her lips pressed to Nico’s, her hands moving to her hips as Nico’s slid naturally into her hair. She felt Nico pull away, fumbling with the door handle before the door opened behind them and they stumbled into the room. Eli hastily steadied them both, her lips moving from Nico’s, down to Nico’s neck. She reached up, pushing her jacket off of Nico’s shoulders. She kissed Nico again and slowly walked them back to the bed. Nico gasped as her knees hit the edge of the bed and she sank down onto it, shuffling back and tugging Eli with her. She bit her lip, her eyes roaming over the blonde’s torso. Eli seemed to notice as she reached down, gripping her blouse. She tugged it up and over her head, exposing her upper body to Nico. Nico stared at Eli’s covered chest, her mouth slightly agape. “Th-That too.” She rasped, nodding at Eli’s bra. “You sure?” Eli asked, trying to ignore the slight embarrassment she felt. Her excitement outweighed it, making it easy to ignore. “We can sto...mmph!” She trailed off, her eyes widening when Nico pulled her close, kissing her deeply. Nico felt Eli tug her hair out of it’s ponytail, fingers slipping into it. She boldly reached around Eli’s back and unclipped her bra with shaky hands. She wasn’t sure what she was doing but her heart raced at the thought of learning with Eli. ----- Rin snorted as she took another sip of her rum and coke. She was still on her first and she was drinking it slowly so she was still completely sober. “You didn’t tell her it was alcoholic, nya?” She eyed Maki who was sitting in a nearby seat with a light haired girl. She was giggling quietly to herself, her cheeks slightly flushed. It was clear that she was drunk. “She needed to loosen up.” Hibiki shrugged, smirking to herself. “Besides how would I know that a fifteen year old would chug it?” “Maki-chan loves tomatoes. You shouldn’t have given her something with tomato juice, nya.” Rin pointed out, raising an eyebrow. She was relieved that she had chosen the drink she had. Maki’s drink looked and sounded like it would taste weird. “Maki-chan!” Rin looked up sharply at the sound of Kotori’s voice over the music. She watched as Maki jumped up to hug Kotori as she arrived at their table. “KOTORI!!!” Rin grimaced at the volume of Maki’s voice. “She’s definitely drunk. Maki-chan would never willingly hug someone.” Kotori turned to Hibiki with narrowed eyes, struggling to keep Maki a fairly safe distance from her. She couldn’t have the drunk girl accidentally exposing their secret. “What the hell did you do?!” “Guess that’s our cue.” Hibiki stood up, offering her hand to Rin. “Wanna dance, hot shot?” “Oh, I don’t really…” “Come on.” Hibiki grabbed Rin’s hand, grinning at her. “Loosen up a little. I’ve seen you dance during your idol concerts. You’re one of the best, next to Ayase and Sonoda of course.” Rin barely had time to put down her drink before she was dragged off to the dance floor. Kotori sighed, turning to Maki. She was relieved that they had less of an audience now at least. “What are you doing, Maki-chan?” Maki shrugged her shoulders and Kotori noticed for the first time that Maki had discarded her sweater. She noticed it sitting on the table and reached out to grab it. “Too hot.” Maki muttered in protest when Kotori tried to help her into it. “You need to cover your arms.” “Nah.” Maki pushed Kotori’s hands away, frowning slightly. “You can cover them.” Kotori sighed heavily and let the sweater fall back to her side. “I can’t believe you got drunk, Maki-chan.” “I was lonely with them.” Maki confessed, leaning into Kotori. She smiled softly when Kotori wrapped her arms around her. “I felt like a third wheel. I’m glad you’re here now. I missed you.” Kotori glanced over at Hibiki with a frown. She wasn’t sure how she was meant to take Maki home when the redhead was drunk. She was sure Maki’s parents would frown upon something like that, even more than her own mother would if she had gotten drunk. “Guess I’m going to have to bring you to my place, huh? Oh wait, Nozomi-chan is nearby. We can sleep at her place!” Maki groaned at the thought. “No way. I just want to be with you, Kotori. I want to sleep next to you with your arms around me. If we stay with anyone from Muse we’ll have to keep our distance. I don’t want that. Can we just go to your house? I’ll call my parents and tell them I’ll be out for the night.” Kotori opened her mouth to respond but she hesitated when Maki stared up at her with puppy dog eyes. “Okay. We can go to my place. We have to be careful around my mom though. We can’t let her see that you’re drunk. We can tell her that your parents are going out of town or something…” Maki nodded, smiling brightly. “Right.” “You weren’t listening to me, were you?” Kotori sighed though she couldn’t help but smile at her girlfriend. She gently brushed Maki’s hair behind her ear. “You’re pretty cute when you’re drunk.” “I thought alcohol was meant to make your more daring, not cute.” Kotori chuckled softly. “Guess you’re just a cute drunk then.” “What?” Maki asked. “So that means you would be the opposite?” Kotori thought about that for a moment before she shrugged her shoulders. “Honoka-chan and Umi-chan when we tried some of my mom’s wine, called me a clueless drunk.” “Clueless?” “Yeah. I tend to do things I’m not aware of. I once told Honoka-chan her chest got bigger.” Kotori said, recalling the memory. “And that Umi-chan should just make out with her…” Maki giggled. “What would you say to me? If you were drunk?” “That I’d want to kiss you all of the time. And that you make me want to undress you. Completely.” Kotori lowered her voice, drawing Maki flush against her. “Is that bad?” “You sure you’re not drunk?” Kotori chuckled. “I’m just thinking what drunk me would think of you. It’ll probably be more physical than talking?” Maki bit her lip for a moment. “Kiss me?” Kotori looked around to make sure nobody was watching before she gently pecked Maki’s lips. When she drew away she laughed as Maki whined. “You’re such a brat, Maki-chan.” “I’m not.” Maki pouted, wrapping her arms around Kotori’s neck. “I’m drunk and needy and cute. Give me love.” “You’re definitely drunk.” Kotori said, rolling her eyes. “I’ll kiss you properly at my house, okay? I promise.” Maki’s eyes widened and she nodded eagerly. She glanced over her shoulder to see Rin dancing close to Hibiki. She was smiling as she jumped to the music, alongside Hibiki. She seemed happy, Maki noticed as Kotori tugged her toward the door. Or maybe she was just drunk. Maki wasn’t entirely sure. ---- Hibiki stepped into her house, laughing alongside Rin. She tugged on the girl’s hand, encouraging her to enter roo. “I haven’t laughed this much in a while. Thanks for coming. Even though we got ditched.” “You’re way more fun than Maki-chan so I liked it...in the end.” Hibiki smiled coyly before they walked into the living room. She paused, her eyes widening upon seeing her father waiting. “It’s a school night.” Hitoashi said, narrowing his eyes. “It’s SATURDAY!” Hibiki shot back before she tugged Rin toward the stairs. She hurried up them, hoping her father wouldn’t say anything to embarrass her in front of Rin. “Are you sure it’s okay for me to come over?” Rin asked hesitantly as Hibiki tugged her into her bedroom. “I don’t want to make your dad angry.” “He can go drink himself to sleep if he has to.” Hibiki said darkly. Rin nodded as she looked around the room. She wasn’t sure what she was expecting but she certainly wasn’t expecting the room to be so plain. The only things in the room seemed to be art canvases and supplies. Until Rin looked up, her eyes widening at the mural on the ceiling. “It’s a good thing not a lot of people look up, huh?” Hibiki quipped as she sat down on the bed. Rin was too busy staring up at the swirls of color in the picture of the night sky above to answer. She could even make out shooting stars in the picture. It looks so real. “I always liked Van Gogh's starry night. I wanted it in my room. I didn’t have a big enough tarp to make it so I improvised.” Hibiki explained. “I even used a special kind of white paint for the stars. Look.” She got up and switched the light off before she made her way back to her bed, grabbing Rin’s hand on the way. She tugged her down to the bed and they lay down, looking up at the glowing stars and swirls. Rin looked to her right at Hibiki and she noticed just how pretty the girl was. She felt her cheeks flush at the thought but she couldn’t tear her eyes away. Not until Hibiki glanced at her anyway. Rin quickly looked away, cursing herself. She didn’t want to ruin her budding friendship with Hibiki. “Sorry.” She flinched as she felt a hand move to hers, gentle fingers lacing with her own. “I’m glad I can show you this.” Hibiki confessed quietly. “I don’t let just anyone in here. But I trust you.” Rin bit her lip before she looked away to the side to see a picture of a black haired girl around about the age of six or seven with a woman in a wheelchair. She noticed the woman had light blonde hair and the same colors eyes as the young girl’s. The girl’s hand was tightly grasping the woman’s. “Is that you?” “Yeah, that’s me and my mother.” Hibiki answered, following Rin’s gaze. “A year before she died. Her name was Sophie. I told you I’m half British, right?” “Yeah.” Rin answered softly, turning her eyes back to Hibiki. “Well that’s where the British came from. That was when we lived in King’s Cross. Want to know a secret?” Hibiki looked up at Rin who patiently stared back at her. “I didn’t dye my hair color just as a reason to be bad and go against my father. I did it to be closer to her. I only have her eyes to go by but they’re so haunting for me. Every time I see my reflection I always think of her and…” She paused, blinking back tears which continued and fell despite her efforts. “He hates looking at me because he’s haunted too.” Rin didn’t know what to say so she settled for gently wiping Hibiki’s tears away, a sympathetic look on her face. “I-I um…” “You don’t have to say anything.” Hibiki said, sniffling softly. Rin noticed Hibiki leaning up but she didn’t have time to draw back before soft lips pressed against her own. Her eyes widened briefly and she froze, still. Hibiki slowly drew away. “S-Sorry, I just...I want to be honest with you, Rin. I’ve liked you for a while. I know you barely know me but I’ve noticed you and...I like you. I just want you to know that.” “It’s...it’s okay.” Rin said, still stunned by the sudden kiss. She leaned in and hugged Hibiki. She felt Hibiki hug her back without hesitation. She let out a short sigh. She didn’t want to be like Miyuki and be harsh with her ‘rejection’. “But I’m not...interested it anyone right now. Not just you. Anyone.” Hibiki nodded in response. She supposed she already knew that. “I’m just glad I could tell you.” She said, her voice slightly muffled by Rin’s neck. “I think I need a friend more than anything.” Rin felt a shiver course through her but she just held the girl tighter. “I’ll be your friend. I’ll be your best friend, Hibiki. I promise.” Hibiki’s lips turned up slightly at that, her chest swelling slightly with happiness. She pulled away after a moment, wiping the rest of her tears. “You’re staying tonight, right?” Rin nodded, suddenly feeling nervous again. “I text my mom already. Are you sure it’s okay? I don’t want to cause any trouble.” “I want you to stay.” Hibiki said, shaking her head. “I guess...this is pretty weird for you, right? I mean we just met as far as you know…” “I-It’s fine, nya.” Rin looked Hibiki over. “Do you have something for me to wear though? I mean you’re um…” She hesitated unsurely. She knew how Nico would react to someone calling her small and Hibiki wasn’t much taller than Nico. “Ah, nevermind. Um...where do you want me to sleep?” “My bed?” Hibiki asked, tilting her head slightly. Rin’s eyes widened at the dirty thoughts suddenly running through her mind. “R-Right, nya. I knew that.” Hibiki blinked, confused by Rin’s behavior. “I must look like a clown, huh? I need to wash this makeup off. Um...you can change into whatever you want. Second drawer down. I have some clothes in the bathroom so I’ll get changed in there.” “Right.” Rin said, her face flushed. She had already messed up. “Okay. You can do it in here if you want. I mean um...it wouldn’t be weird. I get changed in front of my friends all of the time.” Hibiki smirked slightly at that. “But would you get changed in front of the girl you like?” She left Rin to ponder that, turning and heading for the door. Rin wasn’t sure what to say or do so she got up and headed for the dresser. She found some sweats and a loose shirt and quickly changed into them. She turned as the door opened and found Hibiki walking into the bedroom in shorts and a t-shirt. Her hair looked a little bit wet and her makeup had been removed. “Shit, nya…” Rin breathed. Hibiki’s eyes were even more breathtaking without eye shadow. Hibiki raised an eyebrow. “Are you okay?” “YES, nya!” Hibiki shrugged and went over to Rin, taking her hand. She dragged her onto the bed again before she pulled the covers over them. “Goodnight.” Rin murmured, nervously turning onto her side so that she was facing away from Hibiki. Hibiki frowned slightly at Rin’s back. She hoped she hadn’t made the girl too uncomfortable. “Goodnight, Rin.” ---- Eli woke to the feeling of an unfamiliar warmth against her front. Something tickled her nose and her brow furrowed as he eyes fluttered open. She found herself staring at the back of Nico’s head and memories of the previous night rushed back to her. She smiled slightly, nuzzling Nico’s neck. Given the fact that Nico was facing away from her, it was only when she became aware of fingers gently stroking her hand that she realized Nico was awake. “How long have you been awake?” She murmured, gently kissing Nico’s neck. It was dark in the room, telling her that it was still night. “A while.” Nico whispered back. “I just...you know you took me virginity, right?” Eli felt her stomach sink at the question. She hadn’t thought of it like that. She swallowed thickly. “Do you...regret it? I didn’t mean to push you into anything. I would have waited if…” She groaned, resting her forehead against Nico’s back. “I shouldn’t have moved so fast. I just figured...I was being spontaneous.” Nico turned in Eli’s arms, fixing her with a serious look. “Oh geez, don’t start with the self-loathing, Ayase. I took yours too. I wanted it anyway. I wanted something that nobody else in our school could get. And that’s you.” Eli felt her heart beat faster. “You can be pretty romantic when you want to be, Nico.” “Hey, I’m not that horrible at this!” Nico protested, rolling her eyes. “I definitely wouldn’t say you’re horrible at it. Especially the part that came before this.” Eli smirked daringly, causing Nico to blush. “Shut up.” Nico grumbled, placing her hand behind Eli’s neck. She drew her in close and kissed her, mostly to hide her own embarrassment. Still the kiss drew a slight moan from the blonde and she felt a surge of satisfaction until the moment was broken by footsteps outside of the door. She drew back quickly, her eyes wide with horror. “Shhh!” Eli whispered, hearing her mom pause outside of her room. She heard her mother speaking Russian but her heart was racing too much to hear. If her mother walked in on them, she wasn’t sure what would happen. She’d probably be told to leave. Nico saw the fear in Eli’s eyes and nodded stiffly to show she understood what Eli wanted her to do. Slowly, the talking outside of the room grew quieter until finally Nico heard a door shut down the hallway. “Was that your mom?” She whispered. “Yeah.” Eli murmured, her heart still racing. She slowly sat up in the bed. “I can’t believe she almost caught us. I forgot she would be coming home tonight.” She watched as Nico silently got out of bed and began to get dressed. “You’re not walking home in that outfit. There’s a sweater in my drawer you can take.” “Well whose fault was it throwing my trench coat into the trash?” Nico quipped, raising an eyebrow. Eli shook her head in exasperation before she got out of bed. She would need to change into her pajamas too. She crossed the room to her drawer to get dressed. “Just please put on some sweats and a hoodie. It’s dark outside. And dangerous.” Nico scoffed. “We both know I can take care of myself.” “I know. Can you just let me worry about you for a second?” Eli tugged on a thin shirt along with her own sweats before she turned to Nico. “I don’t want you to get hurt. That’s all. I really…” She trailed off, biting her lip. “Just please take the clothes.” “Fine.” Eli watched as Nico once more took off her vest and shirt, discarding her skirt too. She smiled and handed Nico a pair of joggers and a hoodie, which Nico quickly tugged on. “Thank you.” “Yeah, yeah.” Nico said, rolling her eyes. She gestured toward the door. “Lead the way.” Eli nodded and led the way out of the bedroom, checking to make sure nobody was in the hallway. She headed down the hallway and down the stairs as quietly as she could with Nico behind her. Nico slid her shoes on at the door and waited for Eli to open the front door for her. When the door was open she stepped outside. “So I’ll um...see you at school, I guess?” Eli nodded in response. “Yeah.” Nico stayed where she was, her eyes shifting from side to side. Eli leaned in and gently kissed Nico’s lips before she drew away again. “I’m not gonna get used to you doing that anytime soon then.” Nico mumbled, her cheeks flushed. Eli smiled warmly. “Goodnight, Nico.” “Goodnight.” Nico turned to walk away, lifting a hand in a wave as she started on her way down the street. ---- Rin grumbled in annoyance as light hit her eyes. She snuggled unconsciously into the warmth of Hibiki’s back, trying to resist waking up. She heard a gasp and instinctively pulled away, falling out of the bed onto the floor. She grimaced at the shot of pain and looked up to see a blushing wide eyed Hibiki had sat up. “Did you sleep well?” Hibiki asked with a slight smile. “Uh...yeah, did you?” Rin asked, moving to her knees. She crossed her arms atop the bed and rested her head on them, looking up at Hibiki. Hibiki swallowed thickly. “I slept fine, yeah.” Rin noticed the strange look on Hibiki’s face and her brow furrowed. “You okay?” Hibiki leaned in, brushing her fingers against Rin’s cheek. “I’m better than great. I have a best friend now, remember? Someone I can just be me around.” Rin felt herself blush but smiled softly. “You can.” She confirmed softly, feeling Hibiki’s fingers brush briefly through her hair. She slowly drew back and lifted her arms, stretching them over her head. “It’s Sunday. Do you want to um...hang out today maybe?” “You want to hang out with me more?” Hibiki asked in surprise. “Yeah, nya.” Rin answered sincerely. Hibiki’s eyes lit up at the confirmation. “Alright. That’s okay with me. Do you need to stop by your house to get clothes?” “You can come with me. If you want.” Rin offered shyly as she got to her feet. “Do you want to stay over for one more night?” Hibiki offered hopefully. “I know it’s a school night but…” “Nya, maybe I want to be bad.” Hibiki blinked. “NOT LIKE THAT!” Rin exclaimed, her eyes widening. Hibiki raised an eyebrow. “Like what?” She laughed when Rin looked away. “I did tell Nishikino I would corrupt you.” She got out of bed, stretching for a moment. “I’ll change in the bathroom. I’ll be back in a few minutes.” “Right.” Rin watched Hibiki go, feeling slightly relieved. She wasn’t sure where the flood of bad thoughts came from. As the door closed she stood up, figuring she should change too. A moment later Hibiki appeared again in cut off shirts and a loose crop top. “Sorry, my other clothes are being washed.” Rin’s eyes widened as she took in the skin on display. “Um…” “What?” Hibiki asked hesitantly. “Too much?” “No, I just really um…” Rin shook her head, looking away, Hibiki turned around and headed to her closet, emerging with a black bomber jacket. She pulled it on and zipped it up.

“It’s hot today, nya.” Rin frowned in confusion. “I don’t want you to be uncomfortable.” Hibiki said quietly. Rin walked over and unzipped the jacket, glancing down at Hibiki’s exposed stomach before looking up. “I won’t be uncomfortable. I suck at this, don’t I, nya?” “No.” Hibiki said, shaking her head. “It’s just...different. It’s not every day someone tells you they like you, right? Well you probably hear that kind of thing more than me anyway.” “That people like me?” Rin asked in surprise. “No. Not even the girl I liked liked me back. You’re the first ever.” “Straights are idiots.” Hibiki said boldly. She nervously noticed that Rin was still standing close to her, idly toying with the zipper on her jacket. Rin managed a small smile at that. “Right.” Hibiki lightly tousled Rin’s hair. “Come on, hot shot. Let’s make you bad.” Rin laughed softly as she let go of Hibiki and let the girl take her hand instead, tugging her toward the door. ---- “Kotori, you have to leave for school in ten minutes and you still haven’t eaten breakfast!” Kotori grimaced at the sound of her mother’s voice. Maki too, who had just finished dressing, froze. “I’ll get something on the way, mom!” “Okay!” Maki breathed a sigh of relief as she heard Kotori’s mom walk away from the door. “I still can’t believe she didn’t find me.” Kotori shrugged. “Well she was busy yesterday…” “On a Sunday?” “She had some paperwork she needed to get done and she likes doing it in her office at school.” Kotori explained quietly. “She says it’s easier to concentrate there. Besides, you enjoyed being here.” “I had a hangover.” “And I took care of you.” Kotori said, raising an eyebrow. “You were really handsy last night. Even though it was just a heavy makeout.” Maki lowered her head, her face and ears burning with embarrassment. She gasped softly as she felt Kotori step up behind her, gently pecking the tip of her ear. “School. Remember, school.” “You even managed to get my shirt off.” Kotori murmured softly. “Kotori!” Kotori smirked, gently nibbling on Maki’s left ear. “What? You heard my mom, we still have ten minutes before we have to leave for school.” “It’s been five minutes since she said that.” Kotori chuckled softly at the comment. “Fine, we can put this on hold until later.” Maki’s eyes widened slightly at the promise. Remembering the mark left on her neck she quickly buttoned up her collar. She drew away from Kotori, flashing her a small smile before she picked up her bag. “Are you sure your parents wouldn’t have noticed you weren’t there?” Kotori asked, her brow a little furrowed in concern as she headed for the door with Maki. Maki shook her head. “It’ll be fine. I left a note saying I was going out and they haven’t called me so they probably haven’t noticed. Is your mom…?” “I heard her leave for work a couple of minutes ago. I’ll have to lock up on our way out.” Kotori said reassuringly as she stepped out into the hallway with Maki. Maki grabbed Kotori’s hand and tugged her into a deep yet soft kiss. She felt Kotori kiss her back and smiled into it before she drew back. “What was that for?” Kotori asked, pleasantly surprised. Maki shrugged her shoulders. “Just felt like it. Do I need a reason?” Kotori shook her head. Maki really was a brat sometimes. She could see a smirk playing at the redhead’s lips. She pouted before she pounced, wrapping her arms around Maki’s arm like they were a real couple. “Kotori.” Maki groaned, rolling her eyes. “What?” Kotori smirked back. “I can’t walk to school with my girlfriend?” “Technically I’m not even meant to be your girlfriend.” Maki blushed as she felt Kotori’s chest pressing against her bicep. “Someone might think we’re together.” “We are together.” Kotori huffed slightly as she loosened her hold on Maki. They made their way toward the stairs and she pouted to herself. She didn’t like the idea of keeping their relationship a secret anymore than Maki did but she knew why they needed to do it. She didn’t want to get Maki into trouble with her parents and she wasn’t at all sure of how her own mom would react to the news either. Or her dad for that matter. Maki noticed Kotori’s distant look as they reached the bottom of the stairs. She knew about Kotori’s issues with her mother, especially since her dad had left them when she was twelve. “One day we’ll be able to do this. I’m not gonna leave you, Kotori. Not like him.” Kotori bit her lip. Only Honoka and Umi knew about him. It wasn’t until she had started dating Maki that she had told her. She sighed, letting her head rest on the other girl’s shoulder. “Thank you.” As they stepped outside of Kotori’s apartment building, Maki looked both ways before she kissed Kotori’s forehead. She had learned the hard way about Kotori’s anxiety issues. There had been a time she’d forgotten about a date and Kotori had ended up close to hysterical because she thought Maki was tired of her. “Hey, Maki-chan…” Kotori said as they started walking down the path. “I know we said we shouldn’t...but do you think we could hold hands on the way to school? I mean...friends hold hands all of the time, right?” Maki smiled broadly at the suggestion and took Kotori’s hand without hesitation. She tangled their fingers together confidently. “You know I wouldn’t say no to that.” ---- Nico was on her way down the corridor to the cafeteria when she felt someone grab her arm. She let out a yelp as she was pulled into a room but fell silent when she found it was just Eli. She glared at the blonde, realizing she was in the student council room. “Can’t you be a bit gentler?” “I thought you liked it rough?” Eli teased after pushing the door closed. Nico rolled her eyes and tugged Eli close, her lips moving to the blonde’s neck. She bit down hard. “You’re right. But did you have to turn me on?” “I missed you.” Eli gasped softly, locking the door. Nico chuckled softly. “We’re acting like hormonal teenagers.” “It’s exactly what we are. Come on, don’t you like being daring, Nico?” “With you...yes.” Nico closed her eyes as she felt hands tugging her blazer and sweater off. She bit her lip when her buttons were undone, giving her already marked neck some air as she felt Eli’s lips press against it. “I missed you too.” Her hands went to Eli’s shirt, untucking it before her hand pressed against the heated skin of Eli’s stomach. She felt herself press against the wall as she finally pulled the blonde into a needy kiss. “Why do you have to be so hot?” Nico growled against Eli’s lips, her fingers trailing over the blonde’s ribs. “Why would you even choose me out of everyone in school?” “Because you’re Nico.” Eli drew back. Nico met Eli’s genuine sweet blue eyes and blushed. She pressed a much more chaste kiss to Eli’s lips. “And you’re Eli. A stuck up. Who I ended up liking.” “Says the girl with her head up her ass.” Nico rolled her eyes. “Barely.” “I know.” Eli smiled warmly. Nico huffed slightly. “Whatever. Just hurry up and keep kissing me before lunch is over, okay?” Eli beamed at that but did as she was asked, leaning in and kissing Nico deeply. Nico squeaked in surprise as she felt strong arms lift her by the back of her legs before Eli pinned her to the door. She wrapped her arms around Eli’s neck, nonetheless, deepening the kiss as she slid her fingers into Eli’s hair. As dangerous as it was to do something like this at school, it was exhilarating too. She felt like fire was rushing through her veins as they both relished in the passion and feelings they held for one another. ----- “You don’t have to wear it.” Rin said insistently as she sat down on the stool near Hibiki. It was lunch time but rather than go to the cafeteria she had chosen to stay in the art room with Hibiki. “I’m your best friend, nya! That means you don’t have to hide the real you.” Hibiki frowned slightly as she touched the dark wig she was wearing. “I’m more comfortable in this at school. I don’t stand out as much. Besides, the principal would be pissed.” “Who cares what anyone else thinks?” Rin walked over to Hibiki and gently took the wig off, setting it aside. “Don’t you feel better when you’re yourself?” “Um…” Hibiki hesitated, distracted by Rin unbuttoning the top buttons of her shirt. She felt herself blush at the intimacy of the gesture. “Well...I guess so. I just don’t think everyone at school is ready for me to ‘be myself’.” Rin realized how pushy she was being and pulled away, blushing. “S-Sorry, nya.”  She looked away, frowning. “Maybe I should get my ears pierced.” “Huh?!” “I just want to look different. More interesting.” Rin said, shrugging. “I think you...already look interesting.” Hibiki said, her voice quieting slightly. She was glad that Rin wasn’t looking at her at least. “You don’t need to get anything pierced. Trust me.” Rin glanced at Hibiki with a small smile. “Really? You think I’m interesting.” “Well yeah. Obviously. I told you that on Saturday night.” Hibiki answered as if it were obvious. Rin gave a slightly nervous laugh. It was still odd to think that someone like Hibiki liked her, of all people. “You don’t have to leave it off it you don’t want to.” She said softly, figuring she’d been a little too forward. She stepped forward and hugged Hibiki who tensed for a moment before carefully hugging back. Rin was briefly distracted by the feeling of Hibiki’s chest pressing against her. She swallowed thickly. “Y-You should do what makes you happy.” “I guess you’re right.” Hibiki said, drawing away from the embrace. She flashed Rin a small smile. “Maybe someday. Just not today.” Rin beamed at that and nodded her head in understanding. “Hey, Hibiki…” She stepped back, sitting down. “Will it not ruin your reputation? Being seen with me?” “Huh?” Hibiki tilted her head. “Why would it?” Rin shrugged her shoulders. “Nico-chan said Miyuki-chan’s...that’s the girl I confessed to...her friend knows that I um...like girls. And she’s going to tell everyone. People probably already know. If you’re seen with me people might think you are too.” “I don’t want people to know I’m a rebel. That doesn’t mean I give a shit about my friends being gay.” Hibiki frowned at Rin’s question. “I’m gay too. Who the hell cares? My father already knows. It’s...a long story. But he does know.” Rin stared at Hibiki with a worried look on her face. “But what about everyone at school?” “It’s not like we’re holding hands in the hallways.” Hibiki pointed out matter of factly. “We’re just hanging out. People can think what they want.” Rin breathed a sigh of relief. “So you still want to be friends with me?” “Best friends.” Hibiki smiled warmly, nodding her head. She felt her chest expand when Rin beamed at her. She stared at Rin for a moment. “You would look cute with pierced ears.” Rin held her breath as Hibiki stepped toward her. She felt a hand come up to caress her cheek and blushed in response. “Y-Yeah?” “Yes.” Hibiki said softly, a small smile tugging at her lips. Hibiki’s eyes flickered down to Rin’s lips, her eyes turning dark for a second before she locked eyes with Rin again. Rin cleared her throat, noticing where Hibiki had been looking. “How did you know you were like that? Did you ever kiss a girl, besides me...?” “Back in middle school.” Hibiki answered simply. “How did you know?” Rin shrugged her shoulders. “I liked Miyuki-senpai. That’s all. I had never kissed anyone before though.” “Before I kissed you.” Hibiki said in realization. Rin noticed the guilty look on Hibiki’s face and reached out, grasping her hand. “It’s fine, nya! It wasn’t bad. I um...I liked it. It was nice.” “Nice?” Hibiki’s eyes lit up with hope. “So um...maybe it would be okay if someday I did it again?” “Someday.” Rin said with a small smile. “Maybe, yeah.” Hibiki smiled softly before she tucked a strand of blonde hair behind her ear. She opened her mouth to speak but she was cut off by the bell ringing. “Ah, I guess we should get to class.” She mumbled as she pulled her wig back on. She fixed it so that it looked as natural as possible. “How do I look?” “Good.” Rin stepped forward and gently buttoned Hibiki’s shirt up again. Hibiki swallowed thickly. “Right. I forgot about that. Thanks. Come on, let’s get to class.” She grabbed Rin’s hand and dragged her out of the room. “Y-You’re still holding my hand.” Rin stuttered as students began to whisper around them. She noticed Eli and Nico coming out of the student council room , Eli tying her hair up while Nico straightened her sweater and blouse. She didn’t think anything of it. Hibiki’s eyes widened at the sight though and she let out a low whistle as they passed. “Shut it!” Nico growled in annoyance while Eli looked nothing short of panicked. “Nishikino ain’t the only one getting it, huh?!” Hibiki hollered back as she made her way down the hallway. Nico stepped forward but Eli grabbed her arm, pulling her back. “Just leave it.” Eli said softly as she stared after Rin and the other girl. Rin glanced back at Nico and Eli in confusion but she quickly shook it off, more focused on getting to class and the fact that Hibiki was still holding her hand. “Wait!” Nico said in realization. “Maki’s doing that?! But...how? With who?!” Eli shrugged her shoulders but the look on Nico’s face told her she was going to be roped into finding out who Maki was dating anyway. ---- Umi squinted against the sun, keeping a close eye on the door that led to the stairwell. Herself and Honoka were the only two people on the roof but someone else, probably someone from Muse, could come up at any moment and Umi was preparing herself to have to dart away from Honoka’s side, where she was leaning comfortably. “My parents think it’s just a phase.” Umi said quietly, breaking the silence which had settled between them. “That I’ll grow out of it.” Honoka gave a thoughtful hum. “I guess they’re right...about our relationship at least. But you’re still going to like girls. You can’t do anything to change that.” “Yeah.” Umi mused, a sick feeling forming in her stomach at the thought of their pseudo-relationship ending. “But not yet.” “What if I come over for dinner?” Honoka asked, realizing what Umi was worried about. “And we make it serious. I don’t want them to think that we’re just messing around either. My parents believe us. My mom said she was wondering when I was going to tell her...weird.” Umi smiled slightly at that. “Do you think we can do it? We’d have to pretend to um…” She felt herself blush. “You know, be in love. With each other.” “It would be easy for me.” Honoka said brightly. “Umi-chan is my type.” She saw Umi raise an eyebrow and her eyes widened. “What, am I not yours?” Umi smirked at the question and gave a slight shake of her head. She wasn’t going to answer that. She didn’t want to make her feelings too obvious. Honoka pouted, taking Umi’s answer to mean no. “So what is Umi-chan’s type? Like...Eli-senpai?” Umi scoffed slightly. “I’m not going to tell you.” Honoka frowned, biting her lip. She supposed she should have expected the answer that Umi wasn’t interested in her like that. They were only fake dating after all. “Besides, you won’t tell me who you like.” Umi pointed out matter-of-factly. “Because she doesn’t like me back.” Honoka said with a slight shrug of her shoulders. She took a deep breath, leaning forward slightly. She wondered if she could talk to Kotori about the situation. She shook her head. Kotori would probably think she was being stupid for putting herself through dating Umi without really being honest. “Sorry.” Umi said softly, noticing Honoka’s sudden distance. “Is it Kotori?” “No.” “Eli?” Umi asked quietly, figuring that was why Honoka had asked her. “No.” Umi hummed thoughtfully. “Nozomi?” Honoka shook her head. “Stop guessing, Umi-chan. I don’t want anyone to know. Not even you.” Umi frowned and looked away. “Okay.” She noticed Honoka’s hand resting between them on the ground and her own hand twitched. She wanted to hold Honoka’s hand so badly but she didn’t know how Honoka would react. Instead she cleared her throat. “So what should we do when you come over?” “Obviously kiss each other in front of him. Maybe I could hold your arm.” Honoka answered quietly. “And we could pretend to do something in your room.” Umi’s eyes widened. “Honoka!” “What? I’m just suggesting ideas.” Honoka said with a tiny smile as she got to her feet. She stretched her arms above her head, sighing. “We should get going. Lunch is almost over.” “Right.” Umi gathered her things together, standing too. She felt a little bit guilty about having partially ruined their lunch by bring up something that had upset Honoka. “Honoka?” “Hmm?” “Can we...practice again?” Honoka hesitated before she turned to look at Umi. “It’s calling kissing, Umi-chan.” Umi cringed. “Don’t make me say it.” “Why do you want to?” “Because I-I want to be convincing. For when you come over.” Umi lied awkwardly. Trying to think of an excuse was harder than she had thought. “You can come over to my house tonight.” Honoka hitched her bag up onto her shoulder. “We can practice there if you want.” Umi swallowed thickly. “Right. Okay. Do you still want to? You said...” “I do.” Honoka said without hesitation as she turned to Umi. Her eyes were slightly wider than usually. “I-I do want to. If you do.” Umi breathed a sigh of relief at the response. “I do too. Um...let’s hurry and get to class. I don’t want to miss anything.” Honoka groaned at the mention of class but did as she was asked, trailing after Umi to the stairwell door. ---- “Who do you think she’s meeting?” Eli whispered as she walked alongside Nico down the hallway. Maki was a way in front of them and didn’t seem to have noticed that they were following yet. “I don’t know. That’s what we’re trying to find out.” Nico said, rolling her eyes at Eli’s question. “Looks like she’s headed to the music room.” She stopped at the corner, encouraging Eli to stop with her. Peeking around she saw Maki enter the music room. “Come on.” Eli sighed as she followed Nico to the music room door. She didn’t see why they even had to do this. It wasn’t their business. She could only imagine that she would be furious if any of her friends decided they were going to follow her or Nico to find out their secret. “She pulled the blinds down on the window.” Nico said thoughtfully. “Why would she do that if she wasn’t trying to hide something?” “I don’t know.” Eli sighed, shoving her hands into her pockets. “Can we go now? I’d rather be alone with you right…” “Someone’s coming!” Nico hissed, grabbing Eli’s arm. She pulled her close to the lockers and pressed against the wall, drawing Eli close to her. Over Eli’s shoulder she saw someone walk past but barely managed to catch a glimpse of a pink ribbon before the girl was gone. Nico moved away from the lockers in time to see the door to the music room close. “She’s a second year. With a pretty big chest.” Eli huffed. “You were staring at her chest?” “Hey, I had yours against me!” Nico said defensively. “And yours is HUGE.” Eli crossed her arms, frowning. “Not as big as Nozomi...you barely have anything.” “HEY!” Nico growled. “I’m trying here, oka-?” “And it’s what I prefer.” Eli interrupted before Nico could continue. She smirked and grabbed Nico’s hand, tugging her closer. “Why don’t we go?” Nico blushed. “Um...you can come over to my place after Muse practice if you want. I’m cooking.” Eli smiled brightly at the invitation and nodded her head. “I would like that.” Nico relaxed slightly, seeing sincerity in Eli’s eyes. She smiled softly. Her siblings seemed to like Eli the most out of Muse and Eli got along so well with Cocoro. She tangled her fingers with Eli and tugged the blonde down the hallway, her desire to find out who Maki was meeting forgotten about for now. ---- Maki was gently playing the piano, only half practicing when the door to the music room flew open, hitting the wall. She gasped, sitting up straight as her eyes widened. She watched as Kotori stalked into the room, slamming the door closed behind her. “K-Kotori?” Maki stuttered, getting to her feet. “I can’t believe him!” Kotori exclaimed loudly. “He hasn’t contacted us in four years and now all of a sudden he wants to SEE ME?! WHAT THE HELL?!” Maki noticed Kotori clutching a letter in her hand. It was mostly crumpled up. “Um, Kotori, what…?” Kotori let out a yell of frustration and kicked the chair next to her as hard as she could. It went flying across the room and she cried out in pain, clutching at her foot. “Damn it!” She crumbled to the ground in tears, the letter falling from her hands. Maki stepped away from the piano, carefully making her way to her girlfriend. She hesitantly knelt down next to her. “You’re talking about your fa-” Kotori growled angrily. “Fuck him. If you say that word…” “Alright, alright. Karasu contacted you. I…” “I’m not going to see him.” Kotori interrupted angrily. “He CHEATED. HE LEFT US! There’s no way in hell I want to see him. I don’t care if he says he’s changed. FUCK him.” Maki swallowed anxiously. She had never heard Kotori talk like that before. In fact she was sure she had never seen Kotori so angry. She sighed and pulled Kotori to her. “Come on, let it out. It’s not just yelling you want to do.” Kotori gritted her teeth. “I hate him!” She replied stiffly even as her eyes stung with tears. She stubbornly blinked them back. She wasn’t going to cry over him. “He just left us!” “It’s okay.” Maki drew back, locking eyes with Kotori. “I’m…” Her eyes widened as Kototi pulled her close, kissing her fiercely. Her eyes closed and she kissed back, surprised by how tightly Kotori was gripping her shoulders. She was sure her girlfriend wasn’t even aware of it.   Her brow furrowed slightly as Kotori tugged her closer, deepening the kiss. She couldn’t quite catch her breath and Kotori’s grip was tightening. She pulled back after a moment, with a soft gasp. “Kotori, that...hurts a little.” Kotori’s grip loosened instantly and she drew back, her eyes wide. “Kotori…” Maki rubbed at her shoulder with a slight wince, noticing tears gathering in Kotori’s eyes. “It’s fine, it’s nothing. Come here.” Kotori sank into Maki’s arms, in tears. “Can I sleep over at your house?” She asked, her voice slightly choked. “Please? Just to sleep. I don’t want to do it when I’m like this.” “Of course.” Maki whispered, gently stroking Kotori’s hair. “I-I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to…” “I’m okay.” Maki said soothingly. She gently kissed the top of Kotori’s head. “Come on, let’s go. I was just about done in here anyway.” Kotori nodded and let Maki help her up and lead her toward the music room door. She didn’t bother to pick up the letter which had fallen from her hand. She didn’t need it. ---- Hibiki watched with a thoughtful expression as Muse practiced a few feet away, Umi leading the practice. She didn’t even have to know them all that well to notice that the group seemed particularly somber. And that Kotori and Maki were missing from practice. She wanted to ask where the two were but she didn’t want to interrupt practice. She was just there to observe. She scratched at her wig uncomfortably before looking down at her sketches. Just some figure drawings of the girls stretching. Now she was more focused on the scenery. She looked up again, her eyes focusing on Umi who seemed a little bit too distant. She noticed the angry expression on Honoka’s face too and wondered if the two friends had gotten into a fight. She noticed that Eli and Nico were intentionally not looking at each other while Nozomi seemed to be watching them intently. Hanayo seemed oblivious to the turmoil of her peers while Rin was focusing on her steps. For a second, Rin’s eyes focused on her before she tripped over Nico. “Nya!” Rin exclaimed in frustration. “I’m meant to be next to Maki-chan for this dance. This is so frustrating. I can’t get my steps right because it’s meant to be a group effort!” Umi frowned, looking to Eli for advice. Eli sighed. “Maki and Kotori are both not here. We have to go on without them.” Nozomi stepped forward. “Elichi, I think we should take a break. I feel a disturbance in the atmosphere.” “Look, can we just continue!?” Honoka growled, earning herself several surprised looks. “It’s none of our business what they’re up to.” Nico narrowed her eyes. “Sounds like you know something, Honoka.” “It’s…” Honoka was interrupted by the door to the roof opening. “Come on, Miyuki!” “Junko, stop!” Rin’s eyes widened as Miyuki and the girl from the club room earlier stepped out onto the roof. Eli noticed Nico step forward and she moved to her side, slightly panicked. “S-Sorry to disturb you, Kousaka-kaicho.” Miyuki said, grimacing slightly. “W-We just need to ask you for some theater materials.” Umi frowned before she spoke. “We can discuss this after Muse practice, Kanamoto-san.” “Hey, look, it’s your stalker.” Junko said maliciously, her gaze focusing on Rin. Rin felt her breath catch in her throat, her stomach plummeting as she took a step back. “Oi, Mirakino, shut your mouth!” Nico spat, starting to step forward. She was stopped by Eli’s arms going around her waist. She felt herself being pulled close to Eli’s front. “Nico, calm down.” Eli said softly. She didn’t want Nico to get hurt. Or get into trouble for fighting. “It’s not worth it.” Nozomi watched the two with interest, noticing the way Nico almost unconsciously gripped Eli’s hand in front of her. Nobody noticed Honoka stalking forward until she was right in front of everyone else. “Were you the one who hurt Rin-chan?” “Oh come on, can we not talk about this in public?” Junko asked in disgust. “Seriously, you told them you like a girl?!” “So what?” Hibiki finally stood up from the floor. “She’s not alone. I’m done with this.” She reached up, pulling off her wig and tossed it to the side. “WAIT.” Junko held up her hand. “You’re all REZU’S?!” “Junko!” Miyuki exclaimed, wide eyed. Rin bit the inside of her cheek, tears forming in her eyes. “Hibiki, don’t…” Honoka growled in annoyance and leapt forward, her fist raised. She wasn’t going to let anyone else get away with hurting her friends. Her curled fist came into contact with Junko’s jaw, sending the girl stumbling back. “Don’t make my friends cry. I’ll get your club the damn permission for the materials, just get out of my sight! I’ve had enough of my friends being upset today!” Miyuki quickly guided Junko, who was clutching at her face back through the door to the stairwell. It closed behind them. Nico’s eyes widened at Honoka’s outburst. “What the hell happened to get her so angry?” “Um…” Umi hesitated before sighing softly. “Kotori’s father contacted her.” “THAT BASTARD SHOULD STAY AWAY FROM HER AND YUME-SAN!” Honoka exclaimed angrily, turning back toward her friends. Nozomi frowned. “I thought Kotori’s parents are...oh.” Umi nodded. “Yeah, it’s a sensitive topic between the three of us. Ah, she doesn’t like to talk about it though so please don’t mention it to her.” Rin was too distracted to even think. She walked over to Hibiki and sat down next to her, only to feel an arm wrapping securely around her shoulders. She let herself be pulled close and buried her face in Hibiki’s shoulders, her tears spilling over. “Let’s all call it a day.” Eli sighed. “We’ll figure out the Kotori issue tomorrow. Hopefully Maki  is with her.” Nico scoffed slightly. “Maki?! Kotori needs someone who can actually comfort her. Maki wouldn’t know where to start.” Nozomi watched closely as Eli continued to calm Nico down. She smiled sadly. She would love to tease them but it wasn’t the right time for anything like that. “Elichi is right. We’ll call it off early today. Let’s all get dressed and relax.” Umi gripped Honoka’s hand and lowered her voice. “Let’s go to your house. We can watch a movie.” “Or kiss.” Honoka mumbled under her breath. “But maybe we should find Kotori-chan first.” Umi’s brow furrowed. “If she needs us she knows where to find us, Honoka. She’ll be okay.” Nico looked at Eli as they made their way to the door. “Still want to come to my place?” “Yeah, let’s go. I need a home cooked meal.” Eli muttered, trying to keep the others from hearing. She left through the door with Nico, Umi and Honoka right behind her. Nozomi and Hanayo trailed after, leaving Rin and Hibiki alone on the roof. Slowly, Rin lifted her head only to meet bright blue eyes. “Hey.” Hibiki whispered with a gentle smile. Rin sniffled softly. “You’re so warm.” “I’m right here, Rin.” Rin leaned in and pressed her lips to the corner of Hibiki’s before she leaned back, her eyes widening. “You took of your wig.” “Yeah. I figured it was time.” Hibiki said with a slight smile as she touched her hair. She lowered her hand only to feel Rin’s replace it, gentle fingers sliding through her hair. “I like your hair like that.” “Than no more wig.” Hibiki said sincerely. “Rin, you’re giving me courage to be me. Junko is gonna start rumors about us. And all the Muse members. But with you beside me I can take all that bullshit. I’ve never really had a best friend. It’s...nice.” Rin blushed. “It is. Me and Kayo-chin have been best friends and always had each other’s backs. I want that with you. But I want it to be different. I feel like I can tell you more than I can even tell Kayo-chin.” “Hmm? Like what?” “Like...I like rum and coke!” Hibiki raised an eyebrow. “You can tell that from trying it once?” “Nya, I tried alcohol before!” “Whoa, are you tell me Hoshizora Rin has a bad side?” Hibiki laughed at the thought of Rin being described like that. Rin narrowed her eyes. “I thought we already knew that.” “Got me there.” Rin watched Hibiki laugh, her eyes shifting back to the girl’s lips. They were so soft the first time they kissed and then when she did it just now. She wondered what it would feel like to kiss Hibiki more. Deeper. Her face turned red and she turned to stare at the sky above them. The sun was setting now. “Hibiki?” “Yeah?” Hibiki asked softly. Rin moved back, leaning once more into Hibiki’s arms and resting her head on the girl’s shoulder. “Will you stay up here with me for a bit longer?” “However long you want.” Hibiki replied quietly, without hesitation, her arms going around Rin to hold her close. “I’m not going anywhere.” ---- Honoka leaned in before taking Umi's lips. Just this once she wanted to pretend they were actually together and not....faking it. Umi gasped softly as her back hit Honoka’s mattress. Her eyes widened as Honoka crawled over her, straddling her. She hesitantly slipped her hands into Honoka's hair, gripping it as she tried to do well at this practice session. Honoka bare her teeth and tug Umi's bottom lip. Causing Umi to chase Honoka's lips. Umi could feel it was getting deeper. Her mouth parting as Honoka's tongue slip past her lips. Honoka wanted to just feel Umi. All of the stress, anxiety and anger she was feeling seemed to melt aways when she found this comfort of Umi's hand in her hair. Her body pressed against the girl she'd been pinning for. Who she knew liked someone else. It was painful but Umi was her friend and this fake dating would help her with her family. "Umi-chan" Honoka growled, lips trailing down Umi's jaw to her neck. She unbuttoned her collar and Umi moaned at the sudden touch of hot lips to her skin. It was becoming unbearable. She needed to end this before she said something she'll regret. Honoka sucked lightly before biting down. Umi winced and arched up. "H-Honoka it hurts. " Honoka pulled away, her hair a mess as she looked down at Umi. The girl was a mess, her skirt hiked up her shirt untucked. She looked sexy. Honoka felt tears in her eyes before she hugged Umi. "I-I'm so sorry I went overboard, I just ." Umi shook her head as she held Honoka close to her. "It’s ok...that's convincing enough, right?" "Y-Yeah....” Honoka pulled away and climbed off of Umi, ashamed at her sudden need to use their practice as an outlet. She really was a horrible friend. “I-I’m sorry. I’m such a mess, I…” She trailed off, feeling Umi’s hand touch her own. Looking down she saw Umi timidly shake her head. “Please don’t apologize for having emotions. I’m worried about Kotori too.” Umi said, internally cringing. She hated saying that. Of course she was worried but not as much as Honoka. Since it was obvious Honoka liked Kotori. She gave Honoka a small smile, moving to her knees in front of the girl so they were on eye level.

Honoka frowned. That wasn’t the only reason she was upset. She took a deep breath, squeezing Umi’s hand back. “I just want her to be happy.” She mumbled, looking down at their joined hands. Her thoughts didn’t shift to Kotori, her focus on the girl in front of her. She wished it could be the case that Umi was happy with her. But that would never happen. Umi grimaced slightly. She wished she was enough to make Honoka happy but it seemed that wasn’t the case. Her stomach twisted uncomfortably . She wanted nothing more than to tell Honoka the truth.She couldn’t though. She would only wind up ruining their friendship. Honoka grabbed hold of Umi and tugged her toward her as she lay back down on the bed. Umi gasped as she landed with her head on Honoka’s chest. She quickly relaxed though, soothed by the comfortable feeling of Honoka’s warmth and the beating of her heart beneath her ear. “I love you, Umi-chan.” Honoka said in a whisper. She wished she could leave it at just that. “You’re a good friend.” Umi felt her heart leap and then plummet again. Honoka mentally kicked herself for adding the last part. If only she could stop being such a coward about her feelings. “H-Honoka, can I kiss you?” Honoka jerked in shock at Umi’s question but she answered quickly anyway. “Of course, Umi-chan…” Umi raised herself up on one elbow so that she was leaning over Honoka. She lightly brushed her fingers over Honoka’s cheek, noticing blue eyes watching her intently. She leaned down slowly and kissed Honoka gently, her hand still resting on Honoka’s cheek. She felt Honoka kiss her back, a hand going to her shoulder but she didn’t try to deepen the kiss or rush it. Neither did Honoka. Slowly, Umi eased away, her breathing slightly labored. “Are you okay?” Honoka asked, noticing the torm look in Umi’s eyes. Umi nodded silently. “Hey, Umi-chan…” Honoka nervously bit her lip, looking away. “Do you...like kissing me? I-I mean it’s not weird for you, is it?” Umi answered by leaning in and kissing Honoka again, deeper this time. She felt Honoka moan softly against her lips and pressed closer, her fingers sliding through Honoka’s soft hair. She felt Honoka’s arms go around her, tugging her down closer and then a moment later she felt her buttons being undone. She growled as her own instincts kicked in and she gripped the sides of Honoka’s shirt and tugged. Buttons came snapping off, falling to the bed as she tore open Honoka’s blouse. Their lips parted and Umi’s lips moved to Honoka’s neck, in search of more skin to touch. She felt Honoka gasp softly as she kissed and nipped at the girl’s neck. Honoka bit the inside of her cheek, struggling to keep herself from moaning. Her hand went up to her mouth to keep herself in check but she couldn’t help but let out a whimper when Umi sucked at her neck, none too gently. She was going to leave a mark. Honoka could feel it. Umi shifted her position slightly, crawling further on top of Honoka, With her own shirt finally open she felt Honoka’s cool hands slide inside it, resting briefly on her sides before they started to run up and down her back, nails lightly scraping against her skin. Neither of them heard the door open until they heard Yukiho’s gasp. They quickly parted and Umi scrambled off of Honoka, closing her shirt. Yukiho had clamped a hand over her eyes but not before she saw their state of undress. Their shirts were clearly undone, Honoka’s skirt bunched up to her hips as her legs wrapped lightly around Umi’s waist. “Y-Yukiho!” Honoka gasped, quickly pulling her blankets over herself. “I-I can explain…” “I knew you two were dating but oh my god!” Yukiho exclaimed, refusing to move her hand from her eyes. She didn’t want to catch even another glimpse of what she had just seen. “C-Can you just get out?” Honoka asked pleadingly. “We were busy a-and we’ll talk about this later, okay?” “You need to buy a lock for your door.” Yukiho muttered as she stepped backward out of the bedroom. Honoka sighed in relief as the bedroom door closed. Biting her lip, she looked at Umi who was red in the face, her breathing heavy. Honoka tried to push down the urge to kiss Umi again. To pick up right where they left off. “S-Sorry, Umi-chan. I ju-” Umi silenced Honoka by kissing her hungrily again. Honoka’s shirt finally fell from her shoulders and she shuddered as Umi’s hands trailed hot blazes up and down her arms. She felt Umi push her back down to the bed and gripped Umi’s shoulder to make sure the girl went with her. She was surprised that Umi wanted to continue even after Yukiho caught them but she wasn’t about to argue. Honoka felt Umi’s hand move to press against her lacy pink bra and she gasped suddenly. She lifted her own hand, placing it on Umi’s and pressed harder, encouraging to touch her more. Umi was surprised but encouraged by the gesture and let Honoka guide her hand, her fingertips just barely brushing over Honoka’s skin above her bra. Honoka made a sound of discontent as Umi’s lips left her own but she was quickly silenced as Umi’s lips found their way to her chest. “Aaah, Umi-chan…” She gasped as her bra was tugged down slightly, the strap falling from her shoulder. Soft lips closed around her right nipple and Honoka arched into the touch only to feel Umi freeze atop her. Umi pulled away, her eyes wide as she looked down at Honoka. “W-We should stop. I’m sorry, I just…I got carried away. I thought…” She pressed her hands to her burning cheeks. “Oh…” Honoka quickly fixed her bra and sat up as Umi moved off of her and went to get her shirt. She pulled the blankets back to her chest. She was silent for a moment as she watched Umi put her shirt back on. “I’m going to have to buy a new shirt. I only have one spare…” Umi felt herself blush even more. “I’ll pay for it.”

“Um…” Nozomi thoughtfully narrowed her eyes, trying to place the name. “Oh, the girl with the dark hair? Yeah, she seems...nice? She seemed a little annoyed at me. Maybe because I crashed the party or something?” Saya grimaced. “It’s not that, she’s...we’re...it’s not you. Trust me.” “Nyaaaa, that’s so unfair!” Nozomi turned sharply at the sound of a familiar voice, finding an bright orange haired girl struggling to grab a bottle being held above her head by a dark haired man, probably around Saya’s age. Her brow furrowed and she got off the couch, stepping forward so that she could get a look at the girl. “Fuku-Kaichou ?” Rin’s eyes widened as she caught sight of Nozomi. “Nya! Don’t tell Kaichou I was here. She’ll have me in detention or suspension or whatever you two are capable of.” Nozomi raised an eyebrow. “I’m here too, um...Hoshizora-chan?” Rin nodded at the question. “Yes. So you’re not going to tell her?” Nozomi shook her head, looking between Rin and the amused blonde next to her. She noticed the girl’s hair was even brighter than Eli’s. “It’s fine. You shouldn’t be drinking though.” Saya lowered her voice. “You were just about to…” “Not the point.” Nozomi replied back in a whisper yell. “I’m older.” “You go to Rin’s school?” Hibiki asked pointedly. “Name’s Hibiki. I’m Hot Shot’s girlfriend.” Rin inhaled sharply, choking in surprise at the blunt comment. “H-Hibiki!” “I’m just saying. You are.” Hibiki answered with an innocent shrug of her shoulders. She gently patted Rin’s back before she turned to Nozomi. “So Rin tells me your school is planning to create an school idol group. You planning to overthrow A-Rise and Tsubasa?” “I’m not really a part of that. I’m part of the student council.” Nozomi answered with a shake of her head. “Yeah, I figured that.” Nozomi frowned and glanced to Saya who was distracted by Chrom. She turned back to Hibiki. “I’m sorry, did I say something to...upset you or…?” “No. I just don’t get how you can intimidate people so much.” Hibiki said, glaring back at Nozomi. “Ah, Hibiki, um…” Rin lightly gripped Hibiki’s arm. “Tojo-san is actually the one I was telling you about. The nice one. Ayase-san is the...intimidating one.” “Oh, right.” Hibiki blushed slightly at her mistake. “Sorry about that. Authority figures are a pain.” Nozomi shrugged. “I wouldn’t know, I live alone.” “Ouch. Sorry. Start over?” Hibiki asked hopefully. “I’m Hibiki. Rin’s…” “Girlfriend. I know. I’m Tojo Nozomi, vice president of the student council. And a friend of Saya-chan’s.” Nozomi nodded toward Saya. “Sayako?” “Brat. I told you not to call me that.” Saya sighed, rolling her eyes. She glanced pensively at Nozomi, noticing she looked a little confused. “Do you want to go somewhere else?” “But you just go here!” Chrom protested loudly. “Come on, you haven’t introduced me to your friend.” He turned to Nozomi, holding his hand out. “My name’s Chrom. You can just call me Chrom.” “Tojo Nozomi. You can just call me Nozomi.” Nozomi gave a slight laugh as Chrom took her hand and shook it firmly. Saya huffed out a sigh. “Don’t flirt with her, she’s only seventeen.” “What? I’m not. Besides, I’m only nineteen.” Chrom said, letting go of Nozomi’s hand. “And I’m only being friendly.” “Hey, Tojo-san.” Rin piped up. “What color are Hibiki’s eyes?” “Ocean blue.” “I knew it!” Rin exclaimed as Nozomi clamped a hand over her voice. She turned victoriously to Chrom. “She already met her soulmate. Wait...is it Kaichou?” “No.” Nozomi answered, shaking her head. She stubbornly refused to look at Saya. “Wait, how do YOU know the color?” “Oops?” Rin gave a sheepish laugh. “Um...Hibiki and I are uh….” “Soulmates.” Hibiki finished bluntly for Rin. “Wow.” Nozomi mumbled. “Nobody in school would believe Hoshizora Rin was the first to find her soulmate.” Rin frowned. “Junior high is the perfect time. We started off as friends and then developed it.” “More like you can’t stop tackling me for makeouts. Hot Shot did this.” Hibiki pulled down her collar and Nozomi’s eyes widened at the mark there. She quickly looked away. Chrom sighed and shook his head in exasperation. “Don’t mind her. She’s not usually like this.” Hibiki quietened as Chrom’s eyes met hers. “Um...I need some air. Want to join me, Rin?” “Huh?” Rin frowned in confusion, noticing the change in tone. “Sure.” Not a moment after she said that she was being tugged off toward the door. “Strange.” Nozomi said thoughtfully as she watched the two of them go. She turned back to the two in front of her, noticing Saya nervously chewing her lower lip. She was about to ask what was wrong when Chrom spoke up. “She has some personal issues. Trust me, she isn’t as confident as she acts. Especially with her family. It’ll take her some time to get used to you.” “Right.” Nozomi said thought she wasn’t thinking much about the girl she had met. She glanced at Saya, noticing she looked a bit calmer now. “Um...where did your other friend go? Uni-san?” “Oh, she’ll be drinking somewhere.” Saya said with a sigh. When Uni was in a bad mood she tended to drink too much. “I’ll probably have to get her into bed after the party. I’ll probably find her passed out in the bathtub or something…” “She’s speaking from experience.” Chrom told Nozomi in amusement. “I can take care of Uni later if you’re busy.” Saya blushed. “Sh-Shut up.” “Huh?” Chrom looked between Saya and Nozomi before realization dawned on him. “Wait, you two...your soulmate is in HI-” “Don’t even think about saying it.” Saya growled warningly. Chrom looked to Nozomi. “What color are Saya’s eyes?” “Rose pink.” “NOZOMI!” Saya exclaimed loudly. “Sorry.” Nozomi muttered. “What color are my eyes?” Chrom pointed to his own eyes. “COLBERT BLUE, HAPPY?!” Saya exclaimed loudly in irritation. “Just make sure Uni actually goes to sleep in her own damn bed, got it? Do NOT let her leave with anyone.” With that said she took Nozomi’s hand and led her swiftly from the apartment. It was only when she reached the bottom of the steps leading outside that she noticed Nozomi resisting. She let go of her and Nozomi stopped, causing her to stop too. Slowly she turned to look at Nozomi. “Are you embarrassed of me?” Nozomi asked softly, not quite meeting Saya’s eyes. “It seems like you’ve been...trying to hide me all night. Even though you invited me along, it seems like you’re worried about anyone finding out about us.” Saya felt a tug at her heart as she noticed tears at the corners of Nozomi’s eyes. She impulsively hugged her. “I’m sorry. It’s not that, I’m just...I’m not embarrassed of you. Trust me.” “Then what is it?” “I don’t want to mess up.” Saya said honestly. “We don’t need everyone to know. I just want you to be mine and mine alone.” Nozomi felt a slight shiver travel up her spine. “Really?” “Really.” Saya drew away, gripping Nozomi’s hand. “Now come on, let me walk you home.” Nozomi smiled softly and squeezed Saya’s hand back. “Okay.” ---- “Bye, mom!” Kotori called back into the house as she opened the front door. It was unusual for her to leave first but her mom was taking a day off for a change, saying she needed to catch up on some things at home. Kotori figured she would leave early to meet Honoka and Umi. She headed down to the ground floor of the block, stepped out of the door and headed down the path only to falter at the sight of a familiar redhead standing at the end of the path. “M-Maki-chan.” Kotori said in surprise as she walked toward the redhead. “Is everything okay?” “Yeah.” Maki nodded her head, her eyes flicking left and right. “Just figured we could walk to school together?” Kotori stared at Maki for a moment before she broke into a smile. “You’re so cute.” Maki huffed, blushing as she looked away. “No, I’m not. Do you want to walk with me? If you don’t want to, I can walk alone.” “I want to!” Kotori exclaimed quickly as she reached Maki’s side. “I’m glad you came. I was thinking of looking for you at school. Maybe in the music room or something.” A small smile flickered across Maki’s lips. “I’m usually there at lunch. And after school. If you wanted to come later today...if you want.” She glanced at Kotori, flinching as the sun hit her eyes. “Damn sun…” Kotori looked up, trying to look at the sun only to find it hurt her eyes. “Don’t stare at it.” Maki said, rolling her eyes. “You need to have your eyes for dancing, right?” “Maybe you should join?” Maki scoffed. “No. I’m only helping you in the shadows. I need to focus on my studies right now.” “Okay.” Kotori said, with a slight shrug of her shoulders. Maki was a little surprised by how well Kotori took the news but she was relieved at the same time. “Wait, what? Aren’t you supposed to tell me I shouldn’t overwork myself? I mean mother tells my father all the time…” Kotori raised an eyebrow. “Do you want me to act like your wife?” Maki choked, her face turning red. “K-Kotori!” “You know…” Kotori said as they continued to walk. “You really like the piano.” Maki sighed. “It’s only for leisure. I begged my parents when I was young after listening to Bach in music class for the first time.” Kotori nodded thoughtfully in response. “I can understand that.” Maki smiled slightly at the comment and the two settled into silence for a couple of long moments as they walked side by side. She glanced down at Kotori’s hand, her brow furrowing. Kotori noticed her looking. “Do you want to hold my hand?” “Um...I mean I see some girls do it. Like Hoshizora and Koizumi…?” Maki said nervously. She felt a warm hand take her own, warming her skin. “My mother never met her soulmate. In fact her and my father are divorced.” Kotori said softly as she squeezed Maki’s hand. “I never told anyone that since Honoka-chan and Umi-chan.” “Kotori…” Kotori cleared her throat. “I didn’t think I would find my soulmate either so this is a little...odd for me too.” Maki stopped and hesitated for a moment before she turned and hugged Kotori. “I may not become an school idol but I will support you.” Kotori let out a shaky breath. “We can make this work.” ---- Umi looked up as the door to the roof opened, expecting to see Kotori or Honoka walk through it. They were both late for training and neither had bothered to let her know. Her brow furrowed when Nico stepped out onto the roof instead of Kotori or Honoka. “Oh great. Rich girl.” Nico said irritably. “Would you stop calling me that?” Umi frowned at Nico. “Just because I’m getting my father’s dojo when I’m older, that doesn’t make me a princess or something.” Nico’s brow furrowed. She had been trying to tease Umi, that was all. “Okay, okay. Calm down. I just wanted to tell you that you can use the club room. Just don’t tell your friends I’m allowing it.” “O-Oh…” Nico crossed her arms in front of her chest. “You really don’t like it when people rub it in that you’re rich, do you?” “I prefer to think my inheritance is earned rather than given.” Nico scoffed and shook her head in disbelief. “So just reject it.” “It’s a lot more complicated than that, Yazawa-san.” Nico gritted her teeth. “Just call me Nico, damn it.” “Call me Umi then, not rich girl.” “But you are rich.” Nico said pointedly, raising an eyebrow. She shrugged after, wandering closer to Umi. “Fine. Umi. Just don’t tell your friends I did this, okay?” “Why did you?” Umi asked curiously. “You seemed so adamant.” “You asked me to.” Nico turned indignantly as Umi smiled. “Whatever. You must have caught me in a good mood. It’s not going to happen again.” “Thank you, Nico.” Umi called after Nico as the girl walked back to the door. Nico lifted her hand, waving Umi off before she left the roof. ---- Nozomi was walking down the corridor with Eli when she spotted Rin walking with Hanayo. Without thinking, she seized Rin’s arm, dragging her into an empty classroom. “Nya!” Rin exclaimed as Nozomi shut the door behind them. “What was that for?” “We need to talk.” Nozomi said seriously, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “Okay, okay. Hibiki goes to UTX, okay?” Rin frowned. “I don’t like people knowing I can see color, nya. Besides, it’ll hurt Kayo-chin if I tell her I have a soulmate and she doesn’t. Besides, Hibiki doesn’t want anyone to know either. Her father is an asshole.” She rolled her eyes, seeing Nozomi blink. “I’m not that naive, I can curse. So are you going to tell Kaichou? She’s your best friend, right?” “Ah...no. I want to keep it a secret too.” Nozomi lied, shaking her head. “Just for a while until I get used to it myself. So do you like it? Seeing color?” “Of course I do. Who doesn’t want to see color?” Rin smiled, looking out of the window. “I feel so lucky being able to see it before entering even high school. Hibiki is a wonderful person.” “Yeah…” Rin narrowed her eyes. “Don’t let her facade fool you, she’s pretty deep and she’s so interesting. Did you know half of her family is foreign? Like Kaichou. People were afraid of her in junior high. Her eyes were intimidating. Kinda like people were afraid of me because I was so boyish. I really hated myself before we met.” “You shouldn’t.” “Yeah, I know. Even if I don’t look girly she makes me feel it. The first time she painted my nails I felt it.” Rin said thoughtfully. Nozomi smiled as Rin trailed off. “You really need someone to talk to, huh?” “No. I have Hibiki.” Rin said, shaking her head. “And Raven-kun, Hisa-chan, Uni-chan…” “Alright, I get the point.” Nozomi said with a slight laugh. “Must be nice. Having someone to talk to.” “You could talk to Chrom-kun. He’s a good listener.” Rin said, realizing how much time she had spent talking about herself. “Or maybe Kaichou…?” Nozomi smiled sheepishly. “Maybe Chrom-kun. He did give me his number. I don’t want to make things awkward for him and Saya though.” “You really like her. More than a friend?” Rin asked thoughtfully. Nozomi shrugged. “Maybe...I don’t know. I don’t know what she thinks of me either.” She shook her head. It wouldn’t help to talk about her problems with a first year. “Anyway, if you want to talk, I’m here.” “Thanks, Nozomi-chan. You can talk to me too. If you want.” Rin said sheepishly. Nozomi smiled at the response. “Come on, I think Elichi and Koizumi-chan are waiting for us.” Rin watched Nozomi’s face fall slightly. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone.” Nozomi breathed a sigh of relief as she followed RIn out of the room. She found Eli staring at her in confusion and shrugged her shoulders. “We should get to class, Elichi.” Eli sighed. She wanted to question Nozomi but they only had a few minutes and she didn’t want to be late. “We’re talking about this later.” Nozomi grimaced at the thought and glanced briefly back at Rin before she followed Eli down the hallway. ---- Eli sighed at the sound of a knock at the door to the student council room. She was trying to work and she couldn’t concentrate because she was too busy thinking about what was going on with Nozomi. Her best friend was acting even stranger than usual and Eli didn’t know why. Now to top off, Eli was even more distracted by people knocking at the door every five minutes. “Come in!” The door opened a crack. “It’s me.” Honoka’s voice called through the door. “If you want to close your eyes.” Eli felt her heart leap in her chest. Quickly she shut her eyes and turned her face down to her lap. “You can come in now.” The door creaked open and Eli heard someone step into the room. Honoka moved over to the table and placed the forms in her hand in front of Eli. “I brought the paperwork for the auditorium.” “That’s fine, I’ll look it over.” Eli said without looking up at Honoka. She didn’t hear anything else for a moment. “Did you need anything else?” “Can I sit with you for a minute?” Honoka asked hopefully. “I um...if you want to.” Honoka nodded and turned away from Eli, facing the door. She leaned back against the desk. “Have you been practicing?” Eli daringly looked up at Honoka’s back as she leaned back in her seat. She stayed tensed, ready to close her eyes if Honoka turned around again. “For your performance.” Honoka nodded her head in response. “Of course. Umi-chan makes us train so early…” Eli managed a small smile at that. She had gotten the impression that Umi would be the strict one in the group. “Are you okay?” Honoka continued, turning her head just slightly. “You seem quieter than usual.” “I’m just…” Eli paused, having been about to tell Honoka that she was worried about Nozomi. She shook her head. She couldn’t tell Honoka that. She hardly knew her. “I’m fine. Just a little distracted by all of the work I have to do before tomorrow. Now I have more forms to read over.” “Ah, right. Sorry…” Honoka mumbled, wincing in guilt. She moved away from the desk and walked around it to Eli who looked away again. Eli saw Honoka lean down out of the corner of her eye and a moment later soft lips pressed against her cheek. She blushed at the touch. “Maybe I can help.” Honoka said thoughtfully, taking the seat next to Eli’s. “Nozomi-chan isn’t here so….” Eli nervously bit her lip. “I don’t know…” “Just tell me what to do and I’ll do it.” Honoka suggested with a shrug of her shoulders. “Um...I’ll tell you if I find something you can do.” Eli answered hesitantly. She wasn’t sure she had anything Honoka could do without knowledge of how the student council worked. “You can stay for a bit if you want.” Honoka smiled at the comment and nodded her head. “I do want to. Are you coming to the performance this afternoon?” “Oh...no, I-I’ll be busy.” Eli answered awkwardly. “Oh.” Honoka visibly deflated, pouting to herself. “It’s okay. Maybe next time?” Eli paused, sighing heavily. “Do you really think this school idol thing is going to work to save the school, Honoka?” “What? Of course it’s going to work!” Honoka said brightly. “If the school has an idol group, more people will want to come here next year.” “I think it’s a ridiculous plan.” Eli said honestly, casting a sidelong glance at Honoka. “We need to be doing something to actually save the school. Something that will work.” Honoka frowned to herself. It didn’t seem like she would be able to convince Eli of what she was saying. She was trying to think of a way to steer the conversation to a more pleasant topic when the bell rang, signalling the end of their lunch period. “Oh. I should go. I don’t want to be late for class. I’ll see you later, Eli-senpai.” “I’m not…” “I don’t mean at the performance. Just later.” Honoka interrupted hurriedly before Eli could finish her sentence. “I want to talk to you more, get to know you more.”

“I…” Eli looked up just in time to see Honoka’s back heading for the door. She closed her mouth, frowning as Honoka disappeared. “Damn it…” ----- Rin sighed as she sat down at a desk, her phone held to her ear. “It’s a bit strange...someone knowing that I can see color.” “I already knew. And so did Chrom, Uni, Raven, Hisa, Saya, Miyu…” “I mean someone at school.” Rin interrupted Hibiki quickly. “It’s just different than only you and my friends outside of school knowing. What if she tells someone else?” “Why would she?” Hibiki asked curiously. “She seemed nice at the party. Besides, even if she does, we’ll work it out.” She leaned on the railing of the UTX school roof, overlooking Akihabara. “We always do. You still upset about her mentioning she was surprised you found your soulmate?” Rin nodded. “It’s like impossible in her eyes. That I’d find someone.” “She just doesn’t know the real you, Rin.” Hibiki said gently, trying to calm her obviously annoyed girlfriend. “I mean you said you only met her once in passing, right?” “Yeah, I guess.” Rin muttered. “I just don’t like that she doesn’t take us seriously. How can she not? You’re my soulmate, damn it.” Hibiki smiled slightly at that. Hearing Rin being annoyed was new to her but it was nice to know that Rin also had her ticks. “I love you.” She whispered to the phone, feeling her skin prickle slightly with embarrassment after. Not at having said it but she still wasn’t used to it. Rin smiled softly. “I love you too, nya.” “Are you going to drag Koizumi to see the idol group? You told me earlier she’s interested and you want to help her, right?” “Nyaaa, yep!” Rin exclaimed, brightening slightly. “We’re gonna see the performance and she’ll hopefully sign up!” Hibiki smiled softly. “You’re an amazing friend, Rin.” “Nyaaa, hehe…” “I’ll bring you that autographed A-Rise poster tonight when we meet up.” Hibiki offered thoughtfully. “Give it to her. It’ll give her the courage hopefully.” “Nya, yes!” Rin beamed at the idea. “I love you. You’re the best.” Hibiki blushed, turning her eyes up toward the bright blue sky. “I know I am. Sometimes.” “I wish you were here. I want to kiss you right now.” Hibiki almost dropped the phone in surprise. “Gah! Warn me when you’re gonna get seductive. I’m on the roof…” “Sorry.” RIn chuckled softly. “We can talk about it when we meet up tonight instead. Then I can kiss you for real!” “Yeah.” Hibiki mumbled, her cheeks warm. She glanced around nervously. “I’ll meet you after school. You can tell me how the performance goes.” “Nya, I’ll record it for you!” Rin exclaimed enthusiastically. “And you can tell me yourself!” “Okay.” Hibiki couldn’t help but smile to herself at the suggestion. “Bye, Rin.” “Bye.” Rin echoed back quietly. She ended the call just as Hanayo walked into the room. “Rin-chan, I was looking for you!” “Ah, sorry. I just wanted to be alone for a bit. Nothing big, don’t worry.” Rin said, getting to her feet. Hanayo frowned. “Were you looking at yourself in the bathroom?” “N-No! What gave you that idea?” Hanayo adjusted her glasses. “You used to do that in junior high.” “It’s nothing. I’m fine, don’t worry.” Rin said quickly, forcing a smile to her lips. “Anyway, we should really be going to class. We’re still going to the performance later, right?” “Oh, I-I don’t know…” “We are.” Rin said firmly as she walked past Hanayo. “Come on, Kayo-chin!” Hanayo hesitated for a moment before she followed Rin out of the room, heading down the hallway to their class. ---- “I can’t wear this!” Kotori rolled her eyes at Umi as she pulled her track pants down. “It’s not that short!” “IT IS SHAMELESS!” “I worked very hard on these, Umi-chan!” Kotori argued in annoyance. “But why did you have to make the dresses so short?” Kotori sighed. “So we can move.” “Your legs are sexy, Umi-chan. They need to be flaunted.” Honoka chimed in. “HONOKA!” “Joking.” Honoka said, chuckling to herself. She watched as Kotori shook her head in dismay while Umi merely glared at her. “Does it even look good on me?” Umi complained. “Yeah. You look pretty. Right, Honoka-chan?” “Um…” Honoka hesitated unsurely, narrowing her eyes at Umi’s dress. “The grey suits you.” Kotori raised an eyebrow as she whispered. “Only seeing blue still?” Honoka huffed in annoyance. She wished she could see the other colors but she knew that Eli wasn’t comfortable with the idea of meeting her eyes yet. “Shameless.” Umi mumbled to herself again as she finished looking herself over in the mirror. “Are you sure I…” “YES!” Kotori exclaimed loudly. She shook her head in exasperation at her friends. “Come on. We have to get to the auditorium a few minutes early, remember?” Honoka smiled brightly. She was sure their plan to save the school was going to work. “Let’s go.” She agreed, hurriedly opening the door. She rush on ahead, leaving Kotori to lead a hesitant Umi out of the room.