Broken Destiny Season 2 (Epilogue Version 1 & 2 10/01/10)

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 56

Narrator: "Once upon a time, there was a very powerful kingdom ruled by a just king and queen. Their life would be very complete if they were blessed with a child. Day and night they would pray to the heavens to send them one. It took years before their wish was granted. They held a very huge banquet to celebrate the birthday of their lovely princess. They invited all the people of their kingdom to their large palace, even the fairies and elves who lived in the forest nearby. They invited everybody except the wicked and merciless witch of the lagoon."

The curtains were lifted and the lights were opened revealing the characters on the stage. Ryuutaro was dressed like a queen, carrying a doll as their baby and Maaya looked magnificent with her crown and sword. Hitomi in her bluish-white fairy outfit came forward towards the baby that Ryuutaro was holding.

...........
"Captain looks like a girl!" Sayumi whispered.

"What do you expect? She's really a girl in the first place." Ayumi replied.

"You have no idea how girls in this school swooned over her boyish looks and attitude." Reina answered.

"Did the two of you swoon over her?"

"NO!" Sayu and Reina answered simultaneously.

"How about Rika then?"

Reina and Sayumi looked at each other. Reina was the one who spoke. "Just ask her."

.............
Fairy: "Such a lovely child! I’m going to give you a special gift! I give you"

Hitomi waved her wand in the air but were stopped midway when the lights dimmed and out came Eri with a long trident in her hands.

Witch: "HAHAHAHAHA" What a wonderful celebration indeed. You invited everyone... everyone except me." Eri said in a high-pitched, sarcastic voice.

Queen:"Wha.. what do you want?" Ryuutaro asked in a high-pitched voice imitating a girl’s voice. The audience muffled their laughter when they heard the Math wizard in his girly voice.

King: "I ask you to leave this place! You are not invited witch!" Maaya remove her sword from its scabbard and pointed it towards Eri.

Witch: "Oh, I'm going to leave this place alright." Eri paused and gave off a mischievous smile. "But not until I give my gift to the princess." Eri widely waved her trident in the air. Koume, their classmate who was voted as the leader of the technical team, pressed a button and the lights immediately flickered, she gave a sign to her classmate who was sitting beside her. Jin, in turn, pressed the player which played the sound of a thunder.

Witch: "Princess Sapphire, I'm going to give you the gift... of Death!" Eri stopped waving her trident and pointed it towards the doll. Eri pressed a button and released a white light from the tip of her trident. "When the clock strikes midnight on your 18th birthday, you will touch a spinning wheel and get killed! AHAHAHAHA!!!"

Koume signaled another of her classmate near the stage with her pen light. Yui seeing the signal from the control room opened a machine, producing a smoke. Eri immediately ran towards the exit and Koume, seeing that Eri’s already gone, signaled Yui again to stop the smoke, and then she pressed the button again to stop making the lights flicker.

.........
"Sugoi! Your section must have worked hard for this day." Kaori commented.

"Of course! Or I will punish them if they showed a low quality play."

"Just an advice, don’t be too harsh on your students, Yuuko."

"Don't worry, I'm planning to."


"HAHAHA! Eri's so cool!!!¡" Sayu laughed out loud.

"Be quiet! We're not the only one who's watching."

"Yeah, and your voice would be heard on our record." Ayumi whispered as softly as possible.

"Gomen."

............
Queen: "What should we do?! I don't want our daughter to die!" Ryuutaro kneeled and hugged the doll tightly. Maaya caressed the doll’s face put her arms around Ryuutaro.

Fairy: "Don't feel sad, your highnesses, I still haven’t given my gift yet." Hitomi waved her wand in the air and continued with her script. "By midnight of your 18th birthday, if you were struck by the spinning wheel, you will not die. Instead, you will just fall into a deep slumber and a prince will come to awake you with true love's kiss." Hitomi pressed a button and her wand emitted a yellow light. Maaya faced the audience.

King: "From this day, I decree that all spinning wheels be destroyed and burned!" Jin pressed another button and emitted a sound of a crowd saying "Hai!". Maaya then turned to Hitomi. "I know that witch will not stop and find a way to kill our daughter. It’s hard on our part but, please take good care of her. Take her to a far place, a place where Hecate will not find her, onegai!" Ryuutaro gave the doll to Hitomi.

Fairy: "You can count on me. I’ll take care of princess Sapphire like she was my own child." Hitomi walked out of the stage and the lights were turned off.

...............
"Now, the Cinderella scene will be starting." Ayumi whispered. She paused her video camera while the lights were turned off.

"I really want to see Miki get trashed by Aya." Reina giggled.

"But it's really nice if we were the one's trashing her right?" Sayumi blinked.

"I dare you.."

"Shhh, the lights were opening again" Ayumi pressed the record button and resumed her recording.

............
Narrator: "Almost 17 years had passed and Sapphire grew up kind and beautiful. The fairy disguised herself back as the beautiful merchant woman who lives in a secluded place inside the forest of the other kingdom. She migrated here many years ago. The mother of the king was her friend that's why she went back to Silverland when she heard that after many years, her friend's son would become a father. Before going back, she adopted two children; the older was an orphan that she saw on the streets while the other was a girl who was lost in the woods and doesn’t remember a single thing on her past. She treated them equally but the two doesn’t seem to treat Sapphire nicely."

Ruby:"SAPPHIRE!!!" Yuuichi screamed in a high pitched voice. The girls from their school laughed out loud. This was a rare time to see the infamous playboy of their school wearing a bright red, frilly dress and talks in a girly manner. Yuuichi’s face became red but he continued for the sake of the play. Miki entered, wearing a light blue dress.

Sapphire: "Hai! What do you want with me?" Miki asked as nicely as possible. Nakazawa nodded in agreement. It was quite a hard job to stop Miki’s glare but those private trainings were not wasted.

Ruby: "How dare you wear my dress?"

Sapphire: "But you said that you don't want it. It still can be used that's why I thought that it would be such a waste to throw it away."

Ruby: "It’s my dress and I’m the one who will decide what to do with it! Now, take it off!" Miki bowed down and went to the backstage to wear her next costume.

Emerald: "What are you so angry about this early in the morning?"

Ruby: "Well, that sister of ours is wearing my dress. She really annoys me!"

Emerald: "Is that so? By the way, mother will come back tonight right? We need to get this place cleaned. SAPPHIRE!!!" Aya screamed. Miki immediately went to the stage, wearing a plain, and worn out clothing.

Sapphire: "What is it sister?"

Emerald: "I want you to clean our house, from top to bottom! And after you're done, cook a lovely dinner for us. Mother will be coming home this evening."

Sapphire: "Hontou?! Then I'll prepare a nice supper for us!" Miki exclaimed happily. She went to the right side and got her broomstick and a pail full of water.

Ruby: "We'll just go to the town to buy gifts for mother. We'll be back for our afternoon nap."

Emerald: "And when we get back, be sure you have prepared a delicious lunch for us." Aya and Yuuichi went to the backstage leaving Miki alone on the stage. Jin pressed something and a happy beat can be heard from the speaker.

..................
"Ehh? What was that sound? We didn’t hear it on our rehearsal right?" Rika asked the similarly puzzled Eri.

"I don't have an idea. Maybe Jin accidentally pressed something. Hitomi, didn't she mention this to you?"

"She doesn't talk to me about our play when we are in our house lately"

"Maybe, this was a part of Nakazawa's plan." Aya blurted. They went near the curtain to take a peek at what was happening on the stage.

..........

Sapphire: "I'm all alone again." Miki put up a sad face and sighed. She looked at the audience and smiled. "What am I saying? I must finish what my sisters told me to do. You'll help me right? Then sing with me the work song!" Jin turned the volume of the speaker and made the sound louder. Miki started singing and dancing while sweeping the floor.

....................
'"What the…?" Hitomi asked to no one in particular. Rika and Eri's mouth was left hanging due to the shock.

"I knew it! It was clearly Nakazawa's plan! And I might say, she still is a good singer."


"What was that about?" Ayumi asked to the two. She hit the pause button as soon as the lights turned off after Mik¡'s performance.

"I don't know.... Eri didn't say anything about this" Sayumi answered.

"I didn't know that Miki has a great voice. And the dance...It's like she was possessed or something."

"You need to change your views toward your sub-captain." Ayumi laughed.

"Yeah, a major change indeed." Reina answered.

.................
Ruby: "We're back! Have you prepared our lunch?" Miki came running from the back stage, her dress was full of dirt.

Sapphire: "Yes, sister. Your lunch was on the table already."

Emerald: "Ewww!!! You’re so dirty! I lost my appetite... Just thinking of how you prepared our lunch with that dirty hand of yours makes me want to puke!"

Ruby: "Me too. I've lost my appetite. Throw that food. It will make us sick if we eat it" Yuuichi turned to walk towards the exit. Aya followed but almost falls down. Miki came immediately beside her.

Sapphire: "What happened? Are you alright?"

Emerald: "Take your dirty hands off me! I'm fine. I must be tired from all that walking in the town."

Ruby: "I'll take you to your room. Sapphire, finish cleaning the house."

Sapphire: "I already finished it."

Ruby: "Then wash our laundry. Don't waste the heat of the sun."

Sapphire: "Hai."

..................
"Welcome back!!!" The three of them said simultaneously at Hitomi.

Fairy: "Thank you! I've really missed you all. I hope that you didn’t encounter any problems while I'm gone.

Ruby: "We didn’t encounter any. We took good care of the house while you’re gone."

Emerald: "She's right, we even cooked a lovely dinner for us."

Fairy: "How sweet of you! Then let’s have our dinner!" Hitomi went to the table but Miki walked to the opposite direction. "Sapphire? Where are you going?"

Sapphire: "I'm just going to get the laundry from the clothes line."

Fairy: "Then, we'll wait for you. Or, to make it faster, why don’t you help your sister in getting the clothes?"

Ruby: "H.. hai."

............
Fairy: "I've heard that there will be a ball on Silverland. It would last for three days."Hitomi looked at her daughters.

Ruby:"Oh my gosh!!! OH MY GOSH!!! If the prince will see me, he might marry me!!! Just thinking about these things makes my heart go, 'doki doki'!!!"

Emerald: "Baka, I'heard that the king and queen of Silverland were childless."

Ruby: "How awful.... The world's a cruel place. Why are there no princes? Our country has one but went missing years ago..." Yuuichi sighed.

Sapphire: "I wish I could go to the ball."

Fairy: "I'm sorry Sapphire but I’ve decided that I will take Ruby because I know that Emerald doesn't have any interests in this kind of event, and you..." Hitomi sighed. "Only one daughter could go to the ball from each family."

Sapphire: "Its ok mother, I understand."

Emerald: "Don't worry mother, we’ll take care of the house for you."

...........
Fairy: "We’ll be going now! Don’t entertain any strangers, especially you, Sapphire."

Sapphire: "Yes mother. Have a good trip! Sister, have fun on the ball"

Ruby: "You bet I will"

Emerald: "Please bring some gifts when you get back!" Aya and Miki waved to Hitomi and Yuuichi. Aya faced Miki when the two were already out of sight. "Now, do your usual stuffs. But clean my room first."

Sapphire: "Hai." Aya went to the backstage while Miki got the broom stick, a rug and a bucket full of water. Koume pressed another button which made the background picture of a forest change into a picture of a room. Miki started sweeping the floor and humming a tune to herself. Aya went back after a while.

Emerald: "What are you doing?"

Sapphire: "I'm cleaning your room."

Emerald: "You call this cleaning?" Aya asked sarcastically. She picked up some dust from the floor and wiped it on Miki's face. "You better do more than just sweeping the floor." Aya kicked the bucket which made the water spill onto the floor. She pushed Miki's face towards it.

........
"Whoa!!! I like that scene!! The best scene ever!!" Reina exclaimed. Sayumi clapped her hands.

"Shhh!!! The record!"

...........
Emerald:"I'll check it again when I come back from the town. I expect to see my room sparkling clean." Aya left the stage. Jin pressed another button and the speaker emitted a melodious, music. Miki faced the audience, her eyes full with tears. She started singing a somewhat mellow song about wanting to meet her love.

"Koi shita koto nado..........kore made nakata.... konna hageshii monotowa omoi mo shinakatta negau no wa.... negau no wa....
Anata ni aitai...Anata ni aitai..."

........
"I guess if this was really a contest, she would win the best actress award." Kaori commented.

"I told my class that this was a contest and I expect them to win." Nakazawa smiled evilly at her friend.

"Oh, that's why they're performing like a pro. You did a good job with Miki. I never thought that I would see her cry like this."

"That was the hard part but I did manage, didn't I?"

...........
Narrator: "Meanwhile, on Silverland, the fairy and Ruby arrived on the palace. They were led to a huge room where they would sleep for the next three days."

Fairy: "Ruby, stay here. I'm just going to visit the queen and king. I will try to sell them my merchandise. I know the queen will not resist my jewels."

Ruby: "Yes mother, I'll just rest for a while here."

Narrator: "The fairy went to the chamber of the queen and king. She revealed her true identity."

Queen: "Was the girl that you brought here, my daughter?"

Fairy: "I'm sorry your highness, but no. That would be too risky on our side."

King: "I really miss her. Three days from now and we will celebrate her 18th birthday. I hope nothing bad will befall on her."

Fairy:"Don't worry your highness; I'm doing the best that I can. For the past 17 years, I've been going to places after places in search of the prince that went missing. I've known Hecate for a long time now and I know that she was behind this as well. I will find him and if Hecate did find Sapphire, we will be able to bring her back."

Queen: "We're very thankful to your kind help."

Fairy: "It's nothing. I'm indebted to the king's mother." Hitomi bowed low and went out of the chamber. She went to talk with Ruby.

Ruby: "Why aren't you unpacking your things mother?"

Fairy: "The queen wanted to buy all of my jewels. I will go back to get my other products. I must leave you here for a while. I’ll be back after three days. Be good and have fun!"

Ruby: "Sure mother, have a safe trip!"

Narrator: "The fairy didn’t go back to Bronzeland, she embarked on a journey to find the said prince. Meanwhile, the witch of the lagoon didn't like the fact the only three days were left and she still can’t find princess Sapphire."

Witch: "This is so frustrating!!!" Eri's shrill was followed by a loud thunder sound coming from the speakers. Eri walked back and forth on her throne. "I'm going to find you no matter what! HAHAHAHA!!!" The lights dimmed again and the next scene revealed Miki on the veranda.

Sapphire:"I wish I could go to the ball." Miki sighed and looked at the 'sky'. Miki smiled and stated singing an accapella version of a song about how wishes can come true. Miki went to the left and right side of the veranda. She was hugging herself and emoting in front of the audience.

.........
"Why did our teacher put to much singing and dancing?" Eri asked.

"I have no idea...... That character didn't suit her......I feel I'm going to vomit."

"Why are you saying that?" Rika answered. “And look, her foot must still be hurting her but she's putting too much effort on her dancing. You should be proud because that's your sister!"

"Sheesh, you don't have to lecture me about that. Of course I'm proud of her."

"Excuse me, it's my turn now." Rika and Eri moved out of the way as Aya prepared herself for the next scene.

Matsuura-san, change your script with Miki with this one.....

.......
.........
.............

P.S: I want to see your teary face in the stage
P.P.S: I want you to prolong the last scene, ok? -Sensei 

"It's hard to memorize a script 5 minutes before the actual performance and to be asked to do something like that.... this is really getting on my nerves."

.........
Sapphire: "Why can't I? It's unfair. Mother didn't even tell me the real reason. I'm sure she's hiding something."

Emerald: "Why are you here? Have you finished doing all your chores already?"

Sapphire: "Yes sister."

Emerald: "I've heard that you really wanted to go to the ball... Do you really want to?"

Sapphire: "Oh, yes I do! That would be good... but"

Emerald: "Mother said that only one daughter per family would be allowed right?" Miki nodded in response. "Don't worry, I have an idea." Aya smiled.

Sapphire: "Hontou? Why are you helping me?"

Emerald: "It's because, we're still sisters. I've heard your song and I was moved by it. It made me guilty about all the cruel things that I've done to you" Aya thought of all the sad memories she had in the past so she can have a ‘teary’ face as what her teacher told her to do. She tried very hard to tear up but she can't. She looked at Miki's face and remembered something which made her cry out loud. Miki was surprised when Aya hugged her tightly.

"Wait, this is not part of the script.... or is it?"

Emerald: "I'm really sorry!!!"

Sapphire: "I... It's alright. I have no hard feelings towards you."

Emerald: "Thank you Sapphire." Aya released her grip on Miki and wiped away her tears. "Now, my idea is..."

Sapphire: "What is it? I’m willing to do anything!"

Emerald: "Anything?"

Sapphire: "Yes! Anything!" Miki excitedly said.

"This will be the hard part of the play..."
Emerald: "Then, you must kiss me..¨

"I'll really kill Nakazawa........ I know she planned all of this from the very beginning."
Sapphire: "Ehh!? Why do I have to kiss you?!"

Emerald: "I thought that you really wanted to go the ball? If you really wanted to, you must kiss me on the lips first."

.........
"Nande? Nande? Nande?!?!? What was that? Why will she kiss Aya?!"

"Why? Are you jealous?" Yuuichi asked.

"No! Definitely no! It's just that, the script were altered somehow. In our practice, she was saying the she will let her borrow the dress. But now, there's kissing involve!"

"You're just jealous because your sister will get to kiss someone... I really wish that I was the one who picked Emerald... So I will get a kiss from your sister without her having any objections!"

"Shut up, they will really do it! Look!" Eri pointed towards the stage.

................
Sapphire: "If I will kiss you, I can get to the ball?"

Emerald: "Yes, I promise you." Miki walked closer to Aya. She held up Aya's chin so that their face would be leveled. Miki leaned to kiss Aya while Aya put her arms around Miki. After 5 seconds, Koume decided to turn the lights off.

.......................
"What was that? That was gross.." Sayumi said. Ayumi looked around the auditorium.

"Look, some of the girls and boys were tearing up."

"They will be fine after a few days. It's just that their dreams were shattered by that kiss." Reina explained.

"What do you mean by that?"

"Those people fancy Miki and Hitomi. You know, like fan-service. They termed them 'sisterly love'. If Hitomi was the one that Miki kissed, then this auditorium would be filled with those 'wota' squeals." Sayumi continued.


“Oh is that so? This gets really interesting, indeed.”

...............
Narrator: "Meanwhile, the fairy traveled towards a kingdom she hasn't visited before. It was a very far place; she used her wings to fly over the oceans and mountains. At last, she reached Goldland.

Fairy: "I hope that I will see the prince now." Hitomi runs around the 'forest' when she heard a galloping horse. Rika emerged from the backstage.

Franz: "Who are you, fair lady? Are you lost in this forest?"

Fairy: "No, I'm not. I'm looking for someone." Hitomi timidly said.

Franz: "And who are looking for?"

Fairy: "A prince who can lift a fair princess’ curse." Rika tried to look surprised. She smiled at Hitomi warmly.

Franz: "You're in good luck. I'm a prince. My name is Prince Franz of Goldland." Rika bowed and kissed Hitomi's hand

Fairy: "I'm the fairy of the forest of Silverland. My name’s Millicent. Mind if I take you with me to Silverland to save the princess' life? I'll explain it to you on our way."

Franz: "Mi..Millicent? I think I've heard that name before.."

Fairy: "What did you say?"

Franz: "Nothing. I'll go with you."

................
Narrator: "The last day of the ball arrived. As Emerald promised, Sapphire was able to go to the ball. She was careful not to let Ruby see her. She saw wonderful things inside the palace. The witch decided to disguise herself as a handsome guy. She knew that Sapphire would come to her 18th birthday. At last, she saw the long lost princess."

Hecate: "Madam, would you like to dance with me?"

Sapphire:"Uhm.....I was searching for my partner."

Hecate: "Please, even just for a short while."

Sapphire: "I'm somewhat shy to dance in the middle of many people."

Hecate: "Then let's dance in the garden. There are less people in there. And there's a beautiful wishing well in there where all your dreams can come true." Miki pretended to be hesitant at first but then, she went with Eri.

.................
"What a drastic change from being a mean witch to a handsome guy." Ayumi whispered.

"The climax is coming?" Kaori asked.

"Yeah, watch my greatness in writing a script."

................
Sapphire: "Where are we? Why is there a spinning wheel?"

Hecate:"Touch it and all your dreams will come true." Eri glared at Miki. Miki pretended to be hypnotized and touched the needle. Miki falls on the ground and Eri laughed out loud. The clock strikes midnight and the queen and king runs toward the stage.

King: "Hecate! Guards, seize her!" Maaya pointed her sword on Hecate. Ryuutaro runs towards Miki and hugged her.

Hecate: "Now that my work's done, I'm going now! AHAHAHAHA!" Eri vanishes inside the smoke that filled her place.

Queen: "What should we do now?"

King: "I hope Millicent did find that missing prince."

Narrator: "Meanwhile, Millicent and Prince Franz reached the shore of Silverland where Hecate was waiting for them."

Hecate: "Hello! It's been a long time now, Millicent."

Millicent: "Why are you here?"

Hecate: "I know what you’re going to do, so I'm going to stop you here."

Franz: "Is this the witch you’re talking about?" Rika removed his sword from its scabbard and positioned herself in a fencing stance.

Hecate: "My, my... What a brave little prince we have here. Do you want to get killed... again?" Eri raised her trident in the air. Koume pressed a button and lightning came down from the top of the stage.

Millicent: "What do you mean by 'again'?" Hitomi emphasized the word again.

Franz: "I won't get killed again, you devil!" Rika attacked Eri. Hitomi just watched the two from behind.

Hecate: "Still angry with me? Your death was your own fault. If you chose me instead of her, then I wouldn't be forced to kill you."

Millicent: "What do you mean by that? I don't understand you both." Eri wounded Rika on the arms. Rika moved back and kneeled beside Hitomi.

Hecate: "Do you remember your beloved prince Francis 1000 years ago?¡"

Millicent:"Yes, why?"

Hecate: "This prince Franz of yours was a reincarnation of Francis." Eri looked at the two of them and raised her trident. "And I will kill the two of you here!"

Franz: "I will not lose this time around. I will protect you with my life."

Millicent: "Don't worry, I'm here now, and together we will defeat her." Hitomi raised her wand whereas Rika raised her sword. They pressed a button from their 'weapon' and it began to glow. Eri looked scared. Rika and Hitomi pointed the tips of their weapon towards Eri.

Hecate: "NOOOOOOOO!!!"

..............
Millicent: "What happened here?"

Queen: "Hecate found our daughter. She's in a deep slumber right now."

King: "Is this the prince you were looking for? Will she be able to wake up our daughter? If you wake her up, you will become her husband and be the new king of this kingdom."

Franz:"I'm sorry your highness. I can't accept such act of kindness. I will try to wake her up but I will not marry her. My heart belongs to only one." Rika looked at Hitomi and smiled. She leaned forward on the sleeping Miki and kissed her swiftly. Miki didn't wake up.

Millicent: "It's no use. The pact said that she will be awakened by true love's kiss. Since Franz loves another person, he will not be able to wake her up no matter how many times he tried kissing her."

Narrator: "Suddenly, there was a handsome prince standing on the door. Franz took out his sword to protect them if this prince was Hecate's ally."

Franz: "Who are you?"

Erik: "My name's prince Erik. I'm the missing prince of Bronzeland."

Millicent: "Are you sure? I’ve searched for you for the last 17 years and I haven't heard any news about you. Why now? Are you Hecate's ally?"

Erik: "I'm staying with you for the last 17 years."

Millicent: "What are you talking about?"

Erik: "Hecate fell in love with me but I rejected her. She erased my memory and changed me into a little girl and left me alone in the forest."

Millicent: "Then... you... are...."

Erik: "Yes, mother... I'm the one you called Emerald. I was thankful to Sapphire. Her song has brought my memory back. I will return the favor and kiss her."Aya walked towards the bed where Miki was lying down.
"Why do I have to kiss her twice this day?"

Narrator: "Princess Sapphire’s color came back. She coughed a bit and opened her eyes and saw for the first time Prince Erik’s smiling face."

Sapphire: "I think I've seen you before. You look familiar."

Erik: "It doesn't matter now, my love. We're just happy that you came back."

Narrator: "And so, the marriage of Prince Erik and Princess Sapphire brought together Bronzeland and Silverland. The fairy Millicent went to live with her love, Prince Franz. They took Ruby with them on Goldland where she married the handsome count. The three kingdoms lived in prosperity and they lived happily ever after."

.........
"That was pretty long right? But it's worth it" Reina stretched her arms in the air.

"I'll have this tape copied and give one to Rika's parents." Ayumi grinned.

"Hey, make a copy for me too!"

"Of course! We will blackmail Rika and Eri!"

"Yosh!!" The two replied simultaneously.

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 57

“I’m very proud of you all!!!” Nakazawa screamed. She messed up everyone’s hair. “Nice timing with the lights and sounds! You handled your team very well, Koume.”

“It’s nothing ma’am.” Koume meekly replied.

“Saa, let’s go for a celebration!!! Miki, you did very well today! Does your foot still hurt?”

“A little bit, but I’m ok.”

“Our little private training did work, right?”

“So… that’s why you always run off every break!” Hitomi exclaimed.

“I still don’t get it. It’s really not a competition but why did you say so?” Eri asked.

“Well, it’s because….”

“Because?” The students asked simultaneously.

“Because, it’s fun to see you guys give all your best in a play. The audiences were happy because they enjoyed your show.” Nakazawa gave them a wide grin and went out of the room. “I’ll treat you this dinner after the fireworks, ja!”

………..
“I didn’t expect you to have fewer scenes in the play. I thought that your exposure will be great.” Ayumi said to Rika while they were watching the fireworks in the night sky on the school grounds.

“Thank goodness that didn’t happen. More exposure means more time to practice.”

“Hahaha, right… You enjoyed practicing late before.”

“That was different ok? Please don’t bring up that topic anymore. I’m trying my best to forget.”

“Are you sure? I think the more you try to forget, the more you remember her.” Ayumi looked at her best friend in the eye. Rika closed her eyes and grabbed the thing underneath her clothing.

“Yeah, it’s really hard to forget.”

“So why don’t you try to hook up with someone else to forget her?” Sayumi suddenly said out of nowhere. Eri handed them an ice cream and sat beside them.

“Eh? What are you saying?” Rika looked around. “Where’s Reina?” Eri and Sayumi shrugged.

…………….
“Have you noticed it in the game three days ago?” Reina asked. They were watching the fireworks on the top of their building.

“Yeah, I had a hard time believing at first but, yeah… I sure do notice them.” Aya leaned on the railing and sipped her tea.

“So, what are we going to do about it?”

“Let’s try to observe them further. After what happened, I guess that there will be more interesting things that will happen in the future.”

“Will Miki be ok with that? Do you think she will do that again?” Reina asked.

“Miki? I don’t think so. Knowing her, she will do more harsh things than before. And I don’t think that Hitomi will allow it… I too, will not allow it to happen again.”

“Count me in too.”

………………
“GOCHISOUSAMA!!!” The students of section A simultaneously said after eating a wonderful meal at the Yoshizawa Restaurant. Only Rika and Eri knew that Hitomi and Miki’s mother was the owner of the place. Nakazawa paid for the meals and got a discount, which she doesn’t know why she was given one. It was quite late in the evening and they were glad that tomorrow, they don’t have classes for its Saturday.

“Saa, I’m going now! Ja!” Eri waved at Rika. Rika saw at the distance that Sayumi and Reina were waiting for their best friend.

”I envy them…” Rika continued walking home. She felt that someone was following her. She quickened her pace and didn’t dare to look back. She felt that someone was approaching her fast. She almost screamed when that person grabbed her shoulder.

“HELP…me…. Mou! Hitomi hidoi! You scared me there!”

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to.” Hitomi said in a remorseful voice.

“Ano, don’t worry. I’m ok now. Be sure that next time, you’ll not do it again.”

“Hai!” Hitomi smiled widely. “Mind if I walk you home?”
“Ahh… Sure” Rika and Hitomi walked silently side by side. It was Hitomi who first broke the silence.

“The play went well right?”

“Yeah….” Rika trailed off.

“Onee-san was a good actress right?”

“Yeah…” Rika smiled at the thought.

“Sensei was really good at script writing right?”

“Yeah.”

“You wouldn’t mind if I kiss you on the lips right?”

“Yeah…”

………….
………….
…………

“NANI?!?” It took a while before Rika can process what Hitomi told her. “Hahaha, you caught me there. I wouldn’t fall on your joke next time.”

“It wasn’t a joke, I’m serious.”

“W.. why are you saying things like that?” Rika looked bewildered. Hitomi was looking at her straight in the eyes.

“I… I have a crush on you for a long time now. I even get jealous with onee-san when she making advances towards you. I can’t explain it, but I feel like I’ve known you for a long time now.” Hitomi explained without even blinking. Rika remembered her talk with Ayumi where Sayumi suddenly butt in.
“So why don’t you try to hook up with someone else to forget her?”

“Then? What do you want me to do?”

“Just stay beside me always.” Hitomi held Rika’s chin. She moved forward, making their faces closer to each other. “I love Prince Franz with all my heart.” Hitomi leaned forward, and kissed Rika after saying that. They were unaware of the prying eyes that were watching them nearby.

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 58

Monday morning came and there were no traces of the festivity that happened last Friday.
The students were back to their normal ways. Hitomi and Rika seemed closer to each other. Miki almost made it to the class just after the bell has rung.

“Ohayou princess Sapphire!” Rika greeted Miki. Miki in turn just glared at her and went to sit in her chair.

“I guess she didn’t want to be called like that ever again.” Hitomi leaned in and whispered.

“Ok, I understand.” Rika smiled back.


…………….
“Why did you have to come to this school and ruin our lives?!” Miki shouted at Rika while holding her collar tightly. Miki waited after class to have some talk with Rika. She took her in an abandoned garage room in the backyard of the school where no people can hear them.

“Ehh? Why are you so angry like that? What did I do?”

“Are you numb or what!?! Haven’t you noticed my glare when you are FLIRTING with my sister?!” Miki tightened her grip on Rika making the other one almost suffocate.

“I… I was… not flirt…ing with…her…” Miki released the grip on Rika. She immediately gasps for air. “I didn’t flirt with her. That was just part of the play, isn’t it?”

“So, kissing her last Friday night was still part of the play?”

“Why do you even think those kinds of things?” Rika replied carefully. Miki’s attitude right now changes drastically into someone she hasn’t seen before. She thought that this was the REAL Miki everyone was talking about.

“Because you ruined our lives…. You ruined my LIFE!!!”

“Ruined your life? I didn’t know that you’re a possessive sister… Maybe that’s why Hitomi’s doing that ‘flirting thing’ to me. Because she was just happy that she had the opportunity to be with another individual besides you!!!” This time it was Rika who’s shouting at Miki. “Eri and the others told me so. When I came here, Hitomi and you somewhat became close to me. I thought that you did change, but my guess wasn’t right. You’re such a selfish sister. You didn’t even think about her social life. You always spend time with her when you’re inside your house, why didn’t you give a chance for her to have other company here in school? You’re the one who’s being numb here. If you really love you’re sister that much, why didn’t you notice that she was unhappy? She was unhappy for not having any close friends because you ALWAYS SCARE THEM!!!.”

“You’re wrong… You don’t have any idea on how much I love her.”

“Then why are you doing this to Hitomi? Why do you not want others to be with her?”

“BECAUSE I’M JEALOUS WHEN SHE’S BEING TOO FRIENDLY WITH OTHER GIRLS LIKE YOU!!!” Miki blurted out. Rika could see that Miki was just holding back her tears. It wouldn’t be long before she let them roll on her face.

“Na.. Nande?”

“Why? You want to know why!?!” Miki looked straight at Rika’s eyes. Her tears are already streaming down her cheeks. “Because SHE’S NOT MY REAL SISTER!!!” Miki kneeled on the ground and wailed.
Rika was dumbfounded. Now she understands why Miki scares those who wanted to be near Hitomi. Miki never looked at Hitomi as a sister in the first place.

“Do… does she know it? Rika got the courage to ask Miki after a minute of silence.

“No, only my parents and I know about it. We didn’t tell her.”

“Then why? If you love her like that… Why did you have to make it look like you have a thing for me instead?”

……….

Rika stared at her bedroom ceiling that night. There are many things that happened that day specially that conversation with Miki.

“If you told her what I’ve told you today, you’ll be really sorry. And don’t come near her from now on.”

Rika cried herself to sleep. Fate must be playing with her. Tomorrow morning, though it hurts very much, she will avoid the person she’s beginning to love.

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 59

“Ohayou Rika-chan!” Hitomi approached Rika to hug her but then, Rika moved away.

“Ohayou, I’m going now, I have important matters to attend to.” Rika said plainly and left Hitomi speechless.

“Ehh?!? What time will you finish that? Let’s eat lunch together!” Hitomi tried to follow Ishikawa. As they turn to a corner, Miki came out of the blue and glared at Rika.

“If you told her what I’ve told you today, you’ll be really sorry. And don’t come near her from now on.”

“I have to go now. I can’t come with you this lunch, sorry.”

Hitomi watched as Rika walked away. Miki hugged her ‘sister’ from behind.

“What did you do?”

“Nani? I… I don’t understand you?”

Hitomi removed Miki’s arms on her waist, turned to her and looked at her eyes.

“I know you did something to Rika. You’re the only one capable of doing that.” Miki could clearly see the anger in Hitomi’s eyes.

“I… I didn’t. Maybe she’s really that busy today. Are you accusing me? Do you not trust your sister?”

Hitomi didn’t answer immediately. “I trust your word because you’re my sister… But if you scare her away like what you did to others, I will forget that we’re related to each other!”

“Why are you acting like that whenever you’re talking about Rika? What did she give you to be like that? You weren’t like this before… WE weren’t like this before she came into picture!” Miki burst into tears. She wasn’t expecting this kind of conversation between them. Hitomi was about to answer her when the bell rang.

“You should wipe your tears before coming to the room. Our classmates will laugh at you and your ‘badass’ image will be ruined.” Hitomi gave her hanky to Miki and walked away without waiting for her to come.

Hitomi went directly on her seat. Ishikawa could not look at her. There was something bothering Rika and she knew it. She had a hunch that Miki did something but she could not dread the feeling of fighting with her sister. It was the first time she saw her cry. She idolized her sister for having such an ‘unbreakable’ attitude. When they were in junior high, Miki would always protect her from those who want to bully her.

“Maybe that’s why Miki’s acting like that. She was just being overprotective to me so I will not get hurt… but sometimes, it just suffocates me.”

Hitomi’s line of thought was broken when Miki entered the room. The class became quiet. You could hear each other’s breathing because of the deafening silence that’s surrounding them. It was only cut off when Miki returned the hanky to Hitomi.

“Thanks, I have my own.” Miki sat down and looked at the opposite side of the room. That’s when their teacher came.

“Silent ehh? Do you have a hunch that I have another announcement to make?” Nakazawa joked and looked around the room. She called Rika because she was raising her hand.

“Ma’am, if it’s ok, I would like to change seats.”

Hitomi looked up at Rika. It’s visible that Rika is avoiding her.

“And where would you want to be? What’s the reason?”

“I want to be placed in the first row. I went to an ophthalmologist yesterday and had my vision tested. It seems that my migraine is caused by poor eyesight. I will get my glasses next week.”

“I see, Matsuura-san, kindly switch places with Ishikawa.”

“H… Hai” Aya got her books from her desk and exchange places with Rika. Deep inside Miki, she was happy because she succeeded in separating the two.

Aya sat down in Rika’s seat but not without getting the “infamous” glare from Miki.


……

“Ohayou!”

“Hey, Aya! Is your friend alright?”

“Aherm… guess who’s here?”

“O.. Ohayou! I will try out for this year’s futsal varsity team.”

“Ahhh, is that the only thing you want here? Hitomi, let’s go buy some lunch… Sorry but I have to borrow my sister for a while.”



……

Hitomi smiled at Aya for a while. Her vision was immediately shifted to Rika who’s now 5 rows away from her. She really felt that something’s wrong with the way Rika’s behaving. She had to find it out real soon.

“Let’s proceed for the announcement. I need more players for our futsal team. Next month will be the annual Interschool Futsal Competition. Ms. Ishikawa, someone told me that you were a previous captain your futsal team when you were in elementary. Is that right?” Nakazawa stared at Rika giving the girl the impression that she wanted her to join the team. Rika in turn, turned to glare at Eri who was giving a sign at that she was not the one who told it.

“Hai, I was… But…I’m already in the basketball club.”

”I’ll handle Iida-sensei. The way you played last week, it doesn’t seem that you lost your touch in futsal. I want to see you in our practice tomorrow, after class.”

“H..hai…I’ll try my best” Rika doesn’t want to join but their teacher is somewhat scary. She doesn’t have the slightest idea what will happen to her once she disagrees with her teacher. And there are two things that bother her if she joined the team. First is that it reminds her of Maki, and second… Hitomi and Miki are the captain and sub-captain of the team.




ahahahaha...just 12-14 chapters left with this fic.....

[kuro808]

nice update,

that one line cracked me up

"I missed pissing you off"

[badsaints]

WHAT?! Miki & Yossie are not real siblings and Miki is actually in love with Yossie?!

 

Woah what a twist But that seems to explain a few others things like why Aya doesn't like Miki. I'm guessing Reina & Aya will try to protect Rika from getting hurt by Miki But what's the meaning of Rika's recurring dreams I really want to know *pouts*

[cogi_yoshi]

Still having some connection problems...

@badsaints- hmmm, Rika's dreams are telling her something...Now that you know that Miki and Yossie are not real sisters..I think you can now link the missing puzzles..lol


Chapter 60

“I told you, you cannot escape futsal forever.” Sayumi joked.

“And when did you tell it to me?” Rika asked.

“I forgot…”

“You forgot or you didn’t tell it to her before?” Reina laughed hard, which in turn earned her a hard smack coming from Sayu.

“Anyways… who among you guys told Nakazawa-sensei that I was a captain of the futsal team when we were in elementary?!” Rika raised her left eyebrow and tapped her right feet as if waiting for a plausible answer from her friends. The three looked at each other, somewhat puzzled.

“We promised that we will not tell it to anyone, we still haven’t told it to anyone and we don’t plan to tell it to anyone in the future either! So technically, we’re not the ones who told it to sensei.” Eri explained. The three laughed at her vague explanation.

“Alright, I have faith in you… Who could it be? The three of you are the only ones here, who knew that I played futsal before.”

“Unless she’s the one who told it.” Reina whispered to herself.

“What! What did you say? Who’s ‘she?’” Rika asked.

“She’s approaching now…” Reina trailed off, looking at the door of the gym.

“Right! Why haven’t we thought of her before?” Eri smacked her forehead. The approaching person greeted them cheerfully.

“Konnichiwa!!!”

“Ehhh?... Aya?”

“What? Something’s bugging your mind?” Rika looked at the three weirdly and pointed at Aya.

“She knew I was playing futsal before?”

The three looked at each other and laughed hard. “I… hahaha… didn’t know that… haha.. you were forgetting the ‘wrong person’! HAHAHAHA!!!” Reina said in between her laughing fit.

“Ehh? Hey… what are you guys talking about before I came here?” Aya eyed them. The three tried to suppress their laughter.

“Are you ok now? Rika asked sarcastically… “Now, tell me why she knew I was playing futsal before? And what do you mean by ‘forgetting the wrong person?”

“Oh, now I know what you are talking about…” Aya trailed off.

“Since you knew it already, would you care to explain it to me?”

“I’ll be the one to explain first!” Sayumi raised her hand. She cleared her throat first before proceeding. “What Reina meant when she said that you are forgetting the wrong person is… instead of forgetting her…”

“Who’s her?” Rika inquired.

“HER!!! You know…. Ma…k”

“Ohh, yah… I get it… proceed.”

“Instead of ‘her’ you forget Aya instead.” Sayu finished.

“Ehh? I didn’t get it?”

“She knew about you and Maki’s teamwork in futsal.” Eri added.

“Ok… how did she know about that?”

“Because she had a special interest in Maki!” Reina blurted.

“WHAT?!?!” Rika looked at Aya who’s grinning widely. She looked back at the three when she heard them laugh again.

“Seriously Rika, you should get your head checked up together with your eye… She’s the sub-captain that ‘champion’ school that guarded Maki during our Interschool Futsal Competition!” Sayumi said. Rika looked meticulously at Aya.

“Yoh! I have short hair back then.”

“USO!!! Seriously?!? I… I didn’t recognize you… Oh my god… You look different now…”

“I think you need to wear an eyeglass as soon as possible.” Aya replied jokingly. “It’s just been four years and I just didn’t cut my hair. My looks were still the same.”

“But I think you have changed a lot.” Aya rolled her eyes. The door of the gym opened again and the Yoshizawa sisters came in.

“I guess our opponents will have a hard time beating us now. I’ve heard that Nakazawa’s trying to get Konno Asami too. With you and those Yoshizawa sisters, we can score easily.” Sayumi concluded.

“Sisters huh...” Rika trailed off. Somehow she felt really bad for Hitomi. She didn’t know that she was adopted but at least, Miki’s parents were really good to her and treated her like a real daughter. But still, she thought that it’s not fair for Hitomi.


It’s already dark when they finished the practice. Rika went to the store room to return the ball they’ve used. There was a sofa in there and she can’t resist the temptation to sit in there for a while… She was really tired. It’s been a long while since she experienced this rigorous training. When they were training in the basketball, Iida-sensei were much more nicer compared to this kind of futsal training that Nakazawa-sensei had in store for them. High school training was different from their elementary training. Nakazawa-sensei was much harsher than Abe-sensei. She didn’t notice that she dozed of a little. When she woke up, she immediately went to the shower room to cool off a little. She didn’t know that Hitomi followed her inside.

“Were you evading me?”

Rika’s heart beat very fast. “Why did you say that?”

“Did my sister do something on you? Tell it to me then… I’ll talk to her. You don’t have to be afraid… I’ll protect you from her.” Hitomi walked towards Rika in an attempt to embrace her. Rika stepped back and Hitomi noticed that. “See… you’re actions said it all… Are you scared of me or are you scared of what my sister might do to you?”

“Please don’t involve Miki… She didn’t have anything to do here.” Rika said without looking straight into Hitomi’s eyes.

“Then tell me why are you avoiding me?!” Hitomi shouted. She just swallowed all the pain she felt when all her friends left her because of her sister. This time… She will not back out. Rika’s somewhat special to her. If Miki’s the cause of all this, she would rather lose her sister than Rika.

“It… It’s because… I’m seeing someone… already… I’m sorry… I didn’t tell you earlier.”

Hitomi was taken aback on what Rika said. It was almost a minute when she finally took the courage to ask. “Is it Reina?”

“No… Reina is just a close friend…ever since in elementary… The three of them were really good friends… You haven’t met her… She’s not from this school”

Rika could see clearly that Hitomi was already tearing up. In any moment now, she would also but she must stand her ground. She must be strong in this situation… She’s doing this even though it hurts her very much… for the sake of the two of them.

“Can I know the name of that person?” Hitomi asked.

“Why do you need to know?” Rika was thinking what she would answer to that question so she must delay it for a moment.

“Please… just a name would be enough… Then I’ll go away… I will not bother you anymore.” Hitomi choked on her reply. Her tears were already falling freely down her cheeks.

“..His… no… her name is Maki”

Silence followed… “Is she cuter than me? Hitomi joked but her tears were still falling.

“Hai… And I really love her very much… Gomen.”


“It’s Ok… It’s better that you’ve told it to me now.” Yossie wiped her tears and smiled at Rika. “I wish that the two of you would be happy together…” Hitomi managed to say before leaving her alone. Rika heard Hitomi’s running footsteps away from the shower room. She burst into tears after a while. In just a short time, Hitomi became close to her heart. She felt guilty for lying to her but she cried even more for using Maki. It’s true that she loves Maki… But that was 4 years ago… No matter how much she cried … She wouldn’t come back. She needed to move on that’s why she let Hitomi touched her life. But she decided to let go of that feeling… because Miki was the first to love Hitomi, though she had no idea about it. She wiped her tears and proceeded to wash herself. She’s really exhausted… physically and emotionally.


………………
“Would you stop following me?!” Miki shouted before stopping on her tracks and looked back. She knew someone was following her ever since she left their school. She couldn’t find her sister anywhere that’s why she decided to go home alone.

“I know you’re still there! You better show yourself to me or be prepared to face my wrath!” Well, Miki wasn’t as strong as what she projected just now. In fact… She’s really scared. There are many things that were going on through her mind. News reports of high school girls being raped in dark alleys when they were traveling alone were always on the headlines. She prepared for the worst when she saw a dark shadow emerging behind a tree. She squinted so that she could see who that person is.

“Ehh?!?!”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 61

“Ehh?!? Matsuura-san?... Geez…”

“Sorry… I didn’t mean to scare you.” Aya bowed before Miki as a sign of repentance.

“Did I say that I was scared? So… Why are you following me? Don’t tell me you still want a kiss from me?” Miki smiled evilly.

“NO! Ano… I …I… was just checking whether Hitomi was with you…” Aya said before looking at the ground.

Miki glared at Aya. “What do you want with my sister?”

“Not… Nothing…”

“Oi… Whatever it is… You better stop it now. Don’t try to mess with me! You know what I did to your friend right?” Miki said coldly. Her stare never left the other girl.

“A… actually….” Aya looked up at Miki. “I… I want…”

“Would you stop stammering and tell it to me immediately!” Miki was already furious. She was glad that she got rid of Rika… Now here’s another girl who was hooked with her sister’s charm.

“Actually I just want to check whether you’ll arrive safe at your house!” Aya said in a high voice before covering her mouth.

“What did you say?” Miki didn’t get much of it because she said it really fast and in a high-pitched voice. She managed to catch the word “safe” and “house”.

“Nothing!... Gomen ne for wasting your time. I’ll go home now! Ja! Kiotsukete kudasai!” Aya said before running away from Miki.

“What a strange girl. I guess that play’s still messing her mind.” Miki said before continuing her stroll back to their house.

………….
“Konbanwa! I just met your sister 10 minutes ago.” Aya greeted the person approaching her way.

“Konban wa…” Hitomi greeted sadly. Aya looked at her carefully.

“Are you alright? Do you have a problem or something?”

“I’m fine. Don’t worry about me… By the way, how was she?” Hitomi changed the topic. Aya knew that Hitomi was trying to evade something.

“Hmmm, she’s doing fine. The animals in Australia are making her busy.”

“I’m glad to hear that she’s doing fine. I feel really sorry about her.”

“You should be! She’s a victim of your charms!” Aya joked. Hitomi smiled at her but the sadness in her eyes were still visible to Aya.

“I feel that there’s something wrong with you… Is it about your sister again? The last time I saw you with that long face of yours… was the time that Miki did something to her and you couldn’t do a thing. The only good thing that you did was to give her a farewell gift before she went to Australia.”

“Yes… Makoto was freaking out in the airport when I was giving her gift.” Hitomi reminisced.

“I guess she hasn’t learned her lesson yet. She still has a huge crush on you even after Miki terrorized her like that.” There was a vacant bench nearby. Aya lead Hitomi to it and sat down beside her. “If you have a problem, I’ll try my best to help.”

“It’s nothing really. I’ve just fell for someone who’s already taken.” Hitomi related sadly. “But then, I have a feeling that Miki’s behind it. That person couldn’t look straight in my eyes.”

“I guess she was just being too overprotective on you… She really loves you that’s why she’s protecting you… but sometimes, what’s she’s doing is too much.” Aya looked on the ground.

“Besides, her childhood wish was that she could have a little sister or brother that she could take care of.”

……………..
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Rika eyed her father who’s smiling weirdly. Her mother was trying to suppress her giggle. “I wouldn’t know what’s happening to you if you’re not going to tell it to me!” Rika’s father showed a transparent, blue case with a CD inside.

“Ayumi gave us a copy of your performance.” Rika’s eyes grew wide. Rika’s mother let out a loud chuckle.

“You’re such a handsome prince!” Rika massaged her temples and went to her room. She was really exhausted from all the practice and stuffs and this news was making her migraine worsen. She dialed a number on her phone and waited until the other line answered.

“AYUMI!!!! What the heck did you do?!?”

“Oh, they’ve watched it already? What’s their reaction, Prince Franz?”

“I’m going to kill you!”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 62

“I hope, what happened didn’t change her.”

“Yeah, she didn’t changed a little bit even after going through that. She’s still the same energetic and ‘Genkii’ Makoto we’ve used to know.” Hitomi became silent at what Aya said. She reminisced the time that someone dared to be with her for the first time.

…………..
“Hi! I’m Makoto Ogawa! I’m from Eijisai Gakuen…. I’m one of your fans!!!” Hitomi smiled at the shaking girl in front of her. Her sister was still taking her shower.

“Thank you, I’m sorry that we had to beat your school.”

“It’s ok… I don’t really care about them… I’m really happy that our school’s the one hosting this match. That way, I can see you personally.”

“Thanks, I appreciate it very much.”

“Hitomi! Have you seen my pants?” Miki yelled inside the shower room. Hitomi started to feel nervous.”

“No! I didn’t.” Hitomi yelled back.

“Is that Mi…” Hitomi immediately covered Makoto’s mouth. She let out a sigh of relief when Miki didn’t respond.

“Yes, that’s my sister.” Hitomi said as quietly as possible. “My sister’s not that… you know, friendly towards others.”

“Yes, I know that she’s considered a bully or something in your school.” Makoto winked at Hitomi.

“Right…” Hitomi trailed off “Have you researched about us? Well anyways she doesn’t want other persons to be close to me, so it’s a bad thing if she sees us together.”

“Why? We’re just talking right? It can’t be that bad…”

“You have no idea what she’s capable of doing. Believe all the things that you’ve heard about her.”

“How about you then? Aren’t you lonely with your situation?” Makoto asked. Hitomi looked at her sincerely.

“I don’t know…. She’s always beside me so I don’t feel like I’m lonely or something.”

“That’s really sad… You have no other friends besides your sister but don’t worry… Makoto’s here! I’ll cheer you up as much as possible!”

“Thank you for your concern… I appreciate it.” Hitomi smiled at her.

“But I guess the only time that I’ll be able to meet you up is when your sister’s not around… It’ll be hard but, it’s worth a try..”


…………..
“Makoto was really persistent… She’s making me nervous whenever she sneaked in our campus.” Hitomi joked.

“Nervous about you being called by the guidance counselor? Or nervous of what Miki might do to her?”

“Actually, both.”

“I guess I wouldn’t be surprised if I hear one day that you die out of heart attack!” Aya laughed.

“You’re right, that’s why I’m not drinking coffee or else, I would die early.”

Aya sighed after her laughing fit. “Makoto’s persistence was one of the reason why I’m here on this school.”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 63

Rika went to sit in her chair. It took a while longer before she remembered that she changed her seat with Aya. She immediately went to the first row before anyone would enter their room. She let her head rest on her table and tried to sleep while waiting for her other classmates. She didn’t want to think… at least for now.

“I think she’s asleep.”

“Good… So what happened last night?”

“I guess we’re on the right track… I need you to talk to her as soon as possible.”

“Why?”

“So we can assemble this puzzle.”

“You can count on me.”


………………
“Ms. Ishikawa? I think you need to wake up now.” The other students were somewhat surprised at the way Nakazawa said those words. Usually if she saw someone sleeping in her class, she would throw a chalk or shout at that person. But today, she woke up a sleeping student in a nice and calm way.

Rika immediately opened her eyes and sat up straight as soon as she heard the voice of her teacher. She was also surprised when she saw the Nakazawa was smiling at her.

“Still tired? I guess your body was somehow shocked to the training I gave you yesterday right?”

“I… I guess so.”

“Don’t worry, your body will get used to it… So, let’s proceed to our lesson for today.”

……………..

“Ehh? You’re joking right?” Sayumi almost choked on her food when Rika told them that Nakazawa was being nice this morning. Reina patted her back and gave her a drink. She then turned to Eri. Eri nodded.

“It’s true, we we’re really shocked to see the great Nakazawa all smiles and goody-goody this morning.”

“What happened to her?” Reina asked. “Just a month ago, she was being mean to all of you when she started making your life a living hell with that play and Intrams. Maybe her head got bumped or something.”

“I don’t know but she’s somewhat started acting weirdly right after our play…” Rika answered back. Rika took a bite at her lunch when she suddenly saw Hitomi on the other side of the cafeteria. They gazed at each other’s eyes for a while until Rika was the one to break it. She could clearly see Hitomi on her peripheral vision as she made her way towards the seat where Miki was sitting. Reina followed Rika’s line of view and saw the person she’s looking at.

“It looks like they fought…” Sayumi suddenly blurted out which made Rika somewhat nervous.

“Yeah, they weren’t talking to each other since this morning. I wonder what happened to them?” Eri whispered as if afraid that Miki would hear what she’s saying. The four of them watched the two, quietly eating away their lunch. Reina let out a sigh.

“I think this is the same scene that happened a year ago…”


………….
“What happened to those two?”

“I don’t know… But it sure seemed like they fought or something… Maybe because of her?”

“Come to think of it, I guess you’re right! Those two were as close as ever before… until she, came…”

“I don’t want to see them argue like that although the other’s really annoying...”

“Don’t worry about them… I’m much worried over her. She doesn’t deserve this.”

“Is Mako-chan alright?”

“Yeah, but she will continue her schooling in another country.”

“That’s not good…. Your best friend will leave you?”

“This is not the first time that my best friend left me. I’m ok.”

“So, what are you going to do, Aya?”

“I guess I have no choice but get an entrance exam in your school, try out in the futsal varsity in the summer camp… things like that.”

“Well, good luck. I really wish you could get in our team.”

“Thanks Reina. It’s been three years since I last played with you.”


…………
Rika watched Reina as she silently observe the sisters. She can’t figure out whether she was dreaming or not but she definitely heard Aya and Reina’s voice in there.

“What puzzle are they talking about?”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 64

“You want to join our futsal eh? Let’s see what you can do…” Miki kicked the balls in rapid succession towards the poor girl. The girl was not trying to catch the ball, but instead, she’s evading it. She knew that this match was not meant to test her skills.

“It’s that all you’ve got?! Come on… Show me more!” Miki kicked the ball harder, putting every ounce of her energy on each strike. She smiled inwardly as she the saw girl cry out in pain.

“Why are you crying? Is it painful? Why won’t you call your prince Hitomi to come and save you?” Miki mocked as she glared at her sister hiding behind the door of the gym.

………………
Hitomi was drenched in sweat as she breathed heavily. She looked around her room and laid back on her bed.

“It’s a reality turned nightmare. Is it trying to say something to me?”

Hitomi tossed and turned on her bed as she tried to get some more sleep. Memories of the past kept haunting her. What if she stopped her sister back then? Would Makoto stay in Japan? What will happen with her relationship with her sister? She has many questions plaguing her mind right now. The scenes unfolding these past few days were somewhat the same back then. A de já vû on her part. Will she make the same mistakes again? She experienced the result of her choice back then, and it’s very painful on her part. Is fate giving her a chance to choose the option she hadn’t chosen before? She could still experience pain in the process but what matters is the end result. A smile appeared on her face as she slowly drifts back to dream land.

………………
“I still can’t get you. You’re really a mysterious person.”

“Why, thank you…” Reina playfully replied. Rika just smiled and sat on the seat of the swing.

“So, what is it that you want to talk about?”

“Do you like Hitomi?” Reina asked, straight to the point. Rika almost fell on her seat.

“What are you talking about?!? Of course no!”

“You give your answer quickly eh… Ok, let’s change the verb… Do you LOVE Hitomi?” Rika glared at her friend. Reina put her index finger on her lips. Rika immediately covered her mouth and looked towards the direction of Sayumi’s house. Reina asked her right after they finished their lunch to come on their neighborhood secretly. Just like the first time they talked in a restaurant 4 years ago.

“What’s gotten into your mind? Why are you asking things like that?” Rika answered as softly as she could.

“That means ‘yes’… You didn’t insert ‘no’ in the end of your sentence so probably, you’re hesitating because you definitely feel something towards her… Am I right?” Rika eyed her friend. She’s still the same old keen and observant Reina that she knew. Ayumi was her strength while Reina was her mirror; a mirror who could make her see what she doesn’t want to see.”

“Are you a psychic or what? You’ve been like this ever since I’ve known you.” Rika laughed.

“I don’t know, I guess I can tell what’s on the mind of a person by merely observing them.” Reina looked at Rika seriously. “And I can tell right now that something’s bugging your mind… And it definitely involves Hitomi.”

Rika just smiled. She that she can’t escape Reina’s piercing eyes. “Fine… yes… It definitely involves Hitomi… but that was the past now.”

“What do you mean past?”

“I just told her yesterday that I’m already seeing someone so she should stop whatever she’s feeling towards me.”

“You told her that you’re already seeing Miki?”

“Hell, no! I’ve told her that I’m seeing Maki.”

“You’re seeing a ghost?” Rika stared at her friend. She knew that Reina knew what she’s talking about. “If this is the only thing that you want to talk about, then I’m going now.”

“Wait! I get it… Geez… You’re avoiding Hitomi and you used a dead person’s name. If you want to avoid her, you could use my name or Ayumi’s or even Sayu or Eri. We’ll definitely help you with that. Do you think Maki will be happy if she found out that you’re using her name like that?”

“You don’t have to lecture me about that…. I know Maki’s dead… but what I’ve told her is the truth… The one I love is Maki. I just removed the ‘dead’ part.” Rika knew that whatever explanation she gave to Reina, the fact was that, what she did was wrong.

Reina heaved a sigh. “And you’re the one saying that you’re trying your best to move on… But I need you to answer me honestly on my following questions.”

“What is it now, a question and answer portion in a beauty contest?” Rika joked.

“Haha, funny. Please answer seriously, ok?”

“I’ll try…”


……………
“Hello?”

“Hi!”

“I’m convinced… wanna formulate a plan?”

“Later. I need to talk with her first. I need to hear it on her own mouth.”

“Who’s her?”




………..
“I really want to study in Tokyo High! You’ll accompany me when I’ll shift in there next school year right?”

“I don’t know… We started our junior high life here. I don’t want to take anymore entrance exams.”

“Eh? You must… you’re my best friend…. I’ll be lonely if you’ll not go with me…”

“Are you sure? You just want to be with her. Ever since you saw her, you’ve become crazy like that.”

“KYAHHHH!!! Don’t make me remember her… I’m already turning red at the thought that we will be at the same school….”

“I thought so……. Fine, I’ll go too… There’s someone who I wanted to talk to in there.”

“Who is it? IS it a guy? Oh please tell me!!!”

“Secret…. I won’t tell it to you!”

“You’re mean… We’re best friends… Oh well, I’ll just investigate it myself if you don’t want to talk… but promise me one thing…”

“What is it?”



“Let’s make sure that we will make it to the Tokyo High Futsal varsity team when we passed their exams, Ok?”

……………


“And what was the other reason?” Hitomi asked.

“I didn’t tell it to Makoto so I wouldn’t tell it to you either.” Aya stuck her tongue out at Hitomi.

“You’re cute when you’re doing that.”

“I’m not falling for your charms!” Aya answered back.

“Saa, it’s getting late now. I hope I’ll be alright tomorrow when I face her again.” Hitomi stood up to leave.

“The girl you’re talking about is Rika right? Why don’t you continue your feelings for her?”

“I just told you that she’s seeing someone right?”

“What if your hunch was correct? What if Miki’s the one behind this?”

“I don’t know… I can’t decide on this right now. Rika even gave me a name; maybe what she’s telling me is the truth.”

“And who is this person that Rika’s seeing?” Aya eyed at Hitomi. Hitomi deliberated whether she will tell it to Aya. She felt that she could trust Aya, just like she trusted her best friend.

“Maki is her name.” Hitomi saw Aya’s surprised face.

“Ma.. ki…”

“Yes, do you know her?” Hitomi asked. She knew that Aya was thinking real hard.

“I guess… I’ve only met her once.”
“So, it’s true then. Rika’s with someone else. I need to forget her as soon as possible.” Hitomi tried to suppress the tears that are forming in her eyes.

“Have you seen Rika’s face when she told it to you? Can you see that she’s happy? Why won’t you continue what you’re feeling for her? Fight for her! Don’t do the same mistake that ruined your life!” Aya stood up and shook Hitomi’s shoulder. “Be strong… She needs you.” Aya knew that Maki’s already dead. She thought that Rika might have a reason why she gave that name. She won’t tell it to Hitomi though she really wanted to.

“Why? Why are you telling me that?”

“Because I have a hunch that she really likes you very much.”

[kuro808]

Aya/Miki yay

however i seem to want more from this story, hope you can come back with more updates soon

[badsaints]

Does Aya like Miki? Seems that way to me

How will Yossie react if she found out that Maki is dead?

[cogi_yoshi]

update marathon time!!!XD

Chapter 65

“Ohayou!”

“Ohayou.” Rika replied indifferently. Hitomi sat beside her table. Rika tried to look around for any sign of Miki nearby.

“Are you free this lunch?” Hitomi smiled at her.

“I thought that I told you before that I’m already seeing someone?”

“If I remembered it clearly… you said that you’re already seeing someone… You didn’t say that she’s already your girlfriend… That means I still have a chance right? I thought about it last night and I came with a decision to meet my rival… If that’s fine with you.”

“No! That’s not fine! She’s already dead!”

“Ano,…” Rika’s sentence was cut off by Hitomi.

“Ohayou ne-chan!” Rika became nervous. She shouldn’t be scared with Miki. There’s no reason to be scared. She calmed herself first before looking back at the person behind her.

“Ohayou..”

“What are you talking about before I came?” Miki asked seriously and glared at Rika. Hitomi was the one who answered.

“I’m just asking her whether she was free this lunch to eat with us.”

“Kindly tell your little sister to stop bugging me already. I’ve already told her that I’m not free. I have some important things to do.” Rika plainly said and acted as if she was searching something inside her bag.

“If she already told you that she’s not free, then don’t continue to annoy her. I’ll just treat you this lunch, are you happy?”

“But ne-san… It’s kinda boring to eat everyday with just the two of us… It gets monotonous…” Hitomi answered playfully contrary to the serious glare she’s giving her sister.

“What did you say?!” Miki yelled.

“Ohayou!” Aya butt in.



BROKEN DESTINY: CHAPTER 65   
1/24/2008
Another update...Lol





“Ohayou!”

“Ohayou.” Rika replied indifferently. Hitomi sat beside her table. Rika tried to look around for any sign of Miki nearby.

“Are you free this lunch?” Hitomi smiled at her.

“I thought that I told you before that I’m already seeing someone?”

“If I remembered it clearly… you said that you’re already seeing someone… You didn’t say that she’s already your girlfriend… That means I still have a chance right? I thought about it last night and I came with a decision to meet my rival… If that’s fine with you.”

“Ano,…” Rika’s sentence was cut off by Hitomi.

“Ohayou ne-chan!” Rika became nervous. She shouldn’t be scared with Miki. There’s no reason to be scared. She calmed herself first before looking back at the person behind her.

“Ohayou..”

“What are you talking about before I came?” Miki asked seriously and glared at Rika. Hitomi was the one who answered.

“I’m just asking her whether she was free this lunch to eat with us.”

“Kindly tell your little sister to stop bugging me already. I’ve already told her that I’m not free. I have some important things to do.” Rika plainly said and acted as if she was searching something inside her bag.

“If she already told you that she’s not free, then don’t continue to annoy her. I’ll just treat you this lunch, are you happy?”

“But ne-san… It’s kinda boring to eat everyday with just the two of us… It gets monotonous…” Hitomi answered playfully contrary to the serious glare she’s giving her sister.

“What did you say?!” Miki yelled.

“Ohayou!” Aya butt in and looked at Hitomi. She smiled. Hitomi smiled back and looked at her sister.

“I said, it’s really boring to be eating with the same person everyday. We need to get some interaction with other students.”

“What are you up to this time?”

…………………
“Hey, I’m glad that you took the initiative to move away from her.”

“If you want her to be happy, you should tell the truth. So she will know the real reason why you won’t allow her to be with any body.”

“I can’t afford to do that and ruin the really good relationship that we are in right now.”

“You call that good relationship?!” Rika answered back in a mocking tone. “She’s trying to move away from you gradually! Hitomi wants to be free from your grasps. Can’t you feel it? Or are you just denying it? If you keep doing that to Hitomi, I’ll not back down on you!” Rika looked at Miki’s glare with the same intensity that Miki’s giving her.

“I’ll do whatever it takes. And even you can’t stop me from doing it.”

“What if I’ll be the one to stop you?” Aya came out of nowhere. She saw that Miki took Rika in the back of their school this lunch time that’s why she followed the two of them.

“You haven’t stopped me before with your best friend. I think you still can’t stop me now.”

“Rika, can you leave the two of us here alone?” Aya looked straight at Rika’s eyes. “Don’t try to eavesdrop. You’ll know it soon.” Rika nodded and left the two in a really awkward situation.

“We’re all alone now. What do you want to tell me? Or… you just want to kiss me again?” Miki was caught unaware when Aya’s left hand landed on her right cheek. “Why you little….” Miki grabbed Aya’s collar and pushed her towards the wall. She was about to slap her back when she noticed that Aya’s tears were falling on her cheek. She smirked. She thought that she won again. She made Aya’s best friend, Makoto, and her cry. Yet on the back of her mind, she can’t help but feel sad for this person in front of her. They just stared at each other in that position until Aya finally uttered the words to break the ice building in between them.

“What happened to you? You weren’t like this before. I thought you’ll never hurt me? I thought you’re the one who’ll always protect me? Why are you doing this now?”

“What are you talking about? You’re already delusional. I didn’t say those words to you… not even on our script!”

“You did… And I think Nakazawa-sempai wrote that script… For you to remember… something.” Aya removed her stare from Miki at the last word.

“What?! Sensei or sempai? I really don’t get anything that you say!”

“Please stop hurting other people, and you’ll stop hurting me too.”

“Why would I want to do that? Who are you to say that to me?! You really have guts to defy me… That’s the only difference between you and your best friend.” Miki released Aya’s collar and moved back. She wanted to leave. Something in what Aya’s saying bothered her. She wanted to get out and try to forget about this encounter.

“You’re wrong! The only difference is that I have the guts to slap and yell at my best friend to stop her from doing something really foolish!!!” Miki stopped on her tracks.

“Slap? Yell? She did that to Makoto?”

“And now, that best friend of mine was too scared to face the past… the truth! So who’s the one with guts now, Tan?” Miki looked back; her face was showing some signs of confusion.

“Who are you?”

“I guess I could not blame you for not remembering me. Rika didn’t remember me because as she said, ‘I’ve changed’. It’s just been four years since we last saw each other. So, seven years was enough for you to forget me.” Aya said the last part with mixed emotions of anger and sadness.

“Seven? That would make me in grade three then… Wait… Grade three? Best friend? Sempai?”

“I can see that you’re somewhat disturbed right now. Can you remember it now?”

“Ayaya…”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 66


“Ok, question number 1: Tell me honestly, do you like Hitomi?” Reina cupped her hands in her right ear and moved closer to Rika.

“You’ve asked that earlier. You know the answer right?” Reina sighed and started swinging back and forth. Rika watched her friend contemplating with herself.

“Ok, let’s make that the final question… Now, question number 1, describe to me Hitomi’s personality.”

“Ehh? That’s not a question… You’re the one who’s been with her the longest. You should know her more than me!” Rika protested.

“Just answer it. I know her personality too well. That’s why I need you to answer honestly whatever I ask, got that?”

“Ok…” Rika trailed off. She closed her eyes and tried to think Hitomi’s personality. “She’s a quiet but funny person once you get to know her too well. I think that’s all I can say for now.”

“Question number 2, what are her hobbies?” Reina looked straight at Rika and made a mental note on her every facial expression.

“Ano… Playing futsal is a hobby right? Then she was really into anime… I think. She has lots of posters and anime stuff toys in her room.”

“You visited her room?” Reina asked with a wide grin on her face. Rika blushed a little.

“Yeah, the time when she was sick. But Miki was there with us.”

“Is that all her hobby?”

“I guess, she likes to cook. Their mother was a chef so it’s not impossible for those two to cook also.”

“Question number 3, you mentioned futsal. Describe her playing skills.”

“She’s a good scorer. And the way she’s leading you guys, it’s almost the same as me back then. The only difference is that, she’s more like Ayumi.”

“Question number 4, she reminds you of whom whenever you’re with her?”

“Ehh? Ayumi?” Reina stopped swinging and stared at Rika.

“My questions are related to each other. Think harder.” Rika looked at her, quite puzzled. Rika tried to think hard. Who could it be that Reina was pertaining to? What were Aya and her talking about? Then it hit her. She looked at Reina, quite shocked at what she realized. Reina smiled back at her, knowing that her friend got what she wanted her to understand.

“Now, you can answer my last question, do you like Hitomi?”

…………………
“There you are! Have you finished what you’re supposed to do?” Rika snapped back from thinking about what happened in her conversation with Reina last night. Hitomi looked worried. “Hey, are you alright?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I’m just busy now.”

“Why won’t you take a break from whatever you’re doing and enjoy the food that I’ve cooked? If you’re thinking about my sister, she’s not with me. I don’t know where she is right now.”

“Oh, she’s just with Aya on the back of our school.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll not let her hurt you. I’ll be your own fairy god mother.” Hitomi laughed at her own joke. Rika just stared at her.

“I’m worried about what she might do to Aya. I guess it’s not a good idea to leave them alone.”

“Earth to Rika?” Hitomi waved her hands in front of Rika. Rika blinked at her.

“Yes?”

“Why are you staring in space again?”

“It’s because, you reminded me of Maki.

“It’s nothing… So, you said that you cooked something… I’m really hungry now so, I guess I’ll try your food.” Hitomi smiled at what Rika said.


……………………
“I’m glad you could remember me.”

“Ano…. I… Saa….” Miki stuttered. She didn’t have the slightest idea where to start. Aya wiped her tears.

“Speechless huh?”

“What is it you want from me?”

“I don’t want something from you. I’m just a little concerned about your behavior.”

“My behavior? As far as I could remember, I was like this before. You know that well do you?”

“Yes, I know… It’s just that…” Aya stopped and tried to put into pieces what she wanted to say. “I thought that having a sibling will make you a lot nicer. You considered me your little sister before. And you’ve become nicer. Why is it that you’ve become worse since Hitomi came? She’s not your real sister right? Your mother has some problems with her cervix and if she’s your real sister, you would be a lot older than her because as far as I can remember…” Aya paused for a while. She can see Miki’s eyes widening. “You clearly said to me when we were in elementary that you’re an only child.”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 67

Miki couldn’t look straight at Aya’s eyes. Here she was, the girl whom she first considered her sister, her best friend, the girl who she promised she would protect against those who would try to hurt her… Instead, she’s the one who’s hurting her now… Memories of her past were coming back to her.

“Why did I forget you?”

……………

“Hey! What are you doing to her? I’ll beat you up!”

“And what can a grade 3 girl like you can do to us? We’re already in middle school!”

“You’re in middle school already and you’re still picking up on small people? I’ll really beat you to pieces!” Miki lunged forward on the two boys who were bullying a girl, probably in the same grade as hers. One of the boys grabbed her hands. Miki kick him in his groin. The boy kneeled down in pain. Seeing that his friend was in danger, the other boy tried picked up a big stone to throw at Miki.

“Hey! What are you doing in there?!” The boy with the stone looked back and saw one of their sempai coming towards their direction.

“Shit! It’s Nakazawa! Let’s run!” The boy helped his friend get up and run for their lives. Miki went to the crying girl and offered her handkerchief.

“If those boys will come after you again, just call my name and I’ll be ready to kick their butts again.”

“Hey, are you alright? Did those boys hurt you?”

“We’re fine. If you didn’t come, I might have beaten them into pieces!” Miki proudly said. She kisses her bicep part though her muscles were still developing.

“My, my… What a brave child. I was like you back then. What’s your name? I’m Yuuko Nakazawa, I’m a 3rd year high school student.”

“My name is Miki Yoshizawa, I’m 9 years old, and I’m a grade 3 pupil. I’m in section 1, and I’m the best student here!”

“Hahaha, you really like to talk big eh? How about you?” Nakazawa looked at the girl who already dried up her tears.

“Konnichiwa! I’m Aya Matsuura. I’m in grade 3 too. Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu!” Aya bowed her head.

“Saa, I’ll be going now. I hope to see the two of you sometime. Ja!” Nakazawa waved at the two of them.

“Ano, here’s your hanky.” Aya held Miki’s hand and put her handkerchief. “They always bully me and get my money. Thank you, for saving me.”

“What?! They always bully you? I’m going to kill them.” Miki closed her fist and looked at the shocked Aya. “From now on, I’ll be the one to protect you against those who wanted to hurt you. I promise that!”

……………..
“Did I become worse?” Miki asked more to herself than to Aya.

“Yes, before you beat up those who hurt other people. Now, you are the one hurting other people for no reason at all!”

“I have! I have a reason…” Miki trailed off.

“Let me guess…. Since Hitomi is not your real sister… she really looks dashing… and if your type of person didn’t change since grade 3, then I might say…” Aya looked at Miki’s eyes and smiled. “You fell in love with your so called sister and you always get jealous whenever other people come in contact with her. That’s why you try to scare them away… Am I correct?”

“Damn right… you’re correct!”

……………..
“We’re moving to Tokyo. My mom opened a restaurant there. She will be the one to manage it.” Aya started to cry, she doesn’t like goodbyes, especially if those people were close to her.

“You’ll come to visit me here right? I’m still your little sister right?”

“I don’t know whether I can come back here. But I’ll promise you one thing. You’ll always be my little sister.”

………………..
“What is it that you want?”

“You didn’t answer my question. I’m correct right? That you fell in love with Hitomi!”

“So?! You know what, I think you’re just jealous!”

“Me? Jealous? Why would I? You’re pointing your finger at the wrong person. I’m not in love with Hitomi. I just protected my best friend, Makoto from you!” Aya screamed back.

“You’re wrong! I think you’re jealous because Hitomi took the ‘little sister’ position from you!” Aya was stunned. “I broke my promise right? That’s why you’re trying to hook up your friend with Hitomi as a form of revenge on me!”

“You’re sick…. Your logic became twisted… We’re not kids anymore, Miki. Don’t act like those middle school boys whose bullying grade school kids. Why can’t you think straight for a minute now? If you love her, why don’t you tell it to her straight at her face! So she will know the real reason why you keep other people away from her!”

“If you want her to be happy, you should tell the truth. So she will know the real reason why you won’t allow her to be with anybody.”

“Now I get it.” Miki suddenly said. Aya looked at her with puzzled eyes. “This is scripted right? You and Rika just want to destroy my relationship with Hitomi that’s why you keep saying things like that!” Miki’s laugh sent shivers on Aya’s spine. It seems like Miki’s possessed or something. Her eyes have a blank and faraway look.

“Tan….”

“Why do you need to go here in Tokyo and destroy my already beautiful life? I already forgot you… and I don’t want to remember….” Miki’s words were cut unexpectedly when Aya hugged her tightly. Miki snapped back to reality and let her tears fall from her cheeks. She felt like a cold water has been thrown into her and wake up her senses.

“I’m sorry…”

“It’s alright… I understand what you feel.”


………………….
“Hi there! I have a present for you!” Yuuko took out two ice cream cups from her bag.

“Wow! Ice cream!!!” Miki and Aya screamed together. Yuuko gave the ice cream and sat with them on the table.

“I’ll give you more of that… that is, if you helped me on my Literature project.”

“It’s fine… what is it then?” Miki asked while tasting some of Aya’s strawberry flavored ice cream. Aya on the other got some of Miki’s chocolate flavored ice cream.

“My professor assigned me to direct a play on our cultural festival next month. I need the two of you to become my hero and heroine. Since my theme is fairy tale and you are always protecting Aya, I thought that you’ll fit in portraying the prince while Aya will become the princess.”

“Wow! I’m the princess? That will be fun, ne~e, Mikitan?”

“Hai, and I’ll always be your prince!!! Yatta!!! I’m the prince! That means I’ll be able to beat up bad guys… What’s the title of the play, Yuuko-sempai?”

“Do you know the story of Cinderella?”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 68

“Hey, it really seems like you’re bothered or something. Is there a problem that you want to share with me?” Hitomi observed as Rika was being too quiet as they eat their lunch. Rika looked at her weirdly.

“I have this friend of mine.” Rika started. She didn’t want to do this but, she felt really sorry for Hitomi. “Her family was… keeping a big secret from her.” Rika watched Hitomi’s reaction. Hitomi looked interested at the topic and nodded. “They were hiding a really big secret that may…I mean… change her life.”

“Is it ok for you to share it to me?” Hitomi asked. Rika’s weird actions were making her think that what she’s about to hear was really important.

“What would you feel if you found out that you’re just an adopted child?” Hitomi blinked many times before answering.

“Does her family love her?”

“I guess. And her si.. brother was very protective of her.” Rika changed some of the information so Hitomi wouldn’t guess that what she’s saying right now, is Hitomi’s real situation right now.

“If you’ll ask me, I guess it’s alright with me. They treated me like their real child so I didn’t have the right to feel bad about them hiding it. It would even be better if they didn’t tell it to me. So I wouldn’t have to change my attitude towards them. I know I will feel somewhat awkward with them if I learned that I’m adopted, but I’ll try to just act normally when I’m with them.”

“Ahh, sou ka… I think I’ll just need to say that to my friend. Thanks for your advice.” Rika smiled inwardly. Miki’s somewhat right. It would not only destroy her relationship with her sister but Hitomi will also feel awkward towards her foster parents. She’s enjoying Hitomi’s cooked food when she saw Aya and Miki entered the canteen. Rika was glad that Aya was alright but seeing Miki looking at her direction, her heart started beating very fast. Hitomi placed her hand on Rika’s shoulder.

“Don’t worry, I’ll not going to let her hurt you.”

……………
“Hello!” Aya greeted the two of them cheerily.

“Hi! Have you eaten your lunch?” Rika asked.

“I cooked lots of food today. I guess it’s enough for the four of us.” Hitomi looked at her sister. Miki looked back at her and smiled. Hitomi was somewhat surprised.

“Wow, thank you! My stomach’s been grunting for too long now.” Aya sat beside Rika while Miki took the seat beside her sister. Rika looked at her friend with a concerned look.

“Don’t worry. It’s going to be fine.” Aya whispered as she took the first bite out of the Tonkatsu.

……………………
“I saw the four of you eating lunch together… What happened?” Reina inquired after seeing Aya walking towards the restroom after class.

“I guess we wouldn’t need to formulate a plan. I’ve talked to her.” Aya beamed a smile.

“Who’s her?! Geez, you’re making my head hurt.”

“I’ve talked to Miki… I guess, she will not bother those two.”

“Ehh? How did you do that?!” Reina’s eyes became wide.

“Let’s just say that Miki was my friend before. And I’m her first ‘sister’ even before Hitomi came.” Reina’s mouth was left wide open by what Aya said to her. “You should close your mouth, a fly might get inside it.”

“Seriously?!? How come? Why? What happened?!”

“It just happened…” Aya glance upon Reina’s unsatisfied face. She looked past her and saw two lurking shadows near the wall. “The two of you can come out now!”

Eri and Sayumi appeared and Reina was somewhat surprised.

“We also need to know what you found out!” Sayumi said. Aya looked at Reina.

“Sorry, can’t help it. It’s our best friend code of promise.” Reina smiled sheepishly.

………………….
“May I know why you and Aya were together earlier?” Hitomi asked. She chanced upon her sister staring at the night sky in their veranda.

“Why do you need to know?”

“Nothing… It’s just that your aura changed suddenly. It’s seemed like someone tamed you or something.”

“Is that really what people think? That I’m such a trouble maker in school?” Miki didn’t look at her sister. She just kept staring at the vast sky.

“Yeah, because they don’t know the real Miki. Honestly, you’re really like what people perceive you to be. But they don’t understand why you’re doing that. Before, I understand your reasons why you keep on intimidating others, but these past few months, you’ve changed into a person I’ve never seen before.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll change back.” Miki murmured and smiled. She will try to forget her feelings for her sister, which was wrong to start with. She decided to be the ‘Miki’ her sister and Aya knew before.

………………
“What are you searching for?” Hitomi asked as her sister rummage through her cabinet.

“Something that belongs to you that I forgot to give back.”

“What is it?”

“It’s a surprise. I don’t know whether you still remember it or something, but I think that it’s your most cherished possession.” Miki opened her drawer and took out a dusty black colored jewelry box. She found the thing that she’s looking for inside it. She placed it in front of Hitomi’s face. “Got it!”

“What’s that? Is that mine?”


…………..
“Miki?”

“Sorry.” Rika was surprised when she saw on her cell phone the name of the caller. She was surprised even more when Miki was apologizing to her.

“Are you apologizing to the wrong person? You should say that to your sister instead.” Rika sarcastically answered back.

“No, I’m not wrong. I really need to say sorry to you for all the things that I’ve done to you. If you only knew what I did because of my jealousness to you.” Rika was puzzled by the every word that Miki says. She remembered that at first, Miki was bad to her, then became extra good, then bad again and now this.

“Are you a bipolar? When I came, you’re mean to me, and then became extra goodie-goodie, then mean again and now… you’re being friendly with me again.”

“My goodness in you earlier was only a pretension; I wanted to get close to you first before Hitomi falls in love with you, and also, to do some nasty things to you secretly.” Miki remembered all her plans before. It’s time to reveal it to Rika whether she will get angry or not, it’s her right.

“What nasty things?”

“Well, you have an extra amount of luck. Remember when we invited you to eat lunch under the Sakura tree right? I’ve put some kind laxative on the food. And the antidote was on my water jug. Since Hitomi made you drink that when you choked on your food, it didn’t take effect on you. It’s meant for two persons only so, Hitomi was the only one who had a little stomach ache. And, I was the one who threw that ball to you when you had that try-out in basketball in the gym. I didn’t know that you had fast reflexes that’s why in order not to be found out as the culprit, I shouted at you to watch out. And yeah, I don’t like you. I just want you to fall in love with me instead with my sister.”

“So why are you telling this to me? Is it because of your talk with Aya earlier?” Rika was shocked to hear Miki’s confession. She didn’t know Miki was capable to do those nasty things. Now Rika remembered what Aya said to her before; that she should be careful when it comes to Miki.

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 69


“Yeah, I guess Ayaya has something to do with it.” Miki replied.

“Who’s Ayaya? Aya?” Rika was sure that Miki was pertaining to Aya Matsuura but it’s the first time that she heard Miki called her in that nickname. “What happened? Wh…” Rika was suddenly cut off by Miki.

“My sister wanted to see you tomorrow since its Saturday and we have no classes. She wanted to give you something; I guess it will be the surprise of your life.”

“And why would I believe you after all those nasty things that you confessed?”

“Because, it’s my sister who will meet you, and not me, and besides, if I will do something nasty again, I wouldn’t have confessed to you earlier right? So, are you going or not?”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Ok, thanks. She said to meet her up at 1 pm in our restaurant.”

Rika tried to sleep after her conversation with Miki. Miki’s attitude changed suddenly after she talked to Aya. There must be something that Aya knew, or Reina knew. She felt like her friends knew something that she still didn’t know. She made up her mind, she will go and meet Hitomi tomorrow.

………….

“Why are you following me… Who are you anyway?”

“I’m… I’m Rika…. I really missed you a lot!”

“Rika? I’m sorry, I don’t know you…..”

Maki walked away and she tried to run after her but she couldn’t reach her. A piece of paper flew right in front of her.
Your loved one will hurt you deeply. You must accept it so as to be happy again.

Rika shouted Maki’s name over and over again. She threw away the piece of paper and tried to catch up with Maki. She shouted her name over and over again and then, she saw Maki got hit by a speeding car..

MAKI!!!”

Rika immediately ran towards the bleeding body. She was glad that Maki’s still breathing.

“Maki, it’s me, Rika… I’m your… girlfriend. I’m going to find some help.” [/I] Rika managed to say in between sobs.

“Gi…girl…friend?”

Rika tried to get up to get some help but Maki held her hands firmly, as if signaling her to stay.

“Hey! Why are you holding her hands like that? I’ll beat you to pieces if you lay one finger on her!”

“Miki? What the heck are you talking about? Don’t just stand there and call an ambulance!”

“Let’s go, just leave her alone.” Miki tried to pull Rika away from Maki but Rika resisted. Rika’s hand slipped from Miki’s grasps, making her fall down, her lips falling right on to Maki’s. She blushed for a second and remembered that Maki was injured. She pushed herself up so she would add no more injuries to the person beneath her.

“Maki are you… al… right…” Rika trailed off. The person beneath her was not Maki. It’s Yoshizawa Hitomi


………….
“Geez, what’s with that dream?” Rika got up from her bed and went downstairs to get a drink in their kitchen. Does her dream want to tell her something? She decided to let it pass this time and get enough sleep. She’ll try to analyze it tomorrow morning.

……………

Morning came and Rika was woken up by her phone ringing.

“Moshi-moshi… Do you have anything to do this morning?” Aya’s voice boomed right into her ears right after she pressed the accept button.

“Ehh? I don’t know. I just woke up… I’m somewhat slow in processing information this time.” Rika replied sleepily. Aya took a deep breath and repeated what she said, while adding some information that made Rika’s eyes opened wide.

“I’m going to tell you what happened yesterday.

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 70

“This better be good…” Rika said as she sat beside Aya in the park near their school.

“Yes, I can assure you that it’s really juicy.” Aya smiled and took a deep breath.

“Remember I told you before, to be careful with Miki?”

“Yeah, why?”

“Because, I felt that she was somewhat different. You see, Miki was my friend… actually, my first best friend, when we were in grade three.” Rika looked at Aya with wide eyes. She was really surprised at the news. She now understood why Aya’s eyes look sad whenever their topic was about Miki. “I guess like you, she couldn’t remember me also.”

“I’m sorry.” Rika felt sorry; for not remembering and also, for sympathizing with Aya. She never meant to forget Aya. It’s just that, she saw her only once and her focus was on the game so, technically speaking, she would easily forget her. On the other hand Miki was her best friend but she forgot her already.

“Don’t feel sorry, it’s alright. We’re in good terms now. I guess talking with her yesterday made that possible.”

“Now I get it. That’s why she’s acting really strange ever since the two of you returned. So what happened?”

“Where do I start…” Aya paused a little and closed her eyes to try to contemplate with herself. She nodded a little and opened her eyes to look at Rika. “I guess I’ll start with Sensei.”

“Sensei? Are you talking about Nakazawa-sensei?” Rika asked and Aya nodded in return.

“She was our sempai when we were in elementary. She always treats us with ice cream and that play we did last cultural festival was just an exaggeration of the play that she directed in her Literature project before. She made Miki the prince and me, the damsel in distress.” Rika listened intently on Aya’s story.

“I was bullied by boys from middle high that time. They always took my money away from me. And then one day, Miki came to the rescue. She was not a bully before; she’s the one who will save you if you’re being bullied. Then after that, we became friends, then best friends, then her family transferred here in Tokyo.”

“Speaking of family, Hitomi was…” Rika was about to tell Aya what Miki told her; that Hitomi was not her real sister but it seems that Aya knew it from the beginning.

“…not her real sister.” Aya smiled at Rika. “She told me that she was an only child; that she wanted to treat me as her real little sister. It only happened for 6 months. We were happy back then; we treat Nakazawa sempai as our big sister but then, good things always comes to an end. Sensei graduated, and Miki went away.”

“So, after seven years you meet her again and then she couldn’t remember a single thing about you? That’s really… heartbreaking.” Rika couldn’t find the right words to describe it. Maybe there’s no word to describe what Aya felt at that time. Rika knew that Aya’s experience was more painful than hers. She knew Maki was dead. She can’t and will never see her again. She can move on if she can accept that fact but on Aya’s case, her best friend’s still alive. Seeing Miki everyday, without remembering all their good times together, felt like Aya’s heart was being stabbed with a sharp knife. It always happen everyday.

“Yeah, something like that.” Aya sighed and proceeded on the next story. “When I was in junior high, I transferred here in Tokyo. I met Ogawa Makoto, who became my second best friend. Miki and Makoto’s personalities were contrasting; Miki’s a home body, Makoto’s out going. Miki’s intimidating on the outside; Makoto’s a ‘genki’ person. We ‘partied’ almost every day and I almost forgot about Miki but then, Makoto fell in love with Hitomi.” Rika smiled. With Hitomi’s good looks, there’s no way anyone wouldn’t like her.

“I saw Miki again because of Makoto. I was about to tell Miki who I am before, but then, Miki changed a lot every since then. She became….”

“A big bratty monster who enjoys hurting other persons.” The two looked behind them and saw the three best friends. Reina smiled at them and sat beside Rika. Sayumi and Eri remained standing.

“A good description.” Aya joked.

“Thank you.” Reina relied and looked at Rika. “Since I’m an observant person, I remembered Aya. I also saw how Miki hurt Makoto before right in front of Hitomi.” Rika furrowed her eye brows.

“What did Miki do?”

“Makoto wanted to join the futsal team so that she could be close to Hitomi. Miki took that chance to hurt her. She kicked each ball harder and harder until Makoto was knocked out. Hitomi couldn’t do anything for her.” Reina related and looked at Aya.

“I couldn’t do something for Makoto. I was too shocked to see Miki doing that thing to her. Fear engulfed me that time. How could I fight with the person who always has the strength to fight for me? I just stood there, frozen like Hitomi.” Aya recalled the scene in their gym; the time where they first tried out for the futsal summer camp in Tokyo High.

“Did Miki know that Makoto likes Hitomi or something?” Rika couldn’t stop to ask that question. Sayumi and Eri looked at each other and nodded.

“Actually, Sayumi and I saw Miki hiding behind a wall when Hitomi and Makoto were talking with each other. Real close. I guess that’s enough motivation for her to do that.”

“So, to make the long story short; Miki did that horrible thing, Makoto was sent to Australia to study, and I’m left here to enroll in this school… And then you came two weeks after the official start of school.” Aya gave a stern look on Rika.

“Wh… why are you looking at me like that? You’re scary.”

“Reina, have you given her a hint already?” Aya asked and Reina nodded.

“I’ve already talked with her last time.”

“What? What did you say to her? You haven’t mentioned it to us yet? I thought that we’re best fri…” Reina covered Sayumi’s mouth.

“I’m just waiting for this day to tell it to both of you.” Reina let out a sigh “Hitomi’s character was somewhat the same with Maki. You may not notice it at all, but yeah, Aya and I saw their common denominator, especially when they are playing futsal.”

“Ehh? Hontou?” Eri and Sayumi said simultaneously. Rika just remained quiet, she already knew it because Reina indirectly told it to her based from her questions that fateful night.

“So, now… Can I trust the ‘old’ Miki?” Rika questioned Aya. Aya smiled at her and nodded.

“If that’s the case, I’ll go now. Miki called yesterday. She told me that Hitomi wanted to see me.”

[cogi_yoshi]

Chapter 71

“So, she’s making a move now eh…” Aya whispered to Reina. Rika heard some of it and looked questioningly at Aya.

“Who’s making a move? Miki or Hitomi?”

“Who else… The one who truly loves you from the beginning. The one who’s defying her sister just for you, which she didn’t even do to Makoto.” Reina gleefully replied. Rika blushed from embarrassment.

“You don’t have to elaborate that. I’m just asking for a name.”

“Hahaha!!! Rika-chan’s blushing! Go now! Don’t make her wait for too long!” Sayumi pushed her friend towards the direction of the mall. It’s still 45 minutes before 1 o’clock. Rika waved at her friends before walking towards the mall. She decided to go to the bookstore first and go to the restaurant, five minutes before 1. She entered the bookstore with no particular goal in mind. She flipped different books and scanned some pages, until she saw a book about dreams.

“Maki…. Is there something she wanted to tell me through my dreams?”

She flipped the book open and searched for any information about her constant dreams. It’s said in the book that you will know if a person is already dreaming when you’ll see that his/her iris were moving rapidly.

“…. A state called REM or Rapid Eye Movement…. Dreams can be subjective. Example is when you want to change a bad thing that happened in the past to a good one. Your unconscious mind will fabricate a dream based on what you want to happen…. Some dreams can also be a revelation of what’s going to happen in the near future…… So…is my dream subjective or a prediction?”

Rika focused on that certain paragraph for a long time. She deducted that her dream might be a vision of the future. Her fortune that fateful year coincides with what happened months later. She didn’t know that Maki died when she first dreamt that dream. She suddenly snapped from her thoughts and looked at her wristwatch. It’s exactly 1 in the afternoon. She put the book down and ran outside the store to the restaurant. When she arrived, she peeped first to see whether Hitomi has arrived. She decided to go inside when she didn’t see her.

“And I thought that I’m already late.” She chose to sit at the table near the glass window. She can’t help thinking about what she had read in the book. A waiter approached her and gave her the menu book. Rika took it and opened it without the really reading the contents.

“I’m really bothered by that dream… It keeps on appearing over and over again and it adds something different from the previous dream… Maki and Hitomi are somewhat alike… Is my dream telling me something?”

“Excuse me ma’am, do you have an order now?” Rika looked at the waiter and to her watch. She didn’t notice that it’s almost past 30 minutes since she sat at that table.

“Sorry… but I’m waiting for someone… Is Yoshizawa Hitomi-san here now?”

“Ano, she’s not here right now. But her older sister is here since 12.”

“Oh, is that so? Can you call her? I need to talk with her for a while, if that’s alright.” Rika's starting to get annoyed at the sudden turn of events. Hitomi’s unusual delay and Miki’s presence makes her want to believe that Miki’s still behind this plan. She shouldn’t have trusted Miki in the first place. But then, she remembered that Aya nodded when she asked whether she could trust Miki or not. She saw Miki emerged from the kitchen and gave her a puzzled look. She then looked around the restaurant as if searching for something, someone specifically, and approached Rika’s table.

“Where’s Hitomi?” Rika was taken aback at what Miki said. It means that Miki’s telling the truth. But then, she cannot easily removed the fact that Miki might be acting it out. She just has to trust Aya’s judgment for now.

“I don’t know… I’m still waiting for her. I called you because I thought that you’re with her.”

“She went out of our house earlier than me. She said she’ll buy you a gift and asked me to cook some Okonomiyaki for the two of you… Although, it made her stomach ache, the last time that I cooked it.” Miki replied worriedly. It was the first time that her sister was late in a meeting that she, herself set up.

“That’s because you put some laxative on it. But it tasted real good I might say.” Rika replied before looking at her watch again.

“This is the first time she’s been late. I’m sure she has a good reason for this.” Rika could see sincerity in Miki’s eyes behind her now worried face. Rika then remembered something about what Miki told her on the phone.

“Oh by the way… Why did you want me to fall in love with you instead of your sister in the first place? I’m not that beautiful enough for her to fall in love with me right away right? Unless I might have some similarity with Makoto..” Miki’s eyes became wide when she mentioned Makoto’s name.

“I guess Ayaya told how mean I am before right? No, it’s not about that. It’s because…”
Miki’s sentence was cut by the sudden ringing of Rika’s phone. Rika looked at the monitor to see who the caller is.

“Speaking… its Aya.” Rika said to Miki before answering the call. Miki couldn’t hear what Aya’s saying to Rika but from worried face of Rika, what Aya was telling her might be a bad news.

“Hai, were going there now… What hospital?” Miki became concerned as soon as she heard the word ‘hospital’.

“Why? What happened? Who’s in the hospital? Is Aya alright?” Miki bombarded Rika with questions. Rika looked at her worriedly and turned off her cell phone.

“Hitomi…. Hitomi’s been hit by a car.”

……………….
“I knew it. My dream’s somewhat prophetic in nature. It’s been telling me all along that Hitomi will have the same fate as Maki. I hope that she’s alright… I hope she won’t die…

Miki and Rika rushed to the nearby hospital where the ambulance brought the injured body of Hitomi. They were greeted by the four persons whom Rika was talking to earlier.

“What happened?” Miki asked as soon as she approached Aya. She could see Sayu trembling in the couch near the emergency room while Reina and Eri who was standing beside her have some specks of blood on their clothes. They were looking over at the transparent glass of the E. R.

“We saw Hitomi crossing the street near the mall. She was looking at her gift at that time that she didn’t notice the speeding car headed her way. It was too late for her to react.” Aya explained. Rika immediately ran beside Reina and Eri to check Hitomi.

“The driver was drunk. He’s at the police station now. We immediately called for an ambulance and tried to suppress the bleeding of her head.”

“Oh no!!! Please don’t die!” Rika said loudly. Miki and Aya went instantly near the E.R. They saw how the doctors gave an electric shock to Hitomi after three tries; Hitomi’s heart started beating again.

“Thank goodness, she’s alive.