Too Young: Seasonz

[rokun]

Is wordsworth even around still? I haven't seen him in a long time. =/ I agree though, we need more! So whatever he's off doing, he better get back soon! 

[Jay]

I love this story!
A couple more hours till this story hits a new year!

[lil_hamz]

I fourth this motion. Where are you wordsworth?

[Aioros]

  I'm still here.

First of all, I'd like to thank you. It's really nice to know that you guys like this story and want some updates.

I have to admit that I've been slacking the past 3 months due to work and the holiday atmosphere and the ideas I had for my unfinished fics clogged any fresh ideas from coming in. You know the feeling when you suddenly have a stroke of genius and you want to draw or put in writing badly what you have in your mind at the moment but you can't because you have more important things to do? It's kinda like that.

I told someone before that I had plans of ending this fic but just thinking of how to end it pains me, for I have fallen in love with the story and its characters. Not only that, but this fic introduced me to really some really good friends. *ehem*youguys*ehem* I feel that I betrayed you though for not being update as much as before, but it's a new year so things are going to change. (Maybe 2 chaps a month )

I'll keep on writing as long as there's something/someone to write about. And it looks like a pretty good year for H!P in general, so yeah.

P.S.

Actually, I have 2 WIP chapters and I was working on one earlier today, but my co-worker was absent so I wasn't able to finish it

I will try to post it/them before the weekend.

[Aioros]

When we were doing promotions for Buono, Airi-chan asked me if I can do her a favor. I said yes, but she didn't tell me any details yet. Yeah, I do favors for Airi-chan, even if I consider her to be my best rival. But she's not that kind of rival that puts me down. She's the kind who motivates me to try to become even better.

During our Aa! days, the spotlight was on her, but she deserved it. Many of the other kids, including me, considered her to be the benchmark that we had to surpass. She's really a great performer and it's not just that. Airi-chan has a great personality. She comes from a well-to-do family, yet she's down to earth. She has every right to gloat but she doesn't. Instead, she tries to lift our spirits even higher and she tries to share whatever she has with us. I love her like a younger sister and I was really glad that I was put in another unit with her.

After that time I went to the hospital to visit Ryota, I got a call from Airi-chan while I was going home...

"Miya, remember that favor I asked you before?"
"Yeah. What about it?"
"Umm, can you help me?"
"Sure. I'll do anything for you."
"Anything?"
"Well, except maybe..."
"Will you go on a blind date for me?"
"Go on a blind da...Yeah. Wait, don't tell me..."
"Umm, you see, papa set me up to meet one his friends' kid.  It's not that I don't want to go. I already have something to do later but I don't want him to go there and wait for nothing. I haven't met him before. I don't know why papa does this. Ugh! He could have at least set us up to meet in one of his events or something."
"Hmm. Are you gonna go out with Maimi-chan that's why you have to bail out?"
"Nah. Maimi-chan's got other things to do."
"Like?"
"Study. Buy girly stuff. And clothes. And underwear. Like you do."
"Okay. That sounds really important. How come you don't want to go and meet him, Airi-chan? Afraid he wouldn't meet your expectations?"
"Not really. I don't want to meet him because..."
"Because?"
"Because...I'm...I'm shy."
"Suzuki Airi? Shy? Come on! That's like saying you don't get enough screen time in the videos!"
"I'm shy Miya." *sniff* "That's the truth."
"Okay. I believe you. So, why don't you want to meet him?"
"Umm, I have a feeling that he's a bratty kid."
"If he's a bratty kid, why are you setting me up with him then?"
"Well, the only thing that can beat a bratty kid, is another bratty kid."
"What? Airi-chan? I'm not bratty!!! You of all should know that..."*sniff* "Okay, I may look like one, but I'm not bratty! Not at all!"
"Haha. I'm just kidding Miya. I'm not really in the mood to go out and meet someone."
"And you think I can do that?"
"Is there anything that you can't do?"
"Tell me Airi-chan, have you ever gone out with a boy before?"
"Well, yeah. It was another of papa's setup jobs. He was nice. And hot too. He said he's a member of his school's Karate club. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give him an 8."
"What's wrong with him?"
"Nothing actually. He was tall, his hair was neat and he gave me a gentle aura even if he looked like a sporty guy. The problem is he was shy too. He stutters when he talks, his face always turned red when I talk to him and he can't look at me without making me feel awkward."
"Hehe. Looks like he was intimidated. I'd be like that too you know, if I was a guy and you were sitting across of me in a table."
"Or maybe he was already seeing someone and was just forced to meet me."
"Well, that can be a reason. Wait, have you tried asking the others for help?"
"Erika-chan and Captain are busy. They need to catch up with some of their lessons so I didn't want to add to their problems."
"What about Momo?"
"Momo said she's going to a scary place with one of her friends so she's not available."
"Kanna-chan? Or Saki-chan?"
"They're busy this afternoon."
"This afternoon. Okay... Wait, did I hear you right?"
"Yeah. They're busy this afternoon."
"You mean I have to meet him this afternoon?!!"
"You have nothing scheduled later right?"
"Why me?"
"Because I know you'd do it, Miya."
"Let me think about it."
"Pretty, pretty please?"

Oh no! I can imagine her putting her pouty face and looking at me with her sparkly eyes on the other line! I must resist, but I...but I can't!

*sigh* "Okay."
"Yay! Thanks Miya!" *mwah* *mwah* *mwah* "Yay!"

"But what if he's cute? Can I keep him?"
"Of course. Just don't forget to feed him and give him a bath every other day."
"What if he's the kappa?"
"Kappa? Umm. I'll think about it...mmm...Kappa...."
"Airi-chan?"

"Airi-chan?"

She hung up.Oh well.

That's Airi-chan for you. They say she's simple-minded, but how can you not love a simple-minded girl like her?

===
I dressed up the way I normally do: Boots? check, Denim jacket? check, Mandatory skull accessory? check. Etc, etc. I tried to avoid dark colors though. I picked colors Airi-chan might wear. Besides, if he's from a good family like her, I might as well wear something more appropriate.

I arrived there before the scheduled time. I didn't want him to wait for me. I know Airi-chan wouldn't have made him wait either.

The place looked really classy. I couldn't have entered unless I had a reservation. The attendant asked if she could help me with anything. I told her that I had a reservation through Airi-chan. 
She didn't ask any more questions and led me to a table.

The clothes I had on made me feel out of place. I should have picked better clothes, but what the heck. It's just a blind date. Plus, if the guy is bratty as Airi-chan expects, I can always pretend that I'm a punk and scare him. On second thought, I wouldn't. It might put Airi-chan in bad terms with his family.

I'm not really fond of waiting, especially waiting for someone I don't know. Thirty minutes from the time and I was still alone. If he did plan not to go, he just missed a golden opportunity. But if he still plans to show up, he's going to get a mouthful from me. Sorry Airi-chan, this guy's gonna get a taste of my evil side.
 
I was about to go to the bathroom when...

"Umm...excuse me. Suzuki-san?"
"No. I'm a friend of her's. She sent me to tell you that you should be more punctual if you want to...see...her...you?!"
"M-Miyabi-san?"

What the?! It was Rii-chan's classmate! What is he doing here?! Is he Airi-chan's blind date?!

"Umm...Miyabi-san? Something wrong?"
"What are you doing here?"
"I should be the one asking you that, but okay. I'm supposed to meet Suzuki Airi-san here. Her dad and mine set us up. When Papa told me her name, I had a feeling that is was the same Suzuki-san I met before when Yajima-san asked me to do something for her. Don't worry, Sugaya knows about this date so don't hurt me okay." he said as he sat down on the other chair.
"Still can't forget about that huh?"
"Well, getting slapped in front of other people isn't really a pleasant experience, but it sure is a memorable one."
"Fine. Keep on tormenting me."
"I was just kidding. You must be hungry, I'm going to order for us okay." he said as he called a waiter. I couldn't understand any of the stuff he ordered though. I took a quick peek at the menu and couldn't believe at the prices. I placed it back on the table and looked at him, who was still not finished ordering. Is he gonna try to stop me from teasing him from being late by making me full? That won't work. Well, maybe it will. When the waiter left, he turned his attention to me. "So how are you, Miyabi-san?"

There's something different in him. Sure, he looks like he's more confident now, but his eyes. They're telling me something. He's hiding something.

"I'm fine."
"That's grea..."
"So, how's it going between and Rii-chan?"
"We're good."
"Really?"
"Really."
"Okay. I'll take your word for it."
"Why'd you ask?'
"Just wanted to know. I hope you're not late when you two go out."
"Sometimes."
"Better change that. Not being punctual is a turn-off. I'm not sure if Rii-chan thinks that way too though."
"Haha. Thanks for the concern. But you better tell that to her as well. I'm not the only one guilty of that."
"Sure. So, how are you doing, Pretty Boy?"

We talked a lot more before the food arrived. I have no words to describe how great the food was. I didn't get the chance to ask him, because I just kept on eating. The food just kept on coming as well. I asked him something when I stopped to catch my breath.

"Have you taken Rii-chan here before?" I said after taking a sip from my glass.
"I tried but she doesn't want to. She'd just ask me to take her to any shop that serves curry or miso ramen."
"Don't worry. I'll tell her how good the food is here."
"Thanks."
"Hey, be honest with me. Are you hiding something from her?"
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"Come on. You can tell me."
"I'm not two-timing her if that's what you mean."
"I know that's not it. But something is bothering you, isn't it?"
"You're right. But I can't tell you any details. I just want you to promise me something."
"What is it?"
"Please take care of Sugaya when I'm gone."

I didn't know what he meant by that. I not sure if he was serious. I just smirked as I resumed eating.

When we were done, he called for the waiter and handed a credit card. After the waiter returned it, he asked me if I wanted to get some dessert somewhere.

"Are you kidding me? I'm already full! I don't think I can even walk!"
"Don't worry. I'll give you a ride home. Alright, we'll just buy something along the way so you can eat it later."
"No need for that, really. But thanks."
"I insist."
"Some kind of bribe for that promise you asked me?"
"Sorta."
"Okay. Let's just buy some crepes okay."
"Sure. You lead the way."

His chauffeur was waiting for us outside. Their car falls under the category "rich man's car". I know it does, since most of the rich people have that kind of car. I just hope he's not in a Yakuza family or something.

I showed him the shop where the others and I buy crepes. We both got out and told the lady what we wanted. He was about to take out his wallet again but I stopped him.

"I'll pay for this one okay?" I said.
"But..."
"It's alright. It's my treat this time."

He didn't argue anymore. He knew he won't win.

We got back on the car and I told Okita-san the directions to my place. It was funny how he didn't get lost though. Most people give me an 'eh?' look when I tell them where I live but Okita-san seemed to know my place like the back of his hand. He's amazing. We arrived in my place in less than an hour.

"I had fun. Thanks." I said as I kissed him on the cheek. A friendly kiss, if you're wondering. No malice.
"I had fun too, Miya-san. I won't be late next time. And please tell Suzuki-chan I said hi."
"Sure. By the way, this one is for your sis." I told him as I handed him one of my crepes. "Make sure she gets it."
"Thanks. I will give it to her first thing when I get home. Good night, Miya-san."
"Good night. Take care! You too Okita-san!"

My phone started to ring as I watched his car slowly disappear from my view. It was Airi-chan.

"Nice timing you have, Airi-chan."
"Miya, Miya, Miya! How was it?"
"It was fun."
"Really? That's great! So, how is he? Bratty? Cute?"
"Umm, you know Rii-chan's classmate right?"
"That hottie? Yes, I remember him. Why?"
"Well, he was supposed to be your date."
"What?! Aww, I always wanted to talk to him after that time. He seems like a nice guy."
"Yeah he is. He said hi by the way."
"Oh! Aww. That's nice."
"Know what? He's almost like the opposite of Kuma-chan's classmate. But both of them have their good points though."
"Oh him. He's pretty hot too. Even Maimi-chan thinks so."
"Right."
"So, Miya-chan. You still wanna keep him?"
"Huh?"
"You wanna keep him?"
"You're evil."
"I am. But I think I don't need to tell you who my primary influence is."
"Fine. What'd you do earlier anyway?"
"They're planning out my schedule."
"For what? New C-ute single? A solo album?"
"Nah. It's for a new photobook. I'm going to Guam in a few weeks Miya-chan..."
"Another one? That's great!"
"Yeah."
"Maybe you'll find the Kappa in Guam. Nyuk!"
"Kappa? In Guam? Mmm...Kappa...."
"Airi-chan?"

"Airi-chan?"

There she goes again.

So Airi-chan's getting a new photobook. Good for her. I have a feeling that a few of us get new ones in a few months.

Speaking of feeling, I still can't forget what he asked me to do for him.

"Please take care of Sugaya when I'm gone."

He doesn't really need to tell me that, since I've been looking over Rii-chan ever since the start. But still, it bothers me.

I just hope he's not really leaving or something…

[ziggurat]

Lol, what a twist.

You're indeed a master of your domain *insert wild jungle boy emoticon here*

Pretty boy has a mysterious mission waiting for him? Will he be gone for a while or forever?

Dun dun dun!

Go miya! (wth I am writing here)

[lil_hamz]

"Suzuki Airi? Shy? Come on! That's like saying you don't get enough screen time in the videos!"

"Well, the only thing that can beat a bratty kid, is another bratty kid."

These 2 lines are pure gold

So he's going somewhere eh? I wonder what and where. I'm all for Miya taking care of Risako when he's gone. In fact, they can become a couple, an ebiru couple

[rokun]

OMG an update!!!

Airi and her kappa... Miya surely should know by now not to mention it unless she wants to end the conversation. Wait, I think I just realized why she mentions it.

Man, Pretty Boy sure gets around with the Berryz/C-ute girls... I guess once you get your foot in the door... But... he's leaving??? Poor Rii-chan. I hope Miya takes good care of her when he's gone... *cough*

[ChrNo]

Aaaaa! finally !! you were talking about that chapter so much that i was starting to wonder if you would really going to post it lol

And the fact that it was going to be MIYA...omg...YOU DID IT ON PURPOSE TO MAKE ME WAIT THAT LONG !!!! YOU ARE SO MEAN ! joke :p

Damn you just spoiled me a little, and jeez i got some unexpected and surprises again !!! thank you ! your works are just so damn great T_________T

lol the title

@zigg you got trapped hu hu hu hu, don't worry i can take care of Captain too hohoho*insertthefreakingsmileywordsshowedyesturdayhere*

* ChrNo Mode Fantazy : ON

When we were doing promotions for Buono, Airi-chan asked me if I can do her a favor. I said yes, but she didn't tell me any details yet. Yeah, I do favors for Airi-chan, even if I consider her to be my best rival. But she's not that kind of rival that puts me down. She's the kind who motivates me to try to become even better.

yes yes, will all know bad rivality is between the wotas hu hu hu hu
Miya rocks !
Airi swings !

yes she is the best !
wait what ?
who ?

berry cute desu yo neeeeee

 Airi-chan has a great personality. She comes from a well-to-do family, yet she's down to earth.

down to earth ? noooo, she is in heaven on her little cloud she is an angel :p

I was really glad that I was put in another unit with her.

No Miya, you were glad because Captain wasn't the only one to be in a unit now, hu hu hu

"Umm, can you help me?"
"Sure. I'll do anything for you."
"Anything?"
"Well, except maybe..."

MAYBE WHAT ?!!!

"Will you go on a blind date for me?"
"Go on a blind da...Yeah. Wait, don't tell me..."

she accepted right away ?

* ChrNo slaps words

* ChrNo appologizes to words

"Umm, you see, papa set me up to meet one his friends' kid.

why do i feel like......imagining Airi saying "Papa" just makes me melt...

"Hmm. Are you gonna go out with Maimi-chan that's why you have to bail out?"
"Nah. Maimi-chan's got other things to do."
"Like?"
"Study. Buy girly stuff. And clothes. And underwear. Like you do."
"Okay. That sounds really important.

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL

see how she said study. and then detailed what she is going to buy. made the whole focus on the clothes and underwear in the middle
also, 'okay' is under study. and the 'really important" is under the girl stuff details.
words you are genious

Making Miya sounds so superficial xD
wich actually matches her if you listen and read her interviews....but ! who knows if she is just playing a role here hu hu hu hu hu

"Because...I'm...I'm shy."
"Suzuki Airi? Shy? Come on! That's like saying you don't get enough screen time in the videos!"
"I'm shy Miya." *sniff* "That's the truth."

Miya strikes ! 5 points  xD
Airi ranger shows up first skill ! *sniff* ! the match continues !

"If he's a bratty kid, why are you setting me up with him then?"
"Well, the only thing that can beat a bratty kid, is another bratty kid."
"What? Airi-chan? I'm not bratty!!! You of all should know that..."*sniff* "Okay, I may look like one, but I'm not bratty! Not at all!"

Airi strikes ! 5 points !
Miya tries the Airi skill ! *sniff* she missed ! but the match continues

it's a tie !

"And you think I can do that?"
"Is there anything that you can't do?"

zomg !
Miya : defense points : -2 !

he can't look at me without making me feel awkward.

indeed that is a problm xD

"Hehe. Looks like he was intimidated. I'd be like that too you know, if I was a guy and you were sitting across of me in a table."

Airi : defence points : -2 !

"Erika-chan and Captain are busy. They need to catch up with some of their lessons so I didn't want to add to their problems."

for some who doesnt know yet, Erika and Captain really go to the same highschool but in the same class? who knows hu hu hu hu

"What about Momo?"
"Momo said she's going to a scary place with one of her friends so she's not available."

Rofl...
as long as she doesn't go to rollercosters...

"You mean I have to meet him this afternoon?!!"
"You have nothing scheduled later right?"
"Why me?"
"Because I know you'd do it, Miya."
"Let me think about it."
"Pretty, pretty please?"

Miya : defense points : -2 !!!!DANGER !
Airi : strikes ! *Pretty, pretty please.*

Oh no! I can imagine her putting her pouty face and looking at me with her sparkly eyes on the other line! I must resist, but I...but I can't!

MIYA ALMOST DOWN NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!

*sigh* "Okay."
"Yay! Thanks Miya!" *mwah* *mwah* *mwah* "Yay!"
"But what if he's cute? Can I keep him?"

DOWN 1 !!!
Airi strikes ! secret skill ! but she missed !
Miya defense : +1

"Of course. Just don't forget to feed him and give him a bath every other day."

Lmao

"What if he's the kappa?"
"Kappa? Umm. I'll think about it...mmm...Kappa...."
"Airi-chan?"

"Airi-chan?"

She hung up.Oh well.

Miya strikes ! ultimate skill : THE KAPPA !

MOUHAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAH

wait...who is winning here..

That's Airi-chan for you. They say she's simple-minded, but how can you not love a simple-minded girls like her?

i'm starting to understand why people like simple minded girls..they are just so cute, they don't worry about anything, they are always in their heaven clou

I dressed up the way I normally do: Boots? check, Denim jacket? check, Mandatory skull accessory? check. Etc, etc.

stk wota picture ? check

xD

 I tried to avoid dark colors though. I picked colors Airi-chan might wear.
[...]
I arrived there before the scheduled time. I didn't want him to wait for me. I know Airi-chan wouldn't have made him wait either.
[...]
Plus, if the guy is bratty as Airi-chan expects, I can always pretend that I'm a punk and scare him. On second thought, I wouldn't. It might put Airi-chan in bad terms with his family

awwww Miya <3 thinking about what is good for airi <3

I'm not really fond of waiting, especially waiting for someone I don't know.

NO KIDDING

haha this is genious, everyone know that Pretty boy is always late...and that we had some hints about his good family...nice words !
(and i don't mention about the karate kid since he spoiled me before...but of course, didn't tell me who was the mysterious blind date....concidering it was miya chapter it could have been ryota hu hu hu hu)

If he did plan not to go, he just missed a golden opportunity.

lmao golden xD
i just can't blame her for saying that

But if he still plans to show up, he's going to get a mouthful from me. Sorry Airi-chan, this guy's gonna get a taste of my evil side.

hot ! woops

* ChrNo slaps self

 

"Umm...excuse me. Suzuki-san?"
"No. I'm a friend of her's.

you know i read that as "i'm afraid of her"
xDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

"Umm...Miyabi-san? Something wrong?"
"What are you doing here?"
"I should be the one asking you that

no kidding

Don't worry, Sugaya knows about this date so don't hurt me okay.

rofl...

* ChrNo slaps Pretty Boy

"I was just kidding. You must be hungry, I'm going to order for us okay." he said as he called a waiter. I couldn't understand any of the stuff he ordered though. I took a quick peek at the menu and couldn't believe at the prices.

well concidering what she showed on the blog i guess it can be true xD
now you just gave me an idea...

I placed it back on the table and looked at him, who was still not finished ordering. Is he gonna try to stop me from teasing him from being late by making me full? That won't work. Well, maybe it will.

ROFL
Pretty Boy must see so many skinny girls he just wants them h..f...wait that is going to sound wrong...

There's something different in him. Sure, he looks like he's more confident now, but his eyes. They're telling me something. He's hiding something.

Miya has cat eyes...she can see into YOU

"Haha. Thanks for the concern. But you better tell that to her as well. I'm not the only one guilty of that."

..........................................
>_>
<_<

...

* ChrNo slaps self

you know a couple once said that too..
"hey we are late !
"well that's your fault
"wait ! you were the one who-
"shhhh

xD

ahem...

 I have no words to describe how great the food was.

BUONO DESU !

"Hey, be honest with me. Are you hiding something from her?"
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"Come on. You can tell me."

dum dum

"I'm not two-timing her if that's what you mean."

two timing...so is that what everyboy think first when someone ask something serious xD
it's the Miya effect, everyone wants her hu hu hu hu hu

"I know that's not it. But something is bothering you, isn't it?"
"You're right. But I can't tell you any details. I just want you to promise me something."

DUM DUM !

"Please take care of Sugaya when I'm gone."

mmm



Pretty Boy is going to DIE of too much h...... cuteness that's what he meant he he he he he

When we were done, he called for the waiter and handed a credit card.

at what age you can use credit card there Oo

"Are you kidding me? I'm already full! I don't think I can even walk!"

ROFL...

I just hope he's not in a Yakuza family or something.

"I'll pay for this one okay?" I said.
"But..."
"It's alright. It's my treat this time."

He didn't argue anymore. He knew he won't win.

LMAO

nice way to turn it for yourseld

"I had fun. Thanks." I said as I kissed him on the cheek. A friendly kiss, if you're wondering. No malice.

when i said that in the chat people went "ChrNo YOU PLAYER !!!" or "SHOTACON !" (well shotacon the girl i kissed i guess ? lol but that was before the revelation of the TRAP! ) and zigg wanted to kill me...
hahaaha
ahem back to the fic...

does Japanese greet people by kissing cheecks ?

"I had fun too, Miya-san. I won't be late next time. And please tell Suzuki-chan I said hi."

woo he didn't forget about Airi heheheheh damn....Miya should have made him forget about Airi...damn...

"Sure. By the way, this one is for your sis." I told him as I handed him one of my crepes. "Make sure she gets it."

Take care! You too Okita-san!"

awaaaaa Miya <3

"Umm, you know Rii-chan's classmate right?"
"That hottie? Yes, I remember him. Why?"
"Well, he was supposed to be your date."
"What?! Aww, I always wanted to talk to him after that time. He seems like a nice guy."

golden opportunity ? :p

"Yeah he is. He said hi by the way."

awww she didn't forget it...damn...Airi should have made her forget...wait what am i saying...

"Know what? He's almost like the opposite of Kuma-chan's classmate. But both of them have their good points though."

Miya just can't forget him huh ...
T_T

Love triangle...is so hurting..

"So, Miya-chan. You still wanna keep him?"
"Huh?"
"You wanna keep him?"
"You're evil."

LMAO...

"I am. But I think I don't need to tell you who my primary influence is."

wait a minute...it is...

"They're planning out my schedule."
"For what? New C-ute single? A solo album?"
"Nah. It's for a new photobook. I'm going to Guam in a few weeks Miya-chan..."
"Another one? That's great!"

we don't have to forget this is a H!P fan fic right

"Maybe you'll find the Kappa in Guam. Nyuk!"
"Kappa? In Guam? Mmm...Kappa...."
"Airi-chan?"

"Airi-chan?"

There she goes again.

aaaah...

"Please take care of Sugaya when I'm gone."

He doesn't really need to tell me that, since I've been looking over Rii-chan ever since the start. But still, it bothers me.

I just hope he's not really leaving or something…

Dum dum...

* ChrNo mode Fantazy : Stand By

Thank you wordy ! you made my day !

[cool_kickin_dude]

I hate to say it, but is our hero..

no, it CAN'T be!! Please!

you know, Socko's got a new PB..write about that!

[Aioros]

"Risako, if I would be gone for a few months, can you wait for me to come back?"

That's what I asked her as I walked her home. I didn't look at her when I said those words because the expression on her face would tell me immediately what her answer would be. She responded by tightening her grip on my hand. That way, it would be more difficult to know if it was a yes or no.

We didn't say anything to each other until we reached her house. She didn't look at me when she opened the gate. Then she also asked me something, without looking at me.

"When are you leaving?"

I didn't want to keep it a secret from her, but everything happened so fast. Papa already told me before that we will be going to another country for a business trip. I don't know if that was the real reason, because he and Mama have been arguing a lot lately. I asked him if Shizuka-chan was coming with us. He said that she's going to stay here with Mama.

Also, He didn't tell me when we would leave, and how long we would stay there but he assured me that it would be just temporary, he had no plans of migrating.

That gave me peace of mind, but I was caught off guard the earlier today when Mama told me to start packing up. When I asked her the same question Sugaya is asking me, she said...

"Tomorrow."

The silence could have been longer but her bag falling on the ground prevented it to last more than two seconds.

"Tomorrow."
"Yes. Tomorrow."
"How long? How long will you be gone?"
"Months? A year? I don't know. I'm sorry."
"I see."
"So."
"Hmm?"
"I g-guess...I guess...I have to..."
"You have to what?"
"I...I...I'm setting you free Risako."

I don't know why I stuttered. I practiced saying this before I went to school today. It seemed so easy to say it but it wasn't when she was a few steps away from me.

"I'm..I'm letting you go."

"D-do you really think...is that necessary?"

"I want you to be happy."

She turned around. That was the first time that afternoon that I saw her face. I made her cry again.  She tried to walk closer to me but something stopped her. Maybe because she saw that I was crying as well.

"Do you think that I'd become happy if you did that?"
"I'm only thinking of what would be best for you."
"No. It's like you're telling me that I can't wait for you to come back. It really hurt me, if that's what you're thinking."
"I asked you earlier if you can wait for me."
"I can wait for you! I will wait for you! I want to wait for you! Even if it takes forever."
"You know it will be hard."
"I know! But I don't care! Why do you have to do this?"
"I know it's selfish on my part, but I decided that this...."
"Of course! You didn't tell me about it, how could I have told you what I would feel? Why? Why didn't you tell me earlier? It's unfair!"
"I didn't know that everything would happen so soon."
"You had no plans to tell me, didn't you?"
"That's not true."
"Oh. I get it now."
"Huh?"
"Please. Tell me. All of this is just a joke. Because if it is one, you got me really good haha." she said as she tried to sneak in a smile.
"It's not a joke."
"Please..."
"Goodbye, Risako."

I wanted to hug her and wipe those tears away, even for the last time, but that would have made leaving her a lot harder.

I could still hear her tears falling on the ground even when I was already a few blocks away. The sound of her tears was more audible than the sound of her bag when it hit the ground.

I was expecting a barrage of SMS from her and the other girls but they never came.

Maybe she didn't tell them.

Maybe she did, but maybe the others thought that it would be better if we went our separate ways. Well, I did get one. It was from Miyabi-san.

BAKA!

That's all she said. But she is right about that. From the girls, I think Miyabi-san is the only one who has an idea that I was leaving, even if I didn't tell her any details. I just hope that she'll be around to help Sugaya when I'm gone.

I sent Sugaya one last message to say goodbye before we left. She didn't answer. As expected.

I hurt her again.

But this would be the last time I'd be doing so.

===
Papa and I left the country. I had to adjust for a while and I had to go to a private school to continue my studies. I made friends in school and they would always ask me what the name of the girl in the picture I keep in my wallet and I would tell them her name. Good thing they didn't have any idea of who she is, since Hello! Project isn't really known there. When they would ask if she was my girlfriend, I'd tell them...

"She was my classmate."

They said it was impossible for her to be just a classmate. And they were right.

I tried to forget. I tried to move on. But somehow, I just didn't feel complete without her.

I sent her some emails occasionally but I never got any response from her. I wasn't expecting any anyway. After what I did.

Shizuka-chan sent me an email once, saying that there was a rumor spreading thta Sugaya had a boyfriend and there were some pictures. I asked her what he looked like and she said

"He looks a whole lot better than you! Nyaa!"

I admit that I felt kinda bothered. Not that he looked better, but you know, how she moved on quickly. But that was soon fixed when Shizuka-chan emailed me a few weeks later, saying that she was just teasing me. She also said that she's been talking to my classmate Star-chan on the phone. I called and told her that Papa told me that we would be coming home in a few more weeks. She said that she wanted me to get her a copy of Yajima Maimi's second photobook.

"She has a new one?"
"Yes!!! And Risako-san will be releasing her third one too!!! If you want, you can get me that too! Ooh, ooh, and Airi-san's photobook too! If you buy that, you'll be the best onii-chan in the world!"
"I'll think about it first. Wait, what happened to all your money?"
"I bought some Buono stuff!"
"Buono?"
"Go search the internet! Okay gotta go now! I want those photobooks! Don't forget onii-chan, cause I won't!"

I didn't search for Buono anymore because I recall my cousin telling me about Tsugunaga-san being in a new unit with that name. He also said that 
Miyabi-san and Suzuki-san belong to that unit.

My cousin and Shizuka-chan would tell me what was happening back home. If a single was out, if it's someone's birthday, things like that. I don't know how my cousin ended up a bigger fan that I am.

But that won't be necessary anymore.

Since we arrived back home last night.

And I'm going to her place tomorrow, to see how she's doing.

===
It was around one o'clock when I reached their house.

She wasn't there, but her mother let me in. She said that she was coming home in an hour. She asked me how I was doing. I told her that just came from a business trip with my Papa. Looks like Sugaya didn't tell her mom what happened before I left, because if she probably did, her mom wouldn't be very accommodating.

She was going to prepare some snacks but I told her that I'd be leaving and just come back in an hour. She insisted but I didn't want to bother her. I didn't plan on staying there too long, I just wanted to see Sugaya. 
She let me go after I finished the glass of juice she gave me.

It was a few blocks from her house when I saw her again. She was on her way home and Miyabi-san was with her.

We were at least a meter away from each other, the same distance she told me that I had to be the first time I walked her home.

No one wanted to talk and both of us couldn't look at each other without feeling uncomfortable. I glanced at Miyabi-san, who had a smirk on her face and one of her eyebrows raised. She didn't have to say anything to tell me that I had to make the first move.

"R-Risako."
"You're back."
"Yes. I came from your house. Your mom said that you weren't home, so  I was just gonna..."
"Leave again? Right?"
"I was going to come back later."
"You don't have to. You don't need to."
"I just wanted to see you, Risak..."
"You saw me already. You can go now. You don't need to come back."
"Risako."
"R-Rii-chan?" Miyabi-san was as surprised as me with what Sugaya said.
"Before you left, you said you let me go so that I'd be happy. Well I'm happy now."

She started to walk and as she passed by me, I held her hand.

She let me hold it for a while but she slowly slipped it away from me.

She wasn't wearing the bracelet I gave her anymore.

She looked at me. She was as beautiful as I remember.

"I'm happy now." she said she tried to smile. But tears began to fall on her cheeks.

I placed my hand on her shoulder but she pushed it away. Gently.

"I'm really happy to see you again. But things won't be the same as before. I've learned how to live without you and I'm doing fine. This is what you wanted, right?"
"Yes. Your happiness means everything to me."
"Thanks. Let's go, Miya-chan." she said as she walked ahead.

"I'm sorry." Miyabi-san whispered as she passed by me. "I wasn't able to do anything."
"Don't worry, Miyabi-san. I'll be fine." I told her.
"I know you will."
"Miya-chan, what's keeping you?" Sugaya said as she kept on walking. "You know I don't like waiting."

I didn't look at them as they were leaving.

I was the first one who left her first anyway.

She was able to move on. That's good.

Now I ask myself if I'll be able to do the same...

[chokkan 2]

so sudden .......

[ziggurat]

Whoa, what a lonely chapter.

+1

Oh, I forgot to comment in detonator.

[jafeijai]

After a long while, there's finally another update. And yet, you just HAD to drop such a bomb on us..!! "Pretty Boy" better not move on...It'd end the story as it is.

I forsee a pan to after this encounter at Sugaya's house, where she takes out the bracelet that she's kept hidden until "Pretty Boy" comes back. Please don't disappoint!

[Aioros]

I went to the bookstore where I buy manga earlier because Shizuka-chan was bugging me to buy the photobooks she asked me before I went home. I can't remember the last time I dropped by. I was hoping that the owner would still know me.

"Hey! Long time no see kid! Where have you been?" he said as he patted me on the back.
"I just got back from a business trip with my Papa."
"Really? Must be a pretty long trip huh. I thought you moved to a new place already."
"That won't happen. And if it did, I'd still go here to buy manga."
"Aww. That's nice. But that won't get you discounts or freebies from me."
"Well, I tried hehe."
"Hehe. Maybe small discounts for your effort."
"How is everything here?"
"Sales have been pretty good."
"I see."
"The shop might be doing fine, but I don't like the feeling of losing good customers like you hehe."

He was still nice to me like before. And it looks like he's forgotten to bug me about Sugaya's photoboo...

"I still have Sugaya Risako's first photobook, mind you."
...
I guess I spoke too soon.

"Hehe. You should sell it to someone else sir. I forgot to tell you before but I already have a copy of it. Sorry."
"Really? Nice. Looks like you couldn't resist getting one huh?"
"It was a gift."
"Sure."
"Ummm...speaking of photobooks, do you have Yajima Maimi and Suzuki Airi's latest photobooks?"
"Yeah we still have those in stock. You like C-ute? What about Berryz Koubou? You prefer C-ute than Berryz?"
"Not exactly."
"I think you're waiting for Shimizu and Tokunaga's photobooks, aren't you?"
"Nope....Wait, what? Are you saying that they're going to have photobooks too?"
"Of course. But not anytime soon. Maybe before the year ends. Or before Sugaya releases her sixth one."
"Haha. That'll be something to look forward to."
"Wait here, I'll get the ones you asked for."

It was when the owner left that the person beside me made her presence felt.

"Using your sister as an alibi to look at Maimi-chan and Airi-chan in swimsuits is pretty lame..."

I looked to my left to see who it was.

"Err...who are you again?"
"Aww. You forgot me already?" the girl said as she pouted.
"M-Murakami-san? Right?"
"So you remember me afterall."
"Of course."
"Alright. I'll be waiting for you outside after you get the 'goods'."
"W-wait." I told her. But looks like she ignored me.

The owner got back as soon as Murakami-san went out. It looks like she wants to talk to me. Maybe she heard about what happened to me and Sugaya.

"You're going to enjoy these photobooks kid. They're really good. They both sold pretty well. Even some girls bought Yajima's book."
"Actually, these are for my sister."
"Your sister. Yeah, right."
"I'm not making things up."
"Hehe. You're too defensive. But I believe you. Besides, you can always borrow it from her anyway. Or maybe you can go look at it when she's not around."
"I'll try to. But she's going to kill me if I get caught..."
"By the way, Sugaya Risako also has a new one."
"So it's out already too. That's nice. But I only have enough money to buy two for now. Maybe I'll go get it in a few weeks."
"Oookaay."
"Get it. For my sister."
"What? I didn't say anything."

We heard someone tapping from the window. It was Murakami-san and her hand gestures were telling me to hurry up.

The owner didn't keep me any longer and I was able to follow Murakami-san outside.

"Finally."
"You want something from me, Murakami-san?"
"Not really. Wanna go grab something to eat?"
"S-sure?"
"Don't worry, it'll be on me.  I bet those photobooks cost you a lot."
"Yeah. But it's for my sister so I don't mind. She's a big fan of C-ute. And Berryz."
"I see."
"I still have money though. The owner gave me a discount. You don't need to..."
"It's on me."

===
We went to the same cafe we went to the first time I met her.

I still remember that time. I had the last copy of the manga and she asked me if she could have it. I gave it to her. Who could resist her sparkling eyes and her weird yet cute smile? I know I couldn't.

The next time I saw her, she was with Yajima-san. They caught me browsing Goto-san's photobook. And that was also the first time I got started getting called "Pretty Boy".

That was the last time I saw her. It was Yajima-san was the one who told me about Murakami-san leaving because she decided to focus on her studies. And she also said something about Murakami-san having these pictures with a guy...
 
I'm not sure what she really wants with me. I'm not suspecting her doing anything 'bad'. I don't think she's capable of that. She seems to be really a nice person.

I thought that it was going to be difficult talking to her but I was wrong. And we talked about a lot of stuff.

Even how normal and natural our conversation was, it felt new to me. It's just too different when I talk about the same stuff with Sugaya. Maybe because I have this feeling that there are things she doesn't want to tell me. Or things she didn't want to talk about.

Talking to Murakami-san was something else.
 
We could talk about almost anything. Food. School. Family. Manga. Movies. Current events. Obscure TV shows that felt like I was the only one watching it. Things like that. And this was just the third time I ever talked to her.

She was quite chatty while we were in that cafe. Not really Miyabi-san kind of chatty, since Miyabi-san never gave me a chance to cut in and say something. Murakami-san however, would look at me when she runs out of things to say, giving me an opening. Maybe she does it in purpose so I can talk, but nonetheless, I was glad I wasn't reduced to being a spectator.

It's when she talks, that I get to look at her. And stare at her eyes. She's quite cute.

Yeah. She's cute.

"If you missed some of the volumes, you can get them from my house later." she said.
"Okay."
"Okay!"
"Wait. Did I hear you right? Your house? Later?"
"Yeah. Later. When you walk me home."
"Did I say that I'd do that?"
"You won't? Fine!" she said as she pouted. "I'll guess I'll be going home alone. Just myself..."
"I'm...just kidding, Murakami-san. I'm going to walk you home."
"Yay! Actually, we need to ride a bus. But I'd rather walk."
"I can pay for the bus fare."
"Nah. Let's walk."

===
We headed to her house once we finished eating. It was a long walk but we didn't run out of things to talk about. I mean, I was starting to run out of things to say while she kept on going. She only went quiet after I asked her this certain algebra problem that I encountered while I was away. The only mistake was I only asked her about it when we were almost in front of her house.

"Ehh? You already studied that? We just started with that last earlier this week."
"Yeah. Can you help me with it?"
"Are you out of your mind? I don't understand it too!"
"I see."
"Wait here, I'll go get the manga." she said as she went inside.

I didn't wait for long. She came back after a few minutes. With what seems to be her entire manga collection. Inside a knapsack.

"I don't think I missed that many volumes."
"It's okay. You can return them when you're done. Besides, my room's going to get fixed and I don't want my Mama to misplace my stuff so I'm leaving them under your care."
"They look heavy. Here, let me." I said as I took the bag from her.

It was heavy alright. And I'm going to walk home with this on my back. It was a bright pink knapsack by the way. It probably even glows in the dark.

I'm going to carry this bright pink knapsack on my back as I walk home. It will be impossible to get unnoticed, especially with the large plush dolls attached to it.

"Thanks."
"I'll get going now."
"Okay. Thanks again."
"Umm...Murakami-san."
"You can call me Megumi."
"Megumi-san."
"..."
"M-Megumi."
"Yes?"
"If you're free next week, would you like to go out?"
"You're asking me to go out? With you?"
"Well, yeah."
"Just you and me?"
"Yes. I have to repay that snack earlier. And for letting me borrow some manga."
"You're sweet. I told you don't need to do that. But if you insist, then let's go out."
"Alright. It's a date then. But if you want, you can bring someone along. That would be nice too."
"Nah. We'll be fine. Just the two of us. Maybe we can finally solve that algebra thingie you asked me a while ago."
"Okay. By the way, can you give me your number? I'd give you mine but I haven't memorized it yet since it's a new one."

She took out a piece of paper and wrote her number on it.

"Here. Just tell me what time you're going to pick me up." she said as she handed it to me.
"Okay. I'll be going now, Murakami-sa..."
"..."

There it is again. She always gives me that weird glare whenever I call her that way.

"I'll be going now, Megumi."
"Alright. Take care."

===
I was already a few blocks away from her house when I heard her calling me.

"Hey! Wait up!"
"What's the matter?"
"You...you still...still haven't told me your...your name yet." she said she she tried to catch her breath.
"Really? Well, my name is Sugiyama. Sugiyama..."

I was interrupted by her phone.

"Hello? Maimi-chan! Where am I? I'm at home. You're gonna drop by? Okay! See you later!" *bleep* "Sorry, that was Maimi-chan. She's on her way to my place so I guess I have to go back now."
"No problem. See you next week then."
"Okay. I'll be waiting for you, Sugiyama-kun."

With that, she ran back home, leaving me alone with the pink bag. And the photobooks I bought for Shizuka-chan.

I asked her out. Should I have done that?

She said that she'll go. Should she be doing that?

She said she'd wait for me. Sugaya said that she'd do the same.

She'd wait for me.

But I didn't let her. And now she's gone.

She said that she's happy. I'm happy for her. Because that's what I wanted.

I couldn't say the same for myself.

But I will try.

I guess this is what moving on is all about...

[cool_kickin_dude]

NOOOOOO!!!!...WHHHYYYYY???

least we finally know the person's name...but still, it's hard for em to read now

[chokkan 2]

.........

he and Megu !? hmm .........

[Aioros]

I sent Murakami-sa...I mean Megumi an SMS, telling her that I'll pick her up at around 2PM.

I had to sneak past Shizuka-chan because she'll probably interrogate me before I could leave. She'll probably ask me if I'm going out on a date, which is true, but I don't want to tell her that I'm not. White lies are still lies. And I don't want to make her to feel bad if she finds out that I'm going out with someone else aside from Sugaya. It's enough that I already feel bad myself.

Even though I left early, Megumi arrived earlier and was waiting for me.

"Hello, Megumi."
"You're late." she told me.
"No I'm not. You're too early. Excited huh?"
"In your dreams!"

I looked at her and was quite surprised. The clothes she was wearing weren't like the ones she wore before.

"Your clothes..." I said.
"What? You don't like it?" she asked.
"No. They're nice. It suits you pretty well."
"Thanks. Maimi-chan was with me when I bought this.."
"I see. So it's true that she really knows her fashion."
"What do you mean? Is it because of the short shorts?"
"Umm. Yeah. Bright colors. And..."
"And do you also mean no skulls?"
"Not really."
"You don't like stuff with skulls huh?"
"No. Unless a cute girl is wearing them."
"Cute girl or Berryz girl?"
"..."

She knew that I got uncomfortable after that. She changed the topic by telling me where she wanted to go. And she started calling me with a different name...

"Sugee-chan?"
"Yeah. I can call you that way right?"
"I'm not..."
"You'll get used to it. Unless you still want to be called 'Pretty Boy'. That's getting old."
"Fine."
"What does Risako-chan call you anyway?"
"Hmm..."
"Darling? Honey? Cheesecake? What?"
"Prince."
"Prince?"
"Yeah. Anything wrong with that?"
"Nothing. I think it's sweet."
"T-thanks."
"By the way, how is she?"
"She's..."

I didn't know how to answer that question. I haven't seen her or talked to her since then. I didn't call her or anything. I wanted to, but I didn't know what was stopping me from doing so.

"She must be busy, huh?"
"Yeah."
"No more time for you?"
"You should ask her that."
"Don't worry, I will."

I wanted to tell Megumi what happened between me and Sugaya but I didn't want to give her the impression that I'm using her to get over her. I'm not doing that, not at all. I just want to thank her for letting me borrow her manga even if I didn't ask her. It's just because of that.

We went to an ice cream shop. She said that it was quite famous because young couples usually go there to meet and talk and, you know, couple stuff. We ordered what we wanted at the counter and waited for it to be served in our table. We didn't have to wait long though. I was about to start with mine, but Megumi asked me something.

"What volume are you reading now?"
"I haven't started yet actually. But I was going through the titles the other day."
"Oh. So what do you think?"
"Pretty good choices. Even the yaoi ones."
"The yaoi ones? Which ones? Gundam00? Code Geass?..."

I tried to stop myself from laughing as she tried to name a couple of series. I don't think she was paying attention to what I said...

"..."
"What? Go on."
"Did you just say that there were some yaoi manga in the bag I gave you?"
"Well, yeah."
"Give them back to me!" she said as she slammed the table, making the other people in the shop look at us. She looked back at them, with her face all red, asking for pardon. Then she looked back at me and whispered. "Did I really put some yaoi manga in the bag?"
"Of course not. I was just joking."
"Whew. That was close."
"Don't tell me you read yaoi manga."
"Of course I don't!"
"You sound guilty."
"Shut up!!!"

Looks like I found something I can tease her with. She looks cute when she's mad. I thought she was gonna explode and start shouting at me but she knew how to take a joke after all.

I asked her where she wanted to go next after we were done. She said she just wanted to walk around. So that we did.

When we got tired, we decided to sit down for a while on one of the park benches that were nearby.

I don't know why I remembered the time Yajima-san told me that Megumi left their group.  She said that Megumi had to leave because she wanted to prioritize her studies. But she also said something like there was a photo of Megumi and a guy.

"Umm, Megumi?"
"Yes?"
"Why did you leave C-ute?"
"Why do you want to know?"
"My sister was a fan even before your debut and she was expecting a lot from you girls She was really sad when she found out that you had to leave."
"Me leaving stopped her from being a fan?"
"No it didn't. She bought all versions of the singles available and albums."
"That's nice. Please tell her to keep supporting C-ute."
"Yeah. So, why'd you leave?"
"Decisions had to be made. Even though they weren't mine. Even if I didn't want to..."
"What do you mean?"
"I had to leave. For the group's sake. For my sake..."

There was a sudden change in her voice when we started talking about that topic. Maybe she didn't want to talk about it, but I was too insensitive.

"Was it because of the pictures? Is he your boyfriend?"

She looked at me. Her eyes were still beautiful but I could see the sadness in them. I didn't wait for her to answer. I should learn when to stop.

"I'm sor..."
"Yes. He is my boyfriend."
"..."
"He 'was' my boy friend. But don't worry, we broke up a long time ago. We had our differences so we decided to part."
"Hmm."
"And please, don't think that I'm using you so I can get over him..."
"I'm not..."
"...Because, it's the other way around. I tried to use him...so I can forget about you, actually."
"M-Megumi..."
"But I guess it didn't work."
"Why are you telling me this?"
"Because you asked me. You're the first one who did. Maimi-chan and the others didn't ask me so I didn't tell them."

She looked at me again.

"I'm sorry if I asked you about it."
"It's okay. It's all in the past now, there's nothing I can do anymore but move on."
"But still, I..."
"I'm fine, okay? There's nothing to feel guilty about."
"Okay. If you say so."
"Good. Oh, I want you to know something."
"What is it?"
"It's okay if you're going to use me so you can get over Risako-chan..."
"M-Megu..."
"...because I'm going to make sure that you do."

So, she does know what happened between me and Risako. But I didn't like where this was going to.

"M-Megu..."
"Will you let me do that, Sugee-chan?"
"I'm not...things aren't as simple as that, Megumi."
"I know. But we have a lot of time, don't we?"
"I..."

Her phone suddenly rang. I was saved again, for the meantime.

"Hello! Airi-chan? What? Oh, okay! Be there in an hour. See you." *bleep* "Airi-chan. She wants me to go over to her place. The other girls are going to be there."
"I see. I can give you a ride there if you want. I'll have to call Okita-san first."
"Nah. You've done enough for me today. I'll just take the train. Just walk me to the station. And how can I be sure that you're not doing that just to find out where Airi-chan's place is?"
"Haha. Do I look like a stalker?"
"Sometimes. When you were with Risako-chan, you looked like one."
"Yeah right. At least I don't read yaoi..."
"What are you mumbling?"
"Nothing."
"Good."

We walked to the train station. But we didn't talk a lot like we did before. I shouldn't have bought that topic up with her. I think it just made her feel more awkward.

"So, what do you girls actually do when you meet up?" I asked her.
"Don't you watch TV? Airi-chan said it in Music Fighter."
"Huh?"
"We take a bath together."
"You.Take. Baths.?"
"Yep."
"Together?"
"U-huh."
"No clothes and all?"
"Who takes a bath with clothes on anyway? And there's nothing wrong with girls taking baths together, unless you have a dirty mind."
"..."
"You don't have a dirty mind, right?"
"..."
"It's okay. Guys are like that. Just don't think of it too much. We don't do anything else once we're in the water."
"You are deliberately messing with my imagination right now."
"I'm telling that to Maimi-chan."
"Yikes! Please don't do that."
"Haha. Boys will be boys. I'll see you next week okay."
"Next week? What about next week?"
"We're going out again."
"Really?"
"You don't want?"
"I didn't say anything."
"Good. Same time then."
"S-sure."
"By the way, can I ask you something? It's really important."
"O-okay."

She hasn't asked her question yet, but I started to get nervous. I think I have a phobia with 'important' questions.

"Please tell me the truth..."
"Y-yes?"
"These...shorts. Do they really look short on me?"
"Ah."
"Ah? What kind of an answer is that? Answer me."
"Hmm. The shorts are indeed short but your coat is quite long so they cancel each other out."
"I see."
"What's so important with that question?"
"Well, fashion is 'important' for us girls. So if Risako-chan asked you before anything about her clothes, it's was just for fashion check purposes."
"I see."
"And never comment on a girl's clothes unless she asks you to. Because it'll make her think that you were checking her out. That was your mistake a while ago."
"Noted."
"And...oh, the train is here. See you!"
"Wait!"

It was too late. The doors already closed. I know she could still hear me if I said something but I didn't bother. She'd just pretend that she didn't hear me anyway.

I got home after an hour. It was a long day and I was a bit exhausted. Shizuka-chan was waiting for me.

"Where have you been?"
"Why?"
"You're friend was here. You kept Star-chan waiting again."
"Star-chan?"
"Yes. Star-chan. That cute classmate of yours. She left just a few minutes ago."
"I missed her again huh."
"Yeah. But she left something for you again. I left it in your room."
"Really? Thanks a lot Shizuka-chan. I'm going to my room now. I'm pretty tired."

I was halfway the stairs when I realized something.

"Err...what does it cost me this time?"
"Momoko-san's lastest photobook. She had a new one last month. Get that for me. Entertaining your guests while you're away isn't an easy job you know."
"Okay."
"Yay. I'll let you borrow it if you want..."

I heard Shizuka-chan saying that I can borrow the photobook as I entered my room. But our cousin will probably be the one to do that first.

I saw the package she was talking about on top of my bed.

It was a brown paper bag. I opened it carefully even though I had an idea what it was.

It was her photobook.

She looked beautiful on the cover. That's the best cover yet for any of her photobooks.

But aside from the photobook, there was also a note. And a phone number.

"Let's talk. Call me."

And that's what I did…

[ziggurat]

woot, new chap! meguru T_T

Damn, i forgot to comment on the last chap. What a bastard I'm. Nice chapter words! Just make sure you keep pretty boy away from meguru! j/k

I demand a pic of meguru sho.. *cough* I mean, a pic of pretty boy and meguru!

[cool_kickin_dude]

FINALLY!! a new chapter!

Please words, don't keep us waiting..bring them back together!