Ren Katsukawa's Story

"No..."

His voice was so weak, but it was better than the silence she'd received prior so it was nice to know that her makeshift care was having a positive effect on his condition. She left his side to wring out the towel. She placed it under the faucet and ran the water again. The towel was already warm again, and warm water would do nothing to make him feel better nor would it help break his fever. She let her hand and the towel get soaked by new cold water for a bit, as much as she hated the chill on her hands.

"I... ha..ve.. thin...gs.. to do.."

She let out a sigh, and shook her head. He was such a busy body. She was certain that it would be the death of him, and for that she felt really bad. He was far too young to be so independent.. He was so fixated on work that he was destroying himself physically.. She suddenly felt very angry toward Mr. Iyazaki... He should have never allowed his son to get in this state.. Though she understood Yukito's position.. Her mother was just as absent from their lives.. she spent a lot of time nursing Nemui back to health on her own... Parents...Shiori really was starting to hate them. She didn't see the point of parents other than for financial support.. Theirs didn't seem to do a lot for them... Her only parent that was good for anything has been dead for years..

"Ju...st need rest..."

She wasn't sure who he was trying to fool, but she knew for a fact that he needed a lot more than a little rest to be fully back to normal. She didn't argue however, because in the end, she was still an outsider. She hadn't earned the right to tell him what to do yet, nor did she feel he'd listen to her either way. She wringed the towel out carefully, and returned to his side, dabbing his slightly exposed chest, neck, and face again. She brushed his hair off of his forehead and began gently patting it as well with the cloth, closing her eyes. It's hard to be mad at him for ruining my plan of searching for a date to the dance when he's so vulnerable like this... She thought, opening her eyes with an endearing look on her face. For a moment, he wasn't her perverted new step-brother, he was simply her brother and she was having a normal sibling moment with him. It was nice, although she was certain it wouldn't last. Now that she'd taken care of him, she immediately got an evil idea... She took out her phone, and snapped a picture quietly, without flash or sound effect. Kawaii~ She thought to herself, but it was short lived. Not long after she returned her phone to her pocket, she heard an announcement begin.

"Iyazaki Yukito of Class 1-A, please report to the Principal's Office. Iyazaki Yukito of Class 1-A, please report to the Principal's Office. Thank you."

Shiori let out an annoyed huff after the announcement was over. Her brown hair floated for a moment from the pressure, then lightly fell down against her face after she quit. This school was ran by a bunch of morons, she never realized just how stupid the faculty was before now... For her to consider them idiots, they were really failing at their jobs.. Honestly she was really losing respect for adults in general.. The nurse failed to be present to actually do her job, the principal was oblivious, and here she was cleaning up their mess. Sure, she was happy to take care of Yukito because he was family, but that wasn't the point. She was still a kid herself, she wasn't supposed to be handling these burdens yet.. So why did adults feel the need to be lazy and drop all their obligations on her? How on earth was Yukito meant to make it to the Principal's Office in his condition? She sure as hell wasn't letting him go if she could help it. She immediately grew angry with the faulty school system and decided it was time to give the principal a piece of her mind anyway. What kind of professional was the nurse anyhow!? She wasn't back yet and Yukito was very sick! Shiori let out an irritated sigh, patting Yukito's forehead one last time with the cool cloth before putting the towel away, "I'll be back in a second Yukito-kun. I'm going to tell the Principal that you're in the Nurse's Office." and with that she was gone. Shiori ran the entire way, and did not stop until she reach the door leading into the office. She opened it gingerly, noticing a few students, that she didn't know, the school secretary and the principal.

Immediately an angry expression formed on her face and she began shouting at the principal, "Yukito-kun is sick! I found him in the hallway and brought him to the infirmary but the nurse is nowhere to be found.. I couldn't carry him here as well you know! Are you certain your nurse is a professional?! His health is important!" she snapped at the principal, huffing afterwards and slightly panting for breath. She really didn't appreciate half-assed medical care. Her father was already dead, she didn't want to lose anyone else.. She refused. Though she was almost certain that she would have detention her behavior. There was no way in hell that the principal was going to let her off lightly for this, especially since there were a few students who seemed to be currently enrolling. Two guys and a girl... The guys were both so gorgeous... She immediately regretted going off like a raving lunatic.

"G-Gomenasai!" Shiori immediately bowed to show her sincerity, though she meant every single word... it was just embarrassing that she'd ignored the audience and forced them to witness the drama. She really hadn't paid any attention, and now she felt incredibly foolish...she embarrassed herself in front of two cute guys!!! How horrible! She should have listened to her horoscope! Then she saw Narukei as she stood upright. She must have entered the room around the same time as him, because he didn't even see him earlier. Her eyes widened bit, but she did her best to remain composed, "I-I suppose you got it from here, Iyazaki-san.." and she ran out, returning to Yukito to make sure he was okay.

"Yukito-san...?" She ran another cloth under the water and approached after wringing it out, holding it to his forehead this time. She buttoned his shirt back up, seeing as more people would be arriving soon, at least she assumed, "Narukei is handling the office situation..."

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It was another boring day for the famous male model EDGE. He was doing a cover spread and a 4-page photo spread of COMME des GARÇONS' Spring Wear. Normally, he goes by the name Shin Ogawa. He was a newcomer to the fashion scene 2 years ago and in a short time, his name has now become a household one. Many products he had endorsed gained such fame and were always sold out. He had also walked the runaways and make sure it sizzles when he's on it. Actually, there had even been offers from international modelling agency which could expand his career on a global scale. This would be a great opportunity but, he has rejected it, stating that he has yet to gain a status that he is satisfied with in his own country, Japan. The true reason though? He didn't want to be in a place far away from his light who the public commonly knows as Ichigo Fuwa.

But, he knows him more as Yukito Iyazaki. It is rather helpful that he is the son of the Talent Agency's President that the young Pop Icon is enlisted in. It allows him certain private information to be declassified while using his influence. Speaking of which, he had heard some troubling news from Yukito's manager, Haruko who was in a ball of nerves. It seemed there had been slanderous statements about Yukito being a rather provocative minor. He didn't manage to get the complete detail since Haruko was in a hurry to fix the mess and he on the other hand, has some work. No matter, the news did cause him great worry. It goes without saying that Yukito is becoming more than a sensation. This meant more work and the boy was not the kind to turn it away. Then now this? Everyone has their limits and Yukito was no exemption to that.

This worries him which made him finish the photo shoot quickly. He wanted to go back at the agency and dig up what really happened. Then, he would do his best to mitigate it. But before he could change into his proper clothes, his phone rang in which the ringtone was Yukito's number one song at the moment. He took a look at the LCD screen to see it was none other than his father. His eyes of green narrowed in discontent but then released a sigh. It's not like he can do much about it. The talk must be about work and so he must deal with it. "This is Shin." He answered as the voice on the other end was brief and distant as always. Then, the call was finished. His father did not even wait for him to say anything back. Well, he wasn't supposed to.

He clicked his tongue in irritation as he kept his phone and went on to prepare himself to leave. It seemed that a car was already waiting outside for him. His father wanted him to go to school. That was sudden. He had already stopped going since all of them gave up on him. He was an absentee student and a scary delinquent. It was because of that history of his that he earned the nickname the Green-eyed Devil. But that was in the past, he just opted not to attend one since, it would get in the way of his work and all. For once, his father agreed on that point, so what has changed? Anyway, thinking it by himself won't do any good if he has no other clue. He needed to get to that car first which he did.

It was his father's car. That was something new and odd. Usually, it would be the company's car. In any case, Shin went in and the driver handed him a brown envelope. Then, the car started to a destination he has yet to know. He shrugged his shoulders at this and opened the said envelope which showed his birth certificate, school records, and everything else needed to enroll in a school. He read the name of the school he was going to attend and those eyes of his widened in surprise. It was the same school as Yukito which brought a smile to his face. If it was this school, then he won't have any problems at all. He would attend everyday as long as he gets to be with Yukito.

That was only then the driver finally spoke. "President Ogawa wants you to attend the same school as Mr. Yukito Iyazaki. There had been rumors of him going to a motel and coming out with a girl. It is a normal issue among male celebrities but as you know---" Shin cut off the elderly driver at that. "He's underage. So, he's probably being labeled as a bad seed and all." The driver nodded at this. He in returned leaned on his seat and looked through the car window beside him. "That won't be good for business since Yukito is one of the company's biggest stars." He gets it now. His father wants him to protect the asset. Somehow, it pisses him off that his old man sees Yukito as an object and not as a person, but he has no complaints other than that. It's because he'll be able to stay by Yukito's side in more ways than one. "Tell my old man, I'll handle it."

And soon enough, he found himself inside the Principal's Office. It was to complete the whole process of his school papers. There were others present as well. A guy and a girl, they appeared to be together in a sense of family not as a couple. In such things, Shin has a knack for. They were not bad on the eyes. Anyway, he minded his own business until the PA system echoed through the school announcing for Yukito to come to the Principal's Office. That was odd. Did Yukito do something? He didn't ask for the boy to be called either. Yukito was mischievous but maintains proper decorum. This warranted his curiosity as he asked the secretary who was clearly eyeing him with admiration, must be a fan. "Excuse me, but why is Yukito Iyazaki being called?" The secretary blushed at the sudden start of a conversation and seemed to calm herself before speaking. "Well, there's a lot of media outside... We just wanted to secure Mr. Yukito Iyazaki's safety and to discuss how to handle this for the safety of the others as well."

The media's nose was not to be underestimated. They already smelt blood. Shin nodded and offered the woman a grateful smile. "Thanks." It was at that point the doors opened and another came in. It was another guy but somehow bear a resemblance to Yukito, good-looking. He seemed to come because of the announcement speaking in such a nobly manner. But, he could tell something else under that. Then, there was another entrance. This time, it was quite loud in the form of a girl. a cute one. But, that's not what took his attention. It was what she said. Did she just say that Yukito is sick!? His world seemed to revolve in a slower motion as dread filled his mind and then irritation when he heard the newly entered addressing the one resembling Yukito as Iyazaki. That meant, he must be the older brother.

How completely useless.

Shin's walked towards Narukei which started as slow and soon became faster in every step. He did not stop but, as he walked passed Narukei, his lips spoke vindictive words. "Are you sure you're his brother? You don't even know when he's sick and here you are acting so brother-like. Disgusting." His words were said in an angry tone but low enough which should be only for Narukei's ears as he ran out of the room while the Secretary called after because of his papers. "Mr. Ogawa! Your papers!" But, he was already out and was running with such speed to be by Yukito's side. He managed to find the Infirmary. Shin opened the door with great urgency as his face reflected worry and utmost care. "Yukito! Are you okay?" There was nothing fake about that as he entered the room and rushed to Yukito's side without even noticing the presence of the girl who announced the boy was sick in the first place.

Ren was getting rather fed up. He and his sister arrived at the school the same time as everyone else, yet they were still here trying to get enrolled. Apparently due to some media issue, their enrollment was considered second priority. He honestly wanted to punch the secretary in the face, but he kept his anger under wraps for his sister's sake. Himeka didn't know about a majority of his anger and he didn't want to expose her to his darker side if he could avoid it. Though he never would have imagined the unexpected guest that entered the room. He heard the knock, but even that was not enough to prepare him for the familiar face he was about to see, "I don't care what is going on, me and my sister want to get to class sometime this century!" Ren hissed at the secretary who cringed from the venom in Ren's tone.

"I thought I told you to come to me if you have anything to say to Yukito. He has enough on his plate dealing with school and his job. Did he do something he shouldn't have?"

He immediately recognized the man who entered the room. The blond's name was Narukei Iyazaki and he was the man who turned Ren's sister down three years ago. Ren's jaw clenched as he felt an overwhelming urge to punch Narukei in the face right now, but that would be too quick for all of the damage that was done to Himeka. Although Narukei did little more than decline her love confession, it was a public refusal and several girls taunted and harassed his sister to the point that Ren and her decided it was easier to transfer schools than continue attending their previous school.

"Excuse me, but why is Yukito Iyazaki being called?"

He heard that announcement as well.. Though he was a little confused. This guy seemed to be a student as well, judging by his age. Why was he so concerned with another student? Shouldn't he be in class with the rest? Though Narukei was also present, he shared a last name with the kid so Ren assumed that Prick and Poster child were related. Though despite that, the guy was very attractive. Ren made that observation in the most heterosexual of ways, but honestly this guy looked like he came straight out of a Calvin Klein popup book.

"Well, there's a lot of media outside... We just wanted to secure Mr. Yukito Iyazaki's safety and to discuss how to handle this for the safety of the others as well."

Immediately Ren twitched, growing very upset with the secretary. She had time to answer this guy, but she couldn't tap away at her computer for a few minutes and excuse Himeka and himself to class?! He couldn't help but feel a little bitter towards Narukei and Shin for taking the secretary's attention away from their enrollment.

"Thanks."

Apparently everyone coming through the door was concerned with this 'Yukito' kid. What type of person was so popular that half of the school would go raving on about him. He was annoyed by it, but he had to admit that he was also intrigued. He was a little curious about who this poster child was. Was he worth all the hustle and bustle? Not to mention the secretary was focusing on this fiasco.. so he hoped this guy truly was worth the trouble. His prick of an older brother surely wasn't... at least as far as Ren was concerned. This was getting very ridiculous, very fast.

"Yukito-kun is sick! I found him in the hallway and brought him to the infirmary but the nurse is nowhere to be found.. I couldn't carry him here as well you know! Are you certain your nurse is a professional?! His health is important!"

Well isn't that a sight for sore eyes... Ren thought to himself with a rather blatant smirk on his face. The girl that walked in was very cute, and aesthetically gifted as far as her torso and rear went. Not to mention the fact that she seemed just as angry with the incompetence of the school faculty as he was. Nor could he blame her for her rage. He knew better than anyone that proper medical care could be the only thing that stand between life and death. He really was disappointed in this school's health care system, "The nurse is missing, shouldn't she be fired?" Ren added with a smug expression on his face as he finally chose to add his two cents in. Anyone who couldn't fulfill the duties of their job was useless as far as Ren was concerned... especially if their profession was the medical field. If it was Himeka waiting on the nurse he probably would be cracking skulls. He wouldn't be waiting for the bitch to decide when she shows up.

"G-Gomenasai!"

How cute, she finally realized she has an audience. Ren thought to himself, silently chuckling at the girl's kind of bipolar behavior. First she was hot, then she was cold. He found it to be rather adorable, but he figured that it probably got old fast if she was always like that. His eyes scanned her body again, seeing as it was rather appealing, her personality aside. He saw potential, but he never said what kind of potential now did he?

"I-I suppose you got it from here, Iyazaki-san.."

The bipolar girl ran out with no other explanation, which Ren was fine with. She already gave him enough information to tell him that she was worth pursuing. She seemed to clam up like a nun in a brothel at the sight of Narukei, and that meant that there was something between them. What it was? He was unsure, but he planned to find out.. getting to know the brunette was just a bonus. Perhaps he'd get to know more than her personality if he was lucky. The Calvin Klein model fled the scene as well and now he was suddenly left with Narukei, the Principal, Himeka, and the insolent secretary. Ren decided enough was enough and smacked his palms down on the desk in front of him, "You are going to enroll us and send us on our way or so help me I am coming across this desk." He growled, completely fed up with the secretary's tendency to get distracted by pretty male faces. He began to rub the back of his neck to keep his anger under wraps, but he was really going to lose it if the bitch didn't start being a little more productive.

"Iyazaki Yukito of Class 1-A, please report to the Principal's Office. Iyazaki Yukito of Class 1-A, please report to the Principal's Office. Thank you."

Iyazaki? Himeka's nerves immediately hit their peak, but she forced herself to calm down by thinking of the positives. They asked for Yukito Iyazaki, not Narukei Iyazaki, so there was no logical reason for her to get upset. A bright smile crossed her face as she thought about her class, wondering who she'd be in class with this year. She noticed Ren's irritation, and he had a good reason. They had been standing there for what felt like hours. There was no way that it should have taken this long, but Himeka was taking it with much more stride than her older brother currently was. Apparently there was some kind of incident, so she understood that this was a matter of priorities.

"I don't care what is going on, me and my sister want to get to class sometime this century!"

Himeka gripped at Ren's uniform, shaking her head at him, "That isn't going to get us anywhere Ren! You're such an uncute brother.." she scolded him, seeing as she was the well behaved sibling. Ren was the only guy she felt comfortable being this close to, aside from her father of course. She then shot the secretary a cute smile, and ended it with a wink. Regardless of how Ren felt, the secretary wasn't going to get to them until she was ready.. being rude wouldn't fix anything.

"I thought I told you to come to me if you have anything to say to Yukito. He has enough on his plate dealing with school and his job. Did he do something he shouldn't have?"

Her eyes widened as she heard an all too familiar voice. N-Narukei-san!? Her head turned and it was none other than Narukei Iyazaki. He was taller than the time she last saw him, but it was definitely him. Himeka was silent as she watched him talk to the principal, but she was in utter shock. What were the odds that he would storm into the office the exact day that she was re-enrolling? She turned her attention away however, seeing as she was trying to get past that. She didn't want to be known as 'the girl Narukei rejected' anymore.. She hoped that after three years no one would recognize or remember her.. This was her first year at the high school so of course the faculty wouldn't know who she was.. She shuffled her feet nervously, now Himeka found herself hoping that the secretary would get on with their enrollment as well.

"Excuse me, but why is Yukito Iyazaki being called?"

Just then a very gorgeous man arrived, he had to be a celebrity. Perhaps he was the reason that the media was crowding the school? Though her attention turned back to the secretary shortly after. She wasn't all that interested in men, because it only led to heartbreak. Aside from subconscious attraction, Himeka was not looking to be involved in anything romance related. She didn't remember Yukito Iyazaki...why was that? She remembered Narukei, but not his brother, which she found to be strange.. but if she thought about it, it really wasn't. Back then she was so obsessed with Narukei that she paid very little attention to other guys.

"Well, there's a lot of media outside... We just wanted to secure Mr. Yukito Iyazaki's safety and to discuss how to handle this for the safety of the others as well."

It's a safety precaution? Wow.. There must be someone very famous present.. That's what I get for not watching a lot of television.. I don't even know who the famous person is... but apparently I was wrong.. It isn't the guy that just walked in. Oh well.. I want to meet my classmates~ Himeka thought to herself, growing a bit impatient. Her eyes shifted to Shin, then to Narukei again. The room was overrun by males, and she had to admit it made her feel a little awkward, even with Ren by her side. She clung to him, standing on the opposite side of Ren than the two guys. She was practically hiding behind him, but it was a lot more subtle than that.

"Yukito-kun is sick! I found him in the hallway and brought him to the infirmary but the nurse is nowhere to be found.. I couldn't carry him here as well you know! Are you certain your nurse is a professional?! His health is important!"

She was fairly distracted by the awkwardness of the room, that is until she heard an unfamiliar female voice. The girl was going on about how the school had a horrible medical system and that the nurse was missing in action. Himeka had to agree, that was pretty unprofessional of the nurse to just disappear like that. So this Yukito...he was a celebrity? She really didn't enjoy the idea of going to school with a celebrity, but what could she do? She'd just have to avoid him, because celebrities always brought too much attention to himself, if the current situation stood as any indication.

Himeka rolled her eyes when her attention returned to her brother, noticing that Ren was checking out the brunette haired girl. Sure, the girl was pretty, but she doubted Red was eyeing her because of her cute face. His eyes were a bit lower and Himeka immediately shoved her elbow into his gut, whispering so that no one else could hear, "Quit being a pig, Ren." She replied in a disgusted tone. There was a time and a place for such behavior and now was not the time or place.

"The nurse is missing, shouldn't she be fired?"

Oh yes, flirt your way into her pants..You're really repulsive, Ren.. Himeka thought to herself bleakly, she wanted to punish her brother for being so promiscuous, but there was enough drama going on in the room, she wasn't going to add more fuel to the fire. Instead, she crossed her arms and leaned against the secretary's desk.

"G-Gomenasai!"

Apparently the girl finally realized that she wasn't alone in the room with the faculty. Himeka giggled at this and waved her hand dismissively, "It's nice to see that people care about each other here. I'm Himeka Katsukawa and this idiot is my brother Ren. We just transfered here." She stated to Shiori in a kind tone, jabbing her thumb in Ren's direction as she spoke his name. If he was going to stare, the girl might as well know his name. Not to mention it seemed like a good opportunity to make the girl feel less awkward. This was good practice socially, if she could keep her cool in front of Narukei, she could do it anywhere...including in a class without Ren there to keep her grounded.

"I-I suppose you got it from here, Iyazaki-san.."

The way that the girl looked at Narukei, there was something strange about it, but Himeka couldn't tell what. She decided to shrug it off, but her stomach growled shortly after the girl left, "Do you think they'll be done soon? I'm starving.." she whined aloud in a somewhat cutesy tone to her brother. Her eyes were already watery, seeing as she was somewhat of a crybaby, but at least she wasn't crying. The unknown guy left as well, leaving only Narukei, Ren, and herself in the room with the principal and secretary.

"Mr. Ogawa! Your papers!"

"You are going to enroll us and send us on our way or so help me I am coming across this desk."

"You don't have to be so rude to her, Onee-san..." She tugged at his sleeve again, wiping her wet eyes on the sleeve of her other arm. She didn't quite get to full blown crying, but she probably would have if she didn't have to tame her brother. Although she was the overly emotional one, she seemed to have more charisma than the redheaded male. She also seemed to calm herself down rather easily when faced with her older brother's rage, "I'm sure she's trying her best, ne Baachan?" She didn't seem very phased in calling the secretary that, in fact she had a smile on her face a majority of the time.

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It cannot be helped at all as people stared, gawked, or even ogled at the female walking by. That is because she was a vision in the simplest sense and it is something that comes to her very naturally. There was no doubt that she was a foreigner as her stock, coloring, and specific traits are not synonymous to the natives of Japan. That was one of the factors, she was hard not to notice along with how all of it comprises to a stunning and voluptuous beauty. Her body was curved into a perfect hourglass shaped with the fitting proportion of bust, hips, and butt. It was probably also why some of the girls had envious gazes at her to have such a glamorous physique neither too slender nor too meaty. Adding to that, she does have a beautiful face with those mysterious mauve eyes and sensual curly locks cradling her face.

However, the source of the attention was oblivious to the looks she is receiving. It is because she was looking at the piece of paper on her hand. This held the directions she needed to do to get enrolled or better yet to arrive at her new school. She actually had a late start since she had emotionally calm herself first thing in the morning. Speaking of which, it was a bit hard to believe that she had been living in this country for years now. To her, it was the first time everything was new and strange even if she had read what was written by her own hands on her journal. Her grip tightened on the paper before someone pulled her from behind. It startled her as a speeding car passed by her. "Are you alright? You better look where you're going missy." She looked behind her and saw the one who saved her was an elderly man.

"I'm sorry, but thank you very much." She noted as she properly faced the gentleman and then gave him a hug which surprised the other bystanders. "Miss!?" It seemed that this country was not that bad at all. "Thank you!" She released the man who was rather embarrassed as she then ran off once the pedestrian crossing was once again available. Somehow, she was rather lively than before and was looking forward to this day. She should write down on her journal which she was determined to do as she walked once more while jotting it down. By the time she finished writing it down, she finally reached the school. But, it was a bit odd as there were a lot of media personnel and all. It made her wonder if there was something going on as she looked at the school building for a moment. But, it seemed so quiet. Shrugging her shoulders, she entered the school gate after she showed her papers to the guards who were having a hard time preventing the media from coming in.

She actually wanted to help and was about to offer it when one of the guards just gently ushered her inside. She accepted his kindness and proceeded to the principal's office where she could process her papers. It was at the exact moment that the doors to the principal's office opened with a girl running away, then followed by a tall guy. Her eyes owlishly blinked as she was not certain if something was happening which she should know about or not. In any case, she prepared herself to enter the room as she softly knocked and opened the doors. "Excuse me... I'm here to submit my enrollment papers." She said and found other people who were doing the same thing as her. That was a relief at least, she wasn't the only one. There were two guys and a girl present. But it seemed, the secretary who was in-charge of processing seemed a bit offended and disconcerted. Why was that?

Approaching the desk, she introduced herself with smooth and elegant move. It seemed completely natural and fitting for her. Some of the staff can't help but look at her; she was a very pleasant and exotic sight to see. " Good morning, I am Aina Malik. I have been told to submit my papers here." The secretary was pleased with her than the other two and took her papers. "We've been expecting you. I'll get you ready..." But before the secretary could finish her sentence, she politely cut her off. "Thank you, but I believe they were here before me. Please assist them first kindly." She softly smiled and somehow it appeared Aina had wings and a halo. It had always been her motto to be fair in everything. The secretary relented and basically felt bad and began processing the siblings papers first. "Here are your school IDs and class cards. You can go to your classes now." Finally, the two were done.

"Your turn, right?" Aina nodded happily at this. It didn't take long for her to be done as she left the principal's office and began to trace down her homeroom. It was actually time for lunch as the hallways crowded with students who instantly attached their eyes on her. The school was definitely getting new faces and not just any faces, but wonderful ones. "It should be around this corner." Oblivious and absorbed in finding her homeroom, she didn't notice that she was basically categorized as an IT girl. As she did turn the corner, there seemed to be a growing crowd that took her attention. This school was truly eventful isn't it? Somehow, she wondered if she would be able to cope. But, she must and she was determined on that part. Anyway, she continued on her way and caught glance that the commotion was between a girl and a boy.

It should not be her business but, it seemed that they were attracting too much attention and it might cause to a more physical altercation. Since, she could see the girl was not pleased with what happening and the boy was rather emotional. "Excuse me." She announced her appearance through that and had kindly already got in between the two while gently removing the boy's hands on the girl. "I am not certain what has happened, but shouting would not properly address the matter. Could you not see? You're making her already uncomfortable and you are disrupting others as well." There was a gentle sternness present on her tone and her eyes reflected that as well. "Why not calmly discuss this matter at some other time? Okay?" Her voice softened while small and kind smile on her lips. There was no doubt that her charm does not work only the males who were now blushing lightly but also to the other girls. They haven't see her before but she was wearing their school uniform so, she was undoubtedly part of this school now.

And indeed, this day was rather eventful for Aina.

"I-I suppose you got it from here, Iyazaki-san.." Naru looked at Shi with a bored expression. The way she addressed him got him to lose all interest in her altogether. She had become boring by just that. Though she was a good

"Excuse me, but why is Yukito Iyazaki being called?"A blonde male had come into the room shortly after Naru did, but just after Shi left after who no good reason outburst. Yu was sick, there was no reason to act the way she did. Yelling and ticking the Principle off. From the looks on his face, Naru knew all too well that he'd be having a word with Shi later for her outburst in his office. It's just he couldn't do it now with a room full of unwanted students. He was rather surprised that the principle had sad nothing so far. Letting his 'secretary' do everything for him.

"Well, there's a lot of media outside... We just wanted to secure Mr. Yukito Iyazaki's safety and to discuss how to handle this for the safety of the others as well." The lady finally spoke up after all the outbursts that had happened in one good. The lady was lucky enough to catch her breath let alone all this. So he had come for nothing. The company had already made it public that if any media were to disturb Yu on the school grounds, they'd automatically be sent to jail. It wasn't a problem, least not as much as it would have been.

"Are you sure you're his brother? You don't even know when he's sick and here you are acting so brother-like. Disgusting." The words that came out of this blonde's mouth almost had Naru smirking. Was It a joke right? Someone who didn't even know Yu's situation has the nerve to mock him for, not knowing himself. Right, well that was almost too funny. The man needed to calm down, but like that he left the room.

"You are going to enroll us and send us on our way or so help me I am coming across this desk." The redhead who had been standing in the room was fuming. Naru was counting the seconds that the poor guy would explode and just like that he finally did for a third or second time that Naru has been in the room. The guy was a bit entertaining and it amused him.

The Principle's vein on his forehead looked as if it would burst any second. "Seeing as you new here young man. I will let your sharp tongue slip past me. If you continue to be disrespectful, we will not enroll you in this school. Am I understood, Mr. Katsukawa?"

"You don't have to be so rude to her, Onee-san..." A tiny blonde girl peeked out of her shell and tugged on the red head's arm. Once Naru got a full view of her, for some reason she looked kind of familiar to him. "I'm sure she's trying her best, ne Baachan?"

Naru shifted his weight a bit and smiled softly at the tiny blonde. Pulling out a tissue from the desk, he slowly handed it to her, bending down to her level. "Do excuse the commotion Little Miss. It's normally not like this here. It gave you a scare am I wrong? Please don't think badly of this place. I assure you it's not as bad as it seems." Shifting his eyes to the red head, without standing. "Please don't make threats. It's forbidden here and it leads to expulsion. You too Mr. Principle, please don't scare the students with such cold words. This handles nothing."

Naru finally stood up and walked over to the desk where the secretary was. He smiled at her softly as she shifted her seat away from the computer. And with a few clicks and goes, he was done. The printer finished up as Naru took the two pieces of papers and handed them to each of the new students. "Do excuse the Secretary. She is new here and is unfamiliar with the school settings. It'll take some time." He smiled at the tiny blonde. "Please don't cry, people look better when they smile." He tapped his smiling lips to show her.

And like that he bowed at everyone leaving the room after closing the doors behind him. With a sigh of annoyance, after he walked away from the door, he wanted badly to hit something. But he took a deep breath and went on his way. It was at that time the bell and rang and first class had ended.

Catching a few girls whispering in the hallway. It was the sound of Ne-chan's name that caught his attention. I guess from the sound of it there was a fight. It worried him a bit, he had wondered what had happened. Without him realizing it, he was already looking for her. She had already left her classroom. Maybe she was dragged off somewhere. That thought made him worry a bit more. Why hadn't she gone to him? Rubbing his neck, he looked around some more. This time trying the lunch room. There was no luck there either. For now he would have to catch his poor luck at the nurses office. If she wasn't there, he'd probably lose it if something happened to her.

With a huff of exhaustion, he slid the door open to the nurses office. And hung onto the door frame. "I've finally found you. The nurse isn't around during the day much." It took him a minute to see the situation and noticed Yu, Shi, Ne-chan and the blonde guy from before, hovering over Yu as if he was a science project. "At least give him some air. He can't breathe if you guys glue yourselves to him."

With a sigh, Naru pulled himself from the door and took Ne-Chan by the hand softly. He pulled her into a set and opened the ice machine. Filling a cloth with ice he held it against her bruise softly. Taking some steps forward he rested her head against his stomach didn't say one word. He was disappointed that Ne-Chan didn't come to him the moment it started, his brother was sick. Though, his eyes landed on his brother as he spaced out a bit.

(Forgive this post! It's a big jumbled and mixed up. Lol Ignore the errors, please)

"Seeing as you new here young man. I will let your sharp tongue slip past me. If you continue to be disrespectful, we will not enroll you in this school. Am I understood, Mr. Katsukawa?"

The words brought an amused smirk to Ren's face. Was this guy for real? Did this old man really think that he intimidated Ren? If he didn't care about leaving Himeka alone at this school he would have introduced the principal to his right hook the second he tried to intimidate him, "Certainly." Though the devious sparkle in his eyes told another story, "Someone is doing their job properly. Thank you, Mr. Principal." He chimed back to the principal in a charming manner, although he was being entirely sarcastic.

He noticed the irritated expression on the principal's face, Ren was very accustomed to that look. "I got it. Detention. I'll see you there." Ren said with a short bow and simply winked at the older man. It was his way of letting the principal know that his smarting off was done, for today... well, maybe. It didn't really matter, he could give Ren detention, and detention, it wouldn't amount to anything. Ren's job didn't start til very late anyhow... Detention was a good thing, it put him in a place with like-minded people. Was this place a matchmaking service or what?

"Do excuse the commotion Little Miss. It's normally not like this here. It gave you a scare am I wrong? Please don't think badly of this place. I assure you it's not as bad as it seems."

Ren felt his blood boil as Narukei approached his sister, but he repressed his anger. Hitting Narukei would only alert the blond to be suspicious of him. If he could bite his tongue and be civil, he would have better results in the end. It was just so damn hard when he was being friendly with his sister like that. He's completely forgotten Himeka!? That Prick! Ren thought in outrage, he was practically seeing red by this point. Though he was brought back to reality when he was addressed by Narukei as well, sort of.

"Please don't make threats. It's forbidden here and it leads to expulsion. You too Mr. Principle, please don't scare the students with such cold words. This handles nothing."

This guy is rather audacious.. Ren thought with a smug expression on his face. He folded his arms behind his head and let out a chuckle, "Rest assured, I never threaten ladies, I only make them promises." He retorted in a happy-go-lucky tone, making sure his eyes were closed so his eyes wouldn't betray his cheerful expression. His eyes, had they been open, would have given away his darker intent to his words. Once he was certain he was in control, Ren opened his eyes and smirked at the principal. Allowing a student to scold him? Pathetic.

"Excuse me... I'm here to submit my enrollment papers."

Ren looked the girl over approvingly, a much smaller smirk on his face. She was a lot better looking than the first girl to intrude. This girl was exotic. Her hair, her skin's dark tone, everything about her screamed foreign. He liked foreign. Though he tried his best to ignore his sister's nagging about behaving. So what if he wanted to act like a pig? This wasn't her life nor was he forcing her to partake. Shove off, Himeka. Ren thought to himself as he eyed the dark skinned beauty.

"Good morning, I am Aina Malik. I have been told to submit my papers here."

Ren was not mad at Aina, but the secretary. Why was she taking this girl, although beautiful, before him and his sister!? He could feel his teeth grinding together from frustration, he hated when he had to answer to a woman. This secretary obviously didn't know what she was doing, and if she didn't start doing her job right he was ready to strangle her with his tie.

"We've been expecting you. I'll get you ready..."

You can get something ready, but it surely won't be enrollment papers.. Ren thought to himself, his dirty mind taking over as he tried to calm himself down. He did not need to commit homicide on his first day back here... but this bitch of a secretary made it so damn tempting.

"Thank you, but I believe they were here before me. Please assist them first kindly."

"That's very nice of you, I'm Ren Katsukawa..." He smiled at Aina in a friendly manner, completely different to how he treated the secretary before Aina arrived. Then he ruffled up his younger sister's hair a bit with the palm of his hand as he introduced her to Aina, "This is Himeka, my kid sister." He added, snickering afterwards. Himeka always hated being called that by Ren. His yellow-green eyes scanned Aina, completely interested in her, but he couldn't say his interest was innocent. He was already enjoy several...fantasies.. including Aina in his head.

Seeing as the secretary was taking forever, Narukei felt the need to speed her up. Though he had to admit, he got it done so much faster than her. This is why women need to get out of the fucking work force... Ren thought to himself, though he knew Himeka would argue against that belief so he left it to his thoughts. If she wanted to work, he'd allow it, so long as she did her job better than this wench. He took his paper, eyeing Narukei, "Thanks I suppose, Iyazaki." He said in a rather cool tone. He said Narukei's name slow, and in a slightly taunting manner. He pretended to have gotten the guy's name from Shiori, but Ren knew him long before this meeting... he just wouldn't reveal it, especially since Narukei not remembering him or Himeka worked to his advantage. It was so much easier to sabotage someone who doesn't realize they've wronged you.

"Do excuse the Secretary. She is new here and is unfamiliar with the school settings. It'll take some time."

"I see.. I suggest a computer class.. or going back to college." Ren's tone was kind as he spoke these words, pretending to be helpful, but in reality he wanted to mistreat her for her uselessness in...numerous ways.. He really needed to get a better grip on his perverted mind.

"Please don't cry, people look better when they smile."

"She's just nervous, I assure you. Hime can be quite sensitive under pressure. I apologize Hi-me-chan" He separated her nickname by it's syllables for an 'older brother's affectionate teasing' effect, and led her away with his arm around her shoulder before she could respond to Narukei.

"Here are your school IDs and class cards. You can go to your classes now."

"Eh?" He returned to grab both of the IDs and class cards, saluting the secretary, "Sayonara, Katatsumuri-chan~" With that he returned to his sister, giving Aina one last glance. She was going to be fun, he wasn't sure when he'd get around to it, but he would have fun with her.

"Your turn, right?"

"Good luck, Aina-chan~" He sang, finally making his real departure with Himeka, a foot or two behind Narukei. He then looked out the windows, frowning a bit. There went his idea of eating outside... it was still raining even after all the time they spent in the office. That was a real bummer. He led his sister down the hall, passing a couple's spat, but it was none of their concern, and judging by Himeka's expression she wasn't looking forward to intervening either....so they didn't. They kept going and he walked his sister to her class, sitting down with her at some empty seats and decided to eat lunch with her, "You better eat. I know you're hungry, Tsundere-chan." He winked at his little sister.

"Seeing as you new here young man. I will let your sharp tongue slip past me. If you continue to be disrespectful, we will not enroll you in this school. Am I understood, Mr. Katsukawa?"

Himeka allowed a grin to cross her face, she barely kept from laughing at the principal. Ren didn't care for rules, he didn't do what was expected of him.. He pissed on guys like this old and arrogant old man. Though Himeka wished she had never spoken up against Ren, because she caught the attention of the one person she wished to avoid. His eyes landed on her and it was a lot like the last time she saw him, yet different as well. He ended up smiling at her... He offered her a tissue and she accepted it, wiping her eyes before giving him a quizzical look. Why is he being so kind?

"Do excuse the commotion Little Miss. It's normally not like this here. It gave you a scare am I wrong? Please don't think badly of this place. I assure you it's not as bad as it seems."

Not as bad as it seems? she almost laughed at this notion. She knew how these people were. She knew that this school was full of bullies and savages waiting to rip each other apart for the chance to win Narukei’s attention and affection. At one point she was nearly just as bad as they were, "That is because people tend to put on a kind face and a clever facade when they expect newcomers.. You always get welcomed more honestly when you're unexpected." She replied with a serious tone despite the kindness it portrayed. Himeka was ready to leave with her schedule, if the incompetent secretary would hurry.

"Please don't make threats. It's forbidden here and it leads to expulsion. You too Mr. Principle, please don't scare the students with such cold words. This handles nothing."

Himeka shot a warning glance at her brother, but for the most part Ren seemed to behave himself. Then Narukei moved behind the desk as if he was actually one of the paid faculty and began typing on the computer, apparently he was just as arrogant as ever. She received her registration papers, making a dedicated effort of grasping hold of hers without brushing fingers with Narukei.

"Do excuse the Secretary. She is new here and is unfamiliar with the school settings. It'll take some time."

"Of course." Himeka said with a practiced smile, one she practiced time and time again to use for this particular moment. She would have to use this smile time and time again, so she was very used to it.

"Please don't cry, people look better when they smile."

"Yes, I know." She replied with her smile still plastered onto her features. She watched Narukei leave, then she turned her attention back to her brother who was dragging her out of the room prior.

"She's just nervous, I assure you. Hime can be quite sensitive under pressure. I apologize Hi-me-chan"

Ren tried to lead her away, and for the most part she let him. She didn't want to spend more time around Narukei than she had to. She held him no ill will, but she wasn't a masochist, she wasn't looking to relive her past experience with him all over again.

"Here are your school IDs and class cards. You can go to your classes now."

"Eh?" He returned to grab both of the IDs and class cards, saluting the secretary,

She immediately snickered at him, seeing as he was trying to rush her out of the room before they even got their proof of identity. Ren shifted back over to get their things and handed her student ID to her.

"Sayonara, Katatsumuri-chan~"

Himeka went ahead and stood outside, crossing her arms and leaned against a wall of the outside hallway. She didn't appreciate being forcibly subjected to his shameless flirting. Watching him flirt with the foreigner was quite pathetic. By the time Ren was ready to depart, Narukei was several feet ahead of them. She noticed two students quarreling in the halls, but she had no reason to intervene. She was not interested in their romantic differences. Whatever they were arguing about, she was not concerned with it because it was matters of the heart, matters she had long forgotten. She cast her heart's voice aside so long ago that she'd forgotten what having a crush felt like.

"You better eat. I know you're hungry, Tsundere-chan."

Himeka shot Ren a dirty glare and backhanded him, though it wasn't a hard strike. She just hit him hard enough to get her point across, "I am not a Tsundere. I am waiting for no man to sweep me off of my feet, nor shall I wait for any woman to do so either." She snapped in a very serious tone. Though a warm smile bled through immediately after as if she'd never struck her brother at all, despite the witnesses that sat around the classroom, "Let's eat in peace brother, else I implore you to find you own class.." Her voice was sweet like honey, but her eyes stung like a bee. She was a kind girl, but Ren was speaking of issues she never wanted to get tangled up in ever again. She immediately began eating in a polite and quiet manner, and her facial features were quite pleasant. She was quite cute when happy, but a force to be reckoned with when otherwise.

"Come on."

Nemui nodded at her upperclassman, "Okay, Senpai." She replied, seeing as she didn't know his name. She packed her bento and followed Shin out of the nurse's office. She parted ways with him afterwards and went on to class only to realize that there were two new students in the room. One looked to be an upperclassmen and judging by their appearance they seemed to be related. The girl was sitting in the seat next to Nemui's desk, the opposite side. First Yukito, now the new girl? Yukito was a permanent celebrity and this girl would be the class celebrity until her newness wears off.. Nemui was caught directly in the middle.

I should just go home and spare myself the inevitable drama... she thought to herself, returning to eating as she took her seat. The girl seemed to be upset with her brother because she lightly slapped him judging by the sound of things, Nemui didn't look to verify it because she didn't want to be nosey.

She spent the rest of lunch eating quietly and keeping to herself, then the teacher returned. Another bell rang, signaling that lunch was over.

"Attention all students, the weather has cleared up, all classes are on regular schedule, lunch is now over, please report to class." this time it was the secretary speaking in the principal's stead.

Nemui was already in class, but she put her bento away and cleaned up her desk. She began to wonder if Yukito was doing any better yet, but she assumed she would find out eventually, considering they lived together now. She ran her fingers through her still damp strands of hair, sighing a bit. She was still fairly disgusted that Nagisa spat in her hair, she'd definitely be taking a shower the second she got home. Her skin was crawling with disgust just thinking back on it. Her golden eyes turned to the teacher as he cleared his throat and he smiled back at her, glad to see her face looked a lot less swollen and was cleaned up.

"Please get out your math books and do the first two assignments in chapter one. We will grade the lesson and that will help me decide where you guys are as a whole. Do your best, poor grades will result in mandatory extra credit assignments or summer school."

Nemui wasn't too concerned, Although math was her worst subject, she was still very good at the subject compared to most in her class. She was confident that she would get a passing grade. She retrieved her book from her school bag and immediately got to work unlike most of the girls in her class. Most were giggling and chatting, some of it about the new girl, some about Yukito, some were even whispering about the fight between Nagisa and Nemui. She kept hearing talk about the Welcome Dance, a dance the school always held at the beginning of the year to celebrate their new arrivals.. She wasn't planning to attend, one because her mom would dress her in something ridiculous, and two because she wouldn't have a date. Body hugging dresses and boys were never her strong suit, she'd prefer to avoid them both.. She was doing well so far, Yukito was the only person forcing himself into her life in that sense, yet she had a strong feeling that he was just making fun of her. There was no way he was seriously flirting with a girl like her. Why would he do that? One she wasn't ANY guy's type, and two she was his soon-to-be step-sister, serious flirtations from Yukito were about as unlikely as winning the lottery.

After about fifteen minutes into class she closed her book, completely done with the assignment and smiled a bit. Other students were still struggling with the first assignment, no where near done with the tasks given by the teacher. Nemui was definitely the brightest in the class, academically speaking. She stretched after putting her pencil down, her wrist slightly cramped from speedwriting her answers. Her hand was barely capable of keeping up with her mental equations. She couldn't write the problem nearly as fast as her mind was solving it.

Ren was taken aback by the slap and sat quietly for a moment. It didn't hurt, but the fact that a woman disrespected him so publicly was enough to get his blood boiling. If she wasn't his sister he would have probably struck her then and there, and much harder than she did him. He did not believe that women should act so aggressively, any other woman would pay direly for laying hands on him.

"I am not a Tsundere. I am waiting for no man to sweep me off of my feet, nor shall I wait for any woman to do so either."

"There goes my hopes of attending a lesbian wedding, darn." He replied to Himeka in a humorous tone. He was obviously joking, but it still made his younger sibling angry. He was having fun in this setting, because Himeka was feeling too awkward around all the other students to do too much to get revenge against him. Ren would be safe until their walk home. He'd think of some reason to bail on her later to avoid the aftermath of his actions.

"Let's eat in peace brother, else I implore you to find you own class.."

He was a little startled by her reaction, but he knew better than to bring up relationships. She was still on love hiatus, not that he understood the point in that, but in the end Ren felt it was completely none of his business. If Himeka wasted her youth and became a crazy cat lady it would be entirely her own fault, not his. Sure he was a protective older brother, but he couldn't protect her from herself if she refused to let him. He wasn't going to go out of his way to try either.. He had a job and school to worry about, not to mention revenge against Narukei. He wasn't brother of the year, but he was doing the best he could do while still maintaining a functional social and financial life.

"Whatever, you're too sensitive, Hime-chan." Ren signed, returning to eating his own food.

It seemed that there was a terrible storm, but Ren was never scared of a little rain and thunder. He wasn't all that worried about it. Himeka didn't seem to be frightened either, though the last time he had to comfort her was over a year ago. He didn't feel the need to dote upon her. She was strong, or at least she pretended to be, and that was enough for him. Besides, he was going to get revenge for her. He was going to crush Narukei's happiness seeing as he shattered her ability to trust guys.

Before he knew it the bell rang and it was time for class considering the fact that the weather almost miraculously lightened up. Ren stood from his borrowed seat and leaned down to place a kiss on Himeka's forehead, "Seriously though.. One douche bag shouldn't ruin your view on your future...See you later little sis." His voice was almost teasing, but he left before she could comment on them.

He found himself in front of classroom 3-A and immediately knocked on the door. He was a few minutes late, but it's not like he cared. He walked in to see the elderly woman and tilted his head. Another woman? Great. How many women have jobs in this place? He frowned a bit and received a frown in return, but simply sighed as she received his papers.

State your name...

Ren came forward and winked to the girls in the room, most whom were gawking and chatting amongst themselves about him. He just had. Bad boy appeal that was nearly impossible to ignore, "Ren Katsukawa... All the ladies can call me Ren." He stated with a smirk planted on his face. There was quite a ruckus after that because most of the girls in the class let of a shriek of excitement.

"Settle down!" The old woman snapped, not very impressed with Ren's obvious flirtatious attitude. She then pointed to the seat between Shin and Aina, "Sit there Katsukawa and do not interrupt my class."

Ren nodded, but it was pretty obvious he wasn't paying attention. He took his seat, smiling at Aina, "Guess we meet again..." Then his eyes landed on another familiar female (Shiori), on the other side of Shin, he didn't really remember Shin seeing as he wasn't a cute girl and all, "You too.. Fiery chick."

"Stay there."

Shiori's eyes embodied complete shock as Shin entered the classroom. He was going to be her classmate?! This was so embarrassing. She did her best to hold it together, but her mind immediately turned to the embrace they shared earlier and caused her heart to skip a beat.

Riko turned around to stared at Shiori, her dark eyes worried as she saw Shiori's reaction, "Do you know him, Shi-chan?" She asked in a hushed whisper. Riko looked a lot like Shiori, they just kept their bangs cut in opposing fashions and styled their hair differently. If they styled their hair the same way the only obvious difference would be Riko's sheer lack of breasts.

"N-no I've never seen him before." Her tone was insistent and harsh, but also quiet enough so no one else but Mimi and Riko would hear. Riko turned around in her seat, back facing Shiori, though she could feel the doubt pouring from Riko's pores. Her friend didn't believe her at all... Why should she? It was a total lie.. She looked over to the other side of the room and noticed that Sakura, Rin, Michiru, Jordan, and Narueki were all late, though she assumed that Narukei was absent due to Yukito being sick.. Jordan was probably off being a pig..

"Okay, get it together. You'll be receiving a new classmate for this year."

Suddenly she felt so alone in the room. She wanted to change this year, but she was being thrown so many curve balls that she couldn't stand it. First Narukei, then Sakura.. Now this? She felt like she was suffocating under all of the pressure. How was she supposed to thrive under all this pain, embarrassment, and animosity? It felt like she was being crushed under all of these expectations. Narukei expected her to pretend like nothing was wrong, Yukito wanted her to fight back, Nemui wanted her to succeed in school, her coach wanted her to dominate in archery competitions and her heart wanted to mend.. She felt like she was sinking in a bottomless lake, drowning, yet clinging to her last thread of life.. It was painful... She didn't cry, because it wasn't scary, but also because she was in a room full of people that she didn't trust to see her in a weak state.

Unlike the rest of the class she wasn't focused on Shin, at least not anymore. She was clenching at the left side of her blazer, right where her heart would be. There was piercing pain, she couldn't ignore it.. yet no one noticed either. She immediately rested her head on her desk, not wanting anyone to figure it out anyway. She could handle a panic attack, she was used to this pain. She just had to focus on her breathing, count, relax..

"Introduce yourself."

The words were muffled, like she'd actually dunked herself underwater, but she did make them out.

"Shin Ogawa, nice to meet you all."

She heard his voice, the annoying sound that the girls made afterwards, it was worse than nails on a chalkboard, yet none of them cared. They were young, infatuated, and very naïve.. They didn't know heartache. They didn't experience being dumped like she had.. They didn't know what was in store for them.. yet she prayed that they would never have to find out. She prayed that no one would have to feel the pain she felt in her chest.. No one deserved it, no one deserved to constantly doubt themselves, to be afraid of intimacy, no one deserved to feel like the only way to remain safe was to shut everyone away and protect their heart.

"Silence all of you! Take your seat Ogawa-san."

"Uhm, Ogawa-kun! Are---are--are you the top model EDGE?" "

Suddenly she snapped out of her anxiety and slowly say up, looking at Shin. Not in the same way as the other girls, no, it was innocently. She finally realized where she knew him from!

"Keep it a secret, okay?"

The girl who asked the question fainted, and an irritated expression formed on Shiori's face. He was good looking, but wasn't that a bit ridiculous?

"It's seems we keep bumping to each other huh, Shiori-san."

She could feel Riko's glare and Mimi's curiosity, but she ignored both and responded with an energetic smile, "I guess so, just don't mistake me for one of them." She replied with a roll of her eyes, jabbing her thumb in the direction of the fan club. After making her point clear, Shiori stuck her tongue out at him. She wasn't fawning, she wasn't crushing.. She wasn't sure how to do things like that anymore.. Or maybe Yukito was right, perhaps she wasn't over Narukei? Just the though caused her pain. How could she still feel something for a prick like that? Someone who only cared about himself and treated women as if they were easily disposable.. She was the worst..

"I guess we're classmates, I'll be in your care from now on then."

"A-are you messing with me?" She replied back with a slightly surprised expression, but it was accompanied with a childish pout. Then she realized where she'd seen him before, "S-Shizuka Santioa! Have you worked with her before?" She wasn't sure if he would answer, but it didn't matter. She definitely remembered him. Her and Nemui actually got to go to work with their mother that summer. She didn't remember at first because she was scared at the time they met, but there was no mistaking it now.

She honestly could have began modeling or even acting with her mother if she chose, but her and Nemui both promptly refused the proposal. Nemui because she hated the attention and the form fitting clothes, but Shiori loved all of that.. Her mother was her idol, and yet now she felt terrified of her past dream. There was no way she was going to let pictures of her go international. She wasn't physically fit enough yet and she didn't feel comfortable in her own skin anymore, and she doubted she ever would again. This is why she chose a mediocre job in a mediocre town.. No one would remember her and pictures were not allowed at the café.

Two more new students came in, Aina Malik and Ren Katsukawa, but her attention was shot. She didn't even notice the nickname Ren picked out for her. The rest of the day she was somewhat spaced out in her own thoughts, but then the bell rang and school was over.



She didn't have practice today so Shiori gathered her things quietly. Her friends already left due to club activities and Nemui sent her a text that she would be walking home with a friend she made today.. So Shiori would be on her own, "Sayonara, Sensei!" And she went to the office and apologized to the principal, weaseling her way out of detention, though she doubted she would be so lucky next time.

Shiori walked through the halls and made it outside. The sky was no longer angry, but it was still rather pale and moody. She began walking home, earphones in her ears. She was not looking forward to returning to Sakura Square.. but Yukito was sick... and Narukei said he was spending a week with some woman, someone would have to watch the ill boy.. At least until she was forced to leave for work. The world around her was so.. dull. It was so monochrome.. She wanted to see a colorful world, yet all she saw was shades of gray. She hated feeling like this.

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Shiori indicated that she was not like the girls squealing in excitement and delight that even one of them fainted in the process. She rolled her eyes and stuck out her tongue to him. It was rather unladylike in so many ways, but he doesn't mind. It wasn't his place to remind her of manners and etiquette. In addition, he could care less about her preferences. "Good to know." He answered with a casual air whether he was serious about it or not. That was left in vague, but based on their interaction, he had yet to tell her any sort of lie. It's a good thing to know that there would be girls that would steer out of his way, but those are the kinds he should be worried about isn't it? It would be a good thing if they latched themselves to him as it would make things far easier for him. In the end, he was used on how to treat this kind of situations.

"Messing, you say?" One of his perfect eyebrow was raised. He fully faced her this time as he turned his body towards her. "Does it feel that way? Because, you would know if I'm messing with you. I assure you." His expression did not betray anything of his intentions not even his tone which was delivered in a manner similar to that of used in small nonsensical talks. There was no wink but a simple tilt of his side to the side. He was rather a fine specimen for a man. He was someone who could be both of a prince, the boy next door, the bad boy, and it was no denying that he was dastardly handsome. There's no doubt why he became a model and had many admirers.

It was then Shiori asked him about working with Shizuka Santioa. It seemed his initial conclusion was not far-off base. "I have. Why don't you say hi from me to your mother?" He noted with his usual calmness and unadulterated conversation without any kind of underhanded meaning and yet, he seemed to know more than he lets on. He then properly positioned his body to face the front. It seemed there were new students, just like him. He does remember seeing two earlier at the office. A girl and a boy, but this one was someone he hadn't seen earlier. He could actually understand why the boys were like dogs in heat. The dark-skinned girl was an exotic sight and a beautiful one at that. She also seemed to have a rather nice personality as much as he could tell from his position, this Aina Malik as she introduced herself.

But his interests only stayed there, there was nothing more to that. Then, there was the new male student, Ren Katsukawa, he had seen before. It seemed they were in the same class. The guy already made an impact on the females with that seemingly bad boy vibe. It seemed that this one does not shy away from flirting. That reminds him of someone which lead to the slight lifting of his lips into that of a small yet fleeting smile. It has warmth and a degree of affection. Some of the girls who had seen it blushed at sight for it was definitely different from seeing it on a picture. But as soon as that expression came, it also disappeared.

In any case, it seemed he would have to make do with the classes. But, he is worried about Yukito. The weather had calmed down for a good portion. Still, he doesn't trust that brother in regards of taking care the younger boy. Because in the end of the day, blood is not the only thing which could determine affection and care. There are even times that blood is no better than water. His eyes held a tint of coldness at that. He really doesn't like that brother even more when he actually met the guy. Speaking of which, he would have to make sure that Yukito's work is not compromised though; he knew that Haruko would handle it. Still, it would not hurt to be a helping hand on that matter. He would get to it after school and frankly speaking, he wanted the classes to be over. It was rather boring to him and the thought that Yukito is sick also pops on his head constantly.

The only reason he did return to school was for him. Nothing else worthy of consideration on that matter.

Then, school has surely come to an end. He was up and about even when people began to gather around him. They wanted to be acquainted with him and even others who wanted to be a special someone to him. There were even questions if he was going to the dance. It seemed to be a social event for the school. However, that was not going to happen. He simply turned their advances away in a manner that was not easily obvious, specifically adding an air of mystery per say. There was still some work he needed to do and to straighten out some things for Yukito. It seemed that the brother took Yukito home. Well, that was a good thing since the boy needed to rest. But, he could not help but be a bit irritated. It was because the one who did it was the brother. Shin wanted to be the one who does so. It was really aggravating.

Anyway, he was able to get out of the school and saw that the company's car was already waiting at front. He got in and began to dial a number. The line was soon answered. "Hey Haruko." The female immediately rained down on him with a barrel of complaints. He simply leaned on his seat and motioned for the driver to move. The man already knew where to go and so they did. "I see. He texted. Don't worry, I'll make something up, okay? It's fine." Just like that, his day was mostly eventful but something he would also describe as a bit wasteful as he wasn't able to talk to Yukito that much.

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Aina looked behind her and saw Sakura, Rin, and Michiru. She smiled at them warmly. It was really a good thing that she has people that she is familiar with. After that, she looked in front of her. The teacher announced that there was another new student. She was rather excited to know since, it meant that she wasn't the only one new. But seeing the student made her rather happy, it was the one she had saw at the office earlier. He seemed to be a friendly person especially to the girls when he made his introductions. That was very nice of him. It would also appear that he will be sitting beside her. She smiled happily with the lingering sense of politeness. "It is nice to see you again, Katsukawa-san." She remembered what Rin told her about calling someone. She hoped that was doing the right thing to do. "I have yet to properly introduce myself. I am Aina Malik." She cheerfully introduced herself.

She then looked at the direction where Ren called someone a fiery girl. It made her curious and she recognized her as the one running out of the principal's office before and the other student who was also new like her was also one of those running out. It did made her wonder if something terrible had happened, but seeing them fine, meant that it was not as terrible as she had imagined. That was a wonderful thing. She released a relieved sigh and then gave a polite nod as a greeting. It was only proper as far as she knows. She then focused on the lessons ahead. It was a nice feeling really to be here in a classroom with people who are the same age as hers. Furthermore, she was now having friends. It was really a good feeling. There was a momentary lull in the classroom and she took that moment to take out her journal. She then began to write on it, every detail that had happened to her up to now. She even wrote descriptions of the people she had met. It would be troublesome if these people approached her and she has no idea who they really are. She would need to make it a little less strange and unknown to her, even for a bit.

Once she was done, she kept her journal and wondered what things she would be able to learn. She looked out the window and somehow, her mind began to be filled with dreams worthy that of fairy tales. She was only taken back when the teacher called her attention in regards to a lesson. She stood from her chair and answered it to best as she could. The day continued like that and soon, it was time for her to return home. She still remembered how she came to the school, so she will just have to retrace her steps. As for club activities, she believed it would not be wise for her to have those. She was yet uncertain how she would fare with being in school. She wanted to take it a small step at a time.

It made her wonder what kind of day would be waiting for her. This also brought her a great sense of dread. The fear so crippling that she doesn't want to close her eyes and give herself to the scenery of her dreams. It is because tomorrow... will certainly be a new day for her in the most literal sense. She dies... every time she sleeps and it scares her very much.