Shiori Kitogawa's Story

There were a few faces that did not belong in the study club, but Yuuki wasn’t one to complain if students intended to take a legitimate interest in academics. As long as they put in a solid effort she wouldn’t say much against a few temporary additions to the roster. Surprised when Sora approached her, Yuuki tilted her head a bit, putting her pencil down to give him her undivided attention. He was one of the few guys at this school that seemed to value his education seriously, so she wasn't expecting what came next, despite her previous experiences with him.

"I'd like to apologize for the late arrival of Browning-san, Kitogawa-san and I, as well as take full responsibility. I had to change into a dry set of uniform after jumping into the pool with Misaki and my pants zipper was stuck which lead to Browning--"

Cheeks beginning to heat up, Yuuki blinked several times at his explanation. What on Earth was he about to say? Jumping a little as her fellow junior grabbed the senior, Yuuki's golden eyes shifted between them. While they were in the same class, Yuuki did not know much about Browning, Rhys. All she knew was that her fellow class president implied he was perverted. Sora's story seemed to slightly corroborate it. It wasn't lost on Yuuki that he had an intimidating presence, glancing away for a moment, adjusting her glasses. The boys seemed to settle on their own so there was no reason to interfere. Besides, it was probably better for her mental health to not know how that sentence ended. Picking up her pencil again, Yuuki began writing once more, fully aware of Sora's presence beside her, but altogether choosing not to make a big deal of it, at least not outwardly.

"If everyone can eat without making a mess, I've brought some cake to share. Everyone remember to properly thank Browning-san. I hope you don't mind I've brought a tag along, Fujioka-san... I will take full responsibility for her."

Sweets were not particularly Yuuki's thing, so the violet-haired junior did not partake, not that she would fault the others. There was just something about super sugary things that did not sit right with her tastebuds. Perhaps it was all mental because sweets were not healthy seeing as she used to eat them just fine in her younger years, "I don't mind, anyone is welcome at any time as long as they work hard and do not cause problems for the club or it's members." Yuuki responded without hesitation, not all that concerned with those that were not official members.

As the state of Shiori's wellbeing was being investigated by both Sora and Rhys, Yuuki did not look up from her work. She trusted they could handle it, besides, the girl was still upright, it could not have been too serious if it was the sudden onset of illness. There was a very slim chance that anything life-threatening was going on, "If you feel sick Kitogawa-senpai you may go home early, health trumps everything... always." Her opinion was probably a bit more emotional than the violet-haired girl would like, she preferred to stonewall everyone, but it was difficult to keep everyone out when so many people knew how to climb.

"Browning-san, instead of a breather she needs a kiss. Fujioka-san can attest that it is effective."

Nearly dropping her own pencil this time, Yuuki's attention shot to Sora, blinking at him in disbelief. Why was he telling everyone something like that? It was extremely difficult to keep herself composed, but she reminded herself that she was not only the female freshman class representative, she was also the president of the school's study club. She had to bring order to the group, "...I don't believe that is a topic for the library, Senpai..." Yuuki pinched the bridge of her nose, her glasses askew as she tried to keep her patience. Rocco and Kei... now Sora... there were a lot of troubles the violet-haired freshman now had to sort through that she had never experienced before. Shiori took her leave, and to be honest, Yuuki felt tempted to do the same. It wasn't very professional to do so, so she simply cleared her throat adopting a no-nonsense expression, "I'm sure that we all have work to do. Does anyone need help?" She offered her assistance to get everyone back on the right track.

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The morning was an absolute dread. Yuuki barely managed to get any sleep knowing she had a big decision to make. Bail on visiting her parents, go alone or lean on Rocco. None of the felt ideal, but as Yuuki nibbled on some toast to settle her stomach, she knew she had to come to a decision that she would be able to live with. Rocco was not someone that she considered to be entirely reliable. While he protected her in the Kyudojo against another female student... there were a few incidents that made her question what kind of guy he truly was, both good and bad. He'd done several...relatively lewd... things to her in the short time they had known each other, yet he also put his own health at risk to make sure that Kaori and herself were safe. Running her free hand through her unkempt violet hair, Yuuki sighed, her indecision on her classmate killing her. Could she trust him enough to go on this trip with him alone? It was anyone's guess... but her father's health was not very great. Ugh. Finishing the toast, she cleared her glass of milk before cleaning dishes. She had a duffle bag to pack it seemed... she only hoped that she would not come to regret it. Heading into her bedroom, Yuuki grabbed just the absolute essentials she would need for this trip.

Frowning at the package that came in, she opened it already aware of what was inside. She needed only to see the damage. There were two outfits, one blue and one pink. Choosing to get the dress out of the way early on, Yuuki changed into the pink outfit her mother sent, shaking her head. Picking up her phone she sent a quick text to Rocco's number that he snuck into her phone without asking. The message sent notification immediately made her nervous, her hand coming up to her chest. Why was her chest tightening all of a sudden? This was a bad idea... but now he had her number anyway. It had already gone through. He'd see the message. Darn it. Now she had to own it. Switching his name in her phone to something more suiting, Yuuki tapped the device against her lips with a sense of dread.



It was completely against her own fashion sense yet again, but she knew it would make her father happy. While she would have felt a thousand times more comfortable in her hoodies and jean shorts, Yuuki wanted to do everything in her power to make him happy, just in case. That was all it took for Yuuki to subject her to whatever was in store for her. Her stomach began to ache yet again, reminded that this would be her first time meeting a classmate outside of school since elementary. The dance was a mandatory school function, and costumes were hardly casual. The only thing she found mildly reassuring was the fact that Rocco had a girlfriend, yet she couldn't help wondering when the two decided to go out. Was it before or after the moment in the bathroom? Before his lunch date with Hakuryu-senpai? She knew that he still had no qualms pressing his knee up her skirt even with a girlfriend though... I feel really bad for Himewari-san... Yuuki sighed.

Heading out despite her better judgement, Yuuki adjusted the strap of her bag and her glasses. She received a few more looks on the street than she was comfortable with, but she ignored everyone around her as usual. It still came to her as easy as breathing, even if the same could not be said about her time at school. What was it about that place, about it's students that seemed to take a sledgehammer to all of her carefully built defenses? Once she made it to the station, Yuuki checked her phone, going ahead and paying for the tickets before he even got back with her despite her cold, serious text. Leaning against one of the pillars, Yuuki sat her bag beside her on the ground. She wasn't accustomed to not having any books in her posession to keep both her hands and mind occupied. The class president was standing there alone, like a fish out of water. It's for Father... It's for Father... It's for Father... It's for Father... she repeated like a mantra in attempt to steady her racing heart, hand returning to it wishing she could force it to relax. She knew she wasn't listening to Sora's advice about him at all and that made her feel guilty, but she was... truly nervous to see him? Was it because she figured he would begin his usual antics? Was that truly all it was? She still wasn't happy with how he handled the situation with Aeon... but if they were going to go on this trip, she had to shut everything out. She convinced herself of that, because if it was anything else, this was truly going to be an awkward trip. She couldn't afford to feel, well, anything. For him or anyone else for that matter. She didn't have that luxury.

Today was going... well, let's just say Kaito regretted even getting out of bed. The ivory haired boy was sat at a table surrounded by 'friends', but in reality, they were simply overly familiar acquaintances. As they laughed and made small talk, Kaito reminded himself for the umpteenth time that he did not have 'friends' just people that used him for his money. He was fine with this arrangement, it was better than being alone, he used them for the company as well. A temporary solution to the hole in his life he did not know how to fill for the long-term. Besides, he wasn’t deluded, he was very well aware that his personality was abrasive to others, he accepted that buying friendship was probably the only way he would find even a modicum of companionship. While this was more like a business transaction, nothing genuine about it, he was content enough. It kept him from being lonely, but most importantly from getting hurt again. He never doubted where he stood with these people. They were all chatting about their classes now, giggling, flirting, he could see them pairing off. He had come with his own 'date', but he wasn't in the mood. He rarely was these days. He didn’t feel like entertaining her, he could see the boredom on her face, knew that she wished to go through the motions... but he didn’t care. His chin rested on his knuckles, his mood only worsened as he took in his surroundings. He did NOT want to come here in the first place, but the girls insisted on going to the amusement park, and they had a way of wearing down one's patience. What was he supposed to do? Make them cry? The tears they threatened him with were most likely fake, but it was one of his few weaknesses. He didn't want to be that guy. This place... it brought back extremely painful memories. As he watched couples pass by, he could only think of her and that was never good. Memory lane was not a fond place for him, but as he saw a girl that looked almost exactly like her pass by, the memories flooded his brain despite him.

It was a few years prior. They were walking by this very same food court, Kaito had been less confident, more genuine in those days. Their fathers were unlikely friends, having met at a few parties. The men ignorantly assumed their children would surely get along just as smoothly. No one could have guessed just how wrong they would be. A few times a week Kaito was sent to show the Kitogawa heiress a good time, to impress her father originally, but after time passed, it became clear that their fathers were hoping a relationship would blossom between the two of them. While they were never forced to make it official, it was heavily implied that they were expected to go in that direction.

On one particular evening the two decided to go to this amusement park, it seemed like a good way to busy themselves, and it was relatively low pressure as far as a conversation was considered, but over the course of their 'date', Kaito began to see her differently. Maybe it was the way she screamed on the rides, that calm and icy girl he had come to know belting out such a loud, unfiltered scream had been such a surprise he broke out in laughter. Or maybe it was the embarrassment that followed, but he could actually see where their fathers were coming from. For the first time, he could see himself cutting the bullshit for someone. She could be a total pain in the ass sometimes, but he kind of liked that about her at the same time. It made it easier for him to forgive his own shortcomings.

It wasn’t until the end of the day, after winding down with a ride on the carousel. He caught her eyeing it ‘stealthily’ the entire day, so he broke down and swallowed some ‘cool’ points to ride it with her. It was pretty lame to ride the ponies, but the way she seemed to just glow with happiness under the bright lights, and how it contrasted with the dark sky behind her, he found that he no longer cared at all about how he looked. The opinions of others didn’t matter, he just wanted to see her smile like that a bit longer. The walk home had been quiet, but he didn’t mind. Watching her walk with her hands laced behind her back... he wanted to do it. It was a gnawing feeling since the carousel ride. Maybe longer. He’d never felt so compelled to do it before, not as strong as he felt like doing it with her. Before they turned the corner, before they made it her house and he lost his chance he lagged behind a bit before working up the courage, claiming one of her wrists.

He was nervous as hell, he’d only kissed a couple of girls before, but he’d never felt like that before. Before he knew it, he had leaned in, both hands cupping her cheeks before his resolve could falter and he tried to kiss her. They had been on over a dozen ‘dates’. He’d never once tried anything, so he had no clue about her problems with touch until she slapped the hell out of him. Wide-eyed and hurt, Kaito had no idea what was going on. She... behaved as if she liked him before... They were addressing each other by their given names... Did he read it wrong? He could see her flushed cheeks, tears forming in her eyes, how angry she looked. Her harsh words after were what cut like a knife though.

“What is wrong with you!? What makes you think I would ever want to do that with you!?”

He felt as though he had been stabbed, hell, a knife might have been kinder. He let her go, stunned, but... things never healed after that. He took the hint, but his feelings had shifted to spite, cruelty.

For the most part... he hated her. It was easier to be cruel to her than to accept that she had wounded him, to face his pain. Shiori had adopted harshness as well, neither of them tried to talk through the ill-received attempt for a kiss... and he hated this place ever since. Deciding against ruining the group date, Kaito paid for the meals of his companions and walked away. He left the girl he was with behind, shoving both hands in his pockets as he tried to remember where the exit was. His feet leading him out, he sighed trying to push aside remnants of his memories here that flashed before his eyes. She was everywhere here. He had to get out. It was driving him absolutely mad, ”Where the fuck is the exit? Despite his semi-formal attire, Kaito had the mouth of a sailor when angry. It earned him a few surprised looks from people attending, and a couple of nasty ones from disapproving parents, not that he cared. What did their disapproval mean for him? He didn't know them, their opinions were irrelevant at best. She's head over heels for that guy, but what's so damn special about him...?! He had another girl all over him right in front of her eyes and she doesn't even care! What fucking ever... He practically had dark tendrils of pure, unbridled rage pouring from his form. He needed out of here, he needed a distraction, neede to think about anything else, anyone else but her.

Just hearing the voice on the other end of the line made Shiori want to groan. Over the years she had gone out of her way to avoid having even a remotely substantial amount of contact with this person, yet now she had gone completely out of her way to reach out to him. Potentially putting herself on his radar did make her anxious, especially after his reaction to Devone slapping their classmate. How exactly would things go if he ever found out who had given Devone the information that sparked that altercation? This responsibility given to the students from the school gave her very little choice though, she had her family’s reputation to think of. If she gave a less than satisfactory gift her parents would surely throw a fit, especially her mother, horrified that it would reflect poorly on the family as a whole. For the sake of not having the person, she fled from her home to escape showing up at her flat she would have to meet this person despite her personal feeling of dread, “The mall would be simplest.” Shiori replied promptly to his casual way of answering the phone despite her inner monologue. It seemed her mind raced through the thoughts much more quickly than she gave herself credit for. Looking at the time ticking away on the screen, she silently sighed. This was going to be an incredibly long day, she could feel it in her bones.

Taking a quiet breath in to gather her bearings she instructed the hellion of the school to meet her in the food court of the local mall. If she had to deal with him she would need caffeine. Besides, sitting was preferable to standing. There was no way for Shiori to predict if he would make one of his typical flamboyant, boisterous entrances, but at the very least if he ran late or turned out to be otherwise indisposed she wouldn’t have aching feet on top of a pounding headache.

“Until then.” Shiori ended the call, pouting at the home screen of her phone before paying with her phone and exiting the taxi. Flipping her long dark hair behind her over her shoulder, Shiori walked a beeline inside and headed straight for the food court with icy confidence. This was her act, the facade she put up to isolate herself from others, to protect the innocent and sweet girl trapped deep within the shell, but it was convincing enough after years of practice. No one approached the icy senior despite her rather cute outfit. Once she made it to the food court Shiori waited patiently in line, eyes closed as she tried to ignore those around her. She disliked loud, crowded places... but this was a necessary evil, he would easily be able to find something he wanted in a place like this and she could quickly be done with her obligation to her fellow senior without having to suffer in each other's company for too long.

Aware that she was hardly the type of girl that Miyamoto, Kazuki would normally surround himself with, Shiori assumed he would be just as eager to part ways. Looking at this as just a mutually unfavorable business transaction made it much easier to tackle, that she could handle. Her outfit, consisting of a lavender sundress and a deep violet jacket was a subconscious choice to cover as much skin as possible, her stockings that went just above knee-high making it clear that she was trying to cover up as much as possible without actually wearing something incredibly formal. Shiori was not used to wearing 'casual' clothing as the Kitogawa family practically lived in suits, pencil skirts, and fancy dresses. The sheer amount of parties she was forced to attend with her parents to maintain the hospital chain's powerful connections was exhausting, but she knew the patients needed any donation they could get from political figures and celebrities. Her father was a kind man sacrificing so much for the sake of others, but she could tell that her mother simply enjoyed the mingling, she did not care for their patients as her husband did, she was in love with their posh life and all of the luxuries that came with having money and knowing people of even higher status. Shiori's mother loved being a 'somebody', loved that the 'Kitogawa' name held weight. Shiori did not wish to ever be like her mother, regardless of how poorly she displayed it, Shiori cared about people and their wellbeing.

Moving up in line, lost in thought, Shiori almost didn't notice when it was her turn to order. Having ordered a black coffee, she was quickly able to pay and take a seat, sipping at it patiently. All there was to do now was wait. Being in public without her retainer, Kazuhiko was unnerving, but she did not wish for him to witness this. He would surely tease her for anything that might happen, she wished to erase this interaction from her memory after it was complete, not set it in stone for years to come. It was best to deal with only one troublesome male at a time, having both in the same place would exhaust her composure far too quickly. Besides... years at Airdalen alongside her hellish classmate assured her that bringing another guy would only make things more difficult than they had to be. He...had a reputation of picking fights with them, and she did not wish to be at fault for more of that nasty business than she already was. While Shiori would not call telling Devone that their classmate had been giving away her secrets a mistake, Shiori accepted that she could have handled that situation with more grace. Telling her when the other girl was in the room was her failure, she had never seen Devone strike another student, but she should not have written violence off as a possibility with anyone. Everyone had a limit, a side that they often hid from others... she should have known that better than anyone after the years of her mother's torment. Not noticing how tightly she gripped her coffee cup, Shiori hissed as the hot liquid burst out, burning her hand. Thankfully it did not stain her clothes, but she quickly retrieved napkins and began cleaning up her mess. She was quite an accident-prone person this year, thinking too much was certainly having negative effects on how she was handling the world around her. She had never been one to hurt themselves quite this much. I need to learn to relax... I won't make it to graduation at this rate if I keep hurting myself like this... Dabbing the reddened skin with napkins, Shiori winced, replacing the lid that had flown off of her cup. Well, now she had considerably less coffee. Lovely. Gently running her hand over the burn on the one that had been holding her cup, Shiori tried to soothe the stinging as she waited for the person she never once imagined herself meeting alone.

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"Oh so sorry!"

Kazuki looked at the person who bumped at him. His amber eyes glinted with vague intentions. It would appear that it was a girl hanging out with her friends of the same flock. It was rather crowded since it is the weekends. Anyway, the girls blushed upon seeing his face properly. He saw those shy and curious expressions. "No worries." He flashed them a smile and returned to his usual candor. "But, if you want to make it up to me." He leans a bit closer to the girl who bumped into him. "You can give me your number." The other girls quietly squealed in delight due to his flirtations.

It wasn't that hard as the girl did give Kazuki the number. At that point, he had forgotten why he was out which was technically to buy food? He continued flirting with the girls before him and was even about to go with them for some good fun when he "Wait... I think I forgot something..." He casually looked at his phone and found a call from earlier. "Right... Mall." He remembered some girl calling him. It was probably just a hook-up but, he did say he would be there. He might as well see and if it was boring, he could just skip out.

Just like that, Kazuki bid the girls he just met goodbye with a promise that he will call them. He then made on his way and the travel time that was already rather long due to him choosing to walk about instead of commuting and having a distraction made it more longer to arrive at the mall. it was good that the mall was at a walkable distance from his house. He eventually reached the meeting place and wondered who was the girl who called him. He just has the confidence to recognize the girl and if not, the girl would holler at him eventually. For now, the location did make his stomach grumbled so, he who has no consideration about the time or for the person who he was about to meet went to a nearby food stall to buy some submarine sandwich.

Kazuki soon has his sandwich in hand and began eating it. He took his time enjoying his meal. It has been a while since he had something in his stomach. Well, the nicotine wasn't bad though. Just like that, he forgot about the reason why he went to the food court actually. Instead, he was now perusing the shops. He does need to buy his food supplies. After all, they were none back at his house and he does not cook as much as possible. His reasoning was it would take much of his important time which he delegates towards his certain hobbies and pastime.

And so, Kazuki has forgotten about his so-called meeting. That it did not even cross his mind that when he caught a familiar figure from the corner of his eyes. "I wonder..." He went towards the person who took his attention. If he wasn't mistaken, this was the uptight some president or just a busybody of sorts. She must be smart since she looks like a middle-schooler. He never considered that they were the same age. "If it isn't Miss Shorty pants." He looked at her with his usual devilish smile and his gold eyes showing his playful intent. "Waiting for a date?" This girl should suffice as someone to entertain him for the day.

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"If it isn't Miss Shorty pants."

Shorty pants? Is he referring to me? Shiori thought to herself, quirking a brow. Somewhat offended, Shiori delayed responding as she understood that his teasing words only stung because she knew them to be true. She was... very small in comparison to the majority of their classmates, but honestly, for a Japanese woman she was only just under average height. Both of her parents were Japanese and of shorter stature, "I am short for a girl by Airdalen standards, but if anything you're simply well above the national average while I am slightly below for a Japanese woman." She returned in a nonchalant tone, confident that she knew what she was talking about. Besides, she felt more in control taking her time and keeping her cool, she didn't have to stoop to his overly excitable level.

“Waiting for a date?"

That question made her entire form stiffen, As if!. The mere thought of being caught dead on a ‘date’ with her fellow senior... it earned a shiver. Her reputation with other classmates was bad enough, besides... his rule-breaking and womanizing ways were not something she would ever condone, let alone find attractive! This was business, she didn't have much choice in this matter, "Definitely not." She stated with a bit of venom, although her discomfort and apprehension was evident by her furrowed brows, telling a different story than Shiori wanted. It thwarted her attempt to appear calm and composed, but she wasn't aware of it.

Discerning that he did not seem to realize she was the one that called him to meet, Shiori stood, smoothing out her dress before speaking, “I was the one that called. I am your Kris Kringle." Leaving it at that a moment to let him process that it had not been a call from one of his paramours, Shiori tried to smooth out her ruffled feathers. She couldn't let him get under her skin too much.

"The reason I called is that I don’t know you well enough to buy you something that you’d enjoy on my own. Price is not an issue, so if there is anything you come across in the mall I will get it.” She spoke matter-of-factly. Her family was well known for their generosity and for holding charity events, she couldn’t afford to come across as stingy, even toward a classmate she would prefer to not take up her weekend, “We can do this quickly if you like, I doubt you want to spend your weekend like this or with me.” She added, but it was more because that was how she felt and less so a display of concern for the enjoyment of his weekend. As Shiori wasn’t accustomed to guys like Kazuki, her posture was quite reserved, her body language giving her anxiousness away. All of her was drawn in toward herself, making the already small girl appear even smaller, especially with her arms crossed over her chest.

With that said, Shiori began to leave the food court, only briefly glancing over her shoulder to see if Kazuki intended to cooperate, “Just let me know if you see anything you want.” She stated in a serious tone, doing her best to keep this about her responsibility and to leave no room for his antics. She was class president, hanging out with the school hellion on the weekend didn’t look right, nor did it feel right. They were from two entirely different worlds and while she promised herself she would be civil, or as civil as she could manage, she had no intention of getting to know him.

Even so, Shiori assumed if Kazuki didn’t have an opinion of her already, he would come to loathe her company soon enough as she was not the type of girl he was used to either. She had no intention of fawning over him, regardless of his good looks or 'bad boy' charm. She liked to believe she was above the artifice, immune. She always thought the girls that fell for guys like that were stupid. You can’t change someone no matter how hard you try... they have to want it... she thought to herself closing her eyes, her burnt hand still stinging, but she ignored it, simply flexing her fingers now and then as she explored the mall, hopefully with Kazuki still along for the ride. If not, she’d buy him something cliche and move on. She extended an olive branch, it was quite temporary as she intended to go back to avoiding him entirely, but abandoning that tactic for the moment seemed beneficial for both parties, at least if he wanted a gift he would actually like.

It was a shame that Shiori was so preoccupied with getting this entire ordeal over with, she didn't even notice the gorgeous Christmas decorations adorning the entire mall. Giant trees with what appeared to be highly expensive glass ornaments hanging from their branches, sparkling lights, and glittering garland. Mistletoe was strung up over several entryways, couples were everywhere, kissing, laughing, arms interlocked as they traversed the indoor winter wonderland the mall had become.

A girl on a mission, Shiori instead was focused on what to get her siblings, her parents, and... would it be inappropriate to get Rhys a present? He was her junior, that wouldn't be weird, right? Biting her bottom lip, Shiori noticed a stand in the center of the large open hall. Walking over to it she examined the phone cases, one catching her eyes. Looking through all the models it came in, Shiori snatched up the appropriate one before quickly paying.

After getting one gift out of the way, Shiori figured it was best to see if her unfortunate companion was still with her, "Well? Anything yet?" She asked, her recent purchase in a small cute gift bag in her hand as she inquired if Kazuki had seen anything he wanted her to buy him or if they needed to keep looking. She had no idea what his interests were outside of philandering with women. Does he even have other interests? Okay, maybe that was harsh, he has to have other interests... right? Now she couldn't help but wonder.

"Maybe it would go better if you tell me a bit about the things you like after all." Shiori added, doing her best to maintain an air of disinterest, but nonetheless she seemed to be going to great lengths to keep her physical distance from him as well as her emotional guards high. She had no intention of entertaining his mischief, doing everything in her power to avoid becoming one of his victims. Her only possible mistake was not keeping a better eye on the Christmas decorations. We don't fit in with this atmosphere. Neither of us is like these sickeningly in love people strolling by... We must look pretty odd to them. The thought hit her before she could dismiss it, suddenly feeling pretty insecure about what the people around them thought. She could practically see the wheels turning in the mind of the man running the stall, he was trying to figure out what their relationship was, "I-It isn't like that!" She assured the stallkeeper, shaking her head to firmly deny any connection to her classmate. She wanted this over, before anyone from school, anyone that mattered might see them together and get the wrong idea. Besides... she could still remember how angry he got with Devone, if he knew that she was the one that told Devone what Fuyuki did... she imagined things would get much worse between them.

Heels clicked rapidly against the marble floor, but it couldn't be heard over the boisterous crowd of people doing their holiday shopping, and even worse, the holiday music blaring with no end in sight. Shiori wasn't fond of Christmas music to begin with, but even less so today, You're walking fast, too fast, people will start to stare. Ew, no! There is no speed fast enough after what that— that—! Who does he think he is!? Shiori couldn't decide how quick to flee the scene given how addled she was, but if she had the right to choose, she would have been running. Unfortunately, as the Kitogawa heiress, she had to present herself in a dignified manner in public, almost always. Regardless of what she just experienced, she had to remain in control, this was not Airdalen, her affairs could easily end up on the news if she made a scene, if anyone recognized her. In a crowded mall, that became all the more likely the more people she passed, so the heiress kept her head down. This is what I get for extending an olive branch to that— that animal! What was I even thinking!? I should have known he wouldn't behave himself even for a second! the petite girl fumed to herself, her heart pounding almost through her chest as she weaved through couples and families doing their Christmas shopping.

Her feet were starting to hurt, but she didn't care, she wanted to put as much space between herself and one Miyamoto, Kazuki. She was outraged, she couldn't even fully remember what happened in her state of pure, unbridled fury. He kissed her, that much she knew, he STOLE her first kiss. This had to be assault, right?! Regardless of if they were the same age, the mistletoe overhead, she never gave consent. In this day and age that HAD to matter for something, right!? Who even honored the tradition anymore? The practice of kissing whoever is under the mistletoe is archaic and ridiculous! A kiss... it should mean more than that! It was her first one, and while Kazuki had no way of actually knowing that, he'd taken something precious and she had no intention of EVER forgiving him for his transgression.

If anything, she was reminded of her reasoning for avoiding him the entirety of their time at Airdalen together. He was always making a scene, she always saw him with different girls...what made her think for a second that he saw her any differently? Part of her always assumed he only hit on willing participants... she had stayed under the radar until this moment, so it felt like a solid assumption to make... but it seemed she was wrong, her reciprocation did not matter.

Fine, she would pick out a gift on her own, and if he didn't like it, she didn't care anymore! Screw her reputation, her family's, this day was the worst and she just wanted it to be over already. Crawling in bed and throwing the covers over her head sounded amazing, pretending this day never happened, even better. Ow. Ow. Ow. I have to stop. Shiori took a seat at the nearest bench lining the walls, her feet throbbing. Moving so fiercely in such high heels was a bad idea, she'd walked around enough with Kazuki to make her feet sore enough.

Giving herself enough time to catch her breath and her feet the break that they deserved, the girl ran her fingers through her long, dark hair. How did she find herself in this situation? Why hadn't she been more diligent in avoiding those darn mistletoe strewn across the mall? Shiori's brow quirked. She thought she saw someone familiar, someone that she needed to catch up with before school started on Monday, someone far more pleasant than Kazuki, well, depending on who you asked. Shiori's opinion was likely the minority, but the person she believed she saw was a welcome sight, a more than welcome distraction if she was correct with her identification.

Standing up, Shiori resolved to catch up, to verify if the person she caught a glimpse of in the crowd was who she thought it was, "Kim-san?" Shiori called out as she got closer. She wasn't one that enjoyed others touching her, so she did not reach out to the other girl, hoping that her voice carried far enough. While she knew enough about Devone to realize that it was unlikely the other girl would be thrilled to see someone from school, Shiori didn't know what else to do. She couldn't face Kazuhiko just yet, and she still had to purchase something for Kazuki, regardless of her feelings toward that heathen.

Taking a deep breath she did her best to compose herself, "Doing some shopping for that ridiculous gift exchange as well?" Shiori inquired, sounding exasperated about the entire thing, doing nothing to hide her displeasure for it. It was not ideal in the first place, given Shiori's problems with being kind to others in any straightforward kind of way, but her altercation with Kazuki only made matters far worse. It was an invasion, and she felt as though it brought her five steps back in her progress, "I've finished that work I offered to take off your hands, I can either email it or we can meet up before class on Monday, but I was hoping to find a way to pass things off seamlessly." Shiori was a class president, she had a reputation to protect despite her reluctance.

The small girl's election was likely a practical joke, given her short stature and cold nature, it certainly wasn't a popularity vote, she knew that much, but she didn't want to get in trouble, or get Devone in trouble for cheating all the same. Detention, suspension, she didn't want that on her record, not for her family as much as for her own sanity. She had a lot going on between Tsukiko's sudden appearance, Kazuki's transgression, and still having to buy gifts for him and her... friends if she could even call the people she had met this year that yet. Despite the reputation of the girl before her, Shiori was not intimidated, she had people talk behind her back plenty, didn't have any friends, there was not much for her to lose and she had nothing to hide that she could think of. Going in with zero ill intentions, she was confident enough. If anything, Shiori respected Devone for being able to stand up for herself, the scene in class with their new classmate, Hakuryu, having earned most of it.

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xxxxxxxxThe atmosphere at the Kim household was suffocating because too much was going on for Devone to really handle. Everyone was quiet about Chey, her bodyguards had a poke of fun at her about Ryou, her ex-boyfriend Hiro had visited unexpectedly and she was preparing to go out with someone from the school later that night to fulfill her Kris Kringle obligation. She couldn't remember the last time she had attended a social event because someone asked her to and not because of business and it would be a lie to say she wasn't feeling uneasy about it. She was but she couldn't really verbalize it so she settled for what any wealthy teenage girl might turn to. Retail therapy. "Goro, prepare the car. I need to get out of here." Sitting around and waiting for nightfall was not her style and she had no work left on her desk to keep her occupied. Her emotions were driving her insane and she needed a diversion.

xxxxDevone didn't really set out with a plan when she arrived at the mall. Her outfit teased her curves and features but remained a little classy. Her black heels click-clacked, her hips swayed in her tightly fitted red skirt, and her long black hair flowed gracefully down along her back. Despite her inner turmoil, she was confident in the way she carried herself and garnered some attention from the opposite gender as she sashayed past them. "Kim-san?" She looked over her shoulder hearing someone call out to her. The last thing she expected was another social encounter at such an ordinary place. "Doing some shopping for that ridiculous gift exchange as well?" Devone spun around, face-to-face with the female senior class president she had been fortunate enough you could say to run into now and then given their different attitudes towards school. Shiori's choice of clothing was different from hers, conservative and covering as much skin as possible. Her lavender sundress and deep violet jacket while fitted, were not tight enough to show the curves that Devone had on display. It was on the cutesy side but suited her classmate she had to admit. "Kitogawa-san, funny seeing you here." Funny in the sense of how unusual and coincidental it was. She was definitely not laughing because it meant that she would have met up with 2 classmates in one day and 2 was one too many. She wasn't used to this at all. The last time she saw that many classmates outside of school were back when she had friends.

xxxxShe also wasn't sure how to answer the question. Ryou's requested gift was her presence later that night for some unknown occasion and it sounded awkward out loud. She wasn't even sure if Shiori would believe that considering both her and Ryou's demeanors to keep to themselves. They had started to make the rounds in the school rumor mill but meeting outside of school together suggested there was more going on. Devone didn't know if she wanted to imply that there was more going on. She barely even understood what was going on, to begin with. "More or less." She replied with a closed eyes smile. "So you find it ridiculous as well?" She asked a bit curious at the class president's description of a school-related task. It wasn't what she expected to hear from the lips of someone so studious but being studious in itself didn't mean everything about the school was fantastic she supposed.

xxxx"I've finished that work I offered to take off your hands, I can either email it or we can meet up before class on Monday, but I was hoping to find a way to pass things off seamlessly." Devone tapped her cheek in thought because she had almost completely forgotten about the assignment. It wasn't high on her priorities but it was good to know that it was taken care of and out of the way. "Email is preferable. I do like to look over things before submission and I'm sure it would be easier for someone in your position. Save paper while we're at it." She said lightheartedly, somewhat accustomed to the process. It wasn't often that Devone would actually devote time to take her studies seriously. It wasn't like she ever failed a grade to cause concern and there were other matters that stole her attention quite often. Although, it was peculiar the lengths Shiori was willing to go through when she stepped in to diffuse the situation with Harigae-san. She didn't peg the girl for being tight on money. The Kitogawas were well off in that department. So, what did Shiori hope to gain from her? Devone was naturally skeptical of any act that resembled kindness without a price. There was only one way to find out really and it would take time. Conveniently, she had a lot of time on her hands right now until nightfall.

xxxx"Since we're both here and shopping, allow me to show my gratitude for your efforts. Starting with those shoes, perhaps?" Devone was perceptive, noticing the girl's discomfort quite quickly. Shiori had done well keeping her composure but from one girl in heels to another, it was discernible. "There's a really cute and popular brand here. I'm sure you'll find something to go with your current outfit. I know we aren't here to shop for ourselves but we can't go far like that. We'll walk around and browse as much as we want after. " Devone's voice was friendly and accommodating. She sounded a lot like she did back when she did have a normal social life and friends to go out with. Deep down, however, it hurt her to revisit those days and she had to keep reminding herself that the pleasantries were fake. This was all fake. "Let's go, I know the way." Devone motioned for Shiori to walk with her and lead the way to the bustling store that targeted the upper class with designer shoes, bags, and other luxury items. Although the store was busy, very few in the store were there to buy. Most people in the store were just inside to admire and gawk at the price. Stepping inside, Devone already had her eyes set on the prize as she located a pair of strappy sandals. She picked up the display and enthusiastically showed them to Shiori. "How about this pair? It's violet, comfortable, and goes well with a sundress." Typically, the salespeople of the store were not keen on customers picking up the displays due to the price but they made an exception for the girls seeing as they did appear to be of the upper class and able to afford it. "What do you think? We could keep looking.." Devone was so used to shopping and touching everything she wanted that she was oblivious to the exception and general rule of thumb. She behaved a lot like a child let loose in Willy Wonka's factory but behind those eyes, she was devoid of joy. The more she behaved this way, the more she tasted the bitter memories of failed fake friendships but she had to keep going. She had to find out and prove what the class president really wanted from her while she had the chance. Only then would her curiosity be sated and she could relax again.

Popularity +1 Shiori

It came to Shiori's attention as well just how different her own attire was to that of Devone's choice. It did not shake Shiori's confidence, she chose the clothes she did because they made her feel good, but she had to admit that the outfit the other girl was wearing complimented her body quite well. Devone, despite having a similar, if not much worse, reputation than her, was undeniably a beauty. Shiori wasn't equipped to give a seamless compliment however, she was much too awkward for it. It made her nervous, and when she grew nervous she oft said hurtful things. This was not something she intended to let happen. She needed the company, female energy, and there was none to be found at home. Kazuhiko would not make the situation better. He would either be amused or want to fight Kazuki, neither of which would lift Shiori's spirits. Running her knuckle over her lips, the petite girl let out a soft sigh. She was a bit out of breath, rattled, and admittedly nervous.

They had gone to school together long enough for Shiori to know that Devone had a sharp tongue of her own that she wasn't afraid to unleash if someone was bothering her. Still, something about Devone made her want to try, she couldn't place her finger on it, but she felt something she didn't feel with the other girls at school. It was hard to describe, but she was drawn to the equally dark-haired female. Maybe her soul sensed something that she couldn't? Regardless of her reasoning, Shiori felt compelled to reach out. If friendship was possible for the two of them, she wanted to try. It wasn't often that Shiori went out of her own way, to stick her neck out, but there was a first time for everything.

"Kitogawa-san, funny seeing you here."

It was a pretty big coincidence, Shiori did not leave the house often. Kazuhiko did the bulk of the shopping, she only left when she had a specific errand, and in this case it was the Kris Kringle event. Kazuki had been an intentional meet-up, but this was the first time she had ran into a classmate outside of school by chance. She didn't spend enough time outside of the Kitogawa estate prior to moving out, but now she was slowly being drawn out for this or that, "It certainly isn't an ideal place to be, in my humble opinion. Malls are certainly noisy, but I'm here for... Shiori's eyes averted for a second, darting as she tried to settle on what to call it. It wasn't personal, she had no personal connections with Kazuki, Business, I suppose you could call it.

"More or less. So you find it ridiculous as well?"

This earned an exhausted sigh, "I was given the task of finding something for one Miyamoto, Kazuki. It couldn't be any more ridiculous than that. Though the notion of giving a random classmate a gift is strange in itself. It's not like we are all friends because we share a class." Shiori stated bluntly, but in more of a matter-of-fact manner than a rude one. To Shiori, this was fact, it made no sense to give gifts to someone that you had no meaningful relationship. Hell, if it was business-related at least, she would understand, but she never once interacted with Kazuki before the gift exchange results were delivered. It was nonsense that brought her nothing but drama and a bad taste in her mouth.

"Email is preferable. I do like to look over things before submission and I'm sure it would be easier for someone in your position. Save paper while we're at it."

Nodding her head, Shiori retrieved her phone from a small purse she held, "I prefer email as well, documents can be lost or ruined in a number of ways, email is more reliable. I don't blame you for checking one's work, my partner was useless." It didn't insult Shiori to know that Devone would look over it, she would be more concerned if the girl simply turned in the work without any suspicion. People...were cruel. Her own mother made sure that she understood that from a very young age.

"Since we're both here and shopping, allow me to show my gratitude for your efforts. Starting with those shoes, perhaps?"

So Devone's offer to reward her in some way earned a quirk of her brow. It wasn't necessary, but she wasn't going to turn down the offer to accompany her. A gift on the other hand... Shiori did not plan to accept. The heiress still had access to her family's money despite moving out of the family home. I don't need a gift, I was just trying to be nice... was that unclear? I mean I'm not exactly the best at saying what I mean, so perhaps something was lost in translation. Besides, who knows, perhaps she would find something for the people she had in mind other than Kazuki. She was making friends, as such, she had some gifts to buy for those individuals as well, even if they couldn't get her anything in return. In fact, receiving nothing in return was favored, she felt more comfortable giving gifts than receiving them.

"There's a really cute and popular brand here. I'm sure you'll find something to go with your current outfit. I know we aren't here to shop for ourselves but we can't go far like that. We'll walk around and browse as much as we want after. "

There was no way for Shiori to deduce that she was being tested, but it kind of benefited the Kitogawa heiress to be the way that she was, at least where Devone was concerned. Shiori did not feel comfortable accepting gifts, so her classmate was not going to be pleased with the outcome of their trip for shoes. While Shiori did not possess money that she had earned with her own two hands, she preferred not to take from others. Her parents instilled within her from early childhood that being greedy while having so much already was not becoming.

"Let's go, I know the way."

With that in mind, Shiori followed along, she did need to change her shoes after all. She chose them with not having a lot of walking in mind, she never planned to still be at the mall. In Shiori's gameplan, she would have been there no longer than it would take to walk to a shop Kazuki liked, checkout, and then she could be home. It did not go as planned, that was evident by her throbbing feet. Running in heels was never a good idea, but walking barefoot in the store was disgusting. The floors were surely not adequately cleaned given the daily foot traffic. She was above it,and thus she accepted the discomfort. Looking around the store, she deduced that she and Devone at least had very similar taste in footwear. While she had no intention of letting her classmate buy her anything, she genuinely gave the sandals a look.

"How about this pair? It's violet, comfortable, and goes well with a sundress."

She had to agree. Sandals were very comfortable, and they were a cute, simple alternative to her pinchy heels. Writing off the fact that no one interrupted the two of them to the expensive brands they already wore, or that they were recognized by the ladies working there, Shiori didn't feel uncomfortable that Devone plucked up one of the displays, as she was doing the same. The heiress was not accustomed to the word 'no' or others questioning her during her shopping. Either they knew who she was or they could at least sense she was an elite of Japan by how she held herself, how she dressed.

"What do you think? We could keep looking.."

This was favorable, her mother often advised to look at three items before purchasing to ensure you aren't being too hasty and do not overspend. After looking, Shiori waved over one of the women working the floor, asking fo the first pair that Devone had pointed out, and a pair of simple suede flats. It wasn't very sensible giving the weather was growing colder, but it wasn't like she spent much time outdoors. She would hail another taxi, she seldom walked anywhere. Retrieving her card tied to her trust fund, Shiori paid for her own shoes, "No offense intended toward your genorosity, Kim-san. I prefer to buy my own things, it's nothing personal. Your gratitude is enough." she explained. Switching into the sandals to honor Devone's suggestion, she stood, "Now shall we get the dreadful responsibility the school has given us over with?" Shiori inquired, smiling a bit. A gold digger Devone would not find here. I've...never gone shopping like this with another girl before... It's kind of fun.

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With her eyes closed and finally on the train, Yuuki tried to reset her mind. Rocco Murray was not the first guy to hit on her, it happened a lot on the train to school and there were several pranks where boys were put up to approach her by their friends due to her reputation for being cold and robotic. It was a lot easier when people assumed that she didn't have emotions, but at least at school, she knew that reputation was slowly fading and would only continue to do so the longer that she spent time around guys like Sora and Rocco. It was smartest to avoid the two of them altogether... they were distractions and had turned her entire world upside down. They were a reminder of a time in her life she preferred to forget. A reminder of freedom, when she lived for herself.

"To set the record straight? I wasn't joking. You're going to turn heads, prez."

"You're going to get me in trouble."

What was he even thinking saying stuff like that... The violet haired girl's brows furrowed a bit. He wasn't a stranger on the bus, nor was he particularly a friend, she didn't want friends, but he was in that complicated zone, a limbo of sorts. She didn't know what to call this boy, but he was constantly putting a wedge in her expectations for a quiet and uneventful high school career. As if I would believe that. I am plain, all the other girls at Airdalen maybe... Yuuki noted to herself, regarding girls like Shiori, Kaori, and Cassiopeia almost immediately when the thought of head-turning girls came to mind. ...Girls like that...

"Need anything from your bag first?"

It wasn't until Rocco asked if she wanted anything from her bag that Yuuki jolted back to reality, Just my water bottle." She replied after a second of thought. Yuuki hadn't packed anything she felt she wouldn't need, she wasn't the high maintenance type. What would she need for such a short trip? Her apartment was pretty minimalist, she didn't have guests over and decoration seemed fairly unnecessary to her, especially when she was the only person that would see it, I really only have my clothes, water bottle, a bit of money, and the lip gloss in there anyway... It was a trip to her hometown, not a trip to Aspen.

Pressing her lips together when he joined her, Yuuki took in a quiet breath through her nose. Especially when he was close, their brief history told her to be cautious. He was always doing inappropriate things, and while they were in public, only a few seats had a view of their own. However, when he neglected to close the distance, Yuuki breathed a little easier. It was unexpected, but a welcome reprieve, as the situation was giving her enough anxiety.

"I don't ordinarily dress like this but these are my own clothes."

He answered her question, but his words made her pause for a second. Did she imply she believed he had borrowed them or worse, stolen them off of someone? As bad as it sounded, she could almost imagine the latter actually happening, and she had to press her fist to her lips to stifle a laugh at the mental imagery that scenario bestowed upon her brain.

"Do you want me to get changed? I might have packed a heavy metal shirt and leather jacket..."

Withdrawing her hand, Yuuki turned her head to meet his gaze, "That... isn't necessary. Though she did imagine the leather and band shirt would suit his personality better, it wasn't a look that she found appealing. Yuuki was never a sucker for the bad boy aesthetic, and it was made apparent by her flat tone. She quirked a brow as she tried to imagine how her parents would react to something like that. She never really gave it any thought, she'd never really given boys much thought. Would her parents have a heart attack? They hadn't discussed boys at all... Yuuki had completely written them off years ago, "Though I doubt it matters. They both already know that I've no intention to date until after college. Yuuki explained matter-of-factly. It was something she had revealed in middle school to her parents, and thus far she had kept to that declaration by the letter. She hadn't been on a single date, well, aside from the dance at Airdalen, but her mindset hadn't changed. Dating made everything complicated, it fogged the minds of those involved and it made grades drop. Studies on this had mixed results, but she remembered what middle school was like, so many of her friends let their grades slip as soon as boys became an interest... she refused to be that person. She couldn't afford to be that person.

Brushing strands of hair behind her ear, Yuuki continued, "They probably won't misunderstand, well, my father certainly won't. My mother on the other hand... tends to get ahead of herself... hence the outfits she sent." Yuuki sighed, revealing that her own attire was her mother's doing. This most certainly was not how the shyer Airdalen student normally chose to dress either. Upon seeing a bible in Rocco's hand, Yuuki tilted her head, "I wouldn't have pegged you for the religious type." She admitted aloud. Given his flirtatious behaviors that often zipped around from girl to girl like a pinball machine, it would have been a huge surprise to her. Yuuki wasn't religious herself, perhaps at one time she prayed, when she was little, but she felt that it did little good. Her father was sick and no amount of praying fixed him. She had long abandoned the notion, relying on science instead.

"What’s on your mind, prez? It’s a long trip so let’s talk. You can vent at me or whatever. I'm not saying that just for me. Let's get it all out in the open before we arrive and see your parents."

A shiver ran up her spine as he made it clear that he knew something was up, a blush soon following. Normally girls might have been relieved that a guy was paying enough attention to know when they were upset, but the particular topic that was bothering her, she did not want to discuss with Rocco, least of all. Sora would have been pretty high up on that list as well. The two were a constant strain on her plans for high school, one always picking up the other's slack as if they were on shifts or something despite their obvious hatred for one another.

"I shall give the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."

This earned a laugh before Yuuki could make any attempt to stop herself, her hand coming up to stifle it a moment too slow, "I-I have my doubts." she replied, her voice still shaking as she fought back a full-blown giggling fit. Yuuki couldn't remember the last time she laughed like that, it wasn't her anymore, she never allowed herself to feel anything too deeply, but the closer they grew to her hometown, the more uneasy she felt, "None of it is easy to talk about." She admitted, turning her gaze to the outside as she had taken the window seat.

Then it hit her, maybe he was prying to see if she was still angry about the fire incident? It would be a lie if she said she wasn't a little ticked still, but it wasn't her main concern, "Belrose-Senpai can handle himself, so this has nothing to do with that, if that's what you mean." Her respect for her senior was evident, but she knew that he had his flock for a reason. He was admired because he was a reliable person, and he wasn't of smaller stature like Sora. While she was angry that he had snapped at someone she admired, she wasn't worried for Aeon the way she had been for Sora, if anything, she was a little embarrassed, "He's my senior partner, a fellow class president, and the captain of Kyūdō, the club I'm in. The way you spoke to him was not ideal for me, especially after I failed to dissolve the hostile atmosphere in his absence at the Kyūdōjo. That's all." Yuuki was simplifying her response, but for the most part, she had been truthful about the incident and why it made her upset. Still, there was one thing she couldn't really ignore, a repetitive theme, "No one takes me seriously as the class president, so it kind of feels like I was voted in as a laugh. Kitogawa-Senpai was the last one out of the fire because she was making sure everyone else was safe, I didn't do anything then either." It had been bothering Yuuki for a while. She had concluded that perhaps it would be better for her to resign as one of the class presidents?

Letting the runner up on the vote take the job, the responsibility seemed like a reasonable idea. She hadn't done anything to prove she deserved the title. Even when Akira stepped in to end the conflict between Saburo and Sora, Akira might have been struck, but he ultimately had saved Sora, and as one of the more athletic freshman, Yuuki had no doubt that Akira could have handled his own if the more eccentric junior named Johnny hadn't stepped in. She couldn't say that for herself, she had no self-defense training, she wasn't athletic in the slightest, she'd never been in a fight before, "The rest doesn't matter." she was referring to her confusion about Rocco and Sora, even her senior, Aeon. She didn't see how discussing that with Rocco would benefit her in any way. Aeon seemed to be just as involved with his studies as she was, he wasn't making any moves to interfere with her life at school, but there had been a few moments where she could have sworn she felt something toward her senior partner. That was all on her end, she felt she could rip those weeds out before they corrupted the garden easily enough.

Sora and Rocco were another matter entirely. They were persistent, each in their own way. The two boys were equally troubling, also in their individual rights. The only true comfort she found in regards to Sora and Rocco was that she was well aware she wasn't the only girl that either of them was behaving in that manner with. Rocco had gone on a date with Hakuryu, the girl from the gym, and seemed to be doing the same more steadily with Kaori. Sora on the other hand had emerged from the pool the day of the fire soaking wet with one of his fellow seniors as well. She didn't have to face anyone seriously, didn't have to call the dance or even this trip for what they were.

Denial was much easier, because these intricate webs, these different colored strings were already in knots. At this point, things were already too complicated and Yuuki didn't have enough emotional bandwidth to open her heart to anyone. It was too risky. Her friends back home abandoned her as soon as she became this sad, painfully devoted daughter, why wouldn't a boy? High school was supposed to be fun, carefree, not a time to take on someone else's damage, "That bible might do you some good though. Reading on one hand and moral redemption on the other." Yuuki jabbed, a little more lightheartedly than she would have at school. It was mostly to change the subject, wanting to push the conversation as far away from what she was feeling as possible. Feelings were messy and she couldn't imagine a scenario where someone didn't get hurt in this mess that was brewing between the students at Airdalen. Her guard was up for a reason, she didn't want to be the one that got hurt. By anyone. She didn't trust something as fickle as love and high school crushes. They changed like the weather, so she refused to listen to a single sign that the ignorant organ in her chest dared to give.

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"Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!" The people near Kazuki starts to look at him as if he is an escaped patient from a psych ward or someone who is high with powder. Well, he is actually a bit of both due to a different reason.

He eventually settles the lunatic humor inside of him. This is really interesting. Well, she did ask what he wanted and he is the kind who never considers anyone except his selfishness. There is an exception but this girl is surely not that person. Adding to that, there are no specifics that his gift can just be an object or he can't get it now. This is what I want now. He licks his lips like how a wolf enjoys the taste of a wonderful meal.

"Time for the hunt." His mental countdown finally ends. It is his consideration by giving Miss Shorty Pants a headstart. But there is no way he will let her go until he is completely satisfied. Just like that, he begins his search for his interesting new toy. He did eventually find her and he should praise her for being a good hider. Well, her height must have contributed. There is a hiccup in his fun though. Someone is with her.

"There you are." He greets Shiori behind. "Miss Shorty Pants." He taps his lips playfully. "And you." His tone quickly changes from teasing to deadpan while his eyes reflect a dangerous glint. "It is rude to interrupt a date." He grabs Shiori's wrist and pulls her closer to him and within the one fluid motion, he places a kiss at the back of her hand. All of that without breaking eye contact with the witch Devone. "Well, you are rude." He greatly dislikes this woman not only because she harmed Fuyuki but also because she reminded him how his day started crappy. "Now. Shoo." He does the gesture with his free hand as if shooing a disgusting corpse fly. After all, he wants to start his fun distraction, this sweet dream should give him the high he needs.

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Notoriety + 1 Devone

A jolt of electricity ran through her entire form as she heard a familiar, completely unwelcome voice. Had she not ran fast enough? Far enough? Surely he would have grown bored? Given up? She was being paranoid, right?

Nope. One quick look over her shoulder confirmed that one Miyamoto Kazuki had effectively tracked her down. While she wasn’t one for cursing, given her proper upbringing, Shiori was internally screaming all sorts of childish alternatives in her head. As memories of what happened flooded through her brain, Shiori’s form tensed. Instinct told her to run yet again, though now that she had already done so, the surprise factor was gone. She likely wouldn’t get as far a second time, “Persistent.” Is all Shiori managed to get out. It was an observation, neither a compliment or insult. She never imagined she would have a guy like Kazuki taking time out of their day to track her down, “Though I have no idea wh- D-DATE!?” It began as a mumbled statement to herself, but the last word was all but screamed as Kazuki snatched her from her spot, physically putting a distance between herself and Devone. Is that what he thought was happening!?

Regrets about not being more athletic came washing over her, but given their sheer difference in size, Shiori doubted it would have done much to aid her in resistance even if she had been. His lips on her skin made her eyes widen, attempting to snatch her hand away from his own. Porcelain cheeks erupted into a shade of crimson, but her signature sharp as knives behavior soon followed, “Were you dropped on your head as a child!?” Shiori snapped at him incredulously. Even with people she wished to be friends with, the small senior’s hurtful coping mechanism often reared it’s ugly head making her appear quite bitchy and unapproachable when things became too affectionate too fast. Her embarrassment often detrimental to all involved.

While she wasn’t entirely sure about the dynamics between Kazuki and Devone, she did know he had some kind of relationship with the girl that Devone struck. The same one that Shiori herself had not been fond of, and had informed Devone about moments prior to the incident. It wasn’t wise to let Kazuki ever learn of her involvement given his unpredictability, or to get close to him in any regard, even without that fact. He was a known playboy, one that had attended the Halloween dance with her cousin, “I wouldn’t be on a date with someone that speaks to a friend of mine as if they were a plague rat... or that has been involved with my cousin.” Shiori spoke in a matter-of-fact fashion.

Just the fact that he had stolen her first kiss was jarring enough, put her in the most stubborn mood that she had ever been in. She remembered the first boy that tried to kiss her... Kaito... maybe she should have let him after all? It would have been better than her first kiss going to a womanizer like Kazuki, right?

Amethyst eyes glared up at him, despite the heat that lingered on her cheeks. She wasn’t aware of just how ‘involved’ Kazuki had been with her cousin, Tsukiko, or she definitely would have been even worse toward him. Ironically, they both had done something that would enrage the other if it were to slip out, “I can get you another date with Tsukiko instead. You would enjoy that more, right?” The small senior didn’t even give him time to answer, assuming his response, wanting to discard him like spam mail.

With her mind made up, Shiori sighed, putting her free hand in her pocket to retrieve her phone, not aware of the situation her cousin had found herself in and that she was a bit... preoccupied. She began to text the other girl rather skillfully with her one thumb, trying to shut down the entire ‘date’ situation before Kazuki could remove her from Devone. Despite her reputation as Ursula, Shiori found that she quite enjoyed the other girl’s company, “Besides, I think you’ve already cost me enough today, Miyamoto.” She addressed him directly, but it was much different to how she normally addressed her equals at school. She didn’t even stammer as she referred to him without an honorific and didn’t attempt to correct herself. She called him that plenty inside of her head, but for the first time she directly addressed him without any of the respect she normally awarded others.

Despite her better judgement, she wasn’t behaving the way that the Kitogawa heiress should behave outside of school, she was being rude, insulting even. It was her default, but normally she took better care not to show her true colors when reporters or a random with a phone could be lurking around any corner, “I’m not the type of person to go on dates, for obvious reasons. I bite, and who knows, I might have rabies.” now she was just being contrary, but he had stolen her first kiss and as a hopeless romantic, it had been a huge assault to her idealistic nature. While she wasn’t the easiest to get along with, she still had hopes and dreams for what her first kiss might be, none of which had involved Kazuki. Or a mall full of people witnessing the event, “You can get out now.” She gestured with her thumb toward the exit of the store they were in within the mall. Normally she wouldn’t have stood up to someone that towered over her so well, or that had his reputation so strongly, but she wasn’t thinking about consequences. She was upset, angry, and she was saying everything on her mind regardless of how it would affect her later. Crossing a wild card like Kazuki was something she always tried to avoid ever since learning of his reputation, but caution had been effectively been thrown to the wind. Was it a good idea? Probably not, but in the moment she was emboldened to chew him out for ruining her perfect image of what a first kiss should be.

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"We're on the edge right now,
I wish that I could say I'm proud,
I'm sorry that I let you down,
All these voices in my head get loud,
I wish that I could shut them out,
I'm sorry that I let you down."

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█It was an energetic day. That is the most generous description Ryou can give. Hikaru and Trixie thoroughly made sure that his full attention shall only be theirs. There was no way he disliked it. But, it made him realized that he is getting too tall for those Aquarium rides. There was nothing he could do about it. He sighed at his aimless thoughts and looked at his brother and cousin who were enjoying a sea animal puppet show.

Ryou decided to stay under a nearby tree out of people's eyes. He had enough attention from the mothers and girls. They were clearly annoying but he ignored it to the best of his ability. He did not want to sour the day for the children. At the very least, he was able to garner a reprieve even if it was just for a short while. He was not tired physically but it would have been different if she was here. It would have been a perfect family day.

Is that why it feels useless? Ryou looked at his hand as he recalled the warmth and passion. He then closed his hand and squeezed it with cold judgment. Soon. His eyes grew clouded as it showed him a scene that is heavily imprinted in his very existence. It constantly returns him to that time that shackled him by his own choosing.

"Nii-chan!" Hikaru ran towards Ryou who finally relieved the pressure from his hand. The cloudy silver eyes changed into that of sterling silver in clarity. "It was so fun!" A bright and innocent smile made him set aside that crippling sensation. "That's good to hear." He gently patted his little brother's head. "It was!!! Can we go back here again?" This time Trixie tugged on his hand with her expression that is the definition of a puppy's eyes. "Of course."

The two children happily jumped for joy. Ryou's face softened as he watched Hikaru and Trixie clearly feeling happiness from his curt agreement. "We should go. It is almost time for lunch." He reached out his hands for the two to hold onto which they did without qualms. "Ryou-nii, can we eat at the KaFoffers?" This statement was seconded by Hikaru. "I want to eat there too Nii-chan! Please?" He cannot refuse them. "Okay." He checked on his phone where is the nearest branch and found one at the nearby mall. Soon, they were on their way.

xxxxxxxx"No offense taken." Devone replied plainly, closing her purse and waiting for Shiori as she wrapped up her purchases and changed into more comfortable shoes, the ones she picked for her. "Now shall we get the dreadful responsibility the school has given us over with?" The girl smiled, Devone smiling back. She was confused, thoroughly in fact but it looked like the senior president was enjoying herself. "Where to start?" Devone asked with a hint of sarcasm, to add to the dreadfulness of it all. She tapped her own cheek as she looked about for an idea to hit her. "It's a shame your Kris Kringle is--- speak of the devil."

xxxxKazuki Miyamoto appeared, attempting to sweep Shiori up and away. "And you." Devone raised a brow as he talked to her in the middle of making her fellow female classmate noticeably uncomfortable. "It is rude to interrupt a date." Now, Devone didn't know much about Kazuki or Shiori's personal matters but she was very skeptical. "Well, you are rude.""Now. Shoo." His eyes never left hers, glaring as they did despite holding Shiori close like a protective lover. "What an observation. Slow, aren't you?" Devone retorted, taking in stride that she can be indeed rude. She then chuckled, covering her mouth politely unable to refrain. It was just too amusing how the so-called player was actually refusing to get involved with a girl. After all, he had little discipline or self-control. She wouldn't be surprised if he had STDs. "Haha, how charming. It looks like I've hit the jackpot." she winked at Shiori, seeing as she was now immune to him and they did share that little secret about how his anger came to be.

xxxxShiori was most certainly not pleased, retaliating his every advance syllable by syllable. She'd never witnessed the sensible school president so flustered and ill-mannered. “I wouldn’t be on a date with someone that speaks to a friend of mine as if they were a plague rat... or that has been involved with my cousin.” Devone was taken aback, her eyes looking away just a bit as she wondered if she heard correctly. It sounded like Shiori had called her a 'friend' and defended her. “I can get you another date with Tsukiko instead. You would enjoy that more, right?” Devone wasn't familiar with that name so it likely was not a senior student. Although it wouldn't be hard to find a replacement girl for a street rat like Kazuki anyway, the thought earning yet another chuckle. “You can get out now.” Shiori was not kidding around, her mood obviously soured from this hiccup in their shopping time.

xxxx"Now, now, Mi-ya-mo-to-san~" Devone kept the honorific but said his name as if talking to a child. "I think you should quit now while you're ahead." She leaned the side of her face against her hand and smirked. "She is rejecting you, just in case you didn't know. Any further and it'll be assault, police, and a, "Don't let him get away with this, officer." from me." Her eyes narrowed and her smirk grew a little wider. It would be a piece of cake. They were in public. Sometimes being a woman felt powerful. "Are we clear?" She smacked her purse against the palm of her hand to show her resolve then pointed it at him, returning the dangerous look in his eyes with her own pair of red pools.

Notoriety + 1 Kazuki

---

"Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!" This is certainly a funny day. Instead of being offended or displaying outright concern for his own wellbeing. Kazuki cannot help but find these girls, really.... really... "You two can find employment as a comedic duo." He manages to settle his laughter again. He tightens his grip on Shiori's wrist. "Miss Sea B*tch Obaa-San seems to misunderstand me." His smile is truly symbolic of his hedonistic trait. "When did I ever care about that?" True to that, he has many encounters with the law and he never backs down from them.

The reason why Kazuki avoids the publication of his many run-ins with the law is another story. But, it is clear to everyone in the public who sees them that he is not affected and finds his situation hilarious than anything else. He is clearly not taking the two girls seriously and that is nothing new from him. Actually, that is something to be expected from him. "Well, I look forward to it." He looks at Shiori with a glint in his golden eyes resembling a predator sinking its teeth to the flesh. "Call them. The chase will excite me more. But you are coming with me either way. Miss Pipsqueak."

Right now, Kazuki's devil-may-care personality is at its peak. He needs a distraction and whether it leads him into a deeper hole of chaos, like being in jail or whatever. It will be a good thing for him in his opinion. The adrenaline of it all will keep his mind wandering to seemingly pointless matters. "As for rabies, let's go mad together then. After all, we already shared saliva." He licks his lips delectably and instead of a clear course of action dragging Shiori. He easily scoops the shorter girl and throws him over his shoulder like a sack of rotation. "Hey everyone! I am kidnapping this girl for a date! Call the police okay?" He shouts in the middle of the mall.

Kazuki clearly shows no fear and is having so much fun before casting a glance towards Devone. The hunter's glee swiftly changes into that of an animal giving a final warning before it pounces for the killing bite. "You plague rat as described by your friend here." He points at her with his middle finger. "Go f*ck yourself since that is the only way you can ever get laid by anyone seriously."

It is clear Kazuki hates Devone that if he is not having fun with Shiori. He will... On second thought, "This will be fun." His eyes start to gleam in devious delight as his gaze looks far beyond Devone. "Why not get HIM involved? He is your dog isn't her?" It is hard not to notice the guy with his features. He shrugs his shoulders "Then again, you probably can't handle that right, plague rat b*tch?" He then starts to walk away with Shiori in tow while making sure that the small girl does not get away from his hold. "Now, let's finish this date." This time he smiles happily like a child with a new toy towards Shiori as he continues to walk away.

---

Notoriety + 1 Devone

"Haha, how charming. It looks like I've hit the jackpot."


If Kazuki was a jackpot… it would be one of misfortune rather than luck in her opinion, which she could tell her company would agree on. Smiling back at Devone, Shiori pressed her lips together to hold back her laughter. They were still in public and Kazuki attracted enough attention on his own. She didn’t want to draw in any additional sets of eyes on the three of them. The onlookers were growing alarmingly high as it stood, “I would toss that ticket in the trash, I can’t imagine anyone other than Tsukiko that would cash that in.” Shiori added, teeth pressing into her lower lip to contain her amusement. It was the first time that someone had joined her in one of her verbal assaults. It… was actually kind of nice to have an ally.

"Now, now, Mi-ya-mo-to-san~"

Devone coming to her aid was surprisingly… nice. They shared similar misunderstandings regarding their outward personalities, especially at school, that was becoming clearer. Devone could have easily left her to deal with Kazuki on her own, and yet she stayed. Violet eyes lit up a bit, touched by her classmate’s choice to stand by her and come to her defense.

“I think you should quit now while you're ahead.” “She is rejecting you, just in case you didn't know. Any further and it'll be assault, police, and a, "Don't let him get away with this, officer." from me." "Are we clear?"

However true shock claimed Shiori’s expression when Devone mentioned police. The cameras would support their claim, and she was incredibly touched. Until now she had felt so incredibly alone, but Devone… Rhys… even Aeon had come to her aid when she truly needed a helping hand. Perhaps… extending her heart and lowering her guard was a step in the right direction after all, “Kim-San…” Shiori whispered under her breath without even realizing it. The conviction in Devone’s eyes had Shiori convinced that she meant every word that she’d threatened Kazuki with. Despite her current situation, in Kazuki’s grasp, she felt incredibly lucky to have bumped into Devone. Sure… it would take some work, a lot of work, but it felt like she was witnessing the start of her first female friendship.

"Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!" "You two can find employment as a comedic duo."

And the heartwarming moment was ruined by the hellion of Airdalen Acamdey’s voice bellowing in laughter, of course. This made the raven haired heiress sigh, a weary expression crossing her features as she gathered up the energy to resist, pulling hard on her claimed wrist just as he seemed to have decided to tighten his grip. It didn’t budge, the girl fragile like a porcelain doll, “No one cares about your opinion. Laugh all you want.” She rolled her eyes up at him, fuming, her lips curling into a pout as she failed to pry herself free from him.

"Miss Sea B*tch Obaa-San seems to misunderstand me." "When did I ever care about that?" "Well, I look forward to it."

Blinking as he referred to Devone in such a derogatory way, Shiori used her free hand to do something surprising. Instead of remaining on the defense she used it to shove at his chest, even to pound her fist against it, “This is why I don’t like you at all! You’re so vulgar!” She snapped, raising her voice this time. He had gone too far. Regardless of Devone’s moniker as Ursula, calling her a… it was deplorable. Low grade name calling was one thing, but he had crossed the line by using a demeaning word like that to address her, “A man wouldn’t speak to a woman that way. Calling her Ursula would be one thing, but you went out of your way to be utterly vile. I hate guys like you!” Her glare had become a violent storm of emotion, staring straight into his predatory eyes with concentrated disdain.

"Call them. The chase will excite me more. But you are coming with me either way. Miss Pipsqueak."

Despite her attempts to pummel him with her fists, Shiori had little choice in where she went. Height difference as well as their individual builds all worked against her. She didn’t weigh anything in comparison! Hitting him, thrashing, and even kicking, Shiori found herself quite literally snatched up in the middle of the mall.

"As for rabies, let's go mad together then. After all, we already shared saliva."

“D-Don’t say that like I even had a say in it! You attacked me!” She snapped at him, flush returning to her face as that was not something she wanted to become public knowledge. Mistletoe and a sudden kiss… it had simultaneously flustered the icy class president and broken her secretly hopeless romantic little heart all at once. It was not at all how she imagined her first kiss going!

"Hey everyone! I am kidnapping this girl for a date! Call the police okay?"

“Are you a psychopath!?” Shiori snapped louder than she even thought possible of herself. The attention he was drawing, especially given her family reputation was not good for her. Even if someone called the police, while the public would likely side with the Kitogawa heiress given her pristine history… her mother would be a different story, she would be forced to move back to the Kitogawa family estate… which was not an option. Going backwards… she couldn’t let that happen, “Just put me down! I don’t want to go on a date with you! You idiot!”

"You plague rat as described by your friend here." "Go f*ck yourself since that is the only way you can ever get laid by anyone seriously."

Pounding her fist into Kazuki’s back as he insulted Devone further, Shiori was trembling with rage. Never before had anyone handled her so carelessly and with such groundless familiarity aside from her school bully Takumi, Kyo.

"This will be fun." "Why not get HIM involved? He is your dog isn't he?""Then again, you probably can't handle that right, plague rat b*tch?"

Who was Kazuki talking about? There were a few guesses in Shiori’ ahead, but she hadn’t really paid a lot of attention to Devone’s comings and goings at school. She had been swept away by her own interactions for once, Akira, Rhys, Cassiopeia, Sora and Aeon… bit by bit she felt a little closer to them all. It wasn’t a lot of progress especially with Cassiopeia and Aeon, but her world was expanding slowly but surely. Devone was always a passing curiosity of hers, but she had just recently made it beyond Shiori’s walls. She… earned a spot as one of the people she decided she cared about. That she would make an effort toward.

"Now, let's finish this date."

Was he serious!? Did he truly believe they could have any fun after what occurred between them to this point? If anything she was his hostage not a date! How could he smile like that after every cruel thing she had said? If he had known her role in Devone smacking that girl… would he still smile at her like that? Certainly not… but she didn’t want to find out how things would change when he was taking her further and further away from Devone, “We weren’t even on a date to begin with! I was just trying to buy you your present for the Kris Kringle event at school!” She protested. It was almost, almost admirable how insults seemed to roll off him as if he were impervious to being upset by the opinions of others. She… wasn’t like that at all. Perhaps it was a good thing to not have Kazuki’s level of self assurance… but she felt that having a teaspoon of his devil-may-care point of view wouldn’t be the worst. At least she wouldn’t be working herself up into a frenzy over the way others perceived her all the time. Still… it was Miyamoto, Kazuki… the first kiss thief!

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"My, oh my." Devone thought aloud as Kazuki fled the scene with Shiori thrown over his shoulder like a Santa's sack. Well, it was nearly Christmas and it appeared he claimed Shiori as his gift. "Whatever shall I do?" She folded her arms, her purse tapping a shoulder. It was clear as day Miyamoto-san detested her with all his heart. How precious Fuyuki must be. . .

The dark-haired senior cast a casual glance over at Ryou hand in hand with a pair of children.

"Why not get HIM involved? He is your dog isn't he?"

Devone was many things... 'Ursula', the school loanshark, and maybe even every other insult like, 'Miss Sea B*tch Obaa-San' and 'plague rat' that had left that street urchin's lips. She'd heard it all that it didn't leave a dent in her feelings anymore. But a babysitter she was not nor did she have any desire to pry Ryou away from his own babysitting. That would be irresponsible now, wouldn't it?

Kazuki saved her some trouble, alerting the authorities himself that he was 'kidnapping for a date.' She watched as the police and proper authorities took off after him, only one staying behind to hear her account. With a honey-sweet voice, she told him everything he wanted to know and everything he wanted to hear.

"No, officer. I don't know why he would do such a thing but he's always been troubled."
"Well, you know how it can be... Sometimes, boys just can't take a hint."
"He's nothing at all like you, officer. What is your name?"
"I'm so pleased they have men like you in the force. It makes me feel safe in situations like these."

When all was said and done, Devone sighed left on her lonesome, and fidgeted with the moon pendant that dangled down her neck. Somehow, it felt like it may choke her.

"Calling her Ursula would be one thing, but you went out of your way to be utterly vile."

The class president's words echoed in her head. Why did she care so much about what she was called? Why now? Devone scrolled through her mobile phone, her finger slowing down as it located the assignment Shiori had completed on her behalf. The seconds ticked away slowly. She was starting to feel guilty, wasn't she? That she didn't do more like chase after in pursuit?

Even if I wanted to, I'm wearing prada.

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Notoriety + 1 Kazuki