Waiting For Your love

He had always been there.

But he never knew.

And I had always been...waiting for his love...

The assortment of orange, red and yellow leaves fell from the trees by the sidewalk. , a third year of the prestigious Hyotei Gakuen, was strolling to school, enjoying the peaceful autumn breeze.

She sighed inwardly, she wasn't feeling sad or down or anything. She just well... she just felt like sighing. the school clock was becoming visible now and could see that she was running late.

Jirou-san wasn't anywhere in sight.

On most days, Jirou would come by around this time, rushing along by her, grinning widely, greeting " !" excitedly that it got her whole heart thumping.

Maybe he's sick?

liked Jirou's sheepish smile, his cheerful nature, his innocent sleeping face...

But most importantly, she liked him. Not just as a mere friend, but something else, something much more.

The wind didn’t seem to get any stronger, but the leaves on the trees rustled harder. snapped out of her thoughts and paced forwards.

Someone had been right behind her.

+++

The school bell marked the end of the lesson. sat by the window of the home economics room, gazing out. The tennis courts were bustling with energy. But in 's eyes, there was only Jirou. He was holding the racquet, smiling, grinning, and laughing. The boy then stopped and looked back at the girl by the window.

" !" He greeted cheerfully, waving his hands vigorously.

's lips curved upwards, and waved back.

“Jirou,” Atobe Keigo called, “Get back to practice!”

 Jirou pouted and consented gloomily. He had wanted to talk more. was really bright and joyful. Everything seemed cheery when she was around.

She was a very good cook too. Jirou liked her cooking. It was always so appetizing and delicious and yummy.... At times, would come round the club to offer them the fruits of her labor, and he would always be the first to grab her masterpieces.

+++

This day was no different.

" !" Jirou's voice echoed through the room. had been waiting for him.

She sat there, smiling, waving at the caramel-haired boy.

Today’s highlight was butter cookies, and Jirou sat down promptly, helping himself to the star-shaped biscuits, scrutinizing them with utmost interest.

He proceeded to bite each corner with delight, leaving the core and then popping it into his mouth. liked the way he was; so very carefree and relaxed. She admired the way he seemed to enjoy everything in life.

She sat down there for a long time, wishing this could last forever.

"Ooshi yo! !" Jirou said, while pulling his chair closer to , he beamed.

He liked them, the cookies, but all the sweetness couldn't be compared to 's sugary nature.

stepped back, surprised at their closeness. "San...kyuu.. Jirou-san," She mumbled nervously.

“Heh?” Jirou gazed upon the girl’s face, now stained pink. He felt dizzy; countless white fluffy sheep appeared through his thoughts.

He was sleepy again.

He fell forward, lips brushing softly against 's. The touch was gentle and mellow.

Jirou's head landed safely on 's lap. He snuggled, adjusting his head to fit her lap and slept.

gasped, alarmed at their touch, and pressed two fingers against her lips, blushing. A smile flashed across her thin lips, her gaze softened and she stroked Jirou’s hair softly.

“Daisuki… yo… zZzzz…” Jirou uttered in his dreams.

Jirou had been the one that was trailing behind that morning.

Waiting for your love,

And this is not the end…

//Summer. 10th Nov