Data Error
Chapter 5
Am I in love with Renji? thought for the tenth time that morning. She stared at her reflection in the mirror and frowned. The bags under her eyes clearly indicated that she had not slept a wink last night.
Not only did the game Kurobane played make her feel like utmost crap, but she also noticed Rin spending more time at home with her and….She just didn't know what to do. Although, she knew deep down that the woman was a good person, her stubbornness ruled over her because she didn't want to betray her deceased mother. She remembered Renji's words the other day about giving Rin a chance, but she just couldn’t do it. She was pleasant enough during dinner, but that still didn't mean she was okay with this whole ordeal.
dabbed a little bit of foundation under her eyes to make sure the bags were not visible and put her hair into a ponytail. She put on her sports gear and picked up her bag, for she was meeting the tennis team at practice. As she descended the stairs, she frowned as she saw Rin in the kitchen cooking. "Good morning." Rin said with a smile.
was going to ignore her, but she hesitated. "Good morning." She said numbly not looking at her.
"I'm making breakfast, want anything?"
shook head. "No, thank you." She answered truthfully. "I'm not hungry."
"Will you be out late, honey?" asked as he emerged from the living room holding a folded newspaper in his hand.
"I don't know when I'll be back." She answered. "I'll let Bane bring me home."
nodded as walked out of the kitchen. As she opened the front door, she almost screamed in surprise. Then slowly her surprise turned into anger as she realized it was Kurobane who stood at her front door and in his hand was a large tub of ice cream.
"Peace?" He asked, trying to make a sad face.
"That will not make me forgive you for what you did." She snapped.
Kurobane waved the bucket in front of her. "It will lessen my guilt."
closed the door behind her and walked past him. "This time you went too far. I think you did it on purpose and planned it with Saeki."
Kurobane walked after her. "Not exactly planned…" he admitted, "We did discuss…"
"Don't say any more!" shouted. "I can't believe you did that to me."
"I did you a favor!" He yelled back.
shook her head. "No, you didn’t." She said aggravated. "I am more confused now. I don't know what to do. I don't even know my feelings for…"
"You have feelings for Yanagi Renji, ." Kurobane finished for her. "It's obvious on your face." He remarked standing in front of her. He placed his hands on her shoulders and looked at her. "You're not children anymore. It's okay to love one of them."
looked down. "It's just not fair."
"You love Inui too, but in another way." He explained. "Who do you always find yourself talking too when you're upset? Who always calls you? Who..."
"I get your point." She cut him off again. "I get your point." She repeated quietly. "I just didn't think it would end like this."
"What are you going to do now?"
"Nothing."
Kurobane looked surprised. "Eh?"
"I am going to help you guys shape up for your games and will concentrate on my finals for next week." She declared. "I just don't want to think about this right now."
"But…"
"Come on! We're going to be late for practice."
Kurobane let out a sigh of defeat. Shaking his head he tossed the now melting tub of ice cream into the trash and walked with to the bus stop.
~~~
Rikkai Dai
"You're not focused."
Renji looked up as he heard that statement. "I am focused, Genichirou." He answered. Sanada crossed his arms in a challenge. "How long did it take Akaya to do his laps?" he asked on purpose.
"I was paying attention to Masaharu's sit-ups."
Sanada fisted his hand and tapped his jaw lightly. "This is why I know you're not focused." He explained. "On your average days, you can calculate both of their times together."
Renji stood up. "I am focused." He repeated as he walked to the courts.
~~~
Seigaku
"You look disturbed, Inui-senpai." Kaidoh remarked quietly, just for Inui's ears.
Inui was busy jotting notes down as he observed the players. Although he looked like he was concentrating, the frown lines on his face were clearly visible. However, Inui chose not to make news of Kaidoh's comment.
"Senpai."
"It is alright, Kaidoh." Inui answered seriously. "I am just preparing your training schedules." He added as he continued writing in his notebook. "You need not concern yourself about me."
Kaido let out a sigh, "Senpai." He whispered.
~~~
Weeks went by and was still confused as hell. Not only that, but she had managed to screw up every single exam she had so far. "ARGH! I messed up so bad!" yelled aggravated as she walked with Saeki to the club. "I messed up big time."
Saeki looked at her with a smile. "It's alright, -chan." He said happily. "You always do fine." He assured her. Normally even when she complained, she would also be on top of her class. stood in front of him. "I'm serious…" she muttered, "I left the last three problems blank." She admitted smacking her forehead. "Sa-E-Ki!" She cried shaking him.
Saeki let out a sigh as he held both of her wrists. "Simmer down, ." He said wryly. "You're causing a scene." He remarked as he noticed a lot of the students standing around them and watching them curiously. He watched her calm down and she was going to say something when her cell phone rang. She did something that surprised him. She looked at the caller ID and then put it back into her bag, without answering it. "Oh, who.."
"DON'T YOU DARE ASK?!" Her voice thundered as Saeki cowered at her sudden outburst. glared at him, her eyes flashing wildly and she just turned away and stomped off. Saeki let out a breath of relief and gave the students that still stood there watching him a look. What the hell was that about? He thought to himself wryly.
~~~
ran off towards a secluded area. She was a mess. Not only was she confused about the boys, but her father was getting married this weekend. She had been avoiding him again. They had been trying to convince her to go to the boutique to get a dress, but she still hasn’t. Every time she went home, she'd see Rin there and just burst out crying. Worse was that she was avoiding Renji and Inui and her heart ached even more for them. Also, she had finally come to terms with herself, with her heart, and with her surroundings that she was in love with Yanagi Renji.
"Is it safe?"
looked up and saw Kurobane stand there. "I don't bite." She answered softly avoiding his gaze. She looked down where she had folded her hands at her knees and let out a sigh. "I'm a mess, Bane…" she murmured sensitively. "I don’t know what to do."
Kurobane patted her head tenderly, "Shouldn’t you be having this discussion with the person who is worried mostly about you?" he questioned her as he leaned down and looked at her. "He's worried about you." He told her.
"Shut up, Bane." Her voice came out strictly as she stood up. "You have no right to interfere in my life." She gritted her teeth as she started walking away. "Just go away and leave me alone."
Kurobane grabbed her upper arm and held her in place. " , we're all rather tired of this. You've been very bitter and all the members of the team are worried about you." he emphasized, as he shook her lightly. "You even failed your Chemistry exam, which is not like you."
"I don’t' care if I fail!" she said bitterly. "I don't care! No one cares if I fail! All he cares about is that woman in our home! That's all he cares about!" she shouted as she snatched her hand away, "He doesn’t care when I come in and he doesn’t care who I see and what I do." She let out breathlessly; she rubbed her eyes and pushed him aside. "I don’t care…" she repeated hoarsely. "I don’t."
~~~
Weekend
It can't be
It happened
Its official
It's over
's shoulders shook as she stood there numb. It was over. It had happened. She... her father was gone and someone else had him now. She had to share her beloved father with someone else. The wedding ceremony was over. It was a small and simple one. She had been forced to attend and she had worn black. Now, she stood there....feeling alone...feeling hurt....she couldn't even congratulate her father, who looked so happy. The tears started flowing and she took a step back, she needed out and she needed to get out of there now. She turned and walked away, " ...some pictures." Her father stopped her.
stopped. "Please don't ask me for anything else." She said softly with her back to him. "This is all that I can do right now." She added with an aching heart. "Goodbye father." she whispered as she walked out of the room. She had been hateful and despiteful all week; she had not gone to school or replied back to anyone's calls. She knew they were worried, but she just wanted one person right now. That person was the only one she needed and as she walked out....
She saw him
He stood there
He was waiting for her
's tears flowed as she walked towards him. "Renji..." she cried softly when she reached him and ended up hugging him. "Where have you been?" she demanded clutching onto his shirt. "Where have you been when I needed you the most?!" she cried into his shirt, she knew she was babbling, for it was her that was ignoring his calls, not him who wasn’t calling.
He put one hand on her shoulder and used his other hand to wipe her tears away. "You haven't lost your father, ." He consoled her quietly. "He did this partially for you, to be a family again."
moved from and looked away. "Shut up." She choked. "Just shut up!" She repeated, hurt. "I don't want to accept! I will not accept it." She cried softly, as she sunk to the floor, covering her face with her hands. "If I accept, my mother will hate me." She whispered with a tremor in her voice. "She will hate me." She whimpered, rubbing her eyes.
Renji leaned down and patted her head lightly. He knew that right now, talking to her was a waste of time, so he took her hand lightly. "Let's go someplace quiet?" He suggested, helping her stand up. He put a hand on her back and led her to where he wanted to go. The whole time he was quiet as they walked. He glanced at her several times and watched her frail appearance. He had expected an argument from her, but to his surprise, there was none.
They reached an area that was quiet. It was a secluded place in a park. There were tall trees and lots of greenery that anyone could've gotten lost in it. "Sit down." He ordered softly as he helped her sit down. "I'll get us something to drink." He suggested as he stood there, but clutched his hand tightly.
"Stay."
It was one word, but an authoritative one. The tight hand that held onto his was shaking. He nestled beside her, but didn't let go of her hand. He looked at her and then his eyes went to her hand. He realized she was wearing the bracelet he had given her. " ." He said softly, "My data tells me that you're not alright a 100%."
looked at him surprised. "Screw your data, Renji." She said softly. "Why are you calculating now?" she asked, "Data this and data that..." she cried softly. She knew she was emotionally unstable and any small thing would trigger it now, "I hate you.,” She cried, "I hate you, Renji!" She declared as she rubbed her eyes with her arm. "You told me everything will be alright and I believed you." She accused, glaring at him through tear stained eyes.
Renji looked back at her with open eyes. He frowned a bit, and knew what he was going to say will hurt. "Do you not have faith in me?" He asked quietly as he saw her look surprised. He patted her head gently and gave her a serious look, "I say this because I realize whatever I'm telling you are only making you act like a spoiled brat."
Her eyes widened in shock, "S....spoi....spoiled brat?" She whispered with a cough.
Renji.....Why? I....I love you....
"I don't know what hurts more?" She cried softly, "My father getting married or the person I’m in love with telling me that I'm a brat." She admitted, humiliated. She stood up abruptly, letting his hand fall off her head, "Goodbye." She said quietly with a hurt pride. walked away or rather, running was the word. Not one time, did she look back and Renji didn't do anything to stop her.
Renji let out a sigh and leaned against the tree. He closed his eyes and raised his head to the sky, "How long are you going to hide behind that tree, Sadaharu?" He question lightly. Inui didn't look the least embarrassed as he showed himself with his hands in his pockets. "You did not handle that well, Renji."
Renji actually scowled a bit, but then let out a sigh and rubbed a hand through his hair. "I know that." He admitted as he bent his knees and crossed his arms on them. "She's been emotionally unstable and I don't have data on that."
Inui watched his good old friend sit there and let out a sigh. "Renji, she loves you." He said softly as he saw his friend's gaze somewhere else. "Will you let her walk away, just like that?" He said seriously. He saw everything and somehow deep down, he knew she was in love with Renji before she had said it. His pride never allowed him to admit it, but he acknowledged the fact that Renji made her happy. "Even though, you lost to me in singles 3." Inui added, "She still chose you."
"She didn't know we had a match. She was too caught up in her own problems." He added as well. "She is taking this in a very bad way, Sadaharu. I feel she might end up doing something stupid." He admitted as he stood up. "Even Kurobane from Rokkaku called me and told me how concerned he was for her."
"How stupid do you think her action might be, Renji? Do you mean…"
Renji rubbed his jaw as he looked at him. " is very emotional at the moment; she might do something to hurt herself." He said as a matter of fact, "I don't know how far she will go, but we have to watch her."
"Renji." Inui said firmly as he placed a hand on his shoulder. "That's your job now." He stated, looking at his old friend. "She loves you, Renji." He repeated. "You."
~~~
walked into her empty home with an empty heart and an empty soul. Her father was on his honeymoon, but only for the weekend because he didn't want to leave her alone. He had messaged her earlier and told her that he was leaving and that he loved her. As she around the house, she noticed that Rin's things were all over the place. As she felt another set of emotions wanting to burst through, she immediately shook her head and ascended the stairs to her room. Taking off her clothes she decided to shower, for it was the only thing that was going to calm her down now. She turned the shower on full force and allowed the water to slap her, as if trying to force everything out of her mind by force. After vigorous scrubbing and an hour long in there, she finally left the shower.
She went to her bed and her blinking phone caught her attention. Picking it up, she noticed 13 miscalls. It was from her father, Kurobane, and... Renji? She thought getting upset as she threw the phone aside.
I don't want to talk to you, Renji.
I don't...
I don't.
just stood in her room staring at nothing. She was trying to decide what to do now. She just had no direction or feelings in her. As she contemplated sleeping or not, she heard the doorbell ring. She frowned because she did not want to be disturbed and she knew she would accomplish murder if it was any of the boys. She walked out of her room, descended the stairs, and went to the door. She opened it and found, "Kazama-sama." She said surprised as she quickly bowed to the older woman in front of her.
The old woman looked at her with her smile. She was their neighbor for a long time now. In her hands, she was holding a plate. "I brought to you some cookies that my nephew got from America, my dear." She said kindly. "I thought you might want them." She offered holding the plate out to her as stood there watching her.
"T...thank you." she said softly accepting them.
The old lady put a hand on her shoulders. "Go inside my dear and make sure to dry your hair. You will catch a cold being out here with your hair all wet." She advised gently, " , be strong and happy. There are a lot of people that care for you." She added as she turned away, "Good night."
watched her as she left and felt emotional. Turning around, she closed the door and walked into the kitchen when she heard the doorbell again. She probably forgot something, thought as she ran towards it. She opened it and almost succeeded in slamming it shut if the person had not intervened and blocked it with his foot. pushed him and he almost lost his balance, but he caught her wrist and ended up losing his balance and fell forward. He landed on top of her as they both fell to the floor. Surprisingly, the door shut behind them as his foot hit it by accident.
Time froze...
looked at Renji who was on top of her. Her cheeks heated as he looked down at her. However, she was still angry with him. Before anything was said, she pushed him, hard. Renji actually fell backwards and she could've sworn she heard him mutter something as he fell onto his back on the cold floor. covered her mouth and without thinking she crawled towards him, "Renji..." she called out shaking him. "Renji."
He sat up and rubbed a hand through his hair. She heard some bones crack in his back and she winced at the sound. "A...Are you alright?" She asked meekly trying to avoid his gaze. He moved a bit and groaned lightly, "No." He admitted lying back on the floor, "It was a surprise hit; I just need to lie down for a few minutes."
shifted and hesitantly moved his head onto her lap. "I'm sorry." She whispered as she moved her hair out of her eyes. "Renji? Why are you here?" She asked curiously. "I'm mad at you." She stated bluntly, "I'm very mad."
"We were worried, ." He answered with his eyes open. "We were worried that you were going to hurt yourself."
stopped playing with her hair, "WHAT?!" She shouted moving away and making Renji's head fall onto the hard floor. "Did you really think I was that stupid that I would commit suicide?!" She yelled, not caring that Renji was holding onto his head. "I thought you knew me better than that, Yanagi Renji!" She stated placing her hands on her hips. "Are you even listening to me?!" She demanded when she realized that he was still holding onto the back of his head. "Damnit Renji!"
stopped, "Renji...?"
"RENJI!"
~~~
Hours Later
Yanagi Renji woke up to darkness and the sound of deep breathing. The first thing he felt was something soft against him and a blanket on top of him. He frowned and tried to sit up, but the sudden sharp pain in his head stopped him from moving. Did I pass out? He thought surprised. I don't think I've ever passed out, he wearily sighed. He was about to try and sit up again, but with a slower motion than before, but he stopped moving when stirred against him. Actually, stirring was clearly the wrong word. cuddled against him and hugged his arm tightly.
He felt a sweat drop form on the side of his face. He wasn't sure if he was still passed out or not, but clearly the pounding in his head was not going away, so it was no dream. Being in this situation didn't help him to think either. Every time he tried to calculate what to do there seemed to be a data error in his equation and he'd end up with a blank answer. Am I actually starting to wonder if listening to Masaharu talk about girls and what to do was actually a good thing back then? He thought with an ironic mindset. He shook his head as if to clear his confused state of mind and tried to focus on his current predicament.
First of all, he couldn't move his arm, for she was hugging to it like her life depended on it. Second, she was so soundly asleep that he was afraid that he would wake her up. Third, he didn't know how she would react when she woke, and finally he was feeling guilty.
Guilt. The feeling of guilt was not an amusing feeling. He knew he was feeling guilty, but he didn't know why. Sadaharu? No, that is the last thing on my mind right now, he thought. Why would I be thinking of Sadaharu when I'm in this situation? He asked himself wryly as he tried to move again, but every time he moved, she ended up holding tighter onto him. Think Renji! Think! What would make her move? Recollect all the data you have in your mind and calculate.
Calculate
Calculate…
Calculate….
DATA ERROR
"This is going to be a long night." Renji mumbled as he held onto the side of his face.
~~~
Morning
woke up to a feeling of emptiness. She had been so warm last night, but suddenly for it to disappear, depressed her. She stirred when she realized she was not on the comfort of her bed, but somewhere else. She sat up and frowned when she saw that it was the living room she was in. Looking to her side, she could tell that she had not spent the night alone, but someone had been on this couch with her. Why can't I remember anything? She thought annoyed, but suddenly gasped, "Renji?!"
"Yes?"
She gasped again in surprise as she covered her mouth. She turned to see Renji seated at the kitchen table, drinking tea. looked away and blushed, what just happened here? She thought. Did Renji spend the night? All I remember is putting him up on the couch after he blacked out, but did I…. she suddenly stopped thinking. I wanted to rest my eyes for a few minutes and ended up sleeping next to him.
" ?"
"What?" snapped like a grouch that just woke on the wrong side of bed. She was angry because she didn't know how to act right now. She was angry because a guy had spent the night over, alone with her. She was angry because she is a trusting daughter and she would never allow that. She was angry because….
She was going to shout some more, but the doorbell interrupted. looked up and even Renji looked staggered. His eyes went to the clock on the kitchen wall and noticed that it was 7 in the morning. noticed the time as well as she stood up. She walked to him and yanked his arm, "Hide!" She hissed pulling him up and almost causing him to spill the tea.
"What?"
"Hide damnit!" She stressed as she pulled him out of the kitchen. She pushed him towards the stairs, "Just hide." She repeated like she was in pain as she continued pushing him up the stairs.
" …"
"Renji, its 7 o'clock in the morning. Even if we act all innocent, they will not think that way. So save my reputation and go hide!" she pleaded, "Renji, please!" she whispered, "Please!" she repeated holding her hands up in prayer style.
Renji let out a sigh and walked up the stairs. Act innocent? Not like something happened in the first place, he thought to himself as he reluctantly walked up the stair.
An hour later
"Yes." nodded as her neighbor finished her tea. "Thank you for letting me know." said sincerely as they both stood up. She bid her neighbor well and closed the door. She didn't know how Renji was doing because the neighbor had stayed for more than an hour helping her sort some things out in the house. As soon as locked the doors, she dashed up the stairs, taking two steps at a time and looked for Renji. She wasn't surprised that she found him in her room, but what amazed her was that he was asleep on her bed, horizontally. watched him as he slept and smiled. She moved his hair back and kissed his cheek lightly. Her actions did surprise her, but she didn't care right now.
I think I'll go shower, she thought as she moved away from him. She took put her stuff from her closet and went into the bathroom. She stayed there for a while until she felt awake and fresh. Finally after drying her hair, she stepped out and found no one there. Noticing a note on her bed, she picked it up:
<I have practice. I'll check up on you later.>
That's it? No word of apology? No 'I love you' in the end? contemplated as she put the note down. She sat on her bed and thought of the recent events. The fact that father is still married does not change how I feel about everything; she frowned as she recalled the wedding on the previous day. I'm also brainless, I let my feelings get the best of me. I told Renji that I loved him, but now what?
~~~
"You look normal." Saeki remarked as he stood in front of . It had been three weeks since her father got married and her confession to Renji, but nothing has changed. She was still ignoring her father and stepmother, but…
I have not heard from Renji since then.
"Yes." Kurobane added as he crossed his arms. "You’re only half the grouch you were before then." He remarked as gave him a sharp look. Although she was trying to show she was still upset, he knew she seemed better than before. Even Amane started saying puns around her without getting killed in the process. Kurobane put his hand on her shoulder, "Want to go to the ice cream shop? We haven’t had proper desserts in a long time." He remarked watching her in an overprotective manner. No matter what anyone says, Kurobane always thought of her as a little sister.
"I'm inviting myself as well." Saeki joked as he walked along with them.
As they took a path towards their favorite ice cream store, it was when they reached that stopped. Kurobane's eyes trailed her line of vision and saw that she was looking at Inui Sadaharu, he was about to groan, thinking she was going to throw a fit, but to his surprise, smiled and walked in, straight towards him.
"Sadaharu."
Inui looked up from the table he was sitting at. On the table, in front of him, lay different jars of various arrays of colors of liquid. Not only that, but some very suspicious bubbly looking glass jars as well. Both Kurobane and Saeki took a step back as the horrific memories of the beach haunted them this very minute. "I am not planning on making you drink this." Inui assured as he noticed their pale faces, "This is for my Chemistry project."
smiled at him and realized that she had missed him. After her confused feelings and her resolve with her heart that she loved Renji, it dawned on her that she hadn't spent enough time with Sadaharu for some time. "I missed you." She said softly, only for his ears. "I'm sorry, I didn't get the chance to speak to you sooner about…" she began, but then stopped.
Inui nodded, "It is alright." He answered as he motioned for her to sit next to him. He also invited the two guys that where with her as well, "would you like some ice cream?" He offered holding the ones he had in front of them.
Kurobane and Saeki looked at him and then turned to each other. They immediately stood up, "We'll order something." Saeki muttered as he and Kurobane headed to the counter.
giggled, "Did you do that on purpose?" She asked softly, still chuckling. Inui pushed his glasses up and looked at her. "How are you holding up? How is your family?"
hesitated, "My family?" She asked softly, "I really don't know”, She admitted, "I don't spend a lot of time at home." She looked down while drumming her fingers on the table. "I've been spending it with the tennis club mostly and….I only go home when I know they’re busy or not there."
Inui frowned, "Renji?"
's cheeks blushed and he saw her biting her lip, which induced his data calculation that she was embarrassed. "Honestly…err…" she began laughing nervously, "I have not heard from Renji for three weeks." She answered meekly, trying to avoid his gaze.
"You haven't…" He began, but was interrupted when Kurobane and Saeki returned. He knew he couldn't ask anymore since they were there, so he just conversed lightly with them.
When they were done, stood in front of him and. "Thank you, Sadaharu." She said sincerely, "It felt good to talk someone I'm close to, it's been a while since I've done that." she remarked softly as she waved goodbye and left with Kurobane.
Inui watched her go and he wasn't the least bit happy.
~~~
Next Day
Inui Sadaharu found himself on Rikkai Dai grounds as he walked across their school campus. He normally hid between the trees or bushes gathering data, but today was different, for he was a man that had business. He walked straight to the tennis courts and was surprised to find only two members standing there. Fortunately, one of the members was indeed who he had business with. "Renji."
Renji looked behind him as he heard someone call his name. Even Sanada who stood there, looked up in surprise as to what had interrupted their practice. "Sadaharu? My calculations don't fit with you being…." He began, but Inui interrupted him.
"Calculate this, Renji."
<PUNCH>
Renji held his jaw from the floor and looked up in surprise. Even Sanada had a look of surprise on his face, but he then intervened and stood in front of Inui. "Explain yourself." He demanded.
Inui took off his glasses and cleaned them. He directed his gaze at Renji, "I did not lose to you, so she could be ignored by the person she loves." He remarked as he put his glasses back on. He bowed to Sanada without a word of a apology left.
Sanada lowered his cap and looked at Renji, who was still on the floor. "Renji?" He asked as he saw his teammate sit up and rub his bruised jaw lightly. Sanada extended his arm and helped Renji stand up. Renji frowned as he rubbed the dust off his shirt and looked up, he found Sanada looking at him. "Don't say it, Genichirou."
Sanada picked up his gear, "I don't have to say anything." He remarked as he started walking away, "You already know it." He added leaving him standing there alone.
Renji watched as Sanada left. He pulled out his cell phone and looked at it. How many times had he wanted to dial her number and just hear her voice? How many times did he want to visit her, but he found himself retracing his steps. The truth was that now that they have both acknowledged their feelings, he simply didn't know how to act around her. He moved his jaw slightly and felt it crack from Inui's punch.
Now what? He thought wryly as he decided to go home.
~~~
"Yes, I'd love to." agreed on the phone. "Sadaharu, thanks for today, I enjoyed the company." She said sincerely, "I'll meet you tomorrow for some data tennis."
They talked for a bit when heard a knock at her door. She looked up and was surprised to see her father. She apologized to Inui and hung up as she stood up. "Yes, father?" questioned as he walked in.
looked at his daughter and felt a pain in his heart. He knew that what he was going to say to her now was going to drive a bigger wedge between them, but he was a family man and he needed to make some rules and decide what's best for all of them. "Sit down, ." He ordered softly as he took a seat across from her. "I've made a decision and it will affect you as well."
blinked, but remained silent.
"You know that I work from home." He started as he watched her, "However, your stepmother is a busy lady and her commuting back and forth between here and there is rather stressful, so I have made a decision."
was started to get a very unsettling feeling.
"We're moving to Kanagawa, ."
looked at him in shock, then in numbness, and then in anger. "What?" She whispered, "Wh….You did this without consulting me?" she demanded, "What about my school? My friends? I have responsibilities here."
"I've already been to your school and I have to say that I am not impressed with your recent grades." He remarked sternly, "Your papers have been transferred and you're to take some lessons at your new school in order to help you catch up with what they're doing."
"Wait a minute! Wait just a darn minute!" interrupted almost shouting, "You went to my school and did that? Again, you did that without consulting me? Father, why would you do that without telling me?" she said softly, hurt.
Suddenly, it hit her….
"New school?"
"I've already made arrangements to move us to Kanagawa in three weeks, but you will commute to your new school in a week. So starting next week, since your exams are finished, you will be a student at Rikkai Dai Fuzoku." He added, "I've already spoken to the headmaster, Yoshizawa Tsutomu, and he is willing to transfer you, for your past grades are exceptionally remarkable." He explained to her stunned expression. “ , I know you want to stay in your school, but I'm moving because I don't want Rin commuting back and forth, and I will not have you do the same thing when we move as well, that's why I made these arrangements."
stared at her father in utter shock. She was so stunned that she couldn't even say anything. Her whole life was changing and it was happening fast. Decisions were being made without her and she felt really hurt that he had done so without talking to her first.
" …" he said softly.
"Get out." She whispered firmly, "Just…just go" she said, turning her head away.
looked at his daughter, " , don't be like this." He pleaded standing up, "You're very important to me and I want you to be happy." He told her quietly, "Everything that I'm doing is because I want you to be happy." He patted her back, "Please keep that in mind." He added as he walked out of her room.
Happy? How can I be happy when you're sending me to Renji's school? She thought sarcastically as tears rolled down her cheeks, what about Bane, Saeki, and Aoi? Who will watch over them? Who will protect Amane from Bane's punches and kicks, Her heart ached; I need them more than they need me.
~~~
With each day that had passed, 's dreaded senses kept coming to her with a bigger feeling. She was angry. She was upset. She was sad. When she had told the boys, they were shocked. Bane even hugged her and told her to stay, but he didn't push it, for he knew it was harder for her. They had spent all week with her and promised to visit occasionally. They even gave her something from all of them that she cherished. She was surprised though when she told Inui about her news, he didn't even react to it. Sighing to herself, she knew there was no way out of it.
She stood there now, in front of her mirror and staring distastefully at the orange uniform she was wearing. She still felt uneasiness in her heart thinking that she was going to a new school. She didn’t want to be in such a position, at first, she wanted to call Renji, so he could show her around, but she stopped herself from dialing his number.
Renji, why haven't you called me? Don't you love me?
She shook her thoughts away and picked up her bag. Because the school was further, she had to wake up earlier so she could make it on time. She rushed down the stairs and rolled her eyes as she noticed that no one was awake at the household, but she stopped when she saw something on the kitchen table.
Please enjoy the milk and the sandwich I've prepared for you, it's in the fridge and good luck to you on your first day at your new school.
Rin
crumpled the note and headed out, but stopped. She let out a sigh as her guilty conscious began tormenting her. She retraced her steps, took out the milk and sandwich and headed out.
The bus ride was long. She didn't know how she would survive doing this for three weeks till they moved. But although it was long, she had dreaded it when the bus actually stopped, indicating that she was now at her new school. battled with her inner self in order not to pick up her things and skip school. However, with a long defeated sigh, she moved her heavy legs and stepped off the bus and watched as all the students made their way into the school.
Who am I kidding?
I'm nervous.
I don't know anyone here.
I don't know where to go.
And they all look so intimidating.
I don't know what to do…
" -chan?"
felt like heaven had opened its doors from above as she recognized the voice. She turned around excitedly and the look of relief on her face was clearly visible, "Yukimura-san!" she said almost in tears that she finally recognized someone she knew. "Oh, thank god! Someone I know."
"Make that two people."
turned and saw Nioh there as well. He looked curious as he eyed her attired. "Are you switching your loyalty and are now one of us?" He asked out straight. He didn’t know her that well, but for Yukimura to actually call her as well, he was way too nosey for his own good.
" , have you…." Yukimura began, "Did you transfer to our school?" He asked, still quite unsure of the situation. He watched her and felt that something was amiss.
bit her lip and looked down. "Yes." She answered honestly. "I had to transfer because of my stepmother." She said bitterly, avoiding his gaze as she moved her foot nervously with her hands folded behind her back.
Yukimura smiled, "I'm sorry to hear that, but we're happy to have you." he said sincerely as he watched her. "I'm just surprised that Renji didn't tell us."
Nioh looked surprised at the display of emotions her face revealed.
"Renji…" she began, "Renji doesn't know." She said quietly, looking down again. "I'm sorry, it's just…" she began and then stopped, why am I explaining myself? She asked herself. "I…I would appreciate it if you would show me around, if it's alright with you."
Yukimura nodded, "It would be my pleasure, ." He said softly, "Come on, the first thing we need to do is take you to the headmaster, so he can give you the briefing." He explained as he led her to the school building. Nioh just followed quietly, making his way to his own class.
As they walked along the corridors of Rikkai Dai, Yukimura also introduced her around. Most of the members had been from the tennis club and some of his own friends, which included from both sexes. When they left the principal's office, she was relived that he had appointed her in Yukimura's section as well since he had noticed that they were friends.
As they made their way to the classroom, Yukimura stopped. " …"
looked at him with a look of surprise, "Yes." She said softly. She looked at his face and noticed a sense of seriousness in them. "Is…Is something wrong?" she asked hesitantly.
"I'm not sure of what's going on." He told her honestly, "But I know of your relationship with Renji…" he added making her blush, "The fact that Renji doesn't know that you have transferred tells me that you two are not in touch as before." He concluded and the look on 's face did backup his theory. "I bring this up, because Renji's also in the same class as us and I wanted you to be prepared."
Renji's in the same class as us?
panicked for a second, but she composed her features and smiled at him. "Thank you for worrying about me, but I will be alright." She remarked as she made her way into the class.
We'll see how interesting this gets, Yukimura thought with a smile as he followed her.
~~~
was stiff. Who am I kidding? She thought wryly as she tried to concentrate on what the teacher was saying. Her mind was prepared, but her body wasn't, for it was so stiff that she was quivering as well. I didn’t know that seeing Renji would impact me like this, she resumed thinking as she hesitantly looked to her left. Nioh was sitting next to her and winked as he noticed that she was looking at him. let out a sigh; a lot of them were in her class. She could clearly see Sanada, Yagyuu, and Yukimura in the class, all of them listening attentively to the teacher. Renji was seated two rows ahead of her and her heart kept leaping as she looked at his back. The minute she walked into class, she found him in front of her. They both exchanged an awkward hello and then each went back to tehir own.
decided to take some notes, anything was better then staring at him feeling the butterflies in her stomach. The school was not easy, she had missed a lot of things and she needed to catch up. She was so absorbed that she didn't notice everyone standing till she looked up. "Huh?"
"We're done." Nioh answered her fazed look. "What's next for you?"
pulled out her schedule and looked at it. "Chemistry." She answered with a frown. Frankly, she wasn't in the mood for Chemistry at the moment.
"Then you should go with Sanada and Renji." He told her. "They both have that subject now." he pointed to where the two stood by the door.
hesitated, but nodded. "Thank you." She bowed as she picked up her stuff. "Sanada-san…"
Sanada stood by the door and looked at her. "Yes?" He asked and Renji who stood next to him stopped as well.
looked down while biting her lip. "I…I have Chemistry now and…and…Nioh-san told me that you and Renji have it too and I…I…" she stammered insecurely, "I don't know where the class is."
"The lab you mean." Sanada corrected with a nod. "Renji will go with you." he told her. "I am excused from Chemistry this period because I need to attend to something." He explained leaving them both alone.
This is awkward.
This is awkward.
This is way too awkward…
"Let's go, ." Renji ordered softly as he took her books from her hands and led the way. blinked standing there when she realized that he was already walking ahead of her. She started walking, picking up her pace, and followed him until she walked next to him. They were both silent when Renji finally decided to break the silence, "Seiichi told me you transferred to our school because of your stepmother."
scowled at the mention of that. "I don't want to talk about that."
Renji let out a sigh. "I guess I owe you an apology."
stopped. "No." she aid softly. "You don't owe me anything." She remarked firmly, and with a hint of anger in her voice. "You left me at a critical point of my life. I was worried about you a lot, but you've ignored me for more than a month, so honestly you don't owe me anything." She said starting to walk away, but Renji held her wrist. "You told me you loved me out of the blue, how did you expect me to act?"
"Well, not ignoring me would've been a start!" She hissed hatefully. "You also spent the night with me and just picked up and left the next day!"
"Lower your voice." He muttered putting his hand on her mouth, "Do you want people to get the wrong idea?!"
pushed his hand away, "Nothing happened." She mumbled embarrassed, "I…." she began looking at him, "I'm sorry if that surprised you, but you already knew.” She apologized softly, "Plus……" she added not looking at him, "I…." she began, but stopped. "Nothing."
"What did you want to say?"
looked at him, she was going to be blunt now and she knew she will regret it. "I…I know you love me too." She spoke looking at him, "What I don't understand is why it is difficult for you to tell me."
Renji watched her, good question, he thought to himself. Why am I finding it difficult to tell her? Why can't I relax around her? His mind asked. "I…" Renji began as he held her wrist again. " , I do…."
"Yanagi-senpai."
Renji and stopped at the interruption and looked toward the voice that did that. It was Kirihara Akaya that had called Renji. Renji didn’t know whether to be relieved or annoyed at the interruption. He let go of 's wrist and looked at Kirihara, "Akaya?"
"Yukimura-san was looking for -san and I didn't know where to look for her, so I thought you would know." He explained as he looked at Renji, then his eyes fell on , who stood there behind Renji. "Oh, she's here…." He muttered sheepishly as he moved his curls out of his eye.
moved forward, "Yes, Kirihara-kun?"
"Yukimura-san asked me to invite you to lunch with us during the lunch hour so you could meet everyone." He invited, "He was going to ask you himself, but he had to rush with Sanada-san to a meeting."
Before could answer, Renji intervened. "Its fine, Akaya, I will bring down myself when we're done." Renji offered, "We have to go now, we're already late for lab." He explained as he took 's hand and led her away from the spot.
~~~
Lunch at Rikkai Dai cafeteria was in one word chaotic. watched in awe at the different types of students in that area. She was seated with Yukimura, Sanada, Kirihara, and Renji as she watched the student body. It also seemed to her there were sort of groupies going around. She could easily tell who was popular and who was not. The pretty girls were sitting with each other. The soccer team was together. The mathematicians were together and so on… "It's so…" began, "why is it so…." She drummed her fingers on the table. "I don’t know how to ask."
"It's just that when it is lunchtime, people like to eat with the people in their group." Renji explained as he chewed on his sandwich.
Kirihara blinked, "You knew what she was asking?" he asked surprised, he didn’t even understand a single word she had said.
"Akaya." Sanada said sternly. "Behave."
Kirhara blushed slightly as he rubbed a hand through his hair.
Yukimura watched as try to be comfortable around them. He knew she must feel slightly uncomfortable being here with them, especially with Renji around. " -chan, are you joining any of the clubs?"
looked at him and shook her head. "No." she answered softly lowering her gaze.
Kirihara looked at her, "But -senpai, weren't you helping the tennis club at your old school?" he questioned after remembering what she had said; "You could help us as well."
shook her head again, "I'm sorry, but I just don't want to get involved with the tennis club."
Yukimura watched her then returned his gaze to Renji. Not that he could really tell much from Renji's expression, even had no expression on her face as well. "I understand." He remarked with a nod.
placed her half eaten sandwich back on her plate and stood up. "I am going to go and get some things done." She announced as she picked up her books, "Thank you guys for inviting me to lunch." She bowed as she made her way out of the cafeteria.
As left them, Kirihara looked around the table. He wasn't sure if he was allowed to say such a thing, but he said it anyway. " -senpai looked so sad."
Yukimura looked at him, "Yes." He agreed, "I can imagine anyone would be if they had to transfer in the middle of the school year." He added while looking to where she had gone. "Plus, she did say she moved because of her stepmother, so there are a lot of changes going on for her."
"Yanagi-senpai, are you her boyfriend?"
Yukimura smiled while Sanada coughed. Renji continued eating his sandwhich and ignored Kirihara's question.
"Yanagi-senpai…."
"Akaya, if you were ignored the first time. Have some dignity so you're not ignored again." Renji interrupted as he stood up. "I need to go to the library." He said, picking up his own things and leaving them alone.
~~~
"Yo."
froze as she saw an upside down face staring at her. She felt a bit awkward earlier so she decided to go outside for some fresh air and sit under a tree. The day had been quite overwhelming for her and she just needed a breather. However, she wasn't going to get it, not with a mischievous looking face that had silver hair staring at her like that. "Why are you hanging from that tree?"
Nioh turned around and jumped down, landing next to her. "You look depressed." He remarked, completely ignoring her previous question. He crossed his legs and seated himself in front of her. "Is our school not to your liking?"
"I like the school and the standards that it has." She answered quietly as she leaned against the tree. "I just miss my friends."
Nioh smiled and poked her nose, "But you're here with your boy." He added with a mischievous smile, "And that rules all."
glared at him. "Renji and I are not like that."
"Ah ah, but did I say Renji?" he inquired with his eyes gleaming, "I just said boy."
stared at him with disbelief. Her disbelief look slowly turned into annoyance and then she looked at him with a light smile. "You're one of those guys, aren't you? You're the really meddlesome type that manipulates people's minds."
Nioh rubbed his jaw. "Hmm…." He murmured as he lay on his back and crossed his arms under his head. "No one has really described me like that." he admitted as he closed his eyes. "I'll keep you company for a while."
watched him as he slept and let out a sigh. The regulars spoke to her with such an ease. Is it because they think that I'm going out with Renji? She thought. She remembered even back at Rokkaku, when Saeki dated one of the girls, all the guys became overprotective of her as well.
I think I'm a mess. First, I was confused for such a long time between Sadaharu and Renji. Now, that my heart has chosen, I'm even more confused because I don't know how to act and Renji's not being exactly helpful. I need to rephrase that…
I think?
I know I'm a mess.
looked down and her eyes fell on her bracelet. I've been wearing it all this time. Even when he didn’t call me, I still kept wearing it. pulled out her book and frowned. They were much ahead than her and she needed to catch up. She took out a slip of paper and read the note that her teacher had given her. It was the room number of where she was going to have her tutorial. She waited for a while till Nioh woke up and he walked her to the room she was assigned to. When she walked in, she only found one person there… "Jackal-san?"
Jackal looked at her with a light smile. "I am actually taking Yagyuu's place today, he was scheduled to help you with the Math, but he was asked to run an errand."
"It is alright." She said softly, "I'm sorry that you had to stay after school to do this."
Jackal rubbed his head, "Don't worry about that." he assured as he sat down. "I want to make sure to not keep you, for you have a long ride back home to catch." He said as he motioned for her to sit.
They worked for a few hours till Jackal ended the session. "You're good, -chan." He declared, "You just need to practice a bit more on these problems and you'll get the hang of it even more."
nodded and smiled at him, "Thank you." she said sincerely as she picked up her bag and headed out. He walked her to the building and then headed to the tennis club. walked to the main gate and breathed a sigh of relief. The day had been full of events. She walked towards the gate when she saw…. "Bane!" she squealed running in excitement towards him. "Bane!"
Kurobane smiled as she reached him. She grabbed onto him, hugging him hard. Already day one at another school and everyone missed her. "Surprise…" he said softly. "I came to drop you home."
hugged his arm, "You're so sweet." She gushed, making him blush.
~~~
"Interesting" Nioh commented as he walked out of the school gates just as and Kurobane left. Renji and Yagyuu were with him as their gaze also went to the couple that had left. "I didn't know they were seeing each other."
"They're not." Renji answered. "Kurobane looks at as a little sister, nothing more." He explained.
"True.' Nioh agreed, "But for how long, Renji?" Nioh asked with a grin. "I'm sure if he notices that you haven't even made a move then he might take that opportunity."
"You really need to stop prying." Renji remarked as he took a leave and walked out.
Yagyuu didn’t even bother commenting, for he knew it will encourage Nioh. "Let's go, Masharu." Yagyuu ordered as he dragged Nioh. "We have a lot of things to do and tomorrow's an early day."
~~~
As the weeks flew by, found herself getting comfortable at the new school. Although, there were the common awkward moments, she just took it step by step. At least Renji's more relaxed now, she thought.
However, today was a new day. had just finished unpacking the last box and placed her belongings to their place. She was in her new room at their new home. She was a bit surprised that it was bigger than their previous one, but she didn't question it. She was still not speaking properly to anyone in the household. She was grateful that the boys helped her with the moving; even Inui had spent a lot of time with her. They had spoken a lot about previous things and finally she had acknowledged that she loved him as a brother and he had accepted. In fact, their conversation had made them even closer and she hung out more with him, often visiting him at his school.
Feeling satisfied with her newly decorated room, walked out into the corridor and headed downstairs to the kitchen. She found her father and stepmother in there, but not in a position that made her smile. was hugging his wife lovingly while she smiled at him. There was a certain glow to her face and they both looked like nothing was going to break that happiness of theirs. coughed as she entered the kitchen and headed to the fridge, ignoring them. They both broke their huddle and cleared his throat, with a blush. " ?'
pulled out a bottle of milk and looked at him. "Yes?'
blushed again and smiled embarrassingly. "I…" he began, "We have news for you."
looked at him and felt something creep up her soul, don't tell me! Don't give me more news! She thought horrified; I won't be able to handle it. She looked at him with wide eyes, "What…what is it?" She whispered, fearing that she already knew the answer.
"You're going to be a sister."
~~~
Yanagi Rei looked surprised to see standing by their doorstep. First, she was surprised to see there because it had been such a long time she's seen her. Second, she wandered what was doing there because Renji was at practice at this hour. Finally, she wondered if was alright, for she looked like she had been crying. "Are you alright?"
nodded, "Yes." She said with a sad smile. "I just felt like visiting." She admitted, "It's been a while."
Rei blinked, "Renji's not here, ."
The look of disappointment was clearly visible on her face, but she shrugged it off. "I'm sorry then…" she said softly, retracing her steps. Rei held 's hand lightly, "You can wait for him." She assured, sensing that needed to be with someone at this time. "I'm heading out, but you can wait in his room."
nodded with thanks and headed to Renji's room. Stepping into the warm atmosphere of his room comforted her. She felt her heart beat fast as she browsed through and looked at everything. Finally, after clearing her mind, she sat on his bed. What am I doing? Why am I here? She thought miserably.
She didn’t know how long she was there, but when she woke up she found herself lying on Renji's bed. Quickly sitting up, she checked her surroundings and her ears perked up. Someone was coming; it was Renji and someone else. panicked and looked left and right. She didn’t event think before she jolted up and dashed to his bathroom to hide.
Her heart and mind froze when she saw Renji enter his room with a girl from the shadows of his bathroom door. immediately turned and leaned against the door. What am I doing? Why am I hiding? And what the hell is a girl doing in Renji's room?! Her mind demanded turning to the last statement.
She waited, waited, and waited, but the girl would not leave. was getting tired and edgy, for she could not hear or see what was going on. She wanted to just leave, but she knew she couldn't. She slid against the wall and settled herself on the floor when suddenly the bathroom door opened wide. froze when a person walked in and closed the door. Renji locked the door and turned down, crossing his arms. "Care to explain?"
looked up at him from the floor as her face turned many shades of red. "I…" she muttered softly not able to look at him. "I…I…" she stammered and then shook her head and looked away even more. "How did you know?"
"Rei phoned and told me that you were here."
still didn't look at him. "I'm sorry…" she apologized quietly. "I was upset and I didn't know who to go to."
Renji leaned down and lifted her chin with his hand she could look at him, "Do you know that you're a 100% of an idiot right now?" he asked softly. moved her head away. "I'm sorry.' She repeated. "I just can't help it, but come to you when I'm upset." She admitted angrily, "It's your fault." She rubbed some tears away from her cheeks, feeling a tear slide down. "And now I'm even more upset because there's a girl in your room."
Before could even comprehend anything, she felt herself being held tightly and brought into a fierce embrace. Renji sat on the floor with held in his arms. He moved his hands across her long hair and felt hot tears against his neck. "Don't you ever think that any girl can take your place." He murmured softly, "She is someone three younger than I that I'm tutoring, and a cousin." He explained quietly, "Now, tell me what troubled you?"
didn't answer him; instead, she moved her face forward and kissed his lips lightly. "I love you, Yanagi." She proclaimed quietly as she hugged him. "I hate you for making me feel like this."
"I love you too, ." He returned her statement quietly, "However, I never calculated that our proclamation would be done in the bathroom." He admitted making chuckle.
"As long as we're alright, then I'm fine." She added, rubbing her tears away with the sleeve of her sweater.
Renji nodded then repeated his question. "What caused you displeasure?"
She sat down quietly and explained the news that she was told earlier today, but she also told him that she didn't throw a fit or shout. She had simply congratulated them and left the house.
Instead of giving her soothing words, Renji just held her. He knew that nothing he was going to tell would change her mind, for she hated to do anything with her family. Her father's approach of telling her of his life's plans had been wrongfully done and she was paying for it. had to make a lot of sacrifices for his marriage and she was paying for it as time is passing.
Before their silence was broken by any of them, a knock on the door interrupted them. "Renji?"
moved her head off his shoulder and looked at him. "I'm coming." Renji answered his cousin as he stood up and pulled with him. "I forgot about her." He admitted sheepishly, "You wait here and I'll get rid of her."
nodded.
~~~
walked to school the next day. Somehow, she felt enlightened as she enjoyed the breeze of the morning air. She had spent all day with Renji yesterday and shared a lot of things with him. Maybe now it meant that they were officially girlfriend and boyfriend and she was happy.
Things at home haven't changed and they never will. She was still bitter and cold towards her father and her stepmother and she knew that it will take a long time for her until she acknowledged them properly. Her father kept trying with her, but she refused to make it easier for him. Some would say that she was being stubborn and proud, but at the same time, it's the fact that she was hurt by him. The man she had trusted and loved so much, made a rash action that had affected her whole life. She was forced to accept another person in her life, she was forced to make amend and move schools, and finally she was forced to live in a city that she was not familiar with.
She made her way towards the tennis court of her school and found Yukimura there, "Yukimura-san."
A gentle smile faced her in the early morning as Yukimura looked at her. "I thought you said you didn't want to do anything with the tennis club."
made a face. "I still don't." She answered truthfully, "I'm only here because Jackal-san wanted to make sure I got the problems right before my exam today."
Yukimura crossed his arms, looking at her, and then he leaned forward and pointed his finger at her slightly. "Do you know that you're glowing?" He asked with a grin. turned beet red and rubbed the back of her head. "Aah…." She mumbled pathetically.
"Seiichi, do refrain from teasing , please. That is normally Masaharu's doing."
looked relieved when Renji appeared out of nowhere. He placed a hand on her shoulder and gave her a nod as she smiled. "What are you doing here?" He asked.
"Jackal-san wants to make sure I got my Math problems correct."
"Show me."
shook her head. "Nope." She remarked casually. "He's my tutor, not you." she said as she stuck out her tongue at him.
Before Renji could say anything, Jackal arrived. "Hello, -chan." He said respectfully, "I'm sorry for making you meet me here." He apologized as he took a seat on the bench.
went to him and they started working together.
Yukimura looked at Renji, "I don't know what happened, but I am glad that everything seems clear now." He commented, "She is special to you, which makes her special to us, Renji." He added as he glanced at Jackal and . "Already all the boys are protecting her in their own way."
Renji didn’t comment.
"And make sure you don't do anything stupid for a second time, so Inui Sadaharu doesn't punch you again."
Renji actually looked surprised. "I didn't know that Genichirou was one to gossip."
"Oh, he is not like that." Yukimura assured, "Masaharu was hiding behind the bushes again.'"
Renji crossed his arms with a frown, "You do realize that I'm going to double his training."
Yukimura smiled mischievously, "That is exactly why I gave you that information." He said as he walked to the courts. "Let's start warming up."
~~~
Months passed, and Renji were still a couple. In fact their relationship was stronger than before. Throughout her family problems, he was always there for her. The hardest thing for at one stage was the birth of her half-sister. As much as she wanted to hate the baby, she just couldn't, for she knew that the baby was not at fault for her to hate her.
Her relationship with her father and step-mother had not improved. She just simply did not involve herself with family matters and attended to her own personal things. She knew he was hurting, but so was she.
She wasn't happy, nor was she sad. She knew she had a lot to go till she was actually content fully with her life. As much as things at home were quirky, she was not enjoying it. In fact, with her half-sister born, her father was in a world of his own. Jealousy was a new trait that she had started feeling because her new half-sister was getting the attention that she had so longed for since he got married.
Her friendship with Inui was stronger as well. As much as she hated being put in a position where her heart chose one of them, she didn't let that anguish her. Inui had been respectable and supportive of her relationship from the beginning. She had even heard some rumors about their tennis match and the fact that Inui had punched Renji, but no one would ever confirm those rumors to her.
paced her steps and walked towards the beach to meet Kurobane and Saeki. Renji said that he would be there and she was glad that he was coming, for she had wanted the three of them to hang out for a long time. She finally reached the each and to her surprise, she saw the boys playing volleyball with another group.
She put her basket of food that she had prepared on the blankets and walked up to the net. She was surprised to see Renji, Kurobane, and Saeki playing against Momo, Kaidoh, and Echizen from Seigaku. "What's going on?" asked, scratching her head. "Momo shot his mouth off again." A voice appeared from nowhere. looked behind her and found Inui. "So they made a bet because Kurobane got annoyed."
crinkled her nose in annoyance as she watched them play tennis. "Bane's always like that." she muttered, "But why is Renji playing?" she asked curiously, for she knew Renji always liked to stay neutral.
"Momo made a comment about you. That's what initiated this game."
's eye twitched, "What?" She demanded furiously looking at the teams playing. ran towards the sand-made court and raised her arm. "Bane! Renji! Please knock them dead!" she yelled.
"Eh?" Momo said out loud distracted by the voice, but that was a bad move.
<THWACK>
Game over~
Renji and Bane gave each other a high five once Momo was passed out on the sands. They ignored the cold looks of his teammates and walked towards . Renji put a hand on her shoulder and led her to where they were sitting. "Let's relax." He told her, "Sadaharu, join us for a game of cards?"
Inui looked from the passed out teammate to Renji. With a shrug, he left Momo, Kaidoh, and Echizen and followed Renji and the others. He saw smile at Renji and deep down, he felt a tug at his heart, but he was not one to show his true feelings. He wasn't sure what he did wrong, but to lose someone precious to him; wounded him. Even after all the data that he had collected on how to win her, there had seemed to be an error somewhere in the equation.
One day I'll find out which variable was missing in that equation, Inui promised himself. For now, he was going to just watch and wait. Maybe someday, fate will play in his favor and then he might have the right calculations.
~~~
DeVeliCious
Edited by Kashii
DeVeliCious ---> Kashii & Babybel~ Thank you for being my muse while writing this chapter *HUGS*
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Note(s):
Rikkai Dai's headmaster is Yoshizawa Tsutomu. [Information taken from Fruity Explosive Translation (FET) website.]
Chiba prefecture occupies the south-eastern part of Kanto region and forms a peninsula between Pacific Ocean and Tokyo Bay. Its surface is 5,150 km2 and the population 5.1 millions. The prefectural office is at Chiba City. The north-western part, being adjacent to Tokyo, is highly urbanized with many factories and also Tokyo Disney Land on Tokyo Bay area. The other zone is rather rural and the main activities are vegetable and fruit culture on inland, and fishing on the coast. [Information from (www.docoja.com) - online dictionary of geography and travels in Japan.]
Kanagawa prefecture occupies the southern part of Kanto region just adjacent to Tokyo from the south. Its surface is 2,402 km2 and the population 7.4 millions. The prefectural office is at Yokohama City. The north-eastern part is well urbanized around Yokohama and Kawasaki, 2 big cities, with many factories on Tokyo Bay area. Though heavily populated, Kanagawa has may tourist resorts like Shonan beach and old Kamakura town on the south, and Hakone on the west. [Information from (www.docoja.com) - online dictionary of geography and travels in Japan.]
Both prefectures are part of the Kantou region, which includes seven prefectures in total. [wikipedia]
The distance between the two prefectual's vary depending on the mode of transportation an individual takes:
Examples:
Road which crosses Tokyo Bay. By combining a tunnel (9.5 km) and a bridge (4.4 km), you can reach from Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture to another side of Tokyo Bay, Kisarazu City of Chiba Prefecture in 30 minutes.[Information from (www.docoja.com) - online dictionary of geography and travels in Japan.]
Train - From the capital of Kanagawa (Yokohama) to Chiba, it takes around 75 minutes. [wikipedia]
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DeVeliCious --> I included the following notes to explain why you had to transfer to another school. As you can see, the distance can be long and your father simply didn't want you to go through it.