Post by develicious on Feb 27, 2006 5:26:21 GMT -5
I've written this fic as a DN for someone....
The Prince and the Pauper
Mishima Fay sighed as she walked quietly along the streets. Exhausted she stretched her arms, picking up her bag she walked lazily across the school ground to the gate. Looking at her watch, if I don’t hurry I’ll be late for work, she thought. Looking around her…
Students were smiling.
Girls walking together in groups gossiping
Couples by the side walking home together
Everyone was smiling
Everyone was happy
Except for her…
She heard some girls making plans for the day, to go shopping then to the movies and finally meet their boyfriends.
She hated feeling sad and sorry for herself, and she wasn’t one to feel down so quickly, but she had to make amends.
Her parents had died a couple of years ago and she was living with her grandmother alone. She had to work to live with her grandmother and her grandmother was sick. Being a second year at Hyotei, she had to leave a lot of things behind.
Shopping
Movies
And specially friends
She didn’t have any
She tightened the band on her ponytail and kept on walking to the gate. “Mishima-Kun?” Someone called. Stopping; she looking around, she frowned not recognizing anyone.
“Im here.” Behind her.
She looked to her right, and half smiled. “Hi Oshitari-San.” Bowing lightly.
Oshitary Yuushi looked at her and smiled, he knew Shion Yuuki very well for a couple of years. They lived next door, and to anyone else. Oshitari might be her only friend. “Kaa-San, asked me to give you this for your grandmother.” Handing her a jar of pills.
“Arigato-Senpai.” Taking it from him.
He smiled lightly at her, she was taller than average girls and some may call her cute. But life wasn’t fortunate for her, she was always a mess. Too busy taking care of her grandmother to worry about her appearance. “Going home?” he asked walking to the gate with her.
“No,” she said softly. “Im going to work.”
“But, it’s the weekend.” He objected, “You won’t go to the school picnic?’
She shook her head and picked her bag, “Sorry, Oshitari-San.” Walking ahead, “Ill see you later.” Running off.
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“Fill these orders, Yuuki.” Said the owner.
“Hai, Lee-Sama” Yuuki took the roses from his arms and smiled putting them in the fridge. This was her afternoon, working in a flower shop. The owner was a kind man who took care of her and he paid her well.
Arranging the roses in their right places, she couldn’t help but think of the school picnic. Every year Hyotei arranged a picnic for all second and third year. It was more of a social gathering and everyone would be there.
She wanted to go, but…
Shaking her head, she sighed.
Don’t think about these things.
“Im going to run an errand, take care of the shop, Yuuki.” Lee told her as he walked out.
“Hai.” Fixing the things around her. As she was busy, the bell alarmed signing that someone had come in, “Konichiwa.” Came a chorus.
She peeked up from the counter and recognized the uniforms, it was Hyotei tennis club. “Konichiwa.” Walking towards the group of guys, “Can I help you guys?”
“I didn’t know you worked here, Fay-Kun.” Oshitari’s voice came.
She looked at him, “You never asked.”
Oshitari half smiled.
“What do you…” she began.
“Itai!” Exclaimed a voice.
Fay looked surprised, “Oy!” she began, “You’re not supposed to touch the roses.” She told one of the guys that came with Oshitari, “Didn’t you read the signs!” she exclaimed somewhat annoyed.
Oshitari smirked.
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Atobe Keigo looked at the girl in front of him as she scolded him. He was never one to listen to anyone or very much read signs. Reaching for the rose he had ended up pricking himself. “They were in the way…” sucking his finger lightly.
She frowned going to the counter; she took a band-aid, “Here.” Handing it to him.
He narrowed his eyes, but took it.
Such arrogance, she thought not knowing who he was. Because she left immediately after school and half the time trying to fight sleep in class, she really didn’t know who’s who.
Looking at Oshitari who had an amused smile on his face.
“Fay-Chan, this is our Buchou.” Oshitari introduced, “Atobe Keigo.”
Fay didn’t say anything.
“And those two arguing outside are our famous doubles, Ohotori and Shishido.” Pointing outside towards two guys one with a cap on his face and the other a cross pendant around his neck.
“You know this brat?” Atobe asked Oshitari.
Fay gasped.
“Atobe…..” Oshitari sighed, “Go wait outside while I get the order.” Pushing him towards the door.
Atobe shrugged walking out.
“Gomen…” Oshitari told Yuuki.
She had hand on her hip annoyed at that arrogant bastard, “What order?”
“Its Kaa-San’s birthday.” He told her, “I wanted to get her flowers.”
Fay smiled.
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“Atobe, don’t do that again.” Oshitari frowned. “Fay lives a difficult life.” He told him.
“So what? Everyone lives a difficult life.” looking into his mirror fixing his hair.
“The girl works two jobs to make amends at home.” He explained. “She has no parents.”
Atobe yawned. “And yet she’s going to an expensive private school such as Hyotei.” Raising an eyebrow.
“She’s on scholarship.” Oshitari explained, if you knew what that means, he thought sarcastically to himself.
Atobe ignored him.
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“Obaa-san” Yuuki said softly, “How are you feeling today?” Fay asked two days later.
Grandma Shion looked at her grand daughter and smiled, “You’ve been good to me.” She told her. “Do you not have work today?”
“No.” shaking her head, “Lee-Sama, gave me the day off and I don’t work on Sundays at the library.”
The old woman looked at her, “You should’ve asked for it yesterday so you could’ve gone to the picnic.”
Fay smiled putting some tea in front of her, “It doesn’t matter.” She said softly.
The old woman looked at her sadly and felt that the young girl’s teenage year was being wasted on her.
“I was thinking of going to the park with you.” Fay told her, “You’ve been inside the house for ages.”
“It’s alright my dear.” She told her.
“Obaa-san….” She began to argue.
“I insist you go out alone and enjoy some fresh air.” She said looking into her granddaughter’s gray eyes.
She sighed and nodded, “Okay.” She said softly. “Ill do some grocery shopping as well.” Putting on her jacket.
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Walking along the streets, Yuuki noted that it was crowded than usual. She wondered what people did in their free times. It was times like these she missed not having friends.
Where did I go wrong? She thought.
She walked along the rail when…
“Meow….”
She stopped.
“Meow…”
Looking around, left and right.
Nothing.
“Meow.”
She leaned above the railing and found a kitten down by the river. It couldn’t move and if it made one wrong move, it would fall down the bank. “Hold on, kitty.” She said softly. Not thinking, she climbed up the rail in her jeans and went down to save it.
She walked across and sighed, it was a long walk. Removing her jacket and folding her jeans to her knees. She walked across the shallow freezing river to pick up the kitten, “Come here, sweetie.” As she hugged the kitten to her. Walking back, she hugged the kitten in her jacket and unfolded her jeans. She hugged herself lightly in her thin shirt and smiled gratefully. The kitten was a cute one, grayish with blue eyes.
“You’re an idiot, do you know that?” a voice snapped.
Snapping her head up, she saw…
Lying on his back on the grass.
Arms crossed under his head.
Alone by the side.
A smug expression on his face.
“That pesky thing was annoying me so I threw it across the river.”
Fay gasped.
Atobe smirked lightly.
Fay glared at him, “You’re a fool.” She muttered.
Atobe looked surprised, “What was that?” no one had dared to talk to him like that.
She ignored him picking up the kitten, standing up.
“Im talking to you. Respect your seniors!” he demanded glaring at her.
“How can I respect someone who only cares about himself!” she snapped back walking away.
Brat! How dare she talk to me that way! He thought to himself as he watched her walk away. He decided to shrug and let it go for now, he’ll deal with her later.
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Back at School
“Happy Birthday, Minoku!” Fayheard some girls cheer as she stood by her locker. Closing her locker quietly, picking up her books she walked to her class. Sitting down in her usual seat in Computer Technology class, she sighed.
“Morning, Fay-Kun.” Came Oshitari’s lively voice.
She looked at him and smiled lightly, “Morning.”
He took his seat next to her and for the next hour Fay stood listening, trying to keep pace with what was going on.
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“Ill walk you to work.” Oshitari told Fay as school ended, “Our Buchou cancelled practice for the day.”
She didn’t say anything.
As she walked with him, they made light conversation. Fay walked into the flower shop, “Konichiwa, Lee-Sama.”
Lee looked at her, “Fay…” as he carried some boxes. “What are you doing here today?”
Oshitari looked confused.
“Nonsense, I have work.” Going towards the counter.
“It’s your birthday; I can’t let you work on your birthday.”
Oshitari paled.
Fay looked down embarrassed, “It’s alright…” picking up her apron, “I…”
“No.” Lee told her, pushing her out. “You’re banned from here today.”
“But…”
“No.” smiling at her.
Fay sighed standing outside. She looked embarrassed at Oshitari, “You didn’t tell me.” He told her softly.
She shook her head, “It’s not important.”
“Come on.” Taking her upper arm, “The least I can do is treat you to lunch.”
“Oshitari-San, lie…” she said softly.
“No.” pulling her forward, “We’ll go to the mall.”
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“Arigato, Oshitara-San.” Fay said softly walking back home with him.
“Fay, call me Oshitari-Kun.” He told her, “We know each other for a long time.”
“H…Hai…” she said softly.
He smiled a bit, he had taken her out lightly and bought her something too. She had looked embarrassed, but he knew that was the least he could do. She was like a little sister to him.
As they walked, Fay froze. Ambulance by her… “Obaa-San.” She whispered running towards the house.
Oshitari ran after her as he noted the commotion.
“Obaa-San!” Fay called looking left and right. “Obaa-….” She began, but froze.
On the bed
A white sheet on a body
Someone talking to her
Vague whispers
All she knew was the blackness that engulfed her as she fainted.
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Sakaki Tarou frowned as he got the call earlier today.
Walking in the hospital halls, hand in one pocket, well dressed like a king. He frowned watching the nurses back and fourth, he rushed a bit when, “Oshiatari.” As he noticed one of his students were there.
The boy looked up, “Sensei.’ Standing up.
“What are you doing here?” he asked.
Oshitari sighed, “My friend was brought in, she’s…” his voice trailing off, “She’s not in a good shape.”
“Mishima Fay?” he asked.
That caught his attention.
“Where is she?”
Oshitari frowned, “Inside.” Pointing to a nurse’s room.
He nodded and walked in.
What was going on? Oshitari wondered.
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Sakaki walked into the nurse’s room.
There she sat.
Head down, her long hair covering her pale face.
Anyone could tell that the aura emitting from her that her emotions wee broken.
She was all alone.
Her worst nightmare had come true.
“Mishima Fay.” He called making her look up.
Confusion on her face as if not recognizing the man that stood in front of her.
“My name is Sakaki Tarou.” He introduced himself, “Im a distant relative of your fathers.”
“……………” looking at him, then she looked down. “I haven’t seen you before.” She said softly barely a whisper.
“No.” shaking his head, he said somewhat seriously. “Your father was disowned from the family because he married…” stopping himself. He shook his head, “I am here as your guardian.”
She frowned hugging herself.
“I am sorry for your loss.”
“……………….”
He rubbed his jaw, raising an eyebrow. “You’ll be living with me.”
That caught her attention, she looked up, “But…” she began, I don’t know you. She said thought to herself; I just want to be left alone.
“I know it’s difficult, but we can make amends.” He said helping her stand up. A hand behind her back, “I know this is sudden…”
“Its okay.” She said softly, “Sakaki-Sama.” Looking down, “I’ll manage…….” Her head down.
He nodded, she was strong and proud. “Lets go to your house and get your things.” He told her.
She bit her lips lightly.
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“I want you to join a club.” Sakaki told Fay some days later.
She blinked in surprise. She couldn’t hide her amazement when she moved in, his house…. Or mansion was huge! She couldn’t believe that one person lived in a twelve bedroom mansion. She had come in to the room and realized that he had already prepared everything for her.
Her room was huge, a dressing room filled with clothes and shoes.
Everything she needed.
But….. looking down…. She felt like….
“But I work….” She said softly.
He put the book down, “You don’t need to anymore.” Standing up, “Live your life.”
She looked confused, hand behind her back. “Sakaki-Sama…” she said softly, “Why…”
“You can help me co-manage the tennis club.” He told her, “You’re good with keeping order and a schedule.”
Thinking to herself, she raised a finger to her lips. A habit she did unconsciously when she was thinking, why not? She thought, “H…Hai.” Bowing lightly, “I don’t mind.”
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Im late! Im late! Fay thought panicking running through the school grounds. Her first day at the tennis club and she was late. She didn’t want to disappoint Sakaki in any way.
After all, she owed him a lot.
Running for her life, she crossed against people. Dodged couples, and just around the corner when…
“Oooof……” came a voice as she collided with someone.
Falling full force onto the floor, her things scattered, she knocked her forehead onto the wall.
“Atobe-San”
“Atobe-San” girls screamed.
“Atobe-San…” she heard voices, “Are you alright?” fan of girls circled around him.
Atobe muttered something under his breath sitting up.
Fay swore softly, sitting up bending her knees, “That really hurt…” she said softly hand on her head.
“You clumsy brat!” he muttered as he noticed her, “I should’ve known it was you.”
Ignoring him, she stood up picking up her things. “Well it’s obvious that you’re alright.” Making the girls gasp at how rude she was to him. She turned to walk away from them.
When she was far away, something grasped her upper arm. “You really think high and mighty of yourself, don’t you?” Atobe demanded.
“Let go of me.” Pushing him away.
He chuckled lightly.
Glaring at him, “I hate you! Just because I don’t flock around you like those losers! Don’t think Im a low person.”
“You’re too proud of yourself.” He snapped.
“I have to respect myself before I expect others to respect me.”
“It’s that pride of yours that never got you any friends!”
Fay stopped.
“………….”
“True.” She said softly, “But I don’t need pity.” She spoke, “Or someone high and mighty like yourself to say that to me!” she said, “Are your friends really your friends or because is that you’re very rich?”
It was his turn to stop now.
Looking at her watch, “Im late…” she said softly walking away.
For once in his life, he was speechless.
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“This is Mishima Fay.” Sakaki introduced. “She will help with some of the managerial things.”
Atobe was too furious to say anything.
“Hai, Sensai.” The players smiled.
“Finally a cute girl.” Oshitari teased Fay making her blush.
“You know her?” Bunta asked.
He nodded, “Come on, Fay-Kun. Ill introduce you.”
Oshitari introduced her around. All the players seemed fairly nice. Sakaki showed her the things she needed to look out and handed her a notebook with numbers and charts, “You can base their schedule according to this.” He told her. “For example…”
“Ohtori-San needs to practice stability in order to be able to hit his scud serve accurately each time.” She said not thinking.
Sakaki looked at her a bit surprised, but nodded. “No need for me to give you instructions then, you’ll do fine.”
She nodded taking the book from him.
Sakaki looked up as they heard someone walk in, “Fay, work with Atobe closely.” He told her, “He’ll give you insights.” Motioning for Atobe to walk in. He had a towel around his neck, his skin glowing from the sweat. Sakaki didn’t really give them any mercy.
She didn’t look at him.
Sakaki left the two alone.
Fay moved her hair away from her face as Atobe washed his face. Picking up his stuff, she took her bag and walked out ignoring him. Sakaki-Sama didn’t say I had to do it today, she thought to herself, I don’t have to talk to him.
“Where do you think you’re going, brat?” he asked in his low voice, his warm breath tickled the light hair at the nape of her neck.
How did he get so close? Turning away so fast, she almost tripped.
Atobe’s instinct kicked in, grabbing for her wrist. He pulled her up almost too hard as she came tumbling into his arms.
Arms around her waist.
Hands clutching his shirt.
Legs almost tangled.
It didn’t look good
But it felt somehow warm.
Fay pushed herself away from him, “Don’t do that again you….” She began, “Whatever!” snapping, “You scared me.”
“You were given an assignment.” Narrowing his eyes, when she fell all he could think of was not her getting hurt, “You need to help me with some schedules for the regulars.” Shaking the thought away.
Glaring at him, “Why don’t you pay someone to do it for you?”
He tightened his jaw, “Listen you brat…” his hand in a fist.
“I have a name!”
“What’s this?” interrupted a voice.
They both turned to see.
“Wakashi-San.” Yuuki bowed lightly.
He scowled, “You two are bickering like a whining couple.” He muttered drying his hair with a towel.
Atobe, “Eck…” he muttered, “Remind me to double the workload on his menu.” He muttered to Fay.
She looked at him sighing, “Lets get this over with.” She told him putting the books on the table.
“Not here.” Picking up his jacket, putting it on his shoulders, “This place is a drab.”
Blinking, “Where then?”
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“You had to leave the club, didn’t you?!” Fay demanded looking at Atobe.
“Urusai…” he muttered taking out his cell phone. They were somewhere a bit afar and got stuck in the rain; it was more like a thunderstorm outside. “Ill call my driver.” As he tried dialing, but his phone…
Battery dead.
He swore softly and took out another phone from the bag.
Battery dead.
And finally the third satellite phone.
Battery dead.
“And to think three phones was enough,” she muttered crossing her arms.
Snapping angrily, he threw the phone in his bag, “I heard that.”
“It was meant for your ears.” Hugging herself, she was freezing by the park. They were still outside.
“Don’t you have one?” he demanded.
She looked at him, her gray eyes flickered, “I don’t ask for such things.”
Sighing, he put his hood on and leaned by the pole outside. Fay bent down and sat on the floor hugging her knees.
THUNDER
Faycovered her ears in fear and let out a light scream. She grabbed the first thing she could think of in instinct.
His leg.
Atobe looked down surprised.
She was shaking, her eyes tightly closed, and cold.
Looking down, “Are you alright?”
“No…” shivering, “I hate thunder.” She whispered covering her ears. “I hate thunder.”
Thunder reminded her of that night.
The night the car crushed.
The night she lost them both.
Atobe leaned down, why me? He thought to himself wearily. His hand on her head, “Oy, brat!” shaking her a bit.
Fay was frozen, in shock.
Atobe’s brow furrowed, he pulled her up and did the one thing he knew that helped panic attacks.
SLAP
Fay gasped, her pale face in shock.
His arms around her. “Sakaki-Sama will never forgive me if anything happened to you.”
Moving away from him, “You didn’t have to slap me.” Her cheeks bruised a bit.
He shrugged. “It was either me slapping you or…”
She looked away.
“Or kissing you.”
“………………”
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Months Later
“Shishido-San?” Yuuki called.
The spiky haired boy looked at her, his glare soft but yet mean looking. Putting his cap back on, “Hai?”
She handed him a file, “This will help with your stamina.” Smiling at him, “It’s also the things you can do before you play Fudoumine.”
He nodded, “Arigato.”
Walking around, she handed all players their stuff until she reached one. Smiling, “Jirou-San.” Shaking the sleeping boy.
“Mmmmmmm….”
“Jirou-San.”
“Don’t call me Jirou-San!” he muttered opening his eyes yawning.
Fay smiled, “Jirou-Kun.”
“Lie!” raising a finger, “Only Jirou.”
Raising an eyebrow, “Only if you call me Fay, okay?”
“Hai.” Nodding then going back to sleep.
She smiled.
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Later that Day after Practice
Looking surprised when she got home, she found a…
Woman sitting in the lavish guest hall and next to her…
A young boy.
He looked a bit wild, spikish hair, and an earring in one ear.
They were both looking at her.
“Fay?” came Sakaki’s voice.
“H….Hai.” she said walking towards him. Sakaki stood up, “Id like to introduce you to a friend and her son.”
She looked puzzled.
“This is Hanamura Aoi.” Introducing the beautiful woman to her. Fay admired her, she looked so elegant and poise.
“Her son, Kajimoto Takahisa.” He said, “Kajimoto is the captain of the Jyousei Shounan tennis team.”
She nodded bowing lightly.
Kajimoto looked at her, a light smile hitting her face.
Does this mean? She thought to herself, is he serious about her? Glancing at the woman.
“Sorry to come unannounced, but I have a matter to discuss with Sakaki-Sama.” Hanamura said softly.
“Anou…” she said softly looking at them. Why was the boy here? She thought.
Hanamura smiled, “Sakaki-Sama told me you were having trouble with Math.” She said watching Fay’s confused look, “I bought Kajimoto to help you.”
Her cheeks flushed a bit, so he knew I was having problems with Math, she thought to herself. “H…Hai!” bowing, “Arigato Sakaki Sama.”
“We will be back in a while.” Sakaki told them.
Fay stood still.
Alone in the room.
“Fay-Chan.” Kajimoto said standing up, “You don’t have to be shy around me.” Smiling, ‘Its not like I was forced to do this.”
She looked confused.
“Hanamura-San told me a cute girl was involved so I came running.” Making her blush.
“Kajimoto-San…” she muttered embarrassed.
“Oy!” poking her forehead, “Kaji-Kun is fine.” Winking at her.
A smile lit her face, “Only if you call me Fay-Kun.”
“Hai.”
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Days passed by
Weeks.
Months.
Finally getting into the rhythm of her life. She was living it easily, Sakaki made sure everything was provided to her. And she always felt pressured that she needed to do her best.
But….
I don’t have anyone to talk to, placing her cheeks on the cool desk of the library desk. She sighed closing her eyes for a few minute, just a few minutes, yawning.
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“Mishima!”
Fay blinked.
“Mishima!” the voice came rather coldly.
“…………….”
Sitting up, she yawned. Looking at the person that woke her up, a scowl formed on her lips.
“A girl shouldn’t be sleeping alone here, na Kabaji?”
“Usu…..”
“God go away!” Fay muttered standing up, “I don’t have to see your face when I wake up.” Picking up her books and hauling her bag over one shoulder.
“A lot of girls would be dreaming about that day…” smirking looking at his reflection in his coated gold compact mirror.
“Get over yourself…’ she muttered walking out, “Na Kabaji?” she smiled at the door then leaving.
“Usu…” smiling.
Atobe was not amused.
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“Winter Ball?” Fay grimaced looking at the card on her locker in the club.
“Hai.” Jirou smiled, “Atobe's party.” He told her, “Sakaki-Sensei usually invites top musicians to play.’
“It’s a duo?” she asked.
Oshitari took the card from her. “Yes, they both collaborate in doing this.”
That means.
She would be involved too.
Looking down. I don’t know anything about balls and that means…
She gasped!
I have to have a date! Shaking the thought out of her mind. “Ill see you guys later.” Walking pass Wakashi.
End of Part I
The Prince and the Pauper
Mishima Fay sighed as she walked quietly along the streets. Exhausted she stretched her arms, picking up her bag she walked lazily across the school ground to the gate. Looking at her watch, if I don’t hurry I’ll be late for work, she thought. Looking around her…
Students were smiling.
Girls walking together in groups gossiping
Couples by the side walking home together
Everyone was smiling
Everyone was happy
Except for her…
She heard some girls making plans for the day, to go shopping then to the movies and finally meet their boyfriends.
She hated feeling sad and sorry for herself, and she wasn’t one to feel down so quickly, but she had to make amends.
Her parents had died a couple of years ago and she was living with her grandmother alone. She had to work to live with her grandmother and her grandmother was sick. Being a second year at Hyotei, she had to leave a lot of things behind.
Shopping
Movies
And specially friends
She didn’t have any
She tightened the band on her ponytail and kept on walking to the gate. “Mishima-Kun?” Someone called. Stopping; she looking around, she frowned not recognizing anyone.
“Im here.” Behind her.
She looked to her right, and half smiled. “Hi Oshitari-San.” Bowing lightly.
Oshitary Yuushi looked at her and smiled, he knew Shion Yuuki very well for a couple of years. They lived next door, and to anyone else. Oshitari might be her only friend. “Kaa-San, asked me to give you this for your grandmother.” Handing her a jar of pills.
“Arigato-Senpai.” Taking it from him.
He smiled lightly at her, she was taller than average girls and some may call her cute. But life wasn’t fortunate for her, she was always a mess. Too busy taking care of her grandmother to worry about her appearance. “Going home?” he asked walking to the gate with her.
“No,” she said softly. “Im going to work.”
“But, it’s the weekend.” He objected, “You won’t go to the school picnic?’
She shook her head and picked her bag, “Sorry, Oshitari-San.” Walking ahead, “Ill see you later.” Running off.
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“Fill these orders, Yuuki.” Said the owner.
“Hai, Lee-Sama” Yuuki took the roses from his arms and smiled putting them in the fridge. This was her afternoon, working in a flower shop. The owner was a kind man who took care of her and he paid her well.
Arranging the roses in their right places, she couldn’t help but think of the school picnic. Every year Hyotei arranged a picnic for all second and third year. It was more of a social gathering and everyone would be there.
She wanted to go, but…
Shaking her head, she sighed.
Don’t think about these things.
“Im going to run an errand, take care of the shop, Yuuki.” Lee told her as he walked out.
“Hai.” Fixing the things around her. As she was busy, the bell alarmed signing that someone had come in, “Konichiwa.” Came a chorus.
She peeked up from the counter and recognized the uniforms, it was Hyotei tennis club. “Konichiwa.” Walking towards the group of guys, “Can I help you guys?”
“I didn’t know you worked here, Fay-Kun.” Oshitari’s voice came.
She looked at him, “You never asked.”
Oshitari half smiled.
“What do you…” she began.
“Itai!” Exclaimed a voice.
Fay looked surprised, “Oy!” she began, “You’re not supposed to touch the roses.” She told one of the guys that came with Oshitari, “Didn’t you read the signs!” she exclaimed somewhat annoyed.
Oshitari smirked.
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Atobe Keigo looked at the girl in front of him as she scolded him. He was never one to listen to anyone or very much read signs. Reaching for the rose he had ended up pricking himself. “They were in the way…” sucking his finger lightly.
She frowned going to the counter; she took a band-aid, “Here.” Handing it to him.
He narrowed his eyes, but took it.
Such arrogance, she thought not knowing who he was. Because she left immediately after school and half the time trying to fight sleep in class, she really didn’t know who’s who.
Looking at Oshitari who had an amused smile on his face.
“Fay-Chan, this is our Buchou.” Oshitari introduced, “Atobe Keigo.”
Fay didn’t say anything.
“And those two arguing outside are our famous doubles, Ohotori and Shishido.” Pointing outside towards two guys one with a cap on his face and the other a cross pendant around his neck.
“You know this brat?” Atobe asked Oshitari.
Fay gasped.
“Atobe…..” Oshitari sighed, “Go wait outside while I get the order.” Pushing him towards the door.
Atobe shrugged walking out.
“Gomen…” Oshitari told Yuuki.
She had hand on her hip annoyed at that arrogant bastard, “What order?”
“Its Kaa-San’s birthday.” He told her, “I wanted to get her flowers.”
Fay smiled.
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“Atobe, don’t do that again.” Oshitari frowned. “Fay lives a difficult life.” He told him.
“So what? Everyone lives a difficult life.” looking into his mirror fixing his hair.
“The girl works two jobs to make amends at home.” He explained. “She has no parents.”
Atobe yawned. “And yet she’s going to an expensive private school such as Hyotei.” Raising an eyebrow.
“She’s on scholarship.” Oshitari explained, if you knew what that means, he thought sarcastically to himself.
Atobe ignored him.
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“Obaa-san” Yuuki said softly, “How are you feeling today?” Fay asked two days later.
Grandma Shion looked at her grand daughter and smiled, “You’ve been good to me.” She told her. “Do you not have work today?”
“No.” shaking her head, “Lee-Sama, gave me the day off and I don’t work on Sundays at the library.”
The old woman looked at her, “You should’ve asked for it yesterday so you could’ve gone to the picnic.”
Fay smiled putting some tea in front of her, “It doesn’t matter.” She said softly.
The old woman looked at her sadly and felt that the young girl’s teenage year was being wasted on her.
“I was thinking of going to the park with you.” Fay told her, “You’ve been inside the house for ages.”
“It’s alright my dear.” She told her.
“Obaa-san….” She began to argue.
“I insist you go out alone and enjoy some fresh air.” She said looking into her granddaughter’s gray eyes.
She sighed and nodded, “Okay.” She said softly. “Ill do some grocery shopping as well.” Putting on her jacket.
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Walking along the streets, Yuuki noted that it was crowded than usual. She wondered what people did in their free times. It was times like these she missed not having friends.
Where did I go wrong? She thought.
She walked along the rail when…
“Meow….”
She stopped.
“Meow…”
Looking around, left and right.
Nothing.
“Meow.”
She leaned above the railing and found a kitten down by the river. It couldn’t move and if it made one wrong move, it would fall down the bank. “Hold on, kitty.” She said softly. Not thinking, she climbed up the rail in her jeans and went down to save it.
She walked across and sighed, it was a long walk. Removing her jacket and folding her jeans to her knees. She walked across the shallow freezing river to pick up the kitten, “Come here, sweetie.” As she hugged the kitten to her. Walking back, she hugged the kitten in her jacket and unfolded her jeans. She hugged herself lightly in her thin shirt and smiled gratefully. The kitten was a cute one, grayish with blue eyes.
“You’re an idiot, do you know that?” a voice snapped.
Snapping her head up, she saw…
Lying on his back on the grass.
Arms crossed under his head.
Alone by the side.
A smug expression on his face.
“That pesky thing was annoying me so I threw it across the river.”
Fay gasped.
Atobe smirked lightly.
Fay glared at him, “You’re a fool.” She muttered.
Atobe looked surprised, “What was that?” no one had dared to talk to him like that.
She ignored him picking up the kitten, standing up.
“Im talking to you. Respect your seniors!” he demanded glaring at her.
“How can I respect someone who only cares about himself!” she snapped back walking away.
Brat! How dare she talk to me that way! He thought to himself as he watched her walk away. He decided to shrug and let it go for now, he’ll deal with her later.
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Back at School
“Happy Birthday, Minoku!” Fayheard some girls cheer as she stood by her locker. Closing her locker quietly, picking up her books she walked to her class. Sitting down in her usual seat in Computer Technology class, she sighed.
“Morning, Fay-Kun.” Came Oshitari’s lively voice.
She looked at him and smiled lightly, “Morning.”
He took his seat next to her and for the next hour Fay stood listening, trying to keep pace with what was going on.
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“Ill walk you to work.” Oshitari told Fay as school ended, “Our Buchou cancelled practice for the day.”
She didn’t say anything.
As she walked with him, they made light conversation. Fay walked into the flower shop, “Konichiwa, Lee-Sama.”
Lee looked at her, “Fay…” as he carried some boxes. “What are you doing here today?”
Oshitari looked confused.
“Nonsense, I have work.” Going towards the counter.
“It’s your birthday; I can’t let you work on your birthday.”
Oshitari paled.
Fay looked down embarrassed, “It’s alright…” picking up her apron, “I…”
“No.” Lee told her, pushing her out. “You’re banned from here today.”
“But…”
“No.” smiling at her.
Fay sighed standing outside. She looked embarrassed at Oshitari, “You didn’t tell me.” He told her softly.
She shook her head, “It’s not important.”
“Come on.” Taking her upper arm, “The least I can do is treat you to lunch.”
“Oshitari-San, lie…” she said softly.
“No.” pulling her forward, “We’ll go to the mall.”
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“Arigato, Oshitara-San.” Fay said softly walking back home with him.
“Fay, call me Oshitari-Kun.” He told her, “We know each other for a long time.”
“H…Hai…” she said softly.
He smiled a bit, he had taken her out lightly and bought her something too. She had looked embarrassed, but he knew that was the least he could do. She was like a little sister to him.
As they walked, Fay froze. Ambulance by her… “Obaa-San.” She whispered running towards the house.
Oshitari ran after her as he noted the commotion.
“Obaa-San!” Fay called looking left and right. “Obaa-….” She began, but froze.
On the bed
A white sheet on a body
Someone talking to her
Vague whispers
All she knew was the blackness that engulfed her as she fainted.
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Sakaki Tarou frowned as he got the call earlier today.
Walking in the hospital halls, hand in one pocket, well dressed like a king. He frowned watching the nurses back and fourth, he rushed a bit when, “Oshiatari.” As he noticed one of his students were there.
The boy looked up, “Sensei.’ Standing up.
“What are you doing here?” he asked.
Oshitari sighed, “My friend was brought in, she’s…” his voice trailing off, “She’s not in a good shape.”
“Mishima Fay?” he asked.
That caught his attention.
“Where is she?”
Oshitari frowned, “Inside.” Pointing to a nurse’s room.
He nodded and walked in.
What was going on? Oshitari wondered.
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Sakaki walked into the nurse’s room.
There she sat.
Head down, her long hair covering her pale face.
Anyone could tell that the aura emitting from her that her emotions wee broken.
She was all alone.
Her worst nightmare had come true.
“Mishima Fay.” He called making her look up.
Confusion on her face as if not recognizing the man that stood in front of her.
“My name is Sakaki Tarou.” He introduced himself, “Im a distant relative of your fathers.”
“……………” looking at him, then she looked down. “I haven’t seen you before.” She said softly barely a whisper.
“No.” shaking his head, he said somewhat seriously. “Your father was disowned from the family because he married…” stopping himself. He shook his head, “I am here as your guardian.”
She frowned hugging herself.
“I am sorry for your loss.”
“……………….”
He rubbed his jaw, raising an eyebrow. “You’ll be living with me.”
That caught her attention, she looked up, “But…” she began, I don’t know you. She said thought to herself; I just want to be left alone.
“I know it’s difficult, but we can make amends.” He said helping her stand up. A hand behind her back, “I know this is sudden…”
“Its okay.” She said softly, “Sakaki-Sama.” Looking down, “I’ll manage…….” Her head down.
He nodded, she was strong and proud. “Lets go to your house and get your things.” He told her.
She bit her lips lightly.
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“I want you to join a club.” Sakaki told Fay some days later.
She blinked in surprise. She couldn’t hide her amazement when she moved in, his house…. Or mansion was huge! She couldn’t believe that one person lived in a twelve bedroom mansion. She had come in to the room and realized that he had already prepared everything for her.
Her room was huge, a dressing room filled with clothes and shoes.
Everything she needed.
But….. looking down…. She felt like….
“But I work….” She said softly.
He put the book down, “You don’t need to anymore.” Standing up, “Live your life.”
She looked confused, hand behind her back. “Sakaki-Sama…” she said softly, “Why…”
“You can help me co-manage the tennis club.” He told her, “You’re good with keeping order and a schedule.”
Thinking to herself, she raised a finger to her lips. A habit she did unconsciously when she was thinking, why not? She thought, “H…Hai.” Bowing lightly, “I don’t mind.”
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Im late! Im late! Fay thought panicking running through the school grounds. Her first day at the tennis club and she was late. She didn’t want to disappoint Sakaki in any way.
After all, she owed him a lot.
Running for her life, she crossed against people. Dodged couples, and just around the corner when…
“Oooof……” came a voice as she collided with someone.
Falling full force onto the floor, her things scattered, she knocked her forehead onto the wall.
“Atobe-San”
“Atobe-San” girls screamed.
“Atobe-San…” she heard voices, “Are you alright?” fan of girls circled around him.
Atobe muttered something under his breath sitting up.
Fay swore softly, sitting up bending her knees, “That really hurt…” she said softly hand on her head.
“You clumsy brat!” he muttered as he noticed her, “I should’ve known it was you.”
Ignoring him, she stood up picking up her things. “Well it’s obvious that you’re alright.” Making the girls gasp at how rude she was to him. She turned to walk away from them.
When she was far away, something grasped her upper arm. “You really think high and mighty of yourself, don’t you?” Atobe demanded.
“Let go of me.” Pushing him away.
He chuckled lightly.
Glaring at him, “I hate you! Just because I don’t flock around you like those losers! Don’t think Im a low person.”
“You’re too proud of yourself.” He snapped.
“I have to respect myself before I expect others to respect me.”
“It’s that pride of yours that never got you any friends!”
Fay stopped.
“………….”
“True.” She said softly, “But I don’t need pity.” She spoke, “Or someone high and mighty like yourself to say that to me!” she said, “Are your friends really your friends or because is that you’re very rich?”
It was his turn to stop now.
Looking at her watch, “Im late…” she said softly walking away.
For once in his life, he was speechless.
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“This is Mishima Fay.” Sakaki introduced. “She will help with some of the managerial things.”
Atobe was too furious to say anything.
“Hai, Sensai.” The players smiled.
“Finally a cute girl.” Oshitari teased Fay making her blush.
“You know her?” Bunta asked.
He nodded, “Come on, Fay-Kun. Ill introduce you.”
Oshitari introduced her around. All the players seemed fairly nice. Sakaki showed her the things she needed to look out and handed her a notebook with numbers and charts, “You can base their schedule according to this.” He told her. “For example…”
“Ohtori-San needs to practice stability in order to be able to hit his scud serve accurately each time.” She said not thinking.
Sakaki looked at her a bit surprised, but nodded. “No need for me to give you instructions then, you’ll do fine.”
She nodded taking the book from him.
Sakaki looked up as they heard someone walk in, “Fay, work with Atobe closely.” He told her, “He’ll give you insights.” Motioning for Atobe to walk in. He had a towel around his neck, his skin glowing from the sweat. Sakaki didn’t really give them any mercy.
She didn’t look at him.
Sakaki left the two alone.
Fay moved her hair away from her face as Atobe washed his face. Picking up his stuff, she took her bag and walked out ignoring him. Sakaki-Sama didn’t say I had to do it today, she thought to herself, I don’t have to talk to him.
“Where do you think you’re going, brat?” he asked in his low voice, his warm breath tickled the light hair at the nape of her neck.
How did he get so close? Turning away so fast, she almost tripped.
Atobe’s instinct kicked in, grabbing for her wrist. He pulled her up almost too hard as she came tumbling into his arms.
Arms around her waist.
Hands clutching his shirt.
Legs almost tangled.
It didn’t look good
But it felt somehow warm.
Fay pushed herself away from him, “Don’t do that again you….” She began, “Whatever!” snapping, “You scared me.”
“You were given an assignment.” Narrowing his eyes, when she fell all he could think of was not her getting hurt, “You need to help me with some schedules for the regulars.” Shaking the thought away.
Glaring at him, “Why don’t you pay someone to do it for you?”
He tightened his jaw, “Listen you brat…” his hand in a fist.
“I have a name!”
“What’s this?” interrupted a voice.
They both turned to see.
“Wakashi-San.” Yuuki bowed lightly.
He scowled, “You two are bickering like a whining couple.” He muttered drying his hair with a towel.
Atobe, “Eck…” he muttered, “Remind me to double the workload on his menu.” He muttered to Fay.
She looked at him sighing, “Lets get this over with.” She told him putting the books on the table.
“Not here.” Picking up his jacket, putting it on his shoulders, “This place is a drab.”
Blinking, “Where then?”
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“You had to leave the club, didn’t you?!” Fay demanded looking at Atobe.
“Urusai…” he muttered taking out his cell phone. They were somewhere a bit afar and got stuck in the rain; it was more like a thunderstorm outside. “Ill call my driver.” As he tried dialing, but his phone…
Battery dead.
He swore softly and took out another phone from the bag.
Battery dead.
And finally the third satellite phone.
Battery dead.
“And to think three phones was enough,” she muttered crossing her arms.
Snapping angrily, he threw the phone in his bag, “I heard that.”
“It was meant for your ears.” Hugging herself, she was freezing by the park. They were still outside.
“Don’t you have one?” he demanded.
She looked at him, her gray eyes flickered, “I don’t ask for such things.”
Sighing, he put his hood on and leaned by the pole outside. Fay bent down and sat on the floor hugging her knees.
THUNDER
Faycovered her ears in fear and let out a light scream. She grabbed the first thing she could think of in instinct.
His leg.
Atobe looked down surprised.
She was shaking, her eyes tightly closed, and cold.
Looking down, “Are you alright?”
“No…” shivering, “I hate thunder.” She whispered covering her ears. “I hate thunder.”
Thunder reminded her of that night.
The night the car crushed.
The night she lost them both.
Atobe leaned down, why me? He thought to himself wearily. His hand on her head, “Oy, brat!” shaking her a bit.
Fay was frozen, in shock.
Atobe’s brow furrowed, he pulled her up and did the one thing he knew that helped panic attacks.
SLAP
Fay gasped, her pale face in shock.
His arms around her. “Sakaki-Sama will never forgive me if anything happened to you.”
Moving away from him, “You didn’t have to slap me.” Her cheeks bruised a bit.
He shrugged. “It was either me slapping you or…”
She looked away.
“Or kissing you.”
“………………”
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Months Later
“Shishido-San?” Yuuki called.
The spiky haired boy looked at her, his glare soft but yet mean looking. Putting his cap back on, “Hai?”
She handed him a file, “This will help with your stamina.” Smiling at him, “It’s also the things you can do before you play Fudoumine.”
He nodded, “Arigato.”
Walking around, she handed all players their stuff until she reached one. Smiling, “Jirou-San.” Shaking the sleeping boy.
“Mmmmmmm….”
“Jirou-San.”
“Don’t call me Jirou-San!” he muttered opening his eyes yawning.
Fay smiled, “Jirou-Kun.”
“Lie!” raising a finger, “Only Jirou.”
Raising an eyebrow, “Only if you call me Fay, okay?”
“Hai.” Nodding then going back to sleep.
She smiled.
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Later that Day after Practice
Looking surprised when she got home, she found a…
Woman sitting in the lavish guest hall and next to her…
A young boy.
He looked a bit wild, spikish hair, and an earring in one ear.
They were both looking at her.
“Fay?” came Sakaki’s voice.
“H….Hai.” she said walking towards him. Sakaki stood up, “Id like to introduce you to a friend and her son.”
She looked puzzled.
“This is Hanamura Aoi.” Introducing the beautiful woman to her. Fay admired her, she looked so elegant and poise.
“Her son, Kajimoto Takahisa.” He said, “Kajimoto is the captain of the Jyousei Shounan tennis team.”
She nodded bowing lightly.
Kajimoto looked at her, a light smile hitting her face.
Does this mean? She thought to herself, is he serious about her? Glancing at the woman.
“Sorry to come unannounced, but I have a matter to discuss with Sakaki-Sama.” Hanamura said softly.
“Anou…” she said softly looking at them. Why was the boy here? She thought.
Hanamura smiled, “Sakaki-Sama told me you were having trouble with Math.” She said watching Fay’s confused look, “I bought Kajimoto to help you.”
Her cheeks flushed a bit, so he knew I was having problems with Math, she thought to herself. “H…Hai!” bowing, “Arigato Sakaki Sama.”
“We will be back in a while.” Sakaki told them.
Fay stood still.
Alone in the room.
“Fay-Chan.” Kajimoto said standing up, “You don’t have to be shy around me.” Smiling, ‘Its not like I was forced to do this.”
She looked confused.
“Hanamura-San told me a cute girl was involved so I came running.” Making her blush.
“Kajimoto-San…” she muttered embarrassed.
“Oy!” poking her forehead, “Kaji-Kun is fine.” Winking at her.
A smile lit her face, “Only if you call me Fay-Kun.”
“Hai.”
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Days passed by
Weeks.
Months.
Finally getting into the rhythm of her life. She was living it easily, Sakaki made sure everything was provided to her. And she always felt pressured that she needed to do her best.
But….
I don’t have anyone to talk to, placing her cheeks on the cool desk of the library desk. She sighed closing her eyes for a few minute, just a few minutes, yawning.
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“Mishima!”
Fay blinked.
“Mishima!” the voice came rather coldly.
“…………….”
Sitting up, she yawned. Looking at the person that woke her up, a scowl formed on her lips.
“A girl shouldn’t be sleeping alone here, na Kabaji?”
“Usu…..”
“God go away!” Fay muttered standing up, “I don’t have to see your face when I wake up.” Picking up her books and hauling her bag over one shoulder.
“A lot of girls would be dreaming about that day…” smirking looking at his reflection in his coated gold compact mirror.
“Get over yourself…’ she muttered walking out, “Na Kabaji?” she smiled at the door then leaving.
“Usu…” smiling.
Atobe was not amused.
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“Winter Ball?” Fay grimaced looking at the card on her locker in the club.
“Hai.” Jirou smiled, “Atobe's party.” He told her, “Sakaki-Sensei usually invites top musicians to play.’
“It’s a duo?” she asked.
Oshitari took the card from her. “Yes, they both collaborate in doing this.”
That means.
She would be involved too.
Looking down. I don’t know anything about balls and that means…
She gasped!
I have to have a date! Shaking the thought out of her mind. “Ill see you guys later.” Walking pass Wakashi.
End of Part I
