mmsuki

to my dear readers.. i am sorry for my long absence.. once again i disappeared..
well anyway.. i'll give you guys a quick summary in bullet form, why my long absence..

my MOM....

• Stage 1 Cancer
• Surgery
• Chemo-Therapy
• ICU
• (back to) Chemo

-- plus my Mom is alone at the hospital.. as she is in another country..

and then just recently my Grandma (my mom's mom) passed away.. i had to fly to the province to attend the funeral.. i just returned today..

but don't worry guys.. i sweat imma finish what i started.. please.. hold on a little bit longer.. hehehe.. i'm really sorry for being a lousy writer..

woah!! twintt, aya-chii and rndmnwierd you guys were fast at posting a comment.. LOL.. yeah.. its fast for me because you all post on the day of the update.. hahaha.. it makes me happy..

@twintt hahaha.. Eri the pimp?!.. LOL.. that is something definitely new.. don't worry.. i will be giving you you're answers.. but it'll take a few more chapters before you get it.. hahaha..

@aya-chii it has been established even before my absence that Sayu is a pedo.. hahaha..
and what do you mean Maimi is having so much affairs?? she has none.. so far...

@ rndmnwierd *SPAZZZ* one can never go wrong with TakaGaki
and marriage is always,.. always good news.. hahaha..

@rii_rii helloooo new reader and new member.. it's simple.. it's because Eri is sooo fly.. LOL.. and glad you enjoyed the previous chapter..

@Neru kekekeke.. 'sadly' it is..
yes finish yours and lemmee read it..

 
i forgot to mention on the previous update that a Black Mamba is a poisonous snake.. in case some of you guys were curious.. its not just a poisonous snake, its a snake that can strike12 consecutive times on the same target in a breakneck speed and precision.. and it strikes even if its not provoked.. don't you think its an appropriate alter ego for Sayu?? hahaha..

anyway.. i wrote something as a Halloween trick/treat for my 18 year old readers and up.. i finished it a week ago but i wanna let you guys know when i post chapter VII.. i know i said i wasn't gonna write those stuff anymore but my pervy mind just kept on reeling this thoughts.. hahaha.. and the only way i can get it out is by writing it or else i would be too distracted to write anything else.. so.... if you are interested and is 18 years old or above send me a pm..

i entitled it Rude Boy and its a gender bender naughtiness.. owhhh.. and its a TakaGaki.. some gAi-chan hotness and Risa's wildside(?)
read with CAUTION! it might leave you scarred for life.. LOL.. either from my poor writing or from what i wrote in it..

 


Chapter VII


Michishige Sayumi stared at the walls, still left at a daze, standing there in her stupor. How can her perfectly planned business proposal can be thrown out the window like that? Thrown by a person like Kamei Eri. Could it be, she was duped? There is no other explanation for it. Because she knows that any sensible business(wo)man would have accepted her proposal in a heartbeat and yet this Kamei Eri person did otherwise.

Did she wanted a higher offer? It was all an act. A ruse to get a better offer from the Black Mamba. Kamei Eri is playing hardball. It all makes sense now, how indifferent and aloof - despite her occasional nodding - she was during the meeting. And Sayumi was pretty sure that at some point Eri spaced out. Has she finally met her match? Well, she won't go down that easily. She is not done yet. This is just a small bump on her road to success. She will rise to the challenge.

After reaching her conclusion she stood up and left Eri's office. Walking out she saw her assistant talking animatedly to the five employees. She felt less guilty on making her wait for 2 hours.

As she neared the table they were gathered at she heard them talking about the hierarchy of cuteness which perked her ears.

" I am the queen of cute. " The girl named Kanon introduced to her all-too-eager looking assistant. " Yuukarin is the princess. " She continued pointing to the said girl. "And these two, " pointing to Riho and Zukki, " since they're the youngest and still new, they are a-lady-in-waiting. Until I feel like bestowing them a title. While that one, " pointing to a sweltering Momochi, " is the royal jester. "

They all broke out in laughter, except for the one being teased.

" Yaa! You can't name me the clown! " She vehemently opposed. " No clown is this cute. " Placing her open palms under her chin and batting her eyelashes.

" Of course I can! I'm the queen, when I say you're the royal jester then you are the royal jester. " Kanon countered and stuck out her tongue for emphasis.

Tilting her chin up and sending daggers at the younger girl, " You are just jealous because you can't accept the fact that I AM the cutest among you all! " she haughtily said.

" It's statements like that, that earned you your title. " The younger girl said, snickering.

" Yes, the title of me being the cutest among you all. " She smiled and did a slightly slanted peace sign near her right eye, and winked.

Which of course earned a complementary scoffing and rolling of eyes from a few people gathered on the table and Sayumi. Not wanting to hear more of narcissistic remarks from the self proclaimed cutest employee, Sayumi joined in on the conversation and changed topic.

" Mami, I'm sorry that you had to wait long. The meeting took longer than expected. " She sincerely apologized and pulled out a chair for herself.

" It's okay Michishige-san, time flies when you're in good company. " The devoted assistant said and beamed at the five employees who kept her occupied during her 2 hours of waiting. " How did the meeting go? "

" It'll continue another day. It's not over yet. " Her expression darkened and a black cloud of aura suddenly surrounded the determined older girl. The entire table went silent and the easy going atmosphere once present, came crashing down as she uttered those words. Brushing off her brash remark, she continued, " So, what kind of marketing strategy is Kamei-san using? Everything is perfectly calculated isn't it?!". She asked in a hushed tone. Curious to know more about her now formidable and conniving foe.

The five was baffled to the unique question of their eldest guest and it showed on their faces.

" What do you mean Michishige-san? " Riho carefully asked.

Sayumi interpreted this action as a form of loyalty to their employer. Sealing their lips together with their employer's golden secret of handling business. She needs to take another route if she wants to obtain valuable information about her enemy. " Uhh.. I mean, why are you guys not open regularly? "

A chorus of 'Ahhs' came from the five employees as they understood the older girl's question.

" Because we only open whenever Kamei-san feels like it. " Kanon said with a smile. And Sayumi's eye twitched once again - it has been a recurring incident ever since she met Eri.

" Ahhh, you mean like whenever it is a good day to operate? " Sayumi asked again, refusing to believe that the thorn on her throat for months is caused by such an illogical and childish method.

" No, we mean whenever Kamei-san feels like opening the shop. " Momochi reiterated.

" Because sometimes Kamei-san just likes to laze around her apartment and do nothing. Except maybe eat. " Zukki added, reasoning out their shop's sporadic schedule of operation. Although this did nothing but worsen the Black Mamba's twitch.

" But all is good as she still pays us a month's worth of salary despite not working the entire month. " The self proclaimed queen of cute said with a radiant smile, clearly happy about it.

" Yeah, even though we said that she should just pay us equivalent to the hours that we've worked. " Yuukarin continued, with a tone opposite that of Kanon.

" That's why, the shop only breakevens at the end of the month instead of earning profits. " Riho said also not too happy about their boss' decision of paying them a month's worth of salary.

" Hey, c'mon now Kamei-san already talked this with us. It's not about the money that she continues to open this shop, it's because she enjoys working with us. It brings her happiness when she opens it and works with us. " The oldest of the employee said, trying to cheer up her co-workers.

Nothing makes sense anymore." I have to go. " Sayumi stood up abruptly to the shock of everyone and walked out of Le Doux Rêve. Falling deaf to her assistant's protests.

Kamei Eri just continues to baffle her. Can such a random person really exist? This random personality can cause several problems for Sayumi. Everything now becomes unpredictable. How can she prepare for the unpredictable? She heaved a sigh of frustration just thinking about it. She doesn't cope well with spontaneity that's why she has plans for everything. If her foe is her exact opposite... things will not be boding well for her in the future.

She needs peace and quiet and think of possible plans to figure out her enemy if she wants to succeed in this project. She needs to vent out her frustrations and knows of the perfect way of how to.

---

Ruffling her hair with both hands Kamei Eri is not a bit pleased with her sister's supposed good news. Just thinking of opening the shop everyday is beginning to stress her out. And her body being foreign to stress she begins to feel a panic attack coming. Nausea and rapid breathing becomes apparent.

There is only thing that can completely calm her down. Her twin tree. It's her perfect refuge at times like this. She quickly detoured her way towards the park and looks for her twin tree. It is an anomaly that provides her solace at times of trouble. Two different tree learned to co-exist and grew into majestic trees that are almost conjoined at the trunk, having little space between them.

That narrow space is Eri's favorite place. It is the most comfortable place for her, more comfortable than her own bed. She squeezed her body between the two beautiful trees until she was content with how her body is positioned. It didn't a second longer before she felt relaxed and her breathing returned to normal. Sleep is slowly creeping up her stressed body. The cold wind of the night blowing, whispered her to sleep.

" What am I going to do now? " A high pitched whiny voice said. Causing the sleeping girl to slightly stir. " Nee~ will you help me solve this problem? " The voice continued to whine.

Eri got curious why the whiny voice's questions were unanswered. She peered one eye open to look for the whining girl. On the bench not far from the tree she saw a girl's back, slouching and alone.

" Help me!! "

Being the helpful person that she is, she slowly approached the bench. " How can I help you? " Asked the curious and the still sleepy girl, who was currently standing behind the whining girl.

" You can talk? " Surprised that she suddenly received a response. " Woah! I must be going crazy. " Still not believing her ears and leaned her face closer to her open palm.

" Of course I can, I'm human! " Shocked at the absurd question of the sitting girl.

" Ehhh! I think we're both going crazy. You're not human you're a bug. " She brought up her other hand and started to do stroking motion with her index finger.

The ridiculous statement got Eri fuming. She leaned forward ready to choke all the air out of the sitting, whining weird girl, when she a got a view of what was in the girl's hand. A small black speck can be seen amidst the rosy pink palm of the girl. Was she talking to a pill bug? She thought, her anger dissipating. Kawaii!

Using her pointer finger Eri lightly tapped the girl's shoulder. The sitting girl then jumped up from her sit and shrieked in surprise. Now that girl is facing her, she recognized her. " Michishige-san, calm down. It's just me Eri. " She said trying to pacify the jumpy girl.

" We're you trying to kill me? " Her right hand resting on her left chest, checking if her heart is still in its right place.

Eri couldn't possibly say yes to her question, so she just rubbed the back of her neck trying to appear as harmless as possible. " I think you were just disappointed that your little friend there, " pointing to the pill bug that was now helplessly lying on side of the bench, " can't talk. " She said smiling, hoping to lighten the mood and not be caught that she actually did try to kill her.

A pinkish hue became visible on the younger girl's cheeks. Embarrassed that she has been caught talking to a bug... by her enemy nonetheless. " What do you want? " She asked with all the coldness she could muster and salvage what is left of her dignity in front of the older girl.

" I just want to help. " Her smile never leaving her lips and sat on the bench. " C'mon maybe I can help. " Patting the empty seat beside her, motioning for the other girl to sit.

" I doubt it. " She said with a weary voice and sat beside Eri. " It's about business. " She said vaguely, not wanting to reveal more.

" Ahhhh... Then I really can't help you. " Chuckling at the irony of having the same worries.

"..."

" Nee~ Michishige-san, can't we just help each other? "

" Huh? What do you mean? "

" I mean you need my shop's space and I need to start earning profits. Why not just build the mall over Le Doux Rêve. " She carefully said, looking above the starless sky. " Let Le Doux Rêve be part of your mall. " Closing her eyes and her smile widening. This time she has a reason to smile. Happy that she has found a solution not only to her problem but for the younger girl as well.

" Kamei Eri, you are just one big ball of randomness. " Sayumi mumbled, her brows furrowing.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx


FUN FACT:
►Sayu at one point in her life did actually play/talk to a pill bug.. LOL..

► and Eri during her early days as a rokkie really do enjoy narrow spaces.. she said it calms her down.. she even enjoys a train raid packed with people during rush hour and can even sleep amidst the animosity.. hahaha..

'til next time..

@ aya-chii LOL!! in all honesty i actually thought of naming the pastry shop Pucchi Moni how uncreative..
keke.. i'm not gonna put my replies in spoiler now.. if you're curious as to what i said to you on my previous update this ► yeah.. i completely disappeared.. ; don't be mads... cuz i have another update.. yea? LOL! am I that obvious?!!! but i will show some mercy and won't be 'mean' to Mano, she needs some Maimi lovin' too.. ◄ is what i said..

@ Neru LOL!!! cool.. it just shows how rare a YajiSuzu fic is *sigh* that mine actually shows up on google..
i think the previous chapter got 3k word.. and with the chapters of my fics... its usually just 1k +.. LOL.. that's why i said its long.. but once the story picks up i'll probably keep it short,, for quicker updates..

@ twintt here is my long overdue update..



Chapter V


The news travelled fast that the elusive pastry shop - Le Doux Rêve- that continuously got in her way is open today for business. Such an opportunity will not be passed up by one Michishige Sayumi.

Her plan is simple, to convince the owner that the best thing that will ever come out of the pastry shop is by selling the lot its built on to her and to move to a more profitable location. Simple and direct to the point. Direct kill with her 'one shot' (perfectly planned) business proposal.

The project has already been setback multiple times and she can't afford another. Her investors are already breathing down her neck and they won't be happy if she can't seal the deal soon. She won't be happy if she can't seal the deal soon.

" Michishige-san we're here. " Her driver/assistant, Mami informed.

She resorted back to wearing her 'all-business' mask and steeled herself. Straightening out her suit and dusting off the nonexistent dust, " Pick me up after an hour. " and got off the vehicle.
An unexpected sight greeted her as there is already a line waiting in front of the shop, waiting for it to open. Eager patrons - mostly males - excitedly waiting for them to be let in. She knows that the shop does have loyal customers but she did not expect that people would actually be falling in line before it even opens.

It must be the marketing strategy of shop in the first place; to rarely open and keep the customers on their toes to want more of their products. No matter how unorthodox it is and how absurd it sounds. It must be working seeing that there are at least already 60 people waiting and the store doesn't even open one hour later.

Without hesitation she immediately went to the front of the line, disregarding the hissing complaints of the other people. She simply shrugged off the deathly glares and raised her chin up to face them, " I'm here on business. " she curtly said, exuding an air of arrogance. Earning her more deathly glares while the others did not hesitate to show their frustration by groaning.
Not showing one bit of interest about their displeased reaction she turned around and face the door to knock.

A young brightly looking girl that could rival the sun's blinding rays greeted her with an equally blinding smile. " Ohayo. " Her eyes disappearing as she continued to beam. " I'm sorry but we're not to open for another hour. " She politely informed and bowed for the inconvenience.

Sayumi had to hold back her urge to pounce and pinch the cute girl in front of her. It was cuteness overload and she doesn't know how much more she can take before she loses her control. That is not the kind of person she is now. Nope. She is no longer the Michishige Sayumi who loves pink fluffy cute things. That was so 2 years ago. She is a changed person. She is now Michishige Sayumi: youngest entrepreneur of the year. Michishige Sayumi the Black Mamba labeled by her peers- because of her aggressiveness and precision when striking a deal - of the business world. Of course the moniker doesn't only apply on how she deals with business, her 'poison tongued' persona have a lot to do with it too. Michishige Sayumi is feared by many in the industry and indulging on her urge now would only spell trouble on the image she strived hard to built. She pushed back the thoughts of unicorns and rainbows on the back of her head and composed herself.

But as her luck would have it, it looks like she is greatly being tested today as another embodiment of cuteness emerged to the side of the girl that just greeted her. " What seems to be the problem Zukki-chan? " It didn't help either that they were both wearing French maid outfits with cat ears headband.

" No biggie Riho-chan. I was just telling to this cute lady, " Sayumi is slowly losing her cool when the girl named Zukki said that, " that we won't be open for another hour. "

The girl named Riho then turned to her and flashed her a disarmingly cute smile, her eyes disappearing too while she did so. Was it on the job description to smile like so? " I'm sorry but what Zukki-chan said is true, no exceptions. " Informing her once again and confirming what the other had said. " No matter how cute the customer is. " She suddenly added, along with her toothy smile.

It took Sayumi herculean effort to control herself to not jump in joy when the two young ladies complimented her beauty. She knows for a fact that she is cute but to be praised by a fellow cutie feels different. It feels, better. The girls would of course know what they were talking about, after all it is how the adage - It takes one to know one - come to its existence.

She breathed in, hoping to inhale back the composure she lost at the presence of the two cute girls. " That's okay. I'm here to talk business to your boss. " She said, suppressing her stutter threatening to get out any moment.

" Who is looking for Kamei-san? " Another voice jumped in, joining on their conversation. As if two cute girls in French maid outfits wasn't enough for Sayumi a third girl - who is just as equally cute as the other two but slightly older - just had to show up. Challenging her already crumbling steely façade.

" This lady right here. " Riho told the newcomer, pointing to the only girl wearing a suit.

" Yuukarin! " Zukki exclaimed and pounced on the older girl, completely forgetting the presence of Sayumi. " I missed you. " Tightening her hold on Yuukarin's neck.

" I can't.. *cough, cough* ...breathe Zukki. " She said clearly having difficulty to talk with the younger girl's koala-like hug on her neck and body.

Sayumi cleared her throat to remind them of her existence and of course to save the cute girl from asphyxiation. For she knows that their 'race' - the exceptionally cute girl race - is already endangered, losing one is just not an option. " I need to speak to your boss. " She said with as much as demanding voice she can muster.

" Sorry about that. " Yuukarin sheepishly apologized and bowed once she was free from the grasp of the younger girl. " Please come in. Kamei-san will be arriving shortly. "

" She is not here yet? " Sayumi asked. Her eyes twitching in annoyance. Her brain making a little file that Kamei Eri is a tardy person and placed her on her disliked list - she has several lists. She doesn't like tardy people.

When she entered the establishment, her jaw dropped and awed at the sight. It was definitely a sight. It was everything she ever dreamed of - literally. The walls were of pink color with various drawings of practically everything fluffy that existed; clouds, rabbits, ponies, unicorns, rainbows, cotton candies, lollipops, cats, dogs. It was cuteness explosion. The tables, the carpets and most importantly the employees are made of cute. Everything around her is just oozes cuteness - herself included. She might actually go insane taking it all in.

" Hello! " A high pitched voice boomed, interrupting her cuteness high.

She turned and saw a petite girl, also in a French maid outfit like the other three she met.

" It's pichi pichi Momochi, " The petite girl continued, skipping towards her. " the ichiban kawaii! " She said with pride and arrogance. Doing a pirouette with her proclamation and ending it with a curtsy.

If Michishige Sayumi is the person she was two years ago, such flamboyant and conceited greeting would have not been gone unanswered. Within a snap of a finger she would have negated such declaration for two ichiban kawaii cannot exist. The title belongs to her and only her.

Good thing for Momochi then that the Michishige Sayumi standing in front of her is no longer the buriko princess she was two years ago. That the one standing there is the Black Mamba of the business industry; serious and only talks about business - who is at the moment, internally convulsing.

" Give it a rest Momochi. " Smacking the older girl upside the head. " Sorry about that. She's always like this. You'll get used to it. " She doubts it. " I'm Fukuda Kanon by the way. And I guess you have already met the others. " She said with the standard killer smile of a Le Doux Rêve employee. " Kamei-san will be here soon. "

And as if on cue the front door opened, revealing a stunning beauty with an auburn hair. That is if one could get pass the tousled hair and the wrinkly outfit.
How can one show up to work looking like they just rolled out of bed and wore whatever was within reach of their hand?

Sayumi was having doubts if the person that just came was the person responsible for the success of the shop or the one responsible for the shop for the shop period. She highly doubt it. " KAMEI-SAN!" They all greeted (?) and bowed in respect.

How can the person responsible for a successful business is the same messy - but still managed to look stunning - person standing in front of her now.
"Oh we have a guest? " Eri asked when she saw an unfamiliar face among them.

" I have an appointment. I called yesterday. " Sayumi quickly responded, switching back to her Black Mamba mode.

" Aren't you early for your appointment? " The younger girl's eye twitched at the response. No she was not early, it's just that the person she was to meet - Eri - was late. " Because we won't be opening for another 40 minutes. " It was the third time that day that Michishige Sayumi's eye twitched. " How can you set an appointment with someone here before we even open. " The older girl admonished unaware of the frequent eye twitching of the younger girl and her losing battle for her sanity.

" I made an appointment with you Kamei-san. " Sayumi quickly cut to the chase not wanting to prolong her agony.

" Oh right! " Agreeing and snapping her fingers. She knew she had a reason why she needs to wake up early today. " I am really sorry for my forgetfulness. " Bowing three consecutive times. " As an apology please have a taste of our bestseller. " She smiled. It was definitely the boss smile -no pun intended. Her employees' smiles are pretty and blinding, hers is the sun itself it is incandescently beautiful.

But her admiring was cut short when a music was suddenly blasted through the speakers of the store. (click me to play the song)And was suddenly surrounded by 5 jumping, dancing... and singing cute girls.

♫♪♫♪ Sutoroberi pai yai yai yai yaiyayai
Sutoroberi pai oo sutoroberi pai
Sutoroberi pai yai yai yai yaiyayai
Sutoroberi pai oo sutoroberi pai ♪♫♪

They all sang and danced in unison.

♪♫♪ Shuppai amai sutoroberi pai
Chitchai amai sutoroberi pai
Saa! Ippai yume no mini pai ♫♪♫

They then grouped in twos and sang.

♫♪♫ Junjun junjun junjun junjun
Akiramenai
Chikara wo awashete
Junjun junjun junjun jun
Gaman ga iru no sha
Junjun junjun jun ♪♫♪

They danced and sang in chorus.

♫♪♫ Mou chotto mateba sutoroberi pai
Mou chotto mateba sutoroberi pai
Ichigo ichigo sutoroberi pai
Mini no
Bukakkou dakedo sutoroberi pai
Chekku moyou no sutoroberi pai
Magokoro komete sutoroberi pai foo yuu ♪♫♪

Each one taking a solo line and does her own cute choreography for the corresponding line.

♪♫♪ Sutoroberi pai yai yai yai yaiyayai
Sutoroberi pai oo sutoroberi pai
Sutoroberi pai yai yai yai yaiyayai
Sutoroberi pai oo sutoroberi pai ♫♪♫

They all sang in chorus once more and ended it with all of them pointing to a strawberry pie - that magically appeared - on Eri's hand.
This is going to be a long day for Michishige 'Black Mamba' Sayumi.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

wait... there's more!!



Chapter VI


A gigantic black SUV roared and swerved through the streets of Saitama. Some pedestrians took notice. It's not every day that they get to see a fine piece machinery - super sized. They were used to the luxury cars, the sports cars and the limousines but seeing a vehicle that was more likely to be used in wars than in traffic is a rare sight indeed.

And one Fujimoto Miki enjoys the attention she is currently getting. That is why she is driving with a smirk knowing full well that no one can see her behind the darkly tinted windows. And continued on making the other drivers feel small inside their vehicles as she drove toward her desired destination.

The vehicle parked inside a prestigious college. A few group of students already gathered around the humongous vehicle, curious as to who could be driving the truck.

Men and women alike gasped when a petite woman wearing a leather jacket and aviator shades stepped out of the monstrosity of a vehicle. There was a definite contrast between the driver and car in terms of size... and gender (?). But both machine and man definitely had one thing in common, that is both exuded confidence and cockiness.

It didn't take long before the students recognized her and gasps became more audible. Along with the awestruck look the students were giving, a few handful of them blurted out " Miki-sama! " and bowed in reverence. The entire student body followed suit when those words were uttered. They didn't want to offend their most respected senior.

Miki forgot her legendary status at her alma mater. A lopsided smile crept on her lips as she reminisce her college days. She took a mental note to visit more often and bask at the admiration her juniors were giving her.

She strutted the now buzzing halls like she owns the place, which by the looks of it she might as well. She got more respect than the headmaster receives. Students after students that she passed by bowed.

The sound of flesh hitting leather was getting louder as she neared the gym. She stopped short of entering, not wanting to disrupt the rigorous training happening inside. Her eyes immediately landed on her cousin's tall figure dominating her sparring partner. The poor guy never saw the reverse roundhouse kick coming, knocking him down instantly. Shortly after their training ended.

When Miki was sure that it was safe to go inside, she went in and looked for her cousin. At the locker room she saw Maimi changing from her dobok to a more casual wear.

" Nice kick. " Receiving a smirk in response.

" It still doesn't compare to yours though. " It was now the older girl's turn to smirk in response.

" Yeah, and it never will. " Sticking out her tongue to add playfulness to her cockiness. It earned a hearty chuckle from her cousin.

" So why are you here? I doubt you just wanted to see me training. "

" Have you forgotten? I'm here to pick you up for the family dinner slash meeting. "

" Wow, how kind of you. " Her reply dripping with sarcasm.

Miki just ignored the younger girl's mockery. " Now hurry up, we still have to pick up Eri. "

" Ahhh! Now I get it. And here I thought you genuinely cared for me. " Faking a hurt expression.

" Shut it and hurry up. "

----

" Now this new location is very ideal for your shop. " She pointed to a rectangular space on the map. " Several schools are located near the neighborhood. Three are an all boys high school and two co-eds. " Pointing more to several dots on the map. " It is really ideal for a shop like yours to be placed there. Your business will double in no time. "

Eri listened intently, nodding in approval on the good points she made.

" Your business will incur no loss at all, not with the substantial offer I'm making. It more than covers the expanses you'll be incurring when you move. Plus --.. "
The older girl's office door burst open revealing two young beautiful ladies.

" Mai-chan! " Clearly excited from her sister's sudden visit. She hopped off her office chair skipped toward the younger girl, engulfing her in a tight hug. " Imissedyou, Imissedyou, I missedyou. " She said in one breath and showered Maimi in kisses. " What took you so long to visit me. " Pouting, showing her disappointment when her younger sister did not visit enough.

" I just visited you last week. " The younger girl defended herself.

" It was a week ago! " Still not pacified with her sister's response. If anything it made her pout more. " Because of it I had nothing good to eat. If Miki did not visit then I would have starved to death. " She exaggerated. " Good thing Mikitty is so kind and thoughtful. " Eri added and flashed a beaming smile at the older girl, who just shrugged in indifference. While Maimi knew better and sneaked in a glare at her cousin.

Miki not wanting to deal with her cousin's accusatory glare she diverted everyone's attention to the new face among them. " Who is that? " Pointing a finger to Sayumi.

" Oh, right this is Michishige Sayumi. I was in a business meeting before you guys barged in. " The two cousins exchanged knowing glances. Eri in a business meeting?

" I'm sorry for our rudeness Michishige-san. " Maimi bowing - or at least a semblance of it as she was still in the tight grip of her sister - in apology. " It's just that we didn't think that this office was being, in a business meeting nonetheless. "

" Yeah, usually this room is used to sleeping. " Miki added.

" Hey! I do not just sleep here. " Eri embarrassed from the verbal jabbing she received from the two, tried to defend herself.

Sayumi has once again need to clear her throat to make her presence known. All three girls turned their gazes on her. " I would not take more of your time Kamei-san and I just want you to think about it. Give me a call when you have reached your decision. "

" Oh there is no need for that Michishige-san. " Eri replied and released her tight grip on her sister and made her way back in front of Sayumi. " Your proposal makes a lot of sense. " Sayumi for the first time that day smiled knowing that she has sealed the elusive deal. " But I have no plans of moving or selling this lot. " The younger girl thought and celebrated too soon. " I'm sorry for wasting your time. But I had fun listening to your proposal. " She smiled, showing she genuinely meant it. " I have to go now, I have another appointment with my family. " Eri shook the clammy hands of Sayumi, still too stunned to utter a word or move. " But you can still have that strawberry pie. " She tried to console and left the office.

Leaving a befuddled Michishige Sayumi behind. Did she just spent 3 hours of business proposal in vain? What now?

---

On a rare occasion that day Miki's SUV seemed small as it pulled over in a massive chic modern Japanese house - mansion. When they entered the mansion a dual stairway greeted them together with a handful of butlers and maids bowing to them. And up above the high vaulted ceiling a crystal chandelier that only the richest of the rich can afford hang proudly.

" Man, I forgot how rich you guys are. " Miki whistled in amazement.

" We are not rich, our sister is. " Maimi tried to reason.

" Don't try to deny it. You and Eri are rich. "

" So are you. " Eri whined.

" I'm poor compared to you guys. " Miki sniggered on her remark.

Before they can argue more on who is richer than who a petite girl with commanding presence walked towards them. " You have finally arrived. " Pertaining to all of them.

" Ai-chan! " Eri being the bubbly girl she is immediately pounced on her sister enveloping her in a hug and kissed her cheeks. " Where is Gakisan? " Looking behind the older girl as if Risa was hiding behind her sister.

" She is already in the dining room. Come quickly we have important matters to discuss. " And ushered her guests to the dining area.

" Gaki-san! " She walked toward the older girl and when she was near enough she gave another one of her warm hugs.

" Kameha! " Eri's enthusiastic greeting was returned with just as equally lively welcome.

" Hello, Niigaki-san. "

" Ehhhhhh?! How many times do I have to tell you Maimi-chan that you can just call me Risa-chan or Gakisan like Eri here. " Releasing herself from Eri's grasp and walked over the younger girl to give her a welcoming embrace too.

" Omame! You're blooming. " Miki said, smiling at the blooming bean.

" Mikitty! It's been a while. " And gave a quick hug before pulling away.

" Sit, sit we have a lot of catching up to do. " Ai said once everybody was done exchanging pleasantries.

While they ate they talked about anything that they deemed worth mentioning and talking about over dinner. Quickly catching up on the things they missed when they were apart and were not able to meet with their busy schedules.

Ai clinked her wine glass to get everyone's attention. " I have good, better and best news to tell you all. " She said with a smile. " The evening could only get better from here. Let me start off by giving you guys the best news. " Her smile grew even wider and took hold of Risa's hand. " We are going to be a family. Risa is pregnant! " She jovially shouted and raised her hand holding her other half's hand.

The others clapped in joy when they heard the great news. They know that the couple has been wanting to have a family of their own for years. They are truly happy for them that they are finally able to have one. No one deserved it more than them. They know that that baby will be showered with love the moment he/she is born.

" How many months? " Eri asked her excitement overflowing. It looks like her day just keeps on getting better and better.

" I'm 6 weeks pregnant. " She smiled, her face glowing.

" No wonder you were blooming. " Miki said.

" I am so happy for you guys. " The youngest girl on the table expressed.

" Thanks. " Ai said, smiling at her youngest sister." Now onto the next news. Eri's business is expanding. " Her eyes looking sternly at Eri.

" What do you mean? " Eri bulged her eyes in surprise as she heard the sudden news.

" You are now going to open the pastry shop regularly not just when you want to and for once make profit off it. " Ai informed her stern eyes never wavering as she looked at the puzzled look of her sister.

" And if I don't? " The younger asked not in defiance but in confusion. As she truly doesn't know if she can do what her sister is asking her to.

" If you don't then, you're gonna have to start working with me in the company. "

Eri gasped, she doesn't like the idea of working for the company. She definitely prefer handling the pastry shop than working for her sister's company. Just thinking about it she already feels lazy and bored. She also knows that this is her sister's way of telling her to clean up her act and be more responsible. That she is doing this out of concern more than anything else.

She sighed in defeat as she knows it's time to finally grow up. " I guess my business is expanding. " She said and smiled the best she can.

" Good. " Ai is happy she finally got through her younger sister. " If you need help you can always come to me. "

" I don't need your help. "

Ai laughed heartily at Eri's stubbornness, " Even better. "

It was now time for Ai to deliver last news of the day. And it was the most dreaded news she had to deliver. She sighed, she doesn't know how else to tell it.

She felt her hand being squeezed by Risa, giving her the silent support she needed to finally deliver the last news of the day. She decided to go for the easy escape and say it in one go; " Maimi is getting married. "

A loud clatter of silverware and a choking sound filled the earlier jovial air.

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what... a double update?? nyahahaha.. yes it is.. dhurrrssss.. btw.. the first four chapters all happened in one day.. just in different point of views..

A couple of side notes:
Le Doux Rêve means sweet dreams in French.. hopefully its accurate as i don't know sh*t about the language.. lol...
Dobok is what you call a taekwondo uniform.. yes.. Maimi knows taekwondo in this fic.. and is a black belt.. so does Miki..
if guys are curious as to what a reverse roundhouse kick looks like.. here is a vid



oh.. and Miki is driving a hummer.. LOL.. i was actually planning to let her drive a sports car.. but i thought a hummer would be more intimidating and kick @ss?? hahahaha..
its hummer time!! can't touch this.. <--- kekeke.. lame pun..

and another thing.,. if you guys are curious as to what their age are in this fic.. just add 2 years to their actual age.. yes?.. okay..

Chapter 5 was written entirely in Sayu's POV.. hahaha.. i had fun writing it that way.. and that strawberry pie song, thought i'd just throw that in there.. hahaha..



let me see if i can update soon.. ciao..

Replies :

Spoiler

@ aya-chii yeah.. i completely disappeared.. ; don't be mads... cuz i have another update.. yea?
LOL! am I that obvious?!!! but i will show some mercy and won't be 'mean' to Mano, she needs some Maimi lovin' too..

@ Neru LOL really? thanks..
yeah, i'll check out your stories just say YajiSuzu and i'm there.. hahaha.. nah.. i'll check it out fo sure..

@ Glasseyelashes yah.. no.. of course i haven't forgotten it..

@ twintt ehehehe.. NO! i will not leave this fic.. no matters what.. >.<;;
what do you mean i like seeing Maimi in pain? of course not.. that detail is vital.. eheh.. arggg.. i'll
leave it at that before i reveal more.. lol..

anyway.. i bring you guys another update.. LONGER than the previous one.. i don't know what is happening with me and this long update.. hahaha.. maybe months of absence made me want to write more?.. anyway.. its has some TakaGaki fluff!! you can never go wrong with TakaGaki fluff!!

also.. i am now working on the next the chapter.. so bear with me a little more longer.. i'm still building up the plot.. kekeke.. i wanna finish the build up and get to the drama ASAP! and to the YajiSuzu goodness.. a little heads up.. this might be a little bit more dramatic than my previous fic, which was a pointless, plotless(?) YajiSuzu fluff.. hahaha..

oh yeah, there is something clickable there.. click if you wanna.. i was too lazy to give out more details about it, so just click it to see the car i had in mind.. hahaha
tada.. i bring you chapter IV..



Chapter IV

What started out as a good day, ended on a sour note. Feeling stuffed with the clothes she is wearing , she opened her business coat, revealing a pristine white undershirt with a silver tie to match it. Ai huffed in frustration, rubbing the back of her neck to relieve the frustration she is feeling and shoved her other hand on her pocket as she trudged to exit the building where all her frustrations began.

Reaching the lobby there were employees who recognized her and immediately bowed in respect. She was too engrossed in her thoughts to notice and acknowledge the action but her employees didn't mind as they understood that their boss is under a lot of stress lately with the company expansion and all.

Outside the building she saw a familiar man in a suit waiting for her and standing in front of a black sedan car. It stood out among the other cars in waiting for its exquisite elegance outshined them all. A ride suitable for the person it has been waiting for. Once the man recognized the approaching figure he bowed and opened the door to the backseat when she was near. He closed the door and ran to enter the driver's seat.

"Where to Takahashi-san"

"Home." She answered without delay. He nodded and drove away.

Usually the passing buildings and the setting sun would relax her but today it did very little to ease her mind. She knew that this day would come but was hoping that with the way she is handling the company there would be no need to proceed.

" Why are you against the marriage? " The man argued. " Your stepmother has arranged this. "

"That is exactly my point! My stepmother arranged it. I want my sister to have a choice in this. " She countered. " I don't want to force anything to her. "

"Her mother knows what is best for her. She won't be arranging this marriage in the first place if the family is no good. "

" I want her to decide for that, not mom and certainly not me. "

He sighed, nose flaring at the woman's naive response. " Look, I know you have been doing your best in running this company since you took over. I would be lying if I said I wasn't impressed but I'm afraid it's not enough. " He eyed her making sure that what he was saying is getting through. " In the end, your board members are nothing but a bunch of chauvinistic pompous pigs, who hates when a woman is on top. " Ai scoffed in repulsion. She can't believe that even in the 21st century her gender would still be an issue. " They are planning to overturn you. "

"What about you? Aren't you one of those pigs? "

He flashed her a playful lopsided smile. " Ai-chan, " dropping the formalities and switching to familial way of talking, " I like your father and I love your stepmom, she was my only sister after all. My daughter, you and your sisters are the only family I have left. I will do everything in power to protect you and this company which my sister dearly loved. But if you don't proceed with the marriage, everything will be lost. Everything. " She let out a breath of frustration, contemplating whether or not it is in fact the best option to proceed with the marriage her stepmom had arranged for her sister. " You have a responsibility for this company and so does your sister. If you can't do it for the company, do it for the thousands of employees that will be jobless once they succeed." He pressed.

" But I don't know if she will agree to it. Can't I just work harder? " He shook his head and she sighed for the second time.

" You are the head of the house now. You have to make that decision for her and she have - no - she needs to follow it. "

" Are you sure that this is the only way? " She asked hoping that it isn't.

" Yes, with the marriage the two companies will be merging. It'll be near impossible to overturn you and your family. "

She pinched the bridge of her nose with her thumb and index finger and closed her eyes. She let the earlier day's events replay in her mind. There was indeed no other way. As much as she hates making the decision for her sister and forcing it on her, the company needs to come first. Their father has spent too much time and effort building it. And not to mention the thousands of people about to lose their job if she doesn't take this drastic action. Even if this will be a marriage of convenience, she hopes that her sister will still be able to find love in it.

---------

She slammed her hand on the table and stood up, causing the other occupants to jerk back in surprise.

" Can someone please explain to me, why the pastry shop issue is still not taken care of? " Demanding an immediate answer from her subordinates.

" Michishige-san, we did everything we can to -- "

" Obviously you didn't do everything you can because if you did, then we would be building my mall right now?! Instead of being pushed back - AGAIN!" She cut off one of her executives. It was a recurring issue and the mall project has been pushed several times already because of it. Her patience is thinning out at least that much is obvious to her executives who are scared out of their wits.

The seemingly docile appearance of their president should not be taken lightly because underneath it, is a far more venomous creature than a box jellyfish that has ever graced the planet earth. Within seconds her poisonous remarks can render an educated adult stunned for a good minute - or longer depending on the gravity of her statement - before he/she can gain back consciousness. Aside from the momentary ability to stun an unsuspecting adult, it also leaves a scar. Once they experienced it they will forever remember it and tremble at the thought of being lashed out at again.

Michishige Sayumi wasn't always like this of course. It's just her job and her position calls for it. If she doesn't do it, she won't be feared. And if she is not feared, she will not be obeyed. In the profession she chose, it is necessary to harbor fear from her employees and competitors if she wants to succeed. And succeed she did. After just 2 years from graduating college she is already on her way to build her first mall, a great feat to be achieved by someone so young. And it did not went unnoticed in the business world as she graced various business magazines; listing her as one of the youngest and most promising entrepreneur of her generation. Her beauty didn't went unnoticed as well as her doll like appearance and porcelain skin is also a contributing factor for her to grace the said magazines. Her apparent beauty helped veil her poisoned tongue persona, making her more dangerous than she already is as her prey never suspected a thing. Swift and perfectly aimed, never missing and direct to the point.

" We are on it. We are plann -- "

" You know it says on your resume, that you graduated from Standford University and you, " pointing to another one of her executives, " graduated from Harvard . Make sure that your parents ask for a refund because you apparently learned nothing. "

"Ma'am -- "

" Your incompetence eludes me! Must I do everything? Let me show you - a graduate of Yamaguchi University - how it is done. " She rubbed her temple, to ease the inevitable headache that will follow her outburst. " Leave before I fire all of you. You are all useless, what is the point of hiring all of you if I'll do everything in the end. "

They did not need to be told twice and hurried their way out of the conference room with their tails tucked between their legs. Scared that they will in fact lose their job if they did not hurry to leave the room.

Sayumi grunted and huffed clearly agitated by the incompetence of her executives. She sat back down and pressed the intercom, " Mami, bring me the files regarding the pastry shop. " She said to her secretary.

" Immediately, Michishige-san. "

Minutes later a young lady with long black hair entered the room carrying a folder and handed it to her fuming boss.

" Here is the files you asked for, Michishige-san. "

" Thank you, that will be all. " Her secretary bowed and left the room.

She flipped the files and browsed through it. Looking for details that her executives might have missed. Nothing she read was new to her. It was the same details as before. The store did not open regularly, twice a week at most. And because of it, it is on a spiraling loss but when it does open, it overflows with people. It seems that it has managed to snag a handful of loyal customers. But despite that, she doubts that it is enough to cover its loss and expenses. She knows for sure that the offer she made was more than enough to cover everything. Why the owner continues to turn down the offer baffles her.

She sighed and proceeded to plan for the best course of action in order to buy the lot - where the pastry shop is built - and finally build the mall she has been planning for months now.

--------

Airi watched as her childhood friend bounced the soccer ball from her left knee then to her right before finally letting it fall on the grass, dribbling and passed it to a nearby teammate. Then running down the field at full speed avoiding the players trying to defend her. She gracefully got rid of her defenders by weaving and dancing through player after player then the ball was passed back to her when she got completely free. It took a while for the opposing team to notice it and was left alone for a couple of seconds. It was enough for her to aim and kick the ball perfectly to the net with an unsuspecting goalkeeper. And just like that, she scored the winning shot and lead her team to victory.

Her teammates shouted in ecstasy. Even though it was just a practice game their pride was still on the line and the bragging rights. And now they have every right to flaunt and taunt their teammates who lost. They rushed to their captain and huddled around her, tackling her down the ground for the winning kick.

"MIYA!!!! I knew you can do it! " One of her teammate shouted as she pounced on her.

" It's not fair! You guys got the captain. " Another one complained.

" Oh! Shut it, and just accept your loss. " The other one taunted.

" But you guys got Miya, the team captain. Of course you guys will win. " The person from the other team complained again.
" That's why we gave you guys the best goalie. " One of Miyabi's teammates defended.

" O-okay.. Ughhh... " Miyabi having a hard time to get a word out as she is still underneath the pile of sweating and panting teammates. " E-enough.., " she said as she crawled out from the pile " On Friday we can have a rematch. " Finally relieved that she is out of the messy pile. " That's it for practice, see you guys tomorrow. " Her teammates began to disperse and head for the locker room to get their respective duffle bags. While she, on the other hand saw her friend waiting on the bleachers with a bottle of water and towel in hand - like she always does. She smiled at her while walking towards the bleachers.

" Miya, you were excellent! Like always. " Airi greeted with a smile, and handed her the water.

" Thanks. " The older girl responded with her smile never faltering and drank the water her friend so kindly offered her.

" I think you'll lead this school in another championship. " She stood up and wiped the sweat and dirt made apparent on the older girl's face after the tedious football practice. It has become a habit of hers to do this whenever she watched her friend practice. And neither of them objected it as both of them enjoyed it.

" I don't know, the other teams got strong new recruits. After the senpais graduated last year, I don't know if we are strong enough to keep the trophy at our school. "

" Of course you are! C'mon we still have Captain Miya. We'll be keeping that trophy this year and the next, until you graduate. " Airi encouraged which brought a smile on the older girl. " After that I don't know. That's why you should train them hard to keep the legacy going, you know. "

" Wow! And I thought coach was tough. You are even tougher. " It earned her a shove from the younger girl and giggled to their heart's content. One of the perks of growing up together, the ability to laugh at the littlest of things without feeling weird about it. They are each other's confidante and knows each other's secrets - although one secret is yet to be revealed to the other. Their jovial moment was interrupted when a man in a penguin suit entered the scene.

" Ojou-sama, " The man said, facing the younger girl. " Your father wishes to see you immediately. "

The younger girl's fell as her time with her friend has just been cut off. As much as she wanted to spend the remaining of the afternoon with Miyabi she knew better than to disobey her father. " I'm sorry Miya, I guess I'll see you tomorrow. " And hugged her tightly, not minding the sweat or the dirt.

" I'll just call you later, Airin. " Miyabi whispered to console the younger girl, before letting go of the hug and giving a weak smile and finally saying goodbye.

-------

As she enters the comfort of her home, there is only one person she wants to see the most. She looked around, looking for the younger girl. Noticing that she is not on her usual spot, on the couch anticipating for her return and waiting for the perfect moment to pounce on her to engulf her in a tight hug. But today is different. There was no one on the couch and there is certainly no warm hug to greet her.

But something unusual did greet her senses. It was the aroma of sautéing onion and garlic. Knowing where the person she was looking for is, she stealthily walked towards the kitchen. There she saw the younger girl busily cooking and humming an unknown tune in a green frilly apron to complete the picture perfect housewife look, still unaware of her presence.
Ai admired her beloved, even with her back facing her she has never seen her so beautiful in that very second. She thanked who ever higher being there is, for her luck to be able to find someone so perfect for her.

Unable to contain her happiness any longer and her yearning to touch her, she slowly approached her and enveloped her in a hug. Taking in the familiar warmth and smell, she further buried her face in her neck to take in more of her intoxicating scent that she has been addicted to. "Tadaima~," she whispered. It was a bit muffled as her lips grazed the younger's pulse point. " god, I missed you. " She continued and kissed her neck . "Are you sure it's safe for you to be cooking in your condition? " A tinge of worry can be detected on her voice but she didn't stopped kissing and nibbling her neck.

Risa turned off the stove and turned around without breaking out of the embrace. She put on of her arms around Ai's neck, her fingers immediately played with the older girl's short locks. Her other hand grabbed the silver tie and pulled her close enough for them to kiss. " Okaeri. " She word out between kisses. " And I'm pretty sure cooking is fine for a pregnant woman to do. " Still tugging and pulling on Ai's lips. Beaming on how adorable and paranoid her lover could be.

When they pulled back and stopped kissing, Ai remembered all her stress about work and the impending arranged marriage. Marring the lovely mood she was just in seconds ago. Of course Risa noticed the sudden change in mood. " What's wrong? " She asked worriedly, her hand still drawing and caressing Ai's short hair. Bringing small comfort to Ai.

The older girl sighed and rested her forehead on the latter's. " Looks like the marriage is taking place after all. " She confessed dejectedly. Risa just nodded, understanding that the if Ai had any other choice she will not agree to it at all.

" You'll just have to explain it to her. I'm sure she'll understand. " But even she knows that that will not be the case once Ai gives out the news to her sister.

" I don't know... " in doubt and shaking her head. She doesn't know how her sister is going to take the news that she has to marry soon. " Be there when I tell her. " She said and captured the younger girl's lips. Risa nodded in response. Of course she will be there, she has always been there for her and this time is no different. " We'll tell them the good news too! " Ai said excitedly, grinning but not breaking the kiss. She pushed Risa back on the stove, causing for the latter to gasp. Seizing the opportunity to slide in her tongue and hungrily tasting the younger girl. Feeling bold she grabbed Risa's thigh and pulled it to her hips, bringing them closer. Not soon after she did the same with the other thigh, straddling her hips completely. The kiss still continues to intensify.

Gaining new found strength she started moving, " Let's... con..tinue ...this in ....the bedroom.. " she muffled out between kisses.


xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx


[Mami is here.. as in Mami of Sandal.. the die hard fangirl of Sayu.. lol.. i made her Sayu's secretary..
anyone can give me ideas what to name the Pastry shop and the mall of Sayu?? hahaha.. yeah.. i'm lazy like that..
am i getting wordy with my updates?? hahaha.. should make it short again?.. or its just fine?.. hopefully its not getting draggy for you guys..

*blows the gathering dust * OTL i am soooooo sorry for my sudden disappearance.. there were just things and issues.. eheh.. well i came with a LONG overdue update!! i'm really sorry... forgive me this once?.. i know i promised someone a double update before disappearing but this chapter is longer than both of the chapters combined.. hope that makes up for it.. don't worry, i haven't forgotten about this fic.. i am working on it.. PROMISE..

replies:

Spoiler

@ twintt i'm really sorry bud, for not giving the promised double update.. but i will update ASAP.. also your question has already been answered... it is indeed the lovable airhead ERI!! and Maimi is called by her relatives Mai-chan.. its not Maimai of ºC-ute.. sorry for the confusion..

@ miglop i'll be squeezing in TakaGaki here and there..

@ Glasseyelashes thank you for clearing things up, while i wasn't around..

@ oddball keke, its not Mai-chan.. its Rina..

@ Chimai NO! i don't have the knack to turn this into a crime story.. hahaha.. that was just me and weird humor,, yes! its awesomeness weird Eri..

@ ShiawaseWish you wake up with a weird red stain on your lips??.. lol.. its never wise to microwave any thing where steam can be enclosed when heated.. like a grape.. or an egg..

@ Kaori!-chan yeah, she did mention it in an interview the state of her messy room..

@ assassin4hire lol, nothing has happened so far on the two weird (?) chapters.. so hopefully this third one will give you guys more ideas on how the story will be unfolding?..
and i'm sorry for corrupting your mind.. hahaha.. no worries.. that the last time i will be writing such things.. kekeke.. its traumatizing for me too..

@ aya-chii whattttttttttt?! i guess you hate me more now.. after disappearing for soooo long.. hahaha.. I MISS THE TURTLE TOOOOOOOO!!!

@ Neru here is another update?.. sorry that my update was lagging.. hehe..

Chapter III

Swimming has always been her refuge and solace. It is the only time when she can experience true peace of mind from all the troubles that had left her of countless sleepless nights. The vividly haunting dreams has been plaguing her mind making the night darker than it seems. Every time she closes her eyes, influx of images she wants to forget comes rushing through. Leaving her wide awake at the wee hours of the night, tired and scared.

Wanting to escape the disturbing thoughts, she went for a swim early in the morning. Waiting for dawn, when the sun finally defeats the last shadows of the night. Only then can she feel safe and alive again. Alive but not living. That's what she had been doing for the past year. Trying to keep herself alive the best she could until she can atone the wrong she had done. For now she'll continue to be alive, continue her charades and the facade she had perfected until she deserves to be living.

After having some form of comfort from the early swim and the sun finally rising she took one last dive and swam across the pool before getting out. She took her towel from a nearby rack, drying herself with it and wore her robe after. Feeling refreshed and surprisingly less tired despite the hour and a half swim.

Walking to her apartment to change and get ready for class, she stopped short of opening the door when she heard loud groans and guttural noises from the other side. Checking the number beautifully outlined on the door to see if she was indeed in the right place , 604; there is no mistake it is her apartment. But it did little to comfort her, she still doesn't know the reason behind the noises. She pressed her head closer to the door to further investigate.

"Hit harder!" A muffled but familiar voice bellowed.

"Mmmnnggggaaaaahhhhhh!!!"

"YES!" Excitedly exclaimed by the same familiar voice.

Not wanting to hear more and put a stop to it once and for all she slides in her card key and put herself in a defensive stance. Confident of being able to overpower whoever is on the other side. As long as the person doesn't have a higher blackbelt degree than her then she will be fine.

Pushing the door open, and stealthily made her towards the living room where the noises are coming from. Only to be surprised by the sight of her cousin watching tennis in full volume.

"Miki?! What are doing here?" Dropping her defensive stance and stood straight.

"Oh hey, Miami. Good morning." Giving a quick glance at the younger girl and returned her full attention at the 48' inch t.v. shortly after.

" And why are watching tennis at full volume?!!" Walking over to the sofa and grabbed the remote to lower the volume.

" Because you don't have porn on your cable. You know I can hook you up if you want." She cheekily answered accompanied by a smirk.

" And so you decided to watch tennis at full volume?" Raising her eyebrows in puzzlement of her cousin's absurd reasoning. "And no thank you. " She quickly added before the older girl gets any idea and does install an unwanted channel on her cable.

" Yeah, its still too early for UFC. And I'm not yet in the mood to watch beef cakes groping and rolling around in sweat and blood. Besides, have you heard these girls grunt when they hit those balls?! " Snickering at her own dirty joke. "All you need is an active imagination. " Not once did the smirk left older girl's lips.

Shaking her head at her cousin's dirty remarks, " I seriously don't want to know what is inside that head of yours. And you didn't answer my question, why are you here? "

"Oh, there is some girl in my apartment. " Grabbing the remote from her cousin and increased the volume once again.

" Well, did you inform the authorities?" Worry is apparent on the younger girl's voice.

" There is no need for that, I brought her there after all. "

" And by brought you mean, you slept with her. " Receiving a nod from the other.

" I woke up first and I don't want to be there when she does so I left. " Turning to Maimi and grinning from ear to ear, brushing off the severity of her actions.

Sighing in frustration because of the response she got, she readied herself to lecture the older girl only to be prevented by her ringing phone.

" Aren't you going to get that? "

" I will, stay here. Don't move. " Slightly glaring at her cousin before grabbing her phone and answered it without screening in the confines of her room.

"Hello? "

"Nee~ Mai-chan how long does it take to cook a hardboiled egg?" Immediately recognizing the voice on the other end of the line.

"About 13 minutes or so." Easily answering it. Having cooked it multiple times already.

"Thank you!" Her sister excitedly replied. Just then, realization hit Maimi that maybe answering the her sister's query was not such a good idea. Knowing how terrible of a cook her sister is, it is not wise to let her set foot on any kitchen known to man. The last time it happened, three houses burnt down from a simple task of plugging a coffee maker. Thankfully no one was injured including her sister, as the houses were empty at the time it caught fire.

"WAIT! ---" She shouted hoping that it is not too late to prevent her sister from 'cooking'.

But alas the other line already disconnected before she could even utter another word. " Ugh! This is not good! " She needs to immediately go to her sister and prevent an impending disaster of colossal magnitude . Lives are at stake, not just her sister's.

She opened her closet grabbing clothes to wear and quickly go to her sister's house before anything happens.

Miki entered the room after watching tennis and bored having nothing else to watch. "What's wrong? " Seeing Maimi's panic stricken state of hurry.

"Eri is trying to cook?! " A loud gasp escaped her cousin's lips.

" That is not good! "

"I know, I'll go there right now. "

"Wait! You have classes, let me do it. "

Narrowing her eyes at her cousin's surprising attitude of wanting to help, " You're just gonna hit on her again aren't you? " Miki just stared at the ceiling with the pretense of innocence she can gather at that short amount of time. " No! She is your cousin for goodness sake! " Maimi immediately lectured, catching the ploy of the older girl. " And she is my sister! There are boundaries Miki! "

"Geez Maimi. She is my step cousin. We're not really related, unlike you. So its fair game. " She quickly reasoned, trying to shed some light - or maybe dim the light - to the younger girl.

" Fujimoto Miki! " Glaring at her cousin. Condemning the ploy of the older girl. She knows that Miki has been crushing on Eri ever since they hit puberty (after being blessed by godly curves) her cousin can't seem to take her eyes off of her. And she has successfully protected her sister's honor from the predatory claws of her cousin. She is not about to give way now, after years of success.

" You do know that I do that (glaring) 100 times better than you don't you? " Brushing off the glare coming from her cousin. " Alright, alright. I won't hit on her. " Finally conceding to her cousin's request. " I'll just grope her. " She muttered under her breath.

" What? "

" Nothing. You have a class in 15 mins, so I'll leave first. " Quickly responding to divert her cousin's attention and leaving before she changes her mind.

-------------------------

Miki excitedly strolled the awakening streets of Tokyo knowing that she gets to visit Eri without arousing any suspicion from the latter. Deny as she might try, she knows that what she feels for her is not as superficial as she makes it look. It might have started that way, but through the years her feelings she has harbored turned out to be more than that. More than a simple crush, more than a simple lust, more than a physical attraction towards her. But she is not going to admit that anytime soon. At least not to the object of her affection. She is just going to continue living the way she is now. Playing around, not having a serious relationship and is not planning to have one, now or in the near future.

For she is a coward, afraid that she is going to break her if they were to be in a relationship. Not having the courage to continuously hold onto her if things doesn't go her way. For Fujimoto Miki, Eri deserves better... better than her. So she is just going to stand in sidelines, watching and waiting for her to be happy in someone else's arms.

Stopping on a nearby coffee shop she orders two cups of tea and a crepe knowing that it is Eri's favorite. After receiving her orders in a take-out bag, she walks out the store and hurriedly went in the direction of her step-cousin's apartment.

Not receiving an answer after ringing the bell multiple times she decided to turn the knob, which surprisingly was unlock. The younger girl's carelessness always worries her and now she just added another thing to worry about. She will have to remind her to never leave the door unlock especially if she was home. Upon entering she noticed that there was no smoke emitting from any direction, so that was a good sign.

"ERI! " She immediately yelled out but like her ringing, it didn't receive an answer. "ERI! " She yelled again. Removing her shoes before completely entering, she yelled yet again, " ERI! " and walked towards the kitchen, knowing that it was her last where about.

There she saw the younger girl bending over, scratching her head, looking at the microwave intently while eating cheese. " Eri, why didn't you answer the door if you were here all along? And why was your door unlocked! You know that its not safe to leave it like that. "

" Ohayou Miki-chan! " She turned her head briefly flashing a smile before returning her attention back to the microwave.

"What are you doing? And eating? "

" I think the microwave is broken and I'm eating cheese. " She answered not even sparing a glance at the older girl.

" It's not plugged. " Placing the teas and the crepe on the counter as she sauntered near the microwave to plug it in. " Are you sure that that's for human consumption? " Pointing to the cheese held up by Eri. " Because I am not here to babysit diarrheic Eri, again. Once was enough. More importantly why did you even have cheese for dogs when you don't even have a dog? "

" That was a onetime thing! And yes, this is made for human consumption! " She reasoned as she stood up and pouted at her visitor. " And well, I might get a dog in the future thats why I bought it. " Beaming another smile at the older girl.

Hiding her fondness for the adorable sight in front of her, she sneered in response, " Here, there was a free breakfast buffet at the lobby of my condo building. I didn't know what to get so I took whatever was left. " Pointing to the breakfast she bought minutes ago.

She hopped towards the free breakfast and beamed even more seeing her favorite. " LUCKY!! I love crepes. " Immediately biting a big portion of it.

" You got a cream, on the top of your lips. " Miki points out.

Instead of wiping it clean with her hand, she sticks out her tongue and languidly swipes it across her upper lips. Creating an unintentional erotic sight for Miki, causing her to almost buck her knee. Not wanting to prolong her torture and cave in her desires she stretched out her arms and harshly wipes it with her fingers.

" There. Don't you dare make a mess again or else I'm taking that back! " She threatened knowing full well that the younger girl will comply.

-------------------

After her first class, Maimi went to the hospital. Planning to spend her break time there but not before stopping at a florist shop and bought flowers, like she always does when visiting.
She has visited so many times that the nurses and doctors are already familiar with her.

" Ohayou, Maimi-chan. " The hospital staff would greet on every corner where she walked on.

" Ohayou! " She greets back with a smile.

" You're here again Maimi? I thought I told you that we would inform you immediately as soon as there was a change in her condition. " A person in white coat said, standing in front of the door she is about to enter.

" I know. But I have the time and it doesn't hurt to visit right? " The other person just nodded and walked away, knowing that it was pointless to argue with the young girl.

Taking a deep breath to gather courage that has been depleting for every visit she made. She slowly opened the door and was greeted by the same scene every single time. A beeping sound, a wheezing breath, machines and tubes connecting to the lifeless young body on the bed. A body so young that it was not fair to be near such things, such depressing things.

Maimi walked to the nightstand and placed the flowers she bought. Hoping to bring some color to the gloomy room and wishing to uplift the depressing mood somehow.

" Hey you're still sleeping, huh. " A sad smile making its way on her lips, taking the seat near the bed. She hunched over and extended her hand to gingerly caress the paling cheeks of the sleeping girl. " You are beautiful already, so stop sleeping. " Smiling at her lame attempt of joking around. "Erina, wake up already. " She whispered, as a lone tear escaped her eyes.

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