I, She, He and You [TwoShot]
Title: I, She, He and You
Author: rae_yna
Pairing: TaDaiki
Rating: PG
Warning: Daiki and Kei are girls. And confusion (maybe) for the summary.
Summary: Daiki and Kei are stepsisters. Daiki doesn’t like Kei who has a crush on Yabu who is Daiki’s relative through her mother’s sister’s sister in law. Then, Takaki came and fell for Daiki who turned her dislike to hate on Kei who’s in good terms with Takaki who’s jealous of Yabu who can possibly have a relationship with Daiki.
Daiki sighed heavily as she looked at the blue sky, bare of clouds and all. It was so blue that it was calming, even so she could not leave her room. She was stuck there to review for the upcoming midterms of their school. She has to, after all to get the top one spot no matter what. Or else she’d seriously develop a major self-confidence breakdown if ever she place lower than the first spot. Biting her lower lip, Daiki glanced to the sky again before burying her face down to her school books again. It wasn’t actually her fault, it was her father’s fault for remarrying a woman who has a daughter, just a little bit older than Daiki and is very perfect - no matter what angle or aspect it is. And it is Daiki’s father’s fault that of she’s now suffering with major inferiority complex with her super perfect stepsister Kei.
There is no doubt that Daiki had gotten her genes from her mother, everything except her ears. She has her father’s ears but that isn’t really noticeable especially that she resembles her mother so much - the eyes, pert nose and wide mouth that always looks like pouty and sulky. She hates that really but she can’t really blame herself for getting all of it. She’s also short in height, very petite and not really that curvaceous. That also - she got from her mother. She’s really like her mother’s clone, doppelganger or mirror image except of her ears of course. Daiki’s mother died early, really. And Daiki can’t really remember her that much since she was like nearing three then. Her father looked after her and had treated her like a princess, spoiling her so much with everything - literally providing her everything she needed that’s why when her father told her he was remarrying, Daiki couldn’t even speak a single word of protest because really, she wants her father to be happy.
Thus the marrying happened and Daiki had a stepmother and an instant sister - Kei, as mentioned. It all happened in her sixth grade. Since Kei was like with the same age, Kei transferred to her school and they’ve even become classmates. Daiki was thrilled at first but as time went on - everything was turned into a nightmare.
Kei was after all the perfect of everything.
Kei’s tall. Kei’s pretty. Kei’s smart. Kei’s athletic. Kei’s nice. Kei’s humble. Kei’s like a doll. Kei’s number one in everything. Kei Kei. Kei.
“Daichan” and speaking of the devil. Daiki lifted her head and turned to her door, looking at her stepsister, who poke her head in to check on her. Kei has that perfect smile on her lips and her cat-like perfect eyes were twinkling with excitement.
“Yeah?” Daiki inquired, lifting a brow as she looks at her sister continuously. “Anything I can do for you?” she asked
“The day’s very awesome, sweety” Kei pointed out in as the matter of fact voice. “Let’s get some ice cream and stay in the park. We can play badminton too or Frisbee if ever” she invited
“Kei, it’s a day away from midterms” Daiki sighed “I need to review” she shook her head “And perfect everything” she muttered to herself
“Daichan, you’re awesome enough. You don’t have to review anymore and you’re not even failing why bother with that when you can have fun” Kei pouted, opening the door widely so she could step in Daiki’s room.
“Really” Daiki sighed “You just don’t get it. People are expecting me to be smart and perfect like you and it is stressing me heavily and so much. I have to review, beat you from your spot and horaay, stop the talk of me being the biggest fat excluded family member of our family” she grumbled
“Daichan, that’s weird” Kei giggled “You’re family, you know that” she smiled
“Yeah” Daiki rolled her eyes “Why don’t you just die?” she asked
“But that’s impossible” Kei blinked innocently
“Yeah because it’ll tilt the world’s balance” Daiki grumbled “If you’re done pestering me Kei, just leave me alone” she sighed
“Alright” Kei shrugged and turned around “By the way, you got it wrong on question number two” she pointed out “It is 4 not 2, how did you even arrive with that answer?” she shook her head
“Arrgh!” Daiki screamed as she threw her pencil down
--
Daiki sighed and turned away from the announcement board of their school, grumbling on her failure to be the top student - for the nth time. Picking on the hem of her skirt, Daiki was now headed back to classroom.
“Uhm~ excuse me” a call came and that made Daiki look up, finding herself staring at a tall boy - tall brunette boy. “Hi” the boy grinned
“Uh, hello” Daiki arched a brow “What can I do for you?” she asked
“First, you can tell me your name” the boy winked
“Arioka Daiki” Daiki tilted her head
“Seriously? Daiki?” the boy asked
“Uh, yeah” Daiki frowned “What? Do you have a problem with my name?” she frowned
“That’s like a boy’s name” the brunette frowned
“Sure it does sound like a boy’s name but I’m a girl and named Daiki, you can’t change that because I’ve been Daiki for what? For seventeen years” Daiki rolled her eyes
“Nice” the latter grinned “I’m Takaki. Takaki Yuya” he nodded down
“Sure” Daiki shrugged “Nice to meet you. So, what do you want?” she asked then
“Oh, I was just going to ask where~” Takaki started
“Hey! Daichan!” Kei popped out of nowhere and stood next to Daiki, her height never failing to intimidate Daiki, since obviously Kei again has the perfect tallness with the perfect curves and all. “Wow, who’s your friend?” she asked, blinking as she smiled at Takaki
“Not my friend” Daiki shook her head “He’s asking about something before you interrupted and thus settles us here now” she sighed and half turned her body to leave since she knows that the brunette now has his eyes on her stepsister and she’d be like an idiot still hanging around them, if ever.
“Oh, what is it you are asking?” Kei asked “I’m Kei by the way” she grinned
“I was going to ask Daichan where the faculty room is, I’m transferring in” Takaki shrugged “And I was hoping she’d bring me there” he added
“I can take you there since it’s like Daichan’s about to leave” Kei said and looked at her sister. Daiki slightly glared at her sister but simply just sighed before lifting a hand to wave to the two.
“See you around” Daiki said and left before the two could say something else. Yeah, that’s what she had expected to happen since it always happens. People would eventually lose interest to a plain small slightly chubby girl then perk up to a tall slender beautiful perfect girl as she comes and join them. That’s unfair but that’s what Daiki knows as reality. Boys after all are just like that.
--
“Don’t you think Yuya-kun is very handsome?” Kei asked as she rolls on Daiki’s bed, her arms around Daiki’s favourite bolster.
“So you two are in first name basis now?” Daiki asked, flipping on her history book.
“Yeah” Kei giggled “I like him. He has sense of humour” she said
“Wow, humour huh?” Daiki rolled her eyes “He likes you too?” she asked then
“Maybe” Kei grinned “He was so gentle too but it was unfortunate we didn’t manage to talk further because we reached the faculty room already” she pouted “And he hasn’t come out even after the second bell for afternoon classes. I thought I’d know which class he belongs to” she sighed
“You’d know that tomorrow and since he looks like a hooligan, I’d assume he’s in class G” Daiki said
“Daichan” Kei whined “Our school only has until class C” she pointed out “I thought you know that” she added
“I know it of course!” Daiki snapped “I was just telling you that he looks like a delinquent with his hair and all and that he is perfect to belong in a class way down the class chain” she gritted “I was being funny, okay?” she snapped
“It wasn’t funny” Kei pouted
“I know!” Daiki exclaimed “Now leave me alone and I have to review” she said
“But I’m still talking about Yuya-kun” Kei protested
“I’m not interested at all” Daiki turned away and faced her wall
Even so as Daiki entered her classroom the next morning, she did a double take to see Takaki seating on one of the tables. And it wasn’t just one of the tables, it was next to hers at the back of the classroom. Her seat was by the window where the top of the class is seated. She’s after all in Class B with Kei in Class A, the class Daiki wished to enter since it is for students that are wholly recognized by all whether you are intelligent or beautiful or athletic which wasn’t all of Daiki and was all of Kei.
“Wow, great coincidence that I’m in your class” Takaki smiled as Daiki settled on her seat “You remember me, right?” he asked
“Sure” Daiki nodded down and pulled out her dictionary to read.
“You’re reading a dictionary?” Takaki asked
“It’s what this is, right?” Daiki replied
“But that’s dictionary, it’s weird to see a person reading a dictionary like it was some sort of magazine or a book” Takaki pointed out
“First of all, dictionary is a book. Secondly~” Daiki sighed “I like reading it and learning new words” she grumbled “Thirdly, I hate people who try and disturb me just because they are startled to know that I am reading a dictionary instead of magazines. I don’t learn a single thing from magazines. They are just a bunch of wasted paper” she gritted
“You’re pretty cute” Takaki said then
“Wh-what?” Daiki squeaked but just earned a grin from Takaki
It bothered Daiki what Takaki had said at the first couple hours of the day but as lunch came she had managed to forget about it already since as she stepped out of her classroom, the very first person she saw was her sister.
“I heard he’s in your class” Kei smiled “And I saw he’s seated next to you” she giggled
“I took notice” Daiki rolled her eyes
“So what’s he like?” Kei asked, her eyes twinkling in delight which made Daiki feel more hatred towards her
“I don’t know” Daiki sighed “I really didn’t talk to him or asked him if he’s single or what. I don’t even like him, he’s like brainless brown monkey” she grimaced
“I’m single and pretty smart” Takaki said as he appeared next a little too close to Daiki “You can ask me anything you want, I might answer them just right” he smiled and watched as Daiki turned bright red until the roots of her hair.
“Daichan’s a little harsh but she’s really nice” Kei commented then as she stepped close to Takaki who smiled and nodded at her “Want to join me on lunch? I can tour you around” she offered
“Oh” Takaki blinked then eyed Daiki who stepped away from them
“Lunch’s just for an hour, if you two want to eat it together I don’t care” Daiki said “I’m leaving first” she said and turned to leave the two alone.
Takaki watched Daiki’s back until she disappeared as he pretty much ignored the rambling of the girl next to him. He admits that Kei, as he remembers is perfectly beautiful but he wasn’t just interested into her types. They are a bit clingy to his liking. What’s he’s curious about is the petite girl who had managed to escape from him not just once but twice already. Daiki had headed to the direction opposite to the cafeteria and from there he concluded that she’s just simply escaping from them.
“So?” Kei asked, making Takaki look at her.
“I have other things to attend” Takaki shook his head “Maybe next time” he offered as he saw a pout forming on Kei’s lips, he’d been right on her personality maybe he’s still wrong but she has the streak of it.
“Promise?” Kei asked, holding on Takaki’s arm
“Sure” Takaki nodded down “By the way, I meant to ask this before. How are you related to Daiki?” he asked, taking a step towards where Daiki headed off
“She’s my sister” Kei replied “Actually, she’s my stepsister but I don’t like the sound of calling her that way so I call her my sister” she smiled “Don’t feel bad about her, she’s just like that” she said
“I’m not a bit hurt” Takaki assured “See you around, Kei” he bid her and turned completely towards the hall Daiki took
The hall was a dead end and the only room found close would be the storage room, Takaki knows that it’s possible that Daiki would enter it but when he checked it out, he found nothing but cleaning tools and no sign of the girl he followed. He was about to go back the track to see if he missed Daiki by chance in one of the rooms found in the hall when he heard a soft shuffle out the window. He walked towards it and peered out, just to smile as he spotted Daiki seated on top of the overhead shed of the door leading to the gymnasium. He gently climbed over the sill and silently joined her, not wanting to startle her since it would be dangerous especially that she has her legs dangled off the shed. If she’s caught by a teacher, she’d be dead.
“Hey” Takaki softly said but it still made Daiki squeak and drop her sandwich down the ground. She slowly turned her head to him, glaring daggers enough to kill anyone if it is physically there.
“What is it?” Daiki sighed, rolling her eyes as she inched herself off the edge, to lean back to the wall. She drew her knees close to her chest and rested her head on it.
“Sorry about the sandwich” Takaki said sincerely and imitated her but with his legs spread out in front of him “I just saw you here” he said and smiled at her to which she ignored and even rolled eyes at. No one had resisted him this much.
“I really don’t care about that” Daiki mumbled
“Don’t you have friends to join for lunch?” Takaki asked then as silence settled in between them for a minute
“I don’t need friends” Daiki replied coldly “They’d drop you off the moment they see someone better than you” she muttered, hiding her face then in her arms curled above her knees.
“Everyone has to have a friend” Takaki commented then “If you don’t have one now, want to be my friend?” he offered
“No thank you” Daiki sighed and stood up, dusting her skirt “I told you, I don’t need friends” she said and started climbing over the sill. She then froze on her way as she felt Takaki’s hands on her waist. She knows that he’s simply aiding her on her climb but being it her first time having a male touching her that way, she wiggled off his hold and stumbled inside the building and dropped on her knees on the hall. She winced at the pain she got and instantly stood up as she heard Takaki joining her instantly, trying to help her on her feet. “Don’t touch me” she hissed
“Your knee’s scraped” Takaki pointed out, eyeing the slightly bleeding wound Daiki got from her fall. He just wanted to help her but instead, he ended up scaring her and even hurting her.
“Just don’t come near me, I can go to the infirmary myself” Daiki huffed and headed on her own.
-----
Daiki blinked and stopped midway towards their kitchen. She frowned and stepped back to check the hall where she just came from, confirming she’s in the right place. She’s home, alright but why is Takaki seated in one of their bar stools by their kitchen counter, drinking iced tea. Shaking her head as her mind processed the details, she concluded that Kei might have invited him over for something or whatever. Well, not that she really cares about it. Ignoring the latter and not bothering on greeting him, Daiki headed to the fridge and opened it just to groan after realizing that her purpose of coming in there was to take a drink of iced tea her stepmother had offered earlier. She glanced at Takaki who she found eyeing her. She grumbled and turned to the glass rack, reaching for a tall glass and then went to the counter, reaching for the pitcher which was settled next to Takaki’s arm. She filled her cup and glared at the boy who smiled at her.
“Kei’s been on her phone for ten minutes now, I heard it’s about something she has to do importantly for the school” Takaki said making Daiki look at him. He took note of her casual clothes and her messy bun with several strands off it already. He smiled to his self, knowing that she looks cuter in her normal clothes.
“Why are you telling me that?” Daiki asked, slightly pouting as Takaki grinned at him.
“Sensei mentioned about a school festival two weeks from now and since I’m new to the school, one thing to make me adjust faster would be joining the committee handling it” Takaki replied randomly “She told me too that you’re a part of the committee and since we’re classmates and seatmates even, you can help me with the details and things about it” he nodded down
“I’m a class representative for the committee, besides I am not an important part of that group” Daiki frowned “I just go there to tell the president or the vice president, if you know is Kei, about what our class will do” she huffed “I help in other things but not major parts so I don’t have the right to help you at all with the committee” she shook her head and headed to the door, to leave but to stop as Takaki held on her left arm. She then turned around to glare at him but simply ended up frowning at him because his smile’s a bit weird for her to handle. “What are you smiling about?” she grumbled
“Your cuteness” Takaki said, framing Daiki’s face with his hands
“I’m not cute” Daiki started but even before she could continue, Takaki had already brushed their lips together making her stop and stare at him after he lifted his head to look at her again
“Your nose’s pert” Takaki muttered, brushing the tip of his nose against Daiki nose.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Daiki asked then but still didn’t push Takaki away from her since she still couldn’t believe that he had kissed her, even just for a second, earlier.
“Yuya~” Kei called out then from the garden where she might have talked on her phone.
Daiki stepped away from Takaki, eyeing him still in confusion but turned to leave him simply just staring at her as she took the stairs in hurry.
“What are you doing there?” Kei asked as she saw Takaki standing near the door of the kitchen, looking at the stairs.
“I talked with Daiki” Takaki replied “I asked her about the committee for the school festival” he answered
“Ah, right” Kei smiled “She’s your class representative” she nodded down “She’s great with ideas and things but sometimes she won’t speak about it” she sighed
“That’s a waste” Takaki shook his head “So, how about we get on the business?” he asked and earned a nod from Kei.
-----
“No!” Daiki exclaimed as she stood up from her chair, looking at the committee head members “We already submitted the papers needed! We asked to do a cafe not a horror house” she pointed out
“Yes, that’s right” the committee president nodded down, passing then a paper to Kei “But there’s no class this year doing any horror house. We did a very fair game of lottery to which will do it and unfortunately Daiki-kun, your class’s the one to do it” he sighed.
“Yabu-kun” Daiki whined “I~” she started but stopped herself as she looked at the other members eyeing her
“You don’t have to worry about it” Yabu assured “I’m sure that your class will do great” he said
“I can’t believe this” Daiki gave up and sat down, looking then to the one seated next to her. Takaki smiled as he looked at her as well.
“We’ll do just fine” Takaki assured her. She doesn’t really know how come he’s her helper now instead of the normal boy who always seems to disappear whenever she needed him.
After the meeting, Daiki stayed in the room and waited until everybody had left except of her and the committee president who is busily piling up the papers given to him for the event.
“Hey” Yabu greeted with a smile but still didn’t look as Daiki stood next to him “I’m sorry about what happened, I want to somehow make it change but it has to be fair” he said
“Yes, and being fair is your game” Daiki sighed, sitting then on the table, swinging her legs back and forth “You know how much I hate horror houses” she mumbled
“I know that’s why I’m very guilty” Yabu nodded down, putting the papers in an envelope he labelled. “I’m sorry” he said, giving Daiki a peck on her forehead and to be followed by a pat “Sorry?” he asked with a smile
“Fine” Daiki groaned but the door of the room slid open, making both her and Yabu look who came. Takaki stood there frowning at them. “What?” she asked as he walked to them, and slapped Yabu’s hand off her
“Let’s go” Takaki said, pulling her down the table gently “You’ll get late going home” he said and tugged her towards the door
“Bye~” Yabu called out his voice hinting a smile “See you tomorrow Daichan” he bid
“Yeah~” Daiki replied but was tugged again by Takaki to which she pouted at. “What’s your problem?” she asked as they reached their empty classroom since it had been long ago since classes had ended. She wasn’t answered, instead Takaki pulled his handkerchief out and started wiping off Daiki’s forehead with it, just right on the spot where Yabu pecked her. “Stop that” she whined, pushing him away “What are you doing?” she demanded
“I’m wiping it off” Takaki mumbled
“It’s just a peck, why are you so weird about it?” Daiki asked, still trying to push him away
“Because I don’t like it” Takaki replied “With you being cute with someone else” he said
“What’s wrong if I’m cute in front of Kota?” Daiki asked “I’m sure he doesn’t even find me cute anymore with the length of time we’re together” she huffed impatiently
“You don’t know how cute you can be Daiki and it’s frightening especially that wolves are around you waiting for the kill or rather timing to hit on you” Takaki shook his head then stopped for a moment “Kota?” he asked
“Yabu Kota” Daiki replied
“So you two are in first name basis when people are not around you two?” Takaki frowned
“We’ve been in first name basis for so long” Daiki rolled her eyes “I just call him by his last name for the respect since he’s not just the committee president but also the student council president” she pointed out
“So you like his type?” Takaki asked “Smarty and kind to everybody?” he asked
“Why not?” Daiki retorted “He’s ideal” she shrugged “Besides where are you going with this?” she asked, tugging her hand from Takaki who didn’t let go “It’s not that he’s what, my boyfriend” she rolled her eyes
“Then why are you two in first name basis and he’s even kissing you in the forehead like you’re his?” Takaki questioned
“I don’t know, maybe to comfort me because I hate horror houses and as an older cousin, who looked after me and took care of me when we were young, he takes it as part of his responsibility to me” Daiki replied
“Huh?” Takaki blinked then “Cousin?” he repeated
“Cousin, Kota’s my cousin from my mother’s side” Daiki replied “He took care of me when were just kids” she shrugged
“Really?” Takaki asked then
“Yeah” Daiki waved off “Everybody here knows it and they think Kota’s babying me that’s why he tries to be fair” she shrugged
“So, you two are cousins?” Takaki asked
“How many times should I answer, yes?” Daiki frowned “Whatever” she rolled her eyes, picking her bag but to squeak as Takaki hugged her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. “What are you doing?” she asked, prying Takaki’s arms from her
“To think I was so jealous” Takaki mumbled, snuggling closer to Daiki, his nose brushing on her jaw and his lips resting just on the spot below Daiki’s ear.
“You’re too close” Daiki groaned “Ugh~! Fine!” she snapped, giving up on trying to pry Takaki off her “Why are you even jealous?” she mumbled, slightly turning her head to Takaki
“Because I like you” Takaki whispered
“Ha~” Daiki chuckled “That’s impossible” she shook her head “You like Kei” she pointed out “If you think I’ll help you with Kei by telling me that you like me, then it’s not going to work” she snorted
“I’m not doing this to have Kei or whoever” Takaki said, straightening to turn Daiki to face him “I just confessed and you shook it off like it’s my path to ask Kei out?” he asked
“Why not?” Daiki asked “Everybody does that~” she trailed and stopped all in all “Right” she nodded down, pushing Takaki off her and somehow succeeded. She picked her bag and marched out of the room, leaving Takaki staring at her with her words hanged incompletely with him.
-----
A preparation for a single week and several days is tiring but once the event comes in, there’s no use to grumble anymore about the stress felt before. Daiki shook her head as she declines on coming in one of the offered booths for the festival. She doesn’t have time yet to visit any booth especially that she’s busy on avoiding her classmates on making her come in the horror booth their class made. Biting her lips, Daiki tried to hide behind a mascot but utterly failed as one boy from her class, spotted her fast. She squeaked and tried her best to beg them to let her off but she wasn’t heard and now she stands at the starting line of the horror she dreaded to experience. Closing her eyes, Daiki stepped in and started walking. She would just walk fast and end this - but then she ended up lost.
-----
“Have you seen her?” Takaki asked as he leaned on the post close to their booth and looked at the group of his classmates.
“She came in before but I really didn’t notice her afterwards, maybe she ran off somewhere” came the answer from the one guarding the entrance “Why don’t you try going too?” he offered to Takaki who shrugged and stepped in the booth. He should kill some time before starting to search for Daiki again. She suddenly had disappeared right after the meeting of the council.
Takaki could have considered the hiccup a part of the horror their class had prepared since from the corner he came from, a girl was crying rather dryly maybe because it’s tiring to pretend to cry for almost an hour already. But when the second time he heard the hiccup, the hairs on his nape and arms stood up in alarm. He narrowed his eyes, squinting to see in the dark.
She was curled close to a box, in a corner and she’s crying. Takaki recognized her instantly and went to her side.
“Enough!” Daiki shrieked making Takaki jump after he touched her head “I want to go out now” she whimpered
“It’s just me” Takaki said, coming close to her again “How long have you been in here?” he asked
“I don’t know” Daiki sniffed “I don’t know where to go, whenever I try to go they will scare me” she whimper “I don’t like horror houses, I told them to stop but they wouldn’t listen. Why does no one listen to me?” she asked
“Let’s go now, I’ll get you out” Takaki offered, pulling Daiki to stand
Takaki took a step forward and stopped as he felt Daiki clutching on the sleeve of his uniform. He smiled to his self and took another step, with Daiki imitating him.
“Can’t you go any faster?” Daiki cried out, her scream drowned in the screaming music of the booth.
Takaki would love to get lost in the booth for a while but feeling Daiki shaking in fear, he couldn’t swallow the guilt he’s feeling.
“Are you okay now?” Takaki asked as he passed a can of juice to Daiki who’s seated in her usual spot, the top of the overhead shed.
“Yes, thank you” Daiki nodded down, reaching then for the can “Thank you” she said again, resting her cheek on the cold can
“Do you want me to open that for you?” Takaki offered but earned a shake of head from Daiki
“I don’t think I can drink yet, I might end up puking” Daiki sighed
“Okay” Takaki smiled, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair of Daiki’s behind her ear. He then rested his hand on her nape, his thumb rubbing gently on her skin. “You’re back to you normal color” he said “Creamy” he added
“More like tan” Daiki pouted “Kei’s really pale, like snow white and people admire it” she sighed, looking away from Takaki
“You just have the touch of sun on your skin” Takaki corrected “But you’re not tan” he said
“I bet you prefer girls with pale skin, because when they blush it’s really cute” Daiki muttered
“Well, that’s right~” Takaki tilted his head “But~” he started
“I knew it” Daiki mumbled and Takaki knows already that she’ll ignore whatever he’d say again.
They stayed there for a while until Daiki got a call from someone and she went to the committee room. Takaki arched a brow as he saw Yabu turn and smile at them as they entered.
“We’re free to visit booths now, if in case there’s a need for us you’d get a call from me” Yabu said “And~” he said after earning a nod “Later, committee members will be the one to do the first dances” he grinned
“Cool” Daiki groaned making Takaki wonder why she said it in such frustration.
But his question was answered instantly as he now stands amongst the committee members since apparently he’s a part of it, and girls who are also part of it are gathered close to him except of Daiki who is just there waiting for he doesn’t know.
“Takaki-kun, the dance will start in five minutes, you should pick your partner to dance” one boy said and thus Takaki turned to look at Daiki who glanced at him. He smiled at her and was to ask her to the dance when a hand stopped him. He turned to see Kei smiling at him then with the other boys in defeated expression. Obvious that she had turned them down.
“Dance with me” Kei invited, hooking her arm on his and dragged him towards the bonfire that will be lighted by the headmaster later.
Soon after the bonfire was lighted, the music started and Takaki was at lost at first with the step but Kei had aided him until he’s used to it and both of them are now dancing perfectly with the music. Takaki looked where Daiki is standing earlier but no to find her there. Of course, the music had started already and it meant that someone had asked her to dance already. He looked around the members circling the fire and his time wasn’t in time as students of the school joined them as well. He still did try his best to locate her and when he did, she was already giggling with Yabu who’s playfully dancing with her.
“Tsk” and that made Takaki look at his partner who earlier was enjoying their dance. He eyed Kei who is looking at Yabu and Daiki, her teeth biting her cheek in a less obvious way.
“What’s wrong?” Takaki asked, managing to draw Kei’s attention from the two
“Ah” Kei blinked and for a moment, Takaki saw an ordinary girl in confusion. “Nothing” she smiled brightly “Have you heard the legend about dancing around the fire?” she asked
“Not really” Takaki replied
“It says that if you kiss your first dance with the fire, you’d be together ‘til the end” Kei said and sighed “It’s really romantic” she nodded down
“Well, it depends” Takaki shrugged, looking then to Daiki who still is giggling as Yabu murmured something to her “They don’t act like cousins” he said and caught Kei by making her look too
“They are not considered cousins” Kei started “Daichan says they are cousins because Kota’s like from her mother side but actually, they are not related that closely” she muttered “Kota’s the son of Daichan’s mother’s sister’s sister-in-law” she pointed out “So if those two falls in love, it’s not illegal or what at all. Even Dad thinks that Kota would be perfect for Daichan, since he’s the only one she’s comfortable most other than him” he shrugged
“I didn’t know that” Takaki frowned at the two
“Well, it’s not that they have to brag around that they could go out. It’s been a rumor ever since so people just assume that they just hide their relationship” Kei shook her head “Kota’s ideal and all and Daichan’s perfectly cute and lovable” she shrugged
“It affects you that they could go out?” Takaki asked
“Not really” Kei slightly pouted
“Don’t tell me that you like Yabu Kota?” Takaki guessed, seeing then instantly the blush on Kei’s high cheekbones
“Of course not” Kei denied “He’s just admirable~” she drawled, looking then at Takaki and soon ended up sighing “Don’t tell Daichan” she shook her head
“Why?” Takaki frowned
“Because she’d think that I’m stealing Kota from her” Kei replied “Ever since we became sisters, she thought that we’re rivals” she sighed “I couldn’t blame her since people tend to judge based on appearances. I’m what? Perfect? Huh!” she snorted “If you’d ask me who’s perfect between us, I’d say it’s Daichan” she muttered “She can really do everything. Not just things like in academics which are the only things I can do. She can do housework, cook and is good with children” she sighed “I can only do math and science, she can do all!” she exclaimed “And people tend to like her more in the end because slowly people sees my fault and gets used to my beauty. Daichan’s unique in different ways” she nodded down
“On your last statement, are you saying that from experience?” Takaki asked
“Yeah” Kei replied, looking then again to the two dancing not far from them “Kota’s been with Daiki since they’re babies though they not really close related, they are best friends and then I came. Kota’s friendly and nice, he once became unfair on treating me and Daichan and it scarred Daichan badly. I was guilty but I already admire him that time so I can’t let him go. Then he got used to me and eventually he went back to babying Daichan and until now it’s the same” she shrugged “That time was where Daichan treated me coldly more than ever” she added “So if you took notice, she always run away whenever I’m involved” she said
“I noted” Takaki smiled
“Anyways, you’re the first time to reject me instantly the first time we met” Kei grinned
“Because you’re typical” Yuya replied with a shrug “I have three sisters at home and not to brag they are beautiful” he grinned
“That’s cool” Kei snorted “So, you like Daichan from the start?” she asked then
“It’s a crush at first sight” Takaki grinned
“She’s really cute especially when she’s just staring but when she opens her mouth, she’s harsh” Kei nodded down “I really want to try turning her into a doll” she added
-----
Daiki glanced over her shoulder to look at Takaki and Kei who had been talking about something that is making them smile and even laugh. She pouted and sniffed, turning her attention to Yabu who was just looking at her.
“Why do you even like her?” Daiki asked “She’s a huge flirt” she grimaced
“Maybe she has a reason to be like that” Yabu shrugged “Besides, I don’t base my feelings over trivial things. She’s very nice and I rely on her most of the time especially when it is hard in the council” he nodded down
“She’s the financial officer, how could you rely on her most of the time?” Daiki asked
“Well, it’s not easy to balance the accounts and at the same time come up with another plan to fit the budget within a day or cooler, within three hours of heavy brainstorming and still come out looking like a goddess” Yabu replied
“It’s a sin not to sweat” Daiki pointed out “A mortal sin! I will add too the fact that she never has a creased uniform!” she exclaimed
“She’s just immaculate” Yabu nodded down
“I know, I heard about it somewhere” Daiki rolled her eyes “It’s so unfair” she muttered
“Well, you are a beauty yourself” Yabu said “And don’t start with the talk of you not being the goddess people always admire” he shook his head “You have a head above your shoulders. You’re an overflowing can of coins” he said
“That’s not true” Daiki shook her head
“Daichan, Kei can’t cook. She can’t clean either and she makes kids cry without a reason” Yabu smiled
“But you still like her” Daiki smiled back
“Yes” Yabu nodded down “Not that I can help it. I was bad before on treating you differently when Kei came, I regretted on it but still I like her. I just don’t want you to feel bad because I’ll start fawning over her if I try approaching her again” he admitted
“I’m not even stopping you from fawning on her” Daiki pointed out
“Yes, but you’d take it hard and you’d hate me again” Yabu sighed
“I won’t” Daiki shook her head “I never hated you, maybe once but just slightly. And you’re my best friend and cousin” she grinned
“Right” Yabu chuckled, ruffling then Daiki’s hair “But speaking of liking someone, you have this crush on that transfer student who stalks you around the school, right?” he asked
“Shut up” Daiki rolled her eyes
“Daiki, the only reason no teacher has ever scolded you whenever you sit down on the overhead is because I never tell anyone about it and I make sure that no one sees you there. Have you forgotten that I can see you from the council room whenever you sit there?” Yabu asked “And these past few days, I took notice that you are not alone on sitting there anymore” he smiled
“You’re a creep as ever” Daiki grimaced “I didn’t ask you to check on me every time I sit there” she pouted
“Well, find another spot where I can’t see you and Takaki-kun” Yabu snorted “Just earlier, you two are cuddling each other” he teased
“No we’re not” Daiki shook her head “I was just dizzy because I was forced to get in the horror booth you had brought upon our class to do!” she cried out
“Ah~” Yabu smiled “Sorry?” he asked
“Fine” Daiki pouted and stepped back but to bump on someone. She turned to apologize, in the end, she was now frowning at Takaki and Kei who turned to them as well. “Sorry” she said hatefully
“It’s fine” Kei assured “The festival’s a success, don’t you think?” she asked, smiling at Yabu
“Of course, thanks to the members who worked hard until today” Yabu replied “Would you like to dance?” he offered to Kei who blinked in surprise at his invitation
“What are you doing?” Daiki hushed at him
“Well, it’ll be bad manners to just stare. Besides, we’ve been dancing the whole time, it’s time we change partners, don’t you think so Takaki-kun?” he asked
“Indeed” Takaki agreed nonetheless
Daiki grimaced as Takaki placed his hand on her waist. It was for the dance she knows but with him touching her that way, it feels like he has something else in mind other than the touching.
“You were smiling earlier when you were with Yabu-kun, why frown now? I’m not that bad at this cultural dance” Takaki commented
“I like Kota that’s why I’m smiling earlier and I don’t like you, that’s why I’m frowning now” Daiki grumbled
“That’s not what I heard earlier” Takaki said then
“You two were eavesdropping?” Daiki gasped “Besides I never said I liked you!” she snapped
“But you never denied it” Takaki retorted gently
“Besides it’s rude to tell others that you hate someone” Daiki grimaced
“I like telling people I like you” Takaki said “Kei even said that you’re so cute but you just don’t have to open your mouth to let your harshness out” he nodded down
“Whatever you say” Daiki rolled her eyes
“You know, she mentioned about a legend” Takaki started then
“The kiss thing after the music, yeah, go ask Kei to come back here and you can snog her to death” Daiki snorted
“But I was planning on something else” Takaki shook his head, turning Daiki to face him completely. He smiled, watching Daiki eye him with confusion and when he brushed his lips with her, he wanted to chuckle at the squeak she made. She blinked and then frowned.
“The legend says “Your first dance” Daiki quoted
“You are my first dance, Kei dragged me” Takaki pointed out
“I will not go out with you” Daiki hissed then
“It’s okay, I love challenges” Takaki winked “One day, you’d say I like you to me too” he nodded down
“Don’t be so sure” Daiki rolled her eyes
“I should say that too you too” Takaki grinned
“You’re just too full of yourself” Daiki grumbled stomping then on Takaki’s foot
ENJOY READING AND COMMENTS ARE LOVED!
Author: rae_yna
Pairing: TaDaiki
Rating: PG
Warning: Daiki and Kei are girls. And confusion (maybe) for the summary.
Summary: Daiki and Kei are stepsisters. Daiki doesn’t like Kei who has a crush on Yabu who is Daiki’s relative through her mother’s sister’s sister in law. Then, Takaki came and fell for Daiki who turned her dislike to hate on Kei who’s in good terms with Takaki who’s jealous of Yabu who can possibly have a relationship with Daiki.
Daiki sighed heavily as she looked at the blue sky, bare of clouds and all. It was so blue that it was calming, even so she could not leave her room. She was stuck there to review for the upcoming midterms of their school. She has to, after all to get the top one spot no matter what. Or else she’d seriously develop a major self-confidence breakdown if ever she place lower than the first spot. Biting her lower lip, Daiki glanced to the sky again before burying her face down to her school books again. It wasn’t actually her fault, it was her father’s fault for remarrying a woman who has a daughter, just a little bit older than Daiki and is very perfect - no matter what angle or aspect it is. And it is Daiki’s father’s fault that of she’s now suffering with major inferiority complex with her super perfect stepsister Kei.
There is no doubt that Daiki had gotten her genes from her mother, everything except her ears. She has her father’s ears but that isn’t really noticeable especially that she resembles her mother so much - the eyes, pert nose and wide mouth that always looks like pouty and sulky. She hates that really but she can’t really blame herself for getting all of it. She’s also short in height, very petite and not really that curvaceous. That also - she got from her mother. She’s really like her mother’s clone, doppelganger or mirror image except of her ears of course. Daiki’s mother died early, really. And Daiki can’t really remember her that much since she was like nearing three then. Her father looked after her and had treated her like a princess, spoiling her so much with everything - literally providing her everything she needed that’s why when her father told her he was remarrying, Daiki couldn’t even speak a single word of protest because really, she wants her father to be happy.
Thus the marrying happened and Daiki had a stepmother and an instant sister - Kei, as mentioned. It all happened in her sixth grade. Since Kei was like with the same age, Kei transferred to her school and they’ve even become classmates. Daiki was thrilled at first but as time went on - everything was turned into a nightmare.
Kei was after all the perfect of everything.
Kei’s tall. Kei’s pretty. Kei’s smart. Kei’s athletic. Kei’s nice. Kei’s humble. Kei’s like a doll. Kei’s number one in everything. Kei Kei. Kei.
“Daichan” and speaking of the devil. Daiki lifted her head and turned to her door, looking at her stepsister, who poke her head in to check on her. Kei has that perfect smile on her lips and her cat-like perfect eyes were twinkling with excitement.
“Yeah?” Daiki inquired, lifting a brow as she looks at her sister continuously. “Anything I can do for you?” she asked
“The day’s very awesome, sweety” Kei pointed out in as the matter of fact voice. “Let’s get some ice cream and stay in the park. We can play badminton too or Frisbee if ever” she invited
“Kei, it’s a day away from midterms” Daiki sighed “I need to review” she shook her head “And perfect everything” she muttered to herself
“Daichan, you’re awesome enough. You don’t have to review anymore and you’re not even failing why bother with that when you can have fun” Kei pouted, opening the door widely so she could step in Daiki’s room.
“Really” Daiki sighed “You just don’t get it. People are expecting me to be smart and perfect like you and it is stressing me heavily and so much. I have to review, beat you from your spot and horaay, stop the talk of me being the biggest fat excluded family member of our family” she grumbled
“Daichan, that’s weird” Kei giggled “You’re family, you know that” she smiled
“Yeah” Daiki rolled her eyes “Why don’t you just die?” she asked
“But that’s impossible” Kei blinked innocently
“Yeah because it’ll tilt the world’s balance” Daiki grumbled “If you’re done pestering me Kei, just leave me alone” she sighed
“Alright” Kei shrugged and turned around “By the way, you got it wrong on question number two” she pointed out “It is 4 not 2, how did you even arrive with that answer?” she shook her head
“Arrgh!” Daiki screamed as she threw her pencil down
--
Daiki sighed and turned away from the announcement board of their school, grumbling on her failure to be the top student - for the nth time. Picking on the hem of her skirt, Daiki was now headed back to classroom.
“Uhm~ excuse me” a call came and that made Daiki look up, finding herself staring at a tall boy - tall brunette boy. “Hi” the boy grinned
“Uh, hello” Daiki arched a brow “What can I do for you?” she asked
“First, you can tell me your name” the boy winked
“Arioka Daiki” Daiki tilted her head
“Seriously? Daiki?” the boy asked
“Uh, yeah” Daiki frowned “What? Do you have a problem with my name?” she frowned
“That’s like a boy’s name” the brunette frowned
“Sure it does sound like a boy’s name but I’m a girl and named Daiki, you can’t change that because I’ve been Daiki for what? For seventeen years” Daiki rolled her eyes
“Nice” the latter grinned “I’m Takaki. Takaki Yuya” he nodded down
“Sure” Daiki shrugged “Nice to meet you. So, what do you want?” she asked then
“Oh, I was just going to ask where~” Takaki started
“Hey! Daichan!” Kei popped out of nowhere and stood next to Daiki, her height never failing to intimidate Daiki, since obviously Kei again has the perfect tallness with the perfect curves and all. “Wow, who’s your friend?” she asked, blinking as she smiled at Takaki
“Not my friend” Daiki shook her head “He’s asking about something before you interrupted and thus settles us here now” she sighed and half turned her body to leave since she knows that the brunette now has his eyes on her stepsister and she’d be like an idiot still hanging around them, if ever.
“Oh, what is it you are asking?” Kei asked “I’m Kei by the way” she grinned
“I was going to ask Daichan where the faculty room is, I’m transferring in” Takaki shrugged “And I was hoping she’d bring me there” he added
“I can take you there since it’s like Daichan’s about to leave” Kei said and looked at her sister. Daiki slightly glared at her sister but simply just sighed before lifting a hand to wave to the two.
“See you around” Daiki said and left before the two could say something else. Yeah, that’s what she had expected to happen since it always happens. People would eventually lose interest to a plain small slightly chubby girl then perk up to a tall slender beautiful perfect girl as she comes and join them. That’s unfair but that’s what Daiki knows as reality. Boys after all are just like that.
--
“Don’t you think Yuya-kun is very handsome?” Kei asked as she rolls on Daiki’s bed, her arms around Daiki’s favourite bolster.
“So you two are in first name basis now?” Daiki asked, flipping on her history book.
“Yeah” Kei giggled “I like him. He has sense of humour” she said
“Wow, humour huh?” Daiki rolled her eyes “He likes you too?” she asked then
“Maybe” Kei grinned “He was so gentle too but it was unfortunate we didn’t manage to talk further because we reached the faculty room already” she pouted “And he hasn’t come out even after the second bell for afternoon classes. I thought I’d know which class he belongs to” she sighed
“You’d know that tomorrow and since he looks like a hooligan, I’d assume he’s in class G” Daiki said
“Daichan” Kei whined “Our school only has until class C” she pointed out “I thought you know that” she added
“I know it of course!” Daiki snapped “I was just telling you that he looks like a delinquent with his hair and all and that he is perfect to belong in a class way down the class chain” she gritted “I was being funny, okay?” she snapped
“It wasn’t funny” Kei pouted
“I know!” Daiki exclaimed “Now leave me alone and I have to review” she said
“But I’m still talking about Yuya-kun” Kei protested
“I’m not interested at all” Daiki turned away and faced her wall
Even so as Daiki entered her classroom the next morning, she did a double take to see Takaki seating on one of the tables. And it wasn’t just one of the tables, it was next to hers at the back of the classroom. Her seat was by the window where the top of the class is seated. She’s after all in Class B with Kei in Class A, the class Daiki wished to enter since it is for students that are wholly recognized by all whether you are intelligent or beautiful or athletic which wasn’t all of Daiki and was all of Kei.
“Wow, great coincidence that I’m in your class” Takaki smiled as Daiki settled on her seat “You remember me, right?” he asked
“Sure” Daiki nodded down and pulled out her dictionary to read.
“You’re reading a dictionary?” Takaki asked
“It’s what this is, right?” Daiki replied
“But that’s dictionary, it’s weird to see a person reading a dictionary like it was some sort of magazine or a book” Takaki pointed out
“First of all, dictionary is a book. Secondly~” Daiki sighed “I like reading it and learning new words” she grumbled “Thirdly, I hate people who try and disturb me just because they are startled to know that I am reading a dictionary instead of magazines. I don’t learn a single thing from magazines. They are just a bunch of wasted paper” she gritted
“You’re pretty cute” Takaki said then
“Wh-what?” Daiki squeaked but just earned a grin from Takaki
It bothered Daiki what Takaki had said at the first couple hours of the day but as lunch came she had managed to forget about it already since as she stepped out of her classroom, the very first person she saw was her sister.
“I heard he’s in your class” Kei smiled “And I saw he’s seated next to you” she giggled
“I took notice” Daiki rolled her eyes
“So what’s he like?” Kei asked, her eyes twinkling in delight which made Daiki feel more hatred towards her
“I don’t know” Daiki sighed “I really didn’t talk to him or asked him if he’s single or what. I don’t even like him, he’s like brainless brown monkey” she grimaced
“I’m single and pretty smart” Takaki said as he appeared next a little too close to Daiki “You can ask me anything you want, I might answer them just right” he smiled and watched as Daiki turned bright red until the roots of her hair.
“Daichan’s a little harsh but she’s really nice” Kei commented then as she stepped close to Takaki who smiled and nodded at her “Want to join me on lunch? I can tour you around” she offered
“Oh” Takaki blinked then eyed Daiki who stepped away from them
“Lunch’s just for an hour, if you two want to eat it together I don’t care” Daiki said “I’m leaving first” she said and turned to leave the two alone.
Takaki watched Daiki’s back until she disappeared as he pretty much ignored the rambling of the girl next to him. He admits that Kei, as he remembers is perfectly beautiful but he wasn’t just interested into her types. They are a bit clingy to his liking. What’s he’s curious about is the petite girl who had managed to escape from him not just once but twice already. Daiki had headed to the direction opposite to the cafeteria and from there he concluded that she’s just simply escaping from them.
“So?” Kei asked, making Takaki look at her.
“I have other things to attend” Takaki shook his head “Maybe next time” he offered as he saw a pout forming on Kei’s lips, he’d been right on her personality maybe he’s still wrong but she has the streak of it.
“Promise?” Kei asked, holding on Takaki’s arm
“Sure” Takaki nodded down “By the way, I meant to ask this before. How are you related to Daiki?” he asked, taking a step towards where Daiki headed off
“She’s my sister” Kei replied “Actually, she’s my stepsister but I don’t like the sound of calling her that way so I call her my sister” she smiled “Don’t feel bad about her, she’s just like that” she said
“I’m not a bit hurt” Takaki assured “See you around, Kei” he bid her and turned completely towards the hall Daiki took
The hall was a dead end and the only room found close would be the storage room, Takaki knows that it’s possible that Daiki would enter it but when he checked it out, he found nothing but cleaning tools and no sign of the girl he followed. He was about to go back the track to see if he missed Daiki by chance in one of the rooms found in the hall when he heard a soft shuffle out the window. He walked towards it and peered out, just to smile as he spotted Daiki seated on top of the overhead shed of the door leading to the gymnasium. He gently climbed over the sill and silently joined her, not wanting to startle her since it would be dangerous especially that she has her legs dangled off the shed. If she’s caught by a teacher, she’d be dead.
“Hey” Takaki softly said but it still made Daiki squeak and drop her sandwich down the ground. She slowly turned her head to him, glaring daggers enough to kill anyone if it is physically there.
“What is it?” Daiki sighed, rolling her eyes as she inched herself off the edge, to lean back to the wall. She drew her knees close to her chest and rested her head on it.
“Sorry about the sandwich” Takaki said sincerely and imitated her but with his legs spread out in front of him “I just saw you here” he said and smiled at her to which she ignored and even rolled eyes at. No one had resisted him this much.
“I really don’t care about that” Daiki mumbled
“Don’t you have friends to join for lunch?” Takaki asked then as silence settled in between them for a minute
“I don’t need friends” Daiki replied coldly “They’d drop you off the moment they see someone better than you” she muttered, hiding her face then in her arms curled above her knees.
“Everyone has to have a friend” Takaki commented then “If you don’t have one now, want to be my friend?” he offered
“No thank you” Daiki sighed and stood up, dusting her skirt “I told you, I don’t need friends” she said and started climbing over the sill. She then froze on her way as she felt Takaki’s hands on her waist. She knows that he’s simply aiding her on her climb but being it her first time having a male touching her that way, she wiggled off his hold and stumbled inside the building and dropped on her knees on the hall. She winced at the pain she got and instantly stood up as she heard Takaki joining her instantly, trying to help her on her feet. “Don’t touch me” she hissed
“Your knee’s scraped” Takaki pointed out, eyeing the slightly bleeding wound Daiki got from her fall. He just wanted to help her but instead, he ended up scaring her and even hurting her.
“Just don’t come near me, I can go to the infirmary myself” Daiki huffed and headed on her own.
-----
Daiki blinked and stopped midway towards their kitchen. She frowned and stepped back to check the hall where she just came from, confirming she’s in the right place. She’s home, alright but why is Takaki seated in one of their bar stools by their kitchen counter, drinking iced tea. Shaking her head as her mind processed the details, she concluded that Kei might have invited him over for something or whatever. Well, not that she really cares about it. Ignoring the latter and not bothering on greeting him, Daiki headed to the fridge and opened it just to groan after realizing that her purpose of coming in there was to take a drink of iced tea her stepmother had offered earlier. She glanced at Takaki who she found eyeing her. She grumbled and turned to the glass rack, reaching for a tall glass and then went to the counter, reaching for the pitcher which was settled next to Takaki’s arm. She filled her cup and glared at the boy who smiled at her.
“Kei’s been on her phone for ten minutes now, I heard it’s about something she has to do importantly for the school” Takaki said making Daiki look at him. He took note of her casual clothes and her messy bun with several strands off it already. He smiled to his self, knowing that she looks cuter in her normal clothes.
“Why are you telling me that?” Daiki asked, slightly pouting as Takaki grinned at him.
“Sensei mentioned about a school festival two weeks from now and since I’m new to the school, one thing to make me adjust faster would be joining the committee handling it” Takaki replied randomly “She told me too that you’re a part of the committee and since we’re classmates and seatmates even, you can help me with the details and things about it” he nodded down
“I’m a class representative for the committee, besides I am not an important part of that group” Daiki frowned “I just go there to tell the president or the vice president, if you know is Kei, about what our class will do” she huffed “I help in other things but not major parts so I don’t have the right to help you at all with the committee” she shook her head and headed to the door, to leave but to stop as Takaki held on her left arm. She then turned around to glare at him but simply ended up frowning at him because his smile’s a bit weird for her to handle. “What are you smiling about?” she grumbled
“Your cuteness” Takaki said, framing Daiki’s face with his hands
“I’m not cute” Daiki started but even before she could continue, Takaki had already brushed their lips together making her stop and stare at him after he lifted his head to look at her again
“Your nose’s pert” Takaki muttered, brushing the tip of his nose against Daiki nose.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Daiki asked then but still didn’t push Takaki away from her since she still couldn’t believe that he had kissed her, even just for a second, earlier.
“Yuya~” Kei called out then from the garden where she might have talked on her phone.
Daiki stepped away from Takaki, eyeing him still in confusion but turned to leave him simply just staring at her as she took the stairs in hurry.
“What are you doing there?” Kei asked as she saw Takaki standing near the door of the kitchen, looking at the stairs.
“I talked with Daiki” Takaki replied “I asked her about the committee for the school festival” he answered
“Ah, right” Kei smiled “She’s your class representative” she nodded down “She’s great with ideas and things but sometimes she won’t speak about it” she sighed
“That’s a waste” Takaki shook his head “So, how about we get on the business?” he asked and earned a nod from Kei.
-----
“No!” Daiki exclaimed as she stood up from her chair, looking at the committee head members “We already submitted the papers needed! We asked to do a cafe not a horror house” she pointed out
“Yes, that’s right” the committee president nodded down, passing then a paper to Kei “But there’s no class this year doing any horror house. We did a very fair game of lottery to which will do it and unfortunately Daiki-kun, your class’s the one to do it” he sighed.
“Yabu-kun” Daiki whined “I~” she started but stopped herself as she looked at the other members eyeing her
“You don’t have to worry about it” Yabu assured “I’m sure that your class will do great” he said
“I can’t believe this” Daiki gave up and sat down, looking then to the one seated next to her. Takaki smiled as he looked at her as well.
“We’ll do just fine” Takaki assured her. She doesn’t really know how come he’s her helper now instead of the normal boy who always seems to disappear whenever she needed him.
After the meeting, Daiki stayed in the room and waited until everybody had left except of her and the committee president who is busily piling up the papers given to him for the event.
“Hey” Yabu greeted with a smile but still didn’t look as Daiki stood next to him “I’m sorry about what happened, I want to somehow make it change but it has to be fair” he said
“Yes, and being fair is your game” Daiki sighed, sitting then on the table, swinging her legs back and forth “You know how much I hate horror houses” she mumbled
“I know that’s why I’m very guilty” Yabu nodded down, putting the papers in an envelope he labelled. “I’m sorry” he said, giving Daiki a peck on her forehead and to be followed by a pat “Sorry?” he asked with a smile
“Fine” Daiki groaned but the door of the room slid open, making both her and Yabu look who came. Takaki stood there frowning at them. “What?” she asked as he walked to them, and slapped Yabu’s hand off her
“Let’s go” Takaki said, pulling her down the table gently “You’ll get late going home” he said and tugged her towards the door
“Bye~” Yabu called out his voice hinting a smile “See you tomorrow Daichan” he bid
“Yeah~” Daiki replied but was tugged again by Takaki to which she pouted at. “What’s your problem?” she asked as they reached their empty classroom since it had been long ago since classes had ended. She wasn’t answered, instead Takaki pulled his handkerchief out and started wiping off Daiki’s forehead with it, just right on the spot where Yabu pecked her. “Stop that” she whined, pushing him away “What are you doing?” she demanded
“I’m wiping it off” Takaki mumbled
“It’s just a peck, why are you so weird about it?” Daiki asked, still trying to push him away
“Because I don’t like it” Takaki replied “With you being cute with someone else” he said
“What’s wrong if I’m cute in front of Kota?” Daiki asked “I’m sure he doesn’t even find me cute anymore with the length of time we’re together” she huffed impatiently
“You don’t know how cute you can be Daiki and it’s frightening especially that wolves are around you waiting for the kill or rather timing to hit on you” Takaki shook his head then stopped for a moment “Kota?” he asked
“Yabu Kota” Daiki replied
“So you two are in first name basis when people are not around you two?” Takaki frowned
“We’ve been in first name basis for so long” Daiki rolled her eyes “I just call him by his last name for the respect since he’s not just the committee president but also the student council president” she pointed out
“So you like his type?” Takaki asked “Smarty and kind to everybody?” he asked
“Why not?” Daiki retorted “He’s ideal” she shrugged “Besides where are you going with this?” she asked, tugging her hand from Takaki who didn’t let go “It’s not that he’s what, my boyfriend” she rolled her eyes
“Then why are you two in first name basis and he’s even kissing you in the forehead like you’re his?” Takaki questioned
“I don’t know, maybe to comfort me because I hate horror houses and as an older cousin, who looked after me and took care of me when we were young, he takes it as part of his responsibility to me” Daiki replied
“Huh?” Takaki blinked then “Cousin?” he repeated
“Cousin, Kota’s my cousin from my mother’s side” Daiki replied “He took care of me when were just kids” she shrugged
“Really?” Takaki asked then
“Yeah” Daiki waved off “Everybody here knows it and they think Kota’s babying me that’s why he tries to be fair” she shrugged
“So, you two are cousins?” Takaki asked
“How many times should I answer, yes?” Daiki frowned “Whatever” she rolled her eyes, picking her bag but to squeak as Takaki hugged her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. “What are you doing?” she asked, prying Takaki’s arms from her
“To think I was so jealous” Takaki mumbled, snuggling closer to Daiki, his nose brushing on her jaw and his lips resting just on the spot below Daiki’s ear.
“You’re too close” Daiki groaned “Ugh~! Fine!” she snapped, giving up on trying to pry Takaki off her “Why are you even jealous?” she mumbled, slightly turning her head to Takaki
“Because I like you” Takaki whispered
“Ha~” Daiki chuckled “That’s impossible” she shook her head “You like Kei” she pointed out “If you think I’ll help you with Kei by telling me that you like me, then it’s not going to work” she snorted
“I’m not doing this to have Kei or whoever” Takaki said, straightening to turn Daiki to face him “I just confessed and you shook it off like it’s my path to ask Kei out?” he asked
“Why not?” Daiki asked “Everybody does that~” she trailed and stopped all in all “Right” she nodded down, pushing Takaki off her and somehow succeeded. She picked her bag and marched out of the room, leaving Takaki staring at her with her words hanged incompletely with him.
-----
A preparation for a single week and several days is tiring but once the event comes in, there’s no use to grumble anymore about the stress felt before. Daiki shook her head as she declines on coming in one of the offered booths for the festival. She doesn’t have time yet to visit any booth especially that she’s busy on avoiding her classmates on making her come in the horror booth their class made. Biting her lips, Daiki tried to hide behind a mascot but utterly failed as one boy from her class, spotted her fast. She squeaked and tried her best to beg them to let her off but she wasn’t heard and now she stands at the starting line of the horror she dreaded to experience. Closing her eyes, Daiki stepped in and started walking. She would just walk fast and end this - but then she ended up lost.
-----
“Have you seen her?” Takaki asked as he leaned on the post close to their booth and looked at the group of his classmates.
“She came in before but I really didn’t notice her afterwards, maybe she ran off somewhere” came the answer from the one guarding the entrance “Why don’t you try going too?” he offered to Takaki who shrugged and stepped in the booth. He should kill some time before starting to search for Daiki again. She suddenly had disappeared right after the meeting of the council.
Takaki could have considered the hiccup a part of the horror their class had prepared since from the corner he came from, a girl was crying rather dryly maybe because it’s tiring to pretend to cry for almost an hour already. But when the second time he heard the hiccup, the hairs on his nape and arms stood up in alarm. He narrowed his eyes, squinting to see in the dark.
She was curled close to a box, in a corner and she’s crying. Takaki recognized her instantly and went to her side.
“Enough!” Daiki shrieked making Takaki jump after he touched her head “I want to go out now” she whimpered
“It’s just me” Takaki said, coming close to her again “How long have you been in here?” he asked
“I don’t know” Daiki sniffed “I don’t know where to go, whenever I try to go they will scare me” she whimper “I don’t like horror houses, I told them to stop but they wouldn’t listen. Why does no one listen to me?” she asked
“Let’s go now, I’ll get you out” Takaki offered, pulling Daiki to stand
Takaki took a step forward and stopped as he felt Daiki clutching on the sleeve of his uniform. He smiled to his self and took another step, with Daiki imitating him.
“Can’t you go any faster?” Daiki cried out, her scream drowned in the screaming music of the booth.
Takaki would love to get lost in the booth for a while but feeling Daiki shaking in fear, he couldn’t swallow the guilt he’s feeling.
“Are you okay now?” Takaki asked as he passed a can of juice to Daiki who’s seated in her usual spot, the top of the overhead shed.
“Yes, thank you” Daiki nodded down, reaching then for the can “Thank you” she said again, resting her cheek on the cold can
“Do you want me to open that for you?” Takaki offered but earned a shake of head from Daiki
“I don’t think I can drink yet, I might end up puking” Daiki sighed
“Okay” Takaki smiled, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair of Daiki’s behind her ear. He then rested his hand on her nape, his thumb rubbing gently on her skin. “You’re back to you normal color” he said “Creamy” he added
“More like tan” Daiki pouted “Kei’s really pale, like snow white and people admire it” she sighed, looking away from Takaki
“You just have the touch of sun on your skin” Takaki corrected “But you’re not tan” he said
“I bet you prefer girls with pale skin, because when they blush it’s really cute” Daiki muttered
“Well, that’s right~” Takaki tilted his head “But~” he started
“I knew it” Daiki mumbled and Takaki knows already that she’ll ignore whatever he’d say again.
They stayed there for a while until Daiki got a call from someone and she went to the committee room. Takaki arched a brow as he saw Yabu turn and smile at them as they entered.
“We’re free to visit booths now, if in case there’s a need for us you’d get a call from me” Yabu said “And~” he said after earning a nod “Later, committee members will be the one to do the first dances” he grinned
“Cool” Daiki groaned making Takaki wonder why she said it in such frustration.
But his question was answered instantly as he now stands amongst the committee members since apparently he’s a part of it, and girls who are also part of it are gathered close to him except of Daiki who is just there waiting for he doesn’t know.
“Takaki-kun, the dance will start in five minutes, you should pick your partner to dance” one boy said and thus Takaki turned to look at Daiki who glanced at him. He smiled at her and was to ask her to the dance when a hand stopped him. He turned to see Kei smiling at him then with the other boys in defeated expression. Obvious that she had turned them down.
“Dance with me” Kei invited, hooking her arm on his and dragged him towards the bonfire that will be lighted by the headmaster later.
Soon after the bonfire was lighted, the music started and Takaki was at lost at first with the step but Kei had aided him until he’s used to it and both of them are now dancing perfectly with the music. Takaki looked where Daiki is standing earlier but no to find her there. Of course, the music had started already and it meant that someone had asked her to dance already. He looked around the members circling the fire and his time wasn’t in time as students of the school joined them as well. He still did try his best to locate her and when he did, she was already giggling with Yabu who’s playfully dancing with her.
“Tsk” and that made Takaki look at his partner who earlier was enjoying their dance. He eyed Kei who is looking at Yabu and Daiki, her teeth biting her cheek in a less obvious way.
“What’s wrong?” Takaki asked, managing to draw Kei’s attention from the two
“Ah” Kei blinked and for a moment, Takaki saw an ordinary girl in confusion. “Nothing” she smiled brightly “Have you heard the legend about dancing around the fire?” she asked
“Not really” Takaki replied
“It says that if you kiss your first dance with the fire, you’d be together ‘til the end” Kei said and sighed “It’s really romantic” she nodded down
“Well, it depends” Takaki shrugged, looking then to Daiki who still is giggling as Yabu murmured something to her “They don’t act like cousins” he said and caught Kei by making her look too
“They are not considered cousins” Kei started “Daichan says they are cousins because Kota’s like from her mother side but actually, they are not related that closely” she muttered “Kota’s the son of Daichan’s mother’s sister’s sister-in-law” she pointed out “So if those two falls in love, it’s not illegal or what at all. Even Dad thinks that Kota would be perfect for Daichan, since he’s the only one she’s comfortable most other than him” he shrugged
“I didn’t know that” Takaki frowned at the two
“Well, it’s not that they have to brag around that they could go out. It’s been a rumor ever since so people just assume that they just hide their relationship” Kei shook her head “Kota’s ideal and all and Daichan’s perfectly cute and lovable” she shrugged
“It affects you that they could go out?” Takaki asked
“Not really” Kei slightly pouted
“Don’t tell me that you like Yabu Kota?” Takaki guessed, seeing then instantly the blush on Kei’s high cheekbones
“Of course not” Kei denied “He’s just admirable~” she drawled, looking then at Takaki and soon ended up sighing “Don’t tell Daichan” she shook her head
“Why?” Takaki frowned
“Because she’d think that I’m stealing Kota from her” Kei replied “Ever since we became sisters, she thought that we’re rivals” she sighed “I couldn’t blame her since people tend to judge based on appearances. I’m what? Perfect? Huh!” she snorted “If you’d ask me who’s perfect between us, I’d say it’s Daichan” she muttered “She can really do everything. Not just things like in academics which are the only things I can do. She can do housework, cook and is good with children” she sighed “I can only do math and science, she can do all!” she exclaimed “And people tend to like her more in the end because slowly people sees my fault and gets used to my beauty. Daichan’s unique in different ways” she nodded down
“On your last statement, are you saying that from experience?” Takaki asked
“Yeah” Kei replied, looking then again to the two dancing not far from them “Kota’s been with Daiki since they’re babies though they not really close related, they are best friends and then I came. Kota’s friendly and nice, he once became unfair on treating me and Daichan and it scarred Daichan badly. I was guilty but I already admire him that time so I can’t let him go. Then he got used to me and eventually he went back to babying Daichan and until now it’s the same” she shrugged “That time was where Daichan treated me coldly more than ever” she added “So if you took notice, she always run away whenever I’m involved” she said
“I noted” Takaki smiled
“Anyways, you’re the first time to reject me instantly the first time we met” Kei grinned
“Because you’re typical” Yuya replied with a shrug “I have three sisters at home and not to brag they are beautiful” he grinned
“That’s cool” Kei snorted “So, you like Daichan from the start?” she asked then
“It’s a crush at first sight” Takaki grinned
“She’s really cute especially when she’s just staring but when she opens her mouth, she’s harsh” Kei nodded down “I really want to try turning her into a doll” she added
-----
Daiki glanced over her shoulder to look at Takaki and Kei who had been talking about something that is making them smile and even laugh. She pouted and sniffed, turning her attention to Yabu who was just looking at her.
“Why do you even like her?” Daiki asked “She’s a huge flirt” she grimaced
“Maybe she has a reason to be like that” Yabu shrugged “Besides, I don’t base my feelings over trivial things. She’s very nice and I rely on her most of the time especially when it is hard in the council” he nodded down
“She’s the financial officer, how could you rely on her most of the time?” Daiki asked
“Well, it’s not easy to balance the accounts and at the same time come up with another plan to fit the budget within a day or cooler, within three hours of heavy brainstorming and still come out looking like a goddess” Yabu replied
“It’s a sin not to sweat” Daiki pointed out “A mortal sin! I will add too the fact that she never has a creased uniform!” she exclaimed
“She’s just immaculate” Yabu nodded down
“I know, I heard about it somewhere” Daiki rolled her eyes “It’s so unfair” she muttered
“Well, you are a beauty yourself” Yabu said “And don’t start with the talk of you not being the goddess people always admire” he shook his head “You have a head above your shoulders. You’re an overflowing can of coins” he said
“That’s not true” Daiki shook her head
“Daichan, Kei can’t cook. She can’t clean either and she makes kids cry without a reason” Yabu smiled
“But you still like her” Daiki smiled back
“Yes” Yabu nodded down “Not that I can help it. I was bad before on treating you differently when Kei came, I regretted on it but still I like her. I just don’t want you to feel bad because I’ll start fawning over her if I try approaching her again” he admitted
“I’m not even stopping you from fawning on her” Daiki pointed out
“Yes, but you’d take it hard and you’d hate me again” Yabu sighed
“I won’t” Daiki shook her head “I never hated you, maybe once but just slightly. And you’re my best friend and cousin” she grinned
“Right” Yabu chuckled, ruffling then Daiki’s hair “But speaking of liking someone, you have this crush on that transfer student who stalks you around the school, right?” he asked
“Shut up” Daiki rolled her eyes
“Daiki, the only reason no teacher has ever scolded you whenever you sit down on the overhead is because I never tell anyone about it and I make sure that no one sees you there. Have you forgotten that I can see you from the council room whenever you sit there?” Yabu asked “And these past few days, I took notice that you are not alone on sitting there anymore” he smiled
“You’re a creep as ever” Daiki grimaced “I didn’t ask you to check on me every time I sit there” she pouted
“Well, find another spot where I can’t see you and Takaki-kun” Yabu snorted “Just earlier, you two are cuddling each other” he teased
“No we’re not” Daiki shook her head “I was just dizzy because I was forced to get in the horror booth you had brought upon our class to do!” she cried out
“Ah~” Yabu smiled “Sorry?” he asked
“Fine” Daiki pouted and stepped back but to bump on someone. She turned to apologize, in the end, she was now frowning at Takaki and Kei who turned to them as well. “Sorry” she said hatefully
“It’s fine” Kei assured “The festival’s a success, don’t you think?” she asked, smiling at Yabu
“Of course, thanks to the members who worked hard until today” Yabu replied “Would you like to dance?” he offered to Kei who blinked in surprise at his invitation
“What are you doing?” Daiki hushed at him
“Well, it’ll be bad manners to just stare. Besides, we’ve been dancing the whole time, it’s time we change partners, don’t you think so Takaki-kun?” he asked
“Indeed” Takaki agreed nonetheless
Daiki grimaced as Takaki placed his hand on her waist. It was for the dance she knows but with him touching her that way, it feels like he has something else in mind other than the touching.
“You were smiling earlier when you were with Yabu-kun, why frown now? I’m not that bad at this cultural dance” Takaki commented
“I like Kota that’s why I’m smiling earlier and I don’t like you, that’s why I’m frowning now” Daiki grumbled
“That’s not what I heard earlier” Takaki said then
“You two were eavesdropping?” Daiki gasped “Besides I never said I liked you!” she snapped
“But you never denied it” Takaki retorted gently
“Besides it’s rude to tell others that you hate someone” Daiki grimaced
“I like telling people I like you” Takaki said “Kei even said that you’re so cute but you just don’t have to open your mouth to let your harshness out” he nodded down
“Whatever you say” Daiki rolled her eyes
“You know, she mentioned about a legend” Takaki started then
“The kiss thing after the music, yeah, go ask Kei to come back here and you can snog her to death” Daiki snorted
“But I was planning on something else” Takaki shook his head, turning Daiki to face him completely. He smiled, watching Daiki eye him with confusion and when he brushed his lips with her, he wanted to chuckle at the squeak she made. She blinked and then frowned.
“The legend says “Your first dance” Daiki quoted
“You are my first dance, Kei dragged me” Takaki pointed out
“I will not go out with you” Daiki hissed then
“It’s okay, I love challenges” Takaki winked “One day, you’d say I like you to me too” he nodded down
“Don’t be so sure” Daiki rolled her eyes
“I should say that too you too” Takaki grinned
“You’re just too full of yourself” Daiki grumbled stomping then on Takaki’s foot
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