Undeniable Deceit - Tora/Saga, Saga/Nao - 1/xx
Title: Undeniable Deceit
Chapter(s): 1/xx
Author: sentimentalenvy
Pairing/Characters: Tora/Saga, Saga/Nao
Rating: M15
Genre: AU/Romance/Comedy
Synopsis: I really thought I would spend the rest of my life with one person and one person only. He was my first love, kiss, boyfriend, best friend and partner. The thought of betraying anyone never occurred to me until I found myself craving for another boy other than Nao. I need to control this darker, deceitful, and wild side of me but I don’t know how to tame it. And the worst thing is, the way Tora makes me feel -- I don’t think I want to change it...
1
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I guess it’s too late to say that I ran into one of the creepiest guys in our high school. Did I mention I had stupidly walked into Amano Shinji’s already opened locker? I didn’t really realize until I finally found the strength in my legs to walk away. I should explain more about this guy, shouldn’t I?
Amano Shinji - Senior - 17 years old. Hardly anyone ever calls him by his real name. I don’t know why that is, but I remember it was way back in the beginning of our freshman year, everyone started addressing him as ‘Tora’. I don’t know much about him, but he always has this sort of cold aura radiating out of him. I hardly see him actually conversing with anyone besides Ogata Hiroto -Also a senior - 17 years old. That little guy always follows him around like he’s some sort of servant or best friend of his. Rumors have already flooded around school, but I know better than to believe in them because sometimes people can have such ridiculous theories. I usually just assumed he was a best friend, and apparently Tora didn’t seem to mind having a mini shadow at his tail.
“I heard you purposely walked right into Tora’s locker. You were dozing off like a retard again weren’t you?”
I know that voice all too well. I turn around to face on of my close friends, Shou. Kohara Kazumasa - Senior - 17 years old. One of the most annoying yet best friends I could ever have, this punk still ceases to surprise me. He always finds the most random moments to harass me no matter what kind of harassment it is. I swear to god…at first I thought he was gay.
“I didn’t do it on purpose,” I scoffed and shut my locker in annoyance. He was always trying to make everything his business. “Even you should know that. He didn’t look pissed off either, so I assume I was forgiven.”
“Oh I see, I see.” Shou nodded and by the curve of his lips, I knew he was trying to hide a smile. Smile, laugh, chuckle, whatever it is I will beat it out of him.
“What’s so amusing now?” I ask with a sigh. I really wasn’t in the mood to be playing one of his games. It was only the middle of the day. I hadn’t seen Nao all day, and it’s - depressing. “I wonder what he’s doing right now…” I mused aloud without realizing it.
“Miss him already?” Shou cooed.
“Yeah…”
“Wait till’ Nao hears about how unfaithful you’re being.” Shou sighed and shook his head. “Aaah I knew you were a little hoochie whore who only lusted for Japanese men who were 1/4th American! Oh god how is Nao going to react to this?! I should tell him…yes I should tell him because I’m a good, loyal and kind friend. Yes, friends should never keep secrets from each other!”
“What the hell are you talking about?!” I don’t realize the fact that my voice had risen, but I do notice students watching me.
Since when have I ever dressed like a hoochie? Unless he was talking about our outfits for our band, then I guess I had shown a little too much stomach and thigh. No, that still doesn’t make sense. God, who the hell is he to judge anyway? Using words he doesn’t even understand… if I remember correctly, it was he who was the one that chose our clothes! And it’s not like he doesn’t show any skin himself. Why I am trailing off topic at my own free will and just letting this happen?!
“Oh god you can’t possibly be talking about him. I love no one but Nao. Don’t you dare tell Nao any of your bullshit stories,” I hissed lowly at him, and I gave him the stare down.
“What’s wrong with him?” Shou asked. He raised an eyebrow and looked at me expectantly. It was as if he was expecting me to stutter in embarrassment. I won’t let him play with me like a puppet on strings.
“He’s only good looking, smart, multi talented, athletic...what possible reason is there to deny such perfection?” He hummed in a teasing manner, and casually shifted his gaze to the opposite direction. I bet he doesn’t want to look at me. Cause if he does, he knows he’s going to start laughing. I will not give in.
“Oh? Interesting you say that.” I hummed in a calm manner, and casually rest my back against the cold lockers. “It seems to me that you’re trying to convince me to be unfaithful to Nao. And you’re trying to pin this guilt on me? Such hypocrisy…or…could it be? You have strong feelings for Tora?” My smirk turns into a wide smile because I see him blush and gape at me as if I had struck jackpot. “So it is true? Oh noes. How should I tell Nao about this?” I turn around to face the end of the hallway. “HAY EVERYBODY-!”
That was when I was tackled harshly down to the floor with Shou on top of me. I hope I didn’t loose too many brain cells because Shou made me hit my head pretty hard. Last thing I heard was ‘How dare you put my manhood reputation on the line like that, traitor!’
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“Nao~” I whine softly as I latch onto my personal pooh bear from behind. Murai Naoyuki - senior - 17 years old, otherwise known as my baby bear Nao. I guess it's obvious he's my boyfriend. I hadn’t seen him all day because he said he would be busy this week because his teachers were already cramming project assignments down his throat. “We’re still on for the movies tonight right?”
“Aah sorry Saga-chan, but the group members and I are meeting up tonight for the history project,” Nao mumbled with a pout as he snuggled his back against my chest. “I really want to though.”
“Then ditch,” I kidded, and Nao gave me a sharp nudge in my stomach with his elbow. “I kid,” I assure him, but I’m not sure if he bought it.
“Hey Nao.” Shou murmured sneakily as he popped out from behind me. “Saga’s being a cheater,” He said, looking at me with an evil glint in his eye.
“He’s what?” Nao asked, enunciating on the what. Awh mother. I rolled my eyes as Nao moved away from me. Shou was doing this to push my buttons. My humiliation amuses him and he knows that I know that.
“Yeah with Tora,” Shou’s lips turned into a huge smile as Nao sent me a little death glare. Oh come on, how long is this role play going to last? “He bumped into his locker this morning and what do you know…hearts pop out of his eyes.”
“What?!” That came out of both Nao and me at the same time. Obviously, the reasons were different.
“What kind of game are you playing Shou? You bastard,” I seethed as he shove him roughly against the school lockers. It doesn’t help me any that he’s laughing up a storm.
“What kind of game are you playing cheater-san?!” Nao exclaim as he grab me by the collar and tug me off of Shou. “How dare you fool around behind my back with that guy?! Mr. Perfect bad ass tiger of person kind of better looking than me person…” Nao ended up mumbling, and I had to hold back every ounce of my strength from chuckling cause he was getting into that little cute mumble stage.
“Awh Nao-chan you know stupid Shou’s screwing around like usual,” I half whine with a small pout. This is normally uncharacteristic of me, but I can’t help but act like that around Nao. Nao knows he has that kind of power over me. I blame him for using his cuteness to his advantage. “Forgive me.” I frown; pulling him into a death grip, I ignore him grunt in protest.
“Alright. Alright! Now lemme go! I need to meet up with a group member 15 minutes before lunch ends,” Nao sighed as he finally struggled out of my grip.
“How long is this gonna last?” I ask curiously. I try to hide my hint of annoyance. We only had 40 minutes of lunch, and I just met up with him too. “Lunch just started. At least eat something before you meet up with them.”
“Yeah I know that. Don’t worry about that Saga. You worry too much,” Nao smiled and leaned up to give me a quick peck on the cheek. “I’ve told you this year was gonna be a hell of a hectic year for me…with all my AP and Honors classes. You said it was okay remember?” Nao asked, his face was much more serious when he looked up at me.
I did say it was alright for Nao to exceed himself during his last year of high school. We had been dating for two years, but it seems so much longer than that. I guess it’s because we had known each other since we were kids. I had already told myself I wasn’t going to let a stupid year of inconvenience get in the way of what we have planned together forever. I wasn’t going to propose to him yet. No. Not when we were in school. It would be too wrong, and it would only pressure Nao more. We have talked about marriage, and if Nao were to get married, he would prefer it if it was after college, so after college it was. Would it really be worth it to throw a fit now? No, because it would be selfish of me.
“Yes I remember,” I smile down at him, and run a hand through his black hair. “You should do whatever you can this year. I’ve joined the student counsel like you said I should,” I reminded him. He wanted me to do something social and productive. Even if I’m not so fond of that kind of stuff, I don’t mind. “That reminds me, I can’t believe I won the vote for Vice President.”
“That’s cause the only person you were up against dropped out,” Shou pointed that out in his matter-of-fact tone in his voice.
“You. Need to shut up,” I shoot him a little glare as he chuckled and mumbled a “hai hai”.
“Are we gonna stand around here and talk or are we gonna eat? Cause I’m starving and you guys are wasting my precious lunch time!” Nao’s voice suddenly went up an octave, followed by a scream and wail as he made a mad dash for the cafeteria leaving Shou and me staring at his flailing arms and retreating back.
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“So how is this going to work?” A member of the student council asked, fumbling around with his pencil.
It didn’t look like he wanted to be here. Then again, who the hell does? Nobody likes to meet up after school. I could be doing something with Nao right now, but it wouldn’t make a difference anyway. He had his group to meet, and god knows about his other assignments and projects. It’s only the beginning of October, and we don’t have our finals until the end of January.
“What are we gonna do without a President?” Another member sighed, and slumped further into his chair. “Since September, we haven’t had much done you know. The Junior Council is supposed to be planning our prom, so where does that leave us?”
“Well we’re just gonna have to do without one,” I sigh with a shrug. “Besides, do we really need a president? We would have had some money earlier if we had planned some sort of sale. Bake sales, ceramic sales and such? If we keep this up there’s going to be no homecoming. Do you guys want that?”
Then an immediate flood of screams, cries, wails and whimpers began to rain in the room around me. Awh crap I guess I struck the wrong nerve. Of course they were gonna bitch and complain about shit like this. I honestly don’t really care about dances like these. As a matter of fact, I’ve never even attended a single dance throughout my whole high school career so far. I did like to dance though. But I’d much rather do it in a room full of people who aren’t dry humping each other and dancing like barbaric animals.
“Alright calm down!” I raise my voice, and slam the palm of my hands on the podium before me.
“Keep calm. According to Kai, we still have a pretty good budget from last year. Am I right?” I look at Kai - senior - 16 years old, who is the treasurer of our council.
“Yes, Yuuki has left us in good hands. But we can’t continue doing this forever. We’ll need a plan,” Kai sighed. Yuuki was our upperclassman from last year. With him running our club, I didn’t think we’d come across any problems. We didn’t. But since he isn’t with us this year, I guess it’s all up to me now. “Oh yes, Saga-kun.”
“Heh?” I look at him curiously. “What is it?”
“Yuuki had informed me earlier this morning about finding us a new President.”
“Huh…? Who?” I wanted to know. After a month and a half, Yuuki finally decided to do something about this? I sigh. Even if he was a great president before, I’d still have to admit that at least 50% of our council members will always be procrastinators. I guess I kind of am too since I didn’t bother looking for a President to fill in for Yuuki earlier.
“Sorry I’m late.”
Heads turned. I turned. The other 7 members gaped at the same time. All of a sudden a loud "EEEEEEEEEEH?!" boomed the room I could have sworn I felt the ground shake. This is so utterly corny…
“Hey, Tora. It’s alright come on in,” Kai smiled eagerly as he quickly ran over to the podium to drag me away from it. I suppose it was the “president’s” spot. Huh…well I feel loved.
After the meeting, 7 of the members were long gone, and it came down to only Kai, Tora and me. I wasn’t so thrilled about staying behind, but as Vice President, it was supposed to be a “duty”.
Kai didn’t necessarily have to stay, but he’s one of the most dedicated people I know, so I suppose I wasn’t so surprised to see him here. I’m still thankful to have him here because if I were to be alone with Tora, it would be nothing but awkward.
“So we’re set on a date for the bake sale this Friday,” Tora confirmed as he scribbled down the information a little planner. Kai and I nodded as I was seated in front of Tora, and Kai was seated in between Tora and me. We decided to move the desks around since we would be sticking around for a while longer.
“I’ll do the baking but I’m going to need help,” Kai said with a cheeky grin. It didn’t take much of his courage to look at me with a hopeful grin. I guess I don’t look as intimidating as people say I am. He hesitated for a second before shifting a glance at Tora.
Tora was still in the middle of jotting down plans for the council, and I could have sworn he felt that vibe too. Those feelings of a creepy smiley Kai face nailing him on the spot. He slowly looked up and to my surprise, he nodded calmly in agreement.
“I don’t know if we’re even going to be able to make it in time. Isn’t Friday the day after tomorrow? How are we possibly going to succeed?” I ask warily.
“I know it’s going to be a tight squeeze, but what other choice do we have?” Tora asked, and he looked at me as if he was a little annoyed of my ‘complaints’.
I’m not complaining, I just think squeezing too many things into one is ludicrous. I had taken a peek or two at his plans, and if we all followed this, there was no way I was going to have as much free time with Nao as I hoped for. Is this really worth sacrificing? I had to take a long hard think about all this. But the expectant look Tora was giving me did not help me…at all. I don’t know what the hell it is, but I can’t seem to find the courage to look him in the eye.
“Well, you don’t have to attend every single meeting or event we do. I’m sure you have better things to do than worry about some measly council you don’t really care about,” He responded coolly with a scoff and half a chuckle. What the hell was that supposed to mean?
“Now what’s that supposed to mean?” I frown, and I’m ready to stare him down. Just not directly in the eyes. I tried that before, but I guess I overestimated him.
During the meetings he was rounding up the group as if he was boss. Well…technically he is our leader, and we are supposed to do whatever he says in order to stay in the club. But I wanted to show him I wasn’t scared of him. The rest of the members were cowards, and I was glad that he was able to whip their stupid lazy asses back into shape. But there was no way in hell he was going to control me, or at least make me feel less of a man. I don’t know what it is, but once I looked directly into his eyes, for a millisecond- I can’t breathe. I’m not scared of him, no. I find myself immediately turning away. Is that the kind of look he gives people on purpose? That kind of look looked normal since he always looked like that. Was that it? Or was it because of the fact that he’s able to keep his composure so well. There was most definitely one thing I’ve noticed about him, and that was the fact that I have never seen him smile. I’ll be he uses that as a scare tactic. God, I am thinking too much about this.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” I decide to ask anyway. Does it look like I’m picking a fight? I just might. Besides, I have every right to. I’m the freaking Vice President. We’re allowed to have arguments here and there. Suddenly, I feel like I actually cared about what happens in the club. Either that or it’s because I feel like I want to argue with him.
“Nothing really,” Tora said with a shrug. “I’ve noticed that throughout the meeting you don’t really seem to care about what goes on. The events we plan, you don’t seem to thrilled.”
“Am I supposed to be obsessed with it?” I raise an eyebrow.
“Like I said, since you’re the Vice President, I’m not really going to make you come if you really don’t want to. If social life is what you’re worried about, you don’t have to worry about it. All I ask is that you attend at least two of our weekly meetings every month. It’s gonna be rather annoying to have to constantly inform you about what’s going on. Or, you can just drop out right now and well find a new vice president. There’s no point in staying if you’re not willing to put in the effort,” He responded with that cool deep voice, which is beginning to piss me off.
“You’re one to talk,” I snort, crossing my arms. “Majority of the time I see you you’re always hanging out with Ogata, not anyone else. Are you really interested in helping us? Or does it make you feel good to boss people around like we’re your little minions?”
“And every time I see you, you’re only hanging around Murai and Kohara-san. What’s your point?” He continues to jot down more plans for the rest of the month.
“Now now guys, come on! Let’s not get off on the wrong foot! Saga-kun, Yuuki asked Tora to help us bring this council back up on our feet. Please don’t start an argument over something so small,” Kai looked at me with those pleading eyes. They were somehow similar to Nao’s…damn it.
“Yuuki called me this afternoon and told me of your situation. If this keeps up, the school probably isn’t going to see another dance unless the underclassmen council raises more money to keep the traditions alive. I don’t know about you, but I refuse to let underclassmen look better than us,” Tora said, looking up from his book.
“Fine. Let’s get down to business then. Tomorrow after school we’ll meet up at the Foods classroom. I’m sure if we ask one of the instructors they’ll lend us the kitchen for a day,” I said, not looking at Kai. I was looking at Tora instead. Eh…I’m actually staring at his nose because I still find it hard to stare at him straight on into the eyes. Hey, this is considered an improvement.
“That’s a great idea! I’ll ask the instructor right after this meeting. I’ll give you two a call to tell you how it goes,” Kai nodded. Oh that’s right; we had swapped numbers during the meeting. Not that I want Tora’s name making my phonebook list look ugly. Awh craps that is what I have become?! I sound like a stupid little kid!
Maybe it’s because I don’t want to loose to that guy. Everything about him screams challenge. It sets my blood boiling in anger yet I feel the urge to be cocky and shoot comeback remarks right back at him. Every comment that comes out of his mouth sounds as if he’s challenging me. He ends up provoking me without even trying. It’s probably just me. I’m normally the patient guy but, I guess he would have begged to differ. Huh. If he wants to compete then he better bring it on. Somehow being in this council didn’t seem so boring anymore. I don’t really care about what Kai says. I don’t have to like him to work together with him. It’s my last year, and like Nao has always told me: ‘It’s our senior year! Let’s finish this year with a bang!’
“Alright well if that’s it, I’m off. Any other changes or additions in plans, give me a call,” I mumble before grabbing my handbag I swung it over my head. I stop for a second to see if any of them had any protests. I pat my bag slung across my chest in wait, but no answer. “Later,” I mumbled once more before walking out of that classroom feeling surprisingly…good.
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prologue | 2
Chapter(s): 1/xx
Author: sentimentalenvy
Pairing/Characters: Tora/Saga, Saga/Nao
Rating: M15
Genre: AU/Romance/Comedy
Synopsis: I really thought I would spend the rest of my life with one person and one person only. He was my first love, kiss, boyfriend, best friend and partner. The thought of betraying anyone never occurred to me until I found myself craving for another boy other than Nao. I need to control this darker, deceitful, and wild side of me but I don’t know how to tame it. And the worst thing is, the way Tora makes me feel -- I don’t think I want to change it...
1
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I guess it’s too late to say that I ran into one of the creepiest guys in our high school. Did I mention I had stupidly walked into Amano Shinji’s already opened locker? I didn’t really realize until I finally found the strength in my legs to walk away. I should explain more about this guy, shouldn’t I?
Amano Shinji - Senior - 17 years old. Hardly anyone ever calls him by his real name. I don’t know why that is, but I remember it was way back in the beginning of our freshman year, everyone started addressing him as ‘Tora’. I don’t know much about him, but he always has this sort of cold aura radiating out of him. I hardly see him actually conversing with anyone besides Ogata Hiroto -Also a senior - 17 years old. That little guy always follows him around like he’s some sort of servant or best friend of his. Rumors have already flooded around school, but I know better than to believe in them because sometimes people can have such ridiculous theories. I usually just assumed he was a best friend, and apparently Tora didn’t seem to mind having a mini shadow at his tail.
“I heard you purposely walked right into Tora’s locker. You were dozing off like a retard again weren’t you?”
I know that voice all too well. I turn around to face on of my close friends, Shou. Kohara Kazumasa - Senior - 17 years old. One of the most annoying yet best friends I could ever have, this punk still ceases to surprise me. He always finds the most random moments to harass me no matter what kind of harassment it is. I swear to god…at first I thought he was gay.
“I didn’t do it on purpose,” I scoffed and shut my locker in annoyance. He was always trying to make everything his business. “Even you should know that. He didn’t look pissed off either, so I assume I was forgiven.”
“Oh I see, I see.” Shou nodded and by the curve of his lips, I knew he was trying to hide a smile. Smile, laugh, chuckle, whatever it is I will beat it out of him.
“What’s so amusing now?” I ask with a sigh. I really wasn’t in the mood to be playing one of his games. It was only the middle of the day. I hadn’t seen Nao all day, and it’s - depressing. “I wonder what he’s doing right now…” I mused aloud without realizing it.
“Miss him already?” Shou cooed.
“Yeah…”
“Wait till’ Nao hears about how unfaithful you’re being.” Shou sighed and shook his head. “Aaah I knew you were a little hoochie whore who only lusted for Japanese men who were 1/4th American! Oh god how is Nao going to react to this?! I should tell him…yes I should tell him because I’m a good, loyal and kind friend. Yes, friends should never keep secrets from each other!”
“What the hell are you talking about?!” I don’t realize the fact that my voice had risen, but I do notice students watching me.
Since when have I ever dressed like a hoochie? Unless he was talking about our outfits for our band, then I guess I had shown a little too much stomach and thigh. No, that still doesn’t make sense. God, who the hell is he to judge anyway? Using words he doesn’t even understand… if I remember correctly, it was he who was the one that chose our clothes! And it’s not like he doesn’t show any skin himself. Why I am trailing off topic at my own free will and just letting this happen?!
“Oh god you can’t possibly be talking about him. I love no one but Nao. Don’t you dare tell Nao any of your bullshit stories,” I hissed lowly at him, and I gave him the stare down.
“What’s wrong with him?” Shou asked. He raised an eyebrow and looked at me expectantly. It was as if he was expecting me to stutter in embarrassment. I won’t let him play with me like a puppet on strings.
“He’s only good looking, smart, multi talented, athletic...what possible reason is there to deny such perfection?” He hummed in a teasing manner, and casually shifted his gaze to the opposite direction. I bet he doesn’t want to look at me. Cause if he does, he knows he’s going to start laughing. I will not give in.
“Oh? Interesting you say that.” I hummed in a calm manner, and casually rest my back against the cold lockers. “It seems to me that you’re trying to convince me to be unfaithful to Nao. And you’re trying to pin this guilt on me? Such hypocrisy…or…could it be? You have strong feelings for Tora?” My smirk turns into a wide smile because I see him blush and gape at me as if I had struck jackpot. “So it is true? Oh noes. How should I tell Nao about this?” I turn around to face the end of the hallway. “HAY EVERYBODY-!”
That was when I was tackled harshly down to the floor with Shou on top of me. I hope I didn’t loose too many brain cells because Shou made me hit my head pretty hard. Last thing I heard was ‘How dare you put my manhood reputation on the line like that, traitor!’
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“Nao~” I whine softly as I latch onto my personal pooh bear from behind. Murai Naoyuki - senior - 17 years old, otherwise known as my baby bear Nao. I guess it's obvious he's my boyfriend. I hadn’t seen him all day because he said he would be busy this week because his teachers were already cramming project assignments down his throat. “We’re still on for the movies tonight right?”
“Aah sorry Saga-chan, but the group members and I are meeting up tonight for the history project,” Nao mumbled with a pout as he snuggled his back against my chest. “I really want to though.”
“Then ditch,” I kidded, and Nao gave me a sharp nudge in my stomach with his elbow. “I kid,” I assure him, but I’m not sure if he bought it.
“Hey Nao.” Shou murmured sneakily as he popped out from behind me. “Saga’s being a cheater,” He said, looking at me with an evil glint in his eye.
“He’s what?” Nao asked, enunciating on the what. Awh mother. I rolled my eyes as Nao moved away from me. Shou was doing this to push my buttons. My humiliation amuses him and he knows that I know that.
“Yeah with Tora,” Shou’s lips turned into a huge smile as Nao sent me a little death glare. Oh come on, how long is this role play going to last? “He bumped into his locker this morning and what do you know…hearts pop out of his eyes.”
“What?!” That came out of both Nao and me at the same time. Obviously, the reasons were different.
“What kind of game are you playing Shou? You bastard,” I seethed as he shove him roughly against the school lockers. It doesn’t help me any that he’s laughing up a storm.
“What kind of game are you playing cheater-san?!” Nao exclaim as he grab me by the collar and tug me off of Shou. “How dare you fool around behind my back with that guy?! Mr. Perfect bad ass tiger of person kind of better looking than me person…” Nao ended up mumbling, and I had to hold back every ounce of my strength from chuckling cause he was getting into that little cute mumble stage.
“Awh Nao-chan you know stupid Shou’s screwing around like usual,” I half whine with a small pout. This is normally uncharacteristic of me, but I can’t help but act like that around Nao. Nao knows he has that kind of power over me. I blame him for using his cuteness to his advantage. “Forgive me.” I frown; pulling him into a death grip, I ignore him grunt in protest.
“Alright. Alright! Now lemme go! I need to meet up with a group member 15 minutes before lunch ends,” Nao sighed as he finally struggled out of my grip.
“How long is this gonna last?” I ask curiously. I try to hide my hint of annoyance. We only had 40 minutes of lunch, and I just met up with him too. “Lunch just started. At least eat something before you meet up with them.”
“Yeah I know that. Don’t worry about that Saga. You worry too much,” Nao smiled and leaned up to give me a quick peck on the cheek. “I’ve told you this year was gonna be a hell of a hectic year for me…with all my AP and Honors classes. You said it was okay remember?” Nao asked, his face was much more serious when he looked up at me.
I did say it was alright for Nao to exceed himself during his last year of high school. We had been dating for two years, but it seems so much longer than that. I guess it’s because we had known each other since we were kids. I had already told myself I wasn’t going to let a stupid year of inconvenience get in the way of what we have planned together forever. I wasn’t going to propose to him yet. No. Not when we were in school. It would be too wrong, and it would only pressure Nao more. We have talked about marriage, and if Nao were to get married, he would prefer it if it was after college, so after college it was. Would it really be worth it to throw a fit now? No, because it would be selfish of me.
“Yes I remember,” I smile down at him, and run a hand through his black hair. “You should do whatever you can this year. I’ve joined the student counsel like you said I should,” I reminded him. He wanted me to do something social and productive. Even if I’m not so fond of that kind of stuff, I don’t mind. “That reminds me, I can’t believe I won the vote for Vice President.”
“That’s cause the only person you were up against dropped out,” Shou pointed that out in his matter-of-fact tone in his voice.
“You. Need to shut up,” I shoot him a little glare as he chuckled and mumbled a “hai hai”.
“Are we gonna stand around here and talk or are we gonna eat? Cause I’m starving and you guys are wasting my precious lunch time!” Nao’s voice suddenly went up an octave, followed by a scream and wail as he made a mad dash for the cafeteria leaving Shou and me staring at his flailing arms and retreating back.
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“So how is this going to work?” A member of the student council asked, fumbling around with his pencil.
It didn’t look like he wanted to be here. Then again, who the hell does? Nobody likes to meet up after school. I could be doing something with Nao right now, but it wouldn’t make a difference anyway. He had his group to meet, and god knows about his other assignments and projects. It’s only the beginning of October, and we don’t have our finals until the end of January.
“What are we gonna do without a President?” Another member sighed, and slumped further into his chair. “Since September, we haven’t had much done you know. The Junior Council is supposed to be planning our prom, so where does that leave us?”
“Well we’re just gonna have to do without one,” I sigh with a shrug. “Besides, do we really need a president? We would have had some money earlier if we had planned some sort of sale. Bake sales, ceramic sales and such? If we keep this up there’s going to be no homecoming. Do you guys want that?”
Then an immediate flood of screams, cries, wails and whimpers began to rain in the room around me. Awh crap I guess I struck the wrong nerve. Of course they were gonna bitch and complain about shit like this. I honestly don’t really care about dances like these. As a matter of fact, I’ve never even attended a single dance throughout my whole high school career so far. I did like to dance though. But I’d much rather do it in a room full of people who aren’t dry humping each other and dancing like barbaric animals.
“Alright calm down!” I raise my voice, and slam the palm of my hands on the podium before me.
“Keep calm. According to Kai, we still have a pretty good budget from last year. Am I right?” I look at Kai - senior - 16 years old, who is the treasurer of our council.
“Yes, Yuuki has left us in good hands. But we can’t continue doing this forever. We’ll need a plan,” Kai sighed. Yuuki was our upperclassman from last year. With him running our club, I didn’t think we’d come across any problems. We didn’t. But since he isn’t with us this year, I guess it’s all up to me now. “Oh yes, Saga-kun.”
“Heh?” I look at him curiously. “What is it?”
“Yuuki had informed me earlier this morning about finding us a new President.”
“Huh…? Who?” I wanted to know. After a month and a half, Yuuki finally decided to do something about this? I sigh. Even if he was a great president before, I’d still have to admit that at least 50% of our council members will always be procrastinators. I guess I kind of am too since I didn’t bother looking for a President to fill in for Yuuki earlier.
“Sorry I’m late.”
Heads turned. I turned. The other 7 members gaped at the same time. All of a sudden a loud "EEEEEEEEEEH?!" boomed the room I could have sworn I felt the ground shake. This is so utterly corny…
“Hey, Tora. It’s alright come on in,” Kai smiled eagerly as he quickly ran over to the podium to drag me away from it. I suppose it was the “president’s” spot. Huh…well I feel loved.
After the meeting, 7 of the members were long gone, and it came down to only Kai, Tora and me. I wasn’t so thrilled about staying behind, but as Vice President, it was supposed to be a “duty”.
Kai didn’t necessarily have to stay, but he’s one of the most dedicated people I know, so I suppose I wasn’t so surprised to see him here. I’m still thankful to have him here because if I were to be alone with Tora, it would be nothing but awkward.
“So we’re set on a date for the bake sale this Friday,” Tora confirmed as he scribbled down the information a little planner. Kai and I nodded as I was seated in front of Tora, and Kai was seated in between Tora and me. We decided to move the desks around since we would be sticking around for a while longer.
“I’ll do the baking but I’m going to need help,” Kai said with a cheeky grin. It didn’t take much of his courage to look at me with a hopeful grin. I guess I don’t look as intimidating as people say I am. He hesitated for a second before shifting a glance at Tora.
Tora was still in the middle of jotting down plans for the council, and I could have sworn he felt that vibe too. Those feelings of a creepy smiley Kai face nailing him on the spot. He slowly looked up and to my surprise, he nodded calmly in agreement.
“I don’t know if we’re even going to be able to make it in time. Isn’t Friday the day after tomorrow? How are we possibly going to succeed?” I ask warily.
“I know it’s going to be a tight squeeze, but what other choice do we have?” Tora asked, and he looked at me as if he was a little annoyed of my ‘complaints’.
I’m not complaining, I just think squeezing too many things into one is ludicrous. I had taken a peek or two at his plans, and if we all followed this, there was no way I was going to have as much free time with Nao as I hoped for. Is this really worth sacrificing? I had to take a long hard think about all this. But the expectant look Tora was giving me did not help me…at all. I don’t know what the hell it is, but I can’t seem to find the courage to look him in the eye.
“Well, you don’t have to attend every single meeting or event we do. I’m sure you have better things to do than worry about some measly council you don’t really care about,” He responded coolly with a scoff and half a chuckle. What the hell was that supposed to mean?
“Now what’s that supposed to mean?” I frown, and I’m ready to stare him down. Just not directly in the eyes. I tried that before, but I guess I overestimated him.
During the meetings he was rounding up the group as if he was boss. Well…technically he is our leader, and we are supposed to do whatever he says in order to stay in the club. But I wanted to show him I wasn’t scared of him. The rest of the members were cowards, and I was glad that he was able to whip their stupid lazy asses back into shape. But there was no way in hell he was going to control me, or at least make me feel less of a man. I don’t know what it is, but once I looked directly into his eyes, for a millisecond- I can’t breathe. I’m not scared of him, no. I find myself immediately turning away. Is that the kind of look he gives people on purpose? That kind of look looked normal since he always looked like that. Was that it? Or was it because of the fact that he’s able to keep his composure so well. There was most definitely one thing I’ve noticed about him, and that was the fact that I have never seen him smile. I’ll be he uses that as a scare tactic. God, I am thinking too much about this.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” I decide to ask anyway. Does it look like I’m picking a fight? I just might. Besides, I have every right to. I’m the freaking Vice President. We’re allowed to have arguments here and there. Suddenly, I feel like I actually cared about what happens in the club. Either that or it’s because I feel like I want to argue with him.
“Nothing really,” Tora said with a shrug. “I’ve noticed that throughout the meeting you don’t really seem to care about what goes on. The events we plan, you don’t seem to thrilled.”
“Am I supposed to be obsessed with it?” I raise an eyebrow.
“Like I said, since you’re the Vice President, I’m not really going to make you come if you really don’t want to. If social life is what you’re worried about, you don’t have to worry about it. All I ask is that you attend at least two of our weekly meetings every month. It’s gonna be rather annoying to have to constantly inform you about what’s going on. Or, you can just drop out right now and well find a new vice president. There’s no point in staying if you’re not willing to put in the effort,” He responded with that cool deep voice, which is beginning to piss me off.
“You’re one to talk,” I snort, crossing my arms. “Majority of the time I see you you’re always hanging out with Ogata, not anyone else. Are you really interested in helping us? Or does it make you feel good to boss people around like we’re your little minions?”
“And every time I see you, you’re only hanging around Murai and Kohara-san. What’s your point?” He continues to jot down more plans for the rest of the month.
“Now now guys, come on! Let’s not get off on the wrong foot! Saga-kun, Yuuki asked Tora to help us bring this council back up on our feet. Please don’t start an argument over something so small,” Kai looked at me with those pleading eyes. They were somehow similar to Nao’s…damn it.
“Yuuki called me this afternoon and told me of your situation. If this keeps up, the school probably isn’t going to see another dance unless the underclassmen council raises more money to keep the traditions alive. I don’t know about you, but I refuse to let underclassmen look better than us,” Tora said, looking up from his book.
“Fine. Let’s get down to business then. Tomorrow after school we’ll meet up at the Foods classroom. I’m sure if we ask one of the instructors they’ll lend us the kitchen for a day,” I said, not looking at Kai. I was looking at Tora instead. Eh…I’m actually staring at his nose because I still find it hard to stare at him straight on into the eyes. Hey, this is considered an improvement.
“That’s a great idea! I’ll ask the instructor right after this meeting. I’ll give you two a call to tell you how it goes,” Kai nodded. Oh that’s right; we had swapped numbers during the meeting. Not that I want Tora’s name making my phonebook list look ugly. Awh craps that is what I have become?! I sound like a stupid little kid!
Maybe it’s because I don’t want to loose to that guy. Everything about him screams challenge. It sets my blood boiling in anger yet I feel the urge to be cocky and shoot comeback remarks right back at him. Every comment that comes out of his mouth sounds as if he’s challenging me. He ends up provoking me without even trying. It’s probably just me. I’m normally the patient guy but, I guess he would have begged to differ. Huh. If he wants to compete then he better bring it on. Somehow being in this council didn’t seem so boring anymore. I don’t really care about what Kai says. I don’t have to like him to work together with him. It’s my last year, and like Nao has always told me: ‘It’s our senior year! Let’s finish this year with a bang!’
“Alright well if that’s it, I’m off. Any other changes or additions in plans, give me a call,” I mumble before grabbing my handbag I swung it over my head. I stop for a second to see if any of them had any protests. I pat my bag slung across my chest in wait, but no answer. “Later,” I mumbled once more before walking out of that classroom feeling surprisingly…good.
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prologue | 2