Chapter Text
“Love, you did amazing today.” Miko hugged Ei from the back. “Don’t forget to rest tonight, okay?”
“Thank you, baby.” Ei turned around to kiss Miko’s temple and nuzzled her face on her neck. “The festival is close. We need to work harder. I’m sorry we can’t go on dates for now.”
“It’s okay, love. We can go on our dates during the festival.” They stay silent for a few minutes. “And after that, and then the day after, and more tomorrows. We can go on dates for the rest of our lives.”
“I love you.”
It had only been three weeks since the two started dating. Everything has gone real smooth. Whenever they fight, (it doesn’t usually happen), they immediately resolve it within the next hour. They don’t let the night pass if they’re angry at each other. They forgive and love again.
Ei tries to make it up to Miko. She’s aware of she did to her before, and even if Miko says it’s doesn’t matter anymore, she still does. She never fails to arrive early and make coffee for the both of them, she gives Miko an origami frog everyday with little notes inside, and she never failed to ask how Miko’s day went. She would do everything for Miko- and the latter would do the same.
“Okay, lovebirds! Enough already! It’s time go home.” Miko, on instinct, tried to push Ei away but the latter didn’t budge. “Hey! Go home already. You guys are a sore in the eye.”
“Leave us alone, Makoto.” Ei said, still having Miko in her arms. “Go home first! We’ll go somewhere tonight.”
“You are?”
“We are?” Miko whispered.
“We are, baby.” Ei kissed her nose this time. “Allow me to have an hour or two of your night. I’ll take you somewhere.”
“You guys are leaving me alone…?” Ei didn’t reply to Makoto and only held Miko’s hand to guide her out of the office.
They silently walked out of school grounds. The moon was full, and so was their hearts. Ei never failed to show her love to Miko, and so did the latter. It’s real scary, actually. To think that one day they might break up, or whatever fate holds that might separate them. Well, it’s not like either of them would let that happen.
Ei noticed how cold the night was, and looked at Miko was solemnly staring at their hands intertwined. A part of her couldn’t believe that she also loves Miko. It was something she didn’t expect, but something she wishes to cherish forever.
So she stopped walking- removed her jacket and wrapped it around Miko. “What about you?”
“Your hand gives me warmth, my beloved.” She kissed Miko’s hand and the latter could only sigh at the fast beating of her heart. It’s something she will never get used to. “We don’t have much time tonight, since we still have a lot of preparations tomorrow. Let’s just eat somewhere.”
“I like the sound of that.”
They settled in Shimura Kanbei’s. Ei ordered two bowls of ramen and two plates of egg rolls. She rests her chin on her palm and her other hand is intertwined with Miko’s. Ei’s eyelids were already dropping, but she forced herself to stay awake. They rarely eat dinner together. She wants to make the most out of it.
Miko noticed it. She feels sad, Ei had less time for herself. It’s always spent on school and on her. She even wonders if Ei still gets 8 hours of sleep. Miko feels relieved that her lover still eats on time- because they eat lunch together.
Miko and Ei were inseparable.
Miko placed their foods in front of them and poured water on both of their glasses. A little act made Ei so happy. Her girlfriend was so caring; she can’t wait for them to live under the same roof in the future. Sure, she might be getting way ahead of herself, but she wants to make it into reality.
“What are your plans on the festival, love?” Miko asked. Ei wiped her mouth first before answering.
“I’ll make sure everything is alright and in place. Do a few rounds of checking the stalls and shops, and then we’ll enjoy. Just the two of us.” Ei smiled and Miko just melted. She will never grow tired of her smile. “We worked hard for this. I hope everything goes well.”
“Of course it will. You organized this.”
“Thank you, baby. Hearing this from you really puts my heart at ease.” Ei chuckled. “I remember, the only thing that could comfort me whenever I panic before was your words. I must really be stupid for not realizing my feelings towards you.” She sighs. “I love you, Miko.”
“And I’ll keep your hand warm for eternity, Ei.”
Ei paid for their meal. She even wanted to stay with Miko until they reach her house but Miko refused, especially because it was already late and they need to be early tomorrow. Seeing her girlfriend take the other route saddens Ei. Goodness, the night becomes lonely even more.
Ei arrived at home and Makoto was scowling at her. She ignored her sister and greeted their parents. She excused herself and proceeded to her room to take a bath and finally rest. She texted Miko a simple ‘goodnight love :)’. Though, when she was just about to fall asleep when Makoto barged in her room again and jumped to bed with her.
“I’m going to sleep already. What do you want?” Ei said, eyes closed already. “Also please stop barging here whenever you want. Learn how to knock.”
“Nothing actually. I just want to sleep here.” Makoto then tugged her sister’s comforter and turned around. “I’m alone in my room. It’s scary.”
“Are you sure?” Ei asked but she didn’t get any response. “Are you okay?”
“Of course I am. I just miss my girlfriend. And it’s boring to sleep alone, you know? So if a ghost appears here, I can just throw you to it and run for my life.” Ei just sighed and decided to ignore her. “Goodnight, Ei.”
The next morning, Ei woke up first and saw Makoto almost falling off the bed. She stood up and stretched and tried to fix Makoto’s position. “What a messy sleeper.” She whispered to herself.
She first went to her bathroom to take a shower and wear her school uniform. Though when she was brushing her teeth, she noticed her contact lens case. It’s been a while since she wore it. Since a lot has to be done today, Ei decides to wear it instead of her glasses.
When she came back, Makoto was still sleeping. “Hey, wake up.” She slightly shook her. “Hey, we still have to do a lot today. Wake up already.”
“Tsk.” Makoto tried to push herself up but ended up dropping back to bed. “5 more minutes.”
“Fine. I’m going first. I still need to meet with our adviser.” Makoto just waved her hand and went back to sleep.
Ei came down and her parents are already eating breakfast. Her mother gave her a warm smile and she returned it. “Mommy, I’ll go first. The festival is the tomorrow. I need to finalize everything today.”
“Okay, sweetie. Take care!” She kissed her mom on the cheeks and her dad. “Wait, Ei…”
“Yes, Mom?” She asked while taking two coffee breads on the table and stuffing it in her bag.
“You’re so pretty today. You finally wore your contacts?” Ei nodded and curiously looked at them. “Are you dating someone?”
“Eh?” She furrowed her brows, “How is wearing contacts and dating someone connected?” Her mommy shrugged and continued drinking her coffee.
“You’re not answering your mom’s question, baby girl.” Her dad chuckled and winked at her. Ei only sighed. “Are you seeing someone?”
“I am.” She smiled widely and her parents noticed how her eyes shone. “I’m in a relationship with Miko. You know her already.” There was a long silence between all of them. She doesn’t feel terrified because she knows her parents will accept their relationship- they’re just probably in a state of shock. “I’m going first. See you both later!”
Ei was already at the door when she heard her dad speak again. “Hah! I told you our girl will fall in love with Miko. Looks like I’m right, darling. You have to treat me to the steak house tonight!”
“Fine, fine.”
It was quarter to 7 when Ei arrived at school. Miko isn’t there yet- so she opened her drawer and got a frog origami to place it in Miko’s desk. She also made two cups of coffee- one for her and one for Miko. She also placed one of the breads in her girlfriend’s table and smiled at her proud work. She had been doing this for three weeks already- and yet it always feels new and refreshing.
Ei prepared her notebook and pen and headed off to the faculty.
That was the time when Miko arrived. She immediately smiled when she her desk. The door opened behind her and Makoto came in. She waved at her and sat down on her own chair. Miko continued organizing her files and checking the student’s data.
An hour later and only then did Ei come back. She immediately went to Miko to kiss her on her cheek before sitting down on her desk. The whole day, they did nothing but continue the preparations. It was around afternoon when Miko excused herself to check the field where it’ll be held.
Everything went well. Though Miko stopped when she saw something. “What are you doing?” Itto turned around with a big smirk plastered on his face. He looked so proud, Miko could only sigh. “This was approved?” The man just nodded and put his hands on his hips.
“Welcome to Itto’s juicy big buns!” Miko face palmed. This was so embarrassing, especially because the other students heard them and were beginning to laugh. “Buy 1 take 1 burger! Get another one if you give me your number.” Itto winked and laughed. “Amazing slogan, eh?”
“Hmm, yeah sure.” Miko took another look and just shook her head. She wonders who pushed idea to the faculty for Itto’s idea to be approved. “Who helped you with this?”
“Vice-pres!” Of course, Makoto would help him. “She even helped me build my stall! I should give her the pass of free burgers.” Itto thought for a while before nodding a few times to himself. “Yeah! I will do that!”
“Sure.” Miko just nodded. “Good luck then.”
Other than Itto’s weird burger shop name and slogan, everything is already set. Before going back to the office, another shop caught Miko’s eye. She went closer and just the sight of the couple rings made her heart beat fast. Ei would like this.
She looked around, and a certain pair seemed lovely. They were lightning rings that completed each other. And since the lightning reminds her of her lover, she decided to go with it. Though it isn’t opened yet, she can just sneak during the festival when Ei is busy.
Miko bought snacks for everyone before returning to the office. Ei immediately stood up and helped her carry it.
“Hey, Makoto.” She called and even Ei turned to her as if she was the one who called. “You helped Itto?”
“Yeah!” Makoto laughed loud. “I thought it was funny, Miko. And since our advisor approved of it, it’s cool.”
“Oh, so it was because of you, Makoto.” Ayato giggled a little. “I was thinking who backed Itto when he sent that proposal.” Miko would’ve listened to the two’s conversation but her mind went crazy when she felt a presence coming closer to her. Even crazier when Ei wrapped her arm around her waist.
“Ei…” She rested her head on the president’s shoulder. “I love you.”
“I love you too, my dearest Miko.” She giggled at it.
It felt really nice. Being able to hug and tell Ei how much she loves her. Before, she couldn’t be vocal about what she felt, especially because it is full of uncertainties. But now, now that she could hold Ei close, she felt happy. Being with Ei makes Miko happy than anyone could ever imagine.
She wishes this would stay forever. Ei and her love would stay forever. Because Miko knows, this is her greatest love. Ei is her greatest, only, and lightning love. The love that only happens once in a lifetime.
It was around 8 pm when they finished their tasks. Makoto left early because she wasn’t feeling well. Only Ei and Miko were left.
Miko was once again sitting on her table and running through her notes and checklist for the last time tonight. Ei was silently watching her do so. But when she had enough, she went infront of her lover again and put her arms on both of Miko’s side.
“Are you almost done?” Miko only smiled and nodded. “Let’s go home then. How many more minutes?”
“Just 5 more.” She placed the board on her lap. “If you leave me alone, because I can’t focus. You’re so pretty, Ei.” She cupped Ei’s cheeks. “Why are you so pretty? Your eyes are so perfect.”
“I could say the same about you.” Ei slowly leaned in closer to her. Both of their hearts are racing. Ei wonders if Miko could her heart. It beats only for her. “Miko…”
“Kiss me, Ei.” and she did.
The gentle collision of their lips made Miko smile. Ei returned it. The former wrapped her arms around Ei’s neck and pulled her closer. It was just a simple kiss- but it was very special and romantic. It was full of love and gentleness, and Miko couldn’t ask for more.
“Miko…” Ei smiled again.
“Let’s go home, alright?”
Miko ended up not finishing checking because she wouldn’t be able to focus anymore. For the rest of the night, she just wants to stay close to Ei. Curses, why is she so inlove with Ei? It was like she was falling deeper and deeper every time they were together.
Miko wrapped her hand around Ei’s arm. They were walking together under the moonlight. It was just the two of them- and Miko loves that moment.
“Right, Ei, before I forget.” Miko started.
“Hmm?”
“Remember last night when you texted me goodnight?” She nodded. “Well, that time, my cousin was scolding me for leaving the tap water running in my bathroom,” Ei chuckled at that. “And then my phone beeped, and she kinda…” Miko swallowed and looked away. “saw your message. She wants to see you.”
“That’s fine with me.” Ei immediately replied- which made Miko’s heart flutter. She said it with no hesitation, like she was just waiting for Miko to say it. “Alright, let’s meet her after the festival.”
“Really?” Ei nods.
Ei removes Miko’s hand from her arm, and intertwines them instead. “My parents also want to see you again. They know. I told them.”
“Alright, after the festival?”
“Yeah.”
When they were going to go different ways, Ei suddenly pulled Miko’s wrist and planted a quick kiss on her lips. Miko was still in shock when the other hugged her tightly. “I love you. Goodnight, Miko. Rest well- I hope you dream of me.”
Only then did Miko hug her back. “You always are, Ei. I love you, goodnight.”
Miko was smiling on her way home. It just faltered when she saw Saiguu raising her brows at her. She thought back to the beginning of the day- no, there’s nothing she forgot about. Did she do something to get a scolding?
“… what?” Miko quietly asked.
“Nothing.” Saiguu shook her head and went to the kitchen. Miko followed her. “Have you eaten yet?”
“Not yet.” Miko just sat down and got her utensils and started eating. Though she felt conscious when Saiguu was just staring at her. “Aren’t you going to eat with me?” Her cousin shook her head. “Why are you staring?”
“When will you admit that the friend of yours is really you and the girl is Ei?” Miko only looked away and continued eating. “Well, I guess that won’t matter. Hehe, I can’t believe that you can’t admit your feelings to her, Miko.”
“Stop it, Saiguu. It was hard before, okay? That was the time I didn’t want to risk anything.”
“So you’re admitting it.” Miko’s jaw dropped and was unable to say anything. “Ah, my cousin is growing up already. Did you already tell her that I wanted to see her?” Miko nods. “Good then. I can’t wait.”
“Don’t give her a hard time.” She drank her glass of water and stood up to wash her plate in the sink. “Though I’m sure it’s nothing she can’t handle. But still.”
“Sure, sure.” Saiguu yawned. “I’ll be sleeping early tonight. Lock the doors. Goodnight, Miko!”
“Goodnight.”
The day of the festival.
Ei and Makoto both woke up early. They told their parents that they’ll just eat breakfast at school- and that they should visit there too. They’ll meet them later.
The council just had a short meeting about today. Ei told them to enjoy and she’ll handle the tasks for today- since it was just few and easy. Of course, everyone rejoiced. (Miko will still help her, there’s no way she wouldn’t).
Miko and Makoto were roaming around together, waiting for Ei to finish talking to their adviser, when they came across the stall where they sell jewelries. Makoto sighed when she saw Miko staring at the rings. At that moment, she just wanted to see her girlfriend.
“Let’s go check it out.” Makoto had no choice but to follow her. “Hi, Ayaka! How much for these?” she pointed at the pair of rings.
“1,000¥ for these, miss secretary!” Miko took out her wallet and paid. “Would you want a box for these? Don’t worry! It’s for free!”
“Sure.” Miko smiled and watched Ayaka swiftly placing the rings inside the box and wrapping it with a ribbon. “Wow, you’re amazing. Thank you!”
“Thank you for your purchase, miss secretary!” Ayaka bowed and shifted her gaze to Makoto. “Oh? Is it for the both of you?”
“Of course not.” Miko smiled. “I’m dating the other twin,” she leaned in and acted like whispering. “The prettier one.”
“Hey!” Makoto scoffed and pulled Miko by her collar, dragging her back. “Ayaka, you’ve been a student here for so long already. You know that I’m clearly the prettier twin, right? She’s just in love with my sister that’s why she says that.”
“Ah,” Ayaka scratched the back of her head. “Both of the twins are pretty at an equal measure. They are identical, after all.”
“Is that so?” Makoto stared at Ayaka for a moment. “How about we ask your girlfriend, Yoimiya?”
“Yes, vice-pres?” Yoimiya’s voice echoed from behind. She was holding a box of fireworks. “What’s up?” She put the box on the side first to greet them. “Hi, baby!”
“Yoimiya, shh!”
“Hehe.” Yoimiya giggled and faced the two student council. “Sorry, what was your question again?”
“Who’s the prettier twin?” Miko sighed. She and Makoto are just joking; it was already running ever since they became close friends. Now, Ayaka and Yoimiya are caught up in it. “It’s me, right?”
“Of course!” Yoimiya put her hands on both of sides of her hips. “You’re the prettier twin, Makoto! Everyone knows that.” She was just saying that for sure, because she’s facing Makoto. But if it were Ei, she would’ve said the same thing. “Trust me, vice! Everything that comes out of this mouth is true.” Sure.
“Hah! I knew I count on you, Yoi!” Makoto wore her proud smirk. “Sorry, Miko. I’m way prettier your than your girlfriend.”
Miko only scoffed and nodded. “Yeah, which is your identical twin.” She shook her head and faced Ayaka again. “We’ll be going now, ‘Yaka! My girlfriend might see us here. Thanks again!”
“Thank you too!” Ayaka bowed again and waved.
Next stop: Itto’s juicy big buns. “Hey! Makoto! Miko!” Itto shouted. He was the one doing the advertisement, while his club members were the ones cooking and accepting the payment. “Haha! Come here!”
“What’s up, Arataki Itto!?” Makoto and Itto high fived. Miko just smiled at him. “Looks like business is doing well! Congrats!”
“It is!” He laughed hard. “Ah, this is thanks to you, Makoto. And for that, I will give you the honor of having many burgers. How many do you want?”
“Right now? Hmm…” Makoto acted like she was thinking, and Miko was just watching the both of them.
Miko was shocked, however, when someone suddenly hugged her from behind. She looked back and there was her favorite girl. “Found you.” From there they both watched Makoto and Itto converse. “Hi, baby. Are you enjoying?”
“Of course, love.” Miko turned around and kissed Ei on the cheek before turning back to the two.
Makoto ended up ordering 10 burgers. It’s for the council, she says.
“Oh!” Makoto said while she was holding a bag full of burgers, and scrolling on her phone. “My girlfriend is here! Catch!” She tossed the bag to Ei, which she fortunately caught. “Hehe! I’ve had enough of both of you. Bye!”
“Take care.” Ei sighed and looked at the burgers. “Wait, I remember a kid approaching me earlier...” She takes Miko’s hands and drags her out of the school. Miko saw a young kid whose clothes were ragged and she was thin.
“Oh, hello!” The kid immediately noticed them and gave off a big smile. “It’s you, Ei!”
“Hi, kiddo.” Ei smiled and messed her hair. “You were hungry, right? Here. Take these and make sure to give some to your siblings, alright?” Miko smiled at that. Just when she thought she couldn’t fall in love more. “Go home for now. It’s not safe here.”
“Thank you, Ei!” The kid hugged Ei’s leg and looked at Miko. “Hello, miss! What’s your name? Are you a friend of Ei?”
“My name is Miko. I’m her girlfriend.” The kid smiles and nods. “Go home, alright? Eat a lot, kiddo.”
The two watched the kid leave. Ei’s thoughts were cut off when she felt Miko’s hand on hers. She smiled back as Miko pulled her back inside the campus. They spend time together, running around and checking each booth- and simply just enjoying each other’s company. It was fun, and Ei wishes for it to last an eternity.
They also came across a booth called marriage booth. It was fake, of course, but both of them wanted to give it a shot.
“Hey… let’s get married.” Miko giggled and pulled Ei towards the booth. “Hi! The president and her vice-president wants to get married, please.” Gorou gave them a huge smile and nodded.
“Okay, madams! Please stand in the stage.” The so-called wooden stage was just hand-made and little. Still, it was cute. “Cue the music, Sara.”
“Dear friends and family, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of Raiden Ei and Yae Miko in marriage. In years they have been together, their love and understanding of each other has grown and matured, and now they have decided to live their lives together as wives.” Kokomi read off her script. Ei winked at Miko which made the latter smile.
“Whoo! Go guys!” Makoto’s voice echoed. Looks like she just arrived with her girlfriend. Now, there are seven witnesses. Kokomi, Gurou, Sara, Makoto and her girlfriend, and Ayato with his boyfriend Thoma.
“Ehem…” Kokomi shook her head before continuing. “Do you Raiden Ei, take Yae Miko to be your lawfully wedded wife, promising to love and cherish, through joy and sorrow, sickness and health, and whatever challenges you may face, for as long as you both shall live?”
A big smile spread across both of their faces. “I do.”
“Do you Yae Miko, take Raiden Ei to be your lawfully wedded wife, promising to love and cherish, through joy and sorrow, sickness and health, and whatever challenges you may face, for as long as you both shall live?”
“I do.”
“Don’t kiss each other, we’re at school premises.” Kokomi giggled a little. “You may hug each other.”
But of course, Miko quickly planted a kiss on Ei’s cheeks before pulling her into a hug. Makoto’s cheer was the loudest. Ayato and the rest were just smiling and clapping their hands. The couple had to sign a fake certificate of marriage. After the ceremony, Ei paid for it before Miko could.
They were sitting on the bench and quietly watching the other students run around and say good bye to their friends. It was a fake wedding sure, but both of them were really happy.
Then, Ei’s parents arrived. Miko didn’t expect to see them again this soon. She didn’t prepare anything. It was always so nerve-wrecking to meet her parents, especially now that they’re dating. Ei noticed the slight trembling of Miko’s hands, so she took it and squeezed gently- just to let Miko know she’s here.
Miko bowed down for a while to show respect, and when she looked up, her parents are already smiling widely. Oh?
“Good afternoon, aunt and uncle.” She kept her gaze low. “It’s nice to see you the both of you again. I hope you’re enjoying your stay here.” Her heart was beating fast- this time because of nervousness. Miko usually kept her composure around other people, but it’s a different talk if it’s her girlfriend’s parents.
“Oh, Miko. It sure was.” Ei’s mom gently squeezed Miko’s shoulder. “Anyway, Makoto told us both of you were here, so we ought to say hi. I hope my daughter isn’t a pain to be with. She can be a big headache.”
“Mom?” Ei furrowed her brows.
“Oh don’t worry, auntie! So far, Ei isn’t giving me a head ache.” Miko chuckled. She’s afraid she might something wrong. “She’s… a great girlfriend.”
“I’m glad to know, Miko.” Her father finally spoke, making her more nervous than ever. “You should come by our home next time. I’ll be happy to show you her and Makoto’s baby pictures.” He chuckled. That’s a good sign, hopefully.
“Dad!” Ei waved her hand rapidly. “Stop alright? We’re going to visit next time, when we’re not busy.”
“Alright, Ei. We’ll be leaving now.” Her mom smiled again. “I’m really impressed with the event. You guys did an amazing job.”
“Thank you, auntie, and uncle.” Miko bowed again. “Don’t worry, I’ll visit with Ei soon.”
“I’m glad to know. We’ll take our leave now.” Ei’s father held the hand of his wife and smiled again. Her mom looked at Miko before leaving together. It was like a thorn was taken out of Miko’s chest. They approved of their relationship!
“Take care!” Ei shouted and turned to Miko. “Miko…” She hugged her and rested her face on her neck. “I love you. I hope you’re not worrying anymore.”
“I’m not, Ei. I love you.” She then thought of their rings. It would be a perfect moment, but they’re in public. They’re showing too much affection already. It’s better if she gives it to her when they’re alone. “Do you want to come with me?”
“I’ll go anywhere as long as it’s with you.” Miko took her hand and they went to where they first talked, and got to know each other.
The classroom in the abandoned building.
The sun was already setting. Even perfect. Miko leaned in against the railings and stared at Ei. “Do you know I stared at you like this- every time, and wonder when I’d be able to call you mine?”
Ei takes her hand and stares back at her. “Now, you need not to wonder. You can call me yours every time, and I’d willingly offer myself to you.” She kisses her hand.
They stayed there for a few minutes- until the rain started pouring. They were glad the day was already over because it would be hard for the other students. It’s a good thing they already cleaned up before coming there.
“It looks like a thunderstorm.” Miko sighs and rests her head on Ei’s shoulder. “I didn’t bring an umbrella.”
“It’s okay. I did.” She puts her arm around Miko’s shoulder as they both watch the rain pour. The lightning strikes three times, bringing discomfort to Ei. Miko didn’t seem bothered though. She was even smiling. “Why do you seem happy?”
“Hmm?” Miko hummed before bringing out a small box from her pocket. Ei was staring at it. The former removed the tie, and got the ring. She reaches for Ei’s hands and puts it on her ring finger. She gets the other ring and does the same to her own finger. “There. We’re married officially.”
She notices the design. “A lightning?”
“Your eyes, Ei. They’re just like the lightning itself.” Miko giggled and cupped her cheek. “Even with your glasses on, I could tell that your eyes were pretty. But they’re far more beautiful now, with you just wearing contacts. I love your eyes.” Ei didn’t know what to respond to that, so she just leaned in and claimed Miko’s lips.
They stayed there for another hour- but realizing that it’s already getting dark and they need to go home, they just decided to go through the storm. And since Ei owns the umbrella, she’s going to have to go at Miko’s house.
They’ll just do it all today, then?
The umbrella was already big enough for the both of them, and yet their clothes are already wet. They weren’t even half way through. Miko’s body was closely linked with Ei’s. Doing their bests not to get rained on.
However, when they arrived at Miko’s place, they were drenched and completely soaked. Ei and Miko could feel the blazing stare from Saiguu. Not the best way to meet with Saiguu again, huh? Still, Ei bowed deeply and put on her charming smile. Just trying to lessen the anger Miko’s cousin was feeling.
It didn’t work.
“Goodness, these kids..” Saiguu ran her palm on her face and sighed. “Didn’t expect to see you again like this, Ei.” Miko was about to speak but her cousin shot her a glare, so she decides to just keep quiet.
“I’m sorry, Saiguu.” Ei chuckled and pursed her lips when she saw Saiguu’s serious stare. “I really am. I didn’t expect that it’ll rain today, since the forecast didn’t say anything about it. It was already getting late, so I had to bring Miko home. I’m sorry.”
“You didn’t think about getting a ride or calling anyone who can help?”
“I… forgot.” Ei felt even more ashamed. “I’m sorry.”
“Fine, fine. Take a bath first, you two. I don’t want anyone getting sick.” She crossed her arms. “Miko, use my bathroom. Ei can use yours. Lend her some clothes.”
It took Miko and Ei an hour to both dress up and dry their selves. She was leading Ei to their kitchen where Saiguu is preparing their dinner. Even if the former kinda messed up, she was still feeling confident of facing Saiguu. They had known each other for years anyway.
Miko sat beside Ei and Saiguu just watched how they took care of each other. She could feel how genuine their feelings are, so she lets their idiocy pass for tonight. Saiguu crosses her arms and the couple felt that the talk is about to begin.
“So, Ei, I’ll just get straight to the point. Are you aware you’ve hurt my cousin?” Miko looked away when she realized that she did say that. Ei only held her hand under the table.
“I am.” Ei gently squeezes Miko’s hand. “I was an idiot back then. I didn’t realize who I was hurting. But worry not, Saiguu. I will make it up to Miko and take care of her. This time, I am certain she won’t get hurt.” Ei smiles.
“She already did.” Miko butts in and sighs. “I don’t understand what making up to me means, she’s done so much for me already.”
“And I can do so much more.”
“Stop- stop!” Saiguu sighs and shakes her head. “Kids, really… flirting in front of me?” Miko only smirked at her. “Ei, please do take care of my cousin. All these years, I saw how she’s grown attached to you, and eventually inlove.”
“What? I only told you recently!”
“Not the time to butt in, Miko.” Saiguu crosses her arms. “You were obvious. The only person who didn’t know about your feelings was Ei. Anyway, Miko cherishes you a lot, Ei. I’m sure she’d give up her life for you. Stupid kid.” Miko wanted to talk back- but Saiguu was right. “But I’m just as sure you’d do the same for her. Be stupid with each other then.”
“We will, Saiguu.” Ei couldn’t help but smile. “This shall be my oath. I assure you Miko wouldn’t be hurt if I am the reason. I will lower my pride, and offer my heart to her. I will love her in every way I know- and I will never forget to remind her that I love her and shower her with praises. I will love Miko until the end of my days.”
“That’s what I want to hear, Raiden Ei.” Saiguu finally smiled and nodded. “I’ll happily be a witness of your love.”
That night, Saiguu and Ei ended up talking about other things. Miko was just there. Very contented about everything. The two people she loves most- together and laughing. She couldn’t ask for more.
Ei was finally within her reach. Less boundaries and more love.
Saiguu was finally in her room, and Miko and Ei decided to sneak out at in the middle of the night and watch the stars.
“The stars are beautiful.” Miko whispered quietly. “They’re as just as beautiful as you, Ei.”
“Hmm? Honestly, I think you’re more beautiful than any celestial beings that exists around us in this very moment.” Ei went behind and hugged her from there. “Keep close, Miko. The night is cold. I’ll warm you up this way.”
“Alright. Keep me warm.”