Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

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The young woman smiled down at the child in her arms, the little girls' lifeless eyes showing a dark void. It was such a calm and collective look; the woman couldn't help but smile of her resemblance. A little click resounded to the room, a short woman walking into the boring and beige room.

"Ah, Dr. Saitozaki..." The woman said, the name sounding all too familiar on her tongue. The doctor was a short, old woman, her hair almost completely gray with a few brown streaks. She had deep wrinkles and eye bags, the poor lady looking on the verge of death. It was such a sad sight to see, looking so far beyond her real age. It almost made the mother feel bad.

"Ah, Ryoba-San. Good morning." She didn't speak for very long, instantly looking over the test results for the small child in Ryoba's arms. Ryoba smiled while waiting patiently, black eyes glancing over at a picture on the old woman's desk. It was of a small girl, her short brown hair craving her face so perfectly with the kindest doe eyes ever. Ryoba's smile widened, glaring proudly at it.

It was such a shame the lively look had been long dead...

"Well, Ayano is healthy. However, it seems her emotional and mental ability is little to nothing. I'd say to take her out a bit more and focus more on her mental stability." Ryoba nodded and stood to leave, a sweet smile on her face.

The two left the building, quietly driving home as Ryoba thought of just how perfect everything was. All of her skills could finally be put to use, all of her...talents could now help her lovely daughter.

Ayano Aishi.... the creation of true love.... a perfect child.

"Hm, my sweet, sweet Ayano." The woman glanced to the back seat, the child staring back with a lifeless look.

"You have so much to learn..."

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

Ayano Aishi was a girl who saw things most shouldn't have. Being an Aishi was somewhat of both a curse and blessing. Women of the Aishi family were strong, and were expected to always be strong. So, even at the age of 7, she needed to be strong.

Ayano Aishi needed to be perfect.

And she was. She is the perfect embodiment of her parents. Of their love. However, she seemed just a little... different from other Aishi women. She felt things most Aishi's shouldn't until they find their soulmate--- as her mother would put it. Ayano was just a bit more self aware.

And that was a problem.

Seeing how her parents were with each other, the things her mother taught her, the cycle of the Aishi curse... it made her understand things her mother didn't.

From her mothers perspective, the Aishi curse was a blessing. A blessing from fate to make her and her soulmate closer than anyone else. True, wondrous love.

To Ayano, it was just a curse. A nightmare that never ended. Something that made her and her mother monsters. Something that turned what love was supposed to be into an endless cycle of abuse.

And Ayano had no trouble knowing that. Course she never said anything, as she learned the hard way to never question the love of an Aishi woman. But it didn't stop her from offering the little pity she had to her father, and to whoever her fated love to be. Growing up, she tried her best to atone for her mothers' crimes.

Be it by giving affection to her father; secretly of course, even as his daughter she was still undeserving, it is what her mother said. Another way was to be distant but kind. She could and would never get close to anyone. She didn't wish to burden others with her and her curse or have the possibility of it hurting somebody in the future.

Ayano didn't wish to be like her mother, known and loved by all. It was better for her to stay hidden, to stay with herself and nobody else. Besides, she barely felt anything but simple pity and fear

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. .

. . .

All until her third year of high school, where it was one of the final years before her freedom. Before she could finally abandon her monster of a mother and let this curse end with her. However, none of it went her way. None of it... at all.

The second she walked into school; a strange feeling had consumed her, something like a gut feeling. Ayano ignored it however, just like how she ignored the yelling of Midori, and the crack in the pavement, and the floor slowly but surely coming closer to her pale and dull face. Until it didn't...

Ayano was luckily caught, by a boy; one in her year group assuming his uniform. Wanting to remain respectful but distant as usual, she would've given a simple thank you... but when she looked up, it was as if everything stopped.

The boy had black hair--- curled up in a mess, hopeful and kind black eyes that shone in the sun, and a gentle and amused smile on his face. Everything suddenly became brighter, more colorful and significant in that instance. Ayano couldn't help but blush as a sudden feeling of embarrassment washed over her. Was that what it was? She didn't know, but the way her stomach turned and the strange thought of wanting to hide that came, she assumed it was.

"Are you alright, Aishi-San?" And his voice.... It was deep and gentle, like a lullaby. Ayano didn't know why but it made her blush even more. Finally seeing and feeling everything, her throat closed up and she was stumped. It felt overwhelming to try and talk while her heart and mind spiraled. "Uh, Aishi-San?"

"I--yes!" Was all she managed to call out. Anything more felt tiring and scary. That same turning feeling in her stomach got worse as he started to laugh. Thoughts ran through her mind; was he laughing at her? It seemed like he was. All of it only made Ayano blush more, once dull and blank eyes now full of light, looking away. The sakura blossoms fell gently. the pink petals looking brighter and easing her a bit more.

"Good, I was worried since you didn't respond. Sorry for grabbing you so suddenly," Ayano nodded quickly, head practically snapping as soon as he began speaking. "I thought it would be better than letting you get hurt. Wouldn't want that pretty face to get a scratch, right?" he laughed nervously afterwards, a sheepish smile on his face as Ayano remained silent.

Was that... an attempt at flirting? With her? Instantly her muscles tightened, and she became stiff, her face getting redder and all sweaty; even on a cold day like this. The raven-haired girl felt her heartbeat against her chest, like it was trying to jump out her ribcage... it was overwhelming. "R-right..." All she could do was whisper, not entirely trusting of herself at the moment. Even looking at him or anyone for that matter was nerve-racking. The only thing she could do was stare at the sakura behind him, attempting to get a little sense of whatever this feeling was. Embarrassment? Flustered? Maybe even both?

"Well, I'll see you later!" The boy began to walk away, the smallest of smiles on his face as he waved goodbye. Ayano couldn't even move, her mind racing with all these new feelings. Her gray dull eyes now held such light and emotion in them. It was...bewildering how fast her heart was pacing or how happy yet embarrassed she felt.

It was all so strange...

"Ai-chan?" Midori pulled her sleeve, staring at her with the most amazed expression on her face. Was her friend...smiling? "Ai-channn?" She called again, poking her cheek and still remaining with no response. Midori hummed, staring at her usually emotionless friend--- who now had red cheeks and a smile.

The click of a picture snapping caught Ayanos' attention, now dazed as she stared at Midori, who was now admiring her new lockscreen. "Did you take a picture?" Ayano asked, a little more life added to her voice. Midori nodded, a teasing smirk on her face.

"Yup! I've never seen you smile before Ai-chan!" She exclaimed, bopping her friend on the nose before returning to her game. Ayano nodded, rubbing her nose while waiting for her heart to slow down. Would it slow down? Was it going to be like this forever? This weird fluttering, flustered feeling in her stomach was just...there?

Ayano wasn't sure if she liked that. Finally feeling something was overwhelming for her. It made her knees weak and made her mouth stumble for words. She didn't know what to think about it besides that it was...strange. Overwhelming.

Maybe she could ask Midori about it? Or as a last resort, ask her mother?

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

The bell rang, informing any students in and out of class that school had officially begun. Ayano, being one of the many students, had arrived to class early. Yet as the teacher spoke, she couldn't wrap her head around it. The emotions she felt earlier had passed, but now she felt so many other things.

Like her pencil. Over time the lead shortened so she had to sharpen it. How did that work? She never even questioned it before but now she wanted to see just how and why that happened. It was such a...cool thing to think about.

Or how bright the sun seeped out the window. It burned her eyes and forced her gaze to daze. Why did it do that? Or why did she want to keep looking at it?

There were so many things she was curious about that she'd never even spare a glance for before. She even felt nervous to answer a question when before, she'd never think twice about it! It was all so freeing yet overwhelming at the same time.

She focused on class, more so than usual. It was biology and physics class, so before she listened as much as what was required. Now though? Every tiny detail, she honed in on and questioned excessively. Her classmates were annoyed but Ayano was learning so many things she never cared about before.

It was...amazing.

The bell rang again, letting her know lunch was now starting. Ayano packed up her stuff, smiling at the extensive amount of notes she had from class. Students pooled out of their class, rushing to talk to friends and forget everything about class. Ayano stood at her desk, her eyes dazed and in wonder of what to do. She could go to the library? Find a book that caught her newfound idea of interests?

Or maybe go to the Cooking Club? Perhaps they had extra food she could taste? Ayano wondered if she could feel disgust or amazement at how it all tasted.

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. .

. . .

The club looked mostly empty. Or maybe it wasn't since Ayano was too invested in observing the room. The cabinets were pink, so were the walls and the floor and the chairs...the color was everywhere. It made Ayano want to cover her eyes in fear of going blind. It all looked so much brighter than before.

"Uh- hello?" She called out, seeing no one around. Ayano looked down, a frown etched on her previously emotionless face. This was probably a stupid idea, it was lunch, nobody was probably even here...

"Oh, hello!"

Wait....

Did she just question herself? Ayano gasped, shocked at the newfound rush of feeling insecure and stupid for coming here. No one was here so why should she even feel that?

"Uhm, hello?" A hand waved in front of her face, saving her from the excessive pink. Ayano stiffened, her eyes slightly wide at the other student. Oh, so someone was here.

"Ah," she muttered, the hand disappearing and subjecting her to the link kitchen. It was so ugly to look at... "Sorry, I was...thinking." She said, finally acknowledging the other person.

It was a boy, brown hair that looked so soft--- Ayano wanted to reach out and see if it was soft, and the most heartwarming mint green eyes ever. Just looking at him made her feel...calm? Peaceful? Whatever it was, it made her feel like it was all okay, like nothing was wrong.

It was too close to nothing though so she didn't feel the need to dwell on it.

"I was wondering if you have any extra food?" Ayano wondered if maybe she needed an excuse? Maybe they wouldn't give her one if she didn't have a reason. "I forgot my lunch." Ayano squinted her eyes, glaring at her own voice for sounding so slow and unsure.

The boy laughed, the sound of it soft and gentle. Like... that other boy's laugh was. The thought of him suddenly made her blush, that same fluttering feeling in her stomach coming back. Just a lot less overwhelming. "Of course we do! Do you have any preferences?" The boy walked over to the fridge, bringing out plates of foiled covered food, hopefully good food, and bringing it to the counter.

Ayano shook her head, not caring as long as it gave her something to feel. Hopefully a good feeling, but disgust would be fine too. "Anything is fine."

He gave her a cheesecake, the lining of it cold in her hands. It looked good. The strawberry was covered in jam, Ayanos' mouth watering at the sight of it.

Before, food tasted like nothing to her. It was just food, something that gave her energy. Would it still be the same? Or maybe she would cry like in those wedding shows her mom would force her to watch. The woman in those shows always cried whenever they saw her cake or ate it, maybe she'd do the same.

Maybe she'd finally find them for entertainment rather than wedding planning.

The ravenette bit into the cake, chewing for a few good seconds and savoring the taste. "Wow..." she muttered, taking another bite and smiling with a full mouth. "It's really good!" She beamed, eating the rest until nothing remained but a crumb filled cupcake liner.

"I'm glad!" The boy clapped his hands together, finding her bewildered expression quite cute. She seemed so amazed by such a simple treat, it amused him. "I have more if you want them?" Ayano didn't even respond before grabbing another one, this time a blueberry one. The taste was interesting. It was sweet, the blueberry giving it a small sour rush on her tongue.

Then she ate another one, this one being a cherry. Then another. They all tasted so good. Ayano opened her eyes, seeing the boy look at her in...shock? Maybe confusion? She didn't know but it suddenly made her stop eating, her stomach knotting in shame. Was he judging her?

"Is something wrong?" The boy shook his head, his open lips being replaced with a smile.

"Not at all. I've just never seen anyone eat so...eagerly." He tapped his lips, pointing at the cheesecakes once he found the words. "Have you never had cheesecake before?" Ayano shook her head, pondering if she could grab another one.

So she did. A raspberry one this time.

"Oh," the man muttered in surprise, his mint eyes slightly wide. Being the child of a baker, there has been not one dessert he hasn't tried. Cheesecake was a common one too. Maybe her mum just didn't like sweets? Or had dairy problems?

That idea made him worry, what if this girl had that problem too? What if the cheesecake made her sick? "How come you never had it?"

Ayano shrugged, not even listening. She was far too busy observing the way the cheesecake felt on her tongue and how the raspberry melded in on the sugary taste. "My mom... doesn't bake much, I guess." She paused, swallowing her food after wondering if it was rude. Not that she cared, but she did have manners.

"Oh, that's a shame." He frowned, now wondering what other great foods she hasn't tasted. Then, he perked up, an idea sprouted in his head. "If you'd like...I could bake for you." Ayano paused, looking up at him in confusion.

"Why?"

"Well, nobody's baked for you. Besides, you're missing out on a lot of things!"

Ayano stared at him, blinking tediously slowly in thought. "Why?" She was confused. Did he have some motive to help her? The boy shook his head, Ayano lost in his eyes as she looked for...something. Her mother had raised her to use others to her advantage, that everything had a purpose. Even people.

"Okay." She shrugged, taking another cake from the tray. The brunette beamed, rather happy she accepted his offer.

"Great! We're having a club meeting tomorrow, if you could be a taste tester?" He asked, tilting his head as he noticed something. She had a bit of jam on her cheek, staining her pale skin a deep, cherry red.

"Oh, sure-" A soft feeling brushed her cheek, Ayano noticing how much closer he was. Was he...wiping her face? Why? Ayano raised a brow, confused as to why he was touching her.

"There was jam on your cheek."

Oh, so that's why.

Ayano nodded, pulling away from him and wiping it away herself. "Thanks." She muttered, her voice now back to its monotonous tone. The bell suddenly rang, signaling the end of lunch and to head to class. "Ah, thanks for the food!" She threw away the several cupcake liners and rushed out of the room. A feeling of anxiousness of being late and excitement for class.

"Ah- wait!" The boy called out, but she was already out of the room. "I...didn't ask your name..." he muttered in defeat, his shoulders falling in disappointment. He'd find her name out tomorrow though, the thought of it making him perk up.

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Ayano skipped out of school, her face devoid of any emotion but her eyes shined with wonder and happiness. Today was...amazing! Ayano had felt so many things, things that were only fictional to her before now. She even found her missing half.

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. .

. . .

Her missing half?

She found her true love, the one thing Ayano was told to hope and dream for. And to never, ever let it escape her. She was told that her soulmate would make her so happy and sweep her off her feet.

Ayano only felt dread at that thought. She was...scared that she'd do something horrible because of it. That was the right word right? The thought of being anything like her mother or her ancestors made her heart pound and knees weak but not in the good way. It made her want to collapse and hide from the world to protect herself.

Yet the image of him made her heart flutter at the same time. It confused her. How can she be scared but flustered by the idea of him? Why not one emotion?

"Ai-chan!" The familiar call of a loud and squealing voice caught her attention, forcing her head up and brows to perk. "Wanna walk home together?" For once, Midori didn't have her phone out, which surprised Ayano.

Surprise, she hasn't felt that today.

"Sure." Midori jumped up, grabbing Ayano's arm and embracing. She acted as if this was the greatest thing to happen to her. Though she did get excited about everything, especially video games.

"So...did you do anything today?" Midori swayed her arms, listening attentively to Ayanos' every word. Strange. Usually she'd be so immersed in her phone or lost in thought, Ayano might've been a ghost.

"I had a cheesecake." Many, many cheesecakes. Ayano wanted more, just the thought of them making her mouth water.

"Ooh, were they baked by Amao?" Amao? Who was that? "The club leader! Y'know, brown hair, eyes that remind you of mint ice cream cake." So that was who he was. The name was nice, a more masculine version of Amai which meant sweet. Ayano rolled her eyes, finding it a 'creative' choice from his parents.

"That was specific."

"Well it does!"

"Okay." Ayano shrugged, walking down the steps of the school with a pep to her step.

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. .

. . .

"Ayano?" A sugary voice called out, Ayano looking up to see her mother at her bedroom door. She held her signature smile---a smirk actually, and that gleam in her eyes that sent shivers down her spine.

Now that she could feel emotions, seeing her mother was...scary. Though, she did feel unsettled far before this. Ryoba Aishi did have that effect on people. Even her daughter.

"How was school? Did anything happen?" Ayano knew there was a motive to this. Her mother found her soulmate at her school as well; which was the main reason Ayano even went there anyway. It was clear she hoped Ayano had found her soulmate too.

And she did, but Ryoba could never know that.

"No. Nothing happened." Ayano said, her voice and eyes devoid of any emotion. Her mother could never know that she could feel, or that she had every intention of avoiding her true love. She'd make sure she'd die alone, ending this curse and her mothers legacy.

Ryoba could never, ever know.

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

Chapter Text

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Ayano liked winter. It was her favorite season for a few simple reasons. It was the one season her father was allowed to give her something. It was the season where she could watch Christmas movies. It was the season where she could be alone and not see anyone.

‘Ding

Dong’

It was the season when she met Midori Gruinishi and Kumi Demura.

Midori was a strange girl. Her heart was big and was always on her shoulder. She felt too much, too many things Ayano didn't understand. “C'mon! Ai-chan, let's go build a snowman!” Midori would always take her hand and lead her places, introducing her to things Ayano didn't normally think about. Like video games or skating.

“Or go to the lake. It's all frozen.” Kumi was also a strange girl. Unlike Midori she didn't wear a heart on her sleeve. She felt little. Yet Ayano still acknowledged her as human, as she still had a heart. She still had the option to wear it on her sleeve, she just chose to only show it to those she loved.

“Now, now, girls.” A sickly sweet called out, beckoning them like a siren. It made the small child tense, her void like eyes slightly widening. “I need Ayano for a second. Go ahead and play and she'll join you in just a moment.”

“Nope! We'll wait right out here for her!”

“Yeah.”

The older woman hummed, muttering how sweet they were. Ayano caught the subtle distaste in her tone though, and how her eyes narrowed at the small children. As her mother pulled her inside, Midori waved at her, her green eyes sparkling in wonder at her. The child felt something in her chest, a certain weight as she looked over her shoulder and soon the closed front door.

“Ayano-” she drowned out her mother's voice, staring blankly at the door. She wanted to be outside already, with her friends. The idea of them made her smile.

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

Snow melted on the pavement, the now blossoming sakura coloring the landscapes. A petal fell onto a pale hand, fingers gently holding it up and inspecting the color. It seemed so bright yet cozy, something so simple making her eyes shine. It was such a pretty petal. “Hm,” the girl put it in her pocket, randomly deciding to keep it.

‘Such a useless decision…is this perhaps an impulse?’ she pondered, tapping a finger to her lips. “Ai-chan!” A sudden shriek called for her, the girl now having a smile on her newly emotioned face.

“Mi-chan!” She muttered, her voice elated yet calm. Such a simple thing, seeing an old friend could make her feel so happy. Yet it didn't overwhelm her like other emotions, almost as if her heart recognized the feeling.

“C'mon! Kuudere-chan is waiting for us!” A hand grasped her own, the warmth making Ayanos' palm sweaty. The two walked, hand in hand as Midori ranted about video games. Ayano listened, tuning in rather than drowning out. Recently, she began to have a fascination with games. Instead of playing them with only Midori, she began to play them in her own time. It was actually fun once she did it, however her mother didn't exactly appreciate this new activity of hers.

She was supposed to be looking for her soulmate after all.

“Hey guys!” A blue haired girl approached them, Ayano noting the new beanie on her head.

“That's new, Kuudere-chan.”

“Yeah, my mom got it for me.” Kuudere was a girl of few words, but she probably would've said more if there weren't people around.

“That's nice!” Midori piped in, now dragging Kuudere into her rant. Ayano felt a harsh spike in her heart, suddenly upset at the mention of Kuuderes mother. Ayano didn't know why, but it was something small so she didn't dwell on it.

.

.

.

“You idiot!” Instead of a shriek, it was a squawk. “I woke you up early and we still got here late!” Ayano looked over, seeing a tall orange man and…that guy. The boy from yesterday. The girl felt her heart pace, jumping at the sight of the stranger. Despite the cold, her cheeks flushed a pink, Ayano feeling warmth all over her face.

“Sorry Osano! I tried to be up early but I stayed up late-”

“You always do!”

The orange man flicked his forehead, bringing Ayanos' attention. ‘That was rude.’ Her brows slightly lowered, only to be brought up by Midori pulling her hand. “Ai-chan, let's go to the library!”

“Okay.” Her heart calmed down as Midori led her away, allowing her previous happiness to return. Ayano breathed in and out, finding that feeling far more cozy than whatever that boy gave her. That overwhelming feeling of love only made her tense. It didn't feel good like her mother said it would.

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

The library was quiet, as always. The only sound Ayano heard was the music of Midoris game, or the flipping of pages. It was nice and quiet. Like many times with these two, Ayano could always feel a weight on her chest, like she did with other emotions. This was the only one that didn't overwhelm her, and was barely recognizable if she didn't pay attention.

Ayano didn't like it. It felt…a little too close to nothing. She wasn't able to guess what exactly she was feeling because of it. Which made her think it was that; it was nothing.

Ayano felt it a few times before yesterday, ignoring it at first before she rushed to do something. This was school so what could she do? “Hey, I'm gonna take a walk.”

The two girls nodded, Midori enthusiastically waving her off.

‘What to do?’

‘What to do?’

“What to do?” Ayano was lost in thought, beginning to count the patterns on the floor or the lights on the ceiling. “What to do?” She looked up in a daze, that subtle feeling disappearing as her brain was now focused on producing ideas. Maybe go to the cooking club? No, she was doing that later. They were all probably with friends anyway.

The sewing club? She was sure she could knit a hat or scarf before class.

“It's locked…” Ayanos' shoulders slumped, looking through the doors window. “Well now what?” Ayano sighed, now getting impatient to find something to do. Maybe she could go to the shrines?

‘No, the martial arts club will be there…’

Maybe she should just head back to the library. Perhaps Midori would part with her switch and let Ayano use it. Only if there were multiplayer games, but Ayano knew she only had those on discs.

“Hm…” Ayano soon found herself at the entrance of school, mindlessly observing the club posters. None of them intrigued her, however she did recognize the Cooking Club poster. It was Amao, that was his name right?

“Thinking of joining?”

The sudden voice startled her, the ravenette jumping away. Her jumpiness quickly left though, leaving behind a pumping heart and red cheeks. “Sorry!” The boy laughed, scratching his neck in a bit of shame. “I didn't think I'd scare you. That was my bad.”

Scare her? No, he could never scare her. He would just let her feel the most overwhelming feeling she's ever felt. The one thing she wishes didn't exist for her. Love.

“I-it’s fine.” Her throat closed up, making talking seem like a chore. It's just like yesterday. Where she couldn't even talk or form the simplest thought. “Yamada-san.” Or how his name made her voice crack out of nowhere. Her heart only went faster, the girl's stomach churning as she looked away in embarrassment.

Taro could only laugh, seeing the girl so flustered only cutely amusing. “Please, call me Taro. I prefer it.”

Ayano wanted to reject, but just shook her head. Talking was so difficult and so scary around him. ‘No, just Yamada. Taro is too close, too familiar for us. Just Yamada.’ Taro frowned at her decline, Ayano noting the slight disappointment in his eyes. The sight wasn't one she dwelled on though. She needed to leave, to get far away from him.

“Uh, I have to go.”

“Hold on!” He said, rushing as she paced away from him. “I was actually wondering if we could talk?” Talk? To her? Why would he want to do that? Her brows raised, now looking at the boy in confusion. “You seemed nice! And I've noticed you around school and I thought since we're both third years we could be -”

‘Buzz’

Whatever he was saying Ayano drowned out, forcing herself to ignore his sweet voice. Talking wasn't an option, not with him.

‘Buzz’

Taro looked at her expectedly, his eyes flickering between her and the floor. He tried to keep up pace, right at her side as they walked.

‘Buzz’

Ayano looked away from him, too busy trying to calm herself down. She would rather have the feeling from before than this. This was too overwhelming and beautiful and…she just needed to stop feeling this.

‘Buzz’

She couldn't speak around him or even look at him. She'd get so lost in him, even for just the split seconds she saw him. A distraction was what she needed, what her heart needed.

‘Buzz’

“Uh, I think your phone is ringing.” Ayano perked up, quickly grabbing the buzzing electronic and seeing a caller ID. “Bye!” Ayano couldn't even give him a glance, she needed to calm this feeling down.

Even if that meant talking to her own mother.

.

.

.

.

The bathroom hallways were always quiet, nobody ever went there. It was the perfect place for Ayano to calm down and speak with her mother.

‘Why was she calling anyway? It's still morning…’ Ayanos' brows furrowed, her black eyes staring at the ID. There was no picture of her mother, just her name. ‘Mother’.

“Hello?” Shifting to her empty tone was easy, she was an Aishi after all. And she was a great actress around her mother.

“Ah, my sweet love,” The nickname made her mouth twitch. “I know you're in school, but I just wanted to check in on my precious!” Such a sweet and loving tone. Any daughter would find so much comfort in it. Yet Ayano wasn't a daughter. She was an Aishi, and she knew that the voice was sickly rather than sweet.

“I'm fine-”

“Oh, won't you be more open with me?” She interrupted her, sighing dramatically into the phone. “Surely you've made some friends-”

“I have friends.” Ayano interrupted her, the girls’ voice sharp and aggressive. Her eyes widened slightly, the very notion shocking her. She didn't mean to snap back, or have her tone shift to something so defensive.

It was silent for a moment, before the ravenette heard her mother chuckle. “You mean those two girls? Surely you've met others though!” The girls’ hand fisted, her knuckles turning white. “Like a boy.”

Ayano bit her tongue. The change was small, smaller than even a speck of snow. An Aishi would notice though. Her mothers voice was just a little sweeter, meaning she had caught Ayanos previous tone. She caught her anger, her small slip of defense. “No, mother.”

Her heart pounded in her ears, Ayano feeling her eye twitch as her mother dragged on the silence. She hated when she did this. Her mother didn't keep quiet without reason. She was working on something in her sick head, something that Ayano already hated to think about.

“Love, you know you can tell me anything. Right?”

“Yes, mother.”

“And you know I'll support you. Right?”

Her mother never asked questions. This was a statement, and Ayano knew that. “Yes, mother.” Her clenched hand released, allowing blood and color to rush back to it.

“Good! Just try to make some friends! I'm sure you'll find someone.”

A small ding left her phone, leaving Ayano with nothing but silence. And an urge to throw her phone. The girl didn't like talking with her mother. She was the one person who could catch her mother being ingenious. Which was with everyone except for her husband. Even if Ayano was an Aishi, she didn't deserve the real show of love from her mother or father.

Ayano put away her phone, slamming her bag shut as she turned around. Only to see Taro waiting at the end of the hall for her.

“No.” She mumbled, her anger vanishing as love embraced her heart. She walked down the hall, seeing his eyes sparkle under his messy bangs at the sight of her. He looked happy, it was sweet.

“Hey!” He nearly bounced as he spoke to her, Ayano finding the strange display of delight from him adorable.

‘Noooo….’ she silently screamed. Why couldn't he just leave? Why'd fate have to choose him for her?

“Were you waiting?” Oh, but at least she could talk. Barely though, as her voice was just above a whisper.

“I was. I hoped that wasn't weird, but you never answered my question!”

“That's why you waited?” Just for a simple answer from her? That Idea was so simple though. He could have waited or preferably never asked in the first place. Taro nodded, smiling up at her with a cute grin.

‘Noooo…..’

“Uhm…” Ayano fumbled with her fingers, once again finding it difficult to talk. Why she wasn't sure of, but she didn't like it. Luckily she didn't have to answer, as a loud, snarly voice reached the end of the hall.

An orange man appeared, pulling Taro by the back of his uniform. Ayanos' brows furrowed, not exactly liking the sight. Though, the other man did calm her heart. It wasn't as overwhelming and difficult to feel, allowing Ayano to try and distract herself from it.

“Seriously dude! I've been looking for you forever!” The orange man screamed unnecessarily, flicking Taros' forehead once again.

“Osano, be nice.” A blonde man appeared, forcing Osanos grip off of Taro. Rather easily, Ayano thought.

‘Raiboro…’ She knew him from martial arts. She didn't realize he was friends with these two. “Well if he didn't wander off, I would be nice.”

“Sorry! I was just talking with Aishi-san!” He was pretty happy for someone getting yelled at. “Hah?”

Ayano suddenly felt all eyes on her, her shoulders rising up as every muscle in her body tightened. Taro still had that cute smile, Osano looked almost bored at her and Raiboro's eyes widened in recognition. “Oh, Yan-chan!” Both Osano and Taro were pushed aside, Raiboro holding up a fist at her. She automatically bumped it with her own, already aware of how he greeted others. “It's good to see you again! How've you been?”

“U-uhm…”

“Wait, you know her?” Taro piped in, subtly pushing Raiboro away from her. It was something that Ayano noticed, but only briefly. Just a glance made her mind jumble and she didn't like it.

“Yup! We were in the martial arts club last year.”

“Back when you were its leader?” The orange man, Osano, asked. He raised a brow at the girl, who was already staring at him. It caught him off guard, which made him nervously look away. She was actually pretty when he looked closer at her.

‘Pretty plain…’

“Yeah. She was really skilled at it. It's a shame you didn't take over after I left, Yan-chan.”

“It…wasn't my passion.” She mumbled, her eyes squinting at how awkward she sounded.

“Well still! I'd say you're even better than Budo-kun!”

“That's…thanks.” Ayano found her voice losing, her eyes being drawn back to Taro. He wasn't looking at her, but rather at Raiboro. Even with just his side profile, she caught the blank look in his eyes.

‘No…it was a look of…anger? No, that wasn't it, he doesn't look angry.’ Ayano recognized the stare, but couldn't place what emotion it was. Not on him anyway.

“Well, I better head to class-”

“We can walk you.” Taros' stare was gone, once again delighted as he turned to Ayano. “Our classes are right next to each other. I've noticed you in the hallways.”

He has? Even before yesterday he noticed her?

The girl's cheeks turned red, finding herself unable to talk once again. “Yeah! C'mon Yan-chan!” Raiboro helped pull her away from her thoughts. And away from Taro. The blonde boy grabbed her hand, dragging her up the stairs as he began to catch up with her, Taro or Osano sometimes joining in. The warmth of his hand reminded Ayano of Midori. The image of her green friend allowed Ayano to keep calm around Taro. It eased her heart, being a good distraction until she got to class.

.

.

.

“Oh,” the four of you stopped, Ayano entered the room along with Osano. “We have the same class.” The orangette looked at her, frowning as she sat at her seat. “I'm surprised I've never noticed you before.”

“Most people don't.” She said rather bluntly, letting her thoughts slip out into words. She kept her back turned to the four, trying to keep herself calm and collected until Taro left. That's all she needed.

“Wait really?”

“Yes. You never noticed yourself so-” she turned around, her voice trailing off as she caught Taros' gaze. He looked kinda sad, almost hurt. Did she say something? “Uh, yeah.” She turned away quickly, ignoring the sad look both Taro and Osano gave her. Taro only pouted after she looked away though.

“C'mon dude.” Raiboro grabbed Taros' arm, dragging him to their own class. Osano watched them leave, disappearing as students filled the halls on the way to calls. The orangette soon found his head filled with Ayano, which soon filled his attention.

“So, I've never noticed you before. Have you always been at Akademi?” He sat at his desk, which was surprisingly right next to her. The fact shocked him, the orange man pondered on why he never knew of her existence before.

‘I’m not this stupid but geez…’

“I came here in my first year. I lived in America before that.” That caught Osanos’ attention.

“You don't look American.” He ran his fingers to her messy hair, accidentally pulling at some tangles. Ayano deadpanned, finding the answer obvious.

“Well obviously,” she remarked, noting the slight sarcasm in her tone. Oh, that was new. Osano tensed, gripping his hair as his cheeks turned slightly pink.“I was born here but moved to America.” She explained after seeing the boys’ cheeks turn pink. It was actually kind of funny to her. He relaxed, a subtle glint in his eyes.

“Cool…so can you speak English?” He tilted his head, now curious. He's never been to America, nor did he take time to learn English.

“I can.” Ayano swiftly shifted to English, the foreign language smooth on her tongue. Osano tensed up again, now trying to decipher what she said. He looked shocked yet amazed at the same time, it reminded her of those anime faces Midori would get her to watch. “I can speak English and Japanese.” The ravenette reverted back to Japanese, the change was easy for her. The switch she had for the languages caught Osano off guard. They had tiny stars in his eyes, slightly amazed at how easy it was for her.

“How can you change it so easily?” The orangettes' voice slightly raised, catching the attention of some students. All of whom glared at him or scoffed at his tone. It wasn't because he was angry though, like before. Ayano caught the pitch in it though, the awe in his eyes and voice. The girl couldn't help but form the tiniest of smiles, appreciating his wonder for her skill.

“I've spoken both my whole life. I don't have much to do so I practiced a lot too.”

“That's…actually pretty cool!” Osano muttered, his thoughts of awe slipping past his lips. The boy stiffened, catching her smiling up at him. The sight wasn't bad, but it made his heart pound which quickly forced him to correct his words. “I mean–! Yeah, that's just whatever.” He tried to play it off, crossing his arms in his attempt. Though even he could hear how stupid he sounded, silently cursing himself.

Ayano tilted her head, finding the sudden shift weird. Her smile fell, now pursed as she tried to figure out why he changed demeanors so quickly. He was still in awe, that she could tell by the sparkle in his eyes. But now he seemed flustered. ‘Why-’

'RING

RING'

The girls’ thoughts halted, now staring right ahead. Within moments her curiosity peaked, ready to learn as much as she could. However, throughout class she felt a pair of eyes on her. She mostly ignored it, but within the last minutes of class, she caught Osano. He was staring at her, his eyes in a daze and in deep thought. ‘Weird.’ Yet she still smiled and ignored it.

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

Chapter Text

╔══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╗

A young girl stood at a counter, blank eyes staring lifelessly at the bowl. The faintest sound of ticking could be heard, if you listened close enough.

*Thud!*

The child's hands tightened, the bowl of white batter suddenly looking foul. “I am so sorry, my sweet love.” Her mother's voice sounded so sweet, despite the red liquid on her cheek and tinted look in her eyes. It sounded so sweet it almost made the child sick. “Mommy has to take care of something, but keep baking.” The girl could hear something being dragged on the floor before a repeated tumble as something fell down the stairs. “Make sure it's done before I come back. It's dessert for your father, you know what to do.”

*Thud!*

The ticking was all she could hear now that it was quiet again. Ayanos' eye flickered over to the basement door, another tumbling catching her before she looked away. Tiny hands grabbed a wooden spoon, void like eyes staring at it. She didn't understand what to do, so she just stuck it in the batter and stirred. Around and around and around till her arm became sore. The bowl itself was bigger than her head, but Ayano could still lift it.

The batter was thinned down as it tipped over a small baking pan, dripping out till it filled the metal shape. “Hm.” Ayano raised a leg up, her toes reaching the edge of the counter, her muscles curling as she hoisted herself up. ‘Click.’ The oven beeped to life, heat reaching out and touching her face when she finally got down and opened the oven door. The metal racks shook as it took the weight of the baking sheet. It felt hot, even if Ayano could still hear the constant whirling of the air-conditioning. The tiny girl blinked as the heat caressed her face, her hand twitching and jolting back when it reached out.

The oven door slammed shut, heat and light beaming through the tiny window on it. Ayano stood outside, watching in as the batter bubbled and softened to a thicker consistency. She liked this. Ayano was alone and this felt human. Like something normal. If she could close her eyes, ignoring the broken strings of pleads and muffled giggles of the basement, she could imagine something normal.

She could imagine a mother looking at her with love, helping her bake and making sure she was careful. She could imagine a father instead of the doll her father was forced to be. She could imagine him reading her stories, and taking her to eat ice cream without having to keep it secret. She could imagine a daughter with a beating heart.

But that image would always be tainted. The panicked cries of the basement would always break through, knocking away that image and turning it into cracked glass. The splatting of something being cut open would form more cracks. The giggling that mellowed out the pleas of mercy would crack it. Crack, crack and crack. That cracked image could only hold on for so long till it shattered.

Ayano opened the door with the oven beeped, allowing her focus to drift onto something other than the basement. The heat didn't feel comforting as much. It didn't feel like a gentle caress as she leaned forward to pull out the baking pan. It felt angry, sizzling and sitting away till something reached out for it. When Ayano placed her hands on the pan, that anger slapped her hands away. It now sizzled on her palms, the pale skin going red and bumpy and spreading to her wrists. Ayano just stood there, observing as her hands swelled up and grew glossy, almost like her hands were an entirely different thing from her. It didn't look normal.

“Ayano!” Her mother's sickly sweet voice wasn't normal either. Not in this situation. Not when her father came home looking more scared and panicked than she'd ever seen. Not when he gently took her upstairs and ignored his wife. Not when he wrapped bandages around her tiny hands, and mumbled soft words to her.

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

Students pooled out of the classrooms, some staying behind to clean the school, others rushing off to finally be home. Ayano did neither. She originally planned to head to the cooking club, remembering the leader's offer. ‘What was his name? Amao?’ Midori mentioned it and a poster advertised it but it was a back of mind memory that she didn’t have a perfect recollection of.

That was the plan. Till a certain orangette decided to spontaneously join her. “Why are you coming?” She stood outside the clubroom, a brow raised and head tilted. Osano tensed, grunting as he quickly tried to figure out an excuse. He didn’t have one, he just started walking with her.

“I’m looking to join a club. Thought I’d tag along and check the cooking club..” His voice was strained, the sentence sounding like more of a question. Osano's cheeks grew slightly pink, brows lowered as he just kept walking. Ayanos’ brows softened, nodding as she led the way downstairs.

They arrived in the midst of chaos, the members already rushing about the pink room. ‘It's still so blinding.’ She squinted her eyes, adjusting the sudden bright colors all around her. Two Members of the club were arguing over recipes, another peacefully waiting for everyone to arrive, and a certain girl eagerly tapping her foot. “Ayano!” The ravenette jumped, holding out her arms and immediately steading her stance. A girl ran forward, blue hair blurring with pink as Ayano nearly fell to the floor. She groaned, a mixture of surprise and anxiety filling her as she kept herself from falling. “Oooh, it’s so good to see you!”

“Saki, I can’t breathe!” Her anxiety began to rise and quickly died as she let go of Ayano. The girl sucked in a breath, air filling her lungs as she smoothed out her blue blazer. “Saki-”

“Amao told us you would be here, and I got so excited! We haven’t talked in so long and I was worried we would never see each other so I’m so happy you’re here-” Her voice was muffled by a hand, Ayano rolling her eyes as she shushed her.

“Saki, shush.” Saki blinked, before her cheeks turned up and a wet feeling glided across Ayanos’ hand. “Eww! Did you just lick me?” She quickly pulled back, brows screwing up while Saki grinned. ‘Oh, this is a new one.’ This feeling felt like she was mildly sick or maybe angry. Perhaps it was disgust? Ayano wiped off her hand, cringing at the feeling of saliva on her hand.

Saki only giggled, innocently placing her hands behind her back. She opened her mouth to speak, before she noticed an orange boy awkwardly standing in the hall. “Ahh! Ayanos’ is this a new friend of yours?”

Osano stilled as Saki leaned over to him, eyes surveying him. Osano looked over the blue girls’ shoulder, seeing Ayano tense and in thought. Ayanos’ couldn't exactly answer Saki's question, as the two had just met. Osano did seem nice, and surprisingly okay to talk to despite the negative temperament. The memory of Yamada managed to knock through his image however, a small crack forming on Osano as she remembered him.

The ravenette blinked, black eyes flickering over to Saki as she crossed her arms. “Uh, where’s Amao?”

“He’s on his way from class!” Saki waved a hand, gesturing for Ayano and Osano to follow her to the table. The two teens sat down, watching as Saki skipped back to the kitchen, humming a little. “He has a whole list of desserts for you to try! You’ll love them.” She said, “Amao is the best baker, he actually owns the bakery in that store street downtown-”

“Saki!” A voice called out, Ayano noting the tone of annoyance and desperation. The blue haired girl flinched, her smile turning crooked as she apologetically furrowed her brows. “Sorry...” Saki walked over to the other members and began prepping.

The table was silent, minus the gentle thump of knives chopping food. Ayano and Osano sat beside each other, shoulders raised and faces still. Ayanos' mind raced as she played with her fingers. It felt weird to just sit in silence. Her hand switched, as if they needed something to play with so she could ignore how quiet it was. ‘Is this anxiety? Or maybe awkwardness?’ She had seen it from others and on TV but it truly wasn’t how she imagined it. It felt worse actually.

Osano brushed through his hair, flinching as he pulled at a knot. He opened his mouth, only to close it again as he wondered what to say. “So, uh,” Osano froze as he heard his own voice, the tone cracking and like a broken flute. He struggled for a second, clearing his throat as he came up with something to say. “Are you joining or...” He trailed off, his brain short circuiting as his voice broke again.

Ayano noticed his nervousness, the slight arch in his brow and the intensity in his jaw. She felt her anxiety leave her, her shoulders falling and thumbs going limp. Seeing that he was feeling the same made her feel better, making speaking a little easier. “No. Clubs aren’t something I’m interested in...” ‘More like I can’t join them.’

“Why?” Osano was surprised that his voice didn't crack. Instead his back nuzzled into the pink chair, hands no longer itching to move through his hair as a distraction. Ayano perked up, noting the slight relaxation in his posture. He was growing more comfortable. The knowledge made Ayano a bit happy. “Well...my mother likes having family time. Clubs just aren’t an option...” Ayanos' face twisted a little, that happy feeling diminishing as something new came. Her words felt sharper than normal, the normal soft and airy tone of her voice growing narrow with…sadness? Resentment? Or maybe bitterness?

Osano opened his mouth, the edge of words forming before he closed it. Osano became quiet, Ayano pulling herself out of her head as she looked over at him. That tense and itchy feeling suddenly coming back, her previous emotion slipping away. ‘Being nervous sucks.’ Her brows lowered, her foot shifting and crossing over the other in silence. Did she say the wrong thing? Was she judging her or her mother?

She felt a little tense under his gaze, his face looking annoyed and harsh. Ayano looked away, going back to pay attention to her hands and playing with her fingers. Osano continued to stare, processing her words and noting something down. The tone of resentment caught his attention, even if it was quick and subtle. However, they weren’t close enough for him to do anything about it, but he did feel a little bad.

He knows it isn’t the best feeling in the world.

“Oh. Well would she mind if we hung out some time?” The words tumbled out of his mouth, Osanos eyes widening as he registered what he asked. ‘Did I ask that? Damnit!’ Osano clenched his jaw, hoping nothing else would fall past his lips unexpectedly. Ayano stared at him, blinking and parting her lips as she muttered a response before she was silenced by another.

“Oh, hello!” A soft voice approached her side, Ayano looking over to see the boy from yesterday. Amao stood in the doorway, his book bag hanging off his shoulder and a mint apron in his hand. His brow raised higher than the other, head tilted as looked at Ayano. “It’s...Aishi, right?” Ayano nodded, bowing her head in greeting.
“Yes. Ayano Aishi. You’re Amao...”

“Odayaka. I’m glad we could finally introduce ourselves.” Amao set the backpack over one of the chairs, along with his blazer. “I’m really glad you came. You left so quickly yesterday I wasn't able to ask what I could make for you.” He made his way behind the wall, voicing becoming slightly quieter the further he was away. “Today we’re making some dango, so I hope you'll like it.” Amao tied up his apron, elegantly tying up in a cute bow in the back. He passed in his steps, peering over the wall with a curious look in his eyes. “Have you had Dango before, Aishi-chan?”

The teen shook her head, curiosity building up inside her. Dango was one of Kuuderes favorite foods, always her go-to snack at festivals. Unfortunately, Ayano never had such a privilege of going out to festivals. Her mother always had her stuck to a schedule she created. Besides ,the festivals are when her mother and father went out, she didn’t need to ruin that.

“Perfect! I have my own recipe, but I promise you’ll love it!” Amao disappeared behind the wall, Ayano hearing his voice and instructions on making the dango. She listened intently, mentally noting down every measurement and ingredient. Maybe she could make this at home. She recounted every step in her head twice to make sure it remained permanent in her head.

“So, Aishi-san,” Ayano flinched, suddenly forgetting everything. She looked over at Osano, the question from before replaying in her mind. “About what I said, just forget-” A sudden panic built inside her, Ayano wanting nothing more than to silence him.
“I’d like that.” She spoke quickly, maybe too quickly because Osano looked like a deer in headlights. Ayano fumbled with her hands, the sudden panic now shifting into embarrassment? Or maybe awkwardness was the right word?
“What about your mom? Didn’t you say she-?” Osano flinched when Ayano turned to him. She didn’t look angry, but Osano could recognize the bitterness in her eyes. “Right,” he didn’t question it, knowing that whatever was in her head was her business. He wasn’t close enough to ask about it anyway. “Well, how about tomorrow? We could go ice skating?” Every word that came out of his mouth sounded strained, instead of making a proper statement he just sounded unsure of himself. His jaw grew tight and he felt stupid.

“Sure. It sounds fun!” Ayano smiled, warmth flooding her chest. Within a second, that feeling of stupidity left, Osano giving her a smile back.

{.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.}

“I feel full.” Ayano held a hand to her stomach, a rush of satisfaction running through her. Amao had served the most delectable food she’s ever had, even better than the cheesecake.
“You did eat the entire thing.” Osano was walking right beside her, the most amused smile on his face. For such a quiet girl, Ayano expressed a lot of emotions all at once. Ayano her cheeks heated up, a smile forming on her face uncontrollably.
“I’ve never had it before now. I couldn’t help myself.”
Osano raised a brow. “Really? Not even at a festival or that stupid cafe downtown?” Ayano shook her head, that bitter tone coming back.
“My mother doesn’t let me go out much.” She frowns, “The festivals are for her and father, so-” Osano stopped, waving his hand around with wide eyes. He looked surprised and a little sad, like earlier from class.
“Wait, wait,” His voice was raised a little, catching the Drama Club's attention. Most of them scowled at him, his scratchy voice cutting through their rehearsal. “So you’ve never been to a festival?” Ayano shook her head, her brow arched. “Seriously?” His tone sounded surprised, but the sadness had been replaced by something else. Perhaps anger? But he didn’t look angry. Was it annoyance? ‘No, Osano seems to always be annoyed.’
Ayano was lost in what Osano was feeling, her eyes narrowing slightly as she tried to decipher him. His brows were raised and a little crooked, mouth turned down and wrinkled and his eyes-
“What if I took you to the Blossom Festival?” Ayano's mind went blank, blinking as Osanos expression began to soften. Osano looked more flustered, his brows no longer raised and his eyes crinkled. He looked nervous, maybe a bit embarrassed.
“Okay.” That blush went away, his eyes now wide. “Do they have dango?”
“Uh- yeah! There’s this stand with a bunch of flavors and even some Takoyaki,” Ayano nodded to every word he said, noting down each food and event he mentioned. Osano was grinning from ear to ear, rambling on about the festival and how fun it would be. The way he was moving his hands and raising his voice the more excited he got made her smile. He looked like Midori whenever she rambled about a new game.

“You have seriously missed out! I swear, I’ll find the best foods and blossoms for you!” He even turned it into a competition like her.
Unfortunately, his loud ramble kept the attention of the drama club. One of the members slammed open the door, glaring at Osano like he was a spawn of evil. A girl with swirled purple hair came out, roses stuck all in her curled ponytails. “Can you shut up! We’re trying rehearse-”
“Oh, hush Kitagawa!” Another member came, this one a male with the longest braid Ayano had ever seen. It looked like the braid from a movie Ayano watched back in America, just shorter and with roses. “I said be nice, not act like some street cat like our friend out here.” He waved a hand at Osano, ushering the girl back inside the club room.

Osanos mouth opened as his brows knitted together, the stars in his eyes now dead and instead replaced by light thunder. “Osano?” Ayano looked over at him, trying to figure out his sudden switch. She figured the comment ‘street cat’ was what made him so out of it. “Helllooooo?” He looked like Kumi whenever someone would mess with the library books. Ayano grabbed his shoulder, shaking it. His shoulders rose up, brows now raised as he looked back at her. Ayano patted his shoulder before bringing her hand back down to her side. Osanos shoulder fell after that, his face a little more relaxed.

“Sorry-”
“Now you,” A finger suddenly poked his nose, pushing his head up. Osano flinched, eyes wide as the drama member glared at him. “We are trying to rehearse, so if you could keep your squeals quiet-”
“Squeals?” Osano knocked his hand away from him. ‘So that’s his angry face.’ Osanos brows were low and wrinkled. Ayano taking a mental note of the subtle details of his jaw tightening, or the slight raise in his chest. ‘It’s ugly on him.’ Ayano decided she liked his annoyed expression much more than his angry one. Even if he was annoyed, his face looked much softer and less wrinkled.

“Yes, squeals. Now-” The male suddenly stopped talking, his gaze now locked onto Ayano. She froze, watching as stars began to form in his eyes. “Now, you are perfect!”
“What?” Ayano blinked, mouth slightly open as the male approached her. He grabbed her hands, shaking it as his eyes raked over her entire being. “Salutations! I must be blunt but you are perfect!”
“What?” He ignored her and Osanos confusion.

“I am the illustrious, ambitious, elegant Kizano Sunobu!” He waved his hand in the air, flipping back his hair and dramatically gesturing to himself. “And you are, my dear?” He bowed and grabbed her hand, kissing it like a prince would to a princess.
“Ayano.” She leaned her head back, eyes dropping as she judged the man before her. ‘He’s certainly one for dramatics.’ Kizano hummed in satisfaction, kissing her hand one more time before standing straight.
“Such a charming name for a charming lady,” His voice heightened in pitch, a deep and theatrical tone to his words. Ayano looked over to Osano, whose eyes twitched in annoyance. “Say,” his voice sounded much closer than before. The ravenette looked back, only to see Kizano leaning down to reach her eye height. He had an analyzing smirk on his face, his brows quivering in question. “would you happen to be fascinated by my club?”

His club? Ayano looked over at the Drama Club doors, seeing various students moving about and most likely acting out some scenes. The Drama Club had never really entered her mind, despite all the members being overly enthusiastic. This was the first time she was really looking at it, or even meeting the very leader of it. “No.” And she didn’t think of joining either.
“Ah,” Ayano noticed the deflation in his shoulders, his smirk falling into an open mouth. He seemed surprised, and perhaps a bit sad. There was a drop in his eyes, almost like his very soul left him. “But how could you not? We are the ambitious, eloquent, illustrious Drama Club?!” He placed a hand on his chest, squeezing his hand as if his own heart was breaking. “How could someone be so tasteless as to not be intrigued!?”

“Well,” Ayano had several reasons to not join. She was already good at acting, wasn’t interested in drama, and couldn’t join even if she wanted to. Afterall, mother knew best, and until she found her true love, she couldn’t join any club. As far as her mother knew, that would be never. Kizano didn’t seem interested in hearing those reasons though.
“Hush now.” He put a finger up to her lips, effectively quieting her. The action reminded her of Midori during movie nights, where absolutely no talking was permitted. Unless she needed to rant about a character or plot move. “Even if someone is as uncultured as yourself, it is my job to take opportunity of every turn.” Ayano raised a brow, confused on where this was going. She already said no. “So, if you won’t join, then you will participate as the lead in my play for shattering my heart.”

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.
.

Ayano went blank, stuck on processing what he just said. Did he just…sign her up for a play? Even though she said no. And his heart wasn’t broken, he didn’t look sad or angry. He was just holding a hand to his chest and pouting at her. “Did you not hear her-”

“Hush, street act,” He brought a finger to Osanos lip, to which the male smacked it away. Kizano yanked his hand away, rolling his eyes at Osano before turning back to Ayano. “And do not look so bland, it’s unfitting for someone so pretty.” His brows lowered as he pointed to Ayano. The raveonettes' brows knitted together, now popped out of her thoughts.

“Why am I in the play?”

“Because you broke my heart for being so undignified.”

“And?” Ayano didn’t see the reason as good. From what she had seen of Kizano, he was overly dramatic and theatrical. The Drama Club didn’t take in just anyone either. Out of all the clubs, it was the one with the most high standards. You had to be rich and good at acting. Ayano was one of those things, but Kizano didn’t know that.
“Well, if I must be honest,” Kizano clicked his tongue, twirling his head down and then up over her figure. “You are the perfect look for my play. Midnight hair, skin as pale as snow, lips as red as apples and stunning,” Ayano felt a strange heat rise to her cheeks. It felt similar to whenever she was around Yamada, but it wasn’t overwhelming her. She could still think and breath, and the heat was a lot more tame. Perhaps it was flustardness?

“In short summary, you are the Snow White to my seven dwarves.”

“Hah?” Osano slumped his shoulders, his eye twitching slightly. Ayano perked up, the name ‘Snow White’ familiar.
“You mean like the Disney movie?” Kizano nodded, clicking his tongue again.
“Yes, but more of my refined and dignified version.” He chuckled smugly, flipping back his bangs before pointing at her. “Now, back to you,” he says, “Out of all the students I’ve seen here, you are the most fitting for what I want. And I’ve heard from one of my members that you’re a great actress.” Ayano raised a brow, her eyes flickering back to the Drama Club doors. Through the window, she saw nothing but students acting and dramatically voicing lines. Then a familiar figure walked by. Kokona Haruka.

“Oh,”

.
.
.
.

“You’re seriously doing the play?” Osano and her somehow exited the school. Only after Kizano gave her all the details for the play and dramatically parted ways.
“I don’t know.” She looked at the papers in her hands, flipping past the flier and to the heavy script. “Probably not since-”
“Family time?” Osano gave her a small smile, the slightest amusement in his eyes. Ayano looked at him for a second, before smiling and nodding. Osano briefly chuckled, pushing his hands in his pockets.

It was quiet for a while. Ayano thought it might turn into the awkward quietness like before, but it wasn’t. She felt comfortable. She felt like she was with Midori or Kumi but she wasn’t, it was Osano. The guy who had been yelling since the moment she met him. Yet she felt content. And Ayano felt that it was too close to nothing. “Where should we meet up for ice skating?” They were now stopped at the entrance. Ayano was fumbling with the papers, trying to shuffle them inside her bag without ruining her perfect organization. Osano tensed,brows furrowed as a toothy grin formed.

“I go to this place near a ramen shop. It’s near the docks downtown.” Osano nodded his head to the side, gesturing to the blurry and faded town building. Ayano nodded, recalling the little dock area. Her father would sometimes take her there whenever he got away from his wife, sneaking out with Ayano to have ice cream. She liked those times, a fuzzy and warm feeling filling her heart as she remembered them.

“I’ll see you there then.” She smiled up at him, offering the same toothy grin he had.