Hello. :)

So, I know you guys are dying to know why Umi is like that. Well, obviously she's planning on something. 😁 Some got the point while some.. meh.. 😂 But don't worry, it'll be explained here. 😃

So, here's the chap where there's justice for Umi's side! ^^

Check out my personal blog and a collab Fanpage at FB: Raine1o1 & MMJOL

Here we go! :)

Disclaimer: I do not own any characters aside from the story..

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Sitting on the counter table while tapping her fingers on it, Umi couldn't help but think how can she get Eri back. Glad that it's weekend but still, resting is not an exemption. Especially when the Russianette is involved.

She's back to her composed self. Being frantic doesn't really help, not only she will look so stupid but also, she can't think straight. So she needs to relax herself and find a good solution.

When she checked last night after Kotori went home, she's relieved that Eri was in her parent's house. She dropped by earlier in the Ayase residence for a certain talk that she wanted to discuss before the incident happened.

And right now the bad thing is, Eri told her parents not to tell Umi where she is and the Ayase's asked her to fix their problem as soon as possible as they will give a blind eye towards Eri's tantrum while aiding Umi under their daughter's nose. Particularly because they already agreed to the colloquy at hand.

Her girlfriend must have really hated her now. Judging the way how she was avoided is enough to tell that she was loathed. And that is a very serious case for the first time in her life.

Umi wanted to punch herself for being insensitive and wasn't able to focus on Eri in the past few days. She was busy sorting out the things needed for the preparation and hadn't realized that Eri was already suspecting her.

Suspecting her in a bad way.

At first, she thought of Eri's questions back then was just a confirmation for her feelings that's why she answered in a rather confused but truthful way. She sounded equivocal but, she hadn't taught Eri was thinking differently and just being a paranoid so she just shrugged it off. Because she knew to herself that she love Eri so much.

Umi didn't mean to lie. It was sort of a sudden blurt as she was caught red handed. Though she's aware of the consequences of her words but, since she already said they are relatives therefore she continued that sort of a whitewash confirmation.

Honesty is important in a relationship, but in Umi's case, it isn't necessary as of the moment. She admitted that she hadn't thought of the possibility of Eri thinking her to be cheating. Maybe that's why she was asked like that.

And sometimes, she hates herself for being dense. She isn't even sure herself when did she became stupid.

Stupid and insensitive. That's right. It is logically absurd but it is the truth and she had no plans on staying that way.

She sighed, 'I need to do it now.' Rubbing her temples out of stress, she sent the other Muse members the message while she sent Nozomi and Kotori a different one. 'I need time to stall it for just a day.'

After receiving positive response from her friends, Umi thanked them and sighed as she recalled the events again.

And speaking of the ash haired girl, when she asked Kotori for help, she just wanted an advice but she didn't know that the latter was already in Japan four days ago. When the girl in subject commenced a meet up, she was far surprised.

-Flashback-

Meeting up all of a sudden, she's glad that it was her last class of the day. So that the ash haired girl won't have to wait long.

At the resto, as Kotori requested, is a bit far from the University. Umi needs to ride a bus to reach it, the ride goes on for about fifteen minutes. Forgetting to message her girlfriend that she'll be late.

As they are seated across each other, Umi couldn't help but blinked and raised a brow at the latter.

"Uh, I didn't mean to be rude but Kotori..." She paused, "Why are you wearing that?"

Kotori giggled and removed her face mask, "Sorry, Umi-chan. I was just avoiding gossips."

The bluenette frowned, "You look much more suspicious and probably can garner attention as they'll see you."

When Kotori was about to reply, the waiter came in with a whole plate of cheese cake and two strawberry smoothes.

"I can't eat that much, Kotori." She sighed.

"Don't worry, Umi-chan! I've got four stomachs!"

This made Umi chuckle in amusement. As the latter was giving a slice to the bluenette she then started the conversation. "So, Umi-chan. What do you want to talk about?" She asked as she happily munched on her cake.

"Well, I wanted to surprise Eri for our special day."

Kotori happily chirped up and clapped her hands together, "Aww, that's sweet of you Umi-chan!"

The bluenette didn't reply instead she looked down in embarrassment. Eventhough Eri and her are together for two years already, she still couldn't help but blush if their friends teased her.

"So, what can I help with?"

-End of flashback-

Umi sighed again and run her hands above her head through her blue locks. Their meet up was everyday but the time depends on her schedule.

Everything was flowing smoothly not until Maki saw them.

She was sure of the presence that was following at that time was none other than the ojou-sama herself. She wasn't sure if Maki is really following them but as they stopped at the jewelry shop, she stopped as well.

Signaling Kotori to stay, she then took Maki's attention by surprise. But, as far as the latter is concern, she's more surprised when the caller on the other line was her girlfriend.

She knew that she'll be a dead meat once she's home.

-Flashback-

As the three of them are seated in a circular table, Maki couldn't help but huffed as she crossed her arms and gave them a stern look. She kept an intense stare at Kotori who is currently chatting with the waiter. Seconds later, she diverted her eyes to the bluenette on her right side who then sighed as their eyes got engaged.

"So..." The ash haired girl took their attention away, "Before anything else, it was nice seeing you again Maki-chan!"

Maki sighed then gave a small smile. It's been a long time too that Kotori hasn't been back. "It's nice to see you too but I needed explanation."

Kotori giggled, "Right. You haven't changed a bit, still perceptive as you are." She said while eyeing the incoming waiter. After the waiter came and served their tea, Umi just kept silent and sip her drink letting Kotori do the talking.

"You see Maki-chan, Umi-chan wanted to surprise Eri for their upcoming special day and she wants to make their date as memorable as it is."

As the latter sipped her tea, Maki raised a brow. "Then, why do you have to hide your face? You even look more suspicious."

Kotori giggled again, "I have reasons. Anyways, can you help us out in this? Since you found it out, it's much better if you'll be part of it as well."

Maki looked unconvinced and stared at the latter. Kotori spoke again with a hint of cuteness in her voice, "Please, Maki-chan! It's much better if there are two of us helping Umi-chan out!" The ojou-sama dropped her gaze towards the archer who sighed as she settled her tea back.

"I know you already have informed Eri about Kotori and I, but if you'll play along she wouldn't suspect anymore."

"And how can I guarantee that what you two are doing isn't cheating?"

Kotori choked on her tea and coughed. Umi's sweat dropped as she hurriedly patted her back. "Thanks, Umi-chan." She wiped the sides of lips with a tissue and smiled, "I wasn't expecting that, sorry." She then giggled, "I understand why you have said that but trust me Maki-chan, I'm not that kind of person to ruin one's relationship especially to my bestfriend."

Maki sighed for a thousand times, she then relaxed her shoulders and let her guard down.

"Okay, what's the plan?"

-End of flashback-

As Umi kept dwelling on her thoughts, she only even had noticed her teapot is already screaming. Hurriedly turning the stove off, she then made herself a tea to keep her relax. Though on the inside, she's honestly scared and nervous.

She recalled the time where Honoka, Rin and Hanayo saw them. It was really a bad timing. Why? There were three of them.

-Flashback-

"Umi...chan?"

Umi looked up and saw a confused look on Honoka's eyes. She almost let her nervous self slipped by making her eyes wide but glad she was able to hold it in. "Ah, Honoka." She smiled, "It was nice seeing you here."

Kotori glanced at them and blinked, currently thinking of the same thing as Umi did earlier. She was about to speak when the brunette spoke again.

"Umi-chan, who is she?" Umi was about to reply when two other girls came from behind the latter.

"Kyaah! Honoka-chan! Don't leave us like that!" Rin whined and still hadn't notice the duo's presence except for Hanayo who then greeted happily.

"Oh, it's nice seeing you Umi-chan." She bowed and smiled, her eyes then fell on the masked-girl, "Oh... Uhm..."

"Who is she nyaa?" Rin tilted her head making Kotori giggled internally. Umi gave her acquaintance a bored look because she can literally feel Kotori is enjoying the others confusion. When Kotori got the message, she removed her mask and smiled brightly at them. "It's nice seeing you guys again."

Honoka dramatically gasped and jumped towards the latter in excitement. "Kotori-chaaaaaan! I missed you so so much!"

The captive latter giggled, "I missed you too, Honoka-chan."

"It's good to see you back, Kotori-chan." Hanayo smiled.

"It sure is nyaa~ We missed you!"

"By the way, what are you two doing?" Their leader asked the ultimate question. Umi had that coming, she then sighed again as the same thing occured all over again.

"Have a seat first everyone." Kotori offered, "So, what are we doing? We are on the middle of planning out Umi-chan and Eri-chan's special day!"

"Ohh..." The trio chorused before the brunette spoke. "Is that so?" Honoka looked at the bluenette and smirked, "I never thought of Umi-chan to be the romantic one." This made Umi blushed and looked away.

"Well, now you know." Kotori giggled adding more embarrassment to Umi, "Anyways, can you help us out in this too?"

"Too?" Hanayo asked making Kotori nod.

"Yes, we met Maki the other day and included her in this plan as well. So, it's much better if you guys could also lend us a hand."

"Wait, why didn't you email us if you wanted us to be part of this?" Honoka questioned, "You two are not hiding something from us, right?" Then again, Umi had it coming.

"No, we're not." Kotori smiled, "It's just that Umi-chan knows you guys are all busy with your academics and she doesn't want to disturb any of you. And besides, I'm the only one who is currently available since this time of the month is my University break in America."

"Oh, Okay!" Honoka grinned as she clapped her hands.

Umi smiled at her, "I understand why you guys are suspecting but at least it's already cleared."

Honoka pouted, "Eh! Umi-chan! Who wouldn't think of it that way when the girl you're with had a suspicious looking face mask!" The bluenette shot a death glare making the brunette flinched while Kotori sweat dropped.

"Waah! Umi-chan is scary!"

"I'm sorry for the confusion!" Kotori giggled then clapped her hands to gain the amused friends attention, "So about the plan? Are you in?"

"Count us in!" they chorused making the lil bird smile in victory.

-End of flashback-

Umi rubbed her temple as she sighed, 'That was really unbelievable. I owe Kotori for this.'

She took a sip as she kept reminiscing the event after that restaurant incident. When they decided to visit the local shrine, a thought came across her mind that there's a high chance of possibility of meeting Eri's bestfriend who might be helping out again.

And how she wished she was wrong.

-Flashback-

"Ara, what do we have here?"

Both got surprised and turned to their right side where the voice came, and there they found Nozomi with a smile while holding a broomstick.

"Konnichiwa, Nozomi." Umi bowed together with Kotori who remained silent.

"And?" Nozomi looked at the girl in a mask with a curious eyes. Umi elbowed the girl beside her who giggled in response before removing her mask.

"It was nice seeing you again Nozomi-chan."

The latter blinked, "Oh. It's just you Kotori-chan." she then smiled and looked at the bluenette, "Does Eri knew about this?" Umi knew Nozomi is as keen as ever, unlike their other friends.

"No." she sighed.

"Why?"

"I'm planning something for her and Kotori is helping me out."

Nozomi nodded, "I see. Well, I sent an email to her earlier asking who are you with. That mask and hat really have hide you well to make me curious enough." Umi face palmed as to Kotori who gave the latter a worried smile.

"I know, Umi-chan." Nozomi grinned, "I know Eri will grill you later."

"Don't remind me please." The bluenette sighed and thought about asking the latter's help but decided not to since there are already too many.

"I want to help out, if that's okay?" Umi shot a confusing look at the smiling latter.

"Well, I know Eri would be jealous about what I said earlier since I didn't know about it. So it would be okay if I'll help you cover things up."

"That would be great Nozomi-chan!" Kotori exclaimed in excitement. "Well then Umi-chan, the God's will help you in this!"

'Kotori...' Umi smiled awkwardly with a sweat dropped.

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As she finished her tea, she nods her head to give herself confidence. Seconds later, she received an email. Looking at the sender that came from Nozomi, she then hurriedly opened it.

[I am already inside Eri's home Umi-chan! Just text me for the que.]

Quickly sending a message before slipping back her phone into her pocket.

'Some plans had changed but it's worth to take Eri back.' Picking up her jacket, she then proceed towards the door.

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-Eri's side story-

A knock on her room came making her shot her glance away from the book she's currently reading. "Yes?"

"Eri-chan, Nozomi-chan came to visit. Do you want to see her?" Her mother asked politely knowing her daughter is currently upset and doesn't want to entice her mood any further.

Eri was surprised knowing parents came back to Japan a week ago, they just explain that they need a break from work. But, she wondered why they didn't call her that they already got back. Eri then thought that probably they still got a jetlag at that time.

After knowing it was her bestfriend, she hurriedly fixed her hair. "I'll be down in a bit!"

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.

.

"Have a seat, Nozomi-chan." Mayuki offered as she set a tea in front of the latter before taking a seat across her. "I know why you're here." She then smiled making Nozomi smile as well.

"Both are at fault." She inhaled the puffy white smoke coming from the cup after picking it up, "I'm here because of Umi's plans, I just hope Eri won't notice."

Mayuki nodded in agreement, "This kind of problem they had reminds me of my teenage years with my husband." Nozomi smiled seeing the woman giggled.

"Nozomi!" The emerald eye girl diverted her eyes towards the source making Mayuki shot a glance as well.

"Konnichiwa, Ericchi!" She grinned as she settled her tea back before she was tackled with a hug. Mayuki knew they needed privacy, she picked up her tea and left the room.

"How are you, Ericchi?"

Eri sighed and leaned on the sofa. "I don't know."

The latter just looked at her in the corner of her eyes while sipping her tea. "Well, I'm not here to make your mood even more sloppier." She giggled. "Let's forget about that, shall we? And since you got free time, can we hang out? I mean Umi-chan won't mind, right?"

Eri's heart sank at the moment of the archer's name being mentioned and her reaction didn't go unnoticed to a pair of green eyes. The blonde also didn't noticed the moment where Nozomi took a peek on her phone.

"Come on Ericchi!" Nozomi beamed after slipping back her phone as she took her sling bag, "Let's eat lunch outside." Eri just sighed, she really needs to take her mind away from Umi as of the moment.

"Okay, wait a minute. I'll just get my purse and phone." When Eri was out of sight, Nozomi hurriedly sent an email.

[We'll be at the first stop in half an hour, Umi-chan.]

Seconds later she then received a go signal from the bluenette.

'I'm praying to all the Gods out there to help us.'

Okay Nozomi, that's too much.

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.

.

They took their perspective seats across each other in the resto Nozomi had chosen. The shrine helper insisted that they should eat in a Chinese restaurant since she said she's been wanting to try out the fortune cookies that gave almost ninety five percent of fortune correctly.

Eri fidgeted in her seat as she looked around the resto in nervousness.

"Are you okay, Ericchi?" Nozomi asked while settling the menu down. Eri looked at her then gave a small smile.

"Y-Yes." She then nodded, "It's just that it feels like someone is looking at me."

'Oh, you got that right.' She giggled inwardly. Nozomi knew very well that their friends went into an undercover just to make Umi's plan go smoothly. They're glad knowing the resto itself is owned by the Nishikino themselves.

They thought that Maki's family only owns a hospital but as they prodded more, that's where they get to learn that the Nishikino's owned restaurants as well.

"What is it, Nozomi? You're smiling at me." Eri furrowed her brows in confusion. Did Nozomi found her nervousness amusing?

The latter shook her head, "Nothing. I just miss you, that's all." She then grinned, "Everyone is pretty busy to hang out so I'm glad I get to spend time with you."

Eri then forgotten her nervousness making her smile in response. "I know. I missed hanging out with the rest as well."

Moments passed by while they're having their little chat, the waiter came in with their order and a small bowl of fortune cookies.

"I really wanted to try this." Nozomi grinned and picked up a piece of cookie and crushed it slowly revealing a small paper inside. She then picked it up and read her fortune. "You are about to face something challenging, but you have all the help you will need today." Both had an awed expression, Nozomi then grinned.

"Well, that was a nice fortune." She giggled while thinking how accurate her fortune was. "How about yours, Ericchi?"

Eri picked up a cookie and breaks it in half, she then took the paper inside it. She read it silently making her eyes wide in disbelief. This made Nozomi wonder.

"What does it say?"

"Uhh..." Eri smiled awkwardly. "It says, 'You should learn how to listen and not directly jump into conclusions.' weird..."

"Hmm..." Nozomi hummed. "Well, try picking another one?"

The latter complied and break another cookie, "You are about to experience a roller coaster ride of emotions. Handle it well." Eri blinked. "I got another weird one."

"Do you believe in those fortunes, Ericchi?" Eri looked at the latter with a small smile. "I do though, it's just that my luck is not that good today."

"Well, pick another one."

Eri flinched. "Eh? I think I should only supposed to pick one cookie and since I already pick two, the second might jinx the previous fortune."

Nozomi shook her head, "It's okay Ericchi. Don't worry about it." ..It's all made up anyway..

The blonde crushed another one. "An ultimate question is waiting for your answer. Your answer should came from what your heart desires. Good luck!"

"Well, those fortunes of yours are pretty well predicted." Nozomi giggled making Eri more confused.

"Answer? This is really getting weirder." Eri shook her head.

The latter could only smile and picked up her chopsticks, "Let's eat then."

Meanwhile at the resto's kitchen.

Hanayo scratched her head in confusion while looking at the tray full of bowls of fortune cookies, she then glanced at the energetic girl who's currently smiling while looking at her fortune.

"Look, Kayo-chin! Mine says I'll be able to pass something that is worth celebrating today!"

"That's good." She smiled. "And by the way, did you served the bowl of cookies that we made to Nozomi-chan?"

Rin blinked. "Eh? I'm not sure if it's the right one." She then grinned making Hanayo's eyes wide.

"What?! Where is it then?" Rin pointed the tray making the latter sweat dropped.

"Oh my God!" Hanayo covered her mouth making Rin grin awkwardly as she scratched the back of her head.

"Well, I put it beside the tray earlier before I left. Then when I came back, it was gone and the tray is now full of bowls of cookies." She then shrugged. "So, I just randomly picked one out. Hehehe."

Hanayo directly face palmed herself.

-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-

"So, Ericchi!" Nozomi clapped her hands and grinned widely at the baffled blonde beside her who then raised her brow. "Let's go to the amusement park!" Eri thought for a second that maybe going to an amusement park can help ease the pain and forget about it for awhile.

"Uhm, sure."

"Great!" Suddenly, she was pulled away towards their destination.

.

.

.

Passing by some food stalls, Nozomi kept suggesting to buy this and that making Eri sweat dropped. She never thought her bestfriend had a monster type of stomach. Another thing that made her appetite to crash down is that every inch in the area, all she remembered is Umi when they recently had their date.

"Why aren't you eating Ericchi?" She asked while wiping some crumbs on the corner of her mouth. "We're here to have fun! C'mon!"

The blonde gave a small smile. "Sorry, I can't help it. This place reminds me of her."

'Time to commence the second plan.' She smiled and pretends to check something on her bag. "Hmm... Where was it..." Eri watched her curiously as she rummaged through her bag. The latter then gasped making her ask. "Is there something wrong Nozomi?"

"Sorry, I can't find my purse!" She pretended to worry. "Wait here Ericchi! I must have dropped it along the way while buying food."

As she started to walk away, Eri stated that she'll wait by the bench at the small park across the stalls.

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.

.

Fifteen minutes had gone by and yet there is still no sign of her bestfriend.

"I hope she'll find her purse soon." She sighed then looked up at the high standing structure of a wheel rotating slowly. But then she suddenly felt a tugged on her right sleeve making her look at the source and there she found a child who looked like an eight year old who's holding a balloon.

"Oh? Are you lost lil kid?" She smiled sweetly making the little girl smile as she extended her hand with a balloon. "Are you giving this to me?"

The little girl nodded. "Don't be sad onee-chan!" She then ran away leaving the blonde Russian confused.

"Even kids can tell I'm sad." She sighed and looked up at the balloon that had one big word written on it. "Eh?" Pulling it down closer to get a better look. After reading the word, the balloon slipped away from her gripped making it float up to the clear blue sky. 'Trust...' She recalled the word. 'What kind of balloon they are giving out to kids with those kinds of print?'

In short, Eri didn't get it. A minute later, another kid came with a balloon.

'What's this?' She thought before smiling down the cute little boy. "Hey there? Are you lost?" The boy shook his head while extending his hand with the balloon towards Eri who then took it without hesitation.

"Mind asking where did you got this?" The little boy shook his head. "Don't be sad onee-chan!" He then ran away making Eri blinked in confusion.

'That's the second time I was told by a kid.' She sighed and looked up at the balloon. Then again, a word was written on it. "Love?" ..Okay, where did they sell these balloons? It's weird..

Before she can clear her mind another little girl came with a balloon, she stared at it for a good five seconds before accepting it.

"Smile onee-chan!" The little girl grinned big despite of having a missing front tooth before running away.

Eri read the word written on it, "Happiness." ..What is going on?.. Before she could even think further, Nozomi came back bringing her out from deep abyss of thinking. "Oh, Nozomi. Did you find it?"

The latter smiled and presented her purse as she replied. "Yeah, I'm sorry it took awhile."

Eri stood as she shook her head and smiled, "It's okay, let's go?"

"Oh, where did you get that?" Nozomi pointed out the floating object tied with a string on her hand.

"Well, the children gave it to me." she smiled as she looked up at the two balloons, "It's kind of funny how even kids noticed my sadness under my smile." The latter just looked at her from the corner of her eyes as they walked, Nozomi couldn't help but thought about teasing her.

"Speaking of kids, what do you want?" She grinned at the now confused blonde. "I mean, do you want a girl or a boy?" she then smirked after seeing her bestfriend's red face after it registered to Eri's baffled mind. "Ohh, Ericchi..."

"Wha—! Th-That's n-not i-it!" Eri stuttered badly as she frantically waved her hands over her fiery face, "I-I mean, I ha-ha-haven't thought about i-it! Mooouuu! Nozomi!" The latter gave a light chuckle as she followed blonde who is briskly walking away from her. Obviously trying to avoid the topic.

"I, and the rest of the girls, would love to become the Godmother of the Ayase-Sonoda Nuptials and to their future baby."

Eri stopped walking as Nozomi scanned her back, seconds later a smoke can clearly be seen emitting above Eri's head and her ears are visible enough to be assumed that it is as red as blood. She then gave a sly smile having another idea.

"I know you guys have done it a million times already." She paused as she saw more smokes, she then whispered to her ears coyly. "Stop using condoms so that I can have my Godchildren already." Smirking as she walked ahead leaving the melted blonde like a puddle on the ground.

The shrine helper really knows her bestfriend's weakness. A satisfying smile escaped her lips.

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.

.

After riding a few, they then went down from the ferris wheel. The last ride they rode. Eri pulled out her phone and checked the time.

"It's already late." She stated. "It's seventeen minutes pass seven already. Let's go hom—" She stopped the moment she saw no one beside her. "Eh?"

Looking around the crowd, scanning every person's face but no avail. She didn't see her bestfriend. But then a man, more likely, a staff of the amusement park approached her and bowed slightly.

"Ayase-san?"

"Uhm, yes?" Eri asked confusedly.

The staff then pulled out a small rectangular paper-like object. When she stared at it, she then realized it was a coupon. "This is for you, Ayase-san." He smiled. "As a costumer who rode the most rides for a day, the management gave you this coupon as a token of gratitude for being a daring rider."

'Eh?! We rode all the rides?' she wondered as she accepted the coupon, "Uhh, th-thank you." she then bowed back.

"That coupon is for a midnight dinner. The address is stated below it. Thank you and please comeback again." He bowed before walking away leaving the blonde blinking in confusion. She then remembered that the shrine assistant is not there. Quickly dialling out the latter's number and waited for the call to be picked up; seconds later, it was connected.

"Oy, Nozomi! Where are you? You suddenly disappeared!"

[Oh! I'm sorry Ericchi! I quickly ran to the toilet after we got down.]

Eri sighed as she rubbed her temple in annoyance. "Which area of lavatory did you use? The west? I'll come and get you."

[No need! I'm already on my way home since my mom suddenly called and said she's waiting outside my apartment.]

"Why didn't you tell me ahead? Mou..."

[I'm sorry, Ericchi! After using the toilet my mom called, I hurried and catch the bus; I was about to call you, but then you called me. I'm really sorry, Ericchi. But we will see each other later for our midnight dinner! Hehe...]

"Mou, fine. Take care on your way home."

[You too! See you later, Sonoda Eri!]

"WHA—" The line got disconnected but the lines on her face is as red as the lava. Hot and fiery. "Gosh, Nozomi..." She sighed and looked back at the coupon on hand. 'Well, better be home to get ready.'

-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-

Fifteen minutes before the clock strikes twelve, a beautiful Russianette got out of the taxi. Eri then looked up at the restaurant that looked classy. She sighed. 'This place sure looks expensive.' Looking around the quiet surroundings, she then slowly walked inside feeling small and intimidated. 'Geez... when they say wear something formal, they really meant fancy.'

Eri wore a black dress that hugged her body making it show her S-line; the tube-like dress only reached up halfway down to her thighs and it had a glittering silk that winks when a light is reflected upon it, she then tied her hair up in a messy bun while letting a few strands dangle on both sides of her face. Eri doesn't need to put a heavy make up, her natural beauty is enough. A lip gloss and a few blush-on will do; it's only her bestfriend anyway, she doesn't need to do much effort.

Glancing at the place again as she blushed; But at the same time she felt awkward at the sight of the elegant and high status people having their midnight dinner. She then recalled the brief instructions on the coupon.

×P.S. It will be fine dining.×

Fine dining. So, formal it is. As she entered, she was greeted by a waiter bowing the moment he saw her.

"How can I be of assistance Miss?"

"Uh, a reservation under Akihabara Amusement Park."

"Right this way mam."

As she followed the waiter, she was then brought to the gardens with all the illuminated lights that is hang on tree branches and the reserved table was underneath the big oak tree with lots of colorful lights hanging above it. The waiter then pulled a chair out for her which Eri gladly took a seat. He then bowed and left.

'This place sure is refined yet calming.' She thought as her eyes scans around the place. And as her blue orbs inspected the area, she then saw someone coming towards her way. She stared at it curiously as the figure emerges from the dark.

"I'm glad you came, Eri-chan."

The voice is strikingly familiar yet she knew that the voice is not from her bestfriend. As the person got out from the shadows, Eri's eyes went wide. "Kotori?"

The little bird could only smile as she took her seat across her. "How are you, Eri-chan?"

Before Eri could answer, her eyes wandered on the latter's clothing. Kotori wore a black bubble-type of dress with matching black gloves that reached halfway up to her arms and the skirt below is a bit shorter than Eri's. Her hair is still the same as the last time she saw it.

"Well, I'm fine." she smiled, "You look stunning, Kotori."

"Why thank you, Eri-chan. You look as beautiful as ever."

The blonde noticed that there still was no waiter to serve them, so she decided to ask the latter for leisure time. "Uhm, Kotori. When did you got here? I mean, not that I mind but I'm curious."

Okay, that came out wrong. She didn't mean to ask that actually.

Kotori gave a soft giggle, "Well, I just came back from America a few days ago since it was my University's vacation break."

The latter nodded. "Oh, so do you have a dinner date with someone in here too?" She then earned a shook from the bird.

"I'm not your date tonight though." She giggled again. "I saw her earlier and told me that she'll come by any minute now. She just needs to fix something."

"Geez, that Nozomi." She sighed.

"Well, I better go." Kotori slowly stands and smiles down at her, "I'm hoping for a positive outcome."

"Eh?" She blinked as her eyes followed the retreating figure towards the glass panel doors.

The moment Kotori got out, as if on que, a slow jazz music was played. The atmosphere became much romantic through the instrumental vibes of the song. The lights around her began to dim a little creating a thrilling yet exciting feeling for Eri. She's actually wondering that maybe the crew setting this up thought she'll be dating a boy since the air is screaming hetero.

Eri looked around from her seat, she just then noticed that the garden was full of fireflies. She unknowingly smiled as she felt joy within her. "This place is beautiful." She whispered.

"But this place is nothing compared to you." A voice took her away from her little world of thoughts as her eyes widen. She knew that it wasn't her bestfriend's voice for the second time around. Her eyes started darting from every corner of the garden looking for the owner of that voice.

There, a tall figure from the shadows beside the sakura tree, as the leaves rained down slowly; was standing across her table. Slender yet had a stance of a soldier, had a long straight hair, and a part of the person's clothing was lighted a bit showing that she's wearing a feminine tux.

Eri could only think of one person and that made her heart skipped a beat. But, at the same time, her heart felt a pang of pain after remembering the scenario. Instead of smiling, she bit her lower lip and looked away.

"Eri..." Umi started as she walked slowly towards the latter and took her seat, "Can I—"

"—What do you want?" She cut her off without giving a single glance at the bluenette. Her heart was telling her to calm down but her mind is the one controlling.

Umi flinched at the sudden spat of the latter, she then sighed. "Eri..." She took her right hand that is on top of the table and caressed it. Eri sure missed the warmth of Umi's hand. "First of all, I would like to apologize for being insensitive and for being an asshole."

'Ass—? She never use informal words before, 'curses' even.' Eri thought but still didn't gave in.

"I was planning this big date for us as what I promised, and I became less focus on you instead. Not that I forgot about you, it's just not for me to tell such surprise being taken in place." Eri mind started to calm down as the archer is explaining but still didn't gave any comments.

Umi squeezed her hand as she went on. "I asked help from Kotori but honestly, I didn't know she was already back. That's why we frequently met up to plan this. Unfortunately, our friends saw us and made me looked like I'm cheating against you in which I wasn't." She sighed. "It's just amusing how Kotori kept hiding her face since she was already a well-known designer eventhough she's still a student."

Eri took a glance at the latter who kept looking down at her hand as she tried to explain herself.

"I'm really sorry, Eri. Hurting you wasn't my intention." That statement made the blonde looked at the bluenette and their eyes met. "Yet, I'm stupid enough for not being able to sense your doubts." Umi squeezed her hand again. "I love you so much, Eri."

Before Eri answered she took back her hand and crossed her arms above her chest. She then raised a brow and made Umi panicked and asked. "Do you trust me?" The question took Eri aback.

She then scoffed. "I don't see why I should." Her answer made Umi's eyes went wide. "Why can't you be honest with me?" She retorted with a higher voice startling Umi in the process. "Don't you know how much I was worried thinking about losing you?! I love you so much Umi! And I'm so afraid..." Her voice cracked making a tear escaped. "I'm so so... afraid..."

The bluenette quickly crouch down beside the latter while looking up as she wiped away her tears. Eri looked down at her with blurry visions as she felt the latter's thumbs on her cheeks.

"You're so stupid!" Eri shot back again as her tears kept flowing more. "I don't care about this stupid date!" She choked. "I only want my Umi!"

The archer stands up as she pulled Eri into a tight embrace. Eri hugged back as if it was their last, she clung more tightly making Umi smile in the process but then frowns. "I'm really sorry, Eri. Will you forgive me?"

"NO!" She exclaimed earning slight flinch from the girl she's clinging. Umi thought about something that could make her girlfriend calm down; she knows when Eri is like this, it's hard to persuade her.

"Well, at least can we have our dinner?" She asked. Luckily, Eri loosen her hug and pulled back with a small nod while looking down.

Umi pulled a chair for her as Eri directly sat on it. She then called for a service as she took her seat. From time to time, she kept glancing at the girl across her. The feeling is still mutual yet the tense atmosphere is lingering.

'Calm down, Sonoda Umi! You can do this.' She mentally cheered for herself. It's kind of amusing that she's acting this way eventhough they are in a relationship for two years already. The unwanted mixed up emotions are now stirring her.

Minutes of silence, their food arrived. Eating it without words made the bluenette felt like the food was eating her; it was calm yet intense in a way that she couldn't explain. She doesn't want to give a sigh since it's disrespecting especially in front of the food.

Even after they had devour their meal, Eri still didn't muster any form of words towards the bluenette. She didn't know that the silence is already eating Umi up.

Umi cleared her throat as she stands up and offered her right hand towards Eri who then glanced with a raised brow. "Can I have this dance?"

"Why don't you ask the girl your with?" She huffed and looked away. Umi looked awfully maladroit; she's glad that she informed Maki to reserved the place for themselves so that they can have some privacy or else it would one hell of an embarrassment for being rejected to a dance. The bluenette thought that Eri had already gotten the idea about who she is with at those times after a brief explanation. And yet, it's clear she hadn't.

Without pulling her hand away, she cleared her throat. "I thought I clearly stated that I was with Kotori at those times."

"Then dance with her. Like I care." She retorted.

The latter blinked in surprise and slowly pulled her hand away with a warmer cheeks; aside from having an aching arm, it's also awkward staying in that position without getting accepted.

'Eri is really hard to persuade.' She mentally sighed as she tried to think of another way. "I can clearly see jealousy in that." She smiled earning a glare from the sulking blonde. Umi bowed lower to give a peck on the blonde's cheeks then pulled back with a smile. "You're much attractive to my eyes when you're jealous."

The complement she gave made Eri's cheeks redden and earned another huff. This is going to be a long night.

"Now." Umi started to gain back her attention and offered her hand again. "Will you give me a chance of having this dance with you tonight, my love?"

If Eri was just being honest, she really wanted to squeal and jump around but she doesn't want to. Her pride is not letting her. But then she thought for a second before accepting Umi's offer.

As they slow dance their way in the middle of the garden surrounded by fireflies, Eri felt like some of those illuminated creatures are flying inside her stomach. She wanted to smile and hug her girlfriend, yet her ego wasn't letting her. She was still hurt and can't just easily forgets about it.

"Eri?" Umi called making Eri looked at her. "Have I ever told you, you looked so absolutely gorgeous tonight?"

Eri knew Umi was trying to make her smile; well, she almost gave in. But instead of smiling, she rolled her eyes.

"I love you, Eri." Umi started to buy her again. "My ever beautiful, gorgeous, lovable, stunning girlfriend."

This time, Eri clenched her teeth to make her ease herself from fangirling. She thought that she suffered the pain, so why not make Umi suffered as well? She wanted to take revenge yet, she's torn between exerting sharp high-pitch cries or keeping her snobbish attitude for the time being. She's already used to being out of character when she's around the latter.

"Are you planning to take revenge on me after hurting you?" Eri looked at her sad smile after asking. Deep inside the Russianette's heart, she really wanted to forgive Umi; but, she just can't do that yet. Not now.

The archer kept talking as Eri kept trying to shut her ears up. "I'm really sorry, Eri." Umi pulled her closer, still dancing, as she hugged Eri. This time, the latter leaned her head on Umi's left shoulder as she faced away and bit her lower lip hearing Umi apologized over and over.

Maybe it's time. Eri sighed. "Don't do that again." She whispered as she felt the protective arms wrapping around her tightly. "Just tell me next time that you got a surprise for me and don't go sneaking around." She sighed. "Sometimes, it felt like you're a guy for being so dense and not being able to tell what a girl is feeling. It's like you don't know what will be the emotion your girlfriend is having since you had no clue sometimes."

Umi sweat dropped and tried not to laugh at how accurate Eri's short blab. "Well, I'm sorry for being dense. I think it's my nature ever since before."

Eri pulled back and encircled her arms around Umi's neck, she then gave a pout. "It's much worse!" And with that, the latter chuckled as they stopped their tracks.

"Hey! It's not funny! Moouu!"

Umi tried not to laugh more, she quickly composed herself and cleared her throat. Obviously, her grin can't be stopped. "I love you, Eri."

"I love you too, Umi." Finally. After how many bucks she spent just to buy Eri's smile and that awaited response, she finally got it. Slowly leaning down to give a chaste kiss. The kiss didn't last long as Umi slowly pulled away and escorted Eri back to her chair. "I'll be back."

"Where are you going?"

Umi glanced back with a smile. "Toilet." The latter then nodded as she gracefully walked out of the venue.

Meanwhile, as Eri was waiting. She kept tapping her fingers over the table while resting her chin on her right palm. Obviously bored as she sit tight eventhough Umi got out just about a minute ago.

Seconds later, the music changed into a thick and slow song. Like a classic melody with a touch of modern theme. It made Eri relaxed and closed her eyes as she loosen up. A letter was then placed in front of her, she didn't noticed it at all. And on que, the music stopped bringing her out from her little world and there she saw the parchment.

'What's this?' Picking it up and read the contents in a whispered. "Follow the arrows?" She then looked around and on the glass panel and there was an arrow being glued. "Okay, what kind of surprise is this again Umi." She asked as she felt her stomach churned while slowly following the arrows until she was brought into another, much beautiful, garden.

The moment she stepped inside, a music was played. Same as what is played at the other garden earlier. She looked around to find her lover yet she can't. "Umi?" She called and as if on que, their song 'Storm in Lover' was played; but the song had a different version. It had a jazz-like vibe of flow and Eri can clearly recognized who sang it. Maki. But it was clear that the song was already a record.

Slowly walking towards the table while admiring the background filled with small flying lamps. Fireflies; are more abundant here than the recent room, and Eri couldn't help but adore the little creatures, and thought that this insect is her favorite one already. As she was about to reach the table, she then heard someone whispered her name behind her. Quickly turning around, there she found her girlfriend smiling at her with a bouquet of blue roses while slowly walking towards her. Eri's blushes sneaked up on her cheeks as she tried not to hang her mouth too much.

"Blue roses symbolizes immortality, love, and prosperity." A small shy smile Umi gave. "Here, Eri." Giving the flowers to the latter who then giggled in response. "Is there something wrong?"

"I can see you're very nervous, Umi." She grinned making the bluenette blush in the process. "And it's not really romantic to say 'Here, Eri.'"

"Mou..." Umi glances away in the process making the latter thought of something.

"You're really cute with that black tux, Umi." Her knowing smile made the bluenette blush even more. Seeing it, she decided to push a bit further. She won't be the only one blushing madly tonight. "And, who would have thought that my date is a handsome girl."

Inasmuch as the archer was red to the ears, she kept an amusing stare at Umi much to the bluenette's dismay. Her advances took her on the lead, watching how Umi held back a pout while keeping her composure intact is something she realized that her girlfriend had changed through time. But not in a bad way. Because, instead of looking away and screaming shameless protest she had learned to hold it and just look away to avoid getting teased further. You can really say, she's not a straight A student for nothing. A loving smile escaped her lips at the same time, Umi looked at her and smiled.

"Eri, you've got something on your hair." Umi gestured her eyes behind the latter's left ear. Breaking the tense yet calming atmosphere.

"Eh?" As she was about to reach for it, Umi's right hand got to it first.

"I'll get it for you."

Eri waited for a second. But strange as it is; she didn't felt her hair being touched, yet Umi's arm is slowly receding. Her eyes automatically dropped to what the latter's hand was holding and what she saw made her eyes wide as she directly covered her hanging mouth.

"I would like to be with you 'til death do us part, Ayase Eri."

The way Umi said it with confidence and passion made Eri's heart stopped ticking. Her amber eyes glowing in zest while curving into a crescent moon as to her smile extending like a shy grin. Everything to Eri felt surreal; no, more of like a dreamscape that later on when you wake up you'll only feel the giddy and tingling feeling deep inside your stomach and heart.

Eri's eyes dropped back at the silver-gold ring that glimmer under the hanging lamps and then she noticed how Umi's thumbs and index finger was formed. A cute little heart; as what most people call it, the finger-heart.

She doesn't want to cry, but how? Things turned out to be something like the expectation versus reality segment. Where she only expected a formal yet friendly date with her bestfriend, yet it turned out to be an extravagant engagement proposal from her girlfriend. As prodigal as Umi may seem, the event that was held were free of charge. The Nishikino's, especially Maki, only wanted to be invited in the future as for her payment.

Umi slowly pulled out a small black velvet box inside her right pocket and opened it revealing a necklace that had a matching color with the ring. Instead of slipping the metal circlet on the latter's finger, she slide the necklace in it. Holding both ends of the necklace, she then held it in Eri's eye level for her to see it.

"I engraved something underneath the ring."

Eri moved much closer and tilted the ring for a better inspection. The words she read made a tear finally escaped from her eyes.

◇Umi's Eternity

The bluenette then walked behind the overwhelmed beauty and lock the necklace in place as she gave a kiss of seal over it. She then walked back to her current position and smiled at the crying latter.

"I had worn mine in advance." Umi pulled put the necklace with a ring on it that looked both the same to Eri's. Tilting the metal circlet for her girlfriend's better view.

◇Eri's Forevermore

Eri tackled the bluenette with a hug as she sobbed in happiness on Umi's shoulders. Umi, on the other hand, hugged her back as she pulled her waist closer and kissed her temple. She then whispered. "You don't need to say anything. I already know your answer."

The blonde's lips quivered slowly into a small smile. Her voice is definitely lost somewhere in the garden but, she couldn't care less because Umi understands her. Despite her archer being dense, at times like this, Umi understands her silence. Her words are not required anymore.

"But, that time will come only after we will find a suitable and stable jobs of course. I wouldn't want my future wife to be marrying a jobless woman making her starved to death." Umi chuckled making Eri giggled as well.

"I know that." She responded timidly. "We're still young anyway. Let's just enjoy this while it's still far from settling down."

Somewhere around the venue, spy cameras were installed to record the event. The couple, especially Umi, didn't know.

.

.

.

"It's still not the end." The mysterious person grinned as they watched the small monitor playing the scene in the garden. "I'll help you guys make your life worth enjoyable." Lightly laughing before turning the chair behind and walked away towards the door with a man in a suit and a sunglass was guarding. They then whispered. "Put everything in the usb and bring it to my house later." The guard nodded courtly before exiting the premises.

Walking through the hallway, they then remembered something.

"Well, I'm wishing for your success." The person smirked. "I'll be here to watch everything."

Laughter then echoed through the silent corridor as the soles tapped along the tiled floor.

..to be continued..

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Hello. Hello. Hello. ✌😏

I used "they" since I don't want you to know what gender I'm referring. 😁 That mysterious person is alone okay? I hope no one will get confused. ✌😁

If I update like after a few months, expect it to be more than 5000k words. 😂

Total words: 8,800k+ 😁

Okay, now what kind of plot is next. Hmm... have any suggestions? 😄

Anyways, I didn't really mean to turn it into an engagement date. *lol* 😂 But my hand wouldn't listen. 😂

Please leave a review! So that I will know your thoughts. :)

Godbless! :)

-Raine1o1™out-