Act 4-
 
Part 1- The tangled webs we weave.
 
[Refuse Shizune]
 
I force Shizune off of my lap, probably a bit too roughly, but at this point I don't really care. As I stand up, Shizune stares at me with unbelieving eyes, and I simply point to the door of my room. Shizune grabs her notepad and scribbles a quick note, which she drops on my bed. She then takes one last look at me, as if expecting my decision to have changed, and leaves.
 
Alone, the weight of the situation hits me full force. For every part of my brain that rejects Shizune's words, another part mocks me for knowing all along. All the little hints she dropped me, were they intentional? I flash back to the day we slept under the tree. Misha literally "came to term with some things".
 
And the gender roles she seems to love enforcing since my bus ride confession. I guess if you don't like men, you really wouldn't know the dynamics of dating one outside of pop culture. And speaking of that bus ride, is that when her plan was hatched? In her depression on the bus did she see an opportunity and merely play the hand she was dealt?
 
Enough. This train of thought ends in ruin. I need to do something to work this all out.
 
Minutes later, Im on the track and running myself harder than I probably should. I almost expected to see Emi out here, but running alone gives me time to focus and clear my head. My run is spastic at best, as I seem to increase my pace every time I get angry. Im soon dead tired, but have no motivation to stop what-so-ever. I begin to relish the pain, as it distracts me from everything else. My run finishes as the sun sets.
 
I shower quickly and throw myself into my bed. Im greeted by a soft crumpling sound. Shizune's note. I locate the page in my bed sheets and read it.
 
-"I'll be waiting"-
 
Is she crazy? I crumple the note into a ball and toss it aside, then fall asleep. Emi's wake up call jolts me out of bed. I pick up the phone and merely make a loud groaning sound into it. Emi's response is much harsher than I anticipate.
 
"Not today lazy. Get your ass up and run."
 
Sounds like she's in a shitty mood too. Perfect. I grab my gear and head for the track. Emi is obviously bothered by something, and our run is much quicker than normal today. She is silent the entire time, and has little care for the pace I'm trying to set. She speeds ahead without second thought and runs like a women possessed. As I finish my mile, I think Emi must have lapped me at least 3 times.
 
As we finish, I use this time to start up a chat.
 
"You have a shitty Sunday too?" I ask.
 
Emi makes a huffy face at me, but almost instantly relents. "Yeah, I did. Guy problems."
 
I can't help but feel a little empathy for Emi. "What happened?"
 
She lets out a sarcastic laugh. "My mother came to visit and we had dinner together with my boyfriend. He couldn't keep his eyes off her, and even propositioned her when I went to the bathroom. Creep."
 
I can't help but laugh a little. "What an asshole."
 
There is an awkward silence before I speak again. "So Emi, how well do you know Misha?"
 
Emi breaths out heavily. "I've known Misha since she started at Yamaku. I wouldn't call us good friends or anything, but she occasionally comes to me when she wants to talk or has problems. What's up?"
 
"What does Misha talk to you about?"
 
Emi smiles a bit. "Oh, the usual. Recently its been all about you though. I've been doing my best to spy on you for her."
 
This piques my curiosity. "She told you any secrets? Anything I should know?"
 
Emi scowls at me. "Hisao, you underestimate the sanctity of girl chats if you think I'm gonna give just gonna give up all of her secrets."
 
She has a point. "Fair enough. Can I ask what Misha says about me?"
 
Emi laughs. "Oh, she just keeps coming to me for relationship advice. How should I act, what should I wear, all that kinda stuff. She's trying really hard to impress you, ya know."
 
I don't know how I should take that last part. I thank Emi and head back to my room. Before I even get out of the shower, I have made up my mind. Im skipping classes today. Last place I need to be right now is next to both Misha and Shizune in a public place. I decide to call Misha after classes are out and resolve this issue then. For now, I pick out one of my unfinished library books and begin to read.
 
At lunch time, I receive a text message from Misha
 
"Hicchan, I hope your ok. Im sorry about yesterday, but I swear ill make it up to you. Call me!"
 
I decide not to respond, partly out of spite, and party because I have no idea how. Back to my book.
 
The sun sets on the horizon. I guess its time to finish this whole.... Thing, one way or another. I dress nicely, attempt to comb my hair, and generally try to look presentable. Don't ask me why, it just feels like in this situation I should. I pick up my phone, and debate calling Misha directly. I decide against that, and simply send her a text.
 
"Feeling better, meet me on the school roof in 15 minutes."
 
I haven't made it out of the dorms before I get Misha's reply.
 
"okay-dokey Hicchan."
 
She seems like she's back to her normal self today. Part of me is pissed off at this fact. I make my way to the roof and wait. Misha arrives several minutes later, carrying the pink picnic basket with her. As soon as she opens the door she greets me.
 
"There you are Hicchan! I was worried something bad happened to you. Look! I brought us drinks and a blanket to sit on."
 
She approaches me and embraces me in a hug. I don't hug back. Misha does not fail to notice this.
 
"Um Hicchan, are you ok?"
 
Might as well get started. "Misha. We need to talk. About us. About you."
 
This kills Misha's good mood.
 
"Oh." is the reply I get.
 
 She speaks again. "Do we have to Hicchan? Can't we just have a happy picnic up on the roof?"
 
I ignore that last part, despite how much it stings. "Misha, I need the truth tonight. No lying, no deflections, no running away. If you wont answer me tonight, its over between us."
 
Misha responds by removing the blanket from the basket and setting it haphazardly on the ground, then taking a seat with her back against the chain fence. "Fine, Hicchan. I owe you that."
 
I don't feel like sitting. "Misha, is it true you confessed romantic feelings to Shizune?"
 
Misha visibly flinches as I say these words. She remains silent for quite some time, then speaks. "Yes."
 
The part of me that still had hope dies swiftly. I didn't think it was possible to feel more.. Empty than before. Guess I was wrong.
 
Misha looks up at me. "Yes, I love her. Yes, I let her know and she turned me down. I have been her loyal and platonic friend ever since, despite how much it hurt. Why do you care?"
 
I can't let her turn this around on me. I have to stay strong. "Is it true then you only dated me to hurt Shizune?"
 
Misha face contorts with rage briefly, then returns to its sullen state. "I guess Shizune finally told you, huh?"
 
The last restraint inside me breaks. Before I know what I'm doing, my foot reels back and strikes the picnic basket, sending the contents flying through the air.
 
I scream. No words, just guttural sound. Misha looks terrified.
 
It takes me several moments, but I eventually calm down. I simply turn my back on Misha and begin to walk towards the stairs. I hear Misha's voice from behind me.
 
"Hicchan! Wait! I..."
 
I don't let her finish.
 
"Don't ever fucking talk to me again."
 
I continue to the stairs, and leave Misha on the roof.
 
 
 
 
 
Part two- You can't always get what you want...
 
 
I slow to a walk. My chest hurts. I think I forgot to take my meds this morning. Maybe I should keep running and just die.
 
Emi's voice pulls me from my thoughts. "Don't overdo it man..."
 
I haven't exactly been friendly today, and Emi has been doing her best to be sympathetic. She walks to my left and offers me a supportive smile. I give her a token nod and finish our run at a reasonable pace.
 
As our run ends, Emi takes the opportunity to speak to me.
 
"So Hisao, what's up? You seem down in the dumps about something."
 
Might as well confide in her. Not like I have anyone else left. "Well I guess I sorta broke up with Misha last night."
 
Emi cocks an eyebrow. "You guess you sorta?"
 
I relent. "Ok, I did break up with her. Badly"
 
Emi grimaces a bit. "Im not gonna pry Hisao. Hope your day improves though. There are always more fish in the sea I guess."
 
She takes the opportunity to literally run away. Guess I just involved her in this more than she cares. I know she talks to Misha, so maybe she's going to get her side of it later. Maybe she knew about Misha the whole time. Oh well.
 
Shower, change, school. Im not mentally prepared to sit next to Misha all day, but I hope she isn't either. My plan was just to give her the cold shoulder until she gives up.
 
I open the classroom door and find Misha missing. Shizune notices me enter, and her expression immediately hardens.
 
Class progresses slowly. Twice Shizune attempts to pass me a note, but I simply glare at her. I eat lunch alone, and Im out of the class room the second the final bell rings. On the way to my room, my phone rings. Its Emi. That's a surprise. Can't act mad at her. Gotta keep what friends I have.
 
"What's up Emi?"
 
"Um, hey Hiaso. Rin and I are going out for drinks and stuff and well.. Three's a crowd. You wanna hang out with two lovely ladies tonight?"
 
I laugh a little at this. "Why not. I could use some different company. And Emi? Thanks."
 
"Well its not like you would go running with me if you hated me. We will pick you up at around 5. See ya."
 
Damn that feels good. To have friends. I mean, I still feel like shit. I've been toyed around with by the two people closest too me, my first and only girlfriend turns out to be a fake and I'm going to be forced to deal with that every day of school for the rest of the year. But I still have a friend who's looking out for me. Well two.. Despite him being a crazy idiot, I think if Kenji knew how bad I was feeling he would try to cheer me up. Not that I think whatever method he used would be helpful, but its the thought that counts.
 
Armed with the knowledge that my life isn't officially "over", I prepare for an entertaining evening. A knock on my door pulls my nose out of a book and I'm greeted by Emi and Rin. Well, Emi greets me, Rin just sorta stares at a location about a foot over my right shoulders.
 
I notice Emi has legs. Well, ok, I notice Emi has managed to hide the fact she is missing her legs very well. She appears to be wearing knee socks pulled over her prosthetics, and the effect is very convincing. This is the first time I have ever seen Emi dressed up. She is wearing sporty shorts with a comfortable top. I decide to take this opportunity to poke fun at her.
 
"Emi, I've never seen you in normal people clothes. People are gonna think your my little sister or something"
 
Emi responds by making her best "I'm pissed off" expression and stepping on my toes. Damn, those prosthetics must be made of lead, because I'm limping along side them for the next several minutes. Rin seems to have the opposite care for her appearance, wearing a t shirt with a button down shirt over it and blue jeans. Not the worst attire, but her entire wardrobe is hopelessly crumpled and has flecks of dried paint on some parts. Oh well, artists will be artists, I'm just glad for the company.
 
We leave the dorms and I strike up conversation once more. "So, um, what exactly is the plan? Where are we going?"
 
Emi wheels around. "Oh, we just planned to get something to drink at the Shanghai like we normally do."
 
Rin makes a confused face. "Emi, I've never been to the shanghai. You told me we were going to go out because Hisao was depressed and needed cheering up, and because I need to make new friends too and also bec..."
 
Emi cover's Rin's mouth with her hand. "Shows what I get for telling you the whole story."
 
Rin pulls her head free from Emi's clutches. "I like stories though. Especially ones about wizards. With dragons, and goblins. But not elves, elves are lame."
 
Emi simply looks defeated. "Is the shanghai ok with you?"
 
I shrug. Its not like I know better places. Emi takes this as a yes, and begins walking forward at a commanding pace with me and Rin in tow.
 
We make it to the cafe in record time. Being the gentleman I am, I move forward to open the doors for the ladies. Seconds before I can place my hand on the door knob, the door swings open.
 
Two girls stand in the doorway. The very same two girls I really didn't want to run into right now. I heavily consider slamming the door shut, then making a run for it.
 
Shizune begins to stare daggers at me. Misha begins looking at the floor as hard as she possibly can. I stand my ground.
 
Shizune, holding Misha by the shoulder, being to walk past. As they pass by me, Misha looks up at me and begins to speak.
 
"Hicchan I...." Is all she is able to get out before Shizune forcefully yanks Misha back to her side and begins to power walk away.
 
I turn and face Emi and Rin. "Sorry you had to see that."
 
Emi puts on a weak smile. Rin seems to be heavily interested in cloud. Im not sure if that's Rin pretending to not have been paying attention, or if she really was just staring at a cloud the whole time. Probably both.
 
Despite the mood killer, I open the door for both of the girls and we enter the Shanghai. We make way to a booth, and Rin speaks up.
 
"Who is on cup duty tonight?"
 
Almost immediately, Emi yells out "Not it!"
 
I blink. "Um, cup duty?"
 
Rin grins. "Yeah, cup duty. People think its impolite if I stick my feet on the table, so somebody's got to help me drink."
 
I look pleadingly to Emi. She grins at me .
 
"Sacred rules of "Not it" Hisao. Your up"
 
I think about debating the sanctity of "not it", but resign myself to my fate. I guess its a better way for me to get to know Rin, seeing as how Emi is trying to get to us to be friends.
 
Rin is.. Interesting. She obviously has quite the problem with communication, but I think she's just kinda weird that way. Everyone has their quirks, and she's not that bad from what I know of her. She did make me carry paint that one day, and seems to be one of the few level headed people in my life. I could have worse friends.
 
I speak up. "Fine fine, I give, I give. Just let me know what you two want and I'll order for us."
 
Rin turns to me and grins again. "Hisao your good with the ladies. Very smooth."
 
Im taken aback. "Huh?" is the only response I give.
 
Rin's grin widens. "Well I'm about to eat out of your hand, and its only the second time I've met you."
 
Emi bursts out into laugher, and Rin and I join her. Tonight might just be the distraction I need.
 
Emi and Rin order tea while I get a coffee. Rin also orders a small slice of cake, which Emi scowls at constantly. At one point, Rin insists that I try a bite, but the look I get from Emi sends shivers down my spine. With the food here, Emi takes the opportunity to strike up a more serious conversation.
 
"So Hisao, not to pry too much, but do you want to talk about what happened? Were all friends here, and I bet even Rin would be happy if your mood improved."
 
Rin interjects. "Not really, all the best art is done by people who are really depressed. Or on a lot of drugs."
 
I think I'm getting used to Rin, because this doesn't confuse me as much as it should. "Rin, I don't do art."
 
Rin blinks. "Oh yeah. Well don't do drugs either. Unless you want to."
 
Emi grasps control of the conversation "Anyways.... What happened?"
 
I don't really know what to say. "Its personal. Very personal."
 
Emi pouts. "Lame."
 
This causes me to smile a bit. "Its not lame. Its just personal. The type of personal that directly involves deep dark secrets people don't want getting out, and I'm too nice to spread across campus."
 
Emi perks up. "Secrets about Misha eh. You might be surprised Hisao, I might know a few myself."
 
I smile a bit. "Then nothing I say will surprise you. Can we talk about something else? Its still fresh."
 
Emi smiles again. "Ok well I wont press the issue. Can I ask one thing though? Is it over over, or you guys fighting?"
 
I chuckle a bit. "The last words I said to Misha were "I don't ever want to see you again." I think that means its over."
 
Emi frowns. "Harsh. Oh well, Its better to have loved and loss than never loved at all."
 
I can only weakly smile back at Emi. I hope that ends the part of the night were I have to talk about that. Hopefully the "moving on" part continues.
 
Emi rises from her seat. "Just got a text from my Mom. Im going to call her back outside. Be right back." She leaves the table and gives a subtle thumbs up to Rin. If Rin sees this, she makes no response.
 
Left alone with Rin, I realize I have nothing to really talk to her about. I don't think she's the type that really needs to be in conversation all the time, so I simply focus on enjoying my coffee. After what feels like several minutes, Rin speaks.
 
"So in case you didn't notice, Emi is trying to set us up. Like, dating sort of set up. I've never been on a date, so I guess you would be the one doing the setting, and I would be doing the up part."
 
I almost do a spit take. "Really? What makes you say that?"
 
Rin shrugs. "She told me."
 
"Oh" is my only response.
 
Rin smiles a bit. "Don't worry, Im not looking for love right now. I guess I could use more friends. Though its sucks your a dude."
 
This causes me to smile as well. "Yeah, I'm not looking for love right now either. Wait, why does it suck that I'm a dude?"
 
Rin stares at the plant again. "Well if you were a girl you could help me change and get ready in the morning like Emi does."
 
I laugh a bit. "I guess that's true. I can always carry more paint for you I guess."
 
Rin brightens up. "Oh yeah, you can! Of all the people who carried paint, you did it the best. Definitely the best. Emi kept on spilling. It was a disaster."
 
We both share a quick laugh. Emi returns shortly after. Time to pick on her.
 
"So Emi, when did you become little miss matchmaker?"
 
Emi puts on the face of mock anger and stares at Rin. "I can't trust you with anything!"
 
Rin eyes her back. "Nah, you really can't."
 
They both break into wide grins.
 
Emi looks to me. "So I guess that little plan didn't work. Oh well."
 
I mock a surprised look. "Nonsense. I have confessed my true love for Rin and she has accepted."
 
I look at Rin, seeing what her response will be. Defying my expectations, she picks right up on the joke.
 
"Hisao and I will be married come the end of the year."
 
Emi's face returns to one of mock anger. "You don't have to make fun of me for trying to help two friends at once, jeeze."
 
I smile at Emi. "Don't worry, its the thought that counts. Thanks again for looking out for me."
 
Emi blushes a little.  "It was a bad idea anyways, your clearly not over Misha yet. I thought you were such a cute couple too. I gave her so much good advice."
 
I flatline my expression. "Oh no, I'm totally over Misha."
 
Emi grins a bit. "That's exactly what people who ARNT over their ex's say."
 
I decide to change the conversation to art, and Rin joins in.
 
Our small talk continues as we finish up our drinks and eventually leave the cafe. On the walk back to Yamaku, my phone gets a text message. Its from Misha. I heavily debate ignoring it.
 
"Hicchan, please talk to me, one last time."
 
I don't even think before responding. I simply type back. "Why?"
 
I shove my phone into my pocket, smile as Emi unconvincingly, and continue the walk. I get another text shortly.
 
"There are things I want to say and apologies I need to make. Please Hicchan."
 
I begin to savagely type back a response. Emi looks in my direction.
 
"Who's texting ya?"
 
"Who do you think?" I continue to type. N-o-t-o-n-y-o-u-r-l-I-f-e-y-o-u-b-I-t
Suddenly, my phone is yanked from my hands as Emi glowers up at me. She looks at the history of texts, and begins typing her own message. I make a clumsy attempt to get my phone back, but Emi sprints away.
 
I can only shout. "What the hell do you think your doing Emi?"
 
She shouts "Making the correct choice for you."
 
She seems satisfied with what she wrote, and hands the phone back to me. I look at the texts. Emi has replied to Misha with. "Fine, meet me at the gates of Yamaku in 15"
 
I expected a lot worse, but I'm still pretty pissed at Emi. "What the hell is wrong with you? That's not cool, that's personal."
 
Emi scoffs. "Oh please Hisao, your acting like a baby. What's the worst that happens? You double break up forever?"
 
I frown at her. "You know I'm just not going to show up right?"
 
Emi cocks her head to her side. "Then ill steal your phone again and change the meeting place to your room. Just man up."
 
I continue to glower at her, but she's right. We make it to the gates of the school with a couple minutes to spare, and I say my goodbyes to the girls. Rin just nods, while Emi gives me two thumbs up and smiles. I really don't want to be here right now. I debate leaving, then smashing my phone.
 
I see a women emerge from the female dorms. Seconds later, Misha is standing several yards away from me.
 
I speak first. "Well?"
 
Misha already seems to be on the verge of tears. "Hicchan.. I'm sorry for everything. I really am."
 
I snap back. "That's really comforting to know that your sorry you jerked me around. Are we done?"
 
Misha breaks into sobs. "Its not like that Hicchan. Its... Not.."
 
I cock my head to the side. "Then what's it like Misha. Tell me."
 
Misha looks up at me. And speaks. "Hicchan, I l-l-l-......love You."
 
This takes me off guard. I recover quickly. "Bull shit."
 
Misha takes an awkward step towards me. "No, its not! I really do!"
 
I fire back. "You love Shizune. You USED me. Don't get confused."
 
Misha takes another step forward. "You came along, and you changed everything."
 
Another step.
 
"When you told me you liked me on the bus, I hadn't even considered you in that way before. I was pretty sure at that point I only liked girls, and I accepted only to make Shizune jealous. Im a terrible person, and you should hate me."
 
Another step.
 
"But Hicchan...  You liked me. You liked Misha!"
 
Another step.
 
"Hicchan, your the only person who has ever liked me as a both a friend as a women. Im loud, stupid, and annoying. I fell in love with Shizune because she was the first person who would even be my friend, and now she secretly hates me. But Hicchan, you liked me just for me."
 
Another step.
 
"Hicchan, I grew to love you. Nothing that happened between us was fake. I only wanted to be loved back."
 
Another step.
 
"I'm an idiot who ruins everything, and now everyone who is close to me hates me. I just wanted you to know the truth."
 
Misha is now almost face to face with me.
 
Misha's eyes lock with mine. Her face is one of determination.  
 
I reply to her. Softly. "Thank you for telling me the truth Misha."
 
I step forward and embrace her. Her body tenses with shock, then quickly returns the hug.  I step back.
 
"Hicchan.. Thank you for that. I'll be going now, don't worry about me and Shicchan, ill tell her...
 
She never finishes the sentence. I lean in forward and kiss her. Misha begins to cry again. Not really wanting to kiss someone who is bawling, I pull away. Misha speaks.
 
"Does this mean... "
 
I look at Misha. "I don't know if I can fully forgive you. But we can make this work. You and me."
 
Misha lunges at me and buries her head in my chest. She almost knocks me over with the force of her embrace. I allow her to vent herself into my chest for the next several minutes. Misha slowly recovers her composition, wiping the tears from her eyes. She smiles her biggest smile yet at me. I can't but help smiling back at her.
 
She leans in and kisses me on the cheek. "Hicchan.. Thank you. For everything."
 
Misha turns and skips back to her dorm.
 
I return to my room literally fall into my bed. I didn't know it was possible to feel so completely drained. Sleep takes me within minutes.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Part 3- But if you try sometimes, you just might find, you get what you need.
 
 
I make my way to the track with a smile on my face. It just feels like today is going to be a good day. Emi doesn't speak during our job, but she continuously gives me a knowing smile. I have a sneaking suspicion she saw what transpired last night.
 
I shower quickly and head to class. Outside our homeroom, I see Misha waiting by the door. As soon as she notices me, she perks up greets me.
 
"Hey Hicchan, how ya doing today?" She punctuates this with a smile.
 
"Pretty damn good. Who are ya waiting for?"
 
Misha laughs "Wahahaha~, for you silly." With that, she takes my arm in hers and pulls me into the classroom.
 
As soon as we enter Shizune looks up from her desk. Her eyes flick back and forth between us, causing her to then she glare at Misha. As we get closer to our desks, Shizune appears to have taken great interest in something happening outside the window. I guess I hadn't really thought about the effects of all this on their friendship.
 
Crap. Out of the frying pan, into the fire it seems. Looks like there is still a few things that need to be worked out after all. As the lessons begin, Misha begins signing as normal, but Shizune appears to be completely ignoring her. I wonder how much each of them know about what's going on with.. Everything. For the first time since this started, Im the most informed party. Oh well, time to play the mediator.
 
I nudge Misha. "Hey, lets eat lunch on the roof. With Shizune. To talk."
 
Misha takes this opportunity to ruefully look Shizune's way. After a couple of seconds, she lightens her expression and gives me a nod. One down, one to go. I tear out a piece of scrap paper and write a note to Shizune.
 
It reads. -"Shizune, come eat lunch with Misha and me on the roof."-
 
Shizune takes the note, reads it, then writes a quick reply on the back. She takes an opportunity to look daggers at Misha, then passes me the note back.
 
-"Fine, but your buying"-
 
I relay this information to Misha and she nods stocially. I think they both know that friendships hang on the line.
 
As the lunch bell rings, I try my best to hussle to the cafeteria. Despite my best efforts, I'm unable to beat the rush and have to settle for vending machine food. I hope they can kiss and make up over proceeded food.
 
I make it up to the roof and find the two girls sitting facing eachother, wordlessly glaring. Well its not like the atmosphere was exactly light to begin with. I set down the food and take a seat between them.
 
Shizune starts the discussion by rapidly slicing her hands through the air. Misha has the presence of mind to translate for me.
 
"So why are we here? So you can gloat some more?"
 
Misha looks somewhat shocked. "Wha? Shicchan I should be the one mad at you for what you did!"
 
Shizune signs again. "Hisao didn't seem to mind. Maybe you're just the better kisser."
 
Misha turns to me. "What is she talking about Hicchan?"
 
Oh crap, I didn't think Shizune would bring that up. Ever. I stammer nervously under Misha's glare. Shizune does not fail to notice this, and looks smugly at the two of us.
 
Oh well, might as well tell my side before things get out of hand.
 
"Misha, let me come clean here. I want you to translate this word for word too."
 
Misha's expression hardens. I hope she's not jumping to too many conclusions.
 
"Misha, two nights ago, I texted Shizune for advice. She came to my room, and told me about.... You."
 
I pause to look at Shizune, and wait for Misha to finish translating.
 
"Afterwards, Shizune tried to ... Comfort me."
 
Misha cocks her head to the side. "What do you mean comfort, Hicchan?"
 
I sigh. Looks like I wont be able to sugar coat any of this for her.
 
"Misha, she put herself on my lap, kissed me, and told me she wanted to be with me. She offered herself to me that night Misha."
 
Misha looks to the ground dejectedly. Shizune turns away, flustered. I don't think she anticipated me taking lead in this discussion.
 
Misha sighs. "Oh, I guess that's what happened."
 
Im shocked. "Wait no, Misha, nothing happened. I kicked her out of my room. And went to sleep."
 
Misha turns to Shizune, who stares me in the eyes. She begins to sign.
 
"Hisao is telling the truth."
 
Misha glares at Shizune, who seems to be lost in an internal debate.
 
Shizune signs once more.
 
"Well you came and got what you wanted to hear, so leave me alone now, I need to rebuild the student council."
 
I try to put this comfortingly as possible. "What are you talking about Shizune."
 
The irony of what I just did seems to go over Misha head. She signs my translation with obvious anger towards her friend. Hopefully Shizune noticed my expression.
 
She begins to sign back to us.
 
"I betrayed both of my friends in multiple ways. Misha looks about two seconds away from throwing me off this roof, and you turned me down Hisao. So just.. Leave me alone and let me at least try to make new friends."
 
Misha looks my way. She speaks, but doesn't translate.
 
"Hicchan... Can you forgive her?"
 
I simply nod. Misha's looks hardens. She stands and walks to Shizune.
 
There is a flash, and a loud smack rings out through the air. Misha's extended hand lingers in the air. Shizune simply looks shocked, and brings her hands to her face. A large red hand print remains behind.
 
Shizune stands slowly, mostly out of shock. Misha stares her in the eyes. Shizune raises her hands to begin to sign, but is interrupted by Misha, who throws herself forward and embraces Shizune in a bear hug.
 
Shizune looks confused at first, and almost recoils from Misha's hug. Once the situation sets in, her composition melts completely and she hugs Misha back. Tears begin to stream down her face and she begins to sob silently into Misha's shoulder.
 
I can only stare in wonder at this development. It seems their friendship is strong enough to overcome this after all.
 
Misha speaks up. "Hicchan, you should join us."
 
Can't argue with that. I walk towards them and throw my hands around both the girls. Looks like everything is gonna turn out okay for us. Its a flawed friendship, but it looks like its all going to work out.
 
The hug eventually breaks apart and we are left standing arms length apart. Shizune tidies herself up and smiles at both of us. I can't but help smiling back. She quickly signs. Misha laughs, officially clearing the atmosphere.
 
"Wahahahaha, Shicchan says she apologizes for everything, and that your the best council anyone could ask for."
 
Im pretty sure the double meaning goes over Misha's head, but I'm not about to point that out and ruin the mood. I return to class with Misha holding my hand, and Shizune walking besides her.
 
As school ends, we walk to the student council room together for the first time in what feels like an eternity. The work is dull, almost meaningless, and instills a nostalgic feeling in me. There isn't much conversation during our work. I think we are all afraid to accidentally break the mood.  Misha wishes me good night with a peck on the cheek, and Shizune gives me an uncharacteristic hug.
 
This prompts a raised eyebrow from Misha. When Shizune notices this, she begins to wave her hands defensively. Misha responds by letting loose another of her trademarked "wahahahaha"s and gives me another peck. The girls leave together to the dorms, and I head to my room for a well earned nights sleep.
 
A knock on my door wakes me. I debate ignoring it, glancing at the clock. Its 11pm. Then there is another knock, this time much harder. I swear to god I'm going kill Kenji for waking me up this late. I toss on a t-shirt and groggily make my way to the door.
 
I swing it wide open, fully expecting another paranoid rant about feminist dream control. Instead, I'm greeted by a nervous looking Misha. She's wearing a t-shirt that's about two sizes too big for her and sleeping pants. Im somewhat disappointed her sleeping attire isn't a bit sexier. Oh well. Misha begins to speaks timidly.
 
"Heya Hicchan... I just wanted to thank for you for today..... And last night." She pauses and looks around the hallway. "Um.. Can I come in for a moment? Im pretty sure they will expelled me if they catch me....."
 
I step aside and allow her into my room. She seems to be relieved significantly as she safely crosses the threshold. She pulls up my desk chair and plops down on it, beaming a smile at me. She looks me over with a critical eye.
 
"Um Hicchan, I can wait if you want to get dressed..."
 
This prompts me to take a look at my attire. I guess I didn't realize I was only wearing boxers and a dirty t-shirt. I get slightly flustered, then snap to my scenes.
 
"Sorry, you just woke me up and I expected it to be my neighbor and one of his crazy rants."
 
Misha shakes her head. "No, I...Im Fine Hicchan." She pauses for a moment, then lets loose a ear splitting laugh. "Wahahaha, Its not like I haven't seen you naked Hicchan. Wahahaha---"
 
Acting purely on reflex, I jump forward and place my hand over Misha's mouth, silencing her. I wait for any response noises, then whisper to Misha.
 
"Are you crazy? If you keep on being that loud your gonna to get us both caught for sure!"
 
Misha gasps, then nods her head in utmost seriousness. I remove my hand and sit back down. She speaks again, this time in a low whisper.
 
"Sorry Hicchan. Anyways, I just wanted to let you know in private how much everything you did today meant to me. Me and Shizune are still going to be rocky for a while, but your help saved our friendship. I can't thank you enough."
 
I can only chuckle at her softly for this. "Misha, you don't have to thank me. Shizune is my friend too, and your my girlfriend after all."
 
Misha blushes slightly at this. "Well Hicchan, I decided to get you a present. For helping. For... Everything."
 
A present? That's almost too adorable, even for Misha. I pipe up.
 
"Oh, thanks. Were is it?"
 
Misha giggles a bit. "Silly Hicchan, I snuck it in with me under my jammies. Close your eyes so you don't ruin the surprise!"
 
I shrug and comply. I hear some rustling from Misha's direction.
 
Suddenly, I feel a weight on the bed. Misha speaks, the origin of her voice right in front of me.
 
"Ok Hicchan, open your eyes!"
 
Im greeted by the sight of Misha straddling me. Her "jammies" lie discarded on the ground, leaving her in nothing but a bra and panties. Black, lacey, silk bra and panties. She leans forwards and whispers in my ear.
 
"Your present is..... Me."
 
I can't help but lean back in shock. I take a look at Misha's face, and it is one of playfully desire.
 
"Misha, are you sure about this? You don't have to do this."
 
In response to this, Misha narrows her eyes at me and gives me a scary look.
 
"Hicchan. Shut up."
 
She then leans forward and kisses me passionately, pushing me onto my back with the force of the embrace. She pushes her body into mine with need. I feel her breasts press up against my chest, and her legs entwine mine as she works her tongue in my mouth.
 
She breaks the kiss and gives me a wicked smile. "Feels like you like your present so far."
 
She punctuates this point my grabbing my clothed erection. She then gives it a soft flick, and dismounts me.  I can't help but stare at her body, silhouetted by the moon through the window to my room. I think I know how the great artists feel. I sit up on my bed and remove my shirt, tossing it randomly on the floor. I rise and stand next to Misha. She drapes her arms over my shoulders and kisses me gently on the neck.
 
My hands find their way down and begin teasing Misha's breasts. She begins to moan almost immediately, then whispers in my ear again.
 
"Hicchan, undress me."
 
If there was any doubt in my mind before, It vanishes completely. I break from the embrace, and position myself behind Misha. I am determined this time to beat the infernal contraption that holds her bra together. When Misha realizes why I have moved, she giggles. This time I have much better results, managing to remove the clasp. Misha turns around lowers her arms, letting the bra slide completely from her body.
 
The sight of her exposed breasts takes me breath away. This is the second time I have seen Misha topless, but I don't think I will ever stop being amazed. She is perfect. I begin to move to embrace Misha again, but she playfully puts out a hand and stops me.
 
"Hicchan, Im not naked yet."
 
I gulp audibly, causing Misha to giggle yet again. She puts a gentle hand on my shoulder and pushes me to my knees in front of her. I think the penitent position suits my current mindset, since I'm pretty close to thanking every deity I can think of. I place both my hands on Misha's hips, and my fingers find their way under the elastic of her panties. I look into her eyes for confirmation, and Misha gives me a quick nod.
 
I slide her panties down her perfect thighs, eventually causing them to fall to the floor. The sight in front of me takes my breath away. Misha's hand snaps me out of my rapture, her hand finding its way under my chin and tugging slightly upwards, attempting to get me to stand.
 
I ignore this command, only to lean forward. I don't think Misha saw this coming. I begin to kiss and suck every part of Misha's exposed anatomy I can get my mouth around. Misha even takes a step backwards, but I follow. I run my hands up her body, causing her to almost convulse. Between her gasps for breath, she speaks.
 
"Hicchan... You don't..Have... To.... oohh god..."
 
Her hand reaches out and find my desk chair. As she positions it behind her, I teasingly give her stomach a shove, causing her to go into a sitting position. Misha's race is flush and redder than I imagined possible. I close the distance between us again, and resume my work, this time having much better access.
 
Licking, sucking, I try everything everywhere, gauging Misha's reactions and repeating the actions that elicit the best results. She squirms in my chair as I eat her out. Her hands even find their way into my hair, forcing my face closer to her as I work.
 
Misha suddenly orgasms, moaning heavily as the convulses under my tongue. She then slumps in my chair and gasps for breath. She speaks up after several seconds.
 
"That was amazing Hicchan. This is YOUR present. Not mine silly"
 
I chuckle. "Well I kinda owed you I guess."
 
Misha flashes a sultry smile my way.
 
"I guess so Hicchan. Now stand up for me."
 
I do as commanded, and Misha takes her turn to undress me. She wastes no time and puts her hand onto my erection and begins to stroke softly. She leans in and licks up and down my shaft between pumps, causing waves of pleasure to shoot up my body. Misha then removes her hand and takes me penis into her mouth, gradually taking more and more of the shaft with each pass. Suddenly, and what feels like much too quickly, Misha removes my member from her mouth and stands.
 
Wordlessly she takes my hand and walks towards the bed. She lies down on her back, and simply reaches out her hands as if inviting me in to hug her. I respond by leaning into her and planting a passionate kiss on her lips, and using a free hand to massage her breast. She wraps her hands around my back and whispers one final time.
 
"Hicchan, I'm ready."
 
With those words, I gradually push myself into Misha for the first time. She tenses up briefly, and lets lose a small yelp, causing me to stop. We lock eyes, and she simply nods for me to continue. I slowly continue to work forward, eventually resting fully inside her. Misha's face loses its small grimace and she grabs the back of my head and kisses me. I take this as a queue and begin to move. Slowly at first, but gradually building speed. Misha breaks out of the kiss to moan, but I find her lips and kiss her again.
 
This feeling is indescribable, but as I pump into Misha, I realize it has never been about the pleasure for me. This is Misha and I finally becoming one.
 
As if reading my mind, Misha's legs wrap themselves around my hips, and she begins to grip onto my bed like she's holding on for her life. Feeling myself building towards my orgasm, I begin to thrust deeper. Misha attempts to speak though her gasps of pleasure.
 
"Hicchan.. I'm.. Going.. To..."
 
This is all the motivation I need to go all out, and I begin to pump as fast as I possibly can. Misha's eyes almost roll back into her head, and she orgasms a second time. The stimulation from her contractions is too much, and it brings me over the edge. Thankfully I have the presence of mind to pull out before the act, cumming on Misha's stomach. I literally fall onto my bed next to Misha, and simply pant for breath. Misha eventually recovers, and rolls over onto my body, simply lying on top of me as we both catch out breath.
 
We are both too tired to say or do anything at this point, and I manage to work my bed sheets over our bodies as we fall asleep together.
 
My phone goes off and causes both of us to bolt awake. I groggily moan and make for my phone. Emi greets me like usual and demands my presence at the track. Being the last thing I really want to do right now, I start to make excuses. None of them seem to persuade Emi. Suddenly, Misha grabs the phone from my hand.
 
"Heya Emi. Hicchan isn't running today."
 
Emi apparently begins to speak, because Misha is listening to the phone intently. Suddenly, she blushes and answers Emi's unheard question.
 
"No, he didn't have any heart issues! That's none of your business!"
 
Misha then clicks the phone closed. She beams me a large smile. I can't but help laughing a little.
 
"Well Misha, I guess that little secret is out."
 
Misha shrugs. "Whatever Hicchan, I trust Emi. You should be in no condition to run today. I think you got a good workout anyways!"
 
She flashes me another smile. "Anyways, I need to head back to my dorms and get ready for school, so help me find my jammies."
 
I fake protest. "Aww, you sure you have to get dressed? Its such a nice day, lets stay in."
 
Misha sticks her tongue at me. "You wish, pervert."
 
We both share a quick laugh and I help Misha collect her things. Some time later she's waiting for me outside the men's dorms. As soon as I emerge, she grabs my hand and begins walking me to school.
 
Here we are, just the two of us. As we walk, I look over to Misha. She notices me stare, and beams a smile at me. I can't help but smile back.
 
Hand in hand, we open the doors to Yamaku, together.