Waaaaah~ I'm such a bad author! T_T It's been months since I've updated MAVP… Honto ni gomen… These months have been really busy for me… And when I say busy, I really mean it. Senior year really is taking a toll on me… Projects here, studies there… Sigh, I guess luck was not by my side, after all. Anyway, how are you, minna? Genki~? Oh well, here's the last part of Chapter 12. I hope you'll enjoy this! Gomen if it's a bit long… I did my best shortening it, honest! XD

Chapter 12: Of Bonds and Blood Thirsts [Part 3]

~Author~

Mikan looked totally distraught. How she was able to land into this kind of setup was a huge question mark for her. Sheesh, how did she become his partner, anyway? Oh, right... It was that stupid ghost leg lottery that decided whose partner is who. Mikan rubbed her temple. She's getting an awful headache thinking of her unluckiness. Nonoko saw this and approached her.

"Mikan-chan, are you okay?" she asked, concern evident in her voice. Mikan lightly nodded, "Yeah, I'm fine... It's just a little headache but nothing too bad!" Nonoko smiled at her but it suddenly disappeared, making the auburn-haired lady scrunch her face in confusion. "Is something the matter, Nonoko-chan? You look as though you're constipated," she said, worry etched on her pretty face. Nonoko looked up to her and smiled... awkwardly.

"Nothing's wrong, Mikan-chan... although the way you described my face was a bit... disturbing. Oh well, I was thinking of the cupcakes I left on the table... I was supposed to bring them today since I thought you would like them but turns out I forgot..." she said apologetically. The brunette gave her a smile.

"Don't worry, Nonoko-chan! I appreciate the fact that you wanted to give me those cupcakes but since you forgot them, it's okay! I brought blood tablets in case of emergency. Speaking of which... do you have water with you?"

Nonoko gave her a confused look as she tilted her head to one side.

"What's the water for, Mikan-chan?"

"Oh, it's for the blood tablets... I need water to dissolve the blood tablets..."

"Ah, I see... Wait a minute, I think Yuu bought one earlier. I'll go check."

The bluenette stood up and went to her blonde lover. She tapped him on the shoulder and when he looked up, she smiled at him.

"Ne, Yuu... do you still have the water with you? Mikan-chan needs it for her blood tablets."

Yuu glanced at the auburn-haired lady at the far end of the group and shifted his gaze to the lady in front of him.

"I think I still have... only that I already drank half of it. Would that still be okay?" he asked. Nonoko stared at him for about a minute — her thoughts drifting to what her beloved was concerned. The thought of having Mikan receive an indirect kiss from Yuu due to the water bottle made her flare in jealousy. Although she knows that the auburn-haired princess was too dense to realize what she was doing, Nonoko couldn't help but get jealous. Unnoticed by her, her bond mark with Yuu started appearing and the dirty blonde soon took notice of it.

"Nonoko… there's nothing to worry, okay?" he consoled her, pulling her into his arms and kissing her forehead. "Sigh, Mikan-chan wouldn't think like that, at all. That's why, there's no reason for you to be bothered. I understand where the possessiveness comes from but don't worry too much, ne? If you want, I can ask someone else for water."

The blue-haired girl looked up at him and said, "Sorry for being overprotective, Yuu… I just can't help it… Sorry for the trouble…" Yuu looked at her and smiled, "No worries. You can go back to Mikan-chan, if you want. I'll look for someone who brought water and I'll bring it over there."

Nonoko gave him a nod before leaving for Mikan. Upon standing up, Yuu turned to look over his girlfriend's side, just in time to see her apologize and the auburn-haired girl only laughing it off. He smiled at this and began to venture for his search. Ruka seemed to notice the dirty blonde looking for something.

"Iinchou, what are you looking for?" he asked. Yuu turned to look at him and smiled again, remembering that Ruka was Mikan's cousin.

"Ruka-kun, do you have water with you? Mikan-chan seems to be in need of it."

The blonde-haired prince tilted his head in wonder. Yuu chuckled in his mind, 'They're really related by blood…'

"Water? Why does she need it?"

"It's for her blood tablets."

As if by reflex, Ruka began searching through his bag for water.

'Dang it… I was sure I brought some earlier. Where did that bottle go? This is bad… Mikan may not look like it but I know, and I feel, she's nearing her limits. For someone like her who wasn't exposed to her fiancé long enough to have perfect control over her desires, it's a wonder that she managed through the week without needing Natsume's blood to satiate her needs. But why now…? Damn! Where's that water?!' he frantically thought as he rummaged the once neat bag of his. Then suddenly, he felt something nearing him and when he looked up, he came face to face with a water bottle.

"What the—!" he exclaimed. Unable to react immediately, Ruka's face was crushed by the heavy water bottle. Barely containing his anger, he turned around to look at the annihilator - just in time to see a certain raven -haired lady smirking at him, holding a Polaroid camera on her hand.

"Nice picture, bunny boy. Keep being like that and I'd be earning millions," Hotaru muttered as she kept on clicking on the button. Ruka sweat dropped at her actions and blushed when he realized his current state.

"Hotaru..! That's mean!" he said. Hotaru merely rolled her violet irises and uttered under her breath, "Just a sec, you sounded like Mikan back there... Anyway, give that to the idiot. You should know why she needs the water."

Ruka stared at her for a minute before nodding and walking off to Mikan.

"Mi-chan, here's the water. You needed some, right?" he said gently, sitting beside the brunette in the process. Mikan stared at her cousin before smiling and taking the bottle of water.

"Arigato ne, Ruka-pyon! How did you know I wanted some? Did Iinchou tell you? " she gaily asked. Ruka gave her a nod before replying, "Yeah, he did. Well, I didn't have any water so Hotaru gave me one for you."

After hearing what he said, Mikan's smile widened as she squealed, "Kyaaah~ I can't believe Hotaru cares for me like this... I feel so loved~" Ruka gazed at his cousin with gentleness only reserved for her. This was only one of those times that he could express, even by stealth, the love he once had for Mikan before he knew that the brunette was his cousin. True, it hurt him so much to learn that the first girl he ever laid his eyes on was someone he couldn't have—especially with his current predicament of having the girl's bestfriend as his fiancée and his own bestfriend as Mikan's fiancé.

"Of course, you're loved. Who said you weren't? Tell me and I'll send them to the depths of hell." The blonde chuckled when Mikan gaped at him in disbelief.

"Ruka-pyon...? Is that really you...?"

"Huh? Of course. Who else do you think?"

"Waaaah~ Ru-chan, you already know how to threaten~! A big 'Yay!' for you!"

Mikan put down the water bottle and glomped at the blonde as she laughed happily. Completely unprepared, he was unable to bear Mikan's weight - making them stumble on the ground together with Mikan on top of Ruka. The former continued to laugh gaily; completely unaware of the attention she was gaining. Everyone surrounding them turned their heads towards the source of laughter. Azure eyes widened upon the realization of their position and he couldn't help but let a small patch of crimson appear on his face. Mikan was still laughing and, since we all know that laughter can be very contagious, Ruka followed soon with a chuckle until everyone erupted into fits of laughter as well. Of course, two certain raven-haired vampires are an exception for the girl merely let out a small smile completely unnoticed by everyone and the lad smirked... though if looked closer, there was something else hidden behind those amethyst and crimson irises despite the amusement that was supposedly the only thing visible within their eyes.

~:~

After the scrumptious lunch, everyone gathered by the bus stop again. Excited chatters were heard within the group as they talked about where they were going to head with their partners. Ruka, who was standing beside Natsume, faced him and noticed him staring into space.

"Natsume?"

"..."

"Earth to Natsume...?"

"Hn."

"Oh, you're back. What are you thinking?"

Natsume turned to look at Ruka. He raised a perfect eyebrow.

"... what?"

The latter heaved a sigh.

"You're really spaced out. So, what were you thinking?"

The raven-haired lad stared at him for a good minute before answering.

"... You."

The blonde froze after hearing his bestfriend's answer. Stiffly, he veered towards the direction of the raven-haired lad, his jaws literally dropped.

"Natsume."

"What? I answered your question."

"Natsume. I don't swing that way. Sorry, bro."

A tick mark appeared on Natsume's temple as he glared menacingly towards his blue-eyed bestfriend. He repeated his words in his mind and immediately found out the source of Ruka's weirdness.

"Damn it, Ruka. I don't swing that way either. What I meant was your relationship with Polka."

Ruka tilted his head.

"My relationship with Mi-chan? Well, we're cousins, just as you already know."

"I know there's something more there, Ruka, so don't give me that crap."

Realizing what Natsume was implying, the blonde lowered his head and smiled painfully.

"So you've noticed... I thought I was able to hide it well, given the fact that I was able to conceal my feelings from Mi-chan herself," Ruka said quietly. Natsume turned away from him and spoke nonchalantly, "Just because the girl herself doesn't notice does not mean that those who are around you cannot discern the meaning your eyes uphold. There are those of us here who are more attentive than what you could consider. Especially those who have staked their claim on you."

Ruka's eyes widened. His gaze immediately shifted to another raven-haired vampire who was standing by Mikan's side and acting nonchalant. Turning again his head to Natsume, his eyes begged for permission and Natsume complied with a nod. The former quickly made his way towards Hotaru.

Just then, Sumire stepped out of the group, gaining their attention just as she wanted.

"Okay. So this is where we are supposed to split up and meet afterwards. I'll make a roll call of the pairs. First, I and Anna," Sumire spoke with an authoritative tone. Anna gaily raised her hand and went to Sumire's side.

"We're here~!"

"Nonoko and Kitsu."

"Here~" Nonoko.

"I'm here!" Kitsu.

"Iinchou and Idiot."

"We're here, Shouda-san."

"Sumi~ Why'd you call me Idiot? I'm your beloved Koko!"

Roll eyes. "'Cause you are one. Next, Imai and Ruka-sama."

"Here!"

"..."

"Imai?"

"Haha, she's here, Shouda-san. She's just, well, uh, busy."

Everyone turned to Hotaru... who was indeed busy eating her beloved crab roes (given by Ruka as 1/32 of his compensation for doing what he did back there). Everyone sweatdropped at her action. The person in focus merely gave them her trademark glare and spoke.

"What? Eating is much preferable than speaking. And I don't remember allowing you, Shouda, to call me by my last name. If you have forgotten then I'll refresh your mind with the fact that you are still under me."

"... but you didn't fuss about it last chapter."

Those who were in close proximity with the green-haired girl heard her annoyed mumble and let out giggles. Hotaru noticed this and turned to Sumire.

Glare. "You said something?"

"Oh, it was nothing, Imai-sama. Ummm... next is Mikan and Natsume-sama."

"..."

"..."

"... hey, let go of me! Permy's calling us! Hyuuga, my hair!"

"Then answer. I'm not holding your voice box to enable you to speak."

"Idiot! Your hands are heavy!"

Smirk. "'Tis not. You're just weak."

Ticked. "Weak..? Why you—!?"

Troubled by their banter, Sumire approached the bickering couple.

"Ano... Mikan? Natsume-sama?"

The two vampires in question turned to look at the annihilator and Sumire couldn't help but get ticked off by their display. Her beloved Natsume-sama has his right arm over the brunette shoulders while his left hand was messing with Mikan's auburn hair. The latter, whose face was currently painted scarlet, was trying to remove his hands on her hair. Natsume merely smirked at her futile attempts and ruffled her crown some more, only to elicit more angry grumbles from her.

"Arrrgh...! Hyuuga, stop that!"

"Hell no. This is fun."

Veins popped everywhere on Sumire's forehead while her green brows twitched in annoyance. No one is allowed to get that intimate with her Natsume-sama. Yes, no one, not even the Yukihira Vampire Heiress.

"Mikan... Get away from Natsume-sama..." The green-haired girl growled as she activated her ability Alice and attained her defensive stance. Mikan saw this and gulped. She tried hard to get Natsume off her but to no avail so she resorted to her last option - giving Natsume her very own poison - filled venom - laced death glare... which didn't really work since her mind betrayed her by flashing back the petting incident they had earlier in the morning.

"Permy~~~ You tell him to unhand me! I've been trying my best here!" The brunette whined as Natsume simpered devilishly while he continued his ministrations. Completely irritated, Hotaru stealthily took out her baka gun and fired it three times, hitting the three vampires who caused her ire.

BAKA! BAKA! BAKA!

"Shut up, you idiots. You're all annoying," Hotaru said, venom evident in her tone. Sumire and Mikan froze on the spot while Natsume merely stood there, glaring at his cousin. The violet - eyed heiress only gave them a cold gaze before putting away her baka gun into an imaginary dimension. Hotaru turned her irises towards her blonde fiancé and spoke in the same tone... only a little bit soft.

"Ruka."

The said boy approached her, a smile spread on his lips - the same smile that always managed to make Hotaru's heart flutter without her consent. Ruka went by her side and gently held her hand.

"What is it, Hotaru? Do you need something?" He asked ever so softly. The heiress beside him looked down to hide her blush, if ever it is present. In an annoyed voice, she muttered, "We're going." Ruka looked at her in surprise before nodding.

"Okay. Wherever you want to go."

And without a word, the two left - leaving the others gaping at their wake. Once everyone got out from their trance, Kitsu awkwardly spoke.

"So, uh, let's all split?"

~:~

After the somewhat maladroit episode, everyone separated into their own groups of two. Now, let me tell you of the current happenings.

With Anna and Sumire:

"Ugh… that idiot Koko… He'd better not do anything stupid or I swear, once I get my hands on him, I'll drain him of his blood and make sure that he never wakes up again," Sumire seethed under her breath as they marched towards the innermost part of Central Town where a new shopping centre was built a few days ago. Anna was at her side, sweat dropping at the green-haired girl's antics. Not wanting to garner the people's unwanted attention, the onyx-eyed vampire opted to pacifying Sumire with her words of assurance.

"Sumire, calm down... Don't worry; I'm sure Koko-kun wouldn't do that. He knows very well of the consequences of doing something against your liking. Besides, Yuu-kun is with him. I believe Yuu-kun would not let Koko-kun do anything 'stupid', as you say," Anna said. "Also, if I have to remind you, we are going to a shopping centre! I assume you don't want to get distracted right now… that is, unless you want to ditch me here and look for Koko-kun…"

That statement made Sumire turn her head abruptly towards Anna, a small and visible red tint present on her cheeks.

"H-Huh? W-Who said I was worried about that idiot? I just don't want him causing any ruckus and the likes. Yeah, that has to be it. It's not like he's important or something," she mumbled, almost incoherent if not for Anna being in close proximity with her. The latter gave a giggle and made sure to drawl her first word, "Sure… Whatever you say…" Sumire had her emerald eyes in slits after recognizing the underlying tease in her sentence. Before she could create a comeback, the bubblegum-haired girl squealed in excitement, obviously taken by the view in front of her. Sumire followed her and elicited the same sound. The two turned to look at each other and, as if in signal, they nodded their heads and, in the fastest pace their legs could bear, raced into the new shopping centre with one thought in mind.

"Limited edition makeup set, YOU'RE MINE!"

And as to what they saw that caused them to squeal, mind you, it wasn't the limited edition expensive and special makeup set. It was the add-ons that went along with it: Seraphim's diamond album I'm Alive that sold more than a million copies nationwide and was sold out a week after its release and a life-sized poster of Seraphim and Raven during her latest concert.

Now, who wouldn't want that?

With Nonoko and Kitsu:

"Nonoko-chan, say, what should I get for Anna?"

The said blue-haired girl, surprised by his sudden query, hastily turned towards Kitsu. Ever since they parted with the others, the two of them decided to just randomly walk around the Central Town and, at the last minute, go into the only chemistry laboratory to collect Nonoko's orders from the other day. The latter was busy looking around the shops for something that might perk her interest when the sudden assault of Kitsu came.

"Huh? What's with the sudden question?" she asked, curious as to where this was going to lead. Kitsu, who had his arms crossed behind his head whilst staring up at the clouds, deviated his attention to Nonoko and grinned before answering, "Well, it's almost our monthsary and I still don't have anything in mind for Anna. I'm aware that giving her something is not an obligation but I just felt like it's the only other way I could show her how much I appreciate everything she does for me. You know me, Nonoko-chan. I'm not particularly good at anything other than goofing around. And I don't want to upset Anna just because I can't be a proper boyfriend." His grin disappeared somewhere along the lines and was replaced by a sad smile. Seeing this, Nonoko couldn't help but get teary-eyed and by impulse, enveloped Kitsu in a sisterly embrace in delight; a wide smile plastered on her lips.

"Oh, Kitsu-kun! You don't know how lucky my sister is to have found you!" she gushed and let go of Kitsu. She twirled around happily. "Kitsu-kun, from what you are showing to me, I am sure that I am leaving my sister in the best hands. And no, you have a lot of good points. You could even ask Anna about it and I bet she'd be able to tell you stuff you haven't noticed on yourself. And please, don't say that you're not a proper boyfriend. Anyone who you are in relationship with would be so proud to have you as theirs. One particular reason is because you are so sweet~ Hehe, so let's go? We still have a present to look for!"

With Yuu and Koko:

"Oh, look at that guy~ He's so cute when he pouts~"

"Don't mind that! I'm more into that blonde boy with glasses… he looks so smart and reliable~"

"Do you think they're alone? I want to ask for their email addresses~"

"Maybe? They don't seem to have any companions… I'd like to have them as my date for the day! And maybe… lead to something MORE…"

"Eeewww… Akiko, keep your perverted thoughts to yourself. They might hear you!"

The two young lads in question sweat dropped at what they heard. Sure, this was not uncommon but for the girls to be so vulgar about them… That is just so unsightly for girls like them. The blonde-haired boy turned towards his friend who had been sulking ever since they parted with the others. Apparently, he was depressed because he wasn't paired with his girlfriend and what made him pout was the fact that Sumire was definitely having fun right now with Anna being a shopaholic like her while he was stuck with their class president. Don't get him wrong, he likes spending his time with his buddies and Yuu is his buddy but he can't help but crave for his Bonded's companionship. After all, they had a session just a few hours ago. It was only natural for the male of the pair to seek his girl.

Thus leads to the reason why Koko was pouting.

"Ano… Koko-kun, I'm sure you heard what they are saying so please…? You doing that somehow imply you being displeased with being with me. Do you wish to look for the others and just group up? I'd understand," Yuu spoke almost in sympathy. He, too, wanted to be with his girlfriend. But with the current setup, he can't do anything but comply since this was Sumire that they were talking about. Once she finds out that they had grouped with the others, incidentally or not, she would throw a fit. They've been classmates for so long for him to deem Sumire's capability of extracting punishment to those who defy her wishes—even if those wishes weren't really stated for the public to know.

The dirty blonde mind reader tersely spun his head towards Yuu and immediately launched into a close to incoherent blabber-like explanation of how sorry he was for behaving like that and that it was only because he had a session with Sumire earlier that he couldn't take her off his mind. He also went on saying that it was not as if he minded being with Yuu for the whole afternoon and that he'd be glad to make it up to him as to where they were to spend their time. Along his explanation, he accidentally blurted that he'd go anywhere so long as they don't end up staying inside the bookstore for hours with nothing but books and books and more books around. After hearing these, Yuu chuckled at his friend's state. He calmly put a hand on Koko's shoulder.

"Haha, calm down, Koko-kun. You didn't have to elucidate though… Anyway, I was planning on dropping by the bookstore to look for the book Nonoko has been talking since last—"

"—I knew it—!"

"But you don't seem to be with me in that decision and I didn't even ask for your opinion, so I figured out, just to let out some stress, why don't we go to the arcade? It's been a long time since I've went there. Perhaps you wouldn't mind going there?" Yuu offered, thankful that he managed to finish before Koko could cut him off again.

The blonde-haired glasses-wearing vampire glanced at his companion and saw the delight in his caramel irises. The boy's eyes were literally twinkling and you could definitely see stars in them.

"Iinchou~ Are you serious? We get to go in the arcade?" Koko asked in childlike excitement. Yuu gave him a nod and, as if on cue, Koko jumped in happiness. "Yay~ What are you waiting for, Iinchou? Let's go!" and he dragged Yuu into the nearest arcade centre they could find. The latter couldn't help but sweat drop at his friend's behavior.

'Oh well… I guess, I'll just have to drop by the bookstore after we're done in the arcade. But if everything gets too late, I'll just make it up to Nonoko,' were the class president's last thought before they entered the arcade.

With Hotaru and Ruka:

"…"

"…"

"…"

"… Hotaru? Where are we going?" Ruka asked after a few moments of silence. To be quite honest, he was also surprised by the way Hotaru called him earlier. Her voice was so soft... so un-Hotaru-ish. But being the only person given by Hotaru such an opportunity, he couldn't help but smile at the thought that maybe in some way or another, he was also special for the blackmailing girl. Meanwhile, Hotaru kept on walking in silence, purposely not paying any attention towards her fiancé. Of course, she has a place she wanted to go to. No way in hell would she let herself wander aimlessly - that would be wasting time and time is money for her, therefore it is precious.

Hotaru glanced at her boyfriend. He was following beside her with no complaints whatsoever. Uncharacteristically as it is, the purple - eyed vampire was the first to speak, breaking the silence between them.

"Ruka... You okay?" She asked cautiously. The said blonde lad abruptly turned towards his companion and gave her a questioning look. "What do you mean, Hotaru? I'm fine and all," he said, obviously confused as to why the girl suddenly asked for his wellbeing. Hotaru stopped walking and turned towards him, giving him a cold and serious gaze, which made him shiver. Ruka couldn't take his eyes off her and thus saw the abrupt change in her irises. From that cold and hard stare mellowing into something he couldn't quite describe himself. But one thing he knows is that it was the first time he saw Hotaru hold such an emotion.

"Hotaru...? What's the matter? Did I do something wrong again? Please tell me," he said, almost begging. The raven-haired vampire merely stared at him before looking away. She lowered her head and let out an inaudible sigh.

"Go figure it out."

After saying that, she began to walk away from Ruka. The latter stood unmoving after hearing those words. Somehow, he had a hunch as to what this was all about. Now, all he needed was a confirmation. Ruka sped towards Hotaru and gently grabbed her on the shoulders. He turned her towards him to face him and, for the first time in his whole life, saw the hurt, even if only a bit, evident on his Bonded's eyes.

Upon realization of the way things happened, Hotaru immediately masked those wretched emotions from her face and quickly reverted to her original state: the ice cold blackmailer that she was. "What are you doing, let me go," she coldly spoke. This would normally end in Ruka's defeat but things seem to not go the way they usually do. Ruka remained firm on his hold on Hotaru. He lifter her chin and made her look at him, his azure eyes doing all the talking. Knowing how much Hotaru doesn't like being in a public area, he led her to an alley and ensured that no one else was around.

Silence reigned between the two of them. Unable to bear it, Ruka spoke first.

"Are you willing to tell me now? Please answer me, Hotaru. Did I do something to upset you?" This time, pain was also clear within his azure orbs. Hotaru raised her head just in time to see him look at her with utter distress. Seeing this, she immediately turned away from him.

"... stop that."

Ruka was surprised at hearing her talk. But this was much better than her being silent.

"What do you mean, Hotaru? Stop what?"

"... that face. Stop using that face."

"... Huh?"

"It was the same as back then. When Hyuuga and Mikan were playing around. You looked at them with the same hurtful expression."

Azure eyes widened.

"You saw...? You noticed...?"

Hotaru scoffed. "What, you didn't think I would? I'm Hotaru Imai, in case you've forgotten. I know everything that happens around me. And that includes those feelings you suppress for Mikan. Don't think I don't know anything about that. You've been too obvious for your own good these past few days."

"... was I really? I didn't know... I seriously didn't know. I guess I was too much of an idiot. Am I the reason as to why you are acting like this?"

"... Of course not. Why should you be? It's not as if you're someone significant to me. My deadlines are upcoming and I had to put on hold all my projects because of this event."

Ruka knew. He knew exactly what she was thinking. And it isn't anything about her inventions. Without any hint of hesitation, Ruka walked towards her, the latter ever unmoving. Hotaru remained her stand on the ground.

"W-What the—"

... were the only words she managed to utter when Ruka stepped closer to her and pulled her into his arms. The raven-haired girl tried to struggle but to no avail because Ruka made sure that she'd have no way of escape.

"Hotaru... I would like you to know... I've been trying my best. I'm doing all that I can so that I'd forget all about my feelings for her. I don't know if you could see my efforts but ever since you came into my life, I've been trying. I want you to be the only one for me. I know that I can't do anything if there are still any small feelings for Mikan but in all honesty, I could say that you've already filled more than what Mikan used to have in my heart-well, if there is, anyway. So... forgive me?"

Hotaru, who had listened intently right from the beginning even if it wasn't her intention, didn't notice how Ruka managed to take a hold of her hand and intertwine their fingers together. The latter hugged her closer, as if afraid that she might anytime use her vampire force to escape his cage - which she might just do - and whispered into her ear.

"I can't say how much but I do admit that I've already fallen for you. Does that alone prove that you chose the right person to be with you forever?"

Hotaru didn't answer. To anyone, it might look as though she didn't care and never heard anything. But if one looks closer, you could see the myriad of emotions that were shown in her once icy cold violet irises. She was surprised, not that she'd ever admit that, when Ruka told her those words. Deep inside her, those words were actually the ones she has been waiting for. The words that would bring her the assurance and peace she had been wanting since all of these started. And this was the first time she felt great relief ever since this whole conversation began.

Ruka sensed great fear when his fiancée didn't mutter any single word. Was she not convinced? Was his honesty not good enough? All his thoughts came to a halt when he heard a chuckle. He looked at his companion in wonder and saw another surge of emotions from her eyes.

"Seriously, Ruka. Who knew you could be so cheesy?"

He laughed heartily. He knew. She was happy. Really happy. She appreciated his efforts.

"Well, can't I be cheesy to my girlfriend - slash - fiancée?"

"You can't. I don't want a boyfriend who doesn't know the borderline between being cheesy and being romantic."

"Aw, that hurts," Ruka clutched his shirt and feigned hurt. Hotaru merely rolled her eyes.

"Don't give me that, Ruka. Anyway," she pulled out from his embrace and held her hand towards him, "I want compensation. You're not going to get out of this situation without any fees, Ruka."

The latter pouted and laughed at the end.

"And the compensation is...?"

...

And they spent their whole afternoon with Ruka looking as though he was drained off his blood, holding bags and bags of lab equipments, with Hotaru having a satisfied look on her face.

With Mikan and Natsume:

"Waaaah ~ This is so awesome~" Mikan squealed as she looked around some more.

They were back at the town district and were again looking around thanks to a certain brunette who had managed to drag Natsume by the arm without the latter's knowledge.

Natsume glared at her.

"You do know we've been here before and yet you squeal at everything you see like an animal being set free for the first time. Pray tell, where have you been living all this time, Polka? The mountains?" The raven-haired lad asked with a hint of annoyance and a mocking tone in his voice. Mikan's moment was instantly put to a stop as she turned her head to give her companion her (epic) death glare.

"Well, sorry for being such an 'animal that has been set free for the first time'. It's not as if I was the one who chose to live at the Human World. If I were given the opportunity, I would have preferred to be living here rather than being the black sheep in a school full of humans," she snapped as she turned away from him.

'Ugh, the nerve of him to speak to us that way. How I would love to grab his beautiful head and smash it on the ground... hard.'

'Mika! We can't do that!'

'But why, mistress? He deserves it!'

'I know he does but we can't, okay? '

'Hmph. He should be thankful that his blood smells delightfully delicious.'

'Mika! I didn't say that was the reason!'

'Eeeehhhhhh...? That wasn't the reason? Other than that, I can't see any other valid reason as to why we should leave him be.'

'The reason is... is... Ugh, just because!'

Making up her mind, she steeled her resolve of pretending that the jerk beside her wasn't existing. They continued walking in that manner until-

"Congratulations, Ma'am and Sir! As the 100,000th costumer of our shop for this month, you are given the chance to draw from our prize lottery!"

The two vampires steered their attention towards the annihilator and stared at her as if she had grown three heads. Mikan, feeling the need to correct the shop personnel, tilted her head to one side and spoke in confusion.

"Ummm... we're only passing by, though..."

She only got a widened smile in response.

"Oh, we still consider you as our customer!" the shop personnel, whose name was Reya according to the name tag on her chest which Mikan noticed, energetically said.

Natsume rolled his eyes. "Well, that's just stupid," he muttered nonchalantly. Mikan must've heard it since she immediately nudged him by his ribs - which caused another death glare match between the two.

Before things could get hotter, Reya grabbed their attention by talking about the prizes of the winner.

"There are three possible prizes out of 30 balls for the winner. Each prize is represented by the color of the ball. Black means no wins. White represents key chains, pens, and others. Silver represents stuffed animal toys. And gold represents two premium tickets for the Central Town Amusement Park, which includes free ride-all-you-can and free food spree. Would you like to take a shot?"

At the mention of amusement park, Mikan left their battleground and immediately listened attentively. The raven-haired lad could only raise his eyebrows at her weird antics.

"Are those really the prizes?" The auburn-haired lady spoke with eagerness, her hazel eyes sparkling in childlike wonder. Reya merely offered her a smile.

"Oi, you're not seriously going to do such a stupid thing, are you?" Natsume spoke as he gave Mikan a 'Don't be ridiculous' look. The latter threw him a sharp glance before turning back to Reya who entertained her questions. Natsume couldn't help but roll his eyes. She couldn't be serious, could she?

But he was proven wrong when the next thing he knew, he was standing by the table where the lottery box was placed. He glared at the girl who had pushed him there.

"What do you think are you doing?" he hissed.

Mikan merely blinked innocently.

"Eh? What are you talking about, Natsume? Oh, how did you get here? Weren't you outside the store just now? I know! Maybe you wanted to try the lottery game! Go on, take one."

A vein twitched on Natsume's temple.

"Polka, I won't repeat what I just asked."

Mikan looked away guiltily. And feeling the intensity of Natsume's glare, she sighed and pouted.

"Well... Geez, okay, fine. I tried my luck with the lottery earlier... You know, while you were outside... and, well..."

Smirk. "You didn't win anything. I'm right, aren't I? Out of all the thirty balls, with 20 whites, five silvers and one gold, you got a black. Nothing less from you, Polka."

Pout. "Hey, that's rude! I did try my best, you know!"

"Yeah right. Like that would work in a game of luck. You really live up to your name, baka Polka."

"I'm not stupid, you jerk!" she finally exploded. Just then, another thought entered her mind. She smirked. "Hmph, maybe you're just afraid that I would know how unlucky you are when it comes to this kind of things. You could've just told me, you know, Natsume. Don't worry, I won't judge," she said, irritating the raven-haired.

Another vein popped on his forehead.

"Oh, are you trying to spite me, Polka?" he gritted his teeth in annoyance.

"And if I am?" she shot back.

"Then I won't bite it. Besides, you won't want to embarrass yourself any further."

"Oh, yeah?"

"Yup. Better give up, Polka. You'll never win in this argument."

"I will."

"Oh? And how are you supposed to do that?"

"Like this."

In a flash, Mikan grabbed Natsume's hand, applied some force to it, and pushed it all the way into the box hole. She was about to pull it back out but found that his hand was stuck. Mikan tried to pull it back once more when she finally gave up and glared at the owner.

"Mind pulling your hand out?" she asked, gritting her teeth in annoyance. The raven-haired lad remained firm as he gave the girl a glare with multiple intensity than the latter has.

"Oh, and you have the right to demand something like that when you were the one who pushed it inside? Like I'd let you."

"Mou, Hyuuga! Just pull it out already and let me see what you got!"

"Nuh-uh. Never."

"Hyuuga!"

"Nope. That won't cut it. Anymore of this and I'll burn this box. And no, this is not a threat; it's a promise."

"Hyuuga, no! Don't!"

"Make me."

Mikan couldn't believe it. He's being mean. She knew right there and then that he would do what he wants regardless the circumstances. And it doesn't matter if he has to burn this entire shop if need be. The hazel-eyed vampire heiress began to think of ways to make him give in. She's not entirely sure if her 'Puppy Eyes" technique would work, considering how stone-hearted Natsume is. Glaring at him can't be an option seeing he can rival hers, with more intensity at that.

Just then, an idea popped in her mind. Why didn't she think of that? Of course, she has one more trick up her sleeves! Giving a wicked glance to the ruby-eyed lad beside her, she began to plan out her scheme. Surely, he didn't think she would be using such a stunt to make him follow her wishes.

Oh, no. It would never enter his mind. After all, he deems her an idiot.

Smirking at herself, she finalized her plan.

She looked up to her prey and gave him an evil smile.

"Oh, I will."

~:~

"Damn you to hell and back, Yukihira. I'll get my revenge, just you wait," a voice filled with venom spoke towards the girl walking by his side, holding two tickets for the amusement park. The latter turned to him, a wide grin playing on her lips as she blinked innocently.

"What are you talking about, Hyuuga? I don't remember doing something that would evoke such heavy feelings from you. But really, what kind of luck do you have for you to get the gold ball in just one try? Aw, I envy you so much, Hyuuga. But, oh well, there are two tickets, so let's just share, ne?" Mikan said, sweetness dripping in her voice.

"Those are my tickets, idiot. It was my hand that you used to get the ball. So basically, those are mine. Need I repeat myself?" he said.

"No need, Hyuuga. But, you see, it was my name that was written in the shop's records… Now, we can't have you saying that the tickets were still yours now, can we?" she replied in a teasing tone. Oh, she was so enjoying this. But before Natsume can make a remark, he heard her squeal in delight.

"Oh look! There's the amusement park! Hyuuga, let's go!" Mikan exclaimed in excitement.

And without as much as a sign of compliance from her companion, she dragged him with her to the entrance of the park, submitting the tickets to the attendant and had themselves stamped with a special park insignia, which indicates that they have special privileges, on the backs of their right hands.

In a matter of seconds, they were already inside the amusement park - ready to try all the rides to their hearts' content. Well, except for a certain raven-haired, ruby-eyed vampire heir who had been glowering at the hazel-eyed girl ever since they got out of the shop after the... unsightly mishap which involved memories that must never be reminisced at all times. Never had he been in such a disconcerting position. And he swears, the day will not end without him giving her the punishment she so definitely deserves. Nobody messes with Natsume Hyuuga and gets away with it.

Natsume smirked devilishly. Oh, he already knows what punishment she is going to get. And she has no right to go against his wishes seeing as she was the one who started it all. Oh no, nothing will stop him from attaining his desires; the only thing that kept on haunting him every night since she arrived. The one thing he can't wait to put his hands - no, rather, his fangs - on.

Natsume licked his lips as he gazed at her neck. So luscious, so soft. What would it feel like if he finally sinks his fangs on that wonderful neck of hers? Hell, he can put everything on the line that her blood is the most delicious and exquisite of all. Natsume knew that his eyes were glowing a brighter red - alarming him that any more of this and he would pounce the girl in front of him with no qualms as to where they are and who can see.

Natsume closed his eyes and breathed deeply. This is bad; her scent is the only thing invading his nostrils. 'Control yourself, Natsume. Now is not the right time. Later - you will have her later,' he reminded himself.

"—ga! Hyuuga! Hey, are you listening to me? I said we're here," Mikan spoke as she waved a hand in front of Natsume's face to get his attention. Seriously, she had been blabbering about all the marvelous rides that they can try and the mouthwatering food that are waiting for them and he wasn't even listening. Geez, she wasted a lot of words for him and he doesn't even try to repent.

Natsume turned towards Mikan, a perfect eyebrow rising in annoyance. "What do you want, Polka? So annoying," he grumbled. Mikan rolled her eyes at him, "Whatever, jerk. Come on, let's try the rides! And I won't be taking a 'No' from you!"

~:~

The whole afternoon went like a blur for the two royal vampires. Mostly because Mikan kept dragging Natsume here and there to try all sorts of things. Of course, Natsume was being particularly mean and would not let the girl have her way each and every time… which is how they managed to end up in a horror house and riding the all the various bloodcurdling and spine-chilling rides such as the roller coaster. As an amusement park ride shaped into extreme peaks and troughs and sharp bends, Mikan might have found it extremely enjoyable.

Not.

She'll never ride it again. No way; not even if it kills her.

Losing her favorite hair ties is nothing sort of a payment in exchange of the cost of riding that cursed ride again.

And don't even remind her of how she lost against Natsume in a game of darts and as penalty, she had to eat a box of eight super-spicy takoyaki. She'll never live it down if someone else knew of that humiliating episode.

So, after all the amusing happenings they had during the entire afternoon, they're finally at their last ride before they meet up with the others: the Ferris wheel.

After showing their stamps, Natsume and Mikan were guided towards an empty car where they took a seat opposite from each other. The operator bid them a good ride before closing the door and turning the machine on.

Mikan sighed. As much as she enjoyed playing around the park and tasting the scrumptious foods offered to them, bad memories involving the person in front of her stirred in her mind. Goodness gracious, she can't even remember how he managed to manipulate her into agreeing to his terms.

"What's with the sigh, Polka? Did you not enjoy your afternoon?" Natsume asked, a nasty smirk playing on his lips.

"I was hoping I would but with you in the package, you definitely ruined my supposedly pleasant day. What, you're taking revenge for the mishap at the shop? Then you better be satisfied for all the humiliations you caused me. Trust me, it was never amusing in my part," Mikan replied in irritation.

"Oh? You're irritated from just all of that? That's nowhere near what I have undergone because of your stupid ability alice. And as for the revenge, too bad that wasn't what happened this afternoon. That was just me taking advantage of the situation."

"Why you—?! You jerk!"

"Whatever you say, Polka. Speaking of revenge, I think it's about time for me to exact the punishment I've been planning all throughout the afternoon."

Those words stole her attention. What, he was serious? Mikan laughed nervously.

"N-Ne, Hyuuga… You're joking, right? I mean, you can't be possible serious about the 'exacting punishment', right?"

"And when have I been joking, Polka? I'd never jest."

"Hehe, stop that, Hyuuga. I give up, okay?" she tried to make amendments, only to fail as Natsume leaned closer to her. She did her best to push herself to her seat but to no avail. Seeing her failed efforts, Natsume decided to stop her ministrations by taking her hand and pulling her to him, making them fall on the floor as the car shook slightly from their movements.

Natsume slid an arm around her tiny waist as he took hold of her other arm with his free hand, rendering her immobile as he leaned on the car door with Mikan between his legs and her back leaning on his front. The former was squirming her way out in hopes of getting away from Natsume but only gave up when she felt his hold tighten around her, his head leaning on her left shoulder. He breathed in her scent, making her shiver from the sensation.

"H-H-Hyuuga… w-w-what a-are y-you d-doing…?" she asked, her tension-filled voice quivering from the sudden contact. Natsume smirked; he can feel the girl radiating apprehension – and he is the cause of it. 'Good… this is only the prologue… I'm just about to start,' Natsume thought as he glanced at the brunette's face. Her cheeks were stained by a cherry-like color much to his amusement.

"Just as you see, Polka. I'm taking my revenge," he answered, inhaling her scent some more.

"By encaging me? What merit would that do for you?" she asked.

Natsume lifted his head from her shoulder and neared his lips to her ear. "Merit? A lot, actually. With you in this position, I can do anything I want with you. And you'll never be able to fight back."

"Just what are you planning to do with me?"

"That's for you to find out." … were his last words before he gave a tentative lick on the brunette's ear. She must have been sensitive on that particular area for she shuddered under his touch the moment his tongue landed on it.

"H-Hyuuga, s-sto—"

"Natsume."

"… what?"

"Call me Natsume. There are a lot of Hyuugas in the world; I'm not the only one."

"… eh?"

"Baka Polka, you're so slow."

Natsume once again lowered his head to her shoulder but this time, he gave another tentative lick on the juncture between her neck and shoulder. 'Damn it… I haven't even pierced her skin and yet her scent is overpowering my senses… It's clouding my rationality,' Natsume thought as he buried his nose on the juncture. She just smells so good he can't help it; his crimson eyes taking in a brighter shade.

"Polka… If you don't want this, then say it. Blood doesn't taste delicious when the owner is forced to comply with the recipient's wishes," his crimson eyes lit ablaze as if to warn her of the next events. It took some time before she registered the statement and when she did, she answered hazily, "… what? What do you mean by that?"

"I meant what I said, Polka."

Uncertainly, she spoke, "Having you drink my blood… is that the punishment you were talking about?"

"… yes."

Hesitation and trepidation filled her being. It would be the first time someone expressed their want for her blood so blatantly to the point that they would do any means of having it. Before, those who showed desire for her blood would step back because of the fear her aura would inflict on the would-be attackers. And yet it didn't seem to be the same for the person behind her.

"Why?" was the only word that escaped her lips.

"You've been tempting me ever since you came. You treaded dangerous waters when you revealed who you really were. Need I explain how you got yourself in this situation?"

"… No need. I understand."

"…"

"Natsume…?"

"… what?"

"Since this is a special case and I can see that you really need it… I will let you."

That caught Natsume's attention.

"Polka, this isn't some game anymore."

"I know. The game ended right after my identity was revealed. Don't give me that look! I wouldn't be a royal vampire if I couldn't sense that from you of all people, especially if the inclination is too lucid for me not to see. Besides, your thoughts have been going haywire for a while now… it wouldn't be too presumptuous of me to assume that it was my causing. So, if this is the only way I can amend for the thing I did back at the shop, then so be it. I understand. It was my fault to begin with."

And with that, she closed her eyes, calmed herself and inclined her head to the right, baring the left part of her neck bare for him to feast on. Natsume's vampire side struggled to get out of its cage; the temptation is too much for him to resist – now that the brunette had given him consent to do as he wished.

Eyes focused on his prey, Natsume brushed off the remaining strands of auburn hair from her shoulders, noting the velvety softness they possess despite the occurrences, his eyes glowing brighter than before. Baring his fangs out, he neared the juncture. And with not as much as a sound, he pierced her smooth skin and tasted the first drop of blood from the being in his hold.

Richly delightful and pleasantly delectable and delicious.

At the touch of his fangs, Mikan felt herself jump slightly from surprise. Mind you, it wasn't everyday someone would take her blood and she'd be willing to let them have more than a drop. And when those sharp ends finally penetrated her skin, she let out a gasp. She almost regretted her resolution; it was painful, yes, she admits that. But all of those thoughts receded when she felt a tender muscle soothe her discomfort by swirling around the area of focus in a manner so gentle it was uncharacteristic of the owner.

She sensed herself going limp when Natsume finally sucked her blood, noting how his arm tightened around her, pulling her as close as he could. 'So this is how it feels like…' were her last thoughts before letting her consciousness slip, bit by bit.

At the taste of her blood, Natsume almost let his beastly side conquer. How this girl managed to elicit such a reaction from him, he had no idea. She just tasted divine – like ambrosia, only that he, a vampire, is the one partaking it instead of the gods; he was certain such was illegal.

Though he wouldn't admit it to others than himself, Natsume can definitely say that her blood has registered itself in his list of favorites – albeit being short – and was rapidly climbing up its way to the top as he drank in more of her blood – one of which exceeded his expectations.

Feeling himself become satiated, he slowly drew himself from his trance and lifted his fangs from her neck, licking the trail of blood on the edge of his lips. Crimson orbs settled themselves on the marks left by his sharp-ended teeth before he lowered his head once more, tongue darting out and brushing on the wounds, reducing their size so that unless one is observant enough they would be unnoticeable.

Natsume looked up and waited for a reaction from Mikan but was rewarded with a soft hum from the brunette and a series of fairly-lapsed breathing. Shifting her gently to face him, he soon realized that Mikan had fallen unconscious for a while now.

Gathering her in his arms, a small smile made its way to Natsume's lips, him being oblivious to his action. He lifted her and placed her beside him on his seat, letting her head rest on his shoulder, moving her to a comfortable position. Glancing at the view from the window, he ascertained that they were nearing the ground.

His head lied on top of Mikan's, settling himself contently. Until they get off, he would let himself indulge in this momentary bliss.

In hopes that one day, it would become unending—perpetual.

~:~

Silk sheets entangled themselves to their owner as she turned to her side, auburn tresses spread on the covers as the crescent moon poured its light from the window to the only individual in the room, rendering her ethereal. One hazel eye opened – albeit sleep-induced – to assess the situation. Only then did she open the other when she realized that she was in her room. Sluggishly, Mikan got up and looked over the body mirror by her bedside—she was still in her casual clothes from today.

Walking towards her wardrobe, she pondered on how she got to her room. Maybe her friends had brought her here. Yeah, that just had to be it. Reaching for one of her nightgowns, she sauntered off to her bathroom, washed, and got changed. Once she was out, she headed towards her vanity table and sat down, taking her brush and brushing her hair slowly.

As she flipped her hair to her right shoulder, hazel eyes caught sight of the two glaring marks on the juncture between her left shoulder and neck. That was when all the events that afternoon flashed in her mind like a movie, reminding her of what had happened. She felt her cheeks grow hotter as she recalled their Ferris wheel episode.

Mikan raised her right hand and touched the bite marks, feeling them, her eyes never leaving them.

'Wait… this was supposed to be a punishment… and yet…' Mikan's eyes widened at the realization. She smiled, 'Maybe… he's not as heartless as I think he is.'

~:~

Crimson eyes remained glued on the ceiling as scenes from this afternoon's affair replayed in his mind. Her taste, it seems, was still in his mouth. He concluded that with the amount he had partaken, it would last him a week before his hunger strikes again.

Fighting the urge to check the brunette vampire, Natsume rolled to his side, messing the bed sheets as he moved, contemplating on what to do next. He knew he had to take a bath and change his clothes but he was feeling lazy and wanted nothing to do other than lie down and sleep. Steeling his resolve, he closed his eyes and slowly drifted to sleep.

… Only to be disturbed by his phone ringing. As much as he was tempted to burn the loud device, he can't. His ice of a cousin made it impossible for him as it was fire proof. Of course, everything from Hotaru Imai came with a price – and they were never cheap. Well, compared to the amount he'd have to pay every time he sets his phone on fire, it was measly.

Reaching for his phone, he unlocked it and checked the caller. Aoi. What the heck's wrong with her head for her to call at such an ungodly hour?

Natsume placed his phone by his ear.

"Ao—"

"Natsume-nii, I have info!" Aoi cut off her brother before he could give his greetings – well, not as if they were proper enough to be considered as greetings.

He rolled his eyes as he groaned, "Aoi, what the heck are you thinking calling me at this hour?" A giggle was his response. "I told you, I have info!" she replied with enthusiasm.

"Intel? Not interested," Natsume retorted dryly.

Aoi whined in annoyance.

"Onii-chan!"

"Hn. I'm going to sleep."

"Geez! This is about Seraphim!"

"…"

"…"

"… Seraphim?"

"Yup! And no, this is not a faux. I got this from a very reliable source."

"Whatever. Spit it out already."

Aoi giggled impishly. "Oh, wide awake now, are you?"

"Shut it," he snapped.

Pout. "Geez… okay, fine. I'll tell you."

"… what?"

Natsume almost dropped his phone at his sister's response. He didn't know if he should rejoice or what. His eyes closed, registering the information – digesting it and breaking it into small parts for him to fathom.

"Natsume-nii, Seraphim is a vampire."

~:~

Finally! Albeit being the longest chapter (9700+ words, people .) I've made, the last part is finished! Minna, how did you find the new update? Wah, I hope it made up for the lateness! _ Anyway, forgive me if the bite scene is not as extravagant as it should be (well, for me, it's enough ^_^). The lack must've been because the only vampire-related scenes that I have watched are from Vampire Knight and Owari no Seraph and those scenes aren't even enough to completely describe the feel. Perhaps the VK manga (don't know if Owari has one) has a lot of bite scenes but I never read the manga so… yurushite? Gomenasai for the long wait! I'll post the new chapter as soon as I finish writing it and if I have internet (I'm dying from lack of connection to the world T_T)!