"That's great. Thank you so much for this...Okay we'll see you then. Yes!" Natsumi cheered as soon as she hung up the phone. Her brother glanced up from the book he was reading and smiled.

"So they said yes?"

"Yup. Thanks for helping me Hiro. I wouldn't have known the routes to take without you telling me who to talk to."

"No problem. I'm sure Ryuu-san will be surprised." He said offhandedly as his eyes dropped back to the book in front of him. Natsumi felt her cheeks heating and hummed as she thought of what had happened the last time she saw him. The two hadn't gotten together again since that night, only sending the occasional text to check in. Tomorrow was Christmas Eve though so Natsumi was running out of time. Natsumi had wanted to spend the holiday with her best friend and kept attempting to invite him over. But each time she did she would get embarrassed and delete the message.

"Sumi, I think I'm fal-"

What had he been about to say!? Was it what she thought or had he really just been teasing her? She needed an answer, but was too afraid to bring it up and Ryuu apparently didn't care to discuss it either. He had made no mention of the other night, remaining his usual annoying self. Natsumi sighed as she closed the door to her room and walked over, flopping down on the bed. She closed her eyes and replayed that moment over in her mind for the thousandth time.

The way he had been holding her, the warmth of his breath tickling her...It was all still so vivid in her mind. She instantly felt her face heating and pulled a pillow to bury it in as she felt the same longing tighten in her chest. She would be lying if she said she wasn't disappointed that her mom had interrupted them. She felt like an idiot, but there was no point in trying to pretend otherwise now. She wanted Ryuu to kiss her and wondered how it would feel to have his lips on hers.

She groaned and pressed her red face further into the pillow when she heard a familiar ringtone fill her room. She peeked out from her pillow, slowly lifting herself up and grabbing for it. She swallowed and then after taking another steadying breath she flipped it open and answered.

"Ryuu?"

"Hey you." His voice caressed her ears and she was so glad he wasn't there to see her shiver, god she was so stupid.

"Hi. What's up? You don't usually call." She said, happy that at least her voice was the same. She heard him clear his throat as he hesitated to answer. That caused her brow to rise in curiosity as she could almost feel him grow nervous on the other side.

"Yeah...about that...don't hang up until I finish okay?" He said and she felt her heart skip, suddenly worried about his next words. He cleared his throat again and whispered,

"What are you doing tomorrow night?"

"What?" She asked confused. That had not been what she was expecting.

"Tomorrow night...I was hoping...well...there's this Christmas party that my father's company is hosting, but he's overseas on a trip. So, when he can't go...usually I do...but...um...I was hoping that this time...you'd go with me." He finished and as relief filled her at the fact that nothing was wrong, she also acknowledged that Ryuu was cute when he stumbled over his words. She felt herself smile again as she giggled.

"This is why you called? You could have just told me over text." She said and was happy when he chuckled too and could imagine him rubbing the back of his head.

"It would have been an essay...the other thing is that it's a formal party. So...you'd need to dress the part." He said and her calm heartbeat picked up again. So...if she went...she'd get to see Ryuu in a suit in person!? Wait! But then he'd see her in a dress!

"Uh...I don't know Ryuu...I'm not sure I would fit in." She mumbled and he laughed again and it surprised her at his obvious amusement.

"Of course not Sumi. Remember that's the best part about you. And also the reason I don't want to be there alone. I'd rather be with you." He said and Natsumi bit her lip, still not so sure about this.

"Sumi?" He asked and she groaned.

"I'm gonna have to say no. Ryuu, you can't think it'll be okay to show up with someone like me...Remember what you told me about the people in your world…" She said, a bit depressed as she vocalized the one thing that had been bothering her when it came to her feelings for Ryuu. They were still from two different circles after all. He sighed and his soft voice touched her heart.

"You're the only one in my world that matters though…"

The silence stretched as neither said anything after that. Natsumi shifted around awkwardly as she scrambled for a way to put things back the way they were before. But she couldn't think of a teasing comment to that. Ryuu sighed again and then chuckled.

"I didn't want to do it this way but...If you won't readily accept than I'll use that promised prize now." He said and she jumped, frowning.

"Huh?"

"Ah come on Sumi. Don't tell me you forgot about a certain bet we made." He teased and her frown deepened.

"I didn't make-"

"What do I get if I win?" He laughed and realization hit her. Field Day. He had asked her jokingly when he was heading for his race. She had responded with whatever he wanted, but he had never mentioned anything after that.

"Wait a minute Ryuu! That doesn't-"

"Don't try to worm out of it Sumi. You said 'whatever I want' so I'm collecting on that tomorrow." He laughed and she fumed further, trying to talk her way out of it.

"Sumi…" As it always did when he softly said her name like that, it made her quiet down and listen.

"Stop being so stubborn. I really want to spend Christmas Eve with you. I won't be able to unless you go to the party with me. Please Sumi." He said and she closed her eyes, falling back on the bed in defeat.

"Fine." She mumbled and could practically feel his smile through the phone.

"Great! It's a date then."

She shot up, but the line had already cut as he hung up. Her eyes widened as her hand trembled, still holding the silent phone to her ear. Why? Why did he have to say things like that so casually!? He wasn't making figuring out her thoughts and feelings any easier. She grumbled about him being an idiot when her mom slid open her bedroom door.

"Natsumi honey. This just arrived for you." She said and held out a long, white box tied with a pink ribbon. Natsumi tilted her head as she took the gift from her mom and sat it on her lap as she opened it. Something wrapped in tissue was nestled inside the package and a small white card was sitting in the center. She picked up the card first and sighed as she recognized the writing, even if he hadn't signed the card, she would know who it's from.

Because I knew you'd agree I had one of my staff pick this up for you ahead of time. I'll be there at seven. -Ryuu.

Natsumi moved the tissue aside and shook her head with a small smile. She really stood no chance against this guy. She was going to continue to fall for him, no matter how frustrating or annoying he was. She laughed and looked up at her mom, who was looking at the gift curiously.

"Hey mom. Can I ask you for a favor?"

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Ryuu walked up to the door like normal, but for some reason he felt more nervous than usual. It was worse than when he had finally forced himself to call her. He hadn't expected to feel that kind of elation at hearing her voice again. Lord knows how it was going to be to see her again after that night. What had gotten into him? He still didn't have an answer for that, but the things he had felt were still lingering in his mind. He could still feel her soft skin against the palm that had cupped her cheek.

After they had been interrupted; and he thanked Mom again for saving him from making an ass of himself, he had lain awake on the couch. For most of the night he had thought of how it had felt to hold Sumi so close in his arms. How right it had felt to have her surround his senses and to pull her even closer. In that moment of weakness he had almost revealed too much and had quickly tried to retract it.

However...there was no denying the truth any longer. What he had almost told her, was the same thing he had realized during that damn interview. Every question the woman had asked him had made him think of Sumi. Of how it felt to be with her, how she was starting to consume all his thoughts. It was when the reporter asked that question that it had finally dawned on him.

"What's the first thing you notice about the girls around you?"

'They're not Sumi.' When that thought had popped into his mind he had been struck cold with what that truly meant. Sumi was the only girl he noticed now because...

"I've fallen in love with her." He sighed and ran his hand through his hair, taking a calming breath so she wouldn't be able to tell that he wasn't himself. He rapped on the door a few times, having sent a text that he was heading up so she would be ready. He stepped back and put his hands in his pockets, feeling a sharp corner press into his palm.

When he heard the door open he turned to greet her, but his mouth just fell open with no words coming out. His heart tripled in speed as he took in the girl before him. Sumi...his Sumi...was more beautiful than he ever imagined she could be. The dress the maid had picked out was perfect and he made a mental note to give her a bonus. It was a soft pastel pink that hugged her slender body perfectly and fell gently to her knees. It's spaghetti straps left her shoulders and arms bare and he felt his hands itching to reach for her, but he held back.

The most surprising part of her tonight and what had caught him off guard was her hair. He had never realized that brown hair was so appealing before. She always had it up in a high ponytail, but tonight she let it fall to the middle of her back. It was curled slightly and one side was swept up with a lily hairpin. He felt his mouth dry as her bright eyes looked up at him nervously and she gave him a timid smile. For once in his life, Ryuu was at a loss for words. Sumi was absolutely glowing before him and he felt his feelings only grow stronger as he took her in.

He continued to stand there and stare until she shifted and averted her eyes, snapping him out of his thoughts. He shook his head gently and smiled down at her, genuinely happy that she had agreed to come with him.

"You look great Sumi." He whispered, startled at how hoarse his voice was. He cleared his throat and noticed how her cheeks brightened. She reached up and fiddled with a strand of hair nervously.

"I don't wear dresses often...I feel so weird...and Mom had to help me with my hair...I feel so out of place...everyone is going to stare at me." She mumbled and he chuckled as he reached out and grabbed the hand fidgeting with her hair, making her look up at him again.

"If they stare it'll be because they've never seen someone so beautiful before." He whispered and she sputtered, pulling her hand from his. She gave him a glare and snorted.

"Don't tease me right now Ryuu. It's your fault I'm so nervous, dragging me to a party like this." She mumbled and he chuckled, placing his hand on her elbow and pulling her after him.

"Sorry. You know I can't help but tease…" Even though he hadn't been.

"And I'll make it up to you. Just don't think about it too much Sumi. Enjoy tonight and nothing else matters." He said and was pleased when she settled down a bit and gave him one of her smiles. She nodded and followed him down to his car. He helped her in as she stumbled a little in the heels she was wearing. Strappy, white heels that made her feet look even smaller than usual.

"Sorry I didn't send shoes...but I couldn't just ask you what size you were." He mumbled and she laughed before giving him a strange look.

"Then how did you get the dress size right?"

He smirked and held up his finger to his lips, giving her a playful wink.

"That's going to remain my little secret for now." He laughed at the pout she made as they began to head for the venue. That did remind him though to thank Hiro later for giving him the information the other night.

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Natsumi's eyes widened as the car pulled up infront of a large hotel. She could see people walking up to the front and a mirage of flashing lights. She swallowed nervously as she realized that they were photographers for magazines and newspapers. She hadn't been expecting to see them and knew that people would instantly notice she was with the Ryuu Yoshida, the company president's son. She should have thought about this and fought him harder. A gentle hand on her shoulder jolted her from her thoughts and she glanced over at Ryuu who was giving her a reassuring smile.

"Relax Sumi...I'll be right there with you." He said and she could only nervously nod. He waited until the driver opened the door and got out before her. He turned back and held out his hand, that same smile on his face. The one that filled her heart with so much happiness, because only she saw it. She took a deep breath and then placed her hand in his, hearing the instant buzz as everyone realized someone else was stepping out with the young man they had been waiting for. She had to blink a few times as the camera flashes blinded her.

At her hesitation, Ryuu pulled her hand and wrapped it over his arm, keeping his other hand firmly on top of hers. She looked up to see that his eyes had never left her, the sight of his red eyes managed to calm her enough that they could start for the entrance. She was so thankful that she didn't stumble, but that could have been because Ryuu kept his hand over hers, offering his strength. She sighed in relief when they walked through the double doors and left the sea of reporters behind.

As she followed next to Ryuu she took the time to admire him once more. She had been even more shocked to see him dressed so formally than she had thought. No amount of mental preparation could have fully prepared her. He was incredibly handsome and it made her insides quiver nervously. The red dress shirt he wore made his orange hair stand out more and the crimson in his eyes more pronounced. The jacket he wore over it only showed how well he was built and how tall he was, making her feel so small, even in heels.

Ryuu led her through the hallway to a banquet hall that had been decorated for the large gathering. Natsumi gasped as she looked around the transformed room as it glittered before her eyes. It was a very large room with a high ceiling, large pane windows that led out to a terrace and spiral pillars lining either side of the hall. She looked out at the collection of guests and noted how their auras seemed so much more sophisticated than she was used to. She instinctively felt herself shrink back until the hand over hers gave her a small squeeze.

"Don't think about them Sumi. You're here as my personal guest...that makes you more important than anyone else in attendance." He said in a low voice so that only she could hear. She felt a semblance of peace at his words, but couldn't help the worry that still lingered. He led her further into the throng of people. It wasn't long before the two of them were approached by some of the guests, each wanting to greet Ryuu and speak of the company's prosperity. She stood silent as the people looked right over her and focused on Ryuu.

"Thank you for coming." Ryuu said politely and the men in suits surrounding them grinned brightly and began responding one by one.

"It is a pleasure. I was hoping to speak with your father this evening, but I'm sure you'll tell him how the night progressed."

"I will." Ryuu's clipped reply sounded irritated to Natsumi, but the other men didn't catch it.

"Young Yoshida, you are becoming the spitting image of your father. He has to be happy to have a son such as you. We are all looking forward to the day you begin your work for the company."

"Indeed. Having such a brilliant mind on staff will push our company even further in the near future."

"Then you can do the Yoshida name proud."

"I will do my best." Ryuu muttered and she felt the arm she held tense.

"Be sure to tell your father how we all look forward to another prosperous year with him and the company."

"It is all thanks to your father that we are celebrating another great year filled with profits and closed deals."

On and on it went. Endless praise as each hoped to get Ryuu to take notice of them and acknowledge their efforts. It was the saddest thing Natsumi saw and she started to understand the loneliness Ryuu came from better. The entire time Natsumi observed Ryuu and the composed way he handled each person that tried to drown him in praise. This was the Ryuu that the world saw most of the time. Polite smile and reserved answers were what they all received and it gave Natsumi a clue as to why Ryuu said he appreciated her honesty so much. It didn't take much to see that everyone was trying to get into Ryuu's good graces in order to gain favor with his father.

This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

When they were finally left alone for a few minutes Ryuu brought her a drink. It was in a tall flute and bubbled slightly. She raised a brow at the glass and Ryuu chuckled at the face she was making as he took a small sip of his own drink.

"Relax weirdo. It's cider." He teased and she huffed as she took a small drink, appreciating the way it cooled her parched throat. She looked up at him with narrowed eyes as he laughed once more, that teasing glint in his eyes.

"What were you thinking Sumi? That I would get you drunk and then record you acting strange and send it to people?"

"That's exactly what you would do." She grumbled and he placed his hand over his chest, pouting slightly at her.

"That hurts."

"Don't deny it." She laughed loudly and his smile widened. When she noticed the way he was looking at her she tilted her head curiously. He caught her by surprise when he suddenly lifted up his hand and cupped her cheek, stroking it softly with his thumb.

"There she is." He whispered, his eyes closing slightly as his gaze softened. She felt her cheeks heat at the contact, but didn't pull back as she felt trapped by his touch.

"Wh-Who?" She stuttered and his smile spread as he started to lean closer.

"There's my Sumi." He whispered as he moved even closer and she began to wonder if he was thinking of kissing her. But as before, she was left to wonder…

"Yoshida! I wondered where you had wandered off to. Oh! Who's the cutie?" A deep voice reached them and she heard Ryuu growl as he pulled back to face the person approaching them. Natsumi was shocked to see someone close to their own age, having expected it to be another employee of his father's. But this boy seemed different as he sauntered over with an air of confidence about him that none of the others possessed. His blue eyes sparkling as they took her in. His blonde hair was swept to the left side and covered the corner of his eye before curling behind his ear. Ryuu turned to face the new arrival and she thought she saw a tick at the corner of his eye.

"Taro...I didn't realize you would be here. I'll have to speak to my father's secretary about limited invitations." Ryuu said in a clipped tone and it only made her wondered who the boy was more. Taro laughed at Ryuu's serious tone and gave him a grin that resembled Ryuu's so much.

"That's not a nice way to greet your cousin now is it. Always so serious Ryuu really...Anyways, I'm more interested in your little friend here." He said shifting his eyes to her once more. Natsumi felt her cheeks heat more at the intense stare he was giving her and felt Ryuu stiffen next to her. He indicated his hand towards her and made the introductions.

"Taro, this is Natsumi Kimoto. Sumi, this is Taro Enomoto, my younger cousin." He said and Taro chuckled as he shook her hand briefly. His blue eyes seemed to be analysing her and she was reminded of her first encounter with Ryuu. The two were definitely related based on their calculating stares. Finally Taro smirked and nodded, as if approving.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Sumi-"

"Natsumi...and don't be so informal with her." Ryuu growled, but it only made Taro's eyes flash brighter with amusement. He gave his cousin a tilted glance and hummed in thought.

"I see no reason to be formal in this moment cousin. I'm sure your little friend wouldn't mind, right Sumi?" He asked, seemingly enjoying the way Ryuu was grinding his teeth. Before she could say anything she jumped as a warmth spread across her side. She felt her face glow as Ryuu used the hand on her waist to pull her closer to his side.

"Regardless Taro. I'm the only one allowed to call her Sumi...so don't try it again." He warned, the cold glint in his eyes surprising even Taro. Her heart flipped and began to race beyond reason as she felt strangely happy at his obvious possessiveness in the face of his cousin. It was foolish and probably wrong, but she took so much joy in the fact that he seemed to be stating some sort of claim on her. Taro chuckled and held up his hands in surrender.

"Alright, calm down Ryuu. I have no plans to chase what is obviously already taken…" He said and then smiled down at her again before fixing his blue eyes back on Ryuu, whose expression had not changed.

"Speaking of Miss Kimoto though...The ol' man wants to meet her." Taro said and Natsumi felt Ryuu tense beside her, the hand on her waist tightening slightly.

"He's here?" Ryuu asked and Taro nodded, smiling down at her as his eyes sparkled with mirth.

"He noticed the two of you arrive. And since you've never brought along a date, he's very curious. So he sent me over to bring you to him." Taro said and Ryuu snorted, applying pressure to the hand at her waist to steer her away from the other man.

"I'm not someone he can just summon on a whim. And Sumi is no concern of his, you can tell him I said that too." Ryuu said as he walked them away. Natsumi cast a glance over her shoulder, expecting Taro to be upset. But the guy was simply smiling after them and sent her a quick wink before moving off again. Then she turned to look up at Ryuu.

"Do you not get along with your cousin?" She asked and he jumped, glancing down at her and sighed.

"Not exactly. I have nothing personal against Taro, but our personalities are polar opposites so we don't blend well. He enjoys pushing my buttons and so I tend to avoid him." He explained and she hummed as she glanced around at the other guests before asking her next question.

"Who was he talking about wanting to meet me?"

"Nobody you should worry about...I didn't realize he would be here." Ryuu muttered, but didn't elaborate on that like he had with Taro. Natsumi didn't want to push him and put him in a bad mood so instead she smiled up at him brightly and teased,

"So are you planning on feeding me tonight or am I to starve?"

That did the trick and his easy smile returned as he nodded, taking her over to the buffet tables set up for the night. They ate a small dinner together at a table set in the far corner, only being interrupted a few times as they ate. Ryuu sighed and smiled over at her.

"See why I was so desperate for you to come tonight. I would have been going crazy at this point." He said and she giggled while nodding. She took a sip of her cider and looked around at everyone milling about the large room.

"I never realized how many people were involved with your father's company. It's amazing and scary at the same time." She said and thought of how she really didn't fit in with this crowd. She looked out over the people gathered their and the way they seemed to sparkle with a different aura. Was this the Ryuu she would never get close to? Her feelings for Ryuu were real, but how could she expect these people to accept someone like her. His hand covered hers suddenly and she swung back over to face him, seeing that he was looking at her closely.

"Don't do that…" He whispered as if reading her mind, making she jump.

"Do what?" She mumbled while trying to avoid his gaze.

"Don't start doubting things...I told you Sumi...You are the only one that matters." He said as his eyes dropped and she felt her throat dry as his eyes rested on her lips. His thumb began to gently stroke the top of her hand, sending shivers down her arm. She jumped up suddenly, rattling the table and mumbling about needing the bathroom. Ryuu chuckled and pointed her in the right direction, asking if she wanted him to wait over there with her.

"I'll be fine." She said quickly and briskly walked away, hiding her red face as she hid inside the restroom. She immediately went to the sink and turned on the cold water, splashing a bit on her cheeks. She leaned over the sink and took in a deep breath. This was starting to get harder and harder. Every nerve in her body was on overdrive around Ryuu and if things continued this way she would end up blurting out her feelings for him by the end of the night.

That was something she wasn't ready to do yet. Especially since there was still a chance that Ryuu was just being his usual self and didn't mean it the way she was interpreting. When she had calmed down again she turned off the tap and straightened her appearance. If she stayed hidden for too long Ryuu would worry. So she left the ladies room and began to walk back to him when a voice called out to her.

"Excuse me miss."

She turned to see an older man coming towards her. He was very tall and broad compared to other people she had met tonight and she swallowed nervously as she looked up at him. He was an older gentleman with grey hair and beard, but that didn't lessen the intimidating aura around him. He caught her off guard when he offered her a reassuring smile.

"Forgive me for calling out to you so suddenly, but I wanted to ask you something." He explained and she cast a nervous glance over her shoulder, praying that Ryuu would come help her. She heard the man chuckle and looked back up at him to see the smile had not left his face.

"Relax little one. I was just curious on how you know Ryuu Yoshida? The two of you have been together all night." He asked. She sighed and lowered her gaze again. She should have known this would be what he wanted to talk about with her.

"We go to the same school. Ry-Yoshida-san is my friend, so he invited me tonight." She said in a small voice and the man hummed in thought. When she expected him to start talking about Ryuu's father as everyone else had, the man surprised her.

"What do you think of Ryuu?"

She looked up startled to see the man was grinning down at her, his blue eyes sparkling slightly at her confusion. She opened her mouth and sputtered a bit.

"He's...He's very nice and...smart and…"

"Young one, I know all this already. What I want to know is how you see the man." He asked and she blinked as the question ran through her head again.

"Why would you want to know something like that?" She asked, voice laced with suspicion. He didn't take offense though and simply chuckled as he held out his hand, palm up towards her.

"Call it a personal investment in the boy. I'm just trying to gage what your involvement in his life will entail. Please don't take offense. I would appreciate an honest answer though." He said and against her better judgment she found herself relaxing around this man and trusting his word. So she thought of the question he had posed again. She lifted her hands up to her chest, lacing the fingers as her gaze lowered. She felt a small smile tug at her lips as all her true feelings for her best friend came to the surface.

"Ryuu is an amazing person once you get to know the real him. He puts out this cold exterior, but that's just what's expected of him. Underneath that is someone who wants to change the way people view him. His dreams are for the betterment of everyone and not for selfish desire. I look up to him greatly and hope that I can continue to support him in any way I can. Ryuu is a very important person to me." The last she said in a soft whisper. She jumped when a large hand fell on her shoulder, giving it a slight squeeze. She looked up to see the man beaming down at her.

"I couldn't be happier to know that someone cares so much about him. Just keep doing what you are Miss Kimoto and the two of you will have bright futures. Just make sure you keep that boy in line and don't let him talk himself out of what he wants." The man said and then moved off, joining the crowd. Natsumi blinked, completely stunned as she watched him go. It was only when he was already out of sight that she realized something.

"How did he know my name?"

"Sumi!"

She turned at the call to see an annoyed Ryuu walking towards her. He stopped when he was in front of her and frowned down at her. Then he surprised her by pulling her to him and wrapping his arms around her in a gentle hug.

"Geez you weirdo...Don't scare me like that. You were gone for so long I actually got worried." He mumbled and although she could hear the irritation in his voice, she was still pleased that he cared that much. He sighed and pulled back, smiling once again.

"There's going to be fireworks in a bit, come on." He said, taking her hand in his and pulling her after him. She looked around and noticed that people were heading for the open doors in order to watch the display from the terrace she had noted earlier. But Ryuu was pulling her in a different direction from everyone else.

"Um Ryuu...shouldn't we be going over there? Where are you going?" She asked and he grinned at her over his shoulder.

"That's a surprise Sumi." He said with his usual smirk and she rolled her eyes, but followed after him. He led them through another hallway and up a flight of stairs before coming to another set of french doors. He opened them to reveal a smaller balcony that was empty of people.

"You can still see the fireworks and it's less crowded." He said, pulling her out after him. Natsumi sighed as the night's cool air brushed against her skin and she took in a deep breath. Appreciating the crispness after being in a crowded room for so long. She went over to the railing and placed her hands on the cold stone as she looked out at the night sky.

"It's so pretty tonight. You don't usually see so many stars out. Oh!" She gasped as the first splash of color spread across the sky in front of her. The green fire was quickly followed by yellow and she found herself laughing as she watched the show, not realizing that she was being observed as well.

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Ryuu stood back from her, but off to the side so he could still see her profile. As the colors played across the sky and in her eyes he found his heart picking up again. It was like looking at a picture someone had seen before, but now it was surrounded by scenery that made it seem so much brighter. Her face glowed, and not just from the reflection of the fireworks. It was her radiating happiness that made her look so beautiful in that moment and Ryuu wondered if he could truly touch someone like her.

It had been playing through his mind ever since that night he almost told her he was in love with her. His world was cold and looked down upon people 'below' it. Although he didn't see her that way, he knew that drawing her into his realm was opening his Sumi up to being hurt. She was strong, but he felt a desire to protect her from any possibilities. So he began to wonder if it would be better to keep his feelings to himself. He would be happy just to have her by his side as she was now. It shouldn't be so hard to get this new feeling under control. He had practically perfected the art of hiding his emotions...until he met her.

"Ryuu! Come over here!" Her calling his name broke him out of his thoughts and he focused back on her. She was facing him again with her beaming smile shining brighter than the lights behind her. He felt his breath catch again as the colors outlined around her and he felt himself being drawn to her. He moved until he was standing next to her, one hand on the railing and the other in his pocket. He was so tempted to wrap it around her tiny waist again as he had around Taro.

He had done it without thinking, but afterwards had realized how nice it felt to hold her next to him. Making a small claim on her for others to see, even if he had no actual right to her. He looked up at the sky as they watched the show together, but found his gaze falling to her again. Finding her far more fascinating to watch than the exploding colors. Her eyes were shining in the night as they excitedly watched every moment of the display. He chuckled and pulled his hand out of his pocket, reaching out and grabbing a strand of her hair.

She looked over as his fingers grazed her bare back and her cheeks darkened when she realized he was looking at her. He held the strand in his hand, letting the silky texture tickle his palm. His eyes locked with hers, admiring the way they reflected different colors, but still managed to outshine each one. He gave her a bright smile, let go of her hair and reached into his pocket, grabbing the box nestled inside.

"I have something for you. I wasn't sure if I should wait until tomorrow." He said and pulled out the present. Her eyes widened when she saw the pink square in his hand, held out towards her. She reached up tentatively with both hands and then gave him a hesitant look.

"Can I open it now?"

"I wouldn't be giving it to you otherwise freak." He laughed and watched in anticipation as she untied the string and lifted the lid. Her small gasp made him smile as she reached in and pulled out the jeweled necklace. He had gotten it specially made with her in mind as he spoke with the jeweler. The strawberry was made out of a ruby, the green stem was emerald and the tiny seeds were diamonds. He wondered why he felt a little nervous as she continued to hold the necklace up, examining it closely. He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Well?" He mumbled and she blinked, seemingly coming out of her thoughts. Then she graced him with the widest smile he had ever seen, her eyes doubling in size as she held the gift over her heart.

"I love it! Oh Ryuu thank you!" She gave him a sudden hug, knocking him back slightly, but stepping back before he could hold her. She turned her back to him and tried to clasp the item around her neck. He reached out and brushed her hair aside, taking the two ends from her fingers and quickly latching it in place. Once the necklace was settled and centered she turned back to him. Her eyes closed as she smiled brightly and his own eyes widened in realization. Looking at her right now hit him in the gut and made him come to terms with just how much he loved her.

He could never be satisfied with just having her by his side, but not being able to touch her. He swallowed, moving before she opened her eyes again and he hesitated once more. One arm wrapped around her waist as the other slid along her cheek, tilting her face back. As his lips lightly pressed to hers he felt his body explode. They were even softer than he had imagined them to be. Kissing her felt like the final piece falling into place.

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Natsumi's eyes popped open in surprise as her heart suddenly stopped. Ryuu's warm lips held hers captive and her mind went blank as heat rushed through her. Soon she found her eyes sliding closed again and her fingers clung to his shirt, reveling in the sensation that flooded her. He pulled away slowly and the two opened their eyes at the same time, locking with one another again. She licked her lips, blushing as she could still feel the touch of his, and whispered,

"Ryuu...what...why did…" But her mind couldn't focus long enough to form a coherent sentence. She watched as Ryuu's eyes seemed to be searching for something in hers and her heart flipped as a slow smile spread across his face. He pulled her closer and pressed his forehead to hers as he chuckled lightly.

"I thought you were supposed to be the smart one Sumi...I've wanted to do that for awhile now...and to tell you…" He stopped as he pulled back so he could see her whole face once more. She was breathing rapidly now, waiting and hoping for the words to finally be said. Praying that he put her out of her misery. Her thoughts must have been apparent in her expression, because he chuckled again and reached up to brush her hair out of her eyes. His crimson orbs sucked her in until she was trapped, not that she was ever free when it came to him.

"I've fallen in love with you Sumi...I don't know exactly when, but it's the truth. I don't want to keep it a secret anymore...I love you and I want you to be a bigger part of my life than you already are." He whispered and she felt a sting in her eyes as tears began to form. Seeing them Ryuu reached up and brushed at the corner of her eye with his thumb, then he looked down at her intensely and she understood the question in his eyes. He was holding himself rigid and she giggled as she realized he was nervous, finding it extremely endearing. She leaned forward and rested her head against his chest as her hands slid back around his chest, hugging him to her.

"I love you Ryuu...I've been in love with you for awhile now, but never thought...never thought you would feel the same." She whispered and felt his chest move as he released the breath he had been holding, making her smile wider. He reached up and cupped her cheeks, forcing her to pull back and look up at him again. He was smiling at her and she had never seen such a soft light to his eyes as they held hers.

"I'll make sure you don't worry about that anymore. I told you once Sumi, you're stuck with me." He whispered before closing the distance between them and pressing his lips to hers once more. This time she was prepared and matched the pressure, returning the kiss. She felt so light in that moment, wrapped in his arms as the two shared several more light kisses. The fireworks completely forgotten as the two were absorbed in each other and their shared happiness.

They left the party hand in hand and Ryuu pulled her against him in the car as he took her home. He kept one arm wrapped around her waist and had her rest her head on his shoulder. She felt herself drifting off, floating in a euphoric bliss as his warmth surrounded her and he gently stroked her arm. He walked her up to the gate of her building and before she could head in he pulled her into his arms to steal another kiss. She giggled and pushed lightly against his chest.

"Goodnight Ryuu. Thanks for inviting me tonight. I had a great time."

"Of course you did. You were with me and I'm a pretty decent kisser." He said teasingly and she rolled her eyes at him, shaking her head.

"Before the balcony. It was interesting to see the other side of you for myself. But I like this Ryuu a bit better." She said with a laughing smile and he frowned playfully.

"Only a little? I think I can change that opinion rather quickly." He whispered as he swooped in and kissed her. She hummed happily, but had to pull back first.

"I should head up now...but...Can you come over tomorrow?" She asked and he raised a brow while smirking at her.

"Changed your opinion that fast, damn I'm good." He laughed and leaned back to avoid the swat she was going to give him. She gave him an annoyed look, but it only seemed to make him happier.

"You're so cute when you make that face Sumi. Probably why I tease you so much."

"I thought it was because you were so good at being a pain."

"And I thought you were heading up." He countered, still smiling. She pushed lightly against his chest.

"Maybe I would if someone let me go. Besides, you never answered me." She pouted and he chuckled.

"I'll come over. I was planning on it anyways, but now I have twice the reason to see you." He said, eyes sparkling when her cheeks heated again. She sighed, but smiled up at him still.

"Good. Because I still have to give you your Christmas present." She laughed and he surprised her when he pulled her into a tight hug and whispered in her ear.

"But I already got what I wanted for Christmas."