Chapter Four

It was already dark when Hanamiya and I came out of the theatre after the movie was finished. My eyes were still sore from crying and I was still feeling so sad. I mean, why did the hero has to die? He didn't deserve it. And it was a waste since he was major handsome and dreamy.

Freaking writers and directors be like serial killers!

I was still stuck in my thoughts when Hanamiya Makoto suddenly grabbed my hand and dragged me away again. "Let's go."

"Where to?" I tried keeping up with his pace since he was walking pretty fast. "It's getting late, Hanamiya. I should be getting home."

"I'll call your sister," he stopped walking then fished his phone out of his pocket using his other hand. "I'll tell her you'll be spending the night at my house."

What I heard made me drop my jaw real low. "What are you talking about? I am not going to your damn house."

He frowned, "Why not?"

I held back myself from exploding and remained calm, my voice restrained. "Because I have no business there. Now take me home."

"No," he smirked then pressed his phone on his ear. "Hello? This is Hanamiya Makoto. Nadeshiko-chan is spending the night at my place---"

"WHAT THE HELL, HANAMIYA MAKOTO!" I screamed, losing my control completely. I forcefully yanked my hand away then grabbed the phone from his hand. "Give me a break! I'm tired and hungry! I don't have time to play with you and your damn games!"

He gave me a blank look, blinking his eyes owlishly after a few seconds. Some people looked at me oddly too after hearing my sudden outburst.

Fudge!

I made a scene again---in the middle of the street this time.

I groaned, bowing my head to hide my stupid face. I was really having the will to die. It was mortifying!

"Hello? Hello? Makoto-kun? Nadeshiko? Hello?" I heard my sister's voice from the phone. I was just about to speak to her when Hanamiya took the mobile again, leaving me growling like a dog in infuriation.

What the hell is this guy up to?

"Yeah, I'll take care of her. Thanks, bye." He cut the call then put away his phone. He turned to me, giving me another one of his grins. "Chill, babe. We're just going to have dinner at home. And your sister says Hi by the way."

I gave him a weird look--as if he had grown real live horns above his head. He was not serious, was he? I had never been to his house, he never once brought me there. In fact, I didn't know anything about his family. But I heard they were rich and that they have a rather productive business.

"I can't go there, Hanamiya. I won't. I'm not your girlfriend anymore." I said as-a-matter-of-factly, stating a universal fact.

He looked like he had swallowed something nasty but then decided to speak. "Let's go. I already asked your sister's permission and she said it's okay since your parents are still out of town."

I facepalmed dramatically. He really wouldn't listen to me. "Look, that's not my point."

A car suddenly parked in front of us---his car. Then without another word, he opened the backseat for me. I groaned and reluctantly hopped in, knowing that my struggles and complaints were pointless. He closed the door to my side then turned to the other side. He opened the door then got in, sitting beside me.

The whole ride was silent and peaceful. But honestly, I was nervous as shit. It's going to be my first time visiting his house. I didn't know what to do. What are his parents like? What about his siblings? I bit my lower lip then internally cried tears of frustrating helplessness.

I just hoped I'd turn into dust, maybe I could get out of the web if I'd become as small as a dirt. I'd be damned but I was actually willing to turn into nothing just to escape Hanamiya Makoto's firm hold. My heart, body, and soul--he was playing with them in his hands. And I wouldn't fall for it. He couldn't hurt me again.

Never again..

***

A modern styled, two-storey mansion inside an exclusive subdivision---that's where he lives. Well, I wasn't that surprised anymore because I was already expecting it.

After stepping out of the car, we headed straight to the entrance of the house. Actually, he was literally dragging me because I was too timid to go inside. My nervousness was eating me out alive.

When a maid opened the door for us, the exquisiteness and elegance of the whole place was revealed in my sight.

Very impressive. Everything was well-maintained.

As we stepped inside, Hanamiya intertwined his hand to mine. And I let him because I needed something to hold on to.

"Your brother and sister are waiting for you in the table, Makoto-sama. Dinner is served."

Hanamiya didn't spare a word to the maid and instead, he pulled me even more closer to him. We walked through a hallway then to an opening. It was the dining area, I presumed. In front of the long table, there was a girl and a man who looked like in his late 20's---both of them were already eating. Their eyes immediately darted to us and when they saw me, they frowned.

I thickly gulped, squeezing Hanamiya's hand. Damnit! I wasn't even sure if I looked okay.

I am so gonna get you for this, Hanamiya Makoto!

"You're late," the man said before drinking from the wine glass he was holding.

Were they celebrating something? I just noticed it but there was actually a cake at the center of the table, along with the variety of high-class dishes.

"Sorry, I had a date. We watched a movie and we got caught up in traffic," he answered nervelessly before pulling a chair for me, across his sister--I guessed. I sat down and muttered my thanks, still nervous. Then he occupied the empty chair beside me.

"A date?" His sister asked then turned to me. "And you must be?"

"Her name's Harashi Nadeshiko. She's my girlfriend."

I quickly turned to Hanamiya, eyes widening a fraction. "I am?"

His sister raised a brow, obviously surprised. And by the way, she doesn't have thick brows--good for her. She's very beautiful with her dark hair and equally dark eyes. "Ah, so you're the one Makoto always talked to us about. So you're still together?"

I forced a smile and nodded my head, playing along with Hanamiya's lie. What she said kept on rewinding inside my head. So you're the one Makoto always talked to us about? What does that mean? Hanamiya actually mentioned me to his siblings?

"I'm Hanamiya Rina, Makoto's older sister." She gave me a sweet smile then turned to the other guy. "And he's our eldest, Hiro-nii."

I slightly bowed my head, "It's so nice to meet you."

"And you too," Hiro-san used a napkin to wipe the sides of his mouth before standing up. He's also quite goodlooking but he seemed rather scary. He appeared strict and meticulous to me. He turned to Hanamiya, "After you finish your meal, can you help me examine some important documents about the company? It will only be for a couple of minutes."

Hanamiya nodded, "Okay, no problem."

Without another word, his brother went away.

I pondered, wondering where were their parents? And what were they celebrating anyway?

"Sorry about that, Nadeshiko-chan. He's really like that all the time." Rina-san gave me an apologetic smile.

"N-No, it's okay. I'm sorry for suddenly coming here," I replied politely.

Actually, I didn't want to come. But your cute little brother forced me.

"I heard a lot of good things about you from Makoto." I nearly choked on my own spit, growing stiff because of what she said. "I'm happy I get to finally meet you in person before I fly back to Paris."

"P-Paris?" I asked, even more confused.

"Yeah, I study there. I only came home to celebrate my birthday."

An 'oh' formed my mouth then I smiled. So they were celebrating her birthday. "Happy Birthday."

"Thanks." She smiled back, drinking a few gulps of water from her glass then pushing her chair back to stand up. "I'll have to go ahead, I need to prepare some things. But enjoy the food, okay? And Makoto.." She looked at her brother, "..take care of her."

Hanamiya gave a small nod, "Of course. Happy Birthday, Nee-san."

She winked at us before walking away, leaving us alone in front of the wide table.

It somehow felt so lonely. It was a birthday party, but it lacked the essense of fun. At least they should spend more time together instead of choosing to be in their own businesses. Fighting the urge to sigh, I turned to Hanamiya who was maintaining a pokerface. The silence was somehow irksome.

He glanced at me when he noticed my stare, "If you're wondering where are my parents, they're always away on a business trip. I only get to see them at least once a month."

Okay, that's just sad.

I mean, they're okay with that? He's all okay with that? Hanamiya must be real lonely. Especially since her kind sister was studying in Paris and that meant he's left in the care of his scary brother.

"Here," he obliged to put some food on my plate. "Eat all of these. You've become thinner lately."

I puffed my cheeks, "I didn't lose weight."

He quirked a brow, "Yes you did. You're chubbier before, idiot."

I popped a few visible veins before proceeded on eating the food on my plate. I decided to ignore him - and his problem concerning my sexy body - since I knew it was pointless to argue with a stubborn person like him. Though I was wondering if I really had lost some weight? And how could he notice even the slightest change in my body?

Really, I didn't know what's up with him anymore..

***

"Wait for me here. I'll be back shortly." That was what Hanamiya said before leaving me alone in his room without even hearing my reply.

Right after eating, he dragged me to his room since he had to go to his older brother for matters regarding their business. I didn't have any other choice but just to patiently wait for him to come back.

I deeply exhaled then scanned my eyes around.

It was a pretty big room with black and blue motif. At the corner there was a mini library with lots and lots of books. His collection of books was amazing! Then there was a display of his countless awards and medals too. But oh well, he's a genius so it's not a shocker anymore.

I stalked towards his study table, seeing a few open books and some papers and pencils. There was also a picture frame beside his table lamp. But when I examined the photo, I gasped and nearly took a step back because of surprise.

I quickly took the frame and brought it closer to my face. I stared at the photo for a good minute, "When did he take this?"

It was me! A stolen shot of me talking to-- I didn't know, I couldn't even remember who I was talking to. How did he manage to take it? Why was he keeping it? Why was he keeping ugly pictures of me?

I let out a miserable groan. I didn't know what to think anymore. It was weird! Why was I suddenly discovering a lot of strange things about Hanamiya that I didn't know before? These things were bringing up memories---painful bittersweet memories. I was getting so confused. I was starting to feel like they were just lies, that the Hanamiya who hurt me back then was not really him. And that the truth lies inside of him: unfelt, unseen, unknown. He was hiding his true feelings.

I scoffed, "Ridiculous.."

I set the frame back down to the table, strode towards the bed and sat at the edge. I cupped my face hopelessly. Why was I thinking about our past? It's not like it's going to change. Thinking about it is like reading the same book over and over again and you already know how it ends---heartache, tears, and regret.

Yeah. So pull yourself together, Nadeshiko.

I took a deep breath. Stupid! I shouldn't even be inside Hanamiya's bedroom in the first place. I mean, it's just plainly unethical. Cursing myself, I scanned my eyes around again. But when my gaze fell to the bedside table, I furrowed my brows.

Yet another frame.

I reached out to take it, examining it thoroughly. It was us, along with the rest of the basketball team. I remembered this one, this was taken one year ago. Hanamiya and I were still together in here. A sudden smile curved up my lips as I saw everyone smiling at the camera---including me.

Hey, wait!

Hanamiya was-- he was looking at me with a soft smile. He was the only one who wasn't looking at the camera. I didn't have a copy of this picture and so I didn't know. My God! He was watching me.

"Because actually, I am always watching you."

Is this what he means? Did he really care about me? But I never felt it. He never showed me that he loved me---not even once. It was like, he was just toying around with me and my feelings. He would show his concern once in a while but it wasn't really that special. But really, when did he ever show any signs of concern to anybody? Never. Yeah, he wouldn't care.

I gasped and turned to the direction of the door when I heard it creak open then Hanamiya came in. I composed myself, still grasping the photo frame.

"I'm back." When he saw me holding his belonging, his thick eyebrows almost met. He looked a bit anxious and surprised at the same time.

"Why are you keeping pictures of me?" I returned the frame to it's rightful place.

He shrugged his shoulders, "Because I love seeing your face."

And poof, my face immediately heated up. I didn't know what to say.

He sat beside me then loosened up his tie impatiently. "You see, you always steal my breath whenever you smile."

Despite being awfully flustered, I managed to keep my cool and be sarcastic. "You're even a genius with words. Really impressive, Hanamiya Makoto."

"I'm telling the truth, Nadeshiko. I may be a jerk--"

"You're a DEVIL," I interrupted.

He smirked, shrugging his broad shoulders. "Okay. I may be a devil, but I fall in love too. Why won't you believe me?"

I pondered at his words then sighed, "Because I never felt it, Hanamiya. I never felt special whenever I was with you back then."

"I'm sorry. I tried, but I didn't know how. I wasn't familiar with romantic kinds of things. But I loved you, more than you could ever imagine. I wanted to hold you forever, I wanted you near me always. But then you left and broke my heart." His eyes were filled with so much pain and regret, even his naturally sexy voice held longing.

I didn't know what to say, I was dumbfounded. For a genius and dangerous guy, I would've never expected him to say such things---or for him to admit his true feelings towards me.

I cleared my throat, finally realizing everything. "So in other words, you're a tsundere?"

"I was, but not anymore." He retorted with force.

I didn't know but somehow I felt like melting. It felt wonderful, hearing those words from him was overwhelming. My heart couldn't stop pounding hard and I was suddenly having the urge to scream. I finally got it, I finally came to understand. In his own way, he really cared for me. Even though he failed to show it, I knew now that he loved me.

He held both sides of my face then caressed my cheek with his thumb. "I love you, Nadeshiko. I never stopped loving you."

The look on his face, his serious tone, his warm touch---they carved a smile on my lips. "I love you too, Makoto."

He pulled me into a very tight hug, whispering something on my ear. "I know that. I can feel it, you know."

What he said kind of annoyed me so I pulled away and slapped his chest, "You cocky jerk!"

He laughed out loud, and it sounded amazing. "Don't be shy, babe."

"Don't babe me, you idiot!" I crossed my arms on my chest then turned away, hiding the stupid smile on my face.

But then seconds later, he slowly spun me around to face him. Then he covered my lips with his in a passionate kiss. I could feel the intensity of it sending shivers down my spine. He brushed his soft warm tongue on my lower lip, asking for entrance. I let him in, and he immediately explored every corner of my mouth. I closed my eyes in pleasure and bliss, kissing him back and intensifying the kiss even more.

Nothing else mattered, it's like everything else disappeared and there was only me and him. I could feel it, his love. It was pouring out on me. Strange, but I was already all willing to submit to him. Everything of me --- I was all too willing to give it to him. I was his, and he was mine. That's all that mattered at the moment.

His hands came to take away the blazer I was wearing. After he tossed it away, he began removing his tie then unbottoning his school uniform. When his chest was now fully exposed, he reached for the hem of my shirt then he broke the kiss only to pull my shirt over my head then tossed it away as well.

I shuddered when the cold air touched my now exposed upper body. Then he gently laid me on the bed and kissed me again, our tongues intertwining in a feverish frenzy. His hands knotted with mine and his hypnotizing warmth was transferring into my body. I could feel his chest pounding fast and loud. His kisses soon moved to my neck down to my chest, leaving a trail of hickeys. He found my sweet spot and he bit on it gently. I moaned, biting my lower lip to suppress myself from releasing anymore lewd noises. But when I felt his clothed, hardened member poking my leg, I gasped and nearly freaked out.

He pulled away then chuckled upon realizing what happened to me. Amusement was dancing through his brown eyes. "What? This is not our first time."

I pouted, "I'm sorry. I suddenly remembered the pain when that thing entered me."

He lightly kissed my nose then smirked seductively, "Don't worry, I'll be more gentle now. Just trust me, okay? And you were a virgin last night so naturally it would hurt."

"Wait. You knew I was a virgin?"

He cocked an eyebrow, "Of course, idiot. I could feel it you know." Then he latched his lips to mine, gently licking my lower lip. "I'm your first and I'll make sure I'll be your last."

I giggled through his lips, "Who are you calling an idiot huh?"

I traced my hand over his pale muscled skin then into the side of his waist, pinching it rather hard as punishment for calling me idiot again. He yelped sexily and laughed, making me laugh as well. But after a few short while, I became a moaning mess as Hanamiya Makoto claimed me as his again..

***

"Stop that! It tickles," I whined. He was blowing on my ear as we laid together in bed with a blanket covering our naked bodies.

He only gave a chuckle then kissed the back of my neck since I wasn't really facing him, I was busy figuring out the password of his phone. "Then stop ignoring me.."

"Tell me what's your password first." I tried his birthday, January 12, but it wasn't the password.

He grunted in annoyance then buried his face on the crook of my neck. "The date when you became my girlfriend."

I turned to him, eyes wide. "Really?"

Actually, I had forgotten about the date. It was over a year ago and many things had already happened after that.

He noticed my struggling-to-remember-it look so he took the phone from my hand then typed the password himself. After that, he gave me a very adorable hurt expression, giving me back his phone. "That's unforgivable."

I released a chortle, giving him a peck on the cheek before returning my attention to the phone in my hand. I nearly laughed out loud when I saw that my number was saved as "Babe♥".

What is he? The corniest man in the planet?

Well, maybe he really is the corniest---and the creepiest too. Because I found so many stolen shots of me in his gallery.

I immediately turned to Hanamiya, giving him a weirded look. "Some creepy stalker you are."

He grinned, grabbing his phone from my hand. "I just can't stand a day without seeing your face."

I couldn't help but blush furiously at what he confessed. I tried snatching the phone but he only moved it away, placing it above the bedside table. "I have to call Hara-chan, I need to know if he got my things."

"I already called him, he said he'll take care of it after basketball practice."

"Oh, okay.."

He wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me closer, burying my face on his bare chest. "Let's sleep, babe. I know you're tired."

"Good night, Makoto.." I said softly, earning a smile from him. Then I snuggled closer and put my arm around his waist too.

He placed a small kiss at the top of my head then whispered iloveyou before we drifted off to sleep together.