No Plagiarism!RJEzjkIJ6VBWRQYFrAT0posted on PＥNAＮＡ

Yasu tapped her pencil repetitively on the desk. She stared at the blackboard with half-closed eyes. She forced her eyes open with her fingers at regular intervals.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡvaJJ415gzS 維尼

Regret punctured her spirit as she compelled herself to stand up. “Why do I have to sort out all the paperwork in the mornings?” she grumbled.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bWgxDHAqR 維尼

She picked up a rolled-up newspaper and slammed it against a hapless student’s desk. “Why is your uniform incorrect?” she asked. “What would the teachers say about a tie like that?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡiifg5NiGJw 維尼

“Shut up, Demon Eyes!” the student snapped.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ikZk0Y882 維尼

Yasu inhaled and exhaled slowly to prevent herself from defenestrating the boy. However, she vowed that, if anyone called attention to her frightening red eyes ever again, she would kill them.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCxncyZ30c 維尼

Her homeroom teacher finally arrived, her hair dishevelled and a single book hanging by her fragile fingers. She put on a smile that, as if with a mind of its own, completely refused to make up for her deep, gravelly voice.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡdaLG0P5gV5 維尼

“Alright, little brats. We have a new brat for you all to befriend. What’s your name again?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFbKMz0BXX 維尼

A tall, solid girl flipped her wavy black hair, interwoven with red streaks, back. She bit her full red lips and began scratching her scalp with sausagey fingers covered in black leather.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmqTp5Z6CW 維尼

Yasu did what she did best. She looked up and down the girl’s figure, hunting for examples of incorrect uniform. The girl’s bow was untied and her sleeves were rolled up. Her skirt was shackled by multi-coloured belts and her charcoal knee-high socks were uneven.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡLQLgjtjend 維尼

“I’m Sora,” the girl said in a voice as sour as honey, as harsh as a pillow and as loud as a mouse’s squeak.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡgg489YGOrN 維尼

Yasu glared at a boy who snickered at Sora’s unfitting voice, though she herself struggled to hold back her small but incriminating laughter. She stood up.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡVB3iJK5sDu 維尼

“I will show you around,” she stated.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡXrMtKhWUT6 維尼

The teacher’s eyes widened. “Oh, this is Ms Hamasaki. She will… well, she just told you. Wait until lunchtime, Ms Hamasaki[1].” She scanned her class roll and pointed to an empty desk, her head still down. “Ms Mikami[2], sit next to the boy with the stupid spiky haircut. Don’t be alarmed if he starts talking about defeating aliens with weird hand movements.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79kfkwHhBM 維尼

Mrs Inazuma was known for her quips, which were as precise and devastating as lightning. She was nicknamed ‘Mrs Raijin’[3] for this very reason, though not without protests that her surname was enough of a descriptor.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXbMNW3QqM 維尼

Sora sat in front of Yasu, drumming her own pencil against the desk. Yasu clenched both her teeth and her fists as Sora tapped the desk erratically.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡKRzZtXVXJ6 維尼

‘You’d think a girl dressed like a punk rocker would have a sense of rhythm,’ Yasu thought.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡISiz6bejhB 維尼

The boys in the class whispered about Sora’s edgy looks and demeanour. After all, what kind of girl would wear those accessories and wear that cold frown?8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡG7aP3f1cD3 維尼

Lunch arrived like a blessed angel, hearing the prayers of most of the students and ignoring those of Yasu’s.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡYffTsPnp5A 維尼

However, one possibility gave Yasu hope. If anyone could get to know her without judging her for her eyes, it was Sora. And with one popular friend came the inevitable end of hatred towards Yasu.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡRnfqKqwVye 維尼

“So, uh, let me show you around.” Sora nodded mutely. Yasu strolled through the halls, informing Sora about the history of the school like a museum tour guide.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡDRoo0hKNHW 維尼

She stopped at the school infirmary and entered it, Sora three steps behind her. She waved hello to the school doctor.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡFV4or2DACy 維尼

“Dr Motome[4], this is Sora Mikami. She’s new here.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PJEuhBKrX 維尼

Dr Motome took off her glasses and smiled, placing the glasses on top of a pile of books. “I know,” she said. “I helped her this morning. She had the worst looking hands, let me tell you.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡxU1jcXN7gt 維尼

Sora hid her gloved hands behind her back, her cheeks like little roses as she turned her eyes towards the ground.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡdH5uUvVGEd 維尼

Yasu twisted her head towards Sora, then at the doctor, then back at Sora. “What happened?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgLyjQZKPZ 維尼

When Sora kept as silent as an anechoic chamber, the doctor explained the situation. “She didn’t tell me how they got like that, but she had scratches all over her hands. She was at school bright and early, which surprised me. No offence, Ms Mikami.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡYKYxl7xVgq 維尼

Sora’s head snapped up. “None taken.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡCsIVd3l4PA 維尼

Possibilities churned inside Yasu’s head like snow in a snow globe. Perhaps Sora had gotten into a fight or had an abusive family member. Maybe she was bitten by her own attack dog or got angry at someone and punched a wall.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡRXxGbFc0e0 維尼

Yasu said goodbye to Dr Motome and led Sora outside, noticing a black and red motorcycle parked outside. Falling off a motorcycle was added to Yasu’s list of possibilities for what hurt Sora.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5iDusbEST 維尼

Wind became a baseball pitcher that threw a leaf into Sora’s face. Yasu braced herself for the curse words that were to follow but heard none.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡZYh5j3uLhs 維尼

Sora simply smiled and held the leaf, crimsoned with the season, to the sky. “I love Autumn,” she whispered just loud enough for Yasu to hear.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqXL31Nirf 維尼

Yasu grinned, seizing the opportunity. “I know, right? The leaves are gorgeous and the wind is nice and cool.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgnZOVfQYI 維尼

“The sky is always beautiful at this time of year. It’s so blue and the clouds look like they’re having conversations.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1Sp6ImuA1 維尼

Yasu frowned in confusion. “Are you a poet or something?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡegMdDo7hfh 維尼

Sora gulped and shook her head. “I… I could never write a poem if my life depended on it.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡUMXFeelgU1 維尼

“So what do you do?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ2NXZMUhyD 維尼

Sora raked her hair with her fingers. Her eyes were searching the ground for words again. “I… I just ride my motorbike around the hills. I can’t do much else.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8d8FXSpfF 維尼

Yasu nodded in the understanding that her assumptions were correct. Sora lifted her own chin up and looked at Yasu with eyes that bubbled with excitement. “We could go riding, if you want. I want to check this town out.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡX6777RUpc9 維尼

Yasu bit her lip. “I’m afraid I don’t have a bike.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡdItjEq5OJO 維尼

“You can ride my bike with me, if you… want…. I’m sorry. You barely know me.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ZzhN581Mg 維尼

Yasu felt an instant need to protect this trembling little puppy with fat paws. She stepped closer to the girl and lightly tapped her arm.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡVks1Qxpf6U 維尼

“It’s okay. I have an idea. How about we get to know each other on the trip around the hills?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡFTOKD0hMH3 維尼

Sora nodded her head, the corners of her lips caressing her eyes. “I’ll meet you after school on Friday.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡaOf4i8InkC 維尼

The next day Sora talked to no one and put on an air of superiority as if it was a coat. Yasu approached her but all of her words were met with no reply. However, she could somehow tell that the girl was listening as she talked about school and biology. Yasu’s spiels about how redwood trees were superior to momi firs, and how she would love to visit the United States just to see them for herself, usually resulted in groans and eye rolls, often accompanied by the words, “Shut up, Demon Eyes!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡZEmc3bzqwA 維尼

A girl whose eyebrows were pencilled in an intimidating shape walked over to the two. “So, Sora, is it?” Sora nodded. “You can call me Miki. My friends and I were wondering if you’d like to join us.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4VjNK1n1s 維尼

Sora’s voice was shockingly cool and smooth. “I’m already hanging out with Ms Hamasaki.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1n9SCgAqdu 維尼

Miki chuckled. “What does Demon Eyes here have what we don’t?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡtzlAw8rJuF 維尼

“Demon Eyes? But her name is Yasu Hamasaki.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2aDnw4TWTv 維尼

“Well, yeah, but everyone here has nicknames. I’m Eyebrows and you’re Nico Robin. Have you seen One Piece?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡDacbaNAIcm 維尼

Sora glared at her. “Does Ms Hamasaki like her nickname?” She turned her head towards Yasu, who shook her head. “Then she shouldn’t be called that. Her name is Yasu Hamasaki.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5PDhpnvRT 維尼

Miki shrugged but her eyes yearned for murder.  She walked away from the pair. Yasu grinned.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡeEKs07qldz 維尼

“Thanks,” she said. Sora squeaked and looked away, refusing to speak any more. She rested her head on her desk, looking like a lion having a nap. Yasu pet her, combing her fingers through her hair. “So are we still going to ride around the hills?” Sora nodded.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡgu6aqumHR0 維尼

Friday arrived so quickly that it was as if that day rode to Yasu on a motorcycle. She woke up uncharacteristically fresh-faced, her dream compelling her to smile.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡHKtKBYdEiH 維尼

She and Sora were riding around the hills on a cloud. The sky was tinged with pink and purple and pastel orange. For the first time in her life Yasu had let herself go and allowed her hair to flap in the wind like a flag. She had rested her head against Sora’s back, breathing in the girl’s cinnamon-laced hair.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡKINMm8Y94r 維尼

Sora had parked the bike on the side of the road and thrown her legs to one side, looking up at the sky. She had held Yasu’s hand and rested her head on her shoulder.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡzczq456A1v 維尼

“I… I think I love you already,” Sora had said, her voice flittering in the wind like leaves.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡfHE6lrLyip 維尼

The more Yasu remembered her dream, the more confused she felt. Why did her mind decided to concoct a dream that used the word ‘love’ rather than ‘like’? Surely she was intelligent enough for her brain to make that distinction, even in her dreams, so why was that word used?8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2oRsulRcsC 維尼

Yasu laughed at her own stupidity, muttering words of abuse under her breath. “Idiot. You’ve only just met her and now you’ve gone into lesbian mode. Great job, Yasu. What if she finds out and thinks you’re a creep?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡoYlOMvhIk4 維尼

Everyone at school assumed that she felt no attraction to anyone; that she was in love with school rather than any person. Her parents held the same belief and were even proud enough for it. She couldn’t bear to tell them about her attraction to her old homeroom teacher, or the girl with the shiny hair at the convenience store, and she would never ever talk to them about her lingering feelings for the drug junkie who spent most of her time on the roof at school before graduating the previous year.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEl3Aby6TW 維尼

Yasu stood up and hurriedly changed, her mind slapping her thoughts away. She ran to school so fast that when she reached the gate she tripped over.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡjGg3C2vatm 維尼

At first she felt nothing as her cheek pressed against the concrete. At the next moment, she howled in pain.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡPA8J4jufwI 維尼

When she was unable to find words between her sobs, a boy picked her up and dashed to the infirmary. Sora was there, the doctor brushing her scarred hand with her fingers.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡG4mts6yBA6 維尼

Yasu was laid onto the bed and smiled when she saw her new friend. “Why…” she swallowed her tears and was finally able to speak. “Why do you… have those scars?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡdzJlagJtR5 維尼

Sora released a high-pitched yelp as she stood up. “N-no reason.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡxCWwEUyWD4 維尼

Yasu giggled as if she were intoxicated. “You haven’t been abused or anything, have you?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡUOOf2LnKft 維尼

“What? No! I… I just….” Her face looked just like a button used to sound an alarm. “Dogs don’t like me.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9AamIJuiec 維尼

Yasu peered at the rotting ceiling. “That’s good. Well, it’s not really good since animals are hurting you, but at least people are treating you okay.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6N1xNr6Eik 維尼

“What happened to you?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4JOsWSoM4o 維尼

“Oh. I tripped over. It’s silly, isn’t it? You know, I have a reason to be up this early, but what about you? You’re not part of any clubs, are you?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡWjMIJIRPTC 維尼

Sora shook her head. “I like going to school early. It makes me feel prepared. Do you want a drink of water?” Yasu dismissively waved her hand. “I hope you’re still able to go riding with me this afternoon.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡMF2QpOqxxC 維尼

“Of course!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrmq6WGwFG 維尼

“Good. Um, are you sure you’re okay? You’re acting strange. Um, I don’t mean that in an offensive way! You just seem… awfully calm.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmVuihUNWy 維尼

“I honestly don’t know what’s come over me.” Yasu pulled her eyes towards the girl who had haunted an otherwise simple and wonderful dream.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡE9YvvjfkPZ 維尼

Yasu was as quiet as Sora during the school day, afraid her dream would spill into her words, so the two ate their food in silence. Throughout the duration of class time Sora tapped her desk with her pencil, but by this stage Yasu was used to and even welcomed it.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hbgSW6x3E 維尼

By the time Yasu had completed her duties as class representative, the sunset from her dream had surrounded her like a warm yet frightening blanket. Sora had patiently waited outside, picking her teeth and searching for an explanation for Yasu’s behaviour.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡnMidb7VgAG 維尼

“Hi, Sora.” Yasu’s voice was her attempt at remaining calm. Sora’s eyes widened at the informal use of her name. “It’s, uh, really nice today, isn’t it? The sunset’s so… pretty.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡG7bjcp4JPF 維尼

Sora shrugged with a smile on her face. She tossed a helmet to Yasu and geared herself up for the ride. She beckoned for her friend to join her on the motorcycle.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2o1dOF9AdI 維尼

“Do you need my jacket? I think it’s going to get pretty cold today.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡCKFDoYAw1j 維尼

“Don’t you need it?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡVm3Mihrimx 維尼

“I… I guess you’re right.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ195bYHxdAf 維尼

Yasu shrieked when Sora sped the bike out of the school, tightening her arms’ grip around the girl’s waist. Sora’s hair did not carry the scent of cinnamon, but it did smell of chlorine.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6olYiLOioP 維尼

‘No skills my ass,’ Yasu thought.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡpd9pyqtAjP 維尼

When the bike glided on the road, Yasu sighed. “See?” Sora asked. “It’s not that bad.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡxphBHPG2t9 維尼

As leaves flew into her hair, Yasu felt as if the goddess Akibimi[5] had decided to punish her for sullying her season with a homoromantic dream.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡNvZfBcdsaI 維尼

Despite this thought, there was no denying that Yasu loved the feel of Sora’s large back pressed against her cheek, or the sweet, thrill-laden laugh that escaped Sora’s perfect lips.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡwIe2JErDVr 維尼

“I wish autumn was all year round!” Sora cheered. “Can you see how awesome this sky is, Yasu? I feel so free!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡKPmwlYPOAU 維尼

Yasu almost chuckled at her friend’s unusual behaviour. The thought that she only acted this way in front of her gave her comfort.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡkPsL9wB6c0 維尼

The next sensation was unexpected. She felt a bump against her, followed by the swerve of the motorcycle. She then felt the harsh reality of concrete.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡkipmaOfmTX 維尼

“Oh my god, sorry!” a young, masculine voice, called out. “Are you two okay?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡxzDJkcMaDt 維尼

Sora whimpered a yes. Yasu nodded and pushed herself up, her legs wobbling with pain. The next sight devastated her. The gas tank was scratched and the mirror was shattered.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡRynM5LKeht 維尼

“Why are you crying?” Sora asked as she stood up. “It’s my bike, not yours.” Her words are what made Yasu realise that tears were painting her face. Sora wrapped her arms around her and pulled her close. “It’s okay. I can buy more parts and fix it. It’ll be good as new.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡW36N6G7M6A 維尼

Yasu sniffled in Sora’s chest, realising how well-endowed her friend was. She punched herself in her mind, chastising herself for being so perverted.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡVAHd609UZ5 維尼

Another voice slapped her ears. “Dude, I had no idea those two were lesbos!” Sora lightly pushed Yasu away. Yasu realised that the voice belonged to the boy who always called her ‘Demon Eyes’ whenever she told him to correct his uniform. He was sitting on his own motorcycle, wasting petrol.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡArq9d0eLZv 維尼

“We’re not like that!” Sora spluttered. “We’re just friends and Yasu would never behave like that! She’s a good person!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jKsV1wper 維尼

Yasu burst into tears yet again, Sora’s words bashing her heart. “How… could… you say… that?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡAa04DvHOjv 維尼

“What?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ60uCLeYzzh 維尼

“I’m a…”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡpBW9QRMqwT 維尼

She wiped her eyes with her sleeve and ran along the pavement that encircled the hill. Sora followed her.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKsjXgh7zf 維尼

“What’s going on? You’re a what?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnpveH8IGX 維尼

Yasu kept as quiet as Harpocrates[6]. Sora’s voice rang in her ears, clearly trying to be loud. “Come on, talk to me.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡAjKklwZ4so 維尼

Yasu froze. “I’m a bian,” she murmured.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6UJUPM1g6C 維尼

“What? I can’t hear you.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡs3QpriKhrj 維尼

“I’m a BIAN! A lesbian! Just leave me alone and go hang out with some girl who only likes boys!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡbjMcuGW53b 維尼

“But… you’re so well behaved! How can someone who’s always telling people off have those feelings?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUt7Bb5Ewt 維尼

“I’m a hypocrite, okay?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡbW0OQRVukM 維尼

Sora held out her hand. “Well, we can still be friends, right? I’ve been friends with worse.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJrrTJx8dK 維尼

“Like what?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡW4LpYP2rIU 維尼

“Well, I know this girl who takes a lot of drugs. She works at the bakery.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡIEF5g1Mxre 維尼

‘I want to be a baker when I get out of this stupid school,’ the drug junkie at her school once said. Yasu almost choked.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡAobsprSfWg 維尼

“What does she look like?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEwBCm4tZ6 維尼

“Well, she’s got this dyed blonde hair and these bright green eyes-”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QEWMgUyCP 維尼

“Can I go to that bakery with you some time?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyBVIe7R9n 維尼

Sora nodded. She gave Yasu a quick embrace that made the latter almost liquefy in her arms.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ593ZPhufEX 維尼

The pair did not talk about sexualities for a few weeks. They just acted like normal, with Yasu going on rants about trees and Sora keenly listening as per usual. Sora stared at her with strangely warm eyes that also looked tormented.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡf5rTYbnTIp 維尼

Yasu was always too busy to go to the bakery before it closed, much to Sora’s disappointment. She had preparations to make to ensure that all of her classmates were ready for Sports Day. Some days Sora sat and watched her do work with an amused yet sympathetic smile.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡUi7w8npIPq 維尼

One day Mrs Inazuma walked up to Yasu and ruffled her hair. “You work too much. Have a break.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡjxK7uig75I 維尼

“What am I supposed to do?” Yasu asked.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡwhHFF1oQDw 維尼

“Hell if I know. Hang out with one of the other brats like a normal girl.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡzLU1d96nFZ 維尼

Yasu finally agreed. She asked Sora if she could go to the bakery with her. Sora beamed and gave her a hug, but quickly pushed herself away.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4RSX7RUhhV 維尼

“I’m sorry. Does that make you feel weird?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgRcKNYO6x 維尼

“What are you talking about?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡBsDNlbrhct 維尼

Sora’s cheeks turned pink and she looked down, holding her schoolbag against her legs like a nervous first-grader.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTNPTgFeea 維尼

“Well, you’re a… what do you call it? A bian?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡJaEZEwaU00 維尼

Yasu shook her head. “It’s fine.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡceKSJCTfS4 維尼

“Good. I want to show you my newly improved bike.” Sora took her hand and pulled her towards the carpark. “Tada!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡe0iEqOUa6J 維尼

“Um… what’s different?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡD3MeceMiAj 維尼

Sora pouted. “Don’t you see that the paint’s a darker colour and I changed the mirror?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVhZgUrAOK 維尼

“Uh, I guess so. You know more about bikes than me.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqz7Of6Pzp 維尼

Sora handed her a helmet and the two hopped onto the cycle. Yasu relished in the familiar feel of Sora’s back.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡKgV4Bb5dfD 維尼

The bike swiftly reached the bakery. Sora almost leaped into the shop, Yasu giggling behind her.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWAKMPoz7f 維尼

Yasu’s throat tightened when she saw the drug-pockmarked face of Mizu[7]. She felt as if she was drowning in memories, but she knew she had to see her again and receive some closure.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡrRI1lQB0bI 維尼

“How are you? I haven’t seen you in so long! It’s nice to-”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6d3oEIneh1 維尼

“Who are you?” Mizu asked. Yasu clenched her teeth in shock.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxR8K8ETHa 維尼

“I used to always hang out with you at school. It’s me, Yasu.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡR1CiakfH8I 維尼

“I’m sorry. My memory’s not what it used to be.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡUaaF4YZE2t 維尼

Yasu’s face turned as white as a flag of surrender. “Oh. I see.” Sora turned to her, confusion acting like toothpicks prying her eyes wide open.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡHu1OxQ7vsQ 維尼

Yasu’s own eyes were shining with repressed tears. “Well, it was nice to see you again.” She turned and slowly, hesitantly walked out of the shop.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BiBedGIEk 維尼

Sora grabbed her arm. “What’s going on?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡL0oEYfzvVp 維尼

“I was so stupid. Why did I think she’d still care for me? Why did I think she’d love me back?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡqO34J08PrC 維尼

“Wait… love, as in… love?” Sora’s voice was tinged with a bitterness Yasu did not understand. “Well, you don’t need her. You have m…”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJaqXIds7H 維尼

Sora scratched her scalp. “Sorry. I’m being weird. Forget about it.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡVWk6yQdRlB 維尼

She sat on her bike and asked her friend to join her. When Yasu wrapped her arms around her waist, Sora coughed.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOG9WgXNoP 維尼

The two rode in silence, Sora’s joy gone and replaced by, well, she was unsure what feeling replaced it, but she knew that she didn’t like it.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡGxxfJR78pM 維尼

“Yasu?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡU90XiMqhNG 維尼

“Yeah?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAGAYYF31f 維尼

“How did you find out you were a bian?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3pQhc3WEw 維尼

“Well, I just felt attracted to other girls.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5FGvlnSYeD 維尼

“So how did you realise you were attracted to them?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0L1BYK75ft 維尼

“I just knew. My cheeks would heat up around them and I felt like if I said the wrong thing the ground would open up and swallow me. It’s a worrying feeling, but seeing the other person smile makes it worth it.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡa1vNqt4dSP 維尼

Yasu gasped when the motorcycle stopped. Sora parked on the side of the road and jumped off the bike. She threw her helmet to the ground.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡf2KfsLuhH4 維尼

“What’s wrong with me?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ZkvyR2NAS 維尼

Yasu’s eyebrow rose. “Can I guess?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0cVv3yvzRW 維尼

Sora spun around. “Can I…” She pushed her palms against her eyes, her shyness getting the best of her. “Can I hug you? I want to figure something out.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡRr9O15jR8H 維尼

Yasu smiled in affirmation. Sora pulled her towards her and cried over her shoulder. “I knew something was wrong. I… I’ve only known you for about a month, but… I don’t know, I guess something happened.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡbV1gr55uuc 維尼

Yasu drew circles on her back with her fingers. “You can say it.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDdP0aGai6 維尼

“I… like you,” Sora said softly in her friend’s ear.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡBeCHa0xaeZ 維尼

“Say it louder.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Yca7Id1mC 維尼

“I like you.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSwk4Ah2Xk 維尼

“I don’t think even bats can hear you. Come on.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0CwvhCkVqL 維尼

“I love you!” Sora sobbed. “I love you, I love you! Why? You’ve put all this ‘bian’ talk in my head and confused me!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0TeMR1jq3J 維尼

Yasu broke from the embrace. “Can I… kiss you?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5yE54SL4tW 維尼

Sora gulped, her entire face red. “Is that… okay? I… I’ve never kissed a girl before.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJjEs70Ncq 維尼

“Neither have I.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9inMcfZ4O7 維尼

Yasu’s heart felt more like a subwoofer than a heart as she slowly and awkwardly leaned towards Sora. She pressed her lips against hers and it didn’t take long for her to kiss her back.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡxIwbbaAgKh 維尼

They fumbled for a rhythm, Yasu remembering that her friend was horrible at keeping to a beat. Eventually the kiss was smooth and easy for them.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡCP770WlbY0 維尼

Sora ended the kiss. “That was… nice. Thank you. Um, are we going to bother telling everyone at school about this?”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUjyipfalt 維尼

“Not if you don’t want to. Then again, I’d like to show my first girlfriend off.”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxtKJAJxdB 維尼

Sora choked and looked away. “Shut up!”8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡYes2JPQ6mY 維尼

Yasu sat on the gravel, her back resting against the motorcycle. When Sora joined her, Yasu wrapped her hand in hers. The shorter girl let her head fall onto the tall girl’s chlorine-hair-covered shoulder and closed her eyes.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡwFswkWFJS8 維尼

“You’re so cute,” she told Sora, her heart steady as the light beyond her eyelids dimmed and the stars poked through the windy sky.8964 copyright protection421ＰＥＮＡＮＡhy3VE9aEAc 維尼

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