Meant To Be Yours (ch2)

EARLY RELEASE FOR ALL MY PATRONS!!

As promised, this chapter and the other 2 after will be 10k+ words! This one continuing directly off of the last, just before their first-ever fated meeting...

Disclaimer: I do not own Shoujo Kageki Revue Starlight.

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					Chapter 2. Seven Years In The Making


"Futaba? Be a doll and help me with my hair, would you?"

"Right, right."

Presently, Claudine is in her bedroom, seated in front of the mirror of her vanity while padding powder and makeup onto her face. Her hair is still slightly damp from her shower, and so Futaba picks up the hair brush and stands behind her charge to begin brushing through her curls.

Claudine had had several years to think about what she would wear on this fateful day, and she'd ultimately decided on a light, cream-orange ballgown; one she's never worn before, one that reminded her of a soft spring sunset. She has been saving it all this time for this special occasion, and she truly thinks it will work nicely for her today.

And Futaba is glad that she doesn't have to wear her usual maid uniform to the public event today, and instead is dressed in a purple suit that is much more her style.

As Futaba tends to her hair, Claudine adjusts the soft pink faux fur shawl around her her shoulders and checks her reflection from every angle. Her heart's been pounding all day, and with each passing second it only seems to get faster and faster.

"It's finally time, Futaba," she sighs. "After all these years… remind me again why Tendo Maya has refused to properly meet me for this long?"

"Because," Futaba recites. "She wanted to train herself to ensure she would be perfect for you. Or somethin' like that."

"That's right," Claudine nods approvingly. "While it's been a bit of a struggle to have to wait so long, I have to admit it's rather romantic in a way. I do hope she's worth the wait. It would be a shame if she had a wretched personality and I had to reject her in the end."

"Yeah," Futaba says, brushing though Claudine's hair again. "That would suck."

"Futaba!"

"Sorry! I mean, 'that would be highly unfortunate.'"

"That's better."

"Hey, Kuro-"

"Fu-ta-ba!" Claudine gives her another chiding glare in the mirror. "You'll have to refrain from calling me that tonight! We've got to be professional!"

"Ah, my bad. Claudine ojou-sama," she corrects herself. "Have you thought about how you're going to present yourself to this Tendo Maya?"

Claudine scoffs.

"What kind of a question is that? I've had seven years to think it over. I think I know by now what I'm going to do."

"And what's that?"

Claudine puffs out her chest and lifts her chin.

"Playing hard-to-get," she announces. "If she was truly meant for me, she won't give up or get disheartened so easily."

"That's probably a good idea, actually," Futaba ponders. "After all, you can be a handful most of the time. This Tendo girl's gotta be able to step up to the challenge."

"Why, I never!"

"Sorry, sorry! It was a joke! Mostly…"

"Je le jure…" Claudine pouts, and her maid laughs as she finishes up with her hair. Futaba stands back and puts her hands on her hips with an accomplished grin.

But Claudine doesn't look up at herself right away. She keeps her head bowed a little now and curls her fingers together.

"Say, Futaba…?"

"Huh? What's up? Nervous?"

Claudine dips her head a tiny bit.

"I mean… For my whole life, I've had it in my head that my spouse would be this perfect woman, and from the sound of it, Tendo Maya truly might be… But what if it's no good? What if we don't match up after all? What if she doesn't like me, or I don't like her…?"

Futaba frowns, bringing a hand behind her head with a sigh. Of course she's considered that possibility a million times, and she knows Claudine has, too. But only now that the two betrothed are actually going to meet does it really settle in that this could all very well end in failure.

"What if…?" Claudine murmurs. "What if the both of us wasted all this time waiting for one another… and it's not even worth it-?"

"All right, all right." Futaba cuts her off by giving Claudine's shoulder a good, firm pat to jolt her out of her reverie. "I don't think there's any use in the 'what ifs' right now. For today, why don't you just meet her, get a feel for her personality, and try to enjoy yourself? If she's no good, I think you'll know right away and you can always tell your folks to send the Tendos home and cancel the arrangement."

"They won't like that," Claudine murmurs. "If I made them wait all this time only to turn Tendo Maya down-"

"Hey, c'mon…" Futaba walks around to her front now so she can look at Claudine face-to-face. She puts both hands on her shoulders and has her look up. "Your parents aren't like that. You know they care more about making you happy than they do about the arrangement itself."

Claudine still feels guilty though.

"Yes, but-"

"No 'buts'! You're over-thinkin' this, Kuro! Just be yourself with her, get to know her, and see how your heart feels about it all. If it's no good, or if it might work… I think you'll know."

Claudine heaves another sigh as she gradually raises her head and puts on a little smile.

"You're right, Futaba. What would I do without you?"

"Probably be even more uptight than you are."

"Wh-? Hey!"

"Joking, joking!" Futaba steps back and lets her go to give her a firm pat on the back. "Now then, where's my sophisticated, confident Ojou-sama?"

Claudine jumps to her feet.

"Right here!"

"That's the spirit! Knock 'em dead!"

"Bien sur!"

With a poised and prideful step, Claudine makes her way out of her quarters and down the stairs.

The mansion is bustling with activity already in preparation for the banquet. The kitchen is particularly hectic, so Claudine makes sure to avoid that area.

She find her parents, who fawn over her appearance before leading her outside.

The majority of their property has been covered by large white tables and chairs with flower vases and doilies and fancily-folded napkins. A buffet table has been set up along the large patio where a live band is already beginning to prepare. The ornate swan fountain had been polished all morning long so the marble now glitters like diamond, and the water sparkles blue.

It's all been set up to be an absolutely wonderful day.

Even though the purpose of today's banquet was to allow Claudine and Maya to finally and formally meet, her parents had invited dozens of family friends and business partners as well. This was to lighten the pressure on the two betrothed girls so that everyone wouldn't be gawking at them.

Only the Saijous and Tendos themselves knew about the encounter that was seven years in the making. Everyone else would be enjoying the festivities and be none the wiser to allow the girls some privacy.

And of course, Claudine knows deep down they also hadn't informed the guests just in case things didn't go well between Maya and herself, so no one would be judgmental towards them.

Claudine begins to worry a little bit about such an outcome again, but Futaba reappears right beside her to give her a friendly nudge and snap her out of it.

"I'll be keepin' my distance a bit tonight," she says. "But if you need anything, just call for me, Kuro."

Claudine reaches out and curls her fingers through hers, giving her hand a squeeze.

"Merci, Futaba."

Before long, guests begin arriving. Claudine's parents come out to meet them all, and Claudine politely smiles and greets every single one of them, engaging in brief conversations and pleasantries. Her demeanor remains calm and collected, but on the inside her heart is becoming more and more of a mess with each car that pulls up the street.

And, ever her faithful maid and friend, Futaba can tell the exact moment when her charge begins to panic. So she makes her way through the crowd to approach Claudine, who has just finished greeting another well-dressed family.

Claudine smiles as they pass her by, and she looks up to try and see who's coming next when suddenly, the lighthearted music of the banquet is interrupted.

A loud, scraping, banging sound cuts through the air without warning, and Claudine yelps, quickly covering her ears and squeezing her eyes shut. Futaba bites her lip and runs the rest of the way to her, putting an arm around her shoulders.

"Oy, Kuro. It's okay."

Of all the things that could've happened right now, of course it had to be something like this. Luckily, Futaba is here with her. Claudine slowly opens her eyes and lowers her hands.

"Futaba…?"

"It's all right," she says again. "They were movin' tables. That's all it was."

"Right… of course…"

Futaba rubs her back for her softly, glancing around to see if anyone else had noticed Claudine's little scare. Thankfully, no one had.

"Come on," she says, guiding her toward the tables. "Let's get you some water. Sit down for a sec."

Claudine sighs and follows along with her. She's never been a fan of loud noises, especially when she didn't know they were coming. The first time her parents had ever taken her to see fireworks, she'd cried and cowered the entire time until they'd taken her home.

Now that she's older, she can sort of handle those, because she can anticipate when they'll make their sound.

But sudden, unexpected things like what happened just now often give her a good spook.

As soon as her parents had found out about her sensitivity when she was little, they'd done everything within their power to avoid situations that might result in loud sounds. Being that her constitution had always been rather frail when she was younger, getting startled had always sent Claudine's heart into a frenzy. And though she was older and stronger now, it still didn't feel very nice.

Futaba brings her to an empty table away from the rest of the guests and helps her sit down. Being the only other person who knows of Claudine's fear besides her parents, she knows what to do to help her calm down. She rests a gentle hand on Claudine's shoulder for comfort, and hands her a glass of cool water.

Claudine sips at it slowly, calming her breathing. A few people seem to notice something might be amiss and try to approach, but Futaba dutifully waves them away; she knows Claudine will get painfully embarrassed if anyone were to discover her in such an unrefined state.

When she's finished drinking and puts the glass aside, Futaba gives Claudine's back another soft pat.

"You okay?"

Claudine swallows one more time and exhales slowly.

"Yes. Thank you, Futaba."

"Don't mention it. Just take it easy for a sec."

"Did anyone notice?"

"Don't think so."

"That's good…"

For a moment, the music drifts around them as Claudine gets her bearings. She gives herself a good shake.

I can't be in this kind of state when Tendo Maya arrives. What will she think of me?

"All right." Claudine gets to her feet and tosses her hair back over her shoulder. "Futaba, let's do this."

Futaba grins, glad she's back to her usual self.

"Hell yeah!"

"Futaba."

"O-Oh, right. I mean… yes, we shall."

Claudine giggles a bit, and together they make their way back to the front of the mansion to begin greeting the new guests as they approach.

Dozens more people make their way in. Claudine is vaguely aware of her parents off to one side, already entertaining a fine crowd with their talk of business and travel.

By now, it seems most of the guests have arrived, as just about every table is full. Claudine fusses with her shawl to channel her nerves.

"Futaba? Did I miss her and not notice?"

"I don't think so," Futaba chuckles. "Relax, Kuro. She'll be here soon. I bet your folks requested they show up last so there won't be people ogling you guys. They're already enjoying the food and the music, so no one will even notice when Tendo shows up."

"I suppose."

"Like I said, don't worry. I'll hang around close by in case something happens."

A few more cars pull up, and Claudine's heart leaps higher up her throat every time until she sees that no one walking up is anyone she expects could be Tendo Maya. Claudine has seen pictures and brief videos of her in their younger years, so she knows what kind of person she should be looking for now.

Miraculously, she manages not to stammer through her greetings as the guests smile and pass her by. Once they've gone, Claudine turns to her maid and grimaces.

"Futaba, my heart can't take much more of this…"

"Oy, don't wuss out on me now." Futaba gives her another nudge with her elbow, her eyes fixated on a large limo that's just pulling in now.

Claudine stiffens as she follows her gaze, and draws in as deep a breath as she can possibly manage.

She can tell right away that the couple that emerges are the Tendos. They just have that sort of appearance and presence about them.

Claudine holds her breath for a moment as she searches for the daughter, but it seems she hasn't gotten out of the car just yet. Futaba elbows her again.

"Breathe, dummy."

"Oui…"

Futaba tries not to smile at how cute she's being. She knows Claudine has been waiting her whole life for this moment, and she doesn't want to injure her pride.

"I'll go get the parents," Futaba offers. "I'll lead 'em to the banquet. That should give you and Tendo some time alone to make each other's acquaintance and whatnot."

"Futaba-"

"Don't worry. I'll stick close." Futaba gives her a charismatic wink before she starts heading down the path to the driveway.

Claudine watches her go, and little by little, the reality begins to settle over her.

This is it. The moment she's been waiting for for so long. She's finally going to meet Tendo Maya - the girl her parents had chosen for her, the girl she may one day fall in love with and marry.

Or the girl who will be nothing but a disappointment and a poor match.

No! I can't be thinking in such a manner before I've even laid eyes on her!

Claudine closes her eyes to chide herself, and she keeps them closed for a few moments, trying to get ahold of her thoughts…

. . .

And for all of her suave words and smug smirks all the ride here, now that they've parked, Maya is suddenly unable to get out of her seat. Kaoruko has to give her a small smack on the shoulder with her handheld fan.

"Tendo-han! What on earth are you spacing out for? We've arrived, you know!"

"Eh? Ah, yes. Of course."

"Honestly! Is that the first kind of expression you want to be showing your wife-to-be?"

The word 'wife' sends Maya's heart into a fluster, and she coughs on her own breath. Kaoruko groans.

"Heavens! You're a mess already! Perhaps we should just go back home-!"

"I wouldn't dream of it," Maya grunts, clearing her throat. She finally follows Kaoruko up out of the car and closes the door behind her, smoothing out her suit and running a hand back through her hair. "Thank you for putting some sense into me, Hanayagi-san."

"Some sense," she scoffs. "But not enough, evidently! The time for spacing out is over! You've got a girl to impress!"

"You are absolutely right."

As Maya makes her way toward the front of the car, she marvels at the beautiful mansion from afar. She's seen it in-passing many times, but never so closely. She can already hear the sounds of music and voices, and the smells of food carry on the breeze.

Kaoruko, Maya, and her parents proceed through the front gates, bound for the festivities which are being held at the back of the property.

For all her years of rigorous training, Maya has to remind herself of how to walk now. Kaoruko gives her a good whack on the back with her fan to snap her out of her stupor. Maya shakes herself off.

This is it. The day she's been training so passionately for for so many years. She'd planned in her head for many nights how her ideal first encounter with Claudine would go, all the things Maya would say to her and show her.

But now that it's actually supposed to be happening, she feels like she's forgetting what her own name is-

"Tendo-han!"

A sharp hiss and another whack from Kaoruko jolt Maya back into the present. Kaoruko is glaring furiously at her.

"What on earth are you doing? You're going to blow this! Disgraceful! Where is that conceited and charismatic thoroughbred? I can't seem to find her. All I see is some lost little child!"

Maya straightens up even more.

"Yes. You're right."

"Heavens, what am I going to do with you? If this Saijou-han takes one look at you and dumps you on the curb, don't come crying to me!"

Before Maya can reply, a girl with short-cut hair in a suit approaches them. Maya recognizes her instantly as Isurugi Futaba, Claudine's personal maid. She'd appeared as Claudine's dance partner in several of her photos.

"Good afternoon," Futaba says to them all, bowing deeply. "Welcome to the Saijou Family Estate."

Maya bows in return, but starts to space out a little bit again when Futaba begins conversing with her parents. Maya is scouring the party area for any signs of the person she is searching for, but to no avail.

And then, another smack of a fan on her back. Maya gives Kaoruko a startled look, and receives only fuming exasperation in return.

"The three of you," Futaba is saying, looking to Maya's parents and Kaoruko in turn. "Please come with me. As for Tendo Maya-sama-"

She pauses now, making direct eye contact with Maya. And in her eyes, past the expected pleasant charm, lies a hint of warning for Maya specifically. Futaba holds her gaze long enough to get her meaning across.

"I believe you have someone waiting for you privately," she finishes at last.

Maya doesn't falter. She returns Isurugi Futaba's glare with unwavering eyes.

She can understand the girl's feelings. To have been beside Saijou Claudine all her life, only to now be letting another girl swoop in to whisk her away and marry her, Futaba has every right to be suspicious and defensive.

Maya wants her to know she has nothing to worry about. She harbors only the utmost respect for her potential future fiancee.

Either Futaba understands Maya's intentions, or she simply has to turn away to lead the others, because she breaks eye contact and lets Maya go.

As Maya's parents follow her, Kaoruko hangs back for another moment with Maya to give her one last scolding pep-talk.

"Do not mess this up. You're the mighty Tendo Maya-han, are you not? You've worked yourself half to death these past seven years for this girl. You've wanted to marry her since you were ten, so you'd better make sure she falls for you!"

Maya smiles kindly.

"Thank you very much for your support, Hanayagi-san. I will do my utmost best, but should Saijou-sama see me unfit, I shall respect her wishes."

"Well, she better not," Kaoruko huffs, crossing her arms. "If she sees you unfit, there must be something wrong with her…"

Maya's heart feels warm. For all of Kaoruko's harsh words and actions, she truly is Maya's biggest supporter.

Maya wraps an arm around her shoulders briefly to show her gratitude. Kaoruko allows it, but only for a second before swatting her away.

"What do you think you're doing, embracing another woman when you're supposed to be meeting your future wife? Get going!"

"Yes, ma'am." Maya dips down into a half bow before stepping back. Kaoruko hides her smile behind her fan and turns to follow Futaba and the others.

As for Maya, she puts her very best skills on display; her posture, her gait, her mannerisms - everything is impeccable as she makes her way back around the mansion. With a telling flick of her gaze, Futaba had indicated where Maya's lady would be waiting for her.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the main festivities, Maya saunters to the front of the estate now, sparing but a second to admire the grandiose architecture.

And it is then, as she strides around the corner, when she catches sight of an angel.

Her formal shoes are pure white, as if they've never been worn before. Her dress is the color of a pastel sunrise, and the shawl around her shoulders is a shade darker to accent the pale curls of her cascading hair.

At the crown of her head sits a black headband, which keeps the locks of her hair clear from a face so stunningly beautiful it puts the goddesses themselves to shame. Her eyes are closed for the moment, and soft murmurs are passing over her pink lips.

But Maya neglects her self-restraint and misses the chance to relish her beauty a second longer as a gasp catches in the back of her throat.

The sound alerts her princess to her presence, and those long eyelashes flutter open to reveal eyes the color of crystal rose quartz.

Claudine…

Saijou Claudine is… incomparably beautiful.

Maya has always known this, but to see her in-person for the first time…

Her beauty truly almost seems to blind Maya for a split second.

At the same instance, Claudine hears the sound of a sharp intake of breath, in a voice she isn't familiar with. And when she finally opens her eyes after several moments of trying to compose herself, every ounce of composer she might've managed to muster up feels like it ascends into the firmament, far beyond her reach.

The girl standing before her is dressed in the most handsomely-charming black suit with a white tie. Her long, lustrous hair reaches all the way down to her hips and sports an indigo ribbon in the back.

Aside from the brief lapse where she'd seemed to freeze for a moment upon seeing Claudine, her posture and manners all seem to be there. Her figure is unmistakably that of a purebred dancer and performer, and her skin is glowing and flawless.

And her eyes…

Silver? With perhaps a hint of lavender deep within them?

Before Claudine can get too invested in any one of the thoughts swirling around in her mind, or distracted by the rapid beating of her pulse, the girl before her lifts her right hand to her chest and folds the other behind her back before dipping herself down into a full and courteous bow.

"At last," she says, in a voice that is an octave deeper than Claudine's own, a voice that makes her heart flip. "At long last," Maya repeats. "I am deeply and inexplicably humbled by the great honor of having finally made your acquaintance, Saijou Claudine-sama."

Claudine looks her over at long last - the girl whom she may one day take the hand of in marriage. As far as first impressions go, she seems to be well-mannered at the very least. Not to mention drop-dead gorgeous, but Claudine isn't so shallow as to make her judgements based on looks alone.

Though in her case, Tendo Maya's looks are certainly nothing to scoff at.

Claudine had already decided how she would handle their first meeting - by playing hard-to-get. Not for the sake of being mean-spirited, but for the sake of gauging Maya's personality, her perseverance, and just how serious she is about marrying her - as if training herself for seven years hadn't been enough of a statement.

Therefore, Claudine wastes no more time marveling at her, and instead gets straight to the heart of the matter.

"My, my," she says sweetly, with just a hint of a challenge. She lifts the ends of her dress ever so slightly and crosses her ankles to dip into a small curtsey. "Laying it on a little thickly, aren't you now, Tendo Maya-san?"

Immediately, Maya raises her head and straightens herself up again.

"I wouldn't dream of it," she says in earnest. "None of what you see before you is any kind of facade, Saijou-sama. All of what I present to you is my honest and most genuine self. I-"

"That's all very good," Claudine says, holding up a hand to stop her, and delighted that Maya does stop speaking when motioned to. "But before you say another word, we must first discuss how you will address me."

"But of course." Maya dips her head. "It is the same in my case. Please do not feel the need to use formalities with me."

"Very well," Claudine agrees. "Tendo Maya, then?"

"Yes. At your beck and call, Saijou-sama."

"That is how you would address my parents," Claudine corrects her. "We're the same age, you and I."

"Then… Ojou-sama?"

"That is how the servants address me. You are to be my wife one day, are you not? Call me as you would your equal."

Maya seems perturbed by this request. Clearly, she holds Claudine in the highest regard, and is finding it genuinely difficult to address her informally as Claudine had done.

That notion has Claudine smiling a little. She's just a bit flattered.

After a moment, Maya inhales slowly and gives her answer.

"Then… Saijou-san?"

Claudine nods.

"I suppose that will do."

Maya is relieved that she won't have to try something as frightening as using her first name alone. With that matter now taken care of, she dares to take a step closer to the girl that seems too good to be true.

"Please-" she begins. "Allow me to say just how radiant you are, Saijou-san. In all these years, I always knew you were beautiful, but this level of elegance is beyond what I ever could have dreamed."

Claudine crosses her arms, both flattered at the high compliment but also annoyed that a blush starts creeping across her cheeks upon hearing it.

"You flatter me."

"That was not my sole intention," Maya explains. "I truly am astounded by you, Saijou-san. Upon first glimpsing you, I truly did believe I was gazing at an angel."

Claudine's heart flutters. This is bad. If Tendo Maya keeps this up, Claudine is going to get conceited.

Even if it is all very nice to hear. But she refuses to be the only one getting praised here.

"I must admit… you are much more beautiful than I ever expected as well, Tendo Maya."

"Surely, nothing could ever compare to you-"

"Would you be quiet for one second?" Claudine snaps. "It's my turn. Now where was I? Ah, yes. It would seem to me that you've spent those seven years wisely in brushing up on your manners, at the very least. I'm impressed. But you'll have to impress me in more departments than just that."

"But of course." Maya dips her head again, her tone calm and smooth. She'd truthfully almost sputtered a chuckle when Claudine had interrupted her just now so she could compliment Maya back.

Maya was one of the few people who had been informed of the fact that Claudine had been rather frail as a child, so it's a welcome surprise now to know she harbors a livelier, feistier spark.

Claudine struts another step closer to her now and holds out her hand expectantly. Maya is swift to offer her palm to support that hand, curling the tips of her fingers very slightly to make contact. Claudine seems satisfied with her response, and together they begin walking.

"What say you that we get to know one another over a few appetizers?" she says. "You can tell me exactly what you've been doing all these seven years while making me wait for you."

"My sincerest apologies on that matter," Maya says.

"There's no need for that," Claudine assures her. "I'm certain you'll be worth the wait. Probably." She gives a smile that's just the tiniest bit haughty, but not unkind at all.

Maya feels a comfortable warmth spreading across her chest.

This girl… Maya's already madly in love with her.

They procure an empty table, and once there, Maya chivalrously pulls Claudine's chair out for her before taking the seat across for herself. Claudine lifts her hand to request one of the waitresses.

Maya observes her closely. Claudine doesn't wave the woman over as if she owns her, but rather she smiles kindly at her and beckons her to come when she has the chance.

Maya falls another inch deeper in love with her on the spot.

Claudine turns back to her expectantly now as she unfolds her napkin and drapes it across her lap.

"So tell me," she begins. "What sort of things have you been studying so arduously, Tendo Maya?"

"My, that's quite a list," Maya replies. "But most of my focus has been on theatre and the arts."

"Ah yes," Claudine nods. "Your parents are highly-esteemed actors, I'm aware. No doubt you are making them proud to follow in their footsteps with such passion."

"I can only hope that is the case."

Maya reaches for her glass of water and takes a sip. Claudine notes how she raises her pinkie finger in the proper etiquette. With an approving nod, she takes a sip from her own glass.

The waitress arrives with a plate of scones, and both girls thank her.

Maya is admittedly hungry after working up all these nerves on the way here, but she minds herself and waits for Claudine to make her selection first before choosing a scone for herself. She then waits until Claudine has taken her first bite before she does the same, cleaning her lips with her napkin promptly afterward.

"The food is exquisite," Maya praises. "My compliments to the family chef."

"Oh yes," Claudine says. "My Maman knew him back in France and invited him to come back here to Japan to cook for us. But I'm sure you already know all of that. I want to hear more about you, Tendo Maya."

"But of course," Maya smiles. "Whatever my lady desires."

"So what sort of plays did you study?" Claudine wonders. "Have you ever attended any in-person?"

"Yes. Quite a few, in fact."

"Oh? Do tell."

"Well now, let's see…"

Maya begins listing off all the plays she's ever attended, giving her thoughts and critiques on each one. On the few Claudine knows of or has seen for herself, she chimes in with her own opinions.

The conversation happens smoothly, and both girls are drawn in instantly, each rather excited to have someone new to discuss their passions with.

The party continues around them with all the chatter and movement and music, but for the two of them the rest of the world seems to fade away for the time being.

For nearly twenty minutes, they discuss theatre, music, and dance, sometimes getting so enthralled in it it takes them a good deal of self control not to get too excited and cut the other off.

Maya has more or less forgotten about her vow to Kaoruko to mind herself, as talking with Claudine just comes so naturally to her.

And even when the two of them do speak at the same time by accident, Claudine never seems genuinely offended. Perhaps a cute little huff here or there, but it's all in good nature.

But when it happens for what must be the fifth time, Maya hangs her head and blushes.

"My apologies…"

"Hmph. Well I'd much rather you be enthused enough to interrupt me than dull enough to bore me, so I don't mind."

Maya smiles.

"It is my pleasure, I assure you. I take great enjoyment from speaking with you, Saijou-san."

"Oh?" Claudine hums. "So does that mean you're just being selfish?" The spark in her eyes is another playful one, in spite of her tone. Maya decides to risk it and play along with her smugness.

"It does indeed," she confesses. "I am a rather greedy person, as you'll surely soon discover."

"Really, now. How very intriguing." Claudine leans forward, resting her elbows on the table and folding her hands together, placing her chin on top. "The phrase we would use in dealing with a person such as yourself back in France is mechante va."

"Are you certain?" Maya purrs. "Don't you mean stupéfiante?"

Claudine quirks an eyebrow, surprised at first before letting her smirk return.

"Oh? Elle connaît le français?"

"Bien sûr," Maya replies naturally. "J'ai appris pour toi, mademoiselle."

Claudine's heart leaps higher than she cares to admit. Tendo Maya had learned French for her sake? And though her accent is a bit rusty, she's still quite fluent. Claudine is rather impressed, and even a bit giddy.

"My… you have certainly piqued my interest, Tendo Maya."

Maya dips her head to her again.

"That is perhaps the best news I have heard in all my life thus far, Saijou-san."

They slip back into conversation about theatre for a long while now.

Somewhere along the lines, Maya brings up the fact that she had been allowed to watch Claudine's films when she was a child, which makes Claudine blush with criminal cuteness. She tells of how she had first seen the commercial Claudine had acted in, and come to admire her from a very young age. Though she leaves out the parts about wanting to marry her for now, as she doesn't want to sound too desperate.

But as Maya continues her tangent about how she had mimicked Claudine's dances, Claudine feels her face heating up more and more until she has to stop her.

"My…" she says, hiding her mouth behind her napkin. "I didn't know my parents had hoped to betroth me to my number-one stalker…"

"Not at all," Maya grins. "But merely your biggest admirer."

"Mechante…" But when Claudine finally puts down her napkin, she is smiling. Maya can't stop her own lips from curving up in delight either.

They talk for a few moments longer, getting so engrossed in conversation with one another that neither realizes they're being approached until the other people are standing right at their table.

"Pardon my intrusion-"

"Oy, Kaoruko- Don't interrupt them-!"

"Please quiet down, Futaba-han."

Claudine and Maya break eye contact to look up at their visitors. Claudine recognizes the girl Maya's family had walked in with, dressed in pink with a fan in her hand, looking rather important. Behind her, Futaba is trying in vain to wrangle her and hold her back.

"Futaba?" Claudine says.

"Hanayagi-san, too," Maya adds.

"Indeed," Kaoruko smirks. Behind her, Futaba heaves a sigh.

"Sorry. I was tryin' to stop her, but once this one sets her mind on something-"

"'This one?' I have a name, you know!"

"Yeah, yeah…"

As the two of them start to bicker a little, Maya and Claudine share a puzzled, yet amused look.

"You two know each other?" Claudine asks.

Futaba grabs Kaoruko's hand and pulls her a step back from the table. She lifts her free hand behind her head in embarrassment.

"Yeah, some way or another… our families have kinda been close since we were kids. I had no idea she was close to Tendo, though."

"Nor had I any idea that my Futaba-han was working for Saijou-han," Kaoruko pouts. "Imagine my surprise tonight to find out she'd been keeping such a secret from me all this time!"

"Hey, same goes for you!"

"I had no obligation to tell you."

"Well, neither did I."

"You're a maid!" Kaoruko cries. "I still can't believe it. I don't work for Tendo-han; I am merely her associate."

"Well, not all of us are filthy rich, Kaoruko. Some of us gotta put in some backbone."

"You'd always told me your job took most of the time out of your week," Kaoruko sighs. "I'd always thought you worked at some restaurant. But to think you've been the personal maid of Saijou-han all this time…"

"Yeah, and I didn't go tellin' you cuz you'd blab to the whole world!"

"How cruel! I would never!"

The two of them go off again in a manner that clearly only childhood friends could.

While Maya and Claudine are still baffled at the notion that their closest friends are well-acquainted, the way they're addressing and speaking to one another is proof enough.

So all of Futaba's days off… and when she clocks out in the evenings… she's going back to this girl? She never told me that either. Then again, I suppose she didn't have to.

All four of them now come to the same understanding about Futaba and Kaoruko's relationship. Maya and Claudine are particularly amused.

"My, my, Hanayagi-san. You never breathed a word of knowing Isurugi-san to me."

"Nor did you tell me, Futaba," Claudine says playfully.

Their two friends pout and look a little bashful. Kaoruko hides her face behind her fan.

"W-Well… that is…"

"Yeah, uh…"

And it's then, when the two of them accidentally bump shoulders and end up blushing when it clicks for Maya and Claudine; their two closest friends have been in love with one another all this time, and they'd never been the wiser.

Probably because they'd each been so fixated with thoughts of each other.

While Maya and Claudine had spent their whole lives thinking of each other, they'd been so tunnel-visioned about it they'd never even realized their closest friends had someone else to go home to at night - someone whom they loved in a different way from how they each loved Maya and Claudine respectively.

Now, the two of them smile at each other from across the table.

"C'est gentil," Claudine giggles.

"En effet," Maya replies.

"H-Hey!" Kaoruko whines. "Don't go talking about us behind our backs!"

"Sheesh…"

Claudine laughs out loud, and Maya chuckles behind her hand as the other two blush red. But of course, four can play at this game.

"Oh?" Kaoruko glowers at them. "Well the two of you seem to be getting quite chummy too, now aren't you?"

"Yeah. You seem awfully close already."

And it's their statements that finally make Maya and Claudine realize it's true. In just a few short hours, they've become comfortable enough around one another to laugh freely and openly. Now it's their turn to start blushing.

"Futaba-" Claudine clears her throat, pulling her napkin over her mouth in an effort to conceal some of her blush. "I'm sure you and… Kaoruko, was it-?" She takes a jab at the girl in pink by using her first name from the get-go. A small power move. "-have a lot of catching up to do. So if you don't mind…"

"Indeed," Maya agrees, also trying to remain rigidly composed. "Hanayagi-san, you haven't eaten since we've arrived, no? Please enjoy yourself with Isurugi-san."

Kaoruko's jaw is still agape in outrage that Claudine had addressed her so casually. But before she can think of a comeback, Futaba steps in and takes her by the hand.

"Right, right. That's enough for now. Let's go eat, Kaoruko."

"Futaba-han! You sure did fail to teach that Saijou girl any manners!"

"Okay, down, girl."

"I am not a dog!"

Eventually, Futaba coaxes her disgruntled partner away. Claudine and Maya watch them go with amusement in their eyes.

"I hadn't the slightest idea," Claudine confesses. "They certainly make a good pair."

"Indeed they do," Maya agrees. "Almost as good a pair as we should make, yes?"

Claudine rolls her eyes.

"Quite presumptuous, aren't you?"

"But of course. After all, when I am presented with a challenge, I never rest until I have conquered it." But then, she seems to regret her choice in words, because she quickly drops her smirk. "Not to imply that you are an object to be conquered, Saijou-san. I merely meant-"

"Calm down," Claudine sighs. "I know what you meant. But the fact that'd you'd drop the act in an instant to make sure there was no miscommunication is quite admirable. Though, you should be mindful. I might understand that high-and-mighty personality of yours, but others may still misinterpret it."

Maya bows her head.

"My sincerest apologies."

"Mechante va." Claudine chides her with a smile. It really was cute how Maya could go from this conceited, borderline narcissistic woman to a blushing stuttering schoolgirl at the mere thought of potentially hurting her feelings.

Seeing her repenting and reflecting on her actions so seriously now makes Claudine's heart beat all the quicker.

She honestly hadn't been sure if she would like Tendo Maya this much - at least not right away.

Maman, Papa. You made a splendid choice.

By now, she believes Maya has spent enough time chiding herself for mis-speaking. Claudine clears her throat and begins folding up her napkin to put it back onto the table.

"So," she says. "Is there anything more you can tell me about yourself? Your biggest fear, perhaps?"

"That would be the fear of ever disappointing you, mademoiselle."

"Charming." Claudine rolls her eyes good-naturedly.

"Well," Maya continues. "Then I must also admit I am not the best with ghosts."

"Oh?" Claudine hums. "So Tendo Maya does have a weakness, then."

"On the contrary," Maya says smoothly. "My biggest weakness of all would be that smile of yours, Saijou-san."

"You are good, I'll give you that…" Claudine daintily pops another scone into her mouth before cleaning off her lips and hands on her napkin. She thinks it's about time for a change in scenery. "Well then, now I know that Tendo Maya can have manners sometimes when she isn't bragging. She can hold an engaging conversation, and she can speak French… but can she dance?"

Maya livens up in a split second. Her smirk returns, and she's on her feet swiftly, making her way to Claudine to offer her hand.

"Oh, I think even you will be blown away by my dancing, Saijou-san."

Claudine reflects the smirk as she accepts her hand.

"Oh, really? That's a heavy statement, Tendo Maya. I'm not impressed so easily."

"But if it is me, then I guarantee you shall be."

"Très méchante…"

Maya helps her to her feet and begins guiding her through the tables. Most of the crowd is gathered at the large patio where the buffet is, standing and chatting with their wine glasses in-hand.

But Maya leads Claudine across the well-cut grass toward a more open area near the fountain. They can still hear the music from here, but she pauses as she glances down at Claudine's pristine white shoes.

"On second thought," she says. "Perhaps we should move to the patio? I wouldn't want your clothes to get dirty here."

"It's fine." Claudine waves her hand dismissively. "Enough people here have already began catching on about the whole point of this banquet, it seems. I'd rather not be gawked at and whispered about, if you don't mind."

"I agree. So long as you are all right with dancing here."

"I very much am." Claudine lifts her hand expectantly now, and Maya dips low into a bow to accept it.

"Then, Saijou-san… may I have this dance?"

Claudine tosses a lock of hair over her shoulder.

"You may."

With a small tug, Maya pulls her close, resting her unoccupied hand on Claudine's waist. In turn, Claudine places hers on Maya's shoulder.

Maya naturally takes the lead, and something tells Claudine she would've done so anyway, even if Claudine wasn't doing this to test her skills.

Something tells her Tendo Maya would always take the lead, no matter what. It was a mild, yet controlled sort of aggression - the burning need to always flaunt her skills and her bloodline.

Claudine allows it - for now - and tries not to let herself get too irked by it.

Right from the start, Maya demonstrates exceptional control, balance, poise, and pace. Claudine would expect nothing less from someone so prestigious who had trained herself her whole life for this moment to show off her skills to her specifically.

Claudine has to admit she's impressed. But she won't be outdone.

She matches Maya's vigor with her own, and even though this is a slower sort of dance, they both quickly come to realize they can match one another step for step, breath for breath.

Maya is equally impressed by Claudine's grace and fluidity. Of course, she too, had always expected nothing but an outstanding performance from such a child prodigy, but the extent to which Claudine is demonstrating her prowess now makes Maya's heart flutter.

She might've had one or two misgivings initially, once again being linked to the memory of Claudine's once-frail health. But all of that is sent to the wind now.

Maya holds nothing back with her, and Claudine wouldn't have it any other way.

They dance around the courtyard, sometimes finding themselves moving to a well-known number, and sometimes easing into something all their own. They match in everything they do, always somehow able to anticipate exactly how the other will move before she herself knows.

It isn't the same as when Maya would dance with Kaoruko, or when Claudine would dance with Futaba. There's a certain mutual flame Maya and Claudine share, something unique and special only to them and to each other.

It's addictive.

It's beautiful.

It's fun.

Claudine can't keep the smile off her face, even when she begins to get a bit breathless.

Maya hasn't stopped smiling all the while either. As she guides Claudine into another twirl, Maya catches her perfectly and steps back to lead her further.

"So?" she prompts. "May I have the honor of knowing what you think of my dancing?"

Claudine follows her through the movements, thankful for the faint cool air coming from the fountain in contrast to the heat in her skin.

"I suppose you aren't half bad," she replies. "I might be a bit impressed. Possibly."

Maya chuckles.

"I am hardly worthy of such high praise coming from you, Saijou-san. Allow me to say that I, too, simply adore your style."

"D-Don't distract me," Claudine huffs.

Maya chuckles again and dips her head in apology as they continue on. She truly is in love with the way Claudine moves - and every other part of her, it would seem.

Claudine's passion and love for the art of dance is evident in every move she makes, every breath she takes, every smile on her lips and sparkle in her eyes. And here now, as the sun is just on its way to set, dyeing the sky and the backdrop in rosy pinks, transforming the orange of her dress into a calming shade, turning the silvery-blonde curls of her hair into a radiant gold, making her skin glisten with a soft, ethereal glow…

Maya loses herself in Claudine's beauty once again.

Only this time, it's to a fault.

In retrospect, Claudine will place equal blame on herself for this, as she simply allows herself to get swept away into Maya's prideful and confident undertow, to the point where she has placed enough of her trust in her that she's neglected to take note of her own surroundings.

It's a small twirl, but the angle is just a centimeter off, and Claudine feels her shoe bump against marble.

And it doesn't take much more than that.

She feels her weight shifting all too quickly, and Maya's grip on her has loosened in accordance to the dance in preparation to move her a certain way. As such, Maya loses hold of her before she realizes it.

And then she can do nothing but watch in horror.

Claudine yelps softly, feels the dreadful sense of falling suddenly shoot up her spine-

And then a splash.

Claudine falls backward into the fountain, and Maya is left frozen in shock with her hands still outstretched toward her. It feels like she's been tossed into a nightmare all of a sudden, unable to make her body move as she wants it to for what seems like a long, drawn-out moment. But in reality, it takes her only seconds to snap out of it and leap into action.

"Saijou-san-!"

Maya steps over the edge of the fountain and into the cold pool of water, crouching beside her partner.

Claudine had barely even registered the fact that she'd been falling before the harsh impact of the landing had spread across her back. Water soaks her through immediately, drenching her to the bone and filling her veins with ice. The soreness in the back of her head immobilizes her for a few seconds, until she realizes water is spilling down her throat.

It's then when Maya's arms are around her, gently yet frantically propping her up above the surface. Claudine coughs with her whole body to expel the water, gasping in between as more and more cold water soaks into her hair and clothes. Maya calls for her again.

"Saijou-san? Saijou-san-?"

She rubs her hand up and down Claudine's back to help her cough, heart clenching in her chest. She may have prepared seven years to impress Claudine with dancing and manners. But nothing she'd practice could have ever prepared her for something like this. It's all she can do to try and remain composed, but the panic is clearly seeping into her voice now.

"Saijou-san? Are you all right-?"

By now, the other guests have noticed the commotion. Futaba and Kaoruko are already rushing over.

"O-Oy-!"

"Wh-What on earth happened?!"

As they skid to a halt at the fountain, Maya looks up at them in the most gripping distress. Futaba and Kaoruko lean forward, each taking one of Claudine's hands as Maya supports her back. All three of them help her to her feet, keeping her steady as she continues coughing. They quickly but carefully help her out of the fountain and bring her to the closest table to sit down. Now, Futaba kneels down in front of Claudine and looks up into her face.

"Kuro! Oy, Kuro!"

At last, Claudine finally manages to stop coughing for the most part. She cracks one eye open and shakes her head at her maid.

"I'm- I'm fine-"

Behind Futaba, Kaoruko rounds on Maya with a shrill cry of outrage.

"Heavens!" she shrieks. "You're supposed to be winning her heart, not tossing her into the fountain!"

Maya staggers back a step.

"I-It was an accident. I-"

"You blew it, that's what you did!" Kaoruko smacks Maya's arm with her fan.

"No-" Claudine's ragged voice breaks up the conversation. She wipes her arms across her face a few times before looking up at them. "It wasn't her fault. I had a lapse in focus."

"Please, dear," Kaoruko says gently. "You can blame her. It was her responsibility to look after you, and yet-"

"Actually," Claudine corrects her. "I can look after myself. I can take responsibility for my own mistakes."

Kaoruko actually withdraws.

"Y-Yes… My apologies, Saijou-han."

Claudine softens her gaze at Kaoruko to let her know there are no hard feelings. But her calmer expression is ruined by a sudden wince. The others all yelp in unison.

"Saijou-san-?"

"What's the matter?"

"Kuro, does something hurt?"

Claudine grits her teeth and nods affirmation, bringing a hand to the back of her head. Kaoruko gets behind her to gently part her drenched hair with careful fingers.

"I don't see any blood," she deduces. "But perhaps an ambulance should be called just in case."

"No," Claudine sighs. "There's no need for that. Please…" She looks over to where most of the adults are now beginning to congregate around them. "I've already ruined this banquet."

"Oy, don't say that," Futaba says. "It was an accident."

Claudine sighs. "I suppose…"

Now, she slowly looks up to the person who has remained quietest in all of this, but from whom she can feel the thickest aura of panic, concern, and guilt.

Maya is standing rigidly with her hands balled into fists at her sides, looking like she's just a second away from crying.

Claudine offers a thin little chuckle.

"Well, aren't you a fine mess, Tendo Maya."

Maya gasps when she makes eye contact, and then quickly throws herself forward into a bow.

"Saijou-san, I-"

"I don't need an apology," Claudine stops her. "Just perhaps… a towel?"

That's what makes them all realize they've been standing outside all this time. Futaba jumps to her feet.

"R-Right! A towel! Just sit tight, Kuro-"

"Actually-" Kaoruko grabs her childhood friend's arm to prevent her from dashing off, and instead pulls Futaba back a pace. "Futaba-han, don't you think this is a task for Tendo-han? After all, it seems these two have a bit of talking to do now, wouldn't you agree?"

Kaoruko gives her a glare so compelling it's actually scary enough to bully Futaba into agreement.

"Uh… y-yeah. Guess you're right…"

Kaoruko smiles devilishly.

"There. Now then, Tendo-han? We're leaving Saijou-han in your care. Futaba-han and I will handle the adults." She leads Futaba away by the arm without turning back.

Now, Maya and Claudine are left alone once more, only this time it's under much less joyous circumstances. Maya takes a very timid step forward, the most timid step Claudine bets she's ever taken in her life.

"Saijou-san…? Would it be all right for me to bring you inside? If you would prefer Isurugi-san after all, I-"

"Futaba is busy with that Kaoruko girl," Claudine huffs. "You'll do just fine, Tendo Maya."

A flash of relief crosses Maya's gaze for a second as she steps forward. She offers her hand, letting Claudine accept it at her own pace before bracing her other arm at the small of her back.

Slowly, Maya helps her stand, supporting her weight in case she gets dizzy. She can feel for herself now that Claudine is trembling. Her heart hurts knowing she'd been the cause of this. Maya can't stop herself from more apologies.

"Saijou-san, I am sincerely-"

"Save it," Claudine growls softly. "I already told you, you don't need to apologize. Don't make me say it again."

Maya swallows.

"Very well…"

As Maya gradually begins to walk with her, Claudine realizes she was probably too harsh on her just now, so she tries to make amends.

"What I mean is… it wasn't your fault. I don't want you blaming yourself for such a silly little accident. We both just got caught up in our dance, that's all. As I told Kaoruko before, I'm responsible for myself… So then either it was both our faults together, or it was no one's fault."

Maya understands her meaning, and the words actually do make her feel a little better. She was afraid Claudine might secretly blame her for the accident, but now Maya feels guilty for ever thinking she would. Claudine may be fierce now and then, but at times like these she is selfless and puts other people first.

Maya's heart beats a little more quickly.

"Then in that case… I like to think of it being no one's fault."

"Then we're in agreement."

Thankfully, the crowd lets them through without much of a fuss now, though Claudine does have to reassure her mother she's fine for a moment before she and Maya reach the mansion doors.

They leave behind the party atmosphere for a much calmer and quieter foyer now, one that makes Claudine irritably aware of her own chattering teeth. She directs Maya to the restroom, and together they make their way there, leaving trails of water behind them.

Maya helps her onto a small stool before hurrying to the cabinet and pulling out a thick white towel, then bringing it back to her. Claudine is clutching her shawl to her chest and shivering. Maya hesitantly reaches out, but doesn't make contact just yet.

"May I?"

Claudine lets out a shaky breath and dips her head in consent.

Maya drapes the towel on her elbow for the moment as she crouches down a bit at Claudine's side. With careful hands, she undoes the broach at Claudine's collar and gingerly removes the sopping-wet shawl to put it aside on the sink. Maya then immediately covers her bare shoulders with the clean towel, rubbing softly to absorb the excess water. Claudine shudders involuntarily, which causes Maya to jump.

"Saijou-san? Are you all right? I didn't hurt you, did I?"

"Nothing of the sort," Claudine assures her. "You're doing wonders for me, actually."

Maya exhales. Now knowing Claudine is fine with her touching her, she begins gathering Claudine's wet hair to one side and gently padding the towel down through its length. As she works her way up, she pauses again when her fingertips brush against Claudine's headband.

"May I?" she asks again.

"You may."

So Maya carefully removes the headband, and Claudine has to admit the ache in her skull alleviates a bit with the pressure gone. Maya's hands work gently through the softness of the towel, and slowly assuage the pain away. Claudine closes her eyes for a moment, letting the last of the shivers work themselves out.

"Just so you know," she says. "If you're still thinking about blaming yourself for this, I'll get angry."

It's as if Claudine had read her thoughts, as Maya's mind had, in fact, been starting to wander back to places of guilt. But now, she quickly shakes it away.

"Of course not. If that is the case, I will dash every such thought from my mind."

"Good."

Maya really doesn't think she should be feeling this happy right now. But Claudine has truly eased her conscience and made her feel better about the mishap.

She continues drying Claudine off as much as she can until the shivering has stopped. At that point, Claudine takes the towel for herself and begins drying off her dress as much as she can. As she does so, she looks expectantly up at Maya.

"Well?"

"…Pardon?"

"You're drenched also, Tendo Maya. Dry yourself off. If you catch a cold because of this, I'll also get angry."

"Understood."

Maya retrieves a towel for herself and begins drying her clothes off as much as possible.

They're both quiet for a few minutes until they've done all they can, at which point Maya puts her towel onto the sink. Claudine catches her eye and can already see what she wants to say.

"No apologies," she warns. Maya nods.

"Of course not. I merely wanted to ask if you were truly feeling all right. Are you still in pain?"

"Just a bit sore," she confesses. "But I'll be fine after a good night's rest. What about you?"

"Me?" Maya blinks. "I am perfectly fine."

"But your pride took a blow, didn't it?"

Maya doesn't answer. Claudine sighs.

"On top of being an annoying woman, you're a hopeless one too, aren't you?" She lifts out her hand, and Maya readily takes it. Claudine interlocks their fingers together. "Don't worry. Nothing has changed. I still think very highly of you, Tendo Maya. You are engaging, dazzling, and highly-skilled. You share my interests, and perhaps even outmatch me in some departments."

Claudine huffs a little bit to admit as much. But as Maya stares into her eyes, she sees nothing but genuine emotion. Her heart begins to pound as Claudine continues.

"You're a bit of a handful, and quite conceited at times. But you are respectful and kind above all else - a truly spectacular woman. And I can tell you honestly that you were well worth the wait of seven years."

And by some miracle, Maya had managed to maintain her composure for the majority of the evening.

But now - hearing those sweet and heartfelt words from the lips of the person she's been waiting so long to hear them from - she keeps ahold of Claudine's hand, and drops to her knees. Claudine yelps.

"H-Hey! Tendo Maya! What's the matter-?"

Maya brings that hand to her lips and presses a small kiss to the back of it. Claudine's heart stops for almost five seconds straight until Maya lifts her face to her again.

"Thank you… Saijou-san…" Maya manages to hold back the tears that want to well up, but the emotion is still filling her eyes to capacity. "I truly… could not ever have dreamed that you would be as wonderful as you are. You are stunning, charming, humorous. You are so very sharp and knowledgeable, and though you are fiercely passionate and determined, you are also caring and kind… Forgive me for such an unsightly display… I simply…"

"Lift your head, Tendo Maya." Claudine's voice is soft and coaxing. Maya obeys, gazing up into the eyes of her angel. Claudine gives her a light tug, now bringing Maya's hand to her lips to kiss her knuckles in turn. "I very much look forward to our next meeting, Tendo Maya. After all, there is still so much more we must learn about one another, wouldn't you agree?"

"Saijou-san…"

There is so much she still wants to say to her right now.

But before Maya can configure her thoughts and her feelings, there's a sudden loud sound as the mansion doors clatter open. The echo makes her jolt a bit, but Claudine actually yelps, tearing her hand from Maya's grip and covering her ears. Maya is baffled by her strong reaction, and a flare of alarm twists in her chest. She gets to her feet and places a gentle hand on Claudine's shoulder.

"Saijou-san? Does your head hurt after all?"

Claudine opens her eyes again to find Maya looking worriedly down at her. She quickly drops her hands back into her lap.

"N-No. I'm fine. That just startled me a bit…"

But after an entire evening's worth of seeing Claudine's smile, Maya can tell this one isn't genuine. She wants to ask her about it, but she doesn't want to meddle or pry. By now, they can hear two familiar voices drifting throughout the foyer.

"Oy, Kaoruko! Watch it with the door! Do you know how much that damn thing costs?"

"Oh, my mistake. But when Tendo-sama wants to leave, he wants to leave. I've got to fetch my charge."

Maya and Claudine share an amused glance, but they both understand their moment together is over.

As the other two approach the restroom, Maya helps Claudine to her feet. But before she can step away, Claudine tugs her back.

"I would very much like it if arrangements could be made so that I may see you again very soon."

Maya dips her head, reaching down to take Claudine's hand again and give it a squeeze.

"I will see to it that such arrangements are made posthaste."

They linger for just a second, clearly wanting to say or do something more. But that's when Kaoruko and Futaba enter the restroom.

"So sorry to interrupt," Kaoruko sighs dramatically. "But I've been told to come fetch you, Tendo-han. We're leaving."

"He isn't upset with her, is he?" Claudine wonders. "Because if he is, I can speak to him directly."

Kaoruko gives her a crooked little smile.

"Calm down, Saijou-han. He isn't upset. Quite the contrary, he seemed rather delighted by how swimmingly you two were getting alone. Even with the literal swimming."

"Oy, Kaoruko!"

"I'm sorry! I couldn't resist!" She turns back to Claudine with a self-assured little chuckle. "And besides, I don't think your going to him in that state would ease his mind. If he saw you in those waterlogged clothes, he might actually lose his good mood, you know. So don't you worry your pretty little head. Everything is just fine."

Claudine and Maya share a somewhat skeptical glance, and both agree to look to Futaba for confirmation. Futaba grins.

"She's tellin' the truth. The Tendos seem pretty darn content right now. Must be nice to know the thing they've waited this long for is bearing fruit, right?"

"Isn't that what I just said?" Kaoruko huffs, now whacking Futaba with her fan. "Why didn't you two believe me?"

The girls share a bit of a chuckle at her expense. But after a moment, things settle down.

"Anyway," Kaoruko grunts. "Tendo-han, as soon as you're ready, please wish our hosts farewell and we'll be off for the night."

"Thank you, Hanayagi-san." Maya nods to her, then bows to Futaba before the two of them head off. Maya and Claudine follow a bit more slowly. There's still the urge to say more, just a little bit more-

But then the doors open again. Claudine's own parents walk in, and Maya feels compelled to let her go.

They say their goodnights before parting ways, though Claudine and Maya both make sure to watch one another for as long as they can.

Maya follows Kaoruko back outside, and as soon as they've made it, she almost sways. Kaoruko shrieks and grabs hold of her.

"T-Tendo-han?! What's gotten into you?!"

"Forgive me… Hanayagi-san…" Maya is surprised by the thinness of her own voice. She shakes her head slowly, and then feels the tears running down her cheeks. Kaoruko's jaw goes slack in disbelief, but before she can cry out, Maya explains herself.

"I'm all right," she says honestly with a smile. "I just… I just fear I may already love her far too much…"

Kaoruko lets out a long, exasperated exhale.

"Good heavens, you gave me a start! Why must you be so dramatic?"

"My apologies."

"So long as you're all right…"

With Kaoruko's support, Maya cleans herself up before wishing the other guests goodnight and finally following her parents back to the car.

And inside the mansion, Futaba is leading Claudine up the stairs to her bedroom so she can get changed and rest.

"You sure you're okay, Kuro?" she asks her again. "That was kind of a nasty fall."

"Sore," Claudine admits, pulling a brush through her hair now as she sits on the edge of her bed. "And a bit of a headache. But I think that's more from Tendo Maya herself than from the fall."

"Really?" Futaba chuckles. "Was she that bad?"

"A nightmare," Claudine says playfully. "So conceited, so haughty, so prideful and annoying-"

"Sooo, you like her?"

Claudine smirks and tosses her hair over her shoulder.

"A dangerous amount."

Futaba sits beside her and slings and arm around her shoulders.

"Glad to hear it."

Neither Maya nor Claudine stop thinking about one another all night long, even after Kaoruko and Futaba have left them to go home for the night - which they now know to be the same place.

They're a bit envious of their friends for getting to spend their personal time together after days of work and study. Hopefully one day soon, Maya and Claudine could have that with one another as well.

But until then, they curl up in separate beds for the night, and try to fall asleep past the replaying memories of the evening in their minds, and the giddy, unstoppable flutterings in their chests.

---------

A/N: As I mentioned last chapter, I suppose I chose the simplest version of an arranged marriage AU; that being the version where they don't hate one another at first, but instead they both are instantly and madly in love from the second they lay eyes on one another.

If I'd decided to make this a longer story, I probably would have done the version where they hated one another at first but then gradually grew closer. But at the time I wrote this, I only intended for it to be short, so I decided on the kindest and fluffiest option. I think it could be refreshing in a way to make this AU so that there was no ruefulness; they're just in love at first sight, after waiting all this time for one another. Maybe it's a bit boring, but it's the kind of story I wanted to write.

I hope you enjoyed ch2!