Meant To Be Yours (ch3)

Of course not all within such an arrangement can be without uncertainties and secrets.

Disclaimer: I do not own Shoujo Kageki Revue Starlight.

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							Chapter 3. Hidden Reservations

"Futaba, I told you, I'm-"

"Sick," her maid finishes. "Quit tryna deny it, all right, Kuro?"

Claudine is sitting up in bed in her nightgown, pouting as she slouches back against the pillows.

"It isn't that bad, though. It's just a bit of a cough and a sneeze."

Futaba puts her hands on her hips and sighs as she makes her way over to the bed.

"Even so, Kuro, we can't take any chances. You know that. So you gotta stay in bed today."

"But I'm not even tired!" Claudine protests. "I can't bear missing my dance lessons. You know that."

"Yeah, I do. But your parents already canceled everything for today anyway."

"Quoi?"

"Yeah, cuz you're sick, dummy!" Futaba ruffles Claudine's hair. "Listen, if you just stay in bed today and get better as quick as possible, it'll make your folks feel a whole lot better, too. But if you got up and were dancing and moving around and stuff, and you got dizzy or something, what do you think they'd do?"

Claudine lowers her gaze and mutters her response.

"They'll call the family doctor."

"Yeah. And will that be a fun time?"

"Absolutely not."

"So you see my point," Futaba says triumphantly. "You stayin' in bed today is the best option for everyone. So just try to bear with it, all right?"

Claudine slouches a bit more into her pillows, but makes no more protests. Futaba smiles.

"You know, when you're in a mood like this, you remind me a lot of Kaoruko."

"Hey! Don't insult a sick person!"

"Insult-?" Futaba laughs. "Oh geez, you and her are too funny!" Futaba gives Claudine's hair one more ruffle before turning toward the door. "I'll go get you a glass of water and tell your folks you're gladly stayin' in bed today, kay?"

Claudine heaves a sigh.

"Yes. Fine…"

"Atta girl."

"And, Futaba?"

"Yeah?"

Claudine fidgets a bit as she tries to think of how she wants to word this.

"Do you think you could ask Maman and Papa to… refrain from telling the Tendos that I'm sick? I don't want Tendo Maya to hear about it and start blaming herself. In spite of her appearance, that girl is quite delicate…" As she speaks, she can feel her face heating up more and more.

Futaba has to try not to chuckle at how cute she's being.

"Sure thing." With this, she takes her leave for the moment and closes the door behind herself.

Claudine groans and sinks all the way down into her mattress now, flipping over onto her stomach and hugging her pillow to her face. She coughs lightly a few times as a little shiver runs through her.

/I can't believe I have to miss my lessons today because of this… Just how pathetic is my immune system, anyway?/

She closes her eyes for a moment, as if that might somehow make her sleepy, but it only succeeds in making her feel all the more restless. She rolls over onto her back and stares up at the pink canopy above her bed.

Futaba's right. If I can just bear with it for today, then hopefully by tomorrow I'll be fine.

She hears footsteps approaching and knows it's Futaba, so when the familiar knock comes, Claudine calls out.

"Come in."

Futaba scurries in with a glass of water in one hand, and a conflicted expression on her face. Claudine quirks an eyebrow and sits herself up again.

"Futaba? Is something the matter?"

"Uh, well…" She brings the glass of water over to Claudine's nightstand and leaves it there for now, then starts fiddling with her hands sheepishly. "You see… a-about not letting the Tendos know about this…"

"Ah, Je t'en prie, non…"

Futaba nods. "Yeah. Apparently your folks already spread the word as soon as they found out this morning. And uh… apparently-"

Futaba is cut off by the distant sound of knocking coming from down in the main lobby. Claudine jolts in mild terror at the realization.

"Futaba, don't tell me-"

"S-Sorry, Kuro…"

"No! Absolutely not!" Claudine yelps, clutching her blankets to her chest. "I refuse to let her see me like this! I haven't even brushed my hair-"

"She already came all the way here, Kuro," Futaba sighs. "I can't turn her away now."

Claudine stares at her with her mouth agape, mortified. She can already hear the muffled voices of her parents from downstairs, as well as the tone of a certain newly-familiar voice.

"I can't believe this…" She throws herself down onto the mattress and pulls the blankets up over her head. "Tell her I'm contagious and that she can't come near me!"

"Think of it this way," Futaba reasons. "If she was the one who was sick, you'd wanna be able to go see her, right?"

Claudine is quiet for a long moment. If she wasn't so embarrassed right now, she might spend a moment to be annoyed at how right her maid was. But she admits defeat in wake of the truth of that statement, and lets out a long breath.

Slowly, Claudine sits back up, fixing her pillows against her headboard so she can sit back straight against them.

"Fine," she says, combing her fingers through her hair.

Futaba grins. "See? I knew you'd come around. I'm sure Tendo'll be relieved to see you."

Claudine just crosses her arms and says nothing.

"Is Kaoruko here as well?"

"Yeah. But don't worry, I'll handle her."

"Please do. I'll already have to be showing Tendo Maya one unsightly side of myself today. I don't want to raise it to two with that girl making quips."

"Gotcha." Futaba gives her a thumbs-up. "All right, lemme go get 'em."

"Merci."

Futaba exits the room again.

Only now that Claudine is left alone once more, now knowing her future intended fiancee is just a staircase away, does she realize how frazzling this truly is. Her heart is already doing backflips, and no doubt her face is heating up to become redder and redder-

There's a knock on the door, and Claudine nearly shrieks.

"Kuro- uh, I mean. Ojou-sama?" Futaba calls out, trying to sound professional. "Tendo-san is here to visit you."

"Hey, I'm here too, you know!"

"Right. And Kaoruko."

"Why so informal for me?!"

Claudine cracks a smile at their little spat, and it allows her to draw in a deep breath before she gives her answer.

"Please send them in."

She hears the click and watches the door open slowly inward.

The first of her guests that she sees is Kaoruko, who is wearing a pink blouse and a long white skirt, but with the same fan in-hand from last night. She peers curiously over Futaba's shoulder and into the bedroom.

"My, how lavish…" When her eyes finally come to rest on Claudine, she smiles mischievously and gives a wink. "Ah, Tendo-han, it's terrible! The poor thing can barely even open her eyes!"

"Oy, Kaoruko-!"

Claudine flushes at the blatant lie that was clearly made just to throw Maya into a panic. She opens her mouth to firmly chide Kaoruko.

But before the words can come, Claudine falls quiet as her eyes find the third person to enter the room.

Maya had clearly been trying to remain composed and take her time to enter slowly, but the worry Kaoruko's comment bred within her had urged her into hurrying a bit. Her eyes are wide in dismay and concern as she looks directly at Claudine now.

"Saijou-san-?"

But when Maya sees she's actually not withering away as Kaoruko implied, she breathes a sigh of relief. Claudine isn't quite sure what to do in response, so she simply nods.

Futaba rounds on her childhood friend and locks an arm around Kaoruko's neck to ruffle her hair relentlessly.

"Oy, that was cruel, even for you!"

"Kyaaa-! Futaba-han, you're messing up my hair!"

"Why, you little-"

Now, with the initial panic over and the two of them occupied with one another, Maya takes a hesitant step closer to the bed. She's beside herself with relief to see that Claudine seems to be just fine, save for a slight redness to her pallor.

Though the simple pink nightgown she's wearing is such a contrast to the lavish dress from last night, Maya can't help but stare a little. Her hair is a little bit fluffier from sleep as well, and even though she's certain there is no makeup on her skin, it's still flawless.

Claudine isn't even fazed by the fact that Maya is staring at her, because she's staring right back.

For whatever reason, her brain had just assumed Maya would be wearing a suit again today, since that's the only outfit Claudine had ever seen her in. But instead, she is dressed much more casually in a blue cardigan sweater, black leggings, and flats.

It's… really cute.

Both girls are trapped in a mutual silence for a long moment. But thankfully, Futaba catches on and quickly takes action.

"A-All right! I'll be givin' Kaoruko here the grand tour, so if you guys need anything just give us a call, kay?"

"Futaba-han! My hair!"

Futaba pulls her whining friend out of the bedroom and lets the doors close behind them. The sound makes both girls left inside realize they're alone now.

Being that it's her room and that she has a guest, Claudine realizes she needs to speak first.

"Well, what a pleasant surprise visit this is, Tendo Maya. When I'd said last night that I wanted to see you again as soon as possible, you really took it to heart, didn't you?" She speaks clearly and calmly, making sure Maya can understand that she really is as fine as she says she is through her voice.

Maya visibly relaxes.

"Please, I beg your pardon for my sudden visitation and my lackluster appearance. But when I heard that you had taken ill because of what happened last night, I simply had to come see you, so long as you would have me."

Claudine cracks a playful little smile.

"You know, I almost didn't allow it. After all, look at me! All disheveled and unsightly… But Futaba made me consider things from your perspective, and, well… that was enough."

Maya finally manages a smile as well.

"Thank you very much for considering me," she says, bowing her head. She takes another hesitant step forward, giving her an inquiring look. Claudine nods her approval, and so Maya makes her way over to her bedside. She offers her hand just as she'd done many times last night, and Claudine daintily rests hers in her palm. Maya bends down to kiss her knuckles softly.

"So then," Maya says hopefully. "I take it you aren't terribly ill?"

"Of course not. That Kaoruko girl is a piece of work, tricking you like that…"

"I am certain her intent was to let me feel all the more relieved to know that wasn't the case."

"Aren't you being a little too forgiving? She sounds like a handful."

"At times, she can be. But she is a dear friend."

"Of course."

They share a calm, quiet glance for a moment, until Claudine feels a sneeze coming on. She quickly withdraws her hand from Maya's grasp and covers her mouth with her elbow.

"Pardon me…"

"Of course." Maya scours the room for tissues and spots a box on the vanity. She goes to retrieve them, and Claudine thanks her as she plucks one out and cleans herself off before dropping it into the trash. A small frown has come across Maya's lips now.

"So while you may not be terribly ill, you do still have a cold."

"It's just a sniffle."

"Do you have a fever?" Maya asks. "Pardon me for saying, but you seem rather flushed."

"No fever," Claudine says firmly. "And no need to check, either," she adds.

"Very well." Maya respects her wishes and refrains from touching her for the time being. When she notices Claudine glancing at the water glass on her nightstand, Maya promptly and carefully hands it to her.

"Merci," Claudine says, bringing it to her lips. Maya stays close, just in case her hand trembles or anything spills, but Claudine drinks her fill without incident. Maya happily takes the glass from her when she's finished and puts it back.

"Saijou-san? Is there anything at all I can do for you? If you would prefer to rest, you need only say the word and I shall take my leave."

"No need. You came all this way to see me, after all. Thank you for that."

"It is my pleasure," Maya says humbly.

"Actually, perhaps there is one thing you could do for me."

"Anything at all, mademoiselle."

"Okay, maybe two things. First of all, you can work on your accent. And second…" She casts her gaze across to the far corner of the room to where an old record player stands beside the glass doorway to her balcony. "Would you mind turning on a bit of music for me?"

"I would be delighted." Maya heads directly over to the record player and lets it begin playing the current disc. The room is filled with the tunes of classical music, a song both girls know very well. They both sigh.

"Ah," Maya says. "Such a wonderful piece."

"It's one of my favorites."

"A splendid palate you have." Maya makes her way back to Claudine's bedside. Claudine smiles as she approaches; thankfully, the nervous racing of her heart from earlier in learning Maya would be coming to visit has already calmed down into a much tamer, and more comfortable pulse. She even steels herself enough to make the bold move of sliding over a bit, a clear invitation to allow Maya onto the bed.

Maya is shocked and delighted, though she tries not to show it too much. She tilts her head, a silent way to ask confirmation, to which Claudine responds with a nod. So Maya slowly sits down on the edge of the bed near her, while still maintaining a respectable distance.

"Other than your cold, how are you feeling?" she wonders. "Are you still in pain from the fall?"

"Not even a little," Claudine replies. "You don't have to worry so much. I'm not sure how much you know about my condition, but it's not anything as severe as what it used to be."

Maya seems a little more relieved to hear that from her.

"Yes. I knew enough. My apologies for prying."

"It's fine. As my betrothed, you would have found out sooner or later."

"I suppose." Maya tries not to smile at the word 'betrothed' and instead retains her more neutral expression. "Then if you aren't tired just yet, would you perhaps like to talk?"

"That sounds nice." Claudine leans comfortably back against her pillows. "I must admit, I think I like seeing you dressed like that. All the formalities of suits and dresses and banquets make me a bit anxious."

"I can understand that," Maya says. "I apologize if I made you feel nervous in any way."

"Not you. That's not what I meant. In fact, I felt perfectly comfortable with you last night, Tendo Maya. Even with that kind of atmosphere."

Maya can't hold back her smile this time.

"That makes me so very happy to hear, Saijou-san."

"And what about you?" Claudine inquires. "I can only imagine how nervous you must have been last night, after waiting so long to meet me. I can only hope I was as worth the wait to you as you were to me."

"Saijou-san." Maya puts her hand to her chest and bows forward as much as she can while sitting like this. "You are so much more wonderful than I could have ever possibly dreamed. I speak only the truth."

"A-All right. Please lift your head. It feels odd to have you bowing to me while I'm in my pajamas."

Maya does as she's asked and straightens herself up again. Claudine clears her throat.

"Now then, I think we're both aware that you know plenty about me. But I feel I hardly know much about you at all other than your fear of ghosts." Maya flinches a tiny bit, and Claudine chuckles. "Is there anything else I should know, Tendo Maya? I'm sure there's plenty."

"Anything else…" she parrots. "What would you like to know?"

"Why don't we start with the basics?" Claudine suggests. "Your favorite flower or color, or things of that nature."

"Well then, to answer those…"

Maya begins listing her responses, expanding upon them sometimes when Claudine asks her for more details. Within only minutes, both girls are finding it's much easier to converse with one another when they are in a less formal setting and under less stressful circumstances.

The conversations come even more naturally than they had last night, and both are overcome with that tranquil sense of ease around one another.

They go off on tangents again, oftentimes finding the topic back on theatre and dance. They talk and laugh, only needing to pause a few times when Claudine sneezes and Maya hands her another tissue.

They talk through the course of several songs on the record, and several of their discussions stem from the music.

A few times, Claudine goes off talking about a certain artist she admires, and Maya just sits and listens with an adoring expression.

And when Maya gets passionate about telling about her favorite dance, Claudine sits back and giggles to see her get so invested.

They're in the middle of an excited discussion about their favorite composers now when a certain song begins playing. Claudine can see the light in Maya's eyes and immediately pokes some fun at her.

"Oh? You like this one, do you?"

"Yes… Quite a bit, in fact."

"Then please, go right ahead."

"Eh?"

"Go ahead," Claudine says again. "Judging by how you're nearly shaking with anticipation, I can tell I wouldn't be able to stop you from getting up to dance if I tried. So please." She turns her hand up invitingly toward the empty room.

Maya gives a little bounce of merriment as she stands.

"Then please don't mind if I do."

Claudine watches her as she makes her way to the open space and eases into the flow of the music with expert precision. Claudine had gotten to see how Maya could dance with a partner last night, but this is the first time she is observing her during an individual number.

Her movements are even more expressive and extravagant, even more graceful and elegant. Claudine hadn't known it was possible for Maya to be more impressive than she'd been last night, but somehow she is.

Claudine knows the movements to this dance by heart, and she's done it no fewer than a thousand times herself. She's watched recordings of herself, and she can tell right away now that Maya is just a bit more skilled than her in every single way. Just a bit.

If it wasn't such a delight to watch her, Claudine might've spared a moment to be annoyed.

She could definitely tell that Maya had spent her entire life thus far training in this department, and that she was indeed of such a highly-esteemed heritage.

Claudine anticipates her every next movement in accordance to the dance. It's even more exciting than watching the recordings she'd seen on TV, or even the lives ones she'd seen at the theatre, and it isn't just because Maya effortlessly puts the professionals to shame.

Perhaps it's because Claudine is able to see it so closely.

Perhaps it's because it's within the comfort of her own room.

Or perhaps it's simply because it's Maya dancing - especially for her.

Claudine's heart is racing by the time the song comes to an end, and Maya holds the final pose for a moment. Claudine applauds with a few claps, and Maya takes a bow.

"I am honored," she says. "I hope it wasn't too rusty. I don't often dance in such attire."

"It was spectacular," Claudine says. "Almost suspiciously so."

"You flatter me, surely." Maya makes her way back to the bed now. But Claudine doesn't want her to sit just yet. Instead, she removes her blankets and begins slipping her legs off the side of the bed. Maya blinks. "Saijou-san?"

"Let's go."

"Pardon?"

Claudine hops off her bed and steps into her slippers, giving her head a shake to toss her hair back.

"You've lit a spark in me. I want to dance."

"Eh? Now?" Maya frets. "Are you certain you're well enough?"

"Of course I am." She smiles and lifts her hand expectantly. Maya eventually smiles back and accepts.

"Very well. Then who am I to refuse?"

As the next song begins, Maya leads Claudine to the open space of the bedroom. They start off slowly in time with the music, but it isn't long before Claudine can assume Maya is holding back for caution about her health. To prove she's fine, Claudine puts some extra spunk into her steps, and actually manages to take the lead from her.

"Is that really all you've got? Come now, Tendo Maya!"

Maya is gladly swept away by her vigor. She smirks, and then begins moving without any hesitation. With one swift motion, she shifts their weight just slightly, but it's enough to regain control and the lead as she leans Claudine back into a dip.

"Do try to keep up then, Saijou-san."

"Mechante va."

They continue through the song, keeping expert pace and timing with one another, constantly trying to steal the lead from one another without sacrificing an inch of the performance.

They dance across every open inch of the room, until the song has just about run its course. Maya manages to maintain her lead for the final twirl, extending her arm and keeping a firm grip on Claudine's hand as she steps out and spins. The music stops right on point as Maya tugs her back into her arms.

As the adrenaline begins to settle down, Claudine pants to catch her breath, but finds she loses it again when she realizes just how close her face is to Maya's. Maya smirks down at her, only half as breathless, holding her there for much longer than she has to, simply because she is enraptured by the sight of Claudine's shimmering eyes, her frazzled hair, her rosy cheeks and lips…

She leans down just a centimeter, as if being pulled in by her gravity.

Claudine's eyes are locked on hers, flicking for a second down to her lips and back again. Her heart is pounding, and not just from the dance.

The next song begins, but neither of them move.

Claudine knows Maya is waiting for a sign to cover those last few inches of space between them. She swallows as she tries to regain her breath. But something hitches, and she quickly turns to bury her face into Maya's shoulder and cough. With the trance now broken, Maya swiftly rights her partner, giving Claudine's back a few gentle taps.

"Saijou-san? Are you all right?"

"I'm fine-" Claudine ducks her mouth into her elbow and coughs again. Maya slowly begins guiding her back toward her bed.

"My apologies. I got carried away. I neglected to keep in mind that you're not well."

"It's nothing," Claudine says when the coughing stops at last.

Maya sits down beside her on the bed and hands her the glass of water. Claudine accepts and takes a few slow sips. Maya stays close to her until she's finished and puts the glass aside again. She still has her arm around Claudine, and realizes it may be too intrusive.

But as she makes a move to pull away, Claudine catches her eye and smiles to show her she doesn't mind. She shifts over an inch to be closer to Maya now.

"Thank you for the dance," she says. "It felt nice to get up and move after spending all day in bed. And even nicer to have a partner - especially one as skilled as yourself."

"Again, you flatter me, Saijou-san," Maya smiles. "You certainly gave me a run for my money, even when you aren't in your best health. You are truly exceptional, Saijou Claudine."

"And you're not bad yourself, Tendo Maya."

For a moment, only the sound of the music fills the room, though Claudine thinks her heart is beating loudly enough for Maya to be able to hear it. Nonetheless, she allows herself to lean sideways up against her. Maya stays perfectly still.

"Saijou-san…?"

"I'm fine," she assures her. "Just resting my eyes. You're more than welcome to do the same."

Maya's heart is in her throat from a mixture of nerves and joy.

"Then please don't mind me…" Gently, she rests her head against Claudine's, pulling her in a little closer to her side.

She's certain this is bliss. She's never felt happier in all her life.

They sit as such for the length of two more songs, breathing softly, keeping close. Only when Maya feels the slightest shiver travel through her partner does she ease away from her and coax her toward the headboard.

"Let us get you back beneath the blankets, shall we?"

Claudine must be chilly, because she makes no protests. Maya pulls the blankets back for her and adjusts her pillows before helping her sit back. Claudine bundles herself up a little, but keeps one arm exposed, keeping her hand rested on top of Maya's.

"I get the feeling our time is almost up for now," she guesses. "I can hear Futaba and Kaoruko arguing from down the hall."

"I believe you're right," Maya agrees, turning her hand over to lace their fingers together. "Thank you very much for letting me keep you company today, Saijou-san."

"Well on one hand, you really didn't give me much of a choice," Claudine huffs. "But… on the other, it was rather nice."

"I am so very glad to hear it." Maya gives her hand a squeeze as the sounds of the others' voices grow nearer. She slips her hand from Claudine's grip then, and instead lifts her hand tentatively toward her face, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear. Claudine sighs, leaning her cheek against her palm for a moment.

Again, their eyes meet, and only inches separate them. But then a knock comes at the door, and both girls jump and pull apart.

"C-Come in," Claudine calls out once Maya has stood from the bed. Futaba and Kaoruko enter the bedroom.

"Sorry," Futaba says. "But the Tendos are headin' out."

"Yes," Kaoruko says. "Your parents have all been chatting for quite some time while the two of you were getting better acquainted, no doubt."

"Kaoruko!" Futaba covers her friend's mouth. "Geez, do you ever think before you say crap?"

"I most certainly do!" Kaoruko grunts around her palm.

"Geez… anyway, Tendo, just be ready to go in five minutes."

Maya dips her head to them.

"Thank you."

With that, Futaba grabs a disgruntled Kaoruko into a sort of headlock and pulls her back out of the room. When Maya and Claudine are left alone again, they find they can hardly make eye contact for a moment. Claudine eventually clears her throat to get Maya's attention back.

"Anyway, thank you again for coming, Tendo Maya. I do hope to see you again soon."

Maya perks up and finally looks at her properly.

"You would… like to see me again?"

"What kind of a question is that? Of course I would." Claudine crosses her arms across her chest before adding more slowly. "Would you… care to see me again…?"

"Of course-!" Maya's response is so honest and immediate it makes Claudine's heart rather happy. Maya steps closer to her again, reaching her hand out. "I would very much like to see you again every day for the rest of my life, should you want the same, Saijou-san."

"I-Idiote… that sounds an awful lot like a proposal…"

The second the words are out of her mouth, Claudine wishes she could take them back. Both girls turn pink and quickly look away. Maya stutters.

"I… that is…"

"Ah, your parents are waiting for you," Claudine says pointedly.

"Right."

But before Maya can turn away from her, Claudine reaches out to take her hand. This time, she brings Maya's hand to her lips and leaves a kiss behind there. Maya blinks in astonishment.

"Saijou-san…?"

"I'll see you again soon, Tendo Maya."

Maya snaps out of her trance long enough to remember her manners - and her pride. She brings Claudine's hand to her lips in turn and kisses her back.

"Indeed you will, Saijou-san."

"There you go, one-upping me," Claudine huffs. "Off with you, then."

"Oui, mademoiselle."

"Your accent!" Claudine calls after her.

Maya laughs as she heads for the door and takes her leave, but not before casting her one last affectionate glance. Claudine sighs, but smiles back.

And then, just as unexpectedly as she'd come, Tendo Maya leaves her.

The record stops at just about the same time, leaving Claudine in silence. Her heart is still fluttering, and there's still a warmth resting just beneath her skin - a warmth that hadn't been there until Maya had held her in her arms today.

She sighs again, but it's content. Lying down on her side, she pulls the blankets up over herself as she brings the hand Maya had kissed to her lips.

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Over the next few weeks, Maya and Claudine arrange several more visits together, during which they talk and dance and compete for hours on end.

But no matter how badly their pride may get ahold of them at times, their meetings are always interspersed with fond glances and gentle touches, and always end with soft kisses to the backs of their hands.

Even during the weekdays where they both still have their own lessons and lectures to attend, they will often see one another at least briefly in the afternoons.

When they're lucky enough to slip out of the mansion unnoticed by Futaba and Kaoruko, they often will sneak to the gardens.

Maya does her best to impress Claudine with her knowledge of the language of flowers, and while Claudine may roll her eyes and call her a know-it-all, she still listens to every word.

More often than not, they dance along the little cobblestone pathways, surrounded by the scents and colors of the garden. And then they'll sit together on one of the ornate benches and lean against one another, simply to enjoy the warm weather and each other.

And though neither has admitted it with words, their affectionate actions express very clearly just how much more deeply in love they fall by the day.

It's agony to be apart, and absolute joy to be together.

Seeing one another is always an additional motivation to work hard throughout their days.

But eventually, Kaoruko voices something along the lines of staying cooped up in their houses for every single date is no fun, and so the four of them begin going out to town together on their days off. They'll go to little cafes or parks, or sometimes to the movies, though Claudine and Maya both refuse to see anything of the horror genre.

But every now and then Kaoruko will drag Futaba into one such film in order to give the other two some exclusive alone time.

They always hold hands much more easily when they're alone, as if the entire world didn't already know they were meant to be betrothed. But the kisses are still soft, tame, and few and far between - only upon greetings or farewells, and only on the backs of hands or on cheeks.

In spite of how bold they often are with their words, being bold with the affection is something much more drastic neither feels she should initiate until they are both entirely certain they're ready.

They learn many things about one another on these little outings. For example, Claudine learns that Maya has an insatiable love for baumkuchen, and Maya learns an awful lot about France from listening to Claudine's stories. They learn each other's little quips and quirks, their preferences in food and theatre, their favorite kind of weather… Anything down to the smallest details.

The only thing Claudine keeps to herself is her fear, not because she doesn't trust Maya with it, but simply because she doesn't ever think there's a right time to bring it up.

Perhaps she could have done it here or there, like the few times she'd jumped and been thrown into a minor fluster over some loud, unexpected sound or another throughout the town; the thud of a fender-bender or the sudden blaring of a fire engine.

But whenever she would start to panic, Maya was always right there with her, asking her if she was all right, and Claudine could simply never find it in her heart to tell her otherwise.

And besides, with Maya beside her, the shock never lasted very long anyway, as Claudine allowed herself to find distraction and comfort in Maya's presence.

So for the time being, Claudine keeps her fears to herself.

But little does she know that, throughout their dates and time spent together, Maya has begun to recognize a fear of her own - one much more terrible than ghosts.

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It's nearly three weeks after they'd first met and begun having their daily dates and get-togethers, when Maya is late for her evening visit.

Claudine has already showered and dressed freshly in a sweater and leggings after her dance lessons, and has been waiting a bit impatiently in her bedroom for nearly ten minutes now. Futaba, who should have taken her leave and gone home for the day, has elected to stay with her for a few moments to try and ease her nerves.

"Easy, Kuro," she says. "I'm sure she'll show up eventually."

"Eventually? It's nearly nightfall." Claudine has resorted to pacing now. "What if something happened? What if there was an accident? Why wouldn't she call if she were going to be late or cancel?"

"Oy, calm down for a second, would you? You're gonna make yourself sweaty with all that pacing." Futaba takes her by the arm and brings Claudine back to sit on the stool of her vanity. "Just relax, Kuro. She'll be here. She's Tendo, after all. Nothing in the world could stop her from coming to see you."

Claudine exhales a shaky little sigh.

"I suppose you're right." She glances to the clock at her bedside and bites her lip. "Futaba, you should go. Heaven knows if you're a moment later than you already are, Kaoruko will lose her mind."

"Y-Yeah, you're probably right." Futaba scratches her head in embarrassment. "Sorry, Kuro. I wish I could stay with you till Tendo gets here. Just try not to worry too much, all right? Even if she doesn't end up comin', I'm sure there's an explanation."

Claudine heaves another little sigh, but manages a smile.

"You're right. Merci, Futaba."

"Yeah, de nada."

Claudine laughs outright, getting to her feet and wrapping her arms around her friend. Futaba gives her a good hard squeeze back.

"See ya tomorrow."

"Goodnight, Futaba."

With this, Futaba takes her leave for the night.

Claudine closes her eyes and listens to the stillness of her room for a moment. With supper already over, she's beginning to wonder if she should simply change into her sleepwear and call it a night.

/I'll give that Tendo Maya an earful when she comes to see me tomorrow, she decides./

But just before she can resolve herself to the notion of having her first day without seeing her, a small, soft sound reaches Claudine's ears.

It's very faint and very clearly melodic, a familiar tune.

She blinks her eyes open to look to the record player in the corner of the room, but as she expected it's off. She hadn't turned it on since her personal practice lessons hours ago.

Looking around, she tries to figure out a possible source of the sound - perhaps a music box or alarm of some sort, or even the muffled sound of her parents' televisions in another room.

But she can tell the sound is none of those things. It's far too different to be any of the usual songs she typically hears on a daily basis. She can't make out the words exactly, but she can decipher the tune.

And after she listens for a moment, she recognizes it as one she's only learned recently within these past few weeks.

She'd learned it from a certain someone.

Claudine is on her feet in a flash as the answer strikes her all at once. Her heart leaps into a giddy little twirl as she hurries to the sliding glass door that leads out onto her balcony.

She moves the curtains aside and pulls the door, stepping out into the cool, purple twilight.

And surely enough, the words of the song become perfectly clear now:

"I've watched you for so long

As if I had put loneliness aside…"

Claudine grips the edge of the granite railing and slowly peers down into the courtyard below.

And though she's only dressed in a casual blouse and skirt, Tendo Maya is just as charming and romantic as ever.

With her hand to her chest, she smiles as Claudine finally finds her, though Maya doesn't break her song.

"On this night, even the moon smiles at me, please look this way,

Oh, fly me to the star…"

Claudine is in a daze of sorts, as if the surprise serenade has cast a gentle spell over her. All of her irritation at Maya for being late today suddenly melts away into the night as she continues her song.

Claudine folds her arms over the rail and leans over to watch and listen.

And when she simply can't stay quiet and listen any longer, she joins in along with her.

"The birds let us know about the dawn,

The hands of the clock must be stopped now,

The shooting stars gently slip on the morning,

And they fall down,

Oh, fly me to the star…"

They finish their song in harmonious unison, holding out the last note before letting the evening breeze carry it off.

At last, the two girls gaze fondly at one another, though Claudine has been waiting for quite some time, so she lets just a hint of impatience into her tone.

"Well, well. To what do I owe the honor of such tardy visit? You had me worried, you know."

"My sincerest apologies." Maya takes a bow. "An important meeting came up for my parents, and I needed to attend as well. Being it was such short notice, there was regrettably no time to contact you. As such, I thought I might try to compensate for it like this."

Claudine hums.

"A serenade beneath the moonlight, hm? I suppose you've made your point. I accept your apology."

"And for that, I am grateful."

"Have you eaten?" Claudine wonders.

"Yes. After the meeting."

"And your car is still here, I presume?"

"Indeed. My parents had wanted to go straight home, but I insisted I see you tonight, and so they agreed to bring me for a short time."

"How much time do you have left?"

"If I had to stake a guess, I would assume fifteen minutes or so?"

"And?" Claudine huffs. "Do you plan to spend all of it standing down there in the cold?"

Maya grins.

"It is true that this distance between us is devastating. I shall make my way to the door at once."

"There's no need for that," Claudine says. "With such precious little time, this will be much faster." She walks to the far end of her little balcony and picks up a bundle of something Maya can't quite figure out right away. But as Claudine holds it over the rail and releases it, Maya watches the bundle unfold into a long swaying ladder. It unravels all the way down to the grass right before her. Intrigued, Maya looks back up to her curiously.

Claudine crosses her arms and huffs.

"It's for fire safety," she explains. "Although, I must admit it would also work quite well for this situation."

Maya approaches the ladder which is secured to the balcony rails, and takes hold.

"Scaling the balcony after a moonlit serenade. How romantic indeed."

"Just hurry up. But be careful!"

Maya laughs as Claudine's attempt to sound impatient is immediately outweighed by her concern for her safety.

Maya grips the ropes of the ladder and finds her footing on the steps before slowly climbing her way up. Claudine holds it secure from her end, just to be safe.

It's a good fifteen feet high, but Maya makes quick work of reaching the balcony. Claudine takes her hands and keeps a firm grip on her as she guides her over the rail. As Maya hops off at last, Claudine gives her hands a tug and pulls her into her waiting arms.

"Finally… I was about to be upset that I wouldn't be seeing you today…"

Maya wreathes her arms around Claudine and gives a snug, warm squeeze to her back.

"Nothing could stop me from coming to see you, Saijou-san. The only way I would stop is if you asked me to."

"Well don't ever expect that to happen," Claudine mumbles. A breeze flows by, and she feels Maya shudder a little. Claudine steps away and ushers her inside. "Now get in! We don't need you getting sick next!"

As Maya is herded in through the door, Claudine pulls the ladder up and puts it aside before following after her. She closes the glass door behind herself and finds Maya waiting with open arms. Claudine sighs and goes to her for another embrace.

Maya all but purrs, gliding her hands through Claudine's hair and down her back, nuzzling against the side of her head. Claudine returns the gestures just a little more bashfully.

"So?" she prompts. "How was this meeting of yours?"

"Dreadfully boring," Maya admits. "It was for my parents. I was only in attendance for formalities."

"Ah, I know the sort. Those can be arduous."

"Indeed."

"Come sit down," Claudine invites her. She guides her to the bed and sits beside her, though they still keep their arms around each other as much as possible.

Claudine has a few things she wants to ask her or just chat with her about, things she'd been meaning to talk about whenever Maya would arrive today.

But to her surprise, Claudine doesn't get one word out before Maya is slumping onto her shoulder with a long, long sigh. Claudine tries to look down at her, but she can't see her expression.

"Hey, Tendo Maya…? Is something the matter…?"

Maya just loops her other arm across Claudine's stomach and locks her fingers together, encircling her partner's waist and keeping as close as she can.

"It's nothing… May I just… stay like this for a moment…?"

Claudine feels a slight tightness in her chest now, and a trickle of concern drips down her spine.

"Of course."

Maya sighs her gratitude.

For a few moments they're both quiet. Claudine traces her hand up and down Maya's back, then around in circles and other random patterns. She'd thought she'd seen every side of her over the past few weeks, but evidently she was very wrong. She's never known her to be this quiet and depressed - especially not with her.

On one hand, Claudine is glad that Maya feels comfortable enough around her now to reveal such a side of herself.

But on the other hand, she's worried, and she doesn't like it.

She sits with her for a few more minutes, painfully aware of the time limit Maya had informed her of earlier. Claudine can only hold out for so long before her worries get the better of her.

"You can talk to me, Tendo Maya. You should know that by now."

Maya's response is to squeeze her a little tighter.

"Yes… However, this is a matter that… affects you directly, Saijou-san."

"Then all the more reason you should tell me about it. If it would help." Claudine coaxes her back just a little, just enough to seek her eyes. Maya finally manages to flash a glance up to her before heaving another sigh.

"Well, you see… I had told you before that… my greatest fear was the possibility of you rejecting me, Saijou-san."

"I recall," Claudine nods. "That and ghosts," she adds with a gentle smile. Maya smiles back.

"Yes. And ghosts." But in only seconds, her frown returns, and then so does Claudine's.

Maya is quiet for another moment as she configures her thoughts. Claudine continues to rub her back slowly, wanting her to know that she'll wait as long as she needs her to. At last, Maya continues.

"Ever since you've approved of me, Saijou-san, that fear has been dashed. I know in my heart that you truly have accepted me, and that the feelings you give me are absolutely genuine."

Claudine feels a blush coming on, but she doesn't falter.

"Yes. That's absolutely true." She puts her other hand on top of Maya's in her lap to reenforce her statement. Maya smiles again, but just for a second.

"Yes. And I cannot properly express how happy that makes me. However… since that fear has been erased, I'm afraid a new one has arisen in its place… And I haven't been able to shake it. It's become quite meddlesome, you see, particularly within these past few days…"

She tapers off again, and Claudine waits patiently, continuing her soothing ministrations through Maya's hair and across her back. Maya inhales and swallows thickly before going on.

"You see… as you are well-aware, I have spent my entire life striving to become someone worthy of one day taking your hand in marriage, Saijou-san. I have worked and trained for years in all the things you favor, simply so that I might impress you and win your heart. And it seems, if I may be so bold as to say it, that I have achieved my goal."

Claudine can do nothing to stop the heat in her face now, so she just does her best to ignore it as she nods her affirmation.

"I… must admit, that's true," she mumbles. "But why on earth has that gotten you so upset?"

Maya hangs her head, no longer able to bring herself to look into her eyes.

"It's just… some might say that… I was born simply to be your wife one day, but not in a romantic sense. It almost feels as though… as though I have been molded to fit this role… as if I have tricked you into falling in love with me, because I have been created to be everything you might have wanted.

"If you had no other options to suit your fancy, and someone as convenient as myself were to come along, of course your answer would be to choose me. But I just fear… I fear it may not actually be what you truly want… that there could be someone better than me… someone more genuine…"

She can't say anymore. The words break off and are smothered by soft, fractured sobs. Maya bows her head as tears begin slipping silently down her cheeks and into her lap, her shoulders trembling beneath some intangible weight.

Claudine is stunned into silence.

Truth be told, she had harbored similar thoughts in her earlier years - that whomever her parents chose for her might just be a convenient option, that they might be someone just 'good enough'.

But the moment she had met Maya for herself, and every moment since then, such thoughts had never crossed Claudine's mind again. Not even once.

Not until now.

Maya brings her hands up to her face and sobs - true, heartbroken tears the likes of which Claudine has never seen from her before. It pains her to leave her like this for even a second longer. She doesn't even need to think about her answer.

Claudine reaches out to wrap Maya in her arms again, and gently pulls her toward her, covering her as much as she can with her embrace.

"You…" Claudine fights to keep her own emotions in check. She doesn't want to start crying - not until she's said all she wants to say clearly. "You are truly the sweetest and most insufferable woman to ever exist, Tendo Maya."

Maya still hasn't reached out to hold her back yet. She keeps her hands pressed against her face as she hiccups over and over. Claudine trusts she's still paying attention to what she's saying, though.

"Now you listen here," she begins chidingly. "How dare you call yourself the convenient option? What exactly about you is convenient? You're a handful and a half, that's for certain, springing something as serious as this on me without any warning…

"But even outside of that, did you really think I would choose you simply because you met my preferences? Simply because you were well-mannered and well-versed in theatre? Simply because you were a girl, and my only viable suitor, simply because of your prowess? Please."

Claudine rests her chin atop Maya's head, letting her hide as she continues to cry. Claudine circles her back with both arms and holds her firmly, securely.

"Believe me, I think you know me well enough by now that if I didn't like you honestly, and from the bottom of my heart, I would have sent you packing weeks ago. Don't be so conceited as to think you were my only option. There are plenty of other girls out there who have shown interest over the years, but I had declined them all because I was so curious about you - about a girl who would train herself for seven years, of her own volition, just to try and impress me.

"I know, Tendo Maya. I know your parents didn't force you into that. They may have made an offer to my parents about an eventual arrangement, but it was not their idea to have you work for nearly a decade just so you could prove your worth to me. That was all your idea, was it not?"

She sighs, then continues. "I know you… had come into the possession of my films. That you had always admired me, even from a young age. Even before you knew what love was, you only had eyes for me, isn't that right?"

Maya sniffles a few times, but manages a small nod.

"Yes…" she gasps. "It has always been you, Saijou-san… no one but you… And yet I fear even those feelings may have been fabricated somehow… as if our parents' arrangement robbed us of the choice of choosing freely…" She breaks down all over again, and Claudine truly has to fight not to let herself cry, too. She just holds Maya closer.

"I can understand those fears," she confesses. "I understand exactly what you mean. But you and I have made our own choices already, haven't we, Tendo Maya? The emotions we feel are too strong to be anything borne of fabrication. Surely you can feel that, too. Surely you know."

"But…" Maya's hands finally fall away from her face and rest limply in her lap. She bows her forehead against the front of Claudine' shoulder, blinking new tears every second. "But I cannot help but feel... that I have deceived you somehow. That I tricked your heart into choosing me…"

"Hah?" Claudine scoffs. "Do you think you could ever deceive me, Tendo Maya? Please. You're as transparent as the air itself. I could tell from the very beginning that none of what you did for me was because you had been 'molded' to do so. It was all because you wanted to do it. Because you cared for me so deeply you wasted seven years of your life striving to try and make yourself 'good enough' for me."

"No-" Maya chokes. "I didn't waste those years… Nothing feels wasted if it was something I did for your sake…"

"You see?" Claudine says in quiet triumph. "How could anyone deceitful or malicious ever say such sweet words to me like that? And don't think I only chose you because you were my only or easiest option, Tendo Maya. Make no mistake; I chose you because you are the person I am meant to be with. Not because our parents would like it if we were wed. Not because you just so happen to like the same things as I do. Not because it's convenient or pretty or will make others happy."

She eases Maya back from her, cupping a palm to her cheek and coaxing her to look into her eyes.

"I chose you, Tendo Maya, because you are the person I am meant to be with. Because you are the one who makes my heart race. Because you are the one who has been waiting for me just as long as I have been waiting for you, and somehow it feels like it's been a lot longer than just seven years. Wouldn't you agree?"

Maya takes a moment to catch her breath, slowly wiping her forearm across her eyes as she leans her cheek into Claudine's touch. Everything Claudine has said is nothing but the truth. Her words shed light on the shadows of Maya's deepest fears, chasing them off with logic and pure emotion.

"I… yes…" she manages at last. "I feel as though… even though I have only just met you recently… that I have known you for all my life, Saijou Claudine."

Claudine's heart skips a little when Maya uses her first name, but she makes sure to keep her gaze steady.

"And? Did you choose me, or did your parents choose me?"

"Well… they made the arrangement-"

"But did you choose me, Tendo Maya?"

"Yes…" Maya begins to tremble anew, and her hands slowly reach out to grip Claudine's sweater. "I chose you, Saijou Claudine."

"You could have decided against me," Claudine reminds her. "You could have decided I wasn't a good match for you and opposed the arrangement in spite of what your parents wanted. You could have just innately felt that something wasn't right between us.

"But you didn't. And I know that because I'm the same way. I could have rejected you, too. I could have felt uncomfortable and pressured around you. But I didn't. Not once. And that's because you have only ever loved me with all your heart, Tendo Maya."

And Maya breaks down all over again, only this time she throws her arms around Claudine as she does so. She weeps with her whole body, clinging to Claudine for all she's worth.

"I do…" she rasps. "I do… I love you, Saijou Claudine…"

And somehow, hearing her finally say it doesn't send Claudine's heart into a whirl like she always thought it might. She realizes now that's because this is nothing new - she'd known that Maya loved her from the very start. She's already told Claudine a thousand times, just not with words until now.

Claudine holds her close, pressing into her warmth as she repeats the words back to her.

"I love you too, Tendo Maya…"

How peculiar, to be professing their love before they have even properly kissed. But as things are, neither seems to mind all that much.

Before long, Maya is crying so much she can't even keep herself up. So Claudine slowly lies down on her side with her, keeping Maya in her arms, peppering small kisses along her hairline and temples.

"To think that someone as big a crybaby as you could ever be deceiving me," she murmurs. "How laughable. You're terribly sweet, you know that?"

Though now, Claudine herself finally begins to feel tears dripping down her own cheeks. But they're for relief, and nothing more. And she can tell Maya's tears have changed from the bad to the better kind as well.

Maya locks her arms around Claudine and burrows into her collar as the tears continue to slip free.

"I love you…" she says again. It seems to be coming much more easily now, and she wants to keep saying it for as long as she lives. "I love you, Saijou Claudine…"

"Merci," Claudine murmurs. "I love you too, Tendo Maya. Do you challenge my decision? Do you mistrust my judgement?"

"No…" Maya inches back to meet her eyes once more. "Never."

"Good." Claudine plants a small kiss to Maya's forehead, carding her fingers through her hair. "And I don't doubt that your feelings for me are anything but genuine. You've put your whole heart into loving me, Tendo Maya. I know you have. And you always will. From now on, too…"

Claudine pulls her in again and just holds her. Maya hums her affirmation, clinging to her future fiancee with all she is.

"I must apologize," she says.

Claudine huffs. "I thought I told you about that-"

"I must," Maya insists. She eases herself back from the embrace and props herself up on her elbows, gazing down at her beloved princess with tear-stained and honest eyes. "I am sorry for ever implying that I doubted your feelings for me, Saijou-san. It isn't that I didn't trust you, but that I wasn't sure if I trusted myself…"

"I understand." Claudine reaches up to touch her cheek again, and Maya nuzzles right into her palm. Claudine brushes her thumb across one of the last tear trails. "To think, the high-and-mighty Tendo Maya was also this delicate… have some more faith in yourself. If it's that difficult for you, then I'll just have to put even more of my own faith into you. How does that sound?"

Maya smiles at her again, and this time her eyes are shimmering with so much love, Claudine feels they might start overflowing again.

"Wonderful," Maya breathes. "Anything that will allow me to be closer to you, Saijou-san, is so wonderful I would do anything for it."

And again, both girls find themselves stealing glances at the other's lips. Claudine can see the longing in Maya's eyes, but just as she's always done, she doesn't so much as budge without Claudine's permission.

So Claudine expresses it clearly enough, reaching her arms up to loop around Maya's neck, guiding her down.

Maya goes willingly now, pulse catching in her throat. As she gingerly lies herself over Claudine, Maya can feel her heart pounding, too. Claudine closes her eyes, and Maya musters up her courage.

And then, the blaring of a car horn from outside.

Both girls shriek softly, leaping away from each other. Claudine rolls over and Maya jumps straight to her feet rigidly.

"Ah… It would seem I must be going…"

"Y-Yes-" Claudine wheezes. "Don't keep them waiting…"

The sound had given her heart a good jolt, but with Maya being equally surprised, Claudine is sure she doesn't suspect a thing.

Maya retreats to her side again and takes Claudine's hands, slowly having her sit up. She clears the hair from her face with a smile.

"Thank you, Saijou-san. All of that was truly weighing on my mind so heavily I thought I might break… But you've saved me. You've told me your honest feelings, and I can't ever possibly thank you enough."

Claudine reaches up to her as well, thumbing away the last marks of her tears.

"You can make it up to me by coming to see me again tomorrow," she says.

Maya frowns.

"Unfortunately, there may be another gathering I must attend tomorrow. I fear I may not get to come see you at all…"

"That's all right then. Don't worry about it." Claudine gives her hand a squeeze. "Then whenever you can come next, I'll be eagerly waiting for you."

"Believe me, I shall be waiting even more eagerly just to come see you again."

"Mechante va…" Claudine pulls her into one more hug. "Very well. Off with you, then."

"Yes." Maya steps back and dips her head. "Goodnight, Saijou-san."

"Bonne nuit, Tendo Maya."

Maya takes her leave with one last bow before closing the door behind herself.

Claudine falls back down onto her bed and lets out a withering sigh. Her sweater is still damp from Maya's tears, and even long after Claudine has changed and lain down for bed, her skin is still warm in the places where Maya had touched her.

Upon closing her eyes, she can't get Maya out of her head, and her heart doesn't stop pounding all night long.

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A/N: This was one of the biggest things I wanted to address in this AU; that being their doubt of if they really love each other, or if it was just fabricated because they were 'molded' to be in love and make it work. I think it could be all too easy to assume the other loved her because that's how it's 'supposed to be,' but in reality they can still decide for themselves if it's what they want.

I think Maya would be the most hung-up about it, worried she might have been tricking Claudine somehow, by learning all she likes and doing those things to impress her so Claudine can't possibly say no. Thinking that way would tear Maya up inside.

But of course Claudine won't hear a word of it. She loves Maya for who she is; and who Maya is, is someone who loved and admired Claudine from the very start.

Next chapter is actually the last, for as I said this is a smaller AU of mine.