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Chapter Text

“Alright, I have to ask,” Kyoji drawled, lazily sliding his sunglasses up to rest on his head. “Why are we sneaking into school before the bell even rings?”

“Shh!” Reginald hissed, shooting him a sharp glare. “You’re going to get us caught!”

“Caught by who?” Kyoji whispered back. His lips quirked into a teasing grin. “Is it aliens? Or—better yet—zombie teachers?”

“No,” Reginald replied flatly. “Worse than aliens or zombies.”

Kyoji arched a brow, genuinely intrigued now. “What could possibly be worse than that?”

As if on cue, a sharp voice came ringing out. “I should’ve known you’d leave me behind—again!”

Both boys froze mid-step. Slowly, they turned around, and there stood Rio Kastle, her hands on her hips, her eyes narrowing into icy daggers.

Reginald groaned inwardly. “Rio...”

“Don’t ‘Rio’ me,” she snapped, stomping closer. “You can’t walk to school with your younger sister, but you can sneak around with him ?” She jabbed a finger in Kyoji’s direction.

“I feel like that’s my cue to leave,” Kyoji muttered under his breath.

Rio wasn’t done. “Why can’t you ever just walk to school with me like a normal brother?”

Reginald sighed, rubbing his temples. He could feel the stares of nearby students now trickling into the courtyard, their curiosity piqued by Rio’s fiery tirade. He tried to think of a response that wouldn’t escalate things, but Rio didn’t give him the chance.

“Well? What’s your excuse this time?” she demanded, crossing her arms.

“Maybe he didn’t want to walk with the drama queen,” a smug voice chimed in from behind them.

Rio whirled around. “Ray,” she growled.

Ray, leaning casually against the gate, smirked. “What? Just calling you what I see.”

“Ray!” Kotori scolded as she jogged up to the group, her hair bouncing with every step. “Don’t call Rio that! She’s his sister, for goodness’ sake!”

Yuma bounded into the fray next, grinning as always. “If Reginald doesn’t want to walk with you, Rio, I will!”

“No!” Bronk yelled, appearing out of nowhere. “I will! You don’t even know the right shortcuts!”

Rio’s eyes darted from one person to the next, her frustration mounting. “Reginald,” she snapped, turning back to her brother. “I’m waiting for your pathetic excuse!”

Before Reginald could say a word, Kyoji chuckled and nudged Reginald. “Would she even accept your excuse?” 

“No!” Rio shot back instantly. “And you—Mr. Oh-So-Cool —maybe you’d like to explain why my brother always chooses to walk with you instead of me? Just the two of you, hmm?”

Kyoji’s confident façade faltered for just a second. “Well, uh...” He scratched the back of his neck, flashing an awkward grin. “Oh, look at the time! I forgot my notebook in my locker. Gotta run!”

And just like that, he bolted, leaving a bemused crowd in his wake.

Rio let out an exasperated groan. “Ugh! He’s impossible.”

“Now,” she said, turning back to Reginald with renewed fury. “As for you—”

Before she could finish, another voice cut in.

“I suggest all of you get to your homeroom before you’re late,” Yuto said as he passed by.

“Ah! He’s right!” Kotori yelped. “I totally got carried away with... whatever this is.”

Rio’s glare shifted to Yuto’s retreating figure, but he didn’t even glance back. She turned to Reginald again, only to find empty space where her brother had been standing.

“What?!” Rio shouted. “Where did he—? Ugh! Fine! This isn’t over, Reginald!”

Muttering to herself, she stormed off toward her classroom, leaving the remaining group in stunned silence.

“Man,” Yuma said. “She’s scary when she’s mad.”

Kotori smacked him lightly on the arm. “Don’t be rude!”

Ray smirked, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Well, that was entertaining. Can’t wait for part two.”

“Let’s just get to class before Rio freezes the whole school,” Kotori muttered, dragging Yuma along with her as the others slowly followed suit.

And as Kyoji rounded a corner safely out of Rio’s line of ‘Ice-fire’, he grinned to himself, already anticipating how much fun it would be to tease her about this later.

***

The faint sound of the school bell in the distance was drowned out by the rustling of leaves. Near the back of the school building, in a secluded area shadowed by trees, Reginald Kastle leaned against a brick wall, his arms crossed. He looked up when he heard the soft sound of approaching footsteps.

“Why did you call me here, Reginald?” Lulu Obsidian asked as she stepped into the clearing, her voice edged with impatience.

Reginald pushed off the wall and stood upright, meeting her gaze. His expression was unreadable. “Is it wrong for me to want to see you?”

Lulu’s eyes narrowed. “If you’re trying to guilt me into anything, it’s not going to work. I already told you—I’m not having this conversation again.”

Reginald’s jaw tightened. “We’ve been engaged since we were kids,” he said sharply. “I don’t care if it was an arranged marriage. You don’t just break off an engagement like it’s nothing. You agreed to this, Lulu.”

“I was a child!” Lulu shot back, her voice trembling with frustration. “I didn’t even know what love was back then!”

“Oh, really?” Reginald sneered. “You gave me flowers every month, Lulu. Every. Month. Not to mention those ridiculously sappy birthday gifts you insisted on giving me.” His voice was laced with bitterness, though there was a flicker of hurt behind it.

Lulu hesitated, her throat dry. “I... I tried to love you, Reginald,” she admitted, her tone softer now. “I really did. Not because I felt anything for you, but because I thought it was my duty. I thought maybe... maybe if I tried hard enough, I’d feel something real.”

“Then keep trying,” Reginald said quietly, stepping closer to her, his voice low and almost pleading.

“No!” Lulu blurted out, stepping back instinctively. Her sudden outburst made Reginald freeze. “I don’t want to! I can’t ! I found someone who—who loves me for me ! Not for my family name, not for my title. He makes me feel beautiful and special for who I am...” Her voice trailed off as her cheeks flushed with emotion.

Reginald’s gaze darkened. “You’re starting to sound pathetic,” he muttered, though his voice lacked its usual bite. “I’ve called you beautiful more times than I can count. What, that doesn’t count for anything?”

“It’s not the same,” Lulu said, shaking her head, tears brimming in her eyes. “He makes me feel special in a way you never could, Reginald. I love him with all my heart.”

“Stop talking nonsense!” Reginald snapped, his voice rising. “Do you have any idea what kind of damage you’ll cause? Everyone in this school knows we’re engaged! Do you know what it’ll look like if you go running off with someone else? You’ll ruin both the Obsidian and Kastle names! So take my advice and put an end to this drama before it gets worse.”

Lulu’s hands balled into fists at her sides. “This isn’t about names or reputations for me!” she cried out. “This is about my happiness, my life! I don’t want to be with someone because of some deal our families made years ago!” She paused, swallowing hard. “I’m breaking off the engagement, Reginald. Whether you like it or not.”

Reginald’s eyes narrowed, his voice dropping to a cold, threatening tone. “You’re being naive. You already have someone who loves you, Lulu. Me. So stop being a child and come back to your senses before you do something you’ll regret.”

“No,” Lulu whispered, her voice trembling but resolute. “I won’t regret choosing love over duty.” She took a shaky step back, tears spilling down her cheeks. “I’m sorry, Reginald, but I can’t do this anymore.”

Before Reginald could respond, Lulu turned and ran, her sobs echoing faintly in the stillness.

He watched her retreating figure, his fists clenching at his sides. For a moment, something unreadable flashed across his face—anger, frustration, and maybe even a flicker of something softer—but it was gone as quickly as it came.

“Why does she have to make this so damn difficult?” he muttered to himself, running a hand through his hair.

Leaning back against the wall, Reginald let out a sharp breath. No matter what Lulu said now, this wasn’t over. Not by a long shot.

***

“So then, like, he totally slipped and fell right on his butt—”

“ No! I didn’t fall down!” Yuma interrupted Alito, crossing his arms and whining indignantly.

Alito smirked. “You absolutely did, Yuma. Don’t try to rewrite what happened.”

“He’s right, Yuma,” Tori added, trying not to giggle. “I told you to be careful, but you never listen.”

“Don’t feel too bad, Yuma.” Bronk patted him on the back in mock sympathy. “You falling over is basically tradition at this point.”

Yuma’s face turned red as he threw his hands in the air. “Why are you all picking on me?! I saved the world, you know! Have you all forgotten that already?”

Ray snickered. “Oh, yeah. Don’t worry, Yuma. We’ll totally write a poem about it someday. ‘Yuma Tsukumo: Savior of the World, Slayer of Gravity.’” He waved his hands dramatically, as if presenting a title on a grand banner.

“Very funny, Ray.” Yuma glared, puffing his cheeks in frustration. “At least I’ve done something important in my life! What about you?”

“Easy there, hero,” Ray replied with a lazy grin. “You’d think we’d all be falling at your feet in eternal gratitude or something.”

“Don’t listen to him, Yuma,” Trey interjected, offering a kind smile. “Everything you do is unique and special in its own way. Every time you fall—or succeed—you’re making new memories. Not everyone gets to do that.”

Alito groaned and rolled his eyes. “Here we go again. Trey’s motivational speeches, Episode 300. Someone grab the popcorn.”

“Oh, leave him alone, Alito,” Tori snapped. “At least Trey’s positive about things. Unlike some people.”

“Positive or delusional?” Alito quipped, crossing his arms. “Seriously, you’re talking like every little thing Yuma does is legendary. The dude tripped on a pebble.”

“Yeah, okay, but you have to admit it was a pretty big pebble,” Ray added, his smirk widening.

“Would you two stop ?” Tori huffed, glaring at both of them. “This isn’t about some dumb pebble.”

“Sure it is,” Ray replied smoothly. “It’s the story of Yuma’s life: one small trip for Yuma, one giant laugh for everyone else.”

Tori opened her mouth to retort, but Trey cut in with a thoughtful tone. “Maybe we should focus on something else. Did you hear about the attacks on the news?”

Alito shrugged, unconcerned. “Eh. Maybe there were a few incidents, but it’s nowhere near us. Not worth getting worked up about.”

“Agreed,” Ray said with a nod. “Why bother worrying? It’s not like we can do anything about it anyway.”

“I don’t know,” Tori admitted with a shiver. “I don’t like hearing about it. It’s scary.”

Bronk gave a solemn nod. “I’m just gonna count my blessings and thank whatever’s out there that the attacks aren’t happening here. We’ve got plenty to be grateful for, right?”

“ Meow! Class starts in two minutes!” Cathy suddenly exclaimed, her voice rising in a panic. She pointed to her watch, her ears twitching nervously.

“Oh no! We’re going to be late!” Tori cried, scrambling to her feet and grabbing her bag.

“Late like Yuma,” Alito joked, shooting the boy a teasing grin.

“Not funny, Alito!” Yuma yelled, jumping up. “Let’s move! I’m not getting detention again!”

“Finally, a sense of urgency!” Ray chuckled as the group scattered, racing toward the school.

“Why does this always happen when I’m around?” Yuma muttered as they all sprinted for the door.

“Because you are the chaos magnet,” Tori shot back over her shoulder, laughing as they disappeared inside just as the bell rang.

***

“I can’t deal with this anymore, Saya!” Lulu exclaimed, sipping her tea in frustration. The two of them were seated in their usual corner of the cozy cafe after school. “I don’t like Reginald at all.”

Saya tilted her head sympathetically, stirring her sundae drink. “Lulu, I get it. Believe me, I’d do anything to help you. But I really think you should just tell Shay. He’s the head of your family, and I’m sure he’ll want you to be happy.”

Lulu sighed heavily. “What about when I tell him I fell in love with an orphan who—”

“You’re also an orphan,” Allen interrupted, suddenly appearing behind them and sliding into the empty seat beside Lulu with an easy grin. “So am I. What’s wrong with that?”

“It’s not being an orphan…” Lulu muttered, glancing at her teacup. “I just… don’t think Shay would approve.”

“You’re overthinking again, Lulu,” Allen teased. “You’re so uptight sometimes.”

“I am not!” Lulu blinked defensively.

“Yes, you are,” Saya agreed with a small smile. “We’ve been coming to this cafe every day for months, and you only ever order tea. You won’t even try something like a sundae.”

“I just… never thought about it,” Lulu replied sheepishly.

“But you ordered coffee when you were with Yuto,” Saya pointed out, her tone teasing. “And you can’t deny it—it’s your ‘special occasion’ drink. When you’re with Yuto, you practically sparkle.”

Lulu’s cheeks turned pink. “Well… that wasn’t just any occasion, right? I don’t see Yuto often because of… Reginald.”

“It’s not often that you let yourself enjoy the company around you,” Allen added with a grin.

Before Lulu could respond, the door to the cafe opened, and a small group entered. Saya’s eyes widened as she suddenly went quiet, staring dreamily at the doorway.

“Saya? What’s wrong?” Allen asked, confused by her expression. He turned to follow her gaze.

There they were—the Kastle siblings, Tori Meadows, and Kyoji Yagumo. Reginald looked bored, his hands shoved into his pockets, while Tori animatedly chatted with Rio, who smirked at something her friend said. Kyoji, of course, stood out, one hand in his pocket and the other casually combing through his hair, his sunglasses still perched on his face.

Lulu stiffened. “Not them… Please don’t let them notice us.”

“Of all people, why did the Kastles have to come here?” Allen muttered, slumping in his chair.

Saya, however, had stars in her eyes. “Lulu,” she whispered, her tone almost pleading. “Could you ask your fiancé to introduce me to Kyoji?”

“Saya!” Lulu hissed, mortified. “Don’t call him that! And no way. I’m not asking Reginald for anything.”

“I didn’t mean to upset you,” Saya apologized quickly. “I just thought… well, I could meet Kyoji that way.”

At that moment, Tori’s gaze swept across the cafe and landed on Lulu. She immediately whispered something to Rio, who turned to look as well. Rio’s sharp eyes narrowed, and she strode over to Lulu’s table with a confident air.

“Well, if it isn’t my soon-to-be sister-in-law,” Rio drawled mockingly, placing a hand on the table. “Didn’t think you’d be here… with these friends. I must have forgotten to mention that you should probably find a better social group.”

“Nice to see you too, Rio,” Allen replied dryly, earning a sharp look from the ice queen.

“These are my best friends, Rio,” Lulu said, forcing a polite smile. “And I’m pretty sure we all have our own lives.”

Rio leaned in close to Lulu’s ear, her tone dropping to a sharp whisper. “Don’t give me that BS, Lulu. You’ve been avoiding Reginald, haven’t you? You think I don’t know?”

Lulu stiffened. “There are reasons for that,” she replied quietly, glancing away.

“Mm-hmm. And I don’t care for any of them.” Rio straightened, waving over Tori. “Bring the drinks here!”

“Coming!” Tori chirped, grabbing Reginald by the arm and tugging Kyoji along. “Hurry up, you guys!”

As the trio approached, Reginald gave Lulu a quick nod. “Hey.”

“Hi,” Lulu replied, avoiding his gaze.

Kyoji, meanwhile, whipped off his sunglasses and flashed a grin. “Well, if it isn’t Reginald’s beautiful fiancée and her wonderful friends! Good to see you all.”

Saya practically melted on the spot. “N-nice to see you too…” she stammered, clutching her chest like she’d just been handed a bouquet of roses. “He called me wonderful!” she whispered to Lulu and Allen.

Allen tried to stifle his laughter but ended up snorting instead. “Kyoji Yagumo… You’re like the sun itself.”

“Not really, but thanks,” Kyoji said with an easy laugh. “And, please excuse me but you are…?”

“Allen,” Allen introduced himself. “I know you, of course. You are a celebrity… You’re amazing at dueling. Honestly, I wish I could be as good as you one day, but that’s probably dreaming too big.”

“Hey, don’t sell yourself short,” Kyoji replied. “I’m sure you’ve got potential. If you need any dueling tips, don’t hesitate to reach out!”

Allen’s jaw dropped. “You’re serious?”

“Of course! Everyone starts somewhere,” Kyoji said with a grin. “And friends stick together!”

Allen beamed. “Wow… thanks.”

Rio rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. “We’re not all friends here, Kyoji,” she muttered.

Kyoji laughed. “Everyone is amazing, Rio. And I’m looking forward to spending time with you, Allen!”

Allen blinked in surprise. “Wait, really?”

“Of course.” Kyoji leaned back in his chair with a smile. "I bet I’ll see you one day in a tournament."

Allen laughed awkwardly. "I don’t even have a deck! I wouldn’t know where to start."

"Then I’ll help you!" Kyoji’s eyes gleamed as he leaned forward, his voice brimming with encouragement. "We’ll build you a deck that’ll leave everyone speechless. You’ll be dueling in no time."

Allen blinked, taken aback. "Wow… Thanks, Mr. Yagumo. That means a lot to me."

"Please," Kyoji said, waving a hand dismissively, a faint smirk on his face. "Just call me Kyoji. We’re all friends here."

Saya’s cheeks turned a delicate pink as she whispered to Lulu, "He said we’re friends… Does that mean I’m his friend?"

Lulu grinned knowingly. "You’re amazing, Saya. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise."

Rio, who had been quietly observing, rolled her eyes and gave Kyoji a swat on the arm. "We’re not all friends here, Kyoji. Let’s not overdo it."

Tori, sipping from her banana ice cream smoothie, chimed in with a mischievous grin. "Yeah, because Reginald and Lulu are more than friends… They’re fiancés."

Reginald shot her a sharp look, his gaze flickering briefly to Lulu. "Tori, maybe analyze yourself first before making comments."

"Eh?" Tori asked, tilting her head in confusion. "What do you mean?"

Reginald smirked. "Obviously, you’re wishing someone here would be your fiancé."

"Wha—!" Tori’s face turned bright red. "Don’t say things like that!"

Rio chuckled, crossing her arms. "I’m rooting for you, Tori. Just… don’t pick Allen."

"It’s not Allen—ah!" Tori clamped a hand over her mouth, her blush deepening as everyone stared at her in surprise.

Allen tilted his head, grinning. "Well, it can’t be Reginald…"

"He’s engaged!" Tori cut him off, flustered. "Argh, stop it already!"

Allen’s grin widened. "Then it must be a certain heartthrob who just offered to help me—"

Before he could finish, Tori slammed her hand over his mouth. "Shut up, Allen!"

Rio stifled a laugh while Saya’s glare sharpened, clearly unhappy with Tori’s reaction. Reginald, on the other hand, sighed and turned to Kyoji, who was scrolling through his phone, seemingly oblivious to the chaos around him.

"Seriously, Kyoji? You missed all that?" Reginald asked, smirking.

Kyoji looked up, unfazed. "Hm? I was checking out a card catalog… Giant Rat, Allen. It’s a decent card to start with, but we can definitely do better."

Allen’s eyes widened. "Wait, you were actually looking for something for me ?"

Kyoji shrugged nonchalantly. "Didn’t I say I’d help you?"

Allen’s smile softened. "You did. Thanks, Kyoji. Really."

Meanwhile, Tori and Saya both muttered under their breath, "Not fair…"

Their simultaneous reaction made them freeze, their eyes widening as they turned to each other. "What are you saying?" they both asked in unison.

Reginald groaned, clearly done with the conversation, and turned to Lulu. "So, what’s new with you?"

Lulu hesitated, fidgeting slightly. "Not much."

Reginald placed a hand over hers, his voice softening. "Come to my house after we’re done here. I need to talk to you about something important."

Lulu’s expression faltered. "Reginald… We’ve talked about this."

"About your wedding or butt? Just shut up already?" Rio interjected, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "You’ll listen to whatever my brother says, won’t you? He is your fiancé, after all, Lulu Obsidian ."

Lulu stiffened, her frown deepening. "I’m not having this conversation." Her phone buzzed, and she quickly picked it up, her expression softening as she read the message.

Rio’s eyes narrowed sharply, her suspicion evident. Lulu tried to play it off, but when another buzz came, she immediately picked up her phone again, her cheeks faintly pink.

"Who’s texting you?" Reginald asked, his voice laced with curiosity and a hint of jealousy.

Lulu’s eyes widened. "A friend!" she blurted out, a little too quickly.

"Why are you blushing, then?" Tori pressed, leaning forward, grinning.

Lulu’s posture stiffened. "It’s nothing, really."

Rio’s gaze burned with disdain, but before she could say anything, Kyoji abruptly stood up. "I have to go," he announced, brushing imaginary dust off his black leather jacket. "I forgot to fill out some forms due tomorrow."

"That’s fine," Lulu said, standing as well. "I should get going too."

Kyoji nodded at the group. "See you guys at school tomorrow. Allen, we’ll work on your deck then."

As Kyoji walked out of the café, every pair of female eyes in the room seemed to follow him, their gazes filled with admiration. Tori let out an audible pout.

"His last comment was to Allen… Seriously?" she muttered.

"I’m going to cry," Saya sighed, crossing her arms.

Allen cringed. "Come on, guys…"

"I’m not a guy !" Tori snapped, then pointed at Allen. "And you’re not a girl, so stay away from Kyoji—never mind!"

Lulu grabbed her bag and turned to Saya. "Coming?"

Saya nodded. "Yeah. Bye, everyone."

Reginald called after them as they headed for the door. "Lulu, come to my house."

Lulu hesitated, glancing back. "I’ll see."

With that, the two girls left. Rio’s gaze lingered on the door, her expression cold. "What was that about? And Lulu seemed… off."

Allen took the opportunity to slip out quietly. "I’ll see you guys later!" he called out before dashing away.

Rio sighed dramatically. "Ugh, I hate those guys…"

"You’re telling me?" Reginald muttered, shaking his head.

"Why do you want Lulu to come over?" Tori asked, raising an eyebrow. "Thinking dirty, are you?"

Reginald shot her a death glare. "You’re the one who definitely is. I just need to ask her something important."

Rio crossed her arms. "Is it just me, or is Lulu giving off bad vibes lately?"

Reginald exhaled sharply and stood up. "I’m going home. See you later, Rio."

As Reginald walked away, Rio and Tori exchanged knowing glances, their expressions filled with unease and curiosity.

***

“Why does Reginald want to see you?” Saya asked Lulu as the two stepped outside into the crisp evening air.

“I have no idea,” Lulu replied, brushing her hair back with a sigh. “But one thing’s for sure—I’m not going.”

Saya nodded absentmindedly, her gaze drifting to the sky. “Good. I wouldn’t, either… He’s been acting so weird lately.”

Lulu smirked, glancing sideways at her. “Still thinking about Kyoji?” she teased, nudging her best friend lightly in the ribs.

Saya’s cheeks turned crimson, but she didn’t deny it. “This is the first time Kyoji called me ‘wonderful,’” she murmured, her voice soft and dreamy.

Lulu giggled, shaking her head. “Saya, you are wonderful. I could’ve told you that the day we met!”

Saya stopped walking and turned to Lulu with an uncharacteristically serious look in her eyes. “Do you really think so? Do you think Kyoji actually meant it when he said I was wonderful?”

Lulu blinked, surprised by the intensity in Saya’s gaze. She smiled warmly and reached out to squeeze Saya’s hand. “Of course I do. You’re amazing, Saya. And I’m sure Kyoji thinks the same—why wouldn’t he?”

Saya bit her lip, turning her face away as if trying to hide her blush. “Even Kyoji…” she whispered under her breath.

Lulu chuckled, crossing her arms. “Even Kyoji. I bet Yuto would think you’re wonderful, too!”

“Yuto?” Saya furrowed her brow, confused for a moment before her face lit up with realization. “Oh, you mean your secret boyfriend?”

Lulu’s face turned beet red. “He’s not my boyfriend!” she protested, though her shy smile betrayed her true feelings. “…Not yet, anyway. I hope.”

Saya’s eyes sparkled mischievously. “So it was Yuto texting you earlier in the café!”

Lulu hesitated, her blush deepening. “He was…”

Before she could say more, a voice called out behind them.

“Guys! Wait up!”

They turned to see Allen running toward them, panting heavily as he tried to catch up.

“Allen?” Lulu asked, raising an eyebrow. “What’s wrong?”

Allen bent over, hands on his knees as he tried to catch his breath. “I… ran… away… from… the monsters…”

Lulu giggled. “Monsters? Don’t tell me Rio or Tori scared you off again.”

“Yes, she did! Tori did!” Saya cut in sharply, glaring at Allen. “She acts like she’s so much better than everyone else, especially me!”

Lulu blinked in surprise. “Why would you say that, Saya?”

Saya huffed, crossing her arms. “She just does, okay?” Her attention shifted to Allen, and her expression darkened. “And you! How dare you call Kyoji Yagumo a monster?!”

Allen froze, his face pale. “What? No, no! I didn’t mean Kyoji! He left way before me, remember?”

Saya blinked, processing his words before turning away with a small “hmph.” “Fine. I forgive you,” she muttered.

Lulu burst out laughing, while Allen let out a loud, relieved sigh.

He glanced back at Lulu, his expression more serious now. “Hey, speaking of earlier… Everyone was kinda weirded out by your texts. You should be careful, Lulu.” His gaze sharpened. “It was Yuto, wasn’t it?”

Lulu cringed, her cheeks heating up. “…Was it that obvious?”

“Very,” Allen replied bluntly. “Does he even know about Reginald? About… everything? You’re walking a really fine line here, Lulu. This could get messy.”

Lulu sighed, her shoulders slumping. “He knows. And it’s not like we’re dating or anything… He just makes me feel special, you know? When he texts me, or smiles at me, or says something kind… I can’t help it. I can’t stop smiling.”

Saya gave Lulu a soft, understanding look. “That’s sweet, Lulu. But Allen’s right—you should be careful. And maybe…” She hesitated before adding, “Maybe it’s time to talk to Reginald about this. Or at least Shay.”

Lulu bit her lip, looking uncertain. “You’re both right. I’ll talk to Shay. Soon.”

She smiled, her expression softening as she looked at her two friends. “Thanks, guys. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Saya and Allen exchanged a glance before Saya reached out to pull Lulu into a hug.

“Don’t worry, Lulu,” Saya said firmly. “We’ve got your back.”

“Yeah,” Allen added, grinning. “Even if you’re a walking rom-com disaster, we’re here for you.”

Lulu laughed, shaking her head as they pulled apart. “You two are the best. Really.”

***

Rio stormed into the Barian house and slammed the door so hard the walls seemed to shake. Every head in the room turned toward her, startled by the noise.

“What’s wrong with you?” Mizar asked irritably, glancing up from his book.

“She’s trying to break the door, obviously,” Ray chimed in, smirking as Alito tried (and failed) to stifle his laughter.

Rio ignored their comments, marching to the couch with the air of a drama queen. She flopped down unceremoniously between Reginald and Mizar, crossing her arms with a loud huff.

“The Gala is less than two weeks away, and I still haven’t found the perfect dress!” she exclaimed, her voice full of despair.

Reginald groaned, rubbing his temples. “Are you seriously causing this much chaos over a dress?”

“No, no,” Ray interjected. “She’s mad because the door didn’t break on her first try.”

Rio shot Ray a glare that could melt steel. “It’s easy for you boys to judge! You can wear the same suit every year, and no one says a word! Girls don’t have that luxury.”

Dumon sighed from his spot near the window. “Why not ask your friends for advice? I’m sure they’ve got ideas.”

Rio rolled her eyes. “None of my friends are coming to the Gala.”

“Wait, aren’t you friends with Kite?” Girag asked, munching on a handful of popcorn.

“Yeah,” Alito added with a sly grin. “And I heard Kyoji’s coming to the Gala, too.”

Rio groaned dramatically. “If I hang out with Kite, people are going to think we’re a couple! And as for Kyoji…” Her eyes darted toward Reginald. “I’m sure my dear brother will snatch him away before I even get a chance to say hello.”

Reginald raised an eyebrow but said nothing in denial.

Alito chuckled. “I don’t think you’ve got much to worry about. Reginald will be glued to his fiancée all night.”

“Oh yeah, Lulu…” Rio’s voice dripped with disdain. “Honestly, Reginald, I still don’t understand why you got engaged to her.”

Reginald rolled his eyes. “She’s beautiful, smart, and from a wealthy family. What’s not to get?”

“I don’t like her,” Rio shot back immediately, sitting up straight. “And why were you calling her over earlier, anyway?”

Before Reginald could answer, Ray and Alito exchanged mischievous looks.

“Oh, I’m sure it was to tell her how madly in love he is,” Ray teased.

Girag grinned and joined in, putting on an exaggerated, dreamy expression. “Oh, Lulu, my darling! I can’t wait to hold you in my arms at the Gala! Can we get married?”

“Yes! I love you too!” Alito let out a high pitched squeal.

Ray clasped his hands together dramatically. “And then you’ll have the perfect wedding!”

“Complete with flower bouquets falling from the ceiling!” Alito laughed, tossing a pillow into the air for effect.

“Yay! Ding, ding, ding! Wedding bells!” Ray cheered, throwing another pillow, which smacked Dumon in the head.

“Would you all stop it ?!” Dumon yelled, scrambling to find his glasses. “You’re going to spill the popcorn everywhere!”

“Flower petals!” Girag shouted gleefully, grabbing a fistful of popcorn and throwing it into the air.

Rio yelped, dodging flying kernels and pillows as the chaos escalated. Mizar’s patience looked razor-thin, and Reginald was pinching the bridge of his nose like he was trying not to explode.

“Enough already!” Reginald barked. “You’re going to wake up Iris!”

As if on cue, a soft voice piped up from behind them. “What are you all doing?”

The group turned to see Iris standing in the doorway, clutching her stuffed bunny and looking sleepy yet concerned.

Ray, Alito, and Girag immediately froze, guilt written all over their faces.

Mizar glared daggers at them. “You three are grounded for a week.”

“Make it two weeks,” Reginald added with a groan, running a hand through his hair.

Rio sighed and glanced at Mizar. “Be a sweetheart and take her back to bed, will you?”

Mizar frowned but got up without argument, taking Iris’s hand gently. “Come on, Iris. Let’s get you tucked back in.”

As Mizar led Iris upstairs, Dumon turned on Ray, Alito, and Girag like a scolding parent. “What were you thinking ? This isn’t a circus!”

Rio used the lull in the chaos to lean closer to Reginald, lowering her voice. “So, why were you calling Lulu earlier?”

Reginald sighed heavily, standing up. “I was just calling to let her know the Arclights might not make it to the Gala. Quinton and Luna are off on some science mission or whatever.” He stretched, looking thoroughly done with the evening. “Anyway, I’m going to bed. Goodnight, everyone.”

As he walked toward the stairs, Rio smirked. “If Ray, Alito, and Girag survive the night, that is. How dare you guys throw popcorn and almost hit my hair?!”

***

“Shay?” Lulu’s soft voice accompanied a knock on the office door.

“Come in,” Shay called, his eyes fixed on the pile of papers scattered across his desk.

Lulu stepped inside, her presence immediately brightening the dim room. She took a seat in one of the chairs across from her brother. “How’s it going? Making any progress?”

Shay sighed, leaning back in his chair. “It’s alright. I’m running a little behind, though. I got in late after spending some time with Yuto.”

Lulu’s face lit up with a smile. “That sounds nice. How is he?”

“He’s doing well,” Shay replied with a small smile of his own. “He’s a good guy. Too bad he was born into such hard circumstances… He deserves better than what life handed him.”

Lulu’s expression softened. “Maybe there’s still hope for him. Someone could help him out—an elite family, maybe?”

Shay shook his head. “No elite family would take someone like him in. They care too much about their image to risk associating with someone from the streets. It’d ‘ruin their reputation.’”

Lulu frowned. “That’s awful. I wish people would realize that kindness and love matter more than titles or appearances. The world could be so much better if they did.”

Shay’s smile grew. “You’re an unbelievably kind soul, Lulu. Yuto said the same thing about you earlier. Though, honestly, it’s obvious. Anyone who spends five minutes with you would say that.”

Lulu blushed faintly, her hands fidgeting in her lap. “He said that? He’s really sweet, isn’t he?”

Shay chuckled. “Yeah, he is. He’s got a good heart. He deserves to be happy, more than most.”

A brief silence fell between them, broken only by the soft rustle of papers as Shay adjusted the stack on his desk.

“Shay…” Lulu began hesitantly, her voice quieter now.

Shay glanced up, noticing the change in her tone. “What’s on your mind?” he asked gently.

“It’s about my engagement…” Lulu’s words trailed off, and she looked down, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her dress.

Shay’s brow furrowed slightly, his usual stern expression softening as he regarded her with concern. “Is something wrong?”

Lulu took a deep breath, steadying herself. “I was thinking—”

The sudden, shrill ring of the phone shattered the moment.

Shay muttered under his breath, walking over to silence the device. He returned his gaze to Lulu, his eyes full of patience. “You were saying?”

Lulu hesitated, her earlier resolve slipping away. Her cheeks flushed as she forced a small smile. “It’s nothing… You should focus on your work. We can talk later.”

Shay tilted his head, clearly unconvinced. “Are you sure? If it’s important—”

“It’s fine,” Lulu interrupted softly, standing up and brushing invisible dust off her dress. “Goodnight, Shay.”

Shay leaned back in his chair, watching her with a mix of affection and worry. “Goodnight, Lulu. Sleep well.”

Lulu paused at the door, her hand lingering on the knob for a moment before she turned and left. As the door clicked shut behind her, she leaned against it, letting out a heavy sigh.

Her voice was barely a whisper. “I was so close… or maybe I wasn’t.”

Chapter Text

“I can’t wait to wear this new dress!” Tori squealed, holding up the delicate fabric. “It’s so beautiful!”

“It is pretty nice,” Anna agreed, nodding in approval. “When are you planning to wear it?”

The girls were out shopping at the mall that weekend, their arms filled with bags from various stores.

“I don’t know… There aren’t any parties coming up,” Tori sighed, her excitement dimming.

“Meow! There is one!” Cathy piped up, raising a finger. “A school fundraiser! Our teacher said we’d have a party afterward, and I heard teachers from other schools are coming to make donations.”

Anna scoffed. “I heard barely any students are even going. Who actually shows up to fundraisers?”

“I don’t mind fundraisers, but if no one’s going, there’s no point in wearing my new dress,” Tori huffed.

“Didn’t you invite Rio?” Anna asked absentmindedly.

“Oh, right! She sent me a message half an hour ago asking where we were!” Tori gasped. “I must’ve missed it while I was buying my dress!” She quickly shared their location and groaned.

Anna and Cathy laughed.

“As soon as Rio gets here, we’re getting lunch,” Anna announced dramatically. “I’m starving!”

“I could eat too—”

“Hey, guys!” Rio’s voice cut in as she jogged up to them. “I just saw your text, Tori!”

“Ahh, sorry for the late reply!” Tori giggled as Rio linked their arms.

“Let’s eat already,” Anna declared.

The group made their way toward the food court, Tori excitedly telling Rio all about her new dress.

“So, where are we eating?” Anna asked. “Pizza? Burgers? Japanese? Chinese?”

“Sushi!” Cathy purred. “I want fish!”

“I know the perfect place!” Rio said, raising her hand like she was making an announcement. “Reginald and I found this new French restaurant on Friday. It’s super fancy—romantic, even! I wanted to try it with Reginald, but he said he was too busy today. We should go!”

“That sounds amazing!” Tori beamed.

“Yeah,” Anna grinned. “And there are four of us, so it’s even more perfect for all that date-night stuff.”

“Anna!” Tori giggled.

“Just kidding! C’mon, let’s go.”

The girls reached the restaurant and stepped through the beautifully decorated entrance.

“Wow…” Tori gasped. “It’s gorgeous!”

“Yeah, and the tables look romantic,” Anna breathed. “I totally need to bring a date here.”

“Good luck finding one,” Rio smirked.

Anna crossed her arms. “How about you just tell your ‘brother’ to date me?”

Rio tilted her head. “Reginald? He’s engaged.”

“No, Rio. I mean your brother in name, not blood.” Anna smirked. “A certain pretty blonde guy with gorgeous blue eyes… and that war paint on his face.”

Tori’s eyes widened as Rio rolled her own. “You only warm up to me when you want something, huh?”

“Well,” Anna grinned, “if I date Mizar, we’ll be sisters in name too.”

Rio sighed. “I’ll think about it, but I’m not promising anything. Mizar is as stubborn as Reginald.”

“Speaking of Reginald, isn’t that him over there?” Anna pointed toward the corner of the restaurant.

The girls followed her gaze—sure enough, Reginald was there. But he wasn’t alone.

Kyoji sat across from him, the two of them leaning in close, smiling, talking quietly, their faces mere inches apart.

“What the heck?!” Rio hissed. “Reginald told me he was busy with something important—and here he is, chilling with Kyoji like he’s got no care in the world!”

“Maybe Kyoji was the ‘important thing,’” Anna teased. “I gotta admit… Kyoji is hot.”

“Reginald is so going to pay for this,” Rio fumed.

“I can’t believe Kyoji is here!” Tori squealed, clutching her hands together.

“The feline just found her man…” Cathy purred in amusement.

Rio shook her head, smirking. “Am I seriously the only one who doesn’t go crazy over Kyoji?” Rio rolled her eyes. “I know way too many embarrassing things he did as a kid.”

Anna waved her hand dismissively. “Oh, please. But let’s be real—you totally agree he’s hot. You’re just jealous because your brother is always around him.”

Rio’s face turned pink. “Hey!”

“Shh!” Tori hushed them. “They’ll hear us!”

Cathy pulled out her phone. “Let’s get closer. I need a meow-zangly good close-up of Kyoji’s handsome face.”

The girls crept toward the table, their curiosity piqued.

***

“I’m glad you didn’t kill them for breaking your window,” Kyoji laughed, leaning back in his chair with an easy smirk. “Ray, Alito, and Girag are from another time and world.”

“World for sure,” Reginald chuckled, shaking his head. “But so am I. And yet you keep me around.”

Kyoji grinned, resting his chin on his hand. “I never said I had a problem with that. You’re wonderful, and they’re… well, they’re interesting and fun. I like you all a lot.”

Reginald hesitated for a moment, rubbing the back of his neck before finally speaking. “Hey, Kyoji… I wanted to talk to you about something.”

Kyoji tilted his head slightly, his eyes locking onto Reginald’s. “Sure. What’s on your mind?”

Reginald swallowed, his gaze flickering to the side. “You seriously look adorable when you do that, Kyoji.”

Kyoji blinked before bursting into laughter. “That’s what you wanted to tell me?”

“Hah… no,” Reginald admitted, grinning sheepishly. His fingers tapped restlessly against the table. “I mean… it’s true, but that’s not why I wanted to talk.”

“Go on,” Kyoji said, his voice softer now, encouraging. He leaned in slightly, his presence intoxicating as always.

Reginald mirrored the motion, unconsciously drawing closer. “It’s about my—”

“Oh my GOD! Please don’t kiss, guys!”

The loud, exasperated voice made both of them jolt, their heads snapping toward the source.

Rio.

And not just Rio—Tori, Anna, and Cathy were all crouching behind a nearby table, looking like they’d been caught red-handed.

“Rio?!” Reginald barked, half-rising from his seat. “What the hell are you doing?!”

Rio huffed, crossing her arms as she stormed toward them. “Oh, don’t ‘what the hell’ me! You left me behind again! To go on a date with Kyoji, no less!”

“It’s not a date!” Reginald snapped.

“Then stop hogging Kyoji all the time!” Rio shot back. “The three of us grew up together, or did you forget?”

“Aaah…” Kyoji opened his mouth, at a loss for words.

Meanwhile, Tori and Cathy were practically swooning.

“He’s so handsome…” Tori sighed dreamily.

“I’d say he’s cute too, but he’s way too hot for that,” Anna added, tilting her head as she admired Kyoji. “No wonder he’s got people wrapped around his finger.”

Anna suddenly stepped forward, holding out a hand toward him. “Hey, I’m Anna. Big fan, by the way! You gave me some great card recommendations on your talk show—told me to build a train deck and sent me some amazing cards, and it worked like a charm.”

Kyoji blinked, scratching the back of his head. “Oh, uh, yeah, I remember something like that. Nice to meet you in person… Was it Anna?”

“Yep,” Anna grinned, arms crossed. “Feeling the same way, hot guy.”

“Anna!” Tori yelped, yanking her back. “You’re supposed to be dating Mizar!” she hissed.

Anna just shrugged. “Mizar is the one I want as a boyfriend, sure. But let’s be real—Kyoji is out of my reach. Doesn’t mean I can’t admire perfection.”

Cathy, who had been inching closer, suddenly slid up right next to Kyoji, pressing a hand against his arm. He immediately turned toward her, his eyes widening slightly.

“Hey, Cathy…”

“Hi,” Cathy purred, lazily tracing her name on his arm with her finger. “We should totally hang out sometime—”

“Kyoji!” Tori huffed, yanking his other arm possessively. “My mom is inviting you for lunch later this week. You have to come!”

Kyoji smiled. “Tell your mom I’m looking forward to it.”

Tori beamed, while Cathy shot her a venomous glare.

Before either of them could fight over him more, Reginald suddenly stood up, grabbing Kyoji by the wrist and yanking him away.

“We’re leaving.”

“You can’t just—”

“Yes, I can,” Reginald interrupted Tori sharply. “Kyoji and I were hanging out first.”

“Well, I’m tagging along!” Rio declared, marching up beside them.

“I want to come too!” Cathy protested.

“Kyoji’s my relative!” Tori added, crossing her arms.

“Everyone, please!” Kyoji groaned, running a hand through his hair. “We can all hang out. Just calm down, okay?” He flashed that signature, heart-stopping smile. “We’ll have an amazing time together.”

Cathy and Tori sighed dreamily in unison. Anna grinned mischievously.

“Wanna hold hands, Kyoji?” she teased.

“Anna!” Tori, Cathy, and Rio screamed at the same time.

Kyoji laughed nervously, while Reginald let out a frustrated groan. “Let’s just go.”

“Awesome,” Rio beamed. “I promised Iris I’d get her a flower.”

And just like that, the chaos continued.

*** 

The mall was as loud and busy as ever, with people moving from store to store, arms full of shopping bags, children whining for snacks, and teenagers loitering near the arcade. But none of that mattered. The second Kyoji Yagumo stepped inside, the air seemed to change. Heads turned. Conversations stopped. A few girls gasped.

"Oh my god," a random passerby whispered. "Is that Kyoji Yagumo?!"

"It is! He's even hotter in person!"

Kyoji, dressed in his signature black leather jacket, boots, and effortless bad-boy charm, barely acknowledged the attention. He was used to it. His motorcycle helmet swung lazily from one hand, his other shoved in his pocket as he strolled in like he owned the place. His sunglasses slid down his nose just enough to reveal sharp, golden-brown eyes that seemed to smirk before he even spoke.

"Where are we going first?" Kyoji asked.

"The arcade!" Rio declared immediately, shoving her hands into her jacket pockets. "We need to settle something."

"No, we don't!" Cathy protested. "We need to go shopping. Kyoji can help me pick out a dress."

"Why would he do that?" Tori huffed. "He's obviously coming with me. My mom invited him over for lunch, and I need to pick something out for her. He’s helping me."

“I’m going shopping with Kyoji!” Cathy growled at Tori.

“First I’m hanging out with Kyoji! Just me and him!” Tori shot back.

"Pffft." Anna, standing a bit apart from the other two, smirked. "Honestly, I just wanna see what store Kyoji would walk into. That’s way more interesting. I mean, can you imagine him in a boutique?"

Kyoji raised an eyebrow. "Do I look like a guy who shops in boutiques?"

"No, but I’d still love to see you in one," Anna teased, stepping closer to Kyoji with a grin. "I bet you'd make everything in there look a hundred times better just by existing. Especially if you take off your jacket and shirt."

Kyoji coughed into his fist, looking off to the side. "Uh—"

"Anna!" Tori and Cathy shouted in unison.

Reginald, who had been silent for most of this, suddenly grabbed Kyoji’s wrist and yanked him, causing Kyoji to stumble into Reginald. "We are not splitting up. Either it's just me and Kyoji or we’re all going together. Period."

Cathy groaned. "Oh, come on ! We can’t all do everything together!"

"Yes, we can," Reginald said flatly. “Or me and Kyoji will just leave.”

Rio smirked. "Reginald, you just don’t wanna let Kyoji out of your sight."

"That’s not—"

"It totally is!" Tori accused, crossing her arms. "You don’t wanna share him."

Reginald scoffed but didn’t reply.

“Aw, who knew I would experience a love triangle today hanging out with my girl friends?” Anna smirked.

Kyoji just shook his head. "Fine, fine. We’ll do everything. First stop—arcade. Then shopping. Deal?"

Tori and Cathy still looked annoyed, but Rio immediately nodded. "I’ll wipe the floor with you guys in air hockey."

***

The arcade was loud, flashing with neon lights and filled with the sounds of buttons being mashed and coins clinking into machines. Rio immediately dragged Kyoji to the air hockey table, grabbing a striker. "You vs. me, Yagumo. Let’s go."

"You're that confident?" Kyoji smirked, rolling up his sleeves. A group of girls nearby swooned.

"More like, I know I’ll win," Rio shot back.

While they played, Cathy and Tori were hovering behind, barely paying attention to the match. Instead, they were staring at Kyoji and cheered like maniacs everytime he hit the puck, causing Reginald to growl every now and then.

"Did you see that wrist movement?" Cathy whispered.

"I saw. He looks so good when he's focused," Tori whispered back.

Anna leaned against the machine, watching Kyoji while twirling a strand of hair between her fingers. "You know, I’d love to see him really focused on something else. Like maybe my beach body in my new bikini?"

Kyoji, mid-swing, missed the puck completely.

Rio blinked. "Dude, what was that?"

"N-nothing," Kyoji muttered, shaking his head. He shot a quick glare at Anna, who winked.

“Shut up, Anna…” Reginald bit out. Reginald, standing at the side, had his arms crossed tightly. His foot tapped against the floor with restrained irritation. 

"Next game," Reginald said suddenly, stepping forward. "Kyoji and I are teaming up."

"Teaming up for what?" Cathy asked.

"Shooting game," Reginald answered. "Against all of you."

Anna grinned. "Jealous much?"

Reginald didn’t even flinch. "I just want to win."

The game featured two-player co-op mode, with a large screen displaying a zombie apocalypse battlefield. The players would have to shoot their way through hordes of undead creatures to survive.

"Alright, let's make this interesting! If the girls win, we get Kyoji to ourselves. And, if I am able to get more than you two boys, even if I lose, I get a kiss from one of you who I pick!" Anna smirked, cracking her knuckles. "Reginald, Kyoji—you two are going down."

Reginald scoffed, already stepping up to the machine. "Please. You don’t stand a chance."

"I’ll go easy on you guys," Kyoji teased, picking up the fake gun with effortless confidence. He looked unfairly cool just holding it, making the girls swoon even before the game started.

"Oh, we are so beating you," Tori declared, flipping her hair dramatically. "Cathy, we’re teaming up!"

"Meow~! Let’s do this!" Cathy purred, grabbing her own plastic gun.

Rio, arms crossed, watched from the side. "I think I’ll sit this one out. Shooting games are kind of lame."

"Translation: she knows she’ll lose," Reginald muttered, smirking.

Rio kicked the back of his leg, making him stumble slightly. "Shut up."

Anna stepped up beside Tori and Cathy. "Alright, listen up, kittens. We have to work together if we wanna take these guys down. Kyoji might be Mr. Perfect at everything, and Reginald plays like he’s in an actual war, but we have numbers. Three against two, and bonus, you have me."

"We got this!" Tori said excitedly. "Kyoji, prepare to lose!"

Kyoji grinned. "Sure, sure. Let’s see what happens."

The game started with dramatic music blasting through the speakers. The first wave of zombies appeared on screen, and immediately, the arcade filled with the sound of rapid gunfire.

Reginald and Kyoji moved in perfect sync, blasting zombies left and right with pinpoint accuracy. Kyoji, completely calm, barely even aiming, was landing perfect headshots like it was second nature. Reginald, on the other hand, was playing with deadly precision, moving his gun like he was defusing a real-world terrorist threat.

Meanwhile, on the girls’ side—

"AHH! Why are there so many?!" Tori shrieked, shooting wildly and missing half her shots.

"Cathy, cover the left!" Anna ordered, actually taking this a little seriously. It was obvious that Anna was fighting this battle by herself.

"I’m trying, but my gun’s not working!" Cathy whined, shaking the plastic weapon.

"You have to reload, Cathy!" Rio called out from the sidelines, watching with amusement.

"HOW?!" Cathy wailed.

"Press the button!" Anna and Tori shouted in unison.

"Oh."

By the time Cathy figured out the reload button, the boys had already wiped out the first three waves of zombies effortlessly.

"You guys still alive over there?" Kyoji asked casually, barely looking at the screen as he landed another perfect shot.

"Shut up!" Tori huffed, determined to focus.

Another wave of zombies appeared, and this time, the game threw in a massive boss creature. It roared across the screen, charging straight at both teams.

"Tori, shoot it!" Cathy screamed.

"I AM!" Tori shot wildly, hitting everything except the boss.

"MOVE!" Anna shoved Tori aside and took control, rapidly firing at the monster. "Kyoji, Reginald, if we beat you to this boss, we win!"

Reginald smirked. "That’s cute."

Then, in a split second, he and Kyoji unleashed a barrage of perfectly timed shots, their score skyrocketing. The boss let out a dramatic death cry and collapsed.

"WHAT?!" Tori shrieked.

The game screen flashed: PLAYER 1 & PLAYER 2 VICTORY!

"We won." Reginald smirked, lowering his gun like he just finished an actual mission.

Kyoji stretched lazily and grinned. "Good game, everyone."

"THAT WAS NOT FAIR!" Cathy stomped her foot.

“You’re lucky you two teamed up before so you guys were perfect on the battle ground.” Anna huffed. "Alright, fine. I admit it. You guys were better. But I still call for a rematch!"

Rio smirked. “I honestly saw Anna doing all the work. Anna, Tori and Cathy have never played a shooting game in their life.”

“I knew it was nothing to do with my skills,” Anna sighed. “So, it really was two against one.”

Reginald shrugged. “Who cares? Kyoji and I still beat you.”

Tori pouted. "Kyoji, you were supposed to let me win!"

Kyoji chuckled. "You never said that."

"Ugh!" Tori crossed her arms. "I demand compensation! You owe me ice cream."

Cathy immediately latched onto Kyoji’s other arm. "I second that! You totally owe us!"

Reginald, who had been standing beside Kyoji, frowned. "Why does he have to buy you guys anything?"

“I sense someone’s possessiveness!” Anna smirked. "Aw, what’s wrong, Reginald? Afraid Kyoji will spoil us instead of you?"

Reginald turned red. "That’s NOT—! Ugh, whatever."

Rio, watching the whole thing, sighed dramatically. "I can’t believe I’m friends with you people. You can’t even buy someone ice cream, Kyoji Yagumo?"

Kyoji laughed. "Alright, alright. Let’s go get ice cream. My treat."

The girls immediately cheered, Tori and Cathy holding onto Kyoji like he was a prized possession. Reginald scowled, but Kyoji simply patted his shoulder as they all exited the arcade.

***

“After completely annihilating the girls, except me, in the shooting game, because Kyoji was naturally good at everything and Reginald was playing like his life depended on it, we have finally moved on to shopping!” Anna announced as she licked her ice cream. “And we got ice cream. What next?”

Cathy immediately dragged Kyoji toward a clothing store. "You have to help me pick something. What color do you think looks best on me?"

Kyoji blinked. "Uh—"

"Black," Rio cut in. "Now let’s go."

"Excuse me?!" Cathy turned on her. "I wasn’t asking you!"

Tori suddenly grabbed Kyoji’s other arm. "Forget that. My mom needs a present. What do you think she’d like, Kyoji?"

"Ohh, I know what I’d like," Anna interrupted, running a finger along Kyoji’s shoulder. "Think you’d pick something out for me too, Kyoji? Something… personal? I need a new bikini."

Kyoji stiffened. Reginald glared daggers at Anna as Rio doubled over and burst out laughing.

"Anna!" Cathy and Tori shrieked.

"What?! I’m just asking!" Anna smirked. "I mean, Kyoji is a celebrity. He has amazing taste. Right, handsome?"

"I—I guess?" Kyoji stuttered, looking extremely overwhelmed for the first time, not meeting Anna’s eyes.

“Then you can help me pick out a bikini. I’ll change into different ones and you can look me over all day!” Anna’s evil grin grew. “It's a win-win for both of us!”

Reginald, who had officially reached his limit, grabbed Kyoji by the back of his jacket, causing Kyoji to stumble onto Reginald’s chest. "We’re leaving."

"I haven’t picked anything yet!" Cathy protested.

"Not my problem," Reginald said without looking back as he pulled Kyoji away.

Rio, watching the entire mess unfold, let out a long whistle. "Wow. Reginald is really not handling this well."

"Of course not," Anna laughed. "He wants Kyoji all to himself."

"Shut up," Reginald growled, dragging Kyoji along.

By the time they reached the food court, Kyoji finally managed to sit down, only for more attention to immediately swarm him. A group of girls had noticed him, whispering and sneaking glances. A few giggled.

"Do you think I should ask for a picture?"

"Oh my god, he’s even better looking in person…"

Tori, Cathy, and Anna all glared at them instantly.

"Back off," Tori muttered under her breath.

"He’s ours," Cathy hissed, raising her cat-like nails.

Anna just grinned. "I dunno, this is kinda fun. It’s like watching a lion in a den of hungry lionesses."

"More like a bunch of rabid dogs," Reginald muttered.

Kyoji, finally sipping his drink, sighed. "You guys are exhausting ."

Rio laughed. "You love it."

Kyoji smirked. "Yeah, maybe a little."

***

The bookstore was quiet, save for the soft sound of pages turning and the occasional murmur of conversation. Lulu walked between the shelves, her fingers lightly brushing against the spines of various books as she scanned the titles. Yuto trailed beside her, hands in his pockets, his violet eyes observing her with quiet admiration.

“You really love books, don’t you?” Yuto remarked as Lulu picked up a thick novel and examined the cover.

She smiled. “Of course. There’s something magical about them. They take you to places you never thought you’d go.”

Yuto nodded. “I get that. I feel the same way about dueling. It’s like stepping into another world, even if just for a little while.”

Lulu tilted her head. “That’s a really cool way to put it. I never thought of dueling like that before. I just found dueling something to do for fun.”

Yuto chuckled. “I mean, it’s not exactly the same as a book, but when I duel, I feel like I can let go of everything else. It’s just me, my cards, and the moment.”

Lulu watched him as he spoke, her gaze softening. “That sounds… peaceful, in a way.”

He shrugged. “Sometimes. Other times, it’s nerve-wracking like when I’m dueling Shay.”

Lulu giggled and hugged the book she was holding. “Yeah, that makes sense.”

Yuto glanced at the book in her hands. “What’s that one about?”

She flipped it over and seemed to read the summary aloud. “It’s about a girl who’s stuck in an arranged marriage but falls in love with someone else. She has to find a way to break free and choose her own path.”

Yuto’s expression shifted slightly. “That sounds… complicated.”

Lulu sighed, twirling a strand of hair around her finger. “Yeah. But I guess stories like these exist because they happen in real life too.”

Yuto hesitated for a moment before speaking. “Are you… still planning to go through with the engagement?”

Lulu’s grip on the book tightened slightly. “I don’t know. I mean, Reginald is… fine. He’s not a bad person. But…”

“But you don’t love him,” Yuto finished for her, his voice quiet.

Lulu looked up at him, her eyes searching his face. “Yeah.”

Yuto exhaled slowly. “Then why stay in something that doesn’t make you happy?”

Lulu gave a small, sad smile. “It’s not that easy. There are expectations, family pressure… people just assume I’ll go along with it.”

“You shouldn’t have to do something just because other people expect it,” Yuto said firmly. “It’s your life.”

Lulu chuckled softly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “You make it sound so simple.”

“Maybe it is,” Yuto replied. “Or maybe it should be.”

A quiet moment settled between them as they both stared into each other’s eyes. The bookstore, filled with the soft rustling of pages and hushed conversations, seemed to fade into the background. Yuto and Lulu stood close, almost too close.

Neither of them moved away. Instead, they leaned in ever so slightly, as if they were drawn by an invisible force. Lulu’s gaze flickered to Yuto’s lips, and for a fleeting second, she thought about what it would be like—what it would mean—if she just closed the distance. Yuto’s eyes softened, his usual expression betraying something deeper as he gazed at Lulu’s face.

Then, just as her fingers twitched toward him, reality crashed down on her like a cold wave.

She was engaged.

Lulu’s breath hitched. Her heart, which had been fluttering moments ago, now twisted with guilt. Quickly, she cleared her throat and took a small but deliberate step back. “Anyway,” she said, her voice a little too bright sounding fake, “Enough about me. Have you been reading anything lately?”

Yuto hesitated for only a second, then stepped back as well, offering a small smirk. “Do duel strategy books count?”

Lulu let out a soft laugh, though something in her chest still felt tight. “That’s so typical of you.”

Yuto chuckled, but his gaze lingered on her for a moment longer. “Hey, I take dueling seriously,” Yuto defended playfully. “But fine, if we’re talking real books, I read a mystery novel a while back. It was pretty interesting.”

“Oh? What was it about?”

“A detective trying to solve a case about a missing girl. The twist was that the girl was never missing to begin with—she had been hiding in plain sight the entire time, pretending to be someone else.”

Lulu’s eyes widened. “That actually sounds really good.”

“It was. I’ll lend it to you if you want.”

“I’d love that.”

Yuto smiled, his fingers grazing the spine of a book on a nearby shelf. “You always seem happiest when you’re surrounded by books.”

Lulu nodded. “Reading has always been my escape. When things get overwhelming, I just lose myself in a story. It helps.”

Yuto watched her, his gaze soft. “You deserve to write your own story too, Lulu.”

She blinked at him, caught off guard by his words, and blushed as he held the door open for her as they walked out of the shop.

Lulu’s eyes sparkled as she hugged a stack of books to her chest. “I can’t wait to go home and read all of these!” she said happily. “Thanks for bringing me here, Yuto!”

Yuto smiled softly. “Anytime, Lulu. Give me a ring whenever you need something or just want to talk.”

Lulu gazed up at him, warmth in her expression. “Thank you, Yuto…”

Before he could respond, a familiar voice suddenly interrupted them.

“Hey! Lulu! What’s up?”

Allen burst onto the scene, grinning as he came to stand between them. Lulu let out a sigh, but there was a hint of amusement in her expression.

“Hey, Allen,” she greeted. “Just buying some books.”

“Cool, cool.” Allen turned his attention to Yuto. “Oh! So you’re Yuto, huh?”

Yuto offered a small smile and extended his hand. “Pleasure to meet you.”

Allen shook it firmly. “Good to see you’re nicer than a lot of people I’ve met.”

Yuto raised an eyebrow but let the comment slide. Lulu, meanwhile, adjusted the books in her arms, and without a word, Yuto gently took them from her to hold instead. Lulu smiled at him in gratitude, lightly touching his arm as a silent ‘thank you.’

Allen watched this interaction with raised brows. “Uh-huh. Okay. I see what’s going on here.”

Lulu flushed. “Allen, don’t start.”

Allen grinned. “I wasn’t gonna say anything! I was just thinking about how nice it would be if you—”

“Allen,” Lulu warned, giving him a pointed look.

Allen laughed. “Fine, fine. But speaking of which, I actually needed to talk to you guys about something…” Allen frowned. “Well, you know how Kyoji offered to help me with building my deck?”

“Yeah,” Lulu said. “Have you started?”

“I chickened out and ditched him the next day!” Allen groaned, running a hand through his hair. “And now I feel rotten and stupid.”

“Kyoji?” Yuto asked, puzzled. “As in Kyoji Yagumo? The celebrity and famous duelist?”

“Yeah.” Allen nodded.

“That’s nice of him to offer to help someone with their deck,” Yuto said, nodding approvingly. “I admire his dueling skills and the way he fills the whole match with fun.”

“Yeah…” Allen groaned. “Man, just stop. You’re making me feel worse about leaving him standing there.”

Lulu looked at him sympathetically. “Just be honest, and I’m sure he won’t mind.”

“I know!” Allen exclaimed suddenly. “I’ll go buy a few cards and tell him I was getting ready to meet him!” He grabbed Lulu’s hand. “Can you come?”

“Sure.”

“I’ll come too,” Yuto said, gently pulling Lulu’s and Allen’s hands apart. Lulu grinned at him.

“So cute…” she whispered under her breath.

The three walked to the card shop, but as they neared, they heard a familiar voice inside.

“I totally need to buy that iced coffee again! Now I know why you’re always drinking it, Kyoji!”

Lulu’s eyes widened. “Rio…” she whispered.

Standing inside the shop were Rio, Reginald, Kyoji, Tori, Cathy, and Anna.

“No…” Lulu looked panicked.

Inside, Anna’s voice carried over. “Why are you even looking at cards? You already have an amazing deck, Kyoji. And let’s be real, you won’t find anything in this store that would help you.”

“I’m looking for a starter deck so I can help Allen with practice,” Kyoji replied, glancing through the card packs.

“We’re not going then!” Rio exclaimed dramatically. “Forget about those people! They’re so annoying!”

“Your brother’s fiancée is close with them,” Cathy pointed out with a smile.

“Ugh! Don’t remind me!” Rio growled. “I hate them so much.”

“The world doesn’t grow from negativity, Rio,” Kyoji said smoothly. “And I’m sure you’d like Lulu and her friends if you gave them a chance. They seem nice and friendly.”

“So now you’re defending them?” Rio frowned.

“Is that how you define that?” Kyoji raised an eyebrow before reaching for Rio’s hand, giving her one of his signature smiles. “Please, just try to be nicer? For me?”

Rio stared into his eyes before groaning and looking away. “Ugh! Why do your eyes have to look like that?! Fine! Just because you bought me an iced coffee!” She huffed and crossed her arms.

Kyoji beamed. “Thanks, Rio!”

Allen, watching from a distance, elbowed Lulu. “How about you just marry Kyoji? He’s, like, the nicest guy on the whole planet!”

“Allen!” Lulu flushed as Yuto gave a glance toward Kyoji before looking back at her.

“Come on! Please, Lulu?” Allen almost pleaded.

“Imagine what Saya would think, Allen.” Lulu sighed. “Plus… I’m still engaged to Reginald… and I’m hoping for something else…”

“But Kyoji is so nice! And handsome!” Allen protested.

“Allen! He’s nice… but I don’t love Kyoji…” Lulu sighed.

“You don’t like Reginald either, but…” Allen trailed off, looking thoughtful.

Yuto shook his head, stepping forward and taking Lulu’s hand gently. “I’m here if you need anything, Lulu.”

Lulu smiled at him. “Thank you…”

“Now, let’s leave. I understand that you don’t want to be here right now.” Yuto calmly led Lulu and Allen away from the store before anyone inside could notice them.

Allen groaned dramatically. “But I still need to buy those cards!”

“You’ll survive,” Yuto replied dryly, guiding them away from the chaos inside the shop.

***

The Barian household was anything but quiet when Reginald and Rio returned from their long day out. As soon as they stepped through the door, they were met with the usual chaos.

"Oh, look who's finally back!" Ray called out from the couch, throwing a popcorn kernel in the air and catching it in his mouth. "Did you two get lost at the mall? Or were you just avoiding us?"

"Avoiding you sounds nice, actually," Rio shot back, dropping her bag onto the nearest chair.

"Ouch, sis, that hurts!" Ray clutched his chest dramatically. 

"Not enough, apparently," Dumon muttered as he flipped through a book. He didn’t even look up, but there was clear amusement in his voice.

Mizar, who was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, raised an eyebrow. "You two were gone for hours. What did you even do?"

Reginald groaned and collapsed onto the couch next to Iris. "Shopping."

"And arcade games," Rio added, smirking. "Which we totally dominated."

"Correction," Reginald said, sitting up and pointing at her, "I dominated."

"Oh please, Kyoji carried you!" Rio argued. "You were just angry because the girls kept flirting with him and he didn't even notice."

Ray snickered. "Ohhh, now this sounds interesting. You jealous, Reginald?" He leaned forward with a mischievous grin.

"No!" Reginald snapped way too quickly, his face turning slightly pink. "I just— I just don’t like how obsessed everyone is with Kyoji."

Alito, who had been sitting cross-legged on the floor, looked up. "I mean, he is super famous. And really good-looking. And cool. And—"

Reginald shot him a glare. "Do you have a point?"

"Yeah," Alito shrugged. "You sound jealous."

Rio cackled. "See? Even Alito gets it."

Reginald groaned, rubbing his temples. "I hate this family."

Iris, who had been quietly listening while hugging a stuffed animal, finally chimed in. "Did you get me anything?"

Reginald immediately softened. "Of course we did." He reached into a bag and pulled out a cute plushie. "I saw this and thought of you."

Iris beamed. "You’re the best, big bro!" She hugged the plushie tightly before turning to Rio expectantly.

Rio grinned. "And I got you these!" She handed over a set of hair accessories and a box of sweets.

Iris gasped. "Thank you!" She tackled Rio in a hug, making Rio laugh as she ruffled her little sister’s hair.

Girag stretched and yawned. "Alright, now that the cute moment’s over—what’s this I hear about a tea party?"

Reginald groaned again. "Ugh. Don’t remind me."

"Yeah, it’s for the elite families," Rio said with a dramatic eye roll. "Which means we have to dress up and be all proper and whatever."

Ray wiggled his eyebrows. "Ohhh, that means fancy suits! Are you wearing one, Reginald?"

"Obviously. It’s a formal event."

Ray smirked. "Do you think Kyoji will wear one too?"

Reginald threw a pillow at him. "Shut up!"

Mizar, who had been silently observing, finally sighed. "This whole thing sounds like a waste of time."

Dumon nodded. "Agreed. But since the elite families hold power, it’s probably best to make an appearance."

"That’s what I said!" Rio threw her hands up. "But do you think Reginald listens to me? Nooo."

"I listen to you!" Reginald protested. "I just don’t like it."

"Yeah, well, suck it up, because we’re going," Rio said, poking his forehead.

Reginald scowled. "I hate this family."

"You said that already," Alito pointed out.

Reginald sighed, leaning back against the couch. "I’ll say it again."

"So, what’s the plan for the tea party?" Iris asked curiously. "Are you gonna dance with people?"

Rio made a disgusted face. "Ugh. I hope not."

Ray grinned. "Oh, come on. I’m sure there’ll be some dashing suitors there for you, Rio!"

"If you don’t shut up, I’m throwing you out a window," Rio deadpanned.

Girag let out a booming laugh. "Oh, this is gonna be fun to watch."

Reginald groaned one last time, covering his face with a pillow. "I really, really hate this family." Reginald, already suffering from the mere thought of socializing, was sprawled on the couch, scowling at the ceiling.

"So, dear brother," Rio began, a smirk already forming, "since you'll be stuck with Lulu, does that mean I get to dance with Kyoji?"

Reginald sat up so fast he nearly toppled over. "What?"

Ray whistled. "Ooooh, now this just got interesting."

Alito grinned. "Yeah, yeah! Since you’re always snatching Kyoji away, it’s only fair Rio gets a turn."

Reginald's eye twitched. "I do not snatch Kyoji away."

Rio gasped, dramatically placing a hand on her chest. "Oh, so you admit you’re possessive?"

Mizar, leaning against the wall, sighed. "This is ridiculous."

Dumon closed his book with a soft thud, looking unimpressed. "Ray, Alito, stop instigating."

Ray grinned. "Why? It’s fun."

Girag cracked his knuckles. "Hey, I wanna help! What are we doing? Teasing Reginald? Count me in!"

"We’re not just teasing him," Ray corrected. "We’re also helping him out with socializing problems. We’ll crash the tea party!"

Reginald groaned. "Oh no."

Alito smirked. "Oh yes . We need to liven up that tea party somehow."

Dumon rubbed his temple. "We are not causing a scene."

Rio, ignoring the chaos, tapped her chin thoughtfully. "I mean, if Reginald is so against me dancing with Kyoji, maybe I should just go ahead and do it. He’ll be too busy with Lulu anyway."

Reginald scowled. "You’re just saying that to get under my skin."

Rio smirked. "Is it working?"

Iris, clutching her plushie, tilted her head. "Why don’t you just dance with both Lulu and Kyoji?"

Everyone turned to stare at her.

Reginald blinked. "...Huh."

Ray burst out laughing. "Oh man, Iris, you get him."

Reginald sighed, rubbing his temples. "This family is insufferable."

"You said that yesterday," Alito pointed out.

"I’ll say it again," Reginald muttered.

Dumon shifted uncomfortably, finally speaking up. "Rio, you don’t actually want to dance with Kyoji, do you?"

She blinked at him as Alito raised an eyebrow. "Why? You jealous?"

Dumon stiffened. "That’s not what I—"

Ray and Alito howled with laughter. "Dumon, you too ?!"

Mizar rolled his eyes. "I am surrounded by idiots."

Girag, having missed most of the conversation, frowned. "So, uh, what’s the plan again?"

Ray grinned. "We’re gonna mess with Reginald at the party. And now, maybe Dumon too."

" No one is messing with anyone ," Dumon warned.

"Too late!" Alito sang.

Reginald groaned. "I hate this family."

Iris beamed. "I love this family!"

***

"And then Trey and I totally crushed everyone we dueled! We won on our first turn, like, every game!" Yuma said through a mouthful of rice. "I swear, if there was a tournament for this stuff, we'd be champions together! Trey is amazing!"

Yuma Tsukumo, his older sister Kari, and their grandmother Haru were sitting around the dinner table, enjoying a meal together. Cologne was at a sleepover with Cathy. As usual, Yuma was enthusiastically stuffing his face, barely pausing between bites to talk.

“Do you mean you only won because of Trey, Yuma?” Kari teased, taking a small bite of her riceball.

“We’re a great team!” Yuma babbled on, with his mouth open with food. “We’re gonna take on the whole world one day and show off our amazing dueling!”

Kari sighed, watching her little brother eat like he hadn't seen food in days. "Yuma, you need to slow down. And more importantly, you need to find yourself a girlfriend soon. I'm getting tired of taking care of you."

Yuma nearly choked on his rice. "Wha—A girlfriend?! What does that have to do with anything?! I’m hanging out with Trey!"

Haru chuckled softly as she sipped her tea. "Kari does have a point, dear. You’re growing up, after all."

Yuma groaned. "Can we talk about something else?"

Kari smirked but decided to change the subject. "Actually, speaking of weird things, a guy at the newspaper office showed me this." She pulled out her phone and tapped on the screen before turning it to face Yuma and Haru. "He took a picture of this strange new purple star in the sky."

Yuma, still munching on a rice ball, peered at the image. "Huh… That kinda looks like a Barian portal."

Kari rolled her eyes. "It’s a star, Yuma. The whole Barian thing is over, remember?"

Yuma shrugged. "Yeah, I guess you’re right. No way it could be a portal. I wrapped all that up ages ago. I saved the whole world too!"

Haru set down her tea and smiled. "Still, it wouldn't hurt to ask your boyfriend about it, Kari."

Kari nearly dropped her chopsticks and blushed. "H-He’s not my boyfriend!"

Yuma gasped dramatically, pointing at Kari with wide eyes. "Kari, you have a boyfriend?! And you didn’t tell me?!"

Kari shot a death glare at Haru. "You’re mistaking a friend for a boyfriend. I already told you, Haru, it’s not like that with Quinton."

Haru merely smiled, clearly unconvinced. "Then why do you always smile when talking about him, dear?"

Yuma blinked. "Wait… You're talking about Quinton? Trey’s older brother?"

Kari groaned. "Yes, and he’s just a friend. What’s wrong with you guys? Seriously, I’m the only one with sense around here now."

Yuma’s eyes sparkled mischievously. "Ohhhh, this is good."

Kari scowled, quickly pulling out her phone. "Whatever. I’m just gonna send him the picture and ask. Nothing weird about that."

Yuma snickered as she scrolled through her contacts, pausing for a second before clicking on Quinton’s name, her face slightly pink. She got up and walked out of the room, muttering something about "nosy family members."

Haru chuckled, watching her go. "You should be happy for Kari, Yuma. Even if she won’t admit it, she always smiles when talking about Quinton. And I’m sure he likes her too. He always asks how she’s doing whenever I hear her talking to him."

Yuma tilted his head. "Huh. Now that I think about it, Quinton’s not that bad. We fought together too and he’s a good duelist!"

Then, suddenly, his eyes lit up with excitement. "Wait, that means if Kari and Quinton get together… I’d be related to Trey!"

Haru laughed as Yuma practically bounced in his seat, already excitedly talking about all the fun he and Trey would have as family.

***

The lab was dimly lit, the blue glow of the computer screens reflecting off Luna’s glasses as she typed away, her excitement barely contained. Quinton stood beside her, arms crossed, watching the data stream in.

“This is insane,” Luna muttered. “These energy signatures—they’re unlike anything I’ve ever seen before.”

“Agreed,” Quinton said, adjusting his glasses. “It’s almost like the old Barian portals, but these ones are… different.”

Luna turned to him with a bright grin. “That just means it’s a new discovery! The Barian War is over. Everything’s back to normal, and now we get to be real scientists again.”

Quinton smirked. “I don’t know if ‘normal’ is the right word, but I’ll take it.” He pressed a few buttons, connecting their call to Kite.

After a few moments, Kite’s face flickered onto the screen, his usual serious expression in place. “Quinton. Luna. What’s going on?”

“Kite, you won’t believe this,” Luna said excitedly. “We’ve been detecting strange energy surges. At first, we thought it was interference, but the patterns are too consistent.”

Kite’s eyebrows furrowed. “I’ve been getting signals like that too.”

Quinton leaned forward. “It’s almost like the old Barian portals, but there’s something off about them.”

Kite nodded. “Dad and I have been researching these new energy forces. We don’t know what’s causing them yet.”

Luna beamed. “That just makes it even more exciting! A brand-new mystery. And since the war is over, we can finally explore without worrying about getting caught in another fight.” She leaned back, sighing. “I do miss Tori, though. And Reginald. And Kyoji… so many more but… And Hart! How is Hart lately?”

Kite’s expression softened. “Yeah. He’s happy. Rio and Iris come over all the time, and he loves playing with them.”

Luna smirked, eyes glinting. “You always smile when you mention Rio.”

Kite’s face turned slightly pink. “What? That’s—”

“She’s onto something,” Quinton said, smirking. “If you like Rio, you should just ask her out.”

Kite sighed, running a hand through his hair. “It’s not that simple. She’s Reginald’s little sister.”

Luna waved a hand dismissively. “Please. I’ll talk to Reginald for you if you want.”

The connection started to flicker, the image of Kite distorting slightly. Quinton quickly checked the signal. “The connection is breaking off.”

Luna groaned. “Ugh, of course. Alright, Kite, we’ll talk later. Don’t be a coward about Rio!”

Kite’s voice crackled. “I heard that—”

And then the screen went dark.

Luna stretched, grinning. “Well, that was fun.”

Quinton shook his head. “You’re way too entertained by this.”

“Obviously." Luna laughed. "Now, let’s get back to figuring out these portals.”

Chapter Text

The soft hum of machinery filled the air, the glow of multiple screens casting an eerie blue light over the dimly lit laboratory. Kite Tenjo sat at his desk, eyes narrowed in concentration as lines of data scrolled rapidly across his monitor. These portals had been appearing more frequently, and he was determined to figure out why.

A faint knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.

“Kite!”

Hart’s excited voice rang out, cutting through the quiet hum of the lab. Kite sighed and rubbed his temple.

“Hey, Hart. Something happened?”

“Something amazing!” Hart chirped. “Your favorite guest is here!”

Kite’s fingers paused over his keyboard, and his heart did a small, involuntary jolt. His favorite guest? He barely had to think about who that would be.

“…Rio?” he asked, hesitantly turning in his chair.

Hart giggled mischievously, and before Kite could react, the door burst open. Hart dashed in, dragging Kyoji Yagumo behind him by the hand.

“Ta-da!” Hart announced proudly. “It’s Kyoji!”

Kite’s lips parted slightly in surprise. “Oh. It’s only you.”

Kyoji smirked, as if amused by Kite’s lack of enthusiasm. “Don’t sound too excited. Were you expecting someone else?”

Kite scoffed, leaning back in his chair. “What are you even doing here, Kyoji?”

Hart answered before Kyoji could. “Because Kyoji actually cares about you! Unlike you, who locks yourself in here all day and forgets to have fun.”

“I don’t—” Kite started, but Kyoji raised a brow, cutting him off.

“Hart’s not wrong. You haven’t been taking care of yourself again, have you?”

Kite narrowed his eyes. “I don’t need a babysitter.”

Kyoji sighed dramatically. “Yeah, yeah, that’s what you always say. And then I find you half-conscious at your desk because you forgot to eat.”

Hart nodded in agreement. “Kyoji’s right! And you can’t lie because I see the empty coffee cups and zero food wrappers. I bet you haven’t eaten since yesterday.”

Kite’s silence was answer enough.

Kyoji ran a hand through his hair and clicked his tongue. “Unbelievable. Genius scientist, powerful duelist, and yet somehow can’t figure out how to feed himself.”

“I’ve been busy,” Kite muttered, turning back to his screen. “I don’t have time for—”

“Uh-huh.” Kyoji pulled up a chair and sat beside him, arms crossed. “So what exactly has got you so buried in work this time?”

Kite hesitated, glancing at Kyoji from the corner of his eye. He wasn’t sure if he should share, but something about Kyoji’s presence always made it easier to talk.

“…There have been unusual portal readings lately.” He tapped a few keys, bringing up a diagram of fluctuating energy signatures. “They’re similar to Barian portals.”

Kyoji’s expression shifted slightly, his teasing demeanor fading into something more serious. “…Barian portals?”

“Yes.” Kite leaned forward, scanning the data. “I don’t think they’re dangerous, but their appearance is too frequent to ignore.”

Kyoji exhaled, leaning back in his chair. “I thought life was back to normal.” His voice was quiet, almost wistful.

Kite looked at him then, noticing the tension in Kyoji’s usually relaxed posture.

“…You’re scared?” Kite asked after a moment.

Kyoji let out a dry chuckle. “Scared? No. I just…” He paused, staring at the screen. “I just don’t like the idea that we might have to deal with some kind of chaos again like last time with the whole Barian war.”

Kite nodded, understanding. “I don’t think it’s anything harmful. But I get it.” Kite gazed at Kyoji with affection and warmth. Kyoji was looking at the diagram with a worried look. Then, just like that, Kyoji’s eyes met Kite’s eyes.

“You’re staring.” Kyoji smirked, tilting his head.

“You’re cute,” Kite countered, as Kyoji pouted. “Why did you come here anyway?”

“I came to see my family… is there something wrong with that?” Kyoji huffed. “Besides, be nice. Hart just said I was your ‘favorite guest.’”

Kite exhaled sharply and smiled. “When did that thought even exist?”

Kyoji grinned. “Disappointed I wasn’t Rio?”

Kite gave him a long look before shaking his head. “No. I’m glad you came.”

Something about the way he said it made Kyoji pause. He studied Kite for a moment before leaning back in his chair. “You’ve been working too much again. How much have you rested recently?”

“I have work to do.”

Kyoji clicked his tongue. “That’s not an answer.”

Kite sighed, rubbing his temples. “I’m fine.”

“You’re never fine,” Kyoji muttered. “And you always look like you’re carrying the weight of the world. You seriously need to take care of yourself better.”

Kite hesitated before looking at him. “I won’t let anyone hurt you again.”

Kyoji blinked, caught off guard. “Where’s that coming from?”

“I mean it.” Kite’s tone was firm. “Don’t let these new portals get to you. You don’t need to be scared anymore.”

Kyoji’s fingers curled against his knee. He swallowed, his throat feeling tight. “I’m not scared…”

Kite didn’t look away. “No one you love will ever leave you again.”

Kyoji let out a strange sound—something between a scoff and a choked breath. He quickly looked away, jaw clenched. “Um, this isn’t about me-”

“Kyoji.”

Kite’s voice was softer now, more careful. His hand lifted, hesitated, then cupped Kyoji’s cheek lightly.

Kyoji arched an eyebrow at the touch but didn’t pull away. Instead, he found himself leaning into it, eyes fluttering shut for just a second.

“Kyoji!!” Hart jumped in and grabbed Kyoji’s hand. “You promised to hang out with me!”

Kyoji blinked, momentarily caught off guard as he quickly pulled back from Kite. “I did?”

“Yes! And you can’t say no, because I told you I’d give you an extra chocolate bar if you taught me how to duel just like you!” Hart pouted.

Kyoji laughed. “Well, if there’s chocolate involved…”

Hart beamed. “Yay! Come on, let’s go!”

Kyoji stood up, stretching. “Looks like duty calls.” He glanced back at Kite, smirking. “Don’t work yourself into the ground, alright?”

Kite rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah.”

As Kyoji followed Kite out the door, Kite allowed himself the smallest of smiles. He’d never say it out loud, but… he was glad Kyoji had visited…

***

Quattro paced back and forth in the living room, arms crossed, scowling as he grumbled under his breath. "I cannot believe this. Canceled! Just like that! What kind of ridiculous excuse is ‘unidentified attacks in the area’?! I had a full tour scheduled! And yet—yet Kyoji Yagumo is still going on his stupid, perfect little tours!" He threw his hands in the air. "What, is he immune to cancellations now?!"

Trey, sitting on the couch, sighed and gave his brother a patient look. "Quattro, I know it’s frustrating, but Kyoji didn’t personally sabotage your tour. There’s been weird stuff happening everywhere, even Quinton been looking into it. It’s not like the world is conspiring against you."

Dextra, sitting nearby and scrolling on her phone, snorted. "Yeah, no one’s conspiring against you. It’s just that Kyoji’s actually in demand. Face it, Quattro, the rankings don’t lie. Kyoji’s beating you in popularity by a landslide."

Quattro whirled on her, eyes burning with indignation. "Excuse me?! What rankings?!"

Dextra smirked and turned her phone around, showing a fan poll. "See? Kyoji’s got, like, ten times the votes you do. Girls love him. Even guys do. Apparently, he’s ‘mysterious, cool, and untouchable’ or whatever. Meanwhile, you’re ‘cocky, dramatic, and a little too extra.’"

Quattro’s jaw dropped. "Too extra?! That’s the whole point! That’s what makes me iconic! What kind of trash poll is this?!"

"One that thousands of people voted on," Dextra said, standing up. "And honestly, Quattro, you could stand to up your game. You’ve been slacking. Your duels? Meh. You always lose to Kyoji. Your fan interactions? Questionable. Your fashion sense? Ugh, don’t even get me started."

Quattro groaned loudly and flopped onto the couch. "This is actual sabotage. Dextra, get a life and stop obsessing over stupid polls! I am better than any other guy in the whole world!"

Dextra folded her arms. "This is why no girl likes you, by the way."

Trey immediately looked up from his book, alarmed. "Okay, let’s not start that conversation."

"Oh, please." Quattro scoffed, sitting up. "Rio Kastle likes me."

Dextra barked out a laugh. "Rio likes you so much that everyone can literally see the disdain in her eyes whenever she’s forced to be in the same room as you."

Quattro huffed. "She’s just playing hard to get."

"Sure. And I’m secretly the Queen of Heartland who happens to be a butterfly in disguise." Dextra rolled her eyes. "Listen, I love you like a little brother, but seriously, you need to get it together. Kyoji has already beaten you in way too many duels. Your tours keep getting canceled. And now? You’re losing in popularity to a guy who barely even tries."

Trey tried again, "Quattro’s still a great duelist! He just—"

"Trey, stop." Dextra held up a hand. "I love that you support him, but you and I both know Quattro needs to step up. And since Quinton’s still too busy being a genius scientist to come home and sort this out, I guess that responsibility falls on me."

Quattro scoffed. "Great. Now I’m doomed."

"Not doomed," Dextra corrected, stretching before grabbing her purse. "We just need a strategy. But for now, we are going shopping."

Trey blinked. "Shopping?"

"Shopping," Dextra repeated. "For better clothes. For a better image. We need to outdo the Obsidian family at this upcoming tea party."

Quattro groaned. "Why do you care so much about this tea party?"

"Because." Dextra narrowed her eyes. "Lulu is engaged to Reginald. You think that doesn’t annoy me? That just means the Kastle family is going to look even better because it will be a marriage between two wealthy elite families. Meanwhile, what do we have?"

Trey hesitated. "Um… each other?"

Dextra sighed dramatically. "Yes, Trey, we have each other. But we need something more. We need power moves. Which is why—" she smirked and turned to Quattro, "—you need to get engaged to Rio."

Quattro’s eyes widened before a slow smirk crossed his face. "Oh? So you finally admit I have a shot."

Dextra shook her head. "I never said that. But Quinton is too busy with his ‘science’ to find love right now, and you’re the next best bet. So, congrats. You have a mission."

Quattro grinned, standing up. "Well, of course, I’ll succeed. I mean, come on, it’s me."

"Good." Dextra clapped her hands together. "Now let’s get going. We need to dress to impress. And Quattro? Try not to embarrass yourself."

***

Yuto leaned back against the sleek leather seat in Shay’s private lounge, stretching his arms behind his head.

“I still can’t believe your family owns an entire skyscraper,” he muttered. “Meanwhile, I’m out here fixing my coat with duct tape.”

Shay smirked. “Hey, duct tape is versatile.”

Yuto gave him a dry look. “You say that, but you’ve never had to use it to keep your shoes from falling apart.”

Shay chuckled, setting his glass of water down on the marble coffee table. “You know, if you ever need—”

“Nope,” Yuto cut him off immediately. “Not happening. I don’t take handouts.”

Shay sighed. “I wasn’t offering a handout. It’s called being a friend.”

Yuto shook his head. “I’d rather work for what I have. Like dueling. You know, honest effort.”

Shay smirked again. “Right, because dueling is always ‘honest.’”

Yuto shrugged. “It is when you’re as good as me.”

Shay snorted. “Oh, please. Both me and Lulu could wipe the floor with you.”

Yuto’s expression softened, a small smile playing at his lips. “Yeah, she’s amazing. She built that deck all by herself, you know?”

Shay’s grin faded as he exhaled, crossing his arms. “Yeah. She did. She worked hard for it.”

Something in his tone made Yuto frown. “What’s with the sigh?”

Shay hesitated, then ran a hand through his hair. “I just… I feel bad about her engagement to Reginald. It was all arranged when she was a kid. It doesn’t seem right.”

Yuto’s expression darkened slightly. “It’s not right. It’s outdated, forcing someone into something they don’t want.”

Shay looked at him, his gaze calculating. “You really think she doesn’t want it?”

Yuto’s fingers curled into fists. “You think she does?”

Shay stayed silent for a moment, then shook his head. “No. I don’t.”

Yuto leaned forward, eyes intense. “Then you should help her break it off.”

Shay sighed. “It’s not that easy, Yuto. These kinds of arrangements… they come with a lot of expectations.”

Yuto’s jaw tightened. “But if Lulu wanted out, would you help her?”

Shay’s expression softened slightly. “Of course. If that’s what she wanted, I wouldn’t stop her.”

Yuto’s face brightened immediately, a small blush creeping up his cheeks. “That’s… that’s good.”

Shay narrowed his eyes. “Wait a second.” He leaned closer, staring at Yuto suspiciously. “Why are you blushing?”

Yuto stiffened, eyes darting away. “W-what? I’m not blushing.”

Shay’s stare turned sharper. “You totally are. What is this about?”

Yuto waved his hands in front of him frantically. “It’s nothing! I just—! You were talking about Lulu, and I—!” He clamped his mouth shut.

Shay’s eyes widened slightly before narrowing. “Oh.”

Yuto gulped. “Oh?”

Shay leaned back, crossing his arms. “Oh.”

Yuto groaned. “Come on, man.”

“Why are you so worked up about Lulu’s engagement?” Shay demanded.

“I’m not—!” Yuto started, but Shay cut him off with a raised eyebrow.

Yuto sighed in defeat, rubbing the back of his neck. “Okay, maybe I care more than I should. But… uh, it's because she’s your little sister! Like, my best friend!”

Shay tilted his head. “Is that all? There is nothing else?”

Yuto’s shoulders slumped. “Nothing. I’m not that kind of guy. I know the bro code, Shay!”

Shay studied him for a moment before nodding approvingly. “Good. At least you’ve got principles.”

Yuto shot him a look. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Shay smirked. “Just that I know plenty of guys who wouldn’t care.”

Yuto rolled his eyes, then, desperate to change the subject, blurted out, “What about you?”

Shay raised an eyebrow. “What about me?”

“When are you going to get engaged?” Yuto wiggled his eyebrows. “Or are you just going to wait until your forced into something too?”

Shay rolled his eyes. “Quit it.”

Yuto grinned. “Would you forget all about me once you have a lovely girl in your life?”

Shay scoffed. “As if. No girl’s gonna replace your annoying self.”

Yuto smirked. “Aw, Shay, I didn’t know you cared.”

Shay groaned. “I regret everything.”

Yuto laughed, leaning back again. “You know, for an elite, you’re not so bad.”

Shay chuckled. “And for a broke guy, you’re tolerable.”

Yuto grinned. “That’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me.”

Shay sighed, shaking his head. “Let’s just duel. Maybe I can beat some sense into you.”

Yuto smirked. “Doubt it.”

Shay rolled his eyes, but there was a fondness in them as he grabbed his deck. “We’ll see about that.”

***

Cathy walked with a light bounce in her step as she led the way toward the park, where her young friend Pip was waiting. The late afternoon sun bathed the city in a golden glow, and the streets were lined with people going about their day. Tori was holding Rio’s hand and practically skipping next to Cathy, pulling Rio along.

“I still don’t understand why I had to be dragged into this,” Rio sighed, as a light breeze ruffled her hair. “This is your’s and Cathy’s thing.”

“Oh, don’t be like that, Rio,” Tori said, linking her arm with Rio’s. “You’re our best friend, especially mine! And besides, it’s not like you had anything better to do today.”

“That doesn’t mean I wanted to be third-wheeled into some children’s playdate,” Rio muttered.

Cathy grinned, turning around to walk backward so she could face them. “It’s not just about Pip! It’ll be your first time meeting her, Rio and she’s also amazing at dueling, believe it or not! There’s also something else to talk about…” She paused dramatically before smirking at Tori. “Like how I’m going to see Kyoji at the elite tea party, and you’re not. Meow!”

Tori stopped mid-step and glared. “Excuse me?”

“You heard me purrfectly!” Cathy sing-songed, turning back around and flipping her hair. “I’m from an elite family, which means I get an automatic invite. Meanwhile, you’re just an ordinary girl with no special status.”

“Oh, shut up, Cathy,” Tori huffed, crossing her arms. “That doesn’t mean anything. Besides, Kyoji wouldn’t even look twice at you.”

“Uh oh!” Cathy gasped mockingly. “Jealous much, Tori? It sounds like you’re just mad that I’ll have the chance to talk to Kyoji while you’ll be stuck at home, dreaming about him from a distance.”

Tori’s face turned red as Rio smirked. “Cathy has a point, Tori.”

“You’re supposed to me on my side, Rio! You’re my best friend!” Tori groaned. “Not you too, Rio!”

“What? I’m just saying,” Rio shrugged. “Anyway, we’re here.”

They stepped into the park, where a small figure was sitting on a bench, fidgeting slightly as she waited. Pip, a shy but intelligent little girl, perked up as soon as she spotted Cathy.

“Cathy!” Pip called out, her eyes lighting up.

“Hey, Pip!” Cathy greeted, kneeling down to give the younger girl a quick hug. “Sorry to keep you waiting.”

“It’s okay,” Pip said softly. Then, her gaze flickered to Rio, and she shuffled nervously.

“No need to be shy,” Cathy reassured her. “This is my friend Rio.”

“Nice to see you again, Pip,” Tori said, giving a friendly wave.

Rio simply nodded. “Hey.”

Pip hesitated before nodding back. Just as she was about to say something, Rio’s Duel Gazer buzzed. She pulled it out, and a small chuckle escaped her lips as she looked at the screen.

“What is it?” Cathy asked curiously.

“It’s from Hart,” Rio said, turning the screen toward them.

It was a selfie of Hart and Kyoji sitting in the living room. Kyoji was wearing cat ears on his head, his expression a mix of embarrassment and amusement, while Hart grinned proudly beside him doing the victory sign. A caption followed:

I got Kyoji to wear cat ears!

Cathy and Tori immediately erupted into high-pitched squeals.

“OH MY GOSH!” Cathy shrieked. “KYOJI LOOKS SO CUTE!!”

“I CAN’T BELIEVE HART MANAGED TO DO THAT!” Tori squealed.

“I swear, that kid is powerful,” Rio mused, shaking her head. “Kyoji looks adorable. I wonder what Reginald would think of this.”

“Forget about Reginald! Look at Kyoji! He has cat ears, just like me!” Cathy mewled. “That must mean Kyoji is meant to be mine!”

Tori whirled on her. “WHAT?! That makes no sense at all!”

“It makes perfect sense! We match!” Cathy declared, pointing at her own cat ears.

“That is the dumbest reasoning I have ever heard!” Tori yelled.

“Oh? You jealous, Tori? Scared I’ll steal Kyoji from you?” Cathy purred.

“You can’t steal what was never yours!” Tori shot back.

The two girls began bickering heatedly, inching closer and closer as if preparing to start an actual fight. Just as Cathy was about to throw her first punch, a small hand tugged at Cathy’s dress.

“Um… who’s the guy with light blue hair?” Pip asked quietly, pointing at the screen.

“Oh, that’s Hart,” Cathy replied, distracted from her argument. “He’s Kite’s little brother. And Kyoji’s cousin.”

Pip stared at the image for a moment before her cheeks turned pink. “He looks nice.”

Cathy’s eyes widened before she let out a loud gasp. “Pip! You have a crush on Hart?!”

Pip turned even redder. “I-I just think he looks nice!”

Rio raised an eyebrow, amused. “Since when did four-year-old girls have crushes?”

“I mean, it’s totally normal!” Cathy defended. “And I swear, I’m totally getting them to meet one day!”

Rio rolled her eyes. “Oh, please. Pip and Hart together? That’s a joke.”

Tori grinned. “True love prevails!”

“THEY’RE LITERALLY KIDS!” Rio shouted.

Tori giggled, nudging Rio. “I know why you’re being salty. You know, you totally need a boyfriend.”

Rio froze. “What the heck?!”

Cathy and Tori burst into laughter as Rio groaned.

***

The mall was alive with the chatter of shoppers and the sounds of distant pop music playing from the overhead speakers. Lulu and Saya strolled through the aisles, their arms linked as they browsed through the latest clothing collections.

"So, the elite families’ tea party is coming up soon," Lulu began, eyeing a particularly elegant dress displayed on a mannequin. "It’s supposed to be this grand event where everyone dances and socializes."

Saya smiled. "That sounds fun! You should make the most of it. Please make sure you have fun, Lulu!"

Lulu sighed, her lips curving into a frown. "I doubt I’ll be able to enjoy it—not with Reginald there."

Saya stopped in her tracks, turning to face Lulu with concern. "Lulu, you need to break off that engagement already! You don’t even like him. And you know I’ll support you no matter what."

Lulu gave a small smile. "I know, and I really do want to talk to Shay about it. I just… I have to time it right. He’s with Yuto today."

A sly smirk played on Saya’s lips. "Oh? Lulu, you just said Yuto’s name and you’re already blushing!"

Lulu’s eyes widened as her face turned red. "I am not! I just—it’s hot in here, okay?"

Saya giggled, clearly enjoying the moment. "Riiight. So, tell me, who are you going to dance with at the school dance?"

Lulu hesitated, then leaned in, whispering, "I want to dance with Yuto. So I’ll definitely break off my engagement before then!"

Saya gasped. "Oh my gosh, Lulu! That’s amazing! Finally, you’re doing something for yourself!"

Lulu laughed. "And what about you? Who’s your dream dance partner?"

Saya’s expression turned dreamy as her gaze flickered to a magazine stand nearby, where a large poster of Kyoji was displayed. His striking features and confident smirk stood out even in print.

Lulu followed her gaze and grinned. "Oh, Saya… don’t tell me you want to dance with Kyoji?"

Saya’s face turned bright red. "W-what if I do?!"

Lulu clapped her hands together. "Then you should totally go for it! I actually heard him talking in the mall the other day, and he said that you and Allen were nice company."

Saya’s eyes widened. "He did? Really?"

Lulu nodded. "See? That means he finds you to be nice. If you get to know him better, you could just ask him out."

Saya took a deep breath, her fists clenching with newfound determination. "Alright! I won’t let anyone steal Kyoji from me!"

Just then, a scoff echoed from behind them. "That’s hilarious."

Both girls turned to see Anna, standing with her arms crossed, smirking in amusement.

Lulu narrowed her eyes. "What do you want, Anna?"

Anna walked up to the magazine stand and picked up the same issue Saya had been admiring. She held it up, staring at Kyoji’s printed face before pressing her lips to the image in a kiss. "You think you have a chance with Kyoji? That’s adorable."

Kyoji’s grinning mouth on the magazine now sported a lipstick mark from Anna. Saya glared at Anna as Anna kissed Kyoji’s picture again and pretended to sigh dreamily.

Lulu frowned, stepping in front of Saya protectively. "Saya can like whoever she wants. What’s your problem?"

Anna flipped her bangs away from her eyes. "The problem is, both of you are delusional. You? Engaged to Reginald and believing you’re the better one? And Saya? Trying to go after Kyoji? I don’t know which one is funnier."

Saya’s hands balled into fists. "I do have a chance! Kyoji isn’t yours!"

Anna smirked. "Sweetie, let’s be real. You’d have to be way more than just 'nice company' to catch Kyoji’s attention."

Lulu clenched her jaw. "And that’s why no one likes you, Anna. You’re rude for no reason."

Anna simply chuckled. "Maybe to you guys. I have a whole bunch of friends. And unlike Saya, I can actually talk to Kyoji. And unlike like you, Lulu, I actually get to love the boy I want. At least I don’t set myself up for disappointment. Anyway, try not to embarrass yourselves too much, okay? You two are hilarious to begin with!" With that, she placed the magazine back onto the rack, blew a kiss to the picture of Kyoji, and sauntered away sighing dreamily.

Saya looked down, her earlier enthusiasm dimming. "She’s right… I don’t stand a chance."

Lulu placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don’t let her get to you. Anna just enjoys tearing people down. Now I can see why she and Ray were childhood friends…"

Saya still looked unsure. "But what if she’s right?"

Lulu shook her head firmly. "She’s not. Both of us just have to be brave and fight for what we want. So! I’m going to break my engagement with Reginald and get Yuto! And you’re going to win over Kyoji with your own sweet charm!"

Saya blinked, then smiled softly as Lulu wiped away a stray tear from her cheek. "You’re right. We have to be strong. Let’s do this together!"

Their hands clasped in solidarity. Lulu tightened her grip on Saya’s hand, looking her in the eyes with determination. “We’re going to do this, Saya. No matter what happens, we’re going after the boys we love.”

Saya sniffled but nodded firmly. “You’re right. I won’t let anyone take Kyoji from me!”

“And I’m going to break off my engagement with Reginald and be with Yuto!” Lulu declared, squeezing Saya’s hand.

Saya smiled through her fading tears. “We’re in this together, right?”

“Together,” Lulu agreed. “No matter what obstacles stand in our way.”

***

The arcade buzzed with flashing lights and the sounds of beeping machines, electronic music, and the occasional celebratory shout from a lucky player. Ray, Alito, and Girag were in the thick of it, completely immersed in their respective games, while Mizar, Reginald, and Dumon stood a little farther back, arms crossed, pointedly ignoring the trio.

"Ugh, come on! That was totally rigged!" Ray smacked the side of the claw machine in frustration as yet another gaming console slipped from its grasp at the last second. “I only ever get the plushies!”

"Maybe if you had some actual skills, you wouldn't rely on luck all the time," Alito teased, eyes still glued to his own game, furiously tapping buttons. "Unlike you, I actually win."

"Yeah? Well, let's see if you can win at something other than a fighting game. Did you ever even try picking up something with the claw?" Ray shot back.

Girag, meanwhile, was pressing a giant button in a rhythm game, sweating as he barely kept up with the beat. "Almost... there..." he muttered. "Just a few more—"

His streak was abruptly cut short as he missed a note, and he groaned loudly. "Man, this game is broken. I was totally on beat!"

Behind them, Reginald sighed, rubbing his temples. "We should have left them at home. They’re embarrassing…"

"Too late now," Mizar muttered. "People already associate us with them."

"Unfortunately," Dumon added, watching as Ray and Alito bumped fists after Alito secured another victory.

As the three continued playing, Alito suddenly spun around. "Hey, speaking of competition—who are you guys gonna dance with at the school dance?"

Ray made a face. "Ugh, don’t remind me. I hate dancing."

Girag, on the other hand, got a dreamy expression on his face. "I’m going to dance with Scarlett."

Ray and Alito both turned to stare at him. Then, in perfect unison, they burst out laughing. "Scarlett? The pop idol? The girl who has an entire fan club dedicated to her?" Ray wheezed.

Girag scowled. "Laugh all you want, but I know she'll dance with me."

"Oh yeah? Have you even talked to her before?" Alito snorted. "Does she even know your name?"

"You guys don’t need to know about them," Girag said, waving him off. "The important thing is that she’ll say yes."

"Well, I hope you have fun dancing in your dreams, buddy," Ray said, slapping Girag on the back.

Alito turned his attention toward the others, eyes gleaming. "What about you guys? Dumon? Mizar? Reginald?"

Before anyone could answer, Alito grinned. "Oh, wait! I almost forgot! Reginald is going to be dancing with Lulu!"

Ray, Girag, and Alito immediately turned on Reginald, wearing identical smug expressions.

"Aw, how sweet!" Ray teased. "You and your darling fiancée, dancing under the stars!"

"Bet you can't wait to hold her close, huh?" Alito smirked. "You guys are gonna be the perfect couple out there!"

Reginald’s eye twitched. "Shut up."

Mizar, who had been silent up until now, finally spoke up. "Shut up. You’re all ridiculous."

Ray ignored him and turned to Dumon. "And what about you, Dumon? Who’s the lucky girl who gets the nerd boy?"

Dumon immediately stiffened. "None of your business."

Alito’s eyes widened. "Oh. My. God. He has someone!" He elbowed Ray and Girag. "Dumon totally has someone in mind!"

Dumon shifted uncomfortably, looking away.

Ray’s eyes lit up. "Wait..." he said slowly. "It’s Rio, isn’t it?"

Dumon turned an even deeper shade of red.

Alito gasped dramatically. "It totally is!" He nudged Girag, who just nodded sagely.

Reginald, however, scowled. "Don’t bring Rio into this. Stay away from Rio."

Ray let out an exaggerated groan. "Oh, come on! Rio’s one of the only beautiful girls in the world! You can’t expect people not to like her!"

"I can expect people to stay away from her," Reginald shot back. “Unless they want to deal with me.”

Alito and Ray snickered, while Girag nodded in agreement. "Rio is really beautiful."

Reginald looked ready to strangle someone.

Trying to change the subject, Reginald turned to Mizar. "And you? Who are you going to dance with?"

Mizar merely shrugged. "Not interested in dancing with any girl."

Alito blinked. "Wait. Hold on. Not interested?" He narrowed his eyes. "Wait, Mizar... are you gay?"

Mizar’s expression darkened. "What? No!"

Ray grinned. "Are you sure? Because that sounds like something a gay guy would say."

Mizar’s eye twitched as he glared at Alito. "I am not gay."

Alito leaned in. "Hey, it's totally cool if you are, man. We’ll always love you and support you."

"I'm not." Mizar snapped. “Shut up. I just don’t like any girl at school.”

Ray gasped. "Wait, wait, wait. Are you saying there’s no girl in the entire school you find attractive? No one at all?"

Mizar glared. "That’s exactly what I’m saying."

Alito leaned back. "Well, then I gotta agree with Ray. That does sound kinda suspicious."

Mizar lunged towards Alito and the two started fighting. Alito attempting to wrestle him into a headlock while Mizar tried to punch Alito’s face. 

"Come on, just admit it! Mizar’s gay!" Alito snickered.

"Get off me, you idiot!" Mizar snapped, shoving him away.

Ray, meanwhile, had begun cheering. "Get him, Alito! You’re the best!"

Dumon rolled his eyes. "Enough of this nonsense."

The scene was attracting more and more attention from passersby. A few kids had stopped to watch, whispering amongst themselves, pointing at the chaos unfolding.

Reginald groaned. "We are leaving. Right now."

Dumon sighed. "Agreed. This is humiliating."

"Aw, come on! We were just getting started!" Ray whined.

"No," Dumon said firmly. "We’re leaving."

Still grumbling, Alito and Ray finally let go of Mizar, who immediately dusted himself off and shot them both an irritated glare.

As they trudged out of the arcade, Ray slung an arm over Alito’s shoulder. "Man, Mizar totally has a secret crush. We’re gonna find out who it is."

Alito smirked. "Oh, definitely. I know you’re not gay but then you definitely have a secret crush on girl and you just won’t admit it."

Mizar let out a long-suffering sigh. "I hate you both."

Girag, still stuck in his fantasy world, sighed. "I’m telling you guys, Scarlett is totally going to dance with me."

Reginald rubbed his temples. "Why do I even put up with any of you?"

Dumon sighed. "I ask myself the same question every day."

The group continued walking, with Ray and Alito already plotting their next scheme, Girag daydreaming about Scarlett, Dumon looking exhausted, and Reginald seriously considering never going outside with them again. As Rio liked to say:

‘It was just another typical day with the Barians.’

***

Quinton carefully placed the last of his notes into his bag, methodically organizing every document from their experiments. Luna, meanwhile, was packing away the equipment.

"Well, that's finally done!" Luna stretched her arms and sighed. "That was so much work, but it was fun. Thanks for bringing me along, Quinton."

Quinton gave her a small, approving nod. "You did a great job, Luna. I really appreciate the help."

Luna beamed. "Of course! I totally want to be a scientist one day, so this was amazing."

"You definitely have the potential," Quinton replied without hesitation. "You're sharp, thorough, and you actually enjoy research. Not a lot of people do."

"Heh, yeah! Unlike a certain cousin of mine who can't sit still for five minutes! I guess that's why Kyoji’s a celebrity!" Luna giggled. "But really, Quinton, you mean it?"

"I do. If you keep at it, you'll make an excellent scientist."

Luna pumped a fist into the air. "Yes! You hear that, universe? Luna Tensaku, future brilliant scientist!"

Quinton smirked slightly as he zipped up his bag. Just as he was about to sling it over his shoulder, his phone buzzed. He glanced down at the screen and smiled slightly.

Luna caught the look instantly. "Who's that? One of your brothers?"

"No," Quinton said as he typed back a quick response. "It's Kari. I messaged her yesterday to check in and let her know I’d be back in town soon."

Luna’s eyebrows shot up. "Oh? And what did she say? Everything good with the Tsukumos?"

"Yeah," Quinton said, locking his phone. "She says everything’s fine and that she wants to meet up when I get back."

Luna grinned mischievously. "Meet up? Like... a date?"

Quinton blinked at her, unimpressed. "She wants to show me something important."

Luna leaned forward, smirking. "Mmhmm. Sure. That sounds suspiciously like a date to me."

"It's not a date," Quinton stated flatly, adjusting the strap of his bag. "It's a meeting."

Luna gave an exaggerated gasp. "Oh, no! You’re already in denial! That just proves my point."

Quinton sighed. "Luna, you’re reading too much into this."

"Am I?" Luna waggled her eyebrows. "C’mon, Quinton. Do you like Kari?"

"She's a nice girl," Quinton admitted after a brief pause. "But there would be complications."

Luna frowned. "Because of that dumb elite family stuff?"

Quinton nodded. "She's not from an elite family. It could cause problems."

Luna huffed. "Ugh. Those ‘class differences’ are so stupid. They shouldn’t stop anyone from being happy."

Quinton gave her a thoughtful look. "You’re not wrong."

Luna perked up. "Wait, wait, wait. So does that mean you’re considering it?"

Quinton exhaled and shouldered his bag. "It means I agree that social status shouldn’t dictate personal relationships."

Luna clasped her hands together dramatically. "Aha! That means there’s hope!"

Quinton shook his head at her antics. "Luna, we need to get going. It'll take a couple of days to reach home."

Luna pointed at him. "Fine, fine. But! You better not leave Kari hanging on your totally-not-a-date!"

Quinton just nodded and started walking ahead.

Luna grinned and watched him go before pumping her fist in the air. "Yes! A win! He didn't deny it was a date!" She giggled to herself. "I can't wait to tell Tori about this!"

***

Yuma flopped onto the couch, kicking his legs up dramatically.

"Grandma, Trey is seriously the best duelist ever! You should've seen his last move! It was like—"

"Yuma," Kari snapped, not even looking up from her laptop. "Shut up. I am tired of hearing about Trey. It's like Astral all over again."

Yuma blinked, momentarily stunned before laughing. "Aww, come on, Kari. Astral was different. He was my partner! And besides, I am gonna see him again one day."

For a second, Kari’s face softened. She glanced at him and let out a small sigh before shaking her head. "Yeah, yeah, whatever, kid. Just don’t start crying about it or something."

Yuma grinned and leaned back on the couch. "Wouldn't dream of it."

Kari turned back to her screen, her fingers clicking against the keyboard. Haru, peering over her shoulder, tilted her head. "What are you writing, Kari?"

"Nothing interesting." Kari scowled. "There’s no good news lately."

Yuma snickered. "You sound really annoyed."

Kari shot him a glare. "That’s because I am annoyed. And since you’re so full of energy, you can help me find something interesting to write about."

Yuma sat up, his eyes sparkling with an idea. "Oh! Write about me and Trey dueling!"

Kari stared at him blankly. "Not everyone in the world is as stupid as you, Yuma. No one wants to read about that."

Yuma blinked. "Huh?" Then his face scrunched up. "Wait—did you just call me stupid?!"

Haru giggled while Kari smirked. "You just realized that now?"

Yuma groaned. "Wow. Love you too, sis."

Haru tugged on Kari’s sleeve again. "Then what do you usually write about?"

Kari leaned back, rubbing her temples. "Lately, Kyoji Yagumo. He’s a hot topic, and everyone seems to love him. Whenever I get pictures or stories about him, they sell like crazy."

Yuma whistled. "Yeah, he is kinda amazing at dueling."

Kari sighed. "And hot."

Yuma sat up, looking betrayed. "Wait, you’re like that too?!"

Kari just shrugged, sipping her coffee. "I’m just stating facts."

Yuma frowned in thought. "I mean, I guess he is kinda good-looking."

Kari smirked. "Wow, for once, you and I agree on something."

Haru suddenly clasped her hands together, eyes sparkling. "Kari, you should marry Kyoji!"

Kari choked on her coffee, coughing violently. "EXCUSE ME?!"

Haru looked up innocently. "I want a handsome grandson-in-law."

Kari kept coughing, thumping her chest. "H-Haru, he’s younger than me!"

"So? He’s nice and handsome!" Haru beamed. "And you already like him."

Yuma snickered. "Honestly, I wouldn’t mind having Kyoji as my brother-in-law."

Kari groaned, placing her head in her hands. "Why are we even talking about me getting married?!"

Her laptop buzzed, and she slammed it shut before her phone suddenly vibrated on the table.

Yuma glanced at the screen. "Oh hey, it's Quinton!"

Kari’s eyes widened, and she snatched the phone before Yuma could read anything. "Mind your own business, you nosy brat!"

Yuma pouted. "So secretive."

Kari stomped off, muttering under her breath. "I’m calling my colleagues. Maybe they can help me with my article."

Haru watched her go with a small smile. "I hope she calls Quinton."

Yuma flopped back onto the couch. "So that means no Kyoji as my brother-in-law?"

***

Lulu and Allen stood by the meeting place, the cool evening breeze ruffling their hair as the streetlights flickered on one by one. The city was alive with laughter and chatter, but Lulu’s mind was somewhere else.

Allen, leaning lazily against a lamp post, kept talking about some funny mishap he had earlier in the day, but as he noticed Lulu’s absentminded nods and distracted gaze, he paused.

“Hey, Lulu,” he said, nudging her lightly. “Are you even listening?”

Lulu blinked, snapping out of her thoughts. “Oh, sorry, Allen. What were you saying?”

Allen gave her a knowing look. “What’s up? You’re acting weird. Something happen?”

Lulu sighed, crossing her arms. “It’s just… Saya and I ran into Anna today.”

Allen frowned. “Anna? Ugh. What did she say this time?”

Lulu hesitated. “She was just… Anna. She had her usual attitude. She taunted Saya saying Saya could never get Kyoji and that both of us were out of our minds, putting it simply. It didn’t bother me, but Saya—Saya was really upset. I feel awful, Allen. I should’ve handled it better.”

Allen scoffed. “You did what you could. Saya’s got a good head on her shoulders. She’ll be fine.”

Lulu shook her head. “But I should have stood up for her more. She’s my best friend. I don’t want her to feel like she’s not good enough.”

Allen sighed. “Look, you can’t control what people say, but you always have Saya’s back. She knows that.”

Lulu offered a small, appreciative smile, but her expression soon turned uncertain. “Speaking of Saya… Allen, do you really think I’ll be able to break off my engagement before the school dance?”

Allen raised an eyebrow. “I thought you and Saya made some sort of pact? What happened?”

Lulu looked away. “I don’t know. It just seems so hard now. And if I can’t get out of it, then at least I want to help Saya have the night of her dreams.”

“You need to think about yourself too!” Allen folded his arms. “Lulu…”

“Please, Allen,” Lulu said, looking at him earnestly. “Help me introduce Saya to Kyoji. If she can at least get her dream date for the night, maybe Kyoji will see how amazing she is and actually start dating her for real.”

Allen looked doubtful. “You really think Kyoji’s the kind of guy who just falls for someone overnight?”

Lulu gave him a determined nod. “I think Saya deserves a chance. And I want to help her.”

Allen sighed in defeat. “Fine. But only because it’s you asking.”

Just then, Saya arrived, looking completely different from her usual self. She wore a nice dress, and it looked like she had attempted to put on some makeup.

Lulu’s face lit up. “Saya! Wow, you look amazing!”

Saya blushed, rubbing the back of her head. “Thanks, Lulu.”

Allen, however, looked at her skeptically. “Okay, what’s going on with you?”

Saya huffed, placing her hands on her hips. “Keep out of it, Allen.”

Allen held up his hands in surrender. “Alright, alright.”

Saya turned back to Lulu. “I’ve decided—I’m going to make sure I look pretty from now on so Kyoji will notice me.”

Lulu frowned slightly. “Saya, you don’t have to change for him. You’re already amazing and beautiful as you are. Kyoji would fall for you anyway.”

Saya blushed deeper then quickly tried to compose herself. “Lulu, don’t forget our vow.”

Lulu let out a nervous laugh, feeling a pang of sadness. She wasn’t sure if she’d be able to keep her vow to Saya, but she didn’t want to disappoint her either.

Before she could dwell on it, the rest of the group arrived—Shay, Kite, and Yuto.

Lulu immediately brightened at the sight of Yuto, and he looked equally happy to see her.

“Hey, Lulu,” Yuto greeted warmly.

“Hey, Yuto,” Lulu responded, her voice softer than before.

Kite nodded at everyone. “So, are we all here?”

Shay grinned. “Looks like it.”

“Alright then,” Lulu said, regaining her usual cheer. “Let’s go have some fun!”

The group set off for a walk through the park, the trees swaying gently in the night breeze. Laughter and conversation filled the air as they strolled together.

Saya looped her arm through Lulu’s. “So, what’s the plan for tonight?”

“No real plan,” Lulu said. “Just hanging out and enjoying the night.”

Shay smirked. “That, and making sure Allen doesn’t do anything dumb.”

Allen scoffed. “Come on, Shay!”

Kite chuckled. “You prove us wrong, and we’ll take it back.”

Allen grumbled, and Saya and Lulu giggled.

They continued their walk, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The path was lit by the soft glow of streetlamps, casting long shadows behind them.

After a while, Saya suddenly gasped. “I want ice cream!”

Shay chuckled. “Alright, alright. I’ll buy for everyone.”

Kite held up a hand. “I’ll get mine myself.”

Shay rolled his eyes. “Of course you will.”

They all made their way to a nearby ice cream stand, picking out their flavors and enjoying the cool treat as they continued their walk.

As Lulu licked her ice cream, she glanced at Yuto. He caught her gaze and smiled.

Lulu blushed and smiled at him. “I’m so glad you’re here with us, Yuto.”

“I’m glad too. It’s nice, isn’t it?” he said. “Just spending time with everyone like this.”

Lulu nodded. “Yeah. It really is.”

He stepped closer to Lulu. “Especially spending time with you.”

“T-thanks, Yuto.” Lulu stammered and smiled. “You’re-”

“Mind if I step in?” Saya teased, nudging Lulu playfully.

“Not at all!” Lulu giggled, smiling at Saya.

“We should all duel next time.” Shay announced outloud. 

“You’ll never get enough of dueling, huh?” Saya giggled.

Lulu laughed and pushed her hair back, stealing glances at Yuto and smiling. Yuto caught her eye and smiled warmly back.

And as they continued their walk, laughing and talking, everything felt a little lighter, even if just for a while.

***

The Barian house was in absolute chaos.

Anna had barely stepped onto the front lawn before she doubled over, laughing so hard she could hardly breathe. "Oh my—what happened here?! Did a hurricane hit, or are you guys just this stupid?"

The lawn was a swamp. Mud, broken lawn ornaments, and puddles of water were scattered everywhere. Alito stood in the middle of the wreckage, a triumphant grin plastered on his face, holding onto a hose that was still leaking water onto the ground. Ray was beside him, holding the front of the hose, looking way too pleased with himself for someone who had just destroyed the entire front yard. Girag, soaking wet, was attempting to shake off the water like a dog, but it only sent more water flying onto the already furious Reginald.

Reginald, standing with his arms crossed and looking seconds away from murdering Ray, shot Anna an exasperated glare. "Why are you even here? Get lost."

Anna wiped tears of laughter from her eyes, still grinning. "No way, I wouldn’t miss this for the world! I knew you guys were a disaster, but this is next level!"

Mizar, standing off to the side, looked like he was ready to implode. His usually perfect, sleek hair was completely ruined, drenched and sticking to his face. Even worse, the paint on his face was smeared, making it look like he was blushing. "This is humiliating," he muttered under his breath, wiping his face with his soaked sleeve. "I refuse to be seen like this."

Dumon, who at least had the decency to maintain his dignity, cleared his throat. "Anna, what brings you here?" he asked, pointedly ignoring the fact that Ray and Alito were still giggling to themselves.

Ray ran up to Anna and threw an arm around her shoulder. "I called her! I wanted her to see our water experiment! It was supposed to be awesome, but Girag ruined it!"

"Excuse me?" Girag boomed, shaking off more water. "You're the one who turned the hose on full blast! I was just standing there!"

Alito snickered. "No, you weren’t, big guy. You tripped over the sprinkler system and sent everything flying. And it was hilarious."

Reginald pinched the bridge of his nose. "I am going to kill all three of you. Slowly. And painfully."

Anna smirked, walking over to Mizar and nudged him. "You look cute when you're all flustered. Maybe I should start carrying a hose around to mess up your hair more often."

Mizar shot her a glare. "Don't even think about it."

“At least I had the mind to drop Iris off at daycare…” Dumon sighed and rubbed his temples. "Okay, enough. Think about Rio. We need to clean this up before—"

Before he could finish, another voice rang out, sharp and cold. "What. The. Hell. Happened here?"

The entire group turned as one to see Rio standing at the entrance, arms crossed and an expression of absolute horror on her face. Water puddles everywhere, overturned chairs, a broken flower pot, and what looked like Girag slipping in the mud for the third time that day.

Ray and Alito were still laughing, high-fiving each other like they had just won some kind of championship. Mizar was standing stiffly to the side, arms crossed, hair dripping wet, looking like he wanted to evaporate on the spot. Dumon had his hands on his temples, probably regretting his life choices. And Reginald? Oh, Reginald looked ready to strangle someone.

Her gaze swept over the ruined lawn, the drenched idiots standing around, and finally landed on Reginald, who looked like he wished he could disappear. "Reginald," she said dangerously, "Explain. Now."

Reginald groaned. “Seriously, Rio?! You think I would make this mess?!”

“You could but that isn’t the reason why I’m handing the mic over to you,” Rio replied. “I left you one, just one, simple chore to babysit the idiots! And now look!”

Anna grinned. “By idiots you mean?”

Rio glared towards Ray, Alito, and Girag.

Ray, Alito, and Girag all immediately pointed at each other. "It was his fault!"

Rio raised an eyebrow. "All of you here are in trouble. And, Clean. Up. Now."

Reginald groaned. "Fantastic. Now she’s in charge. I knew I should have dumped you all in the daycare."

Alito smirked and elbowed Reginald. "You’re just mad you couldn’t go see Kyoji today."

Reginald’s eye twitched. "Say that again, and I swear—"

Ray jumped in. "Yeah, didn’t you want to spend the whole day with him? And now you’re stuck here, all wet and miserable? And muddy?"

Reginald turned to Dumon. "Stop them before I do something you’ll regret."

Dumon sighed. "Inside. Now. Before Rio actually murders us all."

Anna flashed a teasing smile at Mizar. "Guess you guys really know how to keep things interesting."

Mizar just groaned, running a hand through his wet hair. "This is the worst day of my life."

Anna burst into fits of laughter. “Seriously, though, what happened?”

"Oh, you know," Ray started casually, attempting to lean against the wet railing—only for it to break, sending him toppling over. He groaned from the ground. "We were just... experimenting."

Rio exhaled sharply. "With what? The concept of destruction?!"

"No, no! It was a scientific experiment," Alito corrected quickly, brushing some wet hair from his face. "We were testing water pressure."

Girag groaned, sitting up from where he had face-planted into the mud. "And by ‘testing,’ they mean using me as a human target."

Mizar, clearly at his limit, clenched his fists. "And now I look like THIS!" He motioned to his wet, tangled hair and the smeared war paint on his face. "DO YOU UNDERSTAND HOW LONG IT TAKES ME TO GET READY IN THE MORNING?!"

"But Mizar, you look adorable!" Anna chirped, stepping up and giving him a wink.

Mizar twitched. "Do. Not. Start."

Anna grinned. "Oh, but you’re blushing. It’s cute."

“My markings are smudged!” Mizar snapped.

Dumon groaned. "Anna, I’m sorry but right now we’ve got a problem at hand. I don’t want to sound rude but can you please come back later?Haven’t you laughed at us enough?"

"I wouldn’t miss out on ever." Anna said, flipping her bangs over her eyes. “ You underestimate how much amusement I get from this,”

Rio pinched the bridge of her nose. "Okay, I don’t even want to know. Everyone, get cleaned up. NOW."

Ray smirked, crossing his arms and sticking out his chin. "You’re not the boss of me, Ice Queen."

Rio narrowed her eyes, then casually grabbed the hose, turned it on full blast, and sprayed Ray straight in the face.

Ray gasped, sputtering. "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!"

"You looked like you needed a shower," Rio said sweetly.

Alito doubled over laughing, pointing at Ray as he stumbled back dripping wet. "Oh, man, you should see your face! That’s the best thing I’ve seen all day—"

Rio turned the hose on him next.

"AHH! RIO, NO!" Alito yelped, dodging wildly, but his luck ran out, and he got a full blast to the chest. He slipped on the wet grass, landing flat on his back with a loud squelch. “I didn’t even say anything to you, Rio! What gives?!”

“You’re all muddy!” Rio snapped. “You guys all need a shower! And I’m supplying them for you! Say thank you!”

Girag, still covered in mud, didn’t even bother trying to move. "Might as well, go ahead," he muttered. "Not like I could get any dirtier."

Rio shrugged. "Your call."

And with that, she sprayed him down too, though it did little to help with the layers of mud caked on him.

Mizar, who had been standing off to the side, backed up slightly. "That’s enough. I refuse to be part of—"

But before he could finish, Anna latched onto his arm. "Oh no, you’re staying right here."

Mizar’s eyes narrowed at her. "Let. Me. Go."

Anna only grinned. "I think you’d look cute soaking wet."

Rio smirked and turned the hose on full power, aiming directly at them. “Surprisingly, Mizar, you didn't fight back with Anna! Couple shower!” 

Rio winked at Anna, who smirked and winked back at Rio. Mizar let out a strangled sound of frustration as the water hit him, completely drenching his hair and washing away parts of his war paint.

Anna, now just as soaked as him, laughed and hugged Mizar. "See? I was right. You are cute."

Mizar growled. "I despise all of you."

Ray, now dripping wet, wiped his face and groaned. "Ugh, I need a towel. And a new life. Preferably one without Rio."

Rio tossed the hose aside, satisfied. "That should do it."

Dumon sighed, looking at the disaster that was their front lawn. "This is why we can't have nice things."

Reginald, arms crossed, shot a glare at Ray and Alito. "You two are cleaning all of this up."

Ray wiped his face again and pushed back his wet hair. "Ugh, Rio helped make a mess too."

“Just look at everyone all wet!” Alito agreed, wiping his eyes and nose. “Too much water! Ugh!”

Just then, Reginald’s phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, glancing at the caller ID. His face lit up as he looked at the screen.

Alito smirked and nudged Ray. "Oh, look. It’s lover boy."

Reginald shot him a warning glare before answering. "What do you want? Finally remembered me after you ditched me with the devils?"

"Well, that’s a nice way to greet me." Kyoji’s smooth voice came laughing through the line. “And I’m really sorry about not being able to hang out with you today but I promised Hart I would come over to see him.”

Reginald huffed, running a hand through his damp hair. "Sorry. I didn’t actually mean that. I just missed you today. And things have been… chaotic."

"I can hear that," Kyoji replied with a chuckle. "What’s going on over there?"

Before Reginald could answer, Ray practically lunged at him, pressing his ear against the phone. "Reginald was pouting all day because he couldn’t spend time with you!"

Reginald shoved him away. "Ray, I swear—"

Kyoji laughed. "Oh?"

Alito joined in, grinning. "Yeah! He was all mopey and kept muttering under his breath about ‘plans getting ruined.’"

Reginald groaned. "I was not—!"

"You totally were," Ray and Alito said in unison.

Even Dumon smirked slightly. "It was noticeable."

Kyoji, clearly amused, hummed. "I didn’t know you would miss me that much, Reginald."

Reginald stiffened. "I—!" He turned away, gripping his phone tightly and covering the mic for a moment. "All of you shut up! You’re all insufferable."

Kyoji’s chuckle on the other end made it worse. "Well, since you missed me, I guess I’ll have to make it up to you later. See you later, bye."

Reginald felt his face heat up. "Goodbye, Kyoji." He ended the call before anyone else could add fuel to the fire.

Alito cackled. "Oh man, you should’ve heard yourself! You were totally blushing."

Ray wiped a fake tear from his eye. "Our little Reginald’s got it bad."

Girag, attempting to join in, grunted. "Yeah, uh, he’s… really into Kyoji. Right?"

Ray sighed dramatically, patting Girag’s arm. "We appreciate the effort, big guy."

“At least you got something, Girag.” Alito grinned. “But Reginald is engaged to Lulu, kay?”

Reginald, officially done with them, turned to Dumon. "Please tell me you’ll do something about these idiots."

Dumon merely shrugged. "You kind of walked into this one."

Before Reginald could explode, Rio suddenly grabbed the hose again.

"Alright, I took pity on you and Dumon cause I thought you two would actually shower! But you’re still all muddy… so… I’m sick of all of you."

"Wait, Rio, let’s talk about this—" Reginald started, but it was too late.

She blasted him and Dumon both with water at full power, sending them stumbling back.

Ray and Alito fell into each other laughing hysterically.

Anna, who was still clinging to Mizar, got caught in the spray again. She gasped. "Oh, come on! I already got drenched!"

"Too bad," Rio said smugly.

Mizar, thoroughly soaked and looking like he was questioning all of his life choices, glared at everyone. "I hate this household."

"I agree with you..." Reginald growled.

Alito, still laughing, clapped a hand on Reginald’s shoulder. "Cheer up, man. You got Lulu and Kyoji to console you."

Reginald shoved him off. "You’re lucky if I don’t kill you and Ray right now."

Girag, still confused but wanting to contribute, crossed his arms. "So… is the cleanup still happening?"

Dumon groaned. "Yes, Girag. The cleanup is still happening."

Rio tossed the hose aside again, looking over the drenched group with a satisfied smirk. "That’s better. Now get to work, idiots and clean up this mess you made. Unless you want to be hosed again."

Chapter Text

Mr. Kay’s chalk scraped across the board as he wrote out yet another equation.
“Now class, if you’d all pay attention to quadratic functions—”

At the back, Yuma had his head on the desk, drooling slightly. His notebook was blank except for a doodle of what looked like Rio with sparkles around her.

“Yuma,” Tori hissed, elbowing Trey. “Wake him up!”

Trey sighed. “It’s fine, I’m taking notes for both of us.” He carefully scribbled down the formulas while glancing at Yuma’s sleeping face. “He’s hopeless, he’ll never stay awake for class.”

Bronk leaned on his desk, staring dreamily at a faded pink cloth he’d pulled from his pocket. He smiled at it like it was treasure.

“Still carrying Rio’s bandage around?” Flip’s voice came from behind, snickering. He was hunched over his desk with a small notebook in his hand, fiddling with a bent paperclip. “That’s pathetic, man. Totally weak.”

Bronk flushed. “Shut up! You wouldn’t understand!”

Caswell narrowed his eyes as he turned slightly at the commotion behind him. “Shh, both of you! And Flip, give that back. That’s Jen’s diary!”

“It’s not! …Okay, maybe it is,” Flip grinned, twisting the lock. “I’m just making sure her secrets are safe. Very safe. With me.” 

Caswell shook his head as he turned back to the blackboard.

Across the row, Cathy was leaning toward Tori, painting her nails with a tiny bottle of sparkly red polish.
“So…” Cathy whispered, poking Tori’s arm. “Have you found a dress for the dance yet?”

Tori froze mid-note, her cheeks warming. “N-no, not yet.”

“We should all go shopping after school. You, me, Rio, Anna.” Cathy purred, lowering her voice. “And… maybe find something that’ll make Kyoji notice you for once.”

Tori’s pencil stopped scratching. “I don’t need to make him notice me,” she muttered, blushing. “We’re friends. He already does.”

Cathy smirked. “Sure he does. But I also plan on looking amazing. So may the best girl win.”

Tori glared, whispering sharply. “Cathy!”

Summer, overhearing, leaned across Jen’s desk. “Oooh, dresses? Count us in!”

Jen nodded, dreamy-eyed. “We want something flowery… but sparkly too. Perfect for dancing.”

“Quiet down, ladies!” Mr. Kay snapped without looking, still writing numbers across the board.

Meanwhile, two desks over, Alito and Ray had pushed their calculators together, Duel Monsters cards spread out across the desk between them.

“Ha! You lose 900 life points!” Alito grinned, dramatically punching numbers into his calculator. “Down to 2300, Ray, with nothing on your field either! I end my turn!”

Ray smirked, leaning back in his chair. “Right, I’m going to lose, dude.” He drew a card from his deck. “My turn, I still have tricks up my sleeve.” He slapped down a card. “Dark Hole. Wipe your field clean. I play a quick-play spell card. If my opponent's monsters are sent to the graveyard, I can special summon and then XZY summon…” He slowly placed his cards on the field.

“Whaaat?! You can’t just—” Alito sputtered, clutching his chest. “That’s not fair!”

“It’s called winning,” Ray smirked. “You should try it sometime.”

“Bro, I always win!” Alito grinned. “This isn’t over yet! I play a trap card…”

Scarlett, sitting nearby with a math sheet perfectly filled out, hummed under her breath, clearly trying to ignore them. “Why are boys always so loud?” she whispered to Chiho, who sat beside her. “If Kyoji were here, he’d duel so stylishly.” She clasped her hands dreamily. “Imagine him under the dance lights… maybe he’d even sing with me.”

Giselle sat silently at her desk, half-hidden behind her hair, her notebook filled not with math but with neat verses:

Kyoji’s eyes, darker than night,
A flame that burns but hides from sight…

She covered the page quickly when Bronk happened to look over.

“Alito! Ray!” Mr. Kay snapped. He’d finally turned from the board, eyes narrowing as he marched over to them. “What is this nonsense? Cards? That is NOT mathematics.”

Alito sat up straight, panicked. “B-but we’re using calculators! That’s math, right?”

“Yeah,” Ray added with a smirk. “We’re calculating life points. Technically, that’s subtraction. We’re just… practicing.”

The class burst into snickers.

Mr. Kay’s face turned red. “Detention. Both of you. After school.”

“What?!” Alito yelped. “Come on, we were just—”

“Never again,” Ray cut in smoothly, holding up his hands. “Won’t happen again, sir. We promise.” Under the desk, he and Alito crossed their fingers with matching grins.

Tori rolled her eyes, shaking her head. “Boys…”

Yuma snorted awake suddenly. “Huh? Rio?!” He bolted upright, slamming his desk. The whole class turned.

Mr. Kay pinched the bridge of his nose. “Tsukumo. Detention. With them.”

“Wha—?!” Yuma groaned, dropping his head back onto his desk. “This is so unfair.”

Trey sighed, still scribbling notes. “I told you to stay awake…”

Summer and Jen leaned close to Tori, whispering.

“Who are you going to the dance with?” Summer asked.

“Yeah,” Jen added. “Kyoji?”

Tori’s cheeks burned. “I… I don’t know yet.”

“Oh come on,” Cathy butted in, smirking. “We all know she’s hoping Kyoji will ask. She’s been daydreaming about it since forever.”

“I have not!” Tori hissed, swatting Cathy’s arm.

Chiho turned in her seat, smiling slyly. “Well, if Kyoji asks Scarlett first, don’t be jealous, Tori. I think they’d make a perfect pair.”

Tori’s jaw dropped. “What are you—”

Giselle, in a tiny voice, whispered, “I’d… just stop it.” She immediately shrank down in her seat, blushing.

Flip snickered, waving the half-open diary. “Maybe Kyoji should just date all of you. Save us the drama.”

Summer and Jen let out a loud gasp. “Give that back, Flip!” Jen cried, lunging for it.

Mr. Kay slammed the chalk onto the tray. “ENOUGH! One more word about this ridiculous dance and everyone is getting extra homework!”

The room fell silent—except for Ray, who glanced at Tori to get her attention before he leaned over to Alito with a smug grin. “Bet you ten bucks Tori doesn’t get Kyoji.”

Alito grinned back. “Bet you twenty she punches you before the dance.”

Tori’s hand twitched like she was ready to prove him right.

***

The late morning sun streamed lazily through the high windows of the English classroom, casting a soft glow across polished desks and heads bowed in half-focus. It was one of those days—the kind where everyone just wanted to be anywhere but school.

The classroom buzzed faintly with the teacher’s droning voice, explaining something about Shakespeare’s metaphors. Half the class pretended to listen, the other half gave up pretending, and Kyoji Yagumo? He was fast asleep. Slouched at his desk in his usual spot by the window, arms folded and head down. 

Reginald sat next to him—as always. And as always, Reginald was half-listening to the teacher and half-watching Kyoji. He nudged Kyoji's arm with his elbow gently.

"Kyoji... hey. Wake up."

No response.

Reginald’s voice dropped to a whisper, a little more urgent. "Seriously, you're gonna get caught. Wake up."

Still nothing. Just the soft, steady rhythm of Kyoji's breathing.

Reginald sighed. Then glanced around to make sure no one was watching too closely.

He leaned in.

Kyoji's cheek was smooth and warm against his fingertips as Reginald brushed a strand of hair aside and stroked his cheek softly. Kyoji murmured something in his sleep—completely unintelligible—and shifted slightly.

Reginald froze, then smiled involuntarily. A flush of pink bloomed across his cheeks.

“You’re so whipped.”

Reginald jerked back like he'd been burned, turning sharply to glare at his younger sister, who was seated diagonally in front of him, smirking.

“I’m not—”

“Oh come on,” Rio smirked, flipping her long, dark blue hair over her shoulder. “You were literally stroking his face like a lovesick prince to his princess.”

Lulu stifled a giggle next to her, and even Yuto cracked a smile from the next row.

Allen leaned forward next to Lulu, whispering, “He is kinda cute when he’s asleep, though…”

Saya, sitting beside Allen, gave a dreamy sigh. “He’s always cute…”

Yui leaned her chin on her hand, eyes locked on Kyoji’s sleeping form. “He’s not just cute, he’s a literal god.”

Rio grinned at Reginald, leaning over to whisper, "​Didn't know you had a thing for watching Kyoji sleep, Reginald."​

Reginald jerked back, his face turning a deeper shade of red. "​I was just trying to wake him up, that's all!"​

Rio's grin widened. "​Sure, sure. Looked more like you were about to tuck him in."​

Nearby, Yuto and Allen overheard the exchange and exchanged amused glances. Allen leaned over to Yuto, whispering, "​Looks like Reginald's got a soft spot for our sleeping beauty."​

“Sleeping beauty? Now that’s new.” Yuto chuckled softly. "​Can't blame him though. Kyoji does have that effect on people."​

Allen flushed red. “Right…”

At the front of the class, Saya and Lulu sat side by side, Saya’s eyes frequently drifting toward Kyoji. Saya sighed dreamily. "​Even when he's asleep, he looks so... perfect."​

Yui nodded enthusiastically. "​Absolutely. It's like he's straight out of a romance novel."​

Saya's cheeks flushed, leaning closer to Lulu. "​Do you think he'd ever notice someone like me?"​

Lulu gave her friend a reassuring smile. "​Of course! You just need to be yourself.”

“I'm going to ask him out,” Yui announced. “We're perfect for each other. He's the most handsome guy in the universe.”

Yata, who was seated behind Rio, nodded enthusiastically. “Seriously. His face? That hair? And the way he doesn’t care about anything?” He placed a hand over his heart. “Perfection.”

Reginald shot a sharp look around the room. “Can you all not thirst over him while he’s asleep?”

“Then maybe you should do a better job protecting him, what, the prince can’t protect his princess now?” Rio taunted. “You’re sitting right there, aren’t you?”

“I will throw your notebook out the window,” Reginald muttered.

The teacher's voice suddenly raised. "Now, class, if you'll turn to Act III—"

BAM!

The teacher slammed his book shut.

The whole class jumped.

Kyoji shot up in his seat, eyes wide and dazed, grabbing his pencil and immediately scribbling random squiggles across his notebook.

“Yes, absolutely, the metaphoric irony of Hamlet’s indecision is… uh… very tragic,” he mumbled, still half-asleep. “Right, notes.”

Lulu covered her mouth, barely holding in her laughter.

Yuto let out a snort.

Even the teacher paused.

“…Excellent, Kyoji,” he said after a moment. “Always prepared. And your insight is as sharp as ever. Truly one of our finest students. And frankly, one of the best looking.”

Kyoji blinked. “Huh?”

The teacher nodded, entirely serious.

Kyoji scratched the back of his neck sheepishly. “Thanks… I guess?”

Everyone tried to stifle their laughter.

“Well,” the teacher said, glancing at the clock. “That’s it for today. Dismissed.”

Chairs scraped back. Books closed. Bags zipped. The class dissolved into chatter.

Rio swung her bag over her shoulder. “I still don’t get how you’re passing anything, Kyoji.”

“Natural genius,” he said with a sleepy grin, stretching his arms behind his head.

Saya and Yui both swooned a little.

“You make it look so easy,” Saya said, eyes wide.

Yui leaned in close to him, brushing imaginary lint off his sleeve. “You know, if you ever need a private tutor—or just someone to keep you company—I’m available.”

Reginald, still standing nearby, scowled. “Get lost, Yui.” he muttered.

Kyoji blinked slowly. “Uh… thanks, but I don’t really study.”

Yui pouted. “Well then maybe I can just sit next to you while you don’t study.”

Saya blushed harder.

Yata nudged Yui. “Let me know if you pull that off. I want to be next in line.”

“Back off,” Yui said sweetly, not taking her eyes off Kyoji.

Kyoji rubbed his arm, looking a little uncomfortable. “I… gotta go get my books...”

Reginald grabbed Kyoji’s arms and pulled him away, not looking at anyone.

“Let’s go.”

“Someone’s moody.” Kyoji looked at him, amused. “But thanks…”

Rio followed with an exaggerated sigh. “Ugh. If I have to hear Yui flirt one more time, I swear I’ll stab her with my pen.”

“Maybe you should just ask her to stop,” Lulu offered sweetly from behind.

Rio rolled her eyes. “Don’t you have somewhere to be with your fiancé?”

Lulu’s smile faltered. “Funny. I was thinking of hanging out with all my friends...”

Reginald stiffened.

“Great,” Rio said flatly. “So you’re cheating again.”

“Rio,” Yuto cut in. “Don’t start.”

Allen slid up beside Lulu and Saya. “Wow, this tension is... dramatic. I’m kinda here for it though, it gets interesting."

Saya whispered, “Can we leave now?”

Art walked by and stood back with Yui, watching Kyoji as he walked ahead with Reginald and Rio. “He’s like a walking photoshoot. I’m gonna draw him later.”

Yui smirked. “If you do, I want a copy.”

Kyoji just yawned again. “I’m gonna nap during math too,” he said to Reginald.

Reginald gave him a sideways look. “I’m not waking you up again.”

“You always do.”

“Nah, he won’t,” Rio smirked. “He’d rather stroke your cheek.” 

Kyoji’s eyes widened a moment before he grinned casually at Reginald. 

Reginald turned to Rio, his face heating up. “…Shut up.”

Kyoji leaned his head on Reginald’s shoulder, smiling up at Reginald. Reginald’s scowl faded as he smiled down at Kyoji, stroking his head. Rio let out a chuckle. “Can we go eat lunch or do you two want to get a room?”

Reginald blushed furiously. “Rio!” 

***

Tori sprinted down the hallway, clutching her books tightly as she tried to make it back to class before the bell rang. Her mind was a mess of thoughts—the school dance, Kyoji, and the fact that Cathy had nearly tackled her over who would get to dance with him before heading for their restroom break. As she rounded a corner at full speed, she suddenly collided with someone, sending both of them crashing to the floor.

"Oof!" Tori groaned, rubbing her head. "I'm so sorry! Are you okay?"

The girl she had run into sat up, brushing off her uniform skirt. It was Giselle Gwendolyn. Unlike most people who would have been annoyed at being knocked over, Giselle simply smiled politely and shook her head. "It's no problem," she said, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear and sighing at the wall.

Tori tilted her head. "You sure? I didn’t hurt you or anything? You look kind of... distracted."

Giselle hesitated for a moment before exhaling softly. "It’s nothing, really. I was just thinking about the school dance. Have you found a date yet?"

Tori immediately flushed a bright red. "W-What?!" she stammered, nearly dropping her books again. "I-I mean, no! Not yet!" She fidgeted, her thoughts flying straight to Kyoji.

Giselle let out a small sigh, looking wistful. "If the Barian War never happened, you’d probably be married to the love of your life by now."

Tori blinked at her, startled by the statement. "Maybe," she admitted softly. Then, with a small smile, she added, "But then we couldn’t have met like this or have been friends like we are."

Giselle's expression softened slightly. "That... means a lot," she murmured. Then she glanced away, as if debating whether to say something. "You know, Anna was supposed to be my godmother. But because of everything that happened, now we’re only a few years apart."

Tori’s eyes widened. "Oh... That must be weird."

Giselle nodded. "It is. Sometimes I feel so out of place. I was supposed to be younger than most of the people at this school, but now I’m the same age as them. Everything changed."

Tori bit her lip, unsure how to respond to that. She couldn't imagine how strange it must feel to have your entire life rearranged like that. Finally, she said, "It must be really awkward for you. But... I’m happy we’re classmates now."

Giselle looked at her, then smiled. "Yeah. Me too. I’m sorry, that’s a lot to say. I usually talk to Luna…"

After a moment of silence, Giselle asked, "When is Luna coming back?"

Tori let out a laugh. "Knowing Luna? She’s probably lost in some science experiment and completely forgot about time again. She gets so invested!"

Giselle giggled. "I miss her, though."

"Me too," Tori admitted, her eyes growing misty. "She’s like an older sister to me."

Giselle studied her for a moment. "You must miss her a lot."

"Yeah," Tori sniffed, then forced a smile. "But at least I have Rio. She’s my best friend. An amazing one too!"

Giselle fell silent, as if considering something. Then, after a pause, she asked, "Do you think Rio will go to the dance with Kyoji?"

Tori froze. Her face turned an alarming shade of red. "W-What?! No way! Rio wouldn’t!"

Giselle watched her reaction with interest. "You’re really sure about that?"

Tori waved her hands frantically. "I-I mean, yeah! She’s not into him like that! And Kyoji’s probably not even interested in taking anyone! He doesn’t care about dances!"

Giselle leaned in slightly, a knowing look in her eyes. "You like him, don’t you?"

Tori turned away. "I-I don’t know what you’re talking about!" she huffed, crossing her arms.

Giselle gave a small laugh. "I guess we’re in the same boat then."

Tori glanced at her warily. "Wait... you like Kyoji too?"

"Mmm-hmm." Giselle nodded, looking dreamy. "He’s just so..." She trailed off with a dreamy sigh. "Perfect."

Tori suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to grab her books and flee. "W-Well! I have to get to class!" she blurted out. "It was nice talking to you, Giselle!"

As she turned to leave, she couldn’t resist adding, "But, you know... Kyoji wouldn’t go out with someone he barely knows just like that."

The implication was clear but Giselle's expression didn’t falter. "Well," she said smoothly, "Guess I’ll just have to make sure he gets to know me, then."

Tori clenched her teeth. "Well… good luck."

***

"I swear, Yuma, if you don’t start thinking more strategically, you’re never going to win me again," Trey teased, pointing at Yuma with his chopsticks like he was making a point. "Your last duel was too reckless."

“Hey!” Yuma stuffed a rice ball into his mouth, looking mildly offended.  “I still won, didn’t I?"

"By sheer luck!" Trey smiled, though his ears burned slightly as he glanced away. “I’m kidding, you’re amazing.”

“Well, you’re amazing too!” Yuma’s grin spread wide. "Let’s be amazing together, forever!”

"Yuma, you’re impossible." Tori chuckled, shaking her head. "You’ve got a big mouth for someone who almost lost."

Cathy leaned in, grinning mischievously. "Yeah, Yuma, forever’s a long time. You sure you wanna team up with him?" She flicked her hair back and added, “Meow.”

Yuma laughed. “Well, if Trey’s my partner, I’ll take on the world!” He stuffed another rice ball into his mouth, half of it falling out in his excitement.

Bronk, sitting quietly across from them, sighed heavily and slouched in his seat. "I don’t even know why I’m here," he muttered. "This lunch is a waste of time."

“Since when was lunch a waste of time to you, Bronk?” Ray snickered. “Let me guess, you didn’t get dessert?”

Caswell gave Bronk a light pat on the back knowingly. "Come on, Bronk, cheer up. You’ll see Rio later, right? Don’t let it get you down."

Bronk stared glumly at his lunch tray, his arms crossed tightly over his chest. "Yeah, but she didn’t sit with us today. She always sits with us," he groaned. "Why isn’t she with us now?"

Flip, leaning back in his chair with that smug look on his face, pushed his glasses up. "Because she’s too cool for us, man. You really thought she was gonna sit with us forever?" He paused, giving Bronk a pointed glance. "Face it, Bronk. Rio’s out of your league."

Bronk’s face flushed with frustration, his grip tightening around his chopsticks. "Excuse me!?" he snapped, a spark of anger in his voice. "You think I can’t do it? You think I’m just gonna sit here and—"

"Relax, big guy." Flip grinned. "I’m just saying... Rio’s not your typical girl. She’s got better things to do than sit here with the same old crew."

Tori, shifted uncomfortably in her seat. “Maybe... maybe you should just go talk to her, Bronk. You never know.”

Bronk looked at Tori, then back at his lunch tray, and his shoulders sagged in defeat. "I don’t even know how to start. What if she turns me down? I don’t think I can handle that."

Trey leaned in, eyes softening as he looked at his friend. "You know, Bronk, it’s not about whether she says yes or no. It’s about trying. Besides, if she turns you down, at least you’ll know where you stand."

Bronk chewed on that for a moment, his frustration still simmering under the surface. He let out a breath and dropped his arms to the table, feeling a little less tense. "Maybe you’re right."

Tori smiled. “Trey, you’re starting to sound like the romance guru of this table.”

“Please,” Trey laughed, “I’m just trying to help.”

Bronk sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “Yeah, maybe. But timing matters.”

Tori’s grin softened. “You got this. Just say what you feel.”

Bronk sighed and picked up his chopsticks. “Yeah, I know, maybe. But timing matters.”

Tori’s grin softened. “You got this. Just say what you feel.”

Cathy leaned over the table with a smug grin. “Tori, you’re always playing matchmaker for everyone else. Maybe you should take your own advice for once. I mean, let’s be honest…” She gave a dramatic sigh. “I’m obviously dancing with Kyoji.”

Tori blinked, nearly choking on her drink. “Excuse me?” Her eyes narrowed. “Like hell you are! Why do you keep saying stuff like that?”

Cathy grinned, stretching like a cat in her seat. “Because it’s true, meow~. He and I are purrfectly matched. We’re both from elite families, we live in the same circles—my mom says we’d make a stunning couple.”

Tori scoffed, brushing her bangs out of her eyes. “So if your mom told you you’d be crowned queen of the universe tomorrow, would you just believe that too?”

Cathy gasped in mock offense. “Um, yes! My mother has taste, thank you. And FYI, I’m already dancing with him at the elite gala this weekend. You wouldn't know, though—you’re not invited.”

Tori’s cheeks flushed, her fingers curling into a fist around her juice box. “Just because you’re rich doesn’t mean you automatically get everything you want! Add just because you’re dancing going to an elite gala, that doesn’t mean you’re perfect for Kyoji!”

“Oh?” Cathy purred, leaning in with a sly smile. “And you’d know what makes someone purrfect for Kyoji, huh, Tori? What, are you suddenly a Kyoji expert now?”

“I talk to him every week,” Tori snapped. “He knows me. We actually have conversations. That means something.”

Cathy rolled her eyes. “Yeah, because so many guys enjoy talking about their feelings with clingy girls in pink bows.”

Tori stiffened. “I’m not clingy,” she said, quieter this time, “I just… I don't think being rich counts for everything. And pink bows are nice.”

“But Kyoji needs a girl who can keep up with good fashion.” Cathy smugly said. “Not someone who blushes every time he takes off his jacket.”

Tori bit her lip. “At least I don’t act like I’m in heat every time he walks by.”

Cathy let out a dramatic gasp. “Meow-ow, claws out, Tori!”

Ray, watching from across the table, groaned loudly. “Ugh, again with this Kyoji war? Seriously, just let him pick one of you and spare the rest of us from your arguments.”

Tori ignored him. Her eyes stayed on Cathy. “I don’t care what you say. Being rich doesn’t mean anything. You’ll see.”

“Oh, I’ll see alright,” Cathy purred. “I’ll be dancing with him while you stand in the corner crying into your glittery tissue.”

“You wish,” Tori hissed, turning abruptly and grabbing her sandwich. “We’ll see who he asks.”

Cathy smiled. “We already know.”

"Can you guys stop drooling over Kyoji for, like, five minutes?" Ray tapped his fingers against his tray in irritation. “It’s annoying!”

Tori rolled her eyes. "What’s wrong, Ray? Let me guess, you’re jealous you can never be as hot as him?"

"Me? Jealous?” Ray scoffed. “No way. But seriously, you could talk about literally anything else. You guys only ever talk about Kyoji, he’s not even here. How about you guys focus on what or who is here?"

Alito burst into laughter. "Man, Tori, Ray is really bitter about this.” He patted Ray on the back, almost toppling forward. He waited a moment before Tori rolled her eyes and turned back to Cathy before whispering quietly. “You still got feelings for her, Ray? After all this time?"

"Shut up, Alito." Ray shot him a glare. "I never did."

“Now, now,” Alito scolded. “If you still like her, just say it. Don’t have to be mad. That isn’t going to help you. If you want to dance with her, just ask her.”

“I don’t want to dance with her!” Ray snapped. 

“But you do still like her?” Alito chuckled. “Old feelings die hard sometimes, dude.”

“I never did. Do you want me to get up and spell it out to you?” Ray hissed. “I. Never. Did. Final. Period. Now shut up about this.”

Alito shook his head. “Then who are you gonna to dance with?”

“Hell knows.” Ray shrugged. “I have no idea.”

"Well, I don’t need to stress about this dance at all," Alito announced proudly, leaning back in his seat. "I’m just gonna charm every girl in school and let them fight over me."

Flip cackled. "More like get rejected by every girl in school."

Alito gasped. "Excuse me!? Have you seen me? I’m a total catch."

"You’re a total disaster," Tori corrected, grinning. "Big difference."

“Girl, have you seen me lately at the beach?” Alito crossed his arms. “I’ve been working out, you should-”

“We’ve seen you in the school pool.” Cathy shrugged. “Nothing mew.”

“My abs are totally to die for!” Alito argued. “I’m like a chiselled piece of art by Michaelangelo! Have you seen his statues? I’m totally David all over again, you’ve never seen me fully naked!” 

"I don't know if I should be impressed or horrified by your confidence," Trey muttered.

Tori’s cheeks burned. “You shouldn’t use that word while we’re eating lunch, Alito!” She chided. “Change of topic?”

Caswell cleared his throat. "I already know who I’m asking to the dance."

This caught everyone's attention.

"Whoa, wait, what?!" Yuma nearly choked on his rice ball. "You actually have someone in mind?! You, Caswell?"

Caswell nodded with a smile. "I do."

"Tell us!" Cathy leaned in eagerly.

"Nope." Caswell shook his head. "Not yet."

"Boo, boring," Alito groaned. "I wanted to judge you for your taste."

"Oh, don’t worry, you’ll have plenty to judge later," Caswell replied dryly.

Bronk sighed again. "Well, at least someone has their dance figured out. I was gonna ask Rio, but now I don’t even know if she’ll say yes."

Flip snorted. "She won’t."

Bronk smacked him upside the head. "Hey!"

"Just being realistic, Bronk!" Flip protested, rubbing the back of his head. "If you’re too scared to ask, that’s on you."

"I'm not scared," Bronk muttered. "I just need the right timing."

Trey, who had been watching Yuma out of the corner of his eye, noticed a faint blush creeping up Yuma’s cheeks. "Hey, Yuma, what about you? Who are you gonna dance with?"

Yuma's face turned even redder. "Huh? Oh—uh—w-well, I don’t really—um—" He hurriedly stuffed another rice ball into his mouth, cheeks puffed out like a chipmunk.

Trey felt his own face heat up but quickly looked away. "Typical."

Cathy smirked, watching the two boys. "I think we all know who Yuma wants to dance with."

"S-Shut up!" Yuma squeaked, mouth still full.

Alito patted his shoulder. "Don’t worry, buddy. We all struggle with love. Well, not me, but the rest of you."

Tori rolled her eyes. "Of course, ‘David’."

***

“Ughhh… why do we even need to stretch?” Yuma groaned, staring up at the ceiling. “Gym is supposed to be fun, not… torture.”

Tori rolled her eyes, leaning over her leg to touch her shoe. “Because if you don’t, you’re going to pull a muscle in, like, five minutes.”

Bronk was already sweating, red-faced as he reached for his toes and barely made it halfway down his shin. “Don’t… need… stretching…” he panted. “I’ve got… natural muscle.”

“Yeah, right,” Cathy said, balancing on one foot and trying to copy Trey’s perfect stretch. She toppled sideways into Yuma, who yelped. “Oops! Sorry, Yuma! Guess I’m not as flexible as I thought, nya~.”

“You nearly broke my arm!” Yuma sat up, rubbing his shoulder. “Gym class hasn’t even started and I’m already dying!”

Trey lowered himself into a perfect lunge, posture straight. “It’s not that hard,” he said. “Keep your back straight. Breathe evenly. Count to ten.”

“Easy for you to say,” Yuma muttered, side-eyeing him. “You’re like… a machine. Who even stretches that perfect? It’s creepy.”

Trey shrugged lightly. “My father made me do it every morning. It just became a habit.”

Bronk groaned and flopped onto his back. “Your dad sounds intense. My dad just tells me not to eat the last slice of pizza.”

That got Tori laughing, while Cathy tried to copy Trey again. She wobbled, arms windmilling, and this time crashed into Tori.

“Cathy!” Tori cried, staggering. “Can you not knock us all over?”

“Sorryyy, but I want to be as graceful as a cat before my prince comes!” Cathy said dreamily, clasping her hands. “Kyoji is a real prince. I might just faint.”

Bronk made a face. “Every time you talk about him, it’s like you forget the rest of us exist. He’s not that cool.”

“Yes, he is!” Cathy snapped back, puffing out her cheeks. “He’s mysterious, he’s stylish, and he rides a motorcycle!”

Bronk wiped his forehead with his sleeve. “Yeah, and he probably doesn’t have to do gym stretches either. Lucky guy.”

Ray’s voice suddenly cut in from behind them. “Talking about Kyoji already? Wow, you guys are obsessed.”

Everyone turned. Ray was smirking, leaning against the wall with Alito next to him, bouncing a basketball.

“Obsessed?” Cathy gasped, hands on her hips. “Excuse me, Ray, but you wouldn’t understand. You’re just jealous because no girl talks about you like that.”

“Wow, that’s supposed to hurt?” Ray rolled his eyes. “Straight to the heart. But hey, Cathy, if you’re desperate for a prince, maybe you should lower your standards a little. You know, find someone less likely to crush your poor little heart.”

“Like you?” Cathy shot back, rolling her eyes. “Meow! Pass.”

That made Yuma chuckle, and Tori burst out laughing. “She totally roasted you, Ray!”

Alito dribbled the basketball once, grinning. “Nah, Cathy’s got a point. Nobody can compete with Kyoji. Even I think the guy’s cool.”

Bronk groaned. “Not you too, Alito! Come on, don’t add to it.”

“Honestly, I don’t get what the fuss is about.” Ray scowled. “He’s just a guy who wears too much leather. Big deal.”

Tori gasped. “Take that back! Leather looks amazing on him!”

Ray opened his mouth to argue again, but Trey interrupted, shaking his head. “You’re all wasting energy arguing about someone who isn’t even here yet.”

Bronk grinned. “Yeah, but once he does get here, the real drama starts.”

Alito dribbled the basketball again, louder this time, then spun it on his finger. “Okay, okay, enough about Kyoji. Let’s talk about something that actually matters—dueling. When’s the last time any of you actually won against someone tough?”

Yuma sat up straighter, grinning. “Hey, I’ve beaten a ton of strong duelists! I’ve got this new combo I’ve been working on—Trey and I figured it out—”

Bronk cut him off, snorting. “Yeah, right. Every time you say that, you end up face-first in the dirt. Remember last week? You couldn’t even keep track of your own Life Points!”

“That was one time!” Yuma protested. “Besides, dueling’s not just about Life Points. It’s about heart and courage!” He jabbed a fist against his chest, looking proud.

Ray grinned. “Heart doesn’t matter when you’ve got actual strategy. Yuma, you duel like a kid with crayons—messy and impossible to understand.”

Yuma shot him a glare. “Says the guy who plays like a cartoon villain every time he gets a turn!”

“I like playing the villain,” Ray said, grin widening. “At least it makes duels interesting. Can you say the same?”

“Ooooh,” Alito said, “We should totally set up a match—Yuma versus Ray. I wanna see who wins. Just take out your guy’s decks and start. Forget gym class, let’s duel!”

Cathy clapped her hands. “Yes! A duel would be sooo much more exciting than running laps.” She examined her nails for a moment. “But only if Kyoji comes to watch.”

Bronk groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “Cathy!”

Tori nudged Yuma’s arm, smiling. “Maybe you should duel Reginald again when he shows up. Didn’t you keep saying you wanted a rematch?”

Yuma’s eyes lit up like fireworks. “Yes! That’s it! I’ll challenge Shark!”

Ray laughed under his breath. “Oh, this I’ve got to see. Shark’s going to wipe the floor with you again.”

“He won’t!” Yuma shot back stubbornly. “I’ve been training, okay? After Astral left, Trey and I worked out a whole new strategy!”

Trey, still focused on his stretches, looked. “You should think this through, Yuma. Reginald’s strong. Charging in without a plan isn’t the best thing to do.”

“I do have a plan!” Yuma insisted. “And besides, winning isn’t everything. It’s about never giving up!”

Ray rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah, your whole speech about never giving up. You say it every time you lose. It’s starting to sound like background music.”

Bronk chuckled, sitting back up. “Still, it’d be funny to see Yuma trying to convince him to duel again. I mean, if Reginald doesn’t scare him off first.”

“Scare me?” Yuma puffed out his chest. “Please. Nothing scares me. Not even Shark!”

Alito grinned, tossing the basketball into the air and catching it. “You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that. But guts don’t save you from a direct attack.”

Yuma was about to fire back when the gym doors suddenly opened.

Instantly, the chatter faded. Sneakers squeaked on the polished floor, and heads turned as the other class walked.

The air shifted. Even the sound of the basketball bouncing in Alito’s hands slowed before he clutched it still.

And Yuma, of course, ruined the silence first.

“Shark! Riiiio! Over here!” He waved both arms like he was trying to land an airplane.

Reginald’s face immediately tensed. “Not again…”

Rio’s face lit up the second she spotted Tori. “Tori!” she called. Without hesitation, she broke away from Kyoji and Reginald and ran over, her hair flying behind her.

Tori’s eyes widened. “Rio!” The two girls collided in a tight hug, laughing like sisters who hadn’t seen each other in years—even though it had only been a day.

Yuma, meanwhile, was still waving like a maniac. “Shark! Hey, Shark, over here! Don’t pretend you don’t see me!”

Reginald pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling hard. “Why does this always happen…?”

Kyoji smirked faintly, leaning closer so only Reginald could hear. “He really doesn’t let up, does he?”

Reginald muttered back, “One of these days, I’m going to ignore him so hard he disappears.”

But Yuma didn’t wait for permission. He jogged up to them, grinning ear-to-ear. “So! Shark, how about it? You and me—duel after class!”

Reginald shot him a flat look. “You wish. I’ve got better things to do than waste time wiping the floor with you again.”

“Aw, come on!” Yuma whined. “Don’t tell me you’re scared I’ll actually win!”

“Scared?” Reginald’s brow twitched. “You’ve almost lost every single time, Yuma.”

“Yeah, but this time’s different!” Yuma puffed out his chest, grinning. “I’ve been training!”

Ray wandered over, smirking. “Training? With what, coloring books? You duel like a five-year-old hopped up on sugar.”

“Nooo!” Yuma whined. “I duel with heart, courage-”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever.” Ray interrupted. “Don’t worry—I’ll be generous. When Shark crushes you, I’ll be there to pick up the scraps.”

Alito laughed. “Man, this is hilarious. I vote for the duel! Yuma versus Shark. Come on, Reginald, don’t chicken out.”

Reginald glared. “I’m not dueling in the middle of a gym class.”

“Boo!” Alito groaned. “You’re no fun.”

Meanwhile, Cathy had slipped closer and, without hesitation, lunged latched onto Kyoji’s arm. “Kyoji! Remember me? It’s Cathy—we hung out at the mall, remember? You looked so cool in that leather jacket—”

The sudden movement nearly knocked Yuma, Tori, and Bronk off balance. Trey instinctively steadied Tori by her arm, while Bronk wobbled and almost fell.

Kyoji looked down at her clinging hand, then back up at her with a light smile. “...Yeah. I remember. You and your other friend were there. And Tori, oh, and-”

“Cathy, don’t forget I was there too.” Rio interrupted, raising an eyebrow, smirking. “It wasn’t exactly a private moment.”

Cathy pouted, still clinging stubbornly. “You and I should hang out sometime. You know, just the two of us.”

Kyoji gently but firmly pulled his arm free. “Sure, maybe we could also include your other friends as well? It’ll be more fun. What’s the saying, the more the merrier, right?”

“Yeah, all of us.” Rio nodded. “Sounds good.”

Bronk seized his chance, stepping forward. “Hey, Rio! You look… uh…” He glanced at Trey for backup, who just gave him a helpless shrug. Bronk blurted out, “Cool. You look really cool today!”

Rio turned her gaze on him, tilting her head. “...Cool? What?”

Bronk’s cheeks flushed. “Uh—yeah? I mean, super cool. Like—like ice! You’re like, uh, the Ice Queen!”

Tori smacked her forehead. “Bronk…”

“Thanks, Bronk.” Rio smirked faintly, clearly entertained by his fumbling. She turned towards Tori, “So, Tori…”

Bronk’s whole face went red, and he glanced away, muttering, “Worth a shot.”

Yuma was still bouncing on his heels. “Forget all that! Shark—are you in or what? You can’t dodge me forever!”

Reginald’s patience snapped. “Yuma, I said no.” 

But Yuma leaned forward, grinning even harder. “That sounded like a maybe!”

Ray laughed loudly, clapping once. “He’s either the bravest idiot I’ve ever met—or just the biggest idiot.”

Tori quickly broke the coming fight by turning back to Rio, looping her arm through hers. “So—how have you been? I missed you.”

Rio softened immediately. “I missed you too. Honestly, these guys—” she gestured at Reginald and Kyoji “—are terrible company. You’re a breath of fresh air.”

“Hey,” Reginald grumbled, “I’m standing right here.”

Kyoji smirked again. “She’s not wrong, though.”

A sharp whistle cut through the chatter.

“Alright, enough circus!” the Coach barked, striding into the center of the gym with his clipboard tucked under his arm.. “You’re not here to talk. You’re here to move. We’re doing relays today—teams of eight. Line up.”

Groans rippled through the students. Flip muttered something about his “delicate wrist,” while Caswell pushed up his glasses like this was the Olympic qualifiers.

“Teams will be assigned,” the coach added, scribbling names. “No whining.”

Immediately, Cathy shot her hand up. “Coach, can I be on Kyoji’s team?”

The coach didn’t even glance at her. “No requests.”

Cathy dropped her arm dramatically. “This is cruel and unusual punishment…”

Rio rolled her eyes but smirked faintly at Kyoji. “Looks like you’re popular.”

Kyoji gave a small shrug. “Not my fault.”

“Check the white board to see which team you’re on.”

Yuma pumped his fist. “Yes! I’m with Shark’s sister!”

“I’m not a trophy, Yuma.” Rio raised a brow. “But I can guarantee we’ll win..”

Scarlett clapped her hands together. “Oooh, this will be fun! I’ve never done a relay, but if Kyoji’s on my team, I feel like I’ll run faster just by inspiration.” She twirled dramatically, nearly bumping into Flip.

Flip grimaced. “Just don’t trip over your own shoelaces, superstar.”

“Pouting doesn’t look good on you,” Scarlett sang back.

Across the gym, Cathy’s jaw dropped. “No way—I’m not on Kyoji’s team?!”

Tori tugged her sleeve. “Chill, Cat. We’ll still crush them.”

Reginald crossed his arms. “Yeah, especially with me on your team.”

Ray immediately slung an arm over his shoulder. “Don’t be silly, I’ll carry us to finish line”

Reginald shoved him off. “You’ll carry us straight into last place.”

Alito bounced in place, grinning. “Not if I’m running! You guys better keep up.”

Bronk groaned, already sweating. “Can’t we just… I don’t know… play dodgeball instead?”

“Bronk,” Tori said flatly, “you can’t even dodge cafeteria lines.”

The whistle blew again. “Line up!” the coach barked.

The teams arranged themselves. Yuma bounced eagerly next to Rio as she cracked her knuckles next to Kyoji. Ray was too busy teasing Reginald, Cathy was still glaring at Rio’s team like it had personally betrayed her, and Bronk was wheezing from bending down to tie his sneakers.Lulu stretched her legs carefully, stealing glances at Yuto on the opposite team.

“Hey,” Allen muttered to Lulu, noticing her distraction. “Don’t worry, we’ve got this.”

She smiled softly. “Thanks, Allen.”

Cathy leaned toward Reginald. “So… if we win, do I get to pick the prize? Like… maybe getting to hang out with Kyoji?”

Reginald gave her the deadliest look. “Focus on running before I make you do laps alone.”

Kyoji’s voice floated across the gym. “Don’t overthink it, everyone. It’s just running in a straight line. You’ll survive.”

Rio smirked. “That’s generous, considering half of them can barely jog.”

“Hey!” Yuma shot back. “I can jog! Kinda…”

Trey patted his shoulder. “Don’t worry, Yuma. Just focus on the handoff. We’ll cover the speed.”

Caswell cleared his throat loudly. “Statistically, if we maintain steady handoffs, our team can close the gap even without peak runners even with Rio and Kyoji on the same team.”

“Statistically,” Ray mimicked, grinning, “we’re doomed.”

“Shut up, Ray,” Reginald snapped.

The coach raised his whistle. “First runners on the line. Ready?”

From the blue team, Rio stepped up, stretching like she was about to destroy the world. From the red team, Tori stood opposite her.

The gym grew silent.

“Set—”

Rio smirked at Tori across the line. “Good luck, Tori”

Tori grinned back, “You too!”

“Go!”

The whistle shrieked, and the race began.

Rio exploded off the line like lightning. Tori sprinted hard, teeth clenched, but within seconds, Rio had a clear lead.

“That’s my sister.” Reginald said quietly, despite himself.

“Traitor,” Ray muttered.

On the sidelines, Cathy cupped her hands. “Kyoji! Meow! Watch me when it’s my turn!”

Kyoji looked straight ahead, “Eyes on the track, Cathy.”

Scarlett twirled again, beaming. “Rio runs like a star! Ah, but wait until it’s my turn—I’ll sparkle my way down the track.”

Flip rolled his eyes. “Sparkle isn’t a speed.”

The whistle shrieked one final time, signaling the end of the relay. The gym erupted in cheers and groans alike.

Yuma collapsed onto the floor, panting heavily, hands on his knees. “We… we actually won! I can’t believe it!”

Trey leaned over him, brushing sweat from his brow. “Told you, Yuma. Keep steady, trust the team.”

Scarlett spun around, arms in the air, glittering with excitement. “Victory! Absolute perfection! Kyoji, Alito, Yuma—you were amazing!”

Kyoji grinned at her. “We ran well as a team. That’s all it is.”

Rio laughed, shaking her head at him. “Don’t be so modest, Kyoji. You and Yuma both were incredible.”

Yuma shot up, pointing excitedly. “I got to run with Kyoji! Rio just said I was incredible! Did you hear that, Trey?”

Trey chuckled, nudging him. “Of course, Yuma. You did well.”

Reginald brushed himself off as he glanced at Kyoji. “You guys were fast. Especially Kyoji and Rio… I can’t lie, you two were impressive.”

Ray groaned, throwing his towel down. “Reginald, you traitor! Complimenting them while we just lost?!”

Reginald smirked faintly. “I’m not a traitor. I just appreciate talent.”

Rio’s eyes softened as she heard her brother. “I’m proud of you too, Reginald. You ran so fast.”

“Yeah… you kept your team close. Good work.” Kyoji smiled at Reginald. “And you were fast, it wasn’t because of you that your team lost.”

“And it was only because of you and Rio that your team won,” Reginald joked. “I got Lulu, Allen, Saya, and Flip in my team. Who could ask for slower runners?” 

Rio grimaced. “Yeah, I’d bet my duel gazer on it, except for Flip. He’s not as slow as the others.”

“Not everyone can be as fast as you, Rio!” Kyoji laughed, nudging her.

“Thanks, appreciate it,” Rio turned to Tori. “You ran pretty fast too! I told our work out sessions were making progress!”

Tori smiled. “What can I say, I’m learning from the best!” She giggled, her gaze lingering on Kyoji as he spoke to Reginald. “He… he didn’t even notice me,” she muttered under her breath, cheeks flaming.

“He was up ahead, Tori.” Rio soothed her friend. “I swear, you ran too fast for him to even gauge you!”

“I guess,” Tori shrugged. “Next time, I’ll win too.”

Cathy pouted, noticing Tori staring, blurted out rather loudly, causing everyone to turn to her. “Hey! Kyoji’s mine!”

Kyoji glanced at her. “Cathy… don’t choke on the excitement.”

Cathy blinked. “I-I didn’t mean—”

Yuma laughed, grabbing her shoulder. “Relax, Cathy. Kyoji’s nice to everyone. That’s why he’s so… cool.”

Scarlett twirled past, teasing. “I think he’s just enjoying our victory… and maybe secretly pleased with me.”

Rio rolled her eyes. “He doesn’t flirt, Scarlett. You know that.”

“I just appreciate a good effort—and a clean handoff.” Kyoji sighed. 

Trey clapped Yuma on the back. “See, Yuma? Exactly how a runner should be.”

Reginald gave Ray a pointed look. “Maybe next time, you’ll pay attention to form instead of whining.”

Ray groaned dramatically, throwing his arms in the air. “Ugh! This is so unfair. They got faster runners!”

Rio smirked, nudging Kyoji lightly. “See? Even Ray admits it.”

Yuma, unable to contain himself, ran up to Kyoji and hugged him. “Thanks for helping us win! You’re amazing!”

Kyoji gently patted his head. “Don’t thank me. You ran well too.”

Cathy leapt forward, wrapping herself around Kyoji’s arm dramatically. “And me too! Don’t forget me!”

Tori scowled from the sidelines as she turned to Rio. “Why does everyone get to… interact with him like that?”

Rio’s eyes sparkled. “Because he’s Kyoji. Calm, kind… impossible to ignore.”

Scarlett twirled by again. “I want to run again! I’ll sparkle even faster next time!”

Flip groaned. “I’d rather duel than run with all this drama.”

Alito laughed, clapping Bronk on the back. “Cheer up, big guy. Next time we’ll get them!”

Bronk groaned, lying flat on the floor. “Next time… maybe dodgeball… maybe…”

Yuma flopped next to him. “Still… best race ever!”

Trey laughed. “Agreed. Definitely the best.”

Yuma, still bouncing, shouted, “Can we have another race? Please, Coach?”

The coach shook his head but smiled faintly. “Maybe next week. For now, hydrate and stretch. Winners and losers alike.”

***

After school, Reginald stood stiffly, arms crossed, leaning against the wall like he was made of stone. His eyes flicked to the student council room door every few seconds.

"Oh my god, are you seriously just standing there like some creepy guard dog?" Yui’s voice chimed in, as she casually approached with her arms behind her back, swinging them innocently.

Reginald didn't even glance at her. "Go away, Yui."

Yui pouted. "Rude. What, waiting for your fiancée? Or are you just stalking Kyoji now?"

Reginald visibly flinched but didn’t reply. That made Yui smirk wider.

"You are waiting for Kyoji," she gasped. "Oh my god. Did you fall in love with him while watching him sleep in class today?"

Reginald's face went bright red. "Shut up."

Yui leaned closer, mischief dancing in her eyes. "He was adorable. That little twitch in his lip when he muttered something in his sleep. I think he was dreaming about motorbikes or—"

"I said shut up!" Reginald barked, stepping away from the wall.

"Aw, touchy," Yui giggled. "You're jealous, huh? It's okay, Reggie, everyone loves Kyoji. Even the teachers."

"You’re delusional."

"You're in denial," Yui shot back. 

“Some people will tolerate with your stupid comments but I won't. Get. Lost.” Reginald snapped. 

Yui huffed.”You're just upset because you're engaged to someone but you choose to follow around Kyoji like a lap dog”

“Get lost, Yui and shut up.” Reginald rolled his eyes. “Your s-h-i-t doesn't deserve an answer.” 

“And your’s does?” Yui snorted. 

Reginald didn't reply. Yui waited and then because Reginald wasn’t answering her, turned on her heel with a dramatic huff.

As she stormed off, she nearly ran straight into a familiar figure.

"Yui?" Yata blinked. His soft brown eyes blinked in concern. "Hey. What’s up? You look like you just fought a dragon."

"Worse. Reginald," she sighed, brushing her long hair back.

"Oof," Yata winced. "That bad, huh?"

"He’s being annoying about Kyoji. Again."

Yata blinked. "Wait, again?"

Yui crossed her arms. "Look, I need to secure Kyoji before the school dance."

Yata snorted. "Join the club. Half the school’s already planned out their fantasy dance with him."

Yui raised a perfectly plucked eyebrow. "Don’t tell me you’re one of them."

Yata chuckled nervously. "Well... hypothetically... if I were to ask him, I mean, I was cast as a prince in the school play. Kyoji’s the hottest guy in school. We’d be a legendary duo."

Yui screeched.

Yata raised both hands in defense. "Okay okay! Calm down! I’m not trying to steal him from you! I swear!"

"Then don’t!" Yui pointed a threatening finger at him.

Yata winced. "Jeez, Yui. I am not trying to steal him from you. I'm into girls. He wouldn't even go out with me.” 

“He better not. I am going to be his girlfriend.” Yui exclaimed. “Who are you going to dance with then?” 

Yata scratched his head. “ I'm not sure. I like Kyoji and Rio but none of them will go with me.” 

“Rio?” Yui thought for a moment. “Not Kyoji,’

“Look, I would just ask Rio out but I can't. Too violent. I could die."

Yui calmed slightly. "Actually, that would be perfect. Go ask Rio. Now. So she’s not in my way for Kyoji."

Yata sighed. "She’s gonna say no."

"So what? Try."

Yata blinked. "Yes, ma’am."

Back inside the student council room, Rio was meticulously organizing charts while Kyoji leaned back in his chair, balancing a pencil on his nose.

"You know this isn’t what I asked you to do," Rio said flatly.

"I'm multitasking. I'm helping and entertaining."

"You’re going to drop that pencil on the floor."

"Then I’ll pick it up like a gentleman."

She smirked. "You? Gentleman?"

He gave her a lazy grin. "Only when I feel like it."

The door opened suddenly and both turned to see Reginald standing stiffly in the doorway.

"You done?" he asked, eyes flicking to Kyoji then to Rio.

"Just about," Rio said. "Unless you have something better to do than hover outside like a stalker."

Kyoji smirked. "He’s been out there the whole time?"

Reginald scowled. "Shut up."

Kyoji stood up, stretching his arms above his head. His shirt lifted slightly, revealing a sliver of his thin, white waist.

Reginald looked away quickly, blushing.

"You okay, Reginald? You're a little red," Rio teased.

"Let’s just go," Reginald muttered, grabbing Kyoji by the sleeve.

Rio rolled her eyes as the two boys left the room. "Idiots."

***

“So,” Kyoji drawled, shuffling Allen’s brand-new cards like they’d been his own for years. “Lesson one: never just summon something because you can. You gotta build up to it—make the field yours before you bring out the boss monster. Which, don’t forget, your boss monster doesn’t always have to be an XYZ monster.”

Allen leaned in, eyes shining. “You make it sound so easy. But when I try, it’s like… I don’t know, I always forget how to summon, special summon, and everything else.”

Kyoji smirked. “That’s because you panic. See, dueling isn’t just about cards, it’s confidence. Half the time, you’ve gotta bluff. Even if you don’t know what you’re doing, don’t how that to your opponent.” He shot Allen a wink, then flicked a card toward him. “Take this. Your whole deck kinda revolves around it. Treat it like your best friend.”

Allen caught the card, holding it like it was gold. “You even made me a deck… You’re seriously the best, Kyoji. Red Construction Train. When an opponent's monster declares an attack, you can Special Summon this card from your hand, and if you do, change the attack target to this card and proceed to damage calculation. This card cannot be destroyed by that battle. Wow, thanks, Kyoji. ”

Reginald, who was sitting nearby with Lulu, narrowed his eyes. “Tch.”

Lulu smiled. “You two seem to be getting along really well.”

“Of course we are,” Allen said brightly, grinning like a kid. “Kyoji’s amazing at this stuff. He just… gets it. Like instantly.”

Kyoji tilted his head, giving a playful smirk. “Nah. I just know what works. Pay enough attention, and even you could look like a genius.”

Reginald shot him a glare. “And yet you sleep through every single class.”

“Still passing, aren’t I?” Kyoji fired back with a grin, leaning lazily against the desk. He gave Reginald a wink that made the boy shift uncomfortably.

Before Reginald could answer, Yuto walked over, his steps unhurried but his eyes already searching the group. They landed on Lulu for a heartbeat longer than necessary before he nodded to the others. “Hey. What’s going on?”

Kyoji looked up and nodded back. “Hey.”

“You’re… Kyoji Yagumo, right?” Yuto said. He hesitated, then added almost sheepishly, “I’ve heard a lot about you. You’re kind of a heartthrob.”

Allen immediately started laughing. “See? It’s not just me!”

Kyoji raised an eyebrow, then laughed too. “You believe everything people say?”

“Well, I do know you’re a great duelist. You’re literally a celebrity… I think the whole world knows about you. I admire your skills,” Yuto continued. “I was hoping to get some advice on my deck.”

“Sure,” Kyoji said easily, holding out his hand. “Show me what you’ve got.”

As Yuto passed his deck over, Lulu bent down to grab her book from the table. Her fingers brushed against Yuto’s hand, and for a split second, both of them froze. Lulu’s cheeks pinkened as she pulled back, pretending to flip the book open like nothing had happened.

Yuto gave her the tiniest smile, one meant just for her. Lulu quickly looked away, flipping a couple of pages like she hadn’t noticed.

Reginald noticed and he scowled. “Lulu.”

Lulu didn’t look up. “What?”

Reginald’s gaze darkened. “Nothing.”

Meanwhile, Kyoji skimmed Yuto’s deck, nodding now and then. “Solid. But you’re leaning too hard on one win condition. If someone locks it down, you’re toast.”

Yuto looked confused. “What do you suggest?”

“More backup plays. Something that lets you pivot. Like—” Kyoji tapped two cards together. “—if Plan A gets wrecked, you’ve still got Plan B. Add a couple side plays. Backup options keep you alive.”

Yuto nodded seriously. “That makes sense. Thanks. Any specific ideas—”

Reginald stood abruptly, the chair scraping harshly against the floor, interrupting Yuto. “I’m leaving.”

Kyoji blinked up at him. “Huh? Already?”

Reginald’s eyes flicked to Lulu, then back at Kyoji. “Let’s go.”

Kyoji stretched his arms behind his head. “Give me ten minutes, dude.”

Reginald clenched his jaw, then reached down and grabbed Kyoji’s shoulder. “No. We’re leaving now. Unless… You’d rather not walk with me.”

Kyoji tilted his head, reading him, then sighed with a lopsided smile. “Alright, alright. Don’t get so pushy. You know I can’t say no to you. You don’t need to drag me out.”

Reginald’s ears went faintly pink, though he quickly turned away.

As they started to leave, he leaned close to Lulu’s ear, his voice low. “Don’t hang around other guys so freely. You’re engaged.”

Lulu froze, her knuckles white against the edge of her book, but she said nothing.

“Later,” Kyoji said lightly, throwing a lazy two-finger salute as he followed Reginald out.

The door shut, and the silence that followed was heavy.

Allen sighed, slumping on the table. “Kyoji’s just… wow.”

Yuto gave a small laugh. “He’s definitely… something.”

“‘Something’?!” Allen whipped around. “He’s like—he’s like the definition of cool! He built me a starter deck. A whole deck. Who does that?!”

Lulu closed her book slowly, staring at the cover. Her cheeks were still warm.

Yuto glanced at her again. He wanted to say something, but the words stayed trapped in his throat.

***

The school day was over, and students were filing out of the grand entrance, chatting excitedly about their plans for the evening. Giselle adjusted her bag over her shoulder as she looked around, scanning for a familiar face. As soon as she spotted Anna standing by the gates, she quickened her pace toward her.

“Anna!” Giselle called, waving.

Anna grinned, waving back. “Giselle! Took you long enough.”

Giselle sighed. “Ugh, I had to grab my textbook from my locker. My teacher actually thinks I study.”

Anna laughed. “Well, I’m pretty sure you do, considering you’re one of the top students. Anyway, let’s walk home together.”

They started down the street, the afternoon sun casting a warm glow over them. The sound of distant chatter and footsteps filled the air, and for a moment, they walked in comfortable silence. Then, Anna turned to Giselle with a teasing smile.

“So,” Anna began, “Giselle, you are absolutely beautiful. Like, how do you not have a boyfriend yet?”

Giselle groaned. “Annaaa, please don’t start.”

Anna gasped dramatically. “No, but seriously! You’re gorgeous, smart, and funny. If I were a guy, I’d be in love with you already!”

Giselle blushed slightly. “That’s easy for you to say. Besides, I’m not really the type to just go out and get a boyfriend.”

Anna wiggled her eyebrows. “Not yet, anyway. So tell me, is there someone you’ve got your eye on?”

Giselle hesitated, then sighed. “Well... there is someone.”

Anna’s eyes widened with excitement. “Oooooh! Spill! Is it Yuma? Who is he? What’s he like? I need details, girl.”

Giselle glanced away, fiddling with the strap of her bag. “It’s Kyoji.”

Anna stopped in her tracks. “Wait. THE Kyoji? As in, super-hot, ridiculously cool, everyone-has-a-crush-on-him Kyoji?”

Giselle nodded, her cheeks heating up. “Yeah... that Kyoji.”

Anna let out a loud squeal. “Giselle, you’re aiming for the top! I respect it. And honestly? I think you have a chance!”

Giselle groaned. “No, I don’t! He probably doesn’t even know I exist.”

Anna scoffed. “Are you kidding? You’re drop-dead gorgeous. Trust me, he’s noticed you.”

Giselle sighed. “I don’t know... I mean, the school dance is coming up, but I doubt he’d ever dance with me.”

Anna clapped her hands together. “Oh! The school dance! That is the perfect opportunity to make your move!”

Giselle raised an eyebrow. “What move?”

Anna smirked. “We need a plan. Operation: Get Kyoji To Dance With Giselle. Step one: Make him notice you.”

Giselle laughed nervously. “And how do I do that?”

Anna crossed her arms, thinking for a moment before snapping her fingers. “You should bump into him accidentally. Like, oh no, you drop your books, and he helps you pick them up. Then, you flash your sweetest smile, and boom, he’s mesmerized.”

Giselle giggled. “That sounds so cliché.”

Anna shrugged. “Hey, clichés exist for a reason. They work.”

Giselle shook her head, still laughing. “Okay, what’s step two?”

Anna grinned. “Flirt with him! Compliment him, laugh at his jokes, touch his arm when you talk—subtle things that get his attention.”

Giselle turned even redder. “Anna! I can’t just flirt with Kyoji!”

Anna rolled her eyes. “Yes, you can. Just be yourself but a little bolder. Trust me, guys love confidence.”

Giselle hesitated. “I don’t know...”

Anna waved her hand dismissively. “Fine, fine, if you don’t want to flirt, then just be around him more. Join conversations he’s in, find a reason to talk to him. Eventually, he’ll start noticing you more.”

Giselle nodded slowly. “That’s... actually not a bad idea.”

Anna smirked. “I know. I’m a genius when it comes to love and romance.”

Giselle giggled. “Okay, what’s step three?”

Anna clapped her hands together. “The grand finale. You just go up to him, ask him to the dance, and when the moment is right, you kiss him.”

Giselle choked. “W-WHAT?!”

Anna laughed. “Hey, sometimes, you gotta take risks! Imagine it. The music is playing, the lights are dim, you look absolutely stunning, and then BAM. You kiss him, and he falls head over heels for you.”

Giselle buried her face in her hands. “Oh my God, Anna, you’re insane.”

Anna grinned. “Insane but effective. Trust me, if you follow my plan, Kyoji will be yours by the end of the night.”

Giselle groaned but couldn’t stop the smile forming on her lips. “You make it sound so easy.”

Anna winked. “That’s because it is. Just be yourself, Giselle. You’re amazing. Any guy would be lucky to have you. Even Kyoji.”

Giselle sighed, shaking her head fondly. “Fine. I’ll think about it.”

Anna beamed. “That’s all I ask. Now come on, let’s get some ice cream. We need to celebrate your soon-to-be love story!”

Giselle laughed. “It’s not a love story yet!”

Anna linked arms with her. “Oh, but it will be.”

***

Tori threw herself onto the couch with a loud groan, limbs sprawled everywhere. “Ugh, Mom! You wouldn’t believe today! Every single girl in school tried to flirt with Kyoji. Every single one! It’s like… can’t they just leave him alone for five minutes?”

Mrs. Meadows raised her eyebrows over the rim of her teacup. “And why does that bother you so much?”

“Why?” Tori sat up, waving her hands dramatically. “Because it’s annoying! They don’t even care about him, not really. They just… like the idea of him. They don’t actually care about him.”

Her mom gave her a smile. “And you do?”

Tori froze, cheeks heating. “Well—yeah! I mean… I just want him to be with someone who doesn’t care about flirting, but actually cares about him. Someone who’ll look after him when no one else does.”

Mrs. Meadows set down her cup, leaned closer to Tori, and ruffled her, her smile soft. “Sweetheart… Kyoji would appreciate that. More than you know. Guys appreciate it when someone genuinely cares about them.”

Tori blinked at her, suddenly quiet. Then, almost out of nowhere, she shot upright. “Wait! Mom! Is that what happened with you and Dad? Did you feel that way about him?”

Her mother stiffened instantly, her hands curling slightly against her knees. “Tori…”

“What?” Tori pressed, her eyes wide. “I mean… I don’t even remember him. You always say he was in the army, that he… he died before I could know him. But was it like that? Did you care about him in that way?”

Mrs. Meadows forced a small smile. “Something like that. I loved him very much. He was… important to me.”

“But you were young, right?” Tori leaned in eagerly. “How young were you?”

“I was quite young when we met.” Her mom’s voice strained, but then she quickly changed the subject. “But you know… At that time, I actually knew Kyoji when he was a little boy.”

Tori’s mouth dropped open. “WHAT?! Are you serious? You knew him? Mom! That’s so unfair! Tell me everything—right now!”

Mrs. Meadows chuckled at her daughter’s excitement. “Well… he was very polite, even then. Always saying thank you and helping out when he didn’t have to. But he also had that spark in his eyes—like he knew more than he let on. And yes… he was already quite handsome. Girls noticed him even when he was small.”

Tori let out a squeal, grabbing a pillow on the couch and hugging it to her chest. “Oh my gosh! Mom, you are killing me! Handsome even back then? That is not fair! I want to see little Kyoji pictures! Please tell me you have some—please!”

Before Mrs. Meadows could answer, Medrith shuffled into the room, overhearing. “Pictures? Ha! You didn’t even think about needing pictures, Tori. Once you laid your eyes on a sweet child, you would just want to go hug him! That boy was the most adorable child I ever met—next to you, of course. My adorable little green pea!”

“Grandma! I am not a green pea!” Tori whined, hiding her face in the pillow, her ears burning. “Tell me more about Kyoji! If you knew him as a child, did he know me? I mean like,...”

Medrith smiled knowingly. “Oh, don’t be shy, darling. You should’ve seen how he followed his mother around, tugging on her skirts. He had those big eyes and that serious little face, like he was already planning to conquer the world.”

Mrs. Meadows laughed softly. “He did have that look… even then. I always told her, ‘your son is going to grow up to be the most handsome man there ever was in the universe’.”

Tori peeked out from behind the pillow, grinning. “So… he was basically born handsome. Great. Like I even stand a chance…”

Her mom reached over, gently touching her hand. “Don’t say that. If there’s one thing I know about Kyoji, it’s that he notices people who see him for who he really is. Not the ones chasing after him.”

Tori went quiet, chewing her lip. “…Do you really think he notices me?”

Mrs. Meadows smiled warmly. “More than you probably realize.”

Medrith crossed her arms with a little laugh. “If he doesn’t, he’s a fool. And I don’t think that boy is a fool.”

Tori let out a little squeak and buried her face again. “Mom! Grandma! I can’t believe we’re talking about this!”

Her mother gave her a teasing grin. “Oh, but you started it.”

“Because I was frustrated!” Tori muffled into the pillow. Then she sat up again, eyes narrowing playfully. “Wait, wait, wait. Mom. Back up. How do you even know Kyoji? Like—how did that happen? He’s part of the elite families… and we’re like… not even middle class. How did you see Kyoji?”

Mrs. Meadows’ smile faltered, sadness softening her eyes. She looked down at her lap. “I… knew his mother. She was my best friend. The gentlest, most beautiful woman you could ever hope to meet.”

Tori’s breath caught. “His… mom? You knew his mom? How? Why didn’t you ever tell me this before?”

Before her mother could explain, the doorbell rang sharply.

“That must be Rio!” Tori squealed, bouncing off the couch. “We were supposed to bake cookies today! Don’t start without me!” She bolted for the door.

As her footsteps faded, Medrith looked at her daughter, her voice low so Tori couldn’t hear. “One day, she’s going to need to know the truth.”

Mrs. Meadows’ hands trembled slightly as she picked her tea cup back up. “…I just pray she never has to face it. Not that truth. Not about her father.”

Medrith’s gaze softened. “Secrets have a way of coming out, my dear. Better she hears it from you than from someone else.”

Mrs. Meadows closed her eyes, whispering, “I just want to protect her… for as long as I can.”

***

Tori nearly tripped over her own feet in her rush to open the door. “Rio!”

Rio’s face lit up instantly. “Tori!” She leaned in, hugging her tightly, the kind of hug that squeezed all the air out of Tori’s lungs. They kissed each other’s cheeks like they were in a movie, laughing at the exact same time.

“You’re early,” Tori said with mock suspicion as she tugged Rio inside.

Rio smirked. “What, you’re not happy to see me?”

“I’m always happy to see you.” Tori grinned. “You know that.”

They slipped off their shoes, walked in the living room, Rio giving a polite wave. “Hi, Mrs. Meadows. Hi, Grandma Meadows!”

Mrs. Meadows smiled warmly, and Medrith called out, “Hello, dear!” But Tori was already dragging Rio toward the kitchen.

“Come on, come on, you have to hear this before I explode.”

Rio laughed, letting herself be pulled along. “Oh no, you’ve got that look. Is this gossip-level important or life-changing important?”

“Both.” Tori slapped her hands on the counter dramatically. “Guess what I found out?”

Rio started tying her hair back into a ponytail, then she reached for the apron she always used when baking at Tori’s house. “Alright. Shock me while I get the sugar.”

“My mom and grandma told me they actually knew Kyoji when he was little.” Tori squealed. “Mom and Grandma say he was super polite as a kid too!”

Rio hummed as she poured sugar into a bowl, smiling. “Mm-hm.”

“And—” Tori leaned forward, lowering her voice to a whisper. “They said he was super handsome even back then.”

Rio burst out laughing so suddenly she almost spilled the sugar. “Oh, please, people never shut up about that. I heard that one a lot!”

“Oh, right! You knew him too!” Tori blinked, wide-eyed. “Wait—so you would also know how he was back then too? You, like, grew up with him so you knew him!”

Rio smirked, reaching for the eggs. “Knew him? Tori, he practically lived in the same orphanage as Reginald and I. And when Reginald and I ran away, he was with us the whole way. Of course I knew how he was. He was polite, yeah—but he was also a menace. Always teasing me and Reginald like it was his full-time job. Always with that smug little grin, like he knew he was smarter than everyone else.” She grinned faintly. “And honestly? He kind of was.”

Tori clasped her hands. “That’s… adorable. Even then, talented and handsome—”

“—and cocky,” Rio cut in, reaching for the eggs. “Don’t forget cocky.”

Tori giggled, but leaned forward eagerly. “Okay, but please—tell me a story about him. Like, what was he really like?”

Rio tapped her chin, pretending to think as she cracked an egg with unnecessary force. “Hmm… oh!” Rio paused,smirking. “Fine. The makeup incident.”

“The what?” Tori nearly dropped the spoon she was holding.

“Oh, you’re going to love this.” Rio started mixing flour and eggs. “One time, I convinced him to let me put makeup on him.”

Tori shrieked, clutching the spoon hard as she mixed the dough. “No way! Kyoji would never—”

“Oh, he did.” Rio grinned devilishly. “Back then, I didn’t have any girl friends, and everyone was pretty cold to me and Reginald. But Kyoji was… close. Kind. He couldn’t say no to me.”

Tori melted right on the spot, pressing her cheek to her palm. “That is the sweetest thing I’ve ever heard. He’s so kind, Rio.”

Rio shrugged, her smirk growing. “So, I put on blush, lipstick, eye shadow, mascarra—everything—even though his eyelashes were already so thick. Then I found these clothes he never wore before—it was a light yellow shirt and white skinny jeans, I still remember—and made him put them on. And, get this—” she was laughing now—“I found a hair straightener in an abandoned house before and used it on him.”

Tori clapped her hands over her mouth. “Stop it! You did not.”

“I did,” Rio said proudly. “And I was just sticking a flower in his hair when Reginald walked in.” She doubled over, clutching her stomach. “He blushed like crazy! He went red. Like, bright tomato red. He actually thought Kyoji was some random new girl and asked if my ‘new friend’ wanted to hang out sometime with him.” She smiled smugly. “I think it he was trying to ask him out.”

Tori squealed, slapping the counter. “Noooo!”

“Yup. And then Kyoji and I started laughing, and Reginald realized… yeah, it was him. Poor guy was mortified.”

Both girls collapsed into giggles, flour floating into the air around them like snow.

“That’s… so nice of Kyoji, though,” Tori said once she caught her breath. “Letting you do that. I mean, that’s…” She trailed off, blushing.

Rio smirked knowingly. “That’s Kyoji.”

Tori fiddled with a spoon, cheeks pink. “So… was he really handsome even then?”

Rio shrugged, adjusting the time on the oven. “Yeah. He was. Still had that stupid charm.”

“Ugh. I love him.” Tori sighed dreamily. Then her eyes softened as she looked at Rio fondly. “I love you, Rio.”

Rio nearly dropped the spatula. “What?!”

Tori smiled. “I do love you, like… you’re my best friend, Rio. The closest person I’ve ever had.”

Rio stared for a moment, then softened into a smile so warm it made Tori’s chest ache. “Tori… you’re my best friend too. Honestly, you’re like a sister to me.”

Tori’s eyes sparkled. “You’re like my sister too. Sometimes I feel like I love you even more than Runa. Because… she’s family, yeah, but you—” her voice cracked—“you choose me. You’re the most popular girl at school, Rio. Everyone wants you. And you still pick me. That means everything.”

Rio dropped the spatula and came around the counter, hugging Tori so hard they both stumbled. “Tori. Don’t ever doubt how much you mean to me. You’re not just my best friend—you’re my person. I wouldn’t trade you for anyone.”

Tori clung to her, voice muffled in Rio’s shoulder. “You’re gonna make me cry.”

“You already are,” Rio teased gently, pulling back to wipe at her cheek with her thumb.

They both smiled, only to burst out laughing when they realized their clothes were dusted in flour.

“Great,” Tori muttered. “We look like snowmen.”

“Cute snowmen,” Rio corrected, flicking flour at her.

“Hey!” Tori laughed, flicking some back.

The timer beeped, and after sliding the cookies into the oven, Tori leaned against the counter with a grin. “So, after cookies… want to go shopping? We need dresses for the dance.”

Rio smiled. “Absolutely. You and me. Of course!”

“And you’ll tell me about the elite dance too?” Tori asked nervously. “Please?”

Rio raised an eyebrow. “Why?”

“No reason,” Tori said quickly, cheeks pink.

Rio smirked. “This wouldn’t have anything to do with Kyoji, would it?”

Tori’s face went scarlet. “N-no! I just… want to know the gossip.”

“Mm-hm,” Rio said, unconvinced. “Alright, then tell me—who do you want to dance with?”

Tori fiddled with the hem of her shirt. “That’s the problem. I want your advice. Because… I want to dance with Kyoji. But he’d never choose me. He’s perfect. I’m just… me.”

Rio’s smile vanished. “Excuse me? Hell no.”

Tori blinked. “Huh?”

Rio stomped over, gripping her shoulders. “Don’t you ever say that again. Tori, you’re the prettiest, sweetest, most incredible girl I know. Any guy would be lucky—lucky—to dance with you. Kyoji included.”

Tori’s voice cracked. “You really think so?”

“I know so,” Rio said fiercely. “Honestly, whoever does get to dance with you? He’ll be the luckiest guy alive. And if no boy deserves you, then fine—I’ll dance with you myself and brag about it for the rest of my life.”

Tori gasped, then dissolved into laughter. “Riooo!”

“What? I’m serious. I’d feel lucky.” Rio grinned. “Just be yourself, Tori, no one could ever say no to you.”

“So, I have a chance to dance with Kyoji?” Tori whispered.

Rio smiled. “Of course, you’re the sweetest girl I know.” 

Tori hugged her so tight this time that Rio almost toppled backward. “Thank you. You’re the best thing in my life.”

“You’re the best thing in mine,” Rio whispered back. Then she pulled away with a sly grin. “But just so I’m clear—you’d rather dance with Kyoji than me, right?”

Tori laughed so hard she nearly fell over. “Stop! Don’t make me choose!”

The two girls collapsed against each other, giggling as the smell of cookies filled the kitchen, and flour still clinging to their hair and clothes.

***

The Barian household was never quiet at dinner. Tonight was no exception.

“Iris, eat your vegetables,” Dumon said firmly, pushing a plate of broccoli toward her. 

Iris sat with her arms crossed. “No. They taste like dirt. Ray said so.”

“They don’t taste like dirt,” Dumon countered. “Ray is just being silly.” He picked up a piece with his chopsticks and held it out like an offering. “One bite. Just one.”

“Not unless Rio eats them too!” Iris whined, pointing across the table.

Rio froze with her chopsticks midair, then glared. “Don’t drag me into this. I already ate food at Tori’s, I don’t have room for broccoli.”

“I think Iris has a perfect idea,” Ray cut in with a smug grin. “Let Rio prove it’s edible.”

“Shut up, Ray,” Rio snapped. “You’re the reason Iris doesn’t listen. She thinks acting stubborn is funny because of you.”

Ray smirked. “I’m just encouraging free will. Kid’s gotta make her own choices.”

“Free will doesn’t mean living off rice and dumplings!” Rio hissed.

“Exactly,” Ray said smoothly. “She should eat dessert instead.”

“You’re impossible!” Rio threw her napkin at him.

“Calm down, Rio.” Reginald pinched the bridge of his nose. “Why do we even let him sit here?”

“Because you’d miss me if I wasn’t,” Ray shot back instantly.

“Keep dreaming,” Rio muttered.

Mizar shrugged and turned toward Reginald. “Forget them. I’m telling you, if you put two more traps in your deck, you’ll have coverage against backrow-heavy opponents.”

Reginald frowned. “Traps slow me down. My deck is built with spells and monster effects.”

“And then you burn out,” Mizar countered. “You get reckless when the duel drags on. Balance your offense with defense. It’s not weakness, it’s strategy.”

Reginald smirked faintly. “You make it sound like you’re my coach.”

“Maybe you need one,” Mizar replied, grinning.

“Ha,” Reginald muttered.

Over by the breadbasket, Girag elbowed Alito. “So, you figure out who you’re asking to the dance yet?”

Alito grinned. “Oh, I’ve got options. Plenty of girls like me.”

“Yeah,” Girag said with a snort. “You say that every year.”

“No, really,” Alito insisted, leaning closer to Girag. “There’s that one girl from gym class—always laughs at my jokes. That’s a sign.”

“That she’s polite,” Rio interrupted, smirking.

Alito ignored her. “Then there’s the twins from math club. I can’t decide which one’s cuter. Might flip a coin.”

Girag groaned. “You’ll never decide, Alito. You’ll end up showing up solo.” 

Rio grinned. “And pretending he wanted it that way.”

“Hey! I’m a catch!” Alito puffed his chest out. “What about you, Girag? Anyone in mind?”

Girag hesitated, then rubbed the back of his neck. “Maybe. Scarlett from the choir…”

Alito’s jaw dropped. “Oh yeah, I forgot, you mentioned that before. Scarlett? Dude, she’s way out of your league.”

“Thanks for the confidence,” Girag grumbled.

“I’m just saying,” Alito said, grin wide. “You gotta step it up. Practice asking me, right now.”

Girag blinked. “Ask you?”

“Yeah, pretend I’m Scarlett. Let’s go.” Alito batted his eyelashes exaggeratedly.

Girag groaned, covering his face with one hand. “I can’t take you seriously.”

“Exactly why you need practice!” Alito cackled.

Back at the veggie standoff, Dumon was still negotiating. “Iris, listen. One bite, and I’ll let you have extra dessert.”

Iris narrowed her eyes. “Two desserts.”

“One,” Dumon said firmly.

“Two,” she repeated stubbornly.

Ray leaned over with a grin. “Take the deal, Iris. He’s not gonna break.”

Rio jabbed him in the ribs with her chopsticks. “Stop encouraging her!”

“Ow—hey!” Ray shook his head. “I’m just teaching her how to negotiate properly!”

Rio’s face went red. “You’re so crazy, Ray! Stop teaching her your bad manners!”

Ray smirked. “You’re cute when you’re mad.”

“I’M NOT CUTE!” Rio practically shouted, slamming her chopsticks down.

“Confirmed: she’s cute,” Ray said under his breath, earning himself another glare.

Reginald groaned again, muttering, “Someone please put me out of my misery.”

But despite all the noise, Dumon smiled faintly as Iris finally took a reluctant nibble of broccoli.

“Don’t forget,” Rio sighed, setting down her chopsticks, “we still have to get ready for the elite tea party. It’s next weekend.”

Reginald leaned back lazily, crossing his arms. “We will. It’s not a big deal.”

“Not a big deal?” Rio snapped. “Are you going to wear those same scuffed sneakers you duel in?”

Before Reginald could answer, Alito leaned across the table, eyes wide. “Wait, serious question—do people kiss at these things?”

Rio’s fork clattered against her plate. “Excuse me?”

Reginald shot him a glare. “Are you kidding me right now?”

“Absolutely not kidding,” Alito said, deadly serious. “If there’s no kissing, then what’s the point of a party?”

“Alito,” Mizar snapped, “there’s a child at the table.” He gestured toward Iris.

Iris blinked innocently and took another bite of rice. “I know what kissing is.”

Ray grinned wickedly. “See? She’s more mature than half of you.”

Rio’s eyes flashed. “Stop it, Ray.”

Alito ignored everyone, shrugging. “I’m just saying—if there’s no romance, no fun. Tea and fancy cookies aren’t enough.”

“I totally agree with you, man.” Ray clapped him on the shoulder. “Kissing is a necessity in life. Everyone should know how to do it.”

Across the table, Dumon’s ears were turning red. He quickly looked down at his plate, pushing food around with his chopsticks.

Iris suddenly leaned forward, balancing on the table. “I know,” she exclaimed, then pressed a sloppy kiss onto Rio’s cheek—leaving behind a faint smudge of sauce.

Rio bursted into laughter. “You silly girl.” She scooped Iris up into her arms, kissing her back on the forehead. “Thank you, Iris. That was very sweet.”

“You got food on your face,” Reginald muttered, smirking.

Rio wiped her cheek with a napkin and rolled her eyes. “Come on, Iris. Let’s clean up before dessert.”

“Dessert!” Iris squealed, wriggling in Rio’s arms. She let herself be carried off, still giggling.

The moment the girls disappeared, Dumon and Girag got up to start clearing plates. Girag stacked bowls with one hand. “Man, that kid’s got guts. She just does what she wants.”

“She’s braver than half of you,” Dumon said quietly.

Alito suddenly puffed up his chest. “Speaking of guts—I kissed four girls today.”

The room froze.

Ray nearly choked on his water. “What?! Four?!”

Dumon stopped mid-step, a plate in hand. “You’re lying.”

“I am not,” Alito insisted proudly. “Four girls. One day.”

Ray leaned in, scandalized but impressed. “Names. Now. Who?”

Alito smirked. “Well… it was indirect kissing. Like… we shared the same bottle of water.”

Ray smacked his forehead. “Dude!”

“What?” Alito threw up his hands. “That still counts.”

“No, it doesn’t!” Ray groaned. “By that logic, I kissed someone too—I drank from Jen’s soda bottle at lunch, and then she drank from it right after me.”

Alito gasped, pointing at him. “Bro! You kissed Jen?!”

Ray rolled his eyes, smirking. “In your sense, yes, I kissed Jen.”

Reginald finally muttered, “That’s just silly. None of that counts as kissing.”

“Sure, sure,” Alito said slyly, exchanging a glance with Ray. “Bet you’d rather just go straight to kissing Lulu instead.”

Reginald’s head snapped up. “Shut up.”

Ray grinned wickedly. “Ooooh, did we hit a nerve?”

“Shut. Up.” Reginald snapped. “Why do you two always bring in Lulu, god damn it.”

Girag groaned, carrying plates toward the sink. “Here we go.”

Right then, Rio reentered with Iris, both freshly washed up. Iris bounced back to her seat, chanting, “Dessert, dessert, dessert!”

Dumon and Girag set down a tray of neatly plated pastries and cakes.

Ray whispered to Alito, “Saved by the sweets.”

Rio slid into her chair and eyed her brother suspiciously. “What did I miss?”

Reginald cleared his throat and stabbed at a piece of cake with his fork. “Nothing.”

“Nothing at all,” Ray echoed innocently, though his grin gave him away.

Alito couldn’t help it—he snickered, shoulders shaking. “Yeah, definitely nothing…”

“Both of you, shut up before I make you,” Reginald growled.

Rio arched an eyebrow, but chose not to press. Instead, she passed Iris a plate with the biggest slice of cake, and the noise around the table dissolved into chatter again—warm, messy, and full of bickering, just like always.

***

Reginald sat cross-legged on his small bed, cards spread between him and Kyoji. Kyoji’s leg rested lazily across Reginald’s lap casually, flipping two cards idly between his fingers.

“So here’s the move,” Reginald absentmindedly traced his fingers along Kyoji’s leg. “If my opponent tries to use an effect, I can detach an overlay from this guy. Effect negated. Simple, but it flips the whole duel.”

Kyoji leaned forward, elbow on his knee. “Mm. Cold. Calculated. Totally you,” he teased, smirking.

Reginald rolled his eyes, though he smiled slightly. “I’m explaining. Pay attention.”

“Oh, I am,” Kyoji drawled, patting Reginald’s arm. 

“So,” Reginald said, tapping his finger on a card, “Black Ray Lancer. Once I use him, I can negate an opponent’s effect for the turn. It’s clean. Efficient. No tricks.”

Kyoji tilted his head, nodding. “Efficient,” he echoed. “That’s a very ‘you’ word.”

Reginald shot him a look. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means,” Kyoji stretched the word out, tapping the back of a card against his chin, “you like order. Rules. Neat little counters for neat little problems.” He gave his leg a small bounce against Reginald’s thigh. “But you explain it like it’s poetry.” 

Reginald muttered something under his breath, glanced down at Kyoji’s leg on his lap and flushed, turning  back at his cards.

Kyoji’s leg shifted on Reginald’s leg as he stretched. Then he straightened suddenly, grinning at Reginald. “Actually, I’ve got something for you.”

Reginald raised a brow. “Something for me?” His suspicion was instant, because with Kyoji it was never safe. “What kind of ‘something’?”

“Relax, Sharkboy. No pranks. Not this time.” Kyoji’s grin widened. “Close your eyes.”

Reginald hesitated. “I don’t like where this is going.”

“Come on, Reginald. Don’t make me beg.”

After a moment, Reginald huffed and closed his eyes, though he cracked them the tiniest bit.

“Cheating already?” Kyoji leaned forward quickly, so close their noses brushed. “No peeking, Reginald.” he whispered.

Reginald’s eyes slammed shut, blushing instantly. “Tch. Fine.”

Kyoji chuckled, covering Reginald’s eyes with both hands. “That’s better. Now… wait.” After a few seconds he let go.

When Reginald blinked, Kyoji was holding out a small package: sea-blue paper, tied with a sparkly sea-green ribbon.

“What… is this?” Reginald asked quietly.

“A surprise,” Kyoji said simply, pressing it into his hands.

Reginald’s fingers brushed the ribbon but didn’t untie it. He glanced up suspiciously. “This isn’t going to explode, is it?”

Kyoji laughed. “Would I ruin perfectly good wrapping paper like that? Just open it, Shark.”

As Reginald shifted, Kyoji started to move his leg off Reginald’s lap, but Reginald’s hand darted out, holding his leg in place. He gave Kyoji a look. 

Kyoji flashed him a quick smile. “Bossy. I like it.”

Reginald shook his head and carefully unwrapped the gift. He folded the paper and ribbon neatly, and inside lay two cards: Abyss Shark and a trap, Full-Armored Xyz.

Reginald’s eyes widened. He read their effects once, then again, almost disbelieving. His throat felt tight. “Kyoji… these are…”

Kyoji was already grinning. “Good, right? Thought they’d suit you.”

Reginald swallowed. “I don’t even know how to—”

“Don’t be silly,” Kyoji cut him off, leaning forward until their noses brushed again. “It was my pleasure.” Then, just like that, he leaned back with a smirk. “They’re good, right?”

Reginald’s cheeks burned. He couldn’t even find his words as Kyoji leaned back with a smile.

“So,” Kyoji went on casually, “you gonna add them to your deck or what?”

Reginald cleared his throat, nodding. “Of course. They’re perfect.” He slid the cards carefully into his deck box.

Kyoji let out a contented sigh, resting his head against Reginald’s shoulder. “Good. Now… when are you finally going to kick my ass in a duel?”

Reginald laughed. “I wouldn’t want to hurt your little ass like that.”

“Please.” Kyoji smirked. “You’d love to beat me.”

“Maybe,” Reginald admitted, smiling.

Kyoji tilted his head, eyes moving between Reginald’s deck and his face. “You really thought your deck through, though? Every move lined up, every effect chained perfectly. You’re terrifying when you duel.”

Reginald smirked faintly, trying to downplay it. “It’s just strategy. Nothing impressive.”

“Mm, no,” Kyoji said, grinning. “It is impressive. You’re just too modest to admit you’re a genius.”

Reginald rolled his eyes. “Genius is pushing it. You just like flattering me.”

“Guilty,” Kyoji replied smoothly, smiling at Reginald. “But only because it’s true.”

Reginald looked down at the cards spread across the bed, then back at Kyoji. His voice dropped. “I’m… glad we met here. In this place.”

Kyoji’s grin eased into something gentler. He studied Reginald for a moment, smiling softly at him. “…Yeah. Me too. Wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Reginald lifted his hand and stroked his fingers against Kyoji’s cheek. Kyoji didn’t move away. If anything, he leaned into it.

“Thank you,” Reginald said quietly.

Kyoji smiled, a little lazy, a little smug, and purred, “Same to you.”

The memory shifted, slipping away like a dream.

—

Reginald blinked, staring at the ceiling of his current room in the Barian household. The orphanage bed was long gone but for a moment it had felt so real again.

Reginald groaned softly as he blinked awake in his room after dinner. His diary lay open across his lap, its pages filled with old notes and thoughts he barely remembered writing. He sighed, flopping back against the pillow. The house was alive with noise: Alito and Ray snickering down the hall, Girag humming somewhere—probably doing laundry again—Rio’s music playing faintly through her door.

Reginald turned his head toward the window. The night sky stretched endlessly, quiet compared to the chaos inside. His chest ached faintly with the weight of the memory.

“Kyoji…” he whispered.

Then he closed his eyes, letting sleep take him again.

***

The rooftop was quiet except for the soft whistle of wind tugging at Rio’s long dark hair. She stood at the edge of the roof of the old abandoned building, her hands lightly resting on the cold railing as she gazed up at the star-splattered sky.

Without looking back, she called out.  “I know you’re there. You can come out.”

A low chuckle drifted from the shadows. “I swear, Rio, you always catch me. Just once, I’d like to sneak up on you without you knowing.”

Rio tilted her head back, smiling lightly. Her eyes found him as he stepped into the moonlight — the ever-familiar teen with dark hair and a grin that looked like it never left his face. “Not gonna happen,” she said smoothly.

“Figures,” the teen replied, coming to lean casually on the railing beside her. “Everyone asleep back at your place?”

“They are,” Rio answered, her gaze turning skyward again.

“Couldn’t sleep again?” he asked gently.

“That’s right. Tried listening to music… didn’t work.” She exhaled slowly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

The teen studied her face as the wind brushed past them. “Something wrong?”

Rio shook her head. “No.”

“Liar,” Ai said lightly, but his eyes gazed into her. “C’mon, it’s written all over your face. What’s bothering you?”

Rio sighed and rested her chin against her palm on the railing. “Just normal stuff.”

He raised a brow, smirking. “Oh, I need to hear this. What’s ‘normal stuff’ to Rio Kastle? Please, enlighten me.”

Rolling her eyes, Rio muttered, “Reginald and Tori.”

“Ah,” he drawled, “the plot thickens.” He waited, smiling at her like he had all night.

Rio hesitated, then let out a soft laugh. “I really love them both, but sometimes… it just gets confusing.”

“Confusing how?” he pressed, clearly amused.

Rio cut him a glare. “Do you always have to sound like you’re prying into some soap opera?”

“Only when it sounds like one,” he teased. “Besides, just take it out, Rio.”

Rio exhaled through her nose, then said, “Reginald’s engaged to Lulu. But I’m sure Lulu’s cheating on him.”

“Oof. That’s low,” he said, leaning back a bit.

Rio tilted her head. “Sometimes I want to strangle her. But then again… I’m not even sure Reginald really loves her.”

The teen blinked. “Why’s that?”

“Kyoji.”

He grinned. “Ohhh, that childhood friend of yours, right? The one you and Reginald grew up with?”

Rio nodded once.

“So… what does he have to do with Lulu and Reginald?” he asked, genuinely confused.

Rio gave him the are you serious? look. “Forget it.” She shrugged and dug into her pocket, pulling out her duel gazer. With a few taps, she pulled up a picture — a selfie of her, Reginald, and Kyoji, all throwing victory signs at the camera.

The teen leaned close, grinning. “Well, well. Nice pic, Rio. And who’s that pretty chick next to you? She’s cute.”

Rio rolled her eyes so hard she nearly saw the back of her head. “That’s a boy, idiot. That’s Kyoji.”

The teen whistled low. “No way. Pretty boy, then. Guess it runs in your circle.”

Rio ignored him and muttered, “That’s not what I was talking about anyway…”

He sobered, tilting his head towards her. “So… what is bothering you?”

Rio turned away, arms folded against the railing. “I don’t know. I want to support Tori—she’s like a sister to me. But I also want to support Reginald. And when they’re both on opposite sides of something… it gets complicated.”

He studied her for a moment, then took a small step closer. His tone gentled. “And what’s complicated, exactly?”

Rio gazed up at the stars, lips parting as though she might spill everything. But then she turned abruptly, fixing him with a sharp look. “Not tonight. It’s late.”

The teen chuckled, lifting his hands in surrender. “Fine, fine. Some other time. But you know I’m always here for you, right?”

“Whatever,” Rio rolled her eyes. “You know I only tell you things because you’re not from here, right?”

“Still lucky,” he said with a grin.

Rio arched a brow. “When are you going back, anyway?”

He shrugged. “That’s up to Sera.”

Rio smirked. “Didn’t I once think she was your girlfriend?” She teased.

The teen leaned a little closer to Rio, grinning. “If I had a choice? That would definitely be you.”

Rio burst out laughing, the sound ringing across the rooftop. She gave his shoulder a light pat. “You’ve got good points, I’ll give you that. The dark hair… I’ve always adored dark blue hair.”

The teen grinned, his voice dropping just a notch. “And I’ve always loved your ruby rose eyes.”

Rio smirked, narrowing her gaze. She turned, walking toward the stairs to the roof with her hands shoved in her pockets. “Getting romantic, are you, Diva?”

“Only with you, Rio,” he called back, smirking. “And you can call me Ai, at least.”

“Mm, nah,” Rio said over her shoulder, grinning. “Then what’ll happen to the ‘gami’ part?”

Before he could reply, she stopped halfway down the stairwell, turned her head back, and flashed him a grin. “Goodnight.”

Then she disappeared down the stairs. The teen leaned against the railing, watching her vanish, smiling.
“Goodnight, Rio,” he whispered to the empty night sky.