Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Misha's POV

Rae hummed her wonders.

"Another letter has arrived, it seems." Rae dragged her drowsy feet towards the envelope on the ground in front of the door. 

"Seems like this secret admirer is quite into you, huh?" I teased, perched on one of the chairs, twiddling my fingers under the desk. "Or perhaps," I paused briefly, "it's your tenth one?"

Rae simply let out a light chuckle at that. I hoped it was of a humble nature and knowing her, it must've.

I watched her bend down and pick up the envelope. I bit my lip. This envelope was nothing out of the ordinary; such extragavant appearances did not matter as all of the beauty that did were the contents within. Do not judge a book by its cover, as they say.

"I wonder what this one's going to be about." Considering herself intrigued, Rae pondered to herself, pinching her chin while she walked back to the bed and sat on it. I suppose she was in the comfortable mood today. As I usually would, I briskly twisted my chair around, facing her way on impulse. "I am also curious of what this 'secret admirer' sees in me."

Many things, Rae, many things.

"There's no need to be talking so down on yourself like that," I told her, her self-confidence needing a boost, especially with how irritatingly degrading Claire has been to her since our enrolment to this academy. I wish I could keep her away from Rae but given her high noble status as House François, I had no chance. If only there was a way to keep her away from her.

"You're right." Rae nodded at me. "Thank you, Misha."

I sadly smiled back in response. I wished to see her smile more often too.

I continued to stare at her sliding her intimate fingers in-between the tiny fragile gaps of the envelope and gradually pulled the flap away.

I had looked forward to seeing her face perk up with a grateful glimmer in her usually blank eyes. I wanted to witness such warmth provided by a Goddess before me one more time. Leaning forward ever so slightly, I longingly darted my eyes to her gorgeous face as she unfolded the piece of paper before her. In a way, there was a sense of urgency than there usually was from her.

Squeezing my fingernails into my palms, I swallowed my anxiety only for it to worsen. Perhaps this was already becoming an annoyance to her? No, if that was the case, she wouldn't have bothered opening it. These trivial concerns washed away on their own as my eyes locked themselves back to Rae's adoring sparkle. Admittedly, my cheeks heated up a little.

There was just something about her. Something I couldn't exactly put my finger on. I followed my heart for years. And now, here we are at the Royal Academy sharing a dormitory together. Frankly, it felt like an extended sleepover, maybe just without the family part, but I had no reason to complain; I had no reason to.

I'd entrusted my heart and soul to that sheet of paper Rae held so expectantly. I admit, I am a coward. But in all fairness, it was abundantly clear to me that I'd have no dice with someone so perfect as Rae: we're both… huh?

My train of thought had been sliced away like a lever causing an unpredictable switch in the lane's direction. I could not believe my eyes. Was I perhaps imagining this?

"Rae," My heart raced at the angelic sight, "you're… smiling?"

Even then, I also recalled just how much brighter her eyes had twinkled like glitter before me. What was it that made her so blindingly enchanting?

Rae thrummed a tune of ponder, lowering my heartfelt message down to her lap and glanced at me. Realistically speaking, nothing prepared me for anything that could have possibly came out of her dainty lips. In spite of the tension rising in the air, the eagerness (for the first time between us ever) became mutual.

Did I hit a soft spot in her heart with mine?

"Uh," I blinked maybe at least twice or more, "Rae?"

"Sorry, I was left in a daze," replied Rae after an abrupt moment of silence.

"A-ah, is that so?" My eyes anxiously met hers after shortly stealing a glimpse at her welcoming - yet occupied - lap. Interestingly, her godly smile didn't waver.

God, what an angel…

"Did you say something earlier?" asked Rae.

After a thoughtful pause, I shook my head and cleared my throat.

"No, it was nothing, never mind." I buried my interlocked hands into my own lap as I rubbed my thumbs against one another. "So, what does the letter say this time? Anything noteworthy?"

Act natural.

I'm most likely just overthinking it. Maybe it was someone else's letter? No, what type of excuse is that!? I would have been the first to hear of this! I am the one who wakes Rae up first thing in the morning: this routine of ours has never changed and never will. I will stand by this. I would have known before she did.

"Well," Rae began, snapping me out of my jumbled up mind, "I've been compared to the sun. Not sure if that means anything."

It means everything, Rae. I will make you see that. Even if the truth is not yet clear to you.

I nervously giggled. "Well, I suppose she's not wrong." I simpered and tilted my head at my ball of sunshine, who'd suddenly stood up in a calm and collected manner. I then pondered aloud, "Is something the matter?"

Rae shook her head, walked towards me and stood beside me, focusing on the desk. I pivoted myself to check up on what she was doing.

"Wha-!?" My lips blurted out on their own volition as my attention had found itself on the opened drawer. There was no way… Rae - she - you…? You kept them all? All of the letters? Honestly, it never hit my mind just how many I'd written for her within the span of a month for every morning and night and maybe the afternoon and evenings.

I just genuinely couldn't help myself. There was just so much I wanted to say to her directly - from the bottom of my heart.

"You know," Rae uncharacteristically said, folding up today's morning letter and adding it to the copious collection, "I had a feeling it was you behind the letters."

My heart dropped.

"Huh…?" I shakily tried my hardest to register what Rae was insinuating, but I already had a gut feeling.

"When you stand before me, I feel as if my heart will bloom into yours as I ascend to the heavenly gods from above."

My eyebrow twitched at that. Why did that line feel so vaguely familiar? Could that have been a line I wrote for the first letter I'd accidentally left on that fateful day? No, maybe it was the fourth letter. No, the twentieth? Fiftieth?

Shutting the drawer, I'd mentally slapped myself out of this internal and utterly preposterous self-debate.

"Sounds familiar, doesn't it?" added Rae. I finally fixed my view from her soft hand to her… eyes that came into contact with mine.

"It-it does," I murmured.

Why was I losing my footing? Wait, no, did I just admit something I shouldn't have!? Oh, I hope she didn't hear that.

"A-anyways," I shot up from my seat after clearing my throat, "we should get going to class."

Before I could even reach the door with a couple baby steps, Rae's delicate grip caught me by the wrist, freezing me on the spot as if she were an Ice Queen stunning her opponents in a duel. I couldn't bring myself to turn around and look at her in the eyes.

Why…? Why did I feel so much shame? Why did she - how did she…?

My heart ached.

My throat clogged up.

My stomach churned.

My legs were giving out.

Cold sweat trickled down my neck.

I was just being dramatic. I'm just a recreant. I just-

"Misha," Rae wrapped her arms around me, her chest pushing up against my back, "calm down."

"You…" Trembling, I deeply exhaled. "You weren't supposed to know."

"Why's that?" Rae gently questioned my improvised reasoning; this really wasn't supposed to happen. Was my handwriting becoming too obvious?

"I… I don't know." I gulped. 

Tormentingly dreadful quiet moments ticked by as Rae's warming hug tightened a little. This must be a nightmare! It has to be!

"You know," Rae broke the daunting silence, "I couldn't sleep well last night. I kept thinking about who has been leaving those letters. Then, there you were, at the door. I wondered what you were doing with that envelope in your hand."

To hear Rae's voice for a longer period of time than per usual... I enjoyed every moment of it; your voice is just too soothing to ignore.

Wait.

"You saw…?"

Rae saw me planting the letter on the floor last night!?

"I saw." Rae embraced me rather intensely. My heart was about to explode. "When I connected the dots, I felt inexplicable joy I never thought I would."

"What… do you mean?" I queried.

Rae let out a cute titter I never thought I'd hear. "Your letters made me really happy," she admitted with a lighter tone I wasn't all too familiar with but melted into. "Really, I mean it."

"Is… is that so?" I failed to improve my composure.

"I'm serious."

"You don't," I hesitated, "think I'm disgusting?"

"Why would I?"

"Because…! I mean, we're both girls, so-"

"Where's the issue in that?"

"Huh?"

As assertive as her alleged perspective on this situation at hand was, I could definitely sense a quiver that wasn't mine.

Could it be?

Rae, you're the same as me?

"If only I could be open and honest with you, I would whisper you an original love song - just for you."

"R-Rae!" My entire face blew up into a tomato. "Please, no more! It's embarrassing."

Rae giggled at me and that alone was music to my ears. Albeit, I'm more grateful that she can't see my flustered expression right now. I never really took into account just how awkward my writing was.

More importantly, what I yearned for most was an answer.

"Hey, Rae?" I turned my head to the side very reluctantly. "Are you… also a homosexual - like me?"

Momentarily thereafter, Rae pulled away slightly, my person remaining in her comforting palms. Her hushed nature was solely her being her ordinary self but right here and now was a whole different story. I spun around and finally gazed upon her: my beautiful Rae.

Rae averted her gaze and nodded ever so nervously. Why are you so… adorable?

"Then…" My foot stepped one forward closer to Rae without my permission as my impatient hands found their way onto Rae's waist, "can I experience a relationship with you? Not as your best friend, but as your… lover."

Chapter Text

"Rae, I want you to be mine."

Rae blinked.

"Huh…?"

Overbearingly deafening silence hung over the atmosphere as it had before the uncharacteristically suffocating air was broken with such peculiar words Rae had not expected to escape Misha's lips.

Not too long ago did Rae have to be separated from Claire as she was no longer needed as a maid thanks to Manaria's antics, and upon hearing this fact, Misha had stepped in, inviting Rae to a tea party by the arbour that the nobles frequently had their social gatherings in too. That said, once both Rae and Misha settled themselves into their own seats, on opposite sides of the table and facing each other, there was a sense of awkwardness between them.

This wasn't normal.

On one hand, there was an itching feeling at the back of Rae's mind that Misha had discovered newly found information that she could have happened to stumble across and wanted to confront Rae about it - yet on the other, Rae felt as if there was nothing of the sort; after all, she had nothing physical to hide other than her past life.

Regardless, in a way, Rae had a feeling that she would have preferred that conversation to have taken place between them instead of… whatever Misha just instigated.

Rae gawked at Misha's face.

Oh.

She was serious.

Like, dead serious.

Rae forced a laugh. "What kind of joke is that?"

Misha crossed her arms. "You don't believe me?" Her eyebrow twitched.

"You're so funny, you should consider being a comedian sometime!" Rae chortled.

Misha tutted. "I don't understand you." She shook her head disapprovingly. "Why are you even interested in Miss Claire?" She leaned forward a tad bit. "Why not pursue - I don't know - me?" She sarcastically shrugged.

Reasonably so, Rae's jaw-dropped. Was she in a dream? Was this Misha's doppelganger attempting to create a barricade between her and Claire already? For what reason? This wasn't in the script! Not one that Rae was aware of anyway: maybe there was a bug? Can that even happen when you're reincarnated into the world? It's not like she's stuck in the game, right? These are two completely different scenarios!

Rae burst out cackling in the fakest way possible, slapping a frown on Misha's face. So that's how it's going to be, huh, Rae?

"What kind of question is that?" Rae tilted her head, nervously giggling. "Miss Claire is my everything! You - of all people - would know that!"

"Don't evade my question," Misha hissed through her gritted teeth.

Rae sighed. "Look, you know how much I-"

"Be quiet," Misha snapped back. "I don't want to hear you say her name over and over and over again!"

Eyes widening, Rae had shrunk as Misha's easily lost composure towered over her. Just what was going on!? Wasn't this the kind of conflict that is supposed to occur if the player of Revolution were to choose Yu's route? Had Rae accidentally triggered flags for Yu's route? No, but if that was the case, then why hadn't Misha said anything about him yet?

"What… What's gotten into you!?" Rae cried, anxious at this sudden flip in character.

"I should be asking you the same thing!" Misha shot back. "Ever since we first enroled into this academy, you've done nothing but coddle Claire. I don't like how she's your 'everything'. No, in fact, I hate it!" Slamming a fist on the table, Misha darted her fiery glare at Rae, who was supposed to be her childhood friend and nothing else. "It's not like you at all! It's not the Rae I know!"

Rae's heart dropped. Had she truly been found out as she initially thought? Maybe she had been rather obvious since the very beginning…?

"I hate how you talk about her when she's not even here," added Misha, not breaking eye contact as if she were a hunter waiting for the precise moment to pounce on its prey. "Why is she your only focus when she's done nothing but caused you grief? How can you love someone you've barely known!? You never pay attention to me anymore!"

Was she drunk or something? No, drinking is not something Misha would do out of the blue - she was a very busy woman!

Gobsmacked, Rae uncomfortably sat still, sinking into the horrors of the unknown while she watched Misha take a fair amount of time to take a breather from spewing envious spitballs.

"Miss Claire this," Misha slanted to the left, "Miss Claire that," She then slanted to the right as she rolled her eyes before jerking upright, "I'm sick and tired of it!" Immediately afterwards, Misha gripped the round table and catapulted it aside: an audible splash following thereafter as shards of the teapot, teacups and saucers were shattered from a gorgeous work of art to worthless litter needing to be disposed of all over the floor. It was like a field of landmines.

Unconcerned, Misha closed in on Rae with just a couple of booming footsteps and firmly grabbed her by her shirt's collar.

"I want you to say my name." Misha yanked on Rae's collar.

"Wh-" Rae tried to avert her gaze yet couldn't. "I-" Her body fidgeted on her own volition. "Huh?"

"Go on," Misha pried, leaning closer. "You have no problems chanting that petty noble's name, so what's the problem?"

"W-well, I-" Rae attempted to wiggle her way out of this one.

Instantly, Misha clutched Rae's shoulders. "You're not going anywhere." Straddling Rae's lap, Misha enveloped Rae's chilling warmth in her needy arms.

"M-Misha!?" Rae couldn't flee this one!

Misha's eyes twinkled at that as well as the tips of her ears tingled. Finally, some progress. Smirking at Rae ever so confidently, Misha twirled Rae's hair around her longing finger.

"See, that wasn't too hard, was it?" Misha cupped Rae's cheek into her desperate palm. "Say it again."

"B-but-"

Hushing Rae, Misha seductively slid a finger up to Rae's usually vulgar yet (more importantly) soft lips. As much as Rae would have hated to admit it, her cheeks did heat up from this typically stern face twisting itself into an appealling attraction - not to mention the touch of another girl on her: a very beautiful one at that.

No, Rae would have wanted Claire to do this to her! The beautiful blonde! The love of her life! The girl of her dreams!

And yet…

Whatever Misha was doing was working.

Claire François? Who was that?

"That worthless noble isn't here - I am." Misha leaned in more, purring into Rae's ear. "Obey me for once. Love me the way you claim to 'love' her."

Rae muttered under her breath, "M-Misha, I-"

Jolting up, Rae squeaked. Misha had held a tight grasp on her hair and pulled on it.

"You like getting hurt, don't you? I can fulfill your fantasies." Her wicked grin was hidden from Rae's view.

"E-eh…!?" Rae caught her breath. "Seriously, Misha, what happened to you!?"

"The way you've changed as the person you are now," With her freehand, Misha ripped Rae's blazer open, "really, really gets me going." Losing her breath from all of this enticement, Misha heavily panted in Rae's ear.

Rae trembled. "M-Misha…?"

"I can ravish you in ways you'll never forget." Digging her fingernails into Rae's nape, Misha had hit a beautiful weak spot, forcing a suggestive whimper and euphoric twitch out of Rae. Then, Misha scratched down to her back, leaving red imprints behind, carving her adoration into Rae's skin.

"And I'll make sure you'll never speak of that bitch's name ever again." Wrapping her aggressive fingers around Rae's neck, Misha drooped her head forward, almost resting it on Rae's chest, before pushing her thumbs against Rae's throat. Misha was shaking, unable to stop herself from leering at all of the thoughts she planted into her brain.

Hot and bothered, Rae merely took it, her entire face painted crimson - encaptivated and under Misha's spell. This time, there were no complaints.

"You will forever belong to the Jur's name."

Gradually did Misha raise her head, tilting it to the side slightly, allowing her hair to naturally slither away from her once hidden face. Now, one half was uncovered, revealing the intense glint she had suppressed all this time: her possessive nature.

"My dear Rae."

Chapter Text

Misha's POV

Deeply inhaling and exhaling, I closed the door behind me. Finally, after such a long, busy day of running around the academy working on extra tasks that I wasn't necessarily needed for, I could finally retire to my bed.

To be honest, I'd expected Rae to tackle me to the ground with a warming yet aggressive embrace. That's what she would normally do after all. Well, I say 'normally', but in reality, it's very unlike her compared to how I've known her all these years. Though, not like I'm complaining.

As I caught up with my thoughts, I'd ultimately snapped myself out of my daze as I realised I was staring at the very girl I had in mind. Ah, she was asleep already? Admittedly, I was quite disappointed to be unable to lay my eyes upon her adorable sleeping face.

I slapped my cheek.

What am I thinking?

I must be really tired.

Gulping, I stiffened up on the spot. I hoped I didn't accidentally wake her up from such a sudden noise. Concerned, I gawked at Rae, who merely faced the wall and she had not moved an inch. Thank god. As relieved as I was, I must admit that I was a little worried as she appeared a bit too still to my liking. Almost lifeless.

I shook my head. My exhaustion's just getting to me.

A tune of wonder hummed through my lips as I observed Rae's position: she was still in her school uniform…? Perhaps she, too, was knackered. Though, as fatigued as she could be, it wasn't essentially like her to not change into her pyjamas at the very least.

Honestly, I wished I wasn't as busy as I was; I could've spent more time with her and checked up on her more frequently. Very rarely do we discuss each other's days as we used to, albeit it was more of me doing the talking as she always used to simply stare and nod along with uneventful sighs.

Letting out another long sigh, I walked towards one of the desks closeby and put my light bag on it. Maybe I should do some studying before I head to bed; there will always be enough time during the evening to nighttime after all. I placed a few textbooks down on the surface and tucked the bag under the desk before letting out a disappointed hum. A shame I don't have Rae to guide me through some of the content. As independent as I was, even I had trouble problem-solving and would often go to Rae for some support ever since her results from the first exams we took here were revealed.

She truly is something, huh? Spectactular. Very impressive.

Frozen in place, I'd found myself spacing out blankly at the textbooks. To be honest, as much as I wanted to be studious for another day, there was no bone in my body that had an ounce of motivation in it. I awkwardly thought about it some more, but I genuinely couldn't push myself into this, could I?

I wondered why that was.

Coming back to my senses with a yawn, I gazed up at the wall as it lazily stared back at me. This air… was suffocating. Could it be due to my lack of Rae dosage? No, what does that even mean? The ringing in my ears was all I could really make out at this point and nothing else had made sense in my mind anymore. Rummaging through my mind was rendered futile and even attempting to follow the usual routine tonight felt out of place. What puzzle piece was I missing? Or rather, who?

Shutting my eyes, I shook my head once more. What incoherent nonsense am I thinking about now? It's probably nothing. I'm just overthinking it.

Not long after, my eyes shot wide open as I sensed a shift in the atmosphere, letting my body instinctively spin around.

I yelped, stumbling backwards but was saved by the desk.

Huh?

I blinked, utterly flabbergasted.

Anxiety melted into relief.

I sighed. "Rae, you have to stop startling me like this."

I held Rae's shoulders with the conflicting intent of carefully pushing her away later as it registered to me that she'd enwrapped me in a tight embrace that I had missed earlier. Truthfully, I expected warmth. I suppose she didn't wrap herself in the blanket, so that would explain it. I pondered if I was her plush at this rate.

An odd quietness daunted over us, but not the kind I wanted nor did I hope for. Lowering my head, all I could really see was her soft hair. I tilted my head to the side but still couldn't make anything out of what could have possibly been going through her mind. It's not like it's the first time she's buried her face into my chest like this, so I didn't really think much of it; there was no reason to.

I heard a hiccup and experienced light yet violent trembling that wasn't from own my fatigue. Weakly hissing through her jittering teeth, Rae's hug strengthened.

"Rae…?" I anxiously called out, my heart dropping as Rae sniffed and choked on her breath. "Rae, what's wrong?" I enveloped Rae into my loving arms and delicately stroked her head.

I momentarily waited patiently for an answer.

This wasn't right. Something's wrong.

"Rae, please talk to me," I gently whispered, but Rae whimpered, squeezing my back. "Oh, Rae…" I rubbed her back.

We stood like this for god knows how long. Time didn't concern me anymore. Studying was nothing to me whatsoever right now. I've never seen - no - felt Rae being in such a vulnerable state before. My heart ached for her, almost as if we shared the pain.

This was the last emotion I wanted to witness Rae experience.

I'd observed every single movement Rae had made ever since: the day she smiled for the first time, the day she let out a genuine laugh, the day she provided warmth upon my face. Of course, it came as a surprise to me, but it was a very welcoming one. Yes, I must confess that I found her behaviour strange and eccentric at first, but watching Rae find life in herself felt so comforting that I held back on questioning her about it.

I wondered how she would cope with another emotion she may not have been too familiar with. Though, I'm not really one to talk. I rested my cheek on Rae's head and waited for her to calm down at her own pace - it was all I could really do. Gulping, I could sense my throat tightening as I tensed up, so I hoped to soothe my nerves by fiddling with Rae's hair. Frankly, it worked almost immediately; it was so fluffy!

Without thinking twice, I put Rae's hair up to my lips and took in the sweet scent with honour. To think I'd cherish you this dearly…

"I'm… I'm s-sorry," stammered Rae at last, a tiny bit muffled but audible enough for me to hear, piercing me with daggers.

"You don't have to apologise, it's OK, Rae," I fondly reassured her.

Rae's grip loosened as so did mine afterwards, but neither of us let go of each other. There was a brief delay, but Rae did eventually shakily straighten herself upright and hesitantly met my eyes. I felt as if my heart was going to be torn to shreds. Nothing but despair and anguish was written all over her face.

Who hurt my Rae?

Her face longed to say something, but she was holding herself back. Please, don't do this to me. Let me be there for you.

"Hey," I tenderly wiped a tear away from Rae's face with my thumb, cupping her cheek in my palm, "what's weighing on your mind?"

Rae flinched at the question. I seriously wanted to hug her again.

"I'd… rather not talk about it," she dejectedly replied.

"I understand. I won't pry if you don't want me to."

Rae leaned into my palm and she carefully held my hand with an endearing yet melancholic expression. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be."

"I-it's nothing serious anyway. Something… just reminded me of the past, is all."

A pause erupted between us.

"I see."

Was there something you never got to tell me back then? I knew that Rae used to not be the type to talk at all but even then, I always sensed a mutual appreciation for our presence around one another. Personally speaking, I was always comfortable around her. In fact, the sight of her never failed to put me at ease like a lullaby putting me into a peaceful slumber.

I can't recall anyone having any issues with Rae all those years ago. I mean, why would they? I yearned to know everything about her but it's not like I could force her. Whatever was weighing heavy on her mind clearly wasn't a pleasant memory and I didn't want to harm her any further.

I pulled Rae closer to me by the waist. "Well, I'm always here for you if you need me, OK?"

In return, Rae nodded anxiously.

Please smile, Rae. That's all I could ever ask for. Please jest as you usually would nowadays. Seeing you this way doesn't feel right! The Rae then, I adored. The Rae now, I still adore! And I will never not treasure you.

"Here," I slid my handkerchief out of my pocket and offered it to her, "use this, I'll wash it later."

"Thank you." Rae took it.

"Of course, my darling."

I perked up as it finally happened: Rae smiled! Such a breathtaking sight…! I burned it into my eyes; I wanted to savour this vision for all eternity. A smile crept upon my lips - or rather an ear-to-ear grin.

"Well, aren't you just a flirt!" Rae laughed, jesting out of the blue.

"Huh?" I blinked.

What was that supposed to mean?

Eh?

Wait.

What did I just call her!?

My entire face and ears flamed up.

No! I didn't say that, did I? OK, no, I definitely did. What is wrong with me!? I wanted to bash my head against the wall. I knew for a fact that Rae wouldn't leave this alone after this! Someone kill me now… Should I just jump out the window?

I cleared my throat.

"A-anyways, I was about to head on over and take a bath." I offered a hand. "Would you like to come with me?"

Rae adorably perked up. "I'd love to!"

Seriously, I never would have thought about how cute she could be like this.

Rae looked back down at my chest. "Ah, and sorry about your clothes. Let me wash them."

I shook my head. "Don't worry about it." I helped myself to Rae's hand and held it up to my lips. She was so soft… "Let's get going, shall we?"

I witnessed an even more lovable sight. Rae's cheeks reddened before me. She averted her gaze only for it to land back on me as she twirled her hair around her finger and covered up parts of her face with it. Butterflies filled my stomach.

"You're… you're so unfair," she squeaked. I chuckled at that. I couldn't help but stare at her.

An exhilarating day turned sour only for it to improve later that night had passed. My beautiful Rae and I took our bath, taking turns in washing each other's hair and scrubbing one another's backs. If anything, I felt elated to escort her there and back. I couldn't take my eyes off of her chaotic nature. More importantly, Rae lit back up to her usual self - that alone made me happy.

And… I couldn't believe any of it was reality. This must be the best dream I've ever had and if it's not a dream, then I don't know what is. Rae had let me on her bed to share for the night. They're quite cramped for two, but we made it work somehow…

Huh?

Huh!?

She specifically requested me to lay down first and I had done so without wondering why and then she followed up with a jump, slumping her body on top of mine and cuddled up to me. I seriously thought my heart was going to explode. My face instantly fired up as Rae's giggly breath tickled my neck. This was heaven, wasn't it? No, really, what was real and what wasn't? Oh, I don't care anymore! I'm melting…!

Rae had shifted down a little, resting her head on my chest and giggling some more after a brief pause.

"I can hear your heartbeat from here." Rae ran her fingers through my hair. I don't know how much more my heart can take this. After a moment, she lifted her head up and rested her chin on me instead, looking up at me with bedazzling puppy eyes.

Cute! Too cute! Way too cute!

"Let's just go to sleep," I barely nonchalantly muttered, wrapping my shivering arms around Rae's head and holding her tight as I forced my eyes shut. The idea of patting Rae's head and stroking her hair tempted me, but I worried that I'd mess up her hair…

Hm.

Rae would look cute like that. Perfect, another food for thought for my dreams tonight.

Rae chuckled. "Okie~" I assumed Rae had pulled the blanket over us, and honestly? I think I could get used to this. I don't believe I've had quite the slumber as relaxing as this before.

My blood boiled as I squeezed Rae's cold and pale hand. We'd only just arrived at the classroom.

Hatred and malice had been carved into Rae's desk. These definitely weren't here yesterday.

So you were the ones who hurt my Rae: Disgusting, spiteful, worthless people.

Unforgivable.

You won't get away with this.

Chapter Text

Ralaire's POV

"Sorry, Ralaire; this is private," said Auntie Misha. "Go play with Miss Claire, OK?" Auntie Misha shut the door. But why? What's private? I want to know what's happening!

I slid through the crack under the door. I hopped and giggled. Yay, I did it! I did it!

Auntie Misha was sitting on Mama Rae's lap on the bed, and they were hugging. And they looked at me. Why were their faces so close to each other? I blinked at them.

"Ralaire," Auntie Misha looked at me weirdly, "what did I just tell you?"

I blinked. I looked at Mama Rae but she didn't look at me. Auntie Misha huffed, got off Mama Rae and went over to me. Auntie Misha picked me up and put me outside again. I bounced on the spot. Let me back in! I wormed under the door.

"Ralaire!?" Mama Rae said out loud. Why was Mama Rae… not being Mama Rae?

Auntie Misha spun around. Her hand was a ball - like me!

"Ralaire…" Auntie Misha was looking at me funny. Why was Auntie Misha not being Auntie Misha? Auntie Misha picked me back up, opened the door and rolled me outside.

Should I wait a bit? But I want Mama Rae! I want Auntie Misha! I looked at the door.

Tick tock. Tick tock. Tick tock.

I went under the door again!

For some reason, I think Auntie Misha's face was buried in Mama Rae's neck. I think I heard a popping sound. There was also another weird noise that Mama Rae made.

I didn't want to get spotted this time! C'mon, let's hide over there! To the desk I go~!

"Ralaire's here…" Mama Rae said quietly.

I think Auntie Misha said something but I didn't hear what. Auntie Misha held her stick thing and pointed it at me. I was blown away! Out of the door I went!

I was out in the hallway again! No, let me back in!

I was just kicked out again.

Let me in!

I was thrown out.

Auntie Misha's magic won't stop me!

I hit the wall when I was thrown out to the hall.

One more!

Woohoo!

Again! Again!

Yay~!

Eh? Auntie Misha stopped? I was back in the room and waited. The stick thing was on the floor. I can't see Auntie Misha and Mama Rae anymore. Where did they go? Auntie Misha and Mama Rae must still be on the bed! I can talk to them now!

A hand threw a white cloth to the floor.

I blinked.

What's this? Is this the thing that Auntie Misha, Mama Rae and Mama Claire wear around their necks or something? I heard another odd sound and heavy breathing.

I slid to the bed and bounced on it. Auntie Misha! Mama Rae! Look, I'm here!

Mama Rae's shirt was open. Auntie Misha is so sweet! Auntie Misha even helps Mama Rae change!

I hopped and hopped and hopped. I'm here! Look at me! Look! Lookie! Auntie Misha's hand went on Mama Rae's chest. Did Auntie Misha think Mama Rae to be made of that sweet? The choco!? Oh, yummy!

Mama Rae looked really red. Was Mama Rae sick? Oh, Auntie Misha really is amazing! Auntie Misha is always there for Mama Rae! I love Auntie Misha and Mama Rae!

I jumped again but Auntie Misha caught me in the air and threw me away.

BUT WHY!?

Oh, that's it! I can do just that! I got it! I have an idea!

I rolled away! I don't know where to! I closed my eyes and let the wind take me! Yay~! This is so fun!

Now, where could he be? Oh, I know! The… courtyard or something?

Uncle Thane! Uncle Thane! Uncle Thane!

I bounced up on Uncle Thane's leg and climbed up to his shoulder. Uncle Thane looked at me. I looked back at Uncle Thane.

We stared.

I blinked.

Uncle Thane nodded.

Yay! Yay! I love Uncle Thane! Uncle Thane is so cool!

Uncle Thane held me like the ball I am. I felt Uncle Thane's power in his hand as he pulled back, stomped a foot to the ground and threw me towards the long window above.

Was I a bird? Was I a plane? No, I'm an arrow!

I'll break the-

I splat onto the window. I'm OK! But what was this green mist?

I snuck into the cracks of the window and balled myself up again. I jumped on and sat on the desk.

I blinked.

Was Mama Rae always naked?

Chapter Text

Misha's POV

"Hey, Misha~!" Rae gleefully called out to me from behind, tackling me into an embrace I didn't essentially ask for, but it's not like I was complaining. "Have you seen Miss Claire around?"

Oh.

"I can't find her anywhere!"

So that's what this was about. Typical.

I deeply inhaled and exhaled. "She went on a trip, remember?"

"Oh yeah!" Rae perked up and twirled her way in front of me. "I totally forgot!" She giggled, lightly hitting her temple and sticking her tongue out with a wink that was followed by a star. Admittedly, it was rather endearing, albeit irksome.

I sighed once more. "There's no need to act as if it's the end of the world or something." I shrugged and rubbed my temples. Sometimes, this girl can be a headache… and gives me one. What was this? A curse?

"No, you don't understand!" Rae snapped back at me, hopping up like Ralaire would. Speaking of, I wonder where she was? "Miss Claire is my life! No Claire, no life!" She stomped on the ground and waved her fists in the air like a child having a temper tantrum.

"Whatever you say." I snatched Rae's hand from out of the air. "If you're this lonely, then why don't we go and help ourselves to some lunch together?"

Rae hummed a tune of wonder. "Well~ I guess I got no choice, huh?"

The nerve!

"You sound oddly disappointed," I told her, not breaking eye contact as I squeezed her hand.

"Oh, c'mon, Misha!" Rae spewed, "You know me! Like, I mean, Miss Claire's not here! Life is dull without her!"

I held back from rolling my eyes.

"Sure, sure, whatever you say. Let's just get going."

"Roger that!" Rae saluted and we walked side by side together. I wrapped my arm around Rae's and held her tight as we strolled down the hallway.

The canteen wasn't that far by any means: in fact, I was initially planning on going there anyway, so it was quite a shame; I was truly enjoying Rae's infectious warmth - not to mention her arm pressing up against my breast… What - who said that?

Stepping foot into said canteen, we went to go and grab our food and sit ourselves down on one of the dining tables closeby the window. Usually, I'd prefer to sit on the opposite side of where Rae would, but today, I felt otherwise.

Rae cried, "Eating without Miss Claire should be a crime!" she proclaimed, most likely attaining the attention of many around us due to her absurd nature - that I did find intriguing in a way. "This is so heartbreaking! I don't know how much longer my heart can take this, Misha!" The table vibrated as Rae kicked her feet up and down. "Miss Claire's my everything! Without Miss Claire, then what am I!?" She slammed the table. "A nobody! I'm a faceless character! Wait, no, does that make me an NPC!?"

I blinked at her.

"Just what are you talking about?" I sighed.

"Oops, did I say too much?" Rae tilted her head like an adorable puppy before she started giggling. "I just really, really, really miss Miss Claire! I mean, who wouldn't!?"

Me.

I thrummed a musical ponder. "If you miss her that much, then I suppose it can't be helped."

"Hey! Why are you making it sound like it's hopeless!?"

Because it is.

"Miss Claire will come back!" Rae triumphantly claimed. "She will, right!?"

My eyebrow twitched.

"Rae, she's gone on a trip," I reminded her.

"Yeah, without telling me!"

"She probably just wanted some quiet time to herself from a barker."

"Hey, what's that supposed to mean?" Rae growled at me but I could tell it was playful. How cute.

I lightly chuckled back. "Say, I have an idea: what if I became your Claire François until she makes her return?"

Rae crossed her arms to form the letter X with them. "Absolutely not!"

OK.

"It wouldn't feel the same!" she added instantly. "It's not right! I'd be cheating on her!"

Is that so?

"Don't act like you're a couple." I wagged my finger at her.

"But~ we so are!" Rae clasped her hands together and put them up to her cheek. Sure you are. "Y'know, I've been told that we act like an old married couple!"

I scoffed in disbelief. "Oh, and who said that?"

Rae pointed at herself. "Me, of course!" She stuck her tongue out.

I let out another long sigh. "So it's just another one of your delusional fantasies."

"I mean~" Rae waved her chopsticks at me, "they're not wrong!"

I tilted my head. "Who's they?"

Rae chomped on her food and messily answered, "Rae and Taylor!" Or - well - at least that's what I could make out from that.

I cleared my throat and folded my arms. "Commoner!" I stuck my nose up in the air as I furrowed my eyebrows. "Have you no shame?"

Rae was taken aback, blinking, registering what exactly I'd just said. What a precious response. As a matter of fact, she looked almost convinced: perhaps I'm missing something.

"Have you forgotten what basic manners are?" I huffed. "I didn't expect anything less from a lowly commoner!"

Rae's jaw was dropped but she barely squeaked an intrigued, "Misha…" with sparkles in her eyes. After a brief pause, Rae slapped a grin on her face.

"And wipe that cheeky grin off your face!" I shot at her.

Rae cackled. "I can't help myself when you're being so adorable, Miss Cl-"

"Jur."

Sinking down her chair a little, Rae audibly gulped.

"Right, right, Miss Jur," she awkwardly said, nodding along.

I smirked at this.

"That's more like it!" I raised my voice as that rowdy and proud noble would. "For an unruly commoner, you sure do know your place! As all commoners should!"

"Yes, yes, praise me more!" Rae begged a little too excitedly but I enjoyed that.

"Commoner!" a voice that wasn't mine shrieked. My brow twitched once more.

"There you are!" yelled the pink-haired noble, who stood by the freckled-face noble. "We've been looking all over for you!"

I wonder why.

"Oh, look, it's the flunkies," Rae gossiped to me nonchalantly. At least that was something we could agree on.

"We have names, you know!" the freckled-face noble retorted. Who cares.

"Yeah, yeah, I get it, Laura." Rae dismissively waved her hand at them. I almost burst out laughing.

"This petty commoner…!" The freckled-face noble balled her hand into a fist and violently shook it in front of her. It's quite the benefit for nobility to have been taught that self-restraint is important because we'd otherwise have some problems.

"Anyways," the pink-haired noble butted in, "more importantly, have you seen Miss Claire? We've looked everywhere!"

Subconsciously, I placed my hand on Rae's knee, squeezing it a tad bit. In the corner of my eye, I could tell that Rae gazed down and at me in bewilderment but unfortunately turned her attention back to these unwelcoming and uninvited visitors. Truthfully, I observed their reactions and they were raising eyebrows - most likely at Rae. After all, no one can see what's happening under the table, can they?

"She went on a trip!" Rae replied at last. "What, did she not tell you either?" She gasped. "Maybe she's forgotten about you too!?"

The freckled-face noble frowned. "I don't want to hear such insolent remarks out of your mouth of all people!"

"Thanks for nothing!" The pink-haired noble held the freckled-face noble by the arm. "Come on, Loretta, this preposterous commoner is useless!" They dragged their sorry selves away.

I hope you take those words back the next time I see you.

"Bye, Petra!" Rae aggressively waved her hand up in the air. "Bye, Laura!"

"And that's not what we're called!" one of them screamed back from afar. Seriously, we don't care. You're not special.

"They're quite infuriating, aren't they?" I whispered to Rae.

"Tell me about it!" Rae shook me by the shoulders. "All they do is nag, nag, nag and nag at me!" Like a crab, she repeatedly opened and closed her claws, definitely mimicking their irritating nature. "Only Miss Claire can do that!"

Uh-huh.

"As if you don't pester Miss Claire?" I teased. I guess.

"What do you mean!?" Rae looked offended. "I don't annoy Miss Claire! I shower her with all my love!" She puckered her lips as if she were going to kiss someone in the weirdest way possible.

Honestly, I was tempted. Yet in reality, my blood boiled.

"Rae." I quickly caught Rae's attention as I enveloped Rae's neck in my arm, leaning closer as my freehand held a firm grip on Rae's arm.

"Yeah?"

"This may sound utterly ridiculous, but I have a favour to ask of you. Mind if you hear me out?"

"Sure thing!" Rae looked like she wanted to jump for joy. "What is it?"

"Well," I paused abruptly, "I'm rather curious about something…" My words momentarily trailed off as I reluctantly let go of Rae to twirl my long strands of hair around my finger. "And I was wondering if it'd look good on me."

The blonde noble wiggled helplessly as her ankles and wrists were bound together - her loud mouth muffled by cloth gagging her.

"Say, how do you like my hair? It looks familiar, doesn't it?" I swished my drills to the right, twinkling under the beautiful night light. "Rae did them for me and she said it suited me perfectly!"

She tried to worm around but to no avail. I grinned at the fear in her eyes.

"My apologies for the lack of hospitality. I couldn't quite afford a casket for you, but I'm certain this grave will suffice." I innocently giggled with a shovel in hand.

I will always be Rae's favourite.

Chapter Text

Misha's POV

"Open your eyes at once!" a demanding and refined voice from behind echoed within the classroom. First thing in the morning and on the first day, huh? Already, there is an issue between a noble and a commoner - no doubt about it. "This is not humourous whatsoever!" she remarked. "Excuse me? Are you even listening!?"

This will never end, will it? As long as I bury my head into the ground and not dare meet eyes with the François's, there shouldn't be too much trouble.

"Huh?" A squeak from a girl's lips followed. One that I was oddly familiar with. After a thoughtful blink, I twisted my body around. Indeed, there she was: Rae. I wondered where she'd gone, but to be frank, she always was the type to wander off without my knowledge. I thought we'd gone over this plenty of times.

Oh dear, to think she'd be the one finding herself in such a predicament with a much higher-status noble like this. How did she find herself in this mess? I couldn't help but gawk at the situation; Rae wasn't one for communication nor understanding her surroundings. What can I do…?

"A mere commoner has the nerve to share the same desk as me?" boomed Claire with her arms folded. "Know your place!"

Can I even de-escalate this?

Rae murmured something but I couldn't quite hear what. To be honest, it was quite a shame to be seated far from my best friend - I hope she'd mingle well with the other students but with how things are going right now, it appears to be nothing but a rocky road down the line.

"My word!" Claire scoffed in disbelief. "You dare address me by my name alone?"

My eyebrows raised. That was unexpected to say the least. Rae would never. As an ex-noble myself, I'd reminded her about respect and using the correct honorifics and the like. Additionally, it was mere common knowledge around here, so it's not as if I needed to lecture Rae about this all that much but once; she was always an obedient girl who didn't sought out trouble. As a matter of fact, she was the complete opposite of troublesome.

Despite that, cold sweat found its way on my hands. Nobility is not to be ridiculed nor treated as a playful matter whatsoever. Yet, what am I thinking? This is Rae! Perhaps it was a slip-up? No, but Rae would never. Rae was bound to never hear the end of it and I worried for her reputation in the academy from this incident. What if she were to be bullied because of this? Oh no…

Rae appeared as if she were in a daze as per usual. I wondered why she was slumped over - had she fallen asleep? May-haps she was exhausted from the sudden change in environment. I couldn't essentially blame her for that; adapting to a new area she wasn't familiar with was never truly her forte. I'll encourage to get plenty of rest later. And hopefully, without issue.

Curiously did Rae observe her surroundings: even we met eyes but she glossed over my presence. That wasn't much out of the ordinary. Soon, she laid her eyes back on Claire.

"Miss Claire," Rae said.

"Yes, that's right!" Claire triumphantly stuck her nose up in the air. "A lowly commoner like you must address a profound noble like myself properly!"

I sighed in relief. Thank god. Rae dodged a bullet for the most part, but she did unfortunately gather the attention of the entire class, which wasn't ideal. I'll be sure to check up on her after this.

"Do you remember my name?" Rae asked.

Huh? Is that really something you're supposed to ask a noble? More like, why would Rae question such a thing in the first place? It's almost as if she longed and expected a positive answer. I was so gobsmacked that it'd only just now hit me at how uncharacteristically wordy that was for Rae; she's never spoken to anyone before.

That's when I noticed it.

That… peculiar sparkle in her eyes.

That…

That's not Rae.

It can't be.

"Are you mocking me," Claire pointed at Rae, "Rae Taylor?"

The bright twinkle in Rae's eyes were fixed on the irritated Claire.

And she was… grinning?

That's not Rae.

Just who is that? Her face matched Rae's. The voice was… not the same per se.

Maybe I got her mixed up with someone else? Like a doppelganger? No, that's rather far-fetched, let alone an out of pocket assumption. Then again, her hair style is quite common, so I wouldn't be surprised by any means.

"I like you," Rae pronounced out of the blue.

I froze. That voice…!

"Huh?" Claire blinked.

I witnessed Rae stand up and held Claire's hands in hers.

"I'm in love with you and I don't care who knows it!" she announced at the top of her lungs with a lively blush I've never seen before.

My heart dropped.

Those eyes… This voice… They don't belong to Rae. Or does this girl not belong to Rae? Am I going crazy? Also, did she just confess to a girl? And a noble of the François House at that. That's just… preposterous! Something - no - everything was very wrong. That girl isn't Rae. Not the Rae I know. Not my Rae, no.

Could it be love at first sight? No, that's ridiculous, if anything - that just doesn't exist! There's no chemistry and I just can never wrap my head around it. I can't read between the lines of what was occurring before me. That girl and Claire exchanged some words but my ringing ears merely drowned them out.

Rae, you weren't like this this morning. What's gotten into you? I mean, I suppose we've never discussed about romance before, so it's not as if I would know what Rae could be like if she were put in a scenario where love was involved.

But…

A girl?

She was a homosexual?

I had nothing against her. I'm just… I don't even know what to make of this. Why was she so open about her feelings all of a sudden? Especially to someone she quite literally just met. I've known her for a decade and she's known Claire for - what - five minutes? Was she too scared to me in fear of being rejected and looked down upon?

What am I even saying? She's not Rae. The Rae I know would never. She wouldn't, would she? If you're truly the Rae I know, then you wouldn't hide a secret from me, would you?

You wouldn't… would you?

Who am I kidding? I've put so much doubt into you already. I'm the absurd one here. I'm just overthinking it, aren't I? Yes, that's right, I must be. I should apologise to Rae directly for thinking this way.

"So that's the Rae Taylor you've been telling me about, huh?" Yu snapped me out of my spiral. "What a fascinating girl!"

"I…" I was barely able to utter out, my lips parting ways with nothing but shock and discombobulation written all over them. Afterward, I just gawked at my desk. My heart ached, for some reason.

Yu hummed his wonders beside me. "Is something the matter, Misha?"

"Huh?" I jerked up. "What?" I met eyes with Yu's.

"Are you alright?" he asked with a concern gaze. "You look pale. Would you like me to take you to the infirmary?"

After a stuttering noise escaped my numb mouth, I simply shook my head.

"I appreciate your concerns, but I'm quite fine," I assured Yu.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. Just… thinking, is all."

"That so? I've never seen you think this deeply before." Yu chuckled.

"Yes," I mindlessly answered. "Perhaps I just need to write my thoughts deep down to help clear my mind." I went to do just that after opening my book.

"Uhm, Misha?" Yu awkwardly called out to me after a minute. "You're not even holding a quill."

"Oh." I blinked, dumbfounded at my empty hand. "How clumsy of me."

I went to grab the essential tools ready for class. I could've sworn a pair of eyes stared at me: maybe it was Yu, but I didn't really think about it. Right now, it was… Rae. Surely, that was the same Rae with a blank face who'd quietly nod and follow along as I also would, right? Right!? Right, right, right, I'm sure of it.

I halted in my tracks momentarily.

Why did it matter to me? I mean, in my defence, as passionate as love can be, there's just no way it can cause a dramatically drastic change in someone - even for Rae, this was too much! I'd know! I've known her basically all my life! She was there for me at my worst since my downfall as a fallen noble. I'd found that so humiliating… but Rae? She helped turn my world around.

So then, why am I making such a huge deal out of this? Shouldn't I be happy for her? I mean, I've never seen her so… joyful, full of whimsy and life before.

I spun myself around again. They were still at it. This was all wrong. This felt so wrong. But also so right in a way. Moreso wrong.

Stop. Stop it, Misha. Aren't I just being prejudiced because it's between two girls? Even though Claire's a noble (giving Rae no chance in the long-run anyway) that doesn't mean I should shun Rae for it. I should support who she loves. That's what a good friend would do! If Rae were to hear my thoughts, she'd feel hurt.

My heart felt a jab at that. I could never hurt someone so dear to me.

Maybe… just for now, I can observe. As much as I wanted answers this insant, it may be best to see where this would lead to. After all, I highly doubt this sudden crush of hers will last long. Come on, a noble and a commoner in a homosexual relationship? Society's prejudice wouldn't take it, I'm sure of it.

Stop. God, what is wrong with me!? Rae's happiness matters more than what society says!

A couple of weeks to probably a few weeks whizzed by before I knew it. Somehow, I'd helped Rae get closer to that blonde by stupidly telling her to, in simple terms, play hard-to-get by being a challenger in every scenario, even stooping as low to place a bet through the exams. Frankly, I was frustrated. Angry, even. That blonde had dragged me into her little competition and made me - of all people - to be her and Rae's witness for it. Why was I roped into everything? Not like I could say no at the time anyway.

Why did I encourage this? I enabled such irrational behaviour on Rae's behalf. Sleeping in the same room as this upbeat Rae didn't feel right. I struggled to feel anything. My mind kept asking itself in bed: was I safe? Was I comfortable? Was I in the right place? Most significantly, was I with Rae? I did my very best to convince myself that this was the Rae I knew during those sleepless nights.

But it wasn't precisely the Rae I loved. After all…

"Please feed me, Miss Claire~!" Rae clasped her hands together and leaned closer to that blonde. I wished I was in the blonde's seat right now; it felt right. Being sat on the opposite side of Rae just felt wrong. In the end, I was next to this maid - this didn't necessarily mean much to me.

"How dare a commoner order a noble such as myself around!" the blonde shot back.

I held back from rolling my eyes. Just what did Rae see in her? Was it really just her looks?

"Oh, then let me feed you, Miss Claire!" Rae gleefully offered a spoon of her own dish.

My eyebrow twitched. Rae and I used to feed each other a lot back then.

"A-absolutely not!" the blonde aggressively retorted. "I will not let such a filthy commoner do such a thing."

I opened my mouth and closed it. Seriously… The nerve of this noble!

"Miss Misha, are you feeling well?" out of the blue, the maid asked me. "You look bothered by something."

I instantly replied nonchalantly, "I'm feeling quite swell, thank you."

Rae thrummed a tune of ponder. "Now that you mention it, Misha's been in a daze since this morning!"

Weirdly enough, my heart fluttered at that. Rae paid attention to me…?

"Thinking about Prince Yu, are you!?" Rae roared cheerfully. And I just shrunk. Really?

"Prince Yu?" both the blonde and the maid wondered in unison.

Don't you dare.

"Wait, you're interested in Prince Yu!?" the maid queried for clarity.

Infuriating.

"Lene, tone it down!" the blonde snapped.

"Ah, sorry!" the maid lowered her volume. As if that made much of a difference.

"Oops." Rae was shaken to the core as if she'd just committed treason.

"Just what are you thinking, commoner!? You cannot go around saying something like that!" the blonde exclaimed. Maybe you need to be the one to tone it down because you're more rowdier than the three of us combined. I bit my tongue. There was nothing more I wanted to do other than reaming them out for this. What are we? Little children giggling about short-lived crushes? We've gone long past that.

"Are you all done spewing your nonsense yet?" I sipped my glass of water.

Rae blinked at me. Her staring warmed me up inside like Winter clothing on a snowy day. It'd been a while since she last laid her beautiful orbs on me. I think the other two were taken aback but I really couldn't care less.

"S-sorry, maybe we were too pushy." The maid giggled. Thank you for your self-awareness. I didn't even bother acknowledging her.

"No," Rae butted in, "it's my fault." She held my hand with hers, squeezing mine as if it were a sandwich. Even behind this eccentric persona, she was still Rae, wasn't she? She was. She… I ultimately melted. "Will you forgive me, Misha!?"

I stared back at her as the tips of my ears and cheeks heated up. Her hopeful, gleaming eyes glimmered in anticipation. I've never seen her beg me before.

I liked it.

A random smile crept up to my lips that I had no choice but to avert my gaze, facing away from the two nobodies.

"I wonder about that." I swallowed my awe.

Springing out of her seat, Rae dashed around the table and pulled me into a hug.

"Please, Misha! I'll do anything!" Rae squeezed me tight. Oh, now that's a feeling I haven't felt before.

I raised a brow. "Anything?"

"Anything!"

"In that case…" I trailed off with my words, rummaging through my mind. Would telling her to stop hanging around these people be asking for too much? I thought about it some more. No, I shook my head. I shouldn't take advantage of Rae. However, I will absolutely bear this offer in mind for later. "No, never mind. I forgive you."

"Yay! You're the best!" Rae violently shook me in her embrace. What was I complaining about two weeks ago again? "What would I ever do without an amazing friend like you!?"

I stiffened up.

Right. You weren't Rae. Someone changed you. And that someone was right there.

Next thing I knew, her face was extremely close to mine and I passionately beamed into Rae's red orbs. Magnificient. Majestic. Glamorous. They spelled out Jur before me.

"Uhm… Misha…?" She blinked at me as if I was crazy.

Oh.

I loosened my tight hold on Rae's necktie. I didn't ever recall having such an urge to pull her close to me. I stood up from my seat and grabbed my empty tray.

"Well, I'll be off now," I explained. "Have fun with Miss Claire." I bitterly exchanged glimpses at the other two but I don't think they noticed.

"R-right…" Rae's shyness reminded me of what she was like before our enrolment here. I smiled but frowned almost immediately as I walked away.

Something needed to change. Or rather, someone needed to go.

Ever since that tricky stunt my body pulled without my permission a few days ago, tensions had arose between Rae and I. Honestly, she didn't appear too concerned than I expected her to be, but I didn't dare gloss over it. If this kept up, I wouldn't be able to step foot near Rae for god knows how long. I couldn't handle such a thought becoming an inevitable reality.

So, through the seething hiss of my teeth, I asked to join this girl's tea party one day. Surprise, surprise: she accepted. What was her name again?

"Wowie!" Rae hopped between the tension between her and I. "This is quite the rare occasion, huh! Nice to see ya, Misha!" Rae gave me a bubbly thumbs up.

"The feeling's mutual, Rae." I just really adored saying Rae's name.

For the first time in a hot while, Rae and I exchanged genuine smiles. It felt right.

"Commoner!" Ugh. "Fetch us our tea, why don't you!" Why not do it yourself?

I furrowed my eyebrows and folded my arms as one of my legs kept kicking up and down with my foot tapping the ground at a rapid pace. I'd totally forgotten she was here. She was the one I asked about this tea party, but does that make me give a shit? No. Not at all.

Being reminded of her presence planted many, many, many seeds of deliciously bloody ideas that I'd yearned to do to her. I should bash your head against that pillar over there. Or maybe drown you in the nearby river and dump your body in there. Or perhaps I should bury you alive. Maybe this hot tea would look good when on you. Or would you prefer a knife to the chest? Tormenting you would be entertaining in general.

"Roger that~!" Rae saluted and turned away, working away at the assigned task with glee. I don't get it. No, really, I don't get it. Why do you cherish her so much!?

"Make it four." Demanding again? "Pepi and Loretta will be on their way." Well, that changed everything I had planned. Unless…

"Why, of course, Miss Claire!" Rae dramatically twirled on the spot and bowed before standing upright. "I love you!"

My fingernails clawed my arms.

No.

You're supposed to love me.

"Stop with those sporadic remarks!" Shut the fuck up.

Rae giggled.

That was cute.

I peacefully rested my cheek in my palm as I watched Rae get back to work. In all honestly, I'd wished for Rae to be my personal maid, but I unfortunately didn't have the luxury of wealth in my hands anymore - if she wanted to be paid anyway. I just couldn't help myself from ogling at the maid outfit Rae wore; everything she wore made her an angelic blessing. How adorable.

The concept of Rae's obedience never failed to amuse me. Truthfully, I wanted it. Never would I have ever thought of my best friend this way, but here we are. Oh, how I yearned for Rae's sexy nape. I licked and bit my lip. This was Rae. My Rae. Would you even count us as friends?

"Here~ ya go!" Rae flipped around and put the ready teacups down.

"Thank you, Rae." I smiled at Rae.

"Don't mentioned it!" Rae saluted. "It's just my job as Miss Claire's maid!"

I scratched the table until my nails almost began to rip from being at the edge of the table. Her name again. That fucking low-life whose only pride is her name. Guess what, it means nothing. She tainted Rae. My Rae. She corrupted my Rae. She ruined everything between us.

"Yes, yes, as you should wear with pride! Be grateful to work under the François name!" The fucking audacity you have. Are you doing this on purpose? Maybe I really should waterboard you and strangle you.

"Oh, working with you is always a thrill - I love it!" Rae cheered. "A blouse of yours a day is always a treat, Miss Claire!"

ClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaireClaire…!

Is that all you have to say? She doesn't exist! I'll make it so. I will get my Rae back. The Rae I've always known. The one who would always willingly find me and walk beside me. That's right, she clung to me before you came along and forced her by your heel. You stole my leash, you thief.

"Are you hearing yourself right now!?" Shut up. "You're going on about this again?" Shut up. "Honestly, what's wrong with you!?" What's wrong with you?

I squeezed my nails into my palms as they lay on my lap.

"Why of course~ That's the power of love after al!" I need Rae back. Now. I'd snapped the teacup handle off.

"Silence yourself from your impudent remarks this instant!" How about I tie you up to a chair and gag you? "You have yet to prepare Pepi and Loretta's tea!" They're just your noble support and nothing more. Cut ties with them. They won't care. I must ruin your life to hell and back.

"Who are they again?" Rae endearingly tilted her head but perked up thereafter. "Oh! The flunkies!"

"The nerve you have!" Shut up.

Rae giggled to herself, spun around and went back to work. So adorable. If only I made you listen to my commands instead of hers.

"Looks like we're out! I'll go make some more!" Rae reassured with a sweet grin.

"I suppose it can't be helped." Do you ever know how to sit still in silence? What a dumb question. Clearly not! She's useless! "Make haste at once!" Why not get your petty ass out of that chair and burn yourself on the stove? Allow me to help your sorry self by thrusting your face onto it.

Rae walked away. My Rae. That's right. My Rae. The Rae I will get back.

"Apologies for such a commotion. Honestly, that commoner never makes any sense whatsoever. How do you hang out with someone like her?"

I want to murder you.

"Then give her back to me," I shot her with malicious daggers sent her way.

"Huh?" She was caught off-guard. Oh, so now you do know how to be quiet. Finally. "What did you just say…?" Never mind, I should cut your tongue off.

"All she does is fawn over you while you give her nothing but grief." I gritted my teeth.

"Wha-" She jumped up from shock. "How dare you-"

"And it pisses me off."

She looked at me with speechless eyes.

"You piss me off."

"Misha, I-"

"And honestly?" Standing up, I leaned forward, sliding my hands towards her on the table. "Consider yourself lucky I didn't bring my shovel with me."

She went pale. "What's gotten into you…?"

"You've taken my Rae away from me."

She was as frozen as a statue. "You're… romantically interested in her?"

I was unprepared for that. What did she know?

"I've known her longer than you have, so I seriously don't get…" I ran my fingertips up her neck and let them linger under her chin, "what she sees in a lowly, pathetic fucking bitch like you."

She gasped and looked at me as if she'd seen a ghost.

"Misha… this isn't like you!"

"What do you know?" I cupped her chin in my palm and aggressively squeezed her cheeks together digging my claws into her. "Don't act like you know me."

She wanted to retort at that. I won't let you. I clutched one of her drills and yanked on it. She fell toward me a little with a pitiful yelp. No one can save you.

"Cut the bullshit. Dismiss her as your maid. She belongs to me. Not a worthless, insecure brat like you." With every word, I leaned closer to her face. I wanted a great view on her terror and depression as she began to tear up. Well-deserved.

"Wh-what's… wrong with you…?"

A wicked ear-to-ear grin found its way upon my face. Fear me, bitch.

"You're the fucking problem. You are nothing. You're just a burden to everyone. My Rae's love for you is nothing but a fad. It's just a hoax. Don't get in and over your head. My Rae doesn't actually care about you at all - I would know. I'm her best friend. My Rae tells me everything, do you understand?"

She trembled. There's that little girl inside of you coming out. Pathetic. Releasing her hair, I shoved her away.

"You have no choice but to hand my Rae over to me, have I made myself clear?" Sliding it out of my pocket, I slammed my dagger into the table, directly between her shivering spread out fingers. "Or do I need to repeat myself?"

Her quivering breath enticed the fangs out of me. For once, you're so small! As you should be. And always will be. To get you out of the picture would bring the Rae I know and love back. My Rae.

I need you to disappear. A swift, instant death or a painfully long and gruelling death, I wonder? No, you don't get a say in this. I want you to suffer.

Footsteps.

Gripping my dagger's handle, I whirled around and shot it at the two newcomers. It barely grazed between the two, darting past them and into a wall from afar. How unfortunate; I wanted to see them screaming for their losing and non-existent lives and dropping dead like flies. Maybe even blinding the bob-head for me to cackle at, or even impaling freckles over there for me to taxidermy later.

Their jaws were dropped and they were on the brink of passing out from such a generous surprise. I hid my hands behind my back, tilted my head and smiled innocently. A halo was sure to hover above my head.

"Oh my, quite the strong wind today, huh?" I should add these two to my list. "Well then," I turned around, "thank you for the tea party, Miss Claire, but I unfortunately have business to attend to."

I scowled as I took my leave. Those two pissed me off. No more. I'll deal with them all accordingly.

Without them, Rae will be back. My Rae. The Rae I've always known. My Rae that's close and dear to my heart.

Chapter Text

"Well, I suppose I should get going." Misha sighed, facing her Rae she had locked arms with all day. The last class for today had come to an end, and they'd ultimately found a fork in the road as they abruptly halted in the hallway. "I unfortunately have quite the busy schedule, as per usual."

Rae groaned. "That's so not fair!" She pounced on Misha for a bear hug. "Why can't I keep you all for myself!?" Desperate, Rae violently shook Misha on the spot, who could only chuckle, finding this extremely endearing.

"Don't worry," Misha patted Rae's head, "I won't take long, I promise." Rae closed her eyes in euphoria. "It's most likely a simple catch-up or something, so just wait for me, OK?"

"Aw… oh, OK." Annoyed, Rae let out a huff, puffing her cheeks out with a pout.

Misha smiled. "Well," She cupped Rae's cheek in her palm, "I'll see you later then, my darling." She pecked her on the lips and gazed at her for a little while longer. "I love you." A grin crept up on Rae's face as her cheeks were powdered in red at that.

"I love you too."

Misha's heart flip-flopped at that. Rae was just too adorable for her and Misha was too sweet for her.

As much as they'd wanted to remain like for another hour, Misha unfortunately had to bid her farewells and walk away. If Rae had a tail, her wagging would've stopped and flopped down that Misha wasn't close to her anymore. Regardless, her insides felt fuzzy and she couldn't help but internally squeal at the eternal beauty that Misha's hair provided as she twinkled under the light. Truly a feast for Rae's eyes - she was very tempted to chase after her and style her hair before she left, but she knew how busy Misha was and didn't want to weigh any further stress on her.

Misha was so beautiful. Rae would keep reminding herself. Oh, who was she kidding? She didn't need to! That was her girlfriend! And she cherished her so.

If Rae could, she would willingly fall on all fours and slam her head against the floor just to beg the people who kept taking Misha's time away from her to give her more freetime. Now that Rae thought about it, why didn't she just do that!? In fact, once the opportunity arose, she's prone to absolutely do just that!

Right now, Rae was craving another kiss. Genuinely, she was addicted to Misha's lips against hers; they were so ridiculously soft. She also had a soft spot for how Misha touched her in such a loving manner and she really needed to be in her arms this instant. But Misha had already faded from Rae's view and if Rae was a dog, she'd be whimpering in isolation, perhaps stepping into separation anxiety territory.

Rae wanted Misha to come back right now!

Manaria peeked her head out from the corner. "Rae Taylor, am I right?" She sparkled.

Snapped out of her admiring daze, Rae spun around and regretted it immensely.

"Oh." Rae blinked, her mood ruined. "It's you."

Manaria cackled at that, entering Rae's world. "Now that's a refreshing response!"

"Uh-huh." Rae rolled her eyes. "What do you want?" Wrinkles immediately formed on her forehead due to her intense frown she had no control over. Misha, come back!

"Nothing, nothing~" Manaria playfully waved her hands around dismissively. "Just curious about something."

"What?"

"Can I marry you?"

"No."

"Playing hard to get, huh?"

"I have a girlfriend."

Humming another teasing wonder, Manaria held her fingers up to her own lips. "But can she do what I can?" Winking, she stuck her tongue out between her fingers.

Grossed out, Rae's face scrunched up. Don't ever do that again, you vulgar princess.

"I am loyal to her," Rae declared triumphantly, the image of Misha popping into her mind and helping her soothe her soul.

Manaria simply cackled. "My, to think I'd get rejected so quickly."

"Why did you think you even had a chance with me?"

"Because you're so adorable!" Wasting no time, Manaria rushed up to Rae and wrapped her forceful arms around her.

"Get off me." Despite her weakness in physical strength, Rae attempted to push this infuriating Manaria away but to no avail.

Excited, Manaria rubbed her cheek against Rae's like a clingy cat. "Yes, yes~ This is what I adore about you! I love the cute little face you make when you're disgusted by me!"

"You need professional help," advised the monotone Rae as she shoved Manaria's face away but she barely budged.

"I don't think I can hold myself back when I'm this close to you." Manaria leaned in at an uncomfortable pace, fully invading Rae's personal space bubble.

Rae simply scoffed sarcastically, "If you're gonna pull any moves on me, at least have ropes at the ready."

Manaria blinked. "What?"

"What?" Rae raised a brow. "Y'know, like, the ropes, chains, shackles and whip. Don't you have these things?"

Manaria blinked.

And she blinked again.

"The…" Manaria tried to register that. "The…" She let her jaw go slack. "Huh?"

Gobsmacked, her once firm grasp on Rae loosened and Rae took this chance to back off. To think that someone like the flirtatious and outgoing Manaria would be so caught off-guard by something like this. Damn, Rae figured that she finally had something she could use against her to get her off of her tail.

"Wow, you're so vanilla," said Rae mockingly.

"What's that supposed to mean? Do you and Misha…?"

"Yeah!" Rae put both of her hands on hips pridefully. "She's very amazing in bed and-"

"Duly noted." Manaria rubbed her chin.

Hell yeah! Does this mean Rae can finally escape this clown?

"How intriguing, perhaps there's more to you than I thought," Manaria eventually added. "I will not give up on you, Rae Taylor!"

"Are you fucking kidding me?"

"Nope!"

Evening swiftly arrived and the day was nearing its end. What time was it? Rae didn't check, but she'd at least taken a bath and helped herself get comfortable in her pyjamas as she impatiently waited for Misha's return. The night, however, was arriving at a rapid speed as the sky gloomed in darkness. In spite of being the ball of sunshine in the relationship, Rae thought otherwise, projecting it all on Misha; she was her light.

Yawning, Rae rolled over in Misha's bed, savouring the scent of her as she buried herself under the comforting blanket and sunk her head into the pillow. Her eyelids were heavy but she would shoot them back open in hopes that she could lay her eyes upon Misha one last time before ending the day. It was so isolated without Misha and Rae daydreamt about her smile and words just to feel warmth and a sense of security.

Ultimately, the door opened and a deep sigh followed. "Sorry, Rae," Misha closed the door behind her, "I got caught up with something." Gazing upon Rae's bed, somewhat expecting her to already be fast asleep at this time, Misha's eyes instantly wandered off to Rae's empty bed. "Rae?"

Misha's heart raced and a trickle of cold sweat ran down her cheek. Where did that girl go? No, not just any girl: her girl. She skimmed and scanned her surroundings but was immediately distracted by the visible and audible shuffles occurring on the top bunk. Untangling herself from the blanket, Rae sat upright with an aggressively wagging tail and relieved grin on her face.

"Misha~!" Rae hopped off the top bunk and jumped towards Misha with open arms.

"Wha-!?" Not given a chance to even react, Misha fell to the floor as Rae came crashing down on her.

"You're finally back!" Rae cheerfully beamed.

"Ow." Misha nonchalantly blurted out.

"Ah!" Rae's heart dropped. "I'm so sorry, Misha!" She frantically tucked Misha's hair behind her ears as her entire face was lost under it, "I just really missed you!" She slid her hand under Misha's head, using her palms as a placeholder for a pillow. "How bad does it hurt? Do you need me to heal you?"

Misha's cheeks were dusted in cherry red as she smiled back in return. "I'm fine, don't worry."

"Are you sure?"

Misha nodded. "Yes." Embracing Rae in her arms, Misha gazed into Rae's bright orbs that stared back at her. Rae was so endearing. Misha was so breathtaking. Momentarily thereafter, they both laughed at their position. How did they end up on the floor like this again?

"Hey, hey, Misha!" Rae bounced up and down, resonating with her booming voice, vibrating almost. "Do you love me?"

"Don't be silly." Misha went ahead to stroke Rae's hair. "Of course I love you, my dear Rae."

Rae looked as if she were about to combust. "Oh, I love you too!" Rae exclaimed. Misha giggled at this and Rae did the same shortly after. Then, Rae's face softened up a little. After so many hours apart, they were finally back together, albeit it felt like a whole year… maybe longer.

"So, can I have another kiss?" pleading, Rae asked.

Misha wrapped a lock of Rae's hair around her finger and twirled it around. "I was hoping you'd say that."

Shutting their eyes, they shared a peck on the lips that lingered just a bit longer than the one earlier that evening.

"I love you," whispered Rae.

"I love you too," Misha reciprocrated, going for another kiss.

They'd laid like this for a moment longer, pull away and go for another kiss almost immediately. Each kiss became a satisfied craving while Rae ran her fingers through Misha's hair. They'd pull away and connect lips like a matching puzzle piece once more as Misha held Rae tight and close to her as possible. Once they detached themselves from one another, Rae let her lips land on Misha's forehead, one cheek, then the other cheek, the tip of her nose, her chin, her jaw and down to her neck.

Misha couldn't help but giggle with tingling ears. "Clingy, as always, aren't you?"

Swooned, Rae raised her head and looked into Misha's gorgeous eyes. "I just really love my girlfriend."

As if on cue, Misha's heart skipped a beat and her face continued to redden with each passing moment.

"I love my sweet Rae too." Misha melted at the sight of her beloved Rae, who sweetly giggled in return, lowering herself for another kiss. After a thoughtful linger, Misha carefully nibbled on Rae's lower lip, and Rae let her tongue touch hers. They'd enwrapped a shared sensation with one another, not wanting this to end. Luckily, they'd quickly discovered that rhythmic breathing allowed them to fulfill this wish, or perhaps it was the work of wind magic. Very gradually would Rae's legs and arms numb out thanks to her enchanting experience with Misha, and she'd slump directly on top of her.

"Oh my, is she good on the floor too?" a voice turned the intimate switch off.

Both of their souls left their body out of shock for a split second before returning to their senses as their hot lips remained connected. They blinked at each other and turned their gaze at the uninvited intruder.

"You…!" Rae jerked up. "What are you doing here!?"

"Just your friendly neighbourhood princess." Manaria winked.

"Get the hell out."

Misha was utterly flabbergasted. "Rae-"

"She flirted - no, actually, she sexually harassed me."

"Huh?" Stunned at the sudden accusation, Misha glanced over at Manaria, who was simply sitting on Rae's bed as if this was a dorm of her own, and focused her attention back on Rae. Why would royalty be here and would she actually do such a thing to her dear Rae?

"I'm serious."

What was Misha thinking? No matter what, she would put all of her trust in Rae as she would do the same exact thing for Misha.

"Oh, did she now?" Misha glared at Manaria.

Manaria couldn't help but snicker irritatingly innocently and equally gleefully. "Your reactions were just so adorable - I couldn't resist teasing you!"

For the first time ever, Misha flinched in front of a member of royalty. Who wouldn't lose their composure after that?

"I told you before," Rae retorted, "I am loyal to my beloved Misha."

Misha's heart fluttered at that but she didn't dare take her eyes off of the threat before her.

"Aw, is that so?" Manaria tilted her head and then caught a glimpse of Misha's daggers that were clashed away with sparkles. "Sorry, did I hit a nerve?" She smirked but then shrugged at the two partners who were still on the floor. "Well, that's too bad." She stood up and made her way to the exit. "Welp, I'll leave you lovebirds to it." She waved them off so casually that it was utterly gobsmacking for the both of them to watch without disgruntled faces.

Groaning, Rae rolled her eyes. What a way to ruin the mood! They were just getting to the good part.

"Rae, is it true?" Misha asked for clarity. "Did she really do that to you?"

"Yeah." Rae dejectedly sighed, her heart pinched by a hint of betrayal that Misha may not have believed her due to Manaria's high status as a princess. "Right after you had to go." She buried her face into Misha's chest, ashamed.

"I see." Misha couldn't shake off the feeling that she'd said something wrong to worsen Rae's feelings by inflicting a sense of doubt and distrust between them. Determined to set things straight, Misha rubbed Rae's back. "Don't worry, I'll protect you." Rae perked up and wanted to see her alluring girlfriend again, she did that and was grateful to be alive. "I won't let her lay a single finger on you."

Rae simpered. "Thank you, Misha."

"Anything for my Rae." Rae nervously giggled and Misha giggled adoringly. "Well, let's get ourselves comfortable, shall we?"

"Yeah!" Rae cautiously helped herself up without accidentally touching Misha in places she shouldn't be without her consent and stepping on her when she didn't mean to. Afterwards, Rae offered a hand. "Here, let me help you up."

Taking her up on the offer, Misha interlocked her fingers with Rae's, sat up and began to peck Rae's shin up to her knee, her thigh, her hip, stomach, waist and shoulder before brushing her lips past and up her forearm, landing the final blow on her hand.

Splashed in crimson, Rae fiddled with her hair but couldn't take her interested eyes off of what Misha was doing to her: to think she'd worship her this much.

Misha chuckled. "You like it when I do this to you, don't you?"

"Yeah…"

Misha smooched Rae's collarbone and her neck before purring into Rae's ear, "I love everything about you, my darling Rae."

Oh, Misha, just how do you do it? Rae recalled how shy she used to be, but it wasn't as if she was complaining. Absolutely not. This side of Misha was always welcomed in Rae's heaven.

Wrapping her passionate arms around Rae, Misha smooched her. As they led themselves to Rae's bed, Misha slid her hand up Rae's head in case the top bunk hurt her, but as Rae sat down perfectly fine, Misha's forehead hit the bunk instead.

Rae chuckled. "You hit your head again?"

Awkwardly did Misha quietly titter back. "Yes, but I'm fine." And so, she went for Rae's lips again. Even though this was supposed to be a romantic moment, Rae couldn't contain her laughter. "Hey, it wasn't that funny." Embarrassed, Misha's cheeks tingled.

"You're just so cute." Rae snogged Misha. "Hey," Rae gently whispered, "did I ever tell you how much I love you?"

"Not enough, it seems." Misha playfully smiled, moving her hair out of the way with a swish and smooching Rae into a mutually melting embrace. Their fingers intertwined with one another. Neither of them pulled away; they didn't want to. Why would they? Enjoying the feel of Misha's silky hair between her fingers, Rae fondled the loose strands she'd made for herself while Misha caressed Rae's body from her chest down to her stomach, evoking a twitch out of Rae.

Chortling, Misha grinned at the embarrassed Rae. "You're so sensitive." Grumbling, Rae hid herself behind the curtains, which so happened to be Misha's long hair. Once more, Misha giggled. "Hey," Misha whispered, "can I have another kiss?"

Without giving it a second thought, Rae peeked her head out from behind the curtains, slid them away and melted into Misha's request. How could she say no?

"So… where are the chains and whips?" questioned Manaria, curiously poking her head into the room from the door.

"Get out!" Rae and Misha demanded in unison.

Chapter Text

Rae's POV

I fucked up. I seriously did. One fatal mistake ruined everything and it was all my fault. All of my time spent with Miss Claire fell in vain. I'd quit as her maid. I abandoned her so selfishly - all because I lost to that petty princess. Honestly, I'd wished I was killed by Dominator. Then, I wouldn't have to suffer the aftermath, the aches and pains all over my body and frequent stabbings I get in my stomach, let alone all of the bloody coughing I've had to endure for god knows how long.

More importantly, I no longer wanted to suffer from the emotional torment since the repercussions Manaria had set in stone; Miss Claire was taken away from me. None of this was supposed to happen! I could never look at her in the eye and I stopped bothering going to classes at all. After all, I sat next to Miss Claire. The last time I attended class was long ago. I didn't want to do anything but rot away in bed.

I feel like a horrible person. No, I am a horrible person. I've ruined the relationship Misha had with Rae. I'm Rei. And now she has to see Rae suffer like this. I subconsciously blocked Misha's concerns out as much as I could, hoping to ultimately be left alone. This is painful. I can imagine how painful it is for Misha too. Yet, bless her heart, regardless of my situation; she'd take notes from the lectures for me that I didn't care about, and bring me food and drinks that I would eventually never touch with the rare occasions of her feeding me directly when she had the freetime.

I never understood why Misha cared about me so much because I've done nothing but be a pain in the ass, but I guess it's because she sees Rae in me and I'm not her. In this world, I am, but I'm sure to be a totally different person. Recently, however, I've noticed that she checks up on me quite early in the morning and would always hold me gently by the wrist and turn my untouched forearm around. I wondered why and my headaches probably explained it for me.

My memory had gone fuzzy from that night.

All I can remember was Misha telling me in a gentle but equally desperate voice, "Rae, please put the knife down."

I didn't ever recall having such a motive to be in the… No, where was I? Was that a cutting board? No, the counter was empty and… not so clean. What was I doing? Wasn't I cooking something? No, I had no reason to. So what was going on…? My mind went blank and I didn't remember anything else but Misha pulling me in a tight embrace. A warm and upset hug that I had never experienced before.

I thought I was in bed that entire time. Wasn't I having a lucid dream? It's got to be that, yeah, it's gotta be.

Oddly enough, Misha was beside me in bed that same morning, almost cuddling up to me. Admittedly, I liked the warmth she provided; I've never received such affection nor attention like this by anyone in so long. I wanted to cry but I couldn't do that - not next to Misha; she'd be worried about me.

Hahaha… I say that and woke her up in the end, her cheek drenched in my tears. I couldn't do anything but apologise for everything but I didn't know for what. I didn't know what I was saying. All I could make out from my rambling was Misha hugging me and saying words I couldn't comprehend. Wasn't she supposed to be in class?

This kept up for days. Never once did she leave my side other than when she went to get us food to eat together. I was eternally grateful. Thanks to her, she motivated me to go and take baths. Of course, we went together. Times likes this felt so relaxing and she really knew her stuff. Despite her stern demeanour, she truly was a sweetheart. I just wanted to hug her forever for being so kind to me.

There were so many things I wanted to tell Misha, but I knew that if I did, it'd ruin things between us and I'd be back at square one like how I am with Miss Claire. After all, Rae is gone, but somewhere deep in my heart, I felt as if she was still with us. Perhaps little tidbits of this inside me explained what Misha saw in me. Even then, that still wasn't me. I'm not Rae.

At this rate, I was being a burden to Misha, wasn't I? I knew how much pride she takes in education and knowledge and I'd hate to take that away from her. A sad, pathetic nobody like me didn't deserve the attention I did that Misha willingly gave me with open arms. I didn't hate how she adored me so, but I felt so terrible for simply existing. In fact, this all felt wrong. How could I bring something like this up to her?

Eventually, Misha would finally drag me out of my depressive kingdom. I really didn't want to go anywhere, but it's not like I had any choice; I didn't want to rub my heartbreak on to her. Misha didn't deserve to feel anguish. Misha didn't deserve despair. As a matter of fact, she deserved someone so much better than me like Prince Yu, so why…? Why me? Why is she stuck to me like glue? I couldn't thank her enough for it, but I just… don't get it.

I noticed that Misha kept glancing around every so often when we arrived at the canteen. Was it in case we saw Miss Claire and that princess? Yeah, that makes sense. When we grabbed our food, she didn't let me eat it on my own. Instead, she prioritised feeding me herself. I would always find chances to bring up that she should eat too before it gets too cold but she shrugged me off. I guess I haven't been eating much after all, and it was so… weird to be tasting on anything at all.

Afterwards, she realised we didn't have drinks, so she'd tell me to stay put and not touch anything while she went away to grab glasses of water. Once again, Misha never stopped peeking over her shoulder at me as she did so - something I'd caught wind of in the corner of my eye while I observed what was in front of me.

Huh?

Did I forget to grab something for the steak? How was I going to eat this?

Very swiftly did Misha return, offering me a drink that I downed instantly. Surprisingly, she looked very happy about that. I've never seen her smile so brightly before. It was rather endearing… Misha became the beacon amidst the gray, dull and gloomy darkness. How could someone shine so luminously like a Goddess?

Misha was like a torch in a mysterious endless cave that I sought no exit to, but with her beside me, I found reason to fight on. I will repay her whenever I can. She was so… beautiful. I'd never thought about it until now and I wish I had. Really, I wanted to poke her cheek just to double-check if she was real; there was no way someone so charming, determined and loving could exist like this.

Had I fallen for her?

No, surely. What am I thinking? If there was a route to get together with the childhood friend and I knew about it, there was no doubt about it that I'd happily go for it after such a mess like this. To my misfortune, there was nothing of the sort, and if there was, it must've been a secret path I shockingly didn't know the triggers to. God, what am I even saying? I should be cheering her love life on behind the scenes with Prince Yu. I really am just a selfish bitch and an attention whore.

I even failed to get Miss Claire and Prince Thane together. I'm just a nobody. A failure. Why was I ever given the chance to live? Clenching my stomach, I could only whimper at the pain: bless sweet Misha's heart for urgently getting us to the infirmary to help soothe it. I was in no state to heal myself after all. God, I really am just useless, aren't I?

I really loved Misha's head-pats and gentle purrs of comfort and consolation whenever something like this happened. Who knew how relaxing it'd be to have such an attractive girl treasure you.

No, no, no.

I'm being cocky. Misha doesn't belong to me nor do I deserve her. That's right, she belongs to Prince Yu and Rae.

And so, here we were, following the orders of the teacher for a monster-hunting class outside. This was a first. Misha and I paired up, scurrying away from the scene to avoid Miss Claire and the princess. None of us wanted conflict right now. I felt safe being with Misha. She held my hand in such a delicate manner that I couldn't help but warm up beside her.

The deeper we traversed into the forest, the more far away Misha felt. But why? Why was she distances away from me? It was almost as if this forest was draining all of my life out of me that nothing was real anymore. Anxiously did I face her as we continued walking. Somehow, we met eyes, but I instantly averted them. I hoped I wasn't caught gawking at her… Hanging my head low, I stared down at my heavy feet as it was caked in grimy mud as Misha's did too. We should've worn something else for this.

An ambush snuck up behind us, but we were fairly confident in our skills and I'd recovered enough to fend them off also. However, Misha technically didn't need me in the picture as she fought so elegantly and without issue, barely giving me a chance to step in for support. It was almost as if the roles were reversed. But as long as Misha was safe, healthy, unharmed and not overworked, that's all that mattered to me as of present moment, so I wanted to gift her my help.

Misha meant everything to me after all.

"Rae!" shrieked Misha behind me. We were outnumbered, sure, but I didn't care about that.

My main concern was: "Misha!" I cried back. Thorny vines had already tangled her arms up as others slithered their way up from Misha's feet, to her legs and eventually restraining her stomach. Her wand was on the floor, unreachable on her end.

Shit!

She was vulnerable. She overexerted herself! Fuck!

To the best of my ability, I attempted to cast earth magic to set her free after demolishing weaker monsters that stood in my way, but the vines dragged her away instantly. Without giving it a second thought, I ignored the other monsters and chased after where it'd taken Misha. How the hell was it so fast!? Give me Misha back!

I stumbled but kept pushing through. I almost lost my eyes to branches but I did not care. I could still see Misha until she was gradually fully engulfed in a snake's grasp. Oh my god, she must be in so much pain! She doesn't deserve this! I hated how I envisioned the tiny pricks in her skin causing her to bleed.

Don't stop running!

I can't stop running!

I have to save Misha!

I can't lose her!

She's the only one who understands me!

She is my everything!

And I love her!

Inevitably did my legs give out. Numb. I probably vomited. I couldn't breathe. No… There was only so much stamina I could preserve. I couldn't outrun that beast. Just what was that thing…? Goddammit! Misha, I'm so sorry I'm so useless! No, no, what am I thinking? This is Misha! I believe in her. She believed in me when I didn't even believe in myself, so I ought to return the favour.

I tightly clenched my wand and ignored the shuffling behind me - must be monsters, but they were nothing to me anyway.

I will save her.

Raising my aching head, I felt my heart drop. It only hit me just how silent my surroundings had gotten. My hands were quickly soaked and it definitely wasn't sweat.

There, she hung. Lifelessly.

My last shining hope was taken away from me.

My Misha…

Chapter Text

Excitedly, Misha opened the door to her dormitory. Today wasn't as painful as any other day; perhaps her classmates and other connections were going easy on her due to the fact that it was her special day after all - or it could also simply be her having already caught up with all of the work and tasks she was assigned to do that there was nothing for her to keep track of for now.

"I found you~!" announced the playful Rae standing by the window as the sunlight twinkled behind her, luminously carving a beautiful image in Misha's eyes: that was her goddess. More importantly, Rae was holding up and waving the small plush of Misha in front of her that Misha had hid from Rae that morning.

This was their own personal tradition that Rae made up on the spot for fun. At first, Misha considered it to be the most ridiculous and time-wasting activity for the both of them to do: Misha having to hide her miniature self from Rae in the mornings while Rae would do it during either just after school, the evenings or night time. Eventually did this tradition grow on Misha as it became her favourite part of the day, motivating her to get all of the work done while thinking about places Rae could have hidden her and vice versa.

There was just something so charming to Misha about committing herself and her time to try and find out where Rae had put herself. And the best part? Rae had implemented the idea of rewards not too long ago, which became a much bigger savouring treat for Misha to bear in mind everyday. As a matter of fact, Misha may have been a little too obsessed with this game, but it's not as if she'd complain about that because she was spending time with her Rae!

"I can never win against you, can I?" Misha sighed, but it wasn't out of disappointment - rather, she was over the moon that Rae found her small self, considering that she'd put her in a spot Rae was least likely to check. Misha adored the thought of Rae getting frustrated only to then gleefully bounce around when she finally found her, but was displeased deep down that she couldn't see this for herself in-person, whereas Rae could watch Misha's every move.

Rae giggled as she skipped towards Misha and waited for her reward. Instantly, Misha landed her palm onto Rae's head, patting it with a smile. That was one reward down.

"Good girl," said Misha as she began to delicately scratch Rae's head. Whoa, a two-in-one!? Or is that a three-in-one?

Blissfully, Rae tittered. "That's the spot!" Aimlessly, Rae reached her arms out for a cuddle but Misha didn't allow it, keeping Rae away from her by carefully pushing her chest away without force as Rae wasn't quite the physically strong type to worry about anyway. After all, it was only fair to have one reward per day between the both of them, yet Misha hadn't noticed just how much she'd spoiled Rae rotten.

"Not yet, I haven't found you yet," Misha explained, wagging her finger in front of Rae.

"Yes you have!" Rae retorted and pointed at herself. "I'm right here!"

Misha let out a sarcastic laugh. "Very funny."

"I'm serious!"

"When are you ever serious?" Misha teased with a playful smile.

"Hey, what's that supposed to mean?" Rae's cheeks puffed out as she pouted at her girlfriend, who found this extremely adorable. If anything, she had the urge to pinch those soft cheeks and spread them outward and pamper her to death but that'd just be considered another reward, so Misha had to remind herself of self-restraint.

"Let me guess," Misha turned away from the anticipating Rae, walking to the desks, "you're over here." Swiftly did Misha open one drawer after another as she skimmed and scanned them with keen eyes. Nothing here. There was no dice. "Fascinating."

"Misha?" Rae called out.

"What about over here?" Misha shifted her attention to the nearby closet and swung it open. There was no miniature Rae in sight. Not even in the lower drawers.

"Mish-"

A light bulb popped out of Misha's head as she'd remembered about the shelves. "Here?" She rubbed her chin as she let her view wander through the lineup of academic books with still no luck in sight. Crouching down, Misha checked under the desks and chairs. Still no Rae.

"Mi-"

Misha crawled towards the bed. "Down here?" She checked underneath it but it was empty.

"M…"

Climbing up to her top bunk, Misha wondered, "Up here?" She rummaged around her bed from her blanket to the pillow but to no avail.

Annoyed, Rae crossed her arms; she was literally right there! Realistically, Misha had no chance of finding her because Rae never actually hid herself in the first place; she recalled it being Misha's day today. Misha was too dedicated for her own good! It wasn't as if Rae hated it - she just wanted Misha to pay attention to her! For very good reason.

Descending from her bed, Misha laid on the floor (facing upward) and slid herself just under Rae and between her legs. "What about here?"

…Seriously?

"Misha!?" Rae screamed, caught so off-guard that she stumbled backwards, nearly losing her balance.

"What?" Misha blinked. "Did I do something wrong?"

Rae covered her mouth in disbelief. "I… I never knew you were a pervert!"

"Huh!?" Misha jerked up. "I'm the pervert!?"

How absurd!

But it very quickly hit Misha the position she was in. What was she doing on the floor? Was she really looking up at Rae's…?

Shooting herself up on her feet, Misha cleared her throat, awkwardly averting her gaze from doing such an embarassing act towards Rae. How sinful.

"I am… rather stumped," Misha clarified as Rae uncovered her mouth and intently heard her out. "I can't seem to find you." Truthfully, Misha was aware that she hadn't checked Rae's bed just yet but the thought fled her mind after this accidental stunt her mind made her do against her will.

"You have, Misha," Rae reassured her, gently holding her by the wrist and putting it up to her non-existent bosom. "See, I'm right here." To have her hand somewhere very intimate on Rae in Misha's palm sent splashes of crimson on Misha's cheeks and even her hot ears flared up even more. Was Rae trying to connect her to her heartbeat? Or was there something more to that? Regardless, Misha loved it. Without thinking about it, Misha squeezed it but blinked.

"What am I touching exactly?"

"Hey!" Rae cried, "I'm not that flat!" Misha's deadpan stare said otherwise. "OK, maybe a little…"

Grinning playfully, Misha chuckled. "Well, it doesn't matter either way." Misha didn't hesitate to bury her face into Rae's just barely existing chest, no matter its small size, as she wrapped her arms around her.

"Wh-!?" Rae's heart skipped a beat and Misha could feel it loud and clear. "Wha-wha-wha-wha-wha…!?" Like a cat, Misha rubbed her cheek against Rae. "Misha!?"

Giggling, Misha stopped and looked up at her Rae. "You're perfect the way you are."

"Hey…!" Rae grumbled with a tomato for a face. "That's not fair! That's my line!" she whined; she was supposed to be the one to give Misha affection!

Misha couldn't help but laugh. Indeed, she was fairly aware of her sudden and uncharacteristic actions that she wouldn't normally let herself do, but when it came to Rae, what was self-restraint again? Besides, witnessing Rae's cute reactions that only someone like Misha could evoke out of her made it all the more tempting - she wanted all of Rae this instant.

"I found you~" Misha purred.

"Yeah…" Rae melted in euphoria. "You found me."

Longingly did Misha gaze at her Rae as Rae gawked back at her Misha. Misha was waiting. She found Rae after all.

"So, where's my reward?" asked the yearning Misha with pleading eyes like a kitten begging for affection. Internally, Rae squealed at her adorableness. It's a side of Misha she'd never seen before: actually, she has… maybe once or twice, but either way, this was still a very rare occurrence, and Rae enjoyed every bit of it.

"You're so cute when you look at me like that, y'know." Rae enveloped Misha's neck in her arms.

Fuzzing up inside and out, Misha stood upright and tightly held Rae by the waist, almost touching foreheads with her as she tilted her head and leaned closer but didn't go any further, gazing into Rae's ruby orbs in anticipation.

Rae chortled. "You want a kiss, don't you?" After a brief moment, Misha nodded. "God, you're so cute~ How could I say no?" Finally fulfilling Misha's wish, their lips connected and it felt just right. Eventually, Rae would pull away but Misha hugged Rae's neck and immediately went for another smooch.

When they kissed, Misha would always feel elated and enticed for another day with plans to surprise Rae with generous rewards like these at unpredictable timings. Recently, though, Misha hadn't been the greatest at hiding her true desires, so Rae would very easily read her like a book.

"You're the perfect gift I've ever laid my eyes on," confessed the swooned Misha as her fingers intertwined with Rae's.

Rae grinned. So Misha did remember it was her birthday today. "Happy birthday, my dear Misha." Misha smiled back at that. "Say, since it's your special day, I was thinking you could have all the rewards you could ever asked for."

"Is that so?"

"Yeah! How does it sound?"

While Misha ogled at Rae, she'd taken into account the prizes Rae could award her. Long story short, Misha just wanted Rae to treat her as she usually would, just with more selfishly endless snuggles and kisses than per usual. She really wanted Rae's touch, her embrace, her love - hell, even her name carved into her. She no longer upheld noble pride or anything of the sort, so there were no concerns on her end. With the way Rae was now, Misha figured she didn't need to hold back but she wanted Rae to do the same.

Misha just really loved Rae: that was her future wife.

"Oh! I almost forgot!" Rae slipped out of Misha's grasp, backed away with one step and from out of seemingly nowhere, displayed an almost life-sized plush of herself. "It's not much, but I made a bigger version of me! I'm still in the middle of- Whoa!"

Misha had tackled Rae to the ground.

"Ouch!" Rae rubbed her head in hopes of soothing it but was ultimately safe as her large plush of herself cushioned their fall. "Misha, are you feeling OK!? Are you sick!?"

"I want the real thing," begged Misha as her grip progressively tightened. "I want my Rae, so please… reward me more."

"Misha…" Rae tucked Misha's hair behind her ears, allowing herself to feast her eyes on a full view of her darling's face.

Oh.

Oh, she NEEDED her.

Like, right now.

Smiling, Rae caressed Misha's sides. "I'll make this a birthday you'll never forget."