Title: "Fantasm of Rome"

Today's the day that Rome planned to confess to his long time best friend, after a long time of thinking and analyzing his friend he came to the conclusion that he has a chance.

The sweet gestures, his words and actions that his friend Theo had done made him believe this fact. They planned to have a dinner after the long busy months where they were unable to hang out and Rome took this chance to confess with the support of another friend of him who had been the witness of their long friendship and interactions.

Let's calm down and do this smoothly Rome, don't act nervous and remember to slowly open up the topic.

Rome reminds himself before entering the restaurant that they had chosen to dine in. Immediately spotting Theo who is sitting beside the windows he can't help notice his outfit which is far more flashy and elegant than normal.

That fact made him expect more, he took a deep breath before going up to his friend and sitting down.

"Kanina ka pa dito? Sorry I'm a bit late nawala sa isip ko yung oras." I'm just too nervous actually.

Theo smiled at him. "Nope kadadating ko lang maybe 10/20 minutes ago? Anyways I already ordered for us, by the way I want you to meet someone that’s why I asked to have dinner with you." Theo infact has been in the restaurant for almost 20 minutes already.

Rome raised his eyebrows hearing what Theo said. Meet someone?

"Hmm. A friend of yours?"

"You'll know later." Theo excitedly said to him with a smile on his face.

Rome just nodded and let the topic go. He need to compose himself so that he can properly do his confession. A few more minutes and their order already came.

"Oh you ordered my favourite, thank you." He really knows me.

"Eat up, let's catch up later after this someone I want you to meet is here."

Rome smiled and started eating up his food. As he eats he can't help but feel more nervous. I'll ask him for a talk later and then confess my feelings. He is determined to confess tonight and he wants it to be a beautiful confession.

Suddenly Theo waved to someone. "Rome he's here, the person I want you to meet." His smile is so large that Rome feels like his friends muscles is working extra hard today.

He looks to the person that is approaching them and he sees an elegant man that has a sweet smile on his face. He remains seated while his friend, Theo stands up and hold the other person's hand the moment he reached their table.

"Rome, I want you to meet Leo my fiancé. Love this is the friend that I mentioned you, Rome my long time best friend." He felt his heart broke with what he heard.

Rome's eye seemed stuck on the hands of his friend and the new person who arrived that he took some time to process the information given to him.

"Rome? Ganun ka na ba kagulat at hindi ka na makarespond?" Theo laughed at him.

"Ah sorry, I was quite shocked eh. I'm Rome Teriqiuo Theo's long time friend. Nice to meet you." It is not actually nice to meet you. Fiancé? Still to be formal he hold up his hand for him for a handshake.

"It's fine, I'm Leo Fernandez Theo's fiancé." Leo took his hand and smiled at him.

He found himself losing appetite and wanting to just leave the restaurant. He doesn't know if he can hold up his smile and not show his pain in front of them.

"Let's take a seat shall we? Love I order for you too, your food should arrive now. I asked them to serve your food later so that it would still be hot for you."

"Thank you love"

Their sweet gaze to each other is sickening for Rome. He needs to leave now.

Before he could talk and ask to leave with the reason of his unleft work, Theo spoke again.

"Actually my main reason for this is because I want you to be my bestman for our wedding. Will that be ok for you Rome?"

No it's not ok. His heart broke again yet he could only smile and agree to his friend.

"Yeah, it's fine. I'm honored to be your best man for your wedding." He managed to hold his smile but he knows he can't last longer.

"I'm sorry but I need to go now, I only have limited time I still have to go back to my work." Of course that's a lie, he plans to confess and he took a leave for this.

"I thought you took a leave? Pinapatawag ka nila kahit naka leave ka?" Theo asked him confusedly.

"Well it didn't get approved that's also why I'm a bit late. I really need to go now Theo, it's really nice meeting you Leo I would love to spend more time with you guys but I'm needed at work." He doesn't want to spend more time with them. He just wants to go home.

"It's fine, I hope we can have a much longer time together next time." No thanks. He smiled at Leo and took his leave.

He did not look back at all and just went straight home. He wants to rest and just lock himself to his room.

He texted his friend on his way back. "It's a fail. He actually does not like me, he is getting married. We just assumed things. I'll be resting for now don't contact me for a while."

The moment he reached his house his tears fell. His heart broken to pieces. Everything is just a lie, a delusion created by himself. Of course how could Theo like me? I'm only his friend afterall. Why did I not learn from before? He always denied liking me. I'm just delusional. His love will stay unknown afterall.

Title: "For You"

Running around the mansion, Ciaran, the servant of the Young Master Luke, has been looking for him as the young master likes to sneak out whenever he has the chance. Amidst his confusion he remembers a place the young master likes to spend his time in. The garden, to which he would always see him read books. As Ciaran headed towards the garden, he saw the young master reading a book and slowly approached him.

"What would you do for love?" written as the last line of the book Luke was currently reading while laying beneath the shade of a tree.

"I wonder what I would do.... Well with this weak body, I can't really do much. What would you do Ciaran?" Luke asked, now turning his head towards Ciaran's direction.

"I would do everything" Ciaran replied still trying to catch his breath.

Luke smiled with this response.

"Young Master, please refrain from going anywhere on your own. It's dangerous." Ciaran said while trying to keep a strict demeanor.

Luke just laughs and agrees with him. Witnessing this scene in front of him, Ciaran couldn’t keep a cool head, thinking... How can someone just sit there and laugh and look so beautiful.......so...beautiful.

Something then caught Luke's eye.

"Look! That cloud looks like a cat! I like cats." Luke points at the sky excitedly.

"Yes" the words Ciaran uttered when he actually truly wants to say, "I like you". Hiding underneath the persona he put upfront was a heart longing to tell his love. With adoration in his eyes, he kept agreeing to whatever Luke was to say.

"I like how cool the breeze is today"

"Yes"

"I like this garden too!"

"Yes"

"I like the flowers"

"Yes"

Noticing that Ciaran only keeps saying yes, Luke thought about something to get a reaction from him.

"I specifically like the gardenias you planted here"

"Yes"

"Do you like me?"

"Yes, huh? What?" Ciaran froze thinking he must have heard it wrong.

"Heh, you do?" Luke asked with a curious smirk on his face.

“Stop teasing me Young Master.” Ciaran replied feeling a bit embarrassed.

They both laughed it off then proceeded to head back inside the mansion. Night came and Ciaran was walking in the halls when he noticed the Young Master outside the Room of the Baron, Luke’s father. As Ciaran starts walking towards him, Luke noticed him and started to walk away. Ciaran then went after him, as he passed on the Baron’s room, he heard the Baron and the Lady of the house arguing. Hearing this made Ciaran run towards Luke. Ciaran managed to catch up to Luke who now had a saddened look on his face. And before he could utter a word, Luke started to tell him what he heard.

“Seems like there’s a war going on the border…. The king asked my father to send one of his sons to war. They can’t send my older brother because he’s the heir…. So, they’ll send me instead. I mean it makes sense, I was born weak and probably won’t live long so sending me instead of my healthy brother was a no brainer.” At this point Luke’s voice was shaking.

“Let’s run away” Luke turned as he heard Ciaran say those words.

“Let’s go somewhere where nobody knows us. Young Master…”

“No” Luke interrupted.

“This is my responsibility as a noble, I won’t run away. If I shall die, then I’ll die. Ciaran, you’re probably saying that because you think of it as your responsibility to keep me safe. I, instead, want you to be free. I know you’ve always wanted to settle down in the countryside and be with your lover. Please live that life for me.” And with that exchange Luke left Ciaran alone in the dark hall.

Days passed and Luke got the news that Ciaran left for the countryside. Luke was happy but sad at the same time because he was going to give Ciaran a letter before he left. The letter to which contains the hidden love he had for Ciaran. 2 weeks later, there was still no sign of the escort for him to be sent to war. Luke was questioning whether it was true. A letter arrived later that rainy day from Ciaran.

Luke opened it, expecting a story of the countryside but no, it was something else. There it was revealed that, Ciaran went to war as Luke.

“Dearest Beloved I want you to know that I did it with my own will, I do not wish you to blame yourself for what is to happen, but I sincerely wish that you start to care for yourself, the same way that I cherish you. I have wanted for a long time to say these words to you, but I lack the courage to do so. I like you, I adore you, I cherish you and I love you. To war I shall fight for you, young master. And to war I will die for you, my love, Luke.” The letter ended with those words. Luke, now in tears, sprinted out of the mansion hoping to go to wherever Ciaran might be. Unfortunately, the guards noticed him and held him back. Screaming and crying he was dragged back inside where he was locked and spent the days until he heard of the passing of Ciaran. There was no body, as the enemy took everything and burned it. The only thing left was a pendant with a picture of both him and Ciaran.

Luke never recovered from this, he never got married and decided to renounce his title as noble. He started to live the life of what could’ve been theirs. “What would you do for love?” these words that’s been stuck to his head now have answers. Ciaran wanted to live, and Luke wanted to die. So, Ciaran died for Luke and Luke lived for Ciaran.

Title: "FAVOURITE SUBJECT OF PHOTOGRAPHY"

"What are the things that you like?"

Her question astonished the depth of me. I badly wanted to say something, but I couldn't find the right words to utter and I ended up saying, "H-Huh?"

What an embarrassment. I'm so distracted admiring her beauty that I didn't know how to answer her question.

She pinched my nose to bring back my consciousness—that simple gesture gives me an undescribable feeling.

"Ano kako ang mga bagay na gusto mo, Debs," aniya at nilakasan pa ang pagkurot ng ilong ko, kainis talaga kung bakit pati pagkurot niya sa ilong ko kumakabog pa dibdib ko. "Wag mo akong ma-huh diyan."

I rolled my eyes and gave her a hiss reaction. In fact I wasn't unconscious when she asked me that question. Well, I admit that I'm so focused on her like a camera lens that wanted to capture the beautiful scenery, but I am well aware on my surroundings. Nalutang lang siguro ako sa tanong niya, sa simpleng tanong na kapag sinagot ko magkaka-idea na siya na 'gusto ko siya.'

What are the things that I like? Ano nga ba haha.

I like photography because the bad angle bothers me that I would gladly volunteer to take the photo instead of me being in the photo.

"Hindi ko alam ang mga bagay na gusto ko, hulaan mo na lang," I said with a bit of annoyance, they were right your thoughts differ from what you'll say.

"Ano nga!" she said, a bit annoyed. I am lucky that she doesn't have the ability to read my mind, because it's embarrassing to say this out loud.

"U-Uhm, I like..." I like to capture the things that have sentimental value on me, I like to capture beautiful places and scenery, I like to capture everything especially if you're the subject of my photography.

"You like what?"

Your smile, the gleam in your eyes, your pointed nose, and the dimple of your cheeks. I would love to take candid photos of you, if you will gladly allow me. I like things that involves you.

Her forehead creased, "ano ba yan, Debs! Ang dami mong pasikot-sikot." I mentally laughed at her reaction when she couldn't get an answer from me, she's so cute.

If she hears my thoughts of her that creeped into my mind, I wonder how she will react. I want her but I know she didn't feel the same, besides they say that it's a sin to like someone with the same GENDER.

"All I know is that photography is your passion, you really like taking pictures but I am clueless of what you like to capture. Perhaps, should I ask what's your favourite subject of photography?"

I chuckled then murmured, "kahit ano lang."

You're the favourite subject of my photography, even if the best memories with you and me remain unphotograph, my mind already captured everything. And even if my feelings remain hidden, I love you just like how I love to photograph you as my subject.

Title: "Whispering Hearts"

Gwen sat in the back corner of the classroom, her head down, eyes focused on the sketchbook in front of her. She preferred it this way, keeping to herself and avoiding the prying eyes and curious whispers of her classmates. Her life had been a series of upheavals until she was adopted by her loving parents. Still, the lingering memories of her time in the orphanage made her shy and wary of people.

In stark contrast, Marjorie was the life of the school. Her laughter echoed through the hallways, and she seemed to know everyone and everything that was happening around her. With her bright personality and friendly demeanor, she effortlessly drew people towards her. Yet, it was the quiet girl in the back of the classroom who had captured her attention.

Marjorie had tried several times to start a conversation with Gwen, but each attempt was met with polite but firm disinterest. It wasn't that Gwen was rude; she just didn't know how to interact with someone so vibrant and full of life.

One afternoon, as the final bell rang, a sudden downpour began. The thunder roared, and lightning streaked across the sky. Most students quickly made their way home, but Marjorie realized she had left her umbrella in the classroom. She dashed back, only to find Gwen curled up in a ball under a desk, trembling with fear.

Marjorie’s heart ached at the sight. She slowly approached Gwen and knelt beside her, gently placing a hand on her back. "Hey, it's okay. The storm will pass soon," she whispered, her voice soothing and calm.

Gwen flinched at the touch but then relaxed as Marjorie's gentle words and warm presence enveloped her. Marjorie continued to speak softly, holding Gwen’s hand and assuring her that she wasn't alone. For the first time, Gwen felt a connection, a sense of safety she hadn't experienced in a long time.

From that day on, Gwen and Marjorie became inseparable. Marjorie’s friends were surprised but welcomed Gwen into their circle, appreciating her quiet kindness and talent for drawing. Slowly but surely, Gwen began to open up, finding comfort in Marjorie’s unwavering support and friendship.

They spent their days together, studying, hanging out at the local café, and discovering new interests. Marjorie was delighted to find that Gwen had a soft spot for animals, especially cats. Gwen would often visit the park to feed the stray cats, and Marjorie would join her, enjoying the peaceful moments they shared.

As Gwen and Marjorie’s friendship deepened, not everyone was as accepting. Whispers began to circulate around the school, with some students questioning the nature of their closeness. Despite their growing bond, Gwen’s shy nature made her an easy target for gossip, and Marjorie’s popularity meant that their relationship was under constant scrutiny.

One day, Marjorie overheard a group of students talking about Gwen. "Can you believe she's always hanging around Marjorie? She’s so quiet and weird. What does Marjorie even see in her?"

Anger surged through Marjorie, but she forced herself to stay calm. She didn’t want to make things worse for Gwen. Instead, she decided to talk to Gwen about it later, hoping they could find a way to handle it together.

That evening, Marjorie visited Gwen's house. They retreated to Gwen’s room, seeking privacy from Gwen’s adoptive parents, who were always supportive but knew when to give the girls space. Gwen's room was a haven of calm, filled with her artwork and the soft light of the setting sun.

Marjorie sat on Gwen’s bed, watching her quietly as she arranged her sketchbooks. “Gwen, can we talk?” Marjorie’s voice was gentle, but Gwen could hear the underlying tension.

Gwen turned, her eyes meeting Marjorie’s. “Is something wrong?”

Marjorie took a deep breath. “People have been talking about us. About our relationship. And some of the things they’re saying… it’s hurtful.”

Gwen’s face fell, her hands trembling slightly as she tried to force a smile. “I didn’t realize it was that bad. I’m sorry, Marjorie. I never wanted to cause you trouble.”

Marjorie took Gwen’s hands in hers, squeezing them gently. “Hey, it’s not your fault. I just want us to be prepared to face it together. I care about you so much, and I don’t want anyone to come between us.”

Gwen nodded, her eyes wide and filled with gratitude. She tried to agree, but deep inside, she felt shattered that the rumors were spreading because of her. She forced a smile, but her heart ached with the thought that she might be causing Marjorie pain. “I care about you too. More than I can put into words.”

Marjorie leaned closer, her heart pounding. “Then let’s show them that we’re strong together.”

Gwen nodded again, her forced smile still in place. Inside, she felt like she was crumbling, but she didn’t want to let Marjorie down. They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the connection between them growing even stronger.

As days passed, the rumors around school grew more vicious. Gwen could feel the weight of every whisper and stare. The strain became too much for her to bear. She began to think that her friendship with Marjorie was causing too much trouble for the both of them.

One afternoon, Gwen decided to distance herself from Marjorie. She avoided her during lunch, stopped replying to her messages, and even found excuses to leave early from their study sessions. Marjorie was hurt and confused by Gwen's sudden change in behavior.

Unable to take it anymore, Marjorie decided to confront Gwen. She found her in the park, feeding the stray cats alone. Taking a deep breath, she approached Gwen, her heart pounding.

"Gwen, why are you avoiding me?" Marjorie asked, her voice filled with hurt.

Gwen looked up, her eyes brimming with tears. "Marjorie, I… I don't want to be the reason people make fun of you. I don't want to ruin your reputation. It's better if we stay apart."

Marjorie’s heart ached seeing Gwen so distressed. She reached out, wiping a tear from Gwen’s cheek. "Gwen, don't you see? I don't care about what other people think. You’re the one who matters to me."

Gwen shook her head, tears streaming down her face. "But Marjorie, I can’t bear to see you suffer because of me."

Marjorie pulled Gwen into a tight embrace, her voice firm yet gentle. "Gwen, I love you. I realized it the day I first noticed you. I’ve loved you since then, and nothing will change that."

Gwen looked up, her eyes wide with surprise. "You… love me?"

Marjorie nodded, a soft smile on her lips. "Yes, Gwen. I love you. And I don’t care what anyone else thinks."

Gwen’s tears continued to flow, but this time, they were tears of relief and happiness. As they held each other in the park, surrounded by the gentle purring of the stray cats, Gwen and Marjorie knew that their bond was something truly special. It was the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, one filled with love, understanding, and the promise of a future together.

Title: "Quantum Entanglement"

"He's back." A smile appeared on my lips as I saw Theo walking towards me.

"Hi, Nathan. Did I make you wait? I know it's been a while." He asked softly, his voice tinged with a hint of concern.

"Silly, I could wait forever if it's you whom I'm waiting for." I responded happily.

Thinking back to our high school days, I recalled our first meeting as transferees. He was quiet and shy, while I was more outgoing. I approached him, asked his name, and that's how our bond began.

Over time, our friendship grew deeper. I discovered Theo's lively and outgoing personality—a bold and goofy individual who made every moment enjoyable. There was never a dull moment when I was with him. Before I knew it, I had fallen in love with him.

"I wish I had let you know sooner, Nathan, how much I loved you, that it was greater than anything. But now, it's too late. I'm sorry I told you so late."

I stood there, dumbfounded by what I heard, unable to utter another word. My chess tightened. I could feel my heart shattering like glass breaking into pieces.

"My mind was filled with what-ifs and could-have-beens: What if you would hate me for liking you? What could have happened if you knew I saw you as more than a friend? I'm terrified of being apart from you," his voice cracked. "I don't want to be away from you."

"I was waiting for you, Theo. I always hoped you’d say something, 'coz I felt the same." My heart was breaking at the memory of missed chances. It pained me to see him hurting.

"I was a coward, especially with you. I feared losing what we had, afraid our friendship would be ruined because I like you...but we were both guys." Theo's voice trembled as he poured out his unspoken words, desperately wiping away his tears.

His eyes became a river of tears that fell continuously. I could see the pain in his eyes. He was struggling to breathe, gasping for air every moment. He was trembling, trying to stop his tears from falling. I wanted to hold his hand, wipe away his tears gently, and whisper that everything would be alright.

"Please, stop crying. I can't bear to see you shedding tears because of me." I murmured. I wanted to hug him to make him feel a little better. I wished I could....

“I wish you were here.” Theo’s voice broke once again as he wiped his tears. "I miss your warmth so much that I hurt myself just to feel pain, imagining you comforting me." He fell to his knees, sobbing uncontrollably. "Oh God, why did it have to be Nathan of all people? Why did you take him from me too soon? He was the reason I had to keep on living."

His screams echoed with despair, each cry tearing my heart apart slowly. "I'm sorry, Theo. I fought with everything I had. I really did" I answered, my voice filled with hopelessness, knowing I had given my all.

I watched as Theo sat down, kissing his fingers and pressing them gently against my tombstone, his touch tracing over my engraved name, Nathan Clark.

The sky above was a melancholy gray, matching the weight in Theo's heart. A minute of silence filled our surroundings, nothing to hear but the breeze of the wind along with the rustling leaves of trees and Theo's sobbing.

“Let's meet again. My ikagai, wait for me.”

*******

Theo left to go to the secluded spot by the river where they used to spent so many hours together. He pulled out a small vial from his pocket, his hands shaking.

“I can’t do this without you, Nathan.” He whispered, tears streaming down his face again. “I’ve tried, but the world is so empty without you. It's hard to continue living life without you by my side.”

Theo uncorked the vial containing cyanide. “I’m sorry. I just want to be with you again. Maybe in another world, I'll get to make you mine. Maybe next time, I'll get to place a kiss on your cheek and wave you goodbye while screaming that you are the love of my life. Maybe in the next life, I'll get to proudly express that I'm in love with you.”

His cry echoed as if it were a whispered confession lost to the winds. As Theo swallowed the contents of the vial, he walked little by little until he reached the deep part of the river. He closed his eyes as his breath slowed. Darkness claimed Theo, with the rushing water along with his shared moments with Nathan. “I love you, Nathan.” He whispered, his voice growing faint embracing his final moments. “I’ll see you soon, my beloved ikagai.”

The timeless melody resonates within their chests, their two hearts beating as one. It's an ethereal promise between their intertwined souls to embrace the bittersweet symphony of fate at twilight, leaving a mark on two souls destined to meet but not destined to remain together forever.

Title: “Forbidden Love”

Yae Miko walked on stage, all dressed up for her big concert, where her fans will be there to applause her.

As soon as Yae Miko stood on stage, She felt the glow of the spotlight all on her. she began to open her mouth as her voice filled the concert hall, Surprising the audience with her powerful and captivating performance. From a distant corner, her bodyguard, Raiden Shogun, watched her with a mixture of admiration and protectiveness. Yet, she couldn't help but admire the grace of her singer, displayed with every move, every gesture.

And with a final note, Yae Miko ender her captivating performance to a thunderous applause from the audience. A satisfied and excited smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she listened to the adoration and cheers her fans had given her. She took a moment to wave and say her grateful speech, before scanning the crowd for any sight of Raiden.

She soon spotted her bodyguard, Raiden Shogun, standing in the corner as she caught the sight of Raiden's subtle smile in the shadows. A shiver of excitement ran through her at the sight of her bodyguard's rare display of joy. Yae's heart fluttered in her chest, a mixture of affection and thrill.

But soon enough Yae Miko had to bid her farewells to the audience with a practiced smile, waving and blowing kisses, graciously accepting their applause and cheers before making her way backstage. She walked confidently towards the backstage. With the audience no longer in sight, Yae's facade faded, replaced by a more vulnerable expression.

As she reached the privacy of the backstage area, she looked around to ensure no one was nearby. After seeing the coast was clear, her gaze spotted Raiden standing there and waiting for her, still maintaining a stoic expression but with a glint of affection in her eyes.

Yae Miko walked towards her with a sincere and excited smile "Hi baby! Isn't this great no one suspects us dating yet!" Yae Miko said her voice filled with excitement as she placed her right hand on raiden's cheek

"Hello, my love," Raiden replied, her voice soft and affectionate. She allowed herself a small, knowing smile as Yae approached. "It's quite a relief. The public can be quite relentless with their theories."

She reached out to take Yae's left hand, her fingers gently intertwining with hers. "You did wonderfully as always," she added with a hint of pride in her tone. "Although we still have to be cautious" Raiden spoke, her voice now slightly calm and soft.

"The world might never understand our relationship, and it's safer to keep it hidden for now." She gently squeezed Yae's hand, her pupils moved scanning the surroundings to ensure no one was there.

Yae nodded with an affectionate smile, as they knew they will always have to keep their relationship a secret. Hiding it from the world so that both can be safe, their identity and love for each other, in a world where no one would understand them. Where no one would feel what they feel.

Title: "The World Is Named After You"

"Do you believe in Fate?'' a very philosophical, mind-inducing question our professor asked us to answer that serves as our assignment for tomorrow.

''Fate huh?'' Setsuna rolled the word under her tongue, seemingly digesting it hoping to get the definition while doing so. It made her laugh at how shallow it is for her to what 'Fate' truly meant; Fortune, God's Will, Fortune, Serendipity, Karma, or...

''Destiny'' a woman around Setsuna's age noted as she looked at our heroine with a soft smile.

Setsuna was forcibly shaken out of her stupor from the appearance of her friend...or crush. Not like she will ever say that to her, nope! She is not crazy enough to say that, better yet, confess her feelings to Mei.

Coming back to the world to look at now her identified crush/friend, Mei, a lump at her throat begs her to swallow as her eyes digested the appearance of Mei. It was so... perfect.

Her eyes swallow the ocean for its deep blue irises, as it draws her into its innocence that flickers under the sunlight. Her shoulder-length hair dances across the inviting wind, as it further enhances her captivating beauty that rivals the beauty of the stars. And her warm touch that is shock-inducing and relaxing to feel. All of these creates Mei, the one that beats Setsuna's heart into chaos.

“Setsuna!” Mei raised voice woke Setsuna up from her slumber of imagination running rampant in her head before she softly smiled and walked alongside Mei.

''Mei! How was your class? Did you get the same assignment in our Philosophy Class?'' she asked excitedly before Mei giggled softly that distracted Setsuna on how cute Mei is as she giggled. Is that even possible?

''Of course, we are classmates in that period, remember?''

''Oh... right'' was only Setsuna's reply as her face heated up from embarrassment, adding the fact that Mei giggled followed suit seeing her red face. Curse Mei's perfect face!

An awkward silence loomed on them as they continued walking side-by-side, their presence bringing comfort to one another. The inviting winds danced along as it blew their hair and caressed their face with soothing comfort.

For Setsuna, it was merely perfect – to be with Mei, to see her laugh, to feel her touch when their hands lightly touched one another, to see her beautiful face that adorns the beauty of the world, and to feel her warm embrace of a presence. It made her feel welcomed, comforted, and protected from the dangers that lurk around the cranny of the world.

As for Mei, it was beautiful – her face always lights up whenever Setsuna is happy, a frown whenever Setsuna felt sad, and tears sliding around her cheeks whenever she sees her cry. She is not stupidly dense to not realize that her heart was meant to love her friend, Setsuna. No, that is not it. She knows that her heart can only beat for her.

___________________________________________________________

If only Fate was not cruel to begin with as Mei held the pale, unmoving stature of Setsuna.

Her charred, dry lips with excess skin broken off and sticking loosely on its curve.

Her body is so unmoving, lifeless, and pale with blackened bruises all over her body. A state so inhumane.

Her pale, lifeless body is naked with its clothes – of what is left of it is – on the corner of the room so isolated and dark, dust swirling in the air and broken fragments of boxes and nylons scattered across. She can even see a small, uncovered, dirty bed with a small pet bowl as a basis for urination.

Her state is so inhumane to look at as white, thick, flowing liquid flowed between Setsuna's region, Mei gasped at the sight.

This is not right... When did it go wrong? What happened to her?

No, Mei knew, but refused to believe it.

___________________________________________________________

They were kidnapped and Setsuna was used.

It was during their walk after their classes ended that a van was accelerating behind them before it stopped ahead of them.

Suddenly, a few grunts of men were heard opening the door of their van with a pull and ran towards them, with a dangerous glint of intent reflected on their eyes.

Mei tried to fight back with swings of her bag towards the goons, but to no avail. She was trapped with a chokehold and a handkerchief with blue substance poured on it that made her drowsy. All she could hear was the fading echoes of Setsuna's screaming her name.

''Mei, help me!''

''Mei!''

''Me- h-''

Then she dropped, unmoving from forceful sleep. Her vision blackened with only the last core vision of seeing Setsuna being chokehold and put to sleep the same way she did. She could not talk due to her fatigue and drowsiness.

The only thing Mei could mutter, before her drowsiness drowns her life, was:

''Setsuna... Don't take... her.''

___________________________________________________________

Sunlight escaped from the rusty blinds to bring intense heat to show cowardice to their situation, and moonlight seeped through the darkness of the room, to remind them how lonely and in pain they were.

Days were gone as Mei finally escaped and saw the other room with Setsuna hanging as chains were cuffed on her arms. She was barely moving, alive, as the spark of innocence rapidly devoured by the sins.

''Set-...Setsuna'' Mei can only remain speechless as she reflects on Setsuna's condition.

''M...Mei, are you okay?" Setsuna, even on her condition, can only be concerned at the woman she loves.

''I'm... I'm okay, Setsuna. A-are you okay?'' Setsuna can only bring out an exhausted chuckle as she replied in disagreement. She was not okay, no, she knows she is dying due to her condition.

A lone tear travels downward, sliding and dropping to the cold, cemented floor. Her cries echo the sorrows her heart felt as the rain answered with a downpour of her cries.

''M-mei... I'm sorry... I promised you and I broke it. You were my world, Mei."

"Setsuna, I'm sorry... I'm— I'm sorry I was not there for you... My world... My world is named after you."

A drop. A drop of tears intensified the downpour of the mourning rain, as clouds overlap the sunlight that radiates no warmth.

Setsuna, her considered best friend, close friend, and potential lover — dead.

May the Beauty Bless the World, The End

Title: “A tear that was held for all eternity”

"A new maid?" That was the only thing Mei was able to say when he heard his butler, Karlos talk about the newly hired maid inside the palace.

"Yes, your highness. I believe it was the head maid, Nabe who was in charge of training the new one. As per the order of the King, your father, he was also assigned a knight to follow him around to keep him safe all the time"

'this is new' he thought.

Aside from the seven head maids, only a couple of other maids were given their own knight to protect them at all times, never in the hundred of decades history of the Narumiya family have they ever heard of a newly recruited maid to have the luxury of owning a knight of their own.

"Do you know of their reason?" Mei asked whilst trying to act as unbothered as possible.

Narumiya Mei is the third prince of the Nestra Kingdom, aside from his title as a prince, he is also known as a great knight, a royal with dignity, he understands the sufferings of their people and tends to the needs of most. He is a figure known to every corner of their country for, despite being the third prince, is the one closest to the throne.

"I heard from Yuki that a lot of people are actually fighting over to have the new maid. They want him so badly that they are holding swords against each other's throat. But your father, the king managed to get him because no one else tried to say a word when the king showed interest towards the maid himself"

'the king..?'

"That is very interesting, Karlos. But out of hand, I will not allow this kind of favoritism taking place in MY palace. I will do everything in my power to drive him away, this is not a place he can call his own"

Mei walked out of his room having his butler, Jun tail him around to go to the maid's headquarters to maybe meet the talk of the town and try to understand just why, he's got people wrapped around his fingers.

And oh.., for the love of God. All Mei could ever say is that even Haruichi Kominato who is known for his unparalleled beauty won't be able to deny the fact that the maid, Eijun Sawamura is pretty.

You could only ever say, that it was love at first sight.

That the prideful prince, Narumiya Mei, fell in love.. at first sight.

"Do you like the prince?" Mei quickly hid behind the bush when he heard the question. Eijun tilted his head to the side, as if he does not understand the question.

"What are you saying, Koushu?" Okumura Koushu is a knight that was assigned to take care of Eijun.

"I'm talking about the Third Prince, Ei. I always see you following him around like a puppy, he never paid you any attention at all for the past three years of you working under him, and as worse as this can get, the Prince has raised his hand against you multiple times, but I've never seen you act differently at all" Mei felt a reality slap at the very moment.

Narumiya Mei has fallen in love with Eijun. But he has never felt this before, he doesn't know how to act or what to do around him so he tried hurting him.

But so far, he is now trying his very best to appear good in Eijun's eyes, he's taking good care of the maid without wanting anything in return. He's trying to correct all his actions from the past. So he doesn't have to worry about the maid hating him.... He doesn't know why, but he still feels scared of what may come out of Eijun's lips

Eijun stared at his own hands.

"You're right. The first time I saw Prince Mei, I already know he hates my existence, he pulled me out and told me to know my place, I was also slapped when I accidentally broke a cup, He threw his books at me when I got him the wrong one, crumpled my papers, give me tons of workloads and a lot more things you couldn't imagine" Mei gulped. If he doesn't know that it was him he was talking about he would've said that the guy is a trash.

"But I can see his improvements, his developments. I can see that he's trying to be a better version of who he was from the past and I acknowledged all those, Koushu." Mei can hear his heart beating so fast as he he just ran a marathon. Because there is a damn possibility that he has a chance. That he and Eijun can be together... Should he act now? So that no one else can take Eijun away from hi-

"So, does that mean that you do like the prince, then?" Koushu looked up to the sky. It was a gloomy day today so all training was rescheduled for another day.

Koushu looked behind, his and the third prince's eyes made contact to eachother.

Koushu is not even shocked to see the prince there.

"I do, Koushu."

Koushu smiled. The time has come when he finally needs to let go of the person he holds dear... Because he is not his to love and covet. He was merely his knight to protect him at all times.

Koushu stood up, and started walking, confusing eijun.

"Koushu? Where are you-"

"Look behind you, my prince." Koushu never looked back as he continued to walk, scared of what's there to see, scared of seeing someone else owning the person he always longed to be with.

A tear fell down his cheeck. A tear that was held for all eternity. So this is not the story of the prince, it was the knight's who have given up, without a fight.

Title: "Unexpected Truths"

I was sleeping soundly when suddenly I heard footsteps and chatters. I tried to ignore it but it is getting louder every minute , so I’ve decided to just fully wake up from my sleep. As I opened my eyes to scan the room , my line of vision automatically fixated on the girl in front of me.

Her short black curly hair smoothly bounces back as she laughs while covering her mouth with her palms. Her eyes are bright like jewels twinkling in the light. Her soft pinkish lips are mesmerizing that by thinking of feeling them against mine sends my mind into a sensual state of intoxication.

I was forced to look away when I noticed her looking my way. I can feel my cheeks heating up and my heart beating rapidly. I took a quick glance at her again and saw Hana walking her way toward me.

“Hey!” I lazily looked at her, now more calm and composed. I didn't say anything. I stared at her coldly as I waited for what she had to say.

"I won't lose next time! I won't let you win. In the next exam, I'll make sure to score higher than you and claim the top spot in our school!" she seemed determined and slightly annoyed. I tried to hide my smile. I like it when her attention is on me.

I playfully looked at her. Her brows furrowed, and her eyes glared back at me. "Really? Let's see..." I rested my chin on my palms and smirked at her.

“You are not taking me seriously , Yuzuha.” She walks away immediately after. I stare at her retreating figure thinking about our brief interaction. I can’t help but tease her. I’ve got no other way to get her attention other than claiming the first spot of the school’s class ranking. I let her think of me as her academic rival when in reality I don’t really care much about it. What I wanted is for her to look my way and notice me.

The final exam is fast approaching and the school year is about to end , students are busy preparing for the challenging week. I looked at Hana reading her notes intently. I can’t help but smile how she’s so serious and focus on what she’s doing. It seemed like she felt my gaze as she quickly glanced at me and glared.

I sat quietly in my chair, contemplating my long-hidden feelings for Hana until I finally decided to confess. I don’t know what she's going to feel and react about this but I just wanna tell her the truth.

I was waiting for her in the locker area. I was thinking deeply of what I am going to do. I am nervous and scared of what her thoughts and reaction might be. I know I’ve got a lesser chance but I wanna try and tell her.

As I heard footsteps nearing, her giggles reached my ears like music. I stared at her in awe as I saw her genuinely laughing along with her friends. Her smiles faded after seeing me. Her friends murmured something I couldn’t hear.

“Hana , can I talk to you for a bit?” I looked at her , eyes a bit hopeful. She was annoyed at my presence , it was evident in her eyes.

“What for? Are you going to make fun of me again for winning the last time?”

“ I won’t and I am not making fun of you...I'm sorry if it seemed that way,” I swallowed the lump in my throat.

“Fine…” she sighed heavily. “What is it all about , Yuzuha?”

As if she understands what I wanted , she quickly turns to her friends.

“I’ll catch up with you guys; I’ll talk to Yuzuha for a bit.” Her friends agreed and went outside the school building.

“Hana… I…apologize for my past actions. The truth is…I do not really care if I am the top student or not…” she stares at me confused.

“Before we go our separate ways… and before our high school year ends…I wanted to tell you how I truly feel about you.” I can feel myself sweating , my hands cold and trembling a bit. She’s looking at me intently trying to process what I just said.

“Hana , I like you. I know you’ll think that what I feel for you is wrong. I know it’s impossible for you to look my way…given that I am a girl , like you. That’s why I did everything to get your attention. I did my best to be the top student so that you’ll notice me , and you did. And today I wanted you to know how I feel about you , Hana. I like you.”

She looks at me , more confused now. I can’t read what’s in her eyes.

“Are you kidding me , Yuzuha?!” her tears fell. I can’t help but get hurt seeing the girl I love cried right in front of me. I expected this. Will she feel disgusted about this?

“I hate you , not just because you are the top student and think that you steal that spot from me –I know you deserve it anyways– but also because…you took Koushi away from me…the guy I have loved for years. Tell me , are you making fun of me again , Yuzuha?"

What was she talking about? Did she just say that I was making fun of her? That my feelings weren't true? The pain I am feeling was just too much.

Before I could say anything , I heard a loud thud.

“Eh? Yuzuha? Hana?” Koushi our class representative stood there, bewildered. He must have overheard everything.

I can’t help but look at them both. Koushi looks at me confused , shocked and perhaps hurt. I looked away. This situation is so messed up.