Hello, Readers! You are probably wondering why I stopped updating weekly...I had finals at school and I spent my weekends and weeknights studying or doing homework. But now that I'm on Spring Break, I'll catch up! Thank you and sorry about that. Enjoy!

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“Hey Ritsuko.” Akito greeted to me before I abruptly ran into him, almost taking him down. Luckily, he grabbed me and held us both steady. “Ha ha, sorry about that.” I blushed. Akito chuckled back, “It’s alright. I gotcha.”

Silence fell over us as we stared at each other as he let me go. I felt a warm sensation go through my body. The faint scent of cleaning supplies was on him. “So...should we go now?” Akito asked. I nodded, “Yeah, sure.”

The two of us ventured out into the forest where Akito said he takes the best pictures. He actually knew what he was talking about when he was explaining how he creates the best effects in his pictures. It was actually kind of cute to hear him ramble on about his camera and pictures. I just stood by and watched him do his thing.

“So,” he pressed a button on his camera and aimed the camera at the white bird perched on a tree branch and snapped a picture, “When you lower the aperture setting, you get pictures like this.”

He passed the camera to me to look at the photo he just took. The bird was shot perfectly focused with the background on the picture blurred. “That's so cool!” I admired. “Right?”

I loved seeing him so passionate about his hobby. It was so adorable seeing him like this. “And then also, there’s an exposure setting that affects the amount of light that goes in the lens,” he started again. I handed the camera back to him, ready to see what he would show me next.

Akito stopped for a second and looked back at me. “Oh, sorry. You're probably tired of hearing me chatter about my camera. “ I shook my head and chuckled, “No, I actually like hearing you talk about your hobby.”

Akito titled his head and smiled, “Really.” I nodded. “I wanna hear more.” His expression brightened, “Okay. Here, do you want to try taking a picture?” I accepted the camera, “Sure. What should I take a picture of?”

He shrugged. “Anything that catches your attention.” I looked at the camera and looked around at the setting. It was mostly trees and bushes. There was a small creek running a distance away. I pointed the camera to Akito as he looked forward into the distance.

I looked down at the camera and lowered the aperture setting, like I saw Akito do multiple times. Then, I snapped a picture of him. He quickly glanced over at me when I tittered. He rolled his eyes playfully and chuckled, “Did you seriously just take a pic of me?”

“Yes, I did.” I admitted, shying away from him. He took the camera and glanced down at the picture. “I didn't mean take a picture of me! Oh gosh, I look terrible in this one.”

“No you don't.” I argued, laughing. He raised the camera to his eye and quickly took a picture of me. I gasped, “Wait, no!”

Akito laughed back and said, “Okay, now we’re even!” He handed the camera over. The picture was timed perfectly enough to see me with a big smile, giggling girlishly with one eye closed. “Oh, my gosh, Akito, delete this!” He snatched the camera and shook his head, “You look nice.”

I reddened, turning flustered, “No, Akito, please take that one off, I look ugly.” Akito countered, “No, you look cute.” I paused for a second and asked, “Cute?”

Now he became quiet and his face got a little red. “Well, yes...I think so anyway.” He covered his mouth with a hand and looked down. Aww, he was getting shy. A small grin grew onto my lips and I looked at him, “Well, then we’re even, right?” He looked up at me. I chuckled, “You keep that ‘ugly’ picture of me, and I keep the ‘terrible’ picture of you.”

He blew out air and chuckled. “I guess, whatever way you wanna look at it.” He smiled. This made my grin turn into a bigger smile. We ended up spending a few minutes laughing at each other’s photos. I don't know why, but we found it funny now that we took photos of each other.

“Here,” Akito offered, “Why don't we try taking a picture of the mountains up there?” He pointed to the right where in between the tall slender trees, there were humongous mountains. They could be seen from some parts of the village, but most of the forest covered them. But when you got in the forest, you could see their beauty.

The sunlight shone on the towering mountains, shading the cool, grassy valleys nearby. It was quite a sight to see. “Okay.” I agreed. He gave me the camera so I could point it to the right place. “I forgot, what was that other setting for the light levels?”

“Oh, it’s right here.” He reached over me with his tall stature and held the camera with me. He tapped a button and let me set the exposure on the picture. “This is a very good camera.” I winked an eye and snapped the picture. “Very modern, huh?” I nodded. “I saved up all my money from birthday gifts and allowance and bought this when I was 14. I think it’s the only thing I took care of best.”

“My father didn't care much for new technology. That's why he writes me instead of emailing. I didn't mind, though. He taught me what I needed to learn.” Akito mused, “And more. I mean, you were really polite and nice when I first met you.” He raised the camera over me as we snapped another picture. “Nicer than most girls your age. Did you ever meet the girls in class? Some of them are rude and kinda catty.”

I chuckled at the memory of first meeting one of the girls. How self-centered she was was almost unbelievable. “Yeah, they can be.” He showed one of his pictures to me and went on, “But I like you because you know how to treat other people. You're well mannered, generous, sweet. Although, you can be a little stubborn about your opinions.” I giggled, “Yeah, that's only a big flaw in me.”

Akito looked up, making me look the same direction. The white bird from before took off, flying into the distance. “Aww, that was a pretty bird.” I said, looking at him. “Yeah, it was. That's okay, we can go look for another bird or something.” I got excited again, “Sure!”

“Aww, you two are so adorable together! You would be a cute couple, wouldn't you?” A familiar voice cooed. This caused both me and Akito to yelp and turn around.

It was none other than Michael Oshiro, leaning against a tree with a lollipop in his mouth. “No, I’m being serious this time, guys.” I moved toward him, “Michael, what are you doing here?”

He smirked, “Wouldn't you already know? I spend my free time around here. It's where I can be with my friends. The ants, the birds, the bugs.” I shuddered at the mention of bugs. “Why were you spying on us?” Akito asked.

Michael shrugged, “I actually just found you guys wandering around. In my opinion, you two would make the best couple.” Akito and I both tensed up. “What? But-but why?!” I stammered.

He chuckled and came up by me, “I can see the way you two act with each other. You guys like each other!” My face turned a dark shade of red and I tried to come up with an explanation or excuse. “Huh?!”

Akito defended, “Hey, we’re just very good friends. It's not like we-” I didn't know how, but we found ourselves staring at each other. I didn't need to read his mind to know what he was thinking; We don't like each other that way, right?

I tried to convince myself I didn't, but that was lying right through my teeth. I didn't know what his response was. Could we be a couple? I asked myself.

“Yeah, whatever.” Michael looked at me from the corner of his eye. I glanced away, pretending not to notice. Akito cleared his throat, “So, Michael, how have you been?”

He turned to Akito and replied, “Very good, thank you. Pretty crazy what's been happening in Crysolia, right?” he propped his arms behind his head.

“Uh huh.” I replied. “Isn’t this weird? These things keep happening constantly and it seems like a pattern, huh?” He looked at me strangely and agreed, “Yeah, I wonder when these people will stop. It's getting out of hand, and police are getting nowhere with investigations.”

Akito sighed, “There hasn't been any news from the police actually. Who knows what could happen next?” Michael looked to the side, “Well, at least I can get out of school now. I’m tired of school.”

I asked in disbelief, “Are you seriously just concerned about that?” He shook his head, “No, but, soon we’ll have too many people to be concerned about. A lot have been dying recently now thanks to whoever is doing this. That would be sad though, right? I wouldn't want to lose anyone that I cared about. What would I do then? I already am just going along with whatever happens.”

I tilted my head to the side and found myself questioning, “Has there been anything like this in the cities you lived in before?” Michael's mouth turned downward and glanced at me, “No. I only lived here and in Betsugata. Nothing like this ever happened. This’ll probably be something to talk about for years since it’s so different.”

“Are you kidding? It's horrid!” I looked down. “Maybe so.” He closed his eyes and looked at me. “But it’s okay,” he put his fingers under my chin and lifted it up, “I’m sure the rest of us will be okay if we protect ourselves, right?”

Michael looked at me with such an innocent look, almost like he was a child. I couldn’t seem to spot a tinge of evil or darkness, maybe strangeness, but never anything bad. I tried to read his mind for a deeper thought, but only received his plain thoughts.

She looks so upset lately. Why does she always look like that now? I don't blame her. But she shouldn't show that she’s scared. She's gonna be okay. She's smart, after all. Ritsuko could defend herself fine if she's smart.

I hated to admit to myself that the more things that happened, the more he seemed like he was clean. Maybe I was thinking about this all wrong. Maybe I was thinking him as a primary suspect just because I didn't understand everything about him. I didn't know why I would assume him, though, without any actual proof.

Akito chuckled nervously and pulled me a step back, “Of course we will, right, Ritsuko?” I blinked, coming back to the conversation and clearing my throat, “Oh, yes. We’ll be safe and...okay.”

“That's a good kitty.” He teased as he tilted his head to the side. “Well, I guess I should leave you two on your date, eh?”

Coincidentally, Akito and I sputtered at the same time, red as tomatoes, “Wha- It’s not a date!!” Michael rolled his eyes and pulled his lollipop out of his mouth. “Wow, you guys are really in denial, huh?” He perched himself on a tree only a few feet off the ground. “See you.” He waved to us.

I chuckled awkwardly and waved when Akito snickered and walked away.

“Hey, you gotta admire his attitude.” I prompted. Akito shrugged, “Yeah, I guess so. He kind of caught us off guard, don't you think?” I looked around and found a black bird flying into a tree. “Yeah, he did. It’s weird, because I think I was looking for clues to point to him, but he doesn't appear guilty of anything. He’s never hurt anybody before, right?”

Akito's eyes widened, like he just realized something. “To be honest, I never remember him ever doing anything terrible.” He stopped walking and looked down. “The worst thing I think he did was maybe put a rat in someone's locker. No one really knows about that rumor being true, as well.  But we kept thinking it was him behind this, right??”

I answered, “I always thought he was at least involved, but….there’s no real proof. Do you think that he’s innocent?” He shook his head, “No, I mean, he’s weird and kind of twisted. He has to be. It would make sense.”

“Not if he’s done nothing wrong. The twins would be more likely of doing these things. Rosalina almost stabbed me with a knife!” I reminded him. He freaked out when I told him a few days earlier and immediately told me not to trust them any longer.

“That's true. Asher seems like he has no idea what's going on. To be honest, I don't think he’s taking part in this at all. So it might be the twins or Dominic.”

“Dominic doesn't really seem like the type to do that. He’s calm and organized. We can't make these choices without proof, though, so we have to keep everyone on our watch. We don't know who could be doing this or planning such extravagant murders. And they don't seem to be going after multiple people, only single targets.”

Akito nodded, “Any idea on who to look out for?” I shrugged, “Anyone. Asher is probably not someone we should worry about, Dominic is more or less on either side, Michael is appearing more and more like less than what we all expected, the twins are the only ones that are showing signs of murdering all these people. We can't trust any of them. We can only trust each other and our friends, right?” I held my pinkie up to him.

“Yeah.” Akito linked his pinkie in remembrance of our deal. “Any idea how you’re gonna heal them once you find out who is the killer?” I shook my head as I pulled my hand back. “We’ll have to tell police immediately, but I don't know how they would let me heal them if I just sent them to jail. I’m not sure.”

He hummed in acknowledgement and walked on. “I might try to heal Asher first the day that Rin leaves.”

“Hmm, well yeah, I think he deserves it more.” I chuckled and shook my head, “This isn't about who deserves being healed or not. None of them deserved to get cursed in the first place. Even if it was, say, Alexandra and Rosalina who killed those people and sabotaged the dance, I wouldn't refuse to heal them because of what they did. It is my fault anyway.”

He raised an eyebrow at me, “Your fault? Why would you think that?” I considered for a second and decided not to explain. “It's okay, you don't need to hear about that. It's of no importance.” I crossed my arms over my chest and tried to look at him with a sure look on my face, but his cute look of questioning made me snicker. “I’m sure of it. Now, where to next?”

Akito pulled out his wristwatch from his pocket and checked the time. I found it kind of funny that he never wore it and only kept it in his pockets. “Well, it’s getting a little later. Why don't we go back in the village for lunch?”

I gave him a big smile and nodded, “Yeah, sure!” I checked my pockets to see if I brought any money or my money purse. I must’ve forgotten it at my apartment. “Oh, it’s okay. I’ll take care of it.”

“What? No, I couldn't do that. It would be rude of me.” Akito countered, “Not if I offer to.” He put his hand on my shoulder. “Come on, it’s fine.” I blushed at the feeling of his hand on me. “Well, if you say so.” I said, giving in. “Seriously, you're so tense recently.” He took his hand off my shoulder.

“Tense?” I questioned in disbelief. “Yes. You probably needed this. You're under a lot of stress, right?” My head went down, “I don't really want to talk about it.” He insisted, “Come on, you’ve got to feel like venting now. You can't just keep your feelings bottled up. You’ll feel better.”

“I said I don't want to talk about it.” I repeated in a taut voice. I wish I had realized how I sounded before I spoke, because I immediately felt embarrassed. “Oh, okay.” Akito looked down and walked on quietly.

Minutes passed where none of us spoke a word. It was so uncomfortable that I thought we would never get out of the forest. “I’m sorry.” I finally murmured. He shook his head, “Nah, don't apologize. I was being pushy, as usual.”

I furrowed my eyebrows at this, “You're not pushy.” Akito rolled his eyes, “Uh huh, sure. Just ask Maiko what I’m like. She’ll tell you.” “What do you mean?” I chuckled, “I know you well enough to tell you're a good person.” He looked to the side and rubbed the back of his neck, “Well,”

“You're more to yourself, but you're only pushy because you care about your family and your friends. It's being unselfish and helpful. It’s not exactly a bad thing. It just shows you care.” I couldn't help but smile at him.

Akito returned the smile. “Thanks, Ritsuko.” I felt him accidentally grab my hand and hold it, which caused me to blush. Wait, did he intend to do that?

Every time he touched me, I got nervous. I don't know what I expected, but I felt myself slowly liking it. It was like a magical touch that always reminded me of what I promised myself and what I felt for him.

“How do you feel?” I asked, not thinking. Akito reddened quite a bit as he looked up trying to think. How stupid of me to ask that!! “Um, of this whole situation. How do you feel about all these things going on?”

Now, did I kill the moment that somehow happened, or did I avoid an awkward situation? “Oh, uh, well, I don't know. How am I supposed to feel? I just want to think of the present and taking care of each other. Maiko keeps telling me that's what I should do, anyway.”

I hummed and looked forward, seeing us approach the exit of the forest into the small town. “You two care about each other a lot, right?” I saw his mouth go up into a small smile, “My mom, before she passed, said that we have to protect each other as siblings. Especially me, as Maiko's older brother. We took it seriously, and well,” he shrugged, “We’re still looking out for each other.”

“That's sweet.” I admired. Akito, probably unintentionally, continued. “I also remember my mom giving me some good advice: No matter who she is, I should always treat a girl with respect and kindness, even if she's a brat. She said if I can do that, then I could love and care for that special girl correctly.”

Was he referring to me, or was I mixing up my fantasies with that which was reality? I felt my stomach get a little queasy and the blood in my body go to my face. I didn't even realize I was staring at him with a cherry red face and mystified stare.

“Oh!” I exclaimed, snapping myself out of my thoughts. I could see my shout startled him. “Sorry, that was a little awkward, huh?” I looked at him and tilted my head to the side. “No, it wasn't. Knowing that you feel close enough to talk to me about stuff like that makes me feel like you actually appreciate me as a friend. I think what your Mom said was very wise and you have followed her advice.”

Akito let out a quiet chuckle and told me, “I’m glad you are my friend. It definitely makes life more exciting for me.” I giggled in response as we both walked toward a road. Not many cars drove around here, so it was empty, but the sign still said to wait.

“Well, look who’s out and about. Ms. Akiyama! ” A cocky voice hollered as I felt a big hug from a petite girl. “Whoa, Kyoko!” I looked back and chuckled. Akito greeted, “Hi, Kyoko.”

She pulled back from me and put her hands behind her back, “Wow, for a small town, we haven't run into each other often out of school.” I asked, “What are you here for? Don't tell me you're going to the sandwich place down the street?”

Kyoko shook her head and gestured behind her, showing little Koji holding a lady’s hand with a man next to her. “Nope, Koji’s parents and I are going to the cafe to talk about babysitting schedules.”

“Hello.” The woman greeted genially. Akito and I politely bowed in greeting and introduced ourselves. Mr. And Mrs. Hagiwara, as they said they were called, brought Koji forward to greet us.

“Hi, Akito! Hi, Ms. Ritsuko!” He waved excitedly, running up to us and hugging our legs. Akito and I both looked down at Koji and looked back at each other, laughing.

“Aww, you two would be good parents, no?” Kyoko prompted as Koji went back to his parents. I felt Akito tense up after me. “Um- yeah?” I said awkwardly, turning my head to him. Poor Akito was scarlet red in pure embarrassment.

Kyoko laughed loudly and nudged Akito in the arm. “What do you say, Akito? Wouldn't Akiyama be a good mother someday?”

Akito raised his head and abruptly answered, “Yes, yes she would. But that would be someday, of course. Someday…” I could’ve died right there and then, but nothing happened. Both of us just stood there in silence.

Mrs. Hagiwara stepped up in an enlightened manner and asked, “Akito? Oh, yes, I remember you. The boy from Tanaka's apartments. Koji talks about you all the time.” She looked to Koji, who was distractedly running around us, chasing a butterfly. “He says you take very good pictures. I haven't seen any of them, but he just adores them.”

Akito rubbed the back of his neck, “Oh, thank you. I kind of showed him a little bit about my photography. He seems to like it. Ritsuko and I actually just came back from the forest to snap some photos.”

“Really?” Mr. Hagiwara asked. Akito nodded and pulled his camera off his neck. “Here, I’ll show you if you want.” All of us gathered up around Akito as he turned on his device. Koji bumped into me and playfully cried out, “Candy!” I didn't mind, though.

Until I heard him running away to a distance. I turned around slightly when I saw him from the corner of my eye, running into the middle of the street and crouching down to pick up a piece of dusty candy.

“Wait, Koji!” I reached my hand out. Suddenly, a black car raced toward where Koji stood at a high speed. His mom looked over and screamed in terror. Everyone else turned around and gasped, but Kyoko ran toward him. “Koji, no!!” She shrieked.

Koji turned around curiously, with no idea that he was about to get hit. Mr. Hagiwara ran behind Kyoko. She immediately grabbed Koji and the car still ran at the same speed. No doubt she would get hit in his place!

That was until Mr. Hagiwara ran in and pushed Kyoko out of the way. She fell on the ground, holding Koji tightly and grunting.

Before anyone could react, Mr. Hagiwara flew 4 feet forward at the impact of the black car hitting him. He hit the ground, not making a sound, staying still. Kyoko sat up, securely grabbing Koji and panting. Mrs. Hagiwara ran toward Mr. Hagiwara and yelled.

Akito and I stared with wide eyes. “Call the ambulance!! Someone!” Akito shouted desperately. Koji tried to run to his father, but was held back by Kyoko. “No!! Dad!” He cried. I looked at Akito and we exchanged bewildered expressions. The person in the black car looked for a second at Mr. Hagiwara then quickly drove backward, speeding off.

“What the heck do they think they’re doing?!” I boomed. Akito gave me his camera and told me, “I’m going after them. I know a shortcut to keep up. Call the ambulance and stay here, I’ll be back when I get the license plate number.” I couldn't even respond, I was so dumbfounded at the moment. “Wait, Akito!” I finally called as he chased the car then made a turn between two shops.

He told me to call the ambulance, though, I had to stay. People started gathering around the scene and I ran to a telephone pole and dialed the ambulance.

“Hello? Yes, please come right now! There's a man who’s been hit by a car!!” I informed quickly into the phone as I looked back at the unconscious, possibly dead Mr. Hagiwara.

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Gotta love those plot twists, huh? Hope you liked the chapter and you'll be here for the next update! Love ya!