Disclaimer: I don’t own Gakuen Alice—the great Tachibana Higuchi does all. *dances around a bonfire chanting her name*

Nothing Less
By Rosa en Bouton

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This is an entry for the NatsumeSeries Contest. Submission starts on June 21 and ends on July 21.
For further information on the contest, contact Yuna-neechan (Vione) and/or Cindy-chan (Romantically Loveless).

“To protect them—and nothing less—was my life’s mission.”

Shutting the door shut, I locked the car with the remote installed in my keychain, dropping it on the stool chair nearby. I then walked out of our garage, making my way to the front door as I checked the time on my watch. 6:03 PM. I’m earlier than usual—no surprise there. There hadn’t been any major cases this week, and all I did was sit on the office couch waiting for something important enough for me to be called. The whole day was boring—I would’ve rather had spent it doing minor jobs, even if it meant rescuing a cat from a tree.

I slid the front door open, saying ‘Tadaima’ as I entered the foyer. It wasn’t long before I heard Kohane squeal, coming along with her loud footsteps scurrying to where I was right now. Sigh.

“Otou-san!” I just had finished putting on my house slippers when this girl flung herself to me—it kind of reminded me of the time Mikan did the same thing when I hadn’t come home for two days due to a difficult major case that got prolonged—and I caught her perfectly, raising her until she was about three inches below direct eye level, smiling at her.

“You’ll trip one day if you keep on running off,” I told her, making myself comfortable in my current position. “And if that happens, a boy will see your underwear and I’d have to kill him.”

“So says the man who loved doing that when we were younger.” I moved my head as the girl in my arms did, looking at my dearest wife with an annoyed look. “I did not.” She showed it—I was just a mere victim of her broadcasts, nothing more.

She shook her head, nearing the two of us and then crouching down to our child—I’ve lowered her down a bit when she interrupted—with a teasing smile on her face. “Kohane-chan, when Otou-san says something like that, tell it to Okaa-san so she could cut his portion of dinner.”

“Haii.” I swear this child is as dense as her mother. I looked at Mikan incredulously. “Are you serious?” I’ve been starving for real food since the boss brought in those pack of donuts from who-knows-where earlier. And there I thought police liking doughnuts were just made up in cartoons.

“Yep, although if you read Kohane-chan a bedtime story tonight…” I sighed at her condition, signaling that I was agreeing—no way was I going to eat instant noodles tonight.

“YAY!” With that, the little girl in my arms scampered off to the kitchen, a smile on her face. I was smiling too—it was nice to feel how much your little girl loved you, no matter how sappy that sounded.

I moved my eyes to Mikan as she did to me, stepping on the raised platform and giving her a quick peck on the lips, my arms around her waist. “Work was boring again, wasn’t it?” I nodded, wondering if my face expressions had become more readable than back then, or maybe it’s because I’ve been like this since Tuesday.

“And you?” I asked as we began walking to the dining room. It had been four years since we had gotten married—we’re both currently 28—and since Kohane was born. I didn’t expect to propose at such an early age either, but we were already in stable, good-paying jobs, and at the time, my only wish was to be with her. I never regretted my decision back then, and I’m sure that she feels the same way too.

“The usual, although Kohane-chan’s been overly energetic since she got home,” she said, smiling like always. We had our own bakery, and of course, she was watching it, thus she’s always at home. I, on the other hand, am in the hands of the government—one of Japan’s top agents, as so my co-workers say.

“Isn’t she always?” We were at the kitchen/dining room now; she was preparing the plates while Kohane was setting the table, somewhat playing with the table napkins. I chuckled inwardly at that—although she looked more like me, having most of my features, she had the same traits as her mother.

“It’s Kohane-chan’s first sports festival!” I sat down in my seat as Mikan placed the last platter of our viand on the table, seating down afterwards. I threw a smile a Kohane, quite amused with her excitement—she was definitely like her mother.

We all recited ‘Itadakimasu’ together before we ate. If it were up to me, I wouldn’t be saying that but since Mikan whined about it for a week—it was more gruesome than any other mission I’ve encountered—I eventually began to get used it.

“What game are you going to participate in, sweetie?” I chewed on my beef, listening to their conversation.

“Obstacle Race!” I got reminded of the day when I and Mikan had our first obstacle race together. I was forced to join since one of our team members broke a leg and my object-to-be-brought was ‘Person You Love’. It saved me from confessing personally though.

“When’s the day?” I asked—I have yet to take a day-off on whenever it is so I could see her race. It is her first sports festival, after all. A father’s got to be there…right?

“Sunday! Can you come, Otou-san? Obaa-san and Ojii-san are coming to visit too on Saturday—they can see Kohane-chan play!”

Considering the cases we’ve been having this week, it’d be easy to get a day off. My boss owes me for beating him at shooting anyway. Those doughnuts were somewhat useful earlier despite their revolting look.

I turned to look at Mikan, a questioning look on my face. “They’re visiting?” I asked in a whisper, not wanting to Kohane to hear. She hadn’t told me that my old man and her mother would be visiting this weekend.

She nodded, giving me a reassuring smile. “I’ll explain it later,” she murmured, returning her attention back to Kohane, who had stained her uniform.

“Neee, Okaa-san, Otou-san, what’s an obstacle race like?”

“It’s a race when one is entailed to do or bring what he draws out during the race,” I explained briefly, taking in some rice before I stole a glance at Mikan, which later became a lock of our gazes. That special memory of my unplanned participation and that unexpected draw still remained vivid in my heart.

I discreetly placed my hand on hers, entangling my fingers with it. The heat from her hand never faded away—one of the reasons why I chose to protect her. She threw one of her special smiles, and I smiled back. It was thanks to her that I was able to change myself, and undeniably I’m becoming more sentimental than ever.

“Neee, can Kohane-chan get a boyfriend too?!” I turned to her immediately, my smile dissipating the moment she asked the question.

“No.” I. Will. Not. Let. Any. Damn. Guy. Steal. My. Girls.

“You’re still too young, Kohane-chan. Why did you ask that anyway?” She better not be experiencing puppy love this early. She’s still four, four for Pete’s sake!

“Because Otou-san and Okaa-san began holding hands and being all lovey-dovey…Otou-san and Okaa-san both looked very happy, so Kohane-chan thought she’d be happier too if she had a boyfriend…” First, she’s no longer my girlfriend. She’s my wife. Second, I’m surprised she even noticed that. Third, she can’t have one until I approve of whoever this damn guy might be in the future.

“Well, you’re still too young for it. Plus, I bet your Otou-san will probably kill any boy that tries to court you.” I drank my glass of water, emptying it in one go. She’s damn right about everything she just said. Any guy that dares to make that move will never see the next sunrise.

“Ohhh. Okay!” I sighed in relief. I knew she just agreed out of her denseness, but thinking about the day when some guy will take her away topped my list of most hated thoughts.

I felt Mikan’s hold tightening, so I changed my view from Kohane to her. It’ll be alright, her eyes said, her lips curving into a heartening smile. I could never get tired of seeing her smile—it was my favorite sight in the universe, better than all of the wonders of the world.

Letting out a relieved sigh, I closed the storybook I held, gazing at Kohane’s sleeping face. She was holding on unto her stuff toy elephant, whom she calls Waffle for some unknown reason, murmuring softly. I pulled the blankets up, making sure she was warm and cozy even as she slept. The night winds have been rather cold nowadays, seeing as though autumn started.

I gave her a quick kiss on the forehead, laying down the storybook on her desk before I went and switched off the lamp light and exited the room, closing the door as quietly as possible. I stayed there for about ten seconds, checking if she was really asleep, before I headed to our room.

Upon opening the door, I saw Mikan gazing at the night sky. She was wearing her white night dress again, her hair now waist-long. It won’t be long till she decides to cut it up to her chest. She didn’t like having her hair being a hassle, nor did she like those bob cuts. She prefers tying them in pigtails, but she lets it down every now and then.

I silently closed the door, walking to her quietly, my footsteps barely making a sound. I wrapped my arms around her once again, waking her up from her reverie. I placed my head on her hair, inhaling its fragrance. Her floral scent was intoxicating—addicting, a sweet aroma that would put the most expensive perfumes to shame.

“Mou, you really looked like you were going to kill somebody earlier,” Seeing as though she bent her head upward, I took the chance to kiss her forehead while she weaved our hands together. I gave her a small smirk after hearing her statement—so I really am being more readable nowadays. The time to decide whether it was a good thing or bad thing will come in a while, depending on the situation.

“She’s still four,” she reasoned. Not good enough rationality to me though. “I fell in love with you at ten. I thought it was mere puppy love, but look at where we are now.”

“Four, ten—can’t you see the difference? You’re better at math than me!” I chuckled at her pouting face. Even as the years passed, she still had her childish antics. I bet, no, I know that the face she’s making now won’t be cute with any other twenty-eight-year-old woman, married or single.

“Idiot,” Yes, I see the six-year difference, but she’s not getting my point either. If our puppy love turned out to be something more, I can’t imagine what age Kohane will be when she experiences it. She might even be taken away from me earlier than what we would expect.

“And if I get a boyfriend?” I glared at her sudden change of topic focus. She was now facing me, but my arms were still around her—and because of her unexpected question, my hold tightened. She better stay loyal or I’m calling my lawyer.

Her chuckle told me that she was joking, but I didn’t find it funny in the slightest bit. I was ready to break the lampshade—and I almost did if she hadn’t tittered in time. “That wasn’t funny.”

She rested her head on my chest, a hand holding my arm and the other lightly resting on my waist. I moved my right hand, placing it on her head to softly brush her hair. I could tell she was inhaling my scent from the way her breath touched my arm despite me wearing my long-sleeved polo. I could also her heart beat—a soft, moderate rhythm that felt so hypnotizing.

“You should know there’s no one else in this world I’d replace you with. You are and you’ll forever be my…should I use Dearest? Husband? Lover?” And here I was thinking she’d be going all sentimental with me up until the end of her sentence. Typical Mikan mistake.

I sighed. Now’s a good time to ask about that visit; I bet she wants to change the topic too. “When did they call?”

“Just when I and Kohane-chan got home,” So that should’ve been around two in the afternoon. Did I mention she picks her up from school everyday? “Okaa-san told me she was too bored, although I think getting the chance to speak a little with Kohane-chan lifted her spirits up. She said she’d invite Otou-san and Aoi-chan to—” She yawned, tiredly placing her head back on my chest.

“I’m sleepy,” she muttered, making sounds with her lips as I silently sighed, soon carrying her and laying her on the bed. I double-checked the window locks, leaving the door open in case Kohane would have nightmares again. I then switched the lights off, comfortably lying and adjusting myself on our king-sized bed as I pulled the covers on her sleeping figure.

She was like this sometimes—suddenly falling asleep in the middle of a conversation. She never does realize when her body gets tired. One minute she’d be jumping up and down and the next she’d suddenly fall down asleep.

I stroked her face, caressing her cheek in the softest way possible. She didn’t have the whitest of skins, nor was her skin that white—she was somewhere between white and the lightest brown. Her hair was brown, a hazel shade that matched her eyes perfectly.

I sighed, nearing her as she murmured something in her sleep. I kissed her forehead, brushing her bangs a bit before I closed my eyes. The time I have with them is so short, and I would have asked for more, but this is enough. Seeing the smiles on their faces, hearing their voices, feeling their embrace…

“A threat?”

“Possible threats. Since we have their boss, they’d surely want to get him back. It’s possible that they’d use hostages.” I widened my eyes, clenching my fist as I knew what he meant with his last word. Images of Mikan and Kohane flashed in my mind. There was nothing wrong with worrying, just the cause of it.

“And you’re telling me this because…?” I already knew the reason, but…

“Because you’re one of our top agents—one of the most influential people here in our organization. Mikan and Kohane are in the most probable jeopardy—it’s better to be safe and secure. Even I don’t want them to be in this position either, but it can’t be helped.” I wanted to deny that. I wanted to deny that the reason they’re in danger is because of me.

I held her head, putting it on the crook of my neck. Her scent always calmed me down—that sweet smell of flowers of hers. It had been three days since Akira warned me about it and up until now, the memory reappears before I go to sleep. It was painful, ironic. And it hurt that it had to be my last thought before I slept.

I looked at them, analyzing the clothes they were wearing. There would come a day when Kohane would be one of those anime characters she loves to watch on TV. I think it’s called cosplaying, but I’m pretty sure Mikan’s not that addicted to anime, although I do understand why her style is somewhat doll-like. Lolita, I think, was it called? Why she passes it on to Kohane, I don’t know.

“You should leave Waffle here. It might get lost or stolen in school,” I told her. Her hair was in a bun fixed with a white ribbon and she was wearing a long-sleeved white dress topped with a black bolero, matched with white doll shoes. Now that I look at it, they do seem to like white in their wardrobe.

“But Kohane-chan wants to bring Waffle!” I sighed, knowing she was going to be persistent. She brings this and loses it, she’d be crying for a month. That stuff toy elephant has been with her since her birth.

“Why don’t you bring it on the way to school, and give it to your Okaa-san when you get there?” I suggested. Mikan does have a careless side, but she’s different when it comes to stuff toys. The second walk-in closet in our room proves it—she even has that big chick Piyo Aoi gave her on Christmas six years ago and that bear with the evil glint in his eyes stored in there.

“But…”

“Okaa-san will bring it when she picks you up too if you want,” Mikan said, crouching down to her level with a smile plastered on her face. She was wearing this white dress with musical notes, topped with a cream cardigan and her hair in a low side ponytail. She looked like a doll whatever angle I look at her from.

I turned my eyes to my little girl, waiting for her answer. Persistence was another trait she inherited from her mother, but I’m pretty sure she’d agree with the conditions we set up.

She looked at her stuff toy, making it face her too. She looked as if she was talking with the toy using their eyes, and then she made it nod simultaneously with her. Her lips curved into a smile and then she turned back to us. “Waffle and Kohane-chan agree!”

Mikan giggled and I just smiled. There are times like this when I would wonder if she really had grown a maternal side to her. She still acts like she does before, but she still got even a bit of that tinge of motherhood and maturity.

“Kohane-chan, why don’t you and Waffle go and get your things from your room?” she suggested, and the little girl and her elephant followed her instructions immediately. It wasn’t long before the room only had me and her.

I stood up from my chair and placed my palm on her forehead immediately, checking her temperature. She wasn’t too hot or too cold, but I felt something strange. It was not in my character to do something without a reason, but my body moved on its own—it was odd to the point I didn’t even know why or how it did so.

“Is something wrong?” She was in perfect health, but there was something nagging me at the back of my mind. I couldn’t pinpoint what it was exactly, but there’s no doubt that it was there.

Mikan and Kohane are in the most probable jeopardy—it’s better to be safe and secure.

Maybe that’s the reason? No, not maybe. It is that. There couldn’t be any other possible explanation.

I withdrew my hand, using it to take my cell phone from my pocket. “I’m taking a day off today,” I told her as I began texting the message to Akira. I wasn’t going to take any chances—I had to protect the two most important people in my life. With me around, those thugs wouldn’t be able to make any move unless they really aim for a fight.

“But why?” I haven’t told her about it. I didn’t want her to worry. From the corner of my eye, I saw Kohane return, wearing her backpack and holding on unto her elephant.

“I’ll tell you later. We’ll use the car on the way, is that okay?” I wasn’t careless enough to spill even to a little kid, though she might probably find out about it later.

“Otou-san’s going to give Kohane-chan and Waffle a ride?” For once, I was thankful that she was as naïve as her mother once were. I nodded, trying to smile even the slightest. I knew Mikan had already noticed that I was hiding it from her, and I already intend to explain it later as soon as Kohane gets to school safely.

I felt her suddenly hold my clenched hand, and when I turned to look at her, her eyes told me that she understood and she would wait. I sighed inwardly at the thought—I’ve been an agent for as long as I could remember, and from the moment I accepted the job, she always had worries. Why wouldn’t she, this overly-masochistic girl? She was never one to think of her own sake. That’s how she was. That was one of her rarest traits.

“Otou-san! Okaa-san! Hurry up!” For some reason I feel like I’ve left the car keys in the wrong place. If anything, she’d be—

Honk! Honk!

…touching everything without a second thought, make noise, and break my reflection time. I groaned, hearing my dearest wife trying to control herself from throwing in a fit of laughter from behind as we made our way to the garage.

“What a way to break the ice,” I heard her muse, her laughter volume lessened as she rubbed some water from the end of her eyes. Yeah, these two females really do know how to break the ice.

“Kohane!” I yelled, coming in the garage with a stern look in my face. What if she started the engine, clicked buttons, make the car strove into the house adjacent of ours and get herself hurt? I’m pretty sure that the car wouldn’t explode, seeing as though it’s water-powered, courtesy of Imai.

She popped out of the car window, and I wasn’t sure whether she was grinning or just forcing a smile. My voice did sound pretty mad, and I rarely use that tone with her. She knew her limits, so scolding her didn’t happen frequently. I’d admit that it was also something Mikan informed me after reading a parenting magazine when she was still in her womb.

“Kohane-chan, you shouldn’t open the car like that again. Otou-san and Okaa-san will be worried. Otou-san might have blown his top just a while ago—you don’t want him angry, do you?” It’s funny how this girl manages to talk her chibi version into doing the right things and yet I remember clearly her trying to drive the car without even knowing where to put the car keys.

I took a breath to cool down a bit, catching a glimpse of my little girl nodding, bowing her head showing she was sorry. After releasing the air I consumed just a moment ago, I tried to put up a calmed expression, hoping I won’t scare her—she was sensitive to those kinds of things, at least Mikan said, or she might have just told me that so I wouldn’t lose my temper.

“Are we running late?” I asked, trying to lighten up the mood. I walked to the driver’s door, and it didn’t take long for the little quirt to smile and move to the passenger seat beside it.

I entered the car and closed the door, revving the engine up. I turned to look at Mikan who was still outside the car, telling her to get in the damn contraption already. She walked up to me, bending her body until our eyes met. “Didn’t you take a day off to have some father-daughter time?”

“Idiot.” So that what she thought I was up to? Complete senselessness, really. “Get in.”

“Eh? But I thought—”

“Just get in.” I wonder if she’ll be able to even grasp what I’m going to tell her later. Sigh.

I pressed the button for opening the garage as she moved to the passenger seat beside me, placing the little squirt and her elephant on her lap before she closed the door. I heard them—or more specifically Kohane—talking about how to take care of her Waffle as I stepped on the pedal and moved, clicking the closing button for the garage doors as soon as we left.

The roads in the neighborhood weren’t wide, but enough for the car to fit. It’s normal here in the country considering most people would walk to wherever they plan on going as long as it’s near. We were going 20-22 kilometers per hour—any faster than that might lead to damage and unwanted bills. Of course, I didn’t fail to notice the ice cream van standing still in the far-off corner and moving once we turn around another corner.

My instinct was right.

…but that doesn’t mean they won’t back out. Ugh. I should tell be telling Mikan now but Kohane’s still here. Is it even right for a kid to know her father’s an agent that risks his life every time he goes on a mission? And that his family is now in danger because he caught the boss of some criminal group?

Most reasonable answer would be no, but if I don’t tell them now, they might be careless and open up an opportunity for those low-lives. Why am I even having an internal argument with this? Damn it.

“Natsume-kun, you’re going the wrong way,” I turned the car to the opposite way—to a less child-crowded place. Going to the kindergarten as planned is unseemly with our current situation. I can’t afford having other children’s lives risked.

“Otou-san!” I stayed quiet, keeping my eyes on the road and the van following behind us. I needed to tell them now, but it wouldn’t make any difference. Mikan was good in PE, but she didn’t have the power to take on several men.

Soon enough, we were already ten minutes away from the bridge. It was then when I heard the instrumentals of Mikan’s favorite song—Pika Pika no Taiyou—signaling that someone was calling.

“Hello?” It was her phone, so I was able to concentrate on the road. Nevertheless, I did hear what she was saying to the caller.

“Natsume? Yeah, he’s here. Natsume, it’s Tono-senpai.” In all fairness, they were rather quick in tracking them down, although I still find it late since they’re now tailing behind us.

Mikan put the phone on my ear, knowing that I needed to concentrate on my driving. “I need back-up. Now.”

“Andou and the others are on their way. If you could, speed up and meet them by the middle of the bridge. Nogi and I are on our way as well.”

“Ruka?” What the hell is he doing there?

“His pet place—”

“Clinic! Veterinary Clinic!” Well, he never does get tired of correcting people.

“—veterinary clinic is next to an ice cream store and…are you getting me here?” I hummed a yes—the van the store uses got car napped and he reported it to them, and it just so happened that when they tracked the car down, they saw one of the members using the satellite. To think Koko and Mochiage’s goofing around was helpful this time.

“Okay then. See you in five minutes.” The phone made a sound and Mikan lowered her arm down, putting the phone back in her pocket. All the same, her face was painted with worry now. I don’t know if she heard all what Akira said, but I don’t think her naivety is present this time. She knows the bottom line—they’re in danger.

We were already in the bridge now, and I stepped the speed up as soon as we reached the highway. I never liked being the mouse in this game.

“Okaa-san, Otou-san, what’s going o—ooooonnn!?” I pressed the break pedal as soon as I saw three cars stopping in their tracks and blocking the way. The car swerved—I didn’t expect them to have more henchmen waiting—and soon after it stopped, I got out of the car, scowling at them.

One by one, they got out, smug expressions plastered on their faces. The van behind us wasn’t slow on catching up either. I went to Mikan and Kohane’s side immediately. Both had gotten out of the car as I did. Mikan was carrying Kohane, holding her tight as the squirt was with her Waffle. Our status? Cornered. Where are Andou and the others, damn it?

“Aren’t you scared, kid?” I glared at the one who asked. It was obvious that they were really planning to take a hostage from either of them—or the worst case scenario, both.

Slowly, they began enveloping every exit we had. I prepared myself, my gun in my pocket and fully-bulleted. I’ll shoot if the situation calls for it. I glowered at them, my crimson eyes turning lighter as the sun’s rays touched my face. I wasn’t scared of what they had in store—but they touch even a single strand of hair on my girls and they’ll be put into special treatment the moment they get locked up behind bars.

Five…

Four…

Three…

Two…

…One.

I threw a kick at the first one to charge, an elbow punch on the one on my right, and on the left I gave a stomach blow. Kick. Uppercut. Elbow Punch. Stomach Blow. Getting hurt was inevitable in my current situation, but I didn’t care—I became numb in every hit that meant to have me cry in pain. I didn’t back out though. The more their hits got hurt, the more I increased the power I gathered in my own.

It was for them. Each strike I sent, each blow I got—it was all for them.

To protect them—and nothing less—was my life’s mission.

Before I knew it, knocked-out bodies were around my feet; some groaning in pain and some completely knocked out. I took the time to breathe, my body already near to fainting.

The sound of tires screeching approached us—Andou and the others were here. I looked at them, exhaustion evident in my face. They ran to our side as did new back-up members of the opposing group. About time they did.

“Where the hell were you?” I managed to ask, a scowl still on my face.

“We had to take a U-turn since we thought you were on the other side of the bridge.”

“Idiots.”

“That isn’t a very nice thing to say to someone who’s helped you.”

“You haven’t done anything.”

“…yet.” I wiped the end of my mouth, feeling a little blood trickling, and spat some saliva at the ground. There was no time to argue with this stupid Andou. At least I’ll get at least half a load off my back for a while.

I analyzed our opponents—their number increased. And this time, they were holding tasers, the cowards. Tch, as if those are going to stop me. It’s such a wonder why I got half tired by a pathetic group.

I positioned myself, readying for their next assault. I turned my head to look at Mikan and Kohane’s condition, hoping they weren’t hurt. So far, they were okay. Kohane buried her head in Mikan’s chest; or rather it was Mikan making her not see. Whatever the case, it’s best that they stay that way for now. She didn’t need to see, she wasn’t meant to.

I returned my eyes to my opponents, who happened to be smiling smugly once again. They never get tired, do they? I breathed in, and then breathed out. Hopefully, this will end soon. It had to. Kohane wasn’t meant to see any of this. Even if her eyes are closed, her ears won’t block the sounds of the fight.

Without a second later, they charged and the second round commenced. Since they had tasers this time, I hit their wrists first, avoiding any electric shock. I used my elbow to hit one of them and grabbed the taser, immediately using it as another one approached.

“OKAA-SAAAAAAAAAN!!!”

Kohane’s scream distracted me and allowed an opening. I smacked the guy’s wrist before the taser got anywhere near me, multi-tasking as I hit them with the same moves—and more extra force—as I tried to clear the view.

I heard Kohane scream ‘Okaa-san’ again and again, and as she did, my determination to see Mikan boosted. Those dirty hands of theirs were able to touch her, and just the thought of it made me kick my opponents harder. Before I knew it, I managed to see what I wanted—and hated—to see.

The fighting hindered me from hearing Ruka and Akira’s arrival. They were both trying to calm Kohane—holding her down as she tried to go to Mikan. My eyes narrowed at the sight—and there’s no doubt they were flaming.

“Let her go,” It was my fault to have taken my eyes off of them. Letting the guilt swallow me—that’s a different story. It was bad enough that I wasn’t able to stop them from taking her as hostage—I don’t plan on letting these filthy bastards get what they want.

“Not until you give us back our boss!” They amaze me for having the courage and creativity to act without their boss. Most of the other groups I encountered end up dispersing. However, that’s all the credit they’re ever going to get from this.

I took a step forward, glaring at him as he placed the gun nearer to her head. “Let her go,” It was my second warning. That smug look on his face—I’d wipe it off soon, real soon.

“Any nearer and she goes!” I neared them a bit more, the air tensing, causing them all to quiet down and keep their mouths shut. I inserted my hand in my pocket, groping for my revolver.

I stopped in my tracks the moment I estimated what would be a good shooting distance. I quickly glanced at Kohane—she was keen on seeing what was going to happen. I hoped she wouldn’t be as eager, but she was. What I was planning to do wasn’t going to be a good memory, but I knew it had to be done to protect Mikan.

“This is my last warning. Let her go.” My words were firm—and loud enough for this deaf low-life to hear, but I guess he thinks so highly of himself to just tighten his grip. Talking to him, trying to negotiate—it was all useless the instant his smug smile grew even wider.

I took out my gun slowly, my hand firm on its handle. I hoped I wouldn’t need to shoot, but the situation did call for it. If I charge at him, he can simply press the trigger and Mikan would be gone immediately.

“Oi, Hyuuga!”

“We’re already contacting headquarters for their boss’s release!”

“There’s no need to fire!”

“Natsume!”

One by one, they were telling me to hold fire. I gradually raised my arm, positioning the gun to its target. That bastard already hid behind Mikan, making her body the shield. I placed my free hand on my other, trying to steady it, knowing I was shaking with what was about to do.

I looked at Kohane, hoping she’d understand what my eyes were conveying. I tried to tell her that she should cover her teary eyes and not see this scene, but she had that stubbornness in her as well. What she was about to see would leave a mark she’d misunderstand in the future when she remembers it, but there was no turning back. I had to end this commotion now before it gets any worse.

I turned to gaze at Mikan, her expression worried—but it wasn’t for her. She was worried about Kohane—about the picture she’d have in her mind the moment I pull the trigger.

It wasn’t long before our eyes met—her hazel ones clashing with mine.

I walked through the hallway, heading for my office after Akira’s warning. It was because of me. I was the main reason. The reason for this mess.

“Mikan and Kohane are the most important people to you,” I stopped in my tracks and raised my head, my eyes meeting with Andou’s. This Shadow—a nickname he earned because he was known for his undercover missions—freak pops up everywhere.

“The danger they’re in—you should know it isn’t just now. It was from the second you accepted the job here. You’re the reason for what you’re worrying about. Tell me, how can you, the cause, solve this problem when you started it?” I wondered if he was trying to pick a fight, but he was right. Damn right.

I stayed silent, pausing for a while. The question he asked was a good one—I ought to give a good answer. I smirked as I continued walking, my hands in my pockets and my head down.

Once I was adjacent to him, I halted. “Protect them, what else?” And with that, I carried on my tread.

I accept the fact that it was me all along who caused her worries, the cause of what was happening right now, but I’m not allowing it to let me down. I’m not going to let something as frail as guilt cage me.

I fixed my eyes on hers. I steadied my gun on the target, knowing the time to shoot has already come. Sacrifice—it was certain, whatever aspect or situation you apply it on. The smile that formed on her face showed that she understood what I was going to do. She never failed to. After this, it’d be all over.

I vowed to protect her, and I don’t plan on breaking this promise. It was my life’s mission to protect her and Kohane, and my life’s purpose to be there for them.

Having this in conclusion, I fixed my hand on my target. I still heard people telling me to stop, but it was too late now. As I felt the wind gushing through the birds that passed in flight above us, I pulled the trigger.

Sorry, Mikan.

Two days later, Sunday…

Watching Kohane race made me realize she was a stronger girl than I thought. Only two days had passed since the incident, and yet here she was, moving forward. It was kind of unexpected, really, but I guess I should’ve put on more thought that she did inherit most of her traits from her mother.

“Kohane-chan really looks so cute,” I glanced at Yuka-kaasan, who’s still taking pictures with her new SLR, as I took a cupcake from one of the boxes that lay before me. At least she didn’t forget to pack a few snacks with her films and memory cards and all those other photography stuff she rammed in.

“A mini-version of Natsume as a girl with Mikan’s traits.” I eyed Aoi from the corner of my eyes as I put the cupcake in my mouth. If anything, Kohane would’ve been her mini-version.

“When will visiting hours end, by the way?” After gulping the last bit of the cupcake I ate, I chugged down on some water before I answered Otou-san’s question.

“Normally it’d be seven, but I sent a request for an hour extension. She’ll be discharged tomorrow.” I only grazed her leg—which was rather hard to do since she was wearing a knee-length dress at the time and the best shot should’ve been done at the thighs—and it’s surprising enough they’re making her stay there till today.

I turned my attention back to Kohane—she was only a few meters away from the finish line, and near to winning, at that. She was even with this boy from another class. I stood up from my seat and neared the race area, standing near one of the poles that held the finish line.

A smile formed on my face when she saw me and smiled back. It was somewhat sad that she lost the obstacle race earlier because she drew in the most impossible object to bring—‘Okaa-san’. Ironic, really.

However, I’m quite glad that she decided to substitute for a classmate here in the relay because he sprained his ankle. Mah, Mikan’s overly-caring nature is bound to run in her blood and be more evident soon.

Her steps soon accelerated, going faster and faster.

“Protect?” I nodded; my hand still on her hair as she raised her head, her eyes filled with confusion.

“Otou-san shot Okaa-san to protect her. When Okaa-san fell, the one who held her had a hard time, right? Because he was too focused on her, he didn’t notice Otou-san throw his gun to him.” I tried my best to explain to her why I shot her mother. Although I only grazed her, it was enough to make her fall down and give extra baggage to that bastard to the point he didn’t notice that I had thrown my gun at him.

“Understand it now?” She nodded. We were currently outside Mikan’s room here in the hospital. I thought I’d give a shot in explaining things to her, since it’d be better if she heard it coming from me.

“Kohane-chan gets it now! Otou-san will always protect Okaa-san and Kohane-chan, right?” I smiled at her, amused with her easy comprehension. Yep, she did inherit some of my brains, thank God.

“Excuse me, sir,” I turned my attention to the doctor who had just exited the room. “You’re free to see her now. She’s awake.” I nodded, carrying Kohane with one arm as I stood up and entered the room.

I caught Mikan’s eyes almost immediately—smiles both on our faces as I neared her, placing Kohane on the bed. “Sorry ‘bout that,” I apologized. Even though what I did was to protect her, hurt was hurt.

She shook her head in negation. “It’s okay. It was to protect me, after all. I should be the one apologizing since I let myself be captured like that. Sorry.”

“Kohane-chan will win a race this Sunday then and give the trophy or ribbon to Okaa-san and Otou-san!” I smiled at Kohane’s little insert.

“Okaa-san would prefer some cupcakes,” I grinned at that, amused to have something to tease her about.

“Pig,” I muttered. It’s been a really long while since we last had one of our little arguments.

“Am not!” Not that I wanted us to argue all the time—my ears wouldn’t be able to stand that—I just find her cute when she’s annoyed. And no, I will never admit that to her.

“Right,” If I had replied ‘Yes, you are’, this would’ve took the whole day. And no, I’m not lying. Even if the pattern stops, she’d be present to make my ears bleed.

“Okaa-san,” Just as Mikan opened her mouth to reply—probably to whine—Kohane interrupted. “What flavor of cupcakes do you want?”

I smiled at her thoughtfulness as did Mikan. She ran a hand through her hair as Kohane fixed herself on her lap. “Any flavor,” she answered. I think she means it another way though.

“She means every,” I inserted, discreetly nearing the two.

“Otou-san! You shouldn’t tease Okaa-san like that.” I saw Mikan grin when the child had sided with her. Guess I shouldn’t be surprised.

“Well, your Okaa-san is fun to tease. You should try to too,” I encouraged, draping an arm around Mikan’s shoulder and pulling her close, not really minding her pouting expression.

I smiled as our quaint family conversation continued as the sun began to set.

Before I knew it, she crossed the finish line—first place.

I was successful in protecting them two days ago, but that didn’t mean my mission was done. I—no, we still had a long way to go, and I wouldn’t mind waiting. I’d do anything for them. There was more to expect—the hardships had already begun since a long time ago.

And nothing less awaits.

FIN

Okay, just to make it clear, Mikan is alive. The idea of the graze stuff came from a Detective Conan movie—the one with the cards, numbers, and where Ran remembered a probable reason as to why her parents started living separately. The family genre is inspired by the Okazaki Family of Clannad After Story. Tomoya’s doting over Ushio and Nagisa is just so cute. XD

I thought I’d never finish this on time, but it’s a miracle that I was able too. :)) The next story I’ll probably update will be Charmed, but expect it to come a bit later due to the most general reason there is—school. I’ll be busy with all the homework, reports/projects, quizzes, and school paper articles. I hope inspiration dawns on me so I’d have two pages to myself this time, or probably have another one whole page to my own like last time. *Leave me alone to dream my little dreams. :))*

Anyways, it was really challenging to write in Natsume’s POV, and frankly speaking, I didn’t do a very good job at it. (=_______=) The rules were changed and I got to know about it at the last minute. I will admit that I have a little wish to win at least in one of the categories—whatever they may be—but my top priority in writing this was to have fun. Besides, this was a good breather for me. ^^

Don’t forget leave a review. I’m kinda depressed nowadays seeing as though most people just favorite/alert my stories but not leave a review, and what hurts most about it that I get mail practically every (other) day, and they’re always from FFN, telling me that this and that person favorited/alerted my stories.

Really, it’s nice that you silently show that you like my stories and all, but truthfully, I'm having a really hard time appreciating it. It just saddens me when I open my mail hoping to get reviews when all I see are favorites/alerts. I know one of your reasons might be because you don't have time, but if you had time to read this thing and press a few buttons, why not have time to review? *sighs*

Well, that’s all for my author’s note. I shall be off to learning CSS and watching the second season of Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuutsu. Don't forget to leave your reviews. I don't mind my story not being favorited (you can't alert this one since it's just a oneshot), just a review is enough. ^^

Hugs and Kisses,
Rosa en Bouton