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“The roles of Flora and Claire for the 101st Seisho Festival’s Starlight goes to-“
Silence fell over the dance studio where Class B was just about to announce this year’s lead roles for Starlight. Claudine was confident as ever, she knew she had done well on the auditions. This year she wanted to get Claire’s role just so she could finally take down Tendo Maya’s top spot.
She glanced to her right. Of course, Maya was there, standing right next to her as she always did. Looking as proud and confident as ever, with that perfect poise of hers. What an infuriating woman you are. Claudine thought. Apparently, the brunette had turned her head and was now facing Claudine with her usual smirk on her stupidly beautiful face. Claudine turned her head away as quickly as she could before Maya could see her blush. She heard a small chuckle then she turned her attention back to Class B.
“Saijo-san as Flora and Tendo-san as Claire. Congratulations!” She heard the whole class applaud for them. She stepped into to the centre of the studio with Maya following behind her. They bowed slightly and thanked the greetings to everyone equally. After all, they had been given the lead roles again in Starlight for their last year’s Seisho festival.
“Thank you everyone. We will make sure to bring an even more dazzling and brilliant Starlight this year than in the previous years, right Tendo Maya?” The ash blonde looked at her partner with a challenging smile and of course, Maya returned it.
“But of course, Saijo-san. There’s no doubt that we all will shine brighter than before on stage during our Starlight.”
“Okay girls, that’s all for today. We'll start rehearsing tomorrow, so get some rest and prepare for the play. You all can go now.” Sakuragi-sensei dismissed the class, and everyone began to stream out to get a proper rest before the hard work and preparations begin. All except two.
“Well Saijo-san you will definitely be a brilliant Flora again this year I have no doubt in this.” The brunette held out her hand to Claudine, smiling gently at her. Claudine looked at Maya, then at her hand, then back at Maya's face. That smile was so genuine she couldn’t come up with a retort, so she simply accepted Maya’s hand.
“And I know that you will be just as a beautiful and dazzlingly brilliant Claire again Tendo Maya. We will take the centre stage and shine so brightly that the audience may go blind, together.”
And so the 99th class’s last year’s preparations for Starlight has started.
“Your banana muffins are deliiiicious Banana-chan, I can’t get enough with them.”
“Thank you Karen-chan but please don’t stuff your mouth full of food or you might choke on those delicious banana muffins.” Nana warned Karen as she placed another batch of muffins down on the table.
“This year’s Starlight is going to be even more fun than all the previous year’s since this is our last. I’ll miss you giiirls.” Karen was on the verge of crying at this point.
“Karen-chan please don’t make me emotional. We didn’t even start the rehearsals.” Mahiru said emerging from the kitchen and sitting down next to Karen.
“Sorry Mahiru-chan. I just hardly believe that this is our last Starlight together in Seisho.” They all looked at Karen. Indeed, this was their last Starlight together, after this year they’re all going to take their own separate ways. It will be hard to meet with everyone, they know but they agreed that they will definitely keep in touch no matter wherever they were in the world.
Claudine looked at Maya who had returned to eat her muffin. Last year together… She heard her friends continue their conversation, but she got lost in her thoughts. She doesn’t want Starlight to be their last performance together, she wants to stand on the same stage as Tendo Maya as much as possible in the future too. The brunette is her partner. She most likely won’t be able to find a partner like her, ever. Claudine shines the brightest with Maya by her side and no one else. They push each other to greater heights and no one else can do that, no one, Claudine is sure of it and she knows that Maya thinks the same of her. They together could conquer the theatre world and could overcome any obstacle there’s no doubt. Unfortunately, the ash blonde plans to go back to France to join the Theatre du Flamme after Seisho and as far as she knew Maya is planning to join the New National First Theatre Troupe in Japan.
She received a message on her phone. How could she forget.
“I’m sorry everyone, but I have to go now.” She said, getting up from her seat.
“Is there something wrong Kuro-chan?” Nana asked before anyone else could. The attention of all eight girls was now on Claudine.
“Non, non. You don’t need to worry. I just discussed with my maman that we would talk tonight since I spoke to her a long time ago but apparently I forgot and she just sent me a message asking if it's fine to call her now.” She explained as she was already at the kitchen’s doorway.
“Ah, I see. Tell your mom we said hi.”
“Oui, I will. Now if you’ll excuse me.”
She hurried upstairs to her room. She didn’t lock her door since she saw no point in doing so, so she settled into her bed and waited for her mom’s call.
After a few minutes her phone finally rang, her screen displaying “maman.”
„Claudine my darling how are you doing? It's been so long since we spoke.”
“Hi Maman. I’m doing alright and yes, it really has been a long time. We will be preparing for this last year’s Starlight play. I got one of the lead roles, Flora again.” Claudine said in her phone trying not to think about the fact that she was once again partnered up with Tendo Maya (not that she minded).
“That’s good to hear ma chérie. We would really like to watch this year’s Starlight since it’s your last year there, but as you know we still don’t know if we’ll be able to make it. I’m sorry darling.” Claudine heard her mother’s tone change to a rather sad one, instead of the cheerful voice her mother always had.
“It’s okay maman, I know how it is, don’t worry. I can always send you a digital copy of our plays so you and father will be able to watch it over and over again. Besides, you know that I’m planning to go back to France after Seisho so I can give you the digital copy personally.” she tried to cheer her mother up a little, apparently succeeding as her mother went back to her cheerfu-, no it was her much more dangerous tone. She could hear the teasing in her giggle already.
“And what about your classmates? Are they doing well? You haven’t anger them with that competitive nature of yours, have you darling?”
“Hey! They said hi by the way, but that’s not the point now! I never annoy them with my totally non-competitive nature. I have no idea what you’re referring to.” she bristled at her mother’s question and accusation of her being overly competitive. Well yea she was but only with one particular person… Anyway, she’s rather surprised that her mother hasn’t menti-
“And what about your rival, or to be more precise, the love of your life? Yes, I think that’s a better way to put her. Tendo Maya was her name, right? Although I couldn't possibly forget her since you talk about her 24/7".
There it was… She could feel her face heating up especially at that comment from her mother. Luckily no one else was in her room so it was safe for her to blush like an idiot. Wait no I shouldn’t be blushing over Tendo Maya!
“She got the role of Claire again, of course that infuriating woman! Though since she got the lead role and I’m her partner we’re rehearsing together to put on a perfectly brilliant show for everyone who comes to see our play. But fear not maman I’ll defeat her one day and become Top Star.” Claudine heard her mom giggle once again, at this point she just tried to ignore it.
“I see darling, so you like her and your time with her during practise. I totally understand you, although you should bring her with you next time when you come home.”
Claudine’s jaw dropped. She opened her mouth to reply, but she was in complete shock. “Are you there ma chérie?” Her mom asked concerned at her daughter's sudden silence.
“WHA- NO! Maman how could you assume that I like her? There’s no way!” There was no way, right? As soon as Claudine realised what the topic will be about, she couldn’t control her emotions (as if she ever could) and so she started pacing around her room to relieve her embarrassment and frustration.
Little did they know that at the other side of the door stood Tendo Maya. Frozen in one place, staring at Claudine’s door, her phone in her other hand. It was a miracle that she did not drop it, truly. She was on her way back to her room to finish today’s homework which she couldn’t get done before and since Nana’s muffins were already gone. The brunette just happened to hear what Claudine had said to her mother on the other side of the door. She couldn’t move for a good two minutes, probably even her skin turned pale.
Does Claudine…like someone? Maya’s brain started to overthink in that instant, and she felt a little pain in her, in her heart? What is this. As soon as Maya came back to her senses, she couldn’t help but stand close to Claudine's door so that she could hear her better. It really wasn’t like her to eavesdrop, but she just couldn’t help herself.
Who could she lik- no she just denied it, but then again, it's Claudine, so it's probably true.
“I know you too well ma darling of course," her mom chuckled, "your pride simply won't allow this feeling to be recognised and accepted by your heart at the moment."
Claudine stopped her tracks near to her door and so she stayed silent for a minute longer. “If I would like her – which I don’t – there’s no way she would like me back. More importantly, how could I like her when she’s my-“ *pang* “Hm? What was that noise? Wait a bit maman I’ll be back in a min.”
This time she managed to let go of her phone. Maya just couldn’t believe her ears. To think that Tendo Maya froze two times in a row during one single day is something else entirely. Only Claudine was able to do this to her. But she had to flee as soon as possible, she couldn’t let the ash blonde figure out that she - out of all people - was eavesdropping on her conversation with her mother. Maya grabbed her phone as quickly as she could and nearly ran to her room, closing the door as fast as she can but also trying not to shut it too loudly.
Now she had done it.
She leaned back against her door and slid down to the floor, holding her breath and her heart was beating like crazy but not because of the fact that she almost got caught, no. It was for a completely different reason. Maya was curious and also, she had a slightly painful feeling in her chest that she didn’t know where to put it just yet.
Across the corridor, Claudine opened her door, peeking out.
“Strange.” The French woman looked around the corridor but saw no one. “Darling are you there? What happened?” She could hear her mother's voice on the other end of the phone, worried. Claudine looked at the closed door opposite of hers. Could it have been her? She eyed with the door for a moment longer then turned around with a huff and closed her own room’s door.
“Yes, maman I’m alright. I just heard a noise coming from the corridor.” Claudine walked back to her bed and sat down. “Maybe it was just Kaoruko playing a prank on me yet again so don’t worry. Anyway, I’m really sorry but I must go now it’s almost curfew and rehearsals start tomorrow. Bonne nuit maman.”
“Okay darling, take care of yourself. Oh, one moment” her mother said just in time before Claudine would have hung up. “Ma chérie, just follow your heart and be happy, don’t be so stubborn for once please.” The ash blonde didn’t say anything to that but before she could her mother interrupted her. “Bonne nuit darling.” And her mom hung up.
Claudine kept staring at her phone, her mother's phrase - just follow your heart and be happy, don't be so stubborn - replaying in her head, as if it would be that easy for her. “I can’t believe it.” She massaged her temples as she let out the biggest sight one could hear.
She remembered to the noise outside her door.
There’s no way it was her right? And if it was indeed her then what exactly did she hear? No, I shouldn’t worry, Maya is not the type to eavesdrop and I didn’t even say her name out loud. Claudine thought to herself. She put her phone on charger and changed into her nightgown because yes, curfew was not just an excuse to escape her mom’s ranting about her and Tendo Maya, but it really was almost time for Sakuragi-sensei to check on them.
“Okay girls, since everyone is here, I’m going now. Make sure you get plenty of rest for tomorrow’s practise session. I wish you a good night.” Sakuragi-sensei announced to the girls after finishing curfew.
“We will make sure to rest well Sensei, have a good night.” Junna replied and with that Sakuragi-sensei left.
“Hey everyone, it’s only 9pm so we can still watch a movie or something if you want. I’ll also prepare some snacks for us.” Nana suggested with her usual smile.
“That sounds good, what movie do you guys wanna watch?”
“Come on Futaba-han you know that it’s gonna be some comedy. I want horror, like the scariest, most intimidating, we will not be able to sleep horror we have. I want to be scared for once and not sleep through these so-called horrors. Actually, I heard there is a good Japanese horror that came out not a while ago.” Kaoruko whined on Futaba’s shoulder.
“Is it really okay for us to watch it at this time of the night?”
“Don’t worry Mahiru-chan we will go to sleep right after. Junna-chan will make sure.” Junna nodded in agreement.
“Yeeess Banana-chan is right we will go to sleep riiight after, right Hikari-chan?” Karen was nearly jumping in her excitement to watch a movie with her friends.
“I stay if you stay Karen.”
“What about you two? Kuro-chan? Maya-chan?”
“I apologise Daiba-san, however I’m feeling rather tired at the moment so I’ll retire for tonight if I may.” Maya bowed her head in apology. She really didn't want to look Claudine in the eye right now, and she also wanted to have a look at this year's script for Starlight. She couldn’t afford to slack off even for a little bit. And honestly, she was already scared by the way the film was introduced but obviously she couldn’t reveal that to her friends.
‘It’s okay Maya-chan you don't have to apologise. I will make sure to save some snacks for you for breakfast. Rest well.” Nana waved, her smile did not waver, and Maya hoped she didn’t offend anyone but as far as she could tell, no one really minded. Except for one of course. She felt Claudine’s eyes on her back, she knew that Claudine wasn’t convinced with her excuse, but she didn’t make a comment on it. Maya heard a little huff, she was just about to get relieved when-
“I’m sorry girls, I can’t stay for this movie night either.” Maya heard Claudine say and the brunette stopped in her tracks.
“Whaat? Kuro-chaaan whyyy?” Karen almost shed literal tears at that.
“Karen, relax, firstly I’m not really into Japanese horrors, and secondly, I was about to run through the new scripts we just got today and then sleep. My beauty sleep is really important you know.”
Maya continued to walk back to her room – relieved - now that she knew Claudine’s reason. As she was almost at her room’s door, she couldn’t hear her friends talking anymore. She sighed, it will be more difficult to face Claudine from now on, she wants to know who that person is. She just couldn’t keep that discovery out of her mind. Maya was almost at her door when she heard her sharp voice.
“There’s no way you’re going to sleep Tendo Maya.” The ash blonde said matter-of-factly, hands already crossed in front of her.
Maya jumped a little at the sudden voice of her partner. She didn’t hear her footsteps which was rare. Usually, she’s the one who surprises Claudine with her silent walk not the other way around.
“You’re going to read through the script too, aren’t you?” Claudine had a smile, no, more like a grin on her beautiful face. She knew Maya too well.
“I can’t hide anything from you Saijo-san.” Maya now faced Claudine with her usual smile, which was only for Claudine, her Claudine. A light blush appeared on the ash blonde’s face. Oh, how Maya loved it.
“What can I do for you Saijo-san?”
She noticed the way Claudine was looking at her. She was studying her, her features, her composure but Maya held it all together, she was good at hiding behind her mask, although she didn’t want to hide anything from Claudine. Could it be possible that Claudine knew she heard her talk with her mother not long ago?
She let out a sigh. “Don’t stay up too late Tendo Maya or you’ll slack off and it’ll be easier for me to take your top spot.”
“I’m eagerly waiting for that day Saijo-san however, you have nothing to worry about. I will make sure to go to bed at an acceptable time.” Maya bowed.
“Maya, it’s subjective what time is an acceptable time for each. 2am is not an acceptable time.” The ash blonde glared at her.
Maya said nothing to that. It was true that she had a bad habit of staying up late to study scripts or simply because she couldn't sleep, however she knew her lines in Starlight by heart, and she knew that Claudine knew them too. Maya honestly just wanted to have a rest and think through the new information she had gained about her partner.
“Saijo-san, you needn’t to worry,” She place one of her hands over her heart, dramatically. “I know my lines quite well by heart and I think you know yours too, so it seems we both made an excuse not to be there on the movie night.” Maya smirked at Claudine who now had a deeper shade of red on her cheeks.
“A-Anyways, I’m going now. Bonne nuit.” Claudine turned around and disappeared behind her door. Maya stood there for a couple more seconds longer than necessary, but eventually she headed for her door too.
“Bonne nuit Claudine.”
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Maya wakes up in the middle of the night with an uneasy feeling in her chest, remembering the events of not so long ago. She could barely sleep even though she promised her partner that she would go to sleep at an acceptable time… but the fact that Claudine had someone she liked made her worry a lot if she wanted to be honest with herself and that worry brought an ugly feeling of hers with itself which she had experienced many times before as her greatest flaw, jealousy.
Am I jealous? She always thought that this feeling of hers would only emerge when someone else shone as brightly as she did on stage, or even brighter, like last year when Hikari and Karen got cast as Claire and Flora instead of her and Claudine for that year’s Starlight. She was extremely jealous of them and furious with herself.
Of course, she did not want to ruin their performance, which would be a very inappropriate behaviour and her parents did not raise her that way. Karen and Hikari won the lead roles fairly and with honesty she knew that, but she just couldn’t help herself get rid of jealousy. That’s why she promised to herself – and to Claudine – that she’s going to be the lead actress again in their last year at Seisho, along with her dear partner.
It was not a question that she and Claudine are going to work even harder for this year’s Starlight to get the roles of Flora and Claire again. And they did it, together. They both got the lead roles again, together. She couldn’t feel happier thinking about standing with her partner - with Saijo Claudine - together on stage again but she couldn’t forget the events of yesterday. She was practically jealous of a person she might know, or she might be friends with them even, or - the worst scenario – she doesn’t even know this person at all. She couldn’t bear seeing Claudine with a total stranger, holding hands and maybe…kis- No, don’t think about it. It can’t be that. I know her best since she’s my partner.
Maya was curious no doubt about that, and she was determined to find out who this mysterious person might be, she just wanted to know, she had to know. She wanted to know just so she could accept her partner getting taken away from her, because there was no way that she, Tendo Maya would stop Claudine from being happy.
Sheis always watching Claudine, but she never noticed anything out of the ordinary. Maya teases, Claudine retorts and they have their usual banter every day. She might have missed on something. Maya always had this feeling in her heart, this warm, calming feeling when she was with the ash blonde or even when she thought about her. At first, she experienced it when she was a little child and her father took her to a play called “Arrie”. There, she saw her, the young talented beauty she couldn’t take her eyes off of. Maya remembers that day like it was yesterday. Claudine’s radiance captured her from the first moment. She wanted to achieve that brilliance, wanted to experience it all, and so she worked hard to reach it. Practising every day, not paying attention to any of her inner feelings.
Later on, Maya watched all of Claudine’s plays, even all her TV commercials. She collected all of the DVDs. She really was Saijo Claudine’s number one fan. She had all the exclusive, limited-edition merch she could get her hands on.
Maya was on top of her class throughout middle school, she planned to stay on top in Seisho too. And that’s where she met her again. No one dared to approach the Tendo Maya in Seisho’s entrance exam but a certain ash blonde. She held out her hand and that’s when she saw Saijo Claudine again. She saw the passion, the fire, the love for the stage in those magenta eyes. It was clear to her at that very moment that Saijo Claudine was the only one who could be a match for her own passion.
Over time Maya’s heart always made a little flip when she was near Claudine, when she danced with her, sang with her, practised with her before and after class, or just heard Claudine humming in the shower from the stall next to hers. When she teased her, and Claudine’s face was all red to the tip of her ears. When she calls Maya “infuriating woman”, “méchante va” or “vexing woman” or just simply calls her by her first name. Her name always sounds the best from the ash blonde’s mouth. Claudine always made her days better, especially when she had a call from her parents. She just looked at Claudine and all the frustrating feelings she felt and pressure from her parents just went away.
She did not want to accept that feeling, or rather, she did not know what that warm feeling was in her chest when she was near Claudine. Eventually she figured that this might be what they call love. Most likely it was that since this was the first time, she felt this way for someone. She liked this feeling, it made her heart happy, it made her happy. Claudine’s competitiveness, and the way her eyes are always in fire with passion towards the stage, towards her goal to suppress Maya and be Top Star, to be the best. Honestly, Maya loved it and wanted to experience it all. The passion that Claudine had was equal to her own, perhaps even greater. They pushed each other to greater heights, they shone more brightly, became even better together as partners, everyone could see this during their years at Seisho and she didn’t want to lose it all.
She knew that Claudine planned to go back to France to join the Theatre du Flamme after Seisho, but they could manage to keep on touch even with the different time zones. They could make it work, together.
Thus, Tendo Maya instead of asking Claudine about who she likes or instead confessing her own feelings to her she chose to observe the ash blonde in the following days so she might be able to figure out something on her own and she could accept this whole new thing about Claudine however, there was no guarantee that Maya could last for days. Even she wasn’t sure in herself if it was about Claudine herself.
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“Good morning Daiba-san.”
“You look a little tired Maya-chan, are you okay?” It was a stroke of luck that only Nana was present at the kitchen at this ungodly early hour, although Maya knew that a specific person was about to arrive soon so she had to hurry.
“Excuse me for worrying you with my matters Daiba-san. I simply had a rather restless night, and unfortunately, I could hardly sleep. However, this most definitely won’t affect my performance today.” Maya simply said sitting down to eat the breakfast Nana was about to put down before her.
“It’s unusual for you to have sleepless nights Maya-chan. Is something the matter? Would you like to share it?” The girl put down the already brewed tea along with the breakfast.
“Thank you for the food and for your concern but I do not wish to discuss my issues just yet if it’s alright. It’s nothing major for you to worry about Daiba-san.” Maya said, sipping her freshly made tea.
Nana now was sitting opposite of her, studying her features. She let out a sigh.
“Is it about Kuro-chan?”
Maya almost choked on her tea at that. Coughing hard but she managed to collect herself for an answer, or rather a question.
“W- What made you think that?” She asked curiously putting down her food and tea.
Would it be so obvious?
“Just a guess,” Nana winked. “but you seem to be deep in thought, like you did last night too when we were planning the movie night.”
“It’s nothing worth mentioning I assure you.” Maya sipped a larger amount of her tea and hurriedly began to eat her breakfast.
Nana just smiled. “I see, either way, if you need anything Maya-chan know that I’m here to listen.”
“Thank you for the food Daiba-san it was delicious as always. However, I shall take my leave now to school if you’ll excuse me.” Maya began to stand up. She put her plate in the kitchen sink and she was about to wash it.
“Don’t worry about it Maya-chan, I’ll take care of it. I’m glad you enjoyed the food,” The blonde took the plate from her hand and began to wash it. “but I think if you want to go to school before everyone, you should hurry.” Nana was right, it was almost time for Claudine to come downstairs and usually for them to go to practise before class starts.
“Thank you, Daiba-san. I’m leaving then.” Maya picked up her schoolbag and just as she was about to leave the dorm, she heard her.
“Hey! Tendo Ma-“ She couldn’t hear her full name because she already closed the door behind herself. She wasn’t ready to face Claudine now. She had to clear her mind with dance practise before she could face her properly and start to think about her plan.
“-ya wait for me!” Claudine stood there flabbergasted for a good two minutes that her partner left without her. She turned on her heels and went to eat breakfast.
“Morning Kuro-chan.” Of course, Nana was there already making breakfast for all of them.
“Good morning, Nana.” The ash blonde already sat down in her usual seat. She glanced to her left where Maya sits usually. The teacup was still there.
Nana already finished washing the dishes and came back with Claudine’s food in her hands. “Here, have this. Would you like a cup of tea?” The blonde asked her.
“Thank you, and yes I would.” Nana smiled then she picked up the teacup (probably) Maya left here and returned to the kitchen.
Why did that insufferable woman leave without me when we always go to practise together before class? The ash blonde just couldn’t get it out of her head why Maya left so suddenly. Sure, Maya was a bit odd last night but she didn’t want to pry in her matters because she thought that it wasn’t something worthy to talk about but now that the brunette just left without her and the fact that she didn’t say anything to her got her a little frustrated and maybe sad.
“Nana.”
“Hm?” Nana sat down at the table, paying her full attention to Claudine now.
“Do you happen to know what was going on with her?” Claudine looked towards the door implying who she was talking about.
Nana looked towards the door too, then back to Claudine. She does look a little lost. Nana thought to herself not wanting to voice these thoughts. “Nope, Maya-chan only said that she couldn’t get enough sleep last night and she was a little bit tired. Then, after she ate her breakfast and drank her tea she left hurriedly.” Nana shrugged. Claudine did make a little noise to let Nana know she was paying attention, but she was still looking at the door. “Did something happen between the two of you?”
“Huh?” Claudine turned her head back at an ungodly speed. “Why do you ask?”
Nana only saw confusion in the ash blonde’s eyes. “Nothing, just wanted to make sure.”
Claudine let out a long sigh. “Nothing happened, at least nothing I can think o-“ Wait. Waiiit. Maybe it was really her yesterday? She heard what I said? Claudine was staring at her breakfast blankly seemingly lost in thought.
“Kuro-chan? Are you okay?” Nana started to worry.
Claudine looked up at her tallest friend. “Ah, yes, I’m sorry if I worried you. Everything’s alright.” She had to keep her eyes on Maya today because if it really was her who heard her conversation with her mother-
“There’s no doubt that you and Maya-chan are partners,” Nana giggled “she said the same thing to me this morning.”
Claudine felt her cheeks a little warmer than usual but at this point, her blushing just hearing Tendo Maya’s name is not something unusual and it really irritated her. She scoffed and began eating her breakfast. She also wanted to be there before class starts to practise a little and maybe if she makes it in time she can speak with Tendo Maya too.
She finished her meal and Nana took her plate and teacup away. She was just about to leave the dorms when she heard Junna coming downstairs, she quickly wished her good morning then took her leave to the school.
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Claudine heard the music through the halls. Of course she’s already at it. She hurried her steps to the dance studio but hesitated before sliding the door open. Should she act normal? Or should she confront Tendo Maya about her odd behaviour? Or, maybe confess to her during practise? But Maya couldn’t possibly like her back now, could she? Claudine didn’t know however, she slid the door open just enough to look inside. She was there, practising with swift moves, although the dance Maya was practising required two people to get the most out of it. But still, the brunette looked beautiful and graceful as ever, mimicking the way she would hold her partner. Claudine was blushing again, she just couldn’t control herself. She took in a deep breath before stepping in the studio.
“You didn’t wait for me!” The ash blonde declared angrily. Maya slowly stopped in her dance upon hearing her voice and turned to her.
“Good morning, Saijo-san. I apologise for not waiting for you this morning.” The brunette smiled but Claudine didn’t see any mischief in that smile, only joy. It was not strange for Maya to smile at her like that, this too is one of the reasons why Claudine fell for her so deeply.
She sighed. “Let me change first and then I can join you if you would like.”
“I would be delighted to have you as my partner Saijo-san.” Claudine saw Maya bow slightly and she hurried her steps to the changing room before Maya could see her reddened face.
She quickly changed into her leotard and to her dance shoes then walked back to the studio. Maya was sitting, barely out of breath, drinking from her water bottle. The ash blonde didn’t find anything odd about her, but she decided to keep her eyes open around Tendo Maya.
“Student number 11, Saijo Claudine! Ready to begin.” She stepped in the studio walking to the brunette, holding out her hand. Maya looked up at her with an impressed look on her stupidly pretty face.
“Are you coming or not?” Claudine asked impatiently which earned a chuckle from Maya.
“Of course I am.” Maya took her hand and followed Claudine to the centre of the studio. “Shall we practise what I just did, or you wish to practise a different dance?”
“I’m fine either way. Let’s stick to your previous one if it’s fine with you.” Maya nodded and already positioned herself as the lead. Holding Claudine’s waist and her hand gently.
“Ugh, when will you let me lead for once?” Claudine was irritated but Maya only smiled at her. “I’m serious Tendo Maya!”
“We’ll get to that soon Saijo-san.” The music started and so their dance, perfectly in sync, as always. Claudine never took her eyes off of Maya and Maya did the same, never breaking their eye contact. Maya’s eyes were beautiful she could get lost in those violet irises. They exuded confidence, pride, passion and gentleness too, Claudine didn’t miss it and she also didn’t miss the way the brunette softened her expression whenever she saw Claudine. It was hard to notice but Claudine wouldn’t miss on something like that.
The tempo of the music Maya chose was rather fast but it didn’t cause any difficulties for either of them, of course not. They danced the best with each other, not that they weren’t good separately but together, they were radiant.
“Why did you leave without me?” Claudine asked halfway through their dance. She just couldn’t keep it to herself any longer.
Maya remained silent for a moment longer, she spun the ash blonde and held her tightly again in her arms.
“No particular reason I’m afraid.” She lied, Claudine could tell but decided to leave it at that, for now. “Although, I apologise for not letting you know, it was inappropriate of me.” The brunette added, which was honest at least.
As they approached the end of the music only the dip was left. No dance would be complete without a perfect dip. Maya tightened her hold on Claudine’s waist as she dipped her with pure confidence. Claudine felt safe in Maya’s arms, never fearing the thought of her crashing to the floor because her partner couldn’t hold her. Maya always made sure to keep her safe even when they did fall once or twice, the brunette always turning so that Claudine landed on Maya herself instead of the floor. It was embarrassing yes, but Claudine was glad Maya looked out for her wellbeing, as she did the same.
Maya held her a tad longer than needed but the ash blonde didn’t seem to mind. Mon Dieu, she looks beautiful. Only if I would lean closer. Claudine thought and felt her cheeks getting warmer and warmer by the moment. That is, until they heard their friends’ voices from the halls when Maya finally pulled her up from the dip.
“I think we’re done for now. Great work as always Saijo-san.” Maya bowed and left to get their water bottles, while Claudine - after getting together her bearings – quickly followed after her.
“Hmpf! I always do a good work Tendo Maya!” She took the water bottle from Maya’s hand and drank a large amount of water from it to hide her flushed cheeks but to no avail.
“Morning you two! Already at work I see but hurry up the lesson will start soon and we have dance lessons in the afternoon.” Futaba yelled from the door.
“We’ll be right there Futaba don’t worry.” Claudine started to pack her things and walk towards the changing room. “Instead, you should worry about that gremlin on your shoulder.” She pointed at Kaoruko who was still half asleep on Futaba’s shoulder. Her friend smiled then dragged Kaoruko away towards the classrooms.
They changed back into their uniforms and went to class, walking side by side as they usually do.
“Okay class for today’s dance practise I’d like you all to switch your usual dance partners.” Everyone groaned in a frustrated way even the brunette herself, though it was inconspicuous. She never really showed her emotions, she had to keep her Maya-sama persona up around everyone. The brunette looked at Claudine who already partnered up with Futaba without a second thought. Maya felt her heart clench at that. She was watching Claudine throughout the whole day but she didn’t notice anything out of place. Claudine still sat with her during lunch and chat with almost everyone during breaks, it was not out of ordinary, but Maya just felt uneasy. Maybe she liked one of their underclassmen. Well, several groups of girls approached her, she figured that they were Claudine’s fans but still. But now that she saw the ash blonde choose Futaba without a glance in Maya’s way or without any second thoughts, she had a guess that that someone she might like may be Futaba.
They do seem to be close. She thought, not moving from her place to find a partner. The brunette remembered their morning when Futaba informed them about their time, but it was nothing unusual, Futaba was a great friend of theirs. But what if they’re more? Maya couldn’t help her train of thoughts about them. Eventually, Nana interrupted her.
“Maya-chan want to be my partner for today’s class?” Nana asked with her usual smile. Maya was glad the blonde came to her and stopped her overthinking and so she accepted her offer. They soon heard the music start.
Sure, Nana was good and maybe she knew the most about Maya (after Claudine of course) but it just didn’t feel right to dance with her. They didn’t fit as right as she does with Claudine. Maya glanced at the way the ash blonde and Futaba were dancing. Claudine was the lead and Futaba followed. They held their eyes at each other and it frustrated Maya to no end. The gaze Claudine held was similar to the one that Maya gets every time when they dance, apart from the fact that the French woman did not initiate any banter with Futaba. Claudine just did a comment here and there to help Futaba perfect her dance. At some point the smaller girl said something that made Claudine blush a little with a frustrated retort which Maya couldn’t hear but she couldn’t help but look even more intensely.
Why do I feel so irritated!? Jealousy is a useless emotion, but… it hurts. It’s choking my heart.
They finished their dance rather quickly with Nana and decided to take a break while the other pairs were still going at it. “Don’t worry Maya-chan, she’ll be yours again soon.” Maya stiffened and turned her head back to Nana who just shot her a gentle smile. What did she mean by that? Maya didn’t really know but she was glad that they were taking a break because she was sure she would have missed a step here.
“I don’t mind her being partnered with others, it’s just… that they seem to be close.” She said nonchalantly but deep inside she just couldn’t help her jealousy.
“They are great friends yes but we all are, are we not? I remember the time when Futaba-chan slept in Kuro-chan’s room when she had an argument with Kaoruko-chan.” Maya stiffened again. So, it really might be Isurugi-san. She didn’t know that Futaba slept in Claudine’s room at that time. She didn’t really think about that but now she felt frustrated, even Nana noticed and just to make sure her own guess she decided to push it a little further.
“Say, Maya-chan. You know that Kuro-chan is good at tap dance right?” Maya nodded. “I heard that Futaba-chan wanted to learn it too to be better and asked for Kuro-chan’s help right away. Ah, but don’t worry it happened years ago.” Maya looked Nana dead in the eyes and the blonde just knew that her suspicions were right. Maya was jealous, there was no doubt.
“I did… not know about that, but Daiba-san why are you bringing this up now?” Maya asked curiously but the other girl only shrugged.
“Just wanted to make something sure.”
“And that is?”
Nana looked around, knowing it was something Maya didn't want others to hear. “You’re totally jealous Maya-chan.”
Maya said nothing to that. Her only flaw (she thought it’s her only flaw) is discovered by Daiba Nana herself. She knew that the blonde was a good observer when it came to people, but she didn’t like this idea. She turned to look at Claudine and Futaba as they were about to end their dance.
A dip.
Claudine held Futaba tight and Maya couldn’t help but want to go there, dip Claudine and just kiss her right there. To claim her to herself, to make sure that no one looks at Claudine the way she does. However, Claudine didn’t hold Futaba as long as they usually do during their morning and evening practises and the next thing she knew that the ash blonde went to talk with Sakuragi-sensei.
Nana watched the whole thing. She never knew what was going on Maya’s head, she could only guess, and those guesses were almost always right. “But as I see, you have nothing to worry about Maya-chan.” Maya looked at Nana questioningly but the blonde just smiled.
“I’m not sure I foll-“
“Maan, Kuroko was really good today but I felt some pair of eyes burning a hole in my head.” Futaba said as she joined Nana and Maya, looking at Kaoruko. Nana shot the brunette an apologetic smile because they couldn’t finish their conversation but Maya didn’t seem to mind, she had already started to pay more attention to Futaba.
“Jeez Kaoruko is full of jealousy when we’re not partnered up. But it’s for her own good too, a little change can't hurt sometimes. Am I right Tendo?”
Maya with her ever graceful expressions stayed calm and just nodded. “But of course, Isurugi-san. Daiba-san was a very good partner today as well. I might partner up with her several more times from now on.”
“Are you going to replace me Tendo Maya? You infuriating woman!” Ah, it was Claudine. She seemed a little hurt by her statement to replace her to Nana as her partner but Claudine covered up that expression in a second. Maya wasn’t even sure that anyone else saw it.
“Don’t worry Kuro-chan, I’m sure Maya-chan didn’t mean it like that. She would be most delighted to be yours forever.” Nana teased both of them and Maya saw Claudine’s face get as red as a tomato all the way up to her ears. It was an adorable sight, really. Although it was hard for Maya herself to keep her cool because what Nana said was completely true, there was no way denying it.
“W-What are you saying Nana!? Don’t be ridiculous! E-Either way I’m going now. Don’t forget our practise this evening Tendo Maya!”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world Saijo-san” The brunette looked endearingly at Claudine which only made (if it was possible) the aforementioned girl blush even more. She was a complete mess now and Maya couldn’t hold in her chuckle. Claudine turned on her heels and hurried away from those three.
“Wow. You two sure like each other in a completely different way.”
“They sure do Futaba-chan. I wonder when they'll be a real thing.” Nana and Futaba only smiled at each other and Maya just sat there completely unaware of the fact that maybe the one Claudine likes is Tendo Maya herself and not Futaba at all.
“Come on you two, sensei wants us to rehearse our lines a little before dismissing class for today.” The blonde and Maya both stood up and got ready for their line rehearse.
“If you pick a small star, you will seize a small amount of happiness. If you pick a big star, you will seize a great amount of wealth.” Claudine was beaming as always, she was a brilliant Flora and Maya knew that she would be just as a brilliant Claire too. But she just couldn’t let the ash blonde take the role of Claire.
“If you pick both, you will seize an eternal wish. And now, when the stars light up. Star gathering is the forgiveness of a sin. Star gathering is a night miracle.” Everyone in the studio held their breaths as it was the two lead roles’ turn to shine.
“And it shall be bestowed upon you,” Claudine and Maya said at the same time. “the star which you have longed for-“ They looked at each other, lilac meeting magenta. They held eye contact while everyone else in the dance studio were clapping for them. They got lost in each other’s eyes, both full of determination, pride, passion for the stage and something else which they cannot say and almost missed the cheers of their friends.
“Very good work you two, and everyone. We stop here today and will continue tomorrow so you can all get some rest. You all are dismissed for today.”
“Well, Tendo Maya. Are you ready for our practise?” Claudine asked with a small, something like a smirk on her face, Maya wasn’t sure.
“I’m always ready.”
All of their classmates knew that they were going to practise further, and they also didn't want to interfere with their time together they enjoyed very much even if they wouldn’t admit it. They waited for everyone to leave the studio and Claudine was about to turn on the music but before that-
“Which dance you want to practise today?” She asked the brunette although she had a thought which music would it be. And she was right.
“The one we did during dance class today if you would, please.”
Of course that one. Claudine thought. She would have sworn on her life that Maya would choose that song since she was fully aware of the way the brunette watched her during practise. Well, to be more precise Tendo Maya burnt a hole into Futaba’s back.
“Oi Kuroko. I think your girlfriend is staring a little too much. She kinda burned a hole in my back with that stare of hers. Well, not that Kaoruko is better, but Tendo is something else.” Claudine felt her cheeks flush, and she knew damn well that Maya was indeed looking at them. She saw Maya and Nana having a break from their dance since they were already done. The taller girl were watching them too but not like Maya, she had a gentle smile on her face.
“She’s not my girlfriend Futaba! Stop saying such things, there’s no way.” They continued their dance, but Claudine was careful to speak quietly to make sure that Maya didn’t hear a thing of their conversation.
“I’m sure she would be in an instant if you would just confess to her.”
A twirl. Futaba followed Claudine’s lead closely.
“Stop with your nonsense already! She wouldn’t be interested in these things. She only loves being the Top Star and the stage. And I don’t even like her in that way or anything.”
A step to the left.
A step backwards.
“We all know that’s not true Kuroko. You like her a lot and she seems to like you too, even more than you, if that's possible. Just look at the way she looks at you.” They both take a glance at Maya and fortunately she’s disturbed by Nana.
Another step backwards.
A step forward.
“I’m not sure. What if she doesn’t?” Claudine’s voice was barely a whisper, but Futaba managed to catch what she said. The smaller girl just shook her head.
“Kuro, even I can tell that she’s jealous even though she never said a thing to anyone. Her eyes are full of gentleness and adoration when she looks at you. Have you never noticed when she was in such a bad mood even we could see it - and you know she doesn’t show her emotions often - but you came in and she just enlightened in a moment? No? Never?” Futaba raised her on of her brows, but Claudine looked confused.
“Does she really do that?”
“You fell so hard for her you doesn’t even notice the clear signs anymore.” Claudine couldn’t hide her blush, but when could she manage that?
A dip.
Their quick dance ended but it felt like eternity for Claudine. Maya was still staring at them while Nana was talking to her. “I’ll go check on them.” Said Futaba and left.
“Alright Tendo Maya brace yourself, I’m in high spirits today.” Claudine walked back to Maya and was about to position herself to follow the brunette in their dance but to her utter surprise Maya did just that, which meant that now Claudine was the lead. It was odd, Maya almost never lets her be the lead, then why now?
“Not in the mood for being the lead today? Just who are you, you vexing woman.” The brunette only smiled softly at her.
“Can't I just let you take the lead in our dance? Is it a crime?”
“No, it’s not. You’re just strange today.” She felt Maya stiffen at that a little, but the feeling was soon gone.
“Shall we start now Saijo-san? It’s going to be curfew if you just plan to stand here all evening.”
“Oh, just shut up already.” And so Claudine started the music and they began their dance.
It was totally different than her dance with Futaba. She couldn't deny that Maya was her perfect partner, and that they were a good match for each other's fiery spirits. Maya followed gracefully and the ash blonde led just as flawlessly during their dance at the beginning. As they reached around halfway point of their dance Maya stumbled a little, it wouldn’t have been noticeable for anybody, but Claudine could feel it. She decided to ignore it for now, then came another stumble, and another. She saw that Maya was deep in her thoughts, it must have been something important to make even the perfect Tendo Maya pay no attention to practise. Claudine slowed down her steps and eventually stopped. It frustrated her to no end that the brunette didn’t pay attention to her.
“What is wrong with you Tendo Maya?” Though it must have been sounded frustrated but there was no venom in Claudine’s voice, only concern. She saw that Maya realised that they had stopped, but this time they did not make eye contact.
“Nothing is wrong Saijo-san. I was just simply lost in my thoughts.”
Excuses.
“You’re telling me that you were so deep in your thoughts that you let me be the lead and then stumble several times during our dance? Don’t you think that it’s a bit disrespectful?” She raised one of her brows in anticipation to Maya to be honest with her but the brunette still didn’t look in her eyes.
“It really is nothing Saijo-san but thank you for your concern. We may continue now.”
“Maya.” Claudine gently placed her hand on the brunette’s chin, lifting her head up a little so she could look into her beautiful violet eyes. “Tell me what’s wrong.” She felt Maya leaning in the touch a little and it stirred something in Claudine’s heart.
The brunette let out a sigh. “Do you really want to know?” Maya carefully moved the ash blonde’s hand away from her chin but she still didn’t let go.
Claudine nodded slowly.
“Well, I sure am the most jealous woman you probably know I can’t deny that.” She held their eye contact.
“And also, I never in my life would have thought that this feeling would ever become one of my concerns.” Claudine could feel her cheeks getting warmer and warmer and her heart beating faster with each passing minute.
“Maybe it’s silly, I mean this feeling, but I think it would be the best to just tell you while I have the chance, before someone else does.” Now wait a minute. The ash blonde's expression changed to one of confusion.
“What?” She didn't want to interrupt Maya's speaking, but she couldn't help her voice coming out.
“What do you mean by someone else?” Maya was just as puzzled by Claudine’s interruption.
“I’ll be honest, I happened to hear a piece of your conversation with you mother the other night.” Maya started to pull away from Claudine’s hold, “I deeply apologise, I didn’t mean to.” but Claudine grabbed her tighter by her waist.
“You insufferable- Sigh. Which part you happened to hear if I may ask.” Claudine didn’t let Maya go from her grasp.
Silence.
“Uh, where you just denied that you like someone and that you think they don’t like you back.” Maya looked at the floor, feeling ashamed of the fact that she had overheard Claudine's conversation.
“Tendo Maya. Are you for real right now?” Claudine searched for her eyes but with no success. “So that’s why you were staring so intensely at Futaba during dance class but- no, never mind. Maybe Futaba was right after all.”
A rare occasion. Claudine saw a hint of red on the brunette’s cheeks and she tried to engrave it in her memory. She placed her other hand on Maya’s cheeks now.
“Maya, look at me.” Maya did. And that’s when Claudine saw that look in her eyes, which Futaba talked about. It was full of fondness and warmth for her. Just follow your heart and be happy, don’t be so stubborn for once please – Claudine remembered her mother’s words and she was right. She wanted Maya to be happy and she wanted to be by her side.
“if you would like to know I can tell you who that someone is." Claudine leaned closer to her, and she could feel the other’s breath on her lips.
Maya nodded but instead of words she felt Claudine’s lips on her own. The brunette was stunned for a moment but leaned even deeper into the kiss, never wanting to let go of Claudine's oh-so-sweet lips. She wanted to feel them every day throughout her whole life. Unfortunately for her it wasn't long before Claudine broke their kiss, but the ash blonde was sure that Maya got her answer from it.
“Does this answer your question?” Claudine pressed their foreheads together, closing her eyes and holding her partner close.
“I would be delighted if you could repeat it for me, Claudine. I’m not sure I understood it well enough.” Unfair. She couldn’t even stop her extreme blush as she heard Maya saying her name with her charming deep voice. Maya calling her by her first name, skipping the usual formalities, really just feel like-
“You truly are the most infuriating woman I know.” But Claudine did repeat her answer and Maya just smiled into their kiss. It was longer, more passionate but they eventually had to stop to catch their breath.
“I may be infuriating but you like me anyways.” The brunette held her close delighted at the fact that she was that someone that Claudine liked. She truly never would have thought if she wanted to be honest with herself.
“If you keep this up, it will be someone else.” The ash blonde just saw Maya’s smile grow wider at that. Truly vexing.
“Don’t break my heart ma Claudine when you just filled it with so much joy.” UGH, this woman. She buried her face in the crook of Maya’s neck, she really just wanted to hide from those eyes.
“Stop saying such things.” It was barely a mumble, but Maya could hear it anyways.
“But you absolutely love these.” She felt the brunette’s hand in her hair and God she was so careful not to pull her hair. How can someone be this gentle? She didn’t know but she finally tasted those full pink lips of Maya’s and now she wants to do it every. single. day.
“No ma Maya, because I love you.”