Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ To be, or not to be... In love. ❯ Chapter 11 ( Chapter 11 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

I do not own Naruto or any of its characters.
I do own the play in this chapter, and every character in the play. Including Sasuke's fiancé at the end. They're solemnly my ideas, I've put a lot of effort in this, so DO NOT steal my fics. That's just pathetic.

This chapter will be written in "normal point of view", which means... well, you'll probably get the drill when you start reading. I'll write it like a little side-story, so that I'll be able to explain feelings and stuff like that easier. It'll be more enjoyable for you to read it, see? (I'll let you know when it's a new scene, btw.)

So, because I really want to fit the entire play into one chapter, this chapter might turn out... quite a lot longer than the other ones. Bear with me, please. (I've mixed old, traditional English with new, modern English. It was the easiest way. hehe. So don't give me any "They didn't say stuff like that in the 18th century" or "They didn't do stuff like that in the 18th century", ok? It's just a fanfic. Something I do for fun. F-U-N.)
Put on some good (romantic) music, and maybe get something yummie to eat, and I'm sure you'll get through this.

As usual, I've been really busy with school and stuff... sorry for the looong wait. Gomen!

Role list;
Edward - Uzumaki Naruto
James - Uchiha Sasuke
Rose - Haruno Sakura
Sarah - Hyuga Hinata
Simon - Hyuga Neji
Mr Green (John) - Nara Shikamaru
Ann - Tenten
James' mother - Yamanaka Ino
(James' father - Shino was supposed to play him first, but then I decided to let James' father stay absent from the play.)
Edward's mother - Karin
Edward's father - Inuzuka Kiba
Figurantes - Random ppl from the class.

(* For those of you who remember; Tenten was supposed to play Edward's mother at the very beginning, but then I changed my mind. So now she only plays the role of Sarah's girlfriend Ann. Edward's parents don't approve of homosexuality, so naturally his mother couldn't have been a lesbian. And... well, I kinda forgot to tell you about the changes before. I hope you're okay with it. Karin is now the one playing Edward's mother. Ok? Ok.)

Chapter 11.
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Scene; 1, James' home.


A young man with black hair entered the room while at the same time trying to put on his brown vest with one hand, as the other hand was occupied by a book. He groaned with frustration and put the book down on a table so he could put the piece of clothing on. A woman with long blonde hair came in and gave the boy an amused smile.

"James? Shouldn't you be on your way to school?" The woman said and helped the boy to tie the red band around his neck into a large bow. The boy nodded.

"Yes, mother. I was on my way, but then I realized that I had left my book in my room, and... Why does it have to look like this?" The raven haired boy groaned and gestured with an annoyed frown at the red bow around his neck. "It makes me look like a kitten!"

The woman laughed at her son and shook her head.

"You have to look presentable when you are in school, my son. Remember what your father used to say."

James turned away from his mother and picked his book up, before muttering, "Father is not here now, is he? He never is..."

The woman didn't hear, or she simply ignored her son's quiet murmur.

"Is there something special about to happen today, James?" she said. "You seem distressed."

James shook his head and gave his mother a smile.

"Nothing really. It's just a new boy is coming to our school today. I have never heard of his family, so I'm not entirely sure on how to treat him."

"Not to worry, dear." The woman gave his cheek a gentle stroke. "You are James McTriffle, the son of Steven McTriffle. If anyone should bow down, it is not you."

James gave his mother a grateful look and nodded. He was just about to exit the room when a girl with pink hair and a matching dress entered.

"James, dear!" She all but yelled and quickly walked up to the young man who gave her a soft smile. "I trust you weren't about to leave without me?"

James shook his head and held his arm out for her to hold, as the perfect gentleman he was.

"Of course not, Rose, my dear cousin," he replied softly and gave a small smile.

The girl gave a slight snort and put her hand on top of his arm in a graceful movement.

"And fiancée. You always forget that!"

James sighed.

"Certainly. Forgive my rudeness."

They left the room, leaving the blonde woman behind them, silently laughing at the bickering couple.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Scene; 2, School

"James!" Another young man with long, black hair, tied in an elegant ponytail came up to James. Rose left the two boys. She immediately walked up to a girl with short black hair, dressed in a green gown.

"Simon," James greeted and smiled to his friend. "How are you this morning?" Simon grinned and gestured to the small bag he was carrying.

"Terrific! Mr. Green repaired my violin last night, since one of the strings was cut, and now it sounds better than ever," said Simon and hugged the bag close. James snickered.

"Mr. Green seems to have taken a liking to you, Simon." he said with a teasing voice and watched with amusement as his friend blushed.

"N-not at all! Don't be silly, James!" Simon huffed and turned his attention to the bag in his arms again. "Someone like Mr. Green couldn't possibly find me worthy of his attention. My violin was broken after all. Someone had to take care of it." Simon murmured, seemingly to himself. James sighed and put his arm around Simon's shoulders.

"I know you try to tell yourself that, my dear Simon, but really... do you honestly think that Mr. Green is the only one capable of repairing a violin?"

Simon didn't have time to answer because Rose came back with the short-haired girl right behind her and grabbed James' arm with a certain possessiveness.

"James, darling, do you have orchestra rehearsal today?"

James nodded, "Yes, in just a little while, as a matter of fact."

Rose sighed and turned her face away, obviously deliberately showing her graceful neck to her cousin-fiance.

"If only I could understand this obsession with music, my dear. In the long run..." she leaned in closer to James. "...it can't possibly be healthy." She turned to the girl in the green dress. "Wouldn't you agree, Sarah?"

The black-haired girl gave a small snicker.

"You know, Rose, have you ever considered to support your future husband? If James enjoys music, just let him be. I like music too."

"Of course you do. Simon here is your brother after all, and he's played the violin since we were little children."

"Rose," Sarah sighed, "It wouldn't kill you to be supportive. Besides, it is not a woman's place to order her husband around. You know that."

Rose pursed her lips and turned back to the boys, apparently annoyed with the lack of support from her best friend.

"Oh well. If it makes you happy, my dear," she purred and placed a kiss upon James' cheek. The boy's eyes widened.

"Rose, we are out in public." he said, somewhat shocked that she had the nerve to kiss him out in the open. The girl just waved her hand.

"James, darling, there's not a person in this school that doesn't know about us. I don't think it'll shock anyone by giving you a kiss."

"Yes, but still... you shouldn't do that," the boy exclaimed. "We have to consider our family, too."

The girl sighed and released James with a frown.

"I have to go to my class now. Latin. vocos, voca, vocamos and so on. I will have you know; It's extremely boring." With that, she turned on her heel, made the pink hair fly in the process and stepped out of the room. The three remaining youths stared after her for a few seconds. Simon gave a chuckle and turned to James.

"She's going to be a handful, isn't she?"

James just smiled tiredly and rubbed his forehead.

"Shall we go?" Simon suggested and turned to his sister. "Sarah, would you like to come with us? You don't have any classes yet, do you?" Sarah smiled and nodded.

"I would love to. I have not seen Ann in a while. I miss her." Simon gave her a look.

"Ann? You know her? She is not in your class though." Sarah just gave a smile and shrugged her shoulder mysteriously. And so they left.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Scene: 3, orchestra room (The meeting)

"Mother, you didn't have to walk me to school. I am not a child." The blonde young man muttered and gave his dark-haired mother a scowl. The woman just gave him a worried look and hugged her hands tightly to her chest. Her black hair was tightly tied in a bun on her head, and the blue dress was elegant, and strict. She looked more or less like the complete opposite of her son, who had blonde, unruly hair and wore his clothes in a more relaxed manner. The tie around his neck was only loosely tied and his white shirt wasn't tucked into his pants like it was supposed to be.

"But Edward, it is your first day at school! I just want to make sure..." she trailed off and the boy gave her another frown.

"Make sure of what? That I won't get into trouble? I told you this before; I didn't start the fights. It was always that bastard Jim," Edward growled, clearly angry at someone who wasn't there. The woman sighed.

"That may be, but you still got expelled for it. Your father is still furious about that, you know."

"He is?!" He scoffed with sarcasm. "I had NO idea! That explains why he won't talk to me, let alone look at me."

"He is just a bit disappointed. You know he had plans for you. For you to become a lawyer, like him. You won't be able to become a lawyer at this school, even if this is one of the best schools in the country."

"Was it really necessary for us to move all the way here just so that I could go to this school, mother? There are a lot of fine schools where we used to live."

The woman just nodded and corrected her son's neck-tie.

"I know dear. I know. But what your father says goes. I'm sure he has good plans for you, my son."

The blonde groaned irritated and batted the woman's hands away.

"Plans, plans. Always plans. It's like I'm just a puppet to him." The woman didn't hear him, or she ignored it. The boy gave her one swift kiss on the cheek before taking off. "Go home now. I have my first class now anyway, and you are not allowed to come with." The woman stared after him.

"Says who?"

The boy turned around and grinned.

"Me."

He left his mother and started searching for the music room in which he would have his first lesson; orchestra rehearsal. The teacher had sent him some music notes so that he would be able to practice a little before showing up. Edward swallowed nervously and finally entered the room as he finally found it.

He was late, of course, and all of the other students were already there. Taking a calming breath, Edward walked forward, towards the dozens of curious faces. He wouldn't blush. He wouldn't.

"Edward? Edward Thomson? That's you, isn't it?" the teacher asked and smiled from behind the half-moon shaped glasses. The teacher removed the glasses and extended a hand. "I'm glad you're here. Our pianist graduated from this school last year. We're lucky to have you here."

"Thank you, sir," Edward murmured, and took the teacher's hand in his own, already feeling a warm blush forming on his cheeks. How he hated to blush. He had never taken compliments well. Probably because they were seldom.

"Please, take a seat by the piano. We'll start playing in a few minutes. I just want to introduce you first."

Edward nodded, feeling slightly sick by the way everyone looked at him.

"Attention everyone! Today we have a new student. His name is Edward Thomson, and he is our new pianist. Be nice to him, will you?" The students murmured, nodded approvingly and continued to look at him, though most of them turned back to their instruments after a few seconds. Edward threw the grand piano a glance and started walking towards it, while at the same time trying to keep an eye on the students surrounding him. Not a good combination, obviously, since he suddenly walked right into someone's instrument and before he knew it, he was falling towards one of the students with his hands still shoved in his pockets!

No crash came. Edward had closed his eyes tightly, preparing for both pain and laughter. No one laughed though. Only shocked silence surrounded them. And Edward soon realized why. When he slowly opened his eyes, he found himself staring straight into a black pair of shocked eyes. Edward was going to gasp, but then discovered that something soft was pressed against his lips. It took him almost three seconds to figure out what it was.

Edward was kissing the student in front of him!

He threw himself back with a startled yelp and brought a hand to his mouth to wipe his lips. How disgusting! Not only was he kissing a complete stranger, but it was a boy at that!

Said boy was currently wiping his lips with a shocked, furious face.

"What on earth are you doing?!" He exclaimed. There was something in the way the boy said it that made Edward feel angry.

"I apologize," Edward said, keeping his voice as cold as possible, and gave a quick bow. "It shall not happen again." And with that, he swept past the black haired boy and took a seat by the grand piano. Edward immediately felt calmer as he let his fingers run across the white and black keys. He played a few chords to see what it sounded like, and then smiled softly to himself. What a perfect instrument. He then put the notes on the music stand.

After glancing towards Mr. Green, and giving a nod to show that he was ready. The teacher smiled and brought his hands up into the air to show the orchestra to be quiet. When everyone had gone silent, awaiting Mr. Green’s signal, the teacher lowered his hands in a swooping movement. The orchestra started playing. The flutes and violins started and were soon accompanied by the cello and some clarinets. Edward's fingers itched to play, but it wasn't his turn yet. Flute... fagottos... contrabass... finally it was Edward’s turn.

It was a simple piece, just a few simple chords with some trills and scales, but it felt great. The feeling of creating music with his own hands, and that it sounded so good, so perfect along with all the other instruments. It thrilled Edward and he couldn't help but to lose himself in the music, smiling softly as he played, letting his fingers run across the keys.

When the song was finished, he let out a content sigh and turned forward. Mr. Green smiled broadly at him and nodded. Several of the students turned to look at Edward who suddenly felt a tad uncomfortable. Even though he was generally rather self-confident among people he knew, he always felt unsure of himself when people who were unfamiliar to him looked at him. He never knew what to do, whether he should smile or try to look uninterested.

"That was very well played, Mr. Thomson," Mr. Green said, "I believe our concert will be the best we've had in quite some time."

Edward gave a small smile and turned his head away, a polite gesture. But as he did so, he regretted it because as he averted his gaze, his eyes locked with the black-haired boy's intense gaze. He couldn't help but to stare back and slowly felt his cheeks get warmer. If it was because of annoyance or embarrassment he was not sure. It wasn't until the teacher spoke again that Edward finally managed to unlock his gaze with the other boy’s.

"In fact, I believe you would be perfect for a solo. Yes," the teacher grinned excitedly, "Together with Mr. McTriffle. It would be absolutely terrific."

Edward blinked.

"Mr. McTriffle?" He asked. Who was that? A violinist?

Mr. Green smirked and gestured towards the black-haired boy that Edward had accidentally kissed earlier. Edward's heart leaped. The boy slowly turned around and once again locked his gaze with Edward's. Annoyance and frustration shone within them and Edward responded by quirking one of his eyebrows and lowering his lashes.

"Mr. Thomson," the brown haired teacher spoke, "Allow me to introduce to you; James McTriffle." The black-haired boy sighed and closed his eyes in an irritated fashion.

"Pleased to meet you," he muttered. Edward stared angrily at the boy. This was so not happening!

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 4; After class, Sarah and Ann.

Everyone else had left the large room with its white walls and huge windows. Everyone had left, except for the violinist, Ann, and the younger sister of Simon, Sarah.

With blushing cheeks, Ann was slowly packing her bags and sorting her notes, seemingly ignoring the other girl. Sarah grew tired of it. With a small smirk, she walked towards the brown-haired girl, who suddenly fumbled with her instrument and dropped some of her papers on the ground. She was just about to bend down and pick them up when Sarah reached her and locked her arms around Ann, making it impossible for the violinist to collect her papers. Her blush deepened as Sarah put her nose against her neck.

"Ann, my dear. I've missed you," Sarah murmured against Ann's flushed skin. "You haven't been ignoring me, have you?"

Ann stuttered and freed herself from Sarah's grip, but Sarah gently caught her wrist and tugged her close, so that they were facing each other. Ann was breathing harshly. Her dark blue dress draped around her ankles. She turned her red face away from the black-haired woman.

"S-Sarah..." she stuttered, "I have told you before; I do not wish to let it show."

Sarah sighed and tilted her head, so that her lips were dangerously close to Ann's.

"Let what show exactly?" she drawled. Ann was silent for a few seconds.

"This... affection. What we feel for each other. What I feel for you." she stopped and turned away. "I do not know how to handle it." Sarah sighed again.

"Ann, what is the problem? Really, your parents don't have anything against this kind of relationship, do they? So why can't we be together?" Her voice rose, and in the end it had a hurt, and almost angry tone. Ann swallowed hard and yanked her hand free.

"Because it is a disgrace! These kinds of feelings. I do not wish to bring shame upon you-"

"I would not mind!"

"-Nor myself."

The girls were silent for a few seconds, merely staring at each other. Sarah looked hurt and angry, while Ann looked drained, worried and sad. Ann took her violin-bag in a firm grip and started to walk towards the door.

"That is why this cannot proceed, Sarah, my dear friend."

Just as the violinist reached the door, Sarah spoke again.

"But you love me, don't you?" Her voice was broken and wavering, but still strong and clear. Ann stopped for a second, gave Sarah a glance over her shoulder, then exited the room, leaving Sarah alone.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 5; Simon and Mr. Green.

Simon, the best friend of James, walked into the room. His long hair was neatly tied in a high ponytail, and his clothes were strict and wrinkle-free. He glanced around, rather nervously, until his gaze fell upon the man by the desk. Mr. Green was working steadily, quickly writing notes on papers and scratching his head with a frustrated sigh.

"Excuse me, sir." Simon said carefully, afraid he might startle the older man. Mr. Green was working with ink, and if Simon startled him, he might spill some of the black liquid on the paper. The music would be ruined. The teacher did indeed jump slightly at the sound of Simon's voice, but not enough to spill any ink. Mr. Green turned around, groping at his own chest as if he had just had a heart-attack.

"Simon? You startled me." he gave a loud, relieved sigh and sat back on the chair. Simon, however, looked horrified and immediately gave a low bow.

"That was not my intention, sir! I apologize!" The boy exclaimed, looking slightly panicked as he took a few steps back from the teacher who had an amused smirk on his face. Mr. Green stood up from the chair.

"I am not angry with you, so don't look so scared. I'm not going to punish you," the teacher smirked again, "Unless you want me to." Simon blinked, looking confused, causing the teacher to chuckle at the lost expression on Simon's face.

"Why are you here anyway, Mr. von Derksen?" The amused teacher asked, quirking an eyebrow. "Don't you have classes to attend?"
Simon blushed at this and lowered his face, causing a few black strands to fall down over his eyes that stared at the floor.

"Y-yes, English, in fact." Simon bowed, "Please forgive me, sir, but I just wanted to thank you!" the boy exclaimed again, sounding a little too formal, as if he was talking to a royalty. Mr. Green raised his eyebrows.

"Thank me? For what?" Simon brought his hand to his other arm and rubbed it over the elbow, turning his face away.

"For repairing my violin, sir. It... it sounds better than ever," Simon murmured and gave a weak smile. It disappeared soon though, as the teacher took a few steps closer to the student, making the space between them shrink increasingly. Simon turned his face away once more, timidly avoiding the older man's intense gaze. Mr. Green gave a quick smile.

"Well, someone had to do it. Everyone else was busy," he said, shrugging slightly and closing his eyes in an uncaring way, though secretly peering at the student. "Come by here tomorrow morning, before class. I have something to show you." Simon stared at the man for a few seconds, then gave a weak, somewhat nervous smile before replying.

"I-I shall... Well, anyhow, once again I thank you. My violin sounds terrific now. I, ah... I have to go to class." Simon started to back away from the man, "So I'll take my leave. I am sorry for disturbing you, sir. Good afternoon!" He turned on the spot and all but ran off. Mr. Green watched him run away, still smirking to himself. He turned to his desk and sat down again, retreating to his previous ministrations. He chuckled to himself.

"He's so adorable."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 6; James and Edward's first practice session.

James sighed impatiently and glanced towards the door. Still no sign of the new boy, Edward. Turning back to his cello, James gave an annoyed frown before starting to play an easy piece he had always liked. It was an angry melody, he thought, and he liked anger. It was hot, passionate, uncontrollable.

Right now, in fact, he was rather angry. Edward was already ten minutes late, and James had even been there five minutes early. Not that he longed to spend time with the blonde or anything! On the contrary actually; James didn't like the new boy. At all. Not only was the boy rude, self-centered and cold; he had made a fool out of James in front of the entire orchestra! Kissing a boy, even though it was accidental, was embarrassing enough for James to feel a bit sick to the stomach.

Thinking about the awkward kiss made James play the wrong tone on his cello, and the melody got out of hand. He stopped playing and glared a little towards his innocent cello. Sighing with frustration, he turned to the door once more, and almost gasped as he found Edward leaning against the doorframe, smirking. How long had he been there?!

"Did you write that song on your own?" the blonde drawled, a mocking spark in his blue eyes. James blushed angrily and scowled. Damnit. Edward had obviously been there long enough to hear James play the wrong note. Cursing under his breath, James stood up from his chair and pointed at Edward.

"Where have you been?" James exclaimed. "I've been waiting for you for almost twenty minutes!" Edward only snorted and walked to the piano next to James' Cello.

"If you must know, I got lost. This is my first day here, remember?" He gave a smirk that filled James with stinging anger. "I do not know you, but I hope you are as skillful with that cello of yours as they say you are. However, I highly doubt it." James couldn't help but to gape at the insult. What a rude boy!

"I can assure you, I am quite capable," he said, making sure to add a great amount of coldness into his voice. "Although I must say I am rather surprised that Mr. Green would allow you to play with me. You are new here after all. I am not."

Edward looked slightly taken aback by the calm response, but quickly regained composure.

"Maybe he wants me to cover up your mistakes at the concert?" he chuckled, obviously pleased with himself. James fumed.

"I will have you know that I would never play with the likes of you if our teacher hadn't asked me!" He snapped and stepped up to the slightly taller boy. Edward finally showed some kind of emotion and scowled deeply.

"And you think I would? Do not flatter yourself, Mr. Cello!" He sneered and sent James' cello a mockful gaze. James swallowed hard and tried not to explode. The boy was incredibly impudent. Edward smirked again. "Oh dear, did I hurt your feelings?" God, how James hated the man in front of him. With stiff jaws, he managed to choke out a reply.

"I do not take the words of a mad man seriously." Edward gave a snort.

"Then you should not take yourself seriously."

James could feel the rage course through his veins. Why was Edward so horribly rude? They had just met a few hours ago, and yet the blonde acted as if he hated James. Although, James could understand his feelings. What happened at the orchestra rehearsal wasn't just something you forget about, but it wasn't as if that kiss had been James' fault. Edward was the one who fell on top of him!
It was as if they were born to be enemies. That's how angry James felt. Everything about the blonde boy disgusted him, in the heat of anger. The golden hair, the cocky eyes and the cold voice. James forced himself to smirk.

"What a pathetic insult," he said and the smirk grew wider, but it was against his will. Edward had crossed the line already. "Was that really the best your excuse for a brain could come up with?!" He sneered, as his voice grew louder. Edward scowled again and blushed angrily.

"I could come up with naughtier things to say, but that would most likely make you faint, Miss!"

James' palm connected with Edward's cheek and caused a loud slapping sound to fill the room. It seemed to echo for several seconds, while a dull ache made itself known in James’ hand. However, James was rather sure that the pain he was experiencing was nothing compared to the one he had caused Edward. Edward's head was still thrown to the side, and his blue eyes were wide open. James breathed hard and swallowed. He waited for Edward to say something. The blonde slowly turned his face to James again, and revealed his red, slightly swollen cheek. He didn't say anything, and James found the silence somewhat suffocating. So instead of waiting for Edward to speak, he muttered, "I apologize."

Anger was still pumping through James' body as he stared into the clear blue eyes of Edward. Edward didn't smirk anymore. Actually, his face held no emotion what so ever, as he slowly went past James, not caring to reply.

He gave James a cold gaze and sat down, carefully pressing down the keys, playing a soft tune. The music calmed James down a bit, and for a few seconds, all he could do was to watch the new boy play his instrument. Edward didn't even seem to notice James’ staring. It was as if the blonde was in a world of his own, where only he and his piano existed. And even though James wasn't exactly charmed by the boy's awful manners, he had to admit; Edward was a talented musician.

It wasn't until Edward smiled softly to himself, as his fingers danced over the keys in a slower pace, pianissimo, and finally closed his blue eyes as the song went into ritartando before stopping that James finally turned his gaze away. His cheeks felt uncomfortably warm, and his heart beat faster than usual. An annoyed noise escaped his throat as he noticed his fingers were trembling. Why did this always happen to him? This excitement... it disgusted him, and it thrilled him.

At the moment though, he only felt annoyed and angry with himself. He certainly didn't enjoy Edward's company, and yet he reacted like this by merely watching him play the piano? What was wrong with him? Maybe it was because Edward seemed so passionate about the music he was creating. James only knew a few people who held the same love for music as he did, and it somewhat irritated him that Edward was now one of them.

James sat down by his cello and played a few tones, warming up once more, forcing his fingers to obey him.

"Do you have the notes?" Edward suddenly asked, after watching James play for a few seconds. James turned around and nodded.

"I already placed them on your note stand," he replied coolly while refusing to look at the blonde boy. He heard how Edward gave a sound of acknowledgement and the rustling sound of paper was heard.

"Shall we start?" Edward asked, and James forced himself to face the pianist, since he knew that it would be easier to make it through the piece if they affirmed each other while playing. Edward had never played the song before. James had played it a few times the previous year, so he was already accustomed to the song. He nodded to Edward and put his bow to the cello and waited for Edward to get ready.

Edward gave a small nod and started playing, and after a few bars James started playing along with the blonde. He was rather amazed how well Edward played just by looking at the notes. James himself didn't have to look at the notes, since his part was simple and only consisted of a few tones. In general, James found the song rather boring, but playing together with Edward was...

He risked another look at the blonde's face and swallowed when he saw that Edward was once again smiling softly to himself and that he now swayed back and forth on the chair as the playing got even more intense and a small wrinkle of concentration was formed on Edward's forehead as he closed his eyes. James stared wide-eyed at him now, not paying much attention to his own playing fingers who knew the way of playing the song by heart. Without realizing it, James started to smile as well and continued to play, with new intensity and fierce passion, even though he only played a few simple tones. He let his fingers wave on the strings, making the tone tremble beautifully until it finally died out.

When the song was finally over, James was breathing a little faster than usual, still thrilled by the intense playing. He turned to Edward who was studying his notes closely and frowned.

"Is something the matter?" James asked, momentarily forgetting that he was in fact supposed to dislike the blonde boy. Edward sighed.

"I played it wrong. I played a C minor when it was supposed to be an Esus two." Edward muttered, obviously annoyed with himself. "I'm getting too careless."

Before James could stop himself, he had already spoken his mind.

"You played it beautifully."

The room went silent, as Edward, for the first time since they started to play, stared at James who was now blushing slightly. No one said a word after that. Cursing himself and his disobedient mouth, James quietly stood up from the chair, straightened his clothes and carefully packed his cello into the large bag. Then he walked towards the door. Edward hadn't moved. Just as James was about to leave the room, he heard a quiet reply that for some strange reason made his heart swell and skip a beat.

"Thank you."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 7; James and Rose.

"Has something good happened to you today, James?" Rose asked as she walked next to her cousin-fiance who for once had a small smile on his lips. He usually looked rather cold and uncaring when no one was around. For him to smile to himself was indeed rare. Rose frowned as James didn't answer but merely coughed and stopped smiling.

"Why would you ask that?" he asked, sounding bemused and embarrassed, which was also out of the ordinary. Rose scoffed.

"Because you were smiling like a fool. What in the world has made you so happy?" She asked, peering at James. He stared at the ground as they walked.

"I'm not... happy."

Was that a blush on his cheeks? Rose stopped in mid step, forcing James to stop as well, since her hand was tightly laced around his arm. It was a blush! What in the world was going on with her usually so uncaring cousin? He had never blushed before. As far as she knew, James was simply the kind of person who didn't get embarrassed. So why was he blushing?!

"You're hiding something from me," she exclaimed and pointed at James, "You're blushing! You never blush! Why are-"

"I-I'm thinking about you!" James said and gave a smile. Rose shut up. He was thinking about her? That made sense. She was his fiancée after all. Content with the answer she had received, Rose grasped James' hand and inched closer to him, ignoring the small flinch he gave.

"Really?" She murmured, obviously trying to sound seductive. "Then... would you like to kiss me?"

James looked horrified for about two seconds but quickly regained composure. He then gave the pink-haired girl a cocky smile.

"Not until after we're married, Rose. You know that," James said and gave a chuckle. "Or is it, perhaps, that you simply can't resist me?" It was Rose's turn to blush.

"Don't be silly." she grasped his arm again and they kept going. Rose felt content and happy. James was hers and it finally seemed as though he was starting to develop some emotions for her. However, she didn't notice the annoyed look James gave her as her arm touched his, and she didn't notice that after a few minutes of walking, he started to smile again, not even looking at Rose.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Scene: 8; Edward's home.

"Edward, dear, how was your first day in school?" The dark-haired woman exclaimed, obviously nervous for her son's sake, as she walked into the hallway where Edward was currently removing his shoes and jacket. He gave his mother a calming smile.

"It was good," he said and walked past her. She stared after him. He was actually happy? After school? As his mother, she knew exactly how much her son hated school. Usually, when Edward got home from school, he would be extremely moody, annoyed or downright angry. But now he looked calm and had an almost content smile on his lips, even though she could tell that he wasn't even aware that he was wearing such a gentle look on his face. The woman caught up with her son before he had the chance to leave the room and put her hand on his shoulder.

"Won't you tell me how things went? How was the orchestra rehearsal?"

For some reason, the last question made Edward blush slightly. Being his mother, she knew that Edward was shy and timid on occasions, but to actually blush? She was beyond shocked. Until she suddenly came to a conclusion. She smirked. Her son had finally met a girl! And it was certainly about time. How many times had she tried to get him married? She had lost count by now. And Edward had always seemed so... uninterested in the girls. Bored, to say the least.

"I-it was nice." the boy said, and turned his face away, causing his mother to smirk wider. "I made a new friend." The words were spoken softly, gently. Edward was still smiling to himself, obviously unaware of this. Edward didn't like smiling in public. His mother giggled softly.

"Oh? And what is her name?" she asked, rather sure that her son was talking about the girl that he had come to like. Edward was lost in thoughts for a few seconds, before giving her a confused glance.

"Her? No, it was a boy. He plays the cello."

The woman felt annoyed. So her son hadn't met a girl yet. Sure enough, she was happy that Edward had made a new friend, but she had been so certain that it was something different. The soft look on Edward's face seemed so... She peered at the blonde boy who was lost in thought again.

"Oh? What was his name?" She asked, staring intensively at him. Edward didn't respond right away.

He gave her a quick glance, shook his head and quietly murmured, "James McTriffle."

He left the room, but not before the woman had caught the shy tone of his voice, and the slight pink tinge on his cheeks. Her eyes darkened. There was something with the way Edward had spoken that boy's name. It was like the familiar darkness that was always soaking Edward's voice when he talked had been washed away, replaced by some sort of happiness. The woman sat down on the expensive sofa, sighing deeply as she stared after her son.

Who on earth was James McTriffle? And what was it with him that made Edward act so strangely?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Scene: 9; (The next day,) Simon and Mr. Green.

With a pounding heart, Simon knocked on Mr. Green's door and waited. Steps were heard. The door was opened. Simon stared at the man who gave him a tired, but happy smile. He looked... well, drained, to say the least. His normally neatly tied hair was ruffled and strands were hanging down in the teacher's tired face. Simon couldn't help himself but to let his fingers comb through the teacher's hair.

"What in the world? Have you been up all night?" Simon's worried face and tone of voice were quickly exchanged by embarrassement as Simon realized what he was doing and quickly pulled back from the older man, who actually didn't seem to mind Simon's touches all that much. "...Sir," Simon added nervously and stared at the floor. Mr. Green gestured for the boy to follow him into the room.

"Yes, in fact. I wanted to get it finished." He murmured and started to look through the papers on his desk, which was a total mess. Heaps of papers, feathers to write with and ink bottles were covering the desk and made it look like Mr. Green hadn't cleaned his office in several weeks. Simon couldn't help but to smile as Mr. Green started muttering about missing papers, then jumped when the teacher finally gave a loud "Aha! I found them!"

Mr. Green walked up to Simon who stood a few feet away, excitedly waving with a bunch of papers in his hand.

"This," the teacher proclaimed, "is one of the best songs I've ever written!" He gave a pleased chuckle and shoved the papers in Simon's hand, taking the opportunity to carress the student's fingers while doing so. Simon flinched and blushed a little, not looking at the papers at first, seeing as his eyes were preoccudpied with the other man's face. When he finally averted his distracted gaze to the papers in his hand, his eyes widened.

"I... don't understand. It's a solo-song... for a violin," the student murmured, voice quivering timidly. Mr. Green inched closer and finally put his hands on his students shoulders, seemingly to support himself as he looked both tired and rather dizzy. He nodded.

"Yes. I wrote it for you," the man admitted. "This is your song, Simon."

Simon snapped his head up and stared at the teacher who was still grasping his shoulders. Not to forget; Simon was a little taller than the teacher, so at such short distant, it was the teacher who had to tilt his head up to be able to look Simon in the eyes. Simon swallowed.

"W-why did you write this for me?" He wasn't shoving the man away. In fact, he leaned into the small embrace. The teacher let his arms encircle Simon further, pulling his student into a proper embrace.

"Because," he whispered, "You inspire me. You awake the music in my heart." Simon shuddered slightly.

"I am a mere student," he said, voice still quivering, "I do not deserve such beautiful words."

Mr. Green broke away and held Simon's face between his hands.

"Oh, but you do. See? You do." He suddenly sounded younger. His voice held nervousness and fear, along with wanting. Simon just didn't care any more. He leaned in and let his lips meet with the older man's. He could feel how the teacher swallowed and slowly opened his mouth to let his tounge inside. Simon dived in, suddenly overcome by a wave of yearning. Mr. Green leaned in closer, and Simon's arms came around his waist, pulling him in. Their tounges danced together and eyes fluttered closed as both men found themselves lost in pleasure.

However, when finally Mr. Green gave a low moan of wanting, Simon was violently thrown back into reality. The student stared at the teacher who was panting softly and blushing; very unlike the Mr. Green he was used to. He felt his cheeks go red, and slowly released the older man who visibly clenched his jaws at this.

"I-I... I don't know what happened..." Simon stuttered and brought a hand to cover his mouth. He could still taste the teacher's saliva on his tounge and he could still feel the nibbles on his lips. Mr. Green swallowed, and made a face that made him look even younger than he had before; He looked scared.

"Please," he exclaimed, "Don't apologize! I couldn't bear it..." his voice trailed off, and he let his chin fall to his chest. Simon stared at him, still blushing furiously. He felt the need to explain what had just happened. Not only to Mr. Green, but to himself as well. He was confused.

"I am your student... and we are both men," he murmured, averting his gaze from Mr. Green who had started to tremble; so unlike his usual, calm composure. "This is wrong."

The older of the two gave an almost angry scoff.

"Says who?" Simon looked at him, despair clear in his eyes. The teacher ignored it. "Love isn't something a mere human can control. So don't try to control it."

Simon swallowed, shaking his head disbelievingly.

"Love? Is that what this is? Do you not just yearn to feel my body then?" He blushed as he said it, but the feeling of not understaing what was going on made him feel slightly panicked. The teacher scowled.

"Do you really think I am that desperate for that kind of intimacy?" Simon blushed even more, and flinched at Mr. Green's almost angry tone. "Do you think I just randomly pick out someone to seduce? Is that who you think I am?"

"No!" Simon hissed, already feeling slightly panicked. His heart leaped. Mr. Green gave him a glare which he responded to with a softer look. "No... I do not think you're that kind of person."

Mr. Green's features softened and he walked toward Simon. He reached out with soft, trembling hands.

"Then why... can't we..?" His voice was longing, asking, and honest, Simon realized. "I... I do love you, you know," Mr. Green forced out followed by a short, dry chuckle. "...In case you hadn't noticed just yet."

However, the older man seemed to realize how confused and frightened Simon felt, and instead of kissing him, he only grasped the younger's hands.

"How about this... if you choose to play my song at the concert, I will know that you love me back. If you choose to play a different song, then the answer is no, and I won't bother you again."

Simon took a deep breath and nodded slowly. Mr. Green nodded back and released Simon's hands. He walked back to his desk. Simon stared at the man's back.

"I think I'll get some sleep before my first class starts." the teacher murmured and yawned. Simon felt even more confused now. He gave the papers in his hand a glance, and then looked back at Mr. Green who was now looking back at him a soft look on his face. Simon blinked.

"Thank you, sir." He gestured weakly to the papers and gave a soft smile. Mr. Green nodded and waved his hand.

"Do not mention it. I did it because I wanted to." Simon nodded and started walked towards the door. "Simon," came a soft voice just before Simon left the room. He glanced to his teacher over his shoulder. "I just have one request."

Simon turned around and waited for him to go on. Mr. Green bit his lower lip before speaking his mind.

"Please... don't call me 'sir'. Call me John."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 10; Orchestra rehearsal.

When Edward walked into the music room, everyone else was already there, except for James. A sting of worry made itself known in his chest. Maybe the raven haired boy was ill. Maybe he wasn't coming to day.

Edward surpressed his worried feelings and spotted the long-haired boy who he supposed was James' best friend, Simon. Simon looked as if in deep thought and didn't notice Edward walking towards him. It wasn't until Edward gave a soft "Good morning" that he reacted by jumping and almost dropping his violin. He turned to Edward and smiled.

"Good morning." he murmured and sighed. Edward blinked.

"Something the matter?" It wasn't like him to care about someone he barely knew, but chose to not ponder over it. Simon shook his head and smiled softly.

"No worries. I just," he paused and seemed to think of what to say. "didn't get much sleep last night."

"Is that so?" Edward asked, and couldn't help but to smile at the boy's excuse. Simon was a terrible liar. "Um... you wouldn't happen to know where James is, would you?" he asked, trying not to sound too embarrassed. Simon shook his head and gave a humming sound as he closed his eyes and seemed to figure out where his best friend was.

"No, actually. I'm sure he'll come, though." in that moment, the door was opened and James walked in with an annoyed look on his face. Edward was just about to give a small wave, but changed his mind when suddenly a girl with pink hair walked in and ran to James, gripping his arm. James gave a low groan.

"Do not just walk away from me, James! I am your fiancée. You should be happy that I want to attend your orchestra rehearsal," she whined. James gave her a small glare.

"But you always make it rather clear how much you dislike music, Rose." he muttered. "Why do you wish to watch?" Rose shrugged and for a second, her eyes darted to a certain blonde boy who was staring at them with dark eyes.

"Because I want to," she replied and smirked at James' confused look. "Go and unpack your cello now, dear. Mr. Green will probably be here any second."

James didn't argue, and left her to join Simon and Edward. Simon pursed his lips and gave an amused smile, but he didn't say anything. Edward just gave an awkward nod and backed away as James took his seat. James gave the blonde a glance and blushed slightly when he remembered what he had said the previous day. "You played beautifully." What a stupid thing to say! But... Edward had thanked him. What did it all mean?

James didn't have to ponder over it, because just then Mr. Green walked into the room, looking rather tired and dizzy, as if he had just woken up. Simon shifted on his chair and suddenly became overly interested in his violin. James gave his friend a look and frowned when he saw the blush on Simon's cheeks. The long-haired boy refused to look at Mr. Green. James was just about to ask Simon what was wrong when Mr. Green raised his hands.

"Let's take it from part three," he said and smiled just as excitedly as always. James relaxed and made himself ready. Unvoluntarily, he caught Rose in the corner of his eye. She had some kind of smirk on her lips, and James didn't like it at all. In fact, it quite disgusted him. The song started, and James played. However, the look on Rose's face made him feel uncomfortable. She looked so... cocky. As if she was content about the fact that James was her fiance and everyone envied her, not the fact that he was doing what he loved. But then again, Rose had never actually cared for him, for James. She only cares about what other people see when they look at her. That's why she was so desperate to have James as her fiance. Simply because it would make people envy her.

James heard the trills of Edward's fingers run over the keys and smiled. Edward...

Suddenly James lost himself in the notes. He frowned and tried to figure out where to read, but didn't find it in time and accidently played the wrong note. The violins got confused and stopped playing, as did the whole orchestra. James bit his lips and blushed a little. He stood up.

"I am sorry, I made a mistake."

Mr. Green shook his head and waved his hand.

"Not to worry, young man! We all make mistakes-"

"How terribly unproffesional!" Rose stood up and smirked as she walked up to James. The orchestra stared at her. James swallowed. "I have told you so many times," she gave a clinging false laughter, "that music isn't something you should put effort in. And now look what you did, dear. You claim to love music so much, yet you can't even play it correctly! What kind of a musician are you?" James gaped. What was she saying? How could she embarass him like this? Rose smiled, and seemed to think that it was all very amusing, and the look on her face told James that she expected people to agree with her and start laughing, as if it was all a joke. James had just made a small mistake, so why did she have to say such things?

"Spectators aren't supposed to walk up to the orchestra during rehearsal, Miss." James turned around and stared at Edward who was glaring at Rose. "And to be quite frank, an amatuer who knows nothing about music has no right what-so-ever to criticize a true musician. Please leave."

Warmth gathered in James' cheeks as he stared at the blonde. Edward was coming to his defense? Why? He turned back to Rose who was now gaping at Edward, clearly shocked that someone had the guts to argue with her. She looked as if she was about to yell at Edward when Mr. Green spoke up.

"Miss Rose, Edward is correct," he said, and sounded colder than usual. "You should leave now."

Rose looked beyond shocked at this. No one said a word. She gave Edward a furious look, which he responded to with his own calm glare. The she turned to James, who didn't even look at her. James was looking at Edward, and he was... blushing. Again. James was blushing, just like the day before, and he wasn't looking at her. James was looking at Edward. Rose's eyes narrowed.

"Fine, I'll leave. I will see you later, James," she said, and pursed her lips and James merely nodded, turned back from Edward but didn't look at her. The orchestra stared at the pink-haired girl as she left the music room, giving small 'Hmphs!' as she left. James didn't miss her.

He turned to look at Edward again. The blonde was reading his notes as if nothing had happened, but suddenly he peered at James and hinted a smile. James blushed and turned back to his own notestand. He smiled to himself. Maybe Edward wasn't such a bastard as he had first thought.

When the rehearsal was over, Edward walked up to James.

"I don't have any classes until after lunch. Would you like to rehearse our duett?" James nodded, somewhat shyly, and packed his cello. They left together, and walked toward the smaller room where they had rehearsed the day before. James couldn't help but to steal glances at Edward, who looked just as stoic as usual. They didn't notice that a certain pink-haired girl was following them, watching their every step.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 11; James and Edward second rehearsal.

James unpacked his cello again and sat down on his usual chair next to the piano which Edward took a seat behind. After a quick peer at the blonde, who still refused to respond to any of his glances, James sighed and put the bow to the strings.

"Ready?" Edward asked, and recieved a small nod from James who was now focusing on his notes. Edward started playing and James fell into the melody after a few chords, smiling softly as the soft, clinging tones from the grand piano melted together perfectly with his cello. The two boys were so busy creating music, they didn't notice that Rose had snuck into the room, and was now watching them behind a curtain close to the wall. She stared at the men, obviously suspicious.

James had behaved oddly today. And the looks they had given each other? What was that all about?

James closed his eyes for a second and could feel himself get lost in the tones, filling his chest to the brim with a warm, soft feeling. He peered at Edward again. The blonde was, as usual, very into his music, and swayed back and forth on his stool. When they got to a calmer part, James dared to speak, even though Edward might get angry with him for breaking the music’s spell.

"So... um, thank you," he murmured, and turned away to hide the faint blush. Edward glanced at him.

"For what?"

James gave him a look. A look that said, 'You know what I mean, don't try and deny it.' The black haired boy turned his face back to his cello and continued playing for a few seconds before replying.

"For telling Rose off. I would've done it myself, if-"

"If... You weren't her fiance," Edward finished the sentence for him. James nodded, and tried to hide the saddening look on his face. It seemed that the mere thought of the pink-haired girl made him feel depressed.

"I think my parents would want me to be as calm and collected as possible. For me to start arguing with her is quite... impossible, you see." James smiled sadly and took a few low tones on his cello. Edward stared at him, letting his fingers dance as they pleased.

"Do you love her?" Edward murmured quietly, envy obvious in his voice. James looked up and met Edward's gaze. Rose was leaning forward as much as she could without revealing her presence.

"No," James answered, honesty shining in his eyes. "I don't." If the boys would have listened carefully, they would've heard the angry squeak coming from behind the red curtain behind James.

They just kept playing after that. When the song ended, they would just start over again, without a word or even a look.

Eventually, James peered at Edward again. It was as if his eyes couldn't get enough of him. His whole body felt warm and flustered just from looking at the passionate blonde, furiously playing his instrument. James was so lost in thoughts of Edward that he didn't notice that said boy was staring back at him. Their playing suddenly got uneven and slower, until it finally stopped completely. James was already blushing, as the look he recieved from Edward was one of pure wanting. James stood up, put his cello aside, legs slightly wobbly and walked towards the piano. When he reached it, Edward had already gotten up from his stool. James leaned over the piano and grasped Edward's cheek and neck with his hands, pulling him close. A thrilled yell fought to escape James' throat when he realized that not only was Edward not resisting, Edward was leaning into his embrace.

Lips met, noses grinded against each other and gasps were heard. Edward put his hands behind James' head and pulled him even closer. Random tones were heard throughout the room, as Edward accidently pressed some of the piano keys in his eagerness to kiss the black-haired boy. James brought his fingers through the golden strands and opened his mouth slowly, timidly, not certain that Edward wanted to access. However, Edward did want access, and immediately let his tongue slip into James' awaiting mouth. James moaned softly.

Rose slid to the floor, eyes wide and mouth hanging open. This could not be happening. This simply could not be happeneing! James wouldn't do that to someone other than her! But wait... he had told Edward that he... didn't love her? He didn't love her?! James wasn't in love with her, but chose another man over her? No... this was not happening.

However, soft, smacking sounds were heard through the room, and made it quite impossible for Rose to ignore the fact that James was kissing another person. So, furious and full of rage, she escaped the room, while the boys were busy with sucking each other's lips off. She would get her revenge!

Edward was the one who had ruined everything! If he hadn't showed up, James wouldn't have fallen in love with him, and none of this would've happened! She had to get rid of Edward, no matter what. If only Edward was gone, everything would be fine again. Yes, she had to get rid of Edward.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Scene:12; Sarah and Rose

The room was empty, to Sarah's relief. She preferred solitude at the moment. Sighing, Sarah took a seat by the window and threw a glance at the trees outside, not really seeing them. They were just there. How simple it must be to be a tree. They have no real purpose of life, they just exist. Humans however, they must always complicate life, by adding feelings to it. Feelings like love. Love; the most wonderful and most painful feeling humans have to experience.

Sarah breifly wondered if life would be easier if love wasn't involved. If life would be easier, if she had never fallen in love with Ann. Another woman. Well, Sarah was rather certain that life would be easier, but that didn't mean that she wished she wasn't in love. However, life would without a doubt be easier if the feelings were returned.

Was Ann in love with Sarah? Sarah had been so sure... all the kisses and embraces they had shared. Did they mean so little to the other girl? The thought made Sarah's chest ache. And even though Sarah was a generally intelligent girl, the conclusion that Ann might be just unsure and ashamed of her feelings merely breifly ran through her head. Actually, she had no time to think more deeply into it, because just then, her best friend rushed into the room, hissing and cursing more than Sarah had ever heard her curse.

Rose ran up to Sarah who just barely had enough time to stand up from the chair. The fury all but shined from the pink-haired girl, and it almost scared Sarah. She knew Rose to be a girl with a horrible temper, but she had never seen her so angry before. Sarah sincerily wished that she was not the cause of Rose's rage.

"Rose, what is the matter?" She asked carefully, putting her hand on Rose's shoulder. Rose snarled and shrugged it off.

"It's disgusting!" she yelled, and started to pace around the room. "Two people of the same gender are not supposed to fall in love!" Sarah swallowed. So she was indeed the cause of Rose's anger. She lowered her face, letting her chin touch her collarbone.

"Rose, I don't know what to say-"

"James is supposed to love me, not that idiot Edward!" Rose spat and Sarah's head snapped up, staring widely at Rose who was standing with her back to Sarah.

"What... did you say?" Sarah asked, throat dry and head dizzy. Wasn't Rose talking about her? She was talking about James? And Edward Thomson, the new student? Rose turned to look at Sarah, anger mixed with sorrow and disgust in her eyes.

"Oh Sarah! It's just terrible!" Rose practically sobbed and sat down on the chair Sarah had previously been sitting on. "I followed James and that Edward-bastard-"

"Please do not use such words-" Sarah tried mildly but got cut off.

"I speak however I want about that disgusting man! I followed them after orchestra rehearsal, and they were... kissing! At first, they were just playing their song, and everything looked normal to me, although James told Edward that he didn't love me and things like that! I don't know how he did it, but Edward must have done something to James to make him think like that! I know that James loves me! How could he not? I am adorable!" Rose sobbed. "And then they were kissing like mad, like they were actually in love. They were kissing, like I want me and James to be kissing."

Sarah blinked. James was in love with Edward? A warmth spread in Sarah's chest. She wasn't the only one who could fall in love with someone of the same gender! How wonderful! However, Sarah kept her grin well hidden and merely sighed. Somehow, despite Rose's complaints, she highly doubted the fact that Rose was actually in love with her cousin.

"Do you really love James?"

Rose turned to her, with soaked cheeks. Rage was still visible in those green eyes.

"I have plans for us!" Rose hissed. "This is not a matter of love! My whole life depends on whether I get married to James or not. He's rich, Sarah! If I don't wed him, I will never experience the benefits of having such wealth as he does. I may be his cousin, but my part of the family has not nearly the same amount of money as he does."

The more Rose was speaking, the more certain Sarah became that she had been right about her friend; Rose did not love James, only his money. It disgusted Sarah how fixated Rose was.

"But I have a plan," Rose murmured, sounding as if she was at the brim of raw panic. "Oh yes, I know exactly how to make things right, you see." Rose gave an awful smile, while her eyes were wide open. "Edward was the one who ruined everything... so... if he's gone, James will start to love me again! Oh yes, he will come back to me, Sarah!" She gave a shrill laughter. "All I have to do is to kill Edward!"

Sarah stared at Rose who was now looking mad, a grim smile resting on her lips. Rose slowly put her finger to his lips.

"But that's a secret. You mustn't tell anyone," she walked towards Sarah who was starting to feel frightened by Rose's strange behavior. When Rose reached her, the girl leaned in and gave Sarah a kiss on the cheek. "Wish me luck, my dear Sarah. Pray that I shall keep my love, and that those who stand in my way will be destroyed."

Sarah shuddered as Rose turned from her and walked out of the room unsteadily, silently giggling to herself. Swallowing nervously, Sarah waited until Rose had left completely. Then she left the room, and ran as fast as she could to James. She had to warn him! And to thank him! She knew what to do now, but she had little time. Rose was mad, who knew what she could do?

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 13; Sarah warns James.

A sharp knocking on the door interrupted James' daydreaming, as he had left school for a little while to eat lunch. He half-expected Edward to be there, since they had said that they would meet up. However, when James opened the door, a breathless Sarah ran into the room. He stared after her and briefly wondered if Rose had sent her. The thought made James frown, even though he knew that Sarah was generally a very kind girl, despite the fact that she was Rose's best friend.

"Miss von Derksen?" he asked. "What are you doing here?" He said, sounding as cold as he could. But when he saw that Sarah's eyes were truthfully scared and that she was trembling a little, he changed his attitude. "Is something the matter?"

Sarah nodded furiously and grabbed James’ sleeve.

"Yes!" she exclaimed. "Something is terribly wrong." James frowned. Sarah seemed genuinly frightened. "It's about Rose!" James frowned deeper.

"What about Rose?"

"Yes, what about Rose?" James and Sarah turned around, startled, by the sudden voice. James’ mother walked into the room, adorning a frown of worry. Sarah glanced at James, at James’ mother, then back to James. How could she tell James without his mother understanding? Somehow, Sarah doubted that James had told his mother that he was enamoured with another man.

"James, she..." Sarah started and bit her lip. "Rose saw you... um... this morning." James’ eyes seemed confused for a second, before he suddenly snapped them open, and panic started to flood into them. A small blush was visible on his cheeks, and he bit his lip.

"Sh-she saw me?" Sarah nodded and gave James a pitying look. After all that James had been through, he deserved to find true love. She knew that James' father was always away for business and when he was home he was always very strict towards James. And even though James' mother was a very kind woman, James had been paired up with his own cousin, who turned out to be self-centered and arrogant.

"Yes, James."

James sighed and sat down, covering his face with his hand.

"She's going to murder me!" He hissed, obviously already somewhat panicked. "What's father going to say?!"

"She's not going to murder you, James," Sarah said and crouched by James' feet. "That's the reason I'm here." James met her gaze, silence filling the room, until his eyes were once more snapped open.

"Oh god, she isn’t going to murder me, she will try to kill him instead!" He exclaimed, and a shadow of fear made itself known in his face. "I have to find her before she finds him!"

"Stop right there, young man," James’ mother spoke up. "You are not to go anywhere until you have explained to me what in the world is going on? Why is Rose going to kill someone? What did she see?"

James bit his lip. He didn't want to tell his mother just yet, but if he didn't go after Rose soon enough, she might kill Edward! He had to tell her... even though it would cost him his pride, and even though he was rather positive that she would get angry with him.

"Mother..." he started, sounding more timid than he wanted. "What Rose saw this morning... It was..." He sighed and gave up. "I was kissing another student. Another man," he bit his lip. "The new student I was telling you about. I am in love with him, mother." His voice was shaky at the end, and he met his mother's gaze. It was shocked and disbelieveing. Not good signs. "Please, try to understand... I do not love Rose. I love Edward."

To his great disbelief, his mother gave a weak smile.

"I do understand, my dear son," she sighed. "I always saw the unhappiness in your eyes as soon as Rose was around you. It was enough to tear my heart apart, but I never figured out what the problem was."

She pulled James into a warm embrace.

"You are still my son," she murmured against his neck. "Do not worry, I shall accept the partner you see fit."

James smiled at his mother and wanted to thank her, but Sarah pulled his sleeve before he could open his mouth.

"Hello! Aren't we forgetting something?" Sarah hissed. "We have to find Rose!" James nodded.

"Let's go!" James and Sarah took off, leaving the older woman behind, staring after them with a very worried look on her face.

"Be careful!" She called after them. "Rose is mad. I shouldn't really be surprised," the woman murmured to herself and sighed sadly.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 14.

Edward walked into the great music room, followed by his two parents. He did not look at them. In truth, he rather despised them. At least his father, who for once was home, now wanted to see the school he placed Edward in. Even though his mother was kind to him, she always agreed with his father.

"I trust you do well in the classes, Edward?"

Edward closed his eyes frustrated and gave his father a nod.

"Yes, sir."

"No fights yet?" The question was clearly mocking, and sounded as if the man expected his son to make a mistake sooner or later. Edward frowned a little.

"No, sir." Dear lord, Edward almost wished to scream at his father. Scream at his father that he was in love with another man and that they had already kissed. Haha... the man would surely give him a good beating and make him switch schools. So Edward stayed silent, for he couldn't bear the thought of leaving the place where James was.

James... Edward was supposed to meet him during lunch, but then his parents turned up, unexpectedly. If not for his parents, he would run straight to James now. What he wouldn’t give just to have a simple lunch with the black haired man. How quickly he had fallen in love. It quite shocked him because it had never happened to him before. He had met James just a few days ago and they had not even liked each other at first. Now his heart fluttered as soon as he thought of him and he had to fight not to blush.

"Edward, who is that girl?" His father asked, sounding alarmed as he looked towards the door. Edward followed his gaze and stared. It was that Rose-girl. James' finacée. His heart leaped as he saw the raw rage in her eyes, not to mention the knife in her hand. Edward involuntarily took a step back. The girl looked mad.

"Miss Rose..." he breathed. "What... do you want?"

Rose stepped into the room and gave him a grim look.

"What do I want? What do you want?!" she shrieked. "You have ruined everything!" For a second, Edward did not understand why the girl was so upset. "You've stolen him from me!" Then Edward understood. She had seen them. Somehow, she had seen them or found about about the kiss. Edward could feel the blood leave his face, only to rush back again, making him blush deeply.

"What is she talking about?" Edward's father asked, already sounding angry. "I knew you would get into trouble! What did you steal? Her cat?"

Rose scoffed and took yet another step towards Edward.

"You haven't told your parents, have you, Edward?" She smirked. "You did not steal my cat, did you? You stole something of much more value." Edward took another step back, and that seemed to be the trigger for Rose. "You stole my fiance!!" She screamed and ran towards Edward with the knife lifted above her head.

"Rose, stop!" James ran into the room and grabbed Rose's dress from behind, pulling her away from Edward. "Don't kill him!" Rose yanked free from his grip and stared at James, waving the knife in front of his face. James carefully met her gaze and walked towards Edward, never breaking eyecontact with the mad girl.

"But he stole you from me," Rose whispered, and scrunched her face, making it look like she was about to cry. Her eyes were black with fury. James shook his head.

"No, he didn't... I was never yours, Rose." Rose shook her head. Sarah walked into the room, along with James' mother. "That's not true... you loved me," Rose said, seemingly to herself. James shook his head again.

"No. I never loved you like that. Only as my cousin did I hold affection for you."

Rose's breath hitched at this and she waved where she stood. She looked as if she was about to faint, but then she gave a deafening scream and once more dashed towards Edward, with her knife in a firm grip. Just as she was about to put the knife into Edward's chest, James rushed in front of her, arms stretched out, preventing her from killing Edward.

"Don't!" James yelled. "I swear to God, I will hate you if you kill him!"

Rose stopped then, breathing heavily. Edward peered at her from behind James' shoulder. Rose turned around slowly, and gave Sarah a glance.

"S-sarah...?" As her last resort, she begged for Sarah's support and help, but her best friend shook her head, and the look she gave Rose was one of purest pity. For a few seconds, Rose only stood there, as if her breath had left her. Then she gave a scream and ran out the door. No one followed her. The scream was heard throughout the whole castle, as Rose poured her misery out. James closed his eyes and shuddered. How badly things could've turned out, if he had been too late. Then a warm hand was placed on his shoulder. He turned around and met the worried gaze of Edward. His heart gave a warm thump and he smiled weakly.

"I demand an explanation!" Edward's father exclaimed. "What did she mean, by 'you stole my fiance!?'" The man glanced towards James. "Surely she could not be meaning...?"

Edward glared at his father. He then grabbed James' hand and smirked.

"It's exactly what it sounds like," he said with a low voice, daring his father to speak against him. Edward had always held such fearful respect for his father, but in truth Edward was taller than his father, and surely stronger too. The disgusted look on his father's face only fueled his anger. "I am in love with another man."

He could feel James tremble slightly in his hand, but he didn't let go. Instead, he took an even firmer grip of his hand, for which Edward was grateful.

However, Edward had barely the time to gasp before a hand was slapped across his face, and he gave his mother a shocked look. She was trembling and had tears in her eyes.

"Do not speak to your father like that!" she barked. The man behind her looked grimly at Edward. "I will not allow you to be in love with that man, Edward!" Edward scowled.

"It's love! I cannot control it! Neither can you." he whispered furiously. He was too angry to remember how to use his voice. It was easier to just hiss the words out.

His father stepped out from behind the shaking woman.

"I agree with your mother. I will not allow this, Edward," he said coldly and Edward shuddered, the ache in his cheek seemed to increase by the look his father gave him. "I will no longer ackowledge you as my son if you intend to stay with this boy!"

That was it. Edward gave a furious sob and let his chin fall to his chest.

"Then I guess," Edward started, "I won't be calling you 'my parents' anymore." He looked up and gave his shaking mother and cold father a smirk. "I'd rather stay with James, who accepts me for who I am than with the two of you, who disown me for it."

His father gave a scoff.

"And where will you live? Who is going to pay for your education? You will have a miserable life without us, boy!" It was Edward's turn to scoff.

"A life without love is a miserbale life! I have found love. I don't care if I don't have any money. I could live on the street for all I care, as long as I have my love."

"You won't have to live on the street," James' mother suddenly spoke up. "The boy will stay with us." She smirked at Edward's parents, obviously pleased with the situation. "Now, let him be. You have no longer the right to call yourselves his parents. Leave."

Edward's mother and father stared at the woman, then at each other, then at Edward who was now gripping James' hand so tightly, his knuckles turned white.

"You shall regret this," his father muttered darkly, and even spat on Edward's shoes as he said, "You useless boy."

The mother didn't say anything, but just followed her husband out of the room, sobbing and sniffing.

Edward turned to face James and slowly embraced him, allowing himself to feel and smell everything that was James until his head got dizzy. He could feel James’ lips gently touch his neck.

"Thank you..." Edward murmured and released James. He turned to James' mother and Sarah, the people who had saved him, not only from Rose's fury, but also from his cold parents. "Thank you..."

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene; 15: Edward and James, a few days later.

"Good morning," Edward said and yawned as he walked into the room and took a seat next to James who was eating some bread. James smiled weakly.

"Good morning..."

Edward gave him a worried look and grasped James' hand on the table. James sighed.

"You know it wasn't your fault, James," he said and recieved a small nod. "She... wasn't thinking straight." James gave a dry laugh.

"That's a nice way to put it," he chuckled and gave Edward a sad smile. "The girl was completely insane. But I just cannot believe that she would actually kill herself just because I wouldn't love her."

Edward didn't say anything, but merely looked at James.

"I don't think she was ever truly happy," the blonde said and put a grape into his mouth. James looked at him.

"What do you mean?"

Edward shrugged.

"Well... She never truly loved you, according to Miss Sarah. She was so focused on getting married to you and becoming rich, that she never allowed herself to find true happiness."

James nodded.

"Indeed... I pity her, my cousin."

The boys ate for a little while, in silence. James smiled.

"So, are you comfortable in your new bed chamber?" he smirked to the blonde who smirked back.

"Indeed, I am. How convenient that your room lies right next to it, too..." The boys sniggered a little at this. James' mother stepped into the room.

"You boys don't have much time left before school starts!" She exclaimed and grabbed the piece of bread Edward was holding.

"Hey, I was eating that!" He whined and recieved a teasing smile from the woman.

"You eat too slowly," she said, and James nodded.

"Well, It's true, you do."

Edward muttered under his breath as the two McTriffles teased him.

"Let's just go to school." James nodded and followed the blonde out of the room.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene; 16: Sarah and Ann.

"Ann!" Sarah exclaimed, and grabbed Ann's arm from behind the corner. Ann gave a startled cry and accidently gave Sarah a shove. When she saw who it was, she gasped and helped the girl up from the floor.

"Sarah, you startled me," she murmured and couldn't help but to blush as her hand was grasped by Sarah's. "What... do you want?" she asked timidly. Sarah smiled and pulled her closer.

"I wish to show you something." Sarah started walking. "Come with me," she said, and Ann did.

They walked through the many corridoors of the large school and Ann couldn't help but to steal glances of Sarah. Sarah whom she loved. Sarah, who she could not be with. What a stupid rule, that humans aren't supposed to fall in love with someone of the same gender! Who made up that silly rule anyway? Ann was almost starting to feel angry. Why did she have to be so worried of what people might think? If Sarah loved her, that was solemnly something to happy about, since Ann loved her back, deeply. Sarah then stopped. She gestured towards the door to the room where she knew that Edward Thomson and James McTriffle used to practice the song they would be preforming at the concert the following day. The door wasn't altogether closed, and you could see into the room if you got close enough.

"Have a look," Sarah said and smiled softly, making Ann's heart leap. Ann walked to the door and put her face close to the crack. She could see into the room. She could see Edward and James. They were...

Ann gasped silently. They were kissing! And not just the friendly kind of kiss, or as if they were playing some sort of stupid game. They were actually kissing! Their eyes were closed and Edward was holding James close, as James' arms were tightly wrapped around the blonde's shoulders. The piano and the cello were seemingly forgotten.

Ann backed away from the door, furiously blushing, and suddenly her back hit something soft. Sarah's arms came around her waist and the girl put her nose to Ann's neck.

"S-sarah... I told you..." she murmured, not sounding very convincing. Sarah gave a low chuckle.

"That's why I wanted to show you this." Sarah whispered. "If James and Edward can love one another, why can't we?"

At that point, it suddenly made no sense to Ann either, why she had pushed Sarah away. So, finally, she let her walls fall and she turned around in Sarah’s grip and kissed the girl, longingly and passionately. She had indeed missed kissing the girl, after weeks of showing no affection for each other. Sarah kissed back, eagerly. When they finally broke apart, Ann gave a smile.

"Fine... you win. I will be yours, Sarah von Derksen." Sarah grinned.

"And I shall belong to you, Ann Robbins."

Neither of the girls noticed a certain long-haired boy watching them from the corner, eyes wide. Simon stared as his sister kissed Ann once more, and he also heard the smacking noises from the room where he knew Edward and James were supposedly practicing. The passionate look on Sarah's face made Simon smile. Maybe falling in love with someone of the same gender wasn't so bad after all.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Scene: 17; The concert. Final scene.

"The day is finally here," Mr. Green said, and smiled at the orchestra. "You will do a terrific job, I am quite certain."

Edward and James looked at each other for a shortly before turning their gaze back to the teacher. Mr. Green lifted his baton and the orchestra started to play. The song was soft and the instruments were perfectly synchronized. Indeed, it did sound terrific. When the song was finished, the applause was enthusiastic and encouraging.

It was time for James' and Edward's solo number.

-.-.-.-.-.-
Sasuke glanced at Naruto who was biting his lip slightly. Naruto was nervous, he could see that. So when Naruto finally met his gaze, he gave him an encouraging smile, which Naruto responded to softly, before reentering character. Sasuke sighed. It was almost over. He just had to finish the scene.
-.-.-.-.-.-

Ah, the tones were entrancing, and perfect. Even though a lot of their practice time had been wasted on kissing and embracing each other, the boys were playing the song perfectly. Trills and scales danced in the air, and when the song was over, the audience applauded them even more enthusiastically than before.

Then it was time for Simon's number. Before standing up next to the conductor, Mr. Green, he gave the older man a hesitating glance. The he started playing. The song was timid at first, slow and shy... but then it turned passionate and Simon's pony tail was waving behind his neck as the boy closed his eyes and frowned with concentration. It turned slower again, but with the same ammount of passion. Simon played it perfectly, flawlessly and his violin sounded amazing. When he was finished, the audience was silent for a few seconds, before suddnly bursting out with applause, yells of admiration and delighted laughs.

-.-.-

The concert was over and Edward and James were happily chatting with some of the other students in the orchestra. They were holding hands. Joining the group of laughing youths were Ann and Sarah, also holding hands. Simon sighed happily and turned away from them to pack his violin when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned around and came face to face with Mr. Green, who was biting his lip.

"You... chose my song." Simon smiled.

"Yes."

Mr. Green stared at him, slightly blushing. He took a step closer to Simon.

"You... choose me?"

Simon smiled wider and grasped Mr. Green's hips and pulled him closer, kissing the teacher on the forehead. He realized how they had reversed their roles, but he enjoyed every second of it.

"Yes. I choose you... John."

While the student and the teacher were kissing lovingly in the background, Sarah and Ann decided to leave the room, feeling tired and drained.

"Why must love be so complicated, Sarah?" Ann asked and leaned her head on Sarah's shoulder as they walked. Sarah sighed.

"I don't know Ann, dearest. I don't know."


The play ended as the curtains went down.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Sasuke p.o.v.

Ah, I hear appluase. They liked the play. Thank god. I've worked my ass off. Oh God, My parents are out there. And Sara-san. Are they clapping? Did they hate it?

Sasuke was thrown out of his worried thoughts as Naruto and Shikamaru came up to him, laughing and joking.

"Do you guys hear that?" Naruto asked excitedly. "They loved us!" Shikamaru chuckled.

"I must admit, I was a bit worried. Homosexuality is usually a rather sensitive subject. I was worried that some of the 'cool students' would sink to the level of 'Booing.'" Naruto snorted.

"The ’cool students’? We are the cool students. I bet that even if someone's booing out there, Sasuke's fangirls are screaming loud enough to drown the sound of it."

Sasuke tried to smile, but was actually so nervous about seeing his parents, he felt like throwing up. It was indeed the point of no return. He had done it now. All he could do was to wait and see.

After a few minutes people from the audience started to come backstage. Sasuke could hear the delighted laughs and praising comments from proud parents. Hinata's parents were there, talkinga and smiling to both Hinata and Neji. The ache in Sasuke's head increased. Wouldn't his parents show up at all? Maybe they would just lock him out. Or... maybe they understood that it was just acting. But, then again, Sasuke was actually in love with a guy. Man, all the pondering made Sasuke all the more worried and depressed.

"Uchiha Sasuke!"

Sasuke's eyes snapped open at his father's sharp voice and as he turned around the first thing that met him was a slap across his cheek. It wasn't a very hard slap, and the other students didn't notice, since they were too busy talking to their parents, to Sasuke's huge relief. He swallowed and forced himself to maintain his cool. He had been prepared for this after all. His mother looked furious, while his father only held grim coldness over his features.

"How could you do this to us?" his mother hissed, voice hoarse from rage. "How could you embarrass the Uchiha clan like this? Playing a gay in a play? What the hell is wrong with you?"

Sasuke had to swallow again to get rid of the lump that started to form in his throat. He wouldn't cry in school. He wouldn't cry in front of his parents, Godamnit!

"It was just theatre, okaa-sama-"

"Your mother is right," his father cut him off. "The play was disgraceful and so was the role you were given. Why did the teacher give you that part, huh? Have you any idea how much we're ashamed of you right now?" Sasuke kept his gaze on the floor, fighting the angry tears back. He knew this would happen. There was no way his parents would accept his part of the play, even though it was only acting.

"I am sorry," Sasuke murmured. "It will not happen again." He hated himself for sounding so respectful, so... afraid. He hated himself for not being able to stand up for what he was and his opinions.

"Indeed it won't. As if you weren't disgracful enough, you had to go and play the role of a fruitcake too," his father mocked.

"Sasuke?" Naruto's voice was alarmed and tense. Sasuke glanced over his shoulder. Unfortunately, his parents saw the glance.

"Don't look away when we're talking to you, young man!" His mother spat and Sasuke looked back at them. "Who's that kid any way?"

This was the final dilemma for Sasuke. Dazedly looking at his mother, he slowly started to realize how similar it was to Edward's situation in the play. It was almost exactly the same. The rage in his mother's eyes, the coldness in his father's. What kind of happiness could they possibly give him?

"A life without love is a miserbale life!"

Sasuke smiled a weak smile and stared straight into the eyes of his furious mother. He gave his father a glance. He gave a weak gesture towards Naruto who was standing a few meters behind him.

"Mother, father, this is my boyfriend, Naruto," he said, quietly, barely audible. His heart was beating like mad and cold sweat ran down his back, that's how nervous and scared he was. His mother spoke up, voice quivering with fury.

"Do you mean... that he's the one who played your boyfriend in the play, Sasuke?" Her voice was dangerously low. His father's eyes narrowed. Sasuke gave a dead smile and a short, dry laugh.

"Well, that too." he stopped smiling and whispered, "But he's really my boyfriend. I love him."

SLAP!

Sasuke was staring into the wall as his mother had slapped him so hard that his head had been thrown to the side. The incredible ache and shock was the trigger that finally made fat tears run down Sasuke's cheeks. He had said it. He was so happy about it, and at the same time he cursed his brainlessness. He barely had time to turn his head back before his mother slapped him again, just as hard as the frist time.

"Don't say that!" she winced and sounded as if she didn't get enough air. She slapped Sasuke again. He was beginning to feel the coppery taste of blood in his mouth. "Don't tell me that you turned out to be just like Itachi?!" Sasuke didn't know what to say. He didn't even want to say anything. He just wanted to go home and forget everything about his parents.

"What about me?" Itachi's voice came from behind Sasuke's angry parents and his mother gave a shocked gasp.

"I-itachi?! What-"

"What are you doing?" Itachi asked, voice cold as ice, glancing towards Sasuke's bruised lip. That's when Sasuke's father finally reacted.

"This is your fault, Itachi. Thanks to you, our second son turned out like this as well. Happy now?" He was angry, but his voice was controlled. Itachi glanced towards Sasuke.

"You okay, Sasuke?" Gaara was standing a few meters behind Itachi, intensively glaring at the Uchiha parents. Sasuke nodded shakily, even though he wasn't feeling okay at all. Sasuke's mother gave an angry scoff.

"No! No this is not okay!" She exclaimed. "You're my son... I... You're not...! No, you're not allowed to fall in love with another man!"

His father spoke up.

"If you choose to stay with that boy, we won't be giving you money any more. You will never be welcome into our home anymore." Sasuke just smiled the same sad smile.

"I don't care. I'm in love with Naruto-"

Slap. Slap. Slap.

Slap.

SLAP!

"What the hell are you doing?!" Naruto's voice was outraged as he pulled Sasuke away from the crazy woman who had been giving a small snarl every time her hand had hit Sasuke's cheek. Sasuke could still feel his mother's cold hand on his bruised, burning cheek. Sasuke raised his head and palmed his cheek tightly. Tears still trickled their way down his face. Naruto's trembling arms held him tight around his chest to keep him standing.

"I don't care anymore!" He yelled. "I can't help how I feel, can I?"

"What's going on here?" Kakashi said darkly, and the face he made when he saw Sasuke's face was one of purest anger. "I wouldn't expect less from the Uchiha couple," Kakashi said and sent the woman a hateful look.

"I think you should go now," Iruka said, swallowing, clearly nervous but his gaze was stern and dark. "Now," he repeated. The Uchiha couple looked at one another, clearly not knowing what to do. They looked at Sasuke who stared at them, his cheek an almost crimson color and his large eyes soaked with tears.

"Sasuke if you won’t come with us now, you won't be our son anymore. You won't be getting a second chance," his father drawled. Sasuke gave a miserable sob.

"Go," he said simply and swallowed, trying to keep himself from crying any more. His parents sent him a hateful, disgusted look and turned their backs on him. While walking out, the man gave Sasuke's cello a hard kick, so that it broke. Then they left. All the other students were watching by now. Sasuke didn't have the energy to care anymore. He sank down to the floor and buried his face in his hands, finally allowing himself to let it out. His back was shaking and the sobs echoed over the stage. At least five girls were on their way to comfort him, not really knowing what the awful argument had been about, but eager to soothe their idol.

"Stay away from him," Itachi said and held his arm out to prevent the girls from getting close to Sasuke. "There's only one person who's allowed to touch him right now."

Naruto slowly lowered himself next to Sasuke, not caring about the ogling girls. Carefully stroking some wet hair out of Sasuke's eyes, he put his hands on Sasuke's back in a soft grip.

"Come here, Sasuke," he murmured softly in his ear. "Come here, love..." He hushed and embraced Sasuke close as Sasuke finally allowed himself to get pulled into the hug. Naruto buried Sasuke's face against his own neck, letting Sasuke soak his skin with his salty tears. He let his thumb brush over Sasuke's damp cheeks and he kissed the top of Sasuke's head.

"I-it... finally ha-happened," Sasuke choked out, sobbing violently. "I knew... tha-that this would happen... one day," he whispered and buried himself further into the warmth of Naruto. Naruto swallowed and had to fight his own tears back. Seeing Sasuke cry so hard made his whole body shake.

"You did well, Sasu-chan," he murmured against Sasuke's hair. "You were so cool... and brave. I love you for it." Sasuke sobbed harder. They sat like that for a minute or two, letting Sasuke drain himself.

"Ugh... Look at me. Crying like a girl," Sasuke gave a sob-mixed-laugh and tried to release himself from Naruto's embrace, but almost immediately sank back down. He could hear the confused murmurs from the class and the stupid squeals from the girls. His body felt so drained, he doubted he would be able to stand up on his own.

"What's gonna happen to me now?" Sasuke wondered. "Where will I live?"

"Don't you worry about that," Iruka's kind voice said and Sasuke looked up. Iruka, Itachi and Kakashi was standing next to them. Itachi was biting his lips worriedly and Kakashi looked so serious compared to his usual self. Gaara was standing in the background. "You forget that me and Naruto are the sons of Sarutobi. When he died, we inherited a lot of things. He was the mayor after all, so he owned a lot. Among other things, the apartment building you're currently living in."

Naruto nodded. Sasuke gaped.

"Yep, that's right. Which means, it won't be a problem to let you stay there. Guess your parents didn't think about that." Naruto chuckled and gave a grin.

Sasuke felt like laughing. This was the kind of cliché ending that only happened in movies. Everything turned out so perfectly you felt like rolling your eyes and sighing because it was so silly. But Iruka and Naruto really were the sons of the previous mayor. It made sense that they would own buildings in the city.

"You did great, Sasuke," Itachi said, smiling proudly at his little brother. "You figured out who you really are, and you were able to stand up for it. I'm proud of you."

Sasuke remembered what Itachi had said the previous night and smiled. He understood now. Suddenly, Sasuke felt nothing but content and a feeling of safeness. And he was tired. He had just spent his entire energy supply on the play, and then had a huge argument with his parents, ending with heavy crying. For all Sasuke knew, he could've fallen asleep right there and then, if it wasn't for Naruto.

Suddenly, Sasuke noticed a girl with short, black hair and blue eyes approaching them. Oh no, someone got through. Then Sasuke realized it was Sarah, his fiancee. Oh God, she must have seen the whole thing. I don’t have enough energy to deal with her, too. He sighed inwardly.

But to his surprise, she knealt next to Sasuke and placed and hand gently on his shoulder.

"Thank you, Sasuke-kun, for following your heart. It was very brave of you." She then smiled gently and Sasuke caught a flash in her eyes. He immediately understood. She had someone of her own that she wanted to be with, too. It wasn’t him. He smiled weakly and with that she stood up and walked away.

"Come on, Sasuke, let's get you home." The blonde helped his boyfriend stand up. Sasuke was happy that Naruto didn’t ask about Sarah.

"Me and Gaara will take you there," Itachi said, glancing at Gaara who nodded. When Naruto and Sasuke walked towards the door, briefly lacing their fingers together, a girl from the class jumped out in front of them.

"S-sauke-kun... are you alright?" She glanced towards their laced fingers.

Sasuke only nodded to the girl and inched closer to Naruto who gave him a kiss on the cheek before walking past the girl who was now staring so widely her eyes could've popped out. Sasuke felt light. And content. And happy, despite the dull ache in his cheek and the knowledge that his parents would never consider him as their son again. Now he understood how Neji and Shikamaru must've felt during the halloween party. Everyone knew now. The ones still not understanding that they were a couple were either blind or incredibly stupid.

As they walked out to the awaiting car, Sasuke took a more firm grip of Naruto's hand, and said the words he realized he had actually never said, during their whole relationship.

"...I love you."

tbc.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Sob, sob! After this chapter there's only one more left! Then the story will be over... (sighs sadly) Oh well. I hope you enjoyed the play... you have no idea how much time I spent on it. Because you know what; I had the plot in my head, but I had never really thought about how to end it! Haha. Silly me. And I hope you realize that because it's a play, things are moving a bit faster than they would in real life. I mean, James and Edward falling in love and getting together and Rose trying to kill Edward all happening under just a few days time is a bit unrealistic, but that's just what theater’s like.

I would also like to apologize for the looong wait. I am indeed very sorry. You see, I go to a special kind of high school where we get to learn how to dance, sing and act as a big part of our education. It's one of the country's five best estethical schools, which I am quite proud of. Anyway, since it's December, I hope you realize that I've done quite a lot of x-mas shows lately. It's not my choice. I'm in two choirs, I'm a solosinger, and I'm a dancer, not to mention that I play the flute and the piano. So I've really been insanenly busy. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me, and even though this chapter wan't the best I've ever written, I did my best. Honestly.

The next chappie will be up real soon. I promise. Please review. I love you all.