After the End: Maki's Graduation

01 - For Her...

The principal spoke to the huge number of students at the school's auditorium. There had never been this many students before.

"....now...the student council president of this school will deliver her address. Please give a round of applause...."

I never thought...really, not even once...

"...to Nishikino Maki!!"

That I was chosen to become the student council president.

MAKI'S POV

"It is with great honour that I address our fellow freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and finally our seniors as we move on to the next chapters of our lives, our hopes, and our dreams...."

With pride, I spoke to all students in the gymnasium. It was graduation day, afterall. Everyone looked at me and paid attention, although very few were having their own businesses as well. And the media, a number of them participated, focused their attention at me.

"....I know, that many if not most, of you all are aware who I am. Aware of my previous career as a school idol. Aware as a former member of the idol group u's. Aware that I am popular amongst many establishments.....but for this one special day, you should all be aware that I am speaking to you all as an ordinary student."

Many students happen to be my fans. They brought out banners saying all sorts of things: "We Love You Pile/Maki-sama", "Never Forget Us", "U's Forever", and so on. As much as appreciate their love for me, no offense, I wish all of it would stop, at least for now.

"....now, I am a graduating student. Now, I am just an ordinary girl just like all of you. And I want you all to remember that."

As I looked overhead, one of the crowds caught my attention...someone was waving a banner (written " I Love You!!") frantically at me, at the gym's gateway. I could not see much, there were too many people.

Whoever it was though, eventually he/she started jumping all over, and raising her hand as if making a gesture, it was annoying - but it helped and I caught a glimpse of the person.

It was Nico, if my eyes were correct. She was getting my attention. What's with her? I'm very busy right now.

In anycase, I just smiled, and winked at Nico, to tell her I noticed her. But...I think some people noticed that one....

"Huh? Who was she winking at!!?"

"....hey....guys....isn't that Nico Yazawa!!!?"

Before I knew it, people started gathering at the gateway and I started to hear some people saying "Nico!!!" and all. Come on, why now....

NICO'S POV

As I looked at Maki-chan, I felt something was telling me to do something, like just looking at her wasn't enough to satisfy me. I wanted her to notice me, but how do I do that when a large crowd of people surrounded me? (I. Am. Still. Short. What the hell?!!)

"Onee-chan....", my sister Cocoro pointed at a group of two girls, waving a banner with a slogan: "I Love You!!". Then I got an idea - I'll use that banner to get her attention!

"Excuse me, may I borrow that?"

The two girls turned at me.

"Huh?...Why - Aaahhh, Nico Yaza!! - (has her mouth closed.)", said one girl. The other one was quiet, probably too surprised to say anything.

"Ssssshhh....don't scream my name out, please."

I can tell they're excited, but I can't let them cause a ruckus here.