Special Alice (Gakuen Alice / Alice Academy FF)

SA 15 - Do not come!

{Author}

On the day of the highly anticipated play, emotions ran high among the group. Ruka-pyon, a vision of frustration, teasingly suggested, " You should not come." He cast a frustrated look at his friends. 

Hotaru, perpetually immersed in her photography, had her camera poised to capture Ruka's moment of vulnerability. Mikan, as ever, wore her heart on her sleeve, nodding her agreement with a radiant grin. Inchou, on the other hand, appeared apologetic, fully aware of the awkward situation.

However, to everyone's surprise, Mikan's enthusiastic nod carried a different tone. Her vibrant agreement to skip the theater where Ruka and his ability class would be performing took Ruka aback. He sighed in relief, grateful that she had chosen not to attend the play.

As Ruka hurriedly departed, a lingering doubt clung to the minds of his friends. Misaki, curious, dared to voice the question that occupied her thoughts. " Are we really not going?" she asked, seeking reassurance.

In a spontaneous change of heart, Mikan responded with undeniable zeal, " No, we are still going! Come on, guys." Her bright and cheerful demeanor quickly banished any doubts as she beckoned to her friends, leading them with her usual childlike enthusiasm.

Amused by Mikan's infectious happiness, Inchou couldn't help but comment, " Mikan, why are you so happy today?" He chuckled at the sight of Mikan humming with unmistakable positivity, as if radiating a ball of happiness.

Mikan glanced back at Inchou, her eyes twinkling with joy, and she responded to his question with simplicity. " Hmm? Ah, well, it's nothing, prez! I'm just excited for their play!" Her hands clutched together with excitement, making her anticipation palpable. It was clear that her overwhelming happiness was rooted in her desire to watch her dear friend, Ruka, shine on stage.

Since the incident at Inchou's haunted house, Misaki had observed how Mikan had grown closer to both Ruka and Natsume. The change was not unwelcome, but what puzzled her was her own reaction. Misaki couldn't help but recall the image of Mikan perched atop Natsume. The memory had left her with a lingering sense of unease.

She pondered this peculiar discomfort. " I mean—gee, whatever," she muttered to herself. Why should she be bothered? Mikan was still her friend, and she refused to let any minor misunderstanding tarnish their bond.

When they reached the door in front of them, Mikan, always brimming with curiosity, decided to investigate. " This must be the dressing room," she surmised before swinging the door open.

The unexpected sight that greeted them sent shockwaves through the group. " Ruka?!" Mikan's gasp revealed her surprise, as Ruka stood before them, costumed as Snow White. His lips bore a bright shade of red lipstick, and it was a sight to behold.

Misaki couldn't help but quip, " Ruka? Geez, you're prettier than us." Laughter rippled through their group, and Ruka's blush deepened under the relentless photography from Hotaru's camera.

As Ruka lamented his predicament, Mikan remained steadfast in her decision to support him, despite his wishes. " I told you not to come!" Ruka groaned, but he understood that their presence was rooted in loyalty and friendship.

" Of course we would come dummy. We should support you and your class!" Mikan defended.

Ruka reluctantly led them to the backstage area, a flurry of activity as cast and crew prepared for the play. As they navigated the bustling environment, Narumi sensei, a familiar face to them all, appeared with a warm smile. " Oh? You found out that our Ruka is the main lead!" 

" Sensei!" Mikan greeted him with infectious delight. It was evident that she shared a close relationship with the teacher, sparking curiosity among her friends. They wondered if there was a deeper connection between the two.