I walked into school and sat down at my usual seat in the gym. My ears flicked lightly and my tail swayed, then moved as I sat down. I silently ate a candy-cane I had left over. It was winter and Christmas had just pasted. However my love for the minty sweet candy holds no bounds.
Around me others sat. We didn't have many supernatural creatures in this particular school since it was in a small town. So mostly humans went here.
I flick my ears and rest my tail in my lap. My name is Destiny Canipe, and I have cat ears and a tail and all the features that come with them. My tails also seemed to grow long and sharp by themselves but I mostly kept those clipped.
I had friends, both human and non. My best friend was actually a vampire. Most supernatural's tended to flock together. There was a human boy who liked to tease me about my tail sometimes. But I'm pretty sure it's because human's have this thing where they tease and berate the person they like. It makes no sense.
After a lot of tired morning thoughts the bell rang and it was time for class.
The bell rang for break. A short little time together either in the hall, or outside. Today we went outside. There was mist in the air, not quite rain, but mist. I loved it so much, since it wasn't as rough as rain. You could stand in it and still get wet, but it didn't pound against you. My friend Seraph hated it, a lot. She was the vampire and tends to be anemic, strangely. She stole my hoodie and put it on. Zipping it up roughly. She flipped the hood over her head and hissed. Good thing about this kind of weather is it isn't cold.
"I like rain, but this mist is annoying as hell." she stated, with a childish tone to her voice.
After school , her and I got together to walk around in the forest behind our apartment building. The mist was still coming down, and left an eerie fog in the trees. It was even darker in the trees because of the lack of sunlight today.
Most of the forest was pine trees, dotted with the occasional maple or birch. Pine trees grew tall and generally only had branches at the top of the trees. So it was a spacious and lovely forest.
I threw my arms on a tree as high as I could reach, scratching my nails against the bark. I stretched every muscle in my body, including my tail. Seraph just looked around quietly, the hoodie she stole from me was down. Not much of the mist could reach in here because of the thick canopy of pine needles. She wordlessly sat down and leaned against a tree.
I just grin evilly, and prepared myself to pounce her for a surprise attack.
But suddenly, I stopped, my ears perking up. My focus went to the forest around me. My eyes stopped at a certain point. Squinting in concentration.
A long pause of silence. I could sense Seraph was also looking in the same direction. My skin bristled and my tail swished impatiently.
Then, a stranger with blue hair jumped out of the darkness, scaring me to death. He was extremely close in such a short amount of time. I didn't have time to react, and ran, or tried to at least. Almost immediately I tripped. I quickly turned onto my back and stared up at him. My eyes flitted around for Seraph. But I could not see her.
I looked up to him, he was slightly crouched over me. His eyes were piercing blue and stared into my soul. It was hard to make out his face because of how late it was getting. His hand gently reached out and held my tail between his fingers, rubbing the fur gently. I quickly jerked my tail out of his grasp and lowered my ears defensively.
I went rigid, protective mode. Why isn't Seraph helping me? I closed my eyes. When I opened them, he was closer to me. Strangely.. I could see no harmful emotion in his eyes.
Seraph narrowed her eyes at this stranger and bared her fangs. However she just took a step back after a glance for this guy ontop of me.
I could really see his face now, which calmed me a little. He inched close to me, examining my face. I held my breath for a moment. He had an emotionless expression on his face.
He was very handsome. A very nice looking face and such blue hair. He began to stare into my eyes, waiting for some kind of reaction. It was embarrassing actually. I began to blush, and averted my eyes. I tried to make myself as tiny as possible. Shrinking back against the soft earthy ground. Those blue eyes he had were so.. open. It's like he was communicating to me through them instead of talking.
Once my eyes went to his face once more, I noticed something. How did I not notice that before? He had cat ears. Just.. like me?
My ears shot up in surprise, and my mood changed completely.
"You have cat ears!" I said, catching him off guard. I could see his ears twitched slightly at the sound of my voice. I didn't mean to yell.
"Yes, as do you I see." He said smoothly. His voice was like velvet.
I became nervous at my own outburst, and felt the awkwardness. My eyes searched for some sort of relief from his overpowering presence. I could see Seraph further back now, leaning against a pine tree, alert. Her eyes glanced between us and I swear I saw her grin. What a traitor.
"Why did you attack me?" I spoke quietly. Putting him in my vision once more.
"I didn't attack you at all, I just startled you and you ran away." he said with a small grin. "It was quite cute how cliché it was when you tripped."
What? Cute?
My face felt hot, and I stuttered.
"You also had cat ears, which I noticed. I was very curious." he lifted a finger to touch my ear, which caused me to lower them.
I heard Seraph scoff in the background, as if she were sick of him. I began to notice the position that we were in, which was embarrassing in the least. He was crouched on one knee, leaning close to me. Arm propped on his knee. Our faces didn't have a lot of distance between them. Why did he have to be so close?
I closed my eyes and had to take a deep breath to calm down before I died. He noticed and took advantage of this and leaned down to lick my cheek. Then I felt the world around me spin a bit as the heat rushed to my head and I passed out.
When I opened my eyes again, the scenery caught me off guard. I was not in my warm home. I immediately looked for Seraph, but didn't see her.
I tried to sit up, but when I did, I found the air was really cold. My body wasn't cold though. I laid back down in my warm spot and let out a sigh. I turned on my side, since I had a new cramp in my leg. That's what happens when you sleep on the ground.
I almost screamed, but I stopped myself. Laying right beside me was the exact boy who had caused this mess. Blue hair, tanned skin, cats ears and all. His eyes were closed and his breathing soft. Sleeping like a baby.
I just stared at him for a minute, almost emotionless. I was surprised me moving didn't wake him. His ears rest against his silky hair lazily. His tail lay against my own. I wasn't even sure how to react about any of this. But I definitely felt a jump in my chest. I'd never had any kind of closeness to anyone. But here lay a stranger I just met, curled up next to me and keeping me warm. Yet I didn't feel panicked at all. It's literally like he had a natural calmness that spread to others around him.
I wrapped my tail around his slowly. Allowing myself to get comfortable beside him. I stared at him for a while. Observed his features. He had lovely lips, and nice cheek bones. His eyelashes were a bit longer than I imagined. They had a blue tint to them. So that must be his real hair color. I'd have to ask him about that later. His skin was somewhat tan. From what I could tell in the dark at least. It fit him well. I placed my hand on his shoulder and lightly shook him, deciding it was best to wake him up.
He grunted, but stayed asleep. I frowned. I shook harder.
His hand went around my wrist. "I'm awake." He said sharply.
I lowered my ears and looked down. "I'm sorry."
He lay there with his eyes closed. I watch him closely.
"What do you want?" he asked, opening his eyes. His voice became calmer and more gentle. They were even prettier in the darkness. It's not fair that his eyes were prettier than mine.
I lay there, my ears low, and blink. "Well.. I mean you know, who are you?" I whispered, feeling uncomfortable at the thought of talking without a whisper. Like the quietness of the forest should be preserved.
He looked at me and chuckled. "You woke me up just to ask me that of all things?"
The expression on my face was a mix between confusion and surprise. "What do you mean 'just for that?' I have no idea who you are and you should be grateful I'm not in a screaming."
He put a hand on my head, which caused me to blush some. "My name is Ikuto." he said. His hand slid off my head, leaving my hair messy. He turned to lay on his back, turning his vision to the peeks of sky through the trees.
I frown and fix my hair, and curl up next to him, careful not to touch him too much. "My names-" he cut me off.
"Destiny." he finished.
"I'm guessing Seraph told you?" I look at him.
"Yes, I had to explain a lot before she would leave, she's really protective over you."
Silence.
More silence.
I curled closer to myself, trying to keep warm. Now that I didn't have his warm body near me it was really cold. I wriggled a bit, trying to remained unnoticed. Of course that wouldn't work with an observant person such as him.
He sat up and scooted closer to me, he opened his arms to me as if he were offering a hug. I lift my head and gaze at him confused. I shook my head shyly, but he grabbed my hand and gently coaxed me to him. My heart jumped again. Soon he had me leaning against his chest. But he didn't attempt to wrap his arms around my waist like you'd expect. Instead he just placed his hand on my head again, petting me softly. I could feel how he'd rub against my ears lightly. It's a feeling I can't even explain. It's just the most relaxing feeling in the world. You'd have to ask a cat to understand it. I began to slouch against him. Loosing most of my shyness from the closeness and how tired I was. The incredibly relaxing feeling of him petting me just melted my self-control.
Plus it was just really nice. It was intimate but not.
"You seem to like this." he teased. I didn't respond. I'm sure he understood how wonderful this was, having cat-like attributes himself.
He continues to softly pet my head, slowly leaning back to lay on the ground. It was still dark outside so I had no idea what time it was. He puts his other arm behind his head and we both doze off.
I wake up not really aware of anything. It was still morning, the sun was above the horizon and it was still foggy.
I sit up, and look down. I was laying on some very warm pine needles. I panic. My eyes dart around the forest around me, looking for some shimmer of blue. I frowned, and sat still, staying quiet. I listened for him with my sensitive ears closing my eyes. My ears twisted around like satellites.
I heard nothing. My heart pounded. I became sad, and scared. Was that all just a dream? If so why was I still in the forest. My ears rest against my hair, and I lay my head down on the pine needles. My body curled into a ball, and I hid against the ground. Like a baby fawn who has lost its mother.
I lay there for a while, not aware of the time passing. The sounds of the forest put me into a daze as my mind began to wander. A melancholy feeling washed over me.
Suddenly, a leaf fell on my hand. I stare at it sadly. Another leaf fell beside it. My eyes turned to it. Three more leaves fell, then a small branch. I lift my head up, confused. My ears perked up to listen. Above me, I see two piercing sapphires.
More silence.
"Good morning. Why so pitiful?" a male voice said.
My expression turned into happiness, and I lift myself up bumping our heads. It caused him to fall off of the tree and land on me.
I was squished beneath him. He was much heavier than he appeared.
"I'm so sorry, are you alright?!" I asked, still under him, flailing my arms.
"Shouldn't I be asking you that?" he said.
He pulled himself off of me, settling down beside me. I sit up, and rub my head. That certainly did hurt, it left a tender bruise on my head.
"Why were you in a tree?" I asked.
"No reason. Just wanted to climb a little. You sleep a long time and I had nothing to do." he spoke.
"I thought you were gone. Plus it's still morning I didn't sleep that much.." I said, ignoring what he said. I felt my throat tighten, a bit of sadness entering my voice.
His expression faltered and he blinked. His movement seemed to hesitate for a moment, then he carefully reached for my hand, holding it warmly between his two hands. I lowered my ears in embarrassment but squeezed softly at his hand.
"I'm sorry I worried you, Destiny." He spoke softly. His voice deep and sincere. Why did he sound so intimate with that tone of his?
"I-I didn't say I was worried.." I said with a stutter glancing away from him stubbornly. I was clearly attached to him now. Even if I barely knew him.
"I think you should contact your friend. I promise her you would." he spoke firmly, changing his tone.
I blinked slightly, a little slow at the change. I had forgotten all about my dear friend. All in all, it was a weird situation. I just passed out and left her there to protect me.
"I... Would you like to come to my house?" I asked, sounding unsure of myself. All I knew is that I certainly didn't want him to disappear now.
He nodded lightly and waited for me to make the first move. No hesitation showing. His lack of hesitation made me suspicious.
"You're not going to rob me are you?" I asked, raising a brow.
He blinked once and grinned shaking his head as he spoke.
"No, I'm not going to rob you."
"How do I know you're telling the truth?" I asked, pulling my hand away from his.
He thought for a moment, then held out his pinky for me.
"Pinky promise?" he asked gently, tilting his head.
I blushed lightly and stared at his hand, extending my on hand and locking pinky's with him.
I looked around the forest a few times. Gathering my bearings. I get up calmly and stretch some. Watching him as he also stood up.
Then, I flicked my tail, beginning the walk home. I could tell he was following me and I didn't glance back at him the whole time. Just because I was embarrassed for some reason. Walking in front of him made me feel like I was showing myself to the world. I only caught one little glance of him, he had his hands in his pockets. Following me idly.
We walked a bit further out and finally the forest opened up to a small field. You could see a few buildings across the field a ways away. I stopped and turned to Ikuto.
"Over there is my home. I live alone, after telling my parents I can take care of myself. They just live down the road a bit." I say, pointing to the buildings.
"My house is close to school so I just ride my bike or walk, usually. A very nice perk." I say.
His eyes follow the direction my finger points.
"You live alone? How mature. Do you maintain your home by yourself?" he asks, smirking at me.
I huff some and begin walking through the field. The grass was really tall right now. Full of broom straw. It was golden and fluffy at the top. I admire this field as much as I do my pine forest. It was a wonderful place and it seemed magical in the late evenings or early mornings. The sun always made the golden grasses brighter.
"Yes I do, as a matter of fact. Laundry, dishes, cleaning.. " I yell back at him. Only after I'm a few feet away into the field does he follow.
I trot forward some and turn to watch him. He has a very wide stride because of his long legs. He began to take notice of me watching him. Which he spoke up about.
"Should I pose for you?" he teased.
I fought back a grin and turned away once more.
We finally arrived to the edge of the field and I led him to the building that sort of looked like a hotel building. It had about four apartments and two floors. I lived on the top left, and Seraph lived in the apartment below me. So I made a stop at her door. I knocked on it loudly and waited. My tail swishing playfully. Soon enough she answered the door and gazed at me, then to Ikuto, then back to me. I smiled some.
"I'm alive." I said, lifting my arms. She nodded her head quietly and motioned to him.
"What is he doing?" she asked, not rudely.
"I'm going to show him my pretty apartment. I mean I might as well.." I trailed off, glancing at him.
"Pretty, hm?" he asked with a chuckle. I shifted on my feet feeling a bit embarrassed at the choice of words.
"Yes! My house is very pretty." I say, facing him. "Ask Seraph!" I motion my arms toword her. She just shrugged and nodded. I smiled triumphantly and nodded. I look to Seraph and wave lightly. She nodded her head and shut the door quietly. However, she did give Ikuto a warning stare, I was unaware of this.
I guide him up the small flight of stairs and we arrive at my door. I pull out a key with a cat keychain on it and unlock the door, holding it open for him. He gracefully walks inside and is greeting with a giant vine plant embracing my entrance. The pot for it was right behind the door and it spread out on the wall and clung to the ceiling. The rest of my house had been covered in indoor plants of all kinds. I didn't even have curtains so I could get full sunlight through the big windows.
I smiled proudly. "The windows were the reason I chose this place. They let so much light in. Shall I get you some tea? I have every kind imaginable." I ask, guiding him into my joined living room kitchen.
"How about Lady grey?" He asks, looking at me as if the question were a challenge.
My smile brightens and I nod. "Of course. I'm an earl grey person myself." In which I proceed into the kitchen to put the kettle on. I open up a cookie jar full of tea bags and fish out a lady grey. Pulling out one of my many beautiful mugs. Once everything is ready, I hand him my sugar jar to let him sweeten it himself. He had already taken a seat in at my little kitchen table and had been glancing around at my treasures. I sit across from him and hold the cup to warm my hands. It was still morning. Almost noon.
"Your house is full of many things." he said, adding sugar to his tea. Stirring is quickly.
I take a sip of my tea. My gaze on his. "Yes, I tend to hoard things. But I just call it collecting." I say. Resting my tail in my lap and leaning on my elbow. Being in my house made me comfortable and lazy.
He grinned lightly and took a sip of his tea. I couldn't help but notice how he closed his eyes when he took a drink. He just defined graceful. I could see his ears relax.
"It's been quite a while since I've had tea. I've missed it." he spoke, opening his eyes.
"Oh? Where do you stay?" I asked him, trying not to sound too curious.
It took him a moment to answer, hesitation clear. "I stay with different friends. Here and there. None of them are tea people.." he spoke in a cool tone. I tilted my head. Not sure if I should push any further.
"I see. Well I'm happy to provide you with tea any time you'd like. I have plenty." I said, happy to have a reason to invite him over another time.
He smiled warmly and nodded. He stood up and lifted his hand. "Would you like to show me all of your.. treasures?" he asked.
My eyes widened slightly and I gazed at him with surprise. Happiness was clear on my face and I nodded. "If you're sure you want to hear my ramble about pretty rocks and bug collections.." I said, starting him with my favorites. Everything I owned had it's own little story and we probably did this for about an hour. He would listen politely and nod at me every now and again. I was very excited just to have the opportunity to show off for him.
Later in the day, we ended up talking about the books we've read and liked. Sitting in front of my bookshelf. We were really into the subject, for he was an avid reader. He's read many more books than I, and has no favorite genre. I've gotten quite a few words out of him on the subject. He has talked now more than he has since I met him. I must say, discovering an interest of his had me excited.
We had a few books off of the shelf, on the floor. I sat cross legged, holding a few books in my lap. As he scanned over another.
"Ah, you should try that one. You should try many of my books since you're not picky." I said, pointing to the book he held.
"Though, I mostly read fantasy romance and the such. Girly things."
"Nothing wrong with that." He said calmly and placed the book back on the shelf. I assisted him, placing all of the books back before standing up. I walked over to my couch and sat down, yawning.
"We've been talking for a while." I muttered, in the midst of my after-yawn drowsiness. My ears going back tiredly.
Also standing, he followed my lead. Sitting beside me. He perched his elbow on the arm of the couch and leaned against his hand. Eyes closed.
"Indeed we have. You have quite the collect of books. Among other things" he said as he flicked my leg with his tail. I didn't even flinch at the movement. Only smiled.
"Mhm.. thanks. Just one of my many hobbies." I said and leaning against the back of the couch.
"I'm so tired now. I didn't sleep that well in the forest which isn't surprising." I yawned once more.
"Do you want me to leave so you can sleep? It is late." he asked.
"Ah.." I sat up suddenly. Opening my eyes just a bit.
"No, you can sleep here tonight." I said mindlessly. Blinking some and realizing my words.
"I mean.. You can sleep on the couch.. it's a futon anyway. You can unfold it if you want.. S-So it should be fine. Unless you think it's too weird.." Even though we had literally slept together the previous night. I feel like we're on more normal terms now.
He turned to look at me with a grin and a curious look.
"Not scared I'm going to do something weird during the night? Like.. sneak into your room and watch you sleep?" he said teasingly. I looked away embarrassed, wiggling my tail.
"Well no.. er.. are you going to do that?" I asked cautiously, turning my gaze to him with a raised brow. My cheeks feeling warm.
"Hmm, if you want me too?" he teased further, appearing thoughtful.
I shook my head, resisting the idea and standing. I hurried into my hallway and opened a small door which was a closet. I tugged out a neatly folded, huge comforter. Ikuto had followed me curiously and I shoved the huge blanket in his arms.
"Here." I said, looking away shyly. I couldn't see his face cause of the blanket, so he went back into the living room to drop it on the futon.
"Mm, what about a pillow?" he asked with a grin.
I blinked, puzzled. The only pillows I had were my own. So I opened the door to my room and went inside. I yanked a pillow off my bed and trotted back to the room. Holding it out for him.
He gazed at it then looked to me.
"Your pillow? Are you alright with that?" he asked, reaching out for it.
"I don't particularly need it.. I have plenty." I said, a bit confused.
"You're not scared I'm going to do weird things to it?" he said, an innocent face on. He then proceeded to hug the pillow to his face and give me the most seductive eyes I've ever seen in my entire life.
My ears twitched and I blushed, taking a step back and placing a hand on the wall to balance myself. I turned sharply and went back to my room. Shutting the door. Why did he tease me like that all of a sudden? Bah! One minute he's nice and proper, next minute he's teasing and perverted! I could hear his quiet laughter in the living room thorough the door.
With my frustrations, I flopped down on the bed and let out a sigh as my body relaxed. I really should shower, but I'm too scared to with him around. I guess it can wait. I curl up under my comfortable blankets and doze off without using my pillow. Like I normally do.
I wake up with a jolt. My heart is racing and I look around my room in panic. My ears perked up, alert. When I realize nothing is there I slouch tiredly and sigh. I had forgotten to turn my fan on. So I was sweating and it was hot in my room.
My heart still pounded loudly in my chest and I got up to go to the bathroom. Creeping down my hallway I opened the bathroom door and shut it as quietly as I could. I locked it for safe measure. I turned on the light and turned on the cold water from my sink, rinsing off my face. It was refreshing.
After I dry my hands off I leave the bathroom and glance at my bedroom door. I might as well check on Ikuto. Tip-toeing quietly, I swayed my tail and peeked around the corner. I saw a big lump on the futon which was the comforter. I wasn't positive it was him, so I creeped closer. As soon as I got a good angle, I could see his face a bit. Except.. his pretty blue eyes were open and gazing at me.
I blinked and froze. My tail straight out. I didn't even breath for a moment as we stared at each other. It was unnerving. I swallow nervously and spoke.
"U-Uhm.. Ikuto?" I asked, confused at what was even happening. Why was he awake?
He closes his eyes and sits up. Keeping the blanket around him. Luckily we both have pretty good night vision.
"Why're you awake?" I asked lightly.
"I could ask you the same?" he said just as casually.
I stand up straight and shrug.
"I woke up because it was hot in my room and I was roasting under my covers. Then I had to wash my face off." I said honestly.
He nodded and yawned, leaning back against the couch. He looked really tired.
I tilt my head. "Can you not sleep?' I asked.
He shook his head.
I shuffle my feet some and move to sit beside him.
"I see, I'm sorry. Anything I can help with?" I asked.
He opens his eyes and looks at me, his eyes piercing blue. I flinch and flick my ear nervously. I try to make myself relax and force myself to slouch some. I sit there patiently and wait for his answer, playing his staring game.
All of a sudden, he shifts around and lays his head in my lap. I physically freeze up and lift my hands. Unsure of what to do. I focus on the rushed beating of my heart as he pulls the comforter over his shoulders.
"Pet me." he said softly. I almost didn't hear him, with him facing away from me and all. I hesitate, but eventually lay my hand on his head.
I focus intensely on trying to stop the shaking in my hands. I begin to stroke his hair, restraining my movements at first. I slowly become use to the feeling and start doing it more naturally. I try to imagine him as my cat. The one he hasn't seen yet, now that I think of it. He must be hiding in the storage room I have.
I relax more, light stroking his ears with a finger. He flicks it once and I hold back a laugh. We really are big cats. Though I think it shows more in him, than me.
A smile creeps on my face, and I lean back against the couch. As long as I don't think about the action, I don't feel as nervous. I just think of my cat.
But at the same time, I indulge in the warm feeling in my heart. Any small physical contact between us is always nice. It always makes me feel so full and warm and happy.
I twirl a lock of his hair around my finger and place my other hand on his shoulder. The heat this boy gives off, I swear. I didn't even need a blanket.
I traced the tips of my fingers lightly over his shoulder and down his back some. I could feel him shudder and stop to rest my hand on his neck.
His pulse had slowed down a bit, but I wasn't sure if he had fallen asleep or not. So I just kept petting him. I just figured I wouldn't be getting up much anymore. I didn't want to interrupt his sleep. So I just comforted him until I dozed off myself. Leaning my head back against the couch.
When I open my eyes again, I see the sunlight breaching through my huge window. It was unbearably bright and I had no curtains because of my plants. I grunted and winced at the sun. Lifting my stiff neck off the couch and shifting to get up. Then I glanced down and find Ikuto stretched out in my lap. He had crawled up more on top of me. His torso in my lap completely, laying on his stomach. I peek my sensitive eyes open and lightly brush my hand over his ear.
He twitches a bit, and I rustle his hair some, placing my other hand flat on his warm back. I smooth my hand over his shoulders and used my other hand to gently play with his hair. I can indulge a little before he wakes up.
His hair is so silky, I twirl a piece around my finger. I trace my fingertips over the back of his neck, his skin was very warm. Resting aa hand on his back, I decide to wake him. I pat his shoulder lightly.
"Ikuto wake up, it's really bright and I'm hungry." I whisper, leaning closer to his sensitive ears and blowing on them lightly.
He shifts and opens an eyes. His ears flick in an annoyed way and he gazed at me and turning so he lay on his back. Stretching his arms out. He still rested in my lap but now he was looking up at me tiredly.
We just gaze at each other, both still in a sleepy daze. Even though my legs were asleep I felt nice and warm inside.
"Mm, well I was comfortable." he said, grinning to himself and slowly sat up.
"I'm sure you were." I say, rolling my eyes and standing. I stagger some and slowly straighten my legs out. Allowing my muscles time to relax. I stretch my tail out and wiggle it. Then I lift my arms in the air and do the most pleasing, full body stretch I could.
Then I softly tread off to my bedroom. I really needed a shower, no matter if he was here or not.
I opened my dresser and pulled out a fresh outfit. Simple jeans and a light pink, long-sleeve shirt. As well as underwear which I strategically hide in my pants. Then I walked out and caught his attention.
"I'm going to shower. If you want, you can after me.. as for clothes.." I pause and think for a moment, then nod.
"Follow me." I say politely, walking to the end of the hallway. I begin to open the door on the right, I can feel his presence behind me. I walk inside and hear a meow. My cat Theo jumps down from his favorite sleeping box and rubs against my legs.
"Hello, Theo. You got shut in here again did you?" I spoke gently to the cat, squatting down and petting him. He was a solid black cat with beautiful pumpkin colored eyes. Ikuto approaches from behind and crouches next to me and my cat cautiously stares at him. Ikuto was silent as he gazed at the cat as he held a hand out for him. Of course my friendly cat went right up to him and began rubbing on his knees and hand.
"Of course you have a cat." He spoke, gazing to me with a smirk.
"What is that supposed to mean?" I asked, flustered as I stood up. I grabbed a box and opened it. It was full of pajama clothes. I dug through them until I found some unisex clothing and hand him a pair of grey sweat pants and a black tee.
"Is this alright?" I ask him
He holds them up and nods.
"These are fine. They're pretty much exactly like all the clothes I own." He said softly.
Then I begin to lead us out of the room, double checking to see if Theo followed. I Didn't want to lock him in there again.
"Well.. I'm going to shower now." I say and dart into the bathroom, shutting the door, and locking it placing my piles of clothes on the counter. Reaching into the shower, I turned on the hot water and strip.
I get out, dry myself off, and begin towel drying my hair. I put on my fresh clothes and pile my dirty garments in the basket.
I do my daily after-shower things like moisturize my face and put on deodorant.
Afterwards, I eagerly exit the steamy bathroom and into the cool hallway. My hair was still dripping wet and I busy myself with squeezing the water out of it. I walk back into the living room. My eyes scan the kitchen to see Ikuto sipping a mug of tea sitting at my table. My cat was munching away at his food and throwing weary glances at the strange man in the house.
Ikuto glanced up from his cup to look at me. I threw my wet towel on the floor and joined him at the table. I see a cup of hot tea sitting in front of me. My eyes travel to his face and I give him a curious look. My gaze lingered on his more than a few seconds
"I didn't sweeten it for you." He said on cue. I nodded and added my own sugar to it. How thoughtful of him.
I lean on my elbow and sip at the tea lightly, shutting my tired eyes.
"You're getting awfully comfortable already." I said teasingly.
"You said yourself you'd 'provide me with tea anytime'" he said cleverly.
I nodded my head "I did say that." Then I set my tea down "For some reason whenever I'm around you I don't ever get to sleep well. Oh, by the way the shower is open now." I said.
He smirked a bit. "I wouldn't say that in public." He teased, moving to stand. I rolled my eyes. He grabbed the pair of clothes I gave him before he went into the bathroom I asked him something that had been bothering me;
"Do you have any possessions?"
He paused at the bathroom door and looked at me.
"Yes, not many." He said, and closed the bathroom door.
While he was busy with the shower, I sipped my tea and drifted off into thought.
I wonder if how he'll feel with all the feminine stuff in my bathroom. Most of my things are pink. Maybe he won't even notice or care. I wonder if I can trust him in the bathroom. Oh god, I hope he doesn't go through the dirty laundry basket in there.. I don't think he will.. He might pretend to. Just to tease me. He's going to smell girly when he comes out. Like flowers and fruit.
I pick up the nearest land-line phone and dial Sierra's number. She lets it ring a few times and picks up. I fill her on in what happened and asked a few questions.
"Why did you leave me with him?" I asked, trying to not sound angry.
"Well.. me and him talked for a bit and he told me his reasons for approaching you. I could sense that he wasn't lying and he meant no harm. You know how vampires are.. we can do stuff sometimes." She said. Her excuse wasn't much to go on but I trusted her and she seemed to trust him. This made me feel even more relaxed about him.
"This might be something nice, you know? I finally have someone of my kind.. and he's so perfect. You at least know two or three other vampires outside your family. Your kind is common. I've never met anyone like me. My mother says my father had cat ears and a tail but I never met him nor will I ever." I said, leaning on the counter.
"I'm happy for you, man. That's why I trust him a bit more than I would any other stranger. He's probably in the same situation as you." she said.
"Mm. Well I have to go he's getting out of the shower." I said with a yawn.
"Right, well you have fun with that. When you're done flirting with your new boyfriend let me know." She added.
"Ah! He isn't my boyfriend I mean I like him and all but I just met him and-" I stuttered, but she cut me off.
"I'm teasing you."
"A lot of people seem to be doing that.." I muttered, referring to Ikuto.
I could hear the water turn off in the bathroom. I panicked.
"Oh god he's getting out of the shower I have to go." I whisper into the phone.
"Fine, fine." She said and I heard a click. She hung up on me.
I compose myself a bit, taking another swig of my tea. Ikuto opens the door of the bathroom, and walks out. I stare at him in the clothes I picked out for him and tried not to look too star struck. The pants fits him nicely, they weren't exactly on the baggy side.. I clamped my jaw shut tight. At least the shirt was baggy on him, otherwise I'd have to leave my apartment for some fresh air.
The towel he used was currently being used to dry his hair. He did that boyish thing that guys do; roughly rubbing it on his head. I had to bounce my leg up and down to calm my nerves.
"Did you have a nice shower?" I queried, a neutral tone to my voice.
He only pulled the towel from his head and nodded. My eyes did a quick scan of him again. I need to stop staring.
"So uhm.. Ikuto?" I asked him, wanting him to answer me.
"Hm?"
"Do you want to stay a few nights?" I said out of nowhere with a straight face. I blinked once and felt my face heat up.
"If you're alright with it.. that is.. maybe we- or just you- can go pick up some of your clothes? You can just think of me as another friend you're staying with.
He seemed taken back a bit and stood in the middle of my living room. I was scared for his answer. I really didn't want him to say no. I looked down to the floor because I felt embarrassed and silly.
"You realize I am a guy right?.. I really don't think -" he began, but I cut him off.
"Ikuto." I said quickly. Then I shot him a quick, surprised look.
"I trust you." I said a little quieter as I stood up. I very quickly trotted over to him and stood in front of him so I could look at him.
"I trust you more than I probably should." I said, even quieter. My blue eyes gazed back into his own dark blue orbs. I gave him my attempts at a puppy-dog face.
He lifted a brow and crossed him arms. His face was deep in thought but he held eye contact with me. Then his gaze became serious.
"You really trust me?" he spoke, his voice low.
My tail flicked nervously and my ears went back in a scared way. I nodded my head some. I really disliked this thick, intense air between us. Suddenly he leaned down and started to grab at my sides gently. I squealed and tried to pull away from him with a surprised expression. He continued to reach for my side, and began to tickle them.
My voiced seemed to raise an octave as I began to laugh. Tickling was my number one enemy. I hated it! Only because I was so ticklish.. He grinned and easily overpowered my pathetic attempts.
"You shouldn't trust me." He spoke into my ear, causing me to blush, as well as the added heat from my laughing.
Finally I decided that I wanted to outwit the witty, and I slipped underneath his hands and twisted around at inhuman speeds. I tackled his waist from behind and knocked him to the floor. He landed on his stomach and I could hear him gasp for air, the air I knocked out of him. My voiced still rang with laughter as I lay on his back, and I slowly pulled off of him. Hopefully I didn't hurt him too much. He sat up with his ears down and his hand rested on his stomach.
By now my laughter was finally dying down, and I wiped my eye some as I apologized.
"Sorry, didn't mean to knock the air out of you.. But I hate tickling!" I said.
"The only people who hate tickling are those who are ticklish." He said with some difficulty. He still smiled however.
At first I wasn't sure if he'd even answer my question. Tickling me seemed like a sure fire way to distract me from the problem at hand. However, once he caught his breathe, he faced me. We were now sitting on my carpet. Theo walked over to us curiously and rubbed against each of us.
"Since you offered, you won't even be here in the day time during the week, right?" He asked, petting my cat with interest.
"Nope, I have school. House would be all yours, and Theo's." I say while I rest my tail on my leg.
"I'll agree to this.. for now." He said, with a defeated sigh. He closed his eyes.
My ears perked up happily and my eyes seemed to sparkle. I prepared myself to pounce him but he noticed at the last second and opened his arms a bit before I launched myself at him. I knocked him back as I began to purr loudly, resting my head beside his as my hair flew everywhere.
He moved my hair off of his face and chuckled some.
"Am I going to have this to look forward to?" He spoke with a hint of sarcasm.
I pulled away from him and huffed, crossing my arms as I sat on his waist.
"If you complain about it, no." I said, glaring a bit as I stood up and walked back into the kitchen. My cheeks were warm with redness and I couldn't stop purring.
I grabbed our mugs of tea, took the tea bags out and set the cups in the sink.
"Y ou can help me out around the house. It's pretty tough doing normal house things by myself all the time. The laundry and dishes, at least." I rambled on distractedly washing the two mugs.
I felt him approach me and stand behind me and look over my shoulder. I twitched my ears nervously. I lightly swatted him with my tail.
"Why are you standing over me?" I asked him quietly.
"No reason.." he said, leaning closer. He perched his chin lightly on my shoulder and closed his eyes. I tensed up for a moment but tried to relax. My tail swished back and forth nervously. My heart was pounding in my chest.
"Hn.. our smells match now." He said out of nowhere. I blinked and nodded.
"They do. That's what happens when we use the same shampoo. We smell the same." I muttered. The mugs were now sitting in the dry rack and I turned to him. This forced him to lift his head.
I stared at him for a good moment, enjoying the coolness of his pretty blue eyes. The expression on his face was so relaxed and serene. Before my face tinted in a permanent blush, I shook my head and walked over to the futon. I lay down on one side. Using the pillow I gave him. I turned on the television.
"Well, don't expect anything exciting today. Saturdays are lazy days." I said with a yawn. Then added; "I might take a nap since you never let me sleep comfortably."
So I got comfortable, curling up against the pillow. Seconds later I feel him sit down on the empty spot beside me, watching me.
"Why don't you use my lap as a pillow this time.. It's the least I can do." he said, leaning back against the futon.
I wiggled in place, not use to all of this physical contact. It was still a really nice thing. I wordlessly sat up and threw my pillow at his lap. He blinked, lowered his ears slightly and patted the pillow a bit. I lay my head down on the pillow, carefully controlling my breathing. I handed him the remote and shifted into a more comfortable position.
He gently rested a hand on my head, petting my damp hair down. Occasionally he would rub my ears. I was purring in no time. I closed my eyes and it felt great. I was being petted and finally able to rest my eyes in a comfortable position. Soon I was off in a very gentle nap. Hypnotized by the stroking on his hand, and the sound of the changing channels on my tv.
When I open my eyes this time, I don't feel as stiff or cranky. I felt warm and comfortable. I took a few moments to adjust to my surroundings. The television was still on, the volume was low. Ikuto probably turned it down to let me rest better. He's a very kind person, I think he tries to hide that most of the time.
He always comes off as a big sweet-heart in the end. He's always interested in what you say, listens to you when you speak. Never fails to give you his attention.
Slowly, I begin to sit up. I yawned wide, closing my eyes once more and flicking my ear. I peek an eye open to look at him. He looked like he almost dozed off himself. His left leg was pulled him on the couch, while I had been sleeping on his right leg. I smiled lightly at him and grabbed his hand. I held it between my hands and squeezed it warmly. I was in a bit of a sleepy daze, so embarrassment didn't exist for a fleeting moment.
"That was a lovely nap. How long did I sleep?" I asked him, fighting back another yawn. I released his hand after another squeeze and stood up.
He gazed at his hand for a moment then turned his attention to me. "Not too long. Maybe an hour? Give or take."
I nod and stretch. I liked to stretch. Ikuto shifts his position. He must have been a little uncomfortable with me laying on his leg for an hour.
In a still slightly sleepy daze, I slid the blanket off of me and stood up. I turned slightly and faced him. His vision went from the television to my face. He had a relaxed and sleepy but focused expression.
My tail began to wiggle a bit as I circled around the couch behind him. He watched me with a feigned bored expression. However he was still interested. I crouched behind the couch and lightly batted at his ear, which he lowered and turned slightly to eye me.
"What are you up to?" he asked quietly, in that deep voice of his.
But I was already out of sight, on the opposite side of the couch end peering over at him. His eyes quickly fell on mine, and he seemed a bit confused at what I was doing. Suddenly, with a playful swish of my tail I pounced, crossing the length of the futon and landing on him. He grunted in surprised but cracked a smile at my movements. I began to play with his tail playfully before sliding off of him and running into the hallway with that hyperactive cat vigor.
Almost like a flash of light.
I hoped he would pursue me, and I waited behind the corner, pounce position ready. If he were coming after me, I doubt I'd hear a sound, so my eyes focused on the corner intently.
Suddenly, in a flash of blue and black he flew from behind the corner and grabbed me. We rolled backwards and into the wall and my laughing couldn't stop. We were toppled over each other and our tails were wiggling back and forth. My eyes fell on his. He was smiling a happy, half grin. We managed to pull ourselves up. He ruffled my hair playfully with his big, warm hand.
"Seemed like that nap gave you some energy." he spoke softly.
"So it seems." I replied.
Using my full weight, I flopped down on to the carpet and sprawled out in front of him. He had his legs folded and a smile on his face. The shirt I picked out had a wide neck and so it showed quite a bit of his collar bone. I failed to notice this until now. Collar bones were something I really enjoyed. It's like this man was sculpted perfectly for me.
I lay on my side now to face him.
"So I wonder why we are the only two people to be.. half cat I suppose. I mean my friend is a vampire so.. it's not like we're strange or anything. But from the few supernatural beings I've met, I've never seen my own kind." I state.
He nods a bit and reaches for his tail, holding it in his hand.
"I'm not sure myself. I've also never seen anyone with our features. I've seen some with pointed ears and some aquatic beings.. but never cat people." he spoke gently, as always.
My position quickly changes and I am leaning up in his face. I reach my hands up, slowly and gently, began to rub his ear between my fingers. I carefully scratch behind them and pet the fur down. This causes him to warily eye me, before purring softly.
I pull away only to pet my own ears. Comparing the feeling of the furs between us. Then I flick my tail next to his. My hand strokes at my tail, then his. It seems that I have slightly longer fur that he does.
"Your fur is shorter than mine." I pointed out.
He reaches out and gently brushes over both of our tails, and I shiver a bit.
"You're right." He stated.