Maka gazed at the sunset and sighed. It had been a long day, and tomorrow she had to get up early to go on a mission with Tsubaki and Black Star.
" Maka?"
She turned and saw Soul standing awkwardly behind her with his hands in his pockets and in his usual slouching posture, but he was fidgety and wouldn't meet her eyes. Something was up.
" Soul, what's the matter? Are you hurt?" Maka asked nervously.
" No, I'm fine. I just wanted to talk to you." He cam up beside her and leaned on the railing and looked at the setting sun. " Do you know how long we have been partners?"
Maka blinked. " About five years, I think." Soul nodded.
" Ever since I first met you, that day at the orientation, I…well, I…" H paused, stuttering, looking for the right words. Maka was surprised. Soul was not his usual confidante and cool self. Finally Soul took a deep breath and said quickly, " I love you."
Maka stood stunned. Both of them blushed a bright red, Soul shifting embarrassingly. A warm feeling burst through Maka, something she didn't even know she had.
" I…I love you too, Soul." Maka blurted out, blushing anew. Soul glanced up, relief and joy flashing in his eyes. He came closer, grabbed Maka around the waist, and put his mouth on hers.
Maka leaned into the kiss, joy and warmth flooding through her. The taste of cherries flooded her mouth, and his sharp teeth grazed her lips.
At first, Soul had been hesitant and gentle, but now he drew her closer, rubbing one hand on her back and one in her hair, asking for more. Make reached under his shirt, feeling the tough and strong muscles of his back. All that mattered was this one moment, the one she had been secretly hoping for, ever since she first saw him leaning against the wall, trying to mask his fear with coolness. She, of course, had seen right through it, and she had made the first move.
But this time, she was glad Soul had taken the lead.
The broke off, flushed and breathing hard like they had just battled a keshen. Soul flashed his characteristic smile. " Come on. You need some sleep before you leave tomorrow." Maka smiled and allowed Soul to carry her home.
