Nishimura was holding his breath. He inched towards Natsume, careful not to make even the slightest noise that could ruin the surprise attack. Natsume was always so overly sensitive. It was about time he relaxed more…relaxed and smiled.
"CAUGHT YOU!"
Nishimura lunged at Nastume, imagining how he might react: he will probably let out a girly scream, and then maybe he will laugh, and then maybe, just maybe, he will show one of his rare, warm, pure smiles.
Reality was quick to disappoint.
SMACK
Natsume punched Nishimura's head with all his strength, and let out a desperate scream. Breaking free from Nishimura's grasp, it was only when he saw his friend kneeling in front of him that Natsume realised what he had done.
"N-Nishimura! I'm so sorry, a-are you okay?!"
Nishimura stayed kneeling, clutching his throbbing head. "Ouch…"
"I'm really sorry! I didn't think it would be you. C-Can you stand?"
Oh crap…not only did Nishimura fail terribly, he was making Natsume worry so much over nothing.
"Man, I feel so lame now…"
Nishimura stood up and smiled at Natsume, who clearly hadn't sensed the intended humour in Nishimura's voice. Instinctively, Nishimura turned away. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but Natsume's expression was somehow...depressing. Clearly Natsume didn't realise how saddening he looked either, since he didn't change his expression until Nishimura diverted their attention to last night's homework.