Chapter 9: A Day With Mori
Sora fidgeted with the collar of her white sleeveless shirt. Her blue jeans were faded, and white sandals finished off her look. After politely declining Kyoya's offer, they went to buy Tamaki a laptop with a rather complex music system on its hard drive. She saw a cute outfit in the store over and decided that was what she'd wear with Mori.
The weather forecast said it would be a little chilly, so she decided to put a tan sweater over her shirt. She tried to straighten her hair, but that didn't work out, so she just tied it back into a ponytail. The mirror didn't lie, so she sat on the couch and tried to watch TV. It was ten minutes till noon, and Mori had called a few minutes ago to tell her he was on the way. She was so edgy, and that didn't stop her from jumping when a knock came on the door. "It's me," grunted Mori.
She opened the door. "Hey. Are you sure you like me driving?" she asked for the umpteenth time. "I mean, if you know how, you could drive." She gasped as she took in his clothes. "Wow...you seriously don't belong in high school, Mori."
Mori smiled. He dressed just as casually, a sleeveless blue button-up and black pants. His own white turtleneck was over his arm. Over his other arm was a quaint basket. "Thank you. And no, that's fine. You drive. I'll enjoy myself."
Sora laughed. She truly liked Takashi Morinozuka more than she first believed. "Let's hit the road, then." She offered her hand, and he took it without hesitation.
They took the elevator down to the garage. Even in here, she could feel a small breeze picking up. She clicked her alarm off to see where she had parked. "Ah, over there," she exhaled. "That's it. My gorgeous Ferrari. I named it Rory, after the main character of a cool American show."
No simple words could describe the car, except that it fit Sora's personality perfectly. It was red, and the interior was a tan leather. Its rims were the perfect size, and it had a powerful V8 engine. Unlike the showier ones, this one wasn't as long in the back. A two-door fit her just right. "Well?" Her voice was high, as if expecting him to be expecting something better. "Cool or what?"
"Very much so," he replied. "I've always wanted one of these."
"Really. What's your favorite color?"
"A dark blue, or a midnight blue. Either or."
"Oh. That's cool. Mine's coolest, though."
Mori laughed. "Then let's go before someone decides to steal it."
Sora opened the doors, and they were what Italians called the "Lambo-style" doors. Mori almost drooled. "After you, sir."
He settled himself as she turned on the engine. It purred to life. Ah, so smooth.
"So what did you end up buying Kyoya for Christmas?" asked Sora as she pulled out of the garage. True to her word, her driving was smooth and delicate, but confident as well.
"I offered a snake, but Mitsukuni and Tamaki suggested a nice leather briefcase that he could hold his laptop in, and a pair of new black boots."
"And Honey? What's he doing while we're out on our date? Eating as many sweets as he can without getting the world's worst cavity?"
"No," said Mori. "He's at home, already wrapping Christmas presents."
"But that's like, six weeks away. I don't understand why we even went shopping already."
"He's excited," replied Mori. "Christmas is his second favorite holiday. I'm sure that he still has Halloween candy left over still, surprisingly, so that may be a part of his experience."
"Mori?" She sounded hesitant. "Why does Tamaki call Haruhi his 'daughter' if he actually has a thing for her? He's delusional, huh?"
"We believe he confuses it with fatherly feelings."
"Ah-hah." That idiot.
"But he is very protective of her, so I think it makes sense."
"And I'm pretty sure pigs fly, too," she replied sarcastically.
"Okay, maybe he's a little...touched in the head." Seriously, she needed to get him on his own a lot more.
"Where's the turn-off?" Sora asked Mori. Mori had forgotten they were driving.
He glance out the window. "Sora!" His heart was racing just as fast as the car, which was nearing speeds of 90 mph. "Do you want a ticket?!"
Sora looked confused. "What's wrong? Mori, I've been driving since I was ten years old, only because horse riding became boring. My father decided that, if I wanted to drive, I'd do it his way. And he drives like a maniac. Besides, I always drive like this." She pointed to a gadget on the dashboard. "Built-in radar custom-made for moi by Cera's uncle. The police can't pick us up, and I have diplomatic immunity in fifty countries, including Japan. Also, I'll see if a cop's in our range." She pointed to a small screen above the rearview mirror. "That way, I can slow down a bit and look normal."
Mori began to chuckle. "And how do you weave in and out of traffic?"
"Easy. Like I said, I've been driving for a while. After seven years, I've finally gotten my rhythm down." She smiled. "This is the turnoff, right?"
Mori squinted out the tinted glass. She slowed to exit the highway. "Good job. The park's a mile down this road. After we eat, we'll head over to Fall Fest."
Sora turned onto a smaller road. The houses here were larger and farther apart. Green fields rolled here and there. "Sora, it's up ahead."
She could see it. Rows of sakura trees lined the exterior, keeping it hidden. Several cars were already outside in the parking lot. Sora made sure her car was completely safe from theft before turning to Mori. "So do you have a favorite spot?"
Mori nodded. "It's by the pond." He took her hand and grabbed the picnic basket with the other hand. "I'll show you."
He led the way, ignoring the stares of the jealous girls who weren't with a hot guy, and moved aside a couple of bushes to reveal a small meadow. On the other side, glistening with the noon sun shining overhead, was a pond. Ducks were floating along, and frogs croaked in the cattails. Sora sighed. "It's gorgeous, Mori."
Mori smiled. "I always come here to meditate. If you ever need to escape...well, tell us first, and then come here. It's an oasis." He settled the picnic basket on the grass, and plopped down. Sora hesitated before sitting down. He leaned back, enjoying the feel of the sunshine. It was a little cool, though, so he kept his turtleneck on.
Sora hummed quietly to herself before pausing. "Would you like to hear a song?" she asked, hoping for a yes.
Mori closed his eyes and squeezed her hand. "Of course. Please begin."
She grinned and cleared her throat.
I know the sound of each rock and stone
And I embrace what others fear
You are not to roam in this forgotten place
Just the likes of me are welcome here
Everything breathes and I know each breath
For me it means life, for others it's death
It's perfectly balanced, perfectly planned
More than enough for this man
She rolled over, gazing dreamily into his handsome face. "I remember all these songs from when I was little. My mother always sang to me, too. That song, I learned from Alexia, one with nature. She aspires to be a great ballerina, you know. Like a leopard, she's quiet and calm, but her grace shows constantly. We always compare ourselves to animals. Riiko has forever been a puppy, taking life to the fullest and never complaining. Cera is a peacock, of course. She flaunts her beauty every chance she gets. Elaina is a swan, elegant but slightly conceited. Natalia is an extraordinary creature. She always changes, depending on her course in life. I've decided she's an eagle, but not in the majestic way. She follows the wind and lets things take their toll."
Mori opened his eyes to stare at her. "And you?"
"Me? I've been a tiger ever since I can remember. Up close, I can be defensive and ferocious. But deep inside, I am caring and considerate. And I'm pretty, too. Plus, the whole Raja thing actually worked out for me." She laughed. "What about you guys? You give each other types, and I'm confused with those, so explain."
He sighed, happily content with her just talking. "As you know, I am the Wild type. I react largely on my instincts. Mitsukuni is the Loli-shota type. His childlike looks give the impression of innocence. Tamaki is the Prince type, and you should know that by now. He is unselfish but overly dramatic. Hikaru and Kaoru are the Little Devils type. They trick their customers, finishing off with an incestuous act. Kyoya is the Cool type. Very calm and calculating, he can manipulate people easily. Haruhi is the Natural type. Her relaxed demeanor is her selling point. If you were a Host, I'd say you'd be...the Maiden type. You seem like a damsel in distress, but really you're strong, confident and charismatic."
Sora grinned. "And if you were an animal, I'd call you...a bear. Your ability to protect those you care about overshadows all others. Tamaki would be a dog because of his drama and excitement. Kyoya would be a wolf, always prowling. Hikaru and Kaoru would be...monkeys, I believe. Mischievous and funny. Honey would have to be a dolphin, playful but strong. Haruhi would always be a butterfly, letting herself be led by fate. Uh-oh..." She giggled. "My tummy's rumbling. What say we eat and continue this conversation later?"
Mori sat up and dragged the picnic basket over. "If that it what you wish."
After Sora had her fill of sweets and Mori finished his tea, they raced one another back to the parking lot (surprisingly, Sora had a lead on Mori before he actually pushed himself). Mori picked her up in his arms and carried her to the car; she was so out of breath, she didn't mind when he took the keys from her and sat in the driver's seat. "Okay, Miss Mikage," he teased. "To the fair?" He was so different with her than with the others.
"To the fair," she giggled, throwing up her arms. And she liked it!
Mori laughed and started the engine. As he drove, Sora took in details that weren't as obvious with the others. His shoulders were so broad, his hands so large. His face would crinkle every time he smiled. His eyes would flick onto her every move. "So...you want a Ferrari."
He nodded. "Ever since I first saw one. I asked for one every birthday until I discovered kendo and the martial arts."
"I got mine about two years ago, before I could legally drive...a friend gave it to me."
"Sora, here's the festi-"
"OOH!" Her squeal interrupted his sentence. "IT LOOKS LIKE FUN!" They had just come into view of the festival grounds, and she now understood why it was so commercialized. Rides were on the west end while tents and games covered the east. Mori parked the car at least five hundred feet from the nearest vehicle. Sora jumped out of her seat. "Which end shall we start at?"
"Hmm..." Mori put his finger on his chin. "The games, then the rides?" he offered.
"Good choice." She grabbed his hand and tugged like an anxious child, anticipation in her eyes. "Come on, Mori!"
He laughed. This is why he fell for her; not her looks, but what she hid underneath those looks.
"Step right up!" yelled the juggler. "Games, treats and more if you can hit the tower of milk jugs! A prize if you knock them all down! It's just four tickets!"
Sora slapped down a square of tickets. "One try, please."
"Little lady, if you can knock those down in one try, I'll give you several pri-"
Sora wound up and tossed the ball. CLACK. The tower toppled to the ground. She smirked. "Now how many prizes am I getting?"
"Little lady has some strength!" whistled the hat man next door. "Go on, Ralph! Give her the rewards!"
The juggler smiled and pointed to a row of stuffed animals above. "Which ones?"
"The lion, the bear, and the wolf."
Ralph handed her the animals. "And what about you?" he winked at Mori. "Gonna win something for your girl?"
Mori smiled, thrilled at the casual comment. "Watch this," he whispered in Sora's ear. "One try."
"Go right on ahead, cowboy!"
Mori aimed carefully and threw the balls. BAM! BAM! BAM! BAM! Four towers of bottles fell over. He winked at the juggler, who gasped and applauded.
"That makes four of 'em! Which ones?"
"Two of the monkeys, that dolphin, and the dog."
He handed the animals to Mori. "If you're looking for the girl," he laughed, "she's trying her hand at the basketball game...which looks like a piece of cake for her." Mori turned. "Three shots in a row! Splendid!"
Mori watched with amusement as Sora won game after game, helping her occasionally. She had him running back and forth buying tickets. They filled an entire black garbage bag with stuffed animals, toy prizes, posters, two giant balloon hammers, a basketball and several beanie babies. "Sora, did you want an entire toy store?" he chuckled as she ran up to him, panting as she finished a game of Toss the Football.
"I may just have one!" she said, holding up the bag. "Can you take these to the car?"
He nodded. "Stay in one place until I get back. I can't imagine the horrors of you being alone."
Sora watched as he sprinted with the bag, weaving in and out of people. "What game shall I play next?" she muttered to herself.
"Come ride a horse and play my game!" She looked over. A riding game was in the field next to them. "The objective of the game is don't fall off and get five rings on the pole!"
Sora licked her lips. Grinning, she skipped over to the fence. "What's the horse's name?" she asked the guy standing next to a beautiful white stallion.
"His name is Jasper, come all the way from Texas! Would you like a ride, ma'am?"
She nodded. "Yes. How many tickets?"
"Twelve, missy. There you go. Have you ever ridden before?"
"Please. I've ridden horses since I was three."
"Then you should be just fine. Okay, lead the horse around that pole and try to get as close as you can. If you get five or more on the pole, you win a prize."
Sora hopped onto the horse's back. He whinnied. S'okay, fellow, she tried to communicate with him. You'll be safe with me. The stallion quieted and stood still.
"Go!" yelled the handler.
Sora gently squeezed her knees to Jasper's sides. He obeyed and began to walk. Years of experience told her how hard she should squeeze. Another command, and Jasper began to trot. One, two rings on the slow trot. She circled around and tried again. A third and a fourth. One more. She swung him around and threw the fifth ring. It wound down the pole. "Yes!" She punched a fist into the air.
"Help me! He's kidnaped my baby!!" A young woman was kneeling on the grass, screaming. In the near distance, a clown ran through the crowd, a small bundle in his arms shrieking.
On pure instinct, Sora kicked her heels. "Yah, Jasper!" He took off like a bullet and galloped through the field. He jumped the fences and several open stands.
"HEY!"
"WATCH IT!"
"Coming through!" shouted Sora as more people appeared round the corner of another booth. "Sorry!"
The kidnapper came into view in the parking lot, near the shaded forest. The sun setting made it hard for Sora to see straight. "Agh!" A tree branch cut her cheek, and she felt the wetness begin to trickle down her face.
"SORA?!"
Mori stood by the entrance of the ground, a shocked look on his chiseled face.
"Mori, he took a kid!"
The tall warrior raced to her side. She paused in the trees. "I can follow him for a while, but I have no clue where he..." She froze. "Did you hear that?"
A wailing cry filled their ears. Mori jumped onto Jasper's back. "Go."
She kicked Jasper and he took off through the woods. "WAH! WAH! WAAAAAAH! WAH!"
The small baby lay in the dirt, his blanket dirty and crying. Mori leaped off and gathered him in his arms. "There, there," he soothed. "We've got you." That bastard. Just takes a baby and leaves it in the forest. Thank goodness Sora, the Ninth Wonder of the world, was here to rescue him...
Sora made an about-face with Jasper. "Let's go, Mori!"
With her help, he struggled to get back on the horse. After a few minutes, the baby stopped crying. Mori glared at Sora. "I leave you for five minutes, five minutes, and you become a hero. What am I going to do with you?"
Sora laughed. "A few rides should take this off your mind." She gently pressed her knees, and Jasper walked back through the leaves.
After the whole horse thing, Sora and Mori no longer had to pay for anything at the festival.
"Good job, Mikage!"
"You were awesome, Sora-chan!"
"Where did you learn to ride, at a rodeo?"
"Nice one, Mori-senpai!"
They got on a few rides, as Sora suggested. Several times on the Fireball, a spinning ride that swung people back and forth; twice on the Tornado, another spin ride that went up and down as well as spun; once on the Xtreme, a ride that spun every which way humanity could think of; three times on the Nirvana, a mini roller coaster that went upside down several times; and a few times on the bumper cars. Finally, night fell, and the fair was lit up in no time.
"So," gasped Sora as they exited the Fireball for the last time. "We have done everything we can possibly do at a festival, we won about half their prizes available, and we saved a baby. What shall we do next?"
Mori looked away so she couldn't see his flushed face. That last ride had his stomach very unagreeable with him. "How about we calm down and ride the Ferris wheel? The twins stole you away from us at the carnival."
Sora nodded. "Sounds good. Let's get some cotton candy, though. I'm hungry."
"You're always hungry," groaned Mori, holding his stomach. "Think I'll pass."
She laughed. "Okay, so that one gotcha at last. You're still riding with me and my sugar."
The worker at the Ferris wheel allowed them on for free, and they got to choose what color carriage they got in. Both students agreed on blue. As they rose into the sky, Sora happily picked pieces of fluff off her cotton candy. "Wow," she muttered softly. "You can see for miles."
Around the grounds, several hundred acres of plains and hills surrounded on three sides. To the south, she could make out the little lights of Tokyo. Small cars rolled on the nearby stretch of highway. The fair wasn't too large, but it was a decent enough size. Sora sighed, having finished her sweet treat in a matter of minutes. "Sometimes, I wonder how a city so big and industrial can be so calm and pretty." She turned her head to Mori. "What do you think?"
He smiled. "I think Japan's beauty cannot compare to yours."
She smiled, too. "Really. That's very nice to hear."
Mori caught a lock of hair escaping the twist on Sora's neck and put it behind her ear. "You never cease to amaze me. That time by the pool, I thought you were shallow and spoiled rotten. But today, you have just proved that you can be a commoner and a rich girl at the same time." They stopped at the very top.
Sora rested her head on his shoulder. "A commoner? How am I a commoner?"
"In many ways, you remind me of Haruhi. I never liked her as more than a friend, but you have that same...spark. When you clearly see through our defensives, how you can easily define us by not what you see, but what you know in your heart. My speech becomes even harder when you look me in the eye. My breath seems to go away. I can't remember my name whenever you walk into a room."
"I see. I make you incoherent, I take your breath away, and I screw up your flow of thoughts. This feels...nice. Comforting. I like it." She leaned away from him. "I like you. A lot." Her voice lowered to a whisper.
He moved his gaze to hers. "And I really like you," he whispered back "A lot."
"So we...like each other."
"It seems so."
Sora tilted her head slightly, smiling as she closed her eyes. Mori leaned in and planted a butterfly kiss on her lips. They began to move in limbo with each other, his hand on the small of her back, her hands around his broad chest. They inched closer, and tongue met tongue. Mori's sweet musky scent filled Sora's nose, and his lips tasted faintly like coffee. It sent shivers down to her toes.
After seeing the two of them, the worker let them go around once more.
The rain started before Sora could get off the highway. "I have to wash my car," she complained as they turned into the hotel drive. "This sucks."
Mori reached over and kissed her cheek. "I'll go with you tomorrow, if that helps any."
Sora shrugged. "Whatever's fine, as long as we get it done." She unlocked the doors. "Criminy." She was leering at her watch. "It's almost eleven. Sorry I kept you out so late." Truth was, they couldn't keep their lips unglued for long after the fair closed.
Mori sighed. "I have to wake up my driver, then." He reached into his pocket for his cell phone.
"Wait." Sora was already walking ahead of him, her hands folded behind her back. "I have a huge king-sized bed in my suite. Why don't you stay the night? We can order breakfast in the morning, and then you can call your driver?"
He paused to think this over. Did Sora realize how much he wanted to take her in his arms? No, she wasn't that ignorant. "If it's not a bother to you..."
"Hey." She turned haughtily. "I just spent the best of an hour making out with you. Believe me, it's cool."
Mori rolled over in the bed. The rain was flowing against the windows in sheets, and thunder could be heard in the distance. He vaguely remembered that Haruhi was afraid of lightning and thunder.
He rolled back onto his side. Sora was deeply asleep, her mouth ajar. She murmured and snuggled closer to his torso. Mori smiled and wrapped his arms around her, content. He was startled to feel her long and slender legs wrap around his waist. Her breath fluttered against his chest as she exhaled heavily, the sleep-talking ceasing for an instant.
He fought the strong urge to wake her and advance to the next round. A tiny voice in his head told him she would not be pleased if woken...the female incarnate of a certain young heir.
"Mori," she muttered, twitching slightly. "Takashi..."
"Sora." He gently pressed his lips to her hair, thrilled at her use of his given name. "If only this feeling would last for eternity." Smiling softly, he allowed their twisted limbs passage and fell into a deep sleep.
All in all, it had been a rather good first date.
Alrighty...There was another version to this chapter that I considered adding to the story, but decided that Mori and Sora would NEVER pull a stunt like...that. But, for your personal enjoyment, I'll have it posted as the next chapter, titled "The Scene that Never Was," or something like that. TTFN!