Standard Disclaimer
Well moving along with this again and I think you'll like it. Rain and weather have put a damper on my outside time but that's not to bad. Does mean I gained a lil weight…grrr…well just means more swimming in the summer!
X-X
Bait and Switch
Chapter – 6
Putting tinfoil over the top of the pan, Shinji slid the supper she prepared into the fridge. Using a magnet to host the instructions up for any/all to see, she felt she had done her just duty in providing for her flatmates. Several days after her date with Maya, and the rather intimate time the two shared at Ibuki's apartment, Shinji was more than a little emotionally charged. They hadn't done anything to controversial, a little light petting mostly, but for one as starved for affection as Shinji was…well she was confused.
Gathering her oversized purse, more a satchel than not, Shinji started to fill it with what she thought she'd need. Did she love Maya? No, but there was a strong and building affection that could in time become it. Then where did that leave her in regards to Ritsuko, Asuka, and countless others? Well, confused really. Putting the printouts next to her wallet in the satchel, Shinji felt a stroke of pride in her handy work. She'd worry about the condition of her love life in a few days. Plans were being made, and all she needed now was for Asuka to help her with it.
"So you're off for your little date with Akagi already? Man, never thought you'd be a two-timing lesbian when I first met you," Asuka mocked. Walking out of her room, clad in her yellow sundress, Asuka chewed on an apple with large chomping bites. Walking over to the taller woman, Asuka's face was unreadable as she dribbled juice down her chin. Rubbing her arm across her face she sniffed the air about Shinji's neck, "Not very dolled up for a night out, so going to just stay in then?"
Insuring all the coding changes she made were properly outlined , Shinji flipped the satchel shut. Rolling her eyes, "Asuka, it's not a date, and you know it. Akagi-san is just going to go over my proposed changes to my mother's program. I think I found a way to make it work better. And Maya-san and I aren't dating…its confusing really," how her heart fluttered looking at Asuka exacerbated things. Shinji wasn't stupid, a little kissing and light touches did NOT make for a couple. Maya hadn't broached the subject, Shinji avoided it, and neither had seen each other since that day.
Taking another bite, Asuka vaulted over the couch and scooped up the remote. "Who you chose to play with isn't my business, so don't make excuses to me," though she sounded more miffed than not. Turning on the set, flipping through several news shows before finding a nice drama, Asuka's crossed legs fidgeted. Reluctantly adding, "But I guess you'd want a second opinion before you ruin your easy life. Not taking Ayanami with you?"
"Akagi-san and Rei-san don't get along to good at times. And it'd just be boring for her to listen to us talk code," Shinji gripped the back of the couch. Hovering above Asuka, the girl didn't react to her presence, Shinji to a glimpse down her dress. Not wearing a bra…creamy flesh was tantalizingly dancing before her eyes. Yeah, Shinji wasn't sure of what she wanted at all…emotions were confusing. "W-what is the dress for…got a date yourself?" she loved Asuka in that dress.
Finally crooning her head back to look up at Shinji, Asuka smirked at her. While her eyes were shining and bright the scowl was confusing, "So I get to take care of your daughter and clean up after she feeds? Girl has no table manners. As for the dress…" She tugged on the hem of her skirt and looked away. Tossing the remote to the chair, Asuka's tone lost some of its vibrancy, "Just felt like wearing it really. Haven't had a reason to wear something nice in a while is all."
Checking her watch, Shinji nodded as she had enough time to test the waters of her plan. Since they started testing their idea of just what they synced with, Shinji was preparing for this. "Asuka, can I ask you something…something important?" she leaned in close whispering. Her nose tickled with the scent of Asuka's shampoo, man her building frustrations were driving her mad. Asuka smelled so good, looked better, and…NO! Stay on topic. Getting in close, just in case Rei was spying on them, "It has to do with our little game."
Her body tensed at the key word they used to mask their little life threatening trials, but Asuka covered with as a nervous tick. Matching Shinji's hushed tone, "What about it? I thought we had enough evidence now. I'm not willing to go on the record yet, but we know something is there that they're not telling us." Asuka shivered a little and played with her hair as she listed a little closer to Shinji. "You don't think they're catching onto what we're doing?" she fidgeted as she too spied for eavesdroppers.
"I'm going to do it…going to go over three hundred percent again. If you're willing to help me," Shinji said with finality. It was her time with Maya that forced Shinji's hand. "I don't want this to remain a 'maybe' situation. If I can turn back, I plan to. If I can't, then we'll know and I can make my plans," Shinji stood back up. She couldn't take being that close to Asuka, not without serious risk of acting. Her body was loading with hormones, and vague memories of red hairs in her mouth…yeah Asuka played a good game, but Shinji was starting to see past her own self-doubt.
Gasping, Asuka let all sense of annoyance slip away into true concern. "You can't be," she started loud until Shinji made a 'shushing' motion. Lowering her voice, "You can't be serious! What if you can't come back this time? I'm all for finding out the secret, but this is…why?!" Her face, mere inches from Shinji's blew hot and moist breath over Shinji, the scent of apples was pungent. "Is being a woman that big a deal…your mother's aside," her fear was slowly ebbing away.
Why did she have to do it? Well for starters Shinji wanted her old body back. Next if she could turn back it went on to help prove the soul theory. Lastly…if she wanted a relationship with anybody, Shinji wanted to be honest about it. If her partner wanted a woman and not a man or vice versa, what happened when they learned of that she could or couldn't change? Best to get the answer first, then deal with the aftermath.
"Because I have to know if it can happen. What if I do start a relationship with Maya-san, or anybody for that matter," was Asuka getting closer to her? "What if we started with the hope I'd turn back, and then we can't? I don't want that, I want to know before anything with anybody gets to serious," she nodded more to herself than Asuka. Which brought her to why she even broached the topic though, "So I'll need you to distract Akagi-san tomorrow during the test. If she sees my ratio climbing to fast, she'd stop it. Can I count on you?" She knew under most situations Asuka was trust worthy, but this was a bit much.
Asuka was quiet for a few minutes, eyes glued to the television, but anybody observing her could tell she wasn't watching it. "If you're sure of this, I'll help. Just keep it a secret from Wondergirl and Major liver disease. If they learn of it, nothing I can do will stop them," Asuka's leg jumped a bit more. Her toned and tanned calf danced up and down capturing some of the late afternoon light. "Get a move on, your faux blond bimbo waits to try and tempt you," Asuka was done talking, her face upset.
Knowing when to stop pushing, Shinji patted her shoulder thankfully, noticing Asuka jump a bit. "That dress looks really good on you," she complimented and headed for the door. Best to leave Asuka with a compliment, less she think she wasn't getting the necessary attention. Stuffing her shoes on, Shinji felt a chill work down her spine as a hand clamped down on her shoulder. "Rei-san, just heading off to talk code with Akagi-san. Just like I said," had she heard or just speculate? Shinji knew Rei had to suspect something by now.
"You are planning something with Soryu, yet you will not tell me," Rei released her hold on her 'mother'. Not making a move to stop or impede Shinji at all, Rei's head just listed as if it was a puppet with its string cut. "Why do you not trust me with this knowledge? I…fear you may do something that I cannot stop. G-go somewhere I cannot follow. I do not-cannot think of a life without you in it anymore," a weakness that wasn't fitting the stoic was all to telling.
How much could Shinji tell Rei without fearing her 'daughter' would intrude and try and stop her? Shinji didn't know, so erred on the side of caution. "I'm not keeping anything from you to hurt you, Rei," somehow Shinji felt they were approaching something. "I…I don't know what to make of all this craziness, but know I won't do anything to intentionally hurt you Rei. Whatever happens, you and I are stuck together," Shinji hated seeing her look so…sad. Opening the door and taking a step out of it, "Trust me, Rei, trust me like I trust you."
Moving to the door crack as Shinji started shutting it, Rei's momentary lapse into emotional territory seemed an illusion. "I trust you," was all she said, but those eyes looked haunted and abysmal.
Forcing thoughts of doubt from her mind, Shinji fixed her svelte black skirt, red vest, and white undershirt and headed out into the streets. Ritsuko's home wasn't that far of a walk, and with the woman saying she'd provide supper, Shinji didn't mind the brisk stroll. Asuka was going to help her, Rei was suspecting but wouldn't interfere hopefully, but Shinji was still on the fence. Was it worth risking her life to get her old body back? Couldn't she just assume she was stuck like this and make due?
"Hey baby, what is a hot lil thing like you doing out on your own," A smooth talker in a finely made Italian business suit asked. Hair greased back showing a glossy head, he had a large ring on each finger. "Maybe you need an escort, I can offer you a really nice job if you need one," he held out a card, pulled from his pocket.
Reading the card, Shinji realized she was in the presence of one Rikudo Tokai the owner of 'The Nymphs'. Judging by the cards quality and the imagery on it, Shinji doubted this man had her best interests at heart. "I'm sorry I'm not looking for a job at the moment, I already have one," she tried being polite at first. No reason to suspect this man would press right? "And I doubt I'd be the type to work well for your…agency," she handed the card back.
Taking the card back, Rikudo put it back into his pocket with a slick grin. "No fret my dear, It's just a modeling agency. It pays well, and I don't let my ladies take on any side business. Had to let go a lot of them for taking on…extra work," the man actually looked upset. Taking off his ring and dropping it back into his pocket, his tone started lisping, "But I do hate to lose out on fine quality. You my dear would look great in photos. I could get my boyfriend to work on that hair of yours and…umph just think about it won't you? Pictures aren't bad, and I do have a lot of tasteful workers."
He was gay?! Shinji found her heart unclench a little as the fear left her. Taking the new card, "I guess I'll consider it. But I don't know for sure if I'm what you're wanting. A friend of mine though…if tasteful." Shinji pocketed the card with Asuka's face firmly in mind, then a sudden image of Rei in a bikini nearly caused a nose bleed. God she needed to take care of her pent up nature or she'd go mad. Leaving the odd man back to his own devices in talent searching. Odd day…really odd day so far. Without further infringement, Shinji found herself knocking on Ritsuko's door, mind still bewildered at the man that stopped her. Could she be a model?
Knocking after the bell button seemed to not make a sound, Shinji hoped she wasn't too late, "That guy did hold me up a little." Ritsuko had said five and it was only five fifteen now, but maybe she assumed that being late was a no-show? Taking out the card, forced into her hand before leaving, Shinji let the insanity wash over her. A model, now THAT was not a career choice she had considered a year ago. "Akagi-san it's me, sorry I'm late," Shinji asked again while knocking.
Opening the door slowly, Ritsuko stood in a frumpy set of blue fluffy pajamas, her hair a mess, and a coffee cup in hand. "Sorry I'm not wanting any magazine…Shinji?! OH god I forgot!" Ritsuko then slammed the door in Shinji's face. Large crashing sounds, yelps, and general sounds of mayhem and chaos filled the small hallway of the high class apartment. "Luna get off that now! Artemis what did I say about shredding my…AH!" Ritsuko's voice petered out after a large crash.
Testing the door handle, Shinji found it unlocked and let herself if. Worries and fears that the last crash wasn't as painless as the others, Shinji examined briefly Ritsuko's apartment. Paper word and programming journals were everywhere, stacks of DVD's and a few games were by the television, and it all left Shinji's natural clean freak mentality go wild. "Akagi-san are you…should I go?" the good scientist had forgotten about their programming jam session?
Going deeper into the apartment, past a kitchen laden with instant food containers and empty cans of instants, Shinji grimaced. Finding three of the bento boxes she had made for Ritsuko cleaned and well maintained, she couldn't help but smile. "Guess she likes the lunches I make," she mused picking up the latest box. Walking past the bathroom, oddly clean in comparison to the rest of the apartment, Shinji's eyes popped open as she took in the scene.
Laying on the ground, her robe tossed haphazardly into a corner, the good doctor laid on the ground. Clad only in black silky lower garments, her top open and exposed to the air showed a beauty mark on her left exposed mammary, Ritsuko's eyes were closed. Groaning and moaning just a little, the woman made no sign of waking, a small stack of books under her head showed what she hit on the way down.
Shoving her fear of the exposed female form to the wayside, Shinji let her satchel fall and rushed to Ritsuko's aid. Grabbing a shirt, from the piles of them on the ground, she covered Ritsuko's exposed top, and gently lifted her into a seated position. "Ritsuko, Ritsuko-san are you alright," she held Ritsuko up with one hand on the back, and another on her shoulder to keep the shirt from falling. "Say something, please…maybe I should call for an ambulance or…or…" Shinji felt fingers gingerly grab her hand holding the shirt up.
Eyes fluttering open, Ritsuko's head lolled about on shaking bearings. "I know this one! Start on the floor, move to the bed, and end on the railing outside the apartment," Ritsuko took Shinji's hand to her lips and kissed it. "Even tastes real. Shin-baby I love you!" Ritsuko squealed and launched into her mentally befuddled dream sequence. A flurry of hands, touches, and light embraces, "You're fighting more than normal. Makes it even more fun. Maya isn't the only one that knows how to please a woman…I hope!"
Ok, things kept going from down the strange pipe right towards senseless-land. "Ritsuko-san you're not asleep you only hit your head! I'm here to go over plans to change my mother's program!" Shinji fought to get out. It was hard whenever three words left her lips Ritsuko opted to cover them with her own. So, there went the self-deception that Ritsuko didn't have feelings for her. Her crush on Ritsuko made it harder to fight off the assault. It was more her desire to make Ritsuko aware of things, "R-Ritsuko-san you can't touch there!"
A hand on Shinji's upper thigh, one cupping Shinji's face, Ritsuko shook her head hard and her mouth went slack. "Oh…oh god I-uh…I'm going to be sick," Ritsuko rolled off Shinji and picked up a whole pile of clothing. "G-get out for a…let me…oh god I feel so…" Ritsuko went about as a whirling dervish of limbs and clothing.
Glad Ritsuko was aware of reality now, flustered and one light kiss away from saying to heck with restraint, Shinji shambled to the kitchen. "Her hand was…it touched my…women have some perks," Shinji found a chair and fell into it rather than sat. The sensation of silk and cotton brushed up against both of her legs, Shinji found Ritsuko's pets rubbing against her. Petting the creatures as she continue to hear Ritsuko freaking out in the other room, Shinji shuddered and pressed her head to the small kitchenette. "This just got harder, didn't it?" the cats didn't answer.
Five minutes later a very timid and ashamed Ritsuko, clad in five layers of clothing, sat across from Shinji not making eye contact. They tried to apologize, stopped, tried again, then laughed at it. The odd ice was broken, and after Luna jumped up and demanded attention things went smoothly. They talked about Shinji's plans to change Yui's code, Ritsuko being genuinely impressed with Shinji's skill. After that, Shinji made supper since Ritsuko had forgotten after a long night at Nerv. Neither broached the topic of the sudden make-out session, didn't need to. They both realized it that…yeah something was there. When it came time for Shinji to leave, Ritsuko gave the departing woman something to stew over after a five alarm face assault, this time fully cognizant.
X-X
Walking down the halls of Nerv with her phone cradled between her shoulder and ear, Asuka felt trepidation rising. Shinji was going to do it, going to risk her life to prove a point and potentially get her old body back. Shinji went a long way from the boring little coward she thought he was back on the bridge of 'Over the Rainbow' that's for sure. Could she do it if she had the chance, go to wherever that soul was. Asuka wasn't sure, would that warmth she felt leave if she learned it wasn't really her mother?
"So are you going to come over after your test, Asuka?" Hikari asked over the line. The girls had hung out since Asuka woke the Hokari household up at the crack of dawn until Hikari went to visit Touji at noon. "I can tell you about Suzuhara's progress," it was impossible to ignore the whimsy in her voice.
While she wasn't going to tell Hikari about the potential loss of Shinji again, Asuka had to hedge her words. "Well I don't have any plans, but we might be here late today. So why don't you just tell me about king pervert now so I can find a way to block it from my mind," why Hikari liked that pig was a mystery. How she had misjudged men made Asuka's skin crawl. Kaji was a pompous jerk that just wanted a warm body, Touji was a pervert, Kensuke was an opportunist, and Shinji was…well…Shinji was confusing.
The line went quiet for a few moments, a loud clatter and a muffled yelp preceded the stillness. Sounds of being recollected and a huffy voice of Hikari finally said, "Well…it went good after Ikari-kun left. D-did nobody tell Suzuhara-kun about the change?"
Walking briskly into the changing room, Asuka spotted Shinji and Rei huddled close together talking as she entered. "Hey I'm not his keeper, why should I tell him anything. I'd have thought his greasy friend the geek would have told him something. That is unless he wanted to keep her all for himself," Asuka could see Kensuke doing that too. How Kensuke started taking liberties with both Hikari and herself after both Shinji and Touji was gone still upset Asuka. Weren't they supposed to be friends, those three, and yet Kensuke made moves instantly. "Why does it matter though?" Asuka opened her locker out of sight of the 'mother/daughter' duo.
"Well, you see…" Hikari's embarrassment could be heard undoubtedly through the phone. In what sounded like one single breath Hikari rattled off, "I walked in on Suzuhara copping a feel of Shinji-kun's chest with his new hand saying it was payment for causing him to lose his original!" Hikari panted confused and worried with a hint of anger. "When I went in and yelled at him, Suzuhara didn't seem to realize that the Ikari he was talking to was Shinji," now there was the anger.
Leave it to guys to need to break in a medical marvel with something as sleazy as touching a breast, why was Asuka not surprised. "What were you expecting from him? I told you Suzuhara was a pig, and he just proved it. Shinji's just too much a softy to tell anybody no," that made Asuka worry. What Touji did was perverted and wrong yes, but they were friends. Asuka considered the male mind a little, maybe it was something guys thought was expected. If they got access to something they never had, they would share it? Would it go…THAT…far? Slapping the image of Shinji's pristine body being manhandled by some stranger taking advantage, Asuka felt chilled. "I have to go, Hikari, time to get suited up," she flipped the phone closed.
Switching out of her school uniform into her plugsuit, Asuka sat heavily on the bench. Her mind plagued with horrid images of Shinji's gullibility causing herself pain. Letting a friend touch was going a little far, but could Shinji tell Touji no if it went further?
Pressurizing her suit, Asuka knew the answer was no. Shinji wouldn't be able to, Shinji needed protection from her own gullibility. Maybe this was for the best, Shinji's plan to try and get her old body back. But despite it all, Asuka smiled as she got to her feet. She could see a red faced and freaking Touji overwhelmed by the disgustingly attractive Shinji showing up. Maybe she was thinking too much into this, Shinji wasn't THAT willing. Not like she did things with just anybody.
"Soryu," Rei stood in the doorframe with her arms crossed bearing down on the German, "I request a word." Judging by the way the albino was blocking the door with a nervous tick in her eye, it wasn't so much a request as a demand.
Starting to giggle as her imaginary play of Touji and Shinji intensified, Asuka flung her hair over her shoulder. "What you need Wonder Daughter?" oddly Asuka was starting to like Rei a little bit more after living with her. Rei was just…different and totally naïve, so much so that it made Shinji look worldly. Back in her inner theatre, she saw Shinji standing over Touji's bed checking the new leg and arm and noticing just a tiny bump of excitement. In a shaky voice, Touji makes his request, not a demand, of some sort of repayment for all the pain and misery he suffered after the accident. Not really that big a deal, Asuka was shocked that she wasn't angrier.
Taking a single broad step closer to Asuka, her foot brushing up against Asuka's, Rei was not expressionless. Her face was marred with concern and a hint of anger, "You know of what Shinji-kun is planning. You two have a secret. If this secret causes her harm, I will hold you responsible. You can stop her, she trusts and takes your council, tell her now to stop her plan and she will. End this secret." Close enough that her breath, bad with the elaborate meal Shinji made for her, to wash over Asuka's face.
"That has got to be the most I've ever heard you speak at once, Ayanami," Asuka patted Rei's arm but not in mocking. Maybe she was wrong about more than just men. But she couldn't see this intoned relationship between Shinji and herself that Rei was talking of. "All we did is come to the same conclusion about something. She doesn't…" Asuka felt pain blossom on her cheek as Rei's hand connected with it.
Hand still extended, an open palm smack silenced Asuka's rebuff, Rei's eyes hardened. "Lies, you know she takes your opinion of things highly. In my rankings, aside from Katsuragi and recently myself you are the only female Shinji seeks out to talk to on a regular basis. You know this, but lie to yourself about it. That is why I push her towards the women I am gathering for her at school or the elder Akagi and Ibuki," spinning on her feet, Rei headed off with a slight wiggle in her step making her rather shapely rump wiggle.
Letting out a low whistle, Asuka actually watched that bum sashay. "When did she get any meat on her bon…es," Asuka followed close behind. Well now that Rei was getting actual food in her diet, it wasn't a surprise that she was putting on a little much needed weight. "Guess she has reason to be protective of Shinji. She actually cares and takes care of her," Asuka could still feel the slight tingle of the slap. It didn't hurt, more a pride thing, but Asuka wasn't in the mood for a fight. Well if things went poorly in during the test, Asuka would have a full blown fight and she knew it.
"How good of you to join us you two, Shinji-kun's been ready for the last five minutes," Ritsuko chided from the safety of the test rooms far from the Eva's. Opening the plugs out of Unit-00 and Unit-02, "Get in so we can get this started and finished."
Climbing into her Evangelion, Asuka's lip curled up in a small snarl, Ibuki was present as well. Just Ritsuko would be easy to distract, but the two of them would be fixated on Shinji. Damn freak ladies…lesbians…not that anything was wrong with it. Well as long as it didn't involve Shinji, she was different. Once Shinji turned back into a male, how would those women act then? Either a freak of a pedo, either way Asuka wouldn't approve. "Sorry, Ayanami had to ask me about how to get her extra weight into her suit," she couldn't just let that slap go unanswered.
As the plugs started filling, Shinji's face popped up in both other tanks opening a line of communication between all three. "Now just because you've put on a little weight doesn't mean you're getting fat, Rei-san. You were far too thin before is all. You're looking much healthier and prettier now that you're eating good food," Shinji was quick to try and smooth things out.
"Ayanami's health aside, we need you three to be quiet today. And no oddities from you two today, alright?" Maya joggled her finger at Shinji and Asuka. Covering the microphone with her hand, Maya started talking to Ritsuko with more motion than a simple conversation held. Ritsuko whirled about on Maya, complexion bright and eyes hard.
Maybe it would be easier for her to distract them after all, Asuka reasoned. Likely the pair were arguing over Shinji and the good scientists little study session the night before. Shinji did admit that something odd happened, but didn't go into details. "If you two are done having you're lovers quarrel, we'd like to start now," that's right jab the needle in deeper. Winking at Shinji, Asuka wanted her to know she was going to back this little plan of hers. "And I guess I was a little off Ayanami. You did look sickly before. S-Shinji has been having a good effect on you," Asuka conceded. Damn pale girl had almost NO self-esteem, and Asuka didn't want to be the factor that sent the girl over the edge.
Knocking Maya's hand off the mic, Ritsuko's beautiful face was covered with stress lines, confusion, and was that…it was make-up! "It is NOT a lover's spat! Maya is just adding her two-cents to something that doesn't need it. Now sit down, be quiet, and let us work," she ordered the pilots to comply. Starting the test proper, "And Shinji-kun, about your changes. I'll put them into effect if you want. Seems to me you'll go from comfortable to actually wealthy."
After waiting for the test proper to start, a full twenty minutes out of the hour long test, Asuka saw Shinji winking at her. It was time to get this little distraction party started. Now did she want to press the Akagi/Ibuki/Ikari triangle or go for something else? Well she didn't want her with either so, "Akagi-kun, how long do I need to wait to know if I'm pregnant?" Now that should get their attention on numerous things.
To her credit, Maya's face was festooned with amazement and bewilderment as she swallowed hard. "P-pregnant? Soryu-kun, why are you asking about things like this? Y-you've not been having…do you have a boyfriend?" Maya looked over at Ritsuko apprehensively.
Pressing her bewildering point further, she shut off the feed to Shinji's tank. It wouldn't do her good to see Shinji vanish into her purple monster. "Well 'boyfriend' is a strong word. More of a friend with benefits. One of Hikari's friends and I went out a few days ago," not a lie she had left with Hikari but not for a date, but Rei didn't know that. "Well we got a little drunk, one thing led to another, and well," she rubbed her belly with practiced faux nausea, "I feel odd and sick in the morning. Can you put a contraceptive in the LCL so I don't have to worry about it?" That should get them.
Silence, pure unbroken silence answered Asuka's question. Rei gazed on with calculating scrutiny trying to find any chink in the story to put it down instantly. Eyes clenched so hard they appeared black slits in her face, Ritsuko appeared pained or constipated as she absorbed everything. Maya, sweet and gullible Maya, just blossomed with a marvelous smile and clapped her hands together. "You're going to be a momma! Oh you're so young though, but as long as you get along fine with the father…I'm so happy for you!" Maya had different standards for living it seemed.
That's when the fight broke out. Ritsuko and Maya forgot about everything else. Rights, rules, and what was accepted for teenagers in regards to sex were being flung about like wildfire. Asuka stoked the fire as best she could, by adding what rights Shinji had as a thirty something woman's body with the mind of a fourteen year old boy. Both Maya and Ritsuko said it was perfectly fine for Shinji, then they accused each other of HOW they knew that. All through it Rei tried to cut in, tried to calm things, but her voice was overshadowed by the argument.
Then all at once, Ritsuko must have noticed something as she let out a shrill and heartbreaking cry. "Shinji-kun what are you…NO!" and Maya fainted at her side. The test was over in a matter of seconds. Unit-00 and Unit-02 had their plugs removed, the alarm sounded throughout the base. "Soryu! You did this on purpose didn't you? The two of you had this-this planned! And now…now Shinji's…Shinji's…" tears…the stoic and controlled doctor broke down into tears. "Not again. I'm not telling Misato…she can't take this crap again," Ritsuko's feed went down.
Climbing out of her plug, dripping with LCL, Asuka felt an odd sense of closure despite her worry. "Now you can't say I never help you," she looked at the purple behemoth. Somehow the face of Unit-01, normally demonic and a bit frightful, seemed content. Walking around Unit-01's bulk, Asuka saw Unit-00's plug already out and open. "Well this should be interesting," a sense of dread washed over her and Asuka dropped down to her knees and spring rolled forward on instinct.
A fist smashed into the plating Asuka had been standing, a white clad fist that actually made a small dent into the metal. Standing up and shaking her mighty right hand, Rei walked slowly towards her target. Cold and totally emotionless Rei rubbed her right wrist, "I told you. You did not listen, did not heed my warning." Rei dashed forward with her arm cocked back and waiting for the signal from her powerful mind to let fly.
A skilled martial artist, Asuka found Rei's telegraphed fist quaint if not cute. "I did what she wanted. She couldn't live with the doubt," Asuka readied herself to parry Rei's fist. When Rei's fist never came, the girl changed her angle and trajectory and rammed her shoulder into Asuka's unprepared waist. Feeling the pressure and pain thrust the oxygen out of her lungs, and her back colliding with the protection rail, Asuka contorted. Double fisting her hands together, Asuka found a tantalizing target as Rei was lodged with her arms wrapped around Asuka's waist. Slamming them down on the small of Rei's back, she dropped the girl down. "But she knew you'd try to stop her," she gasped out, "Selfish, selfish little girl with mommy issues!"
Throwing herself to the side as Asuka brought up a knee meant for her chin, Rei rolled and got up on shaking legs. "I would have…tried. Do not know why it is an issue. Man or woman she would have…" Rei's legs got sturdier as she got into an offensive position. Lashing out with two left handed punches, one clipping Asuka's stomach, and finishing with a kick to the side of Asuka's leg Rei proved a bit more apt a fighter. Breathing in evenly but sweating, "This is an unnecessary risk."
Grabbing another of Rei's rapid jabs Asuka's jaw opened and a little drool trickled out as her eyes widened in savage delight. "All those ladies you're trying to get into a harem for her…she was doing it so they'd know if she ever got her little friend back. Didn't want to live with the fear they'd resent her for not being able to change back if they wanted it," in a deft spin, Asuka twirled around and pulled Rei along for the ride. Letting go just after mid-throw, Asuka didn't want to hurt her opponent just knock the fight out of her. Rei was fighting for the perceived loss of her only family, Asuka could relate.
Head wobbling, Rei's eyes boggled but could settle on nothing. "But if she doesn't come back…I'll be alone," Rei gasped out and clutched at her head. Trying to get up, Rei fell back down unable to get her orientation.
Grabbing Rei's hand, Asuka pulled her up and helped steady her. "Stupid, you're not alone even if she doesn't come back. Look, Wonder Girl, Misato likes you too, others would be there, and even I…maybe you aren't as bad as I first thought, alright?" she hated her emotional timbre. She wasn't saying they'd be friends or anything, but maybe they could get along. When Rei didn't let go of her hand, hung closer actually, "What? Aren't I worthy of trying to be nice to the great First Child?!"
"You are…being nice to me," was all Rei said. Not saying another word, the two teens found a place to sit as the tech crews rushed out. They pulled unit-01's plug out again, as Ritsuko glared pure hate at Asuka and saw to the work. It was a long and busy day, and eventually Misato showed up demanding an explanation. When the older woman heard and went to strike Asuka, everybody present was stunned with Rei stopped her. Then the three left the salvage area to talk…begrudgingly Misato relented. Shinji was in for a world of hurt when s/he got back.
X-X
It had been a very stressful and odd set of two days for Misato following Shinji's liquefaction and solidification. Vague memories of copious amounts of alcohol, Kaji, and throwing the food Shinji left for her at the wall was all she recalled of that first day. That bastard had been planning this! Playing with her heart and feelings like some windup toy! When that wo/man got back, Misato was going to have some very strong words with them! The day following the destruction of the Katsuragi/Ikari/Ayanami/Soryu apartment, Misato repeated the process at Kaji's to make it balanced.
But after she polished off her second bottle of vodka, Kaji hugging her side to give her what emotional support she'd allow she got the call. A very happy and ecstatic Ritsuko had informed her that it wasn't going to take a month nor possibly fail. Out of the LCL Shinji's body just reformed as if it had always been there, only it was his fourteen year old form again! He was unconscious, but all the readings the scientist saw said he'd wake in the morning. Ritsuko couldn't keep Rei from breaking into the recovery room, but she did force Asuka back to the apartment. Only one extra bed was available for that room.
Well Kaji was the recipient of a VERY happy Misato who needed an outlet for her joy, he didn't complain…until the next morning and the soreness. Now at Nerv, a skip in her step, Misato made her way towards the recovery room. She'd punish Shinji once he was back in the apartment. Yes, she'd have to wear even tinier tops and tighter shorts. Tease, tease, and more teasing! Well…maybe teasing ALL the time would be bad. Shame he wasn't older then it wouldn't all be teasing, Kaji wasn't quite the man she remembered. Smooth and calculating without any home skills was nice for a college fling, but a life mate?
"You didn't waste any time getting here," Ritsuko stood at the nurses' stand looking up from a clip board. Several of the pages were flipped up, complex hieroglyphics that only the insane or doctors could read. Handing the board back to the attendant, Ritsuko stuffed her hands awkwardly into her pockets as Misato bore down on her. "What I'm only here to check on his recovery, nothing more," but she couldn't meet Misato's eyes.
Leaning close to the woman, her best female friend now that Shinji was batting double X's again, Misato could tease her too for not paying more attention. "Somehow I doubt that you're here just out of professional courtesy. Maya said something about your night helping Shinji with that code thing of his," Misato forced the good doctor to cringe and back away. Who knew Ritsuko had a thing for Shinji as a woman, Misato sure as hell didn't. "So have you spoken to him yet, has he woken?" Misato's head crooned to the side to try seeing through the door.
Getting back up tall and semi-proud, Ritsuko fixed her dark blue top under her lab coat. "He was sleeping when I checked on him an hour ago. Ayanami was up through. Girl had a very odd look about her. Don't even want to know what's going through her mind," Ritsuko followed Misato's gaze to the solid door. "You didn't get x-ray vision since the accident did you? Cause if you did, going to have to have Kaji examined. Now," she groaned with severe agitation. "I have to go check on my prize LCL recovery patient. The Suzuhara boy is making up for lost time breaking in his new arm and hand. He's causing problems for the nurses giving him sponge baths," with another sigh of aggravation Ritsuko headed off to the more experimental wings of the hospital.
Not envying Ritsuko at all for what she had to do, Misato waved weakly at the departing woman in love. This LCL treatment stuff was going to revolutionize the world, and Ritsuko was at the forefront of it along with Shinji and Touji. Her feelings for Shinji were confused, but she knew the Suzuhara boy was a little too eager for Misato's tastes. She wondered if the lad offered Shinji money for any of her used underwear or access to the apartment when she had just a little too much to drink. "Come to think of it…if Shinji were different when I black out he'd have free reign to…" warmness spread in her stomach.
"Not now…likely not ever. Two years…two years older and it wouldn't be an issue," Misato just couldn't get over the age issue. Heading to the door, waving off the nurse that was approaching, Misato stopped when she heard sounds coming from inside. It sounded like Ayanami, but giggling. Had she ever heard Ayanami giggle before? Pressing her ear to the door to spy with increased ability she was sure it was giggling and was that moaning? Ok, maybe Shinji wanted to sample out his reclaimed man bits?
But Shinji never acted like that before, hell she doubted Shinji tried anything on his own when he was in his mother's body! From the sound of stories though, Maya and Ritsuko did help Shinji to learn how feels and likely making him the most able to please a woman. "But to do it with his Rei, genetics aside…and so quick?' she gripped the handle softly. This would need to be a sudden entry to stop any attempts to cover it up. Throwing the door open, Misato rushed into the room, "Wake-y wake-y Shin-chan!"
Red from the neck up, the rest obscured from view, Ayanami Rei was laying under the thin hospital blanket in Shinji's bed. "Major Kats-suragi, i-is it time for us to l-leave already?" she squirmed a little as small puffs of air left her mouth.
"Misato! Sorry about the whole business with this, but I thought it was necessary," Shinji sat up next to Rei. Putting his hands on the bed, rubbing them a little against the cloth, he was all smiles. "Rei-chan was cold so we opted to share a bed. A/C in these places are…" he went quiet and stared off into space for a moment. Head twitching a little, Shinji's smile reached his eyes wonderfully, "Nurse with my breakfast pass by yet? I could just kill for some fruit or eggs. Just about anything really!"
What the…was that moisture on Shinji's hand? Rei was looking incredibly bashful for a girl that never showed ANY emotion. Misato's tactical mind said what she had seen, but she wouldn't accept it! "I could rustle something up for you, but wouldn't you rather just go home? We can stop for groceries on the way back," she was tempted to pull the sheet off. Shinji was happy, and she was glad, but he was acting strange. The time Rei fell asleep on him left him panicking, now he had an arm around her shoulder and she was nestled in like a baby kitten!
Doing Misato a favor, Shinji pulled off the blanket revealing himself in the hospital robe and Rei in her school uniform. Nothing wrong here, just a little ruffled skirt is all, right? Getting off the bed and heading to the window, giving Misato a nice view of his tight rump, Shinji drew open the blinds. "I guess that works too. Hospital food is often too bland, and I want flavor," he tossed off his robe and turned around. Grabbing his clothing, provided by Rei the day before, Shinji let both women get a good look at his more than average morning condition. "Something wrong?" he asked pulling a shirt on and stopping.
Actually blushing at the sight, Misato averted her eyes from Shinji's waggling. Finding Rei's face a nice bland target, Misato had to note that Rei was NOT looking away. "Shinji-kun, maybe you should have let us leave the room before you decided to flash us you're little friend there," not too small she remembered, bigger than Kaji. Something was odd here, but after what happened maybe she was looking too deep into it. "Ayanami-kun, getting a good look at your ex-mother?" Misato was expecting Rei to look away not nod.
"Oops, forgot about that. Been awhile since I had to care about NOT changing in the room with women," Shinji put on his boxers and slacks. Helping Rei get off the bed, Shinji kept a hand on her shoulder. Rolling his hand over towards the door, Shinji asked, "Well shall we go before they try to keep me here for more tests?"
Putting the back of her hand to Shinji's forehead, "Are you sure you're feeling alright Shinji-kun? You're not acting your normal self right now." She pressed her forehead after her hand proved to dull. No, no fever or anything. Leading Shinji and Rei to the car, Shinji standing oddly close to her, so much she could feel his body heat, Misato tried to shake it off. Just happy to be back to normal she guessed. "You're going to have to clean the apartment as punishment for scaring us again, young man. I bet Asuka is going to make you cook her favorites for supper too," she opened the door, let Rei get in back, and opened Shinji's door.
Strapping in, Shinji turned back to look into the back seat. "You doing alright back there, Rei-chan? Want some company on the way back? As for cleaning and supper if that's all I have to do to get back in your good graces it's well worth it," Shinji sat back down as Rei shook her head. Reclining his seat back and laying down as much as the car would allow he let out a yawn. "I could go for western food anyway," his hand reached into his slacks and fiddled about a little. "Fixing a bunch is all," he said as Misato's eyes went wide.
"J-just remember that you do that with people that don't know what happened to you, you're likely to be arrested Shinji-kun," Misato started the car and pulled out. She had seen Shinji fix her panties once or twice before, never so openly, so maybe it was Shinji just not used to being a male again. If he was suddenly a pervert though, Misato was going to be very worried. "So how was it this time, remember anything?" she asked this before, but Shinji claimed no memories.
Telling what he remembered as they drove to the shop and got what little groceries Shinji picked up, he never lost that chipper but odd sense about him. Rei stayed at Shinji's side at all times, often holding his hand or being arm to arm with him. Sadly he said he couldn't remember much. A dream was all he could recall, but what it pertained to he couldn't recall. As they got back into the car, he holding the bag of food, Shinji seemed more withdrawn and his normal self.
Once they got back to the apartment, Shinji not saying anything else after the discussion about his time as LCL, Rei released his hand. "I believe I am fatigued and wish to have a lie down. Shinji-kun, Katsuragi-san excuse me," Rei bowed lightly and headed to Shinji and her room.
"Don't know if I'll let you sleep in there with her now, Shinji-kun," Misato teased as she helped Shinji carry the food to the kitchen. Stepping over the few days of take-out containers and instant food, she set it on the table. "When you were both women it was one thing, now that you've got your man parts back. As you were so keen to show us, you're not quite used to being a man again," she gauged her teasing success as only a moderate one.
Pulling out two Yebisu, Shinji handed one to Misato and set the other by the stove. "Well would you rather I sleep in your room until we can work something out? Don't want you worrying about me," Shinji popped the top of his can and took a swig. Blanching, tongue out and waggling, Shinji forced himself to take another drink, "Don't you have any wine or something else less bitter?"
Yanking the can out of Shinji's hand, Misato's incredulous expression was extreme. "Young man! You do not get to drink my beer! I know you've been through a lot, but this is a bit much," she eyed his can with a silly notion. It was stupid teenage drama, had no real barring or merit in life, but when she sipped out of his can she got a small rush. "And you'll be on the couch. With my odd hours it'd be no good for you to sleep in there with me," so her little man wanted to try teasing her back did he?
He gave her a playful wink before getting seriously into his cooking. Making idle conversation about what he missed over the past few days, Shinji got the stock going and just waiting for the time to end. Sitting next to Misato, not across from her but right next to her, he asked, "Misato-san I have a serious question to ask you."
Did she drink to much already? Both cans he brought out were gone, but that shouldn't be making her feel this warm! "You know you can always ask me anything, Shinji-kun," damn she was feeling skittish like a school girl for some reason! This wasn't right, Shinji didn't act this way a week ago, and she wasn't sure she liked the new changes. Crushing a can against her head, more to knock some sense into her, she tossed it into the recycle. Slurring a little bit, "Going to explain your sudden change in personality? At times you're yourself, but others you act like you're something else."
Munching on one of the apples Asuka bought before the accident, Shinji's head wobbled back and forth. "Well just after nearly dying for the third time," he paused as a sour and fearful expression wafted over him. After a savage and angry bite, he crewed in silence. "I don't want things to go back to how they are. I…if I were to tell you I love you…honestly love you Misato…what would you…" he started leaning in closer to her with each pause.
Love? LOVE?! Shinji in love with her? That was stupid that was impossible! Misato tried to pull her hands up to push him away as he leaned in, but she just couldn't. It was a joke is all, he was pulling her leg and going to back out at the last moment. She'd call his bluff! Yeah that's right. But before she knew it, she heard his apple hit the table, his hands at her shoulder and chest expertly messaging her. A dream, that's all, she was drunk and dreaming about this. Shinji couldn't love a drunken slob, good for little more than spreading her legs for Kaji whenever the urge hit her. When his tongue brushed up against her lips she snapped out of it and gently pushed him back, "I'm…you're too young for me Shinji-kun. Unlike Ritsuko and Maya…fourteen is just too young for…sixteen or older maybe but…"
Never had Misato ever seen such hunger in Shinji's eyes before, he wasn't playing wasn't trying some joke with her. "I…I just can't," but she couldn't deny his hands were working magic and the apple left him tasting sweet on her lips. Forcing herself up, her chair fell down with a crash, "Call me when breakfast is ready and…as for your question. Shinji, you are very important to me. If you were a little older maybe if you were REALLY serious and not already between two others…" She couldn't finish her mind was to befuddled. Booze, relief of him waking, and tiny petting session far to experienced than expected left her overloaded. Misato just went to her room, pulled the blanket over her head, and when Shinji called for breakfast, she was asleep.
X-X
Holding a half-eaten ice cream cone I her hand, Rei alternated looking at the chocolate/vanilla swirl and her prey. The magazines she had been reading and general conversation in the girls' locker room stated undue body mass was bad. Maybe she should stop eating so much, she didn't want to be unappealing to Shinji, but physical attraction amid family members isn't a necessity, right? Then again, what Shinji did at the hospital three days ago wasn't a family practice either. To his credit though, he did explain it was due to his near death experience. It felt wonderful though…confusing and wonderful.
Following behind Shinji and Sakura as they went about their date, Rei made sure to keep a good distance and several people between them. Something about Shinji's mentality after regaining his male body left Rei feeling worried. He was acting subtly different most of the time, flagrantly others, or just a tad peculiar at others. For one thing Shinji was nearly always eating now. "Akagi says it's the effects of reintroducing male hormones to his mind," but that didn't explain that finger trick.
"Oh Ikari-san I didn't know you knew so much about music! I'd have had you help me ages ago on my homework!" Sakura gushed jovially. The woman was in a very expensive looking formal kimono, crimson with purple accents, and had her hair dolled up with an elaborate pin. A picture of classical grace and beauty, Sakura had done nothing but blush and fawn over Shinji since the date started a half hour after school. "D-did you want to come home with me and help me…get a few things done?" she averted her eyes.
Sipping on an espresso, his hand on a baguette, Shinji just laughed and held his cup out towards her. "I don't know THAT much, but I'd be more than happy to help you with your fingering, maybe your mouth work," he let the double meanings fly. Taking a savage bite out of his bread, the lad set it down and used the hand to cover Sakura's. Others passed the two, giggling or pointing at them as they sat outside at the café.
Taking a lick of her soft served, Rei again felt a small pang of guilt she was unused to. Eyeing the nearby garbage, Rei tossed it away. Maybe it would be better if she stopped eating so much food after all. Getting behind a trio of girls walking towards her prey, Rei shadowed to the corner of the café to get a better vantage point. She could hear and see well enough from behind, but without proper volume she couldn't tell if Shinji meant things exactly as stated or if they had a deeper subtle meaning.
While Misato hadn't directly told Rei to do this little spy craft Rei got the impression the Major wanted it. Ever since Shinji got back to the apartment, Misato and he had been acting strange around one another. More Misato became baffled and flustered around him, Shinji was just his new confusing aloof self. When Shinji accidentally walked in on Asuka in the shower…he claimed anyway…Misato casually asked Rei if she noticed anything strange. Not wanting to doubt or think badly about Shinji, her sole family, Rei remained silent. But that got her moving, if she did nothing and Shinji was sick it was just as bad if not more.
Her bashfulness increased a hundred fold, face fully flushed, Sakura nodded demurely as she got up. "I-I guess we could go. I'm really-really glad you accepted my invitation yesterday, Shinji-san. I'm really enjoying this," Sakura took Shinji's hand and let him lead her out of the fenced in set of tables. Being half a foot taller, and several years older, it was comical to see the two walking so comfortably together.
Taking a more brazen approach, Shinji wrapped a hand around her waist and held her close as they walked. "Just to make sure you don't trip, Sakura-chan. And I have to admit I didn't expect my first day back after my training would have ended like it did. A beautiful older woman asking ME out on a date. Sorry for how Asuka reacted," he led at a slow pace.
Rei had seen that little altercation after Shinji's first day back to school. Shinji had been his standard self during the majority of the day. He had been seen talking to Hokari during lunch away from Asuka leaving the girl frazzled. When Rei asked her about the event in passing, Hikari just shook her head and said nothing happened. Once school did let go, Asuka ran over to Rei and Shinji for the walk home so was present was Tachibana approached. The elegant and well off girl had a gaggle of tagalongs, and several men watching her, when she asked Shinji to meet her for a date. Asuka called the girl a fame digging hussy and stormed off. Shinji did accept making Asuka stay in her room the whole night.
"I do not know where Shinji-kun's confidence and new appreciation for food and women came from," Rei murmured. Damn this was confusion. Following as close as she could, she listened to the pair chat about Sakura's first television appearance. Before that morning in the hospital, Shinji had never touched her in anyway other than comfortingly and politely. Rei had gleamed all intimate contact Shinji had was either due to intoxication or at the prompting of somebody else (Akagi/Ibuki). But what he had done, through her skirt no less, had been something totally new. Rei's attempt to self-replicate had not been as good.
Shaking her personal confusion to the side, Rei watched as Sakura opened the door to her high rise apartment and let Shinji in. "I'm on the twentieth floor, Shinji-san. Father got the apartment for me before Mother and he moved to Tokyo-2. H-He is really eager to meet you too. I-if you and I…" she blushed again and the door shut cutting off Shinji's reply.
"This is unlike Shinji-kun. But I was not privy to his actions as a male," Rei found a bench that oversaw the door. For the next hour she sat and watched the door to the apartment complex. The sun went from half laden to just below the horizon bathing the sky in purples and oranges. "I will confront him about his change," maybe she'd broach the subject to Akagi and see the results of his post recovery physical.
Walking out of the Tachibana apartment with a large smile on his face, Shinji was whistling the end of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. "Ah, Rei-chan, decided to stop stalking me and just sit comfortably?" Shinji waved at the pondering Ayanami. With a skip in his step he approached the stunned teenager, "Shall we walk home together or are you going to go talk to Sakura-chan?"
Using the chan modifier already? Well judging on the time spent in her apartment and her knowledge of Sakura's emotional longing for Shinji it wasn't unlikely they engaged in some of courtship. Getting off the bench, smoothing her skirt back down, Rei nodded. "I was under the impression you did not know I was following you. As for Tachibana-kun, I am not interested in her as much as I am your change in suffix," Rei was tempted to reach for Shinji's hand but didn't.
Putting both hands behind his head, Shinji gazed up at the twilight sky and chuckled. "Well I hate to admit this, but your hair captures the light really well. It's such a gorgeous shade of blue too," Shinji winked at her playfully. Stuffing his hands in his pockets, "As for Saku-chan, well we worked on her fingering and a little wind work." He shifted his weight to the side a little, "She was VERY exuberant in her wind work. Have to admit though, don't think she was ready for mine."
Ok, she had heard enough, Shinji was never so candid about his actions regarding the fairer sex. He was a gentleman and her magazines said a gentleman never kissed and told. Grabbing Shinji's crooked elbow, she brought the boy to a stop. "You are coming with me to Nerv for investigation," she started dragging the man with her. Her mind was no longer being blinded by emotion, no she was seeing clearly. Shinji needed help, and she was going to see to it.
Adding pressure to his leg, Shinji stopped his motion and freed his arm quickly from her. "What are you talking about Rei-chan. I had my physical yesterday, Ritsuko. You were there watching," Shinji's smile wasn't quite so real this time. Turning back towards the apartment, Shinji increased his pace. "Just because I help somebody with her school work is no reason to drag me to Nerv," he grunted a little.
Opting for the easiest solution, Rei tripped the lad sending him to the ground and sat on his chest as he recovered. With one hand on his shoulder she counted on her left hand. "Your attitude has shifted to a degree that is alarming. The interaction between Katsuragi and yourself, the flirting with Akagi, accepting a date with a stranger, engaging in a yet unknown quantity of sexual engagement with her, and…what you did with me," she went a little soft towards the end. Feeling him rebel against him, Rei forced him back down harder. "And lastly your resistance here. Before Shinji would not have fought to escape a situation like this, but now you openly rebel. Explain or I'll call Katsuragi now," she pulled out her phone.
With a sigh, Shinji relaxed against the ground and grumbled. "Alright, I'll tell you at the apartment. That is unless you want to keep putting on a show for everybody?" Shinji rolled his head at all the other pedestrians gawking at them. His body stopped fighting against his capture with solemn resignation. Laughing a little as Rei's cheeks went pink as she realized how brazen they looked and got up after she scrambled to her feet.
Following Shinji up the stairs to the apartment in silence, Rei didn't say anything since she got off him until the door was shut. She had been right, something was wrong with her only true friend…brother…those words got confusing. Once the door was shut, the lights were off so Rei assumed they were alone. She wanted answers and ways to bring back the boy she cared for, "We are here as per your requirements. Tell me now what is causing such a shift in mannerism?"
Holding his hands up in mocking defeat, Shinji just kicked his shoes off and headed deeper into the apartment. Getting himself another of Misato's Yebisu and a bag of chips, he sat on the couch and flipped on the television. Pushing play on the DVD player, one of Misato's personal relief films started. "I'm not Shinji," he said and popped the top of his can, "and you going to sit by me or continue to try and collect flies?"
"I did not realize Katsuragi left such films in her player. She was upset with us when we watched one before," Rei was captivated by the film. Sitting on the couch, rote repetition had her body sit next to Shinji and help herself to some chips. Could a man and a woman really do…she thought the reproductive organs were dirty but those two were using their mouths to…! No! She had to keep focused, turning back to 'Shinji', she watched him down some of the intoxicant. "Explain yourself, you have his body, many if not all his memories, but…" he had known things that only Rei and he had known…how could he if he wasn't really himself?
Sliding a hand down his slacks 'Shinji' let out a very content groan. "She didn't found it in her room while I was cleaning it. Think I messed her head up a little with my 'confession' to her," Shinji's hand didn't move but it was still down. "Man, men really do have it easier than women. But I think it feels a little better as a woman," he sipped his beer a bit more. Leaning against the couch, putting his head against the cushion right next to Rei's head he smiled. "Want to try that Rei-chan, what they're doing? Feels REALLY good, and I can teach you how to do it well in case Shinji chooses you," he blew a little air into her ear.
Flinging herself away from the boy, her ear tingled as did her stomach. "I did not wish to speak to you about the major's choice in pornography. Nor did I wish to engage in such acts with somebody society would consider my family," but the damn image was in her mind now! Getting off the couch, holding her fists out in case the man acted against her will, she was getting frazzled. "Now explain in full detail or I will be forced to act!" she didn't know what she'd do, but she'd do something.
Draining the last of the can and chasing it down with a big handful of chips, Shinji licked his lips. "Think I'll order a pizza, half sausage and pepperoni and half vegi for you," Shinji pulled his hand out of his pants and paused the video on a tasteful image. Pulling his phone out, Shinji patted the couch signaling Rei to sit. "As you perceived, I'm not the Shinji Ikari you know. I'm his mother, Yui, temporarily making use of my little boy's body," Yui shrugged and started hunting for the pizza delivery guy's number in his phones memory.
"Y-Yui Ikari, m-my mother?" Rei fell to her knees as realization slammed into her mind like a pickaxe against a wall. "B-but if that is true, what has happened to Shinji? Why are you acting so…strangely? The commander never said you were addicted to food nor quite so…" she pointed at the paused video. Had Shinji not been in Yui's body, Rei wouldn't have trusted the being, but she already knew it was something that could happen. "How do you know about anything too as you've been inside Unit-01 when it all happened?" Rei shyly sat down next to Shinji.
Snaking out with his free hand, Yui yanked Rei in close. "First off my dear, you're not really my daughter more my sister. Half-sister I guess making Shinji a second cousin or something so don't let that bother you. Two if you spent the last ten years in quasi sensory deprivation you'd be a bit odd too. All I want to do is eat and fuck and the thoughts are a bit muddled. As for how I know what's going on…I have a lot of Shinji's memories from when he synchronized with me. That's why I know he had…has had a huge crush on you since the Fifth angel," Yui confessed and nuzzled the girl.
The internal computer that was Rei's mind was compounding and compiling all that this man said. As strange and impossible as it sound, Rei found truth in it. How would she act if she went back to nothing but lettuce to eat for a week? She'd destroy the first sweet she came across, expound that out a decade…Rei was amazed the soul of Yui Ikari was still sane. Feeling Yui's hand trailing up and down her thigh…maybe Yui wasn't fully sane after all. "Is this appropriate contact for sisters?" Rei tried not to think about the whole 'crush' thing. "And if you are here, where is Shinji? Won't he suffer as you did?" that got a rise out of the girl.
Leaving his hand on her knee for a moment, Yui placed his order for the extra-large and flipped it closed again. Once the evening repast was scheduled, Yui drummed his fingers against Rei teasingly. "I'm not a girl right now, in case you haven't noticed," he chided and grabbed Rei's hand he pulled it closer to the apex of his legs. "And personally I don't care or know about social stigma, you tend to forget about such things after a few years of isolation. My darling boy right now is having a dream I crafted for him while I make sure the women he considers mating with are up to my standards. So I want to sample the wares, so how about it? I'm horny as hell right now, you look pent up. Want to ride the stallion?" Yui cupped Rei's cheek tenderly.
Ok, this was strange and odd beyond Rei's capacity to formulate. This wasn't Shinji, but it was family as well considering genetics. Rei was slowly being awoken to curiosity, and Shinji had factored heavily into that despite knowing it'd never happen. "You will not stay in his body long, and I wager you wish me to remain silent on this matter?" he was drawing closer to her face and his hand was moving northbound again.
Nodding as he pressed his forehead to hers. "I'll get found out soon, you were the one I suspected would notice first. You or the German," Yui said in a confused annoyed tone. "Kyoko's little girl grew up a real thunder cunt, but I guess it's only right considering. "After I see to it which of you women are serious I'll go back. I'll not hurt my boy as my ex-husband had. Now…how about we burn some calories?"
Rei just nodded unsure what Yui was even talking about right now. It was so strange, but so was she right? And as long as Yui relinquished control back to Shinji it was alright. Before Yui could press things further though, Asuka walked in and the DVD was off and the news on as if nothing had been wrong. Most interesting…maybe if only to know how it felt once…Rei considered.
X-X
"Will this day ever end," Makoto whined as he plodding along on his defense tracking. Most of the automated defenses were either broken or infective but still he was tasked with checking them. Getting out of his chair, trying to jumpstart his mind and knock out his fatigue, "Think I'll go check on Akagi and Ibuki with the pilots. Want anything on my way back?" he asked his co-conspirator.
Looking up from his own work, Shigeru shook his head in frustration sending his longer hair splaying everywhere. "These electrical reports about the repair work for the main bridge are horrid! It's going to take weeks to fix it all. So yeah, get me a chocolate bar or something to keep me awake," he pulled a bill out of his pocket and held it out. "Going to check on Ikari, or going to check to see if the change is permanent," he snickered a little.
Putting Shigeru's money into his pocket, Makoto had a minor convulsion of irritation. So what if he had been attracted to that marvelous body Shinji used to have. "Just want to make sure one-third of our pilot corp isn't going to be gone. We do have the angels to worry about you know," Makoto dusted his hands off. Hating that damn smug look Shigeru had on his face, mocking jerk. Just because Shigeru had a girlfriend wasn't a reason to hold it over others.
"Oh hey buddy, off to the break room?" Kaji called out from behind Makoto. Rushing up Makoto, the smooth operator gave Makoto's back a smart slap in good fun. "Or are you off for the day," oh how Kaji's grin was wide and large.
Another reason Makoto was depressed, and it just slapped his back. Makoto had to lose the gullible yet oddly alluring new Ikari woman to him getting his body back a week ago, and during all that Kaji got back with Misato! With the common knowledge of Maya wanting in Shinji's panties or boxers, Makoto had little options left. "Off to check on the pilots, Ikari-kun mostly. It's been a long and boring day, so thought I'd go for a walk and see how he's doing. Not every day you know of a boy becoming a woman and back to a guy again," a reasonable and half true response. Part of him wanted to see how Akagi was doing…she was still single.
Hanging onto Makoto's side, Kaji was nothing but smiles and joy. "Think I'll go with you. Want to make sure that kid is doing good to. Also see how things are going with Ibuki and him. Boy could use a good girlfriend I guess," Kaji pulled off from Makoto and made idle talk.
Damn Makoto hated how much charisma Kaji had. He didn't really dislike the man, just envious of all his success with the women. Misato, old stories of Ritsuko, and even Maya said Kaji hit on her…Makoto could never do that. "So how are things with Katsuragi and you going? Maya-kun said you two had a double date right?" why couldn't Misato have asked him!? Life was boring when all he had was his manga, movies, and hand.
Opening the door to the testing chamber, Kaji called out cheerfully, "Hello ladies…oh lady. Ritsuko the test over already?" Kaji held the door open for Makoto. Strolling over to the faux blond, Kaji helped himself to reviewing the outcome. Humming as his brow knit up in confusion, "This looks odd. His score is nearly one-hundred percent!"
Tuning out the technobabble, Makoto didn't know much of what the two talked about. He was responsible for other aspects of Nerv and it wasn't harmonics or synchronization. "Well think I'll head down to the men's changing room to talk to him. Want to apologize for how I acted when he was a she," Makoto stuffed his hands in his pockets. Hoping Kaji stayed behind, the smell of tobacco and antiseptic was too powerful in that room and he knew where it came from. Maybe he'd try those internet dating sites.
"I'll go with you," Kaji gave Ritsuko a mock punch to the chin, "Keep your hopes up Ritsuko. You'll get out of here eventually. Just remember me when that LCL money starts coming on. The council is all about it." The two exchanged a queer look, Ritsuko more stunned while Kaji was particularly stern but it ended as quick as it started. "Let's go, Makoto-kun, onward to our hero," Kaji strode confidently down the way.
Great, just great more condescending masculine jerk! Why did women go for the jerks and leave the nice guys to stew and rot! "Well I won't have as much time as I wanted, but if we can at least…is that Maya?" Makoto pointed at the doorframe to the men's changing room. The tan bottom of Maya's uniform and one bent up leg was all they could see, but that tiny frame was well known to the two men. Calling out, "Maya-kun what are you doing?"
Arms' flailing about wildly as she back peddled against the wall behind her, Maya's mouth was open wide and full of whimsy. "I-uh was just checking…on uh…lights…," covering her mouth with her hand Maya all but skipped off. Anybody that saw her though was sure she was happier than they'd ever seen her.
Twirling his waist to follow the petit and slim rump wiggle as she ran, Kaji let out a low whistle. "Never thought I'd see Ibuki getting some on the clock face sucking in. Never though Shinji-kun had it in him either," Kaji let out a whistle and shook his head slowly.
"Oh so it is you two," Shinji walked out of the men's room with his hands on his hips. "Kaji, Makoto, how are you two doing and why did you chase my darling little Maya-chan away?" he gazed between the men to follow Maya's retreating form.
Who was this boy to talk so flippantly! Makoto might not be the biggest of men or the most important but he was the boys superior! Makoto was better than some wet rat of a boy that got attention based on what was given to him. "Now Ikari-kun, is that anyway to talk to your elders? I know Katsuragi is a bit friendlier than others but you'll show me proper respect," he waggled a finger at the boy. His pride took a massive hit at seeing Maya's face, knowing this damn kid was getting it on with a woman he hadn't considered until it was too late! "Now apologize to Kaji-san and me," he said in his sternest tone.
Waving his hands slowly, Kaji took a step away from the two others, "Now Makoto-kun it's not a big deal. I'm sure Shinji-kun here didn't mean any disrespect." Sliding on over to the younger man, Kaji held out his hand and gave Shinji's a shake. "And let me congratulate you my boy on that little conquest of yours. That date you had with Maya must have been a doozy for her to be locking lips with you on base," Kaji pumped Shinji's hand twice.
Yanking his hand away as if Kaji was covered in sores, Shinji's smile fell to a frown. "Respect? Why should I respect either of you?" Shinji dusted his hands on his slacks. "You," he pointed at Makoto, "how many times have you gazed death in the face? How often have you died in the line of duty? I'm up to three. If I were to leave, with Unit-01 only responding to me, what would happen? Now what would happen if you left?" Shinji poked Makoto's chest hard, "And all this time you mock me, judge me, and think I'm lesser than you. I want you to grow up abandoned, living alone and despised to keep you depressed and without self-esteem! See how you turn out!"
For such a small boy, Shinji was a mighty intimidating force Makoto realized. The boy looked positively insane, eyes and nostrils flaring as Shinji jabbed his finger into Makoto's chest. Backing away, bewildered by the shift in the lad, "I…Ikari-kun I didn't know. I, I know you've not had the best life until now. G-guess I've been a little harsh on you. Y-you can call me whatever you want." Suddenly he felt ashamed of himself, he knew more about Shinji than most. Misato had let slip enough details to those around her to know Shinji's life had been harsh. The boy, no man, piloted to protect them all and the pain was real. Yeah, Shinji was his superior, maybe that was why Maya was so fixated.
But Shinji wasn't done yet either, shifting from Makoto to Kaji, the boy went from mild irritation to outright anger. "And you, Kaji," Shinji spat on the ground between the man's feet, "maybe you should grow up a little bit." He crossed his arms and headed past the two. "How you treat Misato is criminal. All she wants is you to be serious and show even a little honesty in your relationship. The number of times you nearly had her and did something stupid, some need for conquest ruined it. Know that if I were a little older I'd have stolen her from you. Maybe I still will if you don't get your act together. I'd hate to hurt you, you've been great to me and I respect that, but Misato comes first. So sort your life out and either propose to her or break it off," Shinji rounded the corner leaving the two men stunned.
"Well, what got into that kid," Kaji popped a smoke into his mouth and lit up. "Think Akagi needs to do some brain work on him, he's not talking right," but by how his teeth gnashed into that butt it was easy to see Shinji's words stuck a cord.
It was Makoto's turn to pat Kaji's shoulder. "Maybe or maybe he's just speaking his mind. He sounded lucid enough to me. You do treat Katsuragi-san rather poorly at times. And I did treat him and the other pilots like annoyances and not the heroes they are," he was done for the day. It was time to go home and think, hopefully Kaji did too. Makoto was tired of Kaji hurting Misato with his insincerity, hopefully the man took those words to heart.
X-X
Authors notes
Well there is a bit of the switch…trying to keep this from going to odd or dark but can't have all silly. Hoping you enjoyed this and know that I'm aiming for 10 chapters total for this story. Don't need it to go on TOO long.
Ja Mata
Zentrodie