Chapter 10
Arthur's note: Sorry for the long delay, but life is life and I can only dedicate so much time to this work. However I won't give up on it and I will try to do at least one update a week. I have a question for those who are reading and following, would you prefer shorter chapters so faster updates? Or longer chapters with a little more detail spread out?
Also thank you for your support and positive reviews, I have never written a fic or really a story of this size. So I am learning, and while my writing isn't as great as I'd like it to be and there are probably errors that I miss. I will slowly improve, and reviews are always nice, but please keep them positive. Any criticism will be taken into consideration but do it in a positive way.
Thank you again for those that are reading and are enjoying, that is what makes this the most fun for me is hearing that people like it or that it is being read. It's just nice to hear you know? I will start on the next chapter very soon. In the meantime, please enjoy.
Yu breathed out as the sun was beating down on him, Yukiko had gone to get them both a drink leaving him on watch duty alone.
The investigation team had an idea who the next victim would be, Kanji Tatsumi. The local delinquent of Inaba who had taken on a biker gang and won. The group decided to tail him, to try and catch the murderer or at least get some type of lead. Yoskue and Chie were following him as he was talking to a young man, so they were going to keep tabs on Kanji on their end while Yukiko and Yu were supposed to watch the textile shop his mother owned in case the killer came to his home first.
"Sorry!" Yukiko yelled running over to him with two sodas.
Yu gave her a small smile as she handed him the drink "you're fine."
She quickly moved over to is right watching the shop. He watched her in the corner of his eye, her dark hair waved slightly as she looked at him..is she...blushing? Yu suppressed a small smile. He looked over at her as she quickly looked down why is she so nervous...?
"Em..." She started embarrassed "d-do you think the killer will show up?"
Yu looked around "I'm not sure, we really have no idea when and how this man kidnaps.." Yu looked intently at the shop "but it's a possibility"
"I-I see.." Her voice was a little shaky
"Don't worry, if he shows up I'll protect you" Yu said playfully
Her blush deepened as she giggled a little "thank you.." She looked down again "I-Im sorry..." Her brow furrowed "i guess I'm just a little nervous.."
Yu cocked his head "hmm? About the killer?"
Yukiko shook her head slightly "mm mm" she looked away "i-it's just... I have never really talked with a boy my age like I have with you..." She said shyly
Yu felt his lips curl as he started laughing
She shot a surprised but slightly hurt look at him "H-Hey..." Her voice showing hurt "I-it's not funny..."
Yu quickly tried to stop his laughter "n-no! Ha ha ha it's..ha ha ha not... That!" He slowly stopped laughing as she looked at him curiously still blushing
Yukiko was one of the most talked girls at school. In fact, no guy had ever been able to get Yukiko on a date. so it became a challenge to beat so the fact she had never really talked to a boy was surprising to him.
"I just almost can't believe that.." Yu said seriously shaking his head
Yukiko looked flustered "oh! Umm why not?"
Yu just shook his head "I have my reasons." He looked away
"H-hey!" Surprise in her voice "that's not fair!"
Yu just chuckled "how about this.." He taped his head "I will tell you... Just another time." He smiled
Yukiko looked at him "but-" She started
"Yukiko.. Can I have your number?" He cut her off hoping to distract her...it worked
Her blush was deep "O-oh!" She fumbled into her pocket "of course!" She smiled shyly.. She looked really happy as they exchanged numbers she looked away a new smile on her face "umm..." She locked eyes with him "please...call any time.."
Yu's heart froze, the way she was looking at him.. Her smile... he lost the calm composure he had held the whole conversation "is... that a request miss Amagi?" Yu said smoothly
She blushed slightly.. It looked like she was trying to think of the right thing to say."I'll let you... Be the judge of that." She turned away
Whoa... Yu sat there for a second. he was seeing a new side of Yukiko more and more as he got to know her... It caught him off guard but he definitely didn't mind.
"You know.." Yukiko started seriously "it's so easy for Chie to do this.." She motioned to Yu "with her personality and all... " she frowned a little "she seems to really enjoy hanging out with you guys...and well..." A small blush crossed her face "I... Feel the same." She turned away
Yu could feel a warmth from her "Yukiko..." Yu smiled as she turned towards him "I'm really glad I've been getting to know you." Yu said sincerely
Yukiko's eye lit up as a small smile formed "R-really...?"
Yu nodded as he looked back at the shop
"So... Does that mean you'll tell me why you couldn't believe me...?" She said timidly
Yu chuckled "hmmm..."
She was looking at him with anticipation.
Yu shook his head "I will tell you... Just not today."
"Oh.." She furrowed her brow
"Why are you so curious?" Yu teased
"O-oh!" She stuttered "I-Im not! I mean.. I am!" She stopped as Yu started laughing "you're so mean.." She said with a small smile
Yu chuckled "I am aren't I?" He gave her a smirk
"Hey.. Is that Chie and Yoskue?" Yukiko perked up looking down the street
"Ya... Wait they are here ...but Kanji isn't..."Yu groaned "what happened.." he muttered as he started walking towards them as Yukiko followed him
"We..." Yoskue placed his hands together and bowed
"Regret to inform you..." Chie did the same
"That... We failed.." Yoskue drooped
"HEY!" An angry voice called from behind them "what are you two lovebirds doing here!"
Yu looked past them.. It was Kanji oh boy...
Chie blushed "we are not lovebirds!"
"Didn't I just tell you to leave!?" Kanji barked "look..." He sighed "I'm not saying this is your fault..."
"Look.." Yoskue started "we just wanted to know if anything strange had happened to you" fear in his voice
"Strange?! Are you saying I'm strange!" Kanji roared
Whatever Yoskue and Chie had done.. Was still on his mind
"I'm gunna kill you pricks!" Kanji yelled as he ran straight at them
Everyone quickly scattered and started running as hard as they could they had already caused enough problems... They didn't need to cause a fight.
Everyone finally stopped inside a small tunnel. Yukiko slid to the ground as Yoskue placed his hand on the wall, Chie was hunched over as Yu placed his hands on his knees.
"Ugh!" Yoskue groaned "too...much...running..." He said between breaths
Yu chuckled while still catching his breath "what a day.." He muttered as they all nodded in agreement. "You guys wanna call it a day? I don't think we can really do much more."
"Yes please!" Chie whined "I'm starving!"
"Is that all you ever think about is food...?" Yoskue mumbled "but I agree why don't we all go grab something?"
"I don't have to be back at the inn until later. " Yukiko added
They all looked at Yu hopefully.
"I'm..." Yu looked away "sorry guys I actually have to get going." He was starting a job at the hospital tonight and he had to get ready, the sun was starting to go down already "go ahead without me." He smiled
"Aw man." Yoskue looked disappointment " alright we will see you tomorrow right?"
Yu nodded "goodnight everyone."
Yukiko sighed softly as Yu waved goodbye, she really wanted him to him to stay... I wonder why he is leaving?
"Well lets get going!" Chie fist pumped
"Dude.. You have so much energy..." Yoskue eyed Chie "I'm beat."
"Don't be such a baby!" Chie snapped at him
Yukiko giggled as the two started arguing again they really act like a couple
They quickly made their way back down the street they moved quickly past the textile shop..just in case
"Can I get 4 steak skewers?!" Chie said wide eyed
They young clerk starred back dumbfounded "h-how many?!" His voice squeaked
"Actually...5.. I'm really hungry" Chie's voice was giddy
"You are an animal!" Yoskue whistled quietly behind Yukiko so only she would hear "so how was the stakeout with Yu?" Yoskue asked casually
"O-oh it was fine..." Yukiko said quietly
"Hmmm?" Yoskue cocked an eyebrow "fine?" He motioned for her to elaborate
Chie had slowly moved over, curious as well
"W-what?!" Yukiko blurted out she looked at the two starring back at her
"That's pretty vague... Did you talk to him...? Were you awkward...?" Chie poked her
Yukiko felt embarrassed "o-of course! " they both started laughing "no I mean we did talk! We exchanged numbers an-"
"Wait..WHAT?!" Yoskue was taken aback "but you just denied me of it yesterday!" He groaned
Chie snickered "looks like Yu's got you beat."
"N-no it's just..." Yukiko tried to make an excuse "the investigation! Yes, so we can keep in contact" Yukiko nodded seriously
"But...I asked for your number for the same reason..." Yoskue drooped his head
Oppes...
"Hey... ya... What DO you think of Narukami-kun?" Chie asked curiously
"C-Chie!" Yukiko felt her self getting flustered "w-what do you mean?" She tried to play dumb
Chie rolled her eyes "look Yukiko I've know you forever." She looked at her "and you have never been like this about any boy" she motioned at Yukiko
"Eh...well..." Yukiko wasn't sure how to answer it her mind was blank, she could feel Chie and Yoskue starring at her
"Well?" Chie motioned impatiently
"H-he..." Yukiko started hesitantly I don't want to talk about this in front of Yoskue! She tried to motion to Yoskue but Chie didn't catch it "is just a really nice guy!" She said quickly
"Here you go!" the young clerk walked over
Oh thank you! she sighed being rescued from the conversation
"one Tofu dish.." he place the plate in front of Yukiko "one Ramen" he placed the bowl in front of Yoskue "and...five steak skewers" he clerk quickly put the plate down in front of the ravenous Chie. They made small talk as they ate, talking about school and different things, Yukiko didn't say much Yoskue and Chie did a lot of the talking...they seemed to be closer then she remembered
They finished their meals parting ways with Yoskue as Chie began walking with Yukiko home, it was getting late and it was dark already.
"You really like Narukami-Kun don't you?" Chie winked at her
Yukiko's face felt hot "W-What makes you say that?!"
Chie busted out laughing "wow!" She rolled her eyes "that doesn't give it away!" She said sarcastically
Yukiko felt the tenseness of the night go away as she joined with Chie laughing "I'm pretty obvious aren't I?"
"Beyond that.." Chie chuckled "you get so flustered around him, you can hardly talk..." She went a little serious "you have always been able to put on a facade for the inn and people..but with him" Chie looked up "you can't.. Hu?" She looked over
Yukiko nodded "you really noticed that?" Yukiko felt thankful for such a good friend
"Of course!" Chie playfully slapped her arm "we are best friends."
Yukiko smiled "yes.. We are.."
But Yukiko knew Chie had felt that things had been changing. they were close but ever since their shadows it was like they were starting down different paths.
Chie frowned "things sure have changed hu?" She stopped, looking at the night sky
Yukiko nodded remaining silent
"Yukiko.. Promise me we will stay friends no matter what... Ok?" Chie sounded a little worried
"Chie..." Yukiko felt concerned "what's wrong?"
Chie looked down "I-it's nothing...I just.." She looked away a little ashamed "it's just weird..we've always had each other and...it's just weird..ya know?"
Yukiko gave her a confused look "what is weird?"
"N-Never mind..." Chie said quickly "any way I've got to get going.." they had arrived where they usually split "Be safe OK?" Chie smiled
"of course, good night Chie." Yukiko smiled back as she waved to her.
Yukiko felt her phone buzz "Hello?"
"Hey Yukiko-Chan!" one of the inn workers voice came on the phone "Your mom knows it's getting late but could you go to Junes and get a couple things the cooks need to prepare? "
Yukiko sighed "Yes of course, text me everything they need"
"thanks, you are the best!" as the worker hung up
She turned quickly back the way she came.. she sighed it was already 11:30 I'm going to be so tired tomorrow...
She heard a bus turn the corner behind her as it passed her before stopping ahead of. The night air was chili, she pulled her red Cardigan closer before folding her arms trying to stay warm. She noticed a taller figure in what looked like scrubs get off the bus, he was wearing a baseball cap she could see small strands of silver hair Yukiko smiled as the young man walked towards her as he slung a bag over his shoulder
"Yukiko-san.?" Yu's familiar voice came as he walked up to her "What are you doing out so late?"
Yukiko smiled "I could ask you the same."
He smiled "I went to work at a new job tonight."
Yukiko was surprised "A new job? Where?"
Yu shuttered a little "The hospital..I will be cleaning it at night."
"eww..." Yukiko said quietly "that has to be a little scary..."
"Well it was scary...but then something worse happened.." He shuttered again "B-but that's not important."
Yukiko cocked her head "what happened?"
Yu looked a little sick and looked down "I really don't want to talk about it..."
Yukiko chuckled at the way he said it "That bad hu?"
Yu nodded "you have no idea...then again...maybe you do." Yu chuckled "you have probably had your share fair of creepy people..."
"Hmm?" Yukiko looked at him "What do you mean?"
Yu laughed "you are so innocent..."
Yukiko blushed slightly "W-what is that supposed to mean"
"Just that." Yu smirked
"W-well..I know you are probably tired..." Yukiko started "B-but I have to go to Junes before they close to get some things for the inn...and it's... a little scary tonight" Yukiko blushed "would you mind coming with me?"
Yu seemed to light up "Of course!" he said almost instantly
Yukiko giggled That didn't take much ..
They started walking "So how was dinner with Yoskue and Chie?" Yu asked looking over
"It was good..." Yukiko said it could have been better...
Yu cocked his head as she trailed off
"o-oh! Sorry..I guess I'm just a little tired.." Yukiko shivered
"You cold?" Yu asked
Yukiko nodded "It's ok though..."
He took the bag he had on his shoulder he reached in pulling out his uniform coat "Here...put this on."
"O-oh you don't have to..." Yukiko started as he reached around putting it around her shoulders
"It's fine, you need to stay warm." Yu smiled taking the hat he had off and putting it in the bag as a silence enveloped them as they slowly walked down the dim street.
"Narukami-Kun..." Yukiko had a lot of thoughts on her mind. She pulled his jacket around her as they walked softly "Is it bad that I don't want to go home..."
Yu stopped in his tracks and for a second there was a strange look in his eyes. "I..." he started "Don't know if I have an answer for that.." He said honestly
Yukiko nodded "I-I'm sorry..." she started. she had never brought this up with any one, she was surprised how much she trusted Yu already "That was kind of out of the blue.."
Yu nodded "I understand..." he trailed off.
This piqued Yukiko's interest "Y-You do?"
He nodded he looked...almost sad.
Maybe I shouldn't have brought this up. "Narukami-kun...are you ok?"
He quickly shook his head and forced a smile "Yes I am OK."
She hadn't realized it..but they were walking really slow"Oh no..." She felt fear in her stomach "What time is it?"
Yu's eyes went wide as they both pulled out their phones "Oh crap!" They both yelped in unison Junes is closed already! Yukiko groaned it was past 12.
"I am sorry Miss Amagi" Yu said with a teasing formal voice as he bowed "I kept you from your destination."
She giggled "It's OK... Ill figure out a good excuse."
"What...you don't think your parents would like that you had been walking with a boy for a half an hour?" Yu gave her a small wink
"Hmmm...you know, they probably would be happy..." Yukiko tapped her head
"W-what?!" Yu jumped back
"O-oh! Umm nothing!" Yukiko stammered "a-any way! Thank you...for talking with me."
Yu smiled "It's...not a problem at all Miss Amagi let me walk you to the Inn." he gestured
"You don't..." Yukiko stopped as she thought about what he just said "That would be wonderful."
Yukiko didn't speed up...she didn't want to go home, she wanted to stay out and just talk with him. Forget about work, school everything for one day and just talk. She felt like she never could get enough time with him even though it had only been a few times she had been with him one on one.
"You know." Yu started "one thing I love about being here...is how quiet it can be" he was looking up at the stars
Yukiko hadn't ever really thought of it that way "is the city loud?" Curiosity in her voice
"Ya.." He looked over "much louder, sirens.. Cars, construction. I mean you get used to it." He shrugged "but when it's not around.. It's nice."
Yukiko was really realizing how little she knew about outside of Inaba. She sighed as she saw the inn ahead
"Well Id better get in.." Yukiko forced out
Yu nodded "thanks for today, I'm glad we got some more time together."
Yukiko smiled "I agree" she took off his jacket "thank you." She passed it to him
Yu nodded as he took it and threw it on his shoulder "goodnight." He gave a warm smile
"Goodnight" she whispered back as she walked into the inn quietly opening the door. she hadn't thought about it at the time...but she really could get in trouble.
The inn was dark and no one was moving
Hu, that's strange... She quickly went up the stairs, everyone had gone to bed
"Yukiko-chan?!" A woman's voice caused Yukiko to jump
"Ah! Don't scare me like that!" Yukiko held her chest as the worker came up she couldn't make out who it was in the dark
"Sorry that I never texted you the things we needed... I made you stay up late for nothing." The voice was Apologetic
Yukiko could hardly believe it as she shook her head "no it's ok, thank you." She smiled I totally got away with this!
"Ok well goodnight."
"Night" Yukiko quickly got ready for bed she let out a happy sigh when her head met her pillow.
She couldn't believe how much she had enjoyed today, it was nice hanging out with friends...being a normal girl.
Do I really want to take over all this...? She looked around her room thinking about the inn.
A few days later
"Ok, is every one ready?" Yu could hardly see his companions because of the steam, even with his glasses.
"Ready as I'll ever be..." Yoskue groaned for good reason too.
Kanji had appeared on the TV in the same style as Yukiko.. Except this one was much more awkward. Kanji's shadow had appeared in a steamy bathhouse wearing only a towel talking about how he was looking for a strong man...needless to say Yoskue and Yu were both a little hesitant.
"Are we going in...?" Yukiko asked quietly starring at Yoskue and Yu
"Ya..." They both responded starring at the red and black vortex
"Umm?" Chie walked up "hello?
They both shuttered "lets go.." Yu forced himself to take a step as his companions fell in behind him "ok like we planned" Yu said quickly over his shoulder as they walked into the vortex "Yukiko will be mainly support, healing and attacking from a distance." Yu looked at Yukiko as she nodded "Chie I want you in the thick with me." She gave him a thumbs up "Yoskue you do a mix, move around a lot and support us, but don't hesitate to get in close." Yoskue winked spinning one of his daggers in the air "lets go!" Yu changed his pace into a jog as he moved through the vortex into the same bathhouse they had seen on the midnight channel
"Teddie.. Can you sense anything?" Yu said trying to look through the steam as sweat dripped down his face from the heat
"No..." Teddie's voice came from behind "the moisture is too thick."
Yu nodded "stay on alert everyone, if you see something call it out."
the group contiuned down the hallway they had been walking for a little while. Yu didn't like it, it was too quiet and they hadn't run into a single shadow they came into a more open area his mind was sending him warnings.
"Yoskue, i don't like this" he motioned Yoskue to get closer "try and summon some wind to clear the steam a little."
Yoskue nodded as the blue tarot card appeared "persona!" He said softly as wind blew the area around them clear
Yu froze, they had been surrounded by shadows, Yoskue swore as Teddie let out a yelp as what looked like a boxer threw a punch skimming the bear's head.
"Chie!" Yu ordered pointing at the shadow "take care of it!" She nodded as her persona appear giving the boxer a swift kick in the gut
"Amagi!" Yu belted pointing at the two enemies to the right "hit them with everything you've got!" He quickly summoned Izanagi pooling his energy into his Persona as he started fighting off the shadows at the front
"Yoskue!" Yu yelled grinding his teeth "help Chie with the rest on the left!"
Yu saw flames shoot forth from Yukiko's persona scorching and throwing the two shadows on the ground
He quickly moved as his persona was fighting one shadow to the other, he slid as a shadow that looked like a bird holding a lantern dive bombed him, he quickly pooled his energy into Izanagi who broke from the other shadow bringing lighting on the bird causing it to go unconscious on the ground. Yu quickly ran up to it and finished the creature with his sword while Izanagi skewered the other enemy.
Yu wiped the sweat from his eyes as Izanagi disappeared again into his soul. "Everyone OK?!" Yu yelled
"Good!" Yoskue yelled
"we handled that no problem!" Chie yelled confidently
"I did it!" Yukiko giggled
Yu smiled happy to see everyone doing so well "Great job everyone! Lets keep going!"
It was just like Yukiko's castle, they went floor by floor pushing to get to the top, the shadows got stronger and stronger, this last fight had been really hard, Yu had almost lost his head if Yoskue hadn't see the attack coming. Chie had been scorched by a fire attack while Yoskue and Yukiko had similar close calls
Yu pulled his sword out from the giant...dog...thing he had just killed as he stepped back on the ground as it disappeared into a cloud of black. Yukiko had her hands on her knees breathing hard and even Chie looked a little winded.
"You guys ready to call it a day?" Yu asked pulling his glasses off trying to get the sweat off of his face.
"I could go a little longer." Yoskue gave him a thumbs up "But I am getting tired, and we should probably get them out" he motioned to the girls
Yu nodded, Yu felt like he could keep going, but he also had a little more experience so his body was a little more used to it, regardless though his body was sore and tired.
"I...am really tired..I hate to slow us down...but" Yukiko said catching her breath.
"No its ok." Yu rested on his sword "We've done a lot today, lets call it a day." he swished his hand changing persona's as everyone moved closer to him. One of his persona's had the ability to take them out of the area back to the entrance. They felt the light surround them as they were back at the stage with the TV's, Yu took off the armor he had on as he laid his weapon on the ground where they kept their weapons and armor. Yu walked over to the edge as everyone else put their things away as he leaned over the railing
He couldn't believe this was all happening, going in a TV, fighting shadows, saving people from themselves essentially.. and tracking down a murderer Yu scowled taking his glasses off and rubbing his eyes
"You ok?" Yukiko's voice came from behind as she leaned on the railing next to him looking into the fog
Yu nodded "just a little tired.. How are you? This was a long day in the TV for you."
She nodded "I'm not going to lie.. I'm exhausted.." She chuckled softly "but it really wasn't that bad..I mean it's hard.. And really scary too." Her eyes big "but it feels... Right. Like this is why I have this power is to help."
Yu nodded "I agree."still it weighed heavy on his mind at times, being thrown as the leader and handling this whole thing. People's lives were on the line.
"Man those two sure seem to talk a lot.." Yoskue whistled
Chie nodded looking at her best friend and the silver haired boy talking quietly together. Chie hadn't said it out loud.. But she knew at some point Yukiko would find somebody and move on a little bit more then she already had... Chie understood more what her shadow had portrayed: Chie simply wanted to be special and needed by some one. She was surprised a little at the jealousy of seeing her friend being interested in somebody, she was happy to see Yukiko branching out..but it was different then what she was used to.
"It's funny to see Yukiko like this isn't it?" Yoskue said quietly "she's always been so shy with any one other then you.. It's got to be different for you hu?"
She nodded "ya..." She quickly shook her head "but it's ok!" She let out a nervous laugh
Yoskue eyed her suspiciously "whatever you say."
"Do you ever feel afraid.." Yukiko said quietly looking out "that you won't make it out?"
"Every time I come in here" Yu said softly "but more importantly I want to make sure you guys come out safely.."
"Narukami-kun..." Yukiko looked at him "you are so strong.."
Yu looked at her before chuckling "no...I think I just have a good poker face...truth is I'm scared out of my mind that I will mess something up for all of you." he looked away
Yukiko frowned, she had looked at him as having no struggles with the whole thing.. But he is still human, which helped her feel a little more at ease knowing she wasn't the only one afraid. But she still felt a little bad he had to shoulder it. She just didn't know what to say as silence engulfed them both
Yu sighed before pushing himself off the railing "lets go home everyone." He called out "see you later Teddie, we will come back soon I promise!" He waved to the bear.
"Bye Sensei! Bye Yukiko-chan!" Teddie waved happily to them
"he sure likes you." Yukiko pointed out
Yu chuckled "He has had it pretty rough...he has no idea who he is...it's like some one else I know." Yu looked deep in thought
"Hmm? What do you mean?" Yukiko cocked her head
"O-oh nothing..." he furrowed his brow "its a long story." He laughed nervously
"Alright!" Yoskue called out "it's clear. Lets get outta here!"
Yukiko woke up the following day stretching her sore body. They had the day off today from school and her mom had told her he could have the day off from the inn.
She looked at her phone her mind drifted to Yu, she wanted to call him.. But she was to afraid.
I don't want to be TO obvious or take all his time.. I mean we are just friends
She sighed Ill just get ready..then Ill call him after! She tried to build up her courage as she quickly showered and got ready for the day, she put on her red summer dress as she grabbed her phone and opened it noticing a missed call. She felt nervous her mind instantly hoping it was Yu
1 missed call:
Chie
Yukiko frowned, quickly hitting the redial
"Yukiko!" Chie's voice came over the speaker "wanna go out today?!"
Yukiko thought about it... she wanted to call Yu to see if he would hang out with her.. But that was still wishful thinking.. She sighed "sure, where do you wanna go?"
"Well.. I gotta run to Junes!" She said quickly "then I was thinking of taking the train to Okinawa city. Sound good?"
"That sounds great, Ill meet you at Junes!" Yukiko said quickly
"See ya!" Chie hung up the phone
Yukiko frowned, she had wimped out.. She was too nervous to call him..next time she promised herself
At Junes
"Hey! Yukiko! Chie!" Yoskue's familiar voice came from their right "what are you guys doing here?" He was in his work clothes
Chie smiled "enjoying our day off!"
Yoskue sulked at the comment "rub it in why don't you!"
Chie laughed "sorry sorry!" She waved her hand "How is work?"
Yoskue looked around "we've been busy today.. You guys just missed Yu though!" Yoskue smiled "I saw him walking around with a little girl.. I think it was his cousin...?" Yoskue tapped his head
Yukiko perked up at the mention of his name maybe there is a chance! "I-is... He still here?" Yukiko said trying to sound casual
Yoskue shook his head "I don't think so.. I think he said he was going to work .."
"Work?!" Chie said surprised "on his day off?!"
Yoskue starred at her "hello... I'm working too..."
"well ya!" Chie motioned "But you are more obligated.."
Yoskue drooped his head "You are so mean to me"
Chie giggled "suck it up! any way we are going to get going, have fun working!" she said sarcastically as Yoskue stuck his tongue out at Chie
Chie and Yukiko spent an hour walking around shopping for various things, she caught up with Chie on what had been happening with her. She felt bad now that she was spending time with her, they used to be together all the time, but lately...things had just changed.
"Thanks Chie." Yukiko looked over at her smiling
"hu?" Chie slowly let her arm down looking at a shirt "for what?"
"For inviting me out...I hadn't realized how long it had been since we have just hung out together...I'm sorry." Yukiko frowned
Chie waved her hand "It's fine! A lot has been happening..." She trailed off. "But ya we really don't get to hang out anymore." she said sadly
Yukiko felt a heaviness enter the air "I-I'm sorry..I didn't mean to be such a downer."
Chie shook her head "No it's ok...I mean I hate to admit it, but it was going to start happening at some point...I just didn't expect it to happen when we are still in high school." Chie looked down "It was like one day everything was normal then...boom!" She motioned "everything is different..."
Yukiko nodded it all started with Yu "everything changed once he came..didn't it?"
Chie nodded "It was like...he came exactly at the right time, and yet the worst..without him we wouldn't have been able to figure this out...you would have been kidnapped and..." Chie trailed off tears in her eyes "but yet...now we are all so different you know?"
Yukiko nodded "you are right."
Chie looked down "I never told you Yukiko.." she looked around "Lets go somewhere else." The cheerful Junes song and people going around them wasn't exactly the place to have this conversation
They quickly walked out leaving the store behind them they walked to a near by park and sat on a bench. In the distance they could see a bunch of kids running around with a tall young man playing with them.
Chie looked down "I wanted to tell you when you were facing your shadow..but everyone was there and you were too tired..." She stopped before taking a breath "I've always been jealous of you..."She started as tears entered her eyes "and they way you always needed me...it fed me, it made me feel important." she cried softly "a-and when your shadow explained everything you...are going through I felt so selfish." she wiped her eyes "I was so consumed with how much you needed me that I never saw what you were going through." Chie looked down.
"Chie..." Yukiko said softly putting her arm around her friend as she cried "I'm so sorry..." she felt a little emotional "I was so caught up in what was going on with the Inn I never saw..."
Chie shook her head "I-it's ok..." She smiled "Yu actually helped me with the whole thing."
Yukiko froze as a feeling a small pang of jealousy before shoving it away, she felt guilty at the petty feeling entering into her heart.
Chie looked at her "He understands things that most people don't...it's like he has faced a little bit of everything.." She trailed off "He just sat and listened to me...he did the same with Yoskue." She smiled
"Really..?" Yukiko asked
"Mmm hmmm" Chie nodded "You really need to spend some time with him Yukiko...I mean, you like him right?"
Yukiko blushed "w-well ya but-"
Chie wiped her eyes again "no buts! But just promise me...that if something does happen with you two..."
"C-Chie!" Yukiko blushed
"Hey hey it could happen!" Chie laughed "But promise that we will stay best friends ok?" She looked genuinely concerned "No matter what happens in our lives..ok?"
Yukiko smiled and gave her a hug "I promise!" it felt like old times again. "now Chie.." Yukiko let go looking at her in the eyes "You know who...I'm...well you know, interested in..." Yukiko smirked "Who are you interested in?"
Chie looked a little sad "I...I really don't know right now...I will be honest...at first it was Yu.." she looked away "But...that just won't happen so now...I'm not sure." She smiled "besides you two would be much better together." Chie teased giving her a wink
Yukiko felt flustered but also felt a little bad "Chie...but I-I hardly know him!" She fumbled "He's...probably already is interested in somebody...besides.." Yukiko stopped for a second. "I'm really nothing special." She said plainly looking down.
Chie starred at her for a second "Yukiko...that's not true!" She said sincerely "You are amazing, don't sell your self short!" Chie said with enthusiasm "You'll never know if you don't try..."
Yukiko nodded and sighed "I guess you are right, it's just new to me.."
Chie chuckled "After how many boys have shown interest in you...and this is 'new'?" she motioned with her fingers
Yukiko cocked her head "Hmmm? What do you mean?"
Chie breathed out heavy "You are so oblivious..."
"W-what?!" Yukiko stammered
Chie just shook her head and looked away "Do you think any guys at school are interested in me...I mean I am kind of a tom boy." She gave a sheepish smile
Yukiko nodded "Of course Chie! We don't all have to be the same you know."
Chie smiled "ya..I guess you are right...I just wonder who."
Yukiko didn't have an answer for her as they both let went silent letting their minds think about everything they had just talked about. Yukiko really did love Chie, she had been such a good friend to her and she felt a little guilty that she had allowed a gap to form a little between them with all of her own problems.
"Hey..." Chie squinted breaking the silend "is that who I think it is with the kids over there?"
Yukiko looked over, she could see a young man in tan pants with a white polo on an apron was covering his front...he had silver hair. "It's Yu isn't it?" She looked over at Chie
Chie nodded "Yep definitely...what is he doing here?"
They watched as kids started leaving, being picked up by their parents. They noticed he was staying with one kid specifically who hiding behind him as a young woman walked up to him. Yu motioned to the table and he sat with the young woman.
"I wonder who that is" Yukiko said quietly
"I dunno...this isn't to strange for him." Chie said seriously "He is always talking with people, kids on the basketball team...Saki's brother..."
"Wow.."Yukiko was really impressed by it. "I wonder why...?"
"I dunno...there is just something about him that makes you trust him.." Chie looked intently in his direction "and like I said earlier he just seems to understand where you are coming from. He just seems to attract it...I wonder if he ever gets tired of it."
Yukiko nodded, it couldn't be easy doing everything it seemed like he was doing.
"Jeez, it looks like they will talking for a while...should we go?" Chie said looking at her
Yukiko hesitated Yu was so close..maybe she would be able to talk with him...but at the same time she had said she would spend time with Chie today..she reluctantly stood "Yes...that would probably be best."
A couple more days passed, they had slowly worked in the TV world and had manged to get to the last door. They were planning on going tomorrow so, they were going to take it easy after school today to prepare for when entered they the TV to save Kanji once and for all. Yukiko felt her self zoning out as the lecture was coming to a close..she was tired and still sore from all the training. She hadn't been able to hang out with Yu at all. She had hoped they would have some time but he always had practice, or work or something he was going to.. she didn't understand why he had so much to do. Her thoughts were broken as the bell rang... She closed her note book and stretched her arms stifling a yawn as she felt a small tap on her shoulder
"Hmm?" She turned to see Yu smiling at her "O-oh!" she smiled "Narukami-Kun."
He smiled back "Miss Amagi." he gave a playful bow "Would you like to have lunch with me today?" He pulled a bag from behind his back
Yukiko felt giddy "O-of course that would be wonderful"
"I will be on the roof whenever you are ready to eat ok?" He smiled as he walked off.
"This is your chance!" Chie hissed at her playfully
"C-Chie!" Yukiko giggled "d-do I look OK?" Yukiko brushed her bangs
"Of course!" Chie rolled her eyes "now go and don't embarrass your self." She winked
"Thank you for the confidence Chie..." Yukiko grumbled as she stood walking out the door. She walked over to the stairs and slowly walked up them playing with her uniform nervously as she opened the heavy door to the roof. Yu was sitting at the groups' regular spot. he looked up and smiled as she walked over to him
"Thank you for coming up Amagi-san." He pulled out another box "I um..made this actually last night and I had a lot." he looked embarrassed "I hope it tastes OK."
Yukiko sat down next to him "Thank you...you didn't have to."
He shook his head "It's nothing...now try a bite.."
She opened the box as the aroma of curry steamed out touching her senses. "It smells so good!" Yukiko exclaimed
He chuckled "lets hope it tastes just as good." He motioned her to try it.
Yukiko took a small piece of the chicken and placed it in her mouth "Oh...my." she mumbled as she chewed on it.
His face changed.."D-does it taste bad!? Y-you don't have to have to eat it!" He exclaimed quickly
"N-no!" She beamed "This is incredible!" This really tastes so good! "I didn't know you could cook!" she exclaimed with excitement stuffing another piece in her mouth
He looked embarrassed as he scratched his head "it's nothing..."
"You know...you should cook for the inn." She said seriously as she giggled a little "Just kidding..."
He smiled and started eating his own meal
"But..." Yukiko blushed "You really can... if you ever would like to.."
Yu stopped and looked at her his mouth half open as he was about to take a bite.
"snrk..." Yukiko snorted at the face he was making "Oh hahahaha!" she grabbed her side "Y-your face!" as her laugh became uncontrollable
He quickly closed his mouth before laughing "Y-you caught me off guard!"
they both gained control of their laughing and continued to eat "Narukami-Kun.." Yukiko spoke up timidly "I...I know that you are really busy...but ummm..." She fidgeted around "could we maybe...I dunno hang out sometime? Just go out and do something?" She smiled shyly at him
He gave a warm smile "Of course...I would love to, after tomorrow we will spend some more time together."
Yukiko smiled "Is that a promise?"
Yu nodded "Yes...it is."
suddenly the warning bell rang.
Yu groaned "Guess we better head back in.." He stood up closing his lunch.
Yukiko nodded "Thank you again."
He nodded "Of course..." his face changed serious "Are you ready for tomorrow?"
Yukiko nodded slowly "Yes...as long as I have...you..." She blushed "leader "