10. Burn
Despite her time enrolled, Karin found Teikoku High School pretty excessive. Once within the gates, there were a plethora of businesses that were stationed there. Right now, her team was celebrating yet another consecutive win in the Christmas Bowl.
Personally, she wasn't all too fond of the rowdy atmosphere when the team partied. Then again, it was understandable since the team had hundreds of players. Things couldn't really be kept too quiet. She appreciated when Sena came and invited her out in honor of her team's success. Although, she had a hunch that he was aware of reluctance to such spotlight. For that alone she was grateful.
The couple found a quaint cafe within the school grounds. There were very few eating there since most had come for the game and the after parties. Sena had selected the bench seats near the fireplace at the back of the cafe.
Their meal had been a mellow affair, with simple small talk exchanged between them. As soon as their meal had finished, Sena had drawn her to his side, which was closer to the flickering flames. Karin took the opportunity to cuddle with her boyfriend.
No words were spoken between them, as they listened to the symphony of crinkles of the burning wood. As she warmed up, she leaned back, nestling herself deeper into his gentle arms. The action still bringing a blush to her face, despite her comfort and desire for the embrace. It deepened further when the owner had came to clear up the table, chuckling lightly at the scene. She was sure she had heard something about young love.
That alone made her want to cover her face. Thanks to Sena's serene expression, she got over her nerves over their unusually bold public display of affection.
A pleasurable shudder escaped her when she felt his hands run down her side. They faintly brushed against her and moved to her arms. Soon they reached her hands and with practiced ease, his fingers interlocked with hers.
Sena then inched down and began to boldly kiss her exposed collarbone. He trailed light kisses along her neck. Each of his kisses made her melt in his arms.
"Sena-kun", she cooed lightly.
As his kisses reached the base of her ear, he spoke in a firm, but intimate voice, "Karin, I love you."
In response, a smile graced her face. With her free hand, she brushed Sena's cheek. The two leaned in and shared a kiss. For a time, the two stayed like that, their kiss soft and lingering. No aggression or show of dominance occurred, neither feeling comfortable with such actions. Instead, the couple enjoyed the soft feel and comfort of the other's lips.
Breaking off the admittedly enjoyable kiss, she returned his affection, "I love you, too Sena."
They resumed their peaceful cuddling. In his arms, a warmth spread in her that couldn't be solely attributed to the burning wood.