She doesn't dream often, and usually when she does, most of them fade as her consciousness wakes, already forgotten as her eyes flutter open to greet the morning sun.
She doesn't dream often, but sometimes she still does.
A familiar face that haunts her, one that makes her remember. That makes her wake with a crushing weight against her chest—a different pain that she tries her best to forget.
With a small gasp, she opens her eyes. She blinks in confusion, and the tears slowly trail down.
Her hand moves to wipe them away, but—
She turns her head.
A moment, until her eyes finally readjust, and she recognizes the head of messy hair. She hesitates, before she turns over.
She can feel the warmth radiating off from her sleeping figure. She slowly brings a shaky hand forward, fingers gentle as they rest on Madoka's shoulder.
Her steady breaths, the slow rise and fall of her chest.
She curls her body in closer—close, and almost touching.
Her eyes close, but she knows it'll take a while for her to fall back asleep. Her hands move again, this time in search of fabric and plush. Eventually, she finds what she's looking for. She presses Tora-kun against her cheek, holding him tightly in her hands.
She blinks, eyes opening once more to darkness when she feels Madoka shift. Arms and legs snake around her, entangling her in their grasp.
She doesn't try to pull away. She merely closes her eyes, letting herself get lost in this feeling instead.
/
She's packing her backpack, though she's sure she feels a lingering stare on her back. She turns, and sure enough, Homura is watching her.
Or—at least her head is turned to her direction.
Whether or not she's looking is another story.
She finishes stuffing her last notebook inside, and leaves her book bag on the floor as she walks over. The bed dips, and a distant gaze finally focuses on her. Tora-kun and Amy are both cradled in her hands, pressed against her face.
Madoka smiles, somehow resisting the temptation to brush Homura's bangs back. "Morning, Homura-chan."
"Mm... morning." Homura blinks heavily, eyes closing longer than needed.
"You can go back to sleep."
"I could," Homura murmurs. Her eyes stubbornly open.
Madoka regards her for a few seconds. "How did you sleep?"
"Fine," Homura mumbles.
The temptation is stronger now, and her hand is moving before she can stop herself.
Homura blinks at her touch—but Madoka smiles again because her reaction is different than yesterday's.
"You should go back to sleep," Madoka says softly as her fingers push Homura's bangs to the side.
She searches for signs of sickness: no fever, and her pallor is pale, but not unusually so.
Her hand lingers a moment longer, until she reluctantly moves away. Unsupported, Homura's bangs fall back into place, and a few strands cover her eyes.
"We're supposed to meet with Mami-san today," Madoka murmurs absently. She looks up, towards the clock: she needs to leave soon.
Homura hums, and Madoka turns back in time to see her eyes closing.
"...You don't have to come if you don't want to."
Her shoulder shifts. "It's fine."
Madoka opens her mouth, but her words stop when she finds lavender now staring at her.
"You're going to be late."
She sighs. "Alright, alright. I'll get going now. I'll be back around noon—I'll see you then."
"Have a nice day, Madoka."
She pushes off the bed.
Homura closes her eyes, but opens them again when the bed dips down.
"Call me, okay?" Madoka tells her, voice soft. "If, for whatever reason... I'll pick up."
They stare at one another, until Homura looks away. "...Thank you."
"Of course, Homura-chan. I'll see you later."
\
Finished with her breakfast, she loads the sink to start on the dishes. Once done, she takes a seat by the breakfast bar, sitting so that she faces the window.
She stares out, already knowing the weather outside is warm; her sleeves are rolled, and her jacket is unzipped, revealing the thin shirt she wears underneath. Most likely in another week, she'll abandon her jacket altogether.
Her thoughts wander, and she's startled by the light buzz from her alarm clock, signalling the time.
After a glass of water and a handful of pills, she moves to the couch to take a seat. She feels sluggish today. She makes herself comfortable, and closes her eyes.
/
She sits up slowly, blinking the sleep away.
"Sorry, did I wake you?"
She looks up, finding Madoka by the doorway, in the middle of slipping off her shoes.
She blinks again. "...What time is it?"
Madoka walks over, eyeing her sleepy appearance. "A little before noon. I was worried when you didn't reply, so I left a bit earlier. How are you?"
She lifts her glasses to rub her eyes. "Mm... Sorry, I fell asleep and didn't hear your message."
She freezes when she feels a hand on her forehead. She looks up, and Madoka is leaning close, her own hand against her forehead to compare their temperatures.
"Doesn't feel like a fever," Madoka murmurs. She pulls away, still frowning. "Maybe you shouldn't go to lunch today."
Her glasses are returned to her face. "...I'm fine."
"Homura-chan—"
Homura grabs her hand, cutting off her protests. "Thank you. I'm fine, though—" she debates a simple lie, but knows the truth will carry more weight, "...I did have a bit of trouble sleeping last night, but the nap I took earlier helped."
When Madoka continues to stare, Homura smiles lightly and squeezes her hand.
"Really... Thank you for worrying about me. Welcome back."
Finally, Madoka pulls away and Homura retracts her hand. She watches as Madoka steps around her to drop heavily onto the sofa; she looks tired.
"How was class?" Homura asks after a moment.
Eyes cut to her direction, before Madoka glances away. "Mm..."
Homura nudges her side.
"There's a few sections I'm worried about..."
"I can try and help you, if you'd like?"
Without responding, Madoka leans over to rest her head on Homura's shoulder. She feels her stiffen, but takes it as a good sign when she doesn't move away.
Madoka closes her eyes. "Homura-chan?"
Homura slowly wills herself to relax. "Yes, Madoka?"
"...Why couldn't it be summer vacation already?"
She hears a small laugh, feels the light shake of Homura's body. Her eyes open to see Homura smiling.
"If only we could fast forward the things we didn't like..." Her voice trails off, and her smile slowly disappears.
Madoka turns, snuggling closer despite the warm weather. "We still have a bit of time before we have to leave... wake me in thirty minutes?"
Homura hums. She looks around, searching. "My phone's in the kitchen. I'll set the alarm." She moves to stand, but Madoka grips her arm tightly, refusing to let go.
"Here's my phone, Homura-chan."
Homura blinks, but Madoka's phone is suddenly in her lap, and the closed eyes tell her she's not supposed to argue.
She fumbles through the unlocking process, not used to the controls, and finally finds the alarm application after a few unsuccessful swipes. Once set, she places the phone down by her side.
She leans back against the cushions, letting the quiet of their apartment wash over her.
It's warm, and Madoka's breath against her neck tickles her skin. One more attempt to break away is foiled when Madoka grips her arm tighter with a grumble under her breath.
She sighs. She gives up, and shifts to make herself more comfortable.
She closes her eyes.
\\
She squints at the afternoon sun, feeling the heat in the air. Her jacket, as always, is too warm, but she ignores it. Though, she glances to her side, to where Madoka stands, to their linked arms.
The heat isn't too unpleasant; not to mention, sometimes she finds it easier to just follow along.
They continue their walk in companionable silence, and she relaxes, slowing her usual pace a little so that Madoka doesn't have to struggle to keep up.
Madoka tugs her arm, causing her to glance over.
"I'll start looking up places we can go to, Homura-chan."
Homura tilts her head, but then the words click: their planned trip.
"Anywhere's fine," she responds as she faces forward once more.
"Oh, I also forgot to mention this..."
Curious, Homura's eyes flicker over. "Mention what?"
Madoka bites her lip. "Mama wanted to know if you were going to visit..."
Her footsteps slow, before returning to normal. "Ah..." She turns away.
"My parents really like you, Homura-chan."
"Mm..."
Madoka tugs her arm again, "it wouldn't be for that long; I only have a week break, and then summer school starts after..."
"A week..."
"Your job at the computer lab doesn't start until then too. You said you liked Mitakihara, didn't you?"
Homura smiles, hearing the whine in Madoka's voice. "You're like a little kid."
Madoka puffs out her cheeks, and this time, Homura laughs at her expression.
Her pout turns into a grin, and she grabs for Homura's hand. She swings it forward as they continue down the street.
"We could go to Mitakihara, then go to our trip from there. Think about it?" she asks softly, glancing over.
Homura sighs, eyes closing briefly in slight exasperation. "I'll think it over."
Madoka squeezes her hand. "Thank you."
/
The overhead chime sounds as Homura pulls open the glass door. She holds out a hand, indicating for Madoka to enter first, and then lets the door swing close to follow her to the front counter.
"We're, uhm, meeting some friends here?" Madoka explains to the waitress.
"Do you know where they're seated?"
Madoka shakes her head, and turns to look into the cafe, hoping to spot a familiar head of blonde hair sitting at one of the tables.
She stops when there's a light touch on her back.
"I see them," Homura tells her, leaning closely as she nods over to the window seats.
"Ah," Madoka blushes, and turns to the waitress. "We found them, so we'll just head on over there...?"
The waitress nods with a smile. "Go on ahead, I'll be by shortly to take your orders."
"Thank you," Madoka murmurs, dipping her head lightly, before she follows Homura over to where Mami and Kyouko are sitting.
As they approach, Mami glances up, and an excited smile lights up her face.
Homura eyes her warily, but Madoka gently nudges her forward and she reluctantly clears the remaining distance to their table.
"Kaname-san, Akemi-san." Mami's smile has yet to fade as she greets them.
"Yo." Without looking up from her menu, Kyouko raises her hand.
"Mami-san, Kyouko-chan. Sorry, were you waiting long?" Madoka looks apologetic.
Mami shakes her head. "No, not at all! We just arrived shortly ourselves." She gestures to the empty seats across, "please, have a seat."
Homura gives a small nod of acknowledgement, before she slides into the booth.
There's plenty of space, but she glances to Madoka in slight confusion when she sidles right up besides her.
Before she can say anything, Kyouko slides two menus over, and taps the plastic material. "Here you go, lovebirds," she ignores Homura's blank look, "I'm gonna order soon, so pick and choose something quickly."
Mami frowns. "Kyouko—they just arrived. There's no rush. You can order first, if you want."
"That's not what you said earlier! But—" Kyouko's arm shoots up as she turns to flag down their waitress.
Mami ignores her, turning back to face Madoka and Homura with her ever present smile. "How are you two today? It's starting to warm up, isn't it?"
Madoka nods in agreement and matches Mami's smile. "It's definitely the start of summer. I'm fine, how are you, Mami-san?"
"I'm doing well, Kaname-san. Thank you for asking."
Homura places a menu in front of Madoka, earning her a smile, and a murmured thank you, before Madoka turns back to Mami.
They continue their small talk, and Homura tunes them out as she browses the menu.
It's their first time here, and she's already comparing the prices to the cafe they normally visit. It's more expensive, and half the dishes have a mix of Italian names, as if they're trying to upscale the selection, giving more validation to their prices somehow.
The waitress arrives with a tablet in hand, ready to take their orders.
Kyouko leans over Mami, bringing her menu closer for the waitress to see. "I'll take this one," she points, and then slides her finger down, "and this one." She quickly flips the page, and points to another item. "And this, plus this. Cola, oh, and I'll keep my menu just in case I want to order anything extra."
Mami calmly pushes Kyouko back to her seat as the waitress turns to her direction. "I'll take the lunch set: grilled prosciutto and tomato soup, with a cafe latte."
The waitress punches her order in. She turns to Madoka, "and for you?"
Slightly panicking, Madoka quickly skims the menu. "Uhm... that is..."
"We still need a few minutes," Homura cuts in.
The waitress pauses, but when Madoka nods in agreement, she bows lightly. "Please take your time." She takes Mami's menu, before walking away to deal with a different table.
Madoka turns to Homura in gratitude. "Thanks, Homura-chan."
"It's fine... Did you want to split something...?" Homura brings her menu closer to Madoka, showing her one of the dishes. "I'm not that hungry."
Madoka glances to her, brow slightly furrowing.
Feeling her stare, Homura lifts her head, blinking. "...You don't have to split if you don't want to."
"You're not hungry?" Madoka merely asks, turning to face her. She lowers her voice, "it's not because of your medicine, is it?"
"You know," they both turn to Kyouko, who has an eyebrow raised, "as fun as it is watching you two flirt—actually, no, no it isn't."
Underneath the table, Mami pinches Kyouko's leg.
"Ow!" Kyouko glares at the blonde, but Mami levels her with an unwavering look. Kyouko relents, turning her head to mutter something under her breath.
"Sorry, you two can continue choosing your order," Mami tells them with a smile, "don't mind us."
"Ah," Madoka smiles in return. "Sorry—" she's already moving to face Homura who is once again browsing the menu. "Homura-chan?"
She sighs softly. "I had the rest of the Ho—uhm, omurice for breakfast. It was filling."
Madoka wonders briefly about the correction, but Homura has her eyes glued to the menu, obviously trying to pretend it hadn't happened.
"Madoka?"
"Hm...?"
Lavender flickers her way. "Did you want to share a dish...?"
This time, it's Madoka's turn to sigh. "Yes, that's fine."
"I'll split with you, Sunshine, if you want," Kyouko interrupts with a grin.
Homura flips through the menu, eyes skimming the drink selection. "If by 'split,' you mean eating most of the food and then having me foot the bill, no thank you," she answers Kyouko, voice dry.
Kyouko adopts a hurt expression. "Ouch, you'd think I'd do something like that?"
"Yes."
Mami tries to disguise her laugh as a cough, but fails. "Ahem, let them choose in peace, Kyouko."
"Whatever, I'm only here for the food anyways." Kyouko holds out her hand to Mami. "Lend me your phone."
"I always tell you you should get one," Mami replies even as she reaches for her purse.
"Yeah, yeah."
Frowning, Mami drops the phone into her waiting hand. Kyouko falls into silence, and Mami spends a moment looking around the cafe.
When the waitress stops by with their drinks, Madoka and Homura finally place their order. Their menus are collected, and the waitress walks away.
Madoka gives Mami a sheepish smile. She settles into her seat, still pressed close against Homura's side. "Are you two enjoying Tokyo? Did you have a chance to tour Shibuya like you had wanted to?"
Mami nods. "Yes, those stores you had recommended were just what I was looking for. Thank you for going out of your way to send me that list."
Madoka waves her hands. "Not at all, Mami-san! I haven't been in Tokyo for that long, so I wasn't sure if I would be able to help you."
Homura leans forward, resting her elbow on the table to support her chin on her open hand. She takes in the decor, not at all interested in their small talk.
A light touch on her side has looking over, and to no surprise, Madoka is eyeing her, worry clearly written on her face.
"Ha!"
They both glance to Kyouko, watching as she pumps a fist in the air.
"Finally beat your score, Mami." Her grin is smug, and she slides the phone over to show Mami the screen.
Mami's eyes narrow, and she surprises the other two when she all but snatches the phone out of Kyouko's hands.
"What! That's—impossible." She promptly forgets her surroundings, concentrating on her phone instead.
Homura raises an eyebrow.
Kyouko smirks, pointing her thumb in Mami's direction. "Mami's really competitive." Her voice is still smug. "But—" she interrupts herself, gaze cutting across when she spots the waitress approaching their table with a tray in her hand.
"Here are your drinks." Two iced coffees are gently placed on the table, and Kyouko impatiently taps her foot as straws are pulled out, and then presented to Homura and Madoka. "Here is your order of fries and onion rings."
Kyouko nods, her hands gesturing for the waitress to slide the plates her way. "Thanks."
"Your other dishes will be out shortly."
Madoka smiles in acknowledgement, and the waitress bows, before disappearing again.
A straw is placed by her hand, and Madoka looks over to see Homura already taking a sip.
"How is it?" Madoka asks her as she moves for her own coffee.
Homura lightly lifts a shoulder, still deciding. She finishes her sip, and pushes her drink over for Madoka to try.
Mouth full, hands full, Kyouko quirks an eyebrow as they share drinks. "...are you two always like that?"
Homura pauses, forgoing another sip as her eyes slide to Kyouko's direction. "Like what?"
Kyouko stuffs more fries into her mouth. "Watchwing byou twmo—makes my teeth hurt."
Blinks, and confused silence washes over them.
"Perhaps," Homura drawls out after a moment, "you should get your teeth checked."
As the last fry disappears into her mouth, Kyouko pulls the onion rings her way.
"Maybe a regular check-up would be wise as well," Homura comments.
Kyouko smirks, showing off glimpses of chewed food; if Mami had been paying attention, it would have earned her a pinch on her arm.
"I'm as healthy as can be."
"I don't doubt it."
Madoka smiles, nervous. "You definitely can eat a lot, Kyouko-chan."
"A lot is putting it lightly, Madoka."
Madoka gently digs her elbow into Homura's side, eyes briefly flickering to her direction. "Did you skip breakfast today, Kyouko-chan?"
"Nope." One more onion ring dipped into ketchup, before Kyouko devours it without preamble. "I just have a fast metabolism." She shrugs, already growing tired of the topic. "How's bluey doing?" She points an onion ring at Madoka. "You talk to her, right?"
"Ah, uhm, Sayaka-chan? Yes—she's doing fine. Or," Madoka bites her lip, "at least, when I last talked to her she seemed to be doing better..." Her voice trails off, because she knows how upset Sayaka's parents had been at her disappearance.
Kyouko stacks the empty plates on top of one another, and then she's moving for her soda. "Well, she better be practicing—finals are no joke. She definitely dished out some moves, but she's gotta step up her game if we want to win."
Homura settles back against her seat, drinking her coffee, and Madoka already knows she has abandoned the conversation. She gives Kyouko another nervous smile.
"Well, Sayaka-chan was pretty good at those kinds of games during high school. She's uhm..." She gathers her drink in her hands, needing something to keep them occupied, "she'll, be okay...?"
Kyouko looks at her, eyes narrowed like crimson slits. "You don't sound too sure."
"Uhm," Madoka falters; Sayaka had admitted to her that she wouldn't know if she'd be able to make it this weekend, what with her upcoming math test, and her parents less than happy.
Kyouko places her arm on the table, leaning forward. With her sharp eyes, and the small glint of her fang, she strikes an intimidating figure. "She say something? She's not backing out, is she?"
"U-Uhm—"
"Ha!"
Kyouko flinches back when Mami, in her excitement, punches her on her shoulder.
"I beat your score, Kyouko," she's grinning, but it takes a moment until she finally remembers her surroundings. She places her phone onto the table, discreetly sliding it over for Kyouko to see as she tries to cover her outburst with a cough.
One look at Homura, and then the nervous smile Madoka gives her tells her that she hasn't fooled anyone.
"Ah, I apologize for uhm," she clears her throat, trying to fill the awkward silence with a better excuse. She catches a glimpse of their waitress, and claps her hands in excitement. "Oh! Look, our food is here!"
Kyouko perks at the mention of more food, and abandons Mami's phone at once. "Finally! I'm starving."
Homura and Madoka exchange a look. At Homura's raised eyebrow, Madoka smiles in amusement.
"That's—ours," Homura breaks eye contact, instead reaching forward for the plate that Kyouko has tried to claim as her own.
Kyouko scowls at being discovered, but she's quickly reaching for her pasta a second later.
As they eat, Madoka and Mami fill the silence with random chatter, and Kyouko occasionally makes a rude comment or two. Homura remains quiet, listening, but not participating.
Every so often, Madoka glances her way, as if to make sure that she's there; as if to remind her that she's not alone.
The food is sub par, and the atmosphere isn't as cozy, but she finds that she doesn't quite mind being here.
\\
"They're interesting, aren't they, Homura-chan?"
Homura hums, gaze directed at the walls they pass on their way back home. "You could have gone with them." It's said as is, but Madoka can't help but interpret it as a dismissal.
"It's okay; we made more plans this weekend."
Homura frowns at the reminder. "Maybe I'll sit that one out..."
"Mm... It's up to you." Madoka stares forward, absently swinging their clasped hands as she thinks to their earlier departure. "Mami-san did look pretty disappointed though..." She chews her lip, feeling that bit of guilt for once again turning down Mami's invitation.
"She has Kyouko to keep her company."
"She seems lonely."
Homura glances at her briefly. "In what way? The two of them seem to get along fine."
Madoka taps her chin with her free hand. "It's—a feeling, I get from her." She shrugs, continuing to swing Homura's hand. "I'm—still really curious about their relationship..."
"Friends?"
Madoka shakes her head. "Closer?"
"...lovers?" The look Madoka gives her makes her pause. Homura blinks. "What?"
"Well, that is close..." Madoka's voice sounds almost wistful.
"Madoka?"
Madoka smiles, and moves to bump her hip against Homura's leg. "Maybe... but, they don't seem like a couple."
"Why are you so curious anyways?"
"Uhm..."
They both stop walking, and wait for the light at the intersection to turn green.
Homura is still eyeing her, waiting for an answer. Madoka mulls over what she should say, but Homura suddenly straightens out.
"Ah, is it because of Miki Sayaka?"
Madoka smiles lightly, her fingers curling in to give Homura's hand a squeeze. Even if it seemed like she didn't care, she always did remember the small details.
The light turns, and they start crossing.
"Do you remember Hitomi-chan?"
"Yes." They had met briefly during spring break. "What about her?"
Madoka turns Homura's hand, and lightly bounces their palms against each other. "...She used to like Kamijou-kun."
Homura blinks. "He was rather popular then. Did you like him too?"
Madoka shoots her a glare. "No." She sounds almost insulted.
Homura shrugs. "I was just wondering."
As they move to step onto the sidewalk, Madoka punches Homura's arm.
"Ow."
"Anyways, it took a while—until things were okay again between Hitomi-chan and Sayaka-chan. Even when Hitomi-chan and Kamijou-kun were dating though... Sayaka-chan still didn't give up on him."
"She is surprisingly romantic."
Madoka smiles, drawing herself closer to Homura. "She's never really shown any interest in anyone besides Kamijou-kun..."
"Except he is no longer in the picture, and a garbage disposal has taken his spot."
Madoka knows it's wrong to laugh, and she only half fails in giving Homura a stern look. "...Kyouko-chan really can eat, can't she?" she admits. "I'm kind of envious—considering how much she eats, her body is still so lean; I put on weight so easily..."
"Well, that's probably because there's nowhere for the weight to go—ow—"
Madoka pulls her hand away. feeling a bit smug when she sees Homura moving to rub her arm. "So, Kyouko-chan isn't bad. She seems to get along well with Sayaka-chan, and Sayaka-chan definitely needs something that will take her mind off of Kamijou-kun."
They turn the corner.
"And, if those two are a couple?"
Madoka bites her lip. Her gaze slides to Homura.
Homura narrows her eyes, feeling a sense of foreboding. "...What?"
"Nothing—nevermind."
Homura eyes her. She abruptly stops, the action pulling Madoka back with her.
"Homura-chan?"
"...You were going to suggest Satoshi, weren't you?"
Madoka suddenly finds the wall to their side very interesting. "N-No, of course not..."
"Two idiots don't make a genius, Madoka." She continues walking, tugging Madoka with her. "And besides, Satoshi is a bit indisposed right now."
Madoka lowers her eyes. "Sorry, that wasn't—I didn't mean—"
Homura sighs. She squeezes Madoka's hand, and when Madoka finally looks up, Homura shakes her head. "It's fine; knowing him, he'll probably be awake soon enough to annoy me..." She frowns. "The two of them are rather similar..." She shudders, "the two of them, together..."
Madoka grins, merely because Homura looks absolutely disturbed imagining Sayaka and Satoshi dating.
They've reached their apartment complex, and after checking their mail, they head for their apartment. Once there, Madoka reluctantly lets go of Homura's hand, giving her space to unlock the door.
The door is pushed open, and Homura lets Madoka take the first step inside. She moves further in to make room for Homura to enter, and when the door is cleared, Madoka closes it.
Homura is in the midst of slipping off her boots when Madoka's voice draws her from her thoughts.
"I'm sorry," she straightens up, turning to face her, "what did you ask me, Madoka?"
Madoka stares at her, fingers pushing together as she nervously fidgets. "Homura-chan, can I ask you something?"
Homura blinks, tilting her head slightly. "Why the sudden formalities?"
"N-No reason... it's just..." Madoka averts her eyes, expression looking almost shy.
Homura quirks an eyebrow, but her body suddenly tenses. "You're not going to ask me something about Satoshi, are you?"
Madoka quickly shakes her head, "no! Not—Not about that..."
Homura relaxes. "Then, ask away?"
She finishes taking off her boots, and watches as Madoka rearranges her shoes nearby. When they're done, they both step into the living room, feeling the plush of carpet under their feet.
"Madoka?"
"Uhm..." Madoka fidgets, trying to bring herself to voice her question.
Seeing that she needs a bit of time, Homura continues to the kitchen as Madoka trails after her.
"Water?"
Madoka shakes her head, taking a seat at the breakfast bar. "I'm okay."
Homura retrieves a cup from the cupboard, and once she's filled it with water, she slips into the seat across from Madoka.
She takes a small sip, and then lowers her cup to the counter with a small clatter. Madoka is watching her.
She waits a moment, but when Madoka remains quiet, she gives her an encouraging look. "Your question?"
Madoka nods. She glances to her hands, and nervously wipes them on the front of her shorts. "Uhm, that is..." she raises her eyes, meeting Homura's curious ones, "Homura-chan..."
"Yes, Madoka?"
"Is—" she swallows, throat feeling dry, "is there a reason why you treat me differently? Compared to, uhm, Sayaka-chan, or Mami-san or Kyouko-chan?"
Homura blinks. "Differently?"
"Like—" Madoka gestures, feeling the tips of her ears warming, "...differently."
Homura stares at her for moment, trying to interpret her words and her actions. She draws a blank. "I'm not sure I understand your question."
Madoka huffs, in irritation for her own shyness, and at Homura's obliviousness. "You're a lot nicer to me than to them. We see each other every day, so I don't notice it that much... but, when we're with other people..."
"...Did you want me to treat you like how I treat them?"
Madoka frowns. "That's not what I meant." She pauses. "And, no, not really...?"
Homura leans back against her seat. "Then..."
Madoka presses her fingers together, "I just," she shyly glances up, "wanted to know if you had a reason," her voice drops lower, "or something..."
Homura places her arms on the counter, folding them on top of each other. She's quiet for a moment, until, "the day we met, I had gone to the coffee shop if only to avoid my roommates for a short while. The line was long, and I was already in a bad mood before I saw all those people waiting."
She leans forward, eyes closing.
"So there I was, annoyed, cold, and suddenly I'm on the floor, sporting a coffee stain all across my sweater." Her eyes open, and there's an amused glint to them. "I saw this ridiculous shade of pink hair, and I immediately remembered you—the girl who spilled coffee all over herself a few weeks back."
Madoka blushes, but she's also leaning forward, enthralled; she had never known the reason why Homura had extended a hand to her that day.
"The first thing I thought to myself was: 'this girl, is an absolute klutz.' And then you apologized, and you looked closed to tears, and I realized I wasn't the only one having a bad day."
Homura takes another sip of water as Madoka waits impatiently.
Madoka opens her mouth. "But—"
Homura tilts her head, "I guess, if I have to think about it... I saw something relatable in you. Am I kinder to you...? I guess I am." Her cup is placed on the counter, and she peers inside, almost absently. "I've... never met anyone like you before, Madoka. With everyone else," her eyes narrow, "it always feels like I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop." Her eyes soften as she glances up, "I don't—always have to feel like I'm on guard when I'm with you."
"Homura-chan..."
They continue to stare at each other, but Homura suddenly leans back, eyes looking away. "I'm going to get changed." She abandons her seat, and Madoka can only watch as Homura exits the kitchen.
As she passes the counter, she turns back.
"Did you want me to help you with math?"
Studying is the last thing on her mind, but Madoka nods. "If you're not too busy?"
The smile Homura gives her makes her chest ache. "Not at all."
She slides off her chair; she might as well change too.
\\
It not her fault it's hard to concentrate. After all, their heads are bowed close, and she has the clearest view of Homura's face: eyelashes—Madoka's eyes narrow slightly—the healing cut that's still visible on her cheek.
"You're getting distracted again."
She quickly looks up, and a sheepish smile cuts across her lips. "Sorry."
Homura is not angry. Instead, she moves away to lean against the cushions. "Well, you do seem to understand your notes more." She glances over to the clock, surprised at the amount of time that had passed.
The cushions bounce lightly as Madoka collapses against her, arms stretched out. "Ahh... I think I'm at my limit."
Getting used to Madoka's antics, Homura merely moves her head so that Madoka doesn't accidentally punch her as she stretches.
"Perhaps we should take a break then?"
Madoka sits up, nearly hitting Homura in the jaw with her head. "We could try those snacks we bought at the market the other day!"
Before Homura can agree, Madoka's off the couch and eagerly stepping towards the kitchen.
Moving slowly, Homura follows after her. By the time she's taking a seat at the breakfast bar, Madoka emerges from the pantry with an armful of snacks weighing her down.
Homura raises an eyebrow. "What happened to rationing them?"
Madoka grins, tiptoeing slightly to dump the snacks onto the counter. "Help me choose which one to try first, Homura-chan."
Homura eyes her warily, aware of Madoka's sweet tooth. She doesn't want to encourage her, and selects a bag after a brief evaluation. "This one."
Disappointment flashes across Madoka's face, before it disappears as she grabs Homura's choice. The pre-cut line is found, and she tears off a corner of the packaging. She glances to Homura, who obediently holds out her hand. Once Homura has a few pieces, Madoka fills her own hand.
"Itadakimasu," they both echo.
They crunch down on the snack, letting the taste of fruit hit their tongues.
"Hmmmm," Madoka glances down to the packet: strawberry flavoured corn snack. "Three?"
"Two."
Madoka offers her some more. "Three," she says again after she finishes her portion. "It's not too sweet, and I can definitely taste the strawberry."
"In that case, one."
Madoka looks up. She pauses, but she remembers Homura's confession of why she hated berries—though she hadn't been very specific.
As if sensing her train of thought, Homura stands, her earlier used cup in her hand as she makes her way around the counter. "Did you want some water?"
"Sure. Thanks, Homura-chan."
"Mmhmm."
Another glass is pulled from the cupboard. Homura is turning to the refrigerator when she hears the rustling of bags.
"Are you opening another one?"
Not missing a beat, Madoka tears the new bag open. "Maybe."
"...Don't complain to me if you gain weight."
"Only these two," Madoka says as she pours a few of the new snacks into her hand.
Homura shakes her head; she already knows how this will play out.
/
Madoka groans. She's draped over Homura's legs, stomach filled with sugar and carbs. "Why didn't you stop me?" Her voice is muffled against Homura's knees.
"I did," Homura replies, her one hand gentle as she pats Madoka's back; it's a useless gesture, but Madoka knows that a few months prior, Homura would never have done this. "What part of 'don't complain to me if you gain weight,' did you not understand?"
Madoka groans again, and this time she turns her head to shoot Homura a glare. "You're supposed to be nicer about it. Like, 'Madoka, you shouldn't eat all those sweets, it'll make your tummy hurt and your mouth feel funny.'"
Homura's lips twitch. "'Madoka, you shouldn't eat all those sweets, it'll make your tummy hurt and your mouth feel funny.'"
Madoka smacks her on the leg.
"Ow—what was that for?"
"Little too late now, Homura-chan!"
Homura rolls her eyes. "It's not my fault that you have no self control."
"But I do..." Madoka is once again speaking into Homura's knees.
"Right."
She mumbles something that Homura is only able to catch bits and pieces of.
"What did you say?"
Madoka pushes off from Homura, using her arms to prop herself up. "I said you're a big meanie!"
Eyebrow lifted, Homura withdraws her hand. "Are you feeling better?"
"I really don't want to weigh myself later..."
"You're not even close to being overweight."
"If only I was a bit taller..."
"Then you'd be underweight."
Madoka glances to Homura, unconsciously taking in Homura's thin frame.
Sensing Madoka's gaze, Homura clears her throat. "If you're feeling better, we can continue studying."
Madoka groans, collapsing against Homura's legs once more. "Meanieeee."
She feels a pat against her back, and smiles to herself.
"Haven't you heard of the saying, 'misery builds character'?"
Madoka falls silent. She turns, her eyes seeking Homura's.
Suddenly nervous, Homura looks away. "We should study."
Madoka nods, and she finally sits up to move to her side of the couch.
Homura breathes a small sigh of relief. She glances over when there's a hand on her leg, only to find Madoka staring, like always, with those worried eyes of hers.
"If... you ever want to talk about it..."
She doesn't—and she never wants to think about it, either.
Instead, she swallows that sudden lump in her throat, eyes looking away as they burn with shame. "...Thank you," she mumbles.
Madoka smiles sadly. "Bathroom break, and then we can go over the rest of the problems?"
Relieved at the change of subject, Homura nods. "Sure."
"Be right back."
\\
She exits, towel in her hand as she dries her hair. She stops immediately when she's hears a voice: Homura. A quick glance, and she's by the dresser, back facing her as she talks with her phone in her hand.
"Yes." Her tone is short, punctuated with an almost hiss at the end. "I have class at that time. Yes—it's important that I go."
She sees Homura move, head bowed as she drags her hand over her face.
"No, I have work after. No," and this time, it's a real hiss. "No, I don't." Drawn out silence, quiet enough that Madoka can hear the other person on the line asking if she's still there. "Fine. No, her name is Madoka."
Madoka blinks, surprised her name had come up.
"What does she have to do with this?"
Madoka steps forward, even more curious; her towel is long since forgotten.
"No, she has class in the morning... No. Look, I already said it was fine, so drop it already. Yes—yes, I'll go! Why are you being so annoying?"
It's a deep, low voice, and Madoka takes another step, straining to hear: "I'll pick you up at around 9 then."
"Fine. I'll see you tomorrow."
"Homu—"
The voice cuts off as Homura angrily jabs the disconnect button. She stares at her phone, trying to calm down.
Madoka bites her lip, debating if she should interrupt. Finally, "Homura-chan...?"
Homura whirls around, eyes wide behind the frames of her glasses, embarrassed at being caught.
"Uhm," Madoka nervously glances around, "the—bath's free," she finishes lamely.
Homura's fingers tighten around her phone, but she suddenly relaxes it before it can do any damage. "How much did you hear?"
Madoka bows her head, "s-sorry—I stepped out when you mentioned you had class at that time." Though she feels guilty at eavesdropping, her curiosity overshadows her nerves. "Is everything alright?"
Homura breathes out, letting the rest of her anger drain away. "Yes. Everything's fine."
Madoka waits for an explanation, but when Homura remains quiet, lost in her thoughts, she takes another step closer. "Homura-chan?"
Homura glances up. "Keiichi-san spoke with Satoshi's uncle; he'll... arrange things, so that we'll be able to visit." A pause. "Tomorrow."
Another step. "That's—good, isn't it?"
"Mm..." Homura closes her eyes. She opens them again when there's a touch on her hand.
"I can—"
Homura shakes her head, cutting her off. "No—you need to attend class. It shouldn't take that long. We're—just going to see him; he's still recovering, so we wouldn't be able to visit long, anyways."
Madoka draws back at Homura's dismissal. Seeing Madoka's rejected face, Homura quickly reaches for her hand.
"I won't lie," she swallows, face unsure, "...I'd feel better having you there."
Madoka glances up, "then—"
"But, I can handle it." Her voice is steady, but Madoka can see—is now aware of—the cracks that run along Homura's mask. Her eyes though, are pleading.
She hesitates. "Are you—sure?"
"Yes."
Madoka doesn't like it, but she lets it go. "What time are you leaving?" she asks instead, turning so that she can continue to dry her hair.
"In the morning. At nine."
Madoka looks to the clock: 10:25pm. "You should shower, and then head to bed after you take your medicine." She forces a small smile to her lips. "Otherwise, you'll definitely have trouble waking up, sleepy head."
The tension breaks, and the crushing weight on Homura's shoulders seem to lessen, just a little. "...I don't want to hear that coming from you."
Madoka responds with the best reply she knows: she sticks out her tongue. "Meanie."
/
Madoka hugs Homu-chan close; it's a replacement, because Homura is finally sleeping in her own futon. There's plenty of space in her bed, and she misses the extra warmth already.
Never mind that it's summer.
She turns over, slightly restless. After seeing what had happened at the hospital last time, she doesn't want Homura to go alone.
Even though she knows she won't be alone, technically.
She buries her face into soft plush, sighing.
"...Still awake?"
She sits up, but realizes it's useless with the lights off. She lies back down. "Yeah... was thinking... about stuff."
They both know what stuff she means.
"...Sorry."
She sits up again. "For what, Homura-chan?"
She can hear blankets shifting, "mm... for dragging you into this mess. I never should have—"
"Homura-chan." Her voice is sharp, and Homura stops talking.
Her eyes have readjusted, and she quickly throws her covers off, still clutching the round bear to her chest. She scoots over carefully, not wanting to tumble off, and stops when she's able to perch on the edge of her bed. She can see a dark lump on the floor, lying just a bit away.
"How many times do I have to tell you—I don't mind. I'm here for you. You're not alone." Frustrated tears gather in her eyes; she hates how helpless she is and how she's unable to reassure Homura of her presence.
She doesn't mean for it to happen, but a small sniffle sneaks out.
More shifting, and she knows that Homura's probably sitting up now.
"Madoka?" Her voice is small, unsure.
Madoka angrily swipes at her eyes. Despite her efforts, she sniffles again.
She hears more rustling, and the soft footsteps as Homura crosses the room. When light floods in, her eyes close, and she buries her face into Homu-chan.
"Madoka?" A gentle hand on her shoulder. "Are you okay...?"
She makes a small sound, refusing to lift her head.
"Madoka?" The bed dips as Homura takes a seat next to her. "Hey, why are you crying?"
She finally raises her head, knowing her eyes are red and puffy, to glare at Homura. "Because! You—!"
Homura blinks. "Mado—"
Madoka moves forward, and Homura automatically catches her, steadying them both before they fall off the bed.
Madoka ignores it, and instead punches Homura on the shoulder.
"Ow—"
"You're—stupid—stubborn—" each word is punctuated with a hit, and Homura winces, even though it's not hard enough to hurt.
Madoka continues, each punch weaker than the previous.
Finally, she stops, collapsing against Homura. After a moment, arms tentatively slip around her waist.
"Are you done?"
She presses her face against Homura's shoulder, suddenly embarrassed at her outburst. "...Yeah." Her face burns, and the extra warmth from Homura makes her body feel like it's on fire. Sweat clings to her neck and back, and only her shame keeps her from running to the bathroom. "Sorry..."
To her surprise, Homura's arms wrap around her tighter, and she can feel her body shaking—as Homura laughs into her ear.
"You're—definitely not like anyone I've met, Madoka." She holds her for a moment longer, before she pulls back. Her hands are gentle as she brushes the tears from Madoka's cheeks. "Thank you."
Homura smiles—and that ache in Madoka's chest grows.
"I'll get you some water; you can wash up." Homura hesitates, waiting for a reply.
"Okay," Madoka mumbles as she wipes her eyes.
"I'll be right back."
Madoka nods, and also moves off the bed. After one more glance to Homura who's reaching for her glasses, she disappears into the bathroom.
\\
She stares at the ceiling—at the darkness that blankets the room.
"...Homura-chan?"
"Hmm...?"
She smiles to herself, liking how close that voice is, because Homura is a mere hand's reach away. She turns over, somehow knowing that Homura is staring at her. "Have you thought about coming home with me?"
"Mm... a little bit."
Madoka searches for Homura's hand, smiling when she feels the brush of soft fabric. She knows it's Amy, because Tora-kun is mostly likely pressed against Homura's face.
She threads their fingers together. "Think about it, okay? We should sleep, you have an early day tomorrow."
"...Goodnight, Madoka."
She squeezes Homura's hand. "Goodnight, Homura-chan."
She turns over, once again staring at the ceiling. It takes her a few more minutes, until she closes her eyes, letting the sound of Homura's gentle breathing lull her to sleep.
AN: an update from me?
As always, thanks for reading/reviewing. New faces, old faces; hello, hello. I am still very much team Madohomu, in case you ever wonder to yourself where I have gone. Just-writing takes a lot of time and maybe I'm a bit writed-out, and maybe just a little busy and just a lot lazy.
Will I finish? Well...
Take care.