The next morning when Kai and Taiga arrived to the train station, they made their way to the ticket gate where everyone was supposed to meet up. Even though the place wasn't packed, there were still a few people running around like headless chickens. In the middle of it all, Kushieda Minori was shining brightly.
Taiga: Hey Minorin!
Minori: Mo~rning~!
Minori sprang towards them and started messing with Taiga's hair.
Minori: Hey Arito-kun! Our long-awaited trip to Luxure has finally arrived! Perk up and stop looking so serious!
Kai: I'm just tired, not-
Minori heartily smacked Kai on the back before he could say anything else then she abruptly ended their conversation by going to retrieve something from her backpack.
"Hey! Good job on not being late, you three!"
They heard Kitamura Yusaku shout that as he walked over with two guests in tow.
Minori: Haruta and Noto! Well, isn't this an unexpected sight?!
Noto: Yeah, we overheard that Ami-chan could bring up to ten guests so we kinda pressured Kitamura into asking her if we could come along too and she said 'yes'.
Haruta: That's right~! We're all gonna get our exhaustion massaged away and hit the peaks of relaxation~! LIKE BOOM ! ! !
Taiga: Ugh, not this idiot again...
Haruta: Then I'm gonna jump in the hot springs with Ari-chan! Yaay~!
Kai: Don't sound so happy about going to the hot springs with a dude. You're making me uncomfortable.
Kitamura: Aisaka, it's been a while, hasn't it? We haven't seen each other since the closing ceremony.
Taiga (timidly): Ah…eh…uh...
Perhaps it was supposed to be part of an "I'm not like I usually am" appeal or maybe it was just her being nervous, but she was fiddling with her hair and looking around like she was paranoid. Ever since the failure of "Operation Boob Illusion", Kai vowed that he had washed his hands of Taiga's foolishness and even though he had no intention of helping her with Kitamura on this trip, he just had to break this awkward silence.
Kai: Kawashima hasn't made it here yet?
Kitamura: Not to my knowledge. She hasn't even sent a text, but it's still a bit before the designated meeting time. I hope everyone remembered to bring their swimsuits.
Haruta: Yep yep, it'll really suck if you forgot 'em! Though considering how much progress Tiger has made, it'd be alright if she forgot hers. Nudie Tige- OWWWW!
Minori: Um, are you okay?
Noto: Yeah, he's fine. I just hit him in the solar plexus. Thanks for teaching me that move, Arito.
Kai: No problem. I think you just saved his life.
Noto nodded in agreement.
Taiga (suspiciously): Hey, what was that Stupid Hippie about to say?!
Noto (nervously): N-Nothing. It was nothing, don't you worry! Just forget it...Please...
Taiga: It better be nothing for your sake, Stupid Four Eyes!
Taiga glared at the two boys. The group continued to chat with each other while waiting for Ami. Yet, Kai chose to use the time to give himself a pep talk.
When I talk to Kawashima, I have to remember NOT to say the first thing that comes to my mind like I always do. I should take some time to consider if she's being sincere or not and then respond accordingly. This way I can ensure I don't end up looking like a sucker again. I'm a little eager to see her though, it's been awhile...I guess I kinda missed her-...STOP THAT, Okami! You're letting your defenses slip! Keep your guard up, man! Kawashima Ami is a force to be reckoned with!
A few minutes later, Ami also arrived to the gate with two unexpected guests.
Kitamura: Oh Kihara and Kashii!
Noto: What a pleasant surprise it is to see you two here!
Haruta: Huh? But didn't you already know that Kihara was comin- OWWW! Why did you hit me again, Noto?!
Nanako: It was so nice of Ami-chan to invite us. We've been so excited for this trip. I'm looking forward to the beach, I'm sure a bit of leisurely swimming will feel great!
Maya: Oh I know what you mean! And swimming burns calories too so it's awesome! Wow, it's 9 of us here, our group is really big.
Noto: The more the merrier right?
Minori: Yeah! It's more exciting this way!
While the group was talking, Ami strolled next to Kai and sweetly whispered.
Ami: Arito-kun~, I'm glad you made it. I've missed you so much!
She missed me?! Shoot, now I regret not buying that key-chain, this would've been a great opportunity to give it to her.
Despite not buying the key-chain, Kai's level of confidence combined with his frankness meant that he had no problem telling Ami that he felt the same way about her.
Kai: Well I actually mi-
Suddenly he was reminded of something that made him lose his nerve.
Kai (cautiously): Wait, was that true?
Ami (mysteriously):What if it was?
He scowled and looked away. Ami's sweet talk had made him disregard his entire strategy.
Dammit, I haven't even made it on the train yet and I'm already falling for her tricks.
Ami: I'm waiting on your answer, Arito-kun...
Kai (bitterly): I refuse to play along with any of your mind games. Here, talk to her instead.
Kai forfeited the match and tagged in his nearby clan member by grabbing Taiga's shoulders and placing her in front of Ami.
Go get her, Tiger! Whether it's one word or a thousand, a complaint or a curse, please tell this devious vixen off.
Kai usually didn't like for someone else to handle his affairs but right now he was willing to make an exception. This normally bold guy had just realized that he was always second guessing himself whenever Ami was involved and his pride would end up being cruelly decimated. He couldn't let her get away with playing with his feelings so that made unleashing the Palmtop Tiger justified. Taiga didn't mind though, she always had a bone to pick with Ami anyway. But since these two competitors were already embroiled in a very heated rivalry, things were bound to get ugly.
*Ding, Ding*
*Let's get ready to RUMBLE~!*
Taiga: What the hell are all these extra people doing here?! This wasn't part of our deal, you Stupid Chihuahua!
*Taiga comes in swinging.*
Ami: As a freeloader, you really don't have any right to complain. And as a dumb-ass, you shouldn't go around calling anyone "stupid".
*Ami's going toe-to-toe with Taiga's blows.*
Taiga: Would you prefer being called "Hairy Chihuahua" instead? I couldn't help but notice something sticking out when I saw you in that bikini you just HAD to wear to school.
Ami (enraged): If you keep defaming my image like that, I will seriously kill you!
*There's nothing pretty about Taiga's offense but it sure is effective.*
Taiga (smugly): I guess I can alternate between "Hairy" and "Stupid" since they're both appropriate names for a dog that's eternally in heat and can only compete with the lower half of her body.
*Oh Taiga is having a field day here, she's just laying into Ami left, right and center.*
Ami: Those are mighty big words from someone who possesses a lower half that hasn't even finished maturing.
Taiga (stunned): Wh-Wh...
*Ami definitely floated like a butterfly and stung like a bee with that one.*
*It seems like Taiga is having a hard time recovering.*
Taiga (flustered): Th,th,th,- That's not true, stupid! It's SO mature down there that I worry about it every day!
Ami: Yeah, right. You probably never even had that time of the month yet.
Taiga (T.K.O): (o_O)
*Down goes Tiger! Down goes Tiger!*
Kai (uncomfortable): Both of you have utterly forgotten that I'm here, haven't you?
Maybe they did forget he was there or maybe they just didn't give a damn. Just as any other teenage boy, Kai had a certain level of admiration for the female figure but he definitely didn't want to hear anything about "maturing lower bodies" and "time of the months". So he frantically waved his hand in the air to get the attention of the rest of the group.
Kai: Can we please get the hell out of here?!
Kitamura: Yeah I think everyone is here so we're all set!
Haruta: Okie-dokie! Let's all go to TEXTURE~!
Noto: It's Luxure!
Haruta: Uh...yeah...That's what I said.
By train, it would take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to Luxure. Since Kai and Kitamura headed into the train before everyone else, they got first dibs on where they would sit. They ended up taking the window seats facing each other, leaving one side open beside each of them. After that, a brutal war took place. Noto was next up to choose his seat and he was about to sit next to Kitamura but he got nudged out the way by Maya who immediately plopped down in the chair instead.
Noto (outraged): What the heck, Kihara?!
Maya (innocently): Oh I'm sorry, Noto. I thought you wanted a window seat.
Noto mumbled angrily as he took that window seat in the opposite aisle. Taiga was also annoyed by Maya's eagerness to sit next to Kitamura but then she realized that it was Ami's turn to pick a seat. She already knew where Ami was headed so she quickly slipped past Minori and shoved Ami in the chair next to Noto instead.
Ami (agitated): Are you kidding me?!
Taiga ignored her and turned to Minori.
Taiga: Guess what, Minorin?! Okami just came back from training on Honshu Island!
Minorin (astounded): You mean the place where "Suicide Forest" is?! No way! That's SO scary!
Minori ran and jumped into the seat next to Kai.
Minori (anxiously): Arito-kun! I hate s-scary stuff so don't talk about that place okay?
As she was saying all of this, her body was squirming around in her seat and her face turned red.
Kai: Are you talking about the forest that's at the base of Mount Fuji?
Minori (zealously): Yes! It's the most popular suicide destination in the world. The forest is so lush that some corpses can go undiscovered for years. It's said that the mournful spirits of the suicidal linger in the woods. Folklore claims they are vengeful, dedicated to tormenting visitors and luring those that are sad and lost off their path!
The blushing and squirming Minori was now bleeding from her nose.
Minori: Sniff... Ahem... Heh heh... My nose is bleeding... Oh no, don't get the wrong idea, I'm not thinking of anything naughty here. It... It's just, well... I, I... How should I say this?...How-, how many dead bodies did you see, Arito-kun?
She started placing tissues into her nose as more blood flowed out but for some reason she was still giggling. It seemed like she was really excited.
Kai: Um... None. I was nowhere near that place. I stayed at a Zen Temple and-
Minori panicked and suddenly covered Kai's mouth with her hands.
Minori (terrified): NO! Don't say anything else! It's too CREEPY!
Kai (muffled): You're the only one who's being creepy around here!
Taiga: Minorin, calm down. Your body won't be able to take it much longer.
Taiga finally sat down on the opposite side of Ami and gave her a smug look. However, Ami refused to even acknowledge Taiga, instead she smoothly flipped up her hair and looked at her nails.
Ami: It looks like Aisaka-san hasn't made it on the train yet so maybe someone should call her. Although I don't care at all if the train leaves without her.
She continued to completely disregard Taiga, who was right in front of her. Just then, the train started moving and Taiga forcefully brought her foot down on Ami's.
Ami: Ahh!
Ami yelped in pain and caressed her foot.
Ami (enraged): What the hell is your problem?!
Taiga: I should've aimed for your eyes instead since they're so useless. I'm right here, you know?
Ami (snidely): Ehh~... You're so small that I guess I just didn't see you.
Taiga: They really are useless, aren't they?
Taiga made a sinister V with her small hand and was about to attack again but-
Minori: Now, now! That's enough for today! You guys shouldn't fight while we're on vacation.
Minori got in between the two and blocked Taiga's attack. But even though Taiga's physical assault was stopped, she was willing to settle for a verbal one instead-
Taiga: Oh, Baka-Chi~?
Ami (not interested): Could you possibly be talking to me?
Taiga: What horrible eye-bags you have.
Ami: Huh?!
Taiga pointed towards Ami's eyes to draw more attention to her physical flaw. It even caused Maya to turn and stare intently at Ami's face.
Minori: Amin wouldn't have a thing like that on her beautiful skin-... Ohh...
As if saying "I am so sorry", Minori bowed deeply. For some reason, Kitamura returned a polite nod, as if responding "No need to apologize, thank you for worrying". Now that it had been mentioned, even Kai could see that Ami's usually perfect skin had the tiniest bit of discoloration just beneath her eyes.
Kai (concerned): What's up with you? Have you not been getting enough sleep?
Ami (apprehensively): W-Wait, even Arito-kun sees it?!... For there to be things like that on my skin is impos-
She immediately pulled out her compact makeup mirror and peered at her pretty face.
Ami: Ahh!
After seeing that it was true, she let out a gasp and the mirror slipped from her hands. Then she gently touched the skin around her eyes with her trembling fingers; even her voice became shaky.
Ami: Ahh, what the heck is this? I can't believe it. I know I've been really busy recently but... Ahh geez, what do I do?!
She really seemed to be in shock as she closed her eyes and held her forehead. Nanako, who was sitting next to Taiga, grabbed Ami's shoulder and tried to shake her back to her senses.
Nanako: Ami-chan, what in the world has happened?!
Ami: When summer break started, I went back home and picked up a lot of modeling gigs so that kept me pretty busy. After finally getting off from work, I had planned on taking the last train to get back here yesterday but I missed it. In the end, I had to ride the earliest train this morning and I only slept for three hours.
Nanako: Oh so you started working again.
"Aww."
Mostly everyone's expressions softened with pity.
Maya: That sounds horrible, Ami. You haven't had any time to truly enjoy your summer vacation. You only have these next few days before school starts back up.
Ami: Yeah, you're right.
Minori (energetically): Okay then! If it's like that, then we have to go all out and make sure Ami enjoys herself on this trip! All right everyone, you don't let the batters go in whatever order they want, you know? We have to create a lineup. So let's have the guy army go for a home-run with a fun conversation to alleviate Ami's woes. Give it your all!
The first man to step up to bat was Kitamura Yusaku.
Kitamura: Well, why don't we try a debate with a common topic? Though I'm not sure what kind of subject Ami would want to discuss... How about the presidential candidates for next year or global warming? OH! Since we're going to be preparing for exams next year, maybe we should talk about the declining college enrollment?!
Everyone looked at Kitamura like he was crazy.
Noto: Who would actually want to talk about that sort of stuff?
Kitamura: Plenty of people.
Haruta: No way, man. You're bumming me out.
Minori (heckling): Kitamura-kun, even Ben Affleck is a better Bat-Man than you! You struck out by a mile! You couldn't hit water if you fell out of a boat! You couldn't hit sand if you fell off a camel! You couldn't-
Kitamura: OK!OK! I get it already...Sorry, geez.
Minori: Now it's time for the Wolf-Man to take the plate!
Kai: Pass.
Minori (sternly): That's against the rules!
Kai: But I don't have anything to sa-
Minori (fiercely): Don't try to argue with the umpire, Mister! You better hit it like you have a pair!
It seemed Minori had gotten a bit carried away with her role-playing and Kai could only grumble at her. He really didn't have anything to say, so instead he grabbed his luggage from the overhead compartment and took out a cloth-wrapped container. When he opened it-
Maya: No way, are those Rice Balls?!
Haruta: Woohoo~, awesome!
Ami: Rice Balls?! Mm, that sounds great! I haven't had anything to eat all day.
Practically leaping up, Minori clapped her hands vigorously. Taiga and Nanako both had a bright look in their eyes. Even Kitamura and Noto looked surprisingly pleased as they repositioned their glasses.
Kai: Even though I didn't know there was gonna be additional people here today, I ended up making extra so everyone should be able to get some.
Kai started handing out a couple to each of them.
Kitamura: Oh, this is really good!
Noto: Not bad, Arito.
Ami: They're totally delicious!
Minori: Ah, there's a plum in here! Yay plums! The Wolf-Man got a home-run right off the bat!
Maya: Did you really make these, Arito-kun?!
Kai: Yeah, I did.
Nanako: It surprises me that a martial artist is such a capable chef.
Kai: Anyone living with my Sensei has to be.
Maya: Your Sensei is to credit for your cooking skills?
Kai: Pretty much. It all started the second time she took me out to the countryside for training, once we got there-
* * * * Flashback * * * *
Kai: I'm so glad that we aren't staying at a Zen Temple this time. It really sucked being forced to eat vegetarian meals everyday. I just don't get how those Buddhist Monks can live without meat!
Michiko: Don't turn your nose up at someone's lifestyle. Remember that according to the monks' philosophy, all living beings have the possibility of attaining enlightenment. In line with this doctrine, the use of meat and fish are prohibited in the preparation of their meals.
Kai: Oh, right. Sorry...By the way, what are we having for dinner tonight?
Michiko: That depends on what you're planning on cooking.
Kai gave her a strange look.
Michiko (sarcastically): What? Do you think this is Feudal Japan where women have to wait on men hand and foot?
Kai: No...I don't think that way. It's just that...I'm a kid and you're the adult so-
Michiko: When you first asked me to be your Sensei, do you recall what I said when I rejected you?
Kai: Yeah. You said you didn't have time to be babysitting any bratty kids.
Michiko: Exactly. So when you pestered me for the umpteenth time and I finally agreed to let you be my student, that's the day you gave up being a "kid". As a man you have to learn to stand on your own two feet and that means being able to cook for yourself.
He put on a rigid expression.
Michiko: Don't tell me you've been living on this earth for 12 years and you don't know how to cook anything?
Kai: My mom taught me how to make Rice Balls but that's the only thing I know how to cook.
Michiko: Then that'll be the only thing you'll be eating while you're here. For breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Kai (disgruntled): But that's not a healthy diet!
Michiko: It's actually worse than those monks you were criticizing a few seconds ago but you'll be able to survive on it for the short time we're here. If you want a balanced meal then you should seek to expand your cooking skills a little further.
Kai (incredulous): This isn't fair! I don't even think it's legal!
Michiko: If you truly feel that way then you can always break off this little partnership of ours and I'll gladly take you back home. Remember, no one is forcing you to be here. You're the one who came to me, not the other way around.
Recognition dawned on his face.
Kai: Oh, now I see what you're trying to do! Ever since you became my Sensei, you've been doing really mean things in order to get me to give up. -(determined)- Well I'll show you! I'll learn to cook a bunch of stuff! Just you wait and see!
Michiko (sighs): It always amazes me how easy it is to provoke you; we're gonna have to work on that. But I'm actually not trying to challenge you this time. This is a lesson about self-sufficiency. "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. But if you teach a man to fish, then he can feed himself for a lifetime."- Lao Tzu said that.
Kai (sarcastically): Oh great, does that mean I have to learn how to fish too?
At this point in time, Kai was quite headstrong so he was a slow learner when it came to realizing that "talking back" to Michiko was never a good idea.
Michiko: Now that is an interesting proposal. I'm gonna need some time to ponder about it but you're such a noisy little fellow that I can barely hear myself think when you're around. See that field out there? How about you go run around it until I figure this out.
Kai (regretfully): Oh..Uh...I didn't mean it like that, I-
Miciko: Once the words leave your mouth, you have to take accountability for them. It'd be best for you to catch onto that quickly since you're so outspoken.
Kai forced himself to keep his mouth shut and shook his head obediently this time.
Michiko: Anyways, after you tire yourself out from running, you should go visit that lady who taught you how to sew last year and see if she can exchange any recipes with you.
Kai: But her house is like three miles from here!
Michiko: I hope you make Rice Balls as well as you make excuses.
Kai: -_-
Michiko: See if that lady can help you with your face too.
* * * * Flashback ends * * * *
The group laughed at his story.
Kai (smirks): Slowly but surely I learned to make more things and ever since then I've been in charge of the cooking, cleaning, shopping, sewing, and basically anything else that needs tending to.
Ami: It sounds like you would make a good husband. Want to marry into my family?
Ami smiled with her large eyes shimmering.
Kai: Sure!
He replied without any hesitation.
Ami: Really?
Kai: Yeah, but it depends on how old your sister is. Can you give me any advice on how to win her over? Wait, you don't have a sister, do you? Darn it.
Ami (irritated): Tch.
Ami's eyes immediately turned cold as she clicked her tongue. Meanwhile, Kai maintained his nonchalant expression but on the inside-
HA! Take that! You tried to get me but I beat you to the punch this time! I'm finally on the scoreboard: 1-1. I can't allow myself to be lured in by this model with rice on her lips.
( •_•)⌐■-■
(⌐■_■)
Once the train pulled into the station, the group strolled through an underground tunnel that was only a short walk to the resort. The path extended through the woods and continued along towards descending stone steps. And beyond those steep steps was Luxure, an exquisite hotel that was several stories high, surrounded by shimmering white sand and the deep blue sea. The scent of salt pervading the moist breeze and the sound of the gently beating waves was a pleasant reminder that it was all real.
Ami: Ok, here we are~.
Kitamura: Ohhh! I heard the rumors, but this place is as large as they say.
Noto: Yeah there's even a planetarium and observatory here.
Maya: We really get to stay here?!
Ami: Of course, Maya-chan!
Nanako: Kyah! It's so wonderful!
Minori: I'm deeply moved! Being allowed to stay at a place like this is a dream come true! Ohh, let's hurry up and go!
Haruta: Yahoo! Welcome to LUCID~!
Noto (disgruntled): I can't even begin to correct that, Haruta.
Mostly everyone dashed down the cove to the entrance of Luxure.
Kitamura (concerned): Ah, wait! Be careful, guys! Don't trip!
Even Kitamura picked up his pace as he made his way down the stairs. Just as Taiga was about to take off after the group, Kai grabbed her by the collar to stop her.
Kai: You would definitely trip.
Taiga: Huh? Just when have I ever tripped?
Kai (sarcastically): Wow. Not only are you a klutz, but it looks like you're suffering from amnesia now too. How sad.
She gave him a dirty look. There was no way she was gonna put up with him insulting her like that.
Taiga: You're too close to me, you sex offender!
Taiga knew that Kai would instantly become paralyzed from hearing her label him that and she was right. It was no doubt that she was referring to a certain "pool incident" which she promised not to ever bring up again...It appears she lied.
Kai (horrified): Se- se~?!...*_*
To a guy like Kai who placed honor above everything else, that was the worst thing you could ever call him. He was just as traumatized as Taiga by that experience and it couldn't help but play through his mind again from the mention of it.
Taiga: Just what are you imagining, you PERVERT?!
Now Taiga was just rubbing salt into an open wound. She abruptly took advantage of his momentary shock and yanked herself free from his grasp. Then she violently smacked him on the back, knocking him away.
Kai: Ah!
Kai barely regained his balance after stumbling forward a couple steps. Afterwards, Taiga struck a haughty pose and stared viciously while pointing her finger at him.
Taiga: Walk in front of me! Then, in the unlikely event that I happen to fall, you can use your body to stop me. Only in that case will I give you permission to touch me.
Kai's lips drew back in a snarl.
Kai (vengefully): How about I just push you down instead so you can fall right on your arrogant little face!
Taiga: Shut your mouth!
Minori spun around and shouted-
Minori: Ooh~, Taiga and Arito-kun are getting heated~... Haha...
After making fun of them by pointing and implying that sort of thing, she took off running wildly once again towards the resort. On the other hand-
Taiga: Ohh...the sand's getting in my sandals...
After she'd finally gotten down the stone steps, it was a mystery as to where Taiga's earlier vigor had gone as she was now acting rather timid. She kept stopping when her sandals filled with sand and tried to shake her legs futilely one at a time.
Kai (derisively): If you're so worried about that, then you can't walk on the beach. If that's the case then I'll be spending most of my time there.
While being completely apathetic to Taiga's situation, Kai walked further ahead of her as she just scowled and continued to moan about the hot sand. She simply would not take another step.
What a stubborn girl. Just what is she expecting?
Kitamura (concerned): What's wrong, Aisaka? You okay? I'll take your stuff for you.
Taiga (awestruck): Ah...
Kitamura noticed how troubled Taiga was and came back to help her by taking the large bag off her hands.
Kitamura: Do your feet hurt? We did walk quite a bit... Sorry that I didn't notice earlier.
His eyes practically overflowed with kindness as he stared at her.
Taiga: I- It's not a problem! I'm fine!
Kitamura: Really? Well then, let's go!
Kitamura slowed down so he could walk side by side with Taiga and he made sure to keep an eye on her from time to time. Of course, Taiga's face was completely red and she was nearly trembling as she gritted her teeth. Her expression looked like it was caught between a smile and torment. Then her back stiffened up like a board and her right arm and right leg were moving in sync but at least she was finally walking again. Kai slightly turned his head to look at them.
Of course "The Hero" has swooped in to save the girl. It never even crossed my mind to help Tiger with her bags, does that make me "A Villain"? Maybe I am a lost cause when it comes to being sensitive to girls... But then again, Kitamura is an exceptionally nice person and just because I'm not as friendly as him, that doesn't instantly make me the scum of the earth. I admit I can be a little aloof at times but I honestly think I'm not as bad as I used to be. I've made some progress.
In fact, there have been plenty of times where I've went out my way to help Tiger but ...I guess there's just a limit to what I'll do. Anything more than that would be spoiling her and that's a job for her boyfriend. That's it! If the situation involved a girl who I had a romantic interest in, I'm sure I would have offered to carry her bags in that situation.
Kai suddenly looked towards Ami; she didn't seem to be having any problems with her luggage as she hurried to the entrance. Then Kai tilted his head thoughtfully...
Well what's Kitamura's deal then? Is he showing an interest in Tiger or is he just being too nice? I really can't tell...I thought it was a good sign that he volunteered to win her a prize at the arcade that day but now I'm not so sure. If he keeps offering to do all these kind things for Tiger, it would probably lead her to believe that he has feelings for her. But if he actually doesn't, she could end up being hurt as a result... I think this is what Kawashima tried to warn me about.
Kai recalled what Ami had said to him at the arcade:
"Sometimes 'Nice Guys' end up hurting people the most, especially when they're like Yusaku. Always being nice and not knowing when you shouldn't be, can be very cruel in itself. Although it'll be unintentional, he might put you in a tough spot someday."
But how exactly would Kitamura put me in a "tough spot"? This has nothing to do with me. Of course I'd hate to see Tiger get her feelings hurt but I couldn't hold that against Kitamura just for being too nice to her and not being aware of how she feels about him. I really want to ask Kawashima what she meant but I'm starting to see when she throws out a piece of advice like that, she's not going to explain it; she's a take-it-or -leave-it kinda girl.
Once the group made it into the hotel lobby, they checked into reception and got their room keys.
Kitamura: How about we go to our rooms, change into our bathing suits and meet up later?
Ami: Sounds good but what's on the agenda for today?
Noto: Err good question.
Nanako: If time permits, I'd like to see a little bit of everything.
Kitamura: According to this pamphlet most of the attractions are located inside the hotel except for the observatory which is only a short walk away. The 1st floor contains the planetarium and the amusement park. Floors 2-4 have all sorts of swimming pools. Those of us with brawn to spare can swing by the gym on the 6th floor. Once you've worn yourself out, you can go to the relaxation lounge which happens to be on the 5th floor. The 7th floor has a plethora of restaurants and stores to choose from. Since we're in a big group, how about today just be a free for all, where people do whatever they like then we can meet at the curry restaurant on the 7th floor. Tomorrow we can all hang out on the beach together. All in favor say AYE!
Applause erupted from all around.
Maya: Kitamura, you're a natural at this.
Kitamura: I suppose so.
After the boys had went into their room and changed their clothes-
Kitamura: Arito, I'm planning to head to the gym right now, want to come with me?
Kai: No way, I did enough working out this past week to last me a lifetime.
Noto: Well, do you wanna go swimming with us?
Haruta: YEAH! Let's swim like fishies!
Kai: Nah, I'll pass. I just wanna relax for a bit. I was thinking about going on the beach to lay in the sun or maybe hit the hotsprings or something.
Kitamura: Alright but don't forget that we're all having dinner together at the curry restaurant at 6pm. By the way, do any of you remember where the girls said they'd be going?
Noto: Ami-chan wanted to go to the 5th floor lounge with her friends, they were talking about massages or something. Kushieda said she was headed to the planetarium and the Tiger went to the fourth floor to go swimming.
Kitamura: The 4th floor? As I recall, that's where the kiddie pool is…Well, see you all later.
Noto: Take care.
Haruta: POOL! POOL!
Once they all left, Kai stayed in the room a bit longer to figure out what he was going to do.
Hmm, where should I go? Since we're all going to the beach tomorrow anyway, maybe I should go to the relaxation lounge on the 5th floor where the jacuzzis and saunas are. Plus, Noto mentioned that Kawashima might be up there too. That has nothing to do with me wanting to go there though. It's just a coincidence. I don't even care... Ugh, who am I kidding?
There she goes.
When Kai reached the 5th floor, he found a certain narcissist standing in front of the therapeutic pool in her bikini. She was admiring her reflection in the water with a satisfied smile as she shifted her hair up and down. Of course such behavior required her to be taunted.
Kai: You should be careful, I heard a Greek guy died from doing that.
Ami scoffed at his sarcastic remark and continued to fawn over herself.
Ami: Let me guess, you were so lonely that you waltzed up here hoping Ami-chan's gentle smile would heal you?
Kai: That's exactly the reason I came here.
Ami turned around and raised her eyebrow skeptically.
Kai (mysteriously): What if I meant that?
She immediately became angry and put her hand on her hip.
Ami: You were cracking another joke?!
Kai: Doesn't feel good getting a taste of your own medicine, huh?
Ami (annoyed): You're the worst.
Kai: Yeah, yeah. Anyways, why are you here alone? I'd thought you'd be connected at the hip with Kihara and Kashii.
Ami: Maya and Nanako are having aromatherapy massages. Only two can go in at a time, so I let them go first.
Kai: Wow, they have that here too?
Ami: There's all kinds of stuff to do here but more importantly Arito-kun…
Kai: Hm?
Ami: What do you think of this bikini? Isn't it rather risqué?
Ami the Narcissist struck a pose while facing Kai. The bikini clearly accentuated her figure and cleavage. Kai shifted his eyes towards her body for nearly half a second before he forced himself to focus on something in the distance, then he shrugged indifferently.
Kai: It's okay, I guess.
Kai made sure to put a good amount of space in between them just in case if anything were to happen he would be prepared. Prepared for what exactly? He didn't know, but his prior experiences with Ami warranted him to always be prepared. Perhaps his "flight or fight" instinct was kicking in. When he did happen to stare at her, he would only look her in the eyes. Ami noticed what he was doing but she wasn't going to let him get away so easily.
Ami: Eh? Is that all you've got to say?
Are you really asking me to say more?!
Well actually, Kai was thinking a variety of things besides just "okay". For example:
1. The curvy S-line that went from her chest to her rear was very alluring.
2. She could definitely become a top idol if she were to appear on the front page of one of those gravure magazines.
3. Her well-defined stomach resembled a marble goddess statue.
4. She was certainly beautiful enough that one couldn't speak without showing some type of admiration.
5. Those legs. Those long smooth legs.
I rather be stuck in the eye with a thousand needles instead of saying any of those things. I would sound just like the other million guys who drool over her. I'm not going to succumb to her temptation and feed her ego.
So he quickly pushed those thoughts out of his head and remained cool.
Kai: Well, your swimsuit doesn't exactly leave much to the imagination.
Ami (peeved): Who actually says things like that? Shouldn't you be stuttering and stammering right about now?
Kai: Huh?
Ami: Never-mind...Mmm, you already seen me in a bikini at school, didn't you?… So maybe it's kind of lost its fresh appeal now?
Kai maintained eye-contact with her.
Kai: No, that's not the reason.
Ami made a troubled face and tilted her head.
Ami: But this one is different, it has a part that can be separated, see?
Suddenly Kai appeared to be confused.
What the heck is she talking about? What could possibly separate?
He unconsciously ended up looking down to find out. She tugged at the large ribbon strap that went around her neck and undid a part of her bikini; it was styled like a tube top now. Her cleavage was even more apparent and seemingly on the verge of spilling out as she bent over and posed.
Kai (shocked): *_*
Kai's eyes became so wide that it looked like they might pop out of his head at any second. Ami finally got the reaction that she was aiming for and a devious grin came across her face. She was satisfied that she had shaken up the usually "Cool & Collected" Kai which revealed that he was a red-blooded man after all. His resistance may have been stronger than most but when it came down to it, he wasn't completely chaste. It was good to know.
Ami: It's much better like this, don't you think~?
Her bust jiggled up and down as if poking fun at him. After realizing how intently he had been staring at it, Kai became angry. He didn't appreciate being teased by such an underhanded method.
Kai (sternly): Put it back on!
Ami (innocently): Why~?
Kai: Just do it!
Ami: Well if you want the ribbon to be put back on so badly then why don't you do it?
Kai (adamantly): I refuse!
Ami: How cold of you.
Ami gently chuckled as she put the ribbon back on herself.
Even though I'm fully aware that her angelic smile and big innocent eyes are simply a sham, it never changes the risk factor involved!
Kai: Someone should mark your hips with the word "dangerous"!
Ami (smirks): What a cruel thing to say, especially when I was being nice for a change too.
Kai (scathingly): If you're nice then I'm a saint!
Kai was about to storm off but Ami instinctively grabbed his hand to stop him.
Ami (shocked): Are you seriously just going to leave like this and abandon me here?!
Kai: Of course I am. You're lucky I don't push you into that pool instead. Believe me, I'm very tempted to.
Ami: Geez, I didn't expect you to get so angry! You really are a sensitive guy.
Kai: I just don't like being toyed with!
Ami (remorseful): Alright, I'm sorry!... At least let me try to make it up to you.
The corners of his eyes crinkled almost as if he was trying to preserve his anger.
Am: C'mon, aren't you thirsty? I'll order something for us to drink from the Swim-Up Bar and we can chat by the poolside.
It was no good. Bit by bit, she chipped away at him and made him soften up.
Ugh, I feel like putty in her hands... but she actually does seem to be sorry, I can tell it's not an act.
Kai: Well, I did come here to relax so... I don't really mind.
Ami (relieved): Good. How about you go find us somewhere to sit while I put in our order.
Kai: Alright. I'll take a-
Ami immediately walked off before Kai could finish his sentence.
Kai: Hey Kawashima!
Ami pretended she didn't hear him and continued towards the Swim-Up Bar. After she placed their orders, she came back and sat in a lounge chair next to Kai.
Ami: They're really busy at the moment so they'll have an attendant bring us our drinks.
Kai (peeved): Why'd you leave before I told you what I wanted?
Ami: Because I knew you'd get the same old boring tea like you always do. That's unacceptable since we're on vacation. So I picked you out a drink that's a little more trendy.
Kai: Like what?
Ami (mysteriously): It's a surprise.
Kai (sarcastically): Great, I'm already dreading it.
Ami smirked and leaned back in her chair.
Ami: Arito-kun, you don't have a girlfriend, right?
Kai (cautiously): No.
Ami: Don't you find your youth cold and lonely?
Kai (tiredly): You just can't stop making fun of me, can you?
Ami: It was a harmless question. Most people our age tend to feel that way but you don't seem like someone who cares about "dating" and other such things.
Kai: I suppose that may have been true about me awhile back but recently I-... -(sighs)- Well, I may not be able to care about stuff like that in the near future.
Ami: Why not?
Kai: A guy in my clan tried fooling around with one of our Sensei's daughters and that ended up backfiring on all of us so we're considering enforcing a "Dating Ban" on everyone.
Ami:... Why does it have to be everyone?
Kai: We've always had an "All or Nothing" approach to things; and with the Championship coming up it kinda makes sense to minimize all the risks. Come to think of it, aren't you on a Dating Ban?
Ami: Where did you hear that at?
Kai: It's well known that the entertainment industry forces "no dating clauses" on Idols because the companies want them to be seen as single in order to encourage the fan fantasies that bring in the money. I'm sure you have a lot of male fans since you're a model so wouldn't you be at a risk of losing them if you started dating?
Ami: Dating Bans are certainly popular in my line of work but since my mother is no stranger to show business, she was able to negotiate my contract to exclude that. She didn't want me trading my freedom to have relationships for fame. I actually don't accept the "Idol" label because at the end of the day, Idols are only appreciated for their image and they carry a stigma of a having little to no talent. That's why most people don't take them seriously when they move onto other areas. I rather be seen as a professional than an object of fanatical devotion when I eventually start acting.
Kai: Oh so you want to become an actress? What brought that on?
Ami: My plan was always to get into acting. When I was little my mom used to take me on the set with her all the time and when I watched her, I just knew that's what I wanted to do when I grew up.
Kai: So why become a model in the first place?
Ami: I wanted to get my name out there on my own and do the footwork instead of having my achievements be accredited to nepotism.
Kai (impressed): I can respect that. It's already obvious that you're pretty talented so I'm sure you won't have any of those problems. You would be a great actress.
Ami (flattered): You really think so?
Kai: There's no doubt in my mind; you certainly have a knack for it. You might even be able to do impressions professionally.
Ami's expression hardened and the mood instantly went bad. But at this point, Kai didn't realize that he had said something wrong.
Ami: What are you talking about?
Kai: Well, I have the DVD that Tiger recorded when you were doing those impressions.
Ami (furiously): No way! Why do you have that?!
Now he was starting to catch on a little bit but he continued being frank with her-
Kai: Um... because Tiger left it at my house so she can have something to watch when there's nothing good on TV. She loves it but she drives me crazy because she never puts it back in the case when she's done with it.
Amii: UGH…You're the WORST!
Kai (confused): What did I do?! I was actually giving you a compliment! You probably don't know but it's a real pain in the ass to watch TV with Tiger; she's so picky and we can never agree on anything.
Ami (mortified): How could you keep something like that at your house and watch it on a regular basis?!
Kai: No, you misunderstood. Tiger's the only one who watches it, usually when I'm at training. I've never even seen it before.
Ami (anxiously): Arito-kun, look me in the eye and swear that's true right now!
Kai: I swear!
Ami (appeased): Good. Don't ever watch it. Swear to that too!
Kai: Alright, alright. I swear I won't! How about I just give you the DVD instead so you don't have to worry about it anymore?
Ami: Really, you'll give it to me?
Kai: Sure. I'll bring it with me when school starts back up and hand it over to you.
Ami: That's no good! I can't wait that long! When our train arrives in Ohashi, I'll go home to drop off my luggage and then I'll come to your place to pick it up.
Kai: Ok that works too. Just calm down, alright? Please.
Ami relaxed at Kai's behest and he breathed in relief. Just then, a pool attendant approached them.
"Here goes your drink. I apologize for the wait."
Ami: It's quite alright. Thank you~!
The attendant set a humongous cup on the miniature table in between Ami and Kai. It was a fruity, frozen pink cocktail made with pineapple juice and fresh strawberries, topped off with a tiny umbrella and two straws.
Kai: What's with this?
Ami: Doesn't it look delicious~! It's called "Sunset Beach" but don't worry Arito-kun, it's the non-alcoholic version.
Kai (not amused): No, I meant why is there only one cup and two straws?
Ami (cutely): Because Ami-chan is just~ so~ nice~.
Kai: I highly doubt that has anything to do with it.
Ami: I was going to buy you your own but then I remembered how old-fashioned you are and that you made such a big fuss the last time I bought you a drink. So I thought it would be better if we shared.
Kai (warily): I see what you're up to. You've got a record.
Ami: Whatever you're thinking isn't true. I really don't mind if you have a little taste~.
I'm not falling for that. I know as soon as I go in for a sip, she will too. Then our faces will be close together and it'll be just like last time. I'll turn red as an apple and that's exactly what she wants to see... I can try my hardest to keep my cool but what if I'm not able to pull it off?...I can't just back down from her challenge like a pansy though!...I'll play her game but I have to turn the tables somehow... HA! I got it!
Ami: C'mon wipe that dirty look off your face and give it a try.
Kai: Alright but if we're gonna share then we should do it the right way.
Ami (puzzled): The right way?
Kai pulled out one of the straws then he leaned over to sip the straw that remained in the drink. After he was done, he turned the drink around so that his straw was facing Ami.
Kai: Kawashima, you were right! This drink is awesome! Have a taste!
If Ami were to put her lips on the same straw that Kai's lips had just touched, then that would be a good ol' "Indirect Kiss". She looked away nervously, but she couldn't hide the red glow that came over her face.
Checkmate!
Ami kept her hands clenched and jaw locked while wishing her heart would stop racing thanks to that dumb smile he had given her. It was obvious she was trying to maintain her composure.
Ami (smugly): If you wanna kiss me, you should just ask, you know?
Kai: That's not fair. I bet Kitamura wouldn't have to ask.
Ami (irked): You've worn out that joke, Arito-kun!
Kai (laughing): Yeah, that one was pretty bad.
Am: No, they were all bad!
Kai continued to laugh as he turned the drink around again and placed Ami's straw back in. When he calmed down, something crossed his mind-
Kai: Hey Kawashima...about Kitamura...
Ami (sternly): I don't want to hear anything else about Yusaku from you.
Kai: No, I'm being serious this time. Just listen for a sec, would you?
After Ami took a sip of the drink, she let out a sigh and finally looked at him.
Ami: Fine, what is it?
Kai: I've finally seen what you were talking about that day when we were at the arcade.
Ami: Is that so? And you chose to bring up this boring conversation again? What a dull man you are, Arito-kun. I couldn't care about any of that.
Kai: That's a lie. You do care...in your own little twisted way. Otherwise, you wouldn't have bothered to mention it to me at all.
Ami avoided his gaze; she looked a little irritated that Kai had seen through her so easily but she didn't refute what he said.
Kai: You don't always have to act so tough.
Ami (mutters): That's easy for you to say.
Kai: What?
Ami: Nothing... So does this mean you're going to discourage Aisaka from pursuing Yusaku now?
Kai: I have no right to do that since I'm not really sure if Kitamura is just being too nice to Tiger or if he is actually interested in her. But I've decided that I'm not going to keep pushing her towards him either. It'd be best if things just ran their natural course between them, regardless if the outcome is good or bad.
Ami: That's a mighty big risk you're taking. That "tough spot" must not bother you as much as I thought it would.
Kai: Honestly, I still haven't figured out what you meant by that. How about you give me break and just tell me. After all, aren't we in similar positions?
Ami: I may not dislike Aisaka as much as I put on but I didn't exactly become her BFF overnight either.
Kai: No, I'm talking about with Kihara.
Ami (intrigued): Maya? What exactly are you insinuating, Arito-kun?
Kai (cautiously): Well...Tiger likes Kitamura and so does ... Kihara.
Ami (enigmatically): Does she?
Kai (hesitant): Uh... Yea-...I think...
The way Ami was acting made Kai second guess himself but the more he thought about it-
Kai (assured): She definitely does! It's so obvious! You, of all people should know.
Ami (haughtily): Of course I know. I'm a little surprised that you're privy to it though. Hmm, it seems you're not a complete lost cause.
Kai: I'd have to be blind not to notice. Kihara practically clings to Kitamura every chance she gets.
Ami (peeved): Is that the only way something like that is obvious to you?
Kai: Huh?
Ami: Not every girl is like Maya and clings to the guy she likes. Nor are they like Aisaka who forgets how to talk when she's approached by her crush... Not everyone expresses themselves in that manner but if it's not clear and straightforward then it's not real to you, is it?... You may not be like Yusaku but you're just as bad as he is. Ugh, I knew this would happen!
Kai appeared to be very tense after Ami was done with her tangent.
I don't know what the hell I did to put her in this mood but I'd give anything for a do-over. I'm not even sure where she's going with this. Should I say that? No, I feel like that would piss her off even more. Is silence a valid option?...
Upon seeing Kai's pensive expression, Ami realized that she may have been a little too hard on him.
Ami (sighs): Forget it, Arito-kun. We're just getting lost in translation again. It's like you said before, I still haven't learned to speak your language yet.
Kai gazed at her thoughtfully.
Kai: No, I was wrong about that. I've realized that you do know how to speak my language, you just choose not to. Instead you've developed your own cryptic code to communicate with others because you want them to figure things out for themselves. So there's no need for you to master my language but rather I have to learn how to decode yours. I try but it's like I'm using an ice pick to break through a brick wall... I've never been good with subtlety so I understand how you could become frustrated with me.
"Trying to break through a brick wall."
That was a perfect way to describe the process of understanding Kawashima Ami. The beautiful "airhead" was used to putting walls between herself and the world so she wouldn't get hurt. Ami knew she had no right to be frustrated with Kai for not being able to break through the wall, after all, it was her fault for putting it up in the first place.
Ami (bleakly): You know, saying something like that right now is so...-(sighs)-...Never-mind... I guess... I can appreciate that you're trying at least.
It was obvious that Ami wasn't willing to let down the wall on her own, of course that would've made things a lot easier for Kai but perhaps she was just too scared to do it. Maybe the fact that she could actually be herself around him, made it even more difficult to express her feelings to him. She also equated being honest to being vulnerable and one thing about an outspoken person like Kai, is that you always know where you stand with them and they wouldn't bite their tongue when they told you. Yet, she knew he didn't force expectations on her like others did and he treated her no differently even though she was a model. Therefore, she had enough trust in him that she wanted to try being honest and not keep him in the dark about a certain subject.
Ami: Is Yusaku blind?
Kai: Hm?
Ami: You just declared that you would have to be blind not to recognize Maya's feelings. So why hasn't Yusaku?
Kai: Kitamura is the dumbest-smart guy I ever met so when it comes to things like that, he's completely oblivious.
Ami: That's so convenient though, isn't it?
Kai: How is being oblivious ever convenient?
Ami: Well think about it, if Yusaku is truly unaware then he's not obligated to address Maya's feelings in a proper manner, therefore no one can blame him when she ends up being hurt by that. Coincidentally, that just so happens to be ideal for Yusaku because he can't stand being the "bad guy" by letting someone down or hurting their feelings; he actually has a tendency to shy away from that type of stuff. In fact, ever since we were kids, he's always put himself in a safe spot so he doesn't have to bear any responsibility for his actions. He's forever the "innocent one". Most of the time when you point out something to him, he'll be so naive and go, "Huh, I don't know what you're talking about!" or he'll just brush it off.
Kai couldn't argue with Ami because that's exactly the sort of person Kitamura was.
Ami: So if by some stroke of luck he ever did become aware of Maya's feelings then he would be far better off pretending like he didn't know anything at all and that way he can keep on being the "Nice Guy". But being ignorant is also a way to hurt people too, regardless if it's genuine or feigned .
Kai (warily): Feigned?
Ami (perky): Oh look, Maya and Nanako are back!
Maya and Nanako had finally returned from their aromatherapy massages looking very refreshed in their bikinis. However, Kai couldn't hide his irritation from having his conversation with Ami interrupted.
Maya: Sorry for the wait, Ami-chan!
Nanako: Oh Arito-kun is here as well.
Ami: Yep, we just ended up hanging out. How was the aromatherapy?
Maya: It was the BEST! My face feels like it's one size smaller!
Nanako: We want you to experience it too, Ami-chan!
Ami: Sure! Then I'll head in now. See you later, Arito-kun!
Kai (bitterly): Uh...yeah. Bye.
Not only did they interfere with me talking to Kawashima but now they made her leave! That's strike two for them!
Kai watched Ami walk away feeling a bit lonely due to her absence.
What should I do now? It wouldn't be weird for a guy to get an aromatherapy massage, would it?
Before he could ponder further about that, he was distracted by the murmurs behind his back-
"I'm gonna go for it."
" Now? No, you should think about this more."
"There's nothing to think about. It's so obvious."
"No, I believe you may be misconstruing things for your own benefit-"
When Kai turned around, Maya & Nanako abruptly stopped whispering and smiled at him somewhat nervously.
Maya: Oh...Um... Arito-kun, are you by yourself? Where are Kitamura-kun and the others?
Kai: Kitamura is at the gym and Noto & Haruta went swimming. I wanted to take it easy so I came up here to relax for awhile. I was thinking about checking out the hot-springs.
Nanako: That sounds like a great idea! We'll let you get to it then.
Nanako wrapped her arm around Maya's and tried to pull her away but she wouldn't budge.
Maya: Oh Arito-kun?!
Kai: Yeah?
Maya: I just realized that the number of our mutual friends is constantly growing. First there was Kitamura, then Haruta & Noto, and now Ami-chan! Isn't that remarkable?!
Kai shrugged his shoulders indifferently.
Kai (uninterested): I guess.
Maya: It sure is! I mean, who would have ever imagined that we'd be here together at Luxure? It's funny how things work out like that. But I think we'll be seeing a lot more of each other so it's only natural that we'll become friends too, right?
I feel like I'm being plotted on. I thought I would only have to keep my guard up around Kawashima but now I see that it's also necessary for her little minions too.
Kai (cautiously): It's possible.
Maya: I'm so glad to hear you say that because I think we could be great friends and help each other out a lot. For instance, I noticed you don't really talk to that many girls.
I was talking to a girl just fine until you came along! It seems like you're trying to work your way towards strike three. WHAT do you want?!
Kai: Where are you going with this, Kihara?
Maya: Well that made me come to the conclusion that you probably don't know that much about girls. But Nanako and I would be happy to assist you with that. Isn't that right, Nanako?
Nanako (awkwardly): Yeah…Sure…
Kai (confused): Assist me with what exactly?
Maya: Um, you know, like, if you ever wanted to know about a certain girl, or how to get closer to her or whatever, then you can consult us.
A certain girl? Oh shit! Do they know that I like Kawashima?! Am I really that freaking obvious?! If they know then I'm sure Kawashima definitely knows too! I was gonna just play it cool but now that's impossible! What am I going to do-
Maya: And if we have any questions about boys then maybe you could give us some advice too?
WHOA! Wait! THAT'S what this is all about! She just wants me to help her with Kitamura. It doesn't mean she's aware of my feelings for Kawashima. Whew! That's a relief!
It wasn't really that much of a relief. Upon further consideration, this proposition brought a lot of problems to the table. Would Kai actually be willing to help Maya get closer to Kitamura?
Only if I want Tiger to kill me...and she would be justified too because even I would feel like a traitor for that. Then I have to consider what Kawashima just told me about Kitamura. Since they're childhood friends, she knows sides of him that I don't but I just can't picture him doing something like that.
But then again, the prospect of getting advice from Maya and Nanako had a lot of benefits attached to it.
Kihara and Kashii would be the holy grail when it comes to getting info on Kawashima since they hang out with her all the time. I definitely need help getting in her good graces and staying there because every time I talk to her, I feel like I'm walking on a mine field. Things will be going well and then all of a sudden the atmosphere goes bad. I suppose my blunt personality is also to blame for that since I just say whatever I want. I never mean anything bad by it but I know it's gonna keep causing problems between us.
In the end, it seemed the best thing to do was walk away.
I can't betray Tiger just so I can have a chance with Kawashima. Besides, there'd be no point in pursuing her if that Dating Ban goes into effect... but I'd be willing to rebel against it for her. Who am I kidding though? I probably don't even have a shot with her to begin with. She's always playing around with me so I can't really discern how she feels about me, maybe it means she doesn't even take me seriously. And it doesn't seem like I'll ever break down that wall...
Kai had finally come to a conclusion.
Kai: Honestly, my recent experiences have shown me that I suck when it comes to that kind of stuff so maybe I wouldn't be the best person to give advice or even receive it for that matter.
Maya: Arito-kun, don't put yourself down like that! I'm sure you have a lot of things to offer a girl! Remember, life is short and love is a BATTLE!
Nanako: I think the correct saying is "Life is short, love while you can".
Maya leaned in closer to Nanako and whispered-
Maya: Nanako, you said you would support me in this but you're being very counterproductive right now!
Nanako just sighed and shook her head.
Nanako: Uh Arito-kun, I think what Maya meant to say is that "Defeat is a state of mind; no one is ever defeated until defeat has been accepted as a reality."
Kai (intrigued): Ooh Bruce Lee said that! Are you a fan, Kashii?!
Nanako: Vicariously through my dad I suppose.
Kai (impressed): Nice. You make a good point though.
Maya: That's right, Arito-kun! Don't give up! You have to strategize to win a girl's heart just like you would strategize to win a fight at one of your tournaments.
I know she's saying anything in order to get help with Kitamura but she's actually making a lot of sense to me right now. I'm really great at strategizing. I've spent so much time focusing on keeping my defenses up that I hadn't considered going on the offense. Even though none of my Operations were successful for Tiger, I'm not hopelessly clumsy like she is so maybe I won't count myself out just yet.
Kai: I never thought about it that way. It just might work.
Maya's eyes lit up once she saw that she was getting through to Kai. So she decided to continue along the same train of thought.
Maya: Well it definitely wouldn't hurt to try! Every little effort counts... A wise man once said, "Even the smallest flower can strike a deadly blow, for in beauty and love there is great strength".
Kai (interested): Oh who said that one?
Maya (abashedly): Um just some... old... philosophy...martial arts guy...
Kai looked at her skeptically and Nanako couldn't handle the second-hand embarrassment any longer-
Nanako (urgently): Okay that's enough Maya! Let's leave Arito-kun alone so he can rest.
This time Maya let Nanako drag her away and she ended up shouting back.
Maya: See ya later, Arito-kun! Once you given it some more thought, we'll talk about it later, okay?!
When Kai was out of earshot.
Nanako (humiliated): I can't believe you just quoted The Moonlight Knight!
Maya: Just because it came from an anime character, it doesn't make it any less true. Besides, it's not like Arito-kun has ever watched Sailor Moon anyway.