Hey again!

Tsuna was surrounded by darkness. Body full submerged in water. Her fingers trailed along the edge of the porcelain tub. She tried to feel comforted by the heated embrace of the water, but it did nothing to ease the cold she seemed to feel. She stayed under for as long as she could stand it before bursting out of the water gasping for air. Water sloshed over the side of the tub. Tsuna opened her eyes and leaned her head back. It was still dark.

She rose from the tub and fumbled for the light. It flickered on, giving off a faint buzzing noise. Something moved in the corner of her vision. She didn't have the energy to look. Instead she stared straight ahead into the mirror. Her reflection blurred from the hot water. She stood nude, dripping water unto the floor. Hopefully she wouldn't slip. She looked down at the faucet. Water dripped slowly. No matter what she did she couldn't seem to fix it.

It has been quite a while that she has been free. Tsuna had learned that she was held captive from age nine to sixteen. Seven years.Sieven years in the dark. Seven years in hell. Her hand reached up to scratch her arm. She jerked and placed her hand back on the countertop gripping the edges tightly. Her knuckles turned white. She was older now. She should be over this. She was in her twenties and still felt trapped. Still felt cold. Still had an ache that never went away.

Her head throbbed. She grabbed the towel hanging over the rack and covered herself. She left the bathroom quickly and glanced at the clock. Still to this day, time gets away from her. With her sense of time, she couldn't tell if an hour had passed, or several. She trembled as she dressed herself. She had things to take care of today. It was about six in the morning, so plenty early still. Tsuna grabbed her phone and sat on the edge of her bed. She flinched from a hand wrapping around her wrist from behind her. No one was there. 'Right?' It was so quiet she still heard the dripping from the faucet in the bathroom. Or maybe she didn't.

Her finger swiped up and she clicked on Tsuyoshis contact. He was the man who was her savior. Through her healing process she had kept in contact with the man. He was a mentor to her physically and mentally. After being in the hospital for so long, they had transferred her to a mental ward. Being there had taken a worse tol physically, as they had tried to help her with her head after healing halfway. She had been high on medicine and physical activity didn't seem possible.

The medicine kept her too loopy for them to focus on physical health. She recalls the strange therapy sessions and cringed. They tried so hard. The medicine helps to a degree. She doesn't see or hear as much as she used to. She had a hard time at first differentiating between what was real and what wasn't. But that's what the hospital helped her with. Determining reality when medicine didn't seem to do the trick fully. She shivered. If she somehow forgets to take her medicine then hallucinations come back full force.

But because they had focused so much in her mental wellbeing she was extremely weak. Tsuyoshi had visited her regularly. After seeing this he helped her with small exercises at first. After a while he spoke with her doctors about lowering the dosage of her meds. They surprisingly complied and this gave her much more alertness. Afterwards she had more energy and Tsuyoshi helped train her body to get back into shape. It took a year and a half before she was healed up enough physically and mentally to be released fully.

When she was, she was simply transferred from the hospital to a mental place for kids. No foster home would agree to take her in, with her mental state. She met some interesting characters but the facility had helped educate her and help her with life skills she was missing. It was surreal truly. Tsuyoshi still somehow had gotten permission to visit with her. Tsuna looked up to the man so much. She jumped, dropping her phone. It began ringing. Wasnt she just calling Tsuyoshi though?

She swiped the screen quickly. "H-Hello?" She heard Tsuyoshi through the other end and released a breath. "Hey Tsuna! Sorry I missed your call! I was a bit busy earlier. How's it going?" She glanced at the clock. It had been half an hour since she left the bathroom. Her eyes twitched and she rubbed her temples. Had she really been sitting there that long? Guess she must not have realized he hadn't picked up after getting lost in her thoughts.

"All is well over here. It's just felt like a while since we have spoken. I know you have been busy with the shop so I'm just checking in." He had retired from being a police officer a few years ago. He had originally owned a small sushi restraint but had it temporarily closed down while he pursued his dream of being in the police force. He easily picked up things in his old shop and continued as if he had never left. Sometimes she would visit and try to help, but he would generally shoo her away. She was horrible with food. He had tried teaching her, but she only picked up basics. She fumbled and messed up when trying to prepare or cook anything. This unfortunately led to a lot of eating out and microwavable foods.

"Everything is good over here! Takeshi has been visiting more recently. He's been an incredible help! I've been sneaking away more and more so he can get a taste of running it by himself. The regulars give him hell with it." He cackled. Tsuna grinned to herself and laughed lightly. "I'm sure he's going to clue in soon if you do it too much. But I am glad he's coming around more." She had only met the son a handful of times in passing. When she had been over in the restraint trying to help, Takeshi would greet her and then quickly leave to meet with friends or attend something else. She had never had an actual conversation with him.

"Even if he realises something up, he'd feel too bad to not help out still. But anyways, how would you feel about coming over in a few days for dinner? It's been a long time. The restraint has been nabbing a lot of my attention. Takashi may or may not be there, who knows with that boy. It would be nice to see you again though." She agreed. His presence was a comfort that eased the grip that tension seemed to always have over her. "I think I would like that." They agreed to a date and time and let each other go. She immediately missed his voice.

She stood, stiff from having sat in one position for so long. She finally pulled some clothes on and huffed at the long sleeves and pants. It was pretty hot out, but she hated having so many scars show. Her hands surprisingly only held a few. She normally wore whatever she could to cover herself from the chin down. Once upon a time she had tried chokers, but the physical feeling of something so tight around her neck was suffocating. It reminded her of ropes, and hands, and- She shook her head. She fingered a small scar that was near her chin.

Instead she changed between shirts that had high necks, or those masks that some people wore that covered half their face and neck, but pulled down to just bunch up around her neck. Mainly she wore a black fitted crop top under her clothes. She had many of those. They covered her but up, including long sleeves, and offered neck coverage. They were her favorite, alongside hoodies. She pulled slightly on the sleeve of the black crop top, fidgeting. What was she doing again? She felt a bug scuttle up her arm and she flinched backwards, swiping at her arm. Nothing was there.

Across the room a loud buzzing filled the air. Her head snapped up. Meds. Right. She pulled the rest of her clothes on and grabbed the vibrating watch from its place on her table and turned it off. She slipped it on as she opened her drawer and pulled out several bottles. After taking her meds she nodded to herself. Alright, she could do this. She planned on going outside in public today. Her art supplies were dwindling and she was craving a good cup of coffee. Something she doesn't get much of. She also needed to pick up some groceries.

How long has it been since she's eaten? Definitely not yet today, and she can't recall what she ate yesterday. It would probably be best if she were to pick up a snack as well. She grabbed her purse and double checked she had everything. Pacing in front of the door for a few seconds, she breathed and opened it. She squinted at the bright light. How long had she meandered around for if the sun was already this high? She locked her door and left. It was quite a walk, but eventually she reached the first store. A small hole in the wall art shop. She winced when the bell rang as she opened the door. "Welcome!" She heard someone call out. Not that she could see them. She kept her head down and quickly grabbed what she needed and made it to the front counter. Her arms are full of paints, new brushes, and pencils. She had plenty of blank canvases at home. Home sounded nice. Familiar. The bell sounded again as someone entered the shop. She bit down on the inside of her cheek. Her anxiety is rising steadily.

Suddenly the cashier said her total and she jerked back into focus. She paid and left as fast as she could manage. As soon as she left the store into the crowded sidewalk, her heart accelerated. Too many people. Too much. Too loud. All the chatter. She sucked hair between her teeth and marched on. If she could just make it to the coffee shop then maybe she could have a seat there and calm her nerves. A slight sigh of relief left her after seeing the coffee shop within her line of sight. After reaching it and taking a step inside, she felt some semblance of relief but also worry since they seemed to be fairly packed.

She spotted a table in the back that was empty and prayed it stayed that way until she could get there. She quickly shuffled her way around a waitress and several booths before sliding into the empty seat. A sigh of relief came over her. This place was normally busy, but she was in love with their coffee. She set her bag of art supplies on the table and smiled when the waitress came and took her order. She ordered a coffee and a small snack. Her smile didn't falter when her eyes drew to a large black bug crawling across the woman's face and disappearing into her scalp. The waiter left and Tsuna pulled out her phone.

With how busy they were, it would be a moment. She slid her hand into her pocket and pulled out some earphones. She set up some music to play on her phone and it very quickly drowned out the surrounding chatter and noise. Within a few moments she had a small pocket sketchbook she had purchased and a pen. She doodled for a small bit and when her coffee and food were placed in front of her she began to nibble. Lightly. Sometimes tearing small pieces off to take a bite. Her attention was suddenly pulled away when someone slid into the seat across from her.

She brightened immediately. The familiar face was a welcome site. "Hey Tsu!" Purple hair bounced slightly as her friend leaned forward excitedly. He looked the same as usual. Black eyeliner with purple eyeshadow. Purple lipstick. That purple teardrop that she still didn't know whether it was a tattoo or drawn on perfectly. She blinked. Actually he was missing the chain that normally attached his earring to his lip ring. "Hey! How are things Skull?"

"Boring! I haven't seen you in ages. I can believe I actually caught sight of you with how busy it is. I've missed my coffee buddy!" He slouched and motioned towards the rest of the shop. "I've been coming here for a month and a half and haven't seen hide nor hair of you." Tsuna frowned. She hadn't been out much in a long time, and the past few times were just for groceries and bare necessities. But has it really been that long? She had met Skull several months ago here. They had seemed to frequent the place around the same time and often chatted over a small meal. Maybe two or three times a month they would see each other. It was mostly her listening as Skull griped about his job or friends.

She didn't have much to share normally, but he listened when she felt like talking. It was a beautiful friendship. And her first. She inwardly blushed. She had been so awkward at first. She still felt awkward at times, but he helped the little social skills she had. She enjoyed that she only had to contribute a small bit to the conversation and it still stayed interesting. He was a wonderful distraction in her opinion. She reached across the table and grabbed his hand. He froze and his lips parted, ceasing his complaining. "I'm sorry Skull, I haven't been too good of a coffee buddy. I haven't really felt well and have only been out for necessities."

Skull short circuited. He started to pull his hand away from her but stopped. It felt nice. He pushed a blush down and gripped her hand back slightly. Instead he grinned. "Now you're making me feel bad! I was just worried about you is all. How do you feel now? Any better?" He was truly worried. He had looked forward to his visits with the woman he had met. Albeit they didn't visit often, it was something he looked forward to. She showed that she was truly interested when he spoke. She also seemed to enjoy the talks as well which made him happy. He stared down at their combined hands and frowned.

He still knew little to nothing about her. He hasn't contacted her since he had never had the courage to ask her number. Normally women were the one to request his, but she was different. He also knew sometimes during their conversations, her attention would drift, and she seemed to get fidgety at times. She had assured him that it wasn't him, but he wondered what could cause it. He mindlessly rubbed his thumb across her hand. His eyes drawing towards a few small scars scattered across her hands.

Another thing was she seemed like she was on edge a lot. As if someone was out to get her. Maybe the scars on her hand had something toned with it? Nah that was overreaching. His gaze drifted up to see Tsuna pursing her lips, looking deep in thought. He traced her features while she seemed to be thanking of how to respond. Natural brown hair was drawn into a messy bun on her head. He always thought it made her look absolutely adorable. That seemed to be the usual hairstyle for her. Her eyes always caught his attention, amber eyes that seem to be almost a mix between amber and gold when the light hits them right.

Among her soft features, there was a cross cross scar at the corner of her mouth. Small but noticeable. With her more timid like personality, he always wondered how she received those scars. Surely not an accident as her hands had just a few too many. He wondered if there was more, and that's why she never had anything skin wise showing? All this time he had never seen her wear something revealing. Even in hot and humid weather. He himself loved his leather jackets, but when it was too hot he went without. It bothered him and he didn't know why. Unfortunately they didn't seem close enough for him to inquire about something like that yet.

He came to attention when she started to speak. "I think I'm doing better. It comes and goes, but I'm trying to get better." She said truthfully. She pulled her hands back and grabbed her sketchbook that was set to the side. She pulled out a small piece of paper. Skull stared confused and slightly disappointed at the lack of warmth his hands had now. He leaned forward and rested his chin on his hand. What was she up to? She seemed to be writing something. Suddenly she slid the paper over and he picked it up. He did blush this time. Finally! He pulled out his phone and saved her contact info and sent a quick message.

She picked up her phone and saved his contact as well. "Just because I'm doing well now doesn't mean something may not happen in the future. I really enjoy our chats, and just incase I disappear for some time again you can always text me. I didn't really think of it before. I don't use my phone too often." Tsuna laughed lightly. Skulls blush brightened. All this damn time. He should have just asked. "Thank you! See, now that we have each other's contact we can meet up in other places too. Not just the coffee shop." Tsuna looked thoughtful. That's what normal people did right? Still... "I don't really go too many places. I'm not too sure." He nodded and crossed his arms.

"That's exactly what a recluse would say. We need to get you out more. But don't worry, I shall be your guide into the outside world." He mentally started planning. He had to assist his friend. She looked like she needed some sun anyways. He slipped his gaze to the small plate she was picking at earlier. He reached over and pushed it closer to her. "Also you should probably finish that. I'd feel bad if you didn't." She stared down at the obviously forgotten food. She began nibbling on it. He shook his head. She was like a bird pecking at its food. Diet maybe? She already seemed a bit on the slim side. He would definitely need to take her to a good restaurant. He nodded to himself. That would maybe help her with her eating habits.

She had only eaten a small bit more before pushing the plate away again he was going to protest, but she spoke first. "Unfortunately it looks like it's getting a bit late, and I still need to go fetch myself some groceries. So I'll have to head on my way." She gathered her bag of art supplies and stood. A headache was slowly beginning and she was starting to feel a little nauseous, so it's better she left now. The sooner she could get home, the sooner she could take her medication. Skull seemed to have floundered for a moment before standing abruptly. "I can help! Why won't you let me follow along? I can help you carry your groceries if need be?"

He looked excited. His hands splayed out over the table. Actually that didn't sound bad at all. If she had extra arms she could buy more. It was a fairly long walk. "It's kind of a long walk, but if you're okay with it, I wouldn't mind some help." He nodded eagerly. She smiled and they left the shop after a short struggle of who was paying for her drink and food. Tsuna rolled their eyes after they left. She had no clue why he was so determined to pay her bill normally. It was every visit too. That was one thing he seemed to be unable to budge over. She still pushed back each time though. Even tried finding a way to slip the money to the waiter or desk first but he somehow always beat her to it.

They began walking side by side and Tsuna suddenly felt incredibly awkward. They haven't actually stood next to each other for longer than a moment as they normally sat across from each other. She looked up. Tsuna cursed lightly under her breath. Skull looked down incredulous. "Did you just cuss.." He looked stricken. "..at me?" He placed a hand over his chest. She laughed. "I hadn't realized how short I was." He chuckled. She was awfully short. She was adorable truthfully. He marveled at how she wasn't taken yet. Maybe because she said she was a bit more on the reclusive side. Well that would change soon, but he would have to be careful when taking her out and about. Better not let her catch too many eyes…

They arrived at the market and Tsuna was amused at how the man seemed like a small puppy. He seemed outraged at the type of food she picked. He tried fussing at her for her choices before she fixed him with a glare. It would shut him up for a minute anyways. They left eventually and it was beginning the grow dark. "Next time I should probably drive." Skull mused. "Oh you have a car? I hope you didn't leave it unattended because of me!" He shook his head. "No, I normally ride my bike everywhere, but when I go out to crowded places I'd rather walk. I have a car but rarely use it. I normally walk to the coffee shop as well." Tsuna's eyes gleamed. "I know you mentioned a bike for work, but you actually own one? That's pretty cool."

Skull seemed to preen at the compliment. "It is! It's my literal child." Skulls serious face caused her to laugh. "I see. Well maybe I can meet your child one day. Also we are getting fairly close so it shouldn't be too much longer." Skull looked around them. This seemed like a bit more of the sketchy side of town. He was surprised she lived around this area. He wasn't one to judge though. He shifted some of the bags he carried. He had expected her to get a lot more but she surprisingly didn't. He couldn't help but be offended by some of her food choices and make a complaint. She must not cook very often.

They eventually came upon a small house. He wouldn't lie, he was incredibly interested in where his friend lived. He knew barely anything about her after all. Tsuna led him to a small door and opened it. She set the groceries down inside and took the ones that Skull was holding. She pondered for a moment. It was going to get even darker soon. Would he be okay? She probably shouldn't have accepted his help. "Do you...want to relax here? It's almost totally dark. You can spend the night here if you would like?" She motioned toward her door.

Skull blushed hard and covered his mouth. How dare she do that. As honored as he was she didn't really know him either. It wasn't safe for her to be inviting men inside her home. Well unless she was into that? No she certainly didn't seem the type. He shook his head and crossed his arms. "No worries! I'll be fine. I'm glad you trust me, but be careful who you invite into your home!" She tilted her head. She should? "I will keep that in mind." Tsuna took a small step forward and stood on the tips of her toes to place a small kiss on his cheek. "Thank you so much for the help skull! Message me sometime soon. It will probably be awhile before I go out to the coffee place again. Have a nice night!" She went inside and closed the door behind her.

Skull stared at the door. His hand brushed his cheek. Friend. Friendly kiss. She totally didn't pick up a lot of social cues and seemed to have the tiniest bit of a childish lack of knowledge on certain things. He closed his eyes and fanned his face. She didn't know. He should definitely tell her not to kiss people on the cheek either. But he was an exception right? Skull groaned as he walked away rubbing his face. He would help socialize his adorable friend. In truth he had more fun today than in a long time. He and his few friends were normally much too busy to actually do anything. If he wasn't working then he was at home, or when he had the spare chance, he would visit the coffee shops in hope of seeing his friend. It was a blast actually hanging out with someone. It made him realize how boring he himself normally is. He would be damned if he didn't help her though. He would be taking a bit more time off of work in the future to get her out and about. He was determined to do so.

Inside the house, Tsuna was putting away her few groceries. For the first time in a very long time she felt at ease. Akin to where she would visit Tsuyoshi and feel calm. This was the same. Her small visit with Skull had eased so much tension from her and left her relaxed. Her anxiety fizzled out. His outgoing demeanor was certainly a welcoming blessing. She doesn't talk to many people other than Tsuyoshi so it helped. Tsuna actually looked forward to the future outings he hand promised her.

So like I originally had her meeting with Colonello, but decided skull first. Also I never know what I'm going for so it always feel messy to me lol.