The confession solidified a new beginning for Ami and Kai. They were now walking on the path of lovers. In truth, they would have liked to enjoy the moment for a little while longer, but they were currently in the midst of a Courage Test and-
Snap~
They were slightly startled from hearing twigs snapping under pressure from somewhere in the forest. Something was approaching. Perhaps it was just a stray dog rustling around or some other wild animal entirely. Standing in a fashion to protect Ami behind his back, Kai glared towards the direction of the sound.
Many calculations went through his mind of how to counter the enemy, when the prowler slowly began to reveal itself from the bushes. With the light shining through the leaves above them, he could barely make out the outline of-
Kai: Tiger?!
Ami: No way! What are you doing here?!
Taiga's mouth embarrassingly groped around as she tried to give her side of the story. Her eyes scrambled about, finally landing on the vending machine.
Taiga: I-I just came to get s-some juice….
Ami: Then where's Haruta-kun?
In the face of this unexpected question, Taiga could only open and close her mouth like a goldfish. Time was frozen for no more than a few seconds before Kai was able to figure out what was really going on here.
Kai: You got lost, didn't you?
Unwilling to admit it, Taiga averted her face, emitting a malicious aura.
Kai: Why are you wandering around?! That just makes it harder for people to find you!
There's an ironclad rule of what to do when getting lost. Once a person leaves a certain spot, the other party cannot do the same under any circumstances. That should be logical thinking, but it completely slipped Taiga's mind in her confusion. Even when she tried to go back to the path she came, she mistakenly drifted to a different route, not allowing her to return to Haruta.
Kai instantly pulled out his cell and dialed Haruta up. After a few rings with no answer, he finally hung up.
Kai: Haruta must've left his phone in the hotel room. And now that he's alone, he's probably freaking out.
Ami pressed her temples, she was completely fed up with how composed Taiga appeared.
Ami: Do you really have no sense of danger? Or are you just too stupid to recognize when you're actually in danger?
Taiga: Oh shut it, Baka-chi. It's not my fault. Before I realized it, I got separated from that Stupid Hippie.
Ami: But you're the lost child that walked away from the place you were supposed to wait at. It's totally your fault. You should've at least called Arito-kun.
Kai: She would've walked through this entire forest until dawn and still wouldn't have called me. She's just too prideful to ask for help sometimes.
Growing tired of being lectured, Taiga threw them a question instead.
Taiga: Enough of that! What are you two doing here anyway?
Ami went wide-eyed, then looked away. Under a different set of circumstances, Taiga would have been the first person Ami bragged to. But since Taiga had played such a crucial role in bringing them together for the confession, the 'bragging rights' had been transferred to her. She would probably hold this over Ami's head for the rest of their lives. Yet, Kai had no reason to share Ami's hesitation.
Kai (eagerly): I did it! It was a success.
No further explanation was needed. Taiga understood what he was referring to just by seeing the triumphant smile on his face. She made a pompous snort.
Taiga: I knew you wouldn't be able to keep quiet for long.
Kai: It's not even that. I really wasn't planning to confess tonight but things just... kinda fell into place.
Taiga: That's it? You were just in the right place at the right time?
Kai: Yeah, it sure feels that way.
As Ami listened to them talk, she stared at Taiga with a surly expression lingering with protest. Taiga's 'Elevator Trap' went even deeper than she realized..
Ami (muttering): You knew he liked me. You knew the entire time and you still…
Taiga (disdainfully): I'm sorry, did you say something?
Even though Kai had benefited from the fruits of Taiga's labor, she still didn't want him to know about the dastardly deed she'd done. In fact, both girls had quite a few secrets that they didn't want Kai to be aware of. Ami had no choice but to bite her tongue. Instead, she and Taiga wordlessly exchanged scowls until the silence between them was broken by a rather unexpected statement.
Kai (suspiciously): Ok, both of you tried to throw me off earlier but now I'm convinced. Something did happen between you.
Ami & Taiga (indignant) : Nothing happened!
Secrets can create powerful bonds. Each girl was scary in her own right but together they were deadlier. Kai even felt chills for a moment, he could sense the danger floating in the air. Unfortunately, Ami and Taiga weren't the only two who were emitting those vibes-
"Why did I have to end up with you, of all people?! You're so annoying!"
"It's not like I'm enjoying your company either! You're really pissing me off! I'm going to speak my mind today!"
"I'm the one who should be speaking my mind!"
They immediately recognized the voices that were shouting from afar.
Ami (concerned): It sounds like Maya and Noto-kun are fighting.
Kai: …
Taiga: ...
Standing a short distance apart, Kai and Taiga just stared at one another. It was like Ami's words vanished into the wind, as if she had said nothing at all.
Taiga: So... about that Stupid Hippie..
Kai: We should be able to find him if we hop back onto the main trail. He's not bold enough to veer away from the lights like you.
As Ami had partly expected, their reaction from overhearing the dispute was indifference.
Ami: Do you really not care?!
Maintaining a calm tone of voice, Kai picked out the safest reply.
Kai: It's not that we don't care, it's just-
Taiga: Speak for yourself, Okami! I really don't care.
Kai sighed with exasperation and continued-
Kai: Look, this is a simple delegation of tasks. Since it's your area of expertise, you can go and smooth things over with them. Tiger and I would be better suited searching for Haruta. It would be more efficient this way.
Ami (mockingly): Ok, Mr. Efficiency! You're going to take the girl-with-no-sense-of-direction on a search & rescue mission?
She countered his words without a hitch.
Kai: I see your point. You're more than welcome to take Tiger with you but I guarantee she'll only make things worse. Compared to that, her getting lost again wouldn't be so bad.
Taiga glared at Kai, giving him the dirtiest look she could muster. Meanwhile, Ami showed an amused smile.
Ami: I really admire the effort you're putting into fast-talking your way out of this but it isn't going to work this time. You're my boyfriend now so you're coming with me. End-of-discussion.
Kai (shocked): Are you seriously pulling that card already?!
Taiga: That's what happens when you decide to date the devil. And now that you gave her what she wanted, she's only going to get worse. I tried to warn you.
Ignoring their protests, Ami took a few steps forward, waving at them to follow.
Ami: C'mon, you social miscreants.
Taiga: Hey! I don't want to be called that by someone like you!
Maya and Noto were close by. They were right near the spot where the nature trail diverged into the path that Ami and Kai took to get to the vending machines. As the group hurried to get there, they could hear the pair still squabbling.
Maya: Shut up! Why do you have to butt in every single time?! You're always getting in the way. You're such a pain in the ass.
Noto: C'mon! If anyone is a pain in the ass, it's you. Constantly coming up with devious plans just because you want to get with Kitamura; it's really pathetic.
Maya: I haven't done anything devious!
Noto: You have! Did you already forget about that phony excuse you used to pair up with him for the Courage Test? It's the same thing every time!
Maya: There's nothing devious about that. Why are you making a big deal out of something that doesn't involve you?
Noto: It does when I'm trying to help my friend. Sorry to call you out like this but someone has to say something. Your lame tricks are getting on everyone's nerves.
Maya: I couldn't care less what you think, you moron!
No one could fault Maya for trying to create opportunities to be with the person she liked. It made no sense for Noto to confront her about it. Technically, it had nothing to do with him. He didn't have the right to chastise her for using 'lame tricks' when he had done even worse in the guise of being a 'cheerleader' for Taiga. Despite whatever ulterior motives he may have had, his accusations against Maya were laden with insincerity and hypocrisy.
I knew Noto was digging a hole for himself, but I didn't expect it to be this bad.
Ami hadn't anticipated that either. It wouldn't be possible to smooth things over, or encourage them to make up. That was far too idealistic and naive. The best tool she had at her disposal was: deflection. To stop things from escalating any further, she suddenly burst into a full sprint and shouted-
Ami (panicky): Maya! Noto-kun!
Seeing Ami rushing towards them in such a terrified state, the anger in their eyes instantly disappeared. They were forced to take notice of her and bring their bickering to an end.
Maya: Ami-chan?!
Noto: What's wrong?!
Ami paused to catch her breath. Someone would have thought she just finished a triathlon, but in actuality, she hadn't even ran very far to warrant that action. While pretending to be completely oblivious of their argument, she gave them a full rundown of the situation.
She looked very serious, her cheeks were slightly flushed, and she anxiously bit her lip. Now this was top-tier acting— making Noto & Maya briefly forget their animosity towards each other and stirring up their protective instincts with her blatant worry. Kai and Taiga watched from afar.
Kai: I told you she was a good person.
Taiga: If I wasn't so creeped out by her performance, I would almost be impressed.
This ability to always consider other people, was one factor that made people see Ami as the perfect heroine.
Ami: Anyways, we came running when we heard your voices, in hope that Haruta-kun would be with you.
Maya: Wow, it's so crazy that something like this happened. No, we haven't seen any sign of him.
Noto: I'm surprised we can't hear him. I'm sure he's screaming his lungs out right about now.
Ami: Please help us look for him, we'll be able to cover more ground.
Maya: Of course, I'll help.
Noto: Yeah, me too. What's the plan?
Even though Ami hadn't given Kai a signal or instructions, he instantly understood what she wanted him to do. Her goal wasn't only to stop their arguing, but to also separate them from each other.
Kai: Noto and I can head east to look for Haruta and-
Taiga: I'll go too.
Kai: Bu-
Taiga: He was my partner for the Courage Test, so I should help too.
Ami (graciously): Aisaka-san, it really means a lot that you're accepting responsibility for losing Haruta.
Taiga (irate): That's not what I'm doing! I already told you, it's not my fault. Your comprehension skills really suck!
After taking the opportunity to rile Taiga up, Ami returned to her usual cool attitude.
Ami: Maya and I will stay in this spot just in case Haruta-kun circles back. It shouldn't take long for Yusaku and Minori-chan to cross paths with us. We'll let them know what's going on.
They finished hammering out the small details of their plan and then finally put it into action. Just before Kai set off, he glanced back at Ami.
Kai: Kawashima?
Ami: Hm?
Kai: Be careful out here.
Ami's expression as she tilted her head and looked up at him was strangely sweet, brilliant, and pure… really, it was so cute it could kill him.
Ami (bashful): Oh my, why are you saying that all of a sudden? Are you trying to imply something?
Kai saw straight through her sweet, innocent mask. The translation he received was:
"Are you that worried about Ami-chan?"
"If something were to happen to me, would your world come crashing to an end?"
"Do you want me to stay by your side to make sure I'm safe?"
Kai furrowed his brows, looking stern.
Kai: I'm not implying anything. I said what I meant the first time.
Ami: If you say so.
She had the widest grin across her face, clearly having a lot of fun.
The fact of the matter was, Haruta wasn't in any real danger. Since they were at a luxury resort, he was bound to run into a staff member who would happily escort him back to the hotel. The only thing that remained uncertain was when that would happen. For that reason, they had to make an effort to look for him. After a few minutes of searching-
"Save meeee!"
Kai: Haruta?!
Haruta: Aaaaah!
Haruta, with his reputation for going along with any vibe, was completely swallowed up by the horror of the haunted forest. He was running like his life depended on it.
Haruta (alarmed): Ari-chan! I'm so glad I found you but we're in big trouble! The ghost kidnapped Tiger!
Kai: Nobody kidnapped Tiger. She's right-
Haruta: No! For real! For really real! We were walking, and then she was ahead of me, and then BAM! She was gone!
Noto: Haruta, calm down and look-
Haruta: Noto, this is not the time to be calm! We gotta look for Tiger or else we'll be in deep shit!
Kai: Tiger is right there!
Haruta: What?! She IS! How? Why? HOW?
Paying attention to his surroundings had never been one of Haruta's strong points. His fear caused the skill to disintegrate even further. Finally noticing Taiga, Haruta scurried over to her. The more he drew near-
No, you idiot. Don't get too close…
But Haruta got in really close, he had to make sure she wasn't just a figment of his imagination. Then, to confirm that she wasn't a ghost herself, he grabbed her by the shoulders.
Oh god… you just touched her. There's no coming back from that. No one can save you now, not even Kushieda.
Slap~
Only after a distinct, clear sound rang out did they realize that Taiga had smacked Haruta across his left cheek. It was a wonderfully vicious slap, the kind you'd see from a humiliated woman in a searing drama. After being hit with such force, Haruta shuddered. He didn't use any words, but his eyes seemed to ask Taiga, "Why would you do something like that?!"
Taiga: Stay out of my personal space!
Anyone would feel uncomfortable if a guy you didn't like, got extremely close to your face. Kai was slightly shocked from what he just witnessed.
Kai: She… She only slapped you…
Haruta held his cheek in amazement, realizing what Kai meant.
Haruta: You're right! Normally, she tries to beat me to a pulp. She punches me so hard that it leaves a bruise.
There was no denying Taiga's slap was a brief show of mercy. This was quite a significant event.
Haruta (excited): The Courage Test actually worked! We've grown closer!
Taiga (furious): Die off, you pissant!
Haruta: Huh?! I ain't nobody's aunt!
Noto scratched his head uncomfortably.
Noto: Uh, how about we all head for the rendezvous point?
Haruta: Yeah, we should. Woohoo! I can't believe how things turned out. I'm SO happy to be walkin' with Taiga-chan again!
Taiga: I didn't give you permission to use my first name, you Stupid Hippie!
Soon the group was all together again.
Kitamura: One, two, three…. Good we're all here! Glad to see everyone made their way back through the darkness, despite that unfortunate incident.
Haruta: I'm just glad we're all safe~ Here I was, thinking we would have to call the cops an' all that.
Minori: We never did get to see the ghost, but I had so much fun~! You get an A plus in thrills, dark forest~ hehehehehehe.
Maya: ...
Noto: ...
Now that Haruta had been found, Maya & Noto had rekindled some old feelings and made sure to avoid each other. They kept their mouths closed, emitting an aura that made it difficult for anyone to talk to them.
Kitamura: Hey, did something happen between the two of you? Did you get in a fight?
Ami (sternly): Shut up, Yusaku.
Ami put her hands on her hips with exaggerated fury. The naive class representative was trying to undo all of her work.
Kitamura: Um, alright ...let's call it a night then.
With Kitamura's remark, they started heading back to the hotel.
Finally, the marvelous trip to Luxure had come to an end. Waking up bright and early, the group collected their luggage in a hurry, and charged to the train station. The train was packed with a lot more people for the return trip to Ohashi. Seats were far and few between. The group wouldn't be able to sit together as before. With that, Ami breezily plopped into a two-seat row and gestured for Kai to sit next to her. They received some curious glances as the guys passed them by but nothing was said. The same wasn't true for the girls-
Minori: Wolfman, you completed the mission!
She gave him a thumbs-up, grinning from ear to ear.
Kai (confused): The mission?
Minori: Our main objective was to make sure Amin enjoyed herself on this trip! And because of you, Amin has been smiling all morning. Great job, soldier! You served your country well!
Kai: Um ...okay?
Kai never knew how to respond to Minori's antics. She slapped him hard on the shoulder before walking away to her seat.
Nanako: Congratulations, you two.
Maya: Yeah, Congrats. But Arito-kun, I really wish I knew Ami-chan was the girl you liked. I feel even sillier now.
Nanako: As you should. C'mon, let's go find a seat.
The praise and best wishes stopped when Taiga strolled by.
Taiga: I had to stay up all night listening to them squeal about your stupid 'love story'. You're gonna pay me back a thousand times over, Baka-Chi!
I guess the cat is out of the bag.
When the girls returned to their hotel room last night, Maya just wouldn't shut up about how much she hated Noto. It got so bad, that even Minori started to lose some of her usual pep. To stop the negative vibes from spreading, Ami coyly mentioned that something good happened to her during the Courage Test with Kai. As expected, Maya's eyes started glittering at the prospect of romantic gossip. While omitting a few details, Ami unveiled how she and Kai became a couple. It was a hot topic that night.
With Ami in the window seat, and Kai in the aisle seat, slightly separated from the others, the train left the station headed for Ohashi. Ami was sitting with her legs crossed, giving Kai a look that was both sexy and weirdly intimidating at the same time.
Ami: There was something I wanted to ask you last night but we were interrupted by all the commotion between Maya and Noto-kun.
Kai: So what you're saying is: my decision to not get involved was right?
Ami (smirks): Stop playing around. I know it's hard for you but I need you to be serious right now.
He laughed casually, then rested his cheek on one hand and peered at her with interest.
Kai: Alright, what did you want to talk about?
Ami: Perhaps I should start with what I just noticed. Based on the way the guys are acting, it seems like you haven't told them about the change in our relationship.
He nodded in agreement.
Ami: Is there a reason for that?
Kai: Yeah, I didn't want to be hounded with questions all night long.
Guys enjoy romantic gossip just as much as girls do. Being trapped in a hotel room with no means of escape, made bringing up the subject undesirable for Kai. It was understandable since it suited his personality. He didn't like to stand out or be the center of attention.
There was nothing nefarious about his intentions, yet Ami was also able to notice a stark contrast in Kai's behavior. He was so enthusiastic when he revealed everything to Taiga last night. She learned so much more about him based on that one detail.
Ami: So you don't have a problem with them knowing?
Kai: Of course not. It's not like I want to keep it a secret.
Ami: Does a situation exist where you would want to?
She was staring deep into his eyes like she was testing him or trying to see into his mind. He didn't turn away as he paused for a moment to think. So as to not get it wrong, so as to not make any mistakes. He carefully selected the words that he deemed to be correct.
Kai: Can we agree this is purely hypothetical?
Hearing this, the fascinated Ami nodded.
Ami (pleased): If you insist.
With such a touchy subject, he felt it was important to stress that his answer was not concrete. If not, he feared he would have fallen into a trap. Kawashima Ami was not the kind of girl who would allow herself to be kept as someone's 'little secret'. If you're dating her, then you better shout it from the rooftops every chance you get.
Kai: Okay, then the only thing that comes to mind would be: at school.
She was blindsided by his answer.
Ami: Why would you want to keep it a secret there?
Kai: Back when people thought Tiger and I were dating, the gossip really made things between us awkward, to the point it almost destroyed our friendship. I realized the same thing is guaranteed to happen even if the gossip is true.
The grating rumors were like hearing mosquitoes buzz around as you tried to sleep. Completely ignorant people would spout whatever they wanted with their baseless speculation, and carry the story in an amusing direction, jumping on the bandwagon.
Kai: When everybody is poking their nose in, it's going to put a strain on the relationship. If it was possible, I'd keep it a secret just to avoid that.
Ami nodded in agreement again, seemingly impressed with his response.
Ami: Wow, that's a really mature way to look at it.
Kai (peeved): You don't have to sound so surprised that I'm capable of doing that.
She smiled at his reaction.
Ami: Despite those 'difficulties,' it seems like you and Aisaka made it out alright. I'm sure we'll be able to do the same.
Kai: Yeah, but it's different with you because you're the princess of the school and I'm...me
Not only would they have to deal with outsiders showing too much interest in them, but there was also a possibility that Kai's notoriety could damage Ami's reputation. She was on the road to mastering the art of being her true self while still maintaining the admiration of everyone around her. Kai didn't want to ruin that.
Ami: If it helps, you should know the other classes don't think of you as a delinquent anymore.
Kai (skeptically): No way. Really?
Ami: Really. The last update I heard was that you're a full-fledged Yakuza Captain now. You've already chopped off two pinkies. You're really moving up in the world. Congratulations!
He glimpsed a faintly sadistic smile as she made her blunt point. The minute he let down his guard, she started messing around with him.
Kai (wryly): I thought we were being serious.
Ami: Sorry, but this isn't something I can take seriously. It's really cute that you're so concerned about me but you really need to stop thinking about such unnecessary things.
Ami retorted indifferently, stroking the ends of her hair. She had instantly labeled Kai's 'bad boy' image as trivial. It didn't seem like she cared about the impact it would have on her.
Kai (unconvinced): Is it really unnecessary?
Ami: I'm telling you it is, so there's no need for us to talk about it. If you ever bring it up again, I'll become very upset.
The statement was delivered with utter finality. Kai recognized he had inadvertently stepped on a landmine. Ami was kind enough to let him off with a warning this time but she guaranteed the landmine would detonate if he did it again.
She's making it seem like I'm overreacting but I know I'm not. There's a real risk involved here and she's just brushing it off. How can she be so nonchalant after she has done so much to carefully polish her image?
Ami instantly gleaned his inner thoughts as if they had been written explicitly on his face. She cut him off before he could persist.
Ami: Fine! If you're going to be so adamant about it, then I'll just prove you wrong instead. You'll eventually learn that Ami-chan's aura is so~ powerful that nobody can affect it. Not even a silly-little-boy like you.
Instead of tapping his nose, she gently pinched his cheek this time. He endured it without saying a word. He felt like her determination was a little bit twisted, like it was glued in place and wouldn't budge an inch.
Ami: Can we please move on?
Kai: That depends. Are you going to keep tip-toeing around it?
Ami: I tried to get to it but then you gave that unexpected answer.
They still hadn't touched on the issue Ami was really concerned about. When she asked him if there was a situation where he would want to keep their relationship a secret, she thought he would mention:
Kai: The Dating Ban. That's what this is all about, isn't it?
Ami: The last time we talked about it, you expressed some uncertainty as to how you were going to handle it.
That had only been two days ago. At that point in time, he intended on listening to the opinions of his clan members first, then he would consider all the advantages and disadvantages. Only then would he make a firm decision on whether to support or oppose the 'Dating Ban'. This mentality displayed the very essence of who Kai was, he always took calculated measures and did whatever was best for his clan. The thought of dating Ami never entered his mind. He couldn't allow it to.
I didn't expect so many things to change in just two days.
During the Luxure trip, he gradually let down his guard, setting loose a strong impulse. The overwhelming desire to get closer to Ami, lured him into disregarding his sense of duty to his clan. For the first time, he had put his own interests ahead of them.
Kai: That's no longer the case. At my clan meeting next week, I'm going to tell them about you & I, and vote against the Dating Ban.
She seemed satisfied with his explanation.
Ami: Straight to the point. I wouldn't expect anything less from you.
Kai (regretfully): But I really wish I had more of a plan.
When he finally made up his mind to pursue Ami, it all happened so quickly, in a manner lacking any careful thought or preparation. He started winging it, throwing caution to the wind and coming up with half-baked ideas. Such reckless behavior was unusual for Kai. He hadn't considered how his actions would affect the people around him. Emotions had greatly influenced his decisions and led him astray.
Kai: I'm sorry.
Ami: What are you apologizing for?
Kai: It's just that ….I knew this Dating Ban was coming up and I still chased after you anyway. In hindsight, the best thing for me to do was wait and see how the clan meeting turned out first. I kinda got ahead of myself. -(reluctantly)- Should... we put this off until I get my affairs in order?
Ami: You're really determined to upset me today, aren't you?
Her voice was frosty. It felt like a rejection of his sincerity.
Kai: That's not my intention. I'm only trying to look out for you. I was being selfish by not considering the possibility that this meeting may not go how I want it to. I'm taking a gamble, and since I don't have a well thought out plan, I feel like the odds are set against me. I don't want you to be hurt by it.
Ami: It's far too late for that. Besides, it's not like I didn't know about the Dating Ban. I was mindful of what I was getting into and still decided to be with you anyway. I suppose it does seem silly but…
She swallowed her words as soon as she looked into Kai's eyes. He urged her to continue with a nod.
Ami: I've always seen you as someone who's reliable, that's something which first attracted me to you. No matter what it is, I know you're not going down without a fight. That's enough to keep me assured.
Being faced with that full-blown trust, he couldn't help but smile. Ami's confidence in him was slowly erasing his doubts.
Ami: Are you expecting to encounter a lot of opposition?
Kai: I'm not sure how everyone will vote but I know one person who's not going to be pleased with me. His name is: Raiden. He's just too practical for his own good. According to him, girls are simply distractions.
Ami: That sounds like my manager. When I first signed with her, she used a similar reason to deter my interest in boys.
Kai (tense): Your manager is like Raiden?
It was bad enough dealing with one Raiden, Kai wasn't sure if he could put up with an adult version too.
Ami: Don't worry. She gets paid to cultivate my career and provide guidance. As her client, I can choose not to take her advice. She'll be fine with us dating as long as we avoid the 'obvious pitfalls'. I'll convince her that we can.
Apparently, Ami had been carefully instructed about the "Do's and Don'ts" regarding relationships. She would use that knowledge as a weapon against her manager so there wouldn't be any objections to their relationship. Kai could see the parallels to his own situation. The only difference being, he was ill-prepared for his clan meeting. He wanted to take this opportunity to learn from Ami.
Kai: How will you win her over?
Ami: By making it clear that my world doesn't revolve around you.
A harsh sounding statement but a necessary one. To prevent her manager from perceiving Kai as a distraction, she still had to prioritize her job in spite of her newfound romance.
Ami: Then I'll mention all of your accolades in martial arts so she will understand it isn't just a hobby for you.
This would emphasize that Kai also had his own goal that he was striving towards. Therefore, there would be no risk of them weighing each other down.
Ami: My manager has always told me that some couples can become self-destructive by investing too much in the other person. But based on our personalities, I think we'll be able to avoid that and properly support each other. The most important thing I have to convey to her, is that this isn't just infatuation.
Modelling had exposed her to the perils of infatuation. It is unsustainable by design. The sheer description of the word implies that it is not meant to last. There were many men who had fallen in love with Ami at first sight, yet she could never feel even a modicum of affection for someone with such a shallow understanding of her. Intense, sporadic bursts of emotions did not have enough depth to serve as the basis for a sustainable relationship. In worst-case scenarios, those short term feelings could lead to tragic decisions with long lasting effects.
As Kai listened to Ami, one thing became certain to him.
Kai (amazed): You've been thinking about this for quite awhile…
Ami: See, I wasn't lying when I said we were a good match for each other.
She had taken time to discern whether her feelings could blossom into a healthy relationship, or whether it was no more than a passing phase. Kai met her fervent explanation with a look that went beyond heartfelt affection. All her careful consideration demonstrated she was really serious about him.
Kai felt guilty for not providing the same courtesy to her. He rubbed his nose as if he was a little embarrassed.
Kai: Compared to you, I'm more unprepared than I thought - (confused)- I really don't understand how you're okay with this?
Ami: From what I can tell so far, the Dating Ban forced you to quickly make a gut decision about me. Although, if the Ban was never a possibility and you were given enough time to think about it, I'm certain you would've come to the same conclusion.
Ami was rattling off her points like a motivational speaker, declaring everything as fact, with accompanying hand gestures.
Ami: But seriously, how long would it have taken for you to think about it?!
After realizing where she was going with this, he wasn't going to allow her to shift all the blame onto him.
Kai: Are we excluding all the time I wasted just trying to figure out if YOU were playing around with me?
Despite the irritation in his voice, Ami's eyes lit up, indicating that she was really enjoying this argument.
Ami: Sure, we can! That will definitely make a difference.
Kai: I-It would. It'd make a huge difference.
Refusing to back down, he brazenly clung to the web the spider had dangled in front of him.
Ami: So what's your answer?
Kai: Oh, you actually want-
Ami: Yes, I would like one.
Kai (boldly): No problem. I'll give you one then.
He couldn't come up with a reply straight away though. He glanced away so he could think for a moment. As he did, a pair of glossy, alluring lips crept closer to him.
Ami: Please don't keep me waiting for too long.
She seductively whispered in his ear. Her hot breath tickled his neck. He responded by snickering in Ami's face with absolute confidence.
Kai: Just so you know, you lost all your powers when you became my girlfriend. I'm immune to your teasing now.
She pouted, as if he had just said something rude.
Ami: I'm not trying to tease you. I just like being close to you, that's all.
She touched her pointer fingers together, while batting her eyes at him oh-so-innocently. He bitterly turned his head away, pretending to watch the scenery from the window.
Why is she being so damn cute right now? It's really irritating.
In which case, trying to talk his way out of this would probably be counterproductive. Fighting against her enticing gaze, Kai crossed his arms and answered honestly.
Kai (sharply): I don't know how long it would've taken.
Just as soon as he affirmed it, Ami clapped her hands with glee.
Ami: Exactly!
She was grinning devilishly at seeing him yield so quickly to her attack.
Ami: Don't get me wrong, I like that you actually take time to contemplate but sometimes it can be really annoying! You just so happened to speed things up with us by trusting your intuition instead, so that's why I'm okay with it. If that means you have to improvise during your clan meeting, then so be it.
He might not agree with some of the details, but when she laid it all out objectively like that, he couldn't help admitting she was right.
How ironic. Raiden's mere suggestion of a dating ban, led me to rebel against it. I definitely can't mention that to him. I might have to take it to my grave.
Kai: Yeah, improvising will have to suffice.
Ami: It seems to be a skill of yours so hopefully, you'll find a way where we can peacefully coexist. I really don't want to come between you and your clan members. I can tell they're very important to you.
Kai (reassuring): You're important to me too.
Having such a direct statement said to her, Ami's eyes clouded over with emotion, as though overpowered by Kai's strong will. Michiko had always chided him over the preferential treatment he gave to his clan members. He usually put them first before everyone else. It was vital to let Ami know this tendency wouldn't be extended to her.
The distinction he made between his clan and 'outsiders' happened so subconsciously and rapidly, that sometimes he didn't even realize he was doing it. That suddenly reminded him of something. He decided to ask Ami a question to confirm it.
Kai: Hey, um… are you bothered that I didn't tell Kitamura and the others about us?
Ami: No, I'm fine with it. When we spoke about it earlier, I understood that you didn't feel obligated to tell them anything because they're just your 'friends from school'. Right?
He gave a hollow laugh mixed with awe.
Kai: It sounds bad when it's said out loud like that but….yeah, that's exactly how it is. Am I really that obvious?
Ami: Of course you are.
Her haughty tone flaunted her ability to read him like a book.
Ami: But I admit I may have cheated a little this time. I used to have a similar way of thinking, so that made it easier to spot.
Kai: What do you mean?
Ami looked down slightly, like she was unsure how to phrase this. After a few seconds, she glanced out the window.
Ami: Well… I saw school as a place where only a bunch of fake social connections awaited me. After graduation, I was sure that I would forget everyone there. The only thing I really cared about was my job. I kept thinking that I only needed to endure school for a few more years, then I could finally get to the 'real world'. To me, school was merely a-
Kai: A temporary stop.
Ami: Yes…
They were more alike than he thought. Kai had echoed those same sentiments to Michiko some time ago.
Ami: But transferring to Ohashi made me abandon my previous way of thinking. This is my first time having genuine bonds with people. I'm really grateful to everyone here, I never thought that they would be so good to me. I can't believe it but I've actually begun to cherish this place that has been willing to accept me.
Her thinking was able to transform because she started to interact with others in a real way. She stopped hiding, acting dumb, and finally put herself out there. This very conversation she was having with Kai, was evidence of how she was changing. She was freely sharing her thoughts and feelings. It made him happy because he could tell she was opening her heart to him.
Now Kai realized Ami's intent behind inviting everyone to Luxure. She was making an effort to treasure these friendships. She wholeheartedly cared about this group of people. Around them, she could be herself the most. They accepted her as a friend and didn't treat her like a saint who doesn't even need to go to the bathroom.
He ended up understanding. To be more exact, it felt like it was something closer to empathy. Ami had the same reverence for them, as Kai had for his clan members. If he wanted to integrate Ami into his life, then he would also have to care about the things that were important to her.
He took a small breath, and his face tensed up as though having decided on something. The endeavor he chose to undertake, could probably be perceived as insignificant but he felt like he owed it to her.
Kai: Excuse me.
Ami was caught off guard when Kai abruptly cut off the conversation and stood up from his chair. He faced the back of the train to search for Kitamura, Haruta, and Noto. They were scattered on each side of the carriage, nearly 5 rows behind him. Approaching them would put him at a disadvantage. He really didn't want them asking any questions so he stayed right where he was. This would make him the focal point of everyone around him, however, the most important thing was making sure he wasn't easily accessible to them.
Kai: Hey, you three!
He shouted to get their attention. He didn't care about the nearby strangers hearing him or the bizarre looks they gave him.
Noto: Is something wrong?
Haruta: Yeah, what's the deal with all the yelling, Ari-chan?
Kitamura: Perhaps you should come closer so we won't disturb the other passengers.
Kai: No, it's okay. This will be quick, I promise. There's something I have to tell you about me and Kawas-
"Ami"
Kai felt a soft tug on his shirt. He looked down to see Ami gazing at him with a tender smile more beautiful than Mona Lisa's. She was so moved by this display.
Kai: Hm?
Ami: If you're going to profess your undying love for me on a train full of people, then you should start calling me, 'Ami'.
Kai (sternly): Hey, don't twist things around. I'm not professing anything weird like that, I'm just letting them kn-
Ami (smirks): Please hurry up, Kai. It's not nice to keep everyone in suspense.
This little devil.
Not only was she twisting things around for her own amusement, but she also propelled them straight into using each other's given names without even talking about it first.
Haruta: Speak up, man! I can't hear ya.
Kai took a second to regain his composure.
Kai: I was saying that there's something I have to tell you about me and… Ami.
Kitamura (shocked): Since when did you start calling Ami by her first name?
Noto (suspiciously): Yeah, that's weird. I've never heard him use a girl's first name before.
Haruta: I asked him to use mine and he made a big fuss about it. What makes her so special?
Kai (annoyed): Would you just shut up and listen, I'm trying to tell you right now!
This was a clear example of why he didn't want to tell them last night. Despite all the ruckus, he was going to keep it short, simple and to the point. There was no need to go into too much detail. He went on, as calm and blunt as ever.
Kai: Ami and I confessed our feelings for each other during the Courage Test and now we're dating.
Everyone within earshot turned to look at Kai, their faces reminiscent of skydivers who only just noticed mid-flight that they didn't have parachutes.
Kitamura: Eh?! You're dating Ami?!
The guy, who was just worried about troubling the other travelers, wasn't able to hide the astonishment in his voice. Meanwhile, Haruta let out a scoff.
Haruta: No, he's not. This is obviously a prank! Nice try, Ari-chan but I ain't falling for it.
Kitamura: Uh… Arito wouldn't go this far to pull off a prank, would he?
Noto: I don't know about that. He's done some pretty questionable things recently.
Haruta: Don't be so gullible all the time, Kitamura.
I knew I would instantly regret this.
As that thought ran through his head, he noticed Ami watching him. She was covering her mouth, trying to hide her laughter.
Ami: Aww, it looks like you're the little boy who cried wolf.
Kai (bitterly): Don't make bad puns at my expense.
Ami continued to giggle as she stood up to help Kai.
Ami: It's not a prank, guys. We're really dating.
Hearing Ami confirm it, Haruta's face looked like it was suddenly hit by lightning. His eyes and mouth were opened very wide. He was so surprised, he couldn't produce a fluent sentence. Then, gradually, the muscles in his face started to move again and he jumped up from his seat.
Haruta: WHAT?!
Why was he always so hyper?
Kai: Yes, we're dating. So please don't bother us.
While putting on her innocent mask, Ami let out a fake laugh.
Ami: He's such a jokester! What he really meant was: Please watch over us. Sorry for the disturbance, everyone!
Before returning to their seats, Ami slightly bowed, then she put her hand behind Kai's neck to force him to do the same. A few seconds later, Haruta lost his energy and fell back into his chair.
Haruta: I can't believe it. Ami-chan and Arito actually fell in love because of the Courage Test. That was supposed to be me!
Noto: Maybe it could've been if your memory wasn't so garbage.
Haruta: Well, at least I was still able to improve my friendship with Tiger. Seems like the only one who the Courage Test didn't work out for is you, Noto. You and Kihara are even worse than when you started.
Noto (angrily): Shut up, Haruta!