"You need a partner for the art fair? Then... take me."
…there. I said it. Kinda. Whatever, it's good enough… right?
I nervously glanced at Richelieu. She had a big smile, giving me a thumbs up. I guess I'm doing alright?
"So whaddya say?" I asked.
He stared for a moment. A totally neutral face. Is he thinking?
"A date with Jean Bart, huh?" he said.
Tch... he said that like I'm some kinda celebrity.
"Y-Yeah. Yeah!" I stammered. "If it's security ya need, then I'm your ship. And... might as well make a date out of it."
...yeah, that sounds more reasonable than "I have a huge crush on you, please date me." Can't overwhelm him... or give too much away.
"But I thought you all were going together?" he asked, gesturing to Richelieu.
"Nothing's set in stone," Richelieu said. "Our commanding officer's safety should be top priority. More importantly, it's a splendid opportunity to get to know each other outside of work. And you'll have a fun, beautiful girl all to yourself."
I blushed at her words, but I didn't let it break my resolve.
"It might help our productivity too," I said. Having a practical reason for a date might help my chances… right?
"Before I answer, can I ask you something, Jean?" he asked.
Argh, damn it! Just say yes or no, you dumbass!
...it's fine... it's fine. Just hold out a little longer and answer him.
"Ask away," I said.
"You seemed really angry earlier, but then you were suddenly calm," he said. "Are you sure you're okay? You're not still silently angry or anything? Like, one wrong move is going to set you off again?"
…is that the vibe I have? I guess it's not unreasonable to think, especially when my frustration came to such a screeching halt.
No matter. Nothing to do but press forward.
I shook my head. "No, I'm fine. I promise. Again, I apologize. It's just... well... I'm sure you know how nerve-wracking asking someone out can be."
"Commander, if I may interject," Richelieu said. "And pardon my transparency, but Jeanie isn't like that. As she said, you're no stranger to how heavily stress can impact you, so please don't let her outburst blur your vision. In front of you is an astonishing girl inside and out, and I can say from personal experience that she's a joy to spend time with."
I felt my cheeks flush red. He stared for a moment, and my stomach turned. Did I blow it by screaming at him?
"Honestly, I'm impressed with how you calmed yourself down," he said. "It must take a lot of willpower to slam on the brakes like that."
He thought that was impressive? Losing my cool and coming back down? Eh, I'll take my wins where I can get 'em.
"Hmph... m-merci," I said, blushing even more.
Richelieu nudged me and whispered in my ear.
"You answered his question, now push him to answer yours."
Heh... even Richelieu's getting impatient. She's right, though. No more beating around the bush. I want an answer.
I gave her a nod and turned back to the commander.
"Alright, so... d-do we have a date or not, Commander?" I asked.
Another beat of silence. Is this it?
His eyes began wandering. He was pondering again, but for longer this time. Much longer. In fact, it felt like the world had slowed down. The embers in my heart grew hotter with every passing second. I habitually played with my hair and mentally plucked flower petals as the heat increased. Yes? No. Yes? No. Yes? No.
Seconds passed, and I continued plucking petals. The fire grew hotter still, and I kept twirling my hair. Seconds turned into minutes. Minutes turned into... well... okay, I'm exaggerating. But why is he taking so damn long? Ngh... my heart's gonna burn.
He's pursing his lips. What's going on in his head. Am I crazy or is he really taking a long time?
I glanced at Richelieu. She looked concerned too.
So, I'm not crazy. He is taking a while.
"Commander?" Richelieu said. "Is there a problem?"
"Huh? N-No," he said. "I'm just... thinking."
About what?!
Damn it, I'm gonna burn to a crisp! Is it that hard of a decision, Commander?! What the hell is going on in your head? Do you have to put that much thought into spending time with me?
...or are thinking of a way to let me down gently? Is it because I screamed at you? Or because you need a break from me today? Or both?
No! Jean, don't let this fire burn you, remember? Stay strong... no matter what his answer is.
...would be way easier if he'd just answer me already!
After what felt like an eternity, he looked up at me. Every heartbeat felt like sparking flint and tinder. I could feel my pulse in my ears.
"Well?" I coaxed. "Yes or no?"
Call me impatient, but I can't take this anymore! I want an answer, damn it!
I didn't even realize my head had subconsciously tilted down so I couldn't see his face. I death-gripped my ponytail with both my clammy hands, holding my breath as I waited for his voice to hit my ears.
This is it! C'mon, Commander! Don't let me down! Please!
…
…
...why aren't you talking?! Answer me!
"…I'd love to."
...ergh... damn it. I knew it. I did shoot myself in the foot by yelling. Who am I kidding? I can't compete with the other ships, and...
...wait. Wh-What did he say?
"Come again?" I said.
He smiled. "I said I'd love to."
"Really?!"
He flinched at my volume.
"I mean... um... g-good. Good." I stammered.
I blushed profusely, and I could hear Richelieu giggling beside me.
I wanted to scold her, but I was too busy fighting the smile on my face.
"Sorry for taking a while to answer," he said. "I forgot that I had something else planned for the evening. I was thinking of a way to work you in. But I thought of something to give us the rest of the day together."
"Oh..." I said. "Well, if you already had plans..."
Jean, what the hell are you saying?! You've already got him! Don't shoot yourself in the foot!
"No no, I promise it's fine," he said. "I'd much rather go out with you."
...he would?
"Aw...!" Richelieu said.
My heart flickered.
I kinda sprung this on him. I don't think it'd be fair to whomever...
...wait, no! Why am I trying to be fair? Screw that! I'll be as selfish as I damn well please! Hell, he's letting me be selfish! I'd be a fool to turn that down!
Besides, whoever he was going to spend time with before, he thinks I'm better than her!
...heh... even thinking about that makes my heart flutter.
"I see. Well… g-good choice," I said, blushing. "Let's meet outside the port office at around... 5-ish?"
"Fine by me," he said. "Anyway, I need to go. The tea party with the Royal Navy ships is starting soon. I'll see you later then?"
...yeah. You will.
"Mmhmm," I said. "Don't be late, ya hear?"
"I won't be," he said. "I promise."
"Good," I said. "Au revoir, Commander."
"Goodbye, Jean," he said. "And thanks again for the donuts."
With a smile, he turned and walked away to... God knows where... leaving me nearly dumbfounded.
"Oh... and just for the record," he said.
"Huh?" I asked. "What is it?"
He smirked. "My favorite ship classification? ...battleships."
He winked.
"Oh! Um... n-neat. Heh..." I said, blushing and playing with my hair.
He chuckled, then just turned around and continued walking away.
You smug son of a bitch...
I heard footsteps behind me.
"Well? How did it go?"
"What did he say? Give us the good news!"
I turned around and saw Algerie and Dunkerque staring at me eagerly.
Richelieu smiled. "Go on, Jeanie. Enlighten them."
I stood for a moment. No weight on my shoulders. No raging fire in my heart. No storm in my mind. The realization slowly dawned on me like the rising sun...
...and I couldn't stop myself from smiling.
"...he said yes."
"AHHHHH!"
They squealed in delight and enveloped me in a big group hug.
"I'm so proud of you, Jeanie!" Richelieu cried.
"I knew he would say yes! I just knew it!" Algerie said.
"How exciting!" Dunkerque said. "Magnificent job, Jeanie!"
Ergh... they're really squeezing me, but I ain't about to scold them. I might've kept a cool face on the outside, but on the inside...
...AHHH! I did it! I have a date with the commander!
...no way in hell I'm doing that in front of them. But... I can't believe it! I did it!
"I say we celebrate with that little beach outing we discussed earlier," Algerie said.
"Oh yes! A heavenly idea!" Richelieu said. "Let us bask in the beautiful day God has given us."
"I'll bring ice cream!" Dunkerque said. "And any other treats I can find!"
"Let us make haste, then!" Algerie said. "The day won't wait for us."
They started gathering things up. Me, on the other hand...
...he said yes. I can't believe it. I can't even find it in myself to fight the smile on my face. And that wink he gave me... is it possible? Could he actually like...?
"...Jeanie?"
SNAP SNAP
"H-Huh?!"
I flinched when Algerie snapped her fingers in my face.
"You're zoning out," Algerie said. "Is everything okay?"
Oh crap, I've just been standing here and twirling my hair.
"Y-Yeah," I said. "I'm just... in disbelief."
"That the commander wanted to go out with a beautiful girl like you?" Algerie said. "Hehe~! I'm not surprised at all."
"Well, maybe he'd need a break from the ship he spends his entire week with already?" I said.
"Seems to me like he hasn't gotten enough time with said ship," Algerie said. My reddening cheeks made her giggle. "Come. The sooner we clean up, the sooner we can celebrate!"
I nodded and started gathering my things. I could use some mental detox after that ordeal. The beach sounds perfect for that.
Though... I can't help but wonder what the commander chose me over.
Mmm... now this is more like it.
I laid on my surfboard, rocking with the ebb and flow of the sea, waiting for a suitable wave to come in. The water cooling me below while the sun shines on me from above... bliss.
I glanced behind me at Richelieu, Dunkerque, and Algerie laying back on their towels, soaking up sun rays and exchanging idle chit chat. They noticed me looking back and waved, and I waved back. Hmph... the commander's eyes would be having a feast right now.
My board began rocking more. The waves were starting to come in. I grinned as I positioned myself to paddle.
Only smaller waves came in at first. Not good enough. I want something bigger. I'm feeling a bit frisky after snagging the commander.
Small wave, small wave, slightly bigger wave, slightly bigger... c'mon, gimme a challenge!
...and God heard me. My eyes widened. Not the wave directly in front of me, but the one behind it... holy crap, it was big. Not huge, but a notch bigger than I'm used to.
And I'll be damned if I didn't catch it!
I grinned as I turned around, feeling the sun's heat flip to the opposite side of my body as I paddled as hard as I could. I could feel the wave's power starting to lift me.
3... 2... 1... go!
I popped up to my feet, steadied out, and was quickly riding the biggest wave I've ever caught.
"Go, Jeanie!"
"Tear that wave apart!"
"Make us proud!"
Damn right I'll make ya proud!
I smirked, feeling the power of the wave carry me. The wave was already providing enough speed, so I focused on control. I kept steady and rode up and down the wave, slicing through the water like butter.
I love feeling the water wash around my feet, and the mist of water on my body.
I could hear my friends cheering over the roar of the wave.
Exactly the confidence boost I need before my date with the commander!
...date. Heh... I think my heart just skipped a beat. I just really hope it goes alright. I'm not sure if I—
...wh-whoa! Crap! The board's swerving! Damn it, Jean! Now's not the time to get distracted!
Easy! Easy! Wait! No!
"AAAUUGH!"
SPLOOSH!
It was no use. Once ya lose control of the board, you're screwed. I accidentally jerked the board to the side and was thrown off balance, almost like the water itself chucked me. I shrieked as I fell back-first into the water, shielding my head with my hands in case the board came barreling down on me. Thankfully, it didn't, but I could feel the leg rope tugging on my ankle.
I waited underwater for a moment for the wave to pass. The water rushed past my ears with a quiet, ominous howl, and soon the wave's power had subsided. I emerged on the surface with a gasp, finding and holding onto my board as I caught my breath. It didn't look like any other big waves were coming in, so I was safe for the moment.
Ugh... damn it. Stupid Commander, distracting me even when he's not here. So much for impressing my friends.
I could see them waiting for me on shore, standing up and watching intently. I guess they were ready to come help if I needed it. Thankfully, it didn't come to that, but it's good to know that they've got my back.
They sat back down when I gave them a thumbs-up that I was okay. A smaller wave came in and I used it to bellyboard back to shore. Once shallow enough, I got off and walked over to them, shaking my head to get rid of excess seawater.
"Are you okay?" Richelieu asked. "That fall looked rough."
"Yeah, I'm fine," I said, detaching the leg rope. "I just got... distracted."
"Oh?" Algerie said. "By what?"
"Probably the commander, hmm?" Dunkerque asked, smirking.
They all giggled, and I blushed. The teasing never ends, does it?
"Can ya blame me for being a little nervous?" I asked. "Wasn't exactly planning on all that, y'know? Besides, it's been a hot minute since I've caught a wave that big."
"It was still impressive to watch!" Dunkerque said, handing me a towel.
"Hmph… merci," I said, drying off. "Wish I could've made you all prouder."
"Oh, nonsense. Even the most adept make mistakes," Dunkerque said. "Would you like some ice cream, Jeanie? I brought some lemon bars just for you."
"Ooh, yes please," I said. I took a seat on my towel as Dunkerque handed me a lemon popsicle.
...mmm... delicious. Basically frozen lemonade on a stick. Perfection.
"I'm sure the commander would've loved to watch you too," Richelieu said.
"Watch her surf? Or just watch... her?" Algerie asked.
They giggled, and I blushed.
"I mean, just because he said yes doesn't mean he likes likes me," I said.
They looked at me like I had just joined the Sirens.
"You're still not convinced?" Richelieu said. "Even after he hit on you before he left?"
"Jeanie, he was so into you," Algerie said.
"Why would he say yes if he didn't like you that way?" Dunkerque said.
"Well, hold on, don't jump down my throat so quickly. Maybe I misspoke," I said. "I meant that there's still room to screw up. Like... do something to ruin a second date, y'know?"
"You worry too much," Richelieu said. "He said yes even after... well... your outburst."
I grumbled. "I-I'd rather not talk about that."
"Understandable," Richelieu said. "But can I ask one thing? We were discussing it a little when you were out on the water, and we must know... what happened after that? You just seemed to shut down for a moment."
"Indeed," Dunkerque said. "It gave us quite a fright."
"Yeah... sorry. Didn't mean to scare everyone," I said. "As for what happened... I'm not sure. I remember feeling so frustrated that I couldn't say what I wanted to, and then I yelled, and then I just... crashed. It was like a thunderstorm expending all its energy and dissipating. And I had a moment to think and collect myself."
"Hmm... interesting," Algerie said. "I've never heard of such a thing."
"That's only a guess from what I felt," I said. "I don't know the exact science behind it, or if there is any. All I know for sure is I was about to blow a blood vessel, and then I was calm. Kinda jarring, but I'm glad I could pull myself outta that."
"That takes a lot of willpower, Jeanie. Impressive, I must say," Algerie said. "Though, I do hope you're not too mad at us for springing that on you?"
I chuckled. "It worked, didn't it? Besides, I hate to admit it, but you were right. Just going for it was the best thing."
Algerie smiled. "I'm glad you see it our way."
"I'm so excited for you!" Dunkerque said. "And you have nothing to worry about. If he said yes after a little outburst, you'll be just fine."
I pursed my lips.
"So... what do I do?" I asked. "Do I just talk to him? Do I... hold his hand?"
"If you want to..." Dunkerque said with a smirk. "Or... he might go for it himself."
She winked. Richelieu and Algerie giggled. And I blushed. Again.
"Well... is he supposed to initiate that?" I asked. "Do I just wait for him to make a move? I don't want to freak him out if I move too fast or..."
"Jeanie, as adorable as your concern is, you're overthinking it," Dunkerque said. "It's really very simple. It's just an opportunity to chat, that's all. Get to know him. See what his interests are and go from there."
"Can't you just tell me what his interests are, Dunkerque?" I asked. "You know him better than I do."
"Well now, where's the fun in that? Wouldn't it be more satisfying to find out for yourself?" Dunkerque said with a smug giggle. "Besides, it'll give you more to talk about and show that you're interested. You can't lose."
"We saw for ourselves how well you get along with him," Algerie said. "Once you started talking to him, you hit it off."
"Even though it's technically a 'date', there's no need to be overly serious," Richelieu said. "After all, you're going to an art fair. Have fun and enjoy your time with him."
"And above all, be yourself," Dunkerque said. "It must sound like a broken record at this point, but I think it's worth stressing."
"Oui," Richelieu said. "Let him see the real Jean Bart."
I thought for a moment. Just... talk to him? Is that really it? Have I been freaking out over nothing?
"...is a date really that simple?" I asked.
They all nodded.
I guess by that logic, I've been on a couple of dates with him already.
"Take my word for it," Dunkerque said. "The commander is very easy going outside of work. Relax, have fun, show him how pleasant you are!"
...I'm still not entirely convinced. Then again, I wasn't convinced before asking him out either.
"I guess I just gotta jump into the fray," I said.
Algerie smiled. "It's not such crazy advice after all, huh?"
"Well, I hate to admit it, but the push was exactly what I needed," I said.
"See?" Algerie said. "All it took was a little push."
"Tch… yeah, yeah," I said.
They all giggled.
"Are you excited?" Dunkerque asked.
"Well... of course," I said.
"You sound uncertain," Richelieu said.
"I just have butterflies, that's all," I said.
"We understand. It's perfectly natural to be nervous, but we're confident you'll have a splendid time," Richelieu said. "However, since we'll be in attendance anyway, feel free to come to us if you need help or advice."
"Oui," Dunkerque said. "I'm sure you won't need it, but it can't hurt to be safe."
"You'll be the commander's security, and we'll be yours," Algerie said. "How does that sound?"
I chuckled. "I'll take whatever help I can get. Thanks."
"Anything for a dear friend and sister," Richelieu said. "Do you have a special outfit in mind?"
"Oh... should I dress nice?" I asked.
Richelieu shook her head. "I'm only curious. I'd recommend a casual outfit. No fancy attire required."
"Agreed," Dunkerque said. "The mood should be as relaxed as possible. Save the fancier garments for… the ball perhaps?"
"Um! L-Let's not jump the gun!" I said, blushing. "Asking me out to the ball is kind of a stretch, don't ya think?"
"You never know!" Algerie said, making me blush more. "As Richelieu said, it's not as infeasible as you may think."
"Let's just focus on what's happening today, alright?" I said.
"Fair enough," Algerie said. "Anyway, I'm also curious about what outfit you had in mind. Care to enlighten us?"
"Eh… nothing fancy," I said. "A crop top, shorts, boots, and my favorite leather jacket. Should help me feel more comfortable."
"Good idea. And I know exactly the outfit you're talking about," Richelieu said. "It's very... you."
"Agreed," Dunkerque said. "You wear that leather jacket so well!"
"A perfect mix of cute and tough," Algerie said. "It epitomizes you."
Dunkerque giggled. "I think the commander will be head over—"
"Jean Bart! Jean Bart!"
Huh? That voice sounds familiar. Who the hell—?
We turned our heads and saw a familiar brunette, non-foxbitch Sakura aircraft carrier sprinting towards us. When she stopped, she nearly collapsed. She was drenched in sweat.
"Zuikaku?" I said. "Um... bonjour."
"Hi... hey..." she said, trying to catch her breath. "Phew! I'm glad I found... found you... b-before... guh... g-gimme a sec..."
"Bonjour, Zuikaku," Algerie said. "Is everything alright?"
"Goodness me, you look haggard," Richelieu said. "Like you've run a marathon."
"I practically... have..." Zuikaku panted, wiping beads of sweat off her forehead.
"Here. This should cool you down," Dunkerque said, unwrapping a small popsicle and handing it to Zuikaku. Her eyes widened when she saw it.
"Oh my gosh, you're a lifesaver," she said, devouring it in just several bites. Her breathing was back to normal too. "Ah... much better."
"So what's going on?" I asked. "Find me before... what?"
"Akagi," Zuikaku said.
"Ugh..." I grunted, hearing that name. "What is it now?"
"She's... angry," Zuikaku said. "With you."
"Tch... what else is new?" I asked.
"No, I mean she's pissed," Zuikaku said. "Like... she might hurt someone."
"Wait, how do you know she's mad at Jeanie?" Dunkerque asked.
"Because she was rampaging through the Sakura dorms screaming, 'tell me where Jean Bart is!" before storming out," Zuikaku said. "I've never seen her face that red. I thought she might blow a blood vessel."
Maybe the stalking bitch knows about my date already.
"May we ask why she's angry?" Richelieu asked.
"I don't know. She just started screaming about Jean Bart's whereabouts and that was it," Zuikaku said. "But I wanted to find Jean Bart first so I could warn her—"
"YOU...!"
Ergh... there's that voice. I turned to look, and my blood boiled when I saw a familiar foxgirl.
Heh, Zuikaku wasn't kidding. Akagi's face was as red as her garments, and she was seething through her gritting teeth. She held a plane in her hand.
"Jean Bart... must you take... everything from me?!"
Oh God... there's a slight twitch in her eye.
"Akagi," Zuikaku said. "Whatever happened, I'm sure we can just talk it out—"
"We're FAR past that," Akagi cackled.
"Akagi, stop!" Zuikaku said, stepping in front of her.
"Zuikaku... step... aside," Akagi said.
"Withdraw your plane," Zuikaku demanded. "I won't let you—"
"You dare defy your superior?!" Akagi screamed. "MOVE!"
"ACK!"
Zuikaku shrieked as Akagi shoved her aside, almost throwing her onto the sand.
God, as if I needed more reasons to hate her.
She stomped closer...
"Get back, this instant!" Algerie commanded, stepping in and summoning her main guns.
"I have no quarrel with you, heavy cruiser," Akagi said.
"You harmed my sisters. Don't test me," Algerie said. "Get. Back."
I almost forgot Algerie was the only one of us not damaged during training yesterday.
Having Algerie's cannons aimed directly at her seemed to keep Akagi at bay.
"Whaddya want with me, foxgirl?" I asked. I don't care. She still doesn't scare me.
Although... that twitch in her eye is a bit unsettling.
"What do I want? What do I want?!" Akagi screamed. She leered at me with darkness over her eyes. "You planned to steal the commander from me all along, didn't you? And then rub it in my face? You're... the epitome... of an insect... and all insects must... be... exterminated."
Hope you enjoyed it. I wanted to get this out before I go back to visit my family for a while, because most likely nothing will get done, so I didn't want to leave you all hanging. And sorry for the long wait. I've been busy with job interviews, some health issues, prepping to move soon, and have been mentally exhausted. I hope this didn't disappoint too much. The next chapter will start after I get back from vacation. Thanks for reading as always! Cheers!
