Disclaimer: I still don't own Evangelion but I am hoping to get some merchandise from a friend who is returning from Japan in a couple of days.
Author's Notes: I haven't completely lost interest although I did for a month and I wasn't able to write much. I was going well on my other story but when I got nominated for the Takoballs I decided I needed to finish this, even though I don't think I'll win anything.
So on a side note go and vote, there is a link at www.darkscribes.org , where I am also a member if you want an alternate viewing site for my fics. They also have a forum where you can review and a new story archive site www.evafics.org. Check them out for hopefully good quality Evangelion fics.
Shinji's Lullaby
Chapter 5
Rei walked steadily towards her destination. The evening was cooling down even though the sun had yet to fully set. The brilliantly coloured sky held no interest for her since she preferred the night. She made no extraneous movements as she continued at her deceptively quick pace. The breeze tousled her hair but she made no effort to brush it away from her eyes. She walked mechanically to her destination but her mind was focused purely on why she had come here.
She had been asked by a superior officer to go to the look out over the city but it was a favour not an order. That was what puzzled the girl, how she had never been asked to do something by her own volition. She had only been ordered to do things but Misato was intent that she should only go if she wanted to. It would have been a bad thing if she had gone because she had been ordered to. Misato's request had made Rei think of when she had done something for herself.
Normally Rei would only do what was necessary for herself, while also doing what she was ordered to. However lately she had been doing more for herself and she had barely recognised it until Misato had asked if she had wanted to do her a favour. It was strange to have to decide what she wanted to do but when she heard what Misato wanted, she was happy to comply. Only after hanging up the phone had she realised that she wanted to help Shinji and would have done so if she had known he was in trouble. At one time she wouldn't have given him the time of day but as their friendship grew she noticed how much information Shinji was giving her.
It wasn't vital but anecdotal. He gave her his own perspective on life and the events that Rei had observed but did not know the purpose of. Some of these events had become a part of her routine, like spending her lunchtimes eating something prepared by him with him and his friends. It was something she had never considered doing but found it both intriguing and insightful. While she didn't care if she was accepted, the simple act of eating a meal with them seemed to help them relax around her. While it never used to bother her she found that she appreciated the company of others more and was starting to prefer it to being alone.
Rei reached the look out and took a few seconds to examine the view. Rei had never like vivid colours and besides that she didn't enjoy the unnatural shapes of the buildings. She paused a second to expound on that point. The idea of enjoying the scenery was strange, especially since she felt an aversion to the unnatural shapes of buildings created by man. She found it disturbing that she held these views but normally didn't consider them since they were trivial. While it was an unusual revelation, she found that she wanted to find a deeper meaning to how she viewed the world.
The development of her personal philosophy would have to wait as she noticed Shinji. He was the reason she was here but all she knew was what Misato had told her. There had been a fight between Shinji and Asuka. After it Shinji had taken a few things and left the apartment while Asuka remained in her room. Misato had asked Rei to go because she wanted to stay and deal with Asuka. From Misato's tone, Rei deduced that her fellow female pilot had started the fight and probably for some unwarranted reason.
Shinji sat on the opposite side of the fence that lined the look out. In front of him was a steep, grassy slope that eventually stopped at a second barrier that was designed to stop people falling over the cliff that lay beyond it. It was a place to survey the surroundings but Shinji found the grass far more interesting. Rei had no trouble climbing over the fence and moving towards him. She could see the slight discolouration and swelling on his face and lip. She did nothing other than take a seat beside him and stare out to the horizon. Apart from the breeze the only other sound she could hear was music permeating from Shinji's SDAT.
Rei knew that Shinji was aware of her presence. Their meetings had become more frequent in the last week and he had started to distinguish her presence even amongst others. He would generally become tense for a moment, as if a chill had run down his spine before he would relax and talk to her. While Rei was conscious of this effect she also knew that Asuka's touch brought a similar reaction from Shinji, yet it reach far deeper than her presence. Rei wasn't envious of this, however she was surprised at how pleased she was to know that Shinji relaxed around her. Not even Commander Ikari would be completely relaxed. He was always holding something back that Rei used to ignore but found it hard knowing that Shinji would be completely honest with her.
"I suppose Misato told you to come here," Shinji broke the companionable silence as he pulled his earphones out of his ears.
"She asked me to come as a favour to her, although I don't understand that fully," Rei responded in her normal voice but didn't turn to face him as he had to her.
"You mean she asked you to come here, not ordered?" Shinji asked a little uncertainly.
"She insisted that I choose to come here because I wanted to. She was clear that she would not order me to come because you would view that as a negative matter. However she was unable to explain what it meant for me to do her a favour," Rei turned to Shinji, her stare clearly showing she wanted an explanation.
"Well… when a friend asks you to do something where you may receive nothing in return that is generally considered a favour. It's not an order because you don't have to do it. Of course if you consider them a good friend, it's nice to help them if you can." Rei considered the information as Shinji leaned back and watched the darkening sky.
"A favour is something you choose to do for a friend even if that act may go unrewarded," Shinji nodded as Rei looked for confirmation to the validity of her statement.
"Misato owes you a favour, so you can ask her to do something for you. It's kind of like she owes you a personal debt," Shinji could see Rei absorbing the information.
"I have nothing that I could ask Major Katsuragi for, it is a debt she cannot repay," Rei looked at Shinji to see that he found this amusing.
"You don't have to ask for anything now or ever if you don't need a favour from her. You just need to keep in mind that if you need something or someone's help, you can ask for Misato's help. Just don't ask her to teach you how to cook," Shinji smiled despite his mood as Rei looked curiously at him.
"I would not ask her to do something that she doesn't do herself. You appear to always cook for her so it would be logical to ask you to teach me." Shinji sighed slightly as he realised his attempt at a joke was futile. There was a momentary silence but Shinji didn't feel as uncomfortable as he used to with Rei's piercing gaze.
"You haven't asked me why I am here," Shinji reluctantly stated as the silence became unbearable for him.
"Major Katsuragi said that it would be best if you chose to speak rather than having myself ask you what happened. I only know that there was an argument between yourself and Pilot Sohryu." Rei watched Shinji as he leaned forward and stared into the ground acting somewhere between angry and thankful to his guardian.
"So she didn't tell you that I quit NERV and left my ID and phone at the apartment," Shinji looked up briefly to see Rei nod. "Would you have still come if you knew I was no longer a pilot?" Shinji didn't wait to see her reaction and instead looked down to wait for a verbal response. Rei could not find an answer at the moment since she was struggling with trying to determine if there was or should be a difference to her treatment of Shinji. On several occasions he had expressed his dislike of both his father and piloting but he had still been a pilot. She couldn't figure out that since he was no longer a pilot did he still deserve her attention.
"I guess it was a stupid question, I have a habit of asking those lately," Shinji quietly spoke as his spirits fell further. He had already decided that he was going to get a negative response and was planning his exit. With no reply forthcoming Shinji started to stand only to have Rei take hold of his arm and pull him back down. Stunned more by her action than the heavy landing, Shinji stared at her noticing a rare moment of indecision on her face.
"I do not know how to answer that question. While it may be inappropriate to associate with you because you are no longer a pilot, you are also my friend. I do not wish to lose our friendship because you have resigned as a pilot but I may have to if I am ordered to." The thought of having to be ordered to longer have any contact with Shinji made Rei feel a little discontent.
"I don't suppose it matters. Misato wouldn't have asked you to come unless she thought that I would change my mind. Besides if I really do resign, I'll be sent back to my old home, so I wouldn't see you again." As much as Shinji hated piloting he didn't see escaping back to the empty home he had come from as much of an improvement over his current life.
"It would be unfortunate if you should leave, I enjoy your company." Rei's simple comment brought a small smile to Shinji's lips, an act that Rei reciprocated.
"I enjoy you company as well Rei," Shinji noticed that she was taken slightly off guard as he used her given name. Another silence followed but the cooling air and darkening surroundings heightened their senses. Shinji decided it would probably be a good time to leave, although he had no idea where he was going. He stood and offered Rei a hand up, which she tentatively accepted. Shinji crouched down to put his SDAT into his bag and the hoisted the bag onto his shoulder.
"I guess this is goodbye then," Shinji mumbled, not entirely sure he wanted to say goodbye to her. He had a fair idea that Misato had sent Rei because he would be more likely to talk to her than any of his other friends. Of course it was a risky tactic on Misato's behalf since Rei wasn't exactly a great conversationalist.
"It is if you want it to be," Rei replied and Shinji blankly looked back.
"What do you mean? You have to go home and I have to go…" Shinji trailed off as he tried to decide where his destination was.
"You do not wish to go home and yet you have no other place to go. Would it not be logical for you to stay with me?" Rei watched as Shinji debated with himself on whether or not to accept her offer.
"Are you sure? I don't want to be an inconvenience," Shinji felt a little anxious by Rei's invitation. He had seen her apartment and it wasn't well furnished but considering his other options it was appealing to some degree.
"Would it be easier for you if you had some purpose in your stay?" Shinji was a little confused but nodded anyway. "Then can I ask a favour of you, Shinji?" while Rei found it a little awkward using his name she noticed that it seemed to help him relax.
"How can I help you?" Shinji stated more confidently.
"Teach me to cook," Rei flatly responded, much to Shinji's dismay.
"Ah, sure, I guess but do you have everything you need?" Shinji asked hesitantly knowing that Rei's apartment could be considered bare of some of the necessities for cooking.
"If you tell me what you need then I can inform you if I have such a thing in my possession. Those things I do not have can be easily acquired. Is that satisfactory?" Shinji again nodded a little dumbly and Rei smiled back at him before stepping over the fence they had been leaning against. As she started the walk back to the city, Shinji scrambled to catch up. Once he was walking alongside her he waited a few moments before he began his questions, first trying to find out what she wanted to cook and then listing what they needed.
As they conversed Rei considered her actions as a minor success. While Misato had wanted to make sure she talked to Shinji of her own free will, she also suggested that she stayed with him until he talked about Asuka. At the moment she had achieved this as well as getting Shinji to show her how to cook. She had made attempts on her own but was unable to emulate the taste Shinji produced. This way she could achieve two things at once and besides, she was hungry.
It seemed like a good idea but like most of her good ideas lately, it appeared to be ineffective. She had managed to clean out half her beer stock and yet she still felt no ill effects of the alcohol. She knew that would change if she moved or stood up but that didn't stop her from finishing the last full cans that sat beside her. The rest of the empties lay on the couch and floor around her, waiting to be disposed of. However Misato was determined to continue her silent vigil even though her attempts at a relaxing drink were not working.
She had turned the couch around so that she was facing the kitchen. She was waiting for the inevitable emergence of Asuka from her room. Misato had checked on the girl when she found Shinji's note and ID card but she had fallen into a fitful sleep. It was mildly surprising that she could sleep but Misato felt reassured that it would not be as refreshing as sleeping with a clear conscience. The so called fight had been all one sided as usual with Asuka on all out attack while Shinji's defence failed to calm her. It ended with Shinji finally breaking as saying something he shouldn't have and Asuka's right fist.
After picking himself off the floor, Shinji had gone on with his normal chores calmly and even preserved Asuka's uneaten dinner for later. Of course as soon as he was done and Misato was in her room he had vanished and left a note explaining his actions. Misato hated that he had shrugged off her attempted help and realised that he held her to blame for some of what happened. She also felt responsible, not just for the fight but for not making her efforts forceful enough. In the end she had taken the easy option and sent Rei rather than going herself.
Misato had seen it coming since this morning. Asuka appeared from her room showing all the signs of staying up all night. When Asuka had first seen Shinji, the indecision in her face was obvious and she could only muster a weak nod before retreating to the bathroom. She had returned more her usual self but seemed troubled whenever she knew that Shinji wasn't watching her. After they had left Misato had gone to work but she was determined to be home when they returned after school. In the end that was probably her first mistake.
Misato had arrived home just after Shinji and Asuka and Asuka was already in a mood about something. Shinji informed her that the latest synch test results had been mentioned at school. Misato tried to reassure her that the only thing that the synch tests proved was that Shinji was trying to make good on his promise to protect her. Asuka immediately took offence to that and even though Misato tried to calm her, Asuka's anger continued to escalate. Misato was glad Shinji made the effort to interject but his inept attempt caused the girl to explode.
Shinji then became the sole target as Asuka finally let lose her frustrations. Shinji made sporadic comments aimed at appeasing her but they only increased the severity of Asuka's tirade. She pointed out everything he did that annoyed her. She made sure he understood that she didn't need his protection or help. She said that she only tolerated him because he made her life easier away from Eva but that ended when he started upstaging her. In the end Shinji broke and vehemently shouted that he should have never have saved her from the volcano.
That was when Asuka, on the verge of tears, lashed out and knocked Shinji to the ground. She then stood over him, waiting to see if he would stand or preparing to kick him where he lay. As much as Misato regretted her comments, she was disgusted with herself that it took that action to make her intervene. She slid in to protect Shinji and a stunned Asuka finally relented and stormed to her room. Misato had then tried to help Shinji but he resited her attempts and practically ignored her until she left him alone.
Misato's recollections ended as Asuka's door opened slowly. She didn't look around the room but instead walked slowly towards the kitchen. Her eyes were red but she hadn't been crying. They were also empty and her face was almost lifeless as she dragged her feet while she walked. Standing in front of the fridge, she looked at it as if she could see through the door. Eventually she pulled the door open and blinked as the light hurt her tired eyes. She stared at the neatly wrapped dinner that sat proudly in the centre of the fridge. She picked it up and looked at it blankly but her expression soon turned to disgust. She shoved the plate of food back into the fridge before slamming the door.
Misato watched as the girl leaned onto the front of the fridge, her eyes screwed shut and her teeth gritted as she forced back her tears. She slowly sank to the floor under the weight of her own guilt. Misato felt some empathy for her but she didn't interfere. She wanted Asuka to suffer at least some of the pain she had inflicted on her roommate and supposed boyfriend. Asuka didn't move for several minutes but did slowly lean back away from the fridge and look forlornly at Shinji's bedroom door. Looking back to the floor in front of her Asuka finally decided to pick herself up.
Asuka contemplated returning to her room for another few minutes before she uncertainly paced towards Shinji's door. She again stared at the door, hoping to see through it to the occupant she believed was lying inside. Her hand rose but stopped before making contact with the door as Asuka decided against knocking. This action was repeated several times as Asuka's heart and mind battled for supremacy. She traced the lines that make up the writing on the nameplate that hung proudly on the door. Finally giving in to her regret and guilt she slid the door open and slipped inside without knocking.
Waiting patiently Misato gazed at the door waiting for Asuka to withdraw from Shinji's room once she found it empty. Misato didn't have to wait long as Asuka slowly backed out, fear creeping into her eyes. She guessed that Asuka noticed the clothes and SDAT missing leaving only the cello and two picture frames. The more decorative of the frames held a picture of the two pilots taken only a few days ago and was lying face down. The other frame was empty but had contained an image of the three roommates taken before two of them became a couple. All signs were that Shinji had left and probably wasn't planning on returning, something Asuka hadn't expected.
She turned to look at Misato's closed bedroom door but found herself caught between asking for help and fear the woman's reaction to Shinji disappearance. What Asuka didn't know was that Misato was still watching intently from the couch and already knew of Shinji's departure. Asuka quickly sorted out her feeling and decided what action to take. With a couple of swift strides Asuka stood in front of Misato's door and about to knock. She wasn't able to complete that action as Misato's icy voice broke the silence in the apartment.
"He left hours ago, the note is on the table," Asuka whirled around to see Misato sitting on the couch surrounded by empty cans but looking stone cold sober. Still coming to grips with the ominous looking Misato, Asuka slowly moved to the table and looked down on the note. It was short and concise, stating he had lost his reason for remaining in Tokyo-3 and offering an apology for being a burden. It was addressed to Misato and made no direct reference to Asuka or the fight. The note lay next to his discarded phone and ID card.
"I guess you got your wish, you're now the number one pilot. Congratulations," Misato maintained her cold voice and stared at Asuka waiting for a reaction.
"Like you're happy he left, I'm surprised you're not out there now searching for your little Shin-chan," Asuka attempted to be bitter but it wasn't convincing. Asuka couldn't muster Misato's conviction and she was also struggling to understand why she hadn't run after her precious Shinji.
"Didn't you read the note, he resigned, so he's no longer my responsibility. It's probably for the better, you pointed out that he wasn't cut out for piloting so he'll be safer if he leaves Tokyo-3." Misato saw the upturn in fear as Asuka realised that Shinji may have already have left the city.
"The Commander isn't going to be happy you let him go, you know how hard it is to find pilots. I surprised you haven't called up Section Two and told them to drag him back here." Asuka was desperately trying to convince Misato to act while appearing indifferent to the outcome. Misato didn't move an inch, she barely breathed as she stared at Asuka.
"Dragging him back doesn't mean he'll pilot but I suppose that's better for you. If he doesn't want to pilot he won't have a chance of succeeding and will eventually get himself killed," Misato could see Asuka's frustration mounting.
"Why aren't you doing something? You are just showing that you really didn't care," Asuka's anger had the advantage at the moment but Misato could see the stress taking it's toll.
"I DO care, unlike you. It's better if he leaves rather than have his hopes raised by you, only to have them shattered because he beat you by one lousy point. The great Asuka Langley Sohryu so enraged by just a single percentage point that she had to destroy the life of her supposed boyfriend. So Asuka, did you really care or was this just another one of your acts to draw attention?" Misato hadn't yelled at her but Asuka still looked stunned. Misato waited for a few moments as Asuka searched for her voice.
"What's the matter Asuka, nothing to say? You had plenty to say before, have you run out of words or are you just waiting for Shinji to return so you can torment him again? Maybe this time you're just going to beat him rather than…" Misato smirked as she finally go a reaction from Asuka.
"It's not like that, I didn't mean to. Stop talking and go and find him before he leaves," Asuka's desperate plea was ignored by Misato.
"Why should I Asuka? What does it matter if he stays or leaves?" Misato coolly inquired trying to get a response that showed the girl's true feelings.
"Stop him before he leaves me," Asuka whispered with her head bowed and her eyes hidden by her hair. She appeared to be wavering where she stood, getting closer and closer to collapsing. Misato let the silence drag out but she started to her small sniffs coming from Asuka as her tears welled up.
"No," Misato's one word answer caused Asuka's knees to finally buckle and she dropped down to land heavily on the floor. The tears spilled down her cheeks as the lost little girl finally began to realise the magnitude of her mistake. Misato allowed her features to soften, not that Asuka could see it with her eyes full of tears. Asuka continued to sink lower as her body lost the desire to move.
"So now you know something similar to what Shinji probably feels right now," Misato watched as Asuka stopped herself from completely slumping to the ground.
"Then make it stop, go and find Shinji and…" Asuka trailed off as she failed to think of something to do once Shinji was found.
"Neither of us is going anywhere. You have all night to think of what you are going to do to make it up to Shinji," Asuka coughed out a bitter laugh.
"There's no point if Shinji isn't here," Asuka's voice was that of someone who was defeated. Misato didn't respond straight away as Asuka's tears stopped and her despair started to grow.
"What do you want Asuka? Do you want him to stay here because you asked him to stay or leave because you chased him away?" Asuka hesitated on the answer, something that Misato didn't want to see.
"Answer me!" Misato barked out and Asuka suddenly sat up straight.
"I want him to stay," Asuka replied almost immediately without bothering to think but finding an odd sense of reassurance from it.
"That's what I wanted to hear. Now you just have to figure out what you are going to do," Misato plainly stated. Asuka's mind started to get into gear as she tried to figure out what she wanted to do.
"I'm going to find him of course," Asuka felt the energy flowing back into her being as she pictured finding a lost and lonely Shinji.
"No you are not," Misato coldly stated and Asuka paused but her anger returned with a vengeance.
"There's no point doing anything else if Shinji leaves," Asuka started to stand to strength her position but Misato wasn't bothered.
"So what are you going to tell him when you find him?" Misato saw the pause in Asuka's movements but she continued to speak before Asuka could cut in. "You need to figure out what you are going to do Asuka. Shinji put himself in an impossible situation where he wasn't going to win. It was only a matter of time before he came between you and Eva. When he did you tried to hold back but you eventually lost your temper. I'd rather not have that happen again," Misato's voice was forceful and she maintained her stern face as Asuka absorbed the information.
"It won't happen again," Asuka whispered, trying to affirm her own belief in her words.
"Shinji can't quit piloting because he'll have to leave Tokyo-3. He can't become the best pilot because you'll be angry with him but he has to be the best pilot he can in order to protect you. You have trained half your life for this and now Shinji is matching you in a fraction of that time. Eventually he was going to do something that you wouldn't like and you were bound to let him now about it. Both as your guardian and your commanding officer I can't let that happen," Misato noticed Asuka's head drop but she didn't sink back to the ground.
"Now is the time that you have to figure out what you are going to do. Shinji has made promises and he was never going to be able to keep them all. You however have made no such promises or concessions to him. I'm not expecting you to walk away from Eva but you need to separate the two aspects of your life. You can't blame Shinji for what he does as a pilot, just as you shouldn't let your personal feelings affect your piloting. Like I said you have all night to decide what to do," Misato realised that she had one more can of beer and decided to open it. Asuka was still looking at the floor pondering what Misato had just said.
"I can't just change who I am," Asuka announced without much vigour. She felt lifeless knowing that it was her fault and she had to change but not knowing how.
"Don't give me that crap. Look at Shinji, before you came he didn't care if he lived or died. You pushed him, making him work harder not just because he was told to. He started to believe that he could achieve something and he has by beating you. Now it's up to you to treat it as a friendly challenge and not a bitter rivalry. By screaming at him because he bettered your score you show that you can't handle the challenge. Show me you're better than that by changing that attitude of yours," Asuka looked up to meet Misato's gaze but neither of them looked away.
"Do you think it's that easy to change? Shinji ran away the first sign of trouble and you say he's changed," Asuka's voice was quiet but firm.
"You pushed him away and hurt him both mentally and physically. To him you appeared to be everything that he has always run from. The most important person to him turned around and hurt him just like the rest of his life. Of course he was going to run away," Misato waved her arms trying to emphasise her point but Asuka wasn't watching.
"He did the same to me," Asuka weakly grumbled and Misato sighed.
"At the time he was under a lot of stress, I mean you were screaming about how pathetic he was." Misato tried not to sound too harsh but her comments didn't seem to affect her. They both remained silent and neither of them moved as they felt they had nothing left to say. Misato finished off her last beer and immediately felt her stomach disagree with the addition of more alcohol. Standing up, Misato found that she wasn't affected too much but she knew that it wasn't going to last for too long.
"Asuka you should try to get some sleep," Misato started as she walked towards her room. "You have to decide what to tell Shinji and how you are going to apologise. You have to make up for your mistake and make him believe you. If you don't I guess he's going to leave or at least move out of here," Misato placed a comforting hand on Asuka's shoulder. It was left there for a few moments before Misato started to walk past Asuka and into her room. Asuka's hand caught Misato's wrist before she could move out of reach.
"What's the point with coming up with something to say if he's not around to talk to?" Asuka didn't look up at first but as Misato stayed quiet and didn't move she eventually looked up to the older woman. Misato was smiling but it was a smile that showed she knew something that Asuka didn't.
"I sent someone to talk to him, so he should be fine and he won't have gone far," Misato spoke slyly. She could see the emotions rising in Asuka's eyes but it wasn't anger, more like hope.
"Who did you send? Where are they?" Asuka quickly asked but Misato remained calm.
"I know where they were but they would have moved by now and I don't think you want to know who." Misato almost laughed as Asuka's anger shone through but she restrained herself from yelling.
"Tell me who it is. Kaji, Kensuke, Toji, maybe Hikari. Don't tell me you sent Ritsuko," Misato shook her head to each name and Asuka paused to find another name. Misato could see the disbelief and fear on Asuka's face as she realised that there was only one other person who Shinji could possibly talk to. Misato was able to slip out of Asuka's grasp and make it to her bedroom door.
"Don't worry Asuka, I'm sure Rei will take good care of him. Of course if it is too good Shinji may not want to come back," Misato left the shell shocked Asuka in the kitchen, slipped into her room and promptly passed out in her bed.
Shinji was surprised at how quiet this place was during the night. Rei's apartment was always surrounded by noise during the day but now it was completely silent and still. He couldn't listen to his SDAT because after a day of almost constant play, the batteries gave out and he couldn't get new ones till tomorrow. It wasn't much help that he kept replaying the events of the afternoon that had seen him flee his home. He regretted what he had said to her in retaliation and it didn't help that his lip ached.
He was lost and bewildered as Asuka turned on him. His world was crumbling and at first he wanted to save it but as Asuka continued to rant he just wanted for her to stop. He said he shouldn't have saved her and it was as good as wishing her dead. However when she had stopped and the immense pain appeared on her face, he felt almost pleased at making her suffer like he was suffering. It disgusted him but he didn't think like that for long as Asuka's punch stopped all articulate thoughts.
Misato had rushed to his aid at that point and Asuka finally retreated. As his head stopped throbbing, his mind caught up with events and Misato became someone to blame. She had started it and then failed to help until it was all but over. He treated her coldly, ignoring her attempts at help and focusing purely on mindless tasks. He hadn't though about what had happened until he had dropped onto his bed and felt his sore face. Then he saw the picture that Asuka had Hikari take because Kensuke refused. After turning it face down he had started packing up his things and before he knew it he was walking out in the late afternoon sun.
Shinji sniffed as he tried to forget the torturous journey, his mind reliving and escalating the pain he had been subjected to. A slow walk to nowhere that ended high above the city that wouldn't care if he existed or not except for the fact he was one of its saviours. Even though Rei tried to help by keeping him occupied, Shinji knew that she was doing it more because of Misato's instructions rather than her own initiative. Although it had been strangely fulfilling to teach Rei a simple recipe even though his dark thoughts were still present in the back of his mind.
Shinji rolled onto his side to view the girl in question. She lay on her back and perfectly still, seemingly in a state of deep sleep. Shinji had to wonder how she could fall asleep that easily when she never appeared tired or over exerted in anything she did. Her stillness was in contrast to most times he had witness Asuka asleep. He tried to push those memories away as he remembered her restlessness but also her occasional vulnerability. He closed his eyes in an effort to help banish the memories of how he had been able to dispel those fears just by holding her. He didn't want to think of the good times and as he opened his eyes he noticed he was being watched.
"You cannot sleep, why?" Rei's head was tilted to the side and her red eyes examined Shinji as he lay on the makeshift bed on the floor.
"Sad memories, bad dreams," Shinji softly replied and Rei rolled to her side interested in his comment.
"Are dreams not always pleasant?" Rei continued to stare at Shinji who was trying to come up with a satisfactory answer.
"Not always, dreams can be both good and bad. What happens to you during your life affects what you dream about. If you have some problems they can influence what you dream about," Shinji looked at Rei who was considering the answer.
"So your argument with Pilot Sohryu has affected your ability to sleep," Rei concluded and Shinji shifted uncomfortably in his bed.
"You could say that but I've never really been able to sleep well, especially after my father left me. How about you Rei, don't you have your own dreams?" Shinji tried to shift the conversation away from Asuka.
"I do not dream," she replied plainly and looked away from Shinji.
"I don't mean when you sleep, don't you have dreams about what you want to achieve in life. What do you want to do after you are no longer needed to pilot?" Shinji sat up, feeling a little awkward trying to speak up to Rei who was lying on her bed.
"My purpose has always been to pilot Eva, I can envision nothing else," Rei spoke in her normal, level voice but she didn't look over to where Shinji sat.
"I guess that's how Asuka feels. I can't remember having something or doing anything that I couldn't live with out. I've only ever done what I was told," Shinji drew his knees up and stared down to the floor. His life felt increasingly empty as he realised what he had and was now losing in Tokyo-3. He had nothing in his old life but had slowly acquired friends even though he was doing something he hated. The one thing he had been positive about was Asuka but he had quickly surrendered that as well, despite his promises.
Shinji suddenly noticed an arm reach around his chest and felt warmth encircle him. He looked out of the corner of his eye to see Rei by his side. Her arms were wrapped around his chest and her head rested on his shoulder but he was unable to see her face. While he felt his body temperature rising, Shinji didn't feel completely uncomfortable. Even with the knowledge that Rei was only dressed in a white, cotton shirt, he felt calmed by her touch. Rei could feel Shinji tense up as she embraced him but he slowly relaxed.
"Is this uncomfortable for you?" Rei quietly asked, not quite comfortable herself.
"No… not really, it's more… unexpected," Shinji stammered as her voice made him feel more discomfort.
"Is this not how one person comforts another?" Rei leaned back so she could see his face but she didn't remove her arms.
"It is but I didn't think that you would… hug someone," Shinji's hesitance was meet with puzzlement by Rei.
"We are friends and you required comfort, was it inappropriate for me to take such action?" Rei continued to gaze curiously at Shinji but he felt no compunction to look away.
"It's not inappropriate, I'm just not used to being comforted," Shinji spoke meekly and tried to smile.
"You had no discomfort in being comforted by Pilot Sohryu," Rei responded quickly and Shinji looked away.
"That's different," Shinji's comment would have normally been interpreted as an end to a conversation or an indication to use more tact. Unfortunately for Shinji, Rei didn't have the social skills to do either.
"How?" Rei asked bluntly, leaning back as she did and letting her hands rest at her sides. The simple and direct question wasn't unexpected on Shinji's behalf but he was still reluctant to answer. He sighed as he glanced at her and she was still waiting in anticipation of an answer to her query.
"I don't know how to explain it fully," Shinji conceded but he wasn't quite sure how to explain it to Rei.
"Try, I would like to understand," Rei insistence brought a wry smile to Shinji's face but it quickly faded.
"I told Kaji that when I'm close to her I don't feel alone but it's more than that. I felt something deep inside that I've never felt before. I suppose I could say I feel complete but that doesn't sound quiet right," Rei listened avidly to Shinji's musing.
"Would you say that her soul compliments your own?" Shinji looked blankly at her but nodded, an understanding dawning on him. "You share a bond that is the strongest possible between two beings, it is something that is unique and should be cherished." Shinji stared at Rei, digesting the information until the negative part of his mind reminded him of his situation.
"It doesn't matter, it's over," Shinji dejectedly sighed as he again stared at the floor.
"The bond may have weakened but that does not mean it is broken. If you leave there will be no chance of saving it. Is the bond not worth saving?" Rei was perplexed by Shinji behaviour and could not fathom Shinji's lack of motivation.
"There's no point in trying if Asuka doesn't care," Shinji miserably replied as his head dropped a little lower.
"Pilot Sohryu often says things in anger that she does not believe in. If the bond is something that you have never felt, you should try to save it. Not doing anything will do nothing to help you," Rei did not know why Shinji didn't understand her logic.
"If I leave, she won't be able to hurt me," Shinji weakly pleaded.
"You suffer already because she hurt you and that pain will not go away, even if you leave. Even if you stay you will have to risk being hurt and occasionally be hurt. It is something you must endure to find fulfilment," Shinji didn't move so Rei placed a hand over his. He looked up at this but didn't look at Rei.
"I told her that I shouldn't have saved her, I practically wished she were dead. I'm the one who should have died," Shinji lay down in his bed again. He rolled away from Rei so that his back was to her as she knelt beside him. Rei observed him closely as he tried to sleep but he knew that Rei was still watching him.
"If you had wished to die, then you would have done so already. You have faced death many times but you still continued to fight. If you no longer had hope for a better future then you would have allowed an angel to kill you. If you do not act and allow Pilot Sohryu the chance to apologise, then would you not be letting the greatest source of your hope slip away from you?" Rei remained where she was for a few moments, waiting to see if Shinji was going to reply. Eventually she stood and returned to her bed, leaving Shinji to think about what had been said.
Shinji heard her move and climb into her bed. Only once she was settled did he allow himself to open his eyes, not that there was much to see. Her words made sense but they also went against how he had lived his life up until now. His mind went between Rei's logical argument and Asuka's screaming with neither side gaining much ascendancy. His own thoughts joined the chorus of voices of people he knew adding support to one side or the other. As usual, sleep would not come easily for him but unlike most nights he had no SDAT to soothe his turbulent mind or escape the reality of his situation. Rei watched him, well aware of his state of consciousness and his internal conflict but she was reassured that he had nowhere to run, at least for tonight.
Shinji wiped his forehead with the back of his hand and stood back to admire his handy work. He had decided not to go to school and convinced Rei that he wasn't going to leave. Of course Rei wasn't convinced until she got a call from Misato saying that it would be okay for her to leave him alone. Rei then didn't have any qualms about leaving, although Shinji had made two lunches and asked her to give one to Asuka. He was specific which one she should give her because it contained a note of apology. He only hoped that she would accept it but with the end of school drawing near he was sure he'd find out soon.
He looked over the now clean table again but came to the same conclusion. The table needed two people to move it and presently there were only a few rats and himself. He sighed as he realised that he would have to wait until Rei returned home and thus ruin the surprise he had for her. As he taught Rei how to cook, he quickly noticed that there wasn't enough bench space. So after spending nearly all day and a large amount of bleach cleaning her apartment, he searched the other abandoned ones for a table. He had found one that would suit her needs and had additional chairs that she could use.
"Need a hand?" Misato's chipper voice startled Shinji as he stared at the table.
"Um… yeah, can you help me move this to Rei's apartment?" Shinji's nervousness didn't affect Misato as she strolled over to the opposite end of the table.
"I sure can," she replied smiling, making Shinji fell even more anxious. Misato could see that he was trying not to look at her and focusing purely on the task at hand. He was obviously dreading when the conversation would turn serious and they would start to talk about Asuka and NERV. At the moment Misato was happy to wait, she had already had to explain herself to Ritsuko and left work early just to get to Shinji before Asuka did.
Misato had woken up feeling sick but also acutely aware of the situation. Asuka was still asleep but there were marks on the door that showed she had tried to break it down. Misato had deliberately locked her in to prevent her from getting to Shinji before she did. Not that it mattered considering Asuka didn't know where Rei lived. Asuka had been reluctant to go to school until Misato mentioned that Hikari would probably know where Rei lived. With Asuka taken care of, Misato had gone to NERV to make sure the rest of her obligations were taken care of.
They positioned the table in Rei's clean apartment and Misato could smell the strong scent of lemon from the bleach. Shinji busied himself positioning the chairs around the table and Misato sat down in one of the seats. She made sure that she had a good view of the front door so that she had plenty of warning when Asuka arrived. Shinji uneasily looked around for something to do.
"Could you get me a beer?" Misato asked casually, as if she were at home. Shinji gave her a strange look but complied and was surprised to find a six-pack sitting in the fridge.
"You shouldn't fill Rei's fridge with beer," Shinji complained as he placed a can on the table for Misato.
"She won't mind, anyway it helps me relax and we need to talk," Misato noticed Shinji cringe slightly at her comment.
"Do you want something to eat? I haven't had lunch yet," Shinji quickly put his head back in the fridge to avoid Misato. Misato waited until Shinji had retrieved what he needed from the fridge and started preparing a couple of snacks.
"So what are you planning on doing?" Shinji paused in his movements but didn't speak. Misato waited and resisted the urge to repeat her question.
"I made Asuka a lunch with a note in it and I asked Rei to deliver it. I said I was sorry and wasn't going to leave just yet," Shinji slowly continued preparing the food and Misato carefully regarded his comments.
"What are you going to do when you see her?" Misato spoke in a serious voice despite casually sitting at the table with a beer in hand.
"I don't know," Shinji quietly responded, feeling a little uncomfortable with the subject. Anytime he tried to visualise talking to her, she always ended up screaming at him and then leaving him.
"You should figure it out, I had to lock Asuka inside last night so she would do the same thing. Of course she still tried to get out and find you," Misato inwardly smiled when Shinji turned to listen to her. He was clearly taken aback by the knowledge that Asuka wanted to look for him. The pause between them was broken by the sound of the front door opening and closing. Rei stood staring slightly wide-eyed at her clean apartment and new furniture.
"I hope you don't mind," Shinji stammered, as Rei didn't react immediately.
"Of course she likes it. Come on Rei, take a seat and have a beer," Misato smiled brightly ignoring Shinji's scowl.
"Thank you Shinji," Rei stated softly as she moved to the table and took a seat. "I don't drink beer Major Katsuragi but tea would be nice," Shinji maintained a cautious gaze at Rei but Misato acted as if she were at her own apartment.
"No matter, more for me," Misato held up her empty can so that Shinji could collect it and replace it with a full one. He returned to his work, finishing the snacks as well as starting some tea. Misato occasionally glanced at Rei before deciding to ask the question that had been bothering her since her arrival.
"So Rei, I'm surprised Asuka didn't come with you," Misato watched as Rei turned to her, both of them seemingly ignoring Shinji.
"She preferred to wait for Class Representative Horaki," Rei replied flatly and Misato smiled.
"So she is coming after all, you might need to prepare some more food Shinji," Shinji didn't respond to Misato but Rei stood up from the table.
"Do you require my help?" Rei inquired as she moved towards Shinji.
"It's okay, I can manage," Shinji's muttered reply didn't dissuade Rei from looking over his shoulder.
"This is my home, is not my duty to help with the food preparation?" Shinji looked over his shoulder at Rei and passed her to the onlooking Misato.
"Well, I suppose," came Shinji's stuttered response as Rei stood alongside him and looked over the half prepare snack.
"This is also an opportunity for you to continue teaching me how to cook," both Rei and Shinji looked over their shoulders when Misato coughed loudly.
"You're learning how to cook?" Misato blankly looked at the two teenagers standing at the kitchen bench.
"I wished to learn how to cook so I asked a favour for Shinji to teach me. From what I understand Major Katsuragi, you could also use lessons on how to cook." Shinji looked away as Misato glared at him but Rei was unfazed.
"I think I cook perfectly well and I don't need lessons," Misato stated proudly and Shinji didn't try to dispute her assertion.
"If you believe that you do not need help, then no one will be able to help you." Rei turned to watch what Shinji was doing, ignoring Misato's irritated glare. Misato briefly looked at the back of Shinji's head but she could just imagine that he was smiling due to Rei's remark. Any thought of a counter attack was banished from Misato's mind as a quiet knock at the door echoed into the room. With Rei not moving from her position besides Shinji, Misato got up and walked to the door.
"Welcome to the party," Misato announced merrily as she opened the door. The group waiting outside was momentarily stunned but Toji and Kensuke reacted first, showing their delight at Misato's presence.
"Thank you Misato," the duo cooed, practically drooling as Misato smiled vibrantly at them. They walked passed Misato and into the apartment leaving Hikari and Asuka standing outside. Hikari looked back at the unusually apprehensive Asuka before she slowly trotted inside to keep Kensuke and Toji in order. Misato watched Asuka as she stood in two minds about what to do.
"You wanted to see him and he's here, so there's no point in waiting out here," Misato encouragement didn't seem to sway Asuka. Instead Misato left the girl standing outside and walked into the apartment without closing the door. Misato walked straight to the fridge and retrieved her third beer but she remained there so that she could gauge Shinji's reaction. Both Toji and Kensuke seemed keen to corner Shinji so that they could get to talk about what he had done in Rei's apartment all night. However Hikari kept them in check but was also throwing worried glances at the door, as Asuka still hadn't made an appearance.
"Ah, thanks Ayanami," Toji stammered as Rei started to place some of the food out onto the table. Toji wasted no time in trying them out and nodded approvingly to Rei. Kensuke seemed more interested in Shinji than the food but tried some anyway. Hikari continued to look from Shinji to the empty doorway and then to Misato for any sign of someone taking the initiative.
"I can complete this task Shinji, you should invite Pilot Sohryu to join us," Rei spoke calmly as she moved back to where Shinji was finishing the last of the food. Shinji hesitated and looked to Misato for help. Misato shrugged her shoulders and joined the other children at the table. With no one else speaking up in his aid, Shinji sighed as he summed up his courage and walked to the front door.
Through the open door he could see Asuka standing just outside with her head bowed. Her bag was held in front of her with both hands gripping it tightly. As he drew closer he could she her chewing on her lower lip and even as he stepped outside the door, she failed to notice him. Looking over his shoulder, Shinji caught a glimpse of the curious faces of Kensuke and Misato ducking out of sight. Shinji reached back and closed the door, the sound enough to bring him to Asuka's attention. He could see the uncertainty in her eyes, over shadowing the hint of fear. The moment was broken as Asuka abruptly turned around and walked towards the stairs.
"Follow stupid," Asuka called back as Shinji watched her walking away. It wasn't a taunt or a demand but more a plea to follow if he cared. Shinji strode quickly to catch up and followed her up the stairs to the top floor. She eventually stopped, dropping her bag and leaning on the rail to stare out at the rather desolate part of town. Shinji didn't know what to do at first but joined Asuka leaning on the rail although he was a few feet from her. They made uncertain glances toward each other but their gazes never meet.
"Misato made me spend the whole night trying to think of what to say but nothing I came up with seemed appropriate. No matter what I imagined I said to you, you always left me alone," Asuka felt a range of negative emotions but they seemed to vanish as she noticed a wry smile of Shinji's face.
"I was thinking the same thing, except instead of running away you yelled and screamed at me." Shinji answered Asuka's curious stare and she copied his wry smile, enjoying the moment of understanding. Asuka let her chin rest on her arms that were folded over the railing. She stared down at the pavement below while Shinji stared out to the horizon.
"We're both screwed up but I still need to apologise," Asuka looked up at Shinji but he didn't turn to face her.
"You don't need to, I already know you're sorry," Shinji turned to Asuka expecting a smile but he found that Asuka wasn't particularly happy.
"Don't do that, you can't just dismiss it like it didn't mean anything," Asuka's forceful voice made Shinji take a step back and Asuka stepped forward in response.
"Ah… sorry," Shinji suppressed the urge to back away another step as Asuka failed to muffle her growl of frustration. Noticing Shinji's slow retreat Asuka stopped to take a couple of cleansing breaths and as she released her anger her body language returned to one of indecision. Shinji relaxed but felt an instant desire to comfort Asuka as she battled herself to finish what she started.
"I'm sorry… not just because of the argument yesterday but before that when I should have been honest with you." Shinji watched Asuka but with her head bowed he had a hard time recognising the expressions on her face. She looked up to see his expression and he weakly smiled in reassurance. Asuka turned to the side to look out to the horizon allowing Shinji to study her face in profile while she continued to speak.
"After the synch tests I was angry at you for beating me but also at myself because I was beaten. I thought I could just be angry with everyone else but you. Then when I listened to you talking to Misato and why you were piloting, I didn't know what to think. I hated you for thinking I needed your protection but I was glad that you were finally taking Eva seriously. I didn't get much sleep that night as I tried to figure out what I wanted to do but I couldn't find any answers." Asuka let her head tilt forward, looking down at the pavement as Shinji continued to stare at her.
"At first I was okay but then the test scores got mentioned and everyone congratulated you on being the best. I hated it because no one had ever complimented me like that, even if it was only the other two stooges. I felt like I was going to explode but whenever I thought about berating someone, it was always you. I thought it was a blessing when Misato put her foot in it but then you had to step in. It felt comfortable screaming at you but then you said you shouldn't have saved me," Asuka looked over to Shinji and he immediately dropped his gaze. His voice was the next to break the silence and Asuka maintained her focus on his eyes.
"I wanted to hurt you," Shinji admitted ashamedly. "Nearly everyone I truly cared about hurt me and as I listened to you doing the same, I just wanted you to feel some of my pain too. Even after all that you said I still hated myself for saying that. It was practically wishing you dead, I deserved to be punched," Shinji didn't look up as his voice trailed off. Asuka continued to hold him in her gaze for a few moments before she looked away.
"You did hurt me and I knew I hurt you but at the time it didn't matter," Asuka started but Shinji gazed out to the horizon without looking at her. "I collapsed on my bed and eventually passed out. It was a restless sleep full of bad dreams and when I woke up the full reality of what I did started to sink in. When I found your room empty and the photo face down. I realised I'd pushed you away and you'd left me just like everybody else who cared." They descended into a contemplative silence, neither of them knowing what to say next.
"We never wanted to hurt each other but in the end we both did what the other feared the most. You hurt me and I left you," Shinji let his comment rerun through his mind. He didn't know what to say next because it would be about what they were going to do, something he didn't want to make a mistake with.
"I guess it's time to make a few promises," Asuka hesitantly spoke as she turned her face towards him.
"Is that a good idea considering we've already broken a couple of promises," Shinji quietly responded a small hint of dread appearing in his stomach. Shinji slowly turned to face Asuka and noticed her scrutinising him.
"You broke a couple of yours but that was inevitable since you could never keep them all. I never made any promises to you," her last statement was tinged with a little regret.
"So what stopping us from breaking them again?" Shinji fatalistically asked drawing the ire of Asuka.
"Don't be so negative," she chided and Shinji nodded slowly in agreement. "So if you promise not to run away…" Asuka began but allowed Shinji to cut in.
"…And you promise that whatever happens while piloting won't affect our relationship," Shinji could see Asuka hesitate for a moment. Asuka shook her head to clear the negative thoughts that were trying to make her believe she shouldn't trust him. She stood up straight and faced Shinji who copied her movements so that they were standing face to face.
"It's a deal," Asuka proclaimed sticking out her hand that Shinji tentatively shook. "Just don't expect to be the number one pilot for long," Asuka slyly added as neither of them broke the handshake.
"You're still the best pilot, after all you've been piloting for years and I've only been piloting for months. Just having the best synch score doesn't make me the best pilot," Shinji's modest voice was meet with a mixture of appreciation and frustration. She appreciated the compliment but was frustrated that he still undervalued his skill and potential.
"I thought I told you not to be so negative," Asuka released his hand and flicked his forehead with her finger. Shinji let out a small, surprised yelp and rubbed the sore area. As he opened his eyes to look back at Asuka with a scornful stare he saw that she was already closing the distance between them. Asuka's arms smoothly slid around his body and she rested her head on his shoulder. A contented sigh escaped her lips as Shinji's hands pressed against her shoulders pulling her closer. They remained silent, reassured by a closeness that they permitted to no one else and a fulfilling of the desire not to be alone.
"What are you thinking about?" Asuka's murmured question was one that Shinji was a little reluctant in answering.
"Something Rei told me," Shinji's belated reply was followed by a wave of tension flowing through Asuka's body. Shinji felt Asuka's hold on him tighten slightly but she made no other movements. Shinji became slightly worried, as Asuka didn't make any other attempts to start a conversation.
"She said that we share a unique bond that should be cherished. She suggested that our souls compliment each other, which is why we were so comfortable being close to each other." Unbeknownst to Shinji, Asuka smiled as she snuggled closer to him. She felt the warm rush as he blushed with the intimate contact and moved her head so that she could whisper into his ear.
"Seems your not quite comfortable being close," her sultry whisper added to his discomfort but now he could see her mischievous smile. He leaned back, at first distracted but then his eyes hardened with determination. Before Asuka could protest, Shinji bowed his head and lowered it to the nape of her neck. His lips lightly brushed her skin, the sensation heightened as his warm breath dried any moisture producing a contrast of cool and warm. Asuka's blush started to intensify exponentially as she noticed Shinji's hand making lazy circles on her back as it slowly descended.
"Apparently I'm not the only one who's uncomfortable," Shinji whispered into her ear as his hand stopped at her lower back.
"Such a boring little boy," Asuka's words came out as a breathless murmur. Shinji was about to lean back so that Asuka could see his triumphant smirk but he was surprised by a soft jab to his stomach. Free from Shinji's hold she moved to the rail, hiding her blushing face by staring out to the surroundings. Shinji looked at her feeling a little confused by she glanced over her shoulder and showed him a genuine smile of affection. He joined her against the rail and they stood side by side looking out at the rather dull derelict buildings.
"Soul mates," Asuka mumbled and then she looked into Shinji's puzzled face. "If we have complimenting souls, then we'd be considered soul mates. We are like the two sides of a coin, we're opposites but we've been through the same things. Even though we act differently we have had similar experiences which is why we can understand each other." Asuka allowed Shinji time to consider her analogy because his face showed some bewilderment.
"So which are you, heads or tails?" Asuka gave Shinji an exasperated look but she could tell by his face that he was only joking.
"With a face like mine I'd definitely be heads," Asuka proudly proclaimed as she stood tall with a dazzling smile.
"Well it's not like your tail is unattractive," Shinji's weak mumbled comment was clearly heard by Asuka. She gave him a severe glare that made him nervous and gulp in fear.
"I could say the same about you," Asuka couldn't contain her laughter as Shinji looked confused and embarrassed. As she laughed, Shinji relaxed joining her in the good-natured chuckle. They stopped when they heard a voice floating up from a few floors below them. Looking over the railing they could catch the occasional glimpse of Misato as she spoke on her mobile. They were able to recognise a few words including Ritsuko, urgent and synch test.
"We should probably go back down stairs," Asuka didn't react to Shinji suggestion and instead continued to look down. "Let's go before Misato panics," Shinji took Asuka's hand and she reluctantly followed him as he led her down the stairs.
"What could she possibly do?" Asuka asked rhetorically and Shinji sighed tiredly.
"She could stop us from going to dinner tomorrow," Shinji's suggestion put some urgency into Asuka's movement.
"Hurry up, I'm not going to have anyone stop me from having the perfect romantic evening. Not Misato, not Ritsuko, not even Commander Ikari," they continued around the corner but stopped as they were confronted by Misato. Misato looked at each of them and then to where their hands were joined.
"So it looks like you two figured things out," Misato keenly observed but neither of them responded. "So what's this about a romantic evening?" Misato probed immediately activating Asuka's defences.
"That's no of your business," Asuka declared, defiantly folding her arms and glaring at Misato.
"Oh so it doesn't have anything to do with theTokyo-3 Skylight Bistro?" Misato smiled deviously as Asuka looked back aghast.
"How did…" Asuka's question ended quickly as Misato cut her off as she walked past them and down the stairs.
"Shinji left his cell phone behind and the restaurant called to confirm the reservations for three." Misato didn't need to look back to know that both her wards were looking at her with confused faces.
"Misato I only made reservations for two," Shinji spoke quietly, as if to reassure himself that was what he had done.
"I know but I wasn't about to stay home alone while you two went to the best restaurant in Tokyo-3. You have five minutes and synch tests instead of school tomorrow morning, I'll be in the car." Misato disappeared from sight leaving the two dumbstruck teenagers on the stairs.
"We are going to get her back if it is the last thing we do," Asuka's menacing growl was enough to discourage Shinji from asking what she meant by 'we'. Instead he walked back to Rei's apartment to collect his things while Asuka trailed behind him cursing under her breath. Like it or not, Shinji realised that his first date was going to be unlike anything Misato had told him. However the thought of asking Kaji for help also sparked a small plan of revenge.
Additional Notes: I'm not too confident about this chapter but that could be said about everything that I write. Anyway I hope you like it and remember that comments are welcome in any form. There are probably only two chapters left since I won't be writing about any angel attacks but there may be an epilogue of some sort after that. What form it will take is yet to be decided, i.e. how much of the story (movie included) will change and when it happens (just after or several years later) but I'll figure that out later.