The Cherryton Cooking Club

by Mr.Dr.Sadperson

Taking place one year before the events of the show, this story is a simple look at the (relatively) normal lives of average students attending Cherryton Highschool.

26. Chapter 23

[Author's Note]

[So I'm changing a small format thing. I keep running into an issue importing the file here where it unitalicized things. So from now on all thoughts that would be in italics will be designated (like so). Sorry for any confusion this may cause.]

Chapter 23: Changing Seasons

August soon gave way to September, and Yasui was actually feeling quite comfortable with school life. He was doing well in classes, the Cooking Club was actually really starting to find its stride, and he was able to spend time with his friends fairly regularly. Yone had made good on his promise to call him frequently, especially once he was officially un-grounded. However he insisted that he was still on some "pretty freaking thin ice" with their parents. Soon they had changed back to their typical uniforms and Yasui put his Summer uniform in storage deep in his closet. Yasui was struck by the changing of the weather when he walked outside one morning and it was a little bit chilly. He breathed out and a pale cloud formed in front of his face.

"Wow, it's almost fall. I guess October is just a little bit away."

During the last week of September, Shinrai was eating lunch with him one day and asked him,

"Hey, Yasui. I realized we never actually went swimming after you said you had learned how to swim. So do you want to go swimming with me on Saturday? It's the last weekend before they close the pool at my community center."

Yasui finished his bite and replied.

"Sure! Sounds fun. What time do we leave?"

"How about… ten? That way we can get lunch or something and maybe play some games at my place."

"I'll be ready."

And so that Saturday Yasui was up bright and early to get his laundry done before it was time to go. He packed the swim trunks he had gotten into his backpack with his wallet and towel and walked to the gates to meet Shinrai. The air was cool, but not chilly at this time. It wasn't exactly swimming weather, but Yasui figured the swimming itself really wasn't the point. Soon Shinrai joined him and the two made their way to the train station and grabbed a train to the same station Yasui had used to get to Shinrai's apartment all those weeks ago.

"So, how's the club doing?"

Yasui adjusted his bag on his lap and looked down at his friend. They had gotten seats in the mixed car of the train so they could ride together.

"It's been going great! We started doing this thing where we rotate having one person make something for the other members to practice a recipe. Our newest member, Yufine, actually managed to make some edible cookies. They weren't burnt or salty or anything."

Shinrai laughed.

"Was she really that bad at cooking?"

"Oh, terrible. She burnt a salad once. I don't know why, but when the recipe said you could add fire roasted tomatoes to the salad, she thought that meant you put the whole thing in the oven. It was inedible."

Shinrai winced.

"Holy crap."

"Yeah, but this time her cookies were good. Well… okay so maybe she added a bit too much baking soda, but other than that they were fine."

"Well, the cooking club sounds pretty fun. You're doing a great job as president."

"You think so?"

"Yeah, dude! Honestly if my club didn't need me as bad as they do, I'd join up."

"Well, if you ever want to join, we'd be happy to have you. It'd be nice to have another guy in the club."

The community center was a pleasant looking building with a brick exterior and lots of windows. Once Yasui had changed he walked to the pool and found that it was practically empty. As he was looking around, Shinrai ran past him and jumped in with a cry of "cannonball!" There was a (relatively) large splash and the squirrel bobbed back up to the surface with a laugh.

"C'mon in! The water's great!"

Yasui took a few breaths and followed Shinrai's lead. He didn't curl into a ball like the squirrel had, he instead just sort of… plopped into the water. Eventually he returned to the surface and spluttered a bit. He still had to work to keep above water, but he was better than before. Shinrai floated over to him.

"Watcha want to do?"

"I dunno, what do you do in the pool?"

Shinrai thought before replying.

"I know! Let's play Marco Polo!"

"Huh? Like… the Spanish explorer? Went to China and opened up trade along the Silk Road?"

"Shut up, nerd. It's a game. One person closes their eyes and says 'Marco!' The other player has to reply 'Polo' and can't leave the pool. Whoever is playing as Marco has to catch the other player without looking."

"Y'know I work with a guy named Marco. He kinda disturbs me."

"Shush! I'll go first!"

Shinrai swam to one end of the pool and closed his eyes.

"Marco!"

Yasui replied.

"Polo!"

Shinrai began swimming towards Yasui at a rapid pace. Awkwardly, Yasui bobbed away from the squirrel and tried to be quiet. However, his clumsy swimming was too noisy and slow to evade Shinrai for long. Soon he got caught, and Shinrai cheered.

"I win! Now we swap."

Being the seeker was… challenging. Yasui had great ears, but he was too slow and clumsy to catch Shinrai. Eventually they decided to quit and both moved to the shallow end to take a breather. As they sat on the steps that led into the pool, Shinrai snickered and pushed Yasui.

"You smell like a wet dog."

"I'd be concerned if I didn't, Shinrai. Given I am a fox."

"Yo, this is the first time I've seen you shirtless. You have a ton of scars."

Yasui looked down, with his fur wet, his various scars were more visible. Yasui shrugged.

"Yeah, I'm accident prone. So let's see… this one is a burn, dropped a sickle on myself, fell, burn, fell out of a tree, nail poking out of the shed—"

"Whoa! Where the heck did you get that one!"

Yasui looked and saw that Shinrai was pointing at his right shoulder. Visible clearly through his damp fur was a large band of scar tissue wrapping around his entire shoulder. Yasui gulped.

"Oh… that one."

Shinrai frowned.

"What's the matter? Oh, sorry. Is that one too personal? You don't need to tell me about it if you don't want to."

"No no, it's not that. It's just… it brings up some painful memories."

Shinrai hooked his arms around the railing that led down into the water and hung upside down.

"Oh… I'm sorry."

"Yeah…. Long story short, there was an accident and my arm got ripped off."

Shinrai winced.

"Crap dude, sorry."

"It's actually why I'm left handed. My arm was in a cast and sling for months while the nerves and stuff healed. So I had to learn how to do everything with my left hand."

"Well that's cool. But seriously, I'm sorry about your arm. You seem to have lots of bad stuff happen to you and you really don't deserve it."

Yasui frowned.

"I don't think anyone, well most anyone, does anything to deserve bad things happening to them. They just sort of happen."

Shinrai lept on him and tried to wrestle him into a headlock.

"Stop being all smart and philosophical! I'm trying to cheer you up!"

Yasui laughed and tried to peel the squirrel off.

"Shin, stop! You're going to pull my ear!"

"If that's what it takes, so be it!"

Yasui pulled his assailant off and held him at arm's length. Shinrai laughed as he dangled there. Yasui grinned before raising the small boy overhead and getting a more balanced stance. Shinrai's eyes widened.

"Yasui, what are you—"

Yasui put his whole body into throwing Shinrai into the pool. Shinrai shrieked and landed with a splash. He almost immediately bobbed back up and gasped.

"Holy crap! That was awesome! Do it again! But this time throw me higher!"

"Uh, okay!"

Shinrai hurried over giggling like a little kid and Yasui grabbed him by the waist and threw him as far up as he could. Shinrai shrieked with laughter the whole way into the water before insisting on doing it again. This time, Yasui was starting to get a little tired. He'd never been very strong, so this was getting exhausting. So instead he grabbed Shinrai by the shorts and the scruff of his neck and heaved him into the water. Yasui sighed.

"Okay, last time. I'm pooped."

Shinrai surfaced and laughed.

"What was that? I was underwater!"

"I'm tired!"

"Oh, okay."

Shinrai looked around and frowned.

"Hey, did you see where my trunks went?"

When they were both too tired to swim anymore, they changed out of their wet swimwear and toweled off. Shinrai insisted they go to his home so they could play some games and have lunch, so the two of them made their way back to Shinrai's apartment. Upon entering the door, Shinrai called out,

"Mom, I'm home!"

Shinrai's mother called from the direction of her room.

"Hi, Shinny. What brings you here? Did you take your shoes off? Is your sister with you?"

Shinrai grew an exasperated look.

"I wanted to dry my swimsuit and play some games, yes, and no."

She walked over to where they were and looked somewhat surprised.

"Oh, you brought your friend."

"Yeah, he went swimming with me."

"It isn't exactly swimming weather. It's getting cool."

"It was the last weekend the pool would be open."

She nodded.

"I see. Did you boys eat lunch already?"

Yasui shook his head and Shinrai replied that he hadn't. She nodded.

"You can go start drying those clothes. I'll make you two something to eat."

Yasui bowed respectfully.

"Thank you, Mrs. Hanako. That's very kind."

Shinrai seemed a little surprised.

"Yeah… uh… thanks, Mom."

She smiled and went into the kitchen as Shinrai gestured for Yasui to follow him. He led him to the bathroom where the small washing machine and dryer were located. As they loaded in their wet clothes and towels, Shinrai lowered his voice and spoke conspiratorially.

"I think my mom is trying to be extra nice to you. So be cool."

"Hm? Why?"

"I bet she still feels guilty about the onion incident and wants to make it up to you. She's a firm believer in karma."

"Oh, she doesn't have to do that! It was an accident."

Shinrai snickered.

"Dude, I'm not complaining. She never makes me lunch. She always says 'you have two perfectly good arms, get your lazy bones in the kitchen and make your own food.' Guess I'll have to bring you around more often."

When they returned to the kitchen, they found two sandwiches waiting for them. One of them was obviously larger than the other, most likely for Yasui. As he looked at them, Yasui wasn't certain what type of sandwich it was. In between the slices of bread was some sort of golden brown thing, lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and mayonnaise. Shinrai gasped.

"No effing way! Croquette sandwiches!?"

Shinrai's mother smacked him on the butt with a wooden spoon.

"Language!"

"What! I just said effing! It's not a swear word!"

"I still don't like it."

Shinrai eagerly sat down and picked up his sandwich. He hummed in delight as he took a bite. Through his full mouth, Shinrai said,

"Dude, mpfh, you gotta come over more. I would kill for these sandwiches!"

Yasui sat down and put his napkin in his lap. He looked over at Mrs. Hanako.

"It looks amazing. Thank you."

She smiled.

"I had a few leftovers from dinner last night. So I figured I should put them to good use."

Yasui went through his routine of giving thanks for the food and then took a bite of his sandwich. It was very good. The brown thing was a patty of minced vegetables that had been coated in breadcrumbs and fried to crispy perfection. It made for a very good sandwich. Yasui finished his bite and smiled at the female squirrel.

"It's delicious! Thank you so much."

Shinrai polished off his sandwich and licked his fingers.

"Mph, what he said!"

She scowled at her son.

"I hope some of Yasui's manners and table etiquette rub off on you. I didn't raise you to be such a slob."

Shinrai groaned pathetically.

"I'm just really hungry! Swimming is a lot of exercise. So… uh… you wouldn't happen to have more, would you?"

She gave him a deadpan look and slid another sandwich onto his plate. As he chowed down, she huffed.

"I thought I gave birth to a squirrel, not a pig. I swear, you'll eat me out of house and home."

As Shinrai started on his second sandwich, Yasui leaned over and poked his stomach incredulously. Shinrai swatted at his hand.

"Whaff! Weave my, *gulp* gut alone!"

"Where do you put it all?!"

"I told you! Squirrels have fast metabolisms."

Yasui raised his eyebrow.

"Yeah… but still. Your stomach physically can only fit so much. So where does it all go?"

Shinrai's mother scoffed.

"Are you kidding, he has a black hole in his stomach. It just vanishes."

Shinrai pushed the last of sandwich number two in his mouth and crossed his arms.

"Haha, very funny."

Shinrai glanced down at Yasui's remaining quarter of a sandwich and lowered his voice.

"Hey, are you going to finish that?"

With lunch finished, they moved into the living room and Shinrai turned on the television. They spent the afternoon playing some of the same games as last time. Yasui had to admit he was getting at least passable at the racing one. Mainly because it wasn't very hard. It was a great way to spend the afternoon, and all too soon they were preparing to head back to school. Before they left, Yasui looked around.

"Hey, where's your mom?"

"I dunno. Probably her room."

"I'll be right back. I want to thank her for having me over."

As Yasui left, Shinrai called out.

"Don't make it weird!"

Yasui found the door to the master bedroom unlocked and gently knocked on it.

"Hello? Mrs. Hanako?"

He pushed it open and glanced around. The only thing of note in the room to Yasui was a book lying on the bed. Curious, Yasui walked over and looked at the front cover. It showed a female lion wearing some bizarre outfit of black rubber and a mask holding a whip while a shirtless deer stood back-to and looked over his shoulder at her. The title read "Ravenous Love" in bold letters. Intrigued, Yasui flipped it over to look at the back cover. He saw a synopsis and began to read.

(Roy the deer is a reporter for the newspaper, well known for both his juicy gossip columns and for leaving a trail of broken hearts in his wake. However, one night while he was chasing a story, he stumbled across a lioness who goes by the name of Stella. Immediately enticed by the alluring dominatrix, he finds himself returning to her again and again. Will this philandering cervine add another notch to his belt? Or will this powerful woman finally bring him to heel.)

At the very bottom was a not that designated this book as belonging to the Vermillion Fantasies series of books by D.D. Yasui tilted his head.

(It's a fantasy book? Strange, I don't recognize it. And I didn't have Mrs. Hanako pegged as a fan of fantasy novels.)

The door to the closet opened and Mrs. Hanako walked out carrying a basket of dirty laundry. She looked up at Yasui in surprise, and then at the book he was holding. Her eyes went wide and she grew a look of horror. Yasui was a bit confused by that reaction, so he just pressed ahead.

"Sorry to bother you, I just wanted to thank you for having me over."

She nodded, her mouth clamped shut. Yasui waited a bit before coughing.

"So… uh… I didn't know you liked fantasy novels."

Her face was slowly getting more and more red. Yasui held his hands up defensively.

"N-no judgment from me! I love fantasy novels!"

Finally Hanako spoke.

"Y-you do?"

"Yeah! I've read tons! Ever since I was little. Although, I've never heard of this one. It looks more sci-fi to me with the outfit the lioness has."

Mrs. Hanako seemed more confused before seeming to slowly begin calming herself.

"Oh… I can… see why you'd think that."

"Yeah. Oh, sorry. Here's your book. Thanks again!"

As he turned to leave, she spoke up.

"Ah! Y-Yasui!"

He turned to look at her. She gulped and squeaked out,

"Can you… not tell anyone about my… reading preferences. They, uh, probably would make fun of me. I'm… uh… a little old for… fantasy books."

Yasui grinned.

"My lips are sealed."

And with that Yasui rejoined Shinrai and soon the two were back onboard the train to school. While they were sitting on the train, Shinrai pulled out his phone and loaded up a funny video that he wanted to show Yasui. As they watched the video together, Yasui noticed that they were getting weird looks. Yasui couldn't figure out why until he noticed the way the other carnivores and herbivores had distanced themselves from each other despite this being the integrated car. And there was Shinrai and himself. Shinrai had propped himself up against Yasui's shoulder so that the phone could be easily seen by both of them, which meant that he was practically in Yasui's lap.

As they walked together, Yasui noticed how comfortable he had gotten with Shinrai touching him. He had tried to keep a safe gap between them when they had first started spending time together, but now it wasn't unusual for Shinrai to jostle his arm with his elbow, or grab his arm to get his attention. Heck, Shinrai even occasionally would hop up onto his shoulders if he needed to reach something. Yasui smiled at that progression. He was so… happy that Shinrai wasn't scared of him. He hesitated, before casually resting his hand on Shinrai's shoulder. Shinrai looked up, politely questioning the gesture with his eyes. He looked at Yasui's smiling face for a moment before asking,

"What's up? Did you need something?"

"No, just… realized how glad I am that we're friends."

Shinrai rolled his eyes.

"Yeah right, you probably have to fart and you're just embarrassed. Or you're trying to keep me close so I end up smelling it!"

Yasui pulled a face and chuckled.

"Ew! I would never!"

Shinrai ducked his arm and jogged forward, looking over his shoulder.

"You'll never crop-dust me! Neveeeeer!"

Yasui hurried after him.

"I'm not going to fart!"

"Liar! You're probably farting as we speak!"

"I am not!"

"Lies! Deception!"

"I'm going to carry you around like a squirrel backpack the rest of the day if you don't watch yourself!"

"Jokes on you, that would be fun!"

"As I do homework and clean my bunk!"

"You bastard!"

As Sunday dawned, Yasui was both excited and nervous. He hadn't seen Miss Diana in over two weeks because she had needed to take a trip somewhere because her company was opening a new property or something like that. However, on Wednesday he had received a text from her asking if he wanted to join Miss Diana on Sunday for lunch and then an activity afterwards. She said it was another item from her list, and that she wasn't entirely sure if he would enjoy it. She claimed that he could always leave early if it was too boring, as if he would ever do something like that. The only other instructions she had given him was to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

As such, Yasui was wearing the simple sneakers, jeans, and t-shirt that he had gotten at the mall all those weeks ago. As he walked down the hill, he saw Miss Diana's car parked at the base of the road that led up to Cherryton. He waved and broke into a trot. He opened the door and saw Miss Diana in her now familiar disguise of old jeans and a band shirt with an olive jacket and purple tinted glasses. She smiled and gave him a quick hug.

"Yasui! It's so good to see you!"

"Hi, Miss Diana! How was your trip?"

"Oh, it went as expected. I gave a speech, I cut a ribbon, I stayed there for a few weeks to mingle and catch up with old business acquaintances. I really wish it had been during your Summer Break, then I could have brought you with me. Of course, you'd have needed a passport."

"Oh? Where is your new… uh… whatever it is, located?"

"It's a new ski resort in the Alps, the French part."

"Wow, sounds pretty."

"Indeed, the vistas are breathtaking. Of course, skiing isn't the only draw. There are spaces for conferences and conventions, nature tours and hikes, and top of the line restaurants and bars."

"Sounds fancy, and expensive."

She laughed.

"Well yes, you do have to pay for luxury. But you should just see the main lodge. It is spectacular! I'm very proud of how it turned out."

Yasui nodded before changing the subject.

"So, what exactly are we doing today?"

Diana folded her hands in her lap.

"Well, if you think you're up for it, I was planning on attending a class."

"Oh, what type of class?"

Diana waited a few breaths before replying.

"Well, it's a dance class. It's from my list, I've always wanted to learn how to dance."

"Oh, what type of dancing?"

Diana waved her hand nonchalantly.

"Just some simple ballroom dances, the tango, salsa, etcetera. I won't blame you if you decide to sit this one out. Most guys your age think dancing is stupid."

Yasui shrugged.

"Well, I'm willing to give it a try. Besides, it's more about doing something with you than doing something I like…. Not that I don't like spending time with you! I really like spending time with you! I meant—"

She laughed and patted the top of his head.

"I got what you were saying, no worries."

"Oh… good. So, where is this class?"

"This place called the Bayview Center For the Arts. It's not far."

Sure enough it was only a ten minute drive from Cherryton. The Center was a large complex of interconnected buildings with some sort of white plaster or stucco on the walls. Yasui thought it looked very classy. Charles dropped them off and went in search of parking, leaving Yasui and Diana to enter the building by themselves. The front door led to a small lobby of sorts where a large board was placed with different flyers and messages on it. Diana pointed to one and told Yasui that this was the class they were taking. The poster read,

(Fundamentals of Dance.

Come learn the basics of dancing as well as how to do several classic dances. Dances to be taught are Ballroom, Tango, Salsa, and others as time allows. Partners preferred but not needed.)

Below the message was a note saying that it was taking place in hall 2C. Yasui turned around until he found a map of the building. Using the map he was able to guide the two of them to their class with relative ease. The room in question was a spacious one that looked like it had once been a warehouse that was then turned into a dance studio. There were wall to floor mirrors on one wall and railings for dancers to stretch with. Looking around, Yasui saw about sixteen other people milling about and talking. At one end of the room, adjusting a speaker of some sort, was a female cougar wearing a simple dancers dress and shoes. She finished what she was doing and turned to look over the crowd. She began counting them before clapping her hands a few times.

"Hello! I think we're ready to get started! It seems like we have everyone here. We can start with introductions. I am Yūgana, but you may call me Mrs Yu. Now then, everyone who does not have a partner please step forward so we can pair you up."

Yasui looked up at Miss Diana and then down at himself. He raised an eyebrow.

"Hey, Miss Diana? Do you think our height difference is going to be an issue?"

The leopard opened her mouth before thinking a bit about it. Finally she scrunched her nose and crossed her arms.

"You know I'm not sure. I'm trying to think how it'll work."

The class fell silent as the teacher once again clapped her hands for attention. She stood before them all and began speaking.

"Now, we're going to start with something nice and simple. A classic ballroom dance called a waltz. Can I get a volunteer to help me demonstrate?"

She looked over her class as everyone awkwardly avoided eye contact with her. After a bit Yasui felt bad for her and shyly raised his hand. She pointed at him and beckoned him towards her. Nervously, Yasui stood beside her. She gave him an encouraging smile before continuing.

"Now, usually the male leads. However, because of our height difference, I'll take the lead. So to start, we face each other, and you'll clasp my right hand with your left."

She held out her hand and Yasui took it. Her palm was warm against his, and he was keenly aware of how sweaty his hands were due to nervousness at being in front of everyone. She then continued.

"Now I'll rest my other hand on your waist, and you get your other hand as close to my shoulder as possible."

Yasui stretched his arm up and ended up almost on his tiptoes to reach her shoulder. She shook her head and slid his hand down a bit until he was back on the flats of his feet.

"Don't stretch like that. Just… relax. Keep your body loose and fluid. And then, we begin. So the lead will move their right foot forward, and you'll mirror me. So right foot forward—"

She stepped towards him, Yasui slid his opposite foot back and almost fell over. She caught him and a few snickers came from the class. They all stopped when she gave the onlookers a truly withering look that only comes with teaching experience. She then returned her attention to Yasui.

"I can see how you got that mixed up. But you're not moving the same foot I am. Just the one directly opposite it. Okay?"

Yasui nodded, thoroughly embarrassed. She helped him get back into position and then started once more.

"So, we start by stepping like this… good! Now, we bring our other leg back to rest with its twin. We want to be as close to our starting position as possible. So, move back… there we go! You've got it!"

Yasui smiled as he didn't fall this time. She continued.

"Now, we move to my right. So I step with my right leg, and you follow. So one, two, three, step!"

Yasui was a little slow on the move and got partially dragged along, however Mrs. Yu didn't mention it. She then went on.

"And then I step back with my right foot, and you follow. Now, it's important to remember to use your arms to keep the correct space between the two of you. So now we return to the start position. I step with my left, and you follow… good! And that's the basics of waltzing! You're basically drawing a big square with your movements. Of course, once your comfortable with the basics, you can move to the advanced movement where you're slowly turning as you step, like so."

She nodded to Yasui and he gulped. However, she was excellent at leading, and Yasui only tripped over himself once as she waltzed him around again, this time rotating with each step so they were slowly spinning around the square. Once they had slowly finished their circuit, she continued.

"And of course, the main breaks of the basic waltz is when you twirl, dip, or come together. So, to twirl, the leader simply lets go of their partner's waist and holds their arm up enough for their partner to pirouette. Like so."

Mrs Yu raised her arm and got Yasui to spin for her. She then put her hand back on his waist and addressed the class.

"Next, dipping. It's the most romantic part of any waltz. The leader just moves the hand that was on the waist to the small of their partner's back and bends them backwards until their neck is parallel to the floor. Observe."

She gently leaned Yasui back, most of his weight supported by her arm. She raised him again and said,

"And finally, when you come together. You move your hands that had been on the waist and shoulder to clasp them like your other hands, and step towards each other. Like so."

She clasped Yasui's other hand and stepped in. Yasui hesitated. Mrs Yu smiled at him.

"Don't be shy, I won't bite."

Yasui blushed in embarrassment and stepped towards her. She then held her right arm out in a flourish.

"And there we have it! The basic waltz. Now, this is the most bare bones version of the waltz. As you practice you can add more complexity to it. But for now, spread out a bit and get practicing. I'll turn on some music and walk around helping you. Alright, and break!"

The pairs scattered, and Mrs Yu looked kindly down at Yasui.

"Thanks for volunteering. You did well."

Yasui felt his face heat up a bit more at the praise and he shyly looked down.

"Thanks."

"Alright, I won't keep you from your partner. Have fun!"

As Mrs Yu roamed the room helping pairs of dancers keep time with the music or stay in sync, Yasui and Diana faced each other and did their best to mimic the basic stance that the instructor had used. Diana led, and Yasui attempted to follow. Once they were all set, Miss Diana began a countdown.

"Alright, let's start on three. One… two… thee!"

Diana swung her right foot forward and kicked Yasui hard in the shin. Yasui yelped and toppled backwards, clutching his leg. As he groaned, Miss Diana covered her face in mortification and knelt down beside him.

"Oh no! I'm sorry! Are you okay?"

Yasui sucked in a breath through clenched teeth as his shin throbbed.

"I'm fine! Ooooh, that's going to bruise."

She helped him up and sighed.

"Maybe we should start very slow."

"Agreed!"

"Alright, one… two… three… step."

She slowly stepped forward and Yasui stepped back. She breathed out and muttered,

"So far so good. And now we go to the side… and back… and the side… and forward… and spin!"

She held her hand up and tried to spin Yasui, only for Yasui to overdo his spin and smack her in the hip with his hand. Yasui cringed.

"Sorry! I let my arm flail too much!"

She rubbed the spot he had whacked her and laughed.

"I guess we're even now. Okay, back to the stance. Maybe we can speed up a tiny bit. Sound good?"

"Hey, you're the lead. Lead on."

They did the basic square movement a few more times before Diana attempted to do the thing where they came together. However, she yanked Yasui almost clean off his feet and he landed on her. She staggered onto her back foot and laughed.

"Whoops! Sorry! I pulled too hard!"

For his part, Yasui was thoroughly flustered. That stumble had landed his face squarely in her… chest region. As he hurriedly extricated himself from her, his face was burning hot.

(…I can see why the other guys like those so much. They're so soft.)

They slowly gained confidence until they could go at the same speed as the music. They tried to do the turning thing but couldn't quite get the hang of it. However, soon the teacher clapped her hands to get everyone's attention. She then stood at one end of the room and instructed everyone to gather along the sides.

"Alright, everyone. Those waltzes were coming along well. Now, let's move on for a bit. We can always do more waltzing later. So next is the always popular tango. Can I have a new volunteer?"

She glanced around before crossing her arms.

"Either somebody is volunteering or I'm choosing randomly."

A male camel apprehensively raised his hand and was directed to join her. She held her arms out.

"Grab my hands."

He did so and she demonstrated how to stand to dance the tango. Yasui thought it looked a little funny with their elbows out at odd angles, and once they started moving with bizarre and aggressive movements he had to try not to laugh. The tango was a very strange dance to Yasui. It was very similar to just walking aggressively while holding onto somebody. Sure there were twists and twirls and lifts and whatever, but it still seemed a bit silly. As such, he was glad when they eventually moved on after a while and proceeded to the salsa dance section.

Mrs Yu didn't ask for a volunteer for salsa dancing. She simply demonstrated how they were to do the dance. It involved walking in place rhythmically while involving your whole body. As soon as they were given free reign to try it, Yasui discovered it was actually his favorite of the three so far. He found it easy to keep dancing to the beat of the music Mrs Yu had playing. Miss Diana however did not seem to be enjoying it. She kept getting off rhythm and having to start over. She growled.

"This is infuriating! It makes no sense!"

Yasui moved a bit closer.

"It was a bit tricky to get the hang of, but it's pretty much just doing it like this. Do-do-doo-do-do!"

As he salsa danced, Mrs Yu walked by and smiled at him.

"You're a natural! You have good rhythm. Do you play an instrument?"

"Nope! I just like counting."

She noticed Diana struggling and moved to help her.

"I think the issue you're having is that you're fighting the music. Relax! Just go with the beat."

Miss Diana grit her teeth.

"I'm trying!"

"Keep trying, you'll get there."

They practiced a little bit longer before finally Mrs Yu stood at the front of the class and got their attention.

"Alright, that ends our class! You all did very well, and I hope you had fun! We do offer continuing classes if you want to get more adept at dancing, so feel free to come talk to me if you're interested."

Yasui checked the time and did a double take. It was almost one in the afternoon.

"Wow! Time flies when you're dancing!"

Miss Diana daubed some of the sweat off her brow and sighed.

"Indeed. I'm absolutely famished. Let's go meet up with Charles. I'll text him to bring the car around."

As they walked to the front door, Yasui was so busy talking that he almost didn't notice Miss Diana stagger and brace herself against a wall. He turned and rushed over to her.

"Miss Diana! Are you okay?!"

She grit her teeth before gasping and clutching at her chest.

"Help me- *gasp*- sit down!"

Yasui hurriedly helped her to one of the benches in the main lobby. Her nervously hovered around her, wringing his hands.

"What do I do! What do you need!"

"Yasui."

"Should I call an ambulance! Do you need medicine!?"

"Yasui!"

"Is it a heart attack?! A stroke!? A—"

"YASUI!"

Yasui froze and Diana sighed before resting her hand on his shoulder, still clutching her chest.

"I'm… fine…. I just… overdid it."

"Oh, are you sure?"

"Yes…. Just let me… catch… my breath. I'll be better… in a bit. Especially… after we get… some food."

As she gasped for breath, Yasui whined.

"Is there anything I can do to help?"

She breathed a few more times before nodded.

"Yes…. Can you… massage my back…. It helps… me catch… my breath."

Yasui sat beside her and she turned her back to him. Carefully, Yasui rubbed the area right behind her lungs.

"Like this?"

"Yes…. Thank you…."

She took an inhaler out of her purse and took a quick puff from it before staying seated and breathing for a moment. Finally she caught her breath and began to breathe normally. She held the inhaler up and smiled wearily at Yasui.

"Not the first time. That's why I carry this."

"What was that?"

"Just these weird spells I have where my… lungs don't work like they're supposed to."

"Oh, like asthma?"

"A little different… but similar."

As they sat, Diana sighed.

"Like I said, I retired from an active role in my company for health reasons. This is one of them. I can't… strain myself or else I have a… fit."

"Oh no… I'm sorry."

"It's alright… I did it to myself. If I hadn't been so… stubborn, I could have gotten these issues fixed back… when there was something to be done."

Yasui sadly patted her hand. She smiled at him and carefully stood.

"Right, I'm feeling better. Let's go eat."

Lunch was a somewhat muted affair after Miss Diana's "spell" as she called it. And soon Yasui was back at Cherryton as Miss Diana needed to go home to recover. As he walked to his room, he heard voices from the partially ajar door of Jack and Legoshi's room. He peeked inside. Miguno, Collot, and Jack were sitting in front of the tv they had as Collot played some sort of game. There was a smashing sound from the tv and Collot threw down his controller in disgust.

"Dude! This is the freaking hardest game ever!"

Jack gave him a sympathetic smile.

"You'll get him! You got pretty close that time!"

The large sheepdog sighed.

"Yeah, it's just his stupid teleportation thing he does before just spamming magic at you. It really sucks as a melee build."

Miguno spoke through a mouthful of candy.

"Juff ooze magig."

"Nah dude. Strength build all the way. I just have to get good."

Jack noticed Yasui and waved, smiling happily.

"Hey! It's Yasui! It seems like forever since we saw you last!"

Yasui grimaced and felt a pang of guilt. It had been a long time since he had purposefully visited Jack and the guys.

"Yeah, I've been busy."

Jack patted a spot beside him.

"You busy now? If not it'd be nice to catch up."

"Yeah, I've got time."

Yasui sat where Jack had touched and watched as Collot maneuvered a knight wielding a massive hammer through a creepy castle. He entered a room and a skeletal being appeared holding a long, glowing sword. Yasui asked.

"What game is this?"

Jack replied due to Collot being busy and Miguno having candy in his mouth.

"It's called Gloom Spirit. It's super hard."

Yasui watched as the skeleton shot rows and rows of ethereal purple spears at Collot's knight who rolled around to avoid them. Yasui pointed at the screen.

"Who's the skeleton?"

"Demilich Nazer, Pontiff of Damnation. He's one of the most annoying bosses in the game."

"So he's bad?"

Miguno swallowed and laughed.

"I'm pretty sure you don't get called the Pontiff of Damnation by giving out hugs and kissing pups."

Yasui shrugged.

"Fair enough."

Jack was asking him about his trip back home when Legoshi came slumping in. He waved at Yasui, who waved back, before bending over to get something from his bunk. As he stood, Jack asked,

"Heading to your club?"

Legoshi nodded and stifled a yawn. Jack smiled.

"We'll be waiting for you in the cafeteria for dinner."

"Okay, sounds good."

As he turned to leave, Miguno reached up and poked his stomach. He shook his head.

"Dang, Legoshi. You're getting a little plump. Might need to cool it with those egg salad sandwiches."

Legoshi's usually sad looking face shifted to confusion and he looked down at his flat stomach. He shook his head.

"Uh… okay. Bye, see you later."

Once he had left Jack raised an eyebrow.

"What was that about?"

"I'm trying to make him self conscious about eating so many snacks."

"Why?"

"He ate my whole bag of chips! In one sitting! I came out here to get them and he was finishing off the crumbs in the bottom!"

"He probably didn't know they were yours."

"I know, but still! Hopefully he'll reduce his snack consumption if he thinks he's gaining weight."

Jack frowned.

"You could just ask him?"

"No way! He'd get upset and mopey if I did!"

Jack sighed.

"I feel like there's an easier way to do that. And one that's less cruel."

"It's not cruel, it's for his own good."

"Don't you mean your own good?"

"Both our good."

Jack raised his eyebrows but didn't respond. Collot groaned.

"Of course, an invisible spike trap. Why not! I swear this game is kinda b-s sometimes."

Yasui furrowed his brow.

"If it's so bad to play, why are you playing it?"

"Because I love it."

(That makes no sense.)

Jack leaned onto Yasui's shoulder and gave him one of his happy Labrador grins.

"So, what do you want to do? We can play something if you want."

"Oh, like what?"

"I dunno, we have tons of card games that are fun to play as a group. Oh! Have you ever played Dare-o-rama?"

"No, I don't know that game."

"Oh, it is a blast! But we need more players. Hey, Miguno! Are you interested in a game of Dare-o—"

But the hyena was already standing up and grabbing a box from one of the shelves. He snorted.

"Dude, way ahead of you. Collot?"

Collot furiously tapped at a button before sighing and turning off the game as he died again.

"Sure, I'm down."

From the doorway came a voice.

"Dare-o-rama!? I want to play!"

They looked up and saw Durham walking into the room. They made space for him at the table and Durham asked,

"Is Voss playing?"

Collot shook his head.

"Nah, he's out with some friends."

Durham looked to Jack and asked,

"Legoshi?"

"Club."

"Dang. But hey! We got Frisbee at least!"

Yasui winced.

"How long are you going to call me that?"

"Literally forever. It's your name now. I don't make the rules."

Jack opened the box and got out a deck of cards. He began to shuffle them as he explained the rules to Yasui.

"So, this game is pretty simple. We go around the table and draw a card on our turn. We read out the instructions and the person who drew the card has to be the referee and see who wins. The winner gets to keep the card as a point. First person to seven points wins."

Yasui nodded.

"I think I understand."

Jack waved his hand dismissively.

"It's pretty straightforward. I'll start us off so you can see what to do."

He took the first card off the deck and grinned as he read it.

"'Everyone must take turns standing up and giving their best ten second dramatic monologue.'"

Durham nodded.

"Alright, watch and learn."

He stood and cleared his throat. He adopted a dramatic pose and lowered his voice.

"Finally, after years of scheming, I have done it. I… have stolen… the Moon itself! The world shall bow before me and grovel at my—"

Jack called out,

"Time's up! Not bad. Although that was more of an evil monologue than a dramatic one. Next!"

Miguno stood and turned his back on the group. Finally he spun around and clenched his fists.

"I swore I was out! I promised my dearly departed grandmother that I'd give up stealing. But now… I need to do one more job. One last big score, and I can do down in history as—"

"Errr! Time's up! Alright, your turn Yasui."

Yasui stood and bit his lip as he tried to think of what he could do for a monologue. After a bit, he had an idea. He pressed a hand to his stomach and staggered forward and onto his knees. With a hoarse voice, he said,

"What a fitting end this is. Brought low by my own brother's blade. Betrayed, and left to die on the field of battle. Already, I see the Reaper approaching me, flickering in the corners of my eyes like a—"

"Time! Dang, that was pretty good. Alright Collot, bring it home!"

Collot stood and swept his fingers through his shaggy mop of fur.

"When I'm with her, I can't breathe. But when I'm away from her, my heart burns in my chest. What misery is this, to be in love! This poisonous pain in my very soul that—"

"Ding-ding-ding! Round over!"

Collot sat back down and Jack pressed a finger to his lips as he thought.

"Let's see…. They were all good, but I have to pick one. Soooooo… I guess… I'll pick… Yasui."

The other boys raised protests but Jack held his hands up for silence.

"He literally died in his! That's pretty dramatic!"

They all grumbled a bit as Jack gave the card to Yasui. Yasui accepted it and set it down on the table in front of him. Durham drew a card. He laughed as he read it.

"'Everyone must pretend to be a runway model. Time to strut your stuff!'"

He looked eagerly as Miguno stood and walked to the farthest edge of the room. He spun and dramatically strutted towards them before posing with his hand on his hip as he looked into the distance. Durham blew a raspberry.

"Lame! Next!"

Yasui stood and awkwardly shuffled towards where Miguno had started. He wasn't sure how a runway model might walk, so he just tried to do a somewhat overexaggerated walk. Durham booed him and motioned for Collot to go. Collot stood and took his shirt off before draping it over one shoulder and sauntering forward. He stood with his back to them and looked over his shoulder at them. Durham nodded and gestured to Jack.

"Gonna need to do a lot to top that, Jack. Let's see it."

Jack walked away from them and paused for dramatic effect before spinning and sashaying towards them with his hips swaying sensually while he pursed his lips. Everyone laughed as he approached before he turned and bent over, purposefully sticking his butt out as much as possible. Durham whistled and walked over to Jack. He took the card and tucked it into the waistband of Jack's pants before spanking him.

"No contest! Jack wins! I didn't know you moonlighted at a strip club!"

Jack rolled his eyes.

"Yeah, I need spending money. A guy's gotta eat after all."

Miguno eagerly drew a card. He then groaned.

"Aw, lame. 'Everyone must compare prior injuries. Best injury or story wins.'"

Yasui pursed his lips. He probably would win this one with his shoulder. But then what would he say happened?

(Maybe… I could say it was a… a… crud I don't know what I should say.)

"Hey! Earth to Yasui! Are you playing or skipping?"

Yasui shook his head and smiled apologetically.

"Sorry! I was just trying to decide! Uh… okay. I don't want to get into details though. Can… can I say mine last? Please?"

(Because then I might not have to use the old ripped off arm injury.)

Collot shrugged.

"I'm fine with it. So, my best injury is the time I broke my toe trying to do a kickflip in elementary school. There's no scar though."

Miguno propped his head up on his hands and sighed.

"Yeah, lame. Nobody has had any cool injuries."

Jack shrugged.

"Uh… I got a really bad bee sting a while ago?"

"Laaaaaaame!"

Durham screwed his face up in concentration and snapped his fingers.

"Aha! How about the time I broke my arm trying to climb the jungle-gym when I was seven! I still have a little scar from it. See, right there."

He pointed at a spot on his arm and everyone leaned in to look. As they ogled it, Yasui weighed his options.

(I probably don't need to use my shoulder. But… they're my friends. Why should I care if they know? They'll probably think that it's cool. But even then, I just don't like thinking about the accident.)

They all looked expectantly at Yasui who groaned and hung his head in defeat.

"Okay… just please don't make a big deal about it."

Miguno sat forward intently.

"Yasui, I am now intrigued."

Conscious of everyone's eyes on him, Yasui slid his shirt down enough to expose his right shoulder. There was a pause as everyone looked for whatever they were supposed to be seeing before Collot grunted.

"Whoa. Is that… what I think it is?"

Yasui gulped.

"Yeah, around my shoulder. When I was in first grade there was an accident and… my arm got ripped off."

Everyone winced and Jack looked crestfallen. The Labrador whined,

"Yasui, I'm so sorry. That's terrible."

Miguno whistled and slid the card towards Yasui.

"Dang, did it hurt?"

Durham scoffed.

"No crap it must have hurt, genius! His arm got torn off!"

Collot leaned in a bit closer to get a better look.

"How long did it take to heal?"

"A little over a month. And it still hurts every once in a while."

Jack shook his head.

"I know they say that an incident were somebody's arm gets ripped off happens pretty frequently, but I've never actually known anyone that had it happen to them before."

Collot clicked his tongue.

"Yeah, one of my classmates back in elementary school had it happen to them. Two kids were just roughhousing a bit and then his leg was gone. Pretty messed up."

Yasui's ears drooped.

"Sorry for killing the mood. I knew I shouldn't have used this injury for a game."

Durham let out a "pshaw" sound.

"No worries dude! It's fine so long as you're fine."

Yasui nodded and then drew a card. He read it,

"Let's see, 'Everyone must reveal their first crush. The weirder the better.'"

Collot laughed.

"Easy! Remember that kids movie from years and years ago, the one about Robin Hood or whatever? I think it was called something like 'Adventures In Sherwood Forest' or something. Well the fox who played Maid Marian was my first crush. I was convinced she was the prettiest being on the planet and that one day I'd marry her."

Yasui nodded.

"I'm… not familiar with that movie. Sorry."

Jack perked up and said,

"Well for me it was my next door neighbor when I was nine. She was a Labrador as well, and I was convinced it was meant to be. She moved when I was in middle school though. I wonder where she is now?"

Durham scoffed.

"Bro, you two are vanilla! I always thought that the evil sorceress from 'Super Justice Hero Squad' was an omega hottie! You know, the dinosaur lady with the purple eyeliner and high heels."

Yasui realized he had to make a decision this time as Miguno cracked his knuckles.

"You're like a bunch of little babies. My first crush… was the lunch lady at my school. She was this old giraffe with huuuuuuuuge knockers. I mean so big she knocked somebody over when she turned around once. Like, some real massive kahunas. Just absolutely gigantic sweater puppies. Mind blowingly enormous—"

Jack pulled a face.

"We get the idea."

Yasui just stared at Miguno as he slid the card over to him. The hyena cackled and accepted it. He looked smug as Collot drew a card.

"This one is that 'Whoever can do the most impressive belch wins. Judge based on length and resonance."

Jack scrunched up his face and opened his mouth. There were a few strained noises before he shrugged.

"I've got nothing. Dur—"

He was interrupted as what sounded like a thunderclap erupted from Durham and continued for a solid five seconds before sputtering to a rather wet sounding conclusion that made everyone wince. Durham pressed a fist to his mouth at the end and Miguno asked,

"Bro, that sounded wet. You good?"

Durham nodded.

"Yeah. Got a little sauce on the end though."

Miguno threw his hands up in surrender.

"I concede. I can't top that."

Yasui nodded.

"Same."

Durham smiled cockily as he plucked the card from Collot's fingers. Jack sighed.

"And now it's back to me. And the card is… 'Seating is scarce. Whoever most effectively and creatively conserves space wins.'"

Durham stood. Miguno stood on one leg. Yasui glanced around before sitting on the table. They all looked at Collot as he steepled his fingers and thought for a moment. He then grinned and got to his feet. He walked over to Yasui and scooped him up before sitting back down with Yasui on his lap. The sheepdog snickered.

"There, now there's two of us occupying the same space. How efficient."

Jack banged his fist on the table and pointed at Yasui.

"Dude! You should see your face!"

Durham threw his head back as Yasui blushed and buried his face into his palms. Miguno pursed his lips.

"Collot! You're making him nervous! You should rock him to soothe his anxiety."

Collot gave a good natured smile and cradled Yasui in his arms.

"There there little buddy. It's okay. Daddy Collot has you."

Jack shook his head and slid the card to the larger boy.

"Okay, Collot. You win. But, now you have to keep him like that all game or I'm taking it back!"

The sheepdog huffed.

"No fair!"

Durham crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow.

"You're the one who involved another player. Seems fair to me. Right, Yasui?"

Yasui shrugged, trying not to smile at how ridiculous the whole thing was.

"I'm fine with this. It's surprisingly comfortable."

Collot (probably, it's hard to tell with all that fur) rolled his eyes and sighed.

"Fine. Durham, draw a card."

As Durham drew his card, one that had to do with seeing who could do the funniest voice, he started to feel a bit drowsy. It was actually very comfortable to be held like this, and the way Collot bounced his leg as he sat meant he was unintentionally rocking Yasui like a baby. Some deep, subconscious part of his brain remembered this from his childhood and he stifled a yawn. The game advanced until the next round where they had to see who could say the most of the alphabet backwards when Miguno ended his go and shook his head.

"Crap that's hard! Alright, show us what you've got, Frisbee."

They looked over at him and there was no response. Miguno cocked his head.

"Frisbee? Yo, Earth to Frisbee!"

Collot looked down at him and laughed.

"Dudes, he's out!"

Jack went wide eyed.

"What!? You mean like…."

Collot laughed and held the sleeping fox up a bit.

"He's passed right the eff out!"

The other boys laughed causing Yasui to snort and shift a bit. Durham shook his head.

"Dude, next time I'm having trouble sleeping, I'm coming over and sleeping with you so you can rock me to sleep."

Jack grinned and leaned up against Collot.

"Awww, that's so cute! Who knew Collot had such strong nurturing instincts."

Miguno scampered over and stood behind the sheepdog to rest his head on Collot's shoulder.

"It's because he's a big, sweet marshmallow that radiates cozy paternal vibes!"

Collot huffed.

"You guys suck."

There was a pause before Durham asked,

"Are you going to set him down?"

"And wake the poor guy up?! No way!"