There never seemed a period in her life when time sped by so fast. Normally, she would go through her life in the schedule rehearsed for months and let the days pass her by. Kimon had to admit that wasn't living, when she looked back on how her life USED to go. She lived for schoolwork and ONLY schoolwork.

HOW she changed! She'd be the first to admit that. It was always a shock to herself, as well as others, to see how different she was acting. Sure she was still shy and utterly polite, as she knew she'd always be, but now she spoke more without being spoken to first. There were moments of dry humor, something she didn't even know she POSSESSED. She still didn't bother to fix her looks, as she knew that was a superficial thing...and she knew Cye liked her for who she was without anything added to her person. Plus being with blind, it was rather pointless to change something she couldn't see in the first place.

Her schedule still included school as a primary focus, but Cye was quickly gaining from second place to mix with first. As soon as she finished with school, she either called Cye or he called her. It wasn't much, and never lasted long with her otou-san making dinner, but they at least acknowledged each other for the day. On the days she had work, she skipped the call and was surprisingly rewarded with feeling his presence at times when she got to work and sometimes when she was finished.

Saturdays were still reserved for Mia, though now it was becoming more and more a gossip session about how her life was going. Cye arrived an hour early on Sundays to walk around the area with her before heading off, just to spend some quiet time with her. Mouri-san was always questioning how she was getting along with Cye, and she was barely able to sputter out an answer...all the while being as red as a tomato almost every time.

She ate lunch with the family and Cye would spend a little bit with her, just sitting in the backyard and listening to the noises of the neighborhood, before taking her home. Every time, he opened her door and took her hand when they reached her apartment. He took to walking her to her door...give her hand a squeeze, and quietly said his good nights.

Those times with him were the best. Her heart never failed to pick up pace when she was with him, rarely settling down unless they spent long periods of time together. Her face always flamed when anyone asked her questions about Cye. Her stomach always made butterflies when his name was mentioned, as his name always spurred happy memories of them being together.

She was turning into a schoolgirl with her first crush. It was quite embarrassing, as she was a grown woman. Even though this technically WAS her first crush! They hadn't done anything more than that one night at Mia's months ago, when his arm wrapped around her and visa versa. He never pushed her for ANYTHING. The most they did was hold hands, entwine arms...though that wasn't always for pleasure, rest a hand on a shoulder, or sit close to one another. She was getting quite a bit of 'adorable' comments from Mouri-san and Mia about how cute they acted around each other; how shy and unsure. She was wondering if anyone ever acted like that anymore. How could theirs the only innocent relationship out there?

She had to give Cye credit; he never asked her about her past, and never pushed her to talk unless she wanted to. She knew it HAD to've bugged him, going out for three months now and barely knowing much about her or her family. She just wasn't comfortable speaking about it to anyone...to even HIM. Though she had grown to almost fully trust him, almost with her life, she still couldn't tell him such an important, dire secret. The more they went out, the more she became afraid to. What would he do if he knew what caused her blindness?? If he knew SHE caused her own blindness???

With the summer in full swing, she was outside more and more. The changing of seasons always fascinated her as well as brought out her love for them. The world had such natural beauty, and she just loved nature. The smells, the noises...it was all so heavenly. They spent so much time outside anymore and it was nice since they both liked it.

She wistfully smiled and moved her head against the cushion of her arms, brought from her thoughts. 'So many changes... Would you even recognize your musume, okaa-san?' She inhaled the smell of grass against her back and crossed her ankles. This was one of those moments to be outside, even if she had to wait. Waiting in the apartment, even with the balcony door wide open, didn't have the charm of sitting on the lawn. The feel of cool grass against her and the tickle on her arms was too good a thought to give up. Just to keep a dress nice.

She snorted. 'Never thought I'd wear a dress in a million years. I think this is the first time. But still...I thought I should at least DRESS differently for tonight. Cye-chan SAID he wanted me to dress up...and this is about as dressed up as I GET.'

Tuning her skin to be more sensitive, she shifted and felt the sliding of soft polyester moving with her. A small grin appeared. Who knew Mia had such nice things? She was told the color was a light violet, something Mia said brought out her eyes. She didn't want anything flashy, and was reassured the dress was ankle length and displayed no cleavage. The only skin it DID show was up to the shoulder, with wide straps. It was modest, and that's how she dressed. She knew it would be a major shock to Cye if she DID dress even a LITTLE flashy. She snorted. His heart would probably stop if he saw her in anything NORMAL teenagers wore.

She knew she should get up. It wouldn't do to get the dress grass-stained. Mia wouldn't like it if she did that. Still...she very precisely laid out her hair for that purpose, and all it wasn't covering was from the waist down. And only shifting would really stain the dress. She didn't need to see to know THAT. And that was the only excuse she used to keep right where she was. Also the fact that the air was so nice and warm with a soft, matching breeze. The cool grass kept her at just the right temperature and it was ALMOST going to put her to sleep.

She stared in the direction of the mid afternoon sun. Having kept track since she laid down, she knew Cye would be about twenty more minutes. So...maybe she could gain a small nap in that time, provided no animals or people came by and woke her up. 'Hell the why not? It's not like it's against the LAW to sleep out here. And how will they know ANYWAY? Everyone in this place already KNOWS I'm blind by just living here!' With a decisive nod, she settled a little more and let the afternoon help her drift off.

~*~*~

He did a double blink as he pulled in front of the apartment building of the complex. Stopping the car directly in front of the door, a hand rubbed his eyes and blue stared in shock. What was she DOING?? Was she okay?!

The next thing that hit him was the urge to laugh. How carefree... He grinned and quietly chuckled, getting from the car. The urge to call out, wondering if she was even awake, was halted as he bit his tongue. Gaining an evil grin, he almost tiptoed past the few cars lining the area and stopped at the edge of the grass. He stared at the vision and suddenly realized what she was wearing. Again, he was shocked, but had to admit she looked very pretty in colors. He took a few seconds to admire her, as she seemingly wasn't aware of anything right now. She looked lovely...and also ASLEEP.

Ears straining for his footsteps, he managed to get a foot from her and kneeled. Blue took in her face in amusement at the utter peaceful, unguarded expression. Yup, definitely asleep. Biting back laughter, a hand rose and shook her shoulder. "Oi onna..." He breathed, breaking into a wide smile. "Come on; time to get up before you ruin such a pretty outfit."

Slowly, she became conscious, jerking up once she realized she had company. "AH!" She cried out, hopping away. Part of her mind said NOT to move that quickly...as she would surely stain the dress! Familiar laughter sounded and she blushed, knowing Cye was here. "Oi! Don't SCARE me like that!" She retorted, taking a general swat in his direction. "Mia-chan won't be happy with me if I get grass spots on this thing. Not to mention it won't do me good for my image either."

Cye grinned and helped Kimon to her feet. "Regardless of what'll happen to the dress...you look very nice." He quietly mused, guiding her to the car.

She blushed and automatically strapped in. She waited until he was in the car to ask. "So...IS it dirty?"

He cast a quick glance, looking over the dress, before smiling and heading from the parking lot. "Iie. It looks fine. Shinpai suranai."

She gave a shy nod, hands primly folded in her lap. Listening to the familiar route as they headed out of Tokyo, teeth nibbled on her lip. "So...what're we going to do tonight?"

A brow rose. "Some memory you have..." He teased, leaning over to poke an arm. "I told you a week ago that I intended on dinner, just the two of us, to celebrate our three-month anniversary. I even managed to chase everybody out of the house to boot, so we'll have the place to ourselves."

That made her a little uncomfortable, even if the fluttering in her stomach went into overdrive. "How'd you manage that?" She asked, trying to relax from her phobia.

Cye snorted. "Gave them money for the movies and told them to not come back for five hours."

She sheepishly grinned and absently rubbed a finger over the back of her hand. Five whole hours with Cye at his house, with dinner that he most likely made. 'Three whole months... Wow...where's the TIME gone??' It wasn't just the dating time that had her amazed...she knew Cye WAY before that. Mentally counting back the months since the first time she remembered hearing his name and voice, her eyes widened. 'GEEZ! Eleven months?! So...it'll be a year in August since I was introduced to him...'

"What're you thinking about?"

She startled and looked to him. A tiny smile appeared as she leaned against the seat. The road under her slowed as they reached Toyama's exit ramps. "Just how long we've known each other. Dating for three months already...yet I've known you a lot longer than THAT. Time has just FLOWN..."

He nodded, not arguing with her. "Hai... Summer's almost over."

Raven brows furrowed at the tone. "What's the matter?"

"Nothing. I was just realizing that I go back to college pretty soon." A grin sprouted. "It's been one great summer. Something I'll treasure." That gained a deep blush and his grin widened.

Not too much time later, Cye was helping her from the car, mostly by want rather than instinct, and the two headed for the front door. The quiet was rather odd considering the normal hustle and bustle of the Mouri household. Automatically, her loafers were off and already slipping into house slippers. There were no clay smells today, but an overpowering and enticing smell of home cooked food assaulted her nose. She inhaled and gave an appreciative sigh. "Have I ever told you you're a great cook?"

He grinned and led the way to the kitchen. "Plenty of times. I think you do it to butter me up for more cookies."

She giggled and went to her chair. The smells were making her hungry, more than she already was, and her stomach rumbled. She blushed from a quiet chuckle from Cye, and hastily sat down in her embarrassment.

"At least I know you'll eat more than you normally do." He teased, setting the main dish down.

"Hey, I've been saving my appetite for hours buddy...quit picking on me." She pleasantly retorted back, grinning in his direction.

Dinner was quickly set up and dished, and all they had was quiet. It was nice, as it always was. He never failed to feel at peace whenever he sat in silence with Kimon. It seems he was always with her anymore, even around work and her college. They spent at least SOME time together almost every day of the week...even if it was just a short phone call of ten minutes saying hello and asking how the other was doing. The piece of mind upon those calls were always the reason behind them.

It was no lie to admit he thought about her all the time. It was always hard to wake up and not call to wish her good morning, as she was in classes whenever he awoke. He always got guff from Kento about his relationship, but he didn't care as much as he did in the beginning. Though he didn't bring Kimon around to the guys, as he knew she was too shy for the exuberance, they knew more about her as of late. He liked to talk about her if the topic was brought up, and he knew he was making everyone envious. Even Sage who had a girl already...as far as everyone weaseled out of him.

Chopsticks rested against his plate as he took a minute to watch her. She ate with distinctive grace, mostly self-taught with being blind. She sat like a proper lady, elbows even off the table. A small smile appeared.

She suddenly stopped and put her food down, almost locking eyes with him. "Nani?" She quietly asked, head tilting.

He smiled at how adorable she looked and looked away. "Nothing..." He breathed, going back to his food. He watched out of the corner of his eye as she remained still for what seemed forever before continuing as well.

Not much was said, but not much was NEEDED to be said. He liked to think Kimon understood him without words, mostly by sensing people from being blind. He found that a nice thing, since he didn't need to explain himself. She just knew, and that was a comforting thing. Whether he was distracted over something, or concerned, she seemed to sense it. It was incredible and it never failed to amaze him that she would ask him if he was okay, or what he was thinking of. That innocent concern touched his heart.

Dinner went rather quickly without talk to slow it down. This time wasn't about going over daily life; it was about just being together. This was to celebrate the night she agreed to go out with him. They didn't need to talk about the trivial things in daily life during this. Silence seemed appropriate enough, and yet each other could tell if something was up by looking at the other.

He started clearing the plates when Kimon stood with hers. "Iie Kimon-chan. I'll do that."

As if she didn't hear him, which he knew was impossible, she expertly went to the sink and started running water over them. "You cooked and I'll feel like a loafer if I don't help." She cast a shy smile over her shoulder as he also headed for the sink. "At least let me do this..."

He begrudgingly consented and let her clear the dishes while he put the little bit of leftovers in the fridge. He handed her a towel after she rinsed off her hands and washed his own. "What would you like to do now?" He quietly asked, putting the dishtowel back.

A finger tapped against her cheek. All she wanted was to sit in silence and feel content next to this man. Her gaze went to the nearest window. "It's sunset, right?"

"Hai." He answered, following her gaze.

She gave a small smile. "You know I haven't seen a sunset for seventeen years?" She took a few steps toward him and looked to his voice. "Can we sit together out front and you can describe it to me?"

That sounded so romantic... He took her hands to lead her to the front door. As they went for their shoes, he paused. "Won't you be cold? It's bound to get chilly with the sun going down, even for summer."

"I'll be alright." She answered, opening the door. His hand wrapped with hers as he lead her to a perfect spot on the lawn. The choice was easy with a tree being something to lean against. He took note of the lower evening temperature and put an arm around her shoulders to help a little. He noticed her skin goosebump and mentally sighed. So much for being 'alright'.

"Here...you're going to get even colder. If...if you don't...mind."

She blinked at his uneasiness and hesitation. "What...what do you want to do?"

His heart was beating like a crazy thing. "Here...kneel and I'll guide you." When she did as directed, he gently pulled her to a position in between his legs, nestling her against his chest. His arms rested over his knees, too afraid to wrap around her body. He felt highly uncomfortable, but still...this was too nice to let go. He hoped she wouldn't pull away. "Do you mind? If you want to move, I understand."

Part of her wanted to pull away, not having such physical contact before...even with Cye. This was a new step, but it wasn't really dirty or immoral. While she mulled over the position...it started to feel...nice. Her head slowly shook as she leaned back. "Iie... Daijoubu desu. This IS warmer..."

A shy smile appeared as his head leaned against the tree. "Yosh... Okay...the sun is about a forty-five degree angle from the horizon... It's a real deep, fire red. The sky is nearly a midnight blue and it lightens to yellow closer to the sun. The yellow goes to red the closer it is to the sun..."

After the initial explanation, she really wasn't paying attention anymore. She hardly listened as he described shadows from surrounding objects and the contrast of dark and light together. She too was entranced with the feel of his body heat against the encroaching night air of summer. The quiet rumble of his voice resounded off his chest and vibrated on her back, relaxing her. A small, cool breeze drifted through, as gentle as though the air was winding to a stop. She felt enveloped from both behind and sides, though it was far from claustrophobic. It was very comfortable and she sighed at the deep, serene feeling that claimed her. What she would give to do this every night with him...

Soon there was more night than sunlight and they just sat there to sit there. Darkness all but claimed her vision, with no light to dance behind her lids. The temperature dropped a little more, and the breeze kept going in patches, reminding her that she didn't bring a spring jacket to battle the coolness.

When Kimon's arms went around her torso, he finally looked away from the horizon. "Cold?" He whispered, a little shocked at hearing how low his voice sounded. Why did it sound....husky?...no that wasn't it...emotional?... He DID feel pretty peaceful just being like this with her. They still managed to retain innocence, even sitting as they were.

She looked to the ground below, but nodded in defeat. Seconds later, Cye's weight shifted. She didn't even have time to question if he wanted her to move before his arms slowly descended over hers. Her heart picked up double-time and her stomach fluttered badly from sudden nerves. Her gaze shifted to try and look to him. "Cye-chan?..." She breathed, air halting in her lungs.

"Still cold?" He whispered, looking to her face. She was shocked, that was understandable, but he could feel the chill to her skin and mentally berated himself for keeping her out so long. "You don't mind, ne?"

Why did every part of her suddenly want to turn and embrace him?? It didn't make sense...as his arms felt strong and even more solid than what she was leaning against. They somehow provided strength and calm. She couldn't find anything to say to ask him what he was doing...nor the reassurance that not only was this okay, but she was feeling quite WARM all of a sudden... All she could manage was a meek shake before looking back to the sun, feeling him give an almost contented sigh and tighten his arms.

When his chin rested over the crown of her head, her brain snapped back to normality. "Cye-chan...nani?..."

He couldn't help but smile. She could've moved and asked that question, but she remained rooted where she was. His heart fluttered as unknown warmth flowed through him. It was something highly akin to what he felt toward his mother...but toward someone different. Somehow...it didn't feel wrong to experience or know that he was feeling it with Kimon. It felt nice and he was content. "I don't think I've ever had a better night...thank you for sharing this experience with me." He quietly murmured.

She blushed once again, but couldn't help a happy grin on her face. "It's been a great night for me too...I'm glad to've spent this time with you." She also heaved a contented sigh, feeling cocooned in protective warmth and having no qualms about it. Suddenly, nothing mattered but sitting here like this, cradled in his body. The world and all her problems suddenly seemed so VERY far away...

She almost wiggled against him as if to get comfortable for a long duration. He couldn't help but smile at that and just settled his arms when she finished. She fit nice, he suddenly knew. They were both slender, but his build was a lot more from fighting in the war and the exercise he got every so often. It was cheesy, but that was the only way to describe it. She fit perfectly.

She didn't know how long they stayed that way. The night was fully upon them, but the chill didn't permeate the warmth surrounding her. She didn't feel anything but happy and she knew after this night, she would feel empty without his arms around her. They would have to find more private times like this, if only so he could hold her. She knew asking wouldn't be any trouble, and he'd probably be eager to. That got a small, lazy smile.

Before he knew it, having lost track of time, a car was heading down the street...turning for the driveway. He blushed a few shades, knowing the questions his mother would have for holding Kimon like this. He couldn't really feel THAT embarrassed though...as he didn't regret instigating this. He'd do it again too, just to be able to hold her.

As his mother, Sayoko, and Ryuusuke got out, he met their wide eyes with calm in his. Nothing could break him out of the serene bubble they were encased in. Slowly, his head moved as not to startle the girl in his arms. How she didn't notice was beyond him. "Kimon-chan...I think it's time I get you home now..." A tiny smile appeared at the peaceful look on her face. He gave her a gentle shake and her eyes fluttered open. "Oi...mezameru..." Wake up...

"Are?" She mumbled, yawning. Huh? With a mental push to become more alert, she suddenly became aware of footsteps and a door opening. "Ano...were those footsteps your family's?"

He grinned at her mortified tone. "Hai. I guess five hours is up, but that's fine. It's getting late and you have school tomorrow."

She absently nodded and almost regrettably pulled from his embrace. "Yosh...I suppose I SHOULD be getting home..."

He chuckled as she stood and stretched. When she took a few steps away, he stood and copied her. "You going to make it? You fell asleep there." He mused.

"Did NOT." She lamely retorted, crossing her arms.

The smile widened. "Okay...dozed then. Give me a second to get my keys and we'll be off."

She nodded and turned to the direction of the absent sun, a happy smile slowly blossoming. 'What does he expect? He was so warm and solid...it was like falling asleep against a very comfy bed.' Her cheeks warmed a bit. 'But it wasn't anything bad. It was rather enjoyable. Maybe we won't get THAT kind of privacy like we did tonight, but we can allow a little more...intimacy like that from now on. That wasn't anything dirty...'

Strong arms suddenly wrapped around hers and she startled. She instantly relaxed and practically melted against the warmth. "Ready to go?" He breathed.

She didn't want to leave this, as it felt time stopped just for them. But they had responsibilities to attend to and things to get done. They couldn't just stand like this in the driveway all night...even IF that sounded rather tempting. "I guess. Kinda...don't...want to though..."

He grinned and slowly pulled away, directing her to the car. "Then I guess I don't feel so bad for instigating that." He teased, helping her in.

She gave a shy grin and patiently waited for him to start the car. "No...it was......nice." She whispered, buckling in.

"Yes, it was rather...nice." He agreed, sneaking a quick look. With a mental shake from his reverie, he started for Tokyo.