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Cherry Waterfall
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a Neon Genesis Evangelion fan fic
By: Hatti Lee*
Also known as:
Saiyajin Peach
Saiyajin Peach 18
Amalthea*
Beloved Animosity
Contact: Beloved_Animosity@sbcglobal.net
Started: 10.2.3
Pairing: Shinji X Kaworu
Author's Notes: Hi! I'm not sure if I know exactly where I'm going with this fic. No worries though! I intend on doing some serious planning asap in order to get things figured out. The next chapter will be more interesting. For sure! ^_^
Warnings: This is a yaoi fic, which means it contains intimacy between two males. If you're uncomfortable with that, I suggest you turn back now. Also, this fic will most likely contain violence, language, and graphic sexual content. If you're underage, please turn back now. You've been warned!
Disclaimer: Neon Genesis Evangelion and its characters are not my own, and I'm making absolutely nothing off of this. So, please don't sue me!!!
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Chapter IX: Hikari's Advice
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Asuka:
Monday morning. I hate Mondays, in fact, I hate everyday. Flicking the sleep from my eyes, I begin my morning routine. Coffee, must have coffee. I crack my door open and peer down the hall towards the kitchen. It doesn't seem like anyone else is around. Everything's quiet.
Still, I don't want to run into that Angel! My bladder tingles with fear at the mere thought of that damned Angel. If he wanted, he could do so many horrible things to me, and without even lifting a finger.
My bladder tingles again and I realize that it's not only fear, but mother nature. I peer down the hall in the opposite direction of the kitchen. I have to pee, but the bathrooms right across from Shinji's room. I have no choice though!
Like some kind of idiot child, I sneak towards my destination on tiptoes.
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I've returned from the restroom, had my morning coffee, and finished putting on my school uniform, and I have yet to run into anyone. At this point I feel a little creeped out.
I approach Misato's bedroom door, tapping gently at it. No answer.
Misato? Don't you have to be at work early today? Still no answer.
My voice sounds strange in such silent surroundings. Swallowing nervously, I slide the door open, only to find no one there. Her cell phone's gone as well as her bag and jacket. She must have left before I even got up.
What had I been thinking anyway? That the Angel had managed to make every living thing except for myself disappear?
I chuckle to myself as I return to the kitchen. I glance at the table out of habit, looking for a note from my violet-haired guardian that I know isn't there. Instead, it reminds me of the candy I left there the night before. It's gone.
Frowning, I turn and look about me. Well, maybe I left it in the living room.
My eyes go wide as I step into said room. Shinji and the Angel are lying together on the sofa in a spoon position. Thankfully, however, they both appear to be clothed, but that doesn't make the sight any less disturbing.
Just when I had realized my feelings for the idiot, he goes and falls for someone else. And not just any someone else, my mortal enemy, my biggest fear, my truest hate. Oh Shinji, how very annoying.
Just as my thoughts are about to take a cruel and wicked turn, I spot a little paper bag crumpled on the coffee table. My candy! The anger rattles me for a second. They were enjoying my candy together! Way to go Asuka, bring them together with sweets! Without thought, I reach out and snatch a book off the nearest shelf, a paperback thesaurus of some kind. In an instant I've hurtled it forward, and the second it leaves my hand I regret having done it. I don't want to deal with them this morning. I just don't think I can handle that.
In a rush, I turn and sprint for the front door. I hear a yelp and a groan and a, Hey, what the? And then I'm out the door and hurrying to the elevator.
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Kaworu:
I wake to the sound of my lover's pained voice. My eyes blink open instantly to see him rubbing his head, What happened? I ask, a bit confused.
He holds up a thesaurus, I think Asuka threw this at me. His voice is a little shaken and he reaches out to place the book on the coffee table.
You mean, at us. I say leaning closer to inspect Shinji's injury. Nothing but the clean, smooth skin of his scalp. No bump or bruise or even a red spot. I kiss his head anyway, breathing in the fresh smell the blueberry scented shampoo he'd used last night. I turn my head a bit and gently rub my cheek against his soft yet thick hair.
When I'm finally finished, I pull back, There. Feel better?
He's blushing, Hai, much better. Then it's as if he remembers something, his eyes lighting up, What time is it?
At the same time we both glance at the wall clock. 7:48 AM.
He sighs, I'm going to be late for school.
I feel a frown pull at my lips, a frown I didn't even have to think about. It just happened, Do you have to go? I ask in a near whisper.
Misato would be mad if I didn't. And Asuka would only get more upset if I spent all my time lying with you. He's smiling as he says it, a hand resting on my thigh.
Can I go with you?
He sighs again, his slight smile slipping away as he realizes I'm really sad to see him go, It would probably be best if you didn't. If someone recognized you somehow, if someone figured out what you are... I don't want to lose you. He says the last in a whisper, his hand moving from my thigh to my face.
I can practically feel the warmth radiating from him. He reeks of love and I'm pleased. I nod, Okay, I'll wait here for you.
He smiles,
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In a matter of minutes he's dressed and in the kitchen. He has the massive phonebook open and he's writing down numbers, Here. This is a bunch of good places to order take out from. Here's some money. He digs down in his pocket and pulls forth several bills.
I take them, examining a new thing. I know well enough how to use a phone and pay for things. Take out will be easy enough.
I guess I better go before I'm any later. Shinji's lip is suffering from his new habit. He's bitten himself to the blood twice now and seems to be worrying the same wound as he moves closer. I watch carefully as he leans into me, his mouth coming to mine, his eyes slipping shut. This kiss is wet and warm and as he pulls away, I lick my lips, tasting blood there.
I'll be waiting. I say, planting my lips on his for another kiss, this firmer, my tongue slipping out just enough to get another taste of his honey like blood.
He stands for a moment as if unsure what he wants to do. School or me? I smile and watch as he weighs the decision. In reluctance, he decides he'd better get to school.
Bye, I'll be home around four. And with that he's leaving. I listen as the door opens and closes, and them I'm all alone, standing in the kitchen with the sweetest taste lingering on my tongue.
After a few moments I decide to snoop through the kitchen in the hopes of finding some junk food. Then perhaps I'll watch some sapping daytime television.
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Hikari:
Hey, Asuka! I was starting to worry when you didn't call. You and Shinji left so suddenly, one right after the other... Um... Did you guys have another fight or something? My voice slowly quiets as I speak, the last coming out in a near whisper. I don't want to upset my best friend by letting her personal life be heard by the entire class.
She scowls as she flips her long hair over her shoulder, turning to face me, Yeah, so many things have been happening that I forgot, no offense.
Oh, it's fine. I was just wondering if everything's okay between you and Shinji. I look at her questioningly, hoping she'll answer me.
She sighs, Let's talk about this later okay.
I quickly nod, completely understanding, Of course, Asuka. Maybe we can take a walk through the park after school.
She nods and turns to face forward as the instructor steps into the room. I notice Shinji's missing and I hope he wasn't injured over the weekend or anything.
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Asuka remains rather quiet all through class. She doesn't even pass me a single note. Something's most definitely wrong! She never pays this much attention in school.
I finger the ribbon that holds one of my braids in place as I glance over at Toji. He looks as bored as ever, scribbling on the corner of his desk. Beside him, Kensuke's staring at the screen of his laptop, punching a few keys now and then, surfing the net no doubt. The seat in front of Toji is empty.
And just as my thoughts slip to Shinji, he bursts through the door, Sorry I'm late! he says in a breathy voice, slight beads of sweat budding along his hairline. I guess he ran to school.
You're more than ten minutes late Mr. Ikari. The teacher says sternly.
Yeah, I'm sorry... I uh... I fell asleep on the couch last night, and I didn't have my alarm clock... I'm sorry. Shinji's blushing somewhat, looking rather embarrassed. He bows slightly as he apologizes again, standing before the instructor, waiting.
The old man sighs, Fine, take a seat. If you're late like that again, I'm sending you to detention.
Shinji nods and bows again before hurrying to his desk.
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Lunch is quiet and boring. Toji had to eat in the detention hall and all Kensuke wanted to talk about was fighter planes or some such nonsense. I tried to strike up a conversation with Asuka, but she seemed to be in her own world. Shinji was also quiet, but lately that seemed to be normal.
I decided to take a chance, Hey, Shinji, you feeling better?
He looks up at me confused, his eyebrows crooked at odd angles.
I force back a smile, Well, all last week you seemed kinda down. I was wondering if you were feeling better.
I'm shocked as a smile graces his lips, Hai, I am feeling better. I just wish I hadn't been late. I hate being in front of everyone like that.
Why were you late anyway? Was that couch thing true? Kensuke asks as he takes a huge bite out of his sandwich.
Shinji nods and I turn to my best friend, Hey, Asuka, how come you didn't wake him up?
She glances over, I did.
So, you did throw that book at me? Shinji asks, his hand going to his head as if remembering an injury.
Kensuke and myself bust out in laughter and I notice a smirk creep onto Asuka's face. However, before another word can be spoken, the bell sounds.
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When the final bell rings, Asuka and I rise from our seats along with the rest of the class. Some grab their things and rush out, while others, like ourselves, take their time and exit with what grace one can when leaving school.
Neither of us need to stop by our lockers, and soon we're outside, the afternoon sun warming our skin within seconds. Normally we'd wait here for Shinji so Asuka could make sure he was going home or at least to let one another know when they'd be home. Not today though. Asuka just keeps walking and I almost get left behind.
Our walk to the park is a quiet one. I ask a few questions, trying to spur any kind of conversation, but my best friend seems intent on saving it for the park.
Eventually, we get to our destination, and once there, we head straight for the bench we always sit at, the one across from the basketball court. There are a few boys there already, one with his shirt off. I let my eyes linger for a few moments, and quickly after berate myself. After all, Toji and I are practically going steady now!
Minutes pass and still Asuka remains silent. It's nearing four o'clock and I promised my father I'd be home in time to help my eldest sister cook dinner. After all, I am the best cook in my family.
Before I can initiate the conversation though, Asuka speaks, It's about Shinji.
I turn my full attention to her, a little surprised and slightly confused, What is?
I know why he was depressed last week and why he was late this morning. She says it so strangely. Normally she'd just spit it out and curse until her venting was complete. It just wasn't like Asuka to beat around the bush.
Does this have to do with why you two left the dance so early? I ask, sensing there had been a fight between them.
She sighs and nods, Hikari, you've got to promise that you won't tell a soul, okay? You can't breathe a word!
My brows furrow and I wonder what's with all the secrecy, Of course, Asuka. You know me, I won't tell anyone.
She nods again, That guy Shinji was with at the dance... His date... Well, he's an Angel.
My eyes go wide, You mean, an Angel... As in the monsters?
Yeah, he's the Seventeenth Angel... The last one. He's come back.
Oh my... Asuka, you've got to tell somebody! Misato! You've got to tell Misato all this! I'm almost panicking, my breath coming quick.
Misato knows. Shinji knows. And they want me to keep quiet about it. Her eyes are watering and I can totally understand how difficult this must be for her. I know how badly the Angels damaged her... After all, it was my house she'd stayed at for quite some time during those hard times.
So... Why? Why is it okay for this Angel to be here? Is it because he looks Human? Yeah, why does he look Human?
Asuka shakes her head, I'm not sure why he looks Human, but that's not the reason he's able to stay. I mean, he's probably still dangerous and everything... It's just that, well... Shinji and the Angel are in love, at least, Shinji thinks they are, and Misato thinks it's good for Shinji.
I'm shocked, Shinji and an Angel? That doesn't even makes sense. He fought so hard against the Angels... They hurt him so much... How can he be in love with one?
I don't know. It's so crazy.
I take a deep breath and try to relax, Asuka, you've just got to tell someone.
I'm thinking about it, but... Well, it really seems like this Angel means no harm. As much as I hate him for what he is, I don't think he has any kind of ulterior motives. It's like he's simply obsessed with Shinji. Her voice is like the wind, faint and hard to understand. I have to really pay attention. Now that I take the time to really listen, not only to her words, but to her voice and tone, I notice something. This isn't only about the Angel. In fact, there doesn't appear to be much fear in her at all. I must admit though, fear is coursing strong in my veins. I want nothing to do with an Angel.
She sighs, And Misato sees this. That's why she wants me to keep quiet. Stupid Shinji. How could he fall for one of the enemy? The idiot. She pauses for a moment, her eyes pooling with regret. She quickly blinks it away though, How the hell did that Angel get here anyway?
My voice is flat and yet full of wonder and uncertainty at the same time.
She turns and looks me square in the eyes,
I swallow, There's something else isn't there?
Her eyes widen slightly and that glossy regretfulness reappears, What do you mean?
Shinji... He's the one you're really mad at, isn't it? My eyes narrow and I watch carefully for any kind of reaction. Her mouth opens slightly, then closes, and then opens again. I can tell she wants to scoff at me, to say that of course she's mad at Shinji, when is she not mad at Shinji? Instead, however, her eyes water further, and seconds later a few tears are making trails down her cheeks.
I just don't get it, Hikari. How could he? I was the one he wanted for so long. She's sobbing now and I move close to provide comfort.
But Asuka, you've always hated Shinji. I say it smoothly and calmly, just trying to get answers and better understand what's going in order to comfort her further.
At first... But somewhere along the way... I don't know how... But I... I fell in love with him. Oh, Hikari, how could I have done such a stupid thing. I can barely understand a word she's saying. Her face is pressed against my shoulder, her arms around me, mine around her.
I rub her back soothingly, Is that why this Angel is upsetting you? Because he's with Shinji?
She nods, her face rubbing against my uniform, surely soaking it with tears and snot, Just when I was starting to understand my feelings... This Angel shows up and steals him away from me.
Oh, Asuka... Try and calm down. Maybe if you just talk this out with Shinji... Well, you never know. He may feel the same way, and even if he doesn't... At least you'll know for sure.
She pulls back and sniffs several times, wiping at her eyes and nose, turning her face away,
Minutes pass and I find myself thinking about Shinji. I just can't imagine him with an Angel. It really makes no sense to me. I mean, I thought Shinji killed the last Angel, saved the world. How on Earth could he and the Angel get along, let alone fall for one another? I shake my head and glance at Asuka. She seems to have regained her composure.
I find it strange that the main concern for her is that Shinji's slipped away from her. I mean, there's an Angel here among us. I can't imagine anything more terrifying. I shrug it off though. If neither Asuka, Shinji, or Misato are concerned, I guess there's no reason for me to be. After all, with such things, they are the three people I trust most. Seems they'd no what to fear and what not to fear.
Um... Asuka... You okay now? I ask, leaning forward to look my friend in the eyes. I just see sadness there, perhaps a splash of anger.
She nods, Yeah, sorry about... Everything.
I smile, Don't worry. It's fine... But, I'm going to have to be getting home. My dad wants me home to help with dinner.
She nods again, Oh, sure, no problem.
I stand, Are you going to go home too?
Yeah, in a little while. I want to get my bearings first. She glances up and gives me a quick smile, trying to reassure me that it's okay to leave her alone here.
I smile back, Okay then, see you tomorrow. And with that I turn and begin my walk home. I glance at my watch: 4:26 AM. Great, I'll be home just in time.
As I make my way towards my building, I can't help but worry about my friends. We all had it bad back in those days, but Shinji and Asuka had it the worst. I don't think either of them ever fully recovered, and now more was being thrown at them. If only that stupid Angel hadn't returned.
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Shinji:
Asuka said some of the cruelest things to me last night. I didn't even know a person could be so horrible. I'm still not sure what I feel about all of it. Actually, I'm not sure I care. All I care about is Kaworu. I just want to be with him, I don't care about what others think so much anymore.
Today, Asuka just seemed cold. It was almost bearable. Deep down though, it's like there's something else that's bothering her.
I sigh, shaking my head and clearing my thoughts. The front door's in sight and I don't want to burden my lover with all this nonsense.
I begin down the hall, calling, as I step into the kitchen, only to stop dead in my tracks, my cheeks going red instantly. How could I have forgotten? Misato went to work early today, which meant she'd be getting home early. Sure enough, there she say at the kitchen table, wearing a pair of far too short cut off blue jeans and a pink tank top. Beside her sits Kaji. Both of them are grinning at me as if I've done the cutest thing.
Uh, hi. I didn't know you were coming over, Kaji. I say nervously, looking anywhere but at them.
Kaji chuckles and Misato answers, I didn't think it'd be a big deal. Kaji's stayed for dinner a lot lately.
I glance at her to see a twinkle in her eyes. She's messing with me, but still I'm not sure how to respond to such behavior. As I try and think of something to say, soft footsteps coming down the hall gain my attention.
Kaworu's feet are bare and they make the most beautiful sound as they pad closer and closer until he's standing just before me. I look up and into his eyes, and before I have a chance to greet him, he's leaning forward and planting his lips on mine. The kiss is cool and chaste and only lingers for a moment or two.
I thought I was going to go crazy waiting for you. he says quietly in my ear before backing off to greet Misato and Kaji.
My cheeks must be beaming red. They feel like they're on fire. I can't even imagine looking up at this point.
I bought groceries. I was wondering if you'd like to cook dinner or if you'd rather I do it. Misato says, rising from her seat and moving to the cabinets.
Oh, sure... I'll do it. I say, following her to see what all I had to work with.
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Misato:
The three of us moved to the living room in order to give Shinji space to work. Kaji and I are talking about work and other things and the Angel is just sitting and listening, seemingly interested in our simple lives.
Shinji steps into the room, explaining that he has a few things in the oven and has a moment of free time while they cook.
Then, out of the blue, Kaworu speaks up, I know you. You're the man who gave me directions. His words are directed to Kaji, who in turn smiles.
Yup, I see you found what you were looking for.
The Angel's eyes brighten, Yes, thank you.
There's a moment of awkward silence, and during the moment, Shinji steps further into the room and takes a seat beside Kaworu in a wide arm chair. The Angel's hand goes to Shinji's thigh like a magnet and instantly Shinji's blushing.
Clearing his throat, Shinji somewhat repositions himself, but the Angel's hand never falters, I didn't know you met Kaji.
Kaworu smiles, Yes. I did not recognize him, but he recognized me.
And you asked him for directions over here? I could tell now that Shinji was truly interested, his embarrassment almost fading from his thoughts.
Yes, that's how I was able to come to you door. A smile passed between them and I could see it in both their eyes.
The silence remained, still a bit awkward for me, but it seemed that Shinji was calming. However, just as the thought crossed my mind, his eyes widened and he jumped to his feet, And with that he was bolting out of the room, leaving the rest of us to chuckle after him.
It's so strange for me. Here I am sitting by my lover, enjoying the company of what was once my truest enemy, and I find myself enjoying it. Sure, there are uncomfortable moments, strange silences. It just seems that this Angel holds a wisdom I can't fathom, and that makes it hard to interact with him.
Ms. Katsuragi, is my presence discomforting?
My thoughts break and I look up at the boy. His face is calm, his eyes intense. He's completely serious. I shake my head, still not sure if he's just thinking along the same lines as myself or if he's psychic, No... Well, yes, actually... But that doesn't mean I want you to leave.
His expression transforms into a slow smile,
I find myself smiling as well, It may take some time, but I'll get used to you. Eventually, I'll be comfortable around you.
He nods in agreement, I'm sure you will.
A few tranquil moments pass and Kaji's the one who breaks the silence, I'm guessing your relationship with Shinji is getting pretty serious. It wasn't a question, but it sounded a lot like one to me.
The Angel smiles, I suppose so.
The topic isn't a choice one, but it's one I'd been meaning to get around to, I sort of talked to you two about this last night, but... Well, maybe this relationship is moving too fast.
Kaworu leans forward, his elbows resting on his knees, I don't understand.
He seems honestly confused and interested, Well, even considering two years ago... You two have spent less than a months time with one another. Isn't that a little soon to be sleeping together? In the same room, every night?
He contemplates my words only for a few seconds, Time is not important, though I'm sure Shinji would disagree.
I shake my head, No, I mean... Maybe this is all happening too fast. Shinji is Human after all. People aren't capable of knowing exactly what they want in such a short amount of time. If things aren't thought through, he's going to end up hurt and I-
He interrupts me, And you don't want to see that happen?
I nod, and he continues, Do not worry, Ms. Katsuragi. The only reason I even exist is because Shinji wished it so. I am what he wants me to be. If he so desires, I will kill for him, stay with him forever, or even die. It's as simple as that.
I sit back, well, more like fall back. It's so insane. How lucky Shinji is to have someone like Kaworu! I mean, it's just the kind of person he needs. Someone who only thinks of him. I find myself smiling and I'm not sure as to how much time has passed.
The Angel rises from his seat, I'll go see how dinner is coming along. He bows slightly before turning and exiting the room.
I mumble.
Kaji's hands are at my waist, sliding around to place his larger hands over mine, Intense for a couple of teenagers, huh?
I can't help but laugh, Yeah, very intense, but I get the feeling Kaworu's a lot older than we think.
Does it bother you to think of them together? His rough cheek rubs against my smooth one and I lean against him.
Yeah, I don't know why. I guess I'm just worried about Shinji. They're just so different. I can't imagine them getting along and doing things together like you and I. Maybe their relationship is just sexual? My thoughts are my words and they evolve into the possibility. I turn to look Kaji in the eyes, those dark, mysterious brown eyes, What do you think?
I'm instantly angered at the cheerful expression on his face, I think, Katsuragi, that our relationship, in the beginning, was nothing if not sexual.
Oh, shut up! My anger melts instantly. After all, he speaks the truth. And then we're laughing and then he's kissing me.
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To be continued...
