Other side: By Liam Jackson AKA Dark Romeo.
A/N:
Ah my brothers (and sisters, or whatever) so you have once again returned to my fic. By now you are probably agreeing that it is the greatest fic ever to be made by human kind. So when I have finished it I must ask you to gouge out your eyes so that you may never see it again, and cut of your tongue so that you may not even speak of its magnificence. But apparently we live in a democracy now, so I cant MAKE you do anything. But if you would it would be really nice!
Any way all of you can probably tell where this fic is going, but I just purchased all the Evangelion episodes, so if I've made any mistakes thus far no more will occur, and if they do then blame it on Eskimo's. No seriously, they're trying to take over our world!
Uh...any who im just going to be quite now and start typing, it is getting far too late and my eye hurts from the computers glow. Read and enjoy, and review for Christ's sake!
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Chapter 3: The Ball
Shinji slumped down into his chair at the table and sighed a deep sigh. Why was his life so hard? He had just spent the last night trying to find a suit to wear, finally finding one that would fit, and then falling asleep on the couch. Because of this he ended up missing the alarm and breakfast (god forbid) and was kicked down the road by Asuka into school.
Asuka was no picnic either. She had done nothing but complain about the dance and the fact that she was partnered with him. This hurt Shinji; He didn't mind being partnered with Asuka at all. But she seemed to be convinced that when they had to dance he would screw it up and step on her feet. He had taken basic dancing lessons when he was young, so he wasn't going to screw it up. He wasn't a good dancer though, and Asuka would try to show him up as usual. He really didn't mind though.
"You see buddy" said Touji through a mouthful of food "guys at shin-digs like this aren't meant to have fun. These things where built by the women kind and your just an accessory to show off. It's your job to say things when she wants to hear them, and to be quiet most of the time. Let her have her fun and you'll cruise through with no trouble!"
This bit of wisdom was surprising coming from Touji, but Shinji saw some truth in it. Why else would they get so dolled up to see a bunch of business men kiss each others ass's, as Kensuke had so kindly put it. Touji snapped him back to the present
"So Shinji my man, you getting her a gift or anything?"
"Wha-?" said Shinji.
"You know man, flowers or something! Chick stuff!"
"Oh" replied Shinji "No, I dont think Asuka would like something like that from me....."
"Believe me buddy, she will. I mean you have a point she is a psycho bitch, but she is still a girl. One with serious PMS problems that is"
Shinji smiled a little and thought about what he could buy Asuka. She would hate chocolate, and anything expensive would make her even madder. He settled on buying her a rose, yeah she would like that. Right?
Shinji ate in silence as he thought of the best way to present this gift. It would have to be perfect timing. Unfortunately Shinji didn't have much experience with the female variety, so his mind was working over time. He finished his lunch and went back inside. Time to start another boring period.
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Shinji walked home alone today. Asuka had gone home early to get ready for the ball. Who would have thought three days could have just drifted by like that. He decided now would be a good time to buy Asuka her flower. He knew a place on the way, and also knew it was cheap.
As he entered the store and pulled out his wallet, he realised how little money he had. To him this was confusing, didn't he save the world on a regular basis. I mean he should at LEAST get paid for it. Deciding to leave this for later, he asked the old man at the counter for one red rose.
"I know you" said the man as he went and got the flower from its bunch "your one of those pilots yeah?"
Shinji nodded and handed him the Yen.
"Well who ever this is for, im sure she's very lucky my boy" grinned the old man as he took the money and put it in the register. "Tell you what, take this as well. It's the least I owe you for saving all our lives."
He handed him a small package and smiled a little. Shinji thanked him and left.
Opening the package he found it contained a small bottle of perfume. He sniffed it. It smelled like flowers, very pretty and sweet scented flowers. It was totally clear and didn't say what the ingredients where. He shrugged and put it in his pocket, and began to walk home.
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Shinji opened the apartment door and was greeted by Pen Pen. The bird looked up at him and squawked, pointing to the fridge.
"So no one fed you this morning hey?" said Shinji softly "ok then....."
Shinji walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge. Taking the flower out from under his shirt and resting it on the table, he opened the can of tuna. He leant over to put it in the bowl but Pen Pen snatched it from his hand and started gorging himself.
Shinji shrugged and left the Penguin to his own devices. Turning down the hall he doubled back for the flower. He didn't know whether to give it to Asuka now. Running water in the bathroom meant she was still freshening up, and Shinji thought he might as well get it over with.
He walked up to the door and knocked lightly.
"Yes Third Child!" came an irritated reply.
"Um I...uh I...bought you something for tonight...um I'll just leave it by the door ok?"
All he got was a grunt, so he put down the flower and package and went into his room to change.
He heard the bathroom door opening and shutting and presumed that Asuka had accepted the gift. He went back to getting changed.
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It took only ten minuets for Shinji to get changed, and he decided he would have to wear some fresh deodorant so as not to displease his partner. He walked down the hall and found the bathroom free. So he walked in and opened the mirror door. Inside he found some men's cologne that he had owned but never really used much. After applying that around his neck he used some deodorant on his armpits and chest. Sniffing himself he decided he smelt decent enough to go.
Walking out into the lounge room he sat down on the couch. The suit he was wearing was what the majority of the male body would have on. A black jacket and black pants, with a white t-shirt underneath. He didn't have a bowtie as Misato had suggested, mainly because he had no idea how to put one on. That and black formal shoes and his outfit was complete.
He glanced at his watch. It was 9:30; the ball would start in half an hour. How Asuka could take so long was beyond him. Misato had been at work today but apparently would be changing there then picking them up. If she took as long as Asuka did then the ball would be over before they even got there.
After about fifteen minuets of waiting Shinji heard the door open. Perking up his head he looked in the direction of the door and saw Misato walk quickly in. She was wearing that same black dress, the one that hugged her body very well. It also showed a fair bit of cleavage and Shinji tried not to blush.
"Oh hey Shinji!" said Misato as she sat down on the couch next to him "my don't you look handsome!"
Shinji blushed even harder and muttered a soft "thankyou".
"Oooo are you embarrassed Shin-kun?" teased Misato "well you should know if I didn't all ready have a date then I reckon I'd dance with you in a second if you look like that!"
"Misato!" Shinji blurted as he went a shade of red unknown to mankind.
Misato laughed and switched on the T.V. A soppy show lit up the screen and Shinji started watching, only half interested. Then they heard the door opening. Asuka briskly walked out.
Shinji's jaw dropped, as did pen pens as they both saw the sight in front of them. Asuka was wearing a beautiful red dress with matching red high heels. The dress it self showed a bit of cleavage, but not as much as Misato's. Her hair was the same as always and the clips where still in place, but it seemed as though it was sparkling somehow. Also Shinji noticed, stuck behind her left ear, was the rose Shinji had bought her.
"Well Shinji at least you look decent" she said with a smile, but still in the same arrogant tone she always had.
"And Misato..... are you sure you'll be allowed to wear that dress?"
Misato laughed "of course, and you look very elegant Asuka, a real lady!"
"Why thank you, although I dont hear any praise from the baka here!"
Shinji simply stared, she looked stunning! He was literally lost for words!
"Ugh pervert....." she said "So Misato are we going to leave now?"
"If you two are ready," replied Misato.
The trio walked out the door, Shinji still in shock as he walked. Pen Pen sighed, well he was a penguin so it was more like a soft, slow sqwark. 'But now' he thought to himself 'at least I can take Misato's beer.' ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
The limo ride to the hall was, well, interesting. Asuka kept on making comments about Shinji, all of which were critical. Misato was helping herself to the drinks that came with the limo. Shinji simply sat and took Asuka's abuse as usual, saying sorry when she took a breath.
Soon, far too soon for Shinji's liking, the limo stopped. The trio exited through the doors and looked up at the hall. Like all the buildings in Tokyo-3 it was reinforced with steel, and simply looked like a squalid hunk of square metal driven into the ground. But it was probably very beautiful on the inside; after all if Nerv had hired it, it was most likely the best you could get.
"Well baka!" said Asuka taking his arm in hers "time to let you see the great Asuka Langley Soryhu dance these English men away!"
Shinji was dragged along towards the door and saw Misato laughing at them. He managed to yell out "Aren't you coming?" But he never heard the answer.
They entered what appeared to be the lobby. It had a deep red carpet, and the walls where brightly polished marble. Marble pillars also ran up the middle of the room, which gave it a sense of a walkway.
A large group of people where standing around the lobby. Shinji didn't really know who many of them where, he figured that they probably worked in the political department. Shinji of course was in the defence department, and had met the security department on not the best of terms.
He recognised Hyuga standing next to a pretty young lady, far too pretty for a computer geek like Hyuga. She was all smiles and held his arm very tightly all the time. Hyuga was always stealing glances at her, but seemed nervous to make a move. Shinji was confused, why would he be nervous if she agreed to be here with him. He shrugged and saw some other people he knew.
Makoto was standing back from the crowd just watching the scene, risking a perve when he could. Shinji moved his gaze to Maya, who was looking a little downtrodden and kept throwing glances at a small group of people in the other side of the hall. Following her gaze he saw a sight that sucked the spine right out of him.
His father was standing next to Ritsuko, their arms linked. This surprised Shinji, Ritsuko! He took a bit to accept what was in front of him, and noticed that Rei was standing next to his father, looking at the wall blankly. They were talking to a group of men who didn't look Japanese so he presumed they where the ambassadors.
Before Shinji could get a closer look though he heard a bell chime and the crowd of people started to move towards two great oaken doors at the end of the lobby.
"C'mon baka!" hissed Asuka and Shinji fell into line. He followed Asuka towards the doors, and as they opened up he surveyed the grand hall in front of them.
The middle of the hall was empty, with a large semi circle of chairs closest to the crowd. Two large staircases filled the rest of the circle around the dance floor (which was what Shinji presumed it was) and they led to a large balcony over hanging the dance floor, the stairways on either side. There was a large arch window that lead to an outside balcony. A full moon shone through the large window.
Under the Balcony was a stage, which had a classical band setting up, and to its side was a bar.
"They really went over the top this time......" came a whisper that made Shinji jump.
Misato giggled as Shinji composed himself and glared at her. "Sorry kid" she said with a grin. She stood arm in arm with Kaji.
"Hi Mister Kaji" said Shinji meekly and Kaji grinned his own lady killer smile back at him.
"Hey Shinji, so I see we both got here with the girls of our dreams?"
Asuka and Misato fumed and said at once "I'm only with this jerk because they made me do it."
"That's not what you said last night Mi-Chan..." trailed Kaji
"WHY YOU LITTLE BAST.......!" She nearly finished but Shinji nudged her sharply. "Misato the ambassadors!"
Misato deflated as she saw a few ambassadors look at her disapprovingly. She fumed and Shinji swore he heard her mutter something about getting her own back.
They where beckoned to their tables and Shinji sat down quietly. He was offered some wine but he refused. Asuka on the other hand grabbed it off the waiter and gulped it down quickly.
"You've been hanging around Misato too much Asuka" said Kaji.
Asuka beamed at Kaji and Shinji felt a sudden lurch in his stomach, even though she was here with him she still wanted to rub up into Kaji.
The table they where on was not as big as the other tables, but right up the front. It had a card in the centre that read OPERATIVE DEFENSE DEPARTMENT, with their names on their own respective cards.
Shinji noticed that Rei's seat was empty, and that the seat next to hers was unmarked. For about 15 minuets people talked and drunk among themselves as the band set up. Misato drank more then others, having now finished one bottle and demanding another a little too loudly. Kaji was trying to calm her, making nervous glances at the table where the English ambassadors sat. They seemed to have deemed Misato a problem and followed her with their eyes, each with a look of disapproval.
Then one of the microphones came to life and a cough brought everyone's attention onto the stage. Fuyutski stood and coughed once more to make sure everyone was listening.
"Ladies and gentleman of Nerv, I would like to welcome you all to the first annual Nerv ball. I am sure that you all would like to welcome our friends from the British branch to our country, and I trust you will make tonight a lovely evening for not only them but yourselves."
There was a small clap, Fuyutski voice was very rehearsed as though he didn't mean any of this.
"And now I would like to hand the stage to Mr. Gendou Ikari."
Gendou walked up to the mike and Fuyutski left the stage and sat down.
"Ladies and Gentleman, I would like you all to welcome the newest addition to our defence force, Billy O'Neil"
Gendou's voice was cold and deadly, it took a while for anyone to clap.
The boy who walked on stage was a very strange boy indeed. He had a head of light brown hair, that fell across his face in a shaggy mop. His skin was deathly pale, and his eyes a bright and piercing blue. He was handsome, and had slight stubble much like Kaji's. He was very tall, much taller then Shinji or Asuka, and stood about 3 inches taller then Fuyutski, making him a giant.
He was wearing a black suit, but his top button was undone and he had a golden cross that hung around his neck. He never stopped smirking.
"Hello" he said to the crowed "I am very pleased to meet you all."
Shinji noticed that his Japanese was very good, but his natural heavy Irish accent seemed to garble a few words.
"I would like to thank you all for this wonderful dance you have assembled for us, and I hope we all become good friends."
He stopped there and walked away. Once again the applause was not very enthusiastic. Gendou approached the Microphone.
"And now I would like you to stand for Miss Ayanami."
Shinji's mouth fell open as he saw Rei. She was stunning. Her dark blue dress matched her hair perfectly and it hugged her curves very generously. She had a diamond necklace around her neck and her ears where donned with diamond studs.
She approached Billy and held out her hand. Billy took it and they both walked out onto the dance floor. The band began a slow, but very beautiful waltz, and Rei and the boy began to dance.
Billy had a smile on his face, but Rei simply stared over his shoulder, not really interested.
After a while other people started to dance and Shinji found himself dragged out as well.
"Ok Baka lets go," said Asuka "and don't screw up!"
Shinji nodded and they began to move in circles together.
"Hold me tighter moron!" she hissed at him and Shinji obediently did so, but a slight blush was creeping up into his face as he felt Asuka press against him.
Asuka though was watching Kaji and Misato as the not so slightly drunk major laughed at one of Kaji's jokes. They where dancing and looked very happy. Asuka scowled, and turned her attention back onto Shinji, who was sweating under the pressure that if he screwed up Asuka would kill him.
But he didn't screw up, and after about half an hour Asuka got bored of dancing soon. She stalked away and latched her self to Kaji, who was helping a very drunk Misato walk to the bar. Shinji frowned as Asuka hugged him around the waist, and the tug in his gut was getting stronger.
About an hour later of watching Asuka and Kaji dance, Kaji not so enthusiastically Shinji decided he needed to get some fresh air. He walked up the stairs and briskly out to the outside balcony. He was the only one out here. There where no tables as he had expected, and below him the city was silent. He had no idea what time it was, but decided it must be getting quite late.
He leaned against the rail and sighed deeply. This wasn't going too well. Asuka was ignoring him, Misato was drunk and now he was totally alone.
"Hey there" came a call.
Shinji turned around to find Billy holding his hand up to him.
Shinji shook it lightly; the other boys grip was like a vice on his hand.
"Hi" said Shinji meekly.
"Want some company?" asked Billy in his strange accent.
"I don't mind."
Billy leaned against the rail next to him and took out a box of cigarettes. Sparking one up he noticed that Shinji was looking at him very strangely.
"What?" he asked "you want one."
He offered the box up too Shinji but he refused.
"suit yourself, what's the problem?"
"Nothing..." said Shinji and he looked back over the city.
"So you're the pilot of Unit 01" said Billy "the legendary Shinji Ikari in the flesh."
Shinji blushed and shook his head "I'm not legendary..."
"Are you kidding me, according to what they told me back at home you're the only person who is nearly as good as me."
Now it was Shinji's turn to look puzzled. "As good as you?"
"That's right" said Billy, taking a puff of his cigarette "I don't like to boast but I'd bet anything that in those giant tin cans we pilot I could wipe the floor with ya."
Shinji didn't say anything, he heard this everyday from Asuka. He turned back and walked into the hall. All he could think about was how strange the boy was. He was proud, but not arrogant, not quite Asuka, but not quite himself. He shook his head and cleared all his thoughts.
Billy walked side him, still grinning. He leaned over to Shinji.
"That red head here with you?" he asked.
"Not really..." trailed Shinji and he sat down at his table.
Billy took the seat next to him.
"Well if I was you..." he started but a waiter walked over and asked if he would like some wine. Billy took the bottle and got a glare from the waiter. He glared back and the waiter promptly left, obviously ruffled. Billy put his feet on the table and began talking again.
"As I was saying, if I was you," he took a swig of the wine bottle "I'd go and kick the shit outta the guy dancing with her."
Shinji looked at the boy with shock on his face.
"What?" said Billy, honestly not knowing what he had said wrong.
Shinji shook his head and looked over at Rei, who was simply sitting by herself. Billy followed his line of vision and he grinned. Shinji wasn't looking but if he had he would have noticed one of his teeth was missing.
"You like that one hey?" he asked Shinji "go and talk to her then."
Shinji startled a bit then looked at Billy with a heavy blush.
"I......I.......Cant......" he stammered.
Billy seemed to think for a second then inspiration seemed to dawn on him. Smiling like a moron he patted Shinji on the back.
"Here," he said to Shinji handing him the wine bottle "take three quick slugs of this, then wait ten seconds, then take three more gulps. Keep doing that until she walks up too you."
He walked over to Rei and began talking to her. Shinji looked down at the wine bottle, made a nervous glance around, and then started the pattern of drinking. After he repeated the system four times he heard a soft voice speaking to him.
"Ikari" said Rei "Pilot O'Neil said you wish to dance with me."
Shinji looked up, but the wine had given him an inner confidence he never thought possible.
Taking Rei's hand they walked over to the dance floor, Shinji slightly overbalanced, and held each other.
Shinji looked over his shoulder and saw Billy raise the botle in a silent toast. He walked into the crowd and Shinji shouted (just a tad too loud) "Where are you going?"
Billy turned and looked to either side of him.
"To pick a fight!" he shouted back
He laughed loudly at his own joke then half walked half bounced into the crowd.
Shinji looked back down at Rei, and he found she was looking directly at him. Blushing heavily he tried to look away but found his eyes drawn to hers.
"Ikari" she whispered
"y-y-yes Rei?" he stuttered back
"When you are around me, I feel slightly happier then normal, is this natural?"
Shinji nearly gaped, this was golden coming from Rei. Why was she saying this? In truth Rei wasn't sure what she was saying, but subtly wasn't ever Rei's strong point, she always told it as it was.
"Sometimes when people are close they feel a certain feeling, its what good friends share."
Rei looked at him with a slight look of confusion, which from Rei was as good as kissing him madly.
"Then we are good friend's?" she asked.
"Well I wouldn't say that" said Shinji, the wine taking its hold again, "good friends need to spend lots of time together."
"We sped a lot of time at Nerv together, so we are good friends" said Rei matter of factly.
"I mean outside of work" said Shinji.
"So you and Pilot Soryhu are good friends?"
Shinji nearly laughed.
"Me and Asuka are not good friends, she hates me."
"I see..." said Rei then she looked back into Shinji's eyes.
"I would like to spend more time with you Ikari, will you come over to my place tomorrow?"
Shinji nearly collapsed, he was sure that he was having a stroke. C'mon Shinji his brain said, come back to reality.
"S-S-Sure" he managed to get out.
"Good" said Rei "and now I think you should go and tend to Miss Katsuragi before she hurts her self."
Shinji only noticed then that the whole time they had been dancing, his body firmly against Rei's. He started to blush again, but turned quickly to see what the fuss was about.
Misato was slumped on the table, dribble pouring from her open mouth, mumbling something. An empty bottle of wine was in her hand.
Shinji quickly let go of Rei and helped Misato up, Kaji came by and put her on his back.
"You kids don't mind if you walk home tonight." he said still smiling "I need to get her home quickly."
Shinji shook his head "that's ok Mister Kaji" he said.
"Thanks Shinji," he said "and call me Kaji from now on."
Kaji left with Misato draped over his back and Shinji sat down again. What a night! Then he remembered, he had a date with Rei! Well not really a date but still, he wondered what time he should show up. He looked around the floor to ask her but she was gone, he had no idea where too though. Sitting back in his chair he noticed that the wine was still in effect. He closed his eyes and sighed, maybe tonight wasn't so bad after all.
Across the hall, where Shinji couldn't see her Asuka was fuming.
'How dare he dance with that doll! He came here with me! He is in for it!'
She continued fuming as she saw Shinji falling asleep, what a dick!
She stormed over and grabbed him sharply by the ear.
"Shinji you baka!" she nearly shouted "wake up we're leaving."
Shinji was startled and he felt himself being pulled quite painfully down the hall. Getting his senses back he noticed that Asuka was dragging him, and she looked pissed! He was in for it.....
Billy noticed the duo leaving. He grabbed another bottle of wine and left his at the bar. He opened it as he strode briskly out, following the two teenagers.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY ALREADY LEFT!"
Asuka was nearly exploding as Shinji explained that Kaji had taken Misato home in the limo. Billy was simply smirking at the whole predicament.
"ARRRGG THAT STUPID DRUNK!" screamed Asuka "SHE ALWAYS RUINS EVERYTHING!"
Shinji kept his head low, and then noticed Billy walk by.
"Where are you going!" snapped Asuka to the boys retreating back.
"well your place" he said calmly "you want to show me where it is so I don't walk around lost all night."
He waited for Shinji and Asuka to catch up and the trio started to walk, Asuka mumbling very harshly under her breath.
"What's wrong with you?" said Billy to the red head and she simply threw him a glare. Billy smiled ever broader.
Shinji noticed the missing tooth and decided now was as good a time as any.
"Where did you lose that tooth?"
Billy smiled, Shinji noticed he did that a lot.
"Street fight, took a bat to the face but the bastard got his own. I broke his nose and his arm in three places"
Shinji went silent, he had seen street fights at school, they weren't pretty.
Asuka mumbled something, and Shinji swore it was "fucking Irish" Billy paid no attention to it though and the trio walked home quietly. Shinji reflected on the night as Billy lit up another cigarette, it had been an eventful night........
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A/N
Aha my young readers, thought you got rid of me didn't you. As you can tell this story is dying quickly, but its ok, it will pick up soon. The new pilot has arrived and next is the synch tests, also, Rei and Shinji's date, well sorta. I know she was very out of character but in the story line this is where her and Shinji start to gravitate towards each other. But what of Asuka I hear you ask? Well you will just have to find out. And no this is not another THE ONE I LOVE IS...... copy, believe me. Not even im low enough to rip off and tarnish such a legendary story.
Any who the next chapter should be up soon, sorry for the delays but you know.....uh.....look a unicorn!
FIN
A/N:
Ah my brothers (and sisters, or whatever) so you have once again returned to my fic. By now you are probably agreeing that it is the greatest fic ever to be made by human kind. So when I have finished it I must ask you to gouge out your eyes so that you may never see it again, and cut of your tongue so that you may not even speak of its magnificence. But apparently we live in a democracy now, so I cant MAKE you do anything. But if you would it would be really nice!
Any way all of you can probably tell where this fic is going, but I just purchased all the Evangelion episodes, so if I've made any mistakes thus far no more will occur, and if they do then blame it on Eskimo's. No seriously, they're trying to take over our world!
Uh...any who im just going to be quite now and start typing, it is getting far too late and my eye hurts from the computers glow. Read and enjoy, and review for Christ's sake!
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Chapter 3: The Ball
Shinji slumped down into his chair at the table and sighed a deep sigh. Why was his life so hard? He had just spent the last night trying to find a suit to wear, finally finding one that would fit, and then falling asleep on the couch. Because of this he ended up missing the alarm and breakfast (god forbid) and was kicked down the road by Asuka into school.
Asuka was no picnic either. She had done nothing but complain about the dance and the fact that she was partnered with him. This hurt Shinji; He didn't mind being partnered with Asuka at all. But she seemed to be convinced that when they had to dance he would screw it up and step on her feet. He had taken basic dancing lessons when he was young, so he wasn't going to screw it up. He wasn't a good dancer though, and Asuka would try to show him up as usual. He really didn't mind though.
"You see buddy" said Touji through a mouthful of food "guys at shin-digs like this aren't meant to have fun. These things where built by the women kind and your just an accessory to show off. It's your job to say things when she wants to hear them, and to be quiet most of the time. Let her have her fun and you'll cruise through with no trouble!"
This bit of wisdom was surprising coming from Touji, but Shinji saw some truth in it. Why else would they get so dolled up to see a bunch of business men kiss each others ass's, as Kensuke had so kindly put it. Touji snapped him back to the present
"So Shinji my man, you getting her a gift or anything?"
"Wha-?" said Shinji.
"You know man, flowers or something! Chick stuff!"
"Oh" replied Shinji "No, I dont think Asuka would like something like that from me....."
"Believe me buddy, she will. I mean you have a point she is a psycho bitch, but she is still a girl. One with serious PMS problems that is"
Shinji smiled a little and thought about what he could buy Asuka. She would hate chocolate, and anything expensive would make her even madder. He settled on buying her a rose, yeah she would like that. Right?
Shinji ate in silence as he thought of the best way to present this gift. It would have to be perfect timing. Unfortunately Shinji didn't have much experience with the female variety, so his mind was working over time. He finished his lunch and went back inside. Time to start another boring period.
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Shinji walked home alone today. Asuka had gone home early to get ready for the ball. Who would have thought three days could have just drifted by like that. He decided now would be a good time to buy Asuka her flower. He knew a place on the way, and also knew it was cheap.
As he entered the store and pulled out his wallet, he realised how little money he had. To him this was confusing, didn't he save the world on a regular basis. I mean he should at LEAST get paid for it. Deciding to leave this for later, he asked the old man at the counter for one red rose.
"I know you" said the man as he went and got the flower from its bunch "your one of those pilots yeah?"
Shinji nodded and handed him the Yen.
"Well who ever this is for, im sure she's very lucky my boy" grinned the old man as he took the money and put it in the register. "Tell you what, take this as well. It's the least I owe you for saving all our lives."
He handed him a small package and smiled a little. Shinji thanked him and left.
Opening the package he found it contained a small bottle of perfume. He sniffed it. It smelled like flowers, very pretty and sweet scented flowers. It was totally clear and didn't say what the ingredients where. He shrugged and put it in his pocket, and began to walk home.
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Shinji opened the apartment door and was greeted by Pen Pen. The bird looked up at him and squawked, pointing to the fridge.
"So no one fed you this morning hey?" said Shinji softly "ok then....."
Shinji walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge. Taking the flower out from under his shirt and resting it on the table, he opened the can of tuna. He leant over to put it in the bowl but Pen Pen snatched it from his hand and started gorging himself.
Shinji shrugged and left the Penguin to his own devices. Turning down the hall he doubled back for the flower. He didn't know whether to give it to Asuka now. Running water in the bathroom meant she was still freshening up, and Shinji thought he might as well get it over with.
He walked up to the door and knocked lightly.
"Yes Third Child!" came an irritated reply.
"Um I...uh I...bought you something for tonight...um I'll just leave it by the door ok?"
All he got was a grunt, so he put down the flower and package and went into his room to change.
He heard the bathroom door opening and shutting and presumed that Asuka had accepted the gift. He went back to getting changed.
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It took only ten minuets for Shinji to get changed, and he decided he would have to wear some fresh deodorant so as not to displease his partner. He walked down the hall and found the bathroom free. So he walked in and opened the mirror door. Inside he found some men's cologne that he had owned but never really used much. After applying that around his neck he used some deodorant on his armpits and chest. Sniffing himself he decided he smelt decent enough to go.
Walking out into the lounge room he sat down on the couch. The suit he was wearing was what the majority of the male body would have on. A black jacket and black pants, with a white t-shirt underneath. He didn't have a bowtie as Misato had suggested, mainly because he had no idea how to put one on. That and black formal shoes and his outfit was complete.
He glanced at his watch. It was 9:30; the ball would start in half an hour. How Asuka could take so long was beyond him. Misato had been at work today but apparently would be changing there then picking them up. If she took as long as Asuka did then the ball would be over before they even got there.
After about fifteen minuets of waiting Shinji heard the door open. Perking up his head he looked in the direction of the door and saw Misato walk quickly in. She was wearing that same black dress, the one that hugged her body very well. It also showed a fair bit of cleavage and Shinji tried not to blush.
"Oh hey Shinji!" said Misato as she sat down on the couch next to him "my don't you look handsome!"
Shinji blushed even harder and muttered a soft "thankyou".
"Oooo are you embarrassed Shin-kun?" teased Misato "well you should know if I didn't all ready have a date then I reckon I'd dance with you in a second if you look like that!"
"Misato!" Shinji blurted as he went a shade of red unknown to mankind.
Misato laughed and switched on the T.V. A soppy show lit up the screen and Shinji started watching, only half interested. Then they heard the door opening. Asuka briskly walked out.
Shinji's jaw dropped, as did pen pens as they both saw the sight in front of them. Asuka was wearing a beautiful red dress with matching red high heels. The dress it self showed a bit of cleavage, but not as much as Misato's. Her hair was the same as always and the clips where still in place, but it seemed as though it was sparkling somehow. Also Shinji noticed, stuck behind her left ear, was the rose Shinji had bought her.
"Well Shinji at least you look decent" she said with a smile, but still in the same arrogant tone she always had.
"And Misato..... are you sure you'll be allowed to wear that dress?"
Misato laughed "of course, and you look very elegant Asuka, a real lady!"
"Why thank you, although I dont hear any praise from the baka here!"
Shinji simply stared, she looked stunning! He was literally lost for words!
"Ugh pervert....." she said "So Misato are we going to leave now?"
"If you two are ready," replied Misato.
The trio walked out the door, Shinji still in shock as he walked. Pen Pen sighed, well he was a penguin so it was more like a soft, slow sqwark. 'But now' he thought to himself 'at least I can take Misato's beer.' ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------
The limo ride to the hall was, well, interesting. Asuka kept on making comments about Shinji, all of which were critical. Misato was helping herself to the drinks that came with the limo. Shinji simply sat and took Asuka's abuse as usual, saying sorry when she took a breath.
Soon, far too soon for Shinji's liking, the limo stopped. The trio exited through the doors and looked up at the hall. Like all the buildings in Tokyo-3 it was reinforced with steel, and simply looked like a squalid hunk of square metal driven into the ground. But it was probably very beautiful on the inside; after all if Nerv had hired it, it was most likely the best you could get.
"Well baka!" said Asuka taking his arm in hers "time to let you see the great Asuka Langley Soryhu dance these English men away!"
Shinji was dragged along towards the door and saw Misato laughing at them. He managed to yell out "Aren't you coming?" But he never heard the answer.
They entered what appeared to be the lobby. It had a deep red carpet, and the walls where brightly polished marble. Marble pillars also ran up the middle of the room, which gave it a sense of a walkway.
A large group of people where standing around the lobby. Shinji didn't really know who many of them where, he figured that they probably worked in the political department. Shinji of course was in the defence department, and had met the security department on not the best of terms.
He recognised Hyuga standing next to a pretty young lady, far too pretty for a computer geek like Hyuga. She was all smiles and held his arm very tightly all the time. Hyuga was always stealing glances at her, but seemed nervous to make a move. Shinji was confused, why would he be nervous if she agreed to be here with him. He shrugged and saw some other people he knew.
Makoto was standing back from the crowd just watching the scene, risking a perve when he could. Shinji moved his gaze to Maya, who was looking a little downtrodden and kept throwing glances at a small group of people in the other side of the hall. Following her gaze he saw a sight that sucked the spine right out of him.
His father was standing next to Ritsuko, their arms linked. This surprised Shinji, Ritsuko! He took a bit to accept what was in front of him, and noticed that Rei was standing next to his father, looking at the wall blankly. They were talking to a group of men who didn't look Japanese so he presumed they where the ambassadors.
Before Shinji could get a closer look though he heard a bell chime and the crowd of people started to move towards two great oaken doors at the end of the lobby.
"C'mon baka!" hissed Asuka and Shinji fell into line. He followed Asuka towards the doors, and as they opened up he surveyed the grand hall in front of them.
The middle of the hall was empty, with a large semi circle of chairs closest to the crowd. Two large staircases filled the rest of the circle around the dance floor (which was what Shinji presumed it was) and they led to a large balcony over hanging the dance floor, the stairways on either side. There was a large arch window that lead to an outside balcony. A full moon shone through the large window.
Under the Balcony was a stage, which had a classical band setting up, and to its side was a bar.
"They really went over the top this time......" came a whisper that made Shinji jump.
Misato giggled as Shinji composed himself and glared at her. "Sorry kid" she said with a grin. She stood arm in arm with Kaji.
"Hi Mister Kaji" said Shinji meekly and Kaji grinned his own lady killer smile back at him.
"Hey Shinji, so I see we both got here with the girls of our dreams?"
Asuka and Misato fumed and said at once "I'm only with this jerk because they made me do it."
"That's not what you said last night Mi-Chan..." trailed Kaji
"WHY YOU LITTLE BAST.......!" She nearly finished but Shinji nudged her sharply. "Misato the ambassadors!"
Misato deflated as she saw a few ambassadors look at her disapprovingly. She fumed and Shinji swore he heard her mutter something about getting her own back.
They where beckoned to their tables and Shinji sat down quietly. He was offered some wine but he refused. Asuka on the other hand grabbed it off the waiter and gulped it down quickly.
"You've been hanging around Misato too much Asuka" said Kaji.
Asuka beamed at Kaji and Shinji felt a sudden lurch in his stomach, even though she was here with him she still wanted to rub up into Kaji.
The table they where on was not as big as the other tables, but right up the front. It had a card in the centre that read OPERATIVE DEFENSE DEPARTMENT, with their names on their own respective cards.
Shinji noticed that Rei's seat was empty, and that the seat next to hers was unmarked. For about 15 minuets people talked and drunk among themselves as the band set up. Misato drank more then others, having now finished one bottle and demanding another a little too loudly. Kaji was trying to calm her, making nervous glances at the table where the English ambassadors sat. They seemed to have deemed Misato a problem and followed her with their eyes, each with a look of disapproval.
Then one of the microphones came to life and a cough brought everyone's attention onto the stage. Fuyutski stood and coughed once more to make sure everyone was listening.
"Ladies and gentleman of Nerv, I would like to welcome you all to the first annual Nerv ball. I am sure that you all would like to welcome our friends from the British branch to our country, and I trust you will make tonight a lovely evening for not only them but yourselves."
There was a small clap, Fuyutski voice was very rehearsed as though he didn't mean any of this.
"And now I would like to hand the stage to Mr. Gendou Ikari."
Gendou walked up to the mike and Fuyutski left the stage and sat down.
"Ladies and Gentleman, I would like you all to welcome the newest addition to our defence force, Billy O'Neil"
Gendou's voice was cold and deadly, it took a while for anyone to clap.
The boy who walked on stage was a very strange boy indeed. He had a head of light brown hair, that fell across his face in a shaggy mop. His skin was deathly pale, and his eyes a bright and piercing blue. He was handsome, and had slight stubble much like Kaji's. He was very tall, much taller then Shinji or Asuka, and stood about 3 inches taller then Fuyutski, making him a giant.
He was wearing a black suit, but his top button was undone and he had a golden cross that hung around his neck. He never stopped smirking.
"Hello" he said to the crowed "I am very pleased to meet you all."
Shinji noticed that his Japanese was very good, but his natural heavy Irish accent seemed to garble a few words.
"I would like to thank you all for this wonderful dance you have assembled for us, and I hope we all become good friends."
He stopped there and walked away. Once again the applause was not very enthusiastic. Gendou approached the Microphone.
"And now I would like you to stand for Miss Ayanami."
Shinji's mouth fell open as he saw Rei. She was stunning. Her dark blue dress matched her hair perfectly and it hugged her curves very generously. She had a diamond necklace around her neck and her ears where donned with diamond studs.
She approached Billy and held out her hand. Billy took it and they both walked out onto the dance floor. The band began a slow, but very beautiful waltz, and Rei and the boy began to dance.
Billy had a smile on his face, but Rei simply stared over his shoulder, not really interested.
After a while other people started to dance and Shinji found himself dragged out as well.
"Ok Baka lets go," said Asuka "and don't screw up!"
Shinji nodded and they began to move in circles together.
"Hold me tighter moron!" she hissed at him and Shinji obediently did so, but a slight blush was creeping up into his face as he felt Asuka press against him.
Asuka though was watching Kaji and Misato as the not so slightly drunk major laughed at one of Kaji's jokes. They where dancing and looked very happy. Asuka scowled, and turned her attention back onto Shinji, who was sweating under the pressure that if he screwed up Asuka would kill him.
But he didn't screw up, and after about half an hour Asuka got bored of dancing soon. She stalked away and latched her self to Kaji, who was helping a very drunk Misato walk to the bar. Shinji frowned as Asuka hugged him around the waist, and the tug in his gut was getting stronger.
About an hour later of watching Asuka and Kaji dance, Kaji not so enthusiastically Shinji decided he needed to get some fresh air. He walked up the stairs and briskly out to the outside balcony. He was the only one out here. There where no tables as he had expected, and below him the city was silent. He had no idea what time it was, but decided it must be getting quite late.
He leaned against the rail and sighed deeply. This wasn't going too well. Asuka was ignoring him, Misato was drunk and now he was totally alone.
"Hey there" came a call.
Shinji turned around to find Billy holding his hand up to him.
Shinji shook it lightly; the other boys grip was like a vice on his hand.
"Hi" said Shinji meekly.
"Want some company?" asked Billy in his strange accent.
"I don't mind."
Billy leaned against the rail next to him and took out a box of cigarettes. Sparking one up he noticed that Shinji was looking at him very strangely.
"What?" he asked "you want one."
He offered the box up too Shinji but he refused.
"suit yourself, what's the problem?"
"Nothing..." said Shinji and he looked back over the city.
"So you're the pilot of Unit 01" said Billy "the legendary Shinji Ikari in the flesh."
Shinji blushed and shook his head "I'm not legendary..."
"Are you kidding me, according to what they told me back at home you're the only person who is nearly as good as me."
Now it was Shinji's turn to look puzzled. "As good as you?"
"That's right" said Billy, taking a puff of his cigarette "I don't like to boast but I'd bet anything that in those giant tin cans we pilot I could wipe the floor with ya."
Shinji didn't say anything, he heard this everyday from Asuka. He turned back and walked into the hall. All he could think about was how strange the boy was. He was proud, but not arrogant, not quite Asuka, but not quite himself. He shook his head and cleared all his thoughts.
Billy walked side him, still grinning. He leaned over to Shinji.
"That red head here with you?" he asked.
"Not really..." trailed Shinji and he sat down at his table.
Billy took the seat next to him.
"Well if I was you..." he started but a waiter walked over and asked if he would like some wine. Billy took the bottle and got a glare from the waiter. He glared back and the waiter promptly left, obviously ruffled. Billy put his feet on the table and began talking again.
"As I was saying, if I was you," he took a swig of the wine bottle "I'd go and kick the shit outta the guy dancing with her."
Shinji looked at the boy with shock on his face.
"What?" said Billy, honestly not knowing what he had said wrong.
Shinji shook his head and looked over at Rei, who was simply sitting by herself. Billy followed his line of vision and he grinned. Shinji wasn't looking but if he had he would have noticed one of his teeth was missing.
"You like that one hey?" he asked Shinji "go and talk to her then."
Shinji startled a bit then looked at Billy with a heavy blush.
"I......I.......Cant......" he stammered.
Billy seemed to think for a second then inspiration seemed to dawn on him. Smiling like a moron he patted Shinji on the back.
"Here," he said to Shinji handing him the wine bottle "take three quick slugs of this, then wait ten seconds, then take three more gulps. Keep doing that until she walks up too you."
He walked over to Rei and began talking to her. Shinji looked down at the wine bottle, made a nervous glance around, and then started the pattern of drinking. After he repeated the system four times he heard a soft voice speaking to him.
"Ikari" said Rei "Pilot O'Neil said you wish to dance with me."
Shinji looked up, but the wine had given him an inner confidence he never thought possible.
Taking Rei's hand they walked over to the dance floor, Shinji slightly overbalanced, and held each other.
Shinji looked over his shoulder and saw Billy raise the botle in a silent toast. He walked into the crowd and Shinji shouted (just a tad too loud) "Where are you going?"
Billy turned and looked to either side of him.
"To pick a fight!" he shouted back
He laughed loudly at his own joke then half walked half bounced into the crowd.
Shinji looked back down at Rei, and he found she was looking directly at him. Blushing heavily he tried to look away but found his eyes drawn to hers.
"Ikari" she whispered
"y-y-yes Rei?" he stuttered back
"When you are around me, I feel slightly happier then normal, is this natural?"
Shinji nearly gaped, this was golden coming from Rei. Why was she saying this? In truth Rei wasn't sure what she was saying, but subtly wasn't ever Rei's strong point, she always told it as it was.
"Sometimes when people are close they feel a certain feeling, its what good friends share."
Rei looked at him with a slight look of confusion, which from Rei was as good as kissing him madly.
"Then we are good friend's?" she asked.
"Well I wouldn't say that" said Shinji, the wine taking its hold again, "good friends need to spend lots of time together."
"We sped a lot of time at Nerv together, so we are good friends" said Rei matter of factly.
"I mean outside of work" said Shinji.
"So you and Pilot Soryhu are good friends?"
Shinji nearly laughed.
"Me and Asuka are not good friends, she hates me."
"I see..." said Rei then she looked back into Shinji's eyes.
"I would like to spend more time with you Ikari, will you come over to my place tomorrow?"
Shinji nearly collapsed, he was sure that he was having a stroke. C'mon Shinji his brain said, come back to reality.
"S-S-Sure" he managed to get out.
"Good" said Rei "and now I think you should go and tend to Miss Katsuragi before she hurts her self."
Shinji only noticed then that the whole time they had been dancing, his body firmly against Rei's. He started to blush again, but turned quickly to see what the fuss was about.
Misato was slumped on the table, dribble pouring from her open mouth, mumbling something. An empty bottle of wine was in her hand.
Shinji quickly let go of Rei and helped Misato up, Kaji came by and put her on his back.
"You kids don't mind if you walk home tonight." he said still smiling "I need to get her home quickly."
Shinji shook his head "that's ok Mister Kaji" he said.
"Thanks Shinji," he said "and call me Kaji from now on."
Kaji left with Misato draped over his back and Shinji sat down again. What a night! Then he remembered, he had a date with Rei! Well not really a date but still, he wondered what time he should show up. He looked around the floor to ask her but she was gone, he had no idea where too though. Sitting back in his chair he noticed that the wine was still in effect. He closed his eyes and sighed, maybe tonight wasn't so bad after all.
Across the hall, where Shinji couldn't see her Asuka was fuming.
'How dare he dance with that doll! He came here with me! He is in for it!'
She continued fuming as she saw Shinji falling asleep, what a dick!
She stormed over and grabbed him sharply by the ear.
"Shinji you baka!" she nearly shouted "wake up we're leaving."
Shinji was startled and he felt himself being pulled quite painfully down the hall. Getting his senses back he noticed that Asuka was dragging him, and she looked pissed! He was in for it.....
Billy noticed the duo leaving. He grabbed another bottle of wine and left his at the bar. He opened it as he strode briskly out, following the two teenagers.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY ALREADY LEFT!"
Asuka was nearly exploding as Shinji explained that Kaji had taken Misato home in the limo. Billy was simply smirking at the whole predicament.
"ARRRGG THAT STUPID DRUNK!" screamed Asuka "SHE ALWAYS RUINS EVERYTHING!"
Shinji kept his head low, and then noticed Billy walk by.
"Where are you going!" snapped Asuka to the boys retreating back.
"well your place" he said calmly "you want to show me where it is so I don't walk around lost all night."
He waited for Shinji and Asuka to catch up and the trio started to walk, Asuka mumbling very harshly under her breath.
"What's wrong with you?" said Billy to the red head and she simply threw him a glare. Billy smiled ever broader.
Shinji noticed the missing tooth and decided now was as good a time as any.
"Where did you lose that tooth?"
Billy smiled, Shinji noticed he did that a lot.
"Street fight, took a bat to the face but the bastard got his own. I broke his nose and his arm in three places"
Shinji went silent, he had seen street fights at school, they weren't pretty.
Asuka mumbled something, and Shinji swore it was "fucking Irish" Billy paid no attention to it though and the trio walked home quietly. Shinji reflected on the night as Billy lit up another cigarette, it had been an eventful night........
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A/N
Aha my young readers, thought you got rid of me didn't you. As you can tell this story is dying quickly, but its ok, it will pick up soon. The new pilot has arrived and next is the synch tests, also, Rei and Shinji's date, well sorta. I know she was very out of character but in the story line this is where her and Shinji start to gravitate towards each other. But what of Asuka I hear you ask? Well you will just have to find out. And no this is not another THE ONE I LOVE IS...... copy, believe me. Not even im low enough to rip off and tarnish such a legendary story.
Any who the next chapter should be up soon, sorry for the delays but you know.....uh.....look a unicorn!
FIN