First Day For Everything
By CyberDracomon
Chapter 2 - Kari's POV
(Author's Note: As King of Takari, I hearby make my first royal order of business by introducing a new style of fanfic to and using Takari to bring it in! My Neo Trilogy was all about proving how original the oldest plots can be, but this time I prove how original I can be! Instead of deciding if this fic should be from TK or Kari's POV, I did both! Here's how it works, this chapter is Kari's point of view. If, however, you want to read TK's point of view, change to chapter 1 to read from his instead. This was originally an interactive story, but to comply with FF.N's new regulations regarding these styles of stories, I have changed to this format. Keep in mind the two are 15 in this story, making Tai, Matt and Sora 18, Mimi and Izzy 17, Joe 19 and Davis 15.)
Kari opened her eyes slowly, waking up from a wonderful dream where she finally got the nerve to tell TK how she felt about him. Too bad it was just a dream, though, she was starting high school today, so now it's more of a nightmare. She sat up in bed and looked at her alarm clock, seeing it was only 5:30, half an hour before she set it to wake her up. Kari laid back down to get another half hour of sleep, but found that the dream she had left a rush in her, keeping her perfectly awake. That was the only drawback to dreaming about TK, it was impossible to get back to sleep.
Kari forced herself out of her bed and moved to her closet, pulling out an outfit she had picked out the night before. She wanted her first day to leave an impression and already had everything set to go. Kari got dreaded, then made her way to the bathroom, checking and fixing her looks in front of the mirror. Once satisfied, she grabbed her backpack and headed to the door, taking one last look at the clock. It was only 6:20, giving her plenty of time to get to school. Kari was glad she could take her time, it gave her more time to ready herself. She left the apartment, being careful not to wake anyone with the door, then made her way to the elevator, starting her walk to the new school.
Outside the sun wasn't even up yet, leaving the street lamps as the only source of light for Kari to follow, but with so many it was no problem. She took her time walking, taking in how different things looked so early in the morning. Kari had hardly ever been up early enough to wake up and still see stars in the sky. She turned a corner and noticed a man with kind of long, dark blue hair and sporting glasses, walking toward the door of the building she was near, which was a small convenience store.
"Hi Joe!" Kari said to the man, recognizing him easily. Joe turned to look at Kari, quickly flashing a smile.
"Hi Kari." He returned. "Heading for your first day at your new school?" Kari nodded in response, also flashing a smile.
"Yup, and dreading every step." Kari kidded. "I thought you'd be heading for your medical school, though." Kari knew Joe was taking med school classes that started as early as her new school.
"I stop in here to grab stuff for lunch just about every morning." Joe explained. "To be honest if I ate the food they served, I'd need a real hospital." Kari couldn't help but laugh.
"Maybe I should try that, too." Kari said. "I'd love to stay and talk, but I want to get to the school fast so I can find out where all my classes are." Joe nodded, understanding.
"Well have fun then." Joe said. Kari gave him a slightly annoyed glance, making him smile nervously. "Well try to survive at least..." Kari smiled, then continued walking, waving goodbye to Joe as she went. After some more walking she realized where she was and that it wasn't too far from TK's house, in fact he should be on the same path as her going to school.
"I hope he's coming..." Kari said to herself. She had been hoping her and TK might be in the same classes, even counted on it. Her classes with TK were always her favorite. Still worried, she continued her walk, watching as the sun just started to emerge from the horizon.
After finding her other three classes and the lunch room, Kari made her way to her first class, quickly taking a seat in the middle of the classroom. She set her bookbag down beside her chair and glanced at the clock. It was 7 now and no sign of TK, making Kari worry more.
"We'll wait a few more minutes for stragglers to find the room." The female teacher in the front of the room announced. She looked young for a teacher, but still looked much like Kari expected. Kari took her eyes from the teacher and put them back to the clock. It was now 5 minutes past 7 and still no TK. They had the same first period class, she knew that, and it really wasn't like TK to be late. Just as Kari looked away from the clock someone burst into the classroom, panting loudly. Kari looked up and was relieved to see it was TK, who looked like he had been running for a while.
"I hope you don't make this an everyday scene." The teacher said. Kari was irritated to hear some laughs from the back of the classroom. "Please take a seat, we're waiting for the rest of the lost students to find their way here." Kari watched in hope that TK would spot her, which he easily did, walking down a row of desks until he took a seat in a desk next to Kari's.
"Running a little late?" Kari said jokingly. TK gave her a nervous smile, sending a chill through her spine. Even a nervous smile from him had that effect.
"Yeah, my alarm clock decided I needed to sleep half an hour longer." TK responded. Kari giggled before realizing he wasn't really joking. Kari watched as TK swung his head around the classroom, looking over the students, before returning his eyes to her. "Nobody else I know except you." Kari looked for herself, then nodded in agreement.
"Just you and me." She agreed. "Let me see your schedule, maybe we're in a few more classes." TK reached into his pocket and drew a goldenrod colored sheet of paper, the color of the class schedules. Kari pulled out her own and laid it on her desk, which TK also did.
"Wow, 3 out of 4 classes together." TK said. Kari was disappointed to see it wasn't a complete four, but it was more than she expected.
"Now if those classes don't include Davis I'll be happy with it." Kari joked, putting her schedule away. Davis's constant flirting had become even more constant and annoying recently, it was like an obsession to him. She wouldn't admit it but Kari was starting to get tired of it.
"Wait, you're taking art class?" TK said suddenly. Kari realized one of the classes that she had with TK was 4th quarter art class. "I never knew you could draw." Kari nervously smiled at TK, not quite sure what to say.
"Well I needed an elective, but it was either art or home economics." Kari explained. "I burn food just by looking at it so I had to take art." Most of the best electives were long since taken, leaving those two choices. Art was popular, too, but the class was so big it could afford to let TK and Kari in, as well.
"I guess everyone that's suppose to be here is here by now." The teacher said, looking at the class. "How about we get started?" This was what Kari dreaded, the beginning of it all. She pulled out a notepad and pencil, hoping it was all she needed.
The first three classes were a lot less painful than Kari expected, making them fly by and before she knew it she was walking with lunch with TK. She already knew where the lunchroom was from her early morning tour so she was a little ahead of TK, leading him there. The only part about this Kari didn't like was that she didn't get to see TK.
"I forgot, I have to find my locker." TK said suddenly. "Save me a seat in the lunch room and I'll meet you there, okay?" Kari smiled at him, almost forgetting TK didn't know his way around yet.
"No problem." She said, walking off down the hall. "I'll try to sit close to the door so you can spot me easier." She gave TK a quick wave before starting down the hallway to the lunch room, trying to remember if this was the right hall.
"Thanks." TK said just in time for Kari to hear. She didn't like walking without TK, but she knew he'd be along soon enough, all she had to do was find a seat at lunch. The lunch room was at the end of the hall, in easy view. Kari walked in and immediately caught a breeze of hot food in the air. She looked around the long lunch tables, hoping for one near the entrance, then spotted Yolei sitting at a nearby table. Kari walked over and took a seat in front of her, greeting her with a smile.
"Mind if I sit here?" Kari asked, not wanting to be rude. Yolei looked up from her lunch tray and returned the smile.
"Of course not." She responder. "So how's the first day so far?" Kari didn't expect to get the question so soon, then again Yolei never was one to hold back. Kari took a second to put her back pack onto the seat next to hers, reserving it for TK.
"Well no complaints yet." Kari answered. "I can tell my math class is going to be a pain, but that's nothing new." Kari looked around for TK, only to see dozens of kids she never saw before. She looked back at Yolei, who now sported a mischievous grin.
"So..." She started. "Nothing at all about TK?" Kari felt her heart stop cold. Yolei wasn't in either of her classes with TK, how could she know she had classes with TK?"
"...what do you mean?" Kari said nervously. Yolei's grin widened a bit, making Kari even more nervous.
"I have a friend in your second period who said you were sneaking looks at TK the entire 90 minutes. Kind of obvious that you've got a crush on him." Kari couldn't believe it, was she really being that obvious about it?
"Well..." Kari said. "Yeah, I do..." Yolei already knew something was up, Kari figured she might as well know everything.
"Ha, I knew it!" Yolei said loudly. Every one would have heard it if it wasn't already so loud. "I knew you had a crush on TK!" Kari hesitated, then shook her head.
"No, I don't have a crush on him..." Kari said. "...Yolei, I'm in love with him... I would have told him a long time ago if I wasn't so scared about what he would say or do..." Yolei was obviously stunned by the statement, then smiled when she recovered.
"A friend of mine had the same problem." Yolei explained. "She loved this guy for years but never had the guts to tell him. Eventually she couldn't contain it and did something all at once to show him how she felt. Maybe you should do the same thing, do something out of nowhere, get it all out in one action. You never know, it might work." Kari thought about it for a moment. It would be quick and show TK how she felt... but it was still a huge risk. She wasn't sure what to think or decide. Just then she heard footsteps behind her. Kari turned to see TK walking in, looking around for her.
"Get lost looking for your locker?" Kari joked. She quickly slid her book bag from the seat, letting it fall to the floor and letting TK sit down next to her.
"Nah, I had some Davis troubles." TK said. Kari didn't ask further, knowing what a nightmare Davis could be.
"So Kari." Yolei started suddenly. "Want to tell TK about our conversation now that he's here?" Kari felt her cheeks flare red at the request, making her just as nervous as before. Kari knew Yolei was just doing this to tease her, and unfortunately it was working.
"What conversation?" TK asked. He always was curious about such things, which only make Kari even more nervous. She couldn't believe all of this was happening.
"It's nothing, just girl talk, it would just bore you." Kari said, quickly making an excuse. She knew TK, though, she knew he wouldn't completely buy it.
"Well alright..." TK said, sounding disappointed. Kari let out a relieved sigh, glad he didn't go any farther. The rest of the half hour of lunch passed fast, but the whole time Kari couldn't get Yolei's words out of her head. Maybe she was right, maybe Kari needed to get it all out at once... Kari wasn't sure enough, though, letting the thought eat at the back of her mind.
Once lunch was over Kari walked with TK to their last class, art. The artroom was a large classroom, complete with hard floors and tables made to be easily cleaned no matter how messy they got. Kari and TK made their way to a table on one side of the classroom, taking seats at it. Kari looked around, taking in the atmosphere.
"So why didn't you take Phys Ed?" Kari asked, curious. "I'm surprised you aren't playing basketball right now in the gym." Kari didn't want to sound like she was complaining, but it was strange that TK wasn't in P.E. right now.
"All the P.E. classes were filled so I picked this instead." TK explained. "I'll have to be in basketball next semester." Kari gave TK a gentle smile, glad P.E. as so popular this year. "Why aren't you in photography?" He asked in return.
"It isn't being offered this semester." Kari quickly explained. "They want to put in a new dark room so I have to wait to take it. I thought art would be a good substitute until then, though." Kari always wondered what made artists paint and sketch such artworks, this was a chance to find out. Just then the teacher walked in. He looked like he was in his 40s, with silver white hair and a rough face, but there was also something kind about it that made him look like a real artist.
"Welcome to art class." He said, making sure the whole class could hear him. "I'm Mr. Owen and for the next 18 weeks we'll be stuck with each other, so let's try to get along, okay?" Kari laughed a little, along with most of the class. He seemed a lot more open than the other teachers she had met today. After a quick explanation of the class rules he pointed to a wall that had long tables along it, each with many art supplies on them, from large sheets of paper to paint supplies. "Since this is the first day and the rules say I have to give you some work, I want everyone to find a partner and grab a piece of paper and do anything you want at all, just draw some lines if that's all you feel like doing." Kari was surprised at the request, she had never heard of such a free range assignment before.
Before Kari could ask TK to be her partner, a boy from the nearest table had already come over and took a seat by her. Kari immediately noticed a hopeful look in his face, but also something in his eyes that made her kind of uncomfortable.
"Hi!" He quickly said. "Would you like to be my lab partner?" Kari couldn't believe it, he was asking like it was a privilege to work with him.
"Sorry, I've got a partner..." Kari said, half lying. The kid returned to his table as fast as he came over, easily discouraged by her words. She turned back to TK, only to find him with his head lowered on the table with a depressed look on his face. "TK?" Kari asked, confused. TK raised his head off the table, looking at her.
"Sorry, just a headache I guess." He said. Kari could tell that wasn't the real reason, but she didn't ask further. "I thought you were going to be his partner for a second." Kari smiled at him, trying to reassure him.
"I told him I already had a partner, so he ran off." She explained. TK looked a bit confused now. Kari had a quick idea and waited for him to ask about it.
"Who's your partner then?" TK asked, like Kari hoped he would. She gave him an even sweeter smile this time.
"Well if you can grab us the paints and a piece of paper I'm sure you'll guess." Kari said. TK caught onto the hint quick and immediately went to go get the supplies. She watched TK immediately grab a pair of brushes, a full pallet of paint and a large sheet of paper, then hauled it all back to the table, now sitting across from her. Kari actually preferred her new view of TK, though he looked a little nervous.
"I hope you've painted before." TK said. "Most I've ever done is the side of my uncle's house." Kari laughed a little before picking up one of the brushes. She looked at the pallet, studying the colors TK picked before dipping her brush into the pink paint.
"Relax." She said, trying to give him some confidence. "Just put the brush in the paint, then put it on the paper, don't worry about where it goes." With that Kari painted a quick shape of the crest of Light with the pink paint. She was about to paint another when a few drops of green paint flew at the paper in front of her, barely missing her and her crest.
"Oops, sorry." TK said nervously. "Guess I had to much paint on the brush." Kari smiled at TK, not giving it another thought. She returned to her painting, now trying to paint Gatomon. Before she even finished one claw something hit the end of the nose. Kari put her finger to it and looked at it, finding yellow paint on her finger. She looked up at TK, kind of annoyed, just in time for him to look up and meet her face.
"Okay, this is war..." Kari said, a mischievous smile crossing her lips. She globbed a lot of blue paint onto her brush, then splattered it on the paper, throwing drops of it at TK. He managed to block most with his hand, then did the same with a glob of red paint. Kari and TK traded splashes, with Kari turning her head to avoid flying paint, eventually feeling a large splash on her neck. Just then she saw Mr. Owen looking down at them. Kari dropped her brush immediately, trying to play innocent despite the evidence all over her face.
"Nice job." Mr. Owen said. "Messy but the results are great, I hope you do as well the rest of the semester." With that he went to the next table, leaving Kari in shock. She glanced at TK, seeing he was just as surprised. Kari then looked at the paper, noticing the splashing made it look like a real abstract piece of artwork.
"Well he was right about the messy part." She said, looking at her paint covered hands. She looked at TK's face, seeing paint drops all over it, and knew hers was probably in no better shape.
"Let's get cleaned up." TK said, standing up from his seat. "Our parents and brothers would go nuts if we looked like this when he got home." Kari quickly agreed, smiling and nodding to him. TK made his way to the sinks, located in a corner of the room, with Kari quickly following. She stood in front of one mirror and sink, turning on the water and rubbing a wet rag on her face, wiping off the droplets of paint. When her face was clean she looked in the mirror from an angle, trying to find the large paint splatter that hit her neck, but saw nothing.
"Hey, TK, do I have paint on my neck?" She asked. "I know some hit me on the neck but I can't find it." Kari tilted her head to give TK a good look, starting to think it was all in her head.
"Yeah, I see it..." TK said. "Hold still for a minute..." Before Kari could protest TK was gently wiping the paint from her neck, obviously taking great care with it. Kari could feel her cheeks blushing, half embarrassed and half enjoying the pampering. Once TK was done he replaced the rag in the sink, but Kari continued to blush.
"...Thanks, TK..." She said, nervous. Kari turned and smiled at him, seeing a glow in his crystal blue eyes. She always did love the color of TK's eyes, something about them was just enchanting to her. The two remained there a few minutes more, lost in each other's eyes.
"Maybe we should get back to our table..." TK finally said, snapping Kari from her trance. "There's still an hour in class and maybe we can wreck that piece or paper even more." She laughed at the joke a second before nodding in agreeance.
"Just watch where you throw paint this time." Kari warned, still smiling at him. She walked back to the table, followed by TK, then took her seat, going back to her painting. The encounter at the sink made her remember her talk to Yolei, her advice seemed strange but it also seemed like it could work or at least take some tension off of her. Still the idea would either be just what she needed or her own downfall, making it hard to decide. Kari continued to paint, trying to take her mind off of it and not doing that well at it.
After school Kari found herself walking back to her apartment with TK. She didn't know why he was walking her home, but she didn't complain, either. Once again her mind wandered back to her talk with Yolei, the whole thing felt like it was building up in her gut till it was ready to explode. The two reached Kari's apartment complex and made their way up the stairs. TK looked a little out of it, but he found his way to her apartment easily enough, being there so often must have made it easy.
"So what did you think of the new school?" TK asked, now out of his trance. Kari shrugged to him, again smiling to him.
"Give me a week, I'll let you know how bad it is then." Kari joked. "Actually it wasn't too bad, a lot easier than I thought it would be." Even if math class was going to become a nightmare, she actually had fun on the first day.
"Maybe we can walk to school tomorrow, if I can get up in time, that is." TK said. Kari giggled, liking the idea. It made her think of the advice one last time, though. She knew it would bug her endlessly if she didn't do something, so she had to decide.
"Hey, TK..." Kari said, almost whispering. "There's something I need to tell you..." TK looked a little confused, but moved a little closer. Once he was close enough, Kari's instincts took over. She quickly leaned forward and pressed her lips to TK's, kissing him quickly. Kari snapped away when she realized what she had just done, looking at TK, who was obviously shocked.
"Ha... what was... that?" TK said hesitantly. Kari couldn't believe she had just done that, she never acted like that before and in one action that changed completely.
"TK, I'm sorry!" Kari said in a panic. "It's just that... after I talked to Yolei today I thought I would go insane if I didn't do something! I don't blame you if you never forgive me, I had to do something..." Kari closed her eyes and looked away, not wanting TK to see the tears she could feel coming to her eyes. She knew she just ruined her chances with TK, no way he'd ever forgive this.
"...Kari, there's nothing to forgive you for..." TK said calmly. "To be honest... I've been hoping you'd do that for a long time now..." Kari opened her eyes and looked at TK, making sure she had heard him right. She hesitated, then put her arms around TK's neck, embracing him. Kari could feel TK's arms now around her waist, returning the action.
"I know it was sudden..." Kari said in a whisper. "...but it was the only way I could think of... to show and say that... I love you, TK..." Kari blushed again from admitting this, but it was all she could do, she had skipped the step already.
"Kari..." TK said, just as silent. "I love you, too..." It was the moment Kari had been waiting for a long time now. She almost couldn't believe it was happening. "What about Davis? If he finds out about this there's no telling what he would do." Kari had forgotten about Davis, he always was a problem, but she quickly smiled, letting him leave her thoughts.
"Davis doesn't matter anymore..." Kari responded, tightening her embrace on TK. "Nothing he could do could change this. If he does do something, I'll be right beside you when he does. I couldn't do less for the one I love..." Kari could feel TK's heartbeat against her chest, going as fast as her own.
"I hope you'll always be right beside me..." TK said. "I do love you, Kari, now and forever..." Kari had never heard words that meant more to her, it was a wonderful feeling. She and TK stayed there, holding each other. Kari was afraid it would be over if she let go, she was too afraid this was all a dream.
"...Hey, TK..." Kari finally said. "Can I try that kiss again...? I won't back away this time." She felt TK let go slightly, letting him look into her eyes.
"I wouldn't complain..." TK said, a small smile across his lips. Kari again leaned forward, with TK doing the same, until their lips met in a passionate kiss. This was the one thing Kari had ever wanted in years, to finally have it was unbelievable. She never wanted the moment to end, but something in her mind called her back to reality as the two broke the kiss, both stunned.
"...I'd better get inside..." Kari finally said, regretting what she had to do. "Tai will be worried if I was late..." She hated to leave, but Tai was the only one home and she had to check in.
"Alright..." TK said, sounding regretful. "...Maybe I can call later and we can set up a first date this weekend?" Kari brightened up at the idea, already looking forward to it.
"Sounds great." She said. "In that case I'll talk to you later." Before TK could let go, Kari leaned forward and kissed him again quickly before releasing TK. He did the same, letting Kari turn to the door of the apartment, then looked back at her now boyfriend. "Goodbye, TK." Kari slowly turned the handle of the door, opening it. Kari felt the air conditioning already pouring out of the apartment.
"Bye, Kari..." TK said. Kari walked into the apartment, closing the door behind her. She leaned against it a minute, recovering from the disbelief before walking further into the apartment, looking for her brother. She found him right where she knew she would, lounging on the couch with the air conditioning blowing straight onto him.
"Hard day at soccer?" Kari commented, spotting Tai's soccerball beside the couch. Tai looked up at his sister, smiling at her.
"Nothing I couldn't handle." Tai joked. At least Kari thought it was a joke. "How was your first day of high school?" Kari was actually looking forward to this question for once and was glad Tai asked.
"Tai, it was a dream come true..." Kari said, dropping her bookbag. Tai only stayed there, looking at her in total disbelief.
"...You've been hanging around with Izzy too much..." Tai commented. Kari shook her head, taking a seat at the other end of the couch.
"Nah, it's different." She said. "Let me explain." With that Kari began to recall the day, from worrying about TK making it to the scene outside the door. Remembering how the first day went, Kari only prayed the rest of the year was so perfect.
The End
So what did you think? I thought it would be interesting to see what both characters had to think about their day and their views of love without switching between the two so often. Weather you chose to read one or both versions, please leave a review, I'd love to hear what you think of this kind of fic!
So what's next for CyberDracomon? You'll have to see! I've been working on something EXTREMELY special, but it's been months in development and still not done, so don't expect that. I've got tons of Takari ideas I still want to try, including more Neos, so expect them soon. Until then!
Chapter 2 - Kari's POV
(Author's Note: As King of Takari, I hearby make my first royal order of business by introducing a new style of fanfic to and using Takari to bring it in! My Neo Trilogy was all about proving how original the oldest plots can be, but this time I prove how original I can be! Instead of deciding if this fic should be from TK or Kari's POV, I did both! Here's how it works, this chapter is Kari's point of view. If, however, you want to read TK's point of view, change to chapter 1 to read from his instead. This was originally an interactive story, but to comply with FF.N's new regulations regarding these styles of stories, I have changed to this format. Keep in mind the two are 15 in this story, making Tai, Matt and Sora 18, Mimi and Izzy 17, Joe 19 and Davis 15.)
Kari opened her eyes slowly, waking up from a wonderful dream where she finally got the nerve to tell TK how she felt about him. Too bad it was just a dream, though, she was starting high school today, so now it's more of a nightmare. She sat up in bed and looked at her alarm clock, seeing it was only 5:30, half an hour before she set it to wake her up. Kari laid back down to get another half hour of sleep, but found that the dream she had left a rush in her, keeping her perfectly awake. That was the only drawback to dreaming about TK, it was impossible to get back to sleep.
Kari forced herself out of her bed and moved to her closet, pulling out an outfit she had picked out the night before. She wanted her first day to leave an impression and already had everything set to go. Kari got dreaded, then made her way to the bathroom, checking and fixing her looks in front of the mirror. Once satisfied, she grabbed her backpack and headed to the door, taking one last look at the clock. It was only 6:20, giving her plenty of time to get to school. Kari was glad she could take her time, it gave her more time to ready herself. She left the apartment, being careful not to wake anyone with the door, then made her way to the elevator, starting her walk to the new school.
Outside the sun wasn't even up yet, leaving the street lamps as the only source of light for Kari to follow, but with so many it was no problem. She took her time walking, taking in how different things looked so early in the morning. Kari had hardly ever been up early enough to wake up and still see stars in the sky. She turned a corner and noticed a man with kind of long, dark blue hair and sporting glasses, walking toward the door of the building she was near, which was a small convenience store.
"Hi Joe!" Kari said to the man, recognizing him easily. Joe turned to look at Kari, quickly flashing a smile.
"Hi Kari." He returned. "Heading for your first day at your new school?" Kari nodded in response, also flashing a smile.
"Yup, and dreading every step." Kari kidded. "I thought you'd be heading for your medical school, though." Kari knew Joe was taking med school classes that started as early as her new school.
"I stop in here to grab stuff for lunch just about every morning." Joe explained. "To be honest if I ate the food they served, I'd need a real hospital." Kari couldn't help but laugh.
"Maybe I should try that, too." Kari said. "I'd love to stay and talk, but I want to get to the school fast so I can find out where all my classes are." Joe nodded, understanding.
"Well have fun then." Joe said. Kari gave him a slightly annoyed glance, making him smile nervously. "Well try to survive at least..." Kari smiled, then continued walking, waving goodbye to Joe as she went. After some more walking she realized where she was and that it wasn't too far from TK's house, in fact he should be on the same path as her going to school.
"I hope he's coming..." Kari said to herself. She had been hoping her and TK might be in the same classes, even counted on it. Her classes with TK were always her favorite. Still worried, she continued her walk, watching as the sun just started to emerge from the horizon.
After finding her other three classes and the lunch room, Kari made her way to her first class, quickly taking a seat in the middle of the classroom. She set her bookbag down beside her chair and glanced at the clock. It was 7 now and no sign of TK, making Kari worry more.
"We'll wait a few more minutes for stragglers to find the room." The female teacher in the front of the room announced. She looked young for a teacher, but still looked much like Kari expected. Kari took her eyes from the teacher and put them back to the clock. It was now 5 minutes past 7 and still no TK. They had the same first period class, she knew that, and it really wasn't like TK to be late. Just as Kari looked away from the clock someone burst into the classroom, panting loudly. Kari looked up and was relieved to see it was TK, who looked like he had been running for a while.
"I hope you don't make this an everyday scene." The teacher said. Kari was irritated to hear some laughs from the back of the classroom. "Please take a seat, we're waiting for the rest of the lost students to find their way here." Kari watched in hope that TK would spot her, which he easily did, walking down a row of desks until he took a seat in a desk next to Kari's.
"Running a little late?" Kari said jokingly. TK gave her a nervous smile, sending a chill through her spine. Even a nervous smile from him had that effect.
"Yeah, my alarm clock decided I needed to sleep half an hour longer." TK responded. Kari giggled before realizing he wasn't really joking. Kari watched as TK swung his head around the classroom, looking over the students, before returning his eyes to her. "Nobody else I know except you." Kari looked for herself, then nodded in agreement.
"Just you and me." She agreed. "Let me see your schedule, maybe we're in a few more classes." TK reached into his pocket and drew a goldenrod colored sheet of paper, the color of the class schedules. Kari pulled out her own and laid it on her desk, which TK also did.
"Wow, 3 out of 4 classes together." TK said. Kari was disappointed to see it wasn't a complete four, but it was more than she expected.
"Now if those classes don't include Davis I'll be happy with it." Kari joked, putting her schedule away. Davis's constant flirting had become even more constant and annoying recently, it was like an obsession to him. She wouldn't admit it but Kari was starting to get tired of it.
"Wait, you're taking art class?" TK said suddenly. Kari realized one of the classes that she had with TK was 4th quarter art class. "I never knew you could draw." Kari nervously smiled at TK, not quite sure what to say.
"Well I needed an elective, but it was either art or home economics." Kari explained. "I burn food just by looking at it so I had to take art." Most of the best electives were long since taken, leaving those two choices. Art was popular, too, but the class was so big it could afford to let TK and Kari in, as well.
"I guess everyone that's suppose to be here is here by now." The teacher said, looking at the class. "How about we get started?" This was what Kari dreaded, the beginning of it all. She pulled out a notepad and pencil, hoping it was all she needed.
The first three classes were a lot less painful than Kari expected, making them fly by and before she knew it she was walking with lunch with TK. She already knew where the lunchroom was from her early morning tour so she was a little ahead of TK, leading him there. The only part about this Kari didn't like was that she didn't get to see TK.
"I forgot, I have to find my locker." TK said suddenly. "Save me a seat in the lunch room and I'll meet you there, okay?" Kari smiled at him, almost forgetting TK didn't know his way around yet.
"No problem." She said, walking off down the hall. "I'll try to sit close to the door so you can spot me easier." She gave TK a quick wave before starting down the hallway to the lunch room, trying to remember if this was the right hall.
"Thanks." TK said just in time for Kari to hear. She didn't like walking without TK, but she knew he'd be along soon enough, all she had to do was find a seat at lunch. The lunch room was at the end of the hall, in easy view. Kari walked in and immediately caught a breeze of hot food in the air. She looked around the long lunch tables, hoping for one near the entrance, then spotted Yolei sitting at a nearby table. Kari walked over and took a seat in front of her, greeting her with a smile.
"Mind if I sit here?" Kari asked, not wanting to be rude. Yolei looked up from her lunch tray and returned the smile.
"Of course not." She responder. "So how's the first day so far?" Kari didn't expect to get the question so soon, then again Yolei never was one to hold back. Kari took a second to put her back pack onto the seat next to hers, reserving it for TK.
"Well no complaints yet." Kari answered. "I can tell my math class is going to be a pain, but that's nothing new." Kari looked around for TK, only to see dozens of kids she never saw before. She looked back at Yolei, who now sported a mischievous grin.
"So..." She started. "Nothing at all about TK?" Kari felt her heart stop cold. Yolei wasn't in either of her classes with TK, how could she know she had classes with TK?"
"...what do you mean?" Kari said nervously. Yolei's grin widened a bit, making Kari even more nervous.
"I have a friend in your second period who said you were sneaking looks at TK the entire 90 minutes. Kind of obvious that you've got a crush on him." Kari couldn't believe it, was she really being that obvious about it?
"Well..." Kari said. "Yeah, I do..." Yolei already knew something was up, Kari figured she might as well know everything.
"Ha, I knew it!" Yolei said loudly. Every one would have heard it if it wasn't already so loud. "I knew you had a crush on TK!" Kari hesitated, then shook her head.
"No, I don't have a crush on him..." Kari said. "...Yolei, I'm in love with him... I would have told him a long time ago if I wasn't so scared about what he would say or do..." Yolei was obviously stunned by the statement, then smiled when she recovered.
"A friend of mine had the same problem." Yolei explained. "She loved this guy for years but never had the guts to tell him. Eventually she couldn't contain it and did something all at once to show him how she felt. Maybe you should do the same thing, do something out of nowhere, get it all out in one action. You never know, it might work." Kari thought about it for a moment. It would be quick and show TK how she felt... but it was still a huge risk. She wasn't sure what to think or decide. Just then she heard footsteps behind her. Kari turned to see TK walking in, looking around for her.
"Get lost looking for your locker?" Kari joked. She quickly slid her book bag from the seat, letting it fall to the floor and letting TK sit down next to her.
"Nah, I had some Davis troubles." TK said. Kari didn't ask further, knowing what a nightmare Davis could be.
"So Kari." Yolei started suddenly. "Want to tell TK about our conversation now that he's here?" Kari felt her cheeks flare red at the request, making her just as nervous as before. Kari knew Yolei was just doing this to tease her, and unfortunately it was working.
"What conversation?" TK asked. He always was curious about such things, which only make Kari even more nervous. She couldn't believe all of this was happening.
"It's nothing, just girl talk, it would just bore you." Kari said, quickly making an excuse. She knew TK, though, she knew he wouldn't completely buy it.
"Well alright..." TK said, sounding disappointed. Kari let out a relieved sigh, glad he didn't go any farther. The rest of the half hour of lunch passed fast, but the whole time Kari couldn't get Yolei's words out of her head. Maybe she was right, maybe Kari needed to get it all out at once... Kari wasn't sure enough, though, letting the thought eat at the back of her mind.
Once lunch was over Kari walked with TK to their last class, art. The artroom was a large classroom, complete with hard floors and tables made to be easily cleaned no matter how messy they got. Kari and TK made their way to a table on one side of the classroom, taking seats at it. Kari looked around, taking in the atmosphere.
"So why didn't you take Phys Ed?" Kari asked, curious. "I'm surprised you aren't playing basketball right now in the gym." Kari didn't want to sound like she was complaining, but it was strange that TK wasn't in P.E. right now.
"All the P.E. classes were filled so I picked this instead." TK explained. "I'll have to be in basketball next semester." Kari gave TK a gentle smile, glad P.E. as so popular this year. "Why aren't you in photography?" He asked in return.
"It isn't being offered this semester." Kari quickly explained. "They want to put in a new dark room so I have to wait to take it. I thought art would be a good substitute until then, though." Kari always wondered what made artists paint and sketch such artworks, this was a chance to find out. Just then the teacher walked in. He looked like he was in his 40s, with silver white hair and a rough face, but there was also something kind about it that made him look like a real artist.
"Welcome to art class." He said, making sure the whole class could hear him. "I'm Mr. Owen and for the next 18 weeks we'll be stuck with each other, so let's try to get along, okay?" Kari laughed a little, along with most of the class. He seemed a lot more open than the other teachers she had met today. After a quick explanation of the class rules he pointed to a wall that had long tables along it, each with many art supplies on them, from large sheets of paper to paint supplies. "Since this is the first day and the rules say I have to give you some work, I want everyone to find a partner and grab a piece of paper and do anything you want at all, just draw some lines if that's all you feel like doing." Kari was surprised at the request, she had never heard of such a free range assignment before.
Before Kari could ask TK to be her partner, a boy from the nearest table had already come over and took a seat by her. Kari immediately noticed a hopeful look in his face, but also something in his eyes that made her kind of uncomfortable.
"Hi!" He quickly said. "Would you like to be my lab partner?" Kari couldn't believe it, he was asking like it was a privilege to work with him.
"Sorry, I've got a partner..." Kari said, half lying. The kid returned to his table as fast as he came over, easily discouraged by her words. She turned back to TK, only to find him with his head lowered on the table with a depressed look on his face. "TK?" Kari asked, confused. TK raised his head off the table, looking at her.
"Sorry, just a headache I guess." He said. Kari could tell that wasn't the real reason, but she didn't ask further. "I thought you were going to be his partner for a second." Kari smiled at him, trying to reassure him.
"I told him I already had a partner, so he ran off." She explained. TK looked a bit confused now. Kari had a quick idea and waited for him to ask about it.
"Who's your partner then?" TK asked, like Kari hoped he would. She gave him an even sweeter smile this time.
"Well if you can grab us the paints and a piece of paper I'm sure you'll guess." Kari said. TK caught onto the hint quick and immediately went to go get the supplies. She watched TK immediately grab a pair of brushes, a full pallet of paint and a large sheet of paper, then hauled it all back to the table, now sitting across from her. Kari actually preferred her new view of TK, though he looked a little nervous.
"I hope you've painted before." TK said. "Most I've ever done is the side of my uncle's house." Kari laughed a little before picking up one of the brushes. She looked at the pallet, studying the colors TK picked before dipping her brush into the pink paint.
"Relax." She said, trying to give him some confidence. "Just put the brush in the paint, then put it on the paper, don't worry about where it goes." With that Kari painted a quick shape of the crest of Light with the pink paint. She was about to paint another when a few drops of green paint flew at the paper in front of her, barely missing her and her crest.
"Oops, sorry." TK said nervously. "Guess I had to much paint on the brush." Kari smiled at TK, not giving it another thought. She returned to her painting, now trying to paint Gatomon. Before she even finished one claw something hit the end of the nose. Kari put her finger to it and looked at it, finding yellow paint on her finger. She looked up at TK, kind of annoyed, just in time for him to look up and meet her face.
"Okay, this is war..." Kari said, a mischievous smile crossing her lips. She globbed a lot of blue paint onto her brush, then splattered it on the paper, throwing drops of it at TK. He managed to block most with his hand, then did the same with a glob of red paint. Kari and TK traded splashes, with Kari turning her head to avoid flying paint, eventually feeling a large splash on her neck. Just then she saw Mr. Owen looking down at them. Kari dropped her brush immediately, trying to play innocent despite the evidence all over her face.
"Nice job." Mr. Owen said. "Messy but the results are great, I hope you do as well the rest of the semester." With that he went to the next table, leaving Kari in shock. She glanced at TK, seeing he was just as surprised. Kari then looked at the paper, noticing the splashing made it look like a real abstract piece of artwork.
"Well he was right about the messy part." She said, looking at her paint covered hands. She looked at TK's face, seeing paint drops all over it, and knew hers was probably in no better shape.
"Let's get cleaned up." TK said, standing up from his seat. "Our parents and brothers would go nuts if we looked like this when he got home." Kari quickly agreed, smiling and nodding to him. TK made his way to the sinks, located in a corner of the room, with Kari quickly following. She stood in front of one mirror and sink, turning on the water and rubbing a wet rag on her face, wiping off the droplets of paint. When her face was clean she looked in the mirror from an angle, trying to find the large paint splatter that hit her neck, but saw nothing.
"Hey, TK, do I have paint on my neck?" She asked. "I know some hit me on the neck but I can't find it." Kari tilted her head to give TK a good look, starting to think it was all in her head.
"Yeah, I see it..." TK said. "Hold still for a minute..." Before Kari could protest TK was gently wiping the paint from her neck, obviously taking great care with it. Kari could feel her cheeks blushing, half embarrassed and half enjoying the pampering. Once TK was done he replaced the rag in the sink, but Kari continued to blush.
"...Thanks, TK..." She said, nervous. Kari turned and smiled at him, seeing a glow in his crystal blue eyes. She always did love the color of TK's eyes, something about them was just enchanting to her. The two remained there a few minutes more, lost in each other's eyes.
"Maybe we should get back to our table..." TK finally said, snapping Kari from her trance. "There's still an hour in class and maybe we can wreck that piece or paper even more." She laughed at the joke a second before nodding in agreeance.
"Just watch where you throw paint this time." Kari warned, still smiling at him. She walked back to the table, followed by TK, then took her seat, going back to her painting. The encounter at the sink made her remember her talk to Yolei, her advice seemed strange but it also seemed like it could work or at least take some tension off of her. Still the idea would either be just what she needed or her own downfall, making it hard to decide. Kari continued to paint, trying to take her mind off of it and not doing that well at it.
After school Kari found herself walking back to her apartment with TK. She didn't know why he was walking her home, but she didn't complain, either. Once again her mind wandered back to her talk with Yolei, the whole thing felt like it was building up in her gut till it was ready to explode. The two reached Kari's apartment complex and made their way up the stairs. TK looked a little out of it, but he found his way to her apartment easily enough, being there so often must have made it easy.
"So what did you think of the new school?" TK asked, now out of his trance. Kari shrugged to him, again smiling to him.
"Give me a week, I'll let you know how bad it is then." Kari joked. "Actually it wasn't too bad, a lot easier than I thought it would be." Even if math class was going to become a nightmare, she actually had fun on the first day.
"Maybe we can walk to school tomorrow, if I can get up in time, that is." TK said. Kari giggled, liking the idea. It made her think of the advice one last time, though. She knew it would bug her endlessly if she didn't do something, so she had to decide.
"Hey, TK..." Kari said, almost whispering. "There's something I need to tell you..." TK looked a little confused, but moved a little closer. Once he was close enough, Kari's instincts took over. She quickly leaned forward and pressed her lips to TK's, kissing him quickly. Kari snapped away when she realized what she had just done, looking at TK, who was obviously shocked.
"Ha... what was... that?" TK said hesitantly. Kari couldn't believe she had just done that, she never acted like that before and in one action that changed completely.
"TK, I'm sorry!" Kari said in a panic. "It's just that... after I talked to Yolei today I thought I would go insane if I didn't do something! I don't blame you if you never forgive me, I had to do something..." Kari closed her eyes and looked away, not wanting TK to see the tears she could feel coming to her eyes. She knew she just ruined her chances with TK, no way he'd ever forgive this.
"...Kari, there's nothing to forgive you for..." TK said calmly. "To be honest... I've been hoping you'd do that for a long time now..." Kari opened her eyes and looked at TK, making sure she had heard him right. She hesitated, then put her arms around TK's neck, embracing him. Kari could feel TK's arms now around her waist, returning the action.
"I know it was sudden..." Kari said in a whisper. "...but it was the only way I could think of... to show and say that... I love you, TK..." Kari blushed again from admitting this, but it was all she could do, she had skipped the step already.
"Kari..." TK said, just as silent. "I love you, too..." It was the moment Kari had been waiting for a long time now. She almost couldn't believe it was happening. "What about Davis? If he finds out about this there's no telling what he would do." Kari had forgotten about Davis, he always was a problem, but she quickly smiled, letting him leave her thoughts.
"Davis doesn't matter anymore..." Kari responded, tightening her embrace on TK. "Nothing he could do could change this. If he does do something, I'll be right beside you when he does. I couldn't do less for the one I love..." Kari could feel TK's heartbeat against her chest, going as fast as her own.
"I hope you'll always be right beside me..." TK said. "I do love you, Kari, now and forever..." Kari had never heard words that meant more to her, it was a wonderful feeling. She and TK stayed there, holding each other. Kari was afraid it would be over if she let go, she was too afraid this was all a dream.
"...Hey, TK..." Kari finally said. "Can I try that kiss again...? I won't back away this time." She felt TK let go slightly, letting him look into her eyes.
"I wouldn't complain..." TK said, a small smile across his lips. Kari again leaned forward, with TK doing the same, until their lips met in a passionate kiss. This was the one thing Kari had ever wanted in years, to finally have it was unbelievable. She never wanted the moment to end, but something in her mind called her back to reality as the two broke the kiss, both stunned.
"...I'd better get inside..." Kari finally said, regretting what she had to do. "Tai will be worried if I was late..." She hated to leave, but Tai was the only one home and she had to check in.
"Alright..." TK said, sounding regretful. "...Maybe I can call later and we can set up a first date this weekend?" Kari brightened up at the idea, already looking forward to it.
"Sounds great." She said. "In that case I'll talk to you later." Before TK could let go, Kari leaned forward and kissed him again quickly before releasing TK. He did the same, letting Kari turn to the door of the apartment, then looked back at her now boyfriend. "Goodbye, TK." Kari slowly turned the handle of the door, opening it. Kari felt the air conditioning already pouring out of the apartment.
"Bye, Kari..." TK said. Kari walked into the apartment, closing the door behind her. She leaned against it a minute, recovering from the disbelief before walking further into the apartment, looking for her brother. She found him right where she knew she would, lounging on the couch with the air conditioning blowing straight onto him.
"Hard day at soccer?" Kari commented, spotting Tai's soccerball beside the couch. Tai looked up at his sister, smiling at her.
"Nothing I couldn't handle." Tai joked. At least Kari thought it was a joke. "How was your first day of high school?" Kari was actually looking forward to this question for once and was glad Tai asked.
"Tai, it was a dream come true..." Kari said, dropping her bookbag. Tai only stayed there, looking at her in total disbelief.
"...You've been hanging around with Izzy too much..." Tai commented. Kari shook her head, taking a seat at the other end of the couch.
"Nah, it's different." She said. "Let me explain." With that Kari began to recall the day, from worrying about TK making it to the scene outside the door. Remembering how the first day went, Kari only prayed the rest of the year was so perfect.
The End
So what did you think? I thought it would be interesting to see what both characters had to think about their day and their views of love without switching between the two so often. Weather you chose to read one or both versions, please leave a review, I'd love to hear what you think of this kind of fic!
So what's next for CyberDracomon? You'll have to see! I've been working on something EXTREMELY special, but it's been months in development and still not done, so don't expect that. I've got tons of Takari ideas I still want to try, including more Neos, so expect them soon. Until then!