Chapter 1: Spring Thaw
I don't own Neon Genesis Evangelion, its just a fan-fiction, read and enjoy.
Some feedback to my reviewers: (thanks!)
Dairokkan: Bathers are swimming-trunks, swimming clothes? I thought they were called bathers all over the world?
Lordmaquareion: I would post smaller chapters but its 100,000 words all up, so I have to keep it somewhat manageable. Thanks for the tip though, and the vote of confidence.
Blackangel32076: Thanks for the complement, more good relationship stuff to come.
1.2 Fun in the sun
Authors notes:
Some more character development, but its not so heavy for this part, time to have some fun!
The next day proved to be a whirlwind of activity, enjoyment and surprises. The three travellers all piled into the car early and drove off to Motsimoto beach. The roads were relatively empty, with few people travelling in these dangerous times. The trip was accompanied by loud joyous music from the radio, impromptu singing from Misato, as well as mild ribbing and mock arguments about music selection between Shinji and Misato. Shinji was really starting to liven up, and the mood was infectious, PenPen was jumping around the back seat and even Rei had a small smile on her face. When they arrived they found the beach surprisingly full, as the beautiful day had drawn even the most reluctant people out into the sun.
The first order of business was shopping, with Misato delighting in the concept of being able to buy Rei a new outfit. She placed Shinji and PenPen on two stools, forcing them to play fashion judge as Rei was presented to them in an endless selection of bathing suits, from old models to bikini. Misato found the bikini smashing (after seeing Shinji's reaction, turning bright red), she spun Rei around a couple of times enthusiastically. Rei, unused to this sort of rapid movement, was a little stunned, but gave a smile. Steadying she pointed over to a sporty two piece, light blue with white trims. She tried it on, looking at herself in the full length mirror, Shinji and Misato noticing a small smile on her face. Seeing them staring at her Rei blushed a little. Shinji, enthused suggested a sarong, and Misato found a wide brimmed straw hat (remembering Reis complexion) and the outfit was complete. They all agreed, it was a stunning selection. Misato payed without even looking at the bill, the trio then headed strait for the beach.
It was a lovely day, with plenty of sunbathers out (the three hiring some chairs and a sun umbrella). It was a relaxing day full of swimming, for Shinji close to shore, and even playing with a Frisbee. Rei becoming deadly accurate after being taught the basics by Shinji. About lunchtime Rei and Misato went to get an ice cream while Shinji worked on a sandcastle, they were gone for quite some time. After awhile they finally returned, with Misato claiming that they had just taken their time with their selection, Shinji knew that this was an obvious lie, but let it go. The day passed and towards evening Shinji complained that they had not had a proper lunch. Misato suggested they grab a hotel room, change and head out for an early dinner. Jumping in the car Misato quickly headed for the most expensive resort in the area, a very fancy establishment right on the beach itself. Without asking about the cost she ordered three adjoining rooms with a combined balcony, winking at Shinji as she handed over the NERV card.
"May as well get something back from the company while I can" she said, smiling.
The rooms were stunning, the nicest place Shinji had ever been in by a long, loooong way. He ran out onto the balcony to see Misato coming out of her own room, all smiles. They exchanged impressions of their rooms, grinning all the way, and went over to Reis room. She was standing in the bathroom looking at the spa and massive mirror over the vanity.
"It is very large" she said when asked how she liked her room. Misato told them both to hurry up, and herded Shinji back to his room, giving him some bags, telling him to put-on the contents and meet them in the foyer in thirty minutes. The bag contained a pair of very expensive looking new shoes, a belt, watch, charcoal dress pants and a mauve colour dress shirt, silk. Shinji admired the clothes, placing them on his massive double bed.
So that's where they were while I was building a sandcastle, he thought to himself.
Considering the time, he drew himself a bath in the spa, filling it with bubbles, and generally having a ball. He spent 5 minutes getting ready, brushing his teeth, getting his hair in order and putting on his clothes. Admiring himself in the mirror for a second he smiled and headed out towards the foyer.
The foyer itself was massive, with grand marble clad pillars and ornate decorations. Admiring the architecture Shinji didn't even notice that the girls were fifteen minutes late. When they did show up however he almost fell back into the fountain he was sitting on the edge of.
Descending the stares were two of the loveliest woman Shinji had ever seen. Misato was wearing a open shouldered black evening dress, cut long with an elegant part, sparkling sequins spun into swirling patterns making the whole dress shimmer. Rei, equally stunning, was in a slightly shorter blue evening dress, the material transparent, blue sequins were spun into elaborate patterns massing at strategic points to hide her modesty, very elegant. The picture was complete with modest but sparkling jewellery, an amazing site. Shinji noticed however that both of the girls' hair were only slightly more in order then he was used too. They had only had half an hour after all. Shinji went towards them, jaw still slaking, he stumbled slightly over a rug, Misato giggled.
"You two… you two look fantastic!" said Shinji, not hiding his admiration. Staring at each one of them in turn 'They looked even better close up!' he thought to himself
"You don't look so bad yourself young man." replied Misato, leaning back to admire Shinji.
"So shall we go for dinner?" Misato instructed more then asked. She grabbed Shinjis hand, as he was still preoccupied with starring at the two.
Dinner turned out to be a lavish affair, with seafood and salads so varied that Shinji could not even try them all. The restaurant itself was massive, with a large central dance floor, one side of which had the bar. Misato was drinking some expensive wine and had convinced Shinji and Rei to join her for one glass, though the two stopped at that, the taste not agreeing with them. They finished dinner and sat watching the few people dancing when Misato suddenly hit on an idea. Standing up suddenly she grabbed Shinjis hand and headed to the dance floor. Shinji, caught unaware, didn't have time to protest and stumbled after her.
"Misato!" he said exasperated, but it was too late. They were already standing in the middle of the dance floor, Misatos arms in position.
"Oh, don't complain" she said scoldingly " I want to dance, and don't say you can't, I saw you dance with Asuka remember" she said looking down.
"But that was a different" complained Shinji.
"Oh bull! It's all the same, just move to the music." she said dismissingly, slightly ignoring him she continued, stating "Listen I'll show you the moves and then you lead O.K"
Before he could reply she had already started to sway to the music, leading Shinji around the room. At first he stumbled and miss stepped but with a little prompting he quickly found the rhythm. The first song ended and a second more festive piece began. Paying attention to her motions Shinji quickly got the hang of it, and after a while Shinji even had time to look at the other dancers, taking in their moves as well. Noticing Shinji's lack of attention Misato stoped leading. Shinji continued for a while then they slowed and finally stopped
"What's the matter?" he asked.
"Nothing, you seem to have caught on, it's your turn to lead"
Shinji looked doubtful. Misato put on her best teasing voice and bent down close to Shinjis ear.
"Now I know your used to just following whatever girls say Shinji, but you know leading IS a 'mans' job…. I understand if you don't want to" she finished, smiling cheekily. Shinji gave a smirk at the obvious ploy but allowed it to work on him, a determined look taking over his face.
"Well then, hold on Misato" he said, starting to lead, firstly with the standard moves then followed by improvisations from what he observed others do, as well as some things taken from his training with Asuka. Soon he and Misato were spinning around the room, her dress twirling as Shinji got more bold with his moves. Though he occasionally fumbled and even with some uncertain moments, the efforts of the two were non-the less impressive, especially considering Shinjis size compared to Misato. Misato was having a ball, letting out joyous yelps and complementing Shinjis prompts, and at songs end she leaned heavily into a dip. Shinji strained to hold her greater weight, just managing to hang on. Misato righted herself and looked at Shinji, who was holding his back with one hand comically. Laughing, Misato turned to Rei who had been sitting watching from the table.
"Rei can you come here please." she said. Slowly but immediately Rei stood up, and walked over. Shinji was still stretching his back and was not paying attention.
"I'm afraid Shinjis a little too energetic for me, can you take over for me Rei?" asked Misato as the next song started up. Shinji, hearing this, turned, and looked as if he was about to object. Misato leaned over.
"I mean someone has to help him work off all the food he just ate"
And with that she hit him playfully in the stomach. Shinji went from holding his back to holding his stomach, somehow still managing to give Misato a dirty look. Misato however had grabbed both pilots, forcing them together on the dance floor.
"Well have fun kids I'm off for a drink!" she said, walking off. Shinji gave her an exasperated look as she left, then turned to face Rei.
"So you want to dance?" he asked questioningly.
"I'm not sure how." came the predictable reply.
"That's O.K just follow my lead… you saw how Misato and I danced…… its easy." Shinji replied. He started to move. Rei was stiff to begin with, but soon began moving smoothly
"Just follow the music" he said with a grin. And the two danced. Shinji smiled and Reis expression softening slightly from her usual cold expression, maybe even a bit of a smile…
Misato watched from the bar, drinking a cocktail of some description. The music was slower than the last song that Misato had danced with Shinji too and the two glided around the room very elegantly. Misato though, was in a different frame of mind. So finishing her drink in one gulp and moved over to the band, which was playing from the podium to one side. Misato signalled the conductor over, whispering in his ear while he was still conducting, he nodded with a smile. Grinning, Misato returned to the bar. The music ended and everyone clapped the band, the conductor bowed and turned back, everyone waited for the next song. Suddenly the trumpet player stood up alone and started to play, fast and loud. The trumpeter played to a South American beat, with the rest of the band soon joining in enthusiastically.
The music was to fast for most couples on the dance floor, with many leaving to go back to their tables. Three younger couples stayed however, with one pair (Shinji thought they were South American) starting an extravagant routine enthusiastically. Shinji and Rei exchanged uncertain glances (for Rei this meant a slightly disapproving version of her usual neutral face).
"Come on you two, show these people what NERV personnel are capable off!" shouted Misato from back at the bar enthusiastically "It's the same beat as your training, now don't let me down!"
Shinji gave Rei a smile and she responded in kind, nodding her approval. Shinji was energised beyond words by this amazing gesture, at least for Rei, and took hold of her hand. Concentrating hard he listened to the music, waiting for the right time to start. They began a little cautiously, but the music was simply too fast, and the two were soon into an improvised routine moving fast to the beat. The dance steps Shinji had learnt with Asuka were not one hundred percent compatible with the song, and Shinji tried to counter by mimicking some aspects of the South American couples movements.
Their movement was far from perfect, but Shinji's enthusiasm and concentration coupled with Rei's grace and adaptability, which countered his occasional errors and mistimes, meant the two were holding their own, and looking good. Driven by each other's enthusiasm the four couples stepped up a gear and the restaurant was treated to an impressive amateur dancing display. Starting to lose himself in the music Shinji was having a ball, Rei appeared to be enjoying herself as well. Rei had observed much of Asukas and Shinjis routine, so the two dancers were able to part and meet up in time smoothly, moving surprisingly close. Before they knew it the end of the song came, with all four couples ending in impressive finishing positions. There was a large applause as the patrons clapped the band and the dancers. Shinji had not noticed that almost everyone had been watching the couples and blushed a little, Rei, seemingly oblivious to the surrounding guests, looked around the dance floor. Rei observed two of the couples kissed before leaving the dance floor and the last couple hugged. Shinji, who hadn't noticed, took hold of Rei's hand and led her over to Misato, who was waiting with two lemonades. They both took the drinks gratefully, the last dance being quite physical. Misato praised the both of them, saying that they were wasted as Eva Pilots, which got a laugh from Shinji and a surprised look from Rei, followed by a smile. The three sat down at the bar looking out at the restaurant, chatting through the next song. The song ended in the usual round of clapping and a pause, followed by yet another song, a slightly quicker walz type piece. Shinji was going on about the architecture when Rei interrupted by placing her hand on his.
Shinji, surprised, looked at Rei, who quietly asked if he would like to dance again. Shinji, now stunned, turned to Misato for guidance, she promptly gave him a wink and leaned back on the Bar. Shinji turned back to Rei and said. "Sure thing."
The two danced for the next forty five-minute strait, neither indicating that they wanted to stop. Misato was drinking happily at the bar and kindly but firmly turned away the numerous number of men that came up to talk to her.
Not quite able to remember exactly how many strange cocktails she had consumed, Misato joined Shinji and Rei on the dance floor in order to excused herself for the evening. The numerous consumed drinks had starting to kick in, she asked the two if they would be alright on their own. Looking at each other for a second, both pilots nodded. Giving them an odd wink Misato then promptly walked, a little shackely, back to her room, singing a little tune to herself on the way.
Shinji and Rei continued dancing for another 15 minutes or so, ending with a nice slow song, during which Rei placed her head on Shinjis shoulder, and the two moved slowly arm in arm. The band finished for the evening, getting a large ovation from the remaining patrons. After accepting the applause the band began to pack up. Shinji and Rei left the restaurant via the courtyard, walking by the large pool illuminated subtly by some elegantly placed fairy lights in the surrounding trees.
The night was mild and clear with the stars out in force. The two ended up at the start of a path that led down to the beach. Shinji asked Rei if she wanted to take a walk on the beach, to which she nodded, slipping of her shoes and picking them up. They headed through the gardens. Shinji was startled to stumble upon a young couple, making-out in one of the small gazebos that littered the grounds, blushing, he doubling their pace to get by quickly.
A short time later they arrived at the beach, and after Shinji removed his shoes they both waded through the water for a while, enjoying the moonlight night. They seated themselves a little further on, Rei sitting close to Shinji but not touching him, both stared off at the horizon.
"So did you have fun today Rei?" Shinji finally asked, glancing over at Rei, there was a pause, finally Rei said "It has been… very interesting"
Shinji half expected this, though the relaxed manner in which she had said it in, as well as the fact that she had held her smile meant more to Shinji then anything else. He turned to look at the horizon again, smiling.
"Why have you done this?" came a quiet question from Shinji side. He turned to face Rei, she was looking straight into his eyes.
"Why did you and Misato take me with you today?" she asked again, Shinji had half expected such a question sooner or later and so was not really surprised. He gave her a smile, but couldn't maintain eye contact. Turning away he said.
"People like to see others who they care for….. enjoying themselves.." he paused a little " And me and Misato care for you Rei, we just thought you might have fun today, that's all"
He looked back out at the ocean.
"I wasn't sure if you have ever done anything just for fun before." he said, a little more down cast. Though picking up he finished with "What can I say, I just wanted to see your nice smile again."
He continued to stare calmly off into the distance. Again a pause.
"Thank you Shinji, I had…. fun today" she said softly. Shinji turned to look at her and found himself staring straight into her large crimson eyes. She had moved closer after her comment, leaning into him. He stared into her eyes for a moment, the moment was simply too perfect her eyes two beautiful, she slowly leaned forward, Shinji tilting his head slightly at the last second. And so there they were, sitting in the sand, their first tender kiss. It lasted for some time, Shinji hand came up to gently hold the side of Reis face and Rei pressed close to Shinji's body, using her non leaning arm to give him a half hug. They stopped after a while and Rei stayed close, leaning on Shinji and resting her head on the side of his arm, it was quite comfortable and they stayed like that for a while.
Rei however was not used to such a long day and gave out a quiet yawn, which Shinji felt rather then heard. Shinji suggested they head back, and the two moved off towards their rooms. Walking back on the beach, Shinji was a little shocked to have one of his hands grasped while he walked. He almost stoped walking, but recovered quickly enough to continue, turning his head to give Rei a quick smile. Outside Rei's room they hit on a snag, expecting a goodnight kiss at most, Shinji was surprised to instead hear.
"I do not want to be alone."
She looked at him warmly, though her subtlety in expressing emotion made her still very difficult to read, it was however still obvious that she was rather tired. Shinji had to struggle a little to get his hormones back in check, though in truth knowing what she meant was simple companionship. Calming down, he thought for a second, eventually suggesting that they sleep on the veranda in two of the very large padded deck chairs, it was a mild night after all. Agreeing, he left her to get changed. Quickly changing, he walked outside with blanket and pillow in arm. The connecting veranda was very large, offering a glorious view down to the beach and ocean beyond. The deck chairs were just outside of Misatos room. Approaching them Shinji could hear Misato snoring audibly from her room, and grinned to himself. He pushed two well-padded deck chairs close to another. Throwing his sheets over one, he quickly made his bed. Lying down he pulled over a light sheet and adjusting his pillow to make himself comfortable. He gazed up at the stars. 'Not a bad idea.' he thought to himself. He heard Rei's sliding doors open, and turned his head to see her walking towards him, wearing only a shirt and carrying her sheets and a pillow. He closed his eyes, smiling.
"Great idea of mine I think, it's a lovely night." he said, happy with himself.
He stretched out and opened his eyes again to find Rei standing over him, pillow in hand, a tired smile on her face. He looked at her standing there, then kicked himself for even bothering to be surprised. He moved so as to lift the sheets, and she climbed in, snuggling up next to him, her head on his shoulder. He covered them both with the sheet, his mind still annoyed at itself for not expecting this, in the meantime however Rei had already fallen asleep, breathing softly on his chest. With nothing else to do Shinji looked up at the stars above, soon drifting off himself.
Misato awoke early the next day, having had enough foresight to set the alarm before collapsing into bed. A veteran of bad nights she recovered quickly with the help of some special tablets she had brought along.
"Thank you Ritsuko." she said, downing the tablets and washing her face in the sink.
Yawning and stretching fully she went out onto the balcony to enjoy a bit of fresh air, instead she almost stoped breathing! Finding Shinji and Rei still asleep on the deckchair. Shinji, stretched out in all directions, drooling slightly, and Rei, curled up, was wrapped around him to one side. Misato didn't know if she thought the scene was shocking or sweet, deciding on something in-between, she lent over to do quick scan of the sheets, satisfied she decided to wake the two up. Leaning over the chair so as to throw a shadow on Shinjis face, Misato coughed loudly. Shinji opened his eyes slowly to see the very close and very angry face of Misato, he froze in panic, then slid out of Reis grip sideways, falling backwards onto the ground while maintaining is sight on Misato, overall a very impressive gymnastic feat.
"Mi … Mi Misato! It's not what you think!" he said, backing away on all fours. Misato, holding her angry look, watched him back away. With all the sudden activity Rei also awoke, slowly getting up and stretching during the other events. Smiling slightly she said
"Good morning Misato."
Rei then turned to look at Shinji, his back now against the railing, she gave a slightly surprised look. Misatos expression changed one hundred and eighty degrees, she turned to give Rei a beaming smile and warm said;
"Morning Rei, did you sleep well" beamed Misato. Turning back to Shinji she gave him a wink. Shinji let out a long breath, sweat drop forming.
"Thanks a lot Misato!" he said with a little annoyance, but he was to relieved to have any conviction in his voice. "You scared me half to death with that look, I thought you were going to kill me!" he said getting up.
"Well I don't really mind" she said, posing "But a good scare should keep you in line a bit, I mean you are a fourteen year old boy." she said, finishing with a smirk on he face.
"I do not understand" interrupted Rei, still a confused look on her face. Shinji walked up to Misato, knocking her playfully with his shoulder, upon which she grabbed him and messed up his hair.
"It's O.K. Rei." said Shinji laughing, releasing himself from Misatos grip.
"Let's go have breakfast." said Misato happily. And Rei, smiling slightly again, followed them into Misatos room.
Breakfast was brought up to the three, and they all ate on the veranda. PenPen emerging from the bathroom to join them, having disappeared into there as soon as they got the rooms, the hot weather was not agreeing with him all that much. They finished up and packed up the car, taking one last look at the resort. Shinji, followed by Rei thanked Misato again for the great trip.
The drive back was quick, the mood in the car turning steadily more sombre as all began to think about what this day actually held install for them. They dropped Pen Pen back at the apartment, quickly leaving their things and heading straight onto NERV. There was minimal conversation as all were lost in there own thoughts. About 15 minutes away they began to go through the plan again, making sure they all knew their places, and worked through some contingency plans. Arriving at NERV Misato parked the car in the underground car park and got out, a completely serious expression now on her face. Shinji and Rei followed, and soon all three were standing next to the car.
"Well that's it then, we sure we want to go through with this?" Misato said with a weak smile. Shinji responding with his own weak smile, and nodded determinedly
"Will Ritsuko be a problem do you think?" asked Shinji.
"I don't think so, but we should manage our primary objective whatever happens" she replied. Now back into commander mode.
"Well then… good luck Misato" said Shinji, trying hard to take the uncertainty out of his words. Misato, now completely in military mode nodded and headed of to the elevator, no further signs of emotion present in her face. Though as she turned away her eyes betrayed some of her thoughts. Shinji and Rei proceeded to the change rooms where they put on their plug suits, then headed up towards the testing area.
They entered through the only outside door into a large holding chamber, which housed the two Evas, Shinji locking the door behind him. Eva units 01 and 02 were standing backs up against the wall, entry plugs standing by. They walked across the platform to the short corridor that led up into the control centre. Entering the enclosed space they were about to make their way up the stairs when Rei suddenly stopped Shinji by grabbing his hand. Shinji turned and was about to ask why she had stoped him when she answered his question, pining him lightly against the wall. Shinji was surprised to be on the receiving end of a somewhat more passionate kiss, he recovered and kissed back a little, before the two sets of lips parted ways.
"Thank you Shinji, for everything" she said, looking at him sombrely. Shinji was still getting his thoughts in order, and it took a little while for him to respond, after a short pause he manage to calmly say.
"My pleasure Rei"
But then took a deep breath, in staying calm he had forgotten to breath!
"Don't worry this'll work, you'll see" he said a little more relaxed. Shinji gave her hand a comforting squeeze, smiling a little before letting go, and with that the two parted, Shinji leading the way up the stairs.
Authors note:
Short but hopefully sweet.