Kaname took a quick shower and ate a light meal. All of her lights were off that morning, while she ate near the front window. Conserving didn't quite suit Kaname Chidori. She was more accustomed to hearty meals and a bright apartment. But her current situation brought things in a new light. Freedom came with responsibilities, and it was time she learned to make some sacrifices.
She got up quite early and there was still plenty of time before school started. Nevertheless, she went out and headed for school. She decided to take the longer route, which allowed her to enjoy the sights of the city. She walked slowly, not to take in the view as she planned, but because of her low blood pressure. She had barely walked a block when she began to feel dizzy. She tried to reach for the nearest tree but her legs gave way before she reached it. She didn't hit the ground, however. She was caught by a pair of arms a foot above the hard asphalt. The cologne was familiar. The scarred arms were too. She broke off without even looking at her 'saviour'.
"What are you doing up this early in the morning, Sousuke?" She said with a huff. She walked towards the nearest bench and sat down, her eyes, still closed.
"I usually get up around this time to patrol the area. You normally do not leave at this time, Miss Chidori. Is something the matter?"
Kaname opened her eyes half-way. His reason wasn't too suspicious. But she wondered how he knew her morning schedule so well. Peeping Tom… She tilted her head back and sighed. It was too beautiful a morning to get worked up. "I just wanted some fresh air, that's all. I'm kinda slow during the morning, so I thought I could do for a change of pace." She turned again to Sousuke, who was now standing two feet away from her. He was averting her gaze, looking at the ground. His face, however was blushing lightly. She smiled, thinking about what happened last night. The kiss… it was meant to be in jest, but ended up to be so much more. It had stirred things in her that she never expected to be stirred, especially by him. She continued to gaze at Sousuke, who was now focusing at the buildings to her right. She always felt different when he was near. Aside from the huge stress and equally large rage he managed to bring her, Kaname also found herself more open. Not so much as comfortable, but just open. Shy as she may be, she'd play around with him and found herself enjoying him react like he does, clueless and nervous.
Sousuke, for his part, also took random glances at Kaname. Being with her was like being in a deadly dance, but he enjoyed every moment of it. He especially enjoyed last night. It was his first real kiss. True he did kiss Mizuki, but that didn't do anything for him, like the one he shared with Kaname. If he really thought about it, only Kaname's kisses ever felt real. Even her playful pecks to his cheek alighted dormant emotions. He didn't mind her wild lashings. They weren't so bad, and he suffered worse. Though he knew nothing was as deadly as when Kaname was in uber-bitch mode. That term was coined by some of the boys in their class. It wasn't a pleasant term, but he did find it accurate. He wondered how long Arbalest, and the whole Mithril team while he was at it, could withstand against the blue haired girl in battle. The thought brought a smirk to his face, which Kaname was keen to notice.
"What are you thinking about, Sousuke? Better not be anything nasty."
"No, Kaname. Entirely military. I was thinking how-"
"I don't want to hear it! It's a nice morning, and I don't want you ruining it." Kaname saw him frown, and, try as she might, couldn't help a pang of guilt form inside her. Sousuke never did things to hurt her intentionally. She knew of his upbringing and his ignorance of social conduct. It wasn't right for her to be so prejudiced. She sighed and walked up to him. She leaned on his side and hugged his arm. She paid no mind to it, but Sousuke, however, was struggling with new waves of emotions just by her touch. "C'mon. We should head over to the school now. I hear we're getting two new teachers today. One is going to teach phys ed while the other will head the new drama club." She looked up at him, her face grave and serious. "Promise me you won't do anything funny?"
"Funny? When have I done anything humorous, Miss Chidori?"
"Not funny funny. I mean, like… you know…" When she saw his puzzled look, she sighed deeply. "Promise me you won't tackle them to the ground, throw a grenade at them, or anything related to that."
"Only if they show no interest in harming you, Miss Chidori."
Kaname cringed, but decided to take what she could. "Thanks, Sousuke. That means a lot."
"Not a problem…"
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"Wow! Have you seen the new gym teacher?" "He's SOO hot!" "Kyouko, I'll pay you to give me a couple of shots of him!" The girls were giggling and fantasizing about the new physical education teacher, Mr. Kazui. He was born from a Japanese father and an American mother. He had the smooth complexion, chinky eyes, and full lips from his mother. From his dad came his height, broad shoulders, and soft tawny hair. Unlike the flabby teachers they had before, Mr. Kazui was in perfect shape. He had tight muscles, a chiseled chest, and powerful legs. Even Kaname found herself taking a peek every once in a while, despite Sousuke's dark looks. He didn't know what jealousy was, but did he did know he wanted to just blast him to the other side of the world. It was too bad Kaname made him promise to leave the man alone.
Mr. Kazui had an easy smile, and led the class into the normal warm-ups before getting on with the days exercise. He decided to teach them basic self defense techniques. Sousuke, despite himself, found the man quite capable. Must have worked in the military at some point. Note to self… obtain background check of Maiku Kazui.
"Ryo, your feet are not in the right position. You're not balanced that way. Here… place you stance like this." Ryo could have fainted right then and there as Mr. Kazui helped her out. The other girls decided to take Ryo's lead and pretended to need help getting their stance correct. Sousuke watched with glowering eyes as he moved from girl to girl. The other boys weren't so enthused either. If he touches Kaname, I swear I'll-
"Sousuke!" Sousuke broke his chain of thought, hearing Kaname whisper at him harshly. "Come over here you idiot!"
"Yes, Miss Chidori?"
"Is my stance right? I don't want him coming over to me." Kaname did not take too kindly on strangers touching her, even if it was professional.
"You should mover you right foot back a few more centimeters. A little more... no, too much. That's fine, Miss Chidori. Also, you fist should not be so far from your body. In a defensive stance, it's good to keep your face well guarded." Kaname still seemed to be having trouble, so Sousuke moved behind her, moving her posture, her arms, and her legs to the correct spot. Kaname, however, was becoming quite impatient with the miniscule adjustments that when Sousuke asked to move her foot back a bit more, she sweep him. Unfortunately, Sousuke grabbed the closest things near him for balance- Kaname!
Both of them fell with a THUD! The dust flew and the class moved in closer to see what happened.
"Mr. Sagara. Ms. Chidori" Mr. Kazui said with a sly smile. "While personal signs of affection are allowed in school premises, I suggest you restrict them to more discreet actions. If you wish to continue… I'll be more than happy to excuse you two. The locker room showers are free a this time, I believe."
Laughter rang throughout the field. Sousuke and Kaname were lying on the ground, tangled up in a 69 position. Sousuke began to stutter, his signature "Uh's" coming to play. Kaname was stewing. Her face was hot enough to fry eggs.
"SOUSUKE!! Get OFF!!!" She broke free from him and picked him up violently. Sousuke swallowed hard as he cam face to face his Kaname's evil leer. "You… IDDDIIIIOOOTTTT!!!!"
Whistles and claps broke out as they watched in awe Sousuke flying at least 50 meters.
Mr. Kazui patted Kaname on the back and smiled. "I suppose you don't need any defense lessons, Ms. Chidori. However, you aren't going to catch a man by throwing him like a football."
Kaname stomped back to the locker rooms muttering curses.
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In classical lit, Kaname's class was standing outside the room. The teacher was administering the oral quiz, and to help with their nervousness, had each student recite his or her answers alone. After that, they'd have the rest of the period free. Kaname was lucky to be chosen early, and she had done quite well. She walked out of the class beaming, and held up a V sign.
She wandered the halls and stopped in front of the auditorium doors. The drama club was there, holding an unofficial meeting. They were usually held after school, but the new teacher decided to hold the first meeting during lunch. Kaname had wanted to join, but softball practice and her jobs restricted her other activities severely. She decided to just watch what was going on. She entered the auditorium and headed towards the stage. The new teacher noticed her and waved. She was an odd looking woman, middle aged, Kaname presumed. She was draped with many shawls of strange designs, and her hair flaming red hair had wild streaks of black.
"Hello, young lady. I am Mrs. Tanaka. Are you considering our little club?"
"Well… maybe. I dunno. I was hoping to just watch at first and then see if it's right for me. Oh, and I'm Kaname Chidori"
"Ah, I've heard quite a bit about you Ms. Chidori. Quite a passionate soul you have." Kaname blushed. What exactly did she hear?
Mrs. Tanaka called the other students to gather around. They were going to start on a play she herself wrote and will be directing. They were to present it to the school in two months time. Meetings were to be held every Friday after school and Saturday mornings, and perhaps during lunch. Extra meeting may be called, but they would be notified well in advance. Kaname smiled. She could fit that to her schedule. This could be the only activity that wouldn't involve Sousuke's presence. She relished in that thought.
"Mrs. Tanaka. I've decided to join your club!"
"Excellent! I've just the role for you." She directed Kaname towards the stage and handed her a booklet of the play. It was titled Mechanical Love. Kaname flinched slightly. It brought her mind automatically to Sousuke. She shook the thought off and began to practice her lines…
Sousuke was one of the last people called. He had done his quiz quite satisfactorily. The studying and the tips Kaname gave him were quite effective. Speaking of Kaname, she was nowhere to be seen. It was now the lunch period, and she wasn't at her usual spot with Kyouko. Sousuke began to grow suspicious. Was she abducted? Is she hurt? These questions ran through his mind as she searched for her. Suddenly he heard a scream coming form the auditorium. He recognize that voice. Kaname! He rushed in and saw with horror Kaname struggling against a large boy nearly twice her size. There were people around them but they stood still, actually clapping!
"I'll save you, Miss Chidori!" He dashed toward the stage and swept the boy of his feet. Flowing with the motion, Sousuke lifted him and threw him into the second row. He smirked at the unconscious boy and turned to Kaname. "Threat neutralized. You are safe Miss Chi- OW!!!"
Kaname wasn't as appreciative as Sousuke thought she'd be. In fact, she was far from it.
"Sousuke Sagara… BIG DUMMY!" She took off her shoe and began whacking him in the head.
WHACK!
"OWW! Miss Chidori, I don't understand. I didn't blow anything up as you requested."
WHACK! WHACK!
"I saved you from that assailant!"
WHACK! WHACK! WHACK!
Kaname's arm grew tired and spoke, her breath heaving. "He wasn't an assailant! He was acting!!"
Acting? Sousuke was at a loss. Mrs. Tanaka stepped forward after recovering from the shock. "Yes. Welcome to Jindai High's Drama Club." She smiled at him and began circling Sousuke. "Hmm… not bad, not bad." She lifted his arms and examined his face. "Shirt up, please." Sousuke was befuddled by the order, but complied. A series of gasps shot up from some of the girls. Mrs. Tanaka beamed. "You're a bit scruffy, but you'll do. Yes, you'll do quite well."
"Quite well for what, ma'am?"
"The starring role of course! I can see it now. Loyal Soldier and devoted lover, fights in a terrible battle and escapes with an inch of his life. He wanders the lands in search of his dame, oh, that's you Ms. Chidori, only to find her taken by the evil lord of Seira. Driven by love he fights until his love is back in his arms!" Mrs. Tanaka was moved to tears by her account. Kaname was struggling with her shock and rage. Sousuke, as usual, was in total bewilderment.
"Mrs. Tanaka," Kaname pleaded, "are you sure Sousuke's the right man? I mean, he just knocked Kotaru cold!"
"He is pur-fect Ms. Chidori. You must accept the spot, Mr. Sagara! This production rests upon thy shoulders!"
Sousuke looked at Kaname, who was giving him the don't you DARE! look. He couldn't understand why she would be upset in him aiding the Drama Club. And in this way, he could monitor her and keep her from any harm. He stood erect, and saulted. "I will be honored to accept the role, ma'am!"
WHACK!
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They had worked hard practicing. Kaname was surprised to see Sousuke perform quite well. He memorized all of his lines before anyone else, and after some pointers, delivered them with life and emotion. This, coming from Sousuke? Unbelievable! The army otaku could never express his feelings right. Perhaps he was able to gain some insight from acting. Kaname actually enjoyed her practices with Sousuke, who seemed to feel the same way. That feeling came crashing down the moment Mrs. Tanaka decided to make one last modification.
"A kiss?! Mrs. Tanaka!!" Kaname couldn't believe her ears.
"Yes, Ms. Chidori. At the very last scene, you and Mr. Sagara will kiss as the curtain closes. Oh, it's such a fitting resolution, isn't it?"
Sousuke began sweating and breathing heavily. "Mrs. Tanaka, I… I'm not very comfortable with that addition. Can we please stay to the original script?"
"Nonsense, my boy. It's only acting. I'm sure your friendship with Ms. Chidori won't collapse from just one kiss. It will add the perfect touch to my work. A classic as this deserves a classic end! The performance is tomorrow, so be prepared!" She smiled and focused her attention to the maintenance crew, checking if everything was all set.
Sousuke and Kaname looked at each other and just as quickly turned away, both flushing profusely. The air suddenly felt quite humid, and Sousuke found himself constantly tugging his collar. Kaname felt fidgety, and couldn't seem to keep still for more than a minute.
After a last rundown, the cast and crew was allowed to rest for the night. Tomorrow was going to be a big day. Kaname grabbed her coat and things and headed out quite swiftly. Sousuke followed suit.
They walked towards her apartment when Kaname stopped abruptly.
"Is something the matter, Miss Chidori?"
"Actually there is. But let's not talk about here here." Kaname bit her lip before she continued. "Um… want to grab a bit to eat?"
"That… that would be nice." It was quite late, which meant she wouldn't have time to make dinner, so Kaname led Sousuke to a fast food joint. She ordered a chicken tempura and some honeydew milk tea. Sousuke, unfamiliar with the menu, trusted Kaname's judgment and ordered the same items. They remained silent for a while, content to eating their dinner in peace. When their meal was finished, there was an uncomfortable tension between them, and their only source of distraction came from the large clear panes before them. Kaname sighed, and tried to break the ice.
"So… how do you think it'll turn out tomorrow?"
"Based upon our performances during practices, our chance of err is at 46 per cent. Though I am unsure of the technical crew. We haven't really tested the controls, and Mrs. Tanaka has forbade me from entering the AV room. But I-"
"Sousuke," Kaname interrupted. "Good or bad will do."
"It will be good, Miss Chidori."
"I see. But what about the end?"
"The end? The last scene is relatively easy compared to the preceding ones."
"So you're not worried about the… you know… the kiss scene?"
"The kiss? Oh!" Sousuke's face flushed pink and he turned to his drink.
"I- I'm sure it'll be okay. I mean, we're just acting… right?" Kaname's eyes widened. Sousuke did not reply. "Sousuke?"
"I… I don't know, Miss Chidori. Will you be acting?" It was Kaname's turn to be silent.
Will I be acting? Or will it count? She looked at Sousuke, who in turn gazed back. The boy was more often than not the root of all her misery. But he was also the one who shared some of her greatest moments. Ever since she was a little girl, she always dreamed of having the fairy tale romance. High school, however, crushed that fantasy the moment she met those boys. She decided to have a more realistic partner, using her father's high standards. But the more the thought about it, the less romantic it became. Perhaps that was the problem. Her mind could only do so much. She had to follow her heart at this one. And right now, her heart was softly whispering a certain military otaku's name. Kaname looked at him with sharper focus. Physically, he was quite attractive. A few pounds wouldn't hurt him, but otherwise he wasn't so bad to look at. The scar on his left cheek was a turn on. Kaname smiled inwardly when she recalled herself saying he had a nice face. Well, he did. His hard physique was a plus. Personality-wise, Sousuke was a dud. He was impulsive, blowing things up and subduing innocent people at the slightest suspicion. He also tended to take things at face-value, which also added to her frustration sometimes. But when he was on her good side, Sousuke could turn out to be a real sweetheart. He was loyal, protective, innocent, helpful, had high values, and always put her priority as number one. It wouldn't be so bad to take a look at his direction. He was a bud ready to flower, a caterpillar in a chrysalis. Kaname wanted to see his transformation. A hand gently nudged her shoulder.
"Kaname?"
"Huh?"
"You haven't answered my question."
"Oh… well, I'm not too sure either." Coward! Kaname flinched. She bit her lip, and inhaled deeply. She sighed and gave his question another try. "To be honest, Sousuke, despite everything you've put me through… a part of me wants to keep exploring… a part of me… oh, hell. I think I have feelings for you." There, I said it! Now leave me alone! Her heart smiled in victory. "But what about you, Sousuke?"
"I… I am still figuring things out. There's a lot of things I don't know regarding emotions and personal relationships."
"Oh… I see. Well, perhaps I can help you figure things out." Kaname took a sip at her tea before continuing. "Ok… question one. Am I just an assignment to you?"
There was a long pause.
"No, Kaname. I- I always try to go beyond the line of duty for you. My job was to keep you safe. But…"
"But?"
"But now, I've added another mission criteria."
"And what would that be? Sousuke? C'mon, tell me."
"I- I want to make you happy…" Kaname felt her heart go pity-pat.
"Thanks, Sousuke. Alright. Question two. How did you feel when you kissed Mizuki, and how is it any different from when you kiss me before?" Kaname leaned forward, eager to know the answer.
"I felt nothing between me and Miss Inaba. I did feel the sting when she slapped me into the pond." Kaname smirked, recalling that time. She also thought Sousuke was going to kiss her then too, but Mr. Clueless was living up to his name. She went back to listen to what Sousuke had to say. "When you kissed me during that night I bought new apparel, I felt… I really didn't know what it was, to be honest; all I knew was that I wanted it to last forever."
Kaname's heart was doing cartwheels. "Thanks Sousuke. Last question. If I'm no longer your charge… would you still try to see me?"
"Yes." His reply was so quick it shocked both of them. After a brief silence, Kaname stirred, offering her thanks.
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"Ladies and gentlemen, I am very pleased to present to you Jindai High School's theatrical performance, written, directed, and produced by me of course, Mechanical Love!"
The audience clapped wildly, and whistles echoed across the room. Behind the curtain, Kaname wished Mrs. Tanaka chose a better title. She shrugged it off and tried to focus. She quickly went over her lines, and checked herself in the mirror one last time. Her costume was very elegant, combining both the classical charm and modern seductiveness. Her hair was pinned back and bobbed; it took her and five girls three hours to fix her rebellious hair. Like her, it was best left free.
She took a glance at the other actors, all dressed immaculately in their outfits. She rested her eyes on Sousuke, who wasn't looking to shabby either. She quickly went to her position as the curtain went up.
She was in the very first scene with Sousuke, which got them wild hoots and claps from the audience.
"Look at Kaname!" "That dress is BANGIN!!" "Kyouko, take a picture!" "Is that Sousuke?" "He actually looks hot!" "I guess all he needed was a makeover!" The audience began to talk loudly and had to be quieted down by the teachers. Once they were all silent, Kaname and Sousuke began. Everything was a haze for Kaname, the scenes and acts passed so quickly. But it must have been going well after hearing the audience's positive reactions.
There was a fifteen minute intermission, and Kaname took the time to rest her weary foot. The high heeled slipper was more beautiful than it was comfortable, and Kaname felt a sudden wave of relief the moment she took them off.
Her relaxation, however, was short lived.
A phone rang and Sousuke picked up. Oh no… Not now!
"Urzu-7 speaking. Melissa? I see. Understood. I'll be there in ten. Sagara out." Sousuke sighed and put the phone back in his pocket. He headed for the nearest exit when he was suddenly stopped by a rather angry Kaname.
"Miss Chidori… I-"
"Don't even think about it!" Kaname walked closer until she was just centimeters away from his face.
"But Mithril as ordered me to attend a briefing. Besides, my character does not reappear until the last scene. The understudy can-"
"The understudy can stay put! Right now, we need you more! I knew you shouldn't have ever taken this role! I knew something like this would happen."
Kaname looked at him with fiery eyes. For a moment, Sousuke thought he was going to be in for the pounding of his life. Kaname, however, seemed to have diffused. She flung her arms up and let him pass
"You know what… just go. But it's nice to know Mithril's finest will lead his troops into battle and abandom them half-way through." Kaname walked off with a HMPPFF!
Her word struck him hard. Sousuke took out his phone and stared at it, then at Kaname's retreating figure, then back at the phone. Sousuke sighed.
"Hello… Melissa? I'm afraid I cannot attend the briefing. Please relay any vital intel through the communications unit at my apartment. Yes, I know I will get a reprieve. Yes, I know that too. I'm really sorry, but the show must go on…"
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The audience was enthralled by Kaname's performance. She seemed to be on fire. Little did they know she was. Unable to vent at Sousuke, Kaname vented through her character.
At last, at the last scene, Kaname was ready to end the show with fireworks. She had thought up of a good alternative ending since her lead went MIA.
"Let go of me, you filth! Let go and die as the snake you are!" She pretended to struggle with the Lord.
"Your man is dead! He cannot save you. You are mine, my precious. Stop resisting and face the truth. You are mine. Mine forever!" Kaname was impressed with the boy. Kotaru was usually so reserved; his performance was quite breathtaking.
"You may have my body, but never my heart!" The two struggled in a choreographed fight.
During the struggle, Kotaru whispered, "Where's Sousuke?"
"I don't know. Just keep going and I take the lead." Kotaru nodded and they lengthened their fight a bit. Kaname was about to subdue him when a figure came onto the stage.
"My damsel! My love! I've come to thy rescue!" It was Sousuke!
Sousuke broke Kotaru's grip on Kaname and the two engrossed in a mock sword fight. In the end, Sousuke had won, and he and Kaname were ready to end the performance. They said their clichéd lines and paused.
"Now or never," Kaname whispered. Sousuke nodded. The two leaned closer and softly kissed. The audience stood up in ovation clapping and shouting as hard as they could. Kaname found herself tempted to go deeper. She did. She parted her lips and allowed Sousuke in. He too, followed rote. At the fleeting brush of their tongues, both felt a spark surge between them. Each explored, retreated, and tempted the other to bolder levels of intensity. The curtain closed slowly and the light faded.
"That was wonderful, everyone! Simply wonderful!" Mrs. Tanaka looked as if she was reday to burst. "But let's give a special round of applause to our two amazing actors, Kaname and Sousuke, who have… oh…" Mrs. Tanaka smiled. "Come everyone. Let's all go to the reception party and leave our two lovebirds be…" The other cast members whispered animatedly. No doubt the whole school would soon know of Sousuke and Kaname. When they all filed out, Mrs. Tanaka dimmed the lights until they were off and softly closed the doors.
Kaname and Sousuke were still encased within their kiss. The story may have ended, but theirs had only begun…
NOT THE END!!! More to come…