Tornadoes For Sighs
-Chapter 15-
Aimi
THE NEXT DAY DR. GRAY ACTED WEIRD. WELL, WEIRDER.
Ever since Tatsumaki brought up sakura viewing, he acted distant and formal. He was super subservient. She thought she would like that but didn't.
Tatsumaki toured City Z's parks with him, to check if all the wild animals were really dead. She was sort of devastated by that. Being in nature and killing time sort of made up for not seeing the sakura… Deep down, it didn't but she'll take what she could get.
Whilst slinking around, Tatsumaki was pleasantly greeted by birds, small woodland creatures, sprouting plants and their cloud-reaching.
Something changed when she was around him. Tatsumaki got perplexed by the vivid blueness of the sky. How she could breathe a bit more. It got harder to get back to the old colours and leave whatever Dr. Gray gave her.
So, Tatsumaki spoke like someone in a conversation. "Uh, Zombieman will also be on set. You'll be meeting him. Zombieman's kind to children because he was born on Children's Day. He wears green camo pieces and carries six guns. He's a pushover in every way and I'm his genesis. He wears so much leather but has a lot of floral shirts. He likes to take me to coffee places but the instant coffee he makes is the best in the world." Tatsumaki considered it, speaking quickly. "He's also terrified of me."
A curt nod.
Tatsumaki just remembered. "Oh yeah! My clothes are still at your house. I'll pick it up when you meet with your disciple. I won't stay long. It's not like I'll move in or something. What type of apartments do you like?"
He shrugged again.
Passing on Saga street, Tatsumaki watched a mangy, "white" carpet get washed. The oddly mesmerizing, water-wasting process of cleanliness caught her attention. All the brown water ran away, under the fence and past Tatsumaki's feet.
"I feel like my water bill had gone up just by watching this," Tatsumaki commented, hoping for a response.
He nodded blandly.
Tatsumaki felt ignored, more so than usual.
He watched everything with the interest of a newborn absorbing the world. His bald head and blank expression didn't help with that image. Protesting his silence, she wanted to coax him out of this weirdness. If anything, his aloof nature added to the fiery determination in her bones.
She pointed at the carpet's shaggy loops. "A dog must have done quite a bit. I mean, you think you'd be home enough to take care of a pet? I'd help you one some—"
He averted his gaze. "We're never going to be in that position."
Oh yeah.
Tatsumaki rocked on her heels. "I do adore the occasional alpine swallow. An alpine swallow in an apple tree would be darling." Tatsumaki swooned. "They work hard, flying six months straight. They're on the job. Every day is a labour day. A real workaholic in the animal kingdom. I really respect them—…" And her words were only listened to by the wind.
She'll try again. "I want to get tea and chicken," Tatsumaki announced.
"I needed this update because?" Dr. Gray asked.
"Fine. Be like that."
Tatsumaki played with the braid she had. She straightened her hair for the game show. Every time she touched the braid, it reminded her of that dinner. Even if he was a distant asshole, she remembered the good things about him.
It was a hot day. The sun was bright, the world looked dazzling as they encountered a lake with sparkling water. The shiny quality of everything made Tatsumaki felt good and ready. Even though they were going on national television and lying about their love.
Eh. Child's play.
What annoyed her were the couples, sultry glances and close bodies. Their hearts walked side by side, following each other. The couples held hands, their rings fitting in between the grooves of their fingers. Maybe holding hands was as sweet as a romance novel.
If Tatsumaki reached out and held Dr. Gray's hand, would it truly seem like they were an engaged couple? Tatsumaki never held hands with anyone important… She never bothered with romantics and didn't notice the couples before now. What changed?
For there to be someone to take her miserable hand was nice. Even asking for something stupid like affection made her heart pulse, trouble and flutter over the smallest actions he did.
Tatsumaki didn't want to hold hands—she wanted the media to have a field day. Her bosses would praise her. She would work better and anything that helped work was best.
Secretly, subconsciously, Tatsumaki wanted to get closer to him because he felt far today but her conscious mind wouldn't accept that.
They reached the sidewalk at the edge of the park, back in the concrete jungle. She still hadn't asked to hold hands because it felt… forbidden or wrong. He drew borders and lines. She had a picture of how far she could go. She just didn't care.
Maybe his hands would be a hot as the height of summer. Just that idea pushed her forward with a deep breath.
"Dr. Gray! Stop! Hold my hand. Now."
He walked ahead. "No."
Tatsumaki halted. "Everyone else is. People are taking pics. We'll seem like a copacetic couple."
He grimaced and his strides got longer. She's never bothered with romantics and never noticed the couples before now. What changed?
"Hey, asshole! You can't ignore me! You know I hate being ignored!" she yelled. And she was ignored. "We still have to get to City A! We're going to the talk show! Why can't you be helpful? We won't hold hands, I promise. Not really, I will make you hold my hand—"
A cold hand grasped her arm. So cold!
Tatsumaki shrieked. "What the airborne fuck—"
Suddenly, smoking blue chunks of metal and wire fell from the sky like apocalyptic rain, scattered at her feet. It smelled like burnt copper and iron. The rips in the concrete terrified her. Tatsumaki blinked. What just happened?
Somehow, Dr. Gray's back blocked her view.
He stood in front of her like a shield, a structure. People usually hid behind her. Tatsumaki liked having a bad mouth, bad personality and being full of herself because she was able to protect others. It felt weird to be protected.
She was a damsel again. Damn it.
Anyway, something got punched— just what? How did he get in front of her— he was like 10 metres away from her and pieces of metal and bolt are at her feet.
Noting her silence, he glanced at her. "You good?"
Nothing hurt, her arm felt fine but the audacity of Dr. Gray to ask her questions while he ignored her for the past two hours pissed her off.
"You need this update because?" Tatsumaki snarled.
"Are you alright, dude?" he asked.
"Tch. As if you actually care about how I feel." Tatsumaki rolled her eyes, shifting away from him. "You know what, you go to City A's studio by yourself. I'll go my way. It's obvious you want to be alone. There's your wish granted."
Turning away, she swallowed a groan of agony. Oh no. She recognized this stupid bitch ass car parked at the curb beside them.
The passenger seat window rolled down. A holographic image of Amai Mask glimmered.
Tatsumaki forgot that Amai Mask had bought a robot with an artificial intelligence named Tian Mask. It went on errands for him, became a local celebrity and served Amai Mask.
Only Amai Mask would use an android bot butler that looked like him. And Dr. Gray just broke Tian Mask. Ha. Ha. Ha. But also, Amai Mask'll complain.
"Greetings Princess." Amai Mask said casually, tipping his head.
"It's bad to see you in movies and shit but 3D is a whole new problem." Tatsumaki smiled sweetly. "Hello, boss."
"Hey, fan." Amai Mask smiled.
And he broke her. She wasn't a fan. All of Amai Mask's "acting" got to his head, huh? It mixed up reality with fantasies. Tatsumaki groaned.
"Princess, there's a beautiful lake nearby—"
"Awesome. Can you go jump in it? It's full of geese shit." Tatsumaki suggested.
"Act as fluid, graceful and easygoing as the water. Reflect it." Amai Mask finished with an aggravated sigh.
"Don't want to." Tatsumaki huffed, folding her arms. "Why did you send a car to pick me up alongside that bozo that's dead?"
"Although your fiance murdered Tian Mask, I am not bothered, please be respectful." Amai Mask flinched. "Just so you wouldn't escape the game show, I got an escort. You were not at Hero Appreciation Day which saddened the people. They want to see you shine. Besides, I wanted to see your fiance."
Tatsumaki dressed to the nines. She wore a casual black maxi dress. It was flowy, easy and light— comfortable. The denim jacket and strappy sandals combination were perfect. With her hair down, Tatsumaki looked ready for date night.
Dr. Gray didn't.
Amai Mask's eyes were as fast as the wind as he scrutinized Dr. Gray. As shallow as Amai Mask was, he cared about appearances. He had a pinched expression, itching to nitpick and the like. Tatsumaki hated the way he assessed Dr. Gray.
Tatsumaki didn't dress him. Dr. Gray wouldn't let her. He wore his classic "oppai" sweater with the yellow breast and red sleeves and denim jeans. God she fucking hated that sweater but he chose it.
Tatsumaki grimaced. "Do you have something to say?"
Amai Mask looked at Tatsumaki the way one does a child. "Someone like us should not settle for… those who don't shine like the sun. I'm afraid people like him will be… melted."
"Pfft. He's mine. Maybe you're the one who sleeps too late to see his sunrise." Tatsumak squared her shoulders. "Anything bad you say about him, you say about me. Do you really want to insult me, Romeo?" she purred.
"Are you suggesting I offend you, Princess?"
Dr. Gray watched Amai Mask carefully. "Zuzu, let's just walk," Dr. Gray said.
Amai Mask looked at Dr. Gray with disdain. "You are the opposite of me. You don't have enough presence to speak to me, something I have absolutely no time for. Being more successful than most is extremely busy but you see, I would give anything for my beloved employees," Amai Mask said politely as if he were doing them a big favour by staying.
He was always smooth with his words, whether they were offensive or not. Dr. Gray said nothing.
Amai Mask's gentle, practiced laughing fooled no one. "Oh, you do not like me. That wounds me."
"You want to have some real ones?" Tatsumaki growled. "You're a little spineless, aren't you? Pretty boy, stop worrying about your hair and look at me. Don't talk to him like that."
"Oh, smile more, Princess, you are a hero. You save others, you get celebrity status. The galaxy looms around you. Everyone you meet is talking about you. Being a hero should mean a smile." A bright smile graced the pretty boy's face.
"Don't fucking talk to him that way! If you die, you can't get the medicine that cures stupidity. You'll be the same in your next life." Tatsumaki shrieked. "It's your grave if you don't treat him with respect."
Amai Mask's amused expression screamed arrogance. "I'm hurt. I'm not the type to torture myself and be where I am not welcomed. I will leave you privacy." Amai Mask beamed. "I cannot wait until the show. I may or may not make a cameo."
He flickered out of existence before Tatsumaki could protest. Fuck. Of course, he'd hijack the fucking interview. Argh! It will be easier to get straight to Amai Mask and kill him. I wanna wreck his car, Tatsumaki concluded. I will wreck his precious baby with a smile.
Dr. Gray just stared at the passenger's seat, face listless.
"I'm getting in the car. See you, walk fast, darling." Tatsumaki blew a kiss and ducked inside.
It smelled like Amai Mask— gag.
Dr. Gray protested with a silent look. "You're not serious."
"Do I need your fucking permission?!" Tatsumaki demanded.
Dr. Gray just stared at her harder. She knew what he was leery— maybe not concerned or leery, to be perfectly honest… but curious about it.
"Amai Mask can't hurt me. He's an asshole but not that type of asshole." Tatsumaki rolled her eyes. "If you're so bothered, get in—" or fuck off.
And then he got in before she could tell him off. Damn it.
Tatsumaki stared for a couple of seconds. Mixed signals, much?! Was he fucking kidding her? Why'd he get in the limo?!
Tatsumaki didn't mean to invite him, the awkward and silent fellow. She was fine with being alone. And she hasn't recovered from him rejecting hand-holding.
She tried to hold his hand and he ignored her. She tried to talk to him and he ignored her. She didn't like being ignored then being protected. Stupid fuck. She just wanted to make a point and make him walk. He made it clear that he didn't want to talk or anything.
But he's bothered enough to save her from Tian Mask and walk her to City A because he didn't like Amai Mask. Maybe he cared, she told herself but she knew he probably didn't.
Yet he sat beside her in the back seat as the driver drove away. They were surrounded by leather and luxury as he sulked, staring moodily out the window.
Cruising along was easy enough though Tatsumaki was agitated. The tinted windows, private space and dim lights created a weird mood. She kept on glaring at him but he looked too preoccupied to care, not that he cared about anything really.
The whole world will have their eyes on him and his reactions were dry.
Tatsumaki's voice was thick with disapproval as she spoke. "You can't be like this on television. You'll fuck up the interview and the gameshow and the world will hate you. I won't forgive you, either. I'd normally split my energy and give half to you if you weren't being an asshole but you are, so fix it by yourself when you get on camera." Tatsumaki grimaced.
Tatsumaki hated people. Men. They never gave her what she wanted. No wonder she's never been intimate with anyone. And she's never been kissed, either. Opening up opens some wounds. Fuck.
Love and marriage— as if they're the same things. Marriage isn't real. Stupid world.
"Love and marriage are the same real things. They never end." he protested lightly, using his throat for the first time.
Oh, now he decides to talk. And she said that out loud?! If he wants a conversation, he'll get one.
"Yeah right. They end. Love and marriage are separate things. Take Atlas and his wife—"
"Who's Atlas?" he frowned.
Tatsumaki rolled her eyes. "My foster father. He raised me. That's Atlas."
"So your father." he corrected.
Eh. Some people might say so. She didn't respect Atlas or fear him like people did their fathers. She didn't want to.
"He was a hero before the Hero Association existed. He's strong, popular, and whimsical. He's rich off old money but also from donations. The public named him Atlas because he was everywhere when someone needed him. A freak sense of direction. Any place in the 26 cities, he tells you exactly how to get there." Tatsumaki said quietly.
Dr. Gray gazed at her, astonishment radiating off of him. "You've never bought a map on road trips? Awesome."
"I had Atlas. Really helpful during yearly family road trips. He's actually the one who taught me why heroes mattered since he was so decorated, respected and strong. He was married to work. Work above everything. Being a hero was everything until it wasn't." Tatsumaki's voice got cold. "He was my age when he gave up status, fame and anything beneficial when he adopted 2 kids and got a wife named Tsumugi. Good for nothings like me and Fubuki were adopted. Crazy."
"Not so crazy. Lots of people do that for their kids," Dr. Gray claimed. "Didn't you?"
"Fuck no. I'm on top of my shit. Atlas got weak and lost. Even if I am saddled with you, Zenko and Badd, I'm still going. I won't give anything up." Tatsumaki scowled. "When you're not working, don't you think you're going to sink into the mud?"
"Nah. Take a break sometimes."
"I don't slumber. I don't want to be like Atlas. I have priorities that I am faithful to." Tatsumaki hissed.
"Yo, Atlas got a wife and a happy family. That's admirable. He got a lot."
"Happy family, huh," Tatsumaki giggled without humour. "Atlas cheated on Tsumugi — a real parent— for my now step-monster Kizashi. No, fidelity and working ethic aren't real. Love doesn't last. I learned it in my home, Fubuki doesn't care about me. The Aihara bunch doesn't either. This is a fake marriage, too. So I know it."
"That explains so much."
"Right, so, Atlas isn't my father," Tatsumaki said.
"Eh. Not that," Dr. Gray winced.
"He's annoying. He tries so hard. It's so embarrassing."
"Wouldn't it be worse if he didn't try at all?" Dr. Gray said.
"Atlas is annoying. Fubuki told me my love is a total pain but it's not like I can change the way I love people." Tatsumaki shrugged.
He seemed confused. "You can, totally in your control. How'd that one go over your head?"
"Oh shut up." Tatsumaki spat, getting defensive. "It's not like you're better off. You don't have a personality that you show to others. You don't talk like there's something to say. I barely have material to talk about during the game show. That's on you. You don't share."
"You share too much."
"That's the way I am." Tatsumaki tsked.
"Me too. You can't change me."
"You should change yourself. You don't invest in the right things. Stupid house, stupid disciple and not to mention that 10-word rule. How fucked up is it?"
"It's effective. It's only in place 'cause of you."
Her jaw fell. "Me?! It's because of me?! Oh GOD, you are a snob and a half. People cry to have conversations with me. People wish to be me." Tatsumaki hissed.
"Eh, I'd pass," he deadpanned.
"Whatever. At least I have emotions. I'm not sure if you're up to lying or acting on television. Sharing your spleen, guts and heart. Guess what, you can't share your heart if you don't feel it!"
He seemed troubled, sitting up taller. "What about you? You're plain angry. Don't you get tired? Offending people for fun isn't cool."
Atlas asked, "Aren't you tired of working?". Gross! Why was he like Atlas?! Tatsumaki was not tired. Her success blew her damned fatigue away.
"At least I say something. You're damn quiet. I don't like quiet people." Tatsumaki said harshly. "Speak up!"
"I prefer quiet people." he sneered.
Tatsumaki stiffened. That's the opposite of Tatsumaki. Clear, blatant anger set her jaw. Tatsumaki sucked on her teeth. "Sorry, not sorry. You're stuck with me. Giving up isn't in my dictionary."
"Damn. Buy a new dictionary."
"WHY DON'T YOU DIE!" Tatsumaki shouted.
"Nice," Dr. Gray gazed out the window, "you're good at defending your flaws rather than fixing them."
Tatsumaki opened her mouth then closed it. "You annoy me," she said eventually.
His eyes dug under her skin and settled there. "If I'm so annoying, why annoy me like this?" he questioned.
A good question that came at her like knives. Even if he kicked her out, she'd make excuses and come back anyway to feel his presence. She wanted to stay until he felt bad about parting ways. When by her side, she doesn't even want an insect near him.
There used to be a right sense of distance between them, now something's changed. And she didn't like it as much. She didn't want him to ask good questions.
Tatsumaki puffed her cheeks. "Hmph. You're damage control for my career. Most people get killed when they look me in the eye. Y'know, taking a break is useless if you're there to wait for me." she snapped.
"Nope. I wouldn't wait."
"Right. I won't let anyone sabotage my work and it certainly won't be you," Tatsumaki confessed through gritted teeth. "I'm all in. Even if I lost my memory, you'd be the first person to come to mind, asshole."
And then silence.
He wasn't angry and she didn't attempt to make conversation. It felt wrong.
Tatsumaki wanted to kill the person she was two months ago. She wouldn't have spoken to him. She's a tornado of terror and now she's losing control and authority.
Before, acting like they were engaged would have been easy. However, when they reached the studio, smiling in front of the crowd and getting the flashes was difficult. She was pissed!
Trying to figure out where to go, having the makeup brushes poke her skin was a nuisance. There was a very warm welcome, followed by a team of people ushering them around. She got an email from Bearded Worker.
Dr. Gray looked out of his element, drinking a cup of matcha tea he ordered. He looked overwhelmed as they sat in her dressing room. The furniture was comfortable, the rooms bright but everything was tense.
"So the gameshow is highly scripted. It'll just be a run-of-the-mill interview. Some friendly banter. Some current topics about the celebrity world, what are the heroes doing, an interesting video, questions. Then the host, who I think is named Hoezaki Tamami. She's a great person. I've never seen or watched Good Morning City A— so I guess it will be okay." Tatsumaki said, rolling her eyes.
All of her words were clipped and venomous. She knew she pissed him off but she's trying to make up for it. It was pretty shitty to force someone else into the shimmering world of fame since Tatsumaki herself didn't like it. But he agreed to help.
"I… I," Tatsumaki started, voice strong and loud, "shouldn't have said some of those things."
One eyebrow shot up. "Some?"
"Oh, shut the fuck up."
"That's one more thing."
"Yeah." Tatsumaki clenched her fist. "You are a snob and a half. I was some lame-ass loser talking to myself ALL day. Who's the lying asshole who told me "I'm around." Lies! What the fuck, dude? Was it something I said?"
He frowned. "I'm not too happy about the show. Is all."
"I'm not either but guess what, I could be out there chatting up the crowd but I wanted to stay in here and fix whatever happened." she glared at her fingers. "I take back what I say. All of it. Just talk to me. I'll stop being a bitch— if you just act like yourself. I do like that person best. Not this wet blanket."
Their eyes met. Dr. Gray opened his mouth. "My mom emailed me this morning."
Tatsumaki narrowed her eyes. "Is that bad?"
"No, but it will be."
Tatsumaki nodded, accepting that he was going to reveal that much. "Dr. Gray, I'm sorry—"
Knock! Knock! Knock!
Tatsumaki jumped out of her chair and flew over to Dr. Gray's side. She needed to be touching him. Their arms brushed.
The door flung open, a handsome, pale guy with darkness hanging around his trench coat entered. He smelled of coffee and steel. He looked cleaned up for today. However, Zombieman just intruded on them as if it meant nothing.
Tatsumaki folded her arms. "Knock much?" Tatsumaki tsked.
"Wanted to see you," Zombieman explained gruffly.
Tatsumaki rolled her eyes. "You're the definition of impatient. But this time…" she observed him dourly, thinking of being alone with Dr. Gray. Anything but that. "I'll allow it. Why aren't you standing on stage, serenading the crowd?"
Zombieman flashed a romantic smile. "I went around asking if they needed anything. I remembered I was a hero. I wanted to help them but they served me instead. Ironic, huh?" Zombieman chuckled.
"You're so caring to other people," Tatsumaki noted teasingly.
Zombieman brightened. "The reason I'm so caring is because of you."
"Oh really? I momentarily helped you kill a few monsters for you and now you're here all the time. You piss off a lot of people. I heard you called out Agoni the other day. You just used up all the luck you'll ever have in life." she grinned devilishly.
"Guess I'll just have to rely on you then, won't I?"
Tatsumaki was caught in that romantic, affectionate line. It felt suggestive and scripted, the way it does in bad films. He wasn't embarrassed and it was sweet. Recovered, Tatsumaki simply huffed, feigning nonchalance.
Dr. Gray sniffed the air exaggeratedly. "You smoke, dude?"
Zombieman's romantic smile fell off of his face. "Yeah. It calms me. She doesn't mind. The colour of the silken line was red when I met her."
"My heart swoons," Tatsumaki said sarcastically.
"Now you know how mine feels. All the time."
Tatsumaki laughed. "Sweetheart, I'm blushing."
Dr. Gray looked unimpressed. "Zuzu, who is he?" he asked, not looking at Tatsumaki.
"Zombieman. Fellow hero, S-Class rank 8." Zombieman said following an expectant pause.
The blank face of Dr. Gray remained. A bit of pride and anticipation was on Zombieman's face. Tatsumaki forgot Dr. Gray knew nothing about anything related to heroes. Of course, he isn't respectful at all.
Zombieman's expression morphed into a grim irritation when Dr. Gray said nothing for a solid 15 seconds.
"You're bathwater dude." Dr. Gray said eventually. "Try matcha instead, man."
Zombieman had murder on his face. It was entertaining. Musical joy bubbled from deep within her as Zombieman's cool guy facade broke.
Tatsumaki chortled, holding her stomach. "Oh, I did say that. I'm surprised you put the puzzle pieces together. You barely remember anything, dumbo."
"I remember your sunburns pretty clearly," he mentioned casually.
Did he want to embarrass her? What's with this sudden conversation?! He's been ignoring her. Until now.
Tatsumaki whipped around, averting her gaze. "They're not sunburns! You know I'd recognize your bald head and laugh anywhere." Tatsumaki glared at her shoes. "Give me coffee and leave. I'm tired of your shenanigans, Zombieman. You make it best."
"I got it." Dr. Gray called out, ignoring Zombieman's guffaw.
And he did get her coffee at the confectionary table in her dressing room. He got a knife and sliced apple wedges for Tatsumaki. He probably held back immensely when he dropped an apple slice into her coffee mug. Her heart got funny.
Walking towards her, he offered her the cozy mug, blanketed in a napkin. "Your coffee."
Tatsumaki scowled, to hide her funny heart. "Why a napkin? I won't spill it. God." she hissed, not accepting the cup. "I'm not you."
"It's hot. Careful," he warned.
"Whatever." Tatsumaki's voice got weak like she suddenly became sick with a cold.
Honestly, Tatsumaki reached for him, to snatch the cup from him despite the consequences. Just to spite him. Halfway through the act, Dr. Gray caught her hand and wrapped her fingers around the cup. The mug was hot, not as hot as his hand cradling her much smaller one.
"Careful."
Tatsumaki glared. "But—"
"Shh. The mug might get scared of you." he joked. She stared at him. "What? The napkins are a security blanket. For support."
He's being weird, Tatsumaki thought and moved away.
Him getting the coffee… That was weirdly sweet. The napkin was a thoughtful touch. He had 998 good impressions now. She was still angry and he was an asshole but he wasn't a complete asshole.
"Another good impression," Tatsumaki whispered.
"Not on me," Zombieman mumbled.
She fidgeted with her fingers, bringing attention to the bandaid he put on her yesterday. And he tried to take care of her— despite how annoying they both were.
"Why do you have that band-aid?" Zombieman turned to Dr. Gray, eyes fixed on him. "Did you do that?"
"No! Do you have holes for eyes?!" Tatsumaki rolled her eyes. "I was cooking for him and got careless. It wasn't a big cut. As if a knife could catch me off guard."
"Dude, it did though." Dr. Gray intoned lowly.
"Hah? I'm sensible." Tatsumaki growled. "Positively sensible."
"Oh yeah?"
Tatsumaki broke. "Fine! I don't! So what if I have the sensibility of a thirty car pile-up?! I wouldn't trade one stupid decision for another five years of life. Tch. I can see all of my tiny, miniature mistakes reflected in your bald head." she murmured.
Dr. Gray hummed thoughtfully. "You're a bit too short to look. Just don't cut yourself next time," he warned.
"Whatever. I'll cut myself into smaller pieces for you to take me home." Tatsumaki growled.
He sized her up. "You're less than 5 feet. Totally manageable."
"Fine! I'll make mincemeat of your damn home." Tatsumaki offered with a snark.
"Not gonna happen. It'd probably fall on its own." he idly scratched his arm.
"With your help?" Tatsumaki asked snidely.
"And yours." he scoffed.
Tatsumaki laughed, her head feeling like tapioca pudding again. She angrily clapped a hand over her mouth. I'm STILL mad at you! Tatsumaki growled at herself. Stupid. Stupid.
Zombieman cleared his throat. Loudly. She forgot he was here. She liked being a nation of two with Dr. Gray.
"I dislike gathering. People in crowds. Tatsumaki attests to this; teamwork is a wash unless it's her and I. We're partners in this bleak, cheerless macrocosm. Does that bother you?" Zombieman asked Dr. Gray, walking up to him.
Dr. Gray shook his head while Zombieman casually lit a cigarette, prolonging the silence.
"Good… Here's some things about me… I'm S-rank. It takes me 3 minutes to recover from 200 fatal injuries and 15 minutes to recover an amputated arm. I forget to count. I don't like freaks or change. Why are you here?"
Dr. Gray didn't react when Zombieman's long drag blew smoke into his face.
"I'm just weak when it comes to straightforward, strong people. When they're at their lowest, that's when they want someone to rely on. Will you be there for her?" Zombieman asked.
"Yup."
"Like I'll need you Zombieman." Tatsumaki rolled her eyes. "Diamonds shouldn't hang out with dumb rock brains like you both. Let's jump."
Zombieman didn't answer her. Instead, he stared Dr. Gray down. None of them acknowledged her. They had this weird tension she didn't know how to dissolve it. She liked egging on fights but this felt dangerous. She had the sense it was about her!
"Piss off. I wanna go to the roof so we could jump off. Let's leave." Tatsumaki ordered, tugging on Dr. Gray's hand. A zap went climbed through her arms. She almost touched his hand! Aw!
ANYWAY, Zombieman's smile was sharp and lethal. "A valuable person ought to be with someone who understands their value. Some say dogs are easier to control than kids. Some only date others because of this. Are you really up to the task of taking care of her? She could keep going as far as she'd like. I will stick by her every time. I'm confident in my patience but I don't think I'm confident in you. I don't like you."
"Okay." Dr. Gray said, he checked Tatsumaki's face. "You ready to go, Zuzu?"
Zombieman coughed on smoke. "O-Okay? Who the fuck's 'Zuzu'?"
Tatsumaki grabbed Dr. Gray's arm and pulled. He didn't budge. Tatsumaki literally couldn't move him. He was so heavy and solid. Manhandling him was futile.
"It's nothing." Dr. Gray lifted a shoulder. "I'll keep doing what I need. You do you. I know everything I need."
Zombieman winced. "What do you tell him about me?" he asked Tatsumaki.
"Anyways," Tatsumaki said to Dr. Gray, "let's go. Zombieman, stop being a problem."
"Me?" Zombieman demanded and whirled back to Dr. Gray. "You're no good for her. She never got injured until you."
"Dude—" Dr. Gray started.
"YO! Stop being polite cavemen and listen to me, damn it! I don't know why you're both fighting! I find it extremely odd that I'm telling you guys to cut it out and shut the fuck up! You're supposed to get along!" Tatsumaki said loudly.
After her little speech finished, Zombieman and Dr. Gray both gazed at her, confused.
Tatsumaki snapped. She couldn't handle being spoken about this way. She was present. Jesus!
She stomped her foot. "This is supposed to be a good day and you're ruining it! Both of you! Fuck."
Zombieman's face crumpled in recognition. "Tatsumaki— I'm sorry— I just wanted to make sure that he was a good guy," he said quickly, deeply apologetic.
"Trust my fucking intuition, after all, I'm the one who's marrying him! You're making this about you and it's literally not. Not to suck my own dick or anything but it's about me. My interview." Tatsumaki spat, waving her arms. All around her, green glowed and items floated, reacting to her emotions.
Tatsumaki stared at Dr. Gray pointedly then strode away. "I expect you in the hallway, ruiner."
The crash of bowls and foods scattered sounded like music. Tatsumaki waited in the hallway after her dramatic exit. Two minutes passed and Dr. Gray hadn't made an exit. She didn't want to embarrass herself by going back. But what did they talk about? She leaned against the wall, ignoring the producers who stared and tried to usher her off to the stage, to meet the host. She didn't want to.
The male assistant watched her with clear impatience. He could burn a hole in the ground with how fast he tapped his left show, watching her under his overly gelled haircut.
He tapped on his watch. "Tornado of Terror-sama, we go live in ten minutes. Tanami wants to meet you. To rehearse the script."
"I memorized it," Tatsumaki said curtly. "I know all the cues, all the games and all the names."
"Yeah. That's outstanding." The assistant sighed. "It could get awkward on television, you know, she just wants to make sure that you're comfortable?"
"I met her online, we exchanged emails. She's a stranger but so what? I've got enough charm. You think I don't?" Tatsumaki asked sharply, on edge.
The assistant withered and he finally stopped tapping his foot, looking personally attacked. Ugh. That was rude. He was just trying to do his job and those two bozos were throwing the program off-kilter. Tatsumaki, too since she wasted time like this.
"That was uncalled for." Tatsumaki sighed, holding the assistant's terrified gaze. "I'll love her. Just… I want to walk on stage with the support of my fiance. I'm… waiting for him. I'm not as cool and collected as you see. Anything anxious that's supposed to be anxious isn't because he's there."
The assistant's red-hot impatience melted. "Alright. But I want to see you on stage soon."
When Dr. Gray walked out, Tatsumaki scanned his body. No bruises. Nothing. He watched her for a while, Tatsumaki doing the same. She couldn't believe she waited for him.
She pushed herself off of the wall, glaring at him. "Get along with my co-workers, will you? I don't like late people or people who make me wait."
"Yeah. Sorry."
He didn't mean it. Probably not. "Ruiner." she hissed.
"I'm sorry. That's Zombieman," he stated lowly. "Weird dude. You close to him?"
"Nope but doesn't he adore me?" Tatsumaki watched him reproachfully. "He treats me like I'm special, doesn't get disappointed in my hobbies and never laughs at me."
"So, you like him?"
"He says he gets pulled in by my bright character. That I purify the dark matter inside of him." Tatsumaki hummed. "He's my co-worker. He comes into my territory and shows sincerity. I like that. He saw me for the first time and decided to take care of me, apparently."
"I feel like I've taken his place." he murmured.
"Pfft. He's in S-Class and you're…" Tatsumaki faltered. "Nevermind. He's like my younger brother despite his immortality.
Dr. Gray's eyes widened slightly. "Oh. That's how you see him?"
Tatsumaki blinked. "How else would I?"
Dr. Gray shrugged. "He seems close to you… Even if you aren't close to him," he told her. "You're very important to him. Take stock in that."
Tatsumaki kept quiet, eyeing him suspiciously. Where were those words coming from? She didn't care for Zombieman that much.
Tatsumaki narrowed her eyes. "Why?"
"I got the feel someone will be hurt by all this," he said vaguely.
"Ha! The only one who got hurt was me." Tatsumaki held up her injured finger.
He patted her head. "Take care of yourself more."
She swatted his hand away. "Hmph." Tatsumaki turned away, cheeks warming. "Your advice doesn't make my ears rot, ruiner."
"Do you need a change of bandages?" he asked.
"Negative. Your bandaid stayed on. It's cheap and horrible but still here." Tatsumaki showed him the band-aid as proof.
"Nice. I knew it was a good product."
"It's mediocre. I want to take it on tour around the 26 cities. I won't get hurt but I do need bandaids. For you, of course." she added belatedly. "Take responsibility."
He thought for a moment. "Why not?"
Tatsumaki grinned triumphantly. "I would force you to anyway." she snorted.
"I'm sure. 'S fine."
Tatsumaki hesitated and grabbed his arm to slow their walking to a stop. "What… What did you guys talk about in there? Better yet, why are you suddenly talking to me?"
Flash. With a flash and some clapping in the distance, Tatsumaki perked up. Someone took a photo of her. With him. Together.
Tatsumaki ripped away from her arm as Dr. Gray tilted his head at the two invading their intimate space. "You took a picture?"
Two gaping producers with earpieces and all-black outfits stood there. They were a bit misplaced and nosy. They loved watching her. People loved watching her. One producer valiantly clapped and the other was frozen, hand still taking photos.
The producer who clapped grinned. "Mr. Tornado of Terror and Mrs. Tornado of Terror— you guys are adorable! You have a cute smile!"
Her cheeks hurt because Tatsumaki was unconsciously smiling. What the hell?!
Tatsumaki schooled her features into stone. She hadn't even realized she was smiling. Her cheeks hurt. Tatsumaki was still freaked out that someone needed to take candid photos of them when she wasn't prepared. Especially since they caught her in such an honest, raw state.
Radioactivity invaded her chest. The butterflies disappeared as she felt embarrassed. Why did Tatsumaki feel angry at their conversation being cut? Grr.
"Who's Mr. Tornado of Terror?" Dr. Gray asked casually, reading Tatsumaki's mind.
Was that what the media refers to him as?
"You." The clapping producer stated. "You don't seem like a showy playboy or an attractive guy with high morals. Even though people come around Tornado of Terror unconditionally, I approve of you. Stay forever!"
"Noted." He nodded. "The name's Saitama." Dr. Gray said casually.
Pfft. He's never tried to get her to say it. If he did, she'd actually kill herself and erupt into metaphorical flames. Dr. Gray's nickname was normal and belonged to Tatsumaki. Saying his real name would put her on the level of Cyborg, these producers and whoever he introduced himself to.
Tatsumaki had one-upped those fools because she wasn't, in fact, a stranger. Besides, it would be embarrassing to say it.
A shit-eating grin tainted his tone. "Our Zuzu knows it well. Why don't you give a demonstration?"
"Huh?!" Tatsumaki glared, cheeks burning, smacking his arm. "Don't make me say it so familiarly. Not in front of people!"
"I don't like 'Dr. Gray' though," he deadpanned.
Tatsumaki stiffened. This was the first time he's protested her asinine nickname. Well, the first time she cared. Was... Was he pulling away again?
"Oh, Tornado of Terror, your fiance doesn't bite." Mischievous joy glimmered in the producer's eye. "Unless you want him to."
Tatsumaki groaned. "I'm going to go… to start the show. I think the interview portion of the show will start— with me, of course. The game show will be the second portion. Apparently, it won't all be live." she made eye-contact with him. "I… I will see you around. No more empty spaces."
He nodded. "Yep. Kill it out there."
Tatsumaki rolled her eyes. "When do I not?" she paused, knowing she should just go, people were going to escort her in a little while. "I… I think it'll be okay. Right?" she asked quietly.
He nodded. "You should be. If anything goes wrong, I'll have a chat with them."
Her eyes glinted. "Unless I get them first."
"Go. It'll be okay."
With a parting laugh, Tatsumaki ventured into the world of television with resounding applauds vibrating her chest.
This interview could be a blessing or a plague on the landscape of her career. It was important to smile, act natural and be personal. There will be random chit chat with nothing but an air of fabrication.
But when Tatsumaki walked on stage, she was back in senior year of high school, a small, terrified girl. She saw Fubuki's best friend, Mira— the mortal enemy of Aihara Tatsumaki.
Tatsumaki was suddenly seventeen again, in the hallway surrounded by laughing snot rags and horrible uniforms. The popular girls (Fubuki, Laura and Mira's friends) laughed the loudest. Excluding Fubuki.
What fresh hell is this?! How much are you going to corner me, Mira?! Tatsumaki growled internally.
Hoezaki Tanami's real name was Yamada Mira. Mira probably changed it, got famous and a show in City A. She was probably still a passive-aggressive bitch. She still had the curves, zinc gray eyes and pale skin.
Mira shifted in her fancy pumps. She looked ecstatic as the crowd came to life. She must have walked out of a magazine in her pretty jewelry, white shift dress. Bitch, bitch, bitch!
Long, soft arms and an aura of perfume enveloped the much smaller Tatsumaki. Oh god, a hug.
"Oh my god, it's you! Give me a hug." Mira squealed.
Mira didn't ask. They were already hugging.
Tatsumaki couldn't wait to get home and burn her skin off. Tatsumaki laughed sweetly as Mira dislodged her microphone and whispered into Tatsumaki's ear.
"Anything that happened in High School doesn't exist. My job's on the line. Be civil." Mira begged with a note of panic.
"Oh? I'm nothing but sweet, honey." Tatsumaki said with a tender sigh.
Tatsumaki loved the panic, the guilt and the power dynamic switch. Tatsumaki could ruin Mira's life right now.
Tatsumaki would've never done this interview if she knew Mira's true identity. Mira knew Tatsumaki, everyone did.
Mira found a way to get more press, ratings and fans. Mira was using Tatsumaki! Everyone's going to watch this interview/game show since it's the first one Tatsumaki's doing on her wedding. The wedding of the century and Mira got the scoop. The little tramp.
Tatsumaki wanted to be sweet like sugar venom but she liked her job. Starting a feud with the biggest talk show host in the world wasn't a good idea. Amai Mask chewing Tatsumaki a new ass would be so annoying. She nearly totalled City F, nearly killed that scientist and also neglected her hero duties. Tatsumaki didn't need more problems.
But she wanted revenge.
"I'll get you back later," Tatsumaki smirked.
Mira laughed airily. "Later, yes? We play nice. Agreed?"
Mira squeezed Tatsumaki's shoulders, pretending to cherish her.
Tatsumaki squeezed back. "Agreed."
Tatsumaki never played nice but she played smart.
So in a loud, girlish voice that Tatsumaki adopted in front of cameras, Tatsumaki squealed, "Oh my god, I love it. I can't believe we meet again. Such a coincidence. I want to cry."
"I'm so touched. I've never seen you cry."
They sat across from each other on a faux living-room set up. The seats were tilted towards the crowd and a mug with Mira's face sat on the table in front of them. Classless, huh.
Mira spoke clearly as she introduced Tatsumaki. "This is the S-Class hero with the most Demon level kills in the year. She's the Princess of the Hero Association, terrifying and lovely, Tornado of Terror." Mira clapped. "We have an exclusive interview from our favourite Esper about her work/life and love balance, what does it mean to get married and the meaning of being a hero for the people."
Everyone burst out in loud cheers. Tatsumaki smiled at the cameras, noticing the cues and the screens directing her— as if she forgot.
Mira settled down, hands folded in her lap as she stared at Tatsumaki. "I'm just shocked that you're here. You should talk to me this time around since you won't get the chance ever again. You don't like interviews." Mira added after an extended pause.
Tatsumaki yawned exaggeratedly. "I just get tired of socializing. Some people really take it out of me." Tatsumaki smiled. "You do have my posters and billboards to converse with."
"I totally forgot. You're everywhere."
"Maybe you'll be missing out." Tatsumaki shrugged. "You haven't changed at all. You're worse—"
"Hey—"
"At listening." Tatsumaki corrected. "That's what I was going to say. Did you think I was going to say something else?"
"No. No." Mira pinched her thin lips together. "You've changed. You speak a lot more."
"Ah. Do I?"
"You do. And you've gone from a small breed teacup puppy to a great dane. This whole persona's growing on me. Ha, ha. Well, some things don't grow." Mira laughed regretfully but didn't feel that way. "Has Blizzard of Hell met your fiance?"
"Blizzard of Hell moved out and hasn't met him. You don't know anything about her? That's such a surprise." Tatsumaki turned to the crowd. "This is Blizzard of Hell's best high-school friend. They used to do so many things together and tell each other everything. Like gossip."
"And someone moved in." Mira changed the subject swiftly, a bit apprehensive. "Metal Bat and his younger sister. Metal Bat's home recently was demolished and they moved from City C to City A, with Tornado of Terror. How are you handling them?"
"They're good, strong kids." Tatsumaki shrugged. "Things have changed because of them. It's the usual feeling that goes away though it's the usual morning. The usual work. The usual me. I never knew that kids, those with the least knowledge, could teach you a lot. They make so many messes. I change often. I forgot what kids were like."
Mira giggled. "Is it karma from when you were young?"
"I bet! I was a little gremlin!" Tatsumaki face-palmed as the crowd laughed. "They're honest, unlike adults. Adults are rigid and dreamless. Impure. Honestly, I can't take care of other people. I believed kids were needy, clingy and expensive. But they were in trouble. They needed someone. I'm a hero, S-Class rank 2. I'm a sucker for those in need even when I don't understand them myself. I understand… no, I know I can do something for them."
Mira smiled. "Any advice for new parents?"
"New parents? Oh, they're in a league of their own. I'm just babysitting. I can't tell them anything but… my advice for people, don't be scared. As a hero, when you face death and pain so much, you get to the point where you say what you mean when you want. It's a huge time-saver."
Mira nodded. "It's difficult to be truthful. You are fearless. Isn't she fearless? Guys, she's fighting monsters every day. I can't imagine putting myself in that type of danger."
"In the end, you should be honest with yourself if you really like something. Stop worrying about what others say about you. Be honest about the things you love." Tatsumaki said with a shrug. "It takes so much to lie. I hate lying, you guys. It's tiring. It's better to preserve your time. You never know when you're gone."
Mira nodded. "What about your fiance? We hardly know anything about him! Spill the details. We need to know. We're all so curious."
The crowd whooped and cheered encouragingly.
Mira looked at the screen covering the wall behind them. "If no one has any idea of who the mystery Mr. Tornado of Terror— these are Good Morning City A's exclusive photos. Just a reminder to everyone who isn't Tornado of Terror."
A montage of images between them showed on the screen behind them. A supercut of their moments together. Leaning against the store windows, eating sandwiches. Standing on the train in City Z, beaming on the train. Seeing Tatsumaki with groceries and Dr. Gray upset. One photo of Tatsumaki smiling at him made her uncomfortable.
That's how long her hair's gotten?! Gross! Tatsumaki's bangs swung in her face like unwelcome jungle vines. Not to mention how they were curled. She's embarrassed.
Anyway, in the pictures, Tatsumaki's mean face wasn't angrily scrunched up. Tatsumaki looked happy because of him. She didn't know she smiled with her teeth. She used to hate her teeth.
"You look bright and envious," Mira said loudly.
"I do," Tatsumaki agreed. "It's come to the point where I don't know how this happiness is mine."
"How about we bring your happiness out here, huh?" Mira asked. "Welcome Mr. Tornado of Terror on screen!"
The crowd went wild, roaring as Dr. Gray walked out on the stage. Tatsumaki's insides smiled as her anxiety melted into this extreme relief. Tatsumaki urged him to sit beside her.
This interview could be salvaged, Tatsumaki knew it. Instead of sitting beside her, Dr. Gray got intercepted by Mira.
Mira popped up on her feet like a jack in the box from hell. "Hi. It's nice to meet you." she shook his hand.
"Yo," he said, shaking her hand once then let go.
Dr. Gray's eyes didn't linger on Mira's curves, mature looks or her gorgeous black hair that hung in waves. Mira's locks were slightly curled, so gentle and teasing to the eye. His loyalty gave Tatsumaki a bit more confident for some reason.
Mira was competition but in another category.
Tatsumaki didn't really listen as he spoke to the crowd. He fascinated them here and there. There were the odd moments of silence where the crowd watched Tatsumaki expectantly.
Mira shuffled around some cards. "Who said I love you first?" Mira asked impatiently.
"I did." Tatsumaki looked at him as a hush fell over the crowd. "I'm happy I did."
Mira's smile split her face. "How long into the relationship?"
Tatsumaki laughed. "I wanted to say it on the first day. I couldn't believe I found someone who didn't know who I was… so it interested me. And to the sunset and to the stars, I said 'I'm with you.' then sought him out the next day. The last thing you do before you go to sleep should be something positive. I knew I would find him again. He couldn't argue about it. I went to every grocery store in City Z that next day and then… argued. We did not ease into friendship. Ha."
Mira cooed, features soft and gentle. "What was your first argument about?" Mira asked, amused.
"Groceries."
Tatsumaki and Dr. Gray both said it together. They stared at each other for a few moments, shocked at their synchronicity. The crowd chuckled.
Mira smirked at the next card she read from. "What is your partner's pet peeve about you?"
Tatsumaki clapped. "Guys! I have a list of things that grind my gears." Tatsumaki announced loudly.
Dr. Gray was clearly unimpressed. "In alphabetical order?"
"How else would I be able to tell them? I got two volumes of encyclopedias on you. I organized them with footnotes too, for you." she teased.
"For me? What did I ever do without you?" he deadpanned.
Tatsumaki reached up and patted his cheek. "I shudder to think."
Despite his annoyance, a glimmer of amusement was there and she lived for it. It was soft. Despite how hard-headed, bald and blunt he was— his skin was soft. Especially his cheek. She's never had her hand linger until now.
Her face was close, his face as close as she swiped a thumb over his cheekbone. Soft. Guys' faces are supposed to be manly and made of marble. His eyes had a sort of suspicious squint and Tatsumaki hurried to unglue her hand.
"Anyway," Tatsumaki looked at Mira as if she hadn't been creepy while feeling up Dr. Gray. "How aggressive I am with people is his pet peeve with me. How I should have a list of things to apologize for. That's his list. My list has a list of people I'd say, "kiss my butt."... I'm used to being told I'm trouble. I'm actually working on that. Thanking those who survive, dealing with everyone as if they're gold."
"How I don't communicate." Dr. Gray said briefly.
"That's all?" Tatsumaki asked, sounding strained.
Dr. Gray nodded. His deep and steady voice was already so emotionless and uncommunicative. Tatsumaki smacked a hand on her face. He was doing so well!
Mira hummed, "What is your partner's greatest fear for themselves?"
Tatsumaki hummed. "Not making that bargain sale on Saturdays and missing out on his purpose. Like he'll be waiting in line. Forever." Tatsumaki paused a bit, looking at him.
She wanted to prove to the cameras but just show a physical act of allegiance.
Tatsumaki had some courage and prophecy tingling in her fingers. Everyone was hushed as she reached over and grabbed his hand. It was warm, heavy. There was a certain exchange of energy she felt. A shift. The cameras acknowledged the promises and possibilities of what might happen between them.
His hand stilled but didn't flinch away. That kind of made her act of bravery bittersweet. Now they looked like one unit with support and pure connections.
Tatsumaki continued as if the act had been natural. "He's got so much on his mind with no easy answers. I won't let that pile-up. I won't ask him to change his ways, I'll just ask where we're going. When we're together, everything will be fine. If not, I'm with you in that line, giving you apples and a bento."
Tatsumaki smiled as the interview went smoothly.
They were ready to shoot the second part of her show, the stupid games no one liked. The game show where they found out shit about Mira, Amai Mask, Dr. Gray and Tatsumaki. A horrible foursome she was not excited for.
His ambiguous presence and air didn't attract people's gazes were off-beat but the crowd liked him. Tatsumaki did too.
Tatsumaki and Dr. Gray answered questions during a commercial. Dr. Gray and Tatsumaki both had mics. Everyone laughed, got autographs and hugged Tatsumaki or simply stared at Dr. Gray. It was going great.
The commercial was running too long. There was some sort of delay. Tatsumaki got curious. Where was Amai Mask and Mira? It didn't take this long to touch up makeup.
Nevertheless, Tatsumaki smiled into the microphone. "I find it easy to balance my work life from my love life because it's easy to place my… priorities at the top. Things that are important deserve attention and care. Anything good you could give them."
Dr. Gray's warm body got close beside her. He leaned down to murmur in her ear. She expected praise and gratitude. She saved the interview and his entire life. He should be grateful. It's a statistical miracle that they aren't hated.
"Dude, you shouldn't hold my hand like that again," he whispered.
Fuck. He hated it.
Tatsumaki's heart sunk like a pebble. She wanted to do it again, that was the problem. It wasn't horrible to hold her hand. She wanted to treasure the warmth of his skin. Her heart flew so high then bricks broke her fall. Whatever. Romance sucks!
She didn't need to hold his hand anyway. She just wanted to.
"It's not like I wanted to." Tatsumaki snapped harshly.
"Oh. Cool."
"Yeah." Tatsumaki sighed. "Cool."
Tatsumaki covered her disappointment (there's no disappointment AT ALL!) with a smile. "Does anyone else have any questions?" Tatsumaki asked the crowd, a bit less animated.
One pale, dainty hand shot up.
The producers passed a microphone to a beautiful woman. The genteel-looking woman was willowy with a tapered waist and simple clothing. She had coils of leaf-brown hair and puffy, heart-shaped lips. Her pretty face highlighted her constellation-blue eyes. She had halo-white teeth that shone when she smiled at Tatsumaki.
"Yeah, me too." Dr. Gray said. "I have a question for someone."
Tatsumaki's face burned. That's not how this works. "What are you doing?" she whispered, away from the mic.
Dr. Gray studied Tatsumaki. "I'll impose myself and make a change." Dr. Gray said lowly, voice rich with determination.
Tatsumaki had never seen a fire in his eyes. His default blankness vanished into something more attractive and sharper. She didn't notice his eyes were an arresting shade of brown… A liquid amber. What's got him fired up?
He looked over into the crowd of hot bodies and flushed faces. A mic pressed to his lips.
He said, "Hi. Aimi."
And the woman with the mic laughed sweetly. "Hey. I didn't know if it was you."
Aimi?! Who the fuck was Aimi? Everyone was just as confused as Tatsumaki. She's Aimi and Dr. Gray had just— whatever this was. So annoying.
"I'm happy you're getting married," Aimi said.
"Me too," he said without much emotion.
Tatsumaki smiled. When it comes down to it, Tatsumaki had him rather than this tall, leggy freak Aimi. Still, Tatsumaki didn't like this woman at all. Tatsumaki was committed to keeping them apart. A whole life mission was made, right then, right there.
Tatsumaki cleared her throat. "Hi, you. Yes, you," Tatsumaki leaned forward. "How do you know my fiance, the one I'm marrying?"
Aimi tore her eyes away from Dr. Gray and smiled broadly at Tatsumaki. "Hiya! Hi, Tornado of Terror-san. I just wanted to know that my good friend was a childhood friend was fine. Please take care of him."
Childhood friends. Give Tatsumaki a break. Kids that age were barely people with thoughts.
Tatsumaki cut her gaze to Dr. Gray… smiling. The upturn at the lips was warm, full of meaning and sincerity. Why was he smiling at Aimi? It was different from how he's ever looked at Tatsumaki.
Everything became white noise as she realized something earth-shattering. Horror rushed through her. Oh dear god. This parasite Aimi was nowhere near Tatsumaki's level yet she's got Dr. Gray high. Spellbound.
Tatsumaki was slightly uncaring as a Mysterious Being knocked down the west wall.
And Tatsumaki screamed. Not for the same reasons.
###
-End Chapter-
A/N- Heyo! This is going to be the intro of the secret life of Dr. Gray and his past. I wanted to include OCs because realistically, Tatsumaki needs to meet Saitama's family and not to mention that there are going to be people he cared for in the past- those he smiled for before becoming lifeless. And whenever we have my baby Tats, trouble will be abrewing. I haven't written the next chapters since Uncool and Aimi took SOO LONG TO write but I'm excited for the pick up in pace. Lol. We'll get to episode 5-6 in the next three-ish chapters then the real shit storm starts. I wanted to thank you guys for the favourites and follows! Thanks! I love it when people read OPM fanfic. It makes my heart swell. Thank you, readers!