Update July 2020: some bed gramer fixeded
Everyday Life with Supernatural Girls
Chapter III
||Sliver of Peace||
Well you cured my January blues
There's a rainbow after a rain.
But it snowed last night so no rainbows.
The soft white blankets were a close replacement however. It might not be as colorful, but it's touchable, soft, and affably cold.
The entire lawn, the chairs, the bushes, the leafless tree, the Kunou who was busy creating questionable tailed-snow angels, the tall fences, everything was covered in plump white snow. Not too thin and not too thick.
It was not a grand backyard. No elaborate ornament or a styled Bonsai tree, but it was large enough for the young vixen to shuffle around without hitting her head on stuff constantly. Yasaka wouldn't ask for more.
Except, she thought, maybe for the bill for their kind to move freely to be approved sooner. Kunou had never complained, but she would never say no to more spelunking places. Simple afternoon walks to the town's park would be nice, or the grocery stores so Issei wouldn't have to do all the work. Or maybe a visit to the only shrine... Regardless, anywhere would be appreciated.
Yasaka glanced just at the right time to witness her daughter dive headfirst into a mound of snow with the grace of a professional swimmer, effectively lodging half of her body as her tail pointed in the air like a frozen lick of burnished golden flame.
"Oh dear."
"Good morning Yasaka-san." A winter-clothed Issei came out the sliding glass door just at the right moment to witness the spectacle, and then gave her a questioning look one second after, before sighing loud enough, "Good morning Kunou."
Wagging her tail right and left upon hearing his voice, Kunou's muffled reply came shortly afterwards as her legs kicked the air. Her tail stopped being hyper as she found she was marvelously stuck in the pile however, and what followed onward was her whine for help.
The first time, it was adorable and funny. So were the second and the third with slightly less impact. But the seventh in a week? That's pushing it. Even Yasaka showed little reaction to her daughter's antics.
Issei rubbed the back of his sore neck, contemplating his choice of sleeping on the couch while he stared blankly at Kunou - or what was visible of her. "I'll go help her."
"Thank you Ise."
Not minutes later, Kunou was safely rescued from the lump of snow that broke down like a small white avalanche. The little vixen did a brief shake of her body and head and lastly her tail, whipping away the white powders latched on her hair and clothing. After greeting her Caretaker, Kunou proceeded to continue running laps around the backyard for the foreseeable future.
Feeling chilly, Issei retreated back to the wood-paneled porch, picking his seat at a somewhat close but not too close distance from the grown Kyuubi. He wouldn't dare risking any awkwardness this early in the morning. The closest best thing to not be awkward was not to think about it, so that is what he did.
But Yasaka nearly made him jump as she glanced at him. Issei thought she caught him staring at her glorious bushy tails.
"Ise dear, has Shirone woke up yet?"
"I-" he cleared his throat, secretly thanking whoever handled his luck. To be called 'dear' by someone this beautiful is a blessing. "I don't think so. I haven't seen her yet. She's still asleep probably?"
"Mmn… If that is so, is it fine if we let her be?"
"That's what I'm thinking." Issei pulled a small smile. Being able to see her kind expression and hearing her soft soprano everyday was a blessing not all men could have. And speaking of which, "…Erm…. Yasaka-san?"
"Yes?" Yasaka looked away from Kunou to look at him. She always looked at the person she's speaking to, he noticed.
"Can I ask you uh… where Kunou's father is?" He could've worded it better, made it subtler so it wouldn't be as blunt. But at seven in the morning, fixing his bed hair didn't even cross his mind yet, let alone being subtle.
"Hmmn…. I myself too wonder about that." She hummed. Issei wasn't sure what to make of her apparent lightheartedness to this topic.
In doubt, he supposed the most decent response was; "Oh… I'm sorry."
"It's fine Ise. It happened a long time ago." She gave him a kind smile. "I suppose you don't know, but it's not a rare occasion. Not just for us Kitsune, but for Yōkai in general. We are an endangered kind, and having a child is a responsibility I'm very happy to take."
With another mellow hum, Yasaka glanced over to her daughter. "And one I'm glad I took." And then Kunou dove to another mound. "Well, most of the time."
Kind, beautiful, and a loving mother. What a great woman she was, thought Issei as he yanked Kunou off the snow. He could only hope to have a wife as kind and caring as her.
"Pwah-!" Kunou exclaimed. She did the 'shaking snow' dance ritual again, brushing away a small heap with a quirky flick of her tail. "Thanks~!"
If Kunou's bright and infectious smile was his payment for his labor then Issei certainly wouldn't mind.
Tail flying around, balls of her feet bouncing, Kunou peeked past Issei's side to look at the porch, "Mmn, Niitan, where's Nekonee? Is she up yet?"
Why did everyone expect him to know if the girl was up or not?
But before he could reply, both of Kunou's ears perked up as excitement gleamed in her amber eyes. "Oh! There she is!"
She burst right past him and her mother not seconds later.
Exchanging glances with Issei, Yasaka carefully rose and headed inside to join in the welcome wagon, as did the Caretaker himself.
"-how was Nekonee-chan's sleep? Can Nekonekonee still hear when she sleeps? Kunou sometimes does! Why are Neechan's ears white? Oh! Can Kunou touch them?"
She arrived just in time to save their guest from Kunou's barrage of questions - the intention might be nice, but Shirone was clearly overwhelmed. And with that still sleep-ridden look, she didn't seem to be the morning person-cat-girl, Issei supposed.
That said, the Nekoshou on the sofa looked criminally adorable. She was wearing Issei's thickest coat and she was making herself smaller than she already was by hugging her knees. It's hard to believe she was only a few years younger than him.
Not to mention her ears. Hers and Kunou's and also Yasaka's. So close but yet still so far away. Life couldn't be crueler to him. Why must he adore fluffy things?
"Kunou dear, don't disturb her too much." Yasaka gently patted Kunou's head, who then whined and bolted her mouth. It's obvious the myriad of questions was still brewing in her mind. "I apologize for her nosiness, but please understand. We rarely meet someone new."
A thought rang in Issei's head just after he admired the newcomer's looks. It must have been unpleasant to be living like a recluse, doing the same thing for who knows how long over and over until it became a routine. He wanted it to change, but at the moment, he could only hope.
"It's… it's okay…" Shirone spoke drowsily.
Her voice was even more silent than it normally was. He probably wouldn't be able to hear her if it was rowdy. Which brought another curious question to his mind; do Yōkai have sharper hearing? How much do they resemble their animal counterparts in terms of senses and ability? He could tell Kunou was nimbler and seemed to have an endless energy, but that might just be her.
While Issei was busy questioning life mysteries, Yasaka continued the small-talk.
"Did you have a nice sleep?"
"Y-Yes… It's nice, thank you."
"Mom, why didn't Niitan sleep with Kunou and mommy?"
"Mommy's not falling for the same trick sweetie."
"Boo~"
Anyway, it's too early to ponder these questions.
Snapping out of his thoughts, Issei found out he was being stared at by the girls. Normally, those would be demeaning-half-joking kinds of stares, but they were looks of worry and maybe slight confusion.
"Ise?"
Realizing it was rather overwhelming, Issei shivered and blinked several times and played it off with a laugh. "Euh- sorry, I'm still sleepy I guess. What was it again?"
"Geez, Niitan should pay more attention."
"Look who's talking."
She bit back with a smug look. "Kunou's talking."
Issei allowed her an easy win this time. His vigor hadn't filled up yet. Nothing that couldn't be handled by a cup of coffee, of course.
"Ise dear, I was asking if you would like some coffee."
He didn't know she could mind-read. "Y-yeah. Yes please, thank you Yasaka-san."
With a light tune, Yasaka waltzed to the kitchenette, browsing through the cupboards while Kunou resumed her interrogation. Issei decided to stay and have a little chat with the two. Not every day he'd see a cat and a fox together on a couch.
...Was it rude to use that as a euphemism?
"-chu!"
Her silent sneeze somehow startled both Issei and Kunou. It was kawaii as fuck, but it got him a bit worried. Cats aren't that fond of cold, and maybe she shared that same trait.
"Are you cold? But it's not that cold?" Wiggling her ears as the surprise settled, Kunou scooted closer and gave Shirone a nice warming hug, now startling the Nekoshou as a faint red streak smeared her cheeks.
"I-I'm fine." Shirone managed. She then tried to push the vixen as politely as possible. "P-please get off me…"
"But… Kunou's warm?" Kunou drooped her ears in confusion and gloom, tilting her head slightly so her ears fell sideways. Never had Issei wanted to touch them as bad. He couldn't imagine himself being in the Nekoshou's position - he wouldn't know what to do with that puppy face - or vixen face, maybe.
Shirone was more at loss than he was. Faced with such a genuinely guilt-ridden expression, she struggled to say a single word. She ended up shriveling herself, and spoke in the quietest of voices; "….O-okay…"
Her ears recharged in an instant and with a joyful squeal, Kunou latched onto her like she did and would, hugging her not with just her arms but her tail as well. It coiled around Shirone's petite frame. Uneasy at first, Shirone got comfortable fast. It was as if she was melting.
Someone else was melting too. His jealousy was catching on. It's unfair.
Not wanting to risk turning green with envy early in the morning, Issei left the two to check up on Yasaka or do whatever, maintaining a poker smile he had perfected in the last few weeks.
"See? Kunou's warm right?"
"Y-yes…."
"Mfufu~ Nekonee, why is your tail so thin? Can I touch it? Like, touchy-touchy?"
Issei would like to be touchy as well.
…He better move away fast. And that he did.
Unfortunately, seeing the vixen's mother tails bouncing as she moved around the kitchen didn't help his fixation very much, if at all.
Noting the young man taking a seat on the stool, Yasaka glanced past her shoulder. "Ah, Ise? Your coffee isn't ready yet. Would you like something to eat as well? There's still a few eggs left."
"Yes please… thank you Yasaka-san." Issei said, making a note to make rounds to the grocery store later.
Maybe slouching on the counter would help.
Nope. Yasaka's soothing humming still entered his mind, and he still could see her, walking around in an indescribable fluent yet enchanting manner. He could still hear the girls chatting in the living room - well, mostly just Kunou, but that's because she's the loudest. Either way, he couldn't find his inner peace.
Then there were knocks on the front door, and as it opened, Issei took a peek at his potential savior.
"Howdy everybody~, Azazel here." The Fallen Angel so cheerily announced as he swung his dark coat at the coat hanger nearby.
"For a free meal." Issei dryly announced.
"Indubitably!" laughed the carefree man as he greeted Yasaka and vice versa, taking a seat at Issei's side and slammed his back. Issei 'oof'-ed, and Yasaka's ears flinched at the noise, but Azazel paid no mind. "So, what's for breakfast?"
"Air." Issei flatly replied. "Very cold air."
"There's only eggs, will omelet be alright?"
"Anything is fine as long as it's your dishes, but just eggs?" Azazel looked horrified, "Boy, you must do something about this. I can't eat eggs every day."
Issei kept his dry tone. "…..Right."
"Come on, don't be so grumpy so early in the morning." Azazel chuckled lightly, all cheeky-smiley and vibrant. It was a bit annoying. He then seemed to recall something. "So, where's the Nekoshou you mentioned?"
"Huh. I thought you're just here for the food Azazel."
"I was."
"Oh." Of course.
"She's in the living room with Kunou." Yasaka said, looking at his eyes to maintain eye contact. She was so polite even in informal conversations that Issei started to question his mannerism.
"Well you're tagging with me boy."
"I don't remember agreeing to that—" After a brief share of glances that said; 'come with me or I'll tell her you're looking at her butt'. Although it was practically impossible with those tails, Issei made the wise choice.
Back to the living room, which was now livened by Kunou's daily show's opening tune that had become an earworm for him, and Kunou's dancing ritual that had become his source of reliable daily entertainment. The show didn't make any sense. It was something about a man that got hit by a truck and was somehow transferred into another world because magic. Apparently, he was destined to be the 'magical girl' to combat the men with funny mustaches.
Issei didn't question it. It's anime. It's meant to be enjoyed, not questioned.
He didn't question why Shirone seemed amused either.
Just as Kunou was about to do the finishing twirl, and right before Azazel could snatch any picture with his cellphone, his arrival was noted and Kunou ended her dance prematurely. It led to Azazel's 'aw' of disappointment.
"Ah! Uncle Z!" she greeted, dumping her show for the moment as she ran at the Fallen Angel. 'Always greet your guests' must have been planted in her. "Ciao~!" Issei hoped she would not mimic this man's phrases now. "Did you bring Kunou anything?"
Making a face, Azazel stared at the vixen bouncing on the balls of her feet. "Straight to the point aren't you…? But no, Kunou. I didn't."
She stopped bouncing. "Boo… Stingy. Stingly Uncle Z. Your Z stands for Ztingy."
Issei snrked while Azazel laughed.
"Kunou, behave."
"Kunou joking anyway~" And so, she ran back to the couch, making a leap that her mother made a tiny fuss about. Don't jump on furniture, kids, no matter how jump-able they looked.
After that short commotion, the two noted that they were being stared by a pair of nervous amber eyes. And by 'they', it was just Azazel. Good. Because Issei wouldn't want to be distrusted by Shirone. Or anybody else.
Azazel took a casual stroll to the sofas, taking a seat at a lone armchair as he rested his limbs. Shirone kept a wary watch on him while Kunou kept an unwary watch on the TV. Issei? He felt awkward standing so he joined Azazel, sitting in the other armchair.
He tried not to let the show's bizarre soundtrack disturb his listening. This seemed more serious than he thought it would be.
"So," Azazel began without any pressure in his nonchalant tone, "Shirone, right? I'm Agent A, from the MIB."
Her ears shriveled, perhaps in worry, and the expression she wore was similar to when he offered her his burgers – Kunou's burgers; it was filled with uncertainty and suspicion, but she gave a small nod in the end.
"No he's not." Issei dryly added.
"Unfortunately, he's right." Cooed the Fallen Angel. "I'm Azazel, from the something-something Agency. I'm what you can call an Overseer, but please don't call me with that."
That's a sure way to tempt Issei to call him that. But he settled on; "He stops here often for breakfast. Free breakfast."
"And besides that, I also ensure the safety of the Supernatural, such as Kunou here and her mother in the back, and this doof here."
Issei shrugged. "That's me. I'm the doof."
"No need to be tense. Just relax, I won't deport you or anything." It was only a little, but the reassurance was welcomed. Shirone loosened her stiff shoulders, but she said nothing still. "But I do, however, need some answers. The questions are rather personal, but it's the standard stuff. That cool with you?"
She seemed unsure at first. And even though she agreed with another nod, she didn't seem sure with her decision.
"Well then, I'll leave you two alone—" The sleepiness had dissipated, but he would never refuse a coffee by now. Especially not when it's made by a lovely woman.
But Azazel just had to stop him. "No, Issei, it's better if you stay."
"Huh?" Issei raised an eyebrow, "But will that be alright for her? You said it's personal."
"It's… it's okay." He failed to realize how moved Shirone was over that simple statement, because he's a MC. And because that was simply basic considerateness for him.
Azazel chuckled under his breath, "Heh, see? She doesn't mind. Stay and sew your mouth and listen."
Issei resettled on his comfy chair. "Fine, fine, yeesh…"
"Well then, before we start, I'm saying my sorry in advance. I have no intention of hurting your feelings, 'kay?" the Overseer restarted as he drew out his cellphone and touched it a few times. "Hmm… right, we know you were with your sister last time you were seen. Do you know how your sister is doing?"
'Ah, so she has someone else. That's a relief.' thought Issei. But she shook her head, and Issei wasn't as relieved anymore.
"Okay, then what about your parents? There have been no reports as of yet, except that they're deceased. Is this correct?"
It wasn't a head shake this time.
Sometimes, Issei hoped his speculations were wrong.
"I see. That's unfortunate. My condolences." Azazel bit his lower lip, seemingly contemplating which questions to skip ahead as he browsed through some kind of a list in his phone. "We have looked everywhere for you and your sister. Both of you are even filed here as deceased. I won't question how you managed to stay hidden, but I'll need you to tell me everything you know."
Issei didn't expect that. Kunou might have another competitor in hide and seek.
Azazel's expressions lost its casualness all of the sudden. "We can't risk any stray supernatural - not just for their sake, but the humans as well. Those and this are the only questions I have to ask, so bear with me." He continued, and Shirone only grew anxious; her face was as pale as yesterday. "Have you attacked a human?"
Her eyes widened, and Issei gulped. What the hell was with this tension? He thought this was going to be a friendly chat. For a reason, Shirone was peering at him, and he could see the genuine distress in her amber eyes.
Azazel narrowed his, and turned to look at Issei. "Issei? Got anything to say?"
"What?"
"Did she attack you last night? You said you only met her."
"Attack?" Issei took five seconds to process and recall what happened last night. "Oh. Well, if you count missing me and plowing the snow as an attack, then; yes."
And his casual look returned. "Huh. You know that still classifies as an attempted assault, right?"
"Yeah, right, in the snow." Issei said, unfazed. "You should get them to testify."
"Fair point." Azazel chuckled. He returned his attention back to the girl; whose face was equally red when she had a fever. "Pf—ahem. So, besides him, any other incidents?"
Shirone shook her head. Much to Issei's relief.
Azazel nodded a few times, scrolling through pages in his mobile phone. It made Issei wonder how long the actual list of questions would be had he didn't skipped it. Perhaps having a laid-back Overseer wasn't so bad after all.
"Ah, this here is a good one…. Do you want to stay here?"
They both took five good seconds to register his question. They failed.
"H-huh…?"
"First time you talk to me and it's a question. Come on girl." Azazel gave way to a throaty laugh.
Shirone made herself smaller. "I'm sorry…"
It was then Kunou stepped in the fray. "Eeeeh! Don't bully Nekoneechan!" Momentarily, at least. The show absorbed her quickly.
Azazel snickered, "Anyway, you know the goof and the Kitsunes already. If not, we'll look for another place for your home-stay and you'll have to spend some days with us - the government thing I mean. Sorry for this one; even if it's against your will, you have to stay at some place."
"…I-I don't have to… do I have to do anything….?"
"Eh, everyone who wasn't born today is already registered. Don't underestimate our power." Azazel said so proudly. Issei was starting to doubt him again. "So? How's it gonna be? I don't wanna rush or influence you, but you'll cut my work time if you say yes."
Issei rolled his eyes.
"…What about my sister…?"
"We'll keep looking for her of course." Azazel assured," I'll even personally tell you if there's any progress in her search. I've got to say, though, she's pretty slick."
The decision lied on her now, and yet still she peered at Issei as if he's the one whose decision mattered. So obviously, the only thing he could do was give her a supportive smil—
"Yes, yes! Say yes!"
Kunou's swaying tail swatted his face. He didn't mind one bit. It's exactly as soft and sanctifying as he thought. Smelled like autumn – what shampoo did she even use.
But it was his turn to voice his opinion, and he did so with a somewhat straight face. He could save his smile for later. "I don't mind sleeping on the couch some more nights. It's pretty comfy anyway."
Issei noticed she had grown accustomed to Kunou's energetic nature rather quickly. That's good. Yet there was hesitation written on her tiny face.
"…B-but… I don't want to trouble anyone…."
"Who said you are? And we already have a bigger hassle here." Kunou sent Issei a look and a pouty mouth. "And I think… She likes you already. The more the merrier, right?"
Kunou could agree on that. "Yes, yes!"
"You don't have to make your decision now." Azazel said gently, "You have time, they're obviously willing to let you stay here. Well, do so for a few days. And you can contact me when you've made up your mind."
"…I'll… I'll stay."
As Kunou burst into a cheer and pounced on the new addition to their household, a smile found its way to Issei's face. If only he could express his joy as freely. Azazel smiled too, but was soon replaced by a self-satisfied smirk.
"Well then, my work here is done. Thanks to you, but mostly to me." He turned at Issei, "You buy her some clothes yeah? Don't make her change her mind. And don't be stingy."
"I'm not you."
"Cheeky brat." Snickered the chill Fallen Angel. "Laterz Kunou."
"Okay, bye bye~!" She then gave Azazel a quick fistbump before going back to pelt Shirone with hugs.
Yet on his way to his exit, Yasaka was on her own way to the living room with a tray filled with five steaming mugs.
"Ara, Azazel-san, leaving already? I have just finished making you a coffee."
"Leaving? Did I say that?" Azazel resettled on his seat.
Issei didn't bother. He thought only of thanking Yasaka, the coffee, and the sight of Kunou hugging the living out of a troubled Shirone. Didn't take long for Yasaka to set her foot down. And by that, it was levitating her daughter to the air.
She didn't trash about. It was futile. So instead she made the best out of her 'timeout' by flinging her tail like a rotor.
"Kunou's a helicopter now."
Issei and Azazel were the only people who laughed, as Yasaka offered Shirone a cup of hot chocolate, and with a gentle smile, said,
"Welcome, Shirone-chan."
"Th…. Thank you…"
After what happened last night, her tears of bundled joy were a nice change. Added with Yasaka's comforting embrace, it was a very nice change indeed. Though Kunou seemed lost on what to do, she joined in the group-hug anyway.
Not wanting to feel left out, Issei betted.
A pat on his shoulder disturbed his moment of appreciating the scene. Turning his head, Azazel then gave him a nod, and excused himself, leaving quietly.
Must had finished his drink, Issei betted.
But nonetheless, on this cold day, "It's warm."
Break
The addition of Shirone to their household brought another flavor. She didn't talk much, but it might be because she hadn't warmed up to them yet. They didn't mind, of course. Rome wasn't built in a day and so wasn't trust. At least Issei knew he wouldn't mind. And he doubted that Yasaka or Kunou would either. Yasaka was too nice and she was mature and understanding, while Kunou's only care was that she made a new friend.
Aside from that, now that there was someone else to look after her daughter, Yasaka had more freedom. She wouldn't have to worry about Kunou when she was out to buy groceries as much. Or worry about her daughter in general.
She had to promise her snacks, otherwise Kunou would apparently convince Shirone to start a riot with her. A little scolding then ensued. She wouldn't want her daughter to threaten anyone, as adorable as she might be.
And she was going to buy her some anyway.
But that's not what bothered her. It was what she said afterwards; "Fine, fine. Kunou gets it. Mommy wants to walk alone with Niitan."
Those words wouldn't stop replaying like a broken record. She was only going with him to help him with the groceries, that was all. It didn't mean she didn't want to… Not because she wanted to, but—why did her daughter's words bother her so much?
"Yasaka-san?"
"Y-Yes?!" His voice made her jump. Somehow. Even though it was softer than his usual tone.
But she wasn't the only one that jumped.
"Y-Yasaka-san, your ears!"
"Hm? Oh dear!"
Hurriedly, Yasaka palmed her fox ears and made them disappear from sight. It was fortunate there was nobody else there. The snow hadn't fallen – and hopefully wouldn't -, but it was chilly still. Issei supposed the people around the neighborhood would rather stay in their cozy quaint home instead of freezing out in the open.
Issei would as well. He enjoyed winters, but if he had to choose between heading to the supermarket to handpick and buy groceries, and lazing at his home and surviving the winter with instant noodles, he'd choose the latter in an instant. But that would mean Yasaka had to go there alone. Sure she was 'resistant' to the cold, and she wouldn't even mind had he stayed at home, but goddammit what kind of man would let a young woman trudge through this weather and carry all the bags alone?
On the plus side, he's on a walk with her. That's an instant win in his book. For once he was not alone. And she's a beautiful young lady way beyond his league too. He wouldn't be surprised if people mistook him as a creep. Which was… kinda sad, now that he thought of it.
As the fluster faded away, Yasaka calmed down enough, and asked, "Yes, Ise?"
"Huh? A-ah, it was nothing." Issei awkwardly fixed his muffler. He must look rather weak next to her. He wore a full-fledged winter attire while Yasaka simply wore a sweater atop of her casual wear. "You er… looked troubled."
Yasaka tilted her head. "Troubled?"
"Yeah… Well, never mind. Maybe it's just me." A good soldier knew when to withdraw. Better to keep it casual than awkward and uncomfortable. A quick change of topic was needed. "Do you like it here, Yasaka-san?"
"Mmmn." She nodded. "The neighborhood isn't noisy. It's not crowded as well." Her sweet giggles danced within his mind in an instant. As Issei did his best not to get nervous, Yasaka glanced at the dove grey skies, wondering if it would snow later today. "It's… peaceful."
"Yeah… It's pretty quiet here." It was indeed peaceful. "Hope it stays that way."
"Why is that, Ise-dono?"
'Again with the "-dono".' He let it slip, for now. "Because… Uh…. I want to have a peaceful life." He ended with a joking laughter.
"Oh…. I'm sorry…"
He stopped. The sound of the scrunching snow faded. For some unclear reason, Yasaka looked down. And knowing what he said was the reason, it stung him hard.
"W-wait, why?"
"You said you want a peaceful life?"
"Uh-huh….?"
With a dejected look, Yasaka rubbed her left arm. "But you have to look after all of us… me, Kunou, and Shirone-chan now as well…. It just occurred to me; you must have something you wanted to do before… I'm… sorry…"
"Wh-wha—no no, please don't!" Good gods. And he thought Kunou's puppy face was devastating. Good thing he had his muffler to hide his face for a moment. "Ahahaha- Peace is great and all, but I'd like to be happy too… And I'm very happy with you guys around. It's er…. Less lonely."
"Maybe it's too soon to say this, but having you guys around is probably the best thing ever going to happen to me." Another laughter filled in the blanks as Issei went on ahead. There's a market they both had to go to.
…Yet as he noticed Yasaka wasn't walking along with him as there were no other footfalls in the snow, Issei paused. 'Crap.'
So he swiveled around. "Uh… was that too much?"
Yasaka enthralled him even if she was simply doing her everyday stuff. So when she was staring at the sleet white floor, standing timidly, eyes wide and cheeks flaring red, with the same expression a girl from his class would wear when they were confessing to someone who wasn't him, his heart completely missed a beat.
And she's a mother of one. Pure maidens still existed.
He felt lucky nobody else was here. No one else was able to see such a wonder.
"A-ahh, I'm sorry… I'm just too happy from hearing that…" Yasaka finally spoke, covering her cheeks and peeking from the edge of her fingertips. "Th-thank you Ise-dono."
"Um…" Issei coughed into his muffler. "N-no problem."
Their walk was quiet afterwards. The snow hugged onto everything like a day-old baby; new and clingy. Yet when all else was cold, there were bits of hidden warmth in this wintry time. Today, he found them twice.
Break
"What are you going to make later Yasaka-san?"
"Mmn… Do you have anything you want to eat, Ise-d – I mean, Ise-san?"
"I'll gladly eat anything you make, honestly." He said nonchalantly. Hands resting on the shopping cart, Issei glanced around the supermarket, past the housewives and their children, checking out all the veggies and general foodstuffs he wouldn't be buying if he was still living by himself.
"O...Okay." It was then Yasaka wished she wore a scarf. At least then she could hide her face. "Do you have anything in mind…?"
His eyes wondered some more, now latched at the faraway meat sections, when he cringed as he heard a butcher's knife cut through a thick piece of beef meat with ease.
"Well…. I don't mean anything rude, but do you think Shirone-chan likes meat?"
By the time he looked at Yasaka, she had already calmed herself. "Meat?" she hummed, "She did seem to like yesterday's dinner."
Issei laughed lightheartedly, "Come on, who wouldn't?"
He could've sworn he heard a whimper-like noise from her, but as he turned around, all he saw was her hands covering her face and the light giggles of the nearby housewives.
"Newlyweds sure are nice, ufufufu~" So tittered one of the gossiping wives.
"Ahahaha, we're not married." Issei would be happy if he could get a wife half as nice as her, though.
"Oh my, not yet?"
"Uh… no… not that, but…" He was fighting a losing battle, he realized. Nothing he said would change their beliefs. "Er…. Excuse us." With a polite bow, Issei took his retreat, and ushered a still furiously blushing Yasaka to the meat sections before her ears or her tails popped out.
Away from the pesky wives - though he knew they meant well - Issei breathed a deep sigh. He didn't realize going shopping would have this kind of extra challenge. Picking the right vegetables was hard enough already.
"Sorry about that, Yasaka-san." He chuckled awkwardly. Again. For who knows how many times since the past hour.
Delicately fidgeting with her slim fingers, unable to look at him in his eyes just yet, she replied quietly as she shook her head. "It's… It's okay… I-I don't mind."
"Really? You're so nice Yasaka-san." Now that's the real relief Issei had been waiting for. He would be shattered if she didn't want to go shopping with him because of that silly misunderstanding. Oh well, best not to think about it anymore. A minute wasted is an extra minute of Kunou's nitpicking. "Alright then…. What meat should we get?"
And so they went with their little adventure, browsing the arrays of meat in the display, surrounded by blocks of ice to keep them fresh. After a little bit of discussing, they ended up with beef. Yasaka mentioned making a beef gyoza and Issei could hardly wait anymore.
In the middle of weighing the glorious and tender meat, Issei heard a familiar voice coming from a display stall to his left. And what he saw was something he would plainly describe as; 'unbelievable.'
"Huuhh? What's the difference anyway? They all look the same to me!" complained the baldheaded boy, apparently directed to the girl next to him.
"Sheesh, of course you won't understand!" And the girl replied with the same tone. Her brown hair was tied into short twin-tails by a red ribbon. The same red ribbon Issei had deemed as the equivalent of the red plane to the Red Baron.
"You're missing the point," exclaimed the other boy, whose square-rimmed glasses were equally notorious for his 'measurement' skill. "what matters is the taste! The taste!"
"Tsk, boys." The argument was topped by the girl whose pink hair reminded him of the cherry blossom. And wooden swords. And the pain they brought.
Before heading to meet his high school friends, Issei told what he was about to do to Yasaka. He should at least tell her he wouldn't be long.
Because it wasn't long before his bald-headed buddy noticed him coming at their direction. "Huh? What the—Ise?!"
And the rest put their bickering to a halt to yell his name in unison, "Issei?!"
"Why're you so shocked about." Issei flatly said, lowering his muffler to his neck, revealing his graceful face that was average at best. Maybe slightly above average. "Didn't I tell you that I live here?"
"...In the supermarket?"
Issei stared blankly at Katase. What shocked him more was that she was being genuine. "...No, I mean the city."
"You do?!" For an unapparent reason, Murayama then pinched Matsuda's cheek. "Wha—why didn't you tell me you dummy?!"
"Ow- ow ow! I forgot okay?! He told me last week!"
"We had it planned since last week you idiot!"
"…..Oh." Matsuda deadpanned- until Murayama increased the intensity of her pinch. "GYAAA—YOU'RE TEARING ME APART LISA!"
"Why are you speaking in English…. And who is this 'Lisa' huh?!"
"IT'S A JOKE, IT'S A JOKE! OH GODS SHOW SOME MERCY."
Issei looked calm on the surface. But all he thought was that his friend was an 'Ass.'
Meanwhile, Motohama casually strutted towards him. "Honestly man, this is the last place I thought you would be. Isn't there a convenience store that sells instant noodles?"
"Hey, my diet isn't just noodles."
"But mainly consists of that."
"True." Issei monotoned. "But that was before anyway. And… look, before anything, what are you guys doing together? Actually, why and how are you guys together?"
Motohama and Katase exchanged a glance with each other, and while it was refreshing that it wasn't a glance that was filled with ire or lecherous eyes, it still ticked Issei off in its own way.
"Well, you know me and Matsu took the same university, right?"
Issei could guess where this was going. "And they did too."
Katase dully nodded. "We got reduced tuition fee and other benefits enrolling there, since you know, the owner is the same person that owns our school."
"Huh. I didn't know that. The same group? What was it again?"
"Gremory Group." Motohama continued, "Yeah, well, we have food-tech as our major, and after a pop quiz, this Forehead here—GAH-!" It should be noted that an elbow in the gut is painful. "…I-I mean…. Katase, asked me to help her with her study…."
"….I-It's just for a little, alright? It's not that I can't do it on my own or anything…."
"She got a big fat 'F' in the quiz beforehead. I mean, beforehand."
Issei's nonchalant wall broke down as he snorted a laugh.
"That's not necessary you glassed dummy!"
"Heyhey, look who's talking?"
"Urgh—you wipe that smirk off your face!" Yelled an agitated Katase, who then, as she fathomed there was no way she's winning this alone, resorted to her most reliable backup. "Murayamaaa, I'm being bullied…!"
Seeing her brunette friend/soulmate stomping her way along with Matsuda who had his hand rubbing his red cheek, Issei unconsciously sent his prayers to whoever was up there. He was grateful there were no wooden swords lying around nearby. Although that bamboo tree over there seemed equally dangerous… but he assured himself they wouldn't go that far.
….Hopefully.
"What's wrong Katase? Did these idiots make fun of you?" she said so caringly as she held her friend, and then sent daggers of a glare at Issei and Motohama in quick succession.
A flashback then ensued. A horrible one that sent shivers down their spine.
Survival was human's natural instinct, and without further ado, Issei pointed at Motohama. "He did it."
And Motohama did the same. "He laughed."
"I laughed because he said it."
"….He's… Issei."
"He- wait what's that supposed to mean?!"
"Guys, please, there's no reason to fight."
""Zip it baldy."" Motohama and Issei spat in unison. They ceased their hostility as they bumped fist.
Matsuda regretted attempting being the mediator. "Pricks."
Pocketing his hands in his cargo pants, Issei nudged at the notorious baldy. "So what about you two huh? I thought you were in a football academy Matsuda?"
"Uh huh, and she's the manager. Somehow." He thought he was sly, saying that word under his breath. But Murayama's not-so-subtle glare spoke otherwise "Ehehe… a-ahem, also, guess who's the captain now."
Returning to his nonchalant face, Issei simply said, "The Somalian?"
"No."
"Captain Phillips?"
"No! Well, I'm not, just not yet, but I will! One day. Probably."
"There you go again, you're good at it okay?" Issei felt a tinge of jealousy and disbelief as Murayama poked Matsuda's cheek.
It was all he needed to regain his confidence. "Damn good!"
"Great. You're all lovebirds now."
A moment of silence passed.
They all giggled and blushed altogether, looking away from one another. Damned normies.
"Wuh- Don't you get embarrassed on my face! Dammit… you're all twice the annoying now."
"It's 'annoyance'."
"Ahhh, whatever." Issei grumped. "So what's up with you guys? Having a party?"
"Hmm, not really." Motohama rubbed his neck. "But I guess? Can we call it a party?" He received a shrug from Katase. "Thanks. You're very helpful." He received a flick on his arm. It didn't hurt as much as being elbowed, but it still stung.
"You celebrating something?" It hit him. "Damn, is it for Christmas Eve?" and based on their reaction, he was spot on. "Ha, I'm right aren't I? Look at how much you've grown."
"Damn right. And who are you, my dad?" Matsuda laughed, "We're gonna have a small one. Don't miss us okay dude?"
"Psh. Who will." Issei didn't feel sad or disappointed, or any of those woeful feelings. If anything, he's glad to meet these two dickheads again.
To the girls, as chipper as the boys might be, they couldn't help but feel a bit awful. Issei is someone the boys are close with, after all. "You can always come, you know, Issei?"
"Yeah. We would've invited you if he told me earlier."
"Naah, it's all good." Issei laughed gaily. A younger him might be pissed off and downright jealous, but he liked to think he's a better man now. Besides, he's not going to spend it all by himself. "You all go have your fun. Though, I'm surprised you're spending it together."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"Well, they said once they have a girlfriend, they will spend the entire Christmas doin- mmmf!"
"NOThing! We'd spend it doing nothing and relax!"
But their effort was too late. Two pairs of eyes filled with suspicion and the same look that dragged them all the way back to that botched peeping operation were already glaring at them.
"PUAH—" As the girls were plotting something, Issei decided he had bothered them enough. The girls will do them justice. "I'll leave you guys alone then. See you all when I see you."
But just as he turned around and took a step, he pulled into a complete stop as Yasaka was already standing there with the trolley. "Ah, Yasaka-san. I'm sorry, did I take too long?"
"No, it's fine Ise-dono." She smiled, "The kind man had just weighed the meat. Are these your friends?"
"Hm? Hmmm…. Yeah... I guess they are." Issei joked. Upon seeing the expressions of his friends, which could be simply labeled as either 'beyond shocked' or 'completely beguiled' by the appearance of the golden-haired young woman, Issei couldn't help but sneer. A glorious victory. One he deserved. Says who? Says he.
"U-U-um… h-hello! I-I'm Murayama, Issei's former classmate. Pleased to meet you!"
"I'm Katase!" She yelped as she bowed stiffly, cheeks flushing pink. "N-nice to meet you."
"Ara, the pleasure is mine." Yasaka said in her usual soft tune, exchanging her sweet smile. "I'm Yasaka. I hope we can get along well."
"M-Me too."
"D-Ditto."
"And the guys are Matsuda and Motohama." Issei followed, since his peeping partners seemed to have stopped responding. "Motohama's the one with glasses and Matsuda's the one without glasses or hair."
"Hello, nice to meet you Motohama-dono, Matsuda-dono. O-oh! I mean Motohama-san and Matsuda-san. I apologize, old habits are a bit tough to break."
They stiffly nodded, replying very quietly that it came out as an inaudible whimper of 'uh-huh'. Their girlfriends had to shut their gaping mouth for them.
"Anything else to buy Yasaka-san?"
As usual, Yasaka's hum filled the air before she spoke her mind. "I think that's all Ise-dono- um... Ise-san."
"Oh, okay then. We should head back then. See you all later."
"It's nice meeting you. Please excuse us." And Yasaka bid her farewell with a polite bow.
And casually, Issei commandeered the shopping trolley, earning himself a smile and a 'thanks' from the lady.
He might not have a girlfriend or a date on Christmas Eve, but he's living with a woman whose cooking filled his stomach and heart, a cheery daughter that kept the grays away, and a new cute timid friend. That's a decisive win in his book.
"….Am I dreaming right now?" Matsuda was the first to break away from the charm. "Did that lady just—how did he?"
"If it is, is it a nightmare or a good dream?"
"I don't need your philosophical questions Motohama." Griped the baldie. And he then lowered his voice into a hush. "….Hey, did you get her sizes…?"
"Are you kidding me? Of course I did."
Yet, they weren't as quiet as they hoped to be. Such was the case for nearly every time they thought they were.
"Sheesh, will you boys stop leering at that lady!"
"We're standing right beside you, you know?!"
And what followed was the M&M pace-walking after the Kendo girls, begging for forgiveness as Issei and Yasaka watched from a checkout counter.
"Wow." He thought out loud, "That's a weird sight. Usually it's the girls that are chasing after us."
"Us? Why were they chasing you Ise-dono?"
"It's uh… We were stupid."
Yasaka tilted her chin. "Stupid?"
Issei did a spit-take. "We uh, did stupid things." Some things are better left unsaid.
Her soft, pleasant giggle droned within his head, putting him at ease. "You must be good friends with them."
"Yeah." Vacantly placing Kunou's snack on the counter as he watched those four making up, he chuckled to himself.
"They're the best."
To be continued...
Surprise, surprise. Bet you didn't expect that one coming. At first, I thought of pairing Matsuda with Aika, because a d but Katase will do just fine. I have a separate plan for Aika anyway.
I only hope their characters aren't far too different with the canon. It's a bit tough since they're the comedic relief of the series, but hopefully, they're not too far off.
And I think they have been treated poorly. I haven't been reading the recent fics, but when I used to, the M&M almost constantly had that comedic relief role. As the butt monkey of everything. It's like they're chained or something
But maybe it's because they act like total assholes to Issei in the canon. I mean, come on. They're supposed to be Issei's best friends. They can be an ass but they should be supportive. What kind of friends spread bullshit rumors?