Jennifer: Heeey you beautiful people! So I lied. Again. I didn't get to work on it much on the holidays Hahah sorry if this was a late update, tried my best to write as fast as I could without making much mistakes but I probs made a few hahah sorry about that. Anyway how have you guys all been? I've had a bit of writers block so um some of the ideas may be weird or cliché or something ahhaha also I would kind of like to let you guys know now that this fanfic will probably be the last fanfic I write. Wow. That turned sudden pretty quick huh? Haha sorry about that but I felt like you guys should know so that you don't just wait for me to make another fanfiction. It's not like I'm going to stop writing, I'll still be making stories, they just won't be fanfics. Hahahaha mine weren't that great anyway but I'd like to say thanks for all of those who read my story and your reviews always bring a smile to my face (even if their mean, they just bring more of an upside down smile to my face ahahhahah but I love them anyway) so yeah. If you guys still want to read my stories even though they aren't fanfiction anymore just let me know BUT THIS DOESN'T MEAN I'M GOING TO STOP THIS FANFICITION, I AM DETERMINED TO FINISH IT SO YEAH ahahah I've also decided to make the chapters a bit shorter so I don't bore half of you to death haha
To: KL (guest)
Hahahah glad you found the bottom part funny hahaha don't worry I don't think you're being sarcastic ahhaa and I was thinking of putting humour in the tag section but then I thought people might not find it funny and so just to be safe I didn't put it in. anyway hope you've liked the story so far and thankyou so much for the review xx
~Normal POV~
"Not much further guys, we are nearly at the top!" the instructor said cheerfully, pumping a fist into the air.
All the students groaned. He had said that five times already.
After the sunrise, the students then had breakfast, had leisure time, and then lunch and it was now three in the afternoon. The teacher then surprised them with a trip to follow a trail on a small mountain to the top. Everyone was excited at first because apparently it was a really gorgeous view at the top.
But they had been at it for two hours and they were hot, tired, and incredibly sweaty.
"I am so staying at the campsite next time," Yaya muttered, gripping onto Kairi for support who was still bouncing excitedly.
"Come on, it's so much fun though," he said cheering with the instructor who had gave a cry of enthusiasm.
Yaya gritted her teeth and tried not to glare at the not-at-all tired looking boy.
"You know I'm not fit," she muttered.
"You are," Kairi said assuring her. "It's just that this hill mountain thing is a bit steep so everyone's tired, but don't worry, the view will totally be worth it,"
Yaya said nothing in reply, instead huffing and focusing on not falling over and tumbling all the way to the bottom.
"I hate you for making me come along," Nagihiko grumbled, nudging Rima as they walked side by side, a few metres behind Kairi and Yaya.
"Don't worry, I regret it as well," Rima panted, linking her arms through his for support. She managed to smile at him and give him a wink. "But the fresh air will be good for us,"
Nagihiko was now breathless again, and it wasn't because of all of the walking.
"We get fresh air down at the campsite," he retorted, trying to calm his heart rate.
"Eh, it's not as good as this one," Rima said shrugging and inhaling a deep breath of their surroundings.
Nagihiko didn't want to admit it, but she was right. The air where they were seemed cleaner if that made any sense.
"I guess," he said mindlessly.
"Woah, the Nagihiko agreeing for once? This is crazy," Rima said, pretending to be gobsmacked.
"It's because of the change of atmosphere," Nagihiko said rolling his eyes. "Don't flatter yourself,"
"Too late," she said giving him a cheeky grin which made his heart rate go up again.
Suddenly Kukai and Utau ran past them briskly, hardly out of breath.
Utau had accidentally shoved Rima a bit too hard, making her stumble into Nagihiko. With his quick reflexes, the purple-haired boy managed to stable himself as well as Rima as he caught her just in time.
"Watch where you're going!" Nagi yelled, a little bit too angrily at Utau.
"Sorry! Really didn't mean that, I just gotta beat Kukai," Utau replied, giving an apologetic look before speeding off.
Nagihiko looked down at Rima who had gripped him tightly, with her eyes shut. A feeling of concern washed over him as he gently pulled her upright.
"You can open your eyes now Rima," he said almost softly. Her eyes fluttered open elegantly to see his and she gave him a big smile.
"Thanks for catching me Nagi,"
The tiniest blush blossomed on him but to Rima it seemed natural due to all the exercise they had done.
"Uh, anytime," he said awkwardly, pulling away and continuing to walk. Rima's smile remained plastered on her face as she ran to catch up with him. Quite further down from those two were Amu and Ikuto.
"You alright? You've been weirdly quiet after the sunrise thing," Amu said nudging Ikuto. Ikuto blinked and stared at her.
"Sorry what?"
Amu tilted her head, a look of apprehension appearing on her face.
"I said, are you okay?"
"Oh, yeah yeah, just thinking," he said half-heartedly. He was still battling with himself.
"What about?" she asked, bringing him further out of this thoughts.
"Mmm, nothing,"
"Doesn't sound like nothing,"
He chuckled. "Since when were you so nosy?"
"Since always," she replied shrugging.
Ikuto glanced up to the directions at where the others headed and squinted.
"Where did everyone go?"
Amu frowned looking further up the trail as well. "Well, this is awkward,"
Ikuto snapped his head to her. "What? Why is it awkward?"
"I think we lost them," Amu said as if it was no big deal. "You were walking really slowly since you were in deep thought and I thought I'd be a good friend and stay with you. I guess we were much slower than it seemed,"
Ikuto sighed rubbing his eyes and internally getting mad at himself for being so distracted.
"Oh well, it's all good, we just have to follow the trail and we should meet up with them in no time," she said shrugging. Her eyes lit up. "Or we could go back down to camp and just chill there,"
"Dude, I wish we could but our group know we came along so if we aren't up there with them, they'll think something has happened to us,"
"We can just call them,"
"No reception,"
Amu pouted. "Damn,"
She looped her arm through his, humming to herself happily.
"You were just upset a few seconds ago," Ikuto muttered.
"Yeah but then I realised that I'm lost with you," she said smirking. "It makes all the difference,"
Ikuto chuckled. "I'm flattered,"
She looked at him and waited patiently, making him roll his eyes playfully.
"And I guess being stuck with you isn't so bad,"
"That's the spirit," Amu said smirking and giving him a wink.
The trailed along the path slowly, silence enveloping the two.
"I've never really heard you this quiet for so long, what's up?" Ikuto asked, nudging her shoulder.
Amu heaved a dramatic sigh. "Well, if you must know, I was thinking about stuff,"
"Oh wow. Stuff. Sounds fantastic,"
"I swear you are one of the most sarcastic person I have ever met,"
"I take that as I compliment," Ikuto said grinning.
Amu rolled her eyes. "I thought you might,"
"So what kind of stuff were you thinking about?"
"I was taking into consideration that if we learn from our mistakes, why are we so afraid to make a mistake?"
"Wow. Deep," Ikuto said in a monotone voice.
Amu let out a breathless laugh, even though she was nowhere near being tired.
"Yeah I know right? I think I read it online somewhere,"
Ikuto chuckled. "Was that really what you were thinking about?"
"No, I was actually thinking how nice it would be to have a slice of pizza right now,"
"Oh man, don't even say that word. It's already making my mouth water," Ikuto said groaning.
"Aw fuck me too," Amu moaned, clutching her stomach dramatically.
"Amu, if I die here today, will you on my behalf, eat some pizza for me?" Ikuto said clutching her arm.
"Of course Ikuto. I'll eat a whole pizza for you," Amu said patting him sympathetically.
"Now I can rest easy, knowing that if I died, you will fulfil my dream goal,"
"Woah, hold up. You've never finished a whole pizza before?" Amu said giving him an accusing look.
"Uh and you have?" Ikuto questioned raising an eyebrow.
"Only like five times. You are so weak,"
"What, it's not my fault. My family rarely has pizza and there's a thing called sharing Amu,"
Amu shrugged. "Yeah, just like order a pizza for each member of your family,"
Ikuto rolled his eyes.
"Do you even know where we're going?" Amu asked, cautiously stepping around a small lizard scuttling by.
"Yeah, just gotta follow the trail," Ikuto said. He gave her a sideways glance. "That's the only plausible option right?"
"Yeah except it's going to split into two roads in a second," Amu said pointing ahead.
"Easy, you go one way I go the other," Ikuto offered. Amu blinked at him.
"Oh yeah, that's a great idea. Not. Don't you know that's how all horror films start?"
Ikuto smirked. "Why, you scared?"
"Sweetie, please, I think we both know who the man in this relationship is,"
"… yeah it's me,"
Amu raised an eyebrow. "Is it though? Is it really?"
"Well if you like the fact that you're trying to get into the pants of a girl then sure, I'm the woman in this relationship,"
Amu's shoulders sagged. "Fine. But at least act a little more manly. I need some more masculinity in my life,"
"Hey, I am manly," Ikuto said frowning.
"Yeah…sure,"
"Oi, what's that supposed to mean?"
"Nothing, nothing…,"
"Amu, I am a manly person,"
"Oh if saying it out loud makes you feel a little manly then sure" Amu said rolling her eyes.
"How am I not manly?"
Amu raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure you want me to answer that?"
Ikuto's mouth pulled into a thin line.
"Actually no. Don't answer it,"
"I could give you some tips?" Amu offered.
Ikuto sighed. "No, really it's fine. That'll just hurt my ego more than it already has,"
Amu laughed before pointing at the left path.
"I think we should go on this trail,"
"What makes you so sure that this is the one the rest of the groups went on?"
Amu shrugged. "I'm kind of just guessing,"
"Are you serious?"
"Yup," Amu replied, popping the 'p' and starting to march up the road.
Ikuto's face was blank as he was torn with either face-palming himself or his reluctant instinct to follow her.
He decided to do both in that order.
"Glad to see you joined me," Amu said casually as he came up to walk beside her.
"Only to protect you if the bears come out," Ikuto retorted. "I need to earn my manhood somehow,"
"Oh aren't you just my knight in shining armour?"
"At your service my milady," Ikuto said, doing a swift bow, his eyes full of mischief. Amu laughed, shaking her head before looping her arms through his and continuing to walk up the path.
They continued their friendly banter as they kept walking, oblivious to how the sun was starting to set.
"Amu. It's a dead end. This path, is a dead end," Ikuto muttered as they came to a halt.
"Whoops, guess my intuition was wrong," Amu said sheepishly, a hand coming up to rub her neck.
"Your instinct was very wrong,"
"Hey! It was a 50/50 chance," Amu defended.
Ikuto rolled his eyes, before gently grabbing her shoulders and turning her around and walking back to the intersection. Ikuto glanced up at the sky and frowned, starting to usher her faster.
"Woah, what gives?" Amu asked.
"It's getting dark and none of us brought torches," Ikuto muttered, his eyes focused on the path ahead.
"Well, shit,"
"Yep,"
Ikuto's hands never left her shoulders as he continued to guide her which she found somewhat comforting. She tilted her head and glanced at him, surprised-but quite content- with the close proximity between the two. Amu was only tall enough to reach Ikuto's shoulder but she didn't seem to mind.
Her mind was too focused on scrutinising every detail on his face that she unfortunately didn't see the branch in front of her causing her to trip.
She gave a yelp of surprise, bracing herself for the painful impact.
Instead, a pair of arms- strong arms, might she add- caught her. She fluttered her eyes opened, coming face to face with Ikuto's.
"Careful," Ikuto said in a low voice, his intense eyes on hers.
"Thanks," she said breathlessly. She smirked. "I guess you've earned your masculinity back,"
Ikuto chuckled, lifting her upright. "Well that's good,"
She spun around, walking backwards so she could face him.
"Kind of corny though,"
Ikuto raised an eyebrow. "I saved you from falling from your death,"
"Oh that's taking it a bit far," Amu said rolling her eyes. "You can exaggerate so much sometimes,"
"Hey, you do too,"
"No, I just tell the honest truth,"
"Are you serious?" Ikuto asked sceptically.
Amu grinned. "No. I don't think I've ever been serious in my life,"
"And now I can see why you're best friends with Utau," Ikuto noted.
Amu frowned. "And what exactly is that supposed to mean?"
Before Ikuto could answer, Amu was unaware of the large rock behind her which she incidentally tripped on. Again.
It happened so fast but to Ikuto he felt as if it was happening in slow motion. All he remembered was her falling, his arm reaching out, and his fingers barely brushing hers before she disappeared down the side of the path.
"Amu!" he yelled, as he watched her tumble down. Not taking any more thought into consideration, he skidded down the hill, trying his best not to fall.
He reached her, his heart pounding as he saw her sprawled body on the floor. He ran over, his eyes searching her body for any signs of injuries.
Amu groaned, making Ikuto sigh in relief. It didn't stop his heart from beating so fast though.
"Fuck, what happened?" Amu muttered, wincing as she tried to sit up. Ikuto pulled her into a sitting position carefully before letting her lean on him for support.
"You fell, stupid," he said trying to make his voice sound strong and confident, except it came out tight and constricted. "Where does it hurt?"
"Nowhere really, I think I'm fine. I'm going to get up now, I'm oka-" her voice was abruptly cut off as she made a pained expression mid-stance, and then collapsing back onto the ground.
"Okay shit, not okay. My ankle hurts like hell," Amu said.
"Here let me have a look," Ikuto whispered taking off her shoe and pressing some pressure onto her right ankle making her cringe in pain.
"Sorry," he muttered. He applied pressure again at the same spot. "So it hurts here?"
"Just a little bit," Amu said through gritted teeth.
Ikuto rolled up his sleeves.
"Okay, I think it's just a sprain so I don't want you to lean on that foot at all just in case it's broken,"
"How are we going to get back? I can lean on you?" she offered.
"I think it's faster if I just piggybacked you because if you lean on me, you may accidentally apply weight onto your foot," Ikuto said bending down in front of her and waiting patiently. When all he heard was silence and no movement, he sighed. "Well get on then,"
Unknown to Ikuto, Amu was looking at him with a mixture of awe and surprise. Carefully she clambered on, wrapping her arms around his neck making sure she was situated comfortably whilst dangling the shoe between her fingers. Ikuto twisted his neck to face her.
"You good?"
She nodded.
He started to walk at a comfortable pace, his arms securely wrapped around her legs and his face scrunched up in concentration. Amu placed her chin on his left shoulder and waited for a response.
There was none.
She frowned. The pink haired girl expected him to scold her or at the very least a very disapproving look from him but there was nothing.
"I guess your masculinity has really been earned back now, my saviour," Amu joked. Ikuto chuckled but said nothing else making her frown more. He should've replied with a witty response.
"Uh is everything alright?" she asked, a hint of concern showing on her face. Ikuto nodded.
~Ikuto's POV~
"Uh is everything alright?"
I nodded, not trusting myself to speak.
Why the fuck was I not able to catch her. I should've seen that rock or walked in front of her to look out for any hazards.
"It doesn't sound like you're okay," she continued, snapping me out of my self-blaming scolding.
I cleared my throat awkwardly.
"No, just thinking,"
"About what?"
"Stuff,"
"What kind of stuff?"
I stumbled in step, no way was I telling her what was on my mind on the moment. I racked my brain, hoping to coming up with something else. Luckily I didn't have to. A bright light flashed into my eyes making me squint. Amu ducked and placed her head against my back.
"Amu, Ikuto, is that you?!" Utau yelled.
"Yeah, do you mind not putting the torch light into our eyes?" I replied.
She ran up to us, placing the focus of the light on the ground.
"Oh sorry," she said sheepishly before wrapping her arms around my and Amu. "Where the hell were you guys? We've been looking for the two of you for the past half hour when we realised you guys were missing,"
I shrugged. "We got lost,"
She rolled her eyes. "Typical,"
I made a face at her. Utau laughed before shaking her head.
"Um, by the way, why is Amu on your back? She get too tired to walk?" Utau joked making realisation dawn on me as I internally smacked myself.
"Crap, sorry, Amu tumbled down this hill thing and I think she sprained her ankle,"
"What? Okay, come on follow me, I'll just go find Kukai and then we'll both take you down from here since everyone's back at camp," Utau said quickly.
"Guys, chill, it's not even that bad. It's really like a dull throbbing sensation now. Don't freak out," Amu said sighing.
Utau ran off anyway, probably not even listening to what Amu said as the blonde frantically started screaming out for Kukai.
I slowly bent down and placed her on the ground with her legs outstretched before sitting in front of her.
"What are you doing?" she said curiously tilting her head before leaning on her arms.
"Massaging your foot," I said determinedly, reaching out to grab it before she pulled in back hastily.
"There's no need for that,"
I frowned. "You said it hurts,"
"No, I said it was a dull throbbing sensation. Seriously it's fine,"
I rolled my eyes. I grabbed her foot anyway with a firm grip, ignoring her protests as I gently yanked it over.
"Anyone could tell that you were lying," I muttered, slowly starting to massage her foot. I looked up at her, surprised to see her gazing at me with an intense emotion that I couldn't quite pinpoint. "Am I hurting you?"
"If I said yes, would you stop?"
"Not a chance"
She exhaled heavily. "To be honest, it's actually quite nice,"
I smiled and said nothing, instead continuing to work on her leg.
"Yep, definitely. Manhood is earned Ikuto. Good job," she said sighing happily. I let out a deep chuckle, hearing her join in a few seconds later.
"Hey guys, where did you go?" I heard Utau yell before I heard two people running towards us.
"Oh, there you guys are,"
"If you're done massaging her, I think we're good to go," Kukai said smirking at me and giving me a look.
Rolling my eyes at his antics, I got Amu back on my back and stood up.
"Lead the way,"
Utau and Kukai shared a look before sniggering and starting to walk as I followed them.
"What do you think they're laughing about?" Amu whispered. I shrugged.
"Probably something stupid knowing them,"
"Hey! We can hear you guys. You suck at whispering," Kukai shouted. He glanced back at us. "Do you want me to piggyback Amu, Ikuto? You must be tired,"
Instinctively I gripped Amu tighter. I frowned at myself. Why the fuck did I do that?
"No, it's alright man," I said nodding at him to continue walking. He shrugged before talking animatedly to Utau about something.
We made it back in ten minutes and everyone seemed relieved to see us. Ignoring the glares I got from some of the boys for still holding Amu, I explained the situation to the teacher before talking about the injuries Amu had. The teacher then told me to go and eat dinner while he tended to her sprain.
I walked back slightly dejected as Rima placed a bowl of noodles in front of me and patting me on the shoulder before leaving me alone. As I stared at the food, emotions started crashing down on me, reminding me why I was so distant earlier. There was only one thought going through my head as I started to eat.
Amu got hurt and it's all my fault.
~Amu's POV~
"Thanks doc," I joked, just as the teacher finished bandaging my leg. He rolled his eyes.
"Anytime Amu, now it's not bad, just a little sprain. Don't put too much weight on it for a day or two and it should be fine,"
I gently hopped off the table and mocked saluted him. "Will do sir,"
Just as I reached the door, the teachers voice stopped me.
"You know, you're quite lucky that Ikuto was there when you fell,"
I paused, my heart beating slightly faster. "I know,"
And with that I strolled out, meeting the crisp cool air. I looked around and my mood fell slightly.
"So Amu, is your leg okay?" Utau said coming up beside me.
"Actually my foot," I corrected. I shrugged before continuing, "But it's fine, as long as I don't apply too much pressure on it then I should be all good,"
Utau hummed before her forehead creased.
"That's good to hear but why the long face?"
I blinked in surprise, realising that my facial features had been rearranged into a small frown.
"Uh, just starving for some food," I said, patting my stomach for extra effect. Utau grinned shoving me slightly on the arm.
"Sorry but I ate your serving,"
I laughed shoving her back with my shoulder. "Knowing you, you probably ate everyone's serving,"
"Touché," Utau chuckled, before leading me to a table which had a nice warm bowl of noodles awaiting me. I sat down and started to dig in, glancing at Utau as she sat down beside me.
And this is one of the reasons why we're best friends. She obviously didn't have to sit down with me but she did anyway to keep me company. And I'd do the same.
"So, where's Ikuto?" I asked, hoping my voice sounded casually.
I cringed inwardly.
I sounded so pathetic.
Utau shrugged. "He told us he wasn't feeling that great and he was going to go to bed early,"
The urge to immediately stand up was big but I managed to surpress it.
What the hell is wrong with me?
Okay, so maybe, just maybe, I have a little bit of a crush on Ikuto. That's fine, I've always had crushes on guys before.
I nodded to myself, letting my thoughts reassure me.
Just a little crush, nothing I couldn't already handle.
"Just wondering," I replied hoping my voice sounded fine.
"You seems a bit worried there for a second," Utau said, a cheeky grin appearing on her face.
"Yep, you know me, I'm such a caring person," I scoffed, silently hoping she wouldn't push it.
Too bad she did.
She nodded enthusiastically. Too enthusiastically.
"Maybe after this you should go and check up on him," she hinted, giving me a sly wink.
"Oh and then I'll give him some medicine and rub his stomach till he falls asleep," I said sarcastically, rolling my eyes. "I'm not his mother,"
"Never said you were," Utau replied amused. I narrowed my eyes before pushing my empty bowl forward.
"What exactly are you trying to imply Utau?"
"I think you know what I'm suggesting,"
I folded my arms. "No, please enlighten me, my dearest friend,"
Utau chuckled.
"It's obvious that you have a crush on Ikuto,"
"Yeah, so what? He's hot, and I've had plenty of crushes before," I reminded her.
"This is different,"
I raised an eyebrow. "How is this different?"
Utau sighed, rubbing her forehead.
"It's just that I've seen that look in your eyes Amu and I know you more than you think I do. You act differently with him, it's a major contrast between the other guys. A good difference, might I add. You know I love you but sometimes you can be so freaking dense,"
"You better not be saying I love the guy," I warned, mentally starting to freak out. There was no way I was in love with him.
Utau let out giggle, shaking her head. "Of course not, you doofus. I'm just stating that you have a very affectionate feeling towards him and that you shouldn't treat him like you do with all the other guys. The two of you are something special,"
I gulped, taking into consideration in what she had just said and hating how much she was kind of right.
"Alright," I said, not knowing what else I should add.
"Just alright?"
I laughed. "What even brought this on?"
"Just didn't want you to mess up and I wanted you to do something before it's too late," she said, rolling her shoulders and stretching. The conversation had taken a turn to something light the moment she did that.
Ha-ha but I wasn't letting her off the hook.
"Yeah, you're totally right. Make sure you don't mess up what you have with Kukai. I wouldn't want you to realise feelings then find out it's too late," I said smirking as I saw a blush creep up from her neck.
"W-what, that's crazy Amu!" she spluttered, forcing a laugh and standing up. "I think you're still a little iffy from the fall and you don't know what you're on about. Maybe you should go to bed,"
I laughed at her denial making her growl.
"I'm not tired though,"
"Whatever, I'm going to bed," she muttered, giving me a quick hug before starting to leave. She was a few metres off before she stopped and turned around, giving me one of her caring smiles. "But think about what I said, okay?"
I bit my lip, nodding and watching her saunter off into our tent.
I sighed, leaning against the table and looking up at the sky. There were so many damn stars out here, it was truly breathtaking. My mind drifted to the conversation I had just had with Utau.
Come on Amu, snap out of it. When did you become such a little sissy?
Yeah, the Amu Hinamori shouldn't be thinking like this. She should be confident, assertive and sexy.
Well, I already am all those things….
I smirked at myself.
Yeah, there was nothing wrong with me, just a little crush that I can cope with.
I sighed, rubbing my forehead tiredly and shutting my eyes.
Then why do I feel like I'm so alive when I'm with Ikuto?
I stood up and started walking to my tent, hoping that I could just leave my worries at the table. Too bad they kept following me, long after I was tucked snuggly into my sleeping bag.
~Normal POV~
Ikuto groaned quietly to himself, wrestling with his sleeping bag hoping to get into a comfortable position. The rest of the boys had fallen asleep a while ago with the exception of him. He glanced at his watch, hissing when he saw that it was already 2:38 am. He had gone to bed early but still hadn't gotten a wink of sleep, only pretending to sleep when the others had come into the tent to get ready for bed. He wasn't intending to listen in on their conversation but his attention had perked up at the mention of his name.
"Hey is Ikuto asleep?" Kukai whispered.
"Um probably why?" Kairi asked, bounding over to his sleeping bag.
Ikuto kept his eyes shut, trying to keep his breathing even as he continued listening.
"I think he's got this thing for Amu,"
"Obviously," Nagihiko muttered and Ikuto could mentally already picture that he was rolling his eyes.
"No, like a major crush, not a little crush like those dorks in 'Amu's fan club' has for her. By the way, they freak me out so much man,"
Ikuto clenched his fist to resist the urge to retaliate and deny Kukai's claim.
"Oh yeah, dude, one of the guys from her fanclub came up to me and threatened to gouge my eyes out if I ever looked at Amu again," Kairi pipped up. He frowned. "That guy wasn't very nice,"
Kukai chuckled. "What did you do then?"
Kairi gave a big grin to Nagi who narrowed his eyes.
"Kairi I swear if you say anything-"
"Well I was kind of shocked and didn't know what to do but Nagi being the friendly guy he was, came up and told the guy to fuck off or he'll make his life a living hell," Kairi said cutting him off.
"That's it, be prepared to wake up in the middle of the lake in the morning," Nagi grumbled, shooting daggers at the green-haired boy.
"No I think it was very sweet of you Nagihiko," Kukai said snickering.
"Oh shut up," he groaned. Kukai chuckled.
"In all honesty though, it's very unlike you to act like that," Kukai mused. "Although it was quite nice as well,"
"Yeah, it's weird huh?" Nagi said more to himself then to the other two boys. He coughed abruptly. "Anyway, what's so wrong with Ikuto have a crush on a girl?"
I mentally sighed, I hoped they would have dropped it.
"Yeah would you have preferred that it was a guy?" Kairi joked.
"I couldn't care less if it was a boy or not, I'm just saying I think it's good for him," Kukai said.
The two other boys murmured in agreement.
"Yeah, he kind of seems more confident with her,"
"I think they go really well together,"
Ikuto shook his head, getting rid of the flashback. He slowly crept out of his sleeping bag, careful not to wake the others. He slipped on a black jumper and tied his shoes before heading outside to meet the very chilly air. The moon was still shining brightly, giving him enough light to see his surroundings. He took a deep breathe in, already feeling his face starting to go slightly numb from the coldness. He started walking, not really knowing where as he glanced at the ground, thoughts creeping into his head.
~Ikuto's POV~
Did I have a crush on Amu?
…Maybe I just find her attractive.
Cause she is attractive.
Really attractive.
And I guess she can be funny and sometimes rarely nice.
But she is a bit of a flirt.
Pervert more like it.
Okay, and she's also a player.
I gritted my teeth. Regardless of all the cons, it seemed the pros outweighed it.
So maybe I have a little crush on her.
Little being the keyword.
I shrugged my shoulder, so I have a crush. Big deal.
Actually it sort of is a big deal.
I growled, trying to get that inside voice to go away.
I blinked, stopping in my tracks as I looked at my new surroundings. I was just in the clearing of where the lake was and the view was definitely something.
Then I saw it.
Well more specifically, her.
The girl who had been on my mind for the past few hours was sitting on the pier, her chin leaning on her tucked up legs as she glanced out at the water.
Her hair was tied in a messy bun as she wore a baggy grey jumper, her eyes staring out into the water as if she was deep in thought.
And she looked so beautiful even then.
Ha, so you finally admit it.
Yeah, I don't even care anymore, I have a crush on that perverted idiot.
I took another step, wincing when the sound of a branch snapped.
Her eyes snapped over to me, a surprised look on her features.
"Ikuto?"
~Normal POV~
He gave a sheepish grin, rubbing his neck awkwardly. "Hi,"
"You scared the shit out of me," she said rolling her eyes and patting the spot beside her.
Ikuto walked over and sat down, giving her an apologetic look. "Yeah sorry, I didn't think anyone else would be here. Why are you here anyway?"
"Couldn't sleep," she shrugged. "How about you?"
"Same,"
They sat in silence for a while, admiring the moon and the stars reflection in the still water.
"How's your foot?"
"Just a tiny sprain, nothing to worry about. It should be better in a day or two," Amu said shrugging carelessly. She glanced at him, frowning slightly. "What's up with you?"
Ikuto raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
"You seem sort of distant,"
"Oh it's nothing,"
"Doesn't sound like nothing,"
Ikuto sighed, staring at the wooden floor in front of him. "It's actually really stupid,"
"Well tell me it and I'll judge how stupid it is,"
Ikuto glanced up at her a hint of embarrassment on his face. "Promise you won't laugh?"
"What are we? Two little sissies talking about our over emotional feelings?" Amu mused, her eyes twinkling. Ikuto just stared at her making her roll her eyes. "Fine whatever, I promise,"
"I'm sorry," he blurted out. His cheeks had turned a shade of pink but Amu wasn't sure if it was because of the cold or if he was just embarrassed. She hoped it was the latter.
"What for?"
He ran his hands through his hair, making it stick up all over the place. "For not catching you in time,"
Amu blinked.
"….why are you sorry for that? It wasn't your fault,"
"No it was, I should've caught you and then you wouldn't have gotten hurt," he sounded frustrated now, his jaw clenching.
Amu looked at him in surprise, only now realising how much he blamed himself for something that was her own fault.
"No seriously Ikuto, I wasn't looking where I was going so it was my fault," Amu said gently, hoping it would calm him down.
"You weren't looking because you were talking to me," he said, his tone softening, his face looking wary now.
Amu felt a tug at her heartstrings as she started to really see how much he cared for others.
Grabbing his shoulders and looking him in the eye she said firmly, "Ikuto, listen to me. It was my fault and mine alone. I injury myself all the time. When I was 5 I tumbled down the stairs. Was unconscious for 20 seconds and then I didn't remember what happened when I woke up. At 8, I crashed my bicycle into a tree and fell, scraping my knee pretty bad. At 11 someone ran over my foot with a car because they didn't see me- and look at me I'm still here. This seriously was nothing compared to all those incidents. Strop blaming yourself okay?"
Ikuto stared at her, not sure how to react at her outburst. "Okay,"
She smirked. "Okay, good,"
Letting go of his shoulders, she glanced back out at the lake, ignoring her disappointment at the loss of contact. Her hands were still tingling from when she touched him and she tucked them snuggly into her pocket. Ikuto hopped up making her look at him quizzically.
"Are you leaving already?"
Ikuto shook his head, a boyish grin appearing on his face. "No I'll be right back,"
Amu shrugged turning back to the water and shutting her eyes, enjoying the peace. She heard his footsteps moments later a reopened them, staring at the packet dangling in front of her face. She smirked at the excited gleam in Ikuto's eyes.
"Ugh, you are such a champ," Amu said, taking a marshmallow out of the packet popping it in her mouth before moaning at the sugary goodness.
"Yeah I know, also got blankets to keep us warm. Kairi's probably going to kill us though," he said munching on one thoughtfully. "I practically stole this from the lolly stash, he's going to notice first thing in the morning,"
"Woah, what do you mean us? Just you Ikuto, I wasn't the one who took them," Amu replied in mock disbelief.
"Does it look like I care? I'm still taking you down with me. I'm not going to face Kairi's wrath alone,"
Amu fluttered her eyelashes at him. "You are so romantic, dragging me under the bus. Seriously, it's making my heart do somersaults,"
"Yes. I am just that dreamy," Ikuto said seriously, though his eyes were lit up with silent laughter. Amu let out a breathless laugh, the sound making Ikuto's heart flutter in delight.
"You know this is one of those rare moments where you laugh like that. Or even smile like that,"
"Like what?"
"So carefree, I don't know. You always seemed so guarded all the time,"
Amu's smile faltered, her laugh fading.
Ikuto frowned. Did he say something wrong?
"It's just easier to not get hurt," she said shrugging. She coughed before abruptly turning so she was face to face with him.
Ikuto gave her a curious look.
"Let's get to know one another better," she announced.
Ikuto chuckled before situating himself comfortably and facing her front on. "Okay, sure,"
""Favourite colour?"
"Uh blue I guess, yours?"
"Red. Favourite season?"
"Winter. What's your hobbies?"
This continued to go on for a long time; the questions started off as broad and general but were now becoming a lot more specific and personal.
~Ikuto's POV~
What I now know about Amu; she has a younger sister called Ami, a stepdad and mum. Plays the violin (which I already knew) and used to move around a lot because of her step-fathers job. She hates it when people chew with their mouth open or think they're better than everyone. Her favourite dessert is chocolate ice cream and likes to sleep a lot.
"Okay Ikuto, time for some personal ones. When was your first kiss?"
I winced, inwardly shuddering at the memory. "I was ten and her name was Stacy,"
~Normal POV~
Amu laughed. "Why do you look so horrified?"
"Because she was sort of a bully and had this weird fascination towards me. She'd practically forced me to sit with her and followed me anywhere I went. Then she kind of just kissed me out of the blue when I was speaking midsentence but it wasn't really a kiss, it was really her smashing her lips brutally against mine and it left a bruise for ages. It was like she was trying to bite my whole face off,"
Amu laughed some more, hugging her sides. "How does a girl bully you? Did you have no balls?"
"Oi, she was practically feared by everyone,"
This made Amu laugh more. Ikuto gave an irritated sigh, waiting for her to calm down.
After a while she finally did, but one look at Ikuto's face made her burst into another fit of giggles.
"Amu!"
"Okay sorry sorry," she said her laughter dying down, an amused grin appearing on her face. "So you had your first kiss stolen by a girl?"
Ikuto's shoulders sagged. "Yeah,"
Amu bit her lip, suppressing the giggle that was struggling to burst out.
"Okay how about you little miss I'm-so-cool, when was your first kiss?"
She smirked. "I was five and it was with my neighbour who was good friends with my mum. She and my mother thought it'd be cute and dressed us up, took pictures and everything,"
Ikuto chuckled. "That's adorable,"
"It was," Amu said laughing a little at the memory. She glanced at him. "When was your first proper kiss?"
"Uhhh probably around 11, classic spin the bottle game. Luckily landed on this popular chick who was new as well," Ikuto scratched his head in thought. "Can't really remember her name though,"
"Woah what a coincidence, I had the same thing as well as my first 'real' kiss," Amu said laughing slightly.
Ikuto stiffened and looked at her. "You serious?"
"Yeah why would I joke about it?" Amu said shrugging, as if it didn't really matter.
"What was his name?"
"Eh I don't remember, I was new I think so I didn't know many names,"
Ikuto's eye twitched.
"What did he look like?"
"Uh, it was pretty dark so I couldn't really remember and not to mention it was like 5 or 6 years ago. I think his hair may have been black aaaaand he was wearing a cap on his head," Amu said. She glanced at him and smirked. "Why do you want to know so much about my first kisser? You jealous?"
Ikuto frowned. "Was the cap black and white with a baseball team on it?"
Amu eyes brightened. "Yeah! Why do you know him? He was a pretty good at the whole kissing thing at the age of 11,"
Ikuto sighed dejectedly. "Fuck my life,"
"Naww it's okay, I'm sure your friend isn't as good at kissing as you, if that's what you're so upset about," Amu teased. She leaned closer to him and winked. "If we could have a little make-out session right now, I'll rate the two of you and see which one is better,"
"You won't have to," Ikuto said rolling his eyes. "They'll be the same ratings,"
"And how exactly do you know that?" Amu asked raising an eyebrow.
Ikuto stared at her and waited.
Amu stared back confused, before her eyes widened and the biggest grin appeared on her face.
"Unless I kissed you that night," she said, almost sounded excited.
"I think so," Ikuto grumbled. "But that'd be crazy. It'd be a one in a hundred chance of this even happening,"
"Well what did that girl look like?" Amu asked enthusiastically, sitting straighter now.
"Um, her hair was in a braid and it was brown. She was wearing this blue overall and a white top," Ikuto said scratching his head. His eyes lit up. "It mustn't have been you then considering you've got pink hair,"
"Sorry to disappoint you Ikuto but I dyed my hair brown from seven to around 13 cause I was a tad embarrassed about the colour of my hair. And I was in fact wearing the exact same clothing you just described," Amu said smirking.
"You said that the guy you kissed had hair that was black,"
"No, I said I think his hair was black but taking into contemplation that the room was dark, I could of easily mistaken your hair as black,"
"This is crazy, we're probably overthinking this. I don't think you were my first kiss," Ikuto said scoffing and folding his arms.
"You're just in denial," Amu sang.
"Maybe you're in denial,"
"Nope, you wore this dog tag necklace around your neck and also had this huge bruise on your knee which you got from falling off your skateboard,"
Ikuto blinked, looking at her in shock. "How the hell did you remember that?"
"You told me?"
"When? Why?"
"Well I pointed at it and asked how you got it and then you told me,"
Ikuto remained silent. His face scrunched in confusion as he tried to take it all in.
There were silent for five minutes.
"How the fuck were we each other's first proper kiss?"
Amu laughed. "I have no idea, it's legitimately the craziest thing that's ever happened to me,"
"This is freaking weird,"
"I think this is a sign," Amu said smirking at him. "This is fate Ikuto, we're meant to be,"
"No, stop Amu. It's not,"
"It so is Ikuto," Her smirk grew wider. "We should make-out and see if we were as good as we used to be,"
Ikuto gave her an incredulous look. "Are you out of your mind?"
"I'm legit being serious,"
"No," Ikuto said firmly.
Amu rolled her eyes and pouted. "Well you're no fun,"
"Yeah I know,"
Amu sighed before scooting closer towards him.
"Fine fine, let's keep asking each other questions then,"
"Sure I guess,"
"Okay how wou-"
"But they can't be about the damn kiss Amu,"
"Dammit," she muttered before placing her head on Ikuto's shoulder and hummed in thought. Ikuto made no move to stop her. They fell into a comfortable silence, as no one made a move to talk.
Finally Ikuto nudged her and waited for her to say something.
"Amu?"
No response.
He looked down to see her eyes were shut, her breathing even. He folded one of the blankets so it was like a pillow and placed it down, followed by gently putting Amu's head on it. Then he placed the other blanket over her and froze.
"Dammit, there's no blanket for me," he muttered. Well he couldn't just leave her. He looked at her warily.
She wouldn't mind he shared with her, would she?
Ikuto rolled his eyes.
"Of course she wouldn't mind, she'd probably enjoy it," Ikuto thought before lying down next to her and putting the blanket over both of them. Then he rolled onto his side and glanced at her, inspecting her features.
"I think I'm falling for you," Ikuto said softly, those words coming out before he could even comprehend what he just spoke. His eyes widened. This was the first time he admitted out loud and it just made the feelings seem so much more real. Panic filled his veins at the thought that Amu was still awake
He glanced back at her, waiting for her to open her eyes and make fun of him or something.
Ikuto blew a sigh of relief when there was no response and shut his eyes, ensuring to never make that mistake again. Soon, he too, drifted off to sleep, his last remaining thought being the girl sleeping beside him.
Jennifer: hahaha okay so I'm really unhappy with this chapter but I put it up anyway cause I have no updated in a while. I wish I could make it flow easily and make Ikuto more manly but it's difficult, so if any of you could offer any suggestions, that'd be really helpful hahahah anyway hope you guys kind of enjoyed it and I'd love to hear your thoughts so review if you want to c: Anyway have a lovely day you gorgeous people xx