The Girl in the Corner
A/N: Chapter seven- I never thought I would have come this far. In truth most of the time I give up on multi-chapters once I reach the fourth one, but for some reason I have the strong urge to actually finish this story.
Once again, thank you for all the reviews, the favorites, and the story alerts- and a thank you for those who read my stuff in silent.
This chapter was kind of hard to write as I had the events thought out but had no way of connecting them. Nonetheless I tried my best and that is all that matters.
This chapter takes place about 4 days after Kid met Medusa, so it is Friday.
If you readers are wondering what month the story takes place in exactly, think about it like this:
In Japan school starts in April, and since I'm making the school a mix of American and Japanese, they start in the same month.
Right now the month- if I calculated correctly- would be August.
Disclaimer: This is merely a fanfic meant for entertainment and none of the characters present belong to me unless I say otherwise.
Note: The chapter will switch between points of views. You will know when the point of view changes whenever the character's name appears BOLD and there is a line
Tsubaki
"Maka, we better get going or we won't make it in time,"
I waited for her to give me an answer of any kind, but I got nothing. Chrona has been absent for four school days already, and if she doesn't show up again today it would be five. While that's not unheard of it is still quite strange. True there were times where she didn't show up at school for some unexplained reason, but normally she would be back the next day. She's been gone for the entire week. It's been worrying me, but it seems like Maka's taking it the hardest.
Like we always did, Maka and I stood at a certain street corner to meet up with Chrona so the three of us could walk together to school. I checked my cellphone and saw that it was indeed "6:45", Chrona usually gets here between 6:30 to 6:40. It was a ten minute walk from here to the building. If we didn't move on any minute now we'll be late.
"She's probably still sick," I reached down to pat her shoulder, attempting to reassure her to the best of my ability, but Maka continued to be downcast.
"She'll show up, she has to," Maka encouraged. I sighed; clearly there is nothing I can say to get her to leave. How does Soul handle her stubbornness? Well I guess I have no other choice.
"Sorry Maka, but I'm doing this for your own good," I took hold of her uniform shirt's collar and started dragging her with me down the street. I could feel her try and fight her way out, but fortunately my grip was much stronger.
"Wait Tsubaki, she's probably just slow today!" Maka tried to argue, but I was not going to give in. I do care about Chrona just as much as Maka does, but I had this feeling that waiting there would just be wasting time.
Normally when a friend is absent for a long period of time, you would give them a call or visit their house, sometimes you would even go as far as talking to their parents. Unfortunately, in this situation all three of those options were not possible. We all have tried to call Chrona, but no one is answering the phone. In addition, none of us knew where Chrona lived, and doing a whole search would be difficult since the city is so large.
The only real information we have is from Kid, who said he had visited Chrona's mom herself and she said that she was sick- which is what we all assumed in the first place.
So Chrona's just sick, really sick, that shouldn't be anything to worry too much about….Right?
"I'm sure she'll be back with us, healthy and happy, very soon," I said with a smile. I just hope I'm right.
Chrona
I slowly opened my eyes, hoping to find myself in my room this time. Unfortunately I just saw more blackness. Rubbing my eyes, I realized that I was lying on the floor and so slowly sat myself up and leaned against the corner again. In my hand I was tightly clenching Kid-kun's handkerchief, it was comforting in a way.
Is it still dark outside? Or is it already morning? I can't tell anymore. I can't keep track of time in here. I bet I've been locked up in here for days, long enough for the others to forget about me. They probably have. They've known each other for years, after all, far longer than they've known me.
You're easily forgetful after all.
I'm surprised that I was able to make it this far though. I can't deal with the dark, I can't deal with the snakes, and I can't deal with being all alone like this. But for some reason I'm still okay. I have gotten used to being hungry, and every night Ragnarok has been opening the door and rolling in a filled up water bottle for me. I wonder why he did that since that's the one thing that's been keeping me alive in here.
He just pities you, just like everyone else.
The snakes haven't approached me. I haven't felt any one of them touch me yet. Not yet. Not yet. But they're still here. I can hear them all around. Last time I was here I was bitten by one. It hurt. It hurt so badly.
Hisssss-Hissssss…
This is what happens to someone like me. I am forced to live through this because I am a bad and weak person. I disobeyed Mother and now I'm paying for it. She hates it when someone doesn't listen. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Will you please let me out now?
Stop whining already…
Ragnarok
"You can let her out now,"
I nearly choked on and spat out the black coffee that I was drinking to stare at Medusa who was getting herself ready for work. "What did you say?" I had to make sure that I wasn't hearing things again.
"I said you can let her out now," Medusa repeated as she filled up her work bag with her new 'medicines'. Damn I hated those things. They looked ugly and smelled like crap. And the taste was no better. If people knew where they really came from they wouldn't be trusting Medusa.
"Seriously?" I raised a brow at her. "How do you know she's even alive? Six whole nights without anything to eat can do a lot you know."
"Because I know you've been giving her water behind my back,"
"…."
"Well? Quit standing there like an idiot, Ragnarok and let her out! Or do you think you both deserve punishment?" Just shut the hell up already you damn witch! How I wish I could have said that to her face.
Grunting, I unlocked the basement door and made my way down the stairs. Only Chrona and I are aware of what Medusa really does in this shithole. I reached the wooden door and stayed quiet for a bit. I heard pathetic whimpers from the other side.
So she really is still alive, huh? That was a big surprise actually. She's never been in here for nearly an entire week. Makes me wonder how she'll turn up.
"Yo, Chrona!" I banged my fist about three times against the door which shook in reaction. I once again stood quiet for a few more seconds so I could hear what she was doing. I could bet that the snakes drove her to sit in the corner again.
It took some time, but she finally started to talk. Her voice sounded so lifeless and far away. "Ra-Ragnarok?"
"Would it be anyone else?" She remained quiet, and I frowned at this. "Get up already. Medusa says you can go back to school." That did it. I heard her say something like "What?" but it was too soft for me to really make out.
"I said get up already, or I guess you don't want to see Three Stripes again?" I removed the latch and unlocked it with the given key. Turning the knob, I slowly opened the old creaky door, finally allowing light to enter the darkness.
I saw one of Medusa's snakes, hissing at me, before it slithered away into the dark. I could hear more hissing as I just stood there, looking for any sign of Chrona. I have no freaking clue how many snakes were in here. That mother of ours just likes breeding them nonstop. Why couldn't she be the kind of woman who likes cats or something? Well it's not like our family was normal to begin with…
"You in here?" I called out for her. I heard a whimper from the far left corner (of course), and I immediately knew it was her. No other person I knew could sound so pathetic.
"R-Ragnarok…" She mumbled my name.
"Come on and stand up already, you wimp, I can't help you up in the freaking dark." I ordered, staying in place. I should have brought a flashlight, damn it. I guess it was kind of a good thing that Chrona became used to 'seeing' in the dark for I could hear her start stumbling, as if she was attempting to stand up.
She came into light walking fearfully, her steps cautious as she walked toward the door. Chrona looked up at me- her blue eyes were practically lifeless- before looking back down at her feet. I saw her clenching something in her hand, but I chose to ignore it for the time being.
"Di-did Lady Medusa really say I could leave?" She asked me in an emotionless tone. I guess I wasn't really shocked that she was like this. Six nights with your worst fears could do a lot to someone.
I nodded and moved out of the way so that she could walk out slowly before I locked the door, which I hopped to not open again anytime in the near future. Though knowing Chrona it would only be a matter of days.
"Is she out?" The two of us stopped moving to look up the stairs to see Medusa standing on one of the top steps, looking down at us very sternly. Chrona didn't say or do anything, she just stood there.
"So you're still alive," Medusa expression told me that she was satisfied with how Chrona turned out. "I hope you thought over what you did when you were in there. Understand that the next time you disobey me your punishment will be far more brutal."
"I understand Lady Medusa," Chrona mumbled.
"Good," Medusa's sick smile grew wider at her obedience, "I left a note for your school on the table. Show it and just tell them that you came down with a serious cold. Oh, and one more thing Chrona,"
"Yes, Lady Medusa?"
"Don't even try saying anything about this to all your little friends, not even a word. You wouldn't want them to be punished too, now would you? Especially that one boy, what was his name?" Medusa mockingly went into a thinking pose, as if she was actually trying.
"I believe his name was Death the Kid,"
I could see Chrona tense up at those words. Whatever she was holding in her hand- what was it? It looks like some kind of cloth- was being clenched tighter. She was biting her lower lip again too. Those words must have hit home.
"Yes, that's right. He visited me at work on Monday. Such a nosey boy, I might have to 'punish' him too if he does something suspicious."
"…"
"If you don't want that, I suggest that you stay away from him from now on."
"…."
"Well?"
"I-I understand…."
Medusa's eyes shined with satisfaction. "Good girl, now go up and get your uniform on," She turned around and returned to the kitchen, "I'll be going to work now children. Have fun."
The two of us stood there silent. Chrona was still shaking in fear because of what that snake said about Three Stripes (Seriously, 'Kid'? That's such a crappy name!). I can tell when Medusa finds something threatening, and apparently Three Stripes is it. It makes me wonder why though.
Kid
"That Chrona girl's not here today again,"
"You mean that person with the pink hair? That's a girl? I thought it was one of those cross-dressing boys."
"Yeah, she's been for the whole week,"
"I heard she was really sick,"
"Or maybe she's busy,"
"Doesn't she go home with that creepy black haired guy that we see standing at one of the corners?"
"She does! Subsidized dating maybe? Or maybe even something worse." (1)
"I wouldn't be surprised; it's always the quiet and creepy ones after all."
The desire to shout at those gossiping girls to shut up and stop spewing such damn lies was burning inside me. How could they start thinking such ridiculous things is beyond me. True one look at Ragnarok would give someone the wrong idea, but did Chrona honestly look like the type of girl who would do things like that?
"Whoa, Kid," I felt a hand pat my back and I looked to my right to see Soul, who pat me, and Black*Star standing there with, strangely, concerned faces. "Don't listen to them. We all know Chrona's not like that."
"We know," I shot an unseen glare at those girls, "But they don't."
"Don't worry," Black*Star huffed, "if anything gets too far, just expect me, the great Black*Star to kick their asses!" Of course, only Black*Star would not be afraid to hit a girl.
"Good morning," greeted a rather depressed voice. We turned our heads toward the back classroom door to see Maka enter, looking down at the floor, along with Tsubaki who was rubbing her back.
"Hey Maka, took you long enough," Soul greeted, waving at her. "Sorry," was all she said. The three of us boys just looked at each other, puzzled by how she sounded. Maka would normally sound happy in the morning and reply to Soul with a snappy come back of some kind. I guess Chrona's absence has been affecting her too.
It might seem silly to be so worked up about an absent friend, but you would have to think about the circumstances. Chrona's frail and emotionally unstable so anything horrible could have happened to her, and without any way of contact (other than that lying mother of hers) there is no way to be sure of her condition. This is worse on my end because I actually know what's going on behind our backs.
I have tried to get ahold of her mother again, but it seemed like she was busy every time I went to the clinic, even though I came at the same time as I did on Monday. She must have caught on to what I was trying to do.
Damn it- if I knew simply allowing her to come to my house would result in a 'punishment' (as Chrona likes to call them), than I wouldn't have said anything. It's my entire fault practically. For days I would bet that Chrona has been going through hell, and it hurts to know I can't do a thing but make it worse. So much for trying to help.
"See, we made it just in time," Tsubaki tried to reassure Maka with kind words but even I can see that it wasn't going anywhere, "I'll be going to my class now, are you sure you'll be okay Maka?"
"She'll be fine," Soul assured her, nodding his head, "just give her one of those boring, nerdy books. Those things always get geeks happy."
"Shut up Soul, I'm not a geek!" Maka snapped, finally looking up from the floor so she could glare at him. Soul smirked at her reaction, "Now there's the Maka I know."
Tsubaki smiled, probably glad that Maka wasn't entirely out of character for the day. "Well I'll see you at lunch than!" She waved goodbye and immediately left, since she had to go up two more floors for her classroom.
Just as she went past the door, Patty just happened to walk in, coming back from talking with Liz probably. "Why do you all look so glum?" She asked, looking at the four of us before tilting her head to the side. She's been worried about Chrona too, but unlike Maka she at least tried to be happy, for our sake.
DING-DONG
The school bell rang, preventing us from giving Patty an answer of any kind. Sid, in a booming voice, ordered "Get in your seats, kids!" and we had to quickly oblige less we want pieces of chalk thrown at us like a dart to a target.
I let out a sigh as the day begun. Out of force of habit I turned to my left to stare at the desk in the corner, hoping to have a good look of a certain pinkette, only to sadly remember that that spot has been empty for some time now.
Is she okay? I always wonder to myself.
A whole school week without Chrona made me feel kind of lonely in truth. I missed seeing her clumsiness and hearing her awkward laughs. I missed spending alone time with her up on the roof and just talk. I missed the way she smiled at me whenever I told her I'll be there to help. True I am willing to admit to myself that I did indeed like her, but I didn't think I would like her to such an extent. It's kind of funny.
It's funny because I never expected to become this fond of Chrona.
Chrona
I was around 30 minutes late when Ragnarok and I arrived on the school campus. The grounds were all empty. It made me feel so embarrassed to just show up so late in the school day. I would have asked Mother if I could return on Monday instead, but if I did I would have been put in the Room again.
Ragnarok told me I've been in there for six whole nights. Six? Is that it? It felt longer…
"So, are you going in or not?" Ragnarok asked, he was right behind me as I stood staring at the building. I was shaking, many worries going through my head. What will Mr. Sid say to me for being so late? Did they know I've been gone for so long? What will Maka say? Will she be mad? What about Kid-kun? Will he not be nice to me anymore? I-I-I can't deal with that.
So you'd prefer living in your dark, lonely world rather than seeing your friends? That's good.
You know your place.
"Good lord just get in already! You're wasting time just standin' here ya' know!"
"I-I-I'm sorry…" I immediately apologized to him, quickly turning around to bow.
"Ugh- stop it with the apologies and get inside, it's not like they can kick you out!"
"S-sorry, I'll be going now!" I swallowed my fear and ran to the front doors. Because I was so hungry my stomach was hurting and I felt like collapsing almost. But I didn't want to make Ragnarok mad anymore. I can deal with hunger better than I can deal with him.
"So you've been sick for nearly the entire school week, Miss Gorgon?"
According to school rules, since I'm tardy I have to report to the office before heading to class. The friendly looking woman in the school's office looked at Mother's handwritten and signed note as my hands fiddled nervously over the handle of my schoolbag.
I didn't want to look at whatever face she was making at me so I just looked down. I haven't taken a bath such a long time, so I probably smelled and my uniform wasn't washed properly since Ragnarok did it for me.
People scorn such dirty little girls…
"Y-yes," I replied.
"Are you feeling okay now, though?"
"Y-yes, I-I woke up feeling much better and my mother said I could go back to school,"
"Hmmm," She let out this hum and I could only guess that she was probably thinking over the lie Mother told me to tell. "Maybe you should see Nygus before heading to class. We don't want to spread something, now do we?"
For the first time I actually looked up, my eyes wide and my arms waving around in defense, "N-n-no its okay! I'm fine, really!"
"…Are you sure?"
"Yes!"
The woman raised a brow at my actions, making me more nervous. I don't want to see Nygus, Mother always tells me to stay away from the school nurse because she might get the wrong idea about my 'punishments'.
"...Okay sweetie, if you're sure about that, than you can go ahead and get to class." She took ripped a slip of paper out from somewhere on the desk and wrote something on it. "Just give this to your teacher and everything should be squared away. Remember, you can come see the nurse any time you want."
"I-I'm sure I'm okay," I stuttered, hoping she would stop.
I could feel my stomach let out a growl of some kind as the woman handed me the slip that I was supposed to give to Sid. I just hope I can get to my classroom before first period ended. I also hope that no one would tease me for being so late. I can't deal with being laughed at…
Kid
It seemed like it's been hours since school began, and it's only first period. I hope it's not just me and time really did decide to slow down for the day. Listening to Sid teach us about the story we had to read last night, I fiddled around with my pencil case, making sure all the pens were symmetrical and perfectly in place. Really that's all I could do to keep myself awake.
I looked at the clock- only about twenty minutes left of class- and let out an irritated sigh.
"Now pay attention, when our main character moved onto the city he-" The sound of someone opening the classroom door in a slow manner interrupted Sid.
"S-sorry I'm late…"
I looked up immediately from what I was doing. The recognizably cute yet nervous voice and the stuttering- there's only one person in the class that I know who would sound like that.
"Well, look who decided to join us," Sid playfully greeted, but to her it probably seemed like an insulting statement.
"Chrona," I heard Maka mumble, her tone clearly showing how astonished she was to see her best friend again. The whole class erupted in low murmurs, students talking to other students in failed whispers about how they didn't see this coming.
I didn't expect this either, but there she is. Chrona's okay. She's okay. At least on the outside she does. But still, she's standing here, right now, looking fine. Or…Is she really? Did her mother decide to leave more scars and bruises on her? The mere idea made me want to shoot that woman.
"Alright, settle down!" Sid ordered, before turning his attention back to the pinkette.
"I-I have a note," Chrona cautiously handed over the slip of paper which Sid took off her hands.
"At least you're back. You've got a lot of stuff to make up, you know that right?"
"Y-yes sir,"
"Well take your seat than, Chrona,"
"Yes sir…"
Her voice was different from the last time I heard her. While Chrona is depressed, you could still pick up even the slightest hint of happiness in her voice. Right now though her tone kind of…Dead. Was it because she arrived so late? But then she would be more frantic, almost to the point of tears.
I watched her walk back to her seat, noticing how the way she moved was even stranger. To me Chrona seemed to shake more and at times she would almost lose her footing, as if she was feeling faint.
When she sat down in her chair, I sent a welcoming smile her way. I'm just really happy that she's back with us. Though strangely enough, Chrona didn't seem too thrilled. When she glanced at me she immediately tensed up and looked back down, as if she was scared of my gaze. Now that was unusual. I thought by now Chrona would have become more comfortable around me.
Something's off.
Maka
I just cannot believe this. Chrona's back and she's okay, she's perfectly okay! Thank goodness~ If I didn't hear from her for another day or two I would have gone berserk and searched the entire city for her. I'm not joking.
But something seems strange about her. She seems much weaker. Maybe she's still feeling a bit under the weather?
DING-DONG!
The bell rang, telling us that first period has ended. Patty and I walked with Chrona all the way to Stein's class, telling her how happy we were that she was back and asking how she was feeling.
The way she responded to us was odd. Chrona looked more depressed, her voice was dull almost and for me she gave off this dark aura of some kind.
"Chrona, are you still sick?" Patty asked, jumping in front of Chrona and walking backwards so that she could look at her face.
Chrona seemed kind of surprised at Patty's sudden action, but she still didn't stop sounding so sad. "I-I'm okay Patty,"
"Are you sure?" I asked this time, looking at her with concern as we reached the classroom. Chrona merely nodded with a smile that was obviously forced.
"Yes, Maka, really,"
With that she walked ahead to our lab table in the far corner. I stood next to Patty, softly stating "She's lying…."
"~How can you tell?"
"I just can," I had to hold back my small anger and just settled for gripping the handle of my handbag tighter. I just couldn't understand what Chrona could be hiding from me. I'm her best friend- when we became friends I assured her that she could come to me with anything. This made me think that I knew things about Chrona that the rest of the group didn't, but lately I've been getting the feeling that I'm wrong. Lately I've noticed that a certain someone has become much closer to Chrona than I ever could now.
I watched from where I stood, Kid approach Chrona had our desk. Since the class was so loud I was unable to make out any words, so I just settled with watching his lips move. I assume he was welcoming her back as well, and he was smiling too.
I frowned. I have noticed how worried Kid has been for her for the past week, and never have I seen Kid so concerned over someone. He cares about his friends, true, but rarely does he ever worry over them to the point of extreme fear. What is it that Kid knows about her that Chrona would never tell me?
"You okay Maka?" Patty asked me, tilting her head to the side, but I stayed quiet. She seemed to have picked up what I was so irritated about though.
"…I'm sure Chrona has her reasons! You know she doesn't like worrying you~" Patty reassured, patting my back. I wanted to agree with her, but I couldn't bring myself to it.
I continued to the watch the pair. I watched Chrona carefully- she didn't respond to whatever Kid said at all. Instead she bowed her head and refused to look at him. Kid had this look of concern on his face, but before he could say anything Dr. Stein ordered us to get to our seats.
DING-DONG
Second period has begun. I took my seat next to the still quiet Chrona, hoping to myself that I could help her in some way.
"So what did Kid say to you, Chrona?" I asked out of curiosity with the best smile that I could put on. Chrona looked at me for a second, before shifting her gaze back to her lap. I could practically feel her depression.
"N-nothing, Maka…"
I tried not to frown at this. Instead I settled with focusing on Dr. Stein, but while my focus was on him my thoughts were somewhere else.
Chrona's lying to me again. She's lying to me, but I don't know why.
Lunch
Kid
The last few periods were, simply put, aggravating. I've been trying to talk to Chrona, but she'll either keep quiet and not have eye contact with me, or try to move away from me as fast as possible. It hurts just to be pushed away like that without knowing the reason why.
Is she mad at me, possibly?
DING-DONG
"WOO-HOO!"
"Black*Star be quiet!"
From where I sat I watch Soul run right out of the classroom, chasing Black*Star who was aiming to get all the good food before Soul could. Normally I would find their actions to be amusing and even join in at times, but right now I didn't feel up to it.
"Hey Patty," I hear Maka start talking right behind me, "have you seen Chrona?"
"She probably left~"
"Are you serious?"
"~Of course, silly!~"
I turned around, seeing an irritated Maka and a giggling Patty, to question their truthfulness, raising a brow at their words. Chrona was indeed gone- she probably snuck her way out of the room when all the other students literally rushed out in a pack.
There was only one place where she would go.
Immediately I stood up from my seat and ran out of the classroom. I knew exactly where I was going. I could hear Patty calling out for me, wondering what I was doing, but I was already in the hallway.
As I made my way up the stairs, I passed by Liz and Tsubaki who were coming down from their classroom to join the others. I could see Liz raise a brow as I passed by as fast as I could. "Hey Kid, where's the fire?" she asked, but I didn't bother responding.
"That was strange," I heard Tsubaki comment.
It took a few more flights of stairs, but I finally made it to the last step. I stopped to take a few breaths, right in front of the rooftop door, before reaching over, turning the knob, and pushing it open.
As I expected, there was Chrona, standing in her usual spot in the corner. This time, though, she was staring at the view. I guess she was lost in thought because she didn't even flinch when I came in. Shutting the door closed, I quietly walked up to her, making sure not to make any sudden noises until I was close enough.
"You know you really should inform one of us before you suddenly walk out like that," I finally said, breaking the serene silence, causing Chrona to immediately turn around.
"Sh-Shinigami-kun!"
That's a bit better; she finally said something to me, even if it's just my name. I really wish she would start calling me by real name though. I guess she's not comfortable yet.
Chrona was shaking slightly, her blue eyes darting in almost every direction, as if she was trying to look for a way out. Clearly my presence was troubling her, I feared as much. But why is that? Is it because I was the reason why she received a 'punishment'?
In an instant, she made a run right past me, obviously heading for the door, hoping to avoid me once again. Sorry Chrona, but I can't let that be.
"Wait!" I reached a hand out and grabbed her arm, stopping her from moving. Now she was just making things harder by trying to squirm out my hold. "Chrona, why are you running away from me?"
"Let go of me!" She cried, the way she acted making me hate myself for doing this, but I needed answers.
"Please just tell me why you're not talking to me!"
"I can't!"
"And why is that?"
"I can't!" She ceased all movement, her eyes showing desperation and misery, "I-I just can't…" Looking at her, I felt sadness, irritation, and guilt building up inside of me. The mix of negative feelings wasn't pleasant at all. I was sad because I hated seeing her like this. I was irritated because her answer didn't make sense. I was guilty because I knew this was my fault.
"…."
Not even thinking twice about my actions, I pulled Chrona into a sudden embrace. Rarely would I ever do something so affectionate, but Chrona needed this and I was willing to give it. I wrapped my arms around her tightly, not even fazed by how she was trying to push me away.
"Sh-Shinigami-"
"I'm sorry,"
"What?"
Chrona stopped moving, probably surprised by my apology. I was happy to repeat it just so that she would get the idea. "I'm sorry; it was because of me, wasn't it?"
"Eh?"
"For all these days you were being 'punished' for merely coming over to my place, correct? If I knew such a simple thing would get you hurt than I wouldn't have asked in the first place." It was ridiculous to think that she would be hurt so badly for merely seeing a friend outside of school, but I'm guessing that Medusa would look for any excuse to make Chrona's life a living hell.
"N-no- that's-that's not true Shinigami-kun." She protested, surprising me, "I-I disobeyed Mother's rules. I was a bad girl and I deserved to be punished. Y-you did nothing bad, it was all me."
"Chrona…"
"It was all me," I could feel something wet on my shoulder, she was crying. "I-I just was really happy when you invited me over to your house. I was happy when Ragnarok said that he wouldn't tell Mother and let me go. He doesn't do that, ever. I just wanted to see Liz and Patty; I wanted to be with you a little bit more. You helped me. But I was breaking Mother's rule- she said I couldn't see others."
"That's absurd," I frowned, my hold on her tightening, "you should be allowed to see anyone you want whenever you want."
"M-Mother says I can't- ever since I was a kid she said I can't. It's because I'm a bad person, because I'll do nothing but humiliate her."
'Well your mother is insane' I thought, wanting nothing more than to go over to Medusa's clinic and expose her for the monster she was. Chrona's tears increased in number, so in an act of comfort I ran my hands trough her hair, enjoying its softness.
"That's not right, Chrona, you're not a bad person."
She didn't respond to what I said, and instead she continued to cry. Normally I would hate for my uniform to get stained, but right now I knew that Chrona needed to let this all out. She needed to cry.
"Whatever Medusa is telling you," I pulled her a bit closer, "none of it is true."
I felt her shift a bit, and was stunned when seconds later she placed her arms around my back, returning the embrace.
"Tha-thank you," She sniffled, "K-Kid-kun…"
Maka
"Wow, so she actually decided to show up!"
"That Chrona girl is such a weirdo, what makes her think she can just come to school whenever she wanted?"
"Hey, keep it down; you know she's friends with those guys over there!"
"Yeah, apparently she's best friends with Maka and Death the Kid."
"You mean Spirit's daughter and Shinigami-san's son?"
"Yeah, and don't forget she's also Black*Star's friend, and he's Sid's son."
"Soul hangs out with her too, and he's family is, like, loaded!"
"She must think she can get away with anything because she's all chummy with the most powerful people in the school."
As a group we were all trying to ignore the lies that the gossipers, who were not that far from us mind you, were spewing. It was hard for me to control my temper. If Soul wasn't pulling me back down every time I stood up, I would have killed every single one of them.
So to not push any one's buttons, we decided to focus on different topics and drown out that annoying group of talkers.
"Kid's sure acting strange~" said Patty, who was right next to me folding a piece of yellow paper. How much would you bet that she was making another giraffe?
"Chrona's no better," mumbled Soul, who was rather bummed out since Black*Star took the good sandwiches. "Maybe they just miss each other. After all, lunch time is when they hang out the most!" pointed out Liz with a grin. I wanted to throw in my opinion, but I already vented out my anger enough, so I settled for merely chewing my food.
"And Chrona's probably just recovering," suggested Tsubaki, "she's been sick for such a long time after all!"
"HAH! If she was a big a star like me, she would never get sick like that!" Laughed Black*Star, who was standing on a chair and pointing to the ceiling. Tsubaki was mumbling 'sit down' to him, but of course he didn't listen.
Quickly, and fortunately, we moved away from the subject. Black*Star just continued talking about how great he was, while Patty was showing of her mini- paper giraffe to her sister and Tsubaki. I fiddled around with my lunch, not really in the mood to have a conversation.
"Hey Maka,"
Of course, Soul wouldn't allow me to have peace. He's been the one trying to cheer me up lately. That was very sweet of him, but I wish he would quit it at times.
"Hm?" I hummed, not looking up.
"Are you seriously still moping around? Come on, Chrona's back, I thought that would cheer you up." His voice level was kind of quiet, as if he only wanted this conversation to only be between us. Luckily Black*Star's voice was loud enough to prevent the others from hearing.
"I know, it's just that," I paused for a moment to think of the right words, "…It's just that Chrona's been hiding something from me lately."
"…."
"…."
"Isn't normal for teenage girls to hide things though?"
"But not like this," I argued, "Normally Chrona would tell me when something is troubling her, but lately it seems like she's been confiding in Kid more than anyone else. I-I guess the whole situation just bugs me, that's all…" Soul raised a brow at my words. He stayed silent. I expected him to say something blunt, instead he said this.
"Isn't that a good thing though?" This time it was my turn to look at him questioningly.
"Chrona's been getting along well with someone else other than you. That's a good thing, right? I understand that you are her best friend and all, but don't you think she needs more intimate friends in her life?"
"What are you trying to say Soul?"
The white haired pretty boy merely sighed, as if he was the irritated one, shrugging at me before leaning back into his chair.
"Forget it," Soul mumbled. "Soul!" I tried to coax him to continue talking, but of course he sat there silent. How I wanted to just push that chair down.
Kid
You know that feeling you get whenever a great weight was pulled off your shoulders and suddenly you can't help but be the happiest person ever? Because that is how I am right now.
Chrona said my name. After months of trying to become closer to her just so that we could know each other better, I have finally reached the point where she stopped calling me "Shinigami-kun". In addition, I didn't feel as guilty about the whole situation as I did for the past few days. Don't get me wrong, I still think I'm partly responsible, but really the truly wrong person here would be Medusa. I have come to realize that.
For a few minutes the two of us just stood there embracing. I couldn't ask for anything better. Chrona thin build made her feel delicate in my arms- I feared that tightening my hold would break her. She was warm though, in a comforting way. When she started shaking, probably because she's never been hugged by a boy before, I gently rubbed her back, assuring her that everything was okay.
Grrrrr….
The both of us immediately pulled back, our hold on each other merely loosening, when that muffled growl came out of nowhere. Chrona seemed to have a good idea though, for she removed her arms from my back and placed her hands on her stomach.
"S-sorry, that-that-" She started blushing, embarrassed for making such a sound. I chuckled at this, amused by her reaction to something so simple.
"I-I-"
"You're hungry aren't you?"
"W-well, kind of…"
"You sound pretty starved, when was the last time you ate?"
"….Saturday…"
I almost fell over at Chrona's rather outrageous answer. Saturday- is she serious? Oh wait, Chrona doesn't joke. Medusa refused to feed her for six days straight? No wonder Chrona's like this, damn it. Was it part of Chrona's 'punishment'?
"B-but I'm okay, really!" Chrona claimed, holding her hands up in defense. Grrrrr- out of sudden shock she placed her hands on her stomach again, her face become so flushed. It was funny- I couldn't help but be amused- but this was serious.
"Your stomach doesn't sound okay to me," I shook my head. Chrona merely looked down, once again not wanting to keep eye contact, out of embarrassment really. I myself was trying to think of a solution of some kind. I don't have any food with me, and knowing Patty and Black*Star (Seriously, why haven't they started dating yet?) the pair would have devoured whatever leftovers the group had.
An idea clicked in, but I wasn't too sure it would work.
"I know this café called Death Bucks that is not too far from here. Maybe I could take you there after school. Well, that is if it won't get you in trouble." I wouldn't want her to get hurt again. But it didn't seem like that bad of an idea though, since she has stayed after school before, and Medusa was still at work around that time.
Chrona tilted her head to the side, her face showing confusion and curiosity. I guess she's never heard of Death Bucks before- that's not too surprising on my part. Now that I think about it, I sounded like I was actually asking her out on a date.
"I could get you something to eat there. Maybe even Ragnarok could tag along if he wanted to." I wasn't too thrilled with the idea of bringing her jackass of a brother along, but if it would mean I could get Chrona to actually go somewhere different, than I can live.
"A-are you sure, Kid-kun?" The fact that she was saying my name was still unbelievable, but I couldn't let myself go to happiness just yet.
"Of course, think of it as my way of welcoming you back. What Medusa won't know, won't hurt her after all." I just need to get her home before Medusa finishes work for the day, its simple really. I hope.
"But-but Mother said that-"
"Your mom works late on weekdays, correct? I don't think it would hurt for you to stay with me for another hour or so."
"But she said that-" Chrona paused for a bit as if she didn't want to say it, but she went on anyway, "-mother said that she didn't want me to see you anymore."
I raised a brow at this, "And why is that?"
"Sh-she said you were 'nosey',"
Shit. Seems like Medusa caught on to what I've been trying to do. So I assume this means that if I make one wrong move, it could mean hell for Chrona. I could not let that happen.
"Well," I rubbed the back of my head, "I guess our first impressions weren't the best. That or your mother just doesn't like gentlemen." Really it was hard for me to even keep a kind face for that woman. She's lucky that our chat was interrupted or I would have kicked her lying ass.
"…She doesn't really like men in general, Kid-kun …"
"…." Awkward.
"So that is why you've been avoiding me…." I paused for a moment, trying my best to think of words that would give her some reassurance, "Well I guess I can't change that, but that's still not a good enough reason for me to stop being your friend."
"Eh?"
"As said before, what Medusa doesn't know, won't hurt. We'll be a bit more careful this time. It could just be our little secret," I smiled, holding out my hand, "so what do you say?"
It took a few seconds, but she finally smiled at me, and slowly, almost hesitantly, placed her hand over mine, meaning that she accepted my offer. "Okay…I-I just need to check with Ragnarok,"
It seems like she won't really do anything unless her brother was around. So if Ragnarok is coming, than in my case I would have to have Liz and Patty come as well, just in case Ragnarok tries anything. So much for spending some alone time together.
"Well even if he does say 'no', I'm taking you anyway."
Chrona softly giggled, clearly losing all depression that she was probably holding inside of her for all those days. I might not know what exactly Medusa put Chrona through, but I'll make sure it would never happen to her again. By the way she looked at me though it seemed like whatever was haunting her suddenly disappeared.
It's so strange just how one small thing can brighten up someone's day like that.
After School…
"Are you serious?" asked both Liz and Ragnarok.
Right after school, Chrona took me, Liz, and Patty to the street corner where Ragnarok normally waited for her so that they could walk home together. Chrona fidgeted around, her hands wringing around the handle of her schoolbag, as she confronted her much taller brother.
"Kid when you said we were going to Death Bucks, I didn't think we had to bring the asshole too!" Liz frowned, glaring at the punk, her blues eyes filled with hatred. I love how their first encounter left a great impression.
"What the hell made you think that going with Three Stripes and his Bimbos here would be fun, Chrona?" Ragnarok yelled. "Three Stripes?" I repeated, wanting to cry at that nickname. "Bimbos?" Liz and Patty repeated in an annoyed tone.
Before the three of us could react, Ragnarok was rubbing his fists on both sides of Chrona's head, clearly hurting her. "Seriously Chrona what the fuck is wrong with you? You really think that just because Medusa let ya' go that you can just cause trouble again- why I ought 'a-"
I stepped forward and kicked Ragnarok hard, forcing him to stop hurting Chrona and fall to the ground. "Medusa?" Liz raised a brow.
"It's nothing," I assured her, straightening my uniform jacket. I turned to Chrona and noticed how Ragnarok's bullying caused some of her pink hair to stick out. "I find nothing wrong with the idea, Ragnarok," I said as I reached over and straightened her hair out into a clean, even fashion.
"You have no idea, do ya' Three Stripes?" Ragnarok, who quickly recovered and was now back on his feet, "Did ya' ever think that Chrona has more important things to do at home!"
"Well what time does your mother finish work?"
"Like 7:00 or 8:00 maybe- why?"
"It's only past 2:00. A few minutes together wouldn't hurt,"
"So we have like five hours so what you little-"
"Are you saying that you and Chrona have five hours to spend some time with friends? Well if that is how it is, than I can't object." I took Chrona's hand and began to walk down the street, "Let us go ladies before the place becomes crowded."
"Hey, wait a minute you little punk!"
I heard Patty laugh hysterically as she followed us, "You lose~"
"I can't believe we have to bring you along," complained Liz. "Though, you could just stay here and we could bring Chrona home ourselves."
"Like hell, blondie."
Despite the fact that their bickering, which I bet could last for the whole walk to Death Bucks and then some, was giving me a headache, I couldn't help but be amused. I looked at Chrona who was walking by my side and I believe I saw a shy smile forming. I adored that smile.
Really my main priority should be trying to expose Medusa for the abuser she is, but where I stand I can't do a thing. My father won't order an investigation because I don't have any real evidence, and I would never force Chrona to expose her scars to others.
It seems like all I can do for Chrona now is to make sure she can keep smiling like this for the time being.
Death Bucks
Chrona
Why did I say 'yes'- WHY?
I can't believe this, I can't believe this.
I was already punished for saying yes to go to Kid-kun's house, and now I'm breaking Mother's rules again by agreeing to come here.
If Mother finds out I'll be sent to the Room again! I-I-I just got out. I don't want to go back in!
"What Medusa doesn't know, won't hurt"
Did I say yes because Kid-kun said that? I guess I trusted that he's right and I won't get in trouble for this, but I can't help but feel like such a bad girl for disobeying Mother again. I've never done that before! Why am I all of a sudden not listening to Mother anymore?
Bad girls just never seem to learn….
….Was it because I wanted to feel the same happiness from last Saturday when I went to Kid-kun's mansion?
"Who the hell walks around wearing skin tight, black clothes in the desert?" I heard Liz yell at Ragnarok.
"Well whose big idea was it to build a freaking city in one? Couple of dumbasses, I tell ya'."
"Don't insult my family like that!"
Patty laughed, "~You two fight like an oldie-old married couple!~"
"Shut it!"
"Don't yell at my sister either!"
From where I sat, I turned my head to watch Ragnarok verbally fight with Liz, the two of them glaring daggers at each other. From the looks of it, Ragnarok was having fun teasing her. Others probably couldn't see it, but I could. But why is it that Ragnarok just seems to have fun being mean to others? I don't get it…
"Your brother must enjoy being loud," I heard Kid-kun comment. I turned my attention back to him, noticing how he had a smile on his face. The two of us sat next to each other on one of the many couches in Death Bucks. The place had a lot of chairs and lamps and paintings arranged, giving it a relaxing feel. It all smelled nice too.
Enjoy it while it lasts dear.
"I'm sorry," I apologized on Ragnarok's behalf.
"You don't need to apologize for him," he said, sounding amused, before he took a sip out of his covered cup. I decided to take a sip of my drink as well.
Kid-kun bought me a cold, soft coffee drink that had whip cream all over the top. It tasted really good, better than what we mostly had at the house or what Ragnarok would make. Food was hard when neither of us could cook.
We continued to just sit there, Kid and me staying silent while the other three were making a lot of noise. This was still nice over all. It's fun being with them outside of the school. I wish Maka was here too, that would make me even happier. She seemed kind of depressed today though, did I do something wrong?
…..
This was all so different. Mother always demanded that I go home immediately when I'm done with school. Mainly because Mother always has a task for me to do, and if I don't do it right, or don't do it all, I'll be punished again.
I wonder what Mother had planned for me today? Did it involve testing out more of her medicine? Or did I have to hurt another 'little one' for her? I hope I got off easy today and just have to clean the basement of Mother's 'leftovers'….
"If you keep on drinking like that you'll get a brain freeze,"
"Hm?" Kid-kun was a bit late there. I felt the small pinch of pain in my head, causing me to let out a cry and place a hand where it hurt. I can't deal with brain freezes! And for some reason Kid-kun started laughing at me!
"What's so funny?" I asked, opening one eye to look at him. "You," he was trying to speak through his laughter, "you just looked cute that's all."
I felt my cheeks become warm once again. I think I've blushed more today than ever. I couldn't handle it though- I'm still not used to the idea of a boy actually saying things like that to me. Back at my old schools, all the boys would make fun of me, calling me ugly and things like that.
"All you do is sit in the corner- if you're not goanna play than just go away!"
"Chrona, is something on your mind?"
"Oh," I snapped out of my thoughts and smiled nervously at Kid-kun, "j-just thinking-"
"Don't tell me you're still worried about Medusa,"
"Well…"
"Don't swing coffee around like that you idiot!" Liz shrieked. Kid-kun and I froze in place as we heard the sounds of chairs and tables toppling, coffee spilling, and Patty laughing like there was no tomorrow.
"Great, there goes my drink," Ragnarok sneered, "now you'll have to buy me another one."
"Who says?"
"I do blondie!"
"~This so beats Arts and Crafts club!~"
Kid groaned, sliding his palm down his face as if he was getting a headache while all I did was silently pray that Ragnarok would cut it out. I couldn't stop smiling though. Ragnarok's actually talking to people other than me. He always complained how I'm the only one who is willing to approach him. So does this mean Liz is his new friend?
You can have as many friends as you want. That won't change what you really are- a curse and a burden.
"…I like this…" I mumbled, wanting to say those three words badly. Kid-kun looked at me, raising a brow. "It's really nice in here, and Liz and Patty are funny," I faced him, "I-I'm really glad I said yes…."
I am- I really, really am.
"See, you don't have to worry about Medusa whenever you're here. It's peaceful, a perfect place to go when you need to study or anything like that." Kid-kun paused for a moment, the look in his eyes telling me he was thinking, before he spoke. "You know, that is not a bad idea….Alright, starting next week, Chrona, this is where we are going to have our study dates."
"Eh!" My eyes widened at his proposal. It didn't sound too bad, but it was still strange. Did Kid-kun really want to be with me that badly?
Don't say yes. You'll regret it!
"Are you serious?" We turned our heads to see Ragnarok looking at us with an aggravated glare. "You seriously think I'll put up with this bitch every day?" He pointed to Liz who was becoming red with anger.
"Big sis is mad, not good~" Patty sang.
"I didn't say you three had to tagalong if you didn't want to," Kid-kun explained. For once Ragnarok didn't have any fancy comeback, and instead he just continued to glare at Kid-kun. "Do you have anything against it, Chrona?" Kid-kun asked me politely.
Say no- say no!
I thought over it for a second. I really needed help with my studies, I can't deal with being kicked out, and Kid's offering. He probably doesn't want to take me back to his place (that's sad, it was really big and pretty) because I got in trouble for that. Well, Death Bucks was just as nice of a place.
"Okay," I nodded.
That was a wrong choice of words, sweetie.
An hour or so passed by, which was rather fast to me. I didn't want to leave because I was having fun laughing with Kid-kun and his sisters, but Ragnarok demanded that we go home immediately. I had almost forgotten that Mother had a task for me to finish before she returned.
"Bye bye!~" Patty waved, the five of us standing outside the Death Bucks building. "See you on Monday, Chrona," Liz winked, "and try not to get 'sick' again, okay?"
I smiled, waving to them as well. "T-thank you everyone, that was really fun."
Kid-kun returned my smile, "I concur."
"Heh," Ragnarok shrugged, looking the other way, "it would have been if blondie over there had a rack that was as big as her mouth."
"You just can't stop being a jackass, huh?" Liz was about to storm over and punch Ragnarok, but Patty held her back.
"~Next time let's bring everyone else with us after school!~"
"That's not a bad idea actually," Liz agreed, finally calming down.
"Come on, quit the yapping, we've got to go Chrona," Ragnarok, being the impatient one, didn't even think twice about turning around and walking home by himself.
"B-bye guys," was the last thing I said to them before I ran after Ragnarok to the best of my ability. I had a bit more energy now, thank goodness. Though, I wonder if it was because I actually got something to eat, or because I felt so happy.
How can you be so carefree? You disobeyed your Mother. You disobeyed her again!
A/N: Damn that was a long chapter to type up, and they're just going to become longer from here on.
So Kid and Chrona still want to be together despite Medusa's threats. Now they decide to just meet after school almost every day and just go to Death Bucks.
Chrona feels more comfortable with this because Kid assures her that as long as she's home before Medusa she'll be fine. Of course that is not completely true.
Sometimes a person's need for happiness overpowers their fear.
For those who don't know, subsidized dating (which is rather common in Japan) is when an older male pays a younger female (normally a high school student) to go on a date with them. It's like prostitution without the sex. In addition while it's not morally right, it isn't really illegal.
In the next chapter, things will start to take a dark turn as the story of Eruka's suicide is told and Medusa starts showing her ugly (or uglier) side.
Thank you for reading, and please leave a review if you can! Feedback is wonderful.