The Place Where We Belong
Katekyo Hitman Reborn! Fanfiction
Female Tsuna
Summary: Reborn's opinion of Sawada Iemitsu is that the man is a complete fool. Everyone knows this. Reborn should have known better than to take Iemitsu's words in face value. But he didn't think he would fuck up this bad. In which Iemitsu's child is not a dame middle schooler but an adult woman with a life of her own. They really, really need to check the inside of Iemitsu's head.
Disclaimer: I do not own KHR
Warnings: Lots of OCs, grammar mistakes, typo.
CHAPTER 11: New and Old Faces
"Your boyfriend?" Setsuna's eyes widened. Her Flame sparked at the revelation. She forced it down. The last thing she need is to make everyone in the supermarket woozy from her Pressure. A small amount of her Flame did leak, curling around Shouka protectively. Shouka herself blink and shift. Oh no. Can she sense that?
The interest in Reborn's eyes did not help.
"Yes, my boyfriend," Shouka blushed. "We met in college. Gabriel, this is Sawada Setsuna-senpai."
"The Setsuna-senpai?" Gabriel dumped the bags of marshmallow to the cart before taking his place next to Shouka. "Shou-chan talked about you a lot. Never missed your performances too. It's nice to finally meet you in person." He stuck out his hand. Setsuna accepted it, making sure she hold his hand tight. Gabriel show no sign of pain or discomfort. She has to give him a mental point for that.
"I have so many questions right now but that means we will be here all night," Setsuna keep her eyes on Gabriel. Shouka chuckled.
"Oh hello there," Gabriel smiled at Reborn, bringing the two women's attention to the tiny hitman.
"Ciaossu," He greets them. "My name is Reborn."
Setsuna seized the chance before Reborn can say more. "He's staying with me at the moment. Family matters. Also, he is NOT a baby. He just looked like one. He suffers from systemic hypoplasia."
Shouka's eye widened. Systemic hypoplasia? She know about that condition. Saw some pictures too. But she never heard a case like Reborn… And to see it in person… "I see," She managed to say.
"Nice suit. Custom made?" Gabriel nodded at Reborn's suit.
Reborn looked pleased. "100% Egyptian cotton."
Gabriel let out a small whistle. "Nice."
"I don't mean to be rude but we really need to get going. It's my turn to cook for the family tonight," Shouka give her an apologetic look.
"It's fine, Shouka-chan. How long will you be staying here in Japan? I would love to catch up with you," Setsuna glanced at Gabriel. "And get to know Gesso-san."
"We will be here for the rest of summer. So there's plenty of time for us to catch up and spend time together. Do you still use the same number?" The auburn haired woman pull out her phone. The two women exchanged phone numbers. "All right. I'll text you tonight, senpai. It's really nice meeting you here. Goodbye, Reborn-san."
"See you soon, Setsuna-san!" Gabriel waved at her enthusiastically.
Setsuna waved back, if only because Shouka is still watching. It wasn't until they disappear behind the shelves did her smile dropped. When Reborn looked at her, her eyes are orange.
"What is it?" He asked. Anything that draw a Vongola Intuition out like this is always serious.
"Gabriel Gesso," Her eyes narrowed. "There's something about him. I don't know what yet."
"If it got your Intuition tingling, we have to keep a close eye on him indeed."
Setsuna stay silent.
*Slam*
Gokudera dropped a heavy stack of books on the desk, causing Yamamoto and Ryohei to slightly jump. He placed both of his hands on the desk and leaned closer. "You two are idiots," The silver haired youths started. "But I faced worse than this. Explosions, bullets, my sister, Coach Maeda. I survived them all. I refuse to be defeated by the likes of you. You two will get passing grades even if it's the last thing you do. And don't make any complaints. I don't give a jack shit. So you better prepare yourselves because I won't have any mercy. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes!" The two athletes answered at the same time.
"Good," Gokudera put on his glasses. "We'll start with science. Don't you dare complain!" He snapped when Ryohei open his mouth. "Do you want to graduate or not?!" The boxer grumbled and pull out his textbook.
So this is their new routine now. At least until exam is over. Every day after school, when the other two are finished with club activities, they meet up with Gokudera somewhere for tutoring session. They had a session at the public library yesterday but the librarian kicked out the group because Ryohei and Gokudera won't stop arguing. Once they had their study session at the school's library. They ended up getting beat up by Hibari for disturbing peace. So for today Gokudera will tutor them at Yamamoto's home. Nagi couldn't make it today. She will join their study session in the weekend. She was uncomfortable when Yamamoto invited him to her house. Gokudera has an inkling that it has something to do with going to a guy's house on her own and be the only girl. For now, she will study with her classmates from Midori Middle. Tomorrow they will go to Ryohei's house.
Even though Ryohei forgot to mind his volume sometimes (read: most of the time), the look of concentration on his face make his two juniors pause. He is taking this seriously, so Gokudera doesn't have it in him to stay mad at him for long. At least Yamamoto is behaving.
In the evening, Gokudera would leave his apartment after dinner for part time work. The tutoring session left him exhausted. Who knew teaching can be so hard? He has a new found respect for teachers now. It's a good thing there aren't many customers in late hours.
Setsuna-hime found out about their lessons from Nagi yesterday. She showed her support by giving him cold treats last night. She offered to cook him meals but Gokudera graciously (painfully) turn it down. Didn't stop her to come to his apartment bringing food with her. Setsuna-hime claimed she made too much. This time Gokudera accepted. It is so nice for her to use her precious time for their sake. Gokudera is aware that they have start Flame training. Setsuna-hime is looking more tired than usual these days.
Speaking of Flame training, he should Unlock his soon. However, it's best to Unlock one's Flame with someone experienced observing. To act as a control in case something goes wrong. Gokudera always thought that his Flame would be Unlocked in the middle of a fight. He lived in the streets until recently. He has fought for his life on numerous occasions. He could throw himself to a dangerous situation, but that will only make Setsuna-hime and his friends worried-
Gokudera blinked.
...Friends?
Gokudera looked at Yamamoto and Ryohei, both in deep concentration. Nagi also come to mind.
Does he consider them as friends…?
Shouka
Setsuna-senpai, this is Irie Shouka. Do you want to meet up this Sunday? I understand that Sunday is your day off and you wish to rest at your home. Please let me know when will be the suitable time for you.
Setsuna
Hello, Shouka-chan! You're so polite :)
Sunday works for me! McDonalds. 2 pm. What do you think?
Shouka
Senpaaaai! You picked that place in purpose, didn't you? XCCC
*sigh* Sure. Gabriel want to see where I did my part time work.
Do you mind if he come along?
Setsuna
Oh no! It's fine! I would love to get to know your boyfriend! My friends and I are dying to know how you two meet.
Shouka
S-senpai!
Setsuna
(:
"I always find it funny when people use the smiley emoticon while in actuality they are in fact not smiling," Reborn mused.
Setsuna looked up from her phone. Reborn is sitting on her shoulder. She didn't bother to reprimand him not to peek at people's texts. The baby often ignore common sense or personal boundaries. "None of this is funny."
"Your Hyper Intuition told you something."
"Gabriel Gesso. That man…," Setsuna trailed off. "There's something off about him. I can't quite put my finger on it. But we need to keep an eye on him. It's bad enough that Shouka-chan is dating him. I'm worried."
"Are you sure it wasn't just a big sister concern?"
She quietly shake her head. "I'm not sure. My Intuition told me that he… He is not who he says he is. Yet… I didn't sense any aggression from him… It's… Hard to describe. I'll know more after I speak to him."
"Hm," Reborn hop off her shoulder. "Always listen to your instinct, Setsuna."
Setsuna smiled ruefully. "Don't I always?"
No matter what kind of shitty day she had, or whatever foul mood she's in, children always lift up her spirits. Even just a little bit. They have always been and will forever be her soft spot. She's lucky to find a job involving children. If she isn't a figure skater, Setsuna would probably be a kindergarten teacher or become a full time ballet instructor. She enjoy teaching that much. Her students are all so adorable and hard working and love dancing. Half of them will be gone when they enter elementary but Setsuna is not worried. So what if ballet is not their thing? What is the most important is that the children enjoyed their time.
She can see why Masumi-sensei open the ballet studio in the first place. Masumi-sensei loves children too. After her long, successful career as a ballerina, Masumi-sensei gave it all up to return to her hometown. She opened the GENERATION Ballet Studio in hope to spread the joys of ballet to the next generation and then the next and so on. Hence the name. In a way, she too is a pioneer. Many people were disappointed with her decision in the beginning. Masumi-sensei had a shot to become the Art Director or at least the Ballet Mistress of Tokyo Ballet Company. Yet she turn it all down to settle with a small town like Namimori.
But if you look at these children… At their clumsy yet heartful attempts… The smiles on their faces… How can you not fall in love with it?
Setsuna loves children. That's why she couldn't possibly ignore a child in distress.
She just wrapped up a class when a little girl dressed in Chinese clothing just wandered in the reception area. She looked lost. Setsuna crossed the room to get to her. She knelt in front of the little girl. "Hello there. Are you lost?"
"I'm sorry. I-pin is lost," answered the girl in Chinese.
Setsuna blinked and switch to Chinese. Let's hope that her lessons with Tou-san payed off… "I see. I can speak Chinese too. Not that fluent though. Your name is I-pin?"
The little girl, I-pin, sighed in relief. "Yes. I am lost. I am looking for this person," She showed her a photo. Setsuna looked at it. Wow, this man is ugly… Wait a minute!
"I-pin… I'm afraid I don't know who this man is, so I don't know where he is… Why are you looking for him?" The second man in the photo tipped it off. The classic black suit and sunglasses scream mafia. If her suspicion is right, then I-pin is…
"I-pin is looking for him because he is my target."
Yep. Mafia. Called it.
"Are you related to any particular mafia group?" Setsuna asked. "There was a situation with a mafiosi happening here not too long ago. She put civilians in direct danger. We don't tolerate those." The memory of Bianchi attacking Teenage Lambo cause her Flame to flare.
I-pin winced. "I'm so sorry! I didn't know that this is a Sky's territory!" She bowed her head.
Setsuna realised her mistake. "No! No! It's okay! I'm not mad at you! And this is not my territory! It's just that the mafiosi harmed someone under my protection." She dialed down her Flame. Wait, this girl can tell she's a Sky? Setsuna should ask Reborn how to do that. "I'm the one who should apologize. I have yet to completely master my Flame. How about we start over?" I-pin relaxed and nodded. "My name is Setsuna."
"My name is I-pin."
"All right, I-pin. Are you allowed to tell me who sent you here? Do you have a place to stay in Namimori?"
"I am afraid I cannot tell you more about my mission. My Master have relatives in Namimori. I am told to stay with them."
"Okay, who are your Master's relatives?"
"They are called the Hibaris, Big Sister Setsuna."
Setsuna blinked. She did not expect that. "Well… My father- Father figure- is half Hibari… So he is technically a relative to your Master. How about I take you to him?"
I-pin smiled. "That would be lovely. Thank you for your help."
"Right… I'm going to give him a call. You can take a seat, I-pin. Do you want a drink?" I-pin shakes her head. "Okay… I'll be right back. Wait, what's the name of your Master?"
"My Master's name is Fon, Big Sister."
"Fon… Right…"
Setsuna moved away from the reception area. She take out her phone and dial Tou-san's number. He picked up immediately.
"What is it, Setsuna? Did something happened?"
"Fon's disciple is here. She said Fon is related to the Hibaris?"
There was a pause on the other side. Tou-san sighed. "I'll contact my cousins. Don't go anywhere. I'll pick you up myself. Stay with the disciple." And then he hung up.
When Setsuna return, she found Reborn talking to I-pin. He is speaking Chinese fluently ( Not that she is surprised anymore. This is Reborn.)
"My Tou-san will tell the Hibaris about your arrival. He himself will pick us up," She told I-pin. "In the meantime, why I don't treat you with some snacks? You're a long way from home."
I-pin bowed to her once again. "Thank you for your kindness, Big Sister."
One hot cocoa and strawberry donut later, Coach Maeda showed up. Masumi-sensei (who got curious and went downstairs to check what the commotion is all about) noticed him first. "Ah, Maeda-san."
Maeda nodded. "Masumi-san, I apologize for coming in such short notice."
"It's fine, Maeda-san," The ballerina step aside. Setsuna and I-pin are seating on the couch. I-pin jump to her feet when she noticed Coach Maeda and bowed.
"You must be Fon's disciple."
"Yes, Sir. My name is I-pin."
"I have contacted the Hibari family. They are making preparation to accommodate you as we speak. I'll take you to them."
"Yes, Sir. Thank you very much."
He nodded and turn to Setsuna. "We'll drop I-pin first. Then we head to the ice rink."
"Yes, Sir."
"So who is Fon exactly?" asked Setsuna after they drop off I-pin at the Hibari residence. She is seated at the front. Coach Maeda driving and Reborn at the back.
"He is a master martial artist from China. He know more than a hundred styles. His skill in hand to hand combat is even greater than mine." If Reborn said that much, this Fon must be tough.
"A family member of Fon married to the Hibari family," Her Tou-san adds. "It's been awhile since we last heard from him"
"How did he get involved with the mafia?" The Hibari clan is far from normal but even they would hesitate to take in a bride from such background…. Wouldn't they?
"The Triad," Reborn answered. "There might be more mafioso from China or South Korea coming to Namimori after this. Keep your guard up."
Setsuna rolled her eyes. "Yay."
Practise haven't even gone for an hour when Coach Maeda got a phone call. Apparently I-pin somehow blew up a part of the Hibari residence. She was sent all the way flying to downtown and was found by- wait for it- Yamamoto Takeshi, of all people. Perhaps the word 'caught' is more accurate in this case. I-pin was brought to TakeSushi, where she will stay at until someone picked it up. Coach Maeda was told that it is too risky for the Hibaris to take I-pin in, so it's best that she will stay with Coach Maeda.
Her Tou-san looked so done with everything.
Gokudera yawned.
Late night shifts are boring as hell. There aren't many customers coming in at this hour. The most entertaining that have happened so far was a sheepish looking man buying ice cream for his pregnant wife. If it weren't for store policy, Gokudera would already brought his magazines along. He finished counting the spots on the ceiling. That's how bored he is.
He was on the verge to fall asleep standing up when the bell chimes in. Oh. A customer. A tall foreigner with long blonde hair make his way to the sweets aisle. Gokudera watched with an eyebrow raised of how many sweets he dumped into the basket. When he got up to the cashier, the teenager notice the bags under his eyes. The customer stop short at the sight of him and just stares.
"Is there something wrong, Sir?" This man is creeping him out. What is it with night time and freaks crawling out? A werewolf or vampire would be welcomed though. The customer didn't move. He just stand there and continue staring. "Sir?" Gokudera try again, careful not to sound snappish. The last thing he need is another earful from the boss from being rude toward the customers.
That got the customer to snap out of it. "Oh- Sorry. I-" He sighed. "It's been a long day. I didn't mean to… To..." He sound so tired.
"It's fine," Gokudera brush it off. He start to ring the items. He can feel the customer's eyes on him.
"Are you happy?" The customer asked suddenly.
"What?" Gokudera look up from the screen. "Sorry, can you repeat that?"
"Are you happy? Do you like it here?" The customer asked once more.
Okay, this is getting way too weird to his liking, but there's something in the customer's eyes that seems… Desperate. "The job you mean? I would like to have a different job but not many places are willing to hire me. I don't dislike it here, I guess."
"No, I mean…," The customer hesitated. "Are you happy?"
Gokudera narrowed his eyes. He is already so tired dealing with the idiots today. He can't deal with this weirdo. Customers are kings they say. Fuck that. Gokudera is this close to say something rude to him when he remember that he needed the money. 'I need this job,' He repeat it over and over in his mind. Once he is calm enough, Gokudera regard the customer carefully. "I'm doing okay."
"Are you sure?"
What the hell do you want, man?
"Sir? Are you okay?"
"Please… I need to know. Are you happy?" He sound so… Broken. Gokudera has heard that kind of tone being used in the slums.
"I think I am," Gokudera finally said after a moment of silence. "I'm doing better than I've been for years ever since I came here. It's not perfect but-" He thought of Setsuna-hime, Nagi, the almost Guardians, Coach Maeda and Nagako-san, and oddly, Lavina. "...I'm getting there. I think I can be happy here." He paused.
The customer has an unreadable look on his face, before he smiled. "I'm glad to hear that. I truly do."
He ring all the items and the customer paid. Gokudera watched the man leave. He had this oddest feeling that this won't be the last time he see that strange man.
Setsuna
Time for me to update you of the latest weirdness in Namimori
Hana
I don't think I'll ever be ready for this.
Setsuna
I'll make it quick then.
A five year old assassin from China came by. Her name is I-pin. She is the student of Fon, an in-law of the Hibaris. I-pin was supposed to stay with them but she blew up a part of the house. So the Hibari family passed her over to Tou-san.
Kyouko
Um
Hana
I don't have the words
Setsuna
Next news
Shouka-chan came back from abroad
WITH A BOYFRIEND
Kyouko
Oh My God!
Hana
Is he hot?
Setsuna
I don't have a picture of him
But yes, he is attractive
I'm going to meet up with them again this weekend
Hana
Squeeze out as much information as you can
And that goes double to you, Kyouko
Kyouko
It's just a date, Hana
Not a marriage interview
Hana
Sorry
I just can't resist juicy gossip
Setsuna
Well, what about you?
What's the latest news from Tokyo?
Hana
Same old, same old
You would think that a city like Tokyo will have drama at every corner
Not quite
Then again it might be just me
I'm too tired to go anywhere after class and practice
Kyouko
But not too tired to go clubbing
Hana
Hey, the guy offered to pay, okay?
And I need to release all these pent up stress
Setsuna
Are you still looking for older guys for you to sink your teeth into and suck the life out of them?
Hana
I'm still looking
It's not my fault if they can't handle me
And I just can't deal when they got jealous
There's nothing going on between my partner and I
How many times do I have to say it
Setsuna
If you're really that frustrated
Go to the sex store, buy a toy or something
Tokyo have lots of those, I bet
We're old enough to go
Hana
Rub it at my face would ya
It's not like I have booty call on speed dial
Setsuna
I never had a booty call
Hana
Sure
Suuuuuure
Setsuna
Kyouko-chan, tell Hana I never had a booty call
Kyouko
So you use toys, Setsuna?
Setsuna
What is this, Sex In The City?
Kyouko
Hey, you brought up the sex store first
Setsuna
And you are surrounded by men in tights five/six days a week
I'm honestly surprised you haven't go out with one at this point
Hana
Yeah, K, what's up with that
Which one has the biggest package?
Those tights conceal little, if you know what I mean
Kyouko
I feel uncomfortable discussing my coworkers' lower body parts
I'll talk when Setsuna start talking about Olympic Village
Setsuna
It will always come back to that, huh?
Hana
Duh
At least give us a hint
Pleaaaaase
Setsuna
Sigh
If you insist
Kyouko
Yay!
Hana
FINALLY
Well?
Setsuna
The hot tub is forever ruined for me
Kyouko
What does that mean?
Hana
Who did it
How many
Did you do someone
Setsuna
So what do you think of wearing fishnet stocking for the date, Kyouko?
Kyouko
Um
Hana
SETS
Setsuna
(:
Sunday is all kinds of nerve wrecking for Shouka. She is going to meet with her senpai after so long. So many things have happened. They have lots to catch up on. Not only that, Gabriel and Senpai are going to talk. The bespectacled girl hope that Setsuna-senpai will give her stamp of approval to Gabriel. Shouka would love nothing more for the two of them to get along. At least she can put her worry of her family not liking Gabriel to rest.
Her family was shocked when Shouka told them about Gabriel over the phone before they fly to Japan. Her younger sister thought she was lying to make herself look better. Little geeky Shouka with her big glasses finally land a boyfriend. Even her parents thought it was a lie and reassure her that she don't need to lie for their sake. Shouka will never forget the look on their faces when she and Gabriel got out from the Arrival gate. Her sister teased her mercilessly afterward but it was oh so satisfying to see them looked so gobsmacked.
As soon as they reach home, her family launched a barrage of questions at her boyfriend. How did they meet? How long have they been going out? Where is this relationship going? Shouka thought she is going to die when Gabriel admitted to her family that he is already thinking of marriage in the future. They have yet to have a proper discussion about that but Shouka would be lying if she say she haven't think about it. The most important thing is that Gabriel and her family get along well. Now let's see if the same can be said with Setsuna-senpai.
Gabriel is nervous too. He tried to hide it but Shouka can tell that he is just as nervous or even more nervous than she is now. She is worried for him. Gabriel is yet to have proper sleep ever since they came to Namimori. At first she thought it was the jet lag but she was wrong. So wrong.
The nightmares started again.
Gabriel was basically an insomniac when they first met. His sleep would be plagued by nightmares and stress from college didn't help. He need to see a counselor. He wasn't the nicest person to be around with either at the time. It was a mess. It took Gabriel a breakdown in front of her before he opened up to her. The closer they are, the more grounded Gabriel become, and the better sleep he get. The night they bumped to Setsuna-senpai at the supermarket, Gabriel was so restless. He need to go out and wander around. One night, he went to the convenience store and bought so many sweets. He did looked calmer after that. Actually, Gabriel has gotten weirder than usual ever since she asked him to come with her to Japan. Shouka tried to get him to talk, to tell her what's wrong, but Gabriel clamped up. She hope that Setsuna-senpai would loosen him up.
"Shouka~" Gabriel called out from outside. "Are you ready?"
"In a minute!" Shouka open the lipgloss' lid. Two swipes and she's done. "I'm done!" Gabriel is waiting for her outside of the bathroom. Her parents and sister are lounging at the living room. "We'll be going now!"
"Take care!"
Shouka closes the door behind her. They head to the elevator. "Are you nervous?" She asked him.
"Yes," Gabriel admitted. "You really look up to this Setsuna-senpai. I want her to-" He paused. "I want her to approve of me."
"She will," Shouka reassures him. "Be as truthful as you can. Setsuna-senpai can tell when people are not being honest." When she sees Gabriel become more tense, Shouka squeezed his hand. "My family already like you. You can do this."
That got her a smile. "You're right. I can do this. I can be a real charmer," He winked at her. "After all, I got you to say yes~" Before Shouka can dodge, Gabriel pull her closer and kiss her on the cheek.
Shouka turned red. "Gabriel! We're not in America anymore! The neighbours might saw!"
"I love it when you turn red," He nuzzled her head.
She wonder when the elevator will get here.
Setsuna arrived at the McDonald's first. She waited in front of the store for Shouka and Gabriel. Reborn accompanied her halfway before vanishing. Maybe he is watching her right now, in disguise. Setsuna is in no hurry to look for him. They only had little practice to sense other people's Flames. Reborn had her practice with the employees at the Maeda estate. Apparently it's a lot harder to pinpoint one's Flame type when they are Locked, but on the flip side, it will be easier to detect Dormant or Unlocked Flame. It made her happy when Setsuna found out she can sense Tou-san's and Nagako-baasan's presences without looking just by their Flames. Of course, that goes to Reborn too. He lives with her. Wonder what kind of Flame Kyoko and Hana have…
"Setsuna-senpai!" Shouka's voice cut through the crown.
Ah, they're here.
"Shouka-chan!" Setsuna waved at the couple.
"Did you wait long?" The younger woman asked. Setsuna shakes her head no. "Shall we go in?"
Setsuna glanced at the smiling Gabriel. "Yes, yes we shall."
The employees at the register gaped when the trio entered the restaurant. Setsuna patiently waited for them to get a grip before making an order. Behind her, Shouka hide her giggle. They picked a table at the back. Gabriel give way for the women so they can take the cushioned seats. They eat their burgers. Setsuna and Shouka reminiscent of their days here. That time when the ice cream machine broke. When the manager has to chase out a swarm of bees that has no business being in the shop. Or that one time Setsuna has to deal with a child throwing the mother of all tantrum when they didn't have the Happy Meal toy he wanted. Lambo's tantrum paled in comparison. The highlight of course, was Shouka's first day. She and Setsuna stayed behind to clean up some kid's puke. Some friendships are built over puke and crazy customers.
"So," Setsuna leaned in once their laughter ceased. "Tell me more about yourself, Gabriel. How long have you been dating? And America. I want to know everything."
Gabriel sipped his cola. Is that his way to stall time? "Hm… Where should I start? I'm an only child. I was born in Italy before my family moved to the States. So I don't remember much about Italy. I'm an avid gamer."
"He liked it so much that he picked Computer Programming as his major so he can make his own games," Shouka shakes her head.
"I didn't know what I wanted to do at first… So on my first year I was Undeclared. It took me awhile to figure things out. And Shouka was a big part of it," He smiled at Shouka who blushed. "We played online games together. We also dropped by at the arcade sometimes. Then she has this brilliant idea to make a game of our own… It made me realise that my true passion is gaming… And Shouka."
That got Shouka to blush hard. "Gabriel! Stop teasing me!"
"What? I'm telling the truth!" Gabriel chuckled. "She also taught me Japanese. Before Shouka the only Japanese I know were limited to what I often heard from anime."
"Your Japanese is fluent," Setsuna can't help but admit. "So you two met through gaming."
The couple grinned sheepishly. "Er… Not quite. It's kind of embarrassing…," Shouka remember that day like it was just yesterday. It was a sunny Saturday.
A new album of her favourite band, Blood + Pepper, was finally released. Shouka downloaded it to her iPod right away. She put on her headphones and soon enough she forget about the world. So caught up with the song, Shouka didn't notice that she is walking to someone until it's too late. That someone was holding ice cream. Needless to say, she got it spilled on both of their shirts. That someone was Gabriel. Shouka apologized right away, offering to pay for the laundry or wash it herself… Then Gabriel just burst out laughing. Shouka laughed nervously, unsure how to react to that. He told her it's okay and went on his merry way. Which make his standoffish behaviour on their next meeting even more confusing…
Setsuna shake her head fondly after Shouka finished her tale. Gabriel take over and start to regale her the story of their first time at ComicCon. The figure skater observe the two. The soft, warm gaze Gabriel held whenever he look at Shouka. How relaxed Shouka is around him. Gabriel subtly pushing his tray closer to her so she can take the last french fry. Shouka unconsciously reaching for his hand and Gabriel give it to her.
They are in love
Shouka excused herself to the bathroom, leaving Setsuna and Gabriel alone. Setsuna narrowed her eyes at him. Gabriel didn't look away.
"You love her, huh?"
Gabriel smiled softly. "Yes."
"Shouka is a nice girl. I would hate for her to get hurt."
He winced slightly. "I… I'll be honest. I was not all that nice to Shouka at the beginning. I made her cry before. I was such an ass. Yet Shouka… She believes in me, when I was full of self loath and being all around jerk. She is like a ray of sun. How could something so tiny can hold so much brilliance? I am darned lucky to have her in my life. Her returning my feelings is like… I love her." He said it as if it's the biggest thing in the world. "So… I would strive to be the best man I can be. For her. I don't want to make her cry again. I hope you will accept me, because it will mean the world for me and Shouka if you give us your blessings."
He is so raw and true it actually hurt.
"I believe you," Setsuna said softly. Gabriel start to relax. "But," She can feel her Flame flaring. "I also believe that you're hiding something."
Gabriel's smile fell.
"I'm back!" Shouka saunteer to their table. "What did you guys talk about?"
"Gabriel-san here was just telling me how much he loves you," Setsuna teased her junior.
Shouka turned red again.
"Aaaw, Shouka~ You look so cute when you blush~" Gabriel join in the teasing.
They picked up their conversation where they left it last. Setsuna made sure to ask as many questions as possible. She answered the couple's question as well. Shouka was interested with Midori University. The auburn haired woman would have enrolled there if she didn't go to America. Her sister is also interested in said university. They start talking about subjects, exams and crazy people in college.
Throughout the whole time, Setsuna didn't turn off her Flame. The output is not strong enough to drown people (like what happened with Bianchi), she made sure of that. It didn't take long for her to feel Shouka's and Gabriel's Flames. She didn't coax them out. Just… Enough to get the general sense of what their Elements are.
Setsuna is still not very good at this yet, but Shouka felt like a Sun.
And Gabriel? Gabriel felt like a Lightning.
Exam week was long and tedious. Gokudera spent a better part of it sleeping. The teacher gawked at him but otherwise didn't do anything. It's not like Gokudera was doing anything suspicious. He clearly saw the teen writing something down. His intelligence is something of a common knowledge in Namimori Middle School these days. Gokudera is guaranteed to get full mark on each subject.
The real test here, is whether or not those two dunderheads passed the exams.
Teaching Baseball Idiot and Turf Top had been an experience. At least Baseball Idiot was calm before the exams. Turf Top… Not so much. Every morning he came to school looking like a mess. Each day after school they gathered at TakeSushi or the boxer's house to review everything. Baseball Idiot was confident he passed Social Studies and Japanese. Gokudera figured out a way to make history interesting for him by telling him famous swordsmen in each period. Turf Top was confident in English. He recorded and watched boxing matches from aboard. Gokudera is not worried about Nagi. The figure skater is bright and diligent. It helps that Coach Maeda cut training time short so his skaters can focus on their exams. Setsuna-hime too had exams this week. He didn't see her much from last week, but his boss check up on him everyday via text messages. Reborn will undoubtedly be there to help her study.
In any case, they have done everything they can. All that is left for them to do is to wait and see.
Summer vacation will officially start after they receive their exam results. Gokudera is already planning to look for more part time jobs for the duration of summer. Preferably indoor… So Gokudera don't have to spend more time outside than needed. Summer in Japan is nuts. But he won't be working all the time. He should use the time to train. There aren't many action here in Namimori. Gokudera is afraid that his skills have become dull. Problem is, there is only so much he can do by himself. He need feedback. He need challenges. He need…
"Leave us alone!"
Gokudera turned around. It sounds like a female in distress. He saw three tugs surround two girls around his age... The girls' backs are facing him. The jackets they wear have 'GENERATION Ballet' stitched on it.
Green eyes widened.
'They are Masumi-san's students.'
There is no way he could ignore them now.
The thugs backed the girls against the wall. Onlookers standing at the sidelines are torn between watching or interfering.
"We just want you to spend time with us, that's all… We're not going to do anything weird…," One of those assholes drawled. That only made the girls look even more fearful.
"Hey!" Gokudera called out "Leave those girls alone."
The thugs, all bigger and older than him, sneered. "And what are you going to do, pretty boy?" One of them asked.
Gokudera answered by smashing his nose.
While that one dirtbag hold his bloody nose, the other two attacked him. Gokudera received training ranging from self defense and firearms from when he was four years old. He spent the last six years in the street. He went through hell and back to earn his moniker as the 'Smoking Bomb.' These guys have no idea just how wide the gap between him and them.
The fight was so short it was pathetic.
Gokudera huffed before turning to the girls. "Are you all right?" He did his best to mimic the tone Setsuna-hime used on him in the past. It seems to be working. The girls appear to be relaxed. Then they tensed again. Gokudera about to ask what's wrong when he sensed someone behind him.
It's Hibari.
Gokudera immediately put himself between the older teen and the girls. He never hear of Hibari hitting girls… But he don't want to risk it.
"Herbivore."
Gokudera just grunted.
Hibari glanced at the heap of bodies on the ground, Gokudera's handiwork. As if he summoned them via telepathy, half a dozen members of the Disciplinary Committee appeared. They pick up the thugs and drag them to who-knows-where. The girls keep quiet.
"Escort the females."
"Don't order me around!"
Hibari ignored him and walk away. Gokudera glared at his retreating back before turning his focus at the girls. "Right… I'll walk you two to Masumi-san's place."
Masumi-sensei was understandably concerned when her students told her what just happened. She thanked Gokudera for saving them. Delinquents are everywhere, even in a town as small as Namimori. The ballerina was worried that it was only a matter of time before they set their eyes on her students.
"It's a good thing that you were there to save them, Gokudera-san," Masumi-sensei said to him. "The Disciplinary Committee is effective but they don't have enough numbers to patrol the entire town… I hate to think what would happen if you didn't step in."
"I'm glad I was able to help," Gokudera smiled.
Masumi-sensei smiled. "It's been awhile since we last saw each other. How are you, Gokudera-san?"
"I'm… I'm good." And he actually meant it.
"I'm glad to hear that. A little birdie told me that you helped Ryohei-chan with his studies."
"Yeah… I don't know how he made it this far, to be honest. Sorry."
"Academics is not Ryohei-chan's strong suit," Masumi-sensei agreed. "You know, Gokudera-san. You look like a different person compared to the first time you came here."
Gokudera blinked. "I do?"
"Yes," Masumi-sensei nodded. "You have more colours in your cheeks… Not to mention the air around you is different." She stared him down. Gokudera is careful not to fidget under her gaze. "Setsuna-chan told me and Maeda-san how much you have progressed in the past few months.
Setsuna-hime talked about him? And Coach Maeda?
"She also told me that you play the piano."
"Yes…?" Where is this going?
"Are you any good?"
"I am," He is out of practise… But Gokudera play better than kids his age.
"I see," Masumi-sensei stared at him some more. "I want you to bring a recording of your playing to me at your earliest convenience. Can you do that, Gokudera-san?"
His eyes widened at the request. Masumi-sensei want to hear him play? Not even Setsuna-hime has hear him play the piano!
"I… I'll see what I can do," Gokudera-san managed at last.
Masumi-sensei nodded. "Very well. I need to return to class now. Take care on your home, Gokudera-san."
And she sounds like she actually meant it.
"I will, Masumi-san."
*sticks leggy out* /just because
So
Chapter 11 everyone
Yes, Gabriel is the Byakuran of these verse. He is the same age as Shouka, so he is a year younger than Setsuna. He is a Lightning instead of a Sky. Think of him as Ghost, but not naked and with actual emotions. In canon, it was stated that Byakuran and Shouchi meet in every parallel universe. EVERY. SINGLE. ONE. OF. THEM. They are soulmates. No doubt about it. So it just made sense if they meet and become a couple in this one.
Gokudera is one of the main focus in this chapter. I found that out of all Guardians, he has the most potential. KHR don't have many information about characters' pasts, but Gokudera is one whose past is most detailed. So naturally, he will have more POV compared to other characters in this story as he continue to grow.
WE WILL HAVE FIGURE SKATING ACTION NEXT CHAPTER! STAY TUNED!
Thank you for reading
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NO FLAME
