IT'S RAINING MEN
DISCLAIMER: don't own the characters of Eyeshield 21 – their respective owners so. I just like to play with them… and the song is It's Raining Men – by Geri Halliwell.
WARNINGS: Possible OOC, multi – pairings: Sena/Taka, Sena/Akaba, Sena/Shin, Sena/Yamato, Sena/Marco, Sena/Kakei and a little bit of Sena/Agon. Changed gender – Sena is a girl in here, except when it's written in a POV of the crowd that doesn't know that the infamous Eyeshield 21 is a girl. If you don't like don't read!
GLOSSARY:
Aa– Yes
Anata – Husband
Ano – Um , Uhm…
It was a warm autumn day; if it weren't for calendar, a man would think it was still summer.
However, this day was special.
It would be the first time for the entire Team Japan to gather at the meeting. Well, they DID see each other at the matches, but there weren't any opportunities to chat about the golden old days.
It would be three years since the first World Youth Tournament that Japan had taken with a storm… named Eyeshield 21.
The expectation was ripe in the air, only waiting for…something.
"And don't come home too late!" a woman called after her wayward child, who was jogging down the stairs.
Coffee brown eyes rolling in exasperation, the slender girl sighed. "Yes, Mom!" she called back, before grabbing a jacket. "See you later!"
The woman sighed exasperatedly at her daughter's antics. "Oh, Sena…" Still, she smiled proudly, as she listened to her child running away.
Kobayakawa Mihae was proud of her daughter. Sena had grown up; from the meek scaredy-cat tomboy into a beautiful and self – confident girl. At first, Mihae almost got a heart attack, when she had found out – by watching TV, no less – about her little girl playing American Football. Suffice to say, when Sena came home, Mihae almost grounded her for a year for that stunt. But seeing her face, she just didn't have a heart to dole out the punishment. Despite of being tired, Sena was smiling the most beautiful smile Mihae had ever seen her to smile.
It was contentment, pride, exhilaration and happiness; all in one go.
Mihae noticed the small things – how Sena would walk a little bit more proudly, how she would speak more assuredly… those little things.
She still wanted to steal he away from that brutish sport, but if Sena was happy… then Mihae would be happy, too.
Mihae was almost relieved when Shen got the transfer to America. Her daughter would be away from that dangerous sport – but she couldn't help but feel guilty at seeing Sena's devastated face when they had told her the news.
Sena had barely made friends, and just now, she had to pack for America.
It was completely unfair.
But Sena was a good daughter, and didn't complain. In America, she did the girly things, and Mihae was relieved when Sena took up dancing lessons. At least dancing was safe, unlike football…Imagine her shock when she found out – by TV, again – that someone, named Kobayakawa Sena, was being proclaimed as MVP of World Youth… and it was just a coincidence that this MVP person was also called Eyeshield 21…
She had waited with bated breath for Sena to appear on the stage, however…
… due to the Eyeshield 21's absence, two handsome young men accepted the trophy in his name.
And oh my, wouldn't it be something if one of them were Sena-chan's boyfriend? Preferably the smiling one… but the other wouldn't be so bad, either… Mihae mused dreamily.
But back to the reality. This evening was full of anticipation – Sena had been kind of jittery almost all day, choosing and discarding the clothes for an hour before she finally decided.
Mihae sighed. Sena was growing up, no doubt about that.
Humidity is rising
Barometer's getting low
According to our sources
The street's the place to go
Gulping nervously, Sena checked her ensemble one last time before getting out of her room, she was clothed in semi – tight skirt that ended at half of her tights – it clung to her curves, emphasizing the firmness of her… posterior and slim lines of her legs, but with an ample space to move fast, if needed be.
The skirt was faded blue jeans, which was also surprisingly stretchy… on certain parts. She wore peach – colored sleeveless shirt which clung to her curves just enough to entice, but not so much as to be slutty-looking.
Around her neck she added a slender choker made from black velvet with a small lilac colored rose sewn on.
Her hair was brushed loose, reminiscent of her old style a bit, because she had a hair – cut not too long ago.
A small amount of lip – gloss, and she was ready.
She quickly grabbed her jacket and sneaked out, ready to burn off some energy.
She looked forward to the meeting of her old teammates… blushing slightly, she admitted to herself it was more than just some people…
It has been three years since she has seen the six of them.
Of course, they had been in contact through e-mail and online chat rooms, but it just hadn't been the same.
She really looked forward to seeing them live-in… especially because she intended to surprise them with her popping up at the gathering. Sena smiled mischievously at the thought of mayhem her appearance would cause.
Only few people knew who, or better, what, was the famed Eyeshield – and those who knew, promised to keep their mouth shut just for that occasion.
And yes, that included Agon-niisan.
How on earth Agon did became her honorary brother, was unknown.
He was, and that was that,
Sena rolled her eyes at the memory of an overprotective Agon…it was even worse than Unsui and Mamori teamed up together.
Exasperatedly, she shook her head.
She pitied any boy who thought about dating her. He would have to get through Agon… and Agon wasn't even the worst defense in her arsenal. Oh, no. There was also Mamori-neesan and Gaou – don't ask. Apparently, Gaou had a weak spot for cute little girls and… Go figure.
And let's not forget Hiruma, his hell hound Cerberos and the six demons.
Especially the six demons.
Cause' tonight for the first time
Just about half past ten
For the first time in history
It's gonna start raining men
As always, Hiruma decided to have things done his way. Apparently, he had rented the most exclusive restaurant in the town for the occasion - cough – blackmailed the owner somehow - cough – and well… At least she wouldn't be able to get lost, Sena supposed wryly.
She had already noticed several players gathering at the entrance, waiting to be let in. Some, she recognized.
Monta was among them, what with his monkey – like habits, Taki was still twirling around, laughing boisterously, and there were Ootawara and Mizumachi – and some fresh – faced boy, eager as a puppy, along with two or three unknown faces.
So deep in thought, Sena didn't see where she was going, and inevitably, she bumped into the person.
"Kya!" a soft woman's voice squeaked out.
Wide-eyed, Sena scuttled back. "Oh… excuse me… "She stammered out. "Mamori-neechan!?"
The woman whirled around. Wide blue orbs met the brown ones.
"Sena? Is that you? Oh my gosh, I can't believe you're here!" Mamori squealed happily. "And look at you, you sure did grow up!" Sena blushed as Mamori glomped her into one of her bear-hugs.
"A – Air! Mamo – nee!" she whined, clawing weakly at her back to emphasize the point.
"Oh?" Mamori blinked.
When she saw Sena's blue face, she immediately released her. "Oh! Sorry, Sena – chan, I'm so, so sorry!" she stammered out, as she fussed over gasping Sena. "Will you be alright?" weakly Sena nodded and waved her concerns off. "Y – Yes. "She gulped some more precious air in her starved lungs.
"Your bear hugs are as strong as ever. "
They exchanged the news, with Mamori introducing Sena to Suzuna and Karin. The girls really hit it off, and were talking and laughing when they finally went into the building. They caused some attention on the male part of invitees, especially Karin and Hibara.
Sadly, Karin was already taken by Takami, and just like that, Sena became the main prey of the slobbering beasts that were called young, unattached, hormone-driven men.
It's raining men
Hallejulah
It's raining men
Amen
Juumonji, Toganou, and Kuroki were bemoaning the lack of… female company at the meeting. Mamori was out – it would be like flirting with their mothers. Besides, she was already shackled to Hiruma. How did that happen, the really, really didn't want to know.
Karin was going out with Takami. She was kind and gentle girl… maybe too meek for their tastes, though. Still an eye-candy, if they ever saw one.
Suzuna was an option, but… only an option.
No, their eyes were riveted to a delicious example of a women's species in jeans miniskirt and peach-colored sleeveless shirt.
Kuroki slowly whistled when he saw her. "Would you look at that…" He murmured, his voice full of awe.
Juumonji and Toganou nodded dumbly.
This girl was… Perfect.
Slender, petite, but obviously worked out, cute face, big doe eyes…
The girl was talking with Mamori, who was fussing over her.
Her light laughter was like ray of sunshine, warming their hearts.
On the other side of room, Monta gawped unceremoniously. This little beauty was even cuter than Mamori!
"I think I am in love…" He breathed out, his eyes going heart – shaped.
Sena was oblivious to the attention. Just now, she was listening to Karin who was explaining her about the work of mangaka.
It's raining men
Hallelujah
It's raining men
Amen
Marco was moping around. Not an original way of acting, but… he missed her!
He wanted to pout at the injustice of him having to attend the gathering. He would rather chat with her –
Suddenly, a slight body pressed itself against his back, and small, slender hands covered his eyes.
"Wha - ?" he squawked, startled.
A small giggle wafted into his ear, while he inhaled the scent of magnolias and rain. "Guess who?"
A mischievous voice whispered into his ears, making him shudder.
His brain stuttered to a halt. "Hibara?" he choked out disbelievingly. He felt her nod, before he was released from the half – hug.
"Yeap. Hello, Marco-kun."
He turned around, still in shock, and steel gray eyes looked into mischievous mocha – colored ones.
Marco laughed and embraced her. "Yeah. How on earth did you come here?"
And with that, they began a light – hearted chit-chat, much to Suzuna's curiosity and the boy's jealously at Hakushuu's ex-captain.
Sharp white teeth glinted in the light.
"So the shrimp came. Ke ke ke ke…" a wicked laugh spilled past the thin lips. This evening proved to be unforgettable… and with a plethora of blackmail to boot.
Humidity is rising
Barometer's getting low
According to our sources
The street's the place to go
Yamato was talking with Kakei and Akaba, when he noticed her.
"… and the Overdrive – Hibara!?" he exclaimed, his eyes wide with shock.
Akaba and Kakei blinked.
"What – "Kakei began, but Yamato was already walking toward the petite girl.
"What on earth – "- but just then, the girl turned around, her brown eyes widened in happy surprise. "Yamato-kun!" she called out in delight. "And Kakei-kun and Akaba-kun!" Akaba and Kakei gaped unceremoniously.
"She – She is here?" Akaba actually squawked, his voice elevated with shock.
Kakei nodded mutely.
"Hey, guys," Hibara smiled at them that brilliant smile that made their heartbeats going faster.
"Hey," Yamato greeted her with a brilliant smile on his own, his amber eyes dancing happily when he watched her for any changes since their last meeting.
She was a little bit taller, but her body was still slender, and toned from all that dancing. The skirt enhanced her smooth and long legs, along with pert behind and curvy hips.
When he embraced her, he couldn't help but smile some more.
Her scent was still the same, but her body was softer, lusher and he wished to see her without all those annoying garments –
Mentally, he whacked himself on the head. That wasn't time for dirty fantasies about her – especially when he already had plethora of those!
It didn't help that she had appeared in front of him, looking delicious enough to eat…
Gulping slightly, he released her from the hug.
"You're looking good," He began lamely.
Gentle brown eyes sparkled with mirth as she laughed.
Yamato smiled.
Monta gawped unceremoniously at the scene.
"Mukyaa! That's not fair, MAX!" he exclaimed. Where did that sexy girly know those four from, anyway?
He got three lumps on his head for his whining,
"Be quiet, monkey!" Toganou hissed.
Although, on the quiet, they admitted to themselves that it wasn't really fair.
But would that stop them?
Hell, no.
Riku eyed Shin curiously. They were talking about possibility of incorporating the Rodeo Drive into the 4th Devil Dimension Run, when all of sudden, Shin straightened out, and marched away, with no apology to Riku to boot!
Riku sweatdropped.
"That Shin…" He mumbled out. And to the top of it all, their debate was just beginning to get interesting!
Shin's quirks were well-known in the first generation of Team Japan.
First, he trained.
Second, he was obsessed with healthy food intake.
Third, he was a nutcase for techniques. His first one, Spear Tackle alone, was terrifying enough. Add the Rodeo Drive, and you got Trident Tackle, the one thing no professional player of American Football wanted to meet anytime soon. And he had even improved it. Double Trident Tackle was just one version of it…
Fourth, he doggedly chased after the one Eyeshield 21, Kobayakawa Sena. Panther had admitted he was quite jealous of Sena to have such a devoted rival. In his biography, he had described his first meeting with the Oujou linebacker, and subsequent challenge.
Panther had thought it would be easy to get past the serious, almost blank-eyed Oujou linebacker. He was oh so wrong; he couldn't be more wrong, if he tried.
He had found himself on the receiving end of the Spear Tackle faster than he could say 'block'.
And it hurt. Not only his body, but his pride was hurt, also. In that moment, he saw with a startling clarity, how far he was, from both Shin and Sena.
It had been pure dumb luck on Panther's part… to win against Sena at their first match.
Sena was already tired when Panther had entered the field, and with the game centering on Sena's speed, Deimon was easily crushed, once Panther had begun playing for real.
But for him, to be crushed within one move by Shin, and that Shin was waiting on him, and not running, like he did against Sena…. It was humiliating, and awing experience.
No wonder Sena was so strong… with Shin as his rival, he was bound to be.
And fifth, Shin had absolutely no such thing as social manners. He bluntly told things like he saw them, no matter how embarrassing the subject may have been.
Riku watched Shin approach the petite girl in jeans skirt and peach – colored sleeveless shirt.
Baffled, he blinked.
It just did not compute. Shin talking with a pretty girl?
He was tempted to pity the poor girl. She was petite, slender, and just Riku's type, the white – haired teen decided after the perusal.
Oh yeah, she would be his.
Cause' tonight for the first time
Just about half past ten
For the first time in history
It's gonna start raining men
Taka was happy that Yamato had dragged him to the meeting right now.
Better yet, he was ecstatic.
He had met Hibara again, talked with her, and generally had the best time in three years since they had last seen each other.
Oh, sure, there were photos and e-mails and late-night chats, but the real thing was even better.
Natsuhiko Taki was a flamboyant fool without an ounce of self-preservation. Or shame. He became a good tight-end, but still…!
Just now, he was fooling around with Mizumachi, trying to charm the ladies.
Until he spotted one… who was chatting with the six of most powerful players of football in Japan.
This flower was the fairest of them all, and in Taki's not so humble opinion, she was just shyly waiting to be picked up by him.
Sena was having fun. She talked, laughed, bickered and debated with the six of them, feeling more alive as she had ever been. For a moment, she was terrified her secret would come out prematurely, but Hiruma just grinned a sly smirk which partly reassured her, and partly made her wary.
It's raining men
Hallelujah
"Oi… What are you doing here?" a blonde with a scarred cheek greeted her.
Sena blinked.
"Huh?"
Was her intelligent response.
It's raining men
Amen
"Excuse this doofus, "Toganou elbowed Juumonji into the ribs, while nodding at her primly. "What he meant to say – this party is for members of Team Japan exclusively. So what is such a cutie doing here?"
Toganou smirked at his deliverance, when the girl blushed.
"Ah…" she stammered. "Well, I was invited…"
The six devils began to twitch.
Minutely, of course.
"Wanna go for a drink?" Kuroki smiled a roguish smile.
This girl was just too cute to pass up.
"Ah, no…" Sena stammered. "You see, I – "
I'm gonna go out
I'm gonna let myself get
Absolutely soaking wet
"KYAA!" Suzuna's squeal was the only warning they had hot.
SPLASH!
And lo and behold, Sena was wet to the bone.
"S – Sorry, everyone," rang Suzuna's sheepish voice. Sena glared upward.
"Suzuna…" she growled, placing her hands on her hips, unmindful of the 'show' she was unintentionally giving the suddenly drooling boys.
"Eep!" Suzuna squealed, her eyes huge.
Hibara's glare was less than kind… and with her being clothed just in thin sleeveless shirt, with a black laced bra underneath…
"Don't worry, my princess, I Natsuhiko Taki, will rescue you!" The foolish blonde announced, twirling around.
Yamato growled.
"W – Wow…" Riku breathed out. This girl was beautiful, but wet, she was absolutely stunning. He envied those droplets of water sliding down her body, and worshipping her skin…. And no, that didn't have anything to do with those perky nipples poking out from underneath the black lacy fabric and…
Well, it did… A little.
Sena sighed. She was mortified. Right now, she would love to go and hide somewhere. "Excuse me…" she mumbled trying to go away.
"Uh…" she turned around, only to find herself face to face with a …. Monkey?
And a drooling one, at that.
Only now, she moved her arms to cross over the bosom, thus enhancing its attributes. "Yes?" she asked, blushing.
"I'm – I'm Monta!" The monkey blurted out. "Wanna go out with me?" he totally ignored Taka's glare. Not that he had noticed in, anyway.
Sena blinked.
"No! Go out with me!" the white-haired boy blurted out.
Shin crackled his knuckles.
"Riku!?" Sena yelped out. The boy's eyes shined. "You know my name?" he asked, excited. "So, will you?"
Sena backed away from the amorous running back.
"I… Err, Riku, I…"
She stammered.
"Don't listen to the Whitey, "Juumonji rudely interrupted. "Go out with me."
Marco's fingertips twitched.
"Um…" Sena's eyes became huge. "But you don't even know who I am?" she squeaked out. "Why – "
Hiruma coughed an odd cough.
"Ooh, my, my, my," Suzuna was back. Before they even knew what was going on, Hibara was stripped off the wet garment, leaving her in her bra and skirt, thus successfully frying the men's overactive imagination.
Surprisingly, Agon kept his paws to himself.
Barely.
"Suzuna!" Sena yelped out, mortified.
What was that – Humiliate Sena Day?
She pouted.
It's raining men
Hallelujah
Kuroki wolf – whistled. The cutie was even more delectable than he had thought –
Riku's jaw dropped.
Akaba gritted his teeth.
"Would you let me have something to wear?" Sena pleaded, frustrated.
"O –Of course!" Monta blubbered out. Before he even began, Sena was presented with a shirt by a blushing Juumonji.
"Here you go, "he said gruffly.
Sena reached for the shirt, thankful that someone kept their head in the mess – when Juuminji took the shirt back.
"But only if you agree to date me. "
Sena's arm froze.
Kakei's eyes narrowed.
Juumonji eyed the two soft mounds, ensconced within the black lace…
"A – ha ha! She will go out with me, anyway!"
Taki just had to pipe out, didn't he.
Sena barely had the time to catch the jacket, when the chaos exploded.
"I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!"
Yup, the six devils decided to …. Interfere.
Shin leapt after Riku, who yelped like a wounded dog, before running full force away from the enraged linebacker.
"Oh, shit!" Juumonji managed to gasp out, before Kakei launched onto him like an avalanche. "You dare to press her into dating you!?" The aquamarine – eyed ex – captain of Kyoshin Poseidons hissed at his former disciple.
"Meep!" the blonde yelped out.
Kakei growled.
Oh, the chase was so on…
Akaba crackled his knuckles in an unnervingly Shin – like gesture.
"Fuu..."
This sound voiced it all.
Taki blanched.
Time to tango, indeed.
Marco smirked a disturbingly bloodthirsty smirk as he advanced at Kuroki. His black – haired prey gulped. "'Tis not nice, staring at her as if she were a piece of meat," He managed to get out, neglecting to mention the tiny little fact he had also stared at her like… a piece of meat.
Kuroki gulped. "Um… Oops?" He offered.
Marco shook his head mock-mournfully. "Not good enough, I'd say. Raptor Drive!"
Kuroki's eyes bugged out.
"EEK!"
Marco using Raptor Drive on his family jewels… of course, Kuroki had right to be spooked. He sprang away like a scared rabbit just in time, when Marco lunged after him.
Only his monkey-like reflexes saved Monta from the wrath of the white – haired receiver.
"T – Taka!?" Monta squeaked out.
Usually mild-mannered, Taka was now positively livid. "W – What is wrong with you?!" Monta yelled, as he was forced to dodge once again.
"Prepare to die," Taka voiced out tonelessly.
"But I didn't do anything!" Monta protested. "I just asked her out!"
Taka paused. Monta stopped. Hopeful brown eyes looked into deep gray ones.
Taka smiled. A sweet, saccharine smile that gave Monta cavities just by looking at it.
"Your funeral."
Taka purred out candidly.
Monta's eyes bugged out.
"I DON'T WANT TO DIE!" He wailed.
Hiruma was… crying.
Honest-to-God crying. This… this was too much!
Yamato advanced onto Toganou, who was, at this moment, looking like a human-shaped frog what with his wide eyes and ever-present orange glasses, as he edged away form the evil smile on Yamato's face. Toganou gulped.
He had seen what the Caesar Charge could do to the player, when the said player was hit full-force… even if the recipient had the protective gear on.
"Can I at least write the last will?" he sighed.
Yamato's grin negated that possibility of escape.
Toganou gulped. "And I didn't even finish reading the last edition of Icha Icha Paradise…" He mumbled out.
Unfortunately, Yamato heard that.
Amber eyes aglow with fury, he leapt.
It was like watching natural disaster playing out. You want to stop it, but you can't. Mamori was alternatively fussing between hysterical Hiruma, petrified Suzuna, praying Agon and -what was Chuubou-kun doing with the camera!?
"Save mee…!" Monta wailed out, running past the mentioned group, Taka hot on his heels.
Somehow, Toganou managed to get on a chandelier. Hm… Probably, in his last life, he truly was a frog. Such a leap would otherwise be out of human's capabilities. Well, Yamato would wait.
Kakei and Akaba decided to two-time their offenders. Said offenders were running out of silverware they were using as an ammo.
Somehow, Riku broke the speed record, running an incredible 4, 0. Sadly, he hadn't had a chance to enjoy his monumental achievement, what with Shim still hot on his tail, and gaining.
Raptor Drive was very… successful. By looking at Kuroki's nearly naked body, it was also efficient art on how to quickly disrobe your lover, or, in this case, opponent. The scary thing was, Marco had became proficient with using Raptor Drive with his right hand, too. Under pressure, Kuroki has shown surprising athletic abilities, all in order to save his crotch.
Hiruma cried. Oh, he cried…
Agon sighed, "I pity whoever decides to date the shrimp. Getting past those six…" he shuddered.
That was the reason for becoming Sena's niisan. He really, really didn't fancy to get neutered so early in his life. Wincing, he crossed his legs protectively, as he saw Marco execute Double Raptor Drive, crashing the table in process.
Even Agon knew when to count his losses.
Gaou watched Marco, fascinated. Not even he could crush the table into smithereens like that… Mentally, he made a note to ask Marco how he did it… Much, much later, of course.
Surprisingly, Karin was sketching this madness. With almost fanatical gleam in her eyes, her hand was blurring across the paper, all to catch those moments of destruction.
Kurita was hiding under the table.
Takami had a headache. Sakuraba made a mental note not to make a pass on Hibara with those six within hearing range.
Ikari was still in chains… cuddled in the chandelier, a safety from pissed out Yamato, made by Toganou. How the hell Toganou did have him up there, nobody knew.
Ootawara was crouching on the floor, asking Kurita why he was hiding under the table.
Unsui was praying to Buddha, promising if he ever got out of this mess alive, he would become a monk… for life.
Agon sighed, exasperated. This had gotten on too long already.
"I am getting too old for this shit," he grumbled out, rubbing his temple.
He then marched into the fray.
With lightning quick reflexes, he caught and immobilized seething mad Taka.
"Calm the fuck down, trash." He grumbled out. Taka growled. "Can I kill him first?" He pleaded, using puppy eyes.
Agon shuddered.
Those puppy eyes were just… creepy.
"Do you want to make Sena sad?" he hissed into Taka's ear.
And just like that' Taka stilled.
"You know who she is?" he breathed harshly.
Agon rolled his eyes.
"Of course I do, you doofus. Although I knew that only after the World Youth Cup." He grumbled out. "I'm no genius but don't take me for an idiot, trash."
Taka sighed.
Gaou grinned. "Come down, you perverted toad – Hey! What are you doing!" Yamato yelped, as he was grabbed harshly for the back of his shirt collar.
"Calming you two the fuck down," the huge man growled out. "Besides, this pissy contest had gone on long enough. And… Take care of Sena, you hear me?"
Akaba hissed. Glancing at Yamato, they nodded to each other, before delivering powerful jabs into Gaou's sides.
Gaou almost let them go; the pain was blinding. He, instead of letting them go, smiled a sweet smile.
Seeing it, Yamato and Akaba paled. "We'll be good, "they chorused.
Yup, sweetly smiling Gaou was a force to be reckoned with.
Tall, blonde dark and lean
Rough and tough and strong and mean
Takami and Sakuraba teamed out on Kakei. Thankfully, they knew each other good enough to stop the human juggernaut that was Kakei - and even that, only barely.
Kakei growled. "Let me go. "Both his captors cringed, but steadfastly held on. Until Takami hit some points, and Kakei was paralyzed.
"Thank Kami for Chinese acupuncture lessons," Takami sighed wearily.
Bawling his eyes, out, Kurita ran at Shin and Marco, successfully bowling them down, and while they were dazed from the impact, he quickly sat on them.
Both Shin and Marco froze.
No.
Just, no.
It just wasn't worth it… to get a face full of Kurita's ass gass.
And then, the coaxing of the six demon's prey had begun.
God bless Mother Nature
She's a single woman too
She took over heaven
And she did what she had to do
Sena sighed an exasperated sigh. She was wearing Marco's jacket, which was at least five numbers too big for her, she relished the warmth it gifted to her cold, wet body. She could still smell the expensive cologne and some scent that was uniquely Marco.
It was a comforting scent, a little forgotten one, but comforting one nonetheless.
She remembered the night on the coast, when the orange fire was crackling merrily and she was sitting with the six of them, leaning on Marco's strong shoulder, listening to their bickering and teasing, and occasional deep talk.
She had been curled into Marco's strong, lean body, soaking it's warmth into herself.
Until she had met them as Hibara, she knew them only as a football payers – a bunch of boys, who loved the sport and were very good at it.
But then, it all changed,
Even in her wildest dreams, she couldn't have imagined she would become so close to them.
They trusted her…
She shook her head to return into the present, away from memories, however pleasant distraction they proved themselves to be.
Her eyes narrowed.
Suzuna will pay for her stunt.
She growled.
And god, she didn't have any clue how sexy she was, striding over the floor towards the petrified Suzuna.
If they weren't terrified out of their wits by six guardian beasts, the boys would of mauled her in their for her begging to date them.
"Su-zu-na…" Sena purred out, her eyes glinting dangerously. Suzuna gulped.
Hibara was really, really scary, like that.
B – but she just wanted to hook her up with them?
Hibara was still advancing at her.
"Was dumping the entire canister of ice cold water on me really necessary?"
Oh, Shit.
Suzuna began to sweat.
Curse her matchmaking senses… now they really had gotten her into trouble.
She eyed the wet girl, and then, the restrained boys behind her.
But well, the results were stupendous. Suzuna only intended to give those six some much-needed prods to ask Hibara out on to date.
Unfortunately, she didn't count on some more subjects joining her little game. Ah, well, the more, the merrier, anyway.
She was slightly jealous of Hibara, though. The girl had a perfect body, her abs were gently molded into beautiful belly, long, slender legs and graceful hands, sweet eyes and –
Well, Suzuna wished she would have such fantastic body… but would have it only in her dreams.
Besides -
"Kekekeke..." Hiruma managed to cackle out. "I see you still don't get it, fucking cheerleader." His light green eyes were glinting with unholy glee. "Though I wonder; is your courtesy to greet an old friend with canister of freezing water, or it's just her?"
Suzuna blinked.
'A… friend?'
She mused idly, searching frantically who could Hibara be…
And judging by Mamo-nee's glare –
"You!" Mamori gasped, outraged. "Suzuna, I can't believe you! To throw the water on Sena – chan – " she paused, her fingers twitching for her good, old mop.
Cue the eyes bulging out of their sockets.
"USOOOO!"
The cry thundered through the walls.
"Nani? Sena is – is a girl?" Poor Chuubou – kun was floored.
The Hell Commander grinned an evil grin no. 174 "I-knew-it-but-I was-evil-enough-to-give-you-heart-attacks" one "Keke. Well, ladies and gentlemen, I'm giving you Kobayakawa Sena – Eyeshield 21."
Unsui gaped. "THAT WAS YOU!?" He cried out, as he pointed at the blushing Sena. Sena ducked her head sheepishly.
"Um, yeah?" She squeaked out.
"But – But – But – "Ootawara was officially lost. "Kobayakawa is a guy. Why is Eyeshield a girl, then?"
"Because she's a girl, stupid," Takami answered him absentmindedly, his eyes still wide.
"But how's she a girl?"
Akaba rolled his eyes. "Fuu. Have you ever heard of a little thing, called genetics? Or some other little thing, called XX chromosome?" he sniped out, as he finally got out of Gaou's hold.
"You knew?!" Sakuraba squeaked out, losing his hold on Kakei.
The six devils snorted.
"Of course we knew," Yamato spoke out, shrugging out of Gaou's hold. He glared at the ferocious-looking man half-heartedly. "Since the end of World Youth Tournament. But Sena-chan wanted to stay anonymous, not to mention what a hassle would it be if the world found out that a girl won over Panther – even if she is Eyeshield 21.
"Why didn't you tell us?" Juumonji turned to Sena accusingly – it didn't help that his face was red as a fire hydrant due to the embarrassment.
"You didn't ask, besides… I was safer that way." Sena answered matter-of-factly.
The boys eyed her incredulously.
Safer!?
What were Shin's Trident Tackle, Yamato's Caesar Charge and Gaou's assault - a love taps!?
She fought every Angel
To rearranged the sky
So that each and every woman
Could find the perfect guy
Surprisingly, Karin got it first.
"Ano… "She spoke out. All eyes zeroed on her. "If you knew that she was a girl, would you leave her alone?"
They blinked.
"Uh, no…" Juumonji answered first, cautiously edging away from Kakei, when the latter narrowed his eyes.
"Well, she was cute, even as a boy, "Kuroki defended.
Hiruma grinned. "And you would rather ogle the fucking chibi than play, correct,"
His grin was positively demonic.
Agon cringed.
That stung something fierce. … being made a loser by a girl, no less.
He only thanked all the Gods that Sena was disguised as a boy at that time… He really, really, didn't need to be humiliated publicly, no matter that his opponent was now legendary Eyeshield 21.
Yamato chuckled. "Well, I should have known... Sena-kun hit me like a girl would, back then at the Christmas Bowl."
Sena pouted.
"Mukyaa! Why didn't you tell me you are a girl! Ain't I your best friend?"
Look who's talking.
A shell-shocked monkey.
Sena groaned. It would be a long, long night, she just knew it…
When the secret of Eyeshield's dis/appearance was solved, the party went on.
The boys were still blushing around her, and Sena finally got to know Chuubou-kun properly.
The poor guy was in shock. His beloved idol was a girl! Well… that didn't stop him from worshipping her, much to the six devils' ire.
Riku was red as a lobster. It would take some time before the poor white – haired teen would manage to look into Sena's eyes without blushing as a ripe cherry.
It's raining men
Don't get yourself Weather Girls
I know you want to
Suzuna was over the moon with the possibilities of hooking Sena with all the guys there. She just regretted that her fantasies about hot yaoi action were so cruelly shattered.
But oh well, life and meddling go on.
I feel stormy weather moving in
About to begin
Hear the thunder
Don't you loose your head
Rip off the roof and stay in bed
(Rip off the roof and stay)
All in all, Sena had a grand time, if that… water incident wasn't accounted for.
She talked, laughed, teased and danced.
And her sleeveless shirt was dried up, too, so she wasn't worried about guys trying to peek down her bra.
And if they tried… well, the six demons could always jump back in action… not that it was necessary, because all boys decided it would be better to be on the safe side rather than risking the wrath of those six.
Looking at the clock, Sena startled.
"Oh… it's already so late?" She asked to herself, honestly surprised.
"What's it, Sena-chan?" Marco asked the petite girl. He had insisted for her to wear his jacket, despite of her shirt being warm and dry.
But well, a man couldn't be too careful those days, could he?
Soft mocha – colored eyes looked into his steel gray ones.
"It's already half past ten..." Sena bit her lip. "I should've gone home half an hour ago!" she softly yelped out, her eyes wide in distress.
The boys deflated.
"Already?" Akaba asked disappointed. They had a grand time, what with their kitten being here –
Sena nodded. "Yeah. I'm sorry, Akaba – kun.." she sighed shrugging her shoulders helplessly.
Well, that was a bummer.
Yamato sighed. "You really have to go?" He tried again, inwardly scolding himself for sounding like a whiny, spoiled little kid.
It's raining men
Hallelujah
"Yeah, "Sena affirmed her decision. "Besides, we'll meet again sometime soon anyway," she smiled a small, warm smile.
It's raining men
Amen
She didn't like to see them so down. It was like looking at kicked puppies while preparing to kick them again. Not that she had the habit of kicking cute little puppies, anyway!
But still…
It's raining men
Hallelujah
"Well, I'd better go." Sena interrupted the awkward silence.
She stood up.
"Wait." A grave voice spoke up. Sena blinked. "Shin - ?"
"It's raining outside. There's a storm, too." Shin told her calmly. "I'll accompany you."
Astonished mocha eyes looked at the implacable linebacker,
"Shin, you… It's not necessary!" Sena sputtered out.
Her cheeks blushing, she waved a hand as to prove her point. "I could get – "
"Shin's right," Taka interrupted her.
"Walking home alone in such weather is not advisable. "
Sena's jaw snapped shut.
It's raining men
Amen
"But – "She weakly protested. "No buts. " Kakei eyed her sternly. Sena felt about two feet tall under his glare. She forgot how intimidating could Kakei be, if he wanted to.
She gulped.
"It's decided, then," Yamato piped up cheerfully. "We'll accompany you. "
"WHAT?!" Sena yelped out.
It's raining men
Hallelujah
The rain was pelting down onto the streets mercilessly; a man barely saw a foot before his eyes. Sena shivered. She was glad she had on Marco's jacket. The night was cold, a true opposite to the day. Well, weather was unpredictable like that, she supposed.
It's raining men
Amen
Somehow, all six of them decided to walk her home. It was embarrassing and heartwarming how they decided and insisted she accepts their assistance.
At first, Sena was mortified.
Well, se wasn't used to be accompanied home by a guy – much less six of them!
Sighing, she sweatdropped.
She just knew that this little fact would somehow make it into Hiruma's Black Book Of Doom… not to mention all the teasing she would undoubtedly have to endure from Suzuna…
The rain was pouring from the sky, and they didn't have umbrellas or raincoats, either. The receptionist apologized profusely on the oversight. But no one really anticipated such a torrent of rain pelting the streets.
There were no taxis, either, which was strange. Briefly, Sena wondered if that was Hiruma's special brand of punishment for her being a girl.
"Well..." Taka eyed the streets gingerly. He really wasn't a fan of being drenched by a cold rain, but leaving Sena was not an option, either.
In this moment, he envied Shin and Yamato for their speed – with how fast they were, they would be a whole lot less wet than the white – haired receiver…. Or maybe not… Inwardly, he winced at the thought of drying his hair.
But for Sena, he would brave the consequences.
Silently, Marco bemoaned the approaching death of his jacket. However, his perverted side couldn't bring itself to mourn the loss; when he would soon see Sena-chan almost naked. The only thing better, Marco's perverted side mused, would be wet and completely naked Sena, preferably in his lap.
Marco smirked wolfishly. Yup, the rain was indeed a blessing.
Kakei liked rain. He was a rain-person, as Mizumachi once told him. It was something soothing in that pitter-patter of raindrops, the sound constant whisper in his ears. He liked the scent of rain – gentle, fresh and unobtrusive.
Maybe that was why he didn't dismiss Sena as a spy altogether when he had first met her.
She was like the rain.
Quiet, gentle and soothing,
Although he – or rather, she in disguise – spoke hesitantly, and flinched at the loud sounds too much for Kakei's comfort, she smelled of rain and magnolias, thus catching Kakei's attention.
Kakei liked the rain, its' wet caresses and shy reluctance of small drops to leave his skin.
And he smiled. He didn't need sun.
He had Sena and rain now.
And he was happy.
Shin was… excited. It would be a thrilling new method of training.
Especially because he would run together with Sena. His mind flashed to those lonely days, when he had trained just because of training.
Sure, he improved himself, but he had still lacked something.
Until Sena.
Unknowingly, the petite player in Deimon's jersey number 21 gave him a drive his former opponents lacked to entice him with. With only one run, Shin was hooked.
In fact he had separated time thusly: before he knew Sena, and after he knew Sena. Within the second period, he separated time as training to go against Sena, training with Sena for Teikoku, and again, training without Sena.
The separation in those timeframes may have seem bizarre to anyone else, but for Shin it was s natural as breathing or gravity.
And now, he would run with her, once again.
Yamato was trying not to grin like a fool. However, his inner pervert was really happy for this chance. Since he had known Sena to be a girl, a part of his mind always wondered about her being in more… sexually charged situations. Really, his libido didn't help the matters – especially when he had seen her wet to the bone, that silly shirt clinging to her curves enticingly. And it didn't help when Suzuna tore Sena's shirt off, thus giving Yamato some more material to fantasize about in lonely nights.
Hopefully, the wouldn't be lonely for too long, now…
Akaba was… well, Akaba. This evening, his rhythm had finally righted itself out, which was a plus.
However, those fools just HAD to hit on her, didn't they? Akaba's rhythm was truly dissonant, then. … and Akaba didn't have any reservations of holding back against Taki.
He was tempted to use Arachne Net, just for this occasion. Arachne Net was an improved version of Spider Poison – and thrice as lethal, if applied correctly. It was somehow akin to trident's tackle, but it targeted the weaker points of the human's body, using its' strength and power against it.
Like some version of demented Jiu-Jitsu slash football.
It was scarily efficient, too.
Blinking his crimson eyes slowly, he inhaled. Well, this crazy chase was… educating, to say the least.
Now, how to make their rhythms resonate within each other?
"I don't mind if you wish to stay here," Sena spoke out shyly. She was met with incredulous stares. "It's too dangerous to out there, I'd say. "Marco spoke out. "Besides, " Yamato interjected," we already decided. Personally, I don't mind the rain bit much." He gave blushing Sena a small smile. "Of course you wouldn't," Kakei mumbled at him.
"Well, I gotta go," Sena announced, successfully diverting the squabble.
And with that, they were off.
When they finally came to Sena's home, all of them were wet to the bones. No matter the speed with which they had been running – the fact remained unchanged. They were wet.
Sena gulped and barely restrained a furious blush at the sight of the six of them. Suzanne would have at least three nosebleeds with the cuties' sexy appearances, and she would jump them with nary a thought. However, Sena forgot to notice she was in the same boat as the six of the aforementioned boys.
That is to say – wet, sexy, and utterly irresistible.
It had been pure torture, to watch her run, seeing glimpses of her body through the sleets of rain. And just now, seeing her clearly, without rain obscuring their view..
Well, being soaked had some really satisfying perks.
Sena eyed the six soaked boys shyly. "Thank you for accompanying me…" she murmured. Gulping, she wrestled down her nervousness. "Won't you come in to dry off?" she inquired softly.
"I-If it's not too much trouble." Yamato stammered uncharacteristically.
Sena smiled at him. "Okay…."
They trudged into the kitchen quietly. Sena frowned at the clock briefly, before moving to put the water into the heater.
The boys were watching their surroundings curiously, wandering around. The kitchen was modest, also serving as a dining room. It gave off a homely feeling, what with being painted in warm pastel colors and various knick-knacks being strewn around.
"Hey, Sena," Marco spoke up. "It seems your parents had gone to your aunt… something about your cousin having a baby." Sena's eyes widened. "What?!" she yelped out. Hurriedly, she made a way over to the white-streaked teen, who offered her a message, his eyes watching her intently.
After reading the letter, Sena sighed. "Well, at least we wouldn't have to worry about waking them up," she muttered to herself.
"Where do you store towels?" shin asked her flatly. "Oh! " Sena gave a start. "I'm sorry!" she squeaked out. Looking at them, she sighed in dismay. "You are all wet to the bone… the bathroom is upstairs; the second right door. Go take a shower and I'll try to find something for you to wear. "She made a move to get the clothes, when Taka put his hand on her shoulder.
"What about you?" he pointed out logically. "You are wet, too." Sena blinked. "It's no trouble. Besides, you six are my guests, so – "
"Sena." Akaba interrupted the rambling girl sternly. "We can wait. "He nudged her gently. "Go take a shower."
"But – "Sena tried to protest, her eyes wide. "Akaba is right," Yamato cut her off, amber eyes serious. "I won't have you catching pneumonia or even worse." "But what about you?" she protested weakly.
Kakei sighed. "Don't worry about us; we'll be fine. And the sooner you finish your shower, the sooner our turn will come," he reasoned, a small smile on his lips.
For a moment, they thought Sena would protest – but she closed her mouth, and nodded. "Fine," she grumbled out, pouting. "The chocolate is on the second shelf in blue pot, and green tea is in plastic container with butterflies painted on. The cups are on the first shelf next to the window," she finished, before going to the bathroom, pouting all the way up.
She finished her shower quickly, before donning on her pajamas. The fabric was soft, sky blue for trousers and baggy T– shirt with Tweety printed on it. She cringed slightly – but at least it was better than her old pair with game controllers she had when she had been back then in Deimon High.
Swiftly, she padded to her parents' bedroom to raid her father's wardrobe for some boxers and t – shirts for her guests, along with towels.
Luckily, she had found some oversized T – shirts – but boxers were a harder task. Blushing furiously, she quickly grabbed some, wondering if she would ever see those pieces of underwear in indifferent manner.
Probably not.
Gulping, she steeled herself and headed back to the kitchen.
"Fuu. Back already?" Akaba greeted the blushing girl. He quirked an eyebrow at her teasingly. "Did you miss us that much?" He expertly avoided Kakei's attempt to cuff his head. They watched her blush harder. "Uh… I – I – "She stuttered, her eyes wider than ever.
She was so adorable!
She clutched the items to her chest, gulping slightly. "I just don't want you to get sick because of me," she managed to whisper out, her cheeks still flaming red.
The boys were taken aback at her shy admission. "Don't worry so much, Sena-chan," Yamato told her gently. "a little rain won't harm us – besides, we're not made of sugar." He gifted her with a small smile.
"R – Right," Sena quickly agreed. "A – And here are towels and dry clothes… the cots are in living room… the door after the kitchen.
"It's my turn, I'd say," Marco smirked as he snatched the items and made a run for the bathroom. Taka rolled his eyes. "Don't use all the hot water!" he called after the sneaky stripe – haired teen. Kakei groaned. "Him and his obsession with hot showers." he muttered out. He took his night clothes and towel from Sena's hands. "Thank you, Sena." He smiled at her, enjoying the shy smile he received back. Taka was next, then Yamato, Shin, and lastly, Akaba.
Surprisingly, Marco ended his shower in record time… much to the boys' bafflement. They remembered only too well Marco's penchant for long, hot showers, especially after the matches…
"Already done?" Yamato asked, surprised. Marco pouted. "Yeah. Don't listen to them about my shower breaks, Sena-chan," He turned to the girl. "It's all lies, I tell you. All lies. " Sena blinked at Marco's soulful gaze. "Um… I won't?" she tried. "But why would I?"
"Because he's a notorious water – hogger," Akaba deadpanned. "Especially with hot showers.
Marco growled. "I so am not!" his cheeks were flushed lightly. Sena had to suppress a smile at their lighthearted bickering.
When everyone was showered, clothed, tucked within their cots and warm, with their mugs of hot chocolate – or, in Shin's case, tea in their hands, they occupied the living room. It was the only room in the house, big enough to hold all seven of them. Sena was snuggled into her own blanket, somehow sandwiched between Kakei and Yamato. They had played cards and tried to watch a movie, but there hadn't been any interesting enough to watch. And so, they expanded the couch – it was, surprisingly enough, but enough for all seven of them, but they were still squeezing together, into a warm ball of bodies and heat.
They talked. About everything and nothing. Their schools, dreams and pasts. Slowly, Sena became more relaxed with them, telling them about her Eyeshield days and crazy training routines, courtesy of blonde Hell Commander, Hiruma.
It was interesting to watch their reactions. Curiosity, shock, anger, amusement, confusion, downright fear, and many others. In exchange, they also told her about their football beginnings.
All of them were already half –asleep, when Taka dropped a bomb.
It's raining men
Hallelujah
"Sena..?" taka asked, his voice husky with exhaustion. "Mn?" Sena answered, eyeing him lazily. "Um… "The white-haired teen gulped. "Would you… Be my girlfriend?"
The five boys stiffened with shock.
"What?!" Sena yelped out, totally awake now.
Taka gulped - being on a receiving end of glares of those five…
Well, the deed was done, and there was no way back. "I like you," he continued bravely. "I'll admit, I don't know you enough, but… I want a chance. "
"No way in Hell." Kakei's voice was freezing cold.
Sena blinked. "K– Kakei?" She inquired softly. "What - ?" Kakei caressed her hair. "I like you," he admitted with a soft flush on his cheeks. "I've liked you since I've first seen you – you know, as a Deimon's secretary. A – And I would like you to be my girlfriend. "he glared at the incensed Taka.
"Fuu." Sena felt a sense of impending doom at that single sound. "I like her, too. I've liked her since our match – "
" – "When she kicked your ass, you mean?" Marco asked snidely.
Sena gulped. This was – This was - !
Akaba's mouth thinned.
"Sena… Would you like to be my girlfriend?" The boy on her left asked her. "Yamato?" she breathed out disbelievingly.
"Oh, no, you don't," Kakei growled out. "Sena – "
"-Are you playing with me?" Sena asked quietly, effectively freezing them. "First, Taka-kun asks me to be his girlfriend. And then Kakei, Akaba and Yamato. Is this some kind of a game to you?"
The last question was like a metaphorical bucketful of freezing water thrown into their faces. "Why would we play such games?" shin asked, his eyes intense. "Do you really think so low of us?" Marco asked quietly, his voice hurt.
Sena flinched. "I - I don't know what I should think…" She admitted softly. "It's all too sudden. I've – I've never had a boyfriend," she admitted, blushing like there was no tomorrow. She gulped.
It's raining men
Amen
The silence was profound. "I see." Yamato said slowly. "It was too much…" nodding shamefully, Sena lowered her head, biting her lips nervously. "I am sorry," she whispered out.
"That's so troublesome," Marco groaned out, flopping on the bed. "Agreed." Akaba was short, but to the point.
"And what now?" Taka spoke out the million dollar question.
"I would like to have chance with Sena," Shin slowly forced out, his eyes still full of resolve, as he stared into her eyes.
Sena shivered at the intensity of his gaze.
"Sena? Are you alright?" Kakei asked her concernedly. Sena nodded.
"Y – Yes," she squeaked out.
"We all like you," Yamato grumbled out. "And, we'd like to date you…" the rest of them nodded.
"You guys…" Sena spoke out weakly.
"Can you give us a chance?" Surprisingly, it was Shin who voiced out the problem.
If Sena were the fainting type, she would have been unconscious for th most time of this surreal conversation.
'So, Suzanne was right,' she mused faintly. Still, that did nothing to prepare her for this confrontation, shell shocking as it was.
It's raining men
Well, the day was more twisted than Hiruma's brain that was for sure. From seeing the old Team Japan again, revealing she was a girl, being hit on by no less than six boys she would never thought they would take interest in plain old her, the said six boys being chased around by the six devils that were just now surrounding her, and the whole mayhem that came with Taka's revelation of his feelings for her.
'it was all Suzuna's fault,' she pouted inwardly. If the girl hadn't had the bright idea of emptying the whole canister of ice – cold water on Sena's person, the mess could've been avoided… or was that just a pipe dream? Well, she'd never know.
Sena was proud to say that she was on relatively good terms with all six of them. Those years, since the World Youth Tournament, were enlightening in that prospect.
They had stayed in close contact with each other with surprising regularity, given their busy schedules and interests. There wasn't a day she wouldn't of receive at least one e – mail from each of them, no matter how busy they were.
Sighing, she looked at their expectant faces. Shin was stoic as ever; only the slight widening of his eyes was testament to his… anticipation.
Yamato's amber eyes were, for once, completely serious.
Kakei looked even sterner than usual. Marco pretended to be nonchalant, but she still could recognize the tell-tale signs of nervousness.
Akaba's eyes were even more intense than usual.
Taka was… Taka. Currently, he was playing with the TV controller, nervously tracing and re-tracing the buttons. She gulped. This – this was even worse than the first time she was introduced as Deimon's Eyeshield 21! "I don't want to hurt anyone," she whimpered, curling into herself.
This – this was becoming a nightmare! She couldn't understand just why the girls were day-dreaming about having a group of cute boys pursuing them? Her mind raced wildly for some solution that would… what?
Akaba blinked. He wasn't used to this… Sena She seemed to be so vulnerable, like fine piece of china that would shatter at the smallest touch. Suddenly, he had an epiphany.
She was scared. Even more so than they were. Better yet, she was fucking terrified. Akaba's heart clenched at the expression on her face.
It just wasn't right.
She should be happy and carefree, laughing and dancing without worries…
"Sena… "He called out gently. Big brown eyes cautiously looked up at him. He smiled a small, reassuring smile. "You don't need to decide right now. Take your time and find your rhythm. "Slowly, she nodded. "You won't be angry?" She asked timidly, her eyes hopeful.
Akaba shook his head. "No. I understand that this… confession unsettled your rhythm. So it's obvious we need to give you some time to think on that. Won we, guys?" Red eyes looked at the other boys sternly.
"Uh… Yeah. "Marco hurriedly agreed. No need to be kicked out of running match before it even began.
It's raining men
Kakei sighed. "While I'm not exactly happy, Akaba is right," he softly agreed. "It should be Sena's decision, first and foremost. "He felt the girl's body relaxing slowly.
Taka wanted to pout. But he also felt guilty about getting Sena into all this mess. But he couldn't help himself - the evening was perfect, and being together with Sena and doggone tired - He yawned. "Yeah… I'm sorry for pressing you, though." He looked so guilty; Sena had to smile a small, reluctant smile. He reminded her of a small, puppy when he had done something wrong. "It's okay, Taka. I just didn't expect it…"
Yamato relaxed, too. Although the situation was hell of a lot awkward, Sena at least didn't outright refuse them. That would bite something fierce. Inwardly, he cringed at the possibility of Sena refusing them. His mind and hear recoiled at the idea violently. Yamato had liked the petite player since he had first seen him on a camcorder. It was just something about Sena, that caught his attention firmly- shyness, being adorable with his big mocha-colored eyes – which then formed into respect at Sena's tenacity on the field. He had sulked big time when he had found out he wouldn't be able to play alongside Sena. And then the big shock at the finding out that he, was actually a she!
That day, even usually unflappable Taka was gaping openly. And Shin was no better. Remembering the event, Yamato supposed it had been rather funny. It also explained many of Sena's quirky behaviors – like when she had punched him back at the Deimon – Teikoku match. Well, the revelation didn't lessen his fascination with her. If anything, his curiosity with the speedy enigma of a girl had become even stronger.
He got to know her better through the e-mails and unknowingly, he had fallen for her heels over head.
This evening, he barely restrained himself not to strangle the foolish idiots that blurted out their desire for her to become their girlfriend. He was angry and jealous. Angry, because they dared to make a move on her, and jealous, because he had wanted to ask her the same question. Alas, the timing was completely off, what with Taka forcing his hand…
Kakei resisted the urge to pinch his nose as to stave off the imminent headache. The thing was troublesome to the extreme. And damn that Taka for forcing him to come clean with his feelings about Sena… It wasn't fair. He resisted the urge to pout.
Shin relaxed minutely. The danger was averted – if only barely. However, Sena would still choose one of them in the end. In that moment, Shin wished he wouldn't of expressed his emotions like a roadblock – that was to say, none at all. However, if anyone was able to see underneath his mask of being a tough guy, it would be Sena.
Sena was – Sena. Utterly mortified and petrified at the moment… even if it was just in her mind, but well, how many girls could say they were in her … position, literally and figuratively speaking, of course. Somehow, she was tucked in the middle of their little ball, with the boys she liked and respected the most… so it was fairly odd position she had found herself in. She liked them as friends. But… as a boyfriend material? Unconsciously, she pouted. Just one would be enough – but the six of them!? They really hadn't intended to make her life easy, had they?
But… would she give them a chance?
Or rather, could she?
She gulped.
Oh, boy.
Or, in her case, oh, boys.
Plural, indeed.
Quietly, the six boys watched the petite girl who managed to snatch their hearts. No pressure, right?
Ri – ight.
Now, it all depended on Sena's answer. Marco hoped to god that the answer would be positive.
"– Uhm. But if I – If I date one of you, the other five would be hurt…" Sena whispered out, her eyes wide and dark in the half-light. Kakei coughed in surprise. "What!?" he croaked out.
Similarly, the other five were baffled. Even then, she was too kind - !
"I am afraid, if I date one of you then the other five wouldn't – "She gulped. "Wouldn't want to be my friends anymore."
The boys stilled. "So you are saying," Taka slowly forced his words out, "If you chose one of us as your boyfriend, then you'd lose others as your friends?" he finished, a thunderstruck expression on his fade.
They watched her nod shamefully. "I don't want to hurt any of you with my decision. So it's better to – "
"Just stay as friends?" Yamato interrupted her incredulously.
A short, tense silence.
"While I appreciate your effort to spare us from pain, I disagree. " Shin voiced out.
Cue the bugged-out eyes of his listeners.
All Team Japan knew shin wasn't the brightest crayon in the box regarding the emotions. Shin's sole focus on training didn't help the matters.
"I will fight for you. And if I don't win you – "those dark eyes flashed with pain – "I'll at least know that you are in good hands. "
They were gobsmacked.
"Hn. Spoken like a true Knight," Kakei half –teased, half – complimented the quiet linebacker. A small wave of laugher went though the group.
"But I don't – "Sena protested. Or tried to. A meaningful glance from the stoic boy stopped her half – way to uttering the sentence in full.
Suddenly, she felt very foolish. And she blushed. Gulping, she nodded.
"O – Okay. "She whispered out, nibbling at her bottom lip.
"So… Will you ….Give us a chance?" Akaba piped up. Taka elbowed the redhead half – heartedly into the ribs. However, he couldn't stop a hopeful feeling that began to bloom in his chest.
Sena sighed. Only if you promise that no matter which one will become my boyfriend, we'll all be friends. "She said sternly.
Yamato's grin widened. "Hell, yeah!" He cheered out, before practically glomping the petite girl. "Not if I have anything to do with it, I'd say." Marco cautioned the amber – eyed running back, a wild grin on his lips testament to his relief and will to fight. Yamato scowled at the suave boy half – heartedly. "You wish, Dino – chan. Hibara will be mine."
Akaba snorted. He eyed Kakei, and simultaneously, they rolled their eyes heavenward. "Children," They muttered in sync.
Sena didn't bother to muffle her laughter at their antics.
If anything, this experience will certainly prove to be amusing to no end!
OMAKE
Kobayakawa Mihae prided herself on being a reasonable woman. Well, not many mothers would allow their daughters to pay football, would they? Let's ignore the tiny fact that she had fiercely protested about her darling daughter's involvement into the said sport, shall we?
And after a long, hard night, they were finally home. She sighed with satisfaction as she felt anticipation at the much-needed feeling of burrowing herself between the warm covers of her bed, and –
In her happy daze, she completely overlooked the number of shoes stacked against the wall.
Her husband didn't. However, he wisely decided to omit that particular little detail… he would just claim exhaustion, if the worst came ot worst.
Besides, Sena was responsible daughter, wasn't she? And so, the trudged into the kitchen.
Mihae blinked. Seven cups? If she remembered right, there were no dishes to… she dismissed the seven cups, making herself a cup of tea. "It's good to be home," she muttered to her husband quietly.
Shen only nodded. "Aa." He decided not to mention those drying stacks of male clothes… no sense in making her worry, really. But when his clothes were missing… it became a little worrying thought.
Burglars?
Well, with such amount of pouring rain outside…
"Have you seen Sena?"
Shen froze.
"She should've been in her room, " he answered slowly. "Her shoes are in the antechamber, "He added carefully.
Mihae nodded. "Good."
Wasn't it wonderful, to have such an obedient daughter? She mused to herself .
But something nagged at her.
Seven cups?
Usually, the kitchen was spotlessly clean. And the last time she checked, Sena didn't use so much cups.
Unless…
She blinked.
And headed to the bathroom to take a small shower.
Just to refresh herself, really.
"Dear…" her husband tried to stop her.
"Go to sleep, anata, "She mumbled. "I'll finish soon."
"But there's no – "he began
She already went into the bathroom. "– towels there, "he finished dejectedly.
And there is a whole lot of men's clothes drying, he finished to himself.
Really, Mihae was a reasonable woman. So it didn't surprise her, to find wet clothes being laid or hung to dry positioned about in the bathroom.
And there was surely a reason those weren't Shen's clothes, were they?
Quickly finishing her evening/morning shower, she strode out, clothed in her comfortable sleeping gown.
She was on a warpath.
Shen sighed. There would be no sleep until she would solve the Mystery of the Great Pants.
As any reasonable woman and mother would, Mihae first checked Sena's room.
Nothing.
Not even Sena.
Wait---.Sena?
"Anata! "She hissed to her husband. "Sena is missing!" he nodded dutifully. "Let's check other rooms first, shall we?" he pointed out logically.
It didn't help that his darling wife was armed with a baseball bat.
No, not at all.
Finally they reached the living room.
They had heard the multiple breathing patterns.
Mihae stiffened. As a reasonable woman, she would be calm in the face of kidnappers of her darling daughter – disregarding the fact Sena wouldn't invite her kidnappers into the house – and her hand clenched around the baseball bat.
Shen edged away from his incensed better half carefully.
Slowly, silently, the opened the door.
And lo, and behold the scene.
The couch had been stretched out, with, what? Six, seven? People being sandwiched up and about on it, under several mismatched covers.
There was hair… ling, white hair. Then, a red mop.
Someone groaned, and the human ball shifted.
The Kobayakawas froze.
An arm was thrown haphazardly across the covers –
Mihae stared.
A male arm. It was too muscular to belong to a girl. And last time she checked, Sena didn't have seven heads, several pairs of hands and six legs poking out from the covers.
And… Was that a blue hair? Dark blue, but –
She blinked.
It seemed that they were protecting something.
Or, at least, they were clinging to something.
Or someone.
Her knees wobbled.
She gulped.
Yes – her biggest fear was realized.
Sena was in the middle of that warm cocoon of hormonal bags, sleeping angelically, unaware of the danger she was in.
Mihae gulped.
"Anata…" she whispered. Shen calmly intercepted the falling baseball bat from her nerveless fingers.
She whimpered as she saw the messy-haired one embrace her poor, innocent daughter.
And the red-haired one dared to snuggle into her stomach!
Her eyes bulged. And was the – the ferrety – looking one doing what she was thinking he was –
Mihae couldn't watch them anymore.
Like any self-respecting, reasonable woman, she used the last resort technique.
She fainted.
Meanwhile, Shen whipped out a camera and quickly made a few mementos, an uncharacteristically sadistic smirk on the gentle man's face.
"First proof, then marriage, and then the baby carriage," He muttered to himself.
Unconsciously, the six suitors of his darling, baby daughter simultaneously shuddered, having a bad premonition about their first meeting with their… future father-in-law.
There was a reason Hiruma didn't dare to blackmail one Kobayakawa Shen.
Shen smiled at his sleeping daughter gently.
Sena was still cute as a kitten, though.
The end.