Can Cats Eat Octopus? Chapter 3
AN: Hey there! I have returned with another chapter after so long! It's been since last year! And to make up for that this chapter is very long! The longest chapter I've ever written!
But before we get into this, I want to tell you guys this warning!
This story will deal with past trauma of assault and trying to handle with grief. While these aren't prevalent yet, they will be in future chapters. I wanted to let you all know now. If these make you uncomfortable, that is totally okay! You don't have to read the book.
But I hope y'all enjoy the chapter! I don't own Assassination Classroom or its characters for they belong to Yusei Matsui. I only own Neko.
Enjoy! Thank you for reading!
I groaned slamming my head face first into the keyboard in front of me!
Sure, everyone around me looked at me strangely when I did that, but I couldn't help it. I was pretty frustrated staring at the library computer in front of me. The screen had a school's site on it and a section I clicked on which showed the students smiling or something for a photo.
The school was called Sakurami Middle School, but that didn't matter cause this wasn't the school I was looking for.
How did I know that? Well cause the uniform was all wrong! It looked nothing like Karma's uniform or even close to Takebayashi's!
Sitting back up a little and rubbing my forehead under my pink bangs, I leaned a bit to get closer to the notebook at my side next to my keyboard. I crossed off that middle school name then brought the pencil I was using to my mouth. I began gnawing on the eraser with my fang giving a small growl.
I kept looking at all the school names listed on the page. So many were listed and about half of the names were crossed off. Turns out finding the right school that fit the specific criteria I need was a lot more difficult than I realized.
Listing on the papers were all the schools that either had gray uniforms, were prestigious, or just middle schools well known. Most though didn't have all the criteria I was looking for.
I've been at this researching here in the library for almost a week now! I mean sure it's because I've got works to do, so I do all this mostly on my free time. Like today since it was one of my rare days I had off! I'd spend this time visiting my friends, but I really needed this time to find what I was looking for. Which turns out, is harder than I thought!
Go figure you can't just google 'Prestigious Rich schools with gray uniforms near me.' And not get a lot of results. I mean heck I don't even know if Karma is exactly my age! Or even goes to a rich school!
I couldn't find any profiles on social media that matched him. There were some accounts called 'Karma' but none that used it as an actual name or looked like him. So Akane's idea of social media was a total bust...
Looking at my list of criteria for what school I was looking for seemed so straight forward. I turned the page to it with Takebayashi's cropped picture taped onto it. "Prestigious school. Grey school uniform. Class 3-E. Red haired student! Piercing sunset eyes! What am I missing?!" I grumbled under my breath gnawing on the eraser with my fang more. My other hand went to my blue pendant attached to the choker ribbon around my neck.
My ears went flat under my beanie as I sighed. I didn't want to give up, but I might've hit a dead end... I don't even know why I'm doing this!
'What's happening to me?' My thoughts began again. 'I've never been like this before. Ever since I met Karma my head has been nothing but filled with him... and I think that's what drives and confuses me more! I don't know why he does that to me! I've had guy friends and met people before, but none have done this to me before!
'Maybe he cast a spell on me.' I chuckled at that idea leaning back in my chair looking down at my white thigh length dress on my lap. Bringing my hands down to play with the frills at the end. 'I should just stop... he's a guy that probably doesn't remember me. If he got to know who I am... what I am... he would want to be 10 miles away from me.'
I sighed ready to pack things up and burn it at Mother's house since I should probably say hi to her today. Then something clicked into my head. "Wait... 'Miles away from me'?" That thought.
Holy potatoes why didn't I think of this before?! I'm an idiot! The train station we met at! The one I see him with Nagisa with all the gray uniforms. Their school must use that train station to send students home! That means that their school...
With my ears on point, I quickly typed in the search bar, 'schools close by Kunugigaoka Station'. And there it was. Two schools popped up. Kunugigaoka High School and Kunugigaoka Middle School.
I looked at my list seeing if I put them down, and sure as hairballs, I did! Right near the bottom. I immediately clicked on the first link which was the middle school website and low and behold! There was a picture of the students! And they had the exact uniform as Takebayashi's! And like Karma's though he must wear that black blazer to not conform to them. Or something, I don't know.
But now for the moment of truth. Like all the schools I searched up, they had a search bar themself on the top right corner. Even the little mascot that looked like an acorn was pointing at it which made me smile. I typed in, 'Class 3-E'.
When I hit enter, I was too nervous that this would either end or continue my search, that I even shut my eyes and covered them with my hands. But I peeked through my fingers that the page already loaded. There on the screen, was a description.
About an E Class! This school has it! This is the school! This is probably Karma's school!
I couldn't stop my big grin on my face! And it was so close to where I worked, this made so much sense! A small giggle that was becoming a laugh began almost coming out I had to cover my mouth. I was so happy! But I needed to calm down.
I took a deep breath and began scroll through the website. Sure, I could sit here and read all about the school, and especially about Class E. But this really called for celebration! This will be here when I come back later after eating. Plus, I could read some of it while I snack if I print out a few pages.
So I hit Ctr P, which brought the printing options and set it to print the whole page. I began to print a few more pages of different parts of the website like about the school, the other classes, the Principal's information, and staff members. Basically anything that might be useful and interesting about the school.
After everything was ready to print, I logged out and turned off the computer. Getting up and putting on my blue jean jacket I had hanging on the back of the chair. Straightening out my dress tying my combat boots back up. I grabbed my over the shoulder bag, holding my notebook to my chest, and walked over to the front desk where the printer was.
This library had the printer in the front where you had to pay for how many pages you printed. And considering it was taking quite a while for all the pages, I knew it was gonna cost some yen. I already had my little wallet out ready.
Once the printer stopped, the librarian looked up from the book she was reading and bored like, grabbed my papers as I waited humming to myself. I was now in such a good mood! She began counting the pages to see how much I would need to pay while saying tiredly. "Do you have a library card?"
"Oh! Right!" You get a little discount if you had a library card. Looking through my wallet I found it and handed it to her.
Placing my papers on the counter, she fixed her glasses to look at the card, "you're 'Kitsune Zvezda'?" She asked, struggling with the last name, not believing me when she glanced up at me through her glasses.
"Uh well no, but she's like my roommate kinda sister! We were raised together! She lets me borrow her library card." Not entirely a lie, I just forget to give her back the card. "I'm Neko Zvezda. I can show you proof we're-"
"No need. That'll be 500 yen." The librarian said as though she didn't care which she probably doesn't. I got the money out and gave it to her with a nervous chuckle taking back the card and the papers. I put the papers in my notebook, the card back in my wallet, and began walking out of the library.
Fresh air and sunlight hit my face as I breathed in through my sensitive nose. The smells all ranged from trash cans close by, to food shops, and then department stores. I looked around wondering where to eat. I should treat myself! Maybe buy some good snacks and a self-picnic at the park would be nice.
Walking along the sidewalk I enjoyed the beautiful day. It just seemed a little brighter now finding what school Karma possibly goes to. I just needed a treat after a few days of too many hours staring at a screen and not finding answers.
Sounds like how Akane explains what school is like!
I silently giggled to myself while walking into the nearest deli shop for a sandwich. As I walked in and made my way to the counter where all their sandwiches were in small packages. I heard the cashier greet me with a smile and hello.
I smiled back at him saying, "hi there!"
"So, what ya feeling like eating today, young lady?" He asked me as I pretended to stroke an imaginary beard playfully, feeling an ear flop down in my beanie.
I hummed in thought, "well, I'm not sure to be honest. Everything looks so good!"
The guy behind the counter chuckled at my funny dismay before turning to do something else, "well take your time. I'll be here to ring you up when you're finished."
Nodding to let him know I understood, I looked back at all the different sandwiches. Did I want the Tuna Sandwich or Turkey on Rye? The Tuna looked like it was calling my name! Literally I think I'm hearing it say 'Neko... come eat me! Eat all the fish!'
Oh yeah, I am definitely going insane! Oh well I'll worry about that later.
Feeling like I made the right choice, I grabbed the sandwich and a bottle of water then headed to the register. Where the guy was ready to tell me how much I needed. As he was looking at my items to type into the cash register, I brought out my wallet again waiting for him to tell me the amount with my journal under my arm.
As I waited, my head just happened to turn to look out the deli shop window where, for a split second, I saw bright crimson red hair walk past the window!
Nearly dropping my stuff in shock, my eyes felt like they were going to pop right out of my head! 'No way... No no no it couldn't be him!' I thought shaking my head.
The boy told me the amount that my meal would cost but I couldn't hear him with my mind swirling with questions. 'That couldn't have been Karma!'
"Uhh miss? Miss?" I ignored him once more as I quickly ran out of the deli shop. I don't even remember telling my feet to go, I just went out the front entrance with him still calling out, "Miss what about your food?!"
I turned towards the direction I thought I saw that bright red hair go, immediately looking for it again! I scanned through the top of heads ahead of the people in front of me. And immediately, right when I thought it was all just my imagination again, my red eyes locked to the red hair ahead!
Could it really be?!
I quickly made my way over to where the bright hair was. Weaving through the people ahead of me getting closer. There I could see the black blazer I've seen so many times before, in my head. But this time felt so different! Like if I could reach out, I would be able to touch him!
Yeah, I am not doing that though. Cause if this isn't actually Karma and just another figment of my imagination, I would be grabbing a complete stranger. And if it is him, how do I explain why I grabbed him too?!
I quietly just kept following him, waiting for any confirmation yet that it is or isn't Karma. I was some feet behind him, making sure to keep a good distance on the right side of the sidewalk close to the buildings. Keeping my journal to my chest, I was trying calm my heart thumping nervously in my rib cage.
Suddenly what surprised me was that Karma stopped up ahead, looking like he was pulling something out of his ear. It was an earbud probably playing music or something.
But instinctively, like it was second nature, I hid in the closest entry way next to me of a building. The slim column in front of the doors provided, at least I hope, enough cover for me when Karma turned his body halfway.
I was peeking from the column slightly so just one eye could watch him. His face, I could see it. Unlike all the times I thought I saw it; he wasn't smirking that devilish handsome smirk. Instead, his brows were stitched together as if perplexed, his beautiful orange sunset eyes slanted slightly. They darted around the place, almost as if looking for something.
Just watching them made me remember when they were locked onto mine a couple weeks back. Even if it wasn't for that long, my whole world felt like it stopped, and my life was complete. My ears shifted back while I released the breath I didn't know I was holding.
'This could actually be him...' I thought watching him turn back around to walk again. I needed to know if this was really him.
Carefully, I got out of my hiding spot to walk some yards behind him. I followed silently and stayed on the side of the sidewalk that was closest to the buildings in case I needed to duck behind something again.
He turned to walk into some convenience store, immediately I stopped and went by a trash can in case he saw me. And oh my gosh the smell! My nose definitely hated me at the moment as I plugged it and tried not to vomit!
Yet I had to debate with myself quickly, do I go in and continue watching him to see if it's Karma, or do I wait out here? 'If you wait, then it turns out to not be him, how will you know? It might just be best to go in there so you can look around to be sure. If he's not there then you got your answer, that you've went insane! Also cause people are probably watching you like your crazy standing so close to trashcan ready to throw up.'
Wow my inner monologue is a great persuader!
I began walking to the entrance of the convenience store as normal as possible while gripping my notebook tightly to my chest looking around. As I walked in, I nearly jumped out of my skin with my ears perking straight up when the lone cashier greeted me with a bored, "welcome."
Just smiling sheepishly and nodding my head, they were too busy reading a magazine to care.
The store was small, and the shelves weren't too low, but they were high enough where you would have to stand at your tip toes to even see over them. At least for me, but I don't think I'm that small! Just around 5'6 last I checked.
Getting off tracked!
I scanned again around the store standing up tall looking for that fire red hair, and I immediately spotted it in the back of the store by the beverages. Carefully, I walked to the shelf that let me openly see to where Karma was. His was still faced away from me, that both made me relieved he couldn't see me but also a little disappointed cause I wanted to see his face...
'No bad idea! If he sees you and recognizes you, what are you even going to say?! Hi, you saved my life a couple weeks ago, I just happened to be in the neighborhood and saw ya! How have you been?! Uh huh and that will probably creep him out you weirdo.'
Wow my inner monologue is also kinda a jerk too...
Grumbling irritate, that was a big mistake, cause immediately like he heard me he turned his head around so fast for a second I thought he broke his neck!
But that was the least of my worries because I don't think I quickly hid behind the shelf fast enough that I was looking through to the aisle! And now, I am mentally panicking!
'Oh crud! Fudge! I think he saw me! Abort abort! You're dead Neko! You are a dead cat girl! Pray to the holy Potato Gods that they let you into heaven because I will soon be joining them!' I mentally screamed grabbing my beanie with one hand to pull it down closer to my ears.
Taking a deep breath, for what felt like a minute though I'm sure it was only a few seconds, I didn't hear anything... 'that's good right? Means he probably didn't see me! Right?! Yeah... okay just a quick peek. If he's there, then okay he's really Karma, it would be best then to leave so you don't dig yourself into a bigger grave!'
Shaking like a baby rattle, I slowly turned to peer my head again to look down the aisle to see, nothing? "What..." I moved my body out of my hiding spot to look more at the spot I thought I saw Karma, but he wasn't there.
I hugged my notebook looking down at my feet. I brought my hand to my mouth to gnaw on my sharp claw like thumb nail feeling really disappointed... 'Guess it really was my imagination. But has my imagination ever been that realis-'
"I thought it was you!" A familiar voice suddenly said behind me causing me to shriek and jump almost ten feet in the air!
"Holy sweet mother of tuna fish!" I yelped out turning around quickly nearly stumbling backwards on my own two feet! I was so surprised that I even tossed my notebook in the air making all my papers go flying then flutter to the ground.
But all I heard was the sudden laughter and amused voice that I've kept replaying in my head for the past two weeks. And here it is right in front of me! This felt like a dream as I came to realize that this was real. He was right in front of me!
His sharp orange eyes that looked amused and playful, his smirk that matched his face laughing amused. The sunlight from the windows behind him, this was all awfully familiar and confirmed my suspicions. The complete feeling once again came back to me that my heart raced.
It is Karma!
I looked at him, jaw dropped and eyes wide! Thinking if I blinked, he'll disappear from in front of me or reveal to be someone else. But this is real, and I am once again staring at him like a dumb goldfish!
"You're so jumpy, all I did was come up to you from behind. Although I guess it serves you right for being the first one sneaking behind me~." The redhead told me with his smile getting more mischievous and his eyes holding a glare that said I was not be subtle at all in my attempts to follow him!
My head was getting all flustered and panicked! How do I explain that stupid decision I did! Neko you are a dead idiot!
"I was sure you spoke a little last time I saw you. Or maybe that was just my imagination." His voice was sly and slippery, and my poor heart hammered harder in my chest when he leaned his body partially to look at my face. My poor face too, because I'm sure its redder than my eyes and his hair! Combined!
Taking a deep breath, then releasing it, I immediately bowed my head respectfully in a fast motion I'm sure surprised him. "Hi you saved my life a couple weeks ago I just happened to be in the neighborhood and saw ya how have you been I really want to thank you for what you did for me!" I said in literally all one breath!
My eyes were shut tightly that I was sure they were about to start hurting. I waited to hear his response which I was wondering what he would say. What I didn't expect was hearing suddenly more laughter coming from the buy in front of me!
I tilted my head up still bowing with my body to look up at him surprised. "Pft-! What's with that reaction? It was really no big deal. Maybe just stay away from back alleys~. Especially as a helpless girl like you~."
Okay that was uncalled for! I felt a twitch coming from my eye as I looked at him annoyed, "well excuse me for doing my job! I don't exactly like being a neon sign that attracts the drunks!" I huffed.
This only caused Karma to chuckle more with his smirk widening. Even if what he said bothered me, I couldn't stop feeling the little thump in my chest watching and being able to talk to him. Standing back up straight, I realized that he wasn't that much taller than me. I at least came up to his eyes, though I'm sure if my ears were out, I'd gain at least an inch.
Speaking of my cat ears, they pointed and shifted up when we both heard that lone cashier called out to us. "Hey, you better pick those up cause if I'm forced to, I'll throw them away! And if you two aren't gonna buy anything, go so I can take my break."
Wow rude! But I just looked down at what was he talking about then remembered my papers and notebook that precariously threw to the ground when I was spooked. They were somewhat all over the place by and in between both Karma's and I's feet. "Oh yeah! My bad, sorry about this!" I called back to the employee and bent my knees on the ground and begun picking up the papers, sticking them in between the middle of my notebook.
Turns out now I was regretting printing so many papers! Or at least not stapling them. I didn't even notice that some of the papers were being picked up by someone else and looked to see Karma was helping me. That's when it hit every that I remembered just what was on these papers and immediately started to panic!
'If he sees that I'm researching his maybe school, he will definitely think I've been following him more then I've let on!' I quickly picked up the pace on grabbing the papers.
From the corner of my eye, some sheets were held out to me by the boy in front of me. I gently took them in my hand when I felt a wave of relief noticing that they were face down. The blank backs facing me making my heart not beat so worriedly thinking he might've saw what was on these papers. "Thanks Karma." I gratefully took the papers noticing his grip on then was a little tight, but he released them to me allowing the last ones to be in my notebook.
We both got up as I dusted off my white dress then hugging my stuff as close to me as I looked at the red head. Clearing my throat and before he could even say anything when his mouth opened, I interjected with crazy idea trying not to stubble on my words, "can I buy you lunch?! Um as a sort of 'thank you' gift for last time, and just now for helping me with my papers." Karma's face was neutral till he turned it into a pondering look thinking about it occasionally glancing at me. Making me worry he was gonna say no!
'Why is he looking at me like that?! Is he suspicious of me?! What does he think I will do, he literally called me helpless not 10 minutes ago!'
"Uh actually you seem busy so may-"
"Hmm what this? Don't tell me you're already reconsidering on asking me~? I'm not that busy at all, though isn't it a little strange that I don't even know your name yet and you're already asking me to lunch?" He teased slightly with a subtly smile.
Right at hearing that I mentally facepalmed, but instead cover my face groaning to hide my embarrassment. I was having a full conversation with this guy and didn't even give him my name?! Congratulations, you are the biggest dumb-dumb ever!
"Oh my gosh... I am so sorry!" Taking a deep breath to calm myself I looked back at Karma and held out my hand that once covered my face. Smiling all to happily I said, "hi, my name is Neko. Please just call me that."
Karma looked at my hand before pulling his right one out of his pocket, taking mine in it. Almost right before our hands clasped together, a surge of what felt like electricity went through my palm to my heart. The rabid beating in my ribs I was sure I could hear even if I didn't have sensitive hearing. I didn't think that complete feeling could get larger, but I was wrong!
His hand, while bigger then mine, didn't grip in mine but his fingers nearly completely wrapped around. The paleness of his skin seemed to stand out more in the light being against my slightly tan complexion. I just couldn't help but feel like I was alive.
Though not in the present, since my hard hit back into reality came in the form of the employee sitting behind us calling out again. "Yo! I told ya that if you both aren't going to buy anything, then go! I really need a break!"
'You've literally been doing nothing but reading a magazine this whole time I've been here! How much more of a break do you need?' I thought dryly looking at them annoyed. If there's one thing that's the biggest pet peeve, it's a lazy worker. I have too many of those at my jobs!
"We were just leaving." I spoke plainly, kind of feeling even more bothered that feeling in my chest was interrupted and almost completely gone cause our hands let go. With a sigh but then putting back on a smile, I began walking to the exit motioning for Karma to follow me, "come on! I know a great little restaurant we can eat at!"
Then just like that, we were on our way to eat some lunch! I have no idea how I managed to get him to agree to come with me, but this is the absolute perfect opportunity! I can get to know him more! I could literally soar with this happy feeling! Though not actually fly, I wish I had wings but that might be a lot harder to hide than my ears. I wonder if I had a tail, would that be hard to hide too...
I glanced a bit to the side watching Karma walk next to me. His stance lazy with his arms folded behind his head. The way his head was turned up made him look like he was looking down at everyone. Or he was just watching where he was going.
Though quickly, before I could even think to stop staring, his eyes locked onto mine. I panicked! Looking away back ahead to lead us. My heart skipped a beat, and I can't understand why.
Why do I feel this way when I look at him? Why do I want to get to know him more? Why did just one encounter turn my whole world upside down?! Especially in this world now since it's been more then a month since the moon blew up... This isn't a good time to feel this!
But I can't stop whatever this feeling is...
Jeez has this restaurant always been this far?! I need to make some conversation since it doesn't seem like he will!
I cleared my throat and looked around before looking up at the clear blue sky, "uhh wonderful weather we're having!"
"Yeah. It's nice." Was all he said.
So thus, my panic went into overdrive kicking my brain! 'Are you kidding me?! 'Wonderful weather'?! 'Wonderful. Weather'?! Oh yes that is the perfect conversation starter! Congratulations Neko Zvezda, here is your prize of worst communicator in the history of speaking!'
It took all of my willpower to not go to a trash bin, crawl into it, put a lid, and roll away to my grave. Yes, I am overly dramatic!
"Um well I actually think the weather will be a little warmer tomorrow." Oh look I think I see perfectly sizable trash can with a lid up ahead. "Guess that means summer weather is coming up early!"
'Would you stop talking about the darn weather!' I screamed at myself wanting to shake myself covering my face with a groan.
My ears shifted back towards laughter looking back to Karma as he was laughing then looked back at me. "Is that all you can talk about? The weather?" He teased me more, "maybe we should talk about next week's weather~?"
"Oh well I heard from the radio it'll be nice and sunny till-..." I paused, even stopping my walking to stare at him as he also stopped to look at me. But that smug smile and eyebrow raised just totally irked me realizing what he was doing! Waving my arms irritated caused some attention to us from people around, that or my yelling at the crazy boy! "Hey! Shush you! Be nice okay cause I'm paying for your meal!"
I huffed scrunching my nose stomping past him while he just chuckled more. Luckily, we finally got to the cafe, thank goodness because I don't think I could take any more talk about the weather!
When we walked in, I asked the host for a table for two and he right away led us to a small booth near the kitchen. The smells in the cafe smelt so delightful and delicious, I nearly forgotten earlier I haven't eaten since this morning. My stomach I could feel was ready to start eating itself!
"Here you both are, your server will be with you shortly." The host said while I took my seat and Karma sat across from me then he handed us the menus.
I nodded politely as the host left leaving me with the boy I've been thinking about the past few weeks. To say it was awkward on my part would be an understatement. I looked down at my menu trying to read it. Occasionally though once again glancing up at Karma in front of me.
He was leaning slouched back in his seat looking his menu as well. His hand under his chin obviously looking bored out of his mind. Come on Neko strike up more conversation! Connect with him!
"Um so... how ya been since I last saw you? You didn't get questioned by the police for bashing the head of that guy with the bottle, right?"
"You mean the guy I saved you from because you were in a back alley in the dark~?" He teased smirking at me, and I could just feel my ears going back as I gave him an unamused look.
"It was sunset so there was still light and watch it or I'm making you pay the bill after I order half of the menu!" I grumbled and pouted, crossing my arms over my chest. Karma's chuckle brought me out of my huff and I just ended up giggling as well shaking my head. "But yes, that guy you saved me from."
He just shrugged and leaned a little more back even though he couldn't with the booth attached to the wall. "Nah they didn't. Besides if they did, I would just excuse it as self-defense." He told me like he was in the right which I guess he was right.
I laughed though and kept reading the menu, "or you were being a 'Good Samaritan' under the law. I'm sure no one would fault ya for that if he decided to sue ya for the six stitches ya gave him." I joked a little smiling.
I guess it was a good joke because Karma laughed more, though this one made my head and ears perk up more. It sounded very amused, like he was proud of damage he heard he caused that man. Was it really something to be proud of?
Before I could question him, our server came up to us as she smiled and held a notepad and pencil. "Hi there, I'll be your server. Can I get you two started on drinks?"
Looking up at her I nodded and ordered, "sure! Can I get some milk please?"
She nodded and wrote that down then looked to Karma who I also watched as he ordered his drink. "Do you have strawberry milkshake?"
"Yes, we do. I'll get those drinks for you and let you both look over the menu some more." She told us after jotting what Karma said then walked away.
I giggled realizing what he ordered giving him a fanged grin, "ah I see that you are also a milk lover! My friends think I'm so weird that I go to a restaurant and order milk to drink."
"Nothing wrong with that though, means you'll be taller than them." He agreed.
I nodded profusely also agreeing, "thank you! Seriously they should be envious of how strong my bones are since all I drink is basically milk and water. My bones would kick their butts." I playfully bragged giving a cocky smile.
"Sure you could." He said back making me not believe that he believed me. He didn't say but I'm sure he was still thinking of how helpless I was before!
"Watch it or I'm ordering half the menu and making you pay, probably." I warned jokingly sticking my tongue out childishly with an eye roll, then I kept looking for something to order to eat. Everything here sounded so good! Maybe I'll get another fish dinner, can't go wrong with that.
"Oh, by the way, I've been meaning to ask ya Karma." I began still looking through the menu. His hum in response signaled me to continue so I did. "You look to be around my age, shouldn't you be in school today?"
I asked, looking back at him as he looked back at me. His orange eyes looking right at my red ones. I wish I could see what he was thinking...
He just hummed though and looked back down at the menu in front of him answering my question, "there's an assembly today and I frankly don't feel like going."
My head tilted to the side where I could feel an ear go flat as the other perked up. "Really? So you're ditching it? Why? Won't you get in trouble though with your teachers?"
We both put down our menus as I waited for him to answer. So he is like a delinquent! A definite bad boy troublemaker who doesn't play by the rules! The fact that he also gave a grown man six stitches, should also be confirmation enough.
Karma shrugged though while resting his head on his hands on the table. "I really don't care honestly. Don't mind getting punished for skipping, since it beats getting mocked and treated like I'm lower than everyone else." He said so simply yet something in me boiled at hearing that!
"What?! Who treats you like that?! How dare anyone mock-" I quickly clamped my mouth shut with eyes wide realizing what I was just saying. I didn't even notice I stood up; fist clenched on the table. I just suddenly spoke without thinking! The stares I got from the people around us, even Karma looked a little confused and surprised at my outburst made me gulp.
Slowly sitting back down feeling my face heat up, I picked up my menu to pretend like I was reading again but it was more to hide my face. 'I can't believe I did that! Why did I just suddenly get so mad and upset?! It was like I didn't like the idea of someone being mean to him... Maybe Akane is rubbing off on me?'
That brought a smile to my face a little, but I still was worried I just freaked Karma out...
"There's no need to get all upset," I heard his amused voice. Can he read my mind?! "It's not just me who gets the mocking, just how my school is~."
Oh, he was talking about that...
With a peek over at him above my menu, I slowly put it down and tried to play it off chuckling nervously. "O- oh! Well that still isn't right. So, it's your school being buttheads. Why do they do that?"
He smirked a little more leaning on his hand and using his other one to bend the corner of his menu a little with his finger. "Let's just say I'm in the lowest class at the school. But I could care less, since being in that class has a lot more fun perks then those boring higher ones."
Watching him, he did seem to be okay with it. Guess he just doesn't care. Or he can beat anyone who looks at him the wrong way... To be a delinquent, I guess.
Wait if he said lower class! Is that the Class E?! I mean 'E' is low in the English alphabet compared to the other top ones, and if he does go to Kunugigaoka!
I have to ask him, just a little, "um, so it sounds like you're fine where you're at... Uh what's so good about your class? What makes it so fun you don't mind staying?"
Karma though stopped smiling and looked at me straight into my eyes, but it wasn't as amused as he was before, making me quickly regret my question! Did I ask something wrong?!
"You sure like to ask a lot of questions. It feels like I'm being interviewed."
My stomach immediately dropped at his words. I hadn't even realized I was asking so many questions, but I guess he is right. I'm just so curious and wanted to get to know him, and this might be my only opportunity to... Yet I'm totally blowing it!
'He probably is getting annoyed with me...' That thought made my ears pin back in my head. I looked down at lap placing both my hands in it to pick at my frills. My fangs began gnawing on my lip trying not to break my skin. I should've just gone to Mother's place like I thought of before I found what school he probably goes to.
I have to apologize for my behavior, he doesn't need to be asked so many questions by someone he doesn't know. Right at that thought, the waitress came back with our drinks. When she put down my glass of milk with a straw, I was happy to have something else to gnaw on that won't make me bleed.
"Are you two ready to order, or do you need more time?" She asked. Looking back at Karma who just nodded at me a little, then at her, I gave a smile.
"Yeah, I think so."
She pulled out her notebook and pen then looked at me. Guess I order first, which I now remembered I never actually picked what I wanted! Panicking, then pretending like I knew what I wanted, I opened the menu to look at the first few seafood options, "I'll take the... 'Kaisendon'? Oh and some 'Temaki' please!" I cooed at all the delicious options adding on, "and a bowl of 'Tendon' as well please."
Closing my menu then handing it to her as she still tried finishing up my order. "Wow... Okay." She mumbled then looked at Karma taking my menu, "and you sir?"
"Not as much as her, but I'll take some Curry Udon." Karma told her also handing her his menu. I giggled a little at his little remark to how much I ordered. I would've ordered more but this is a good start.
"We make it spicy, is that okay?"
The red head though chuckled, "yup. The spicier, the better~." And by the way he said it, he must really like spicy food!
Just as we watched our waitress leave, Karma looked back me leaning a little to get closer, "so what happened to only 'probably' ordering half the menu?" He asked with a playful tone.
Humming and acting all innocent, I avoided looking at him moving my head to look at everything else. "Oh, did I say 'probably'? Must've slipped my mind." When I did look at him, I couldn't hold it in and started laughing a little covering my mouth. "Don't worry," I assured, "I'll still pay."
Karma leaned back in his seat watching me, "that's good cause I sure wasn't going to. You would probably have to work two jobs then~. Start washing dishes here." He teased.
"I already work two jobs, plus, if you don't pay and if I don't, then your washing dishes with me buddy." I added sipping my milk after like I was right.
"Not if I leave you here with the bill as I sneak out from the bathroom window." He pointed his thumb to the side behind him where the sign for restrooms pointed towards.
Laughing, trying not to spray the milk in my mouth before I took a gulp, I shook my head asking, "isn't that the girl's job?"
Though I asked it playfully, pretending like it was an option I was considering doing. "I guess that means you'll be leaving me here then~?"
I chuckled then tried acting like I was thinking about it but ended up shaking my head giving a fanged grin, "nah! I'm having too much fun already." I sincerely said to him.
'Plus, I don't know if I'll ever get another chance like this to talk and get to know him again.' I thought but remembered how I already asked so many questions he seemed upset...
"Um by the way Karma..." I began again getting his attention but just focused on swirling my milk with my straw, "sorry I made you uncomfortable with all those questions. Didn't mean to make it feel like you were being interrogated. Guess I was simply curious..." I want to know more about him, but not at the expense of freaking him out.
There was a bit of a pause from both of us, almost like awkward silence. It was a little too much that I once again gnawed on my straw. But it was a surprise when he spoke, that my own canine punctured the straw.
"It's fine. I wasn't uncomfortable or upset." Karma told me while he also messed with the straw for his shake.
Sighing with relief, it already felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulder, "phew! Thank you!" Then suddenly a crazy idea came to my mind with my ears perked up, that I didn't think through cause I immediately spoke it! "Oh, I know! How bout we ask each other questions equally! Like I ask you a question, no more of the weird ones of course, then you ask me something and back and forth." I suggested doing some weird hand gestures to bring out my point.
But immediately regretted it!
Especially when Karma gave me such a confused look!
Quickly I put my hands down and mentally kicked myself, 'You are an idiot, Neko! What makes you think he wants to play 20 questions with you?! Plus if Mother found out you were offering to talk about yourself, that you just might spill the caviar and tell him you and your friends aren't human entirely! She'd kick your-'
"Why not. We have nothing else to do while we wait." Karma agreed.
My face lit up hearing that, "really?! Sweet! Thank you! I'll go first if that's okay with you." He just shrugged putting his hands behind his red hair as I thought of any good question. I shouldn't ask something about his school again, and definitely not personal yet...
From the corner of my eye, I noticed my pink and orange hair cascading off my shoulder. That helped me think of something! "Okay here's one! What's your favorite color?"
Karma thought about my question, guess he's gotta think about it. "Most likely red." That is pretty fitting with his red hair! "And maybe wasabi green." He added on with a chuckle making me laugh nervously and confused.
"That's extremely specific. Do you like spicy food that much?"
The red head though smirked and tilted his head looking at me, "Isn't it my turn to ask a question~?" He teased at me.
I squeaked not even remembering my own rule I made a minute ago! "Shoot sorry! Yeah it is!"
My ears shifted though under my beanie when I heard Karma chuckle and it made me laugh a little too. "You're right though, I do like spicy food. I especially like it when I put it into other people's food, and they can't handle it~. They get all red and start sweating, and maybe scream. Then if it's really hot, they'll be feeling it again in the morning~!"
To say what he was saying made me nervous, was an understatement! I'm pretty sure I was terrified, but not by Karma specifically, more of just how can make something spicy sound like a weapon!
The way he said it and the devious grin made me believe that, yup, he's most likely done that before!
I just laughed though and shook my head, "good gosh I fear for your enemies. Or anyone who makes you mad! Guess spicy isn't just for eating with you." I joked before sipping my milk again.
"Yeah, pretty much." He paused a bit, probably thinking of a question to ask me before he thought of one, "and by how much seafood you ordered, I'm gonna guess you like fish?"
By his tone of voice, it sounded like he already knew the answer but wanted to tease me again! Jokes on him, I ain't gonna deny it! "Yup! Any seafood is absolutely delicious! I'll even try anything fish or just ocean food related. Haven't tried everything but it's on my bucket list! To eat and try all exotic seafood dishes around the world. Next to retiring at the age 60." I said with the most determination I've ever had. My smile and mood were elevated thinking about all the amazing food I will one day try!
"And what about all that mercury you're eating with your 'exotic seafood'~?"
I froze and made a weird "ack!" sound at that sentence. Slowly turning my head to him, he had a cocky look knowing full well what he said got to me! Especially when he began to chuckle again. It sounded nice but his reason to was irritating! In my throat I could feel a small growl, luckily it wasn't that audible to hear.
However, while glaring at him, I slowly sipped my milk again mumbling, "and that's why I'm retiring at 60..."
"Ah just in case you get Mercury poisoning early!" He freaking continued!
This time I did outwardly growl and felt my face get hot in annoyance! "Would you leave me and my poor fish-eating love out of this! My turn to ask a question, when's your birthday you weirdo?!"
Karma just couldn't stop laughing at my expense, sticking his tongue out to me playfully to get a bigger rise from me. Though I couldn't stay mad at him cause his smile, no matter with what emotion he was feeling, was handsome. His face I've seen display all sorts of feelings today, from happy, to confused, curious, and that crazy look again. I'm glad I was able to make him display these facial expressions. I hope I can get him to show me more emotions...
"My birthday? It's December 25th. I'll be turning 15." Answering after he stopped laughing, and I barely missed it because I was just staring at him. Wait December 25th is...
"Oh my gosh you're a Christmas baby! That's so cute!" I practically squealed! Though how ironic that someone as crazy as him is born on such a holy holiday. I giggled realizing at that thought, then remembered, "Oh! I'm a holiday baby too! My birthday is October 31st! Halloween all the way, get presents and candy. I'll be turning 15 too this year."
Karma placed his arms on the table as if listening more intensely to what I was saying, even though I'm just telling him my date of birth. "Guess that means your about 2 months older than me."
Nodding with a giggle, I followed his pose leaning on the table, "I guess so. Means you gotta treat your elders with respect~."
I teased him though he just denied it, and we continued to play our game the rest of the time! Even when our food got here and we began eating, we still asked each other questions about the other! I tried not to give away too much about what I am or what my friends and family are, but I know if I don't explicitly state I'm a cat girl and there are animal people in this world, I think I'll be good!
I did find out a lot more about Karma! He loves superhero movies, as Sonic Ninja is his favorite. He knows English very well which is so cool! His parents are also very wealthy, what I wouldn't give to have that kind of money! Oh, and he loves to prank people which does not surprise me after our chat of spicy food. I mentioned how him, and my best friend Akane would probably get along great in that department!
Of course, I told him things about myself too when he asked me questions! Like how I work two jobs to help pay the bills of the little apartment I rent from my mom. I love to go on walks around the park or city when I'm free. I've lived in this town for 3 years now, and I was raised with 6 friends who are like my family.
"So yeah!" I continued after finishing another bite of my temaki that had a few bites left, "7 kids under one roof raised by one woman! I have no idea how Mother did it." I said in bewilderment still after taking another bite.
I already finished my kaisendon and had half of my tendon left to eat, while Karma was almost completely done with his curry udon.
He took a sip again from his completely gone milkshake before shaking his head. "That's really crazy. I like being an only child and can't even imagine having a sibling, let alone 6, to share things with."
Karma began eating more or his udon while I smiled at that statement. "It had its challenges but also it's good times! But I don't consider them my siblings even though we were raised together. Mother raised us to think of each other as family only by a little, but we're not cause of how different we are and not blood related." I chuckled when a thought came to me, "Guess that's why me and one of them decided to go ou-"
I froze when memories came back to me. Happy memories I wanted to cherish but then bad ones. Ones I wanted to forget. Ice blue eyes I began to form in my mind. They looked at me softly, but also something else... I grew uncomfortable immediately and wanted to go hide as soon as possible! My heart began to pick up pace in my ribcage.
My hands began shaking, I couldn't feel the chopsticks in my fingers. They began to feel slippery with sweat. I was staring at my food, but I couldn't focus on it.
My throat was feeling tight! Oh gosh it's just like a few weeks ago! With that drunk man! I can't speak...
I'm frozen again!
"Hey. You okay?" My ears and head snapped up when a hand came to view in front of me on the table.
Karma was looking at me as if watching me, his eyes and face, they look serious yet also concerned. And locking onto his amber eyes with mine, everything felt better. I could breathe, I'm not frozen. I can speak.
"Y- yeah!" He did it again. "Sorry bout that." He helped me. "Guess I was just lost in thought there." I feel completed again.
Just who are you Karma?
"Alright..." he dragged out, I guess not believing me. But I don't want to tell him anything.
I need to change the subject! Looking around the table to find something else to talk about, my eyes spotted his udon on his side of the table almost finished. Quickly I pointed to it gaining his attention, "Is that good?!"
"Hm?" He followed my finger to his food before looking at me with a smirk. "Yeah, it actually really is. But I think it might be too spicy for you if you want to try it~."
"Psh please! I'm sure I can handle it." I stated waving my hand at him. Plus, I really wanted a distraction after what went through my head. And I know he's not gonna give me a bite cause that's his food.
"Oh really~? Let's put that too the test." Surprised, I watched as he grabbed a small plate that was unused and stacked with others at the side of our table. He then grabbed a good chunk of noodles that was left, so I instantly began regretting opening my big mouth!
I'm pretty sure he's also making sure to get the spiciest bites!
After preparing my death, Karma placed the small plate with noodles and a few vegetables that were drenched in the sauce. "Here ya go~. Try it out."
I glared at his innocent act looking as smug as possible. "You suck, you know that?" Wiping my chopsticks in my napkin with a sigh, I picked up the noodles mentally preparing myself! "Fine. Let's just get this over with!"
I took all the noodles I brought to my mouth and ate them. I chewed slowly with my eyes shut waiting for that spicy to kick in. But it was only just warming up my mouth. There was a kick to it, but the curry also had a sweet kind of taste to it. I opened my eyes still chewing, placing a hand over my mouth looking at Karma to speak, "oh it actually isn't tha-"
REGRET!
The spice immediately kicked in right when I had to say that! I was as still as a statue fearing if I even breathed it would get worse! My face I could feel getting hotter maybe as hot as the food mid chew in my mouth! I could feel my hair and ears puff up at the sudden heat.
"You okay there~?" Karma's voice said but I was too afraid to answer. He knew darn well I was not okay!
Moving my eyes to only look at him, I gave him a pitiful look most likely. Looking like I'm dying inside. "No... I'm scared to- Oh gosh it hurts to talk!"
The spice got even worse! It was too hot! What the heck did they make this meal with?! The fires of hell?!
And Karma laughing his butt off is not helping at all!
I must be a trooper though and swallow! Just gulp it down no matter how much it burns!
Forcefully swallowing down the food while fanning myself, it got worse! How is that possible?!
Groaning and trying not to cry, or cry out, in pain. My eyes straight up darted at my glass of milk more than halfway done but it was better then nothing! I grabbed it not even bothering with the straw and just chugged the rest down. It brought some sweet relief, but I was still in pain.
My body leaned forward so I can rest my head on the table after pushing my dishes to the side. I just left myself there to die...
Though I did feel a poke on my head close to my ears that were flat against my head. Slowly moving my head to look at the cause of my demise, Karma just sat there with a grin on his face and still poking my head in my beanie with his finger.
"Having fun there~?"
"No. I'm dead."
He chuckled more amused even though I didn't find it funny whatsoever. "Aww really? I had fun though."
"That's cause your evil." I teased a little in the midst of my null pain.
"Thank you."
Okay that brought a smile on my face with a giggle.
We just both sat there after that. Him still poking my head, my eyes closed just enjoying it. It felt nice oddly. Also, because I was too tired to do anything else.
Researching for a week, with no naps or proper sleep with my work added on, has just been taking a toll on me. Yet being here, knowing Karma even a little more, it's going to be worth it.
Now confirming in my head where he goes to school, what class he's in felt like a big win. But what do I do with that information...?
Being right here in front of him is so nice. I know though it can't last, and we can't stay together here forever. 'I wish we could... I want to see him more than just by some random encounter. I could watch him more again, this time waiting for him after school. But talking to him is better.'
I want to be around him more... Get to know him more by not the computer, but by him.
Suddenly an idea came to me! He goes to a school! I'm not in school, so what's to stop me from joining his school?! Joining his class! I already have everything I need to know and printed about his school. If I can convince Mother to let me join his school, I'll see him more!
I need to see Mother!
Sitting straight up, surprising Karma a little by the looks of it, I quickly thought of what to say. "Hey what time is it?"
Karma pulled out what looked like to be his cell phone to check the time then answered, "around 4:30." Wow we've been talking and hanging out for more than a few hours.
I don't want to leave yet, but I have to talk to Mother soon as possible. "Ah okay... I'm really sorry Karma but I have to get going."
Grabbing my purse to pull out my wallet then begin counting how much money I'm going to need to pay with. "You've got work or something?" He asked as I counted and thought.
"Nah. I just haven't been home to see my mom and friends in more than a week, if I wait any longer to see her, they'll probably force me to live back home." I half told the truth as a joke. It wasn't entirely false since Mother and them do love to use the threat of making me come back home just so I come visit her.
After getting all the money I need, which put a major dent in my wallet! I handed the money to Karma smiling sheepishly. "Here, pay our waitress with this amount, there should be enough to tip her too. If that's too much, then you can keep the rest. Consider it as thank you money. For saving my life and for spending the day with me Karma."
He took the money slowly like he wasn't sure. "Alright."
"And sorry I have to run out on you so suddenly..." I apologized feeling bad and almost like my heart begged me to stay by him. I know once he's out of sight, that incomplete hollowness in me will come back. But if my plan works, I'll be able to see him more.
Putting my jacket back on that I took off earlier, I put on my purse over it then grabbed my notebook with everything I needed. I got up from my seat, making sure my beanie was on properly, also feeling my knee joints pop from sitting for so long.
I looked back at Karma who was watching me, and I could feel my ears get flat against my head as I tried to smile. "This was a lot of fun though! We should do it again soon." I told him hopefully.
"Yeah. It was nice and fun. Especially when you ate my food~." He agreed smirking to get in one last tease.
"You're so mean!" I retorted but still laughed. "Well then I look forward to our next hang out! See ya later Karma." I waved bye to him walking towards the exit looking back at him.
He raised his hand as I left saying a final bye before I turned and head out of the exit over to where the train station is. Holding my notebook closer to my chest, I just can't stop the grin on my face.
The whole moment and day I just was replaying in my mind as I got to the train station. Today had to be one of the best days ever!
When I boarded my train to where it would take me close to the home my friends and family live in. When I took a seat luckily available in the rush hour, I opened my notebook and pulled out my pencil from my purse.
Turning to an empty page, I put at the top 'Karma Notes'. I then began to quickly jot everything I learned about him. Date of birth, his family being wealthy, his interests in Superhero movies and his love for spicy food. Also, everything about how he is. All the things that made me want to see him again.
I sighed almost in a dream like state remembering his playful smile and hearing his laugh. This day didn't just make me happy, it made me more determined than ever.
I pulled out the page about Kunugigaoka Middle School. Staring at it then staring back at Karma's name on my notebook.
'I'm more determined to see him again. And I will. No matter what I have to do.' I thought closing my notebook and watching the train go past buildings and trees through the window. Going farther away from Karma but coming closer to the person I need to convince to let me go to this school. I won't take no for an answer.