Standard Disclaimer
Man work has just been a real burner. Lot of overtime, lot of hard coding, and a lot of people changing teams leaving me more work to do. Family stuff is getting better though, relative got a better job so that is epic. Just have to push through and use what time I have.
X-X
Crime and Punishment
Chapter – 5
Since the class representative was her assistant today the post school day cleaning was going quite well. That was good for Meiko as her mind was anything but focused on task. Oh she was doing her job faster than any of her youngers could, but it was lesser than her normal efficiency. Then again, everybody was a bit on edge since another of those monstrosities had come and gone only a day ago. The trio of actual pilots were gone, post mission examinations, and those empty seats reminded those behind that they owed their lives to those three.
"They carry a heavy burden. I wonder if Mari-san would be able to do so?" Meiko pondered as she carried a stack of four desks. One hand with the desks, the other slide chairs towards the back of the room. Hikari wiped down the chalkboard while Kirika was gone, good. Having the buxum but chaotic girl about would only exacerbate Meiko's mood. Doing her best to not make a clatter, she set down her massive bulk of furniture. A cool breeze hit her chest, school never did get her a fitting top, "I do believe we are done here. I appreciate the assistance. I'll find our missing slacker and administer a proper punishment."
Giggling a little, Hikari wiped her sweaty forehead, "You mean you'll punish Ikari-kun for it right? But with him out today, will you do something tomorrow?" Wobbling a little as she walked over to Meiko, Hikari had tried to keep pace with the gargantuan woman and was left fatigued and perspiring.
That name, it vexed Meiko something fierce! Had she become so transparent that everybody knew about her affection for him now? Or was it just her anxiety that made it seem everybody pointed and talked. Well, she could address that puzzle now right? "If he were here, he'd offer to take the blame for her. Who am I to prevent him from doing so?" Pulling one of the few chairs out, Meiko sat down and slid one over to Hikari. They 'hung out' at the apartment, they were colleagues, dare Meiko consider Hikari a friend? Back at Hachimitsu Meiko only really had the Underground Student Council, here…well it was more laid back here.
"Ikari-kun would, he's odd like that. Something nice about him I guess," Hikari eyed the chair for a moment then sat down with a nervous expression. Wiggling a little in the chair, her legs crossed then uncrossed as she observed Meiko and then looked away. Some girls just weren't comfortable with Meiko's lax standards in dress. Scratching at her cheek, Hikari braved a question, "So what WOULD you have him do today, if he were here?"
Just as wanted, Meiko knew Hikari was interested in gossip as most other girls were. It was a currency at times, traded for other secrets and to get others to act. Why Meiko interacted, at first, with Soryu and her as they were the center point of 'the popular' girls and the 'studious' girls. Now it was because she did enjoy their company. Soft, this place was making her soft and emotional. But it didn't feel 'bad', her goal was still finding Mari, but why not enjoy her life here while it lasted. "Exercise works best on Ikari-kun. Running, calisthenics, and stretches. But you likely heard of that already," Meiko adjusted her glasses as Hikari shrunk.
Shifting just a little away, a direct hit on the girl's consciousness, Hikari was so easy to read. With a small shrug, "Well I have heard about it. Heard that uh y-you sometimes are a bit exposed when you do that. With your figure, I can understand it. School should have gotten you a fitting top by now. D-do you actually do that? I'd die of embarrassment if a boy saw me like that." A blush did adorn her lovely cheeks as the idea crossed her mind.
So that was all? Girls really self-conscious of their busts. They were a tool as any other to accomplish a mission. "At times during my workout it has happened, and it doesn't bother me. Just skin," yet for a moment she realized she lied. It started as an attempt to seduce him away from Kirika, but as their feelings shifted it was more than that. She wanted him to see her, and Kirika let her know that he did. Knowing he found her attractive, well her body warmed up.
"You like him don't you? You say its just skin, but I can't believe you'd show Suzuhara or Aida so openly. I hear enough from Asuka to think something is going on. The few times at your apartment when he shows up, you're attitude does change a bit. Well it has lately," the smile on Hikari's face was calming and not judgmental. Girl had good sense of others, compassion was sadly something that was easy to exploit.
Just hearing somebody say it made it more real. In her mind it could just be a fixation, a person starved for affection finally getting some. Sweating a bit, the puddle under her chair started to grow, Meiko took a deep breath. If she couldn't confess to a 'friend' then she'd never be able to tell Shinji. And if she couldn't tell that tiny slip of a boy her feelings, what were they for? "I do," it was far harder to say than Meiko expected. But a weight was lifted, "I do believe I like him."
Scooting her chair away from the growing pool that was encroaching upon her, Hikari clapped lightly. Gushing happily, "I knew it! Did you tell Asuka about your feelings?" With the option of talking about 'girly' things, Hikari's energy spiked.
"I have not. You know as well as I that Soryu's opinion of Ikari-kun is somewhat confused. Their relationship is complex, and I would rather not make her more agitated," Meiko checked her watch. She wasn't running out of time, but knew that soon the pilots would be returning home. Getting up, Meiko extended her hand to Hikari. The class rep alternated between the hand and Meiko's face, then finally grabbed it and was yanked up. Giving the hand a small shake, "I thank you for your time. I do not have many I could talk about this with, not with Soryu's open disdain for men. Well her mask of it."
With a knowing nod, Hikari took her hand back and shook it clean of fluid, "No problem, anytime you want I'll talk. And Asuka really is confusing when it comes to boys. Yet they still flock to her, less since Kirika and you showed up, but still do. Add Ikari-kun to the mix…I don't know if she likes him or what. Don't dare ask her as she'd never be honest and just get angry. As for Ikari-kun and you…good luck?" With the whole school knowing of the Shinji/Kirika pairing, what else could Hikari say. Couples broke up all the time in school, but what if it didn't?
Exchanging a few parting words, Meiko had one last stop before heading back to the apartment. Plan was to tell Shinji she knew he found her attractive. It would push him closer to potentially leaving Kirika for her. Akagi hadn't told her to stop trying to make Kirika leave, so that mission was still going. As such, it was time to needle Kirika a bit more. But since that kick was blocked, bruising her leg in the process, Meiko was still rattled herself. Just how strong was that woman? Any other person, save a very select few, would have been bowled over with a full force kick but Kirika didn't even react.
Listening outside the door of the Eiken club, Meiko expected rules violations. Kirika didn't care for the standards or rules of establishments. If it was fun, exciting, or interesting the girl was all for it…oh and eating anything cylindrical in such a manner that boys walked into walls observing it. Ear to the door a muffled, "Alright, now relax I'm going to put it in. You'll feel some heat, a little pain, but you'll love the outcome!"
Unable to tell who was talking, Meiko's mind went to a strange place for her. Physical relations! From what she broke up pre-angel, it was likely that Shinji and Kirika had some sexual interaction, so Kirika might have developed a fixation on it! Well weren't most relationships just two people? Meiko didn't quite grasp why that was the case, if multiple people liked one another why not just have more, but she knew most people were hung up on the idea of just two. But if Kirika was banging another boy already, that was something she could use to drive the wedge between Shinji and her! Hand sliding into her pocket to grab her phone, she was ready to record the ordeal as evidence if words alone didn't work. Sliding the door open, she strode in powerfully and ready to act, "Room inspection. What is…"
"Hey Shiraki-kun, what's up!" Galko sat in a chair and waved happily at Meiko. The bangles on her wrist were garish and clattered, but high school girl didn't violate any school rules for having them in excess.
Behind Galko, a strange tool in her hand, Kirika was wrapping the girl's hair in it and crimping it. Focused on task, "Don't move to much Galko-chan or I'll hit your scalp and burn you. Kyoko said this should only take a few seconds compared to what your store crimper can do." Various boxes were strewn about, all addressed to Kirika from her old school, some were open and tools and electronics were haphazardly placed on the table. Looking away from her hairdressing, "Oh hey look who it is. The would-be thief. I know Misato said we need to play nice. But I told you before, I got a challenge for you if you're up to it."
"Thief? What you talking about Kirika?" Galko tried to turn her head, but the Kirika kept her head straight. Moving to much would cause additional pain, and a good Club President didn't let her underlings suffer.
She was no thief, did not try to steal Shinji away from Kirika, Meiko was just offering the lad another option! "I prevented a scandal from occurring in the music room, words were said, and a private matter between the two of us. If she wishes to tell, I will not stop her. I am here to insure nothing against school rules is occurring here. Judging from the boxes, it is likely you have tech that is against regulations," Meiko did her best to keep her tone level, but it was hard. That impish face, smug and confrontational just made Meiko want to challenge her further. Looking at what was on display, Meiko could only assume what a few of the tools were actually for.
Taking the device away from Galko's hair, Kirika patted the girl's shoulder and handed the tool to her. "Looks great, try it yourself when you've time. As for Thief-kun…she got in my way during a tender moment. I'll tell you more later, got a small offer for you if you're willing. I think there is potential. But for now, I've an challenge for this one," sauntering around Galko, Kirika stood shirt to sweater with Meiko. Not intimidated by the disciplinarian, "No fighting. Misato would have both of us expelled if we did that so don't worry."
When she leaned in, trying to gauge Kirika's strength, Meiko found the only thing that happened was the compression made both of their sizable assets even more pronounced. Kirika didn't budge, didn't even react to the physical contact. Just how strong was this girl? The momentary break in her voice annoyed her but she pressed on, "S-sure. Fighting would break our agreement with Katsuragi-san. I am not one to back down from a challenge. I believe you said it had to do with math." Not the smartest person in the world, Meiko was still fairly sharp when it mattered. Math was something she was fine with.
"Excellent. I'll set things up for our challenge. Expect an email or text from me with the details. I can't wait to see the look on your face when you realize you've bitten off far more than you can…well not chew as that is bad form," with a wink, Kirika pulled a choco-banana out from somewhere and started to suckle on it. "Now unless you want to embarrass yourself more, we've more toys to play with. Want to help? Kyoko might even have something for that stick of yours," how Kirika said stick made Meiko confused.
Stepping back from Kirika, the lack of compression made her distracting bits swing back out lazily. "I do not have time for this. Just do not burn the building down with these strange devices," Meiko gave Kirika one last glare, and a nod at the other girl. Galko had the look of a ditzy floozy, but Meiko knew not to trust outward appearances. If she had done that, Meiko would have written Kirika off an easy target. That wasn't the case at all, or she'd have finished her mission, knew were Mari was, and never developed these accursed feelings for that darned slip of a boy that she felt more and more for.
Leaving the school, Meiko made a small stop at a store for a root beer, before waiting outside her apartment for the pilots to return. With a small book of notes, Meiko passed the time going over where Mari might be and what she could do about Kirika if the need was still there. Now that the lie was exposed to all, but Kirika miraculously was able to fix her piloting abilities, the future of the operation was in question. With the post angel work going on, it was likely a change was in the making once Ritsuko had time to address the new state of the world. Would she be sent back to Hachimitsu? Nothing was really there for her with Mari gone, and here was…
"Oh Shi-Meiko-san, is something wrong?" Shinji interrupted Meiko's thoughts. His arms holding bags laden with food for supper, he had that soft smile he rarely had on full display. Stupid smile could get Meiko to do a lot of things she normally wouldn't, not that Shinji knew of this. Shaking the bags about, "Making curry tonight, Misato-san insisted, Kirika-san and you are welcome over. But guessing…" Shinji wasn't allowed to speak any longer.
Being actions speak louder than words, Meiko chose to do rather than say. Simple moving the distance between Shinji and her down to inches, Meiko had a moment of doubt. Was it wrong to add to the complexity of the boy's life? Adding another thing to puzzle and be concerned about? No, it was being honest with herself and to him.
"I have heard you find me attractive. I find you attractive as well. And would like to present you with the option of a relationship with me," she then acted. Putting her hands on his stunned shoulders, she drew him in, slipped her tongue into his mouth. It was not what she expected a kiss to be. It was just touching skin to skin, but it was a bolt of emotional electricity and she wanted more! But the door to the stairs opened and she separated. "For your consideration," she said and quickly vacated less Shinji speak and ruin the moment.
X-X
Four days post angel, Misato was still a little on pins and needles. The commanders were back for three whole days now, tests of the pilots finished yesterday, and today Misato expected a bigger angel to suddenly appear and fall just to steal her good mood. When no sudden call about the end of humanity came, Misato dared to relax a little. Back to your regular scheduled eternal summer living with emotionally stunted teenagers!
"We were just in here yesterday, why can't we have a free day today?" Asuka bemoaned for the trillionth time, Misato counted. The quartet made their way from Misato's car to the elevator. Asuka made a point to stand between Kirika and Shinji, the eternal chaperone.
Towering over the thorn in her side, Kirika just wrapped an arm around Asuka's neck, and pulled her in so Asuka's face smushed against her left can. Her right hand working a popsicle, she spoke sloppily, "Cause I wasn't here, and its back to normal right? What you doing today anyway that is more important? Washing your hair, forcing somebody to play video games with you?"
Misato watched as Asuka clawed, pushed, and tried to pull her head free as Kirika laughed at the futility. Giving the Fourth Child a stern glare, Kirika let Asuka go and the force of Asuka pulled sent the girl flying into Shinji who actually caught her and they didn't fall. Guess all that exercise was helping a little. "Kirika-kun is right. Today is a regular test session. We have to get back to normal eventually. Plus with this ones sudden ability to actually pilot and not be a lie anymore, have to get back on schedule," Misato hit the button for the cab.
Nursing the arm Asuka shoved off of, Shinji moved to Misato's side, a shield against Asuka. Kid was a true treasure at times, well most of the time. Though since yesterday he'd been looking more pensive than usual. Checking his phone, Misato saw it was a single word from Ayanami that said 'here', Shinji slid it back into his pocket. "I'm tired of all this testing, but wouldn't be fair for Ayanami and Kirika-san to test and we be off," Shinji offered to placate the red-tyrant.
"Shouldn't be a long session. Ritsuko wants to get started on some prep work for simulation bodies or something. I don't know much yet, but she's excited about it," Misato had a wicked idea. But as she made good on her little teasing stunt, something strange popped into her mind. Ayanami was testing today, but she was already on base? Misato had to check her pile of onsite mail so she had came in early, so why was Ayanami already at the base? "So you two are going to be good right? No slipping into the same plug and letting Shinji-kun cheat right?" Misato pushed Shinji into the corner of the cab.
Seemingly sensing the idea, Kirika joined Misato in cornering Shinji in the corner. "Nah, we won't do that. We have a date planned for Saturday. Best to let the anticipation grow right? Got a whole slew of things ready. But you didn't say anything about the changing room. You can help me get into my suit, its hard to get them in those cups without assistance," Kirika leaned forward and let her puppies sway. Now both purple haired women had their pray pinned in the corner, unable to move or look away.
"Will you two perverts stop? Keep that up and he'll make a mess. Guys are all quick shot idiots, and you're just trying to make me uncomfortable," Asuka yelled. Of course it was about her, not the mouse that was just to adorable to tease. Stomping her foot, Asuka huffed and did her best to spoil the jovial mood. And just to make the couple feel strange, Asuka added to the cold war, "Anyway, isn't he actually cheating with Meiko? Saw them in the gym this morning and that didn't look like a punishment."
Now Kirika didn't respond as Misato expected, the smile didn't lessen it grew. Leaving Misato to keep the mouse in his corner, Kirika spun and slapped Shinji with her ponytail. Bouncing over to Asuka, gods Misato could see them gyrating, "Oh I had a talk to Thief-kun, keep up your lip and I can include you in the plans. Might do you good too. As for quick…what experience do YOU have?" Now that little comment left Asuka flummoxed
Gazing down at Shinji, he was fixated on the duo arguing, a pensive expression on his guarded face, Misato pushed his forehead gently to get him to look at her. "You come with me, need a small talk. And best to not give her a chance to have yet another video get leaked," she spoke soft enough to not let the others hear. That moment he turned to meet her eyes, well Misato had to smile at that shift from concern to embarrassment. Yeah, she still had it, not as bombastic as his girlfriend but not a Christmas cake yet!
The door dinged and Asuka all but fled out the door but stood pointing down the hallway, "You two better NOT do anything in the changing room. That shit sounds nasty and I don't want that in my head while I'm trying to concentrate." Kirika took the bate and wobbled just to antagonize Asuka, girl did not like being 'smaller' than anybody. But when they noticed Misato was 'accidentally' using her behind to keep Shinji in place and she was waving at them. Asuka reached out for the closing door with a, "What are you two do…"
Once Misato gave him room to breathe, "What do we have to talk about, Misato-san?" his voice was a tag ragged. Quick to get out of the corner and into more open space, Shinji didn't question the sudden separation of Kirika and him.
"You got a text from Ayanami-kun, she's on base already? Wasn't she at school today?" Misato had other more fun questions, but this was the true one. The pilots were supposed to be at school whenever possible. At least TRY to have a regular life. Before the great Fourth Child incident started, Ayanami was mostly written off. But since Kirika started opening Shinji to the world of 'other humans', Misato saw he was nicer to the oft abandoned First Child. Good, everybody deserved friends.
Taking his phone back out, Shinji offered it to Misato without hesitation. Now that was something most teenagers would never do, but Shinji was used to a life without secrets. "She wasn't, so I was worried. She said she couldn't say what she was doing. Figured it was something you knew about and couldn't tell me," now the confusion was back on full display. Sure enough, his phone was a few messages from Shinji to Rei asking how she was, if she was sick, and did she need anything. Last was him asking if she'd be at the tests today.
"I'm sure it's just Ritsuko wanting to get a jump start on this odd fake body test is all," Misato tried to reassure him. It didn't work, because she didn't believe what she was saying either. But he nodded and took his phone back. Playing a Kirika, Misato wrapped her arm around him and lead him to her spot in the communal office. Trying to make things more lighthearted, "So Asuka say's Shiraki-kun and you are playing around? Don't spoil a good thing for a quick fling. Trust me Shinji-kun, stability is a lovely thing. You keep playing the field and in the end you'll be stuck with me!"
Shocking both of them, likely a slip of the tongue that neither expected, Shinji slipped, "You say that like it'd be a bad thing." His eyes opened wide and his hands covered his mouth as Misato's face actually colored a little. Stupid kid flirting with adults, even unintentionally. Well she rapped him on the nogging with her knuckle and they snapped out of their shock and laughed off the 'joke.' Now that they back in the real world, Shinji noticed most of the staff were watching them with a mixture of disdain and reverence. Since the disdain was more pointed at him, Shinji tried to hasten his departure, "Did you have anything else you need to ask me about?"
Grabbing her letters, Misato tossed most as being pointless but saw an interesting one from the Fuyutsuki. "One more question and you can go. Giving those girls a chance to get changed without distraction," Misato had to tease, but a crumb of honesty was in there. If Shinji WAS there Kirika would be tempted. Opening the letter, she scanned it quickly and dropped it when she saw the good news.
"You've been promoted?" Shinji asked as he tried to help and accidentally spied the very brief letter of congratulations. Not knowing what that meant, Shinji just held out the letter with some slight befuddlement.
Scooping up her ward, Misato demonstrated she was quite strong herself, she spun around with Shinji in her arms. Gushing, "Yup! The commanders' recognize my ability to command while they were gone and succeeding with the angel with minimal infrastructure damage! We're going to party to celebrate this one!" After her outburst ended, Misato let Shinji go as dizziness tempted to plunge them to the ground. Eyes on them, smiling and a few clapping, guess the news was spread already and they were all waiting for the annoying reminder of the fragility of Nerv to leave, "Guess our talk will have to wait. Those leeches want to congratulate me. You head on down and tell Ibuki to get started without me."
Misato gave Shinji's rump a small swat to get him scampering off, which he did with a tittering laugh. Once he left, the cowards approached to share in her good fortune. Most of them, because of that little act of avoiding one of the three (maybe four eventually) pilots left them in Misato's 'don't piss on if on fire' book. But she'd let them praise her now.
"Never going to live this down am I?" Ritsuko asked after the promise of a night out to celebrate was offered by Makoto and quickly ratified. People went back to their jobs, doing the menial tasks of calibrations and ordinance ordering. Slapping Misato on the back, bit to hard for friendly, Ritsuko clamped down hard, "You have a lucky win and now you're a Major. World is a strange place. I was actually planning on bringing you those notes. Figured you'd just avoid here and go to watch the pilots."
Rei, Rei on base, and somebody had to know the why of it. Ritsuko…why was SHE here when it was a day off for the woman? "Can't avoid checking in with everybody from time to time. And I wanted to ensure the girls got changed without Shinji-kun around. If he went with them, who knows what debauchery they'd be up to now. Kirika-kun and Rei-kun have been awfully chummy lately. Worried Kirika-kun would present Shinji-kun a blue-ribboned only clad First Child," Misato hoped it didn't happen.
Putting the Styrofoam cup of cold coffee to her head, Ritsuko moaned loudly. "You don't have to worry about that. Ayanami is still a stunted mute. But if they DID have an unwrapping, would it really matter?" Ritsuko shrugged without any real concern. Sitting down as Misato went over her other mail in earnest, "So what is your thought on the small party idea? Make it at your place and I'll show. Not liking the bar scene right now."
"I'll ask Shinji-kun about it. You know how anal he can be about keeping that place clean," Misato saw most of the letters were junk. City planners asking about plans Nerv couldn't commit to, requests to meet the pilots, and compensation forms for those accidents Nerv kept from the pilots. Throwing away what she could, she nestled the keepers in her armpit. "But what are YOU doing here? Didn't you have today off? Burning the daylight oil?" what would Ritsuko offer freely?
Getting up with Misato, time to move down to the testing chambers to see how Kirika's progress was. Not looking at Misato, "I've that artificial body thing going on. Figured I'd get prepped for that. Next big thing. Maybe I can get a promotion to head scientist if I do well enough." They waved at the staff that stayed behind. Shigeru got them all to give Misato another cheer as they left the room.
The expected answer, but why the popped collar and the make-up to cover bags under the eyes? Not something one just asked, not if they wanted to be subtle. So Misato opted for another tactic, "How you do that? What even IS an artificial body? We talking robots?" Would she mention Ayanami or would Ritsuko hope Misato didn't know one of the pilots was drug in off hours to do something in the middle of the night.
"Bit of both. Due to cloning laws we can't have actual bodies, would be easier. But we've as close to human bodies as we can with mechanical components. And all I did was write up a few ideas on how to get the fake bodies to link with the pilots. Going to require a lot of sanitation to keep interference down. Might just throw the Fourth Child at this since she's mostly on permanent standby. Having a living body to help would be a great boon," Ritsuko did not come off as joking. Oh and she didn't mention Rei or anything that would explain the off smell.
The drab colors and the echoing sounds of the base were starting to get to Misato. This place suddenly just screamed bad sci-fi movie where everybody was a double agent and nothing was to be trusted. Ritsuko had been her friend for so long, and here she was wobbling on unsteady feet, tired beyond belief, and yet no word as of why. Throwing a joke bone, "Why not have Misono-kun come in as well. We have her on the payroll at the moment, get our money out of her. Can't be using the three main pilots for any side missions like this."
"That isn't actually a bad idea! She's access to the pilots, knows about our security. Wouldn't be a bad thing. Could use those two as a test bed for getting connection between pods. If I can get two people to hear one another on some level, getting a person to flow through the fake body shouldn't be any harder! Might give this serious consideration," Ritsuko had a zeal about her that wasn't scientific, it was a little mad.
No mention of Rei, Misato would have to ask Ayanami later. Better to let Ritsuko think she was still safely concealed from scrutiny for now. They found the test chamber was in a state of madness. Apparently Kirika took the joke of using the test chamber with Shinji as a challenge and now Maya was trying to get the girl out. Yet Kirika sat in Shinji's tube, lad on her lap and using her pillows as earmuffs and looking ready to die. Asuka was mollified and shrieking, and Rei…she watched it all bags under her eyes much like Ritsuko, but Misato could tell Rei was eying Shinji but the why Misato would have to learn.
X-X
In an unused room in the school, Kensuke filmed while trying to keep from drooling. Being Shinji's friend had odd benefits it seemed. Kensuke would hang with Shinji without them of course, but hey why not enjoy the side benefits as well! Right now Eiken was supporting the Occult Clubs membership drive, apparently Kirika had no issues with Cross-Club interactions. So the Eiken and Occult clubs were all in this room doing various activities to try and entice new members. Kensuke and Touji were going to hang out with Shinji after the event, but since they had nothing to do they hung back and watched.
"I am not sure how Gremory-san can look any hotter than she does now. Did you know the occult club had so many girls in it?" Touji gusted. Sitting with his chair spun around so he could rest his chin on the back, Touji rocked back and forth. They were in a back corner, well away from the chatter and rush of people, but had a great view of all of it. The woman in question wore a purple robe complete with sheer veil that showed enough to entice yet hid just the right amount to let the imagination run wild.
Dancing from station to station to get each of the Occult girls and their diverse yet always attractive forms, Kensuke nodded. "Makes sense, girls like that type of thing according to television. Never been my thing. Don't believe in demons and magic and all that. Not a big fan of that guy in that club, he's to much of a horn dog for me. Glad he went off to get supplies. Did you get your face painted?" Kensuke had to chide Touji for the ankh on his cheek.
His chair bounced faster as Touji nodded quickly with a wide smile splitting his face nearly in half. Pointing over at Galko of Eiken, girl had her own face adorned with various alchemical signs, who had a line of mostly boys but a few girls waiting for similar treatment. "I got to sit and stare at Galko-chan for a full five minutes! And man…I think we got girls all wrong man," Touji's exuberance dwindled a little into confusion.
"You falling for that girl? I mean she is crazy attractive. All girls in Eiken, guess the Occult as well, are attractive," Kensuke felt his own confusion set in. While he enjoyed the chat about girls and other 'guy talk' he wasn't really interested at the moment. A fun diversion, but not his real want in life right now. If a girl asked him out he'd take the offer, but Kensuke wasn't really looking for a significant other.
Waving off the notion, Touji stopped his anxious actions and just rested on that back support. "Not what I meant. She is out of my league, and I'm still hoping to talk to the Class Rep about a date," Touji had been more open about his affection for their long time female semi-companion. Sliding his butt back a bit, Touji nodded his head at Shinji who was dutifully taking applications and helping those that needed it in filling them out. "He has a chance if he ever noticed. But that isn't what I was talking about. While Galko-chan was painting my face, she asked me a bunch of random questions. Dumb shit, but stuff I often wondered about girls. Maybe we're not that different," Touji wisely confessed.
Now that wasn't something Kensuke thought of, and it made sense. Guys, well teenagers, tended to think girls were magical creatures that didn't poop, had pillow fights, and just showed up at school looking as they did. Never considered they lived lives like they did full of confusion, wants, and frustrations. "Something to think about…so you going to have Gremory-san read your fortune or have that black haired girl read your tarot?" Kensuke alternated between the two booths.
"That ain't my thing man, and do you see those lines? This thing only has another hour, not even half those people will get through. But you notice Ayanami over by Shinji?" Touji was still on that train. Touji was of the belief that Shinji was in a relationship with more than just Kirika. Kensuke didn't buy it, Shinji wasn't the type to cheat, well Kensuke didn't THINK he was the type. Wrapping Kensuke on the shoulder, "Dude, Kirika-san is talking to one of those girls from the other Eiken Club! Are they going to show up at this too!?"
Having been filming Ayanami handing Shinji another stack of applications, Kensuke did wonder why Rei was here. Girl didn't talk, just sat and read next to Shinji and offered the barest of assistance when asked. But hey, here Touji and he sat doing NOTHING but critique so she was more helpful than they were. Following Touji's command, Kensuke found the illustrious leader of Eiken sequestered in a corner with Kyoko if he remembered the name right. "Its just one, and with time nearly up, maybe they're planning another big event?" Kensuke wondered aloud. Filming the exchange, Kensuke noticed something pass from Kyoko to Kirika, couldn't tell what it was as they tried to hide it.
"Hey Rei-chan! I need you over here for a second. You can handle this alone right, partner!" Kirika's bellow silenced the room for a moment. Nobody tried hitting on Kirika anymore, they just worshipped from afar, well nobody that knew her relationship status. Kirika made it a point to flaunt her partnership as much as possible, and if a foolish would be paramour tried anything further, well Kensuke had a collection of Kirika tossing events.
"What is going on, can you zoom in on it" Touji suddenly was quite interested in Kensuke's camera. The Occult meet-up was momentarily forgotten as the two boys watched Kensuke's tiny screen. The two girls talked at Rei, careful to cover their mouths, not openly but making it look naturally occurring. Kirika put her hand on Rei's shoulder, another concealed transfer of whatever Kyoko gave to Kirika went to Rei. More talking, Kirika was smiling but it wasn't the typical overly zealous one. Patting Rei on the back, Kirika gave a wave to Kyoko who quickly left, and Rei was escorted back to the booth with Shinji. Then Kirika all but enveloped Shinji's head as she used it as a resting place.
When Kirika looked over at him, Kensuke quickly moved to the next stall in the event, some 'potion crafting' station. Did he make it look natural, oh boy he hoped so. Whispering to Touji, "What the heck do you think that was?" He had no idea, but Kensuke was sure it wasn't a natural thing. They caught something on camera that they likely shouldn't have, but he did.
"Maybe she's giving Ayanami some sort of condom? That girl was the freak inventor right? I tell you, moment the door closes Eiken is a big love fest! Well…" Touji's conspiracy theory had more than a few holes in it. The lone guy that came with the Occult Club and the OG Eiken Club had a guy in it. So if Eiken was a harem, Shinji wasn't the lone male participant and that got Touji to change topic. "Illegally downloaded movie or something? What else but a piece of paper or a thumb drive could that have been?" Touji offered.
That or drugs, but Kensuke really doubted the latter. "I don't know, but we can ask Shinji about it after we leave here. Gremory-san did say she wouldn't let him clean up this time," Kensuke chuckled at that event. Shinji had set up most of this room, they offered to help weakly but when Shinji said 'no it's fine' they did homework while he worked. When Meiko came to inspect the room, Shinji had all the proper forms for her, and Rais chased the woman out of the room less a fight happen. Then the coven leader informed the lad that he'd done enough and her club would do tear down. Which was good since the boys did want a hang out day. Catching motion, Kensuke felt fear incarnate begin to fill his heart, Kirika was approaching and with the camera in hand, he hoped his fear was unfounded, "H-hello Kirika-san. Event going well?"
"Perfectly! Got a lot of new potentials for Rais, some might actually stick! And how are you two doing? Thinking you might give it a trial run?" Kirika stood behind both boys. Putting her hand on their inner shoulders, she drummed her fingers lightly but in a friendly manner. Her heat was enormous, her presence intimidating, but to the outside observer she was just being big-ol-friendly Kirika of Eiken.
"N-nah, not my type of thing. Just waiting for it to be over so hang out with Shin-man. Not helping much yourself this time?" Touji was always the braver one between the two. Knowing they saw something they likely shouldn't have, it was walking near a land mine.
Letting go of the boys, Kirika hoisted her own girth with her crossed arms. Crooning her head back, her hair touching the ground, "Eiken is just her to support. Not only does Eiken have our own events, but we're here to assist any club that wants it! So if you're needing aid, just ask my significant other and he'll try to assist you! But it is YOUR event and I will not intervene." Well if they had ever done this before that comment would hold more weight, but for the months Eiken ran the school ragged this was the first co-club event like this one. It was a cover, this whole thing was to throw shade and give Kirika a cover for Kyoko to give her that thing, or so Kensuke was speculating.
Filming Galko put a cute heart shape on a girl's forehead, Kensuke saw the door to the room close. Event was not accepting new entries and those left were the final ones. Good, time to get the heck out of here. Kensuke was all about conspiracy and crazy stuff like that, just as long as he wasn't involved with it. "So Shin-man said you two are having a date this weekend? S-saw your friend from the other Eiken club here, you guys planning another big event?" Kensuke knew not to lie about not seeing them.
"That is the plan! Going to have a real showstopper of a date. About that though, got a question for you two, since you're friends with my guy over there," Kirika leaned over, her chest overing tantalizing and distractingly. Pointing at Galko and Rais, "What do you guys think about being polyamorous?"
Touji wasn't quite on the term, "Uh, you mean liking multiple people? Nothing wrong with that, long as you don't hurt anybody right? Y-you're not thinking about…I mean Shin-man is our friend. So if you want to be with that jerk Gremory-san brought in I'll be all about Shin-man being with Shiraki-san or Ayanami-san."
If Touji could read Kensuke's mind he'd either hemorrhage from the nose or pass out. Dude either didn't notice the whole hand gesture or was in full protect mode on his buddy. "I think if everybody in-involved is alright with it, or if you THINK they'll be alright with it, worth a try. But if the p-partner isn't ready or is…put off maybe don't?" Kensuke hoped he got the right impression here. Was Kirika asking if Shinji would be alright if Kirika brought the other Eiken members into the relationship? Maybe he was totally off his rocker, but that seemed to be what Kirika was hinting at.
"You think my little…my imposing man over their likes Thief-kun or my darling Rei-chan?" Kirika stood up and put her hand to her chest in mock confusion.
Touji spun around, taking the bait, "Y-yeah. With everything going on now and before you all showed, I think so. Ken thinks otherwise, but I'll swear on Ayanami and him being sweet on each other at one point. B-but as Ken says, if people are in on it, I'd not be, but if they are…who would be harmed?" Touji wasn't thinking with all his blood in his brain.
Patting both boy's heads, and then scooping the camera away from Kensuke, Kirika nodded contently. Starting back over to Rais's small tent, "I'll have them get a copy of this so they can post it on their site and get it back to you. And thanks for your input guys." She blew a mock-kiss at them and hugged Rais from behind and gave everybody a show of groping.
"She took my camera and I didn't even realize it until she was halfway across the room," Kensuke was stunned. The question disarmed his fear, making him think of what Kirika really meant, and in that confusion she snaked in and yanked his camera. Whatever he had got on film, it wasn't going to be there when he got the camera back. "You think that question was real or just to throw us off? Cause either way…" Kensuke's hands felt so light without the camera.
Just shaking his head, Touji was still pondering the whole question, "No idea, but man she HAS to be wild in the sack. You think those two are…you know?" Touji was always so fixated on that sex. If Shinji and Kirika WERE having relations, Kensuke doubted Shinji would ever voluntarily tell them anything about it. Standing up as Kirika prodded Rais to cut things just a little short, the last few guys had all been repeat customers that didn't sign up and were just ogling. "Well, we can try and get some info from Shin-man, but doubt he says anything. You ready to go?" Touji already was up and shouldering his satchel.
Joining the pair with a follower in tow, Shinji nervously asked, "I know it was supposed to be us, but mind if Ayanami-san comes with us? She's never been to an arcade and I think she'd like it." Shinji looked back at Ayanami who's hand never left covering the pocket that contained whatever she was given. Was Shinji in on the exchange or was he just a pawn to get Ayanami out of the school?
"Why not, not doing anything another person wouldn't ruin. You alright with some games and junk food, Ayanami-san?" Kensuke didn't really mind. Rei was borderline mute, but she was unique and would get some eyes on them. It felt neat to be the center of attention, something he so rarely got.
Touji had no objections either, so the quartet ventured out to have a bonding day. Color the boys impressed when after just one game of each time, Rei showed a knack for them. Shinji was no match for Ayanami but Touji and Kensuke could put up a challenge and win from time to time, but that was not expected. Fun, they had fun with the girl that had been written off as a social blackhole. Oh she stuck near Shinji, not the type to wander off on her own, but a welcome addition to future outings. When it came time for food, Kensuke didn't realize Ayanami was a vegetarian, so they changed location and was barely an inconvenience. Maybe Touji had a point about those two, was that what Kirika was asking about?
X-X
Shinji wasn't used to feeling giddy, but that was what best summed up this Saturday afternoon. Being smart enough to know when he was out of his depth, Shinji knew to let Kirika set the tone and pace. A lovely distraction from Meiko's confession, and his growing nerves for keeping it a secret. With the date planned, he didn't want to ruin things by slipping that bit of info. They had their talk in the Music Room, yes he did find her attractive and Kirika claimed she did as well. But he was emotionally attracted as well, wasn't that worse? But that was for another day, today was just Kirika and him to enjoy to the fullest.
"Do you believe those guys? They're great fighters but cannot make meat buns to save their lives," Kirika laughed as she ate her forth one. They were making rounds to Kirika's hangouts to walk off lunch. An old woman's house, an upscale apartment, Ayanami's was gone so they skipped that one, an art studio, and lastly a dojo where they all were seemingly afraid of her and wanting her to train them. Best not to think to much about it.
Having been full from lunch, Shinji really didn't eat at any of the stops they made that all provided Kirika something else to eat. Maybe all those calories went to her chest, would explain why she was so thin and yet so fully of jiggle. Not sure how to respond to Kirika having a dojo of followers, "They were very upset when you told them why I was with you. But they seemed nice otherwise. What is next?" They had the whole afternoon and evening left. And while Shinji wasn't needing to, he expected they'd end at her apartment.
Pulling a small bag of cat food out, Kirika covered her face with it bashfully, "You don't dislike cats do you? I know a place they congregate." Odd for her to be skittish, but she was full of diversity and that made Shinji care all the more for her open nature. Grabbing Shinji's hand, she took his silence as permission and they strolled. Chatting about Eiken upcoming events, they walked far longer than Shinji expected. Back near where Ayanami lived, or at least it sounded like it due to the construction sounds. Spreading a bit of food out, "Come out everybody, somebody I want you to meet!"
"Are you sure this is the right place? It seems awfully loud for…" Shinji's question was cut short. From behind pipes, through cracks in fences, and just about everywhere various cats and kittens rushed over. Sitting down on the ground next to Kirika, Shinji took the bold move and leaned against her side. Well that was all it took for her to put an arm around his waist. The cats rushed Kirika and crawled all over her, some pooled in her crossed legs and played with the ribbon on her sweater. Timidly petting one, "They're cute! Do-do you come here often? They seem to love you."
Using her free hand to caress the masses of fur as they went from food to attention and back, "We have something in common. Cats are lonely creatures, until they find somebody they care for. Do you know if a kitten doesn't have human interaction in three weeks it goes feral? But once they like a person, well can't separate them." True to point the cats were all swarming Kirika demanding head pats, scritches, and belly rubs.
Dense to emotion, even Shinji knew that comment demanded a reply. Taking her hand, Shinji did something bold for him and gave her knuckle a soft kiss. "Thank you for taking away my loneliness," cheesy yes, but he meant every syllable. Not dumb enough to think she was referring to him, but really herself, but he wanted her to know she wasn't alone. He didn't feel alone either now, it was strange to realize he had others in his life, close people, not work or semi-friends, but honest companions.
"You can't half-ass something like this, you have to go full bore!" Kirika used that embraced hand. Grabbed Shinji by the neck, a wayward kitten needing direction, and pulled him in for a full sampling. Keeping their mouths shut, wasn't the place for it, they just enjoyed the tender moment amid a chorus of mewing and demanding cats. After her need was temporarily met, "We'll save the rest for later. If-if you're wanting. But for now more time to pamper these babies."
Well her boldness would always overshine his own, and Shinji was far more content that way. So they pet cats and fed them, by the time the bag was nearly gone more than a few of them were climbing on Shinji as they did Kirika, they accepted them as one of their own. Dusting themselves off as a loud engine backfired and the cats scattered, it was time to move to the next place. Knowing Kirika wanted to have some 'private time', Shinji felt that growing fear again. Stupid male fears. She had told him in the Music room he wasn't failing her. But they only went all the way that one time, and then they stopped. For Kirika to just stop something full stop, left Shinji's mind to wander. And they never talked about it.
"So anything YOU want to do? I've been setting the pace and direction, but if you wanted to do anything I'm all about it," Kirika winked. Oh then she gave him a solid hip check that sent him spinning around. As her skirt fluttered up, Shinji was reminded that she oft went sans undergarments as he got a flash of taught rump. Helping him off the ground, keeping his hand in hers, "But if you want ME, going to have to wait till we get to the apartment. I've…something I want to t-try if you DO want that."
Sensing that hesitation again, something unspoken, something hidden, and Shinji took that as he oft did in such cases as something he did wrong. "Only if you want to as well," Shinji was complacent with foreplay, but if she wanted more he'd do his best. Squeezing her hand as concern bubbled up, "I'm not sure I can do-do much, but I'll try." That guy at the Occult/Eiken meet-up, that was likely a guy that didn't have this concern or fear. He exuded confidence and the little time they spent talking, guy asked about all the pervy stuff Shinji did with Kirika…not a great conversation.
Being the judge of character she was, Kirika lead the confused lad towards the shopping arcade, "We talked about this, what's got you so worried?" People gawked at Kirika as she put Shinji in front of her and used him again for a breast support device. But they both liked it, warm and supportive, even if it looked pretty lewd.
"I know you said I was…you know," Shinji didn't agree with the word so didn't want to say it, "But I worry you're being nice. T-that I'm not good enough. I-I really like you, want to make you happy. But if I can't d-do that, won't that be a problem?" Talking about such things was hard for Shinji, why Misato and Kirika teased him so much he bet. It was hard though, talking about his fears and worries, especially to one of the people he cared for most. It was stepping out of his comfort zone, opening himself up for potential hurt. They stepped into a grocery shop, Kirika grabbed a basket and handed it to Shinji.
Finding an isolated aisle, Kirika prodded the lad with knees to the bum, "Alright, no more lying about this. Today from this point on, not that I said anything in jest before, is full truth land. We good with that? If we think the other lied, call them out, and if you DID its punishment game time! Loser has to do anything the other wants. Deal?" Kirika grabbed some spicy hot sauce, waggled it dangerously before Shinji's eyes, and dropped it in the basket.
Kirika had been a bit distant, secretive, since the Occult Club meetup, part of what made Shinji so nervous. Rais's vice president had been there, guy was charismatic and fawned openly over all the club members, made Shinji wonder if Kirika wanted him to be more like him. Nodding to the comment, "I can agree with that. You've been sneaking around, be a chance for me to get some answers out of you." He tried to be threatening but came off goofy so they both laughed.
"Well if you're going THAT far, better get this too," Kirika grabbed some chocolate sauce and added it to the basket. Whatever she was thinking of, well guessing it was going to be a lot of tongue lashing. Adding more random items to the basket, "So…what is making you suddenly so self-conscious? Last time we had some couch time you almost let me taste it." Oh she just HAD to be crass to get Shinji frazzled.
Well it was a fear most teenage males had, add in low self-esteem and only unrealistic points of reference it only made sense. "W-well two fold. I saw how Hyoko-san was acting. Made me think, 'those girls seem to like him, would Kirika-c-chan like me to be that way?'. And as for," Shinji unconsciously look down and realized his trap. If he moved his head, he'd rub against Kirika and she'd know! Crafty woman was always making him second guess things! Since the jig was up he added his bigger fear, "And since we only…you know once. And after that time you were sick, then avoid the topic…makes me think that I did bad. That I'm s-small…Misato-san has been watching a lot of odd shows late at night and…it comes up."
"So Misa-chan has an NTR fetish and got you worried?" Kirika wobbled Shinji back and forth as she laughed. Taking the mostly empty basket (mostly syrups, some fruit, and cream) to the cashier, Kirika paid with a card she kept hidden in her cleavague. Back out in the open, "Ok, I said no lies so…Shin-Shin you're imposing. Not sure how or why your growth went one place first, but you don't have to worry. But let me ask you THIS. Was I to big down there? To flabby, to anything you didn't like? Did you think I worried about that?"
Wait, did she worry about that? "I-never thought about t-that," he hadn't even considered it. That didn't matter to him, what mattered was he was with her, somebody he cared about deeply. Leaning back a little into her, "I was just happy to be with you, guess that is why I worried. Since I do care, I want when we do t-that…for it to make you happy and feel good. It does for me." He had to confess that, didn't make him dirty, that was part of why people did physical acts, right? "M-my question right? I…can't think of anything," his head was warm and light headed with all the odd thoughts in it.
"Changing destination. Lets get back to my place and commence the operation," Kirika increased her pace and flapped on Shinji's head like a drummer. The bag of assorted fluids jostled as they went about their charge. "Since you're passing, oh as for Hyoko-kun please don't be like him, I'll ask you this. You wouldn't mind wearing a b-blindfold today would you? I said you were imposing…would help me relax a bit. You're not porn movie huge, but still unexpected," she softened her tone as she made her rather odd request.
Still reeling at the comment about his little fear, "If you feel better with it. I-I guess I could. But THAT is still off the table. I know you don't, but I feel it demeaning." Shinji confessed his personal opinion on letting Kirika gobble him up. Yes he got aroused watching her eat those foods she did, but that didn't mean he wanted it…well he kinda did but still it was dirty and he'd not want her to. Realizing what he was saying in public, Shinji felt his face go flush and warm up to his ears. Whelp enough talking in public for him, so he let Kirika drone on as they got to her place.
No shoes of Meiko, guess the girls had a talk about this or had an agreement so the girl was gone. "Go into my room and put the mask on, I have to get ready. But leave to door open. Got a few more questions for you. And I'll answer any of yours if you think of any," the girl shoved Shinji away and pranced towards the bathroom.
"This is crazy," Shinji muttered as his chest felt ready to burst. They had already done this once, had numerous other petting sessions, but it still felt so new and intimidating. Finding a very heavy blindfold, Shinji tied it on, "You sure you want to…jump right into this? We could…why DO you want to do THAT so much?" Shinji had to keep his mind about them when they made messes together, as Kirika had an odd fixation on wanting that additional food item.
Her voice was echoing from deep in the apartment, "You can't see me eat my snacks and not think I have an oral fixation. And I didn't say we'd jump RIGHT in, but blindfold please. As for my question." Her voice got louder as she moved closer, and from the meaty slaps on the ground it sounded like she was barefoot. Sounded…off though almost doubled. Just his ears playing tricks on him. From the door, she crooned out, "Would you make love to Meiko-kun if given the opportunity?"
"What?! How could that even…I'd never cheat on you. I know I said…I find her attractive. And I am…emotional attracted. But I love you, I wouldn't betray you like that," Shinji felt suddenly very vulnerable. Unable to see, was this just a big joke? No, Kirika wouldn't do something cruel. But he had to know, "Why would you ask? Have those rumors gotten worse? Our punishment sessions, your fault by the way, are still…what they are." Him seeing a lot of her, her sitting on various parts of him, and them talking about Mari, why she was here, and her original intents. Meiko confessed it all.
A hand pressed down on his shoulder, then another caressed his face, calming. "Never said cheat. If things were different is all. I'll confess that if things with Densuke had been different, I might not have come to this city. I loved him, still do just differently now. But if things had been different, if I had ended up with him…I would have. Now, same question to you, if things had been different," Kirika asked, her hand trailed down his chest to his slacks and struggled with the bindings.
"I-I guess if that was the case. Y-yes, if she was willing. At times I think she l-likes me. S-she did say she of-offered to be considered. So I can't lie about it. If things were different, then y-yes I would. She's…oddly softer than she lets on. Strong, determined, but at times she's a lot like me. But I guess you…you…" Shinji found talking a bit hard as Kirika freed the dragon.
A firm, somewhat sweaty hand started to make some clumsy gyrations, "Now, be honest, what if we brought her into our little love nest? Doing the math here, and I think you have enough affection to spare. Told you I found her attractive, and she is like you so guess that is why I like teasing her. If she'd be game, want to try? You, me, her…" Kirika said a few other things but was to soft to hear.
The increased sweatiness of that hand really accelerate the motion, "I can't see her agreeing to that. And I don't see how it could work…but I feel bad for her. She's lovely…mean lonely here, her friend gone. I…we like her. If she'd…want to try?" This was NOT the place to be talking about another woman, but Kirika was going to be Kirika and a captive club member was ripe for exploitation.
"Alright, enough talk…my turn, lay down," Kirika pushed Shinji back down. Climbing over him, pressing him down with…she felt a bit wider down below. Her hips were…her bum was…no just the lack of eyes. But boy she was dribbling on him as she sat firmly upon him, so he lavished her with her favorite attention. Oh she grunted, off sounding like she had something in her mouth, but she wiggled in appreciation.
A few minutes of tenderly and more vigorously, Kirika like when he alternated, she collapsed in atop him. Sandwiching his rather vigorous problem, again Shinji couldn't help but think her chest felt just a tad smaller. "R-ready to go? I-I'll guide you," she was rasping for breath, yeah just Shinji being sensory deprived.
"Are you alright, you sound a bit off. We can t-take a break if you want," Shinji offered. He heard a small grunt of yes, but Kirika pressed up against him. A hand gently guided him, and…well he was human. "Should I go…last time I thought…but…this is hard with the blindfold," Shinji needed to get over his squeamish talking.
After another small grunt of confusion, Kirika however "Just go for it. I'm ready this time. Thanks for…doing this." Well she told him what she wanted, so in his hormonal intoxication. So he did as she requested. It felt…different. Sure they only did this once before, but he remembered that fondly. But this just didn't feel the same. No matter, he did what he could to make things good for both of them.
Well she bucked, made those grunting sounds, but then she'd encourage him onward. Time moved on, and he kept doing his best. Various positions, shifting to more foreplay on her wants, sometimes it felt like he remembered, but then again it would be off a bit. Then after time stopped mattering, he lay on his side, her snuggling against him, "I'm…going to go shower…you can take the blindfold off after I leave the room…alright?" she sounded nearly ready to pass out herself.
Laying on his back, drained of all energy, Shinji contemplated ordering supper as he didn't want to cook. Hearing the door close, he took his blindfold off and took in the state of the room. It was a sty, going have her sleep at his place and clean this up in the morning. "This was an odd day, but I think things are going to be different now," Shinji murmured as he drifted off into a slow doze. And those glasses he saw on the floor must have been left there before he showed up and he just missed them.
X-X
Moving about the noisy apartment, Asuka was annoyed but trying to make the best of it. A small party for Misato's promotion was going on, but only Hikari was among her friends here. Shinji's nerd friends and his 'girlfriend' where here, a bunch of Misato's work friends (including Asuka's target of Kaji), and thankfully only one of the Eiken members a girl named Chiharu Shinonome. Shinji had done most of the cooking and prep-work with Chiharu assisting when she showed up. Asuka was content to watch and throw wads of tissue at Kirika who had crashed on the couch.
"No Meiko-san today?" Hikari asked as she sat on the chair closest to Asuka on the couch. As people moved about to give Misato their congratulations or get more refreshments seating alternated. Hikari had brought a small gift for Misato and some food, not as if Hikari and Misato were best buddies.
Her first plate of food sat mostly untouched on her lap, but Asuka moved it around anxiously. Shaking her head, "No, the Amazon said she came down with something yesterday. She even stayed the night to avoid catching it herself. Betting its just a big mess she made and making Meiko clean it up. Going to go check on her soon. If I don't Idiot over there will." Asuka glared at Kirika and Shinji across the room talking to the idiot duo.
Chomping on the tasty food, Hikari nodded, "He's a nice guy like that. But I think Meiko-san would like that. With those rumors, maybe she DOES like him or something." Looking about the room, Hikari's eyes fell on the adults, a long haired man, one with glasses, a mousy girl, a faux blond, and somebody that needed a shave. Hikari shied away from them even though they were quite a distance away. "You're not hungry? Those two made some nice food."
"Its all an act. Meiko is too good for a broken in male like that. But with the Amazon able to actually pilot now, doubting she'll keep it up. Until that little fake relationship fails the Amazon isn't going anywhere. One big scare in battle she'll turn tail and run. Then Meiko…" Asuka stirred her plate about more. Just not hungry, to much on her mind to want to just gobble up treats. Meiko was a great person, deserved to have more than just a wet rat like Shinji. Asuka wasn't wanting her to leave, but without the need to drive Kirika away Meiko would leave. That would stink, but that was Asuka's life. The people she liked left, just what life was.
Sipping down some of her cup, Hikari shrugged just a little, "Kirika-san doesn't seem the turn and run type, but with the Angels anybody could have a moment." Leaning across the armrest of the chair, not wanting other people to hear, "What makes you think their relationship is fake? They look happy." Girl really enjoyed her gossip when allowed.
Well nothing really, last night had been annoyingly sappy to watch. Kirika stayed over due to the whole 'Meiko needs to recover', so Asuka got to watch them be all flirty. Until Misato got back, Kirika just sort of sponged on couch while Shinji doted for her as if she was some sort of queen! It was strange to see Kirika without that typical energy she had, girl was practically liquid. But once Misato got there, Kirika perked up a little and the two teased Shinji (and her on the rare occasion). When it was time to sleep, Misato was adamant that SOMEBODY sleep on a futon in the living room. Shinji being the doormat he was took that up. But Asuka was pretty sure when she hit the bathroom during the night she heard Kirika out there with him.
Not going to tell all of THAT to Hikari however, so Asuka opted for, "It's all surface level stuff. Like most of the couples in class. Nothing real about it, they like each other now. But they have nothing in common, and once things get tough she'll split." What she saw anyway, Shinji would latch on to just about anybody and Kirika was doing things for a laugh. Once a new guy showed up, she'd toss Shinji and move on. Then Asuka would have to pick up the pieces of the broken kids psyche.
"If you think so," Hikari did not sound convinced. Seeing Chiharu waving over at them, Hikari waved back and quickly chewed. "Want to go over and talk to them? Shinonome-kun is very sweet. But she's not to good with guys, so leaving her with Touji and Kensuke isn't very nice," getting up already Hikari lingered long enough for Asuka to make her choice.
Putting her plate on the table, Asuka just crossed her arms, "Not right now. Waiting to get a chance to talk to Kaji-san alone. Misato is monopolizing his time now, but the moment she stops being a shameless flirt I'm going to save him." That was the truth, totally not intimidated by the buxom and baby faced girl. Guys always fawned for the dumb attractive girls, but give her some spirit and backbone they ran away. Where was Kirika and Shinji anyway? Did they sneak off to be pervs or something again?
"Well if you change your mind head over. Not fair for you to be alone at a party," Hikari gave Asuka's shoulder a small pat then headed over to the other teens. Chiharu quickly accepted Hikari into the mix, glad to have somebody else to take the eager boys attention.
Crossing her legs, Asuka just sat there, alone at the party, and waited for her chance. Touji and Kensuke were fawning over the new girl, Kaji was blinded by Misato, and Shinji was being led by his stupid meat rod. Why must everybody around her be so stupid, how can they not see how SHE was superior to…why can't they be smarter about their choices! Maybe she should sneak some of the booze the adults were chugging, make this stupid party go faster.
Plopping her rather impressive assets atop Asuka's head, Kirika leaned against the girl from behind the couch. "Aren't you being a social butterfly. Could let us use the couch too. We could play some cards, a video game, or watch a movie. Be better than fuming over here on your own," Kirika offered. Flipping over the couch, Asuka got a glimpse of the truth about if Kirika wore panty. Girl shaved down there after all, guess the Plugsuit curse claimed another.
"Don't sit so close to me," Asuka shoved Kirika away from her, Asuka didn't want the gargantuan woman so close to her. Scanning the room, "I don't see the Idiot around. You drain him like the succubus you are and leave him behind somewhere?" Wouldn't put it past the girl, all that food she sucked down, she had to be using that against idiot to keep him in line. Re-crossing her arms, Asuka pouted, "If Meiko was here we could do something. With you here, they'd want to do something gross and you'd be all about it."
Fishing something out of her pocket, Kirika just smiled and bounced it off Asuka's head. Holding her hands up in mock defeat, "If he'd let me I'd be all about it. But he's a giver and not a taker. But I am going to work on that. But if you're going to be a wet blanket at this party. How about taking that to Meiko with some food. She's still on the mend I'm betting. Took me a few to get back to…" Kirika started scratching at her cheek and looked away from Asuka.
Collecting the thumb drive, Asuka looked at it and back at Kirika, "This isn't something dirty is it? Knowing you it could be anything." But the idea of getting some air sounded great right now. Getting off the couch, Asuka tossed the drive back and forth.
"No that is another drive," Kirika winked back at Asuka.
Not wanting to know anything else about this stupid joke, Asuka hurriedly left the room for the kitchen. Where Shinji had the trays of food ready for the guests, Asuka was going load up to plates and eat over with Meiko. Maybe they could do something while the party went on, sick or no Meiko would be better company. But when she got to the kitchen, she found Shinji already there, oh…so that is where he went. "What are you doing in here? Shouldn't you be playing butler to everybody out there?" Asuka hip checked Shinji away from the trays.
"I was going to take this over to Shiraki-san. Not fair that we eat and she doesn't have any," Shinji loaded a plate with a little of everything. Grabbing two root beers cans, Shinji paused, "They were going to play some games, want to join us?" Using his foot to shut the door, he started to fall forward, but Asuka caught him and gave him a small push back.
Stupid, he shouldn't be so open to girls like this, idiot. Snagging the plate and cans from him, Asuka wiggled her hips, "Your Amazon gave me a flash drive to give to her, so I'll take these over. She's my friend, not my torturer like she is for you. And if you NEED me to play with you guys, I'll be back after I make sure she's alright." Fleeing before Shinji could ask for the drive himself, Asuka's face was just a little to warm. Needed some air, need to get away from this stupid party. Snagging Kirika's door key on the counter, Asuka paused as she heard Kaji and Misato laughing…stupid.
Making her way to the shared apartment, Asuka let herself in. Quiet, the apartment was super quiet for how early it was. "Meiko, I've got some food and drinks for you. You awake?" Asuka called out as she moved deeper into the apartment. The television was off, the only light on was the one over the stove casting a sick yellow light. Putting the food on the table, and drinks in the fridge…guess Shinji didn't need to give those cans as the fridge was stocked with them!
"You alright?" Asuka called out again as she stalked the apartment. Not in the living room, the bathroom was empty, so Asuka went to the last place she expected to find the girl her rather bare room. Inside that room, with its exercise equipment, computer, bed, and nothing else…Asuka saw a lump on the bed. Moving as quietly as she could, Asuka snuck closer to Meiko just in case she was sick and sleeping. Standing over Meiko, odd to see her without glasses on, Asuka saw Meiko was sleeping quite soundly, nearly radiant actually. Guess there wasn't going to be any escape from that dumb party.
Taking the drive from her pocket, Asuka went to Meiko's desk and nearly dropped in. Two pictures were on Meiko's desk, one of a girl Asuka didn't know and the other was a bad candid of Shinji. Could she? Could Meiko actually? No, it was just to keep up appearances! If Shinji snuck in here and saw this he'd think Meiko cared, it was all for the act, to drive Kirika away in the end! Writing a small note about the drive and where it came from, Asuka left Meiko to her rest.
"Now what about the Amazon, doubt SHE has any proof of their stupid relationship!" Asuka brazenly went into Kirika's room. When she got in, what instantly hit her was the smell of cleaning products. Room was far cleaner than Asuka expected, almost as if it was cleaned today! Now this room felt lived in, where Meiko's reminded Asuka of Shinji's room. Random stuff was stacked or displayed all over. Books, manga, and various decorations were prominently on display. Pictures of the old and new Eiken club events, a rather lovely picture of Chiharu and some guy, and then one of Shinji. Stupid itch was back, dust in her eye.
Snooping about the room, Asuka wanted to find some dirt on the girl that could be used. Finding some very interesting technology, Asuka's heat rose as the idea of what it was used for got Asuka's imagination going. Pervert, Kirika and whoever made those stupid things! She totally didn't sneak one out. On Kirika's desk though was Kensuke's camera? Why did Kirika have that? Well, she didn't have time to watch what Kirika recorded NOW, but…
Taking out the memory card, she spotted a few others on the desk, but opted to keep the one that was in the camera. Maybe Meiko could use something recorded to some good! Swiping a shirt…of course Shinji had a shirt over here! Bet they were doing nasty stuff here, at least the shirt was clean. Asuka wrapped up her pilfered objects, and returned to the party, Meiko not once waking.
"Did they even notice me gone?" Asuka wondered as she got back…only to see Shinji putting his shoes on. "What? Coming to look for me?" Asuka hated how she knew he was and how it made her feel giddy.
Stopping his action, Shinji let his shoes fall back off. With a small half laugh, "Was getting worried. With how Kirika-san painted things, was worried you found Meiko-san in a state and might need help. Things alright over there? Is that my…" Oh how is face went red, caught in the act almost!
Waving the shirt, Asuka bonked Shinji on the head with it, had to do something to keep him from looking at her. Trying to sound annoyed, "She's fine, sleeping. So I had to write a note for her. And yeah, I found this over there. Not going to tell Misato about it, I'll go throw this in my room for now. Look odd if I throw it in yours. So what did I miss?" Asuka kicked her shoes off and felt Shinji following behind her.
Party was still in full swing, only now Asuka lost her couch refuge as the other teens were there. A karaoke machine was set up and the new girl was making the room fawn for her. Even Kaji was eying the tit heavy pair sharing a duet. Jerk, why wouldn't he look at HER like that?
"They set that up, and those who aren't singing have some cards out. Want to play with us?" Shinji spelled out the obvious. He was close behind, but not in arms reach, to much a coward to impose on anybody. From what Asuka saw, Kirika was the one that forced all the physical aspects of the relationship. He was so neutered, Asuka wondered if they'd do anything other than hold hands for a year if left to him!
At her door, she felt the pang of jealousy rise again, "I will, but have to check my computer real quick. So I'll be in the next hand. Now get over there and keep Misato from assaulting Kaji-san!" With one hand, Asuka spun Shinji about and gave his bum a solid push with her foot. Huh, that was firm, guess that working out had an effect on his physique.
Shutting her door, locking it with her custom made hunk of wood, Asuka didn't want the bozo to spy. Hearing the party outside, anger spiked. It wasn't her fault! It was theirs! Hiding the borrowed device, she unlocked her computer and put the memory card into her reader. "Now what did she take that geeks camera for?" Asuka copied the video to her laptop. She'd sneak back over to Meiko's place and put the card back before anybody noticed.
Curiosity getting the better of her, Asuka just had to take a sneak peek at the file before joining the party. Turning down her sound, she started it and…was that? Did Kirika actually film…why was he wearing a blind fold?! A knock on the door got her to quickly shut the video off. She'd have to watch it later…but what the hell was that? Sure Asuka saw the them going at it that one time, but this was…she wasn't sure. Joining the group, after getting a drink and spiking it herself. Asuka needed some mental bleach. And she did sneak back to Meiko's as the party ended and Shinji cleaned up and Kirika and Misato crashed. Then Asuka watched the video in its entirety.
X-X
Notes
Plan is two more chapters to end this. It was a silly idea brought up by some old images of Kirika and Shinji and some talking in discord that sounded fun. Thinking a more 'serious' story next. Hope you have a good one
Later
Mercaba