Chapter 8: Hibiscus

Several days later, Cagalli received an urgent call from her father, imploring her immediate return to Orb. The tension gripping their nation demanded a political marriage to quell unrest and secure stability. As she sat in her dimly lit apartment, the weight of her father's words echoed in her mind. The responsibilities that awaited her felt like heavy chains, binding her to a fate not entirely of her choosing.

She thought about how stupid political marriages were. Why don't they just sign agreements rather than place their children in uncertain situations for the so-called peace?

Her gaze lingered on the bucket list laid out before her, each item representing a piece of herself she feared would be lost once duty called. Enhancing her piloting skills was not merely a personal hobby but a means to assert her competence in a world dominated by strategic maneuvers and political gamesmanship. The desire to explore the world beyond Orb's borders stemmed not just from curiosity but from a deep-seated yearning to connect with people on a human level, far removed from the formalities of diplomacy.

And then there was the third item, perhaps the most daring of all—trying a kink. It was a secret desire she had harboured quietly, inspired by a novel that had opened her eyes to the complexities of intimacy beyond the confines of tradition. The thought of indulging in such unconventional passions both exhilarated and frightened her, yet it represented a rebellion against the constraints imposed by her status.

Now, as she awaited Shura's arrival, she couldn't help but wonder how he would react to the news of her impending return to Orb and the arranged marriage that awaited her.

The sound of footsteps outside drew her attention, and she rose to greet Shura with a bittersweet smile. He entered with a casual grace, carrying a box of beers and a reassuring presence that eased the tension in her shoulders.

"Looks like someone feels like getting drunk tonight?" Cagalli greeted him playfully, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness that she couldn't quite conceal.

"It's been a while since we started drinking at your place," Shura replied, his eyes reflecting a mixture of concern and understanding.

They settled into their familiar routine, retreating to the small garden outside her flat where the air was filled with the fragrance of Japanese bamboo and the soft rustling of leaves. The lone hibiscus flower stood out against the backdrop, its vibrant petals illuminated by the moonlight.

"I didn't know hibiscus could thrive here," Shura remarked, breaking the silence as they sat down at the small round table.

"Neither did I. It's a reminder that resilient ones can flourish even in unexpected places," Cagalli replied wistfully, taking a sip of her beer.

The conversation flowed effortlessly between them, weaving between lighthearted banter and moments of quiet introspection. As the night wore on and the empty bottles accumulated between them, Shura sensed something about Cagalli. Her vulnerability was a rare sight, one that tugged at his heart in ways he struggled to articulate.

"Father called," Cagalli finally began, her voice betraying a trace of sadness. "He mentioned arranging a marriage."

Shura's expression darkened slightly, his concern deepening at the mention of Yuna. "To one of the noble houses of Orb," he acknowledged quietly.

"Yes, probably to Yuna of House Seiran," Cagalli confirmed with resignation. "But let's not dwell on that tonight. I called you here to escape, to forget for just a little while."

"But Cagalli, don't we need to discuss it?" Shura asked.

Cagalli nodded sadly. "This is it. I knew when my father was being serious."

"So you're leaving Ghent, when?"

"Don't know. He didn't say anything about it. Who knows, tomorrow, the next day," Cagalli answered. "So, let's drop the topic that is out of our hands now. Can we talk about other things?"

Shura agreed. They toasted on their friendship and the moments they had shared, their laughter mingling with the gentle rustling of leaves overhead. For a fleeting instant, time seemed to stand still—a sanctuary of warmth.

But as the night drew to a close and the last of the beers were almost emptied, Cagalli's gaze grew distant. "I know I can only postpone my father's wishes for so long," she murmured, her voice tinged with melancholy. "Do you think I'm like the hibiscus?"

"What do you mean?" Shura inquired.

"It's the only one that survived from the seeds I brought from Orb. It's trying to thrive in a foreign place," she explained wistfully.

"Yeah, you will always be resilient! You did great here in Ghent. Living a life of less comfort and I am confident you'll do better back in Orb." Shura nodded.

"A one-bedroom flat with a balcony and a garden. How is that simple?" she asked.

"Less comfort," Shura corrected, "but certain things cannot be overlooked. You are still a princess and security is topmost. But other than the flat, didn't you do everything by yourself? Cooking-" Shura laughed.

Cagalli punched him lightly, "Hey, don't spoil the good part."

"Well, it's nice to see the smile on your face. Well, except for cooking you do most of the cleaning. And also work your ass to earn an income," Shura comforted.

"Hmmm... You got me there. You know what?" Cagalli paused, "Before I return to Orb, I want to tick one more item off my bucket list," Cagalli said, her speech slightly slurred from the alcohol.

Shura raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You already did."

"But I added one, look," she handed him her phone with the list displayed. The list was concise, but the title was left incomplete:

My list before I-

1. Enhance piloting skills

2. Explore the world

3. Try a kink

Shura's eyes widened as he read aloud, "What's a kink? Like swimming in the bends of a river?"

Cagalli chuckled, her laughter effervescent. "You're adorable, Shura," she teased, playfully poking his finger before whispering, "It's unconventional sexual practices."

Shura blushed deeply, his breath catching in his throat, his mind racing to comprehend her confession. He had always sensed a smoldering intensity within Cagalli, a fierce determination to embrace life on her own terms. And now, as she laid bare her desires before him, he found himself grappling with emotions he had long suppressed. "Cagalli!"

"Come on, tell me you're not still a virgin?" she teased further. "Most guys our age have at least experimented," she said between hiccups.

"I know what you mean, but I'm just not interested right now," Shura admitted shyly.

"I know, you haven't found 'THE' one," Cagalli replied warmly. "Keep my secret though. You're my best friend, that's why I told you."

Shura listened intently, his heart racing with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. He was taken aback by her openness, but every time she called him best friend, he twinged.

"Well, it's more of a fantasy for me. And if you read about it, it's perfectly safe when done consensually and in a trusting environment," she explained.

Shura gazed at her, unsure how to respond.

"But for now, I just want to visit a museum that showcases these preferences," Cagalli continued.

"You want to go to a museum? More importantly, there's a museum like that?" Shura chuckled nervously. "What if the public finds out? You're still a prince—" Shura started, but Cagalli interrupted.

"Shh, if you don't want to come with me, I'll find someone else. Remember Alex?" she said, taking a sip of her beer.

"Alex, the one from the brawl?" Shura recalled.

Cagalli nodded mischievously. "Let me share another secret," she grinned.

Shura tensed, unsure where the conversation was headed, but he remained quiet.

"I was actually reading a book about kinks, you know, BDSM stuff... Bondage, Discipline, and all those things," Cagalli confessed. "Then I accidentally bumped into these guys who started making fun of my book. I hate when people mock things they don't understand," she explained.

"And what does this have to do with Alex?" Shura wondered.

"Well, I told you he got dragged into the fight. One of the guys accidentally hit him in the head with the book when they were tossing it around. So, he threw it back at one of them and hit one guy square in the face," Cagalli chuckled. "Long story short, after I patched him up, I found him reading the book. He seemed intrigued."

"And?" Shura pressed.

"We talked. He had almost the same reaction as you, but yours is just too cute," Cagalli teased. "He was more cautious, but he didn't make any judgement."

"Maybe because he is a man. Don't trust him too much, he might have ulterior motives," Shura cautioned.

"You're a man too and yours is just so awkwardly cute," Cagalli said.

"I honestly don't know how to react, but please, be cautious against that Alex," Shura repeated.

You're overthinking it. I just invited him to the museum once, and he declined. But recently, we've been exchanging messages about this topic, sharing materials, and occasionally meeting up," Cagalli explained. "It's just casual chats. Sometimes we discuss world affairs and other stuff. I felt a connection the first time we met. I realize now that we understand each other in our own way. I mean, you and I understand each other too… but… he is also cute," she admitted with a smile.

Shura struggled to process this revelation. How had this happened without him noticing? He had been watching her all this time.

"When did you start meeting him? Why didn't you tell Kisaka and me," Shura replied finally.

"I think Kisaka knows. Sometimes I see him lingering around us..." she hiccupped again, "hkk... It's not like I'm going to ask him to be my boyfriend. I don't want to complicate things with my father... hkk.. but... I really want to explore this topic, since you're not joining me—"

"I will! I'll join you," Shura interrupted immediately.

"That's quick. But remember, the more the merrier. It's just for a visit," Cagalli said, already dialling a number on her phone. Shura watched in shock as she made the call.

"Hello?" came the slightly delayed answer from the other end, indicating it was late.

"Hey Alex, about the... museum we talked about before... uhmm... care to join me?" she asked abruptly.

"Huh?... Yula? … Are you okay? Why are you calling at this hour?" came the concerned response.

"Is that a yes or a no?" Cagalli pressed.

"Yes, but where are you? I'm worried. You sounded a bit drunk," Athrun said.

"No worries, I'm at home having drinks with my best friend. Don't go back on your.. hkk... word, okay? Talk to you tomorrow. Goodnight!" Cagalli ended the call decisively.

Shura was left stunned.

"What did you just do? You're tipsy," he said, trying to make sense of her actions.

"Huh, I'm not even on my sixth bottle. I know what I'm doing," Cagalli replied confidently.

Shura looked at her, unconvinced.

"Seriously. I will remember all our conversations. And look, we are just on our sixth bottle, the fact that I could count in means I am okay. I feel a little lightheaded, but not to the point that I don't know what I am doing," Cagalli explained.

"I doubt it," Shura countered.

Cagalli dismissed him. "So, now that I've spilt one secret, how about you tell me one?" Cagalli challenged.

"Are we sharing secrets now?" Shura asked, flustered.

"Yes.. hkk.. right now," Cagalli replied with a mischievous grin. "Come on, Shura. I'll miss these drinking sessions once I'm back. Can't we just get drunk and share secrets, like normal teenagers?"

Shura hesitated, unsure of how to respond. He felt a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. Cagalli's openness both intrigued and unnerved him.

"Okay… " Shura thought hard. Maybe, this would be his opening. Things are getting out of hand now. He misjudged the situation with Athrun and now he finds that she is seeing Alex under his nose. Maybe, it's time to step up his game.

"Can I… can I... "

"Come on, blurt it out," Cagalli encouraged, looking at him as her eyelids started to fall.

"Can I ki- kiss... you?" Shura blurted out nervously.

"Huh? Kiss me... hkk? Is that a secret? Fantasizing about kissing a tipsy girl? I'm not drunk," Cagalli teased.

"Don't bother. You're clearly on your limit," Shura replied. He expected it as much.

"Huh.. what are you saying? I was the one who asked the question, so I will be the one to decide..."

"Don't push yourself Cagalli, no pressure," Shura answered.

"Tonight, there are no limits. Besides, my first kiss was already stolen, by you know who... bastard!" her voice raised but then softened, "so this will just be a friendly kiss, right?" She closed her eyes expectantly without waiting for a reply.

Shura felt his heart race with nervousness as he leaned in. He backed out at the last moment.

Cagalli opened her eyes. "Don't be shy. It's going to be a fond memory to look back to," she said and closed her eyes once more.

Shura nodded. He kissed her gently at first, the moment fraught with both hesitation and longing. Gradually, he deepened the kiss with a tentative touch of tongue, his mind swimming with the intensity of the moment.

Cagalli opened her eyes, pulling back slightly. "You actually used tongue," she whispered, surprise evident in her voice. The alcohol has now started to go into her head. She felt sleepy. Her smile was gentle, devoid of any malice. "Hmm, silly boy. Are you fantasizing about a girl or something? Looks like you're the one who's a bit tipsy," she teased lightly.

Shura moved back awkwardly, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I… um…"

"No, it's fine. You're a good kisser! How did it feel?" Cagalli asked, studying his reaction closely.

Shura met her gaze, his thoughts racing. He struggled to find the right words, unsure of how to navigate their friendship and the newfound tension between them. Or was it only him?

"Good, I guess," he finally admitted honestly, his voice soft. "For a first kiss.."

"What? Speak louder," Cagalli urged.

Shura just let out a nervous laugh.

"Well, try finding a real...hkk... girlfriend soon. You will have one less girl to worry about... about... once I'm back in Orb. You know I'll miss... miss you. Come here," Cagalli said warmly, pulling him into a tight hug and then her tone became serious. "My father will come for me soon, I just know it," she murmured sleepily and then finally went to sleep on his shoulder.

Shura held her close, basked in her warmth and the smell of alcohol. Absorbing the weight of her words and the sincerity in her embrace. As Cagalli leaned on him, drifting towards deeper sleep eventually, he gently lifted her in his arms and carefully placed her in bed. He removed her shoes and pulled a blanket over her, ensuring she was comfortable before quietly leaving the room.

Returning to the garden, Shura cleaned up their discarded glasses and plates, arranging everything neatly. He placed Cagalli's phone carefully on the table and set a glass of water within her reach on the bedside table. Sitting on the cool grass, he watched the tranquil night sky, a swirl of emotions stirring inside him.

"What am I doing?" he wondered aloud, his voice barely above a whisper. He knew that once Cagalli returned to Orb, moments like this might never happen again. His feelings for her pressed heavily on his heart. He cared deeply for Cagalli, enough to wish for her happiness and freedom from the constraints of her impending marriage. Yet, in a city far from home, he felt powerless to change their circumstances. For the moment, his worries about the boys surrounding Cagalli seemed less pressing compared to what lay ahead.

Taking a deep breath, Shura returned to his beer, the taste bittersweet on his tongue. He touched his lips, still amazed at what Cagalli tasted like, the memory of their kiss lingering vividly in his mind. He wondered what path he should take—whether to continue as her trusted best friend or to venture into uncharted territory and pursue a romantic relationship with her. Each option held its own risks and uncertainties.

As he stared up at the starlit sky, Shura mulled over their friendship. He valued their bond deeply, cherishing the moments they shared and the trust they had built over the years. But now, with Cagalli's departure looming, he questioned whether staying in the safe confines of friendship would suffice.

"Maybe it's time to take a leap," Shura murmured to himself, the words barely audible over the gentle rustling of leaves. He knew that whatever path he chose, it would shape their future in ways he couldn't yet foresee.