Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/4851581.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      M/M, Multi
  Fandom:
      弱虫ペダル_|_Yowamushi_Pedal
  Relationship:
      Aoyagi_Hajime/Teshima_Junta, Aoyagi_Hajime/Kaburagi_Issa, Doubashi
      Masakiyo/Kaburagi_Issa
  Character:
      Teshima_Junta, Aoyagi_Hajime, Kaburagi_Issa, Doubashi_Masakiyo
  Additional Tags:
      POV_First_Person, Porn_With_Plot, Angst_and_Fluff_and_Smut, Manga
      Spoilers
  Series:
      Part 1 of Oh..._(the_series)
  Stats:
      Published: 2015-09-22 Completed: 2015-11-14 Chapters: 16/16 Words: 47330
****** Oh boy... ******
by Vashiekk
Summary
     (Completed!) It's after the Inter-High, but there's still another
     race.
Notes
     (( Kaburagi's Pov~ ))
***** Oh boy, it begins... *****
The winds are calm as the summer nears it's end. Late August, nothing could be
hotter. Easily 93 degrees (34 C) outside, that's not counting the heat rising
from the asphalt. Tomorrow holds the Sprinter's Dash here in Chiba and what a
scorcher it is. Hopefully the next day will be better. Today is the “training”
portion before the actual thing, where the racers can adjust to the course.
Even in the shade, sweat drenches my entire form. Right now, I'm taking an
interval after lapping the course three times around. Ten times takes place
tomorrow to determine the winner. Luckily I already know the course pretty well
due to a few races back in my middle school years. I would think after the
Inter-High this would be cake, but my body still aches. What a rush. Captain
and Aoyagi-san have accompanied me here before they fall to the distractions
that come with graduating. Aoyagi-san plans to be in the race, of course, but
Captain? Moral support I can only assume, he's not much of a sprinter to begin
with. Those two have always been close. Which... bothers me.
I lay against a nearby tree as I think over those two. Both are strong in their
own aspects. Captain never gives up, no matter how hard the situation, while
Aoyagi-san runs on pure strength and determination. The trust between them is
something I envy. Even me and Danchiku haven't reached that level of bonding.
The synching... the complete trust of each others moves. I've always wondered
what drives this “team two” to be at such a level. Maybe someday... me and
Danchiku will be there. I sip casually from my water bottle when, speak of the
devil, Aoyagi-san approaches me.
“Taking an interval?” I question to him after gulping. Sweat drenches his whole
body, blonde locks stuck to his forehead. Tanned skin is flushed with red as he
huffs, plopping to the ground nearby me. He nods softly, a hand motioning for
my bottle. It takes a moment to realize what he wants. “Ah, the bottle! Here!”
I pass it off to him. He doesn't hesitate to snatch it away, chugging down the
remains. I watch in silence, feeling more warmth raise to my face. Sweat beads
and rolls down his jawline and neck, meeting and soaking into his jersey. My
eyes wonder down his form. I've envied those legs of his for a while now, so
much strength and structure. Seeing them work during the Inter-High didn't help
any. My eyes lock onto those strong muscles, watching them shift and relax as
he drinks. I don't like to admit someone is stronger than me... hell, I know I
can beat him! But... those...
I quickly wipe away at my face, staring off back towards the race course. I
shouldn't be looking at someone with so much admiration. The SS has taught me
better than that! I'm only admitting to myself I'm weak, or... Or something
else. I can't put into exact words for what I feel towards Aoyagi-san, and
Captain too. Envy? No, I know I can be better than those third-years....
something else. My thoughts are interrupted as I feel something press to my
shoulder.
“Thank you,” Aoyagi says in that mono-tone he always has. I look back to see
the bottle against me, grinning happily as I take it back.
“Ah, no problem! Don't need you that exhausted before a race!” I exclaim while
shaking it about, “It's a single race, of course, but I want you at tip-top
shape for tomorrow. I want you to be at one hundred percent when I beat you!” I
toss it off towards my bike, looking to him with that goofy grin. I must look
like a complete idiot. I know my face is completely red at this point, eyes
barely able to keep focus on him. A faint smile comes to his thin lips as he
nods once again. I wish I was like Captain, able to understand everything he
does. My lips open to keep speaking, but are rudely interrupted by a loud,
intimidating voice.
“Ha! You two are here?! More easy foes to crush!” My head cants to the source,
brows furrowing when our eyes meet. That bastard stands with such confidence,
chest high and mighty. Of all people to be here.... “Orange and little Bambi-
chan... thought I gave you two a lesson during the Inter-High. Are both your
brains that small?!”
“Doubashi....” I growl to myself. Is this guy serious?! What a ballsy move
talking to us like this after the Inter-High. Sure, he took the first
sprinter's tags, but that doesn't mean shit. My teeth grit as I stand to my
feet. “You damned Pig! Why the hell are you here?!” My voice echoes through the
mostly empty area. I don't care how loud I am. This person has tormented us
both enough; I just want to make my point.
“Pssh! It's a sprinter's race! Why wouldn't I be here?” he booms as he takes a
step forward towards us. I look to Aoyagi-san to see his same stoic look, not
phased. I really shouldn’t expect more from him. Although, he does surprise me
when he stands with a low growl, hateful eyes falling to him. The same distaste
for him is felt. This pressure... Aoyagi-san... you hate him as much as I do.
Being focused on him, I don't see the blow to my shoulder coming. It's a solid
hit, and I fall to the ground, smacking my head against the tree on the way
down. The blow dazes me and my vision blurs a bit. “Get out of the way!” His
disgusting voice rings through my head. I blink and watch as he moves towards
Aoyagi-san.
“Bambi-chan... it's been so long. You look more handsome than ever...” What?!
My eyes squint to see his hand cup under Aoyagi-san's chin, which makes his
eyes go wide. Aoyagi-san stands straight in shock, lips parting as he breaths
out heavily. “Doing all that training without me watching? Tch. I'd love to see
those beautiful legs move while drenched in sweat. Cute little Bambi-chan....”
His other hand claps at Aoyagi-san's inter thigh, making a gasp escape his
lips. Doubashi leans down to plant a kiss directory to his cheek. His tongue
rolls over the flesh, leaving a trail of saliva behind. Why can't I move?! I
need to stop this! That hand moves up his thigh to tease at his groin, making
Aoyagi-san huff out in surprise. He's completely motionless to the advances.
Dammit, hit him! Come on! “You like that, Bambi-chan? I could please you much
more...” He kisses up his cheek to his ear, biting down on it with a vulgar
groan. Tears well to Aoyagi-san's eyes or is that sweat? My head spins as I
attempt to focus. What a pervert! Bastard.... I'll make him pay for touching
him like that! Before I'm able to react, I hear a voice.
“Hey.” Confused, the Pig looks to the sound. “Get your hands....” Doubashi's
head jerks from a solid hit to the jaw. “... off Hajime!” His large form thuds
when he hits the ground. I stand, recognizing that voice in an instant. His
savior stands right before my eyes.
***** Oh boy, I did it again... *****
Captain!
Teshima-san stands proudly when the Pig falls flat and cracks his knuckles with
a scoff. It looks like he just got off the course himself, hair in disarray and
jersey soaked in sweat. That or he ran like his life depended on it. Well, in
this case, his teammate’s.
“More soft than I thought. Should have taken a tea break before doing something
like that. Might have had more in you,” he says darkly. Didn’t know Captain
could be -this- intimidating. Aoyagi sniffles as he latches to the Captain’s
side, welled tears rolling down his cheeks. I stabilize myself onto the tree as
I look back to the fallen man. His teeth grit while standing back up, lip spit
and blood drawn. Way to go Captain! He wipes the liquid away with a thumb,
looking to the pair with that same smug look. After returning to his feet, the
Pig cracks his knuckles as well. He wants to keep going? Does he ever learn?! I
launch myself off and stand between them with outstretched arms. I have to stop
this somehow!
“Don’t you ever touch Aoyagi-san! I’ll hit you just as hard, you Pig!” I cry
out. My eyes slam shut, body tensed. I’m waiting for a hit. Anything, but
there’s nothing. I hear the faint sniffles from Aoyagi-san and the chirps of
bugs, but voices are gone. And were those footsteps? Is it over? Please tell me
it’s over… I feel a hand clasp at my shoulder from behind and I turn to the
source. I see Captain with a look of relief, one eye closed in a teasing wink.
“He’s gone. It’s alright, Kaburagi.” Shocked, I look to the front to see
nothing. He’s gone, yes! I stare into the distance, bikes zooming down the road
as they cross the finish line. “Thank you for doing that.” My head snaps back
to him with arms fallen at my sides. Aoyagi-san is still glued to the Captain,
head buried into his upper arm. I can feel the amount of disgust…. if only I
stopped him earlier. My damn head…
“Junta…” his gentle voice sobs. I look up to see the Captain look to him with a
tender smile.
“Hey, hey… it’s over now. If he comes back, I’ll make sure to put him in his
place again. Sure Kaburagi will do the same. Right?”
“Of course I will!” I shout with enthusiasm. Aoyagi-san peers up enough to show
a warm smile across his face in my direction. Next time I won’t be caught off
guard, I promise.
“Enough sentimental stuff though,” Teshima-san says calmly, “Let’s go relax,
hrm~? It’s a good time for a tea break.” His voice holds too much joy. I know
he’s only trying to lighten the mood, but I’m still unsettled. I look to him
with a timid smile, Aoyagi-san having the same expression. In the end, he’s
right. This can wait for now.
Both of us now follow close behind Teshima-san after locking up our bikes at a
nearby stand. Wouldn’t want those “misplaced” if Doubashi decides to return
there. A hand of Aoyagi-san’s grips onto his teammate’s and leads him along
like a lost child. His head hangs in a sort of shame for allowing that to go
on, lips quivering and tears falling. I wipe my face with a forearm and sigh
out heavily. Don’t worry…. I’ll protect you too. I take the role of watch-dog,
moving and shifting around them both to keep an eye out. I don’t trust anyone
now, especially with Aoyagi-san so scarred. I spot an approving smile on
Teshima-san’s lips as I scout. I’ll do anything to protect them both. Those two
have only lead me to victory and the meaning of teamwork in these few months.
And sometimes, it’s alright to lose. It won’t happen again.
We eventually meet the front door of the dorms without trouble, a sigh coming
from all of us. Aoyagi-san has calmed down significantly, sobs gone. His head
is buried into Teshima-san’s back now, arms wrapped at his waist. That envy
comes back so swiftly. To see him so close makes my heart rise to my throat. Am
I…. jealous?
“Junta…” Aoyagi-san mumbles into his jersey. Captain looks to him with that
loving smile, nodding softly to the silent conversation they have. What is it
with these two?
“I agree. Kaburagi?” I look to the pair, confused. “Aoyagi will feel more safe
if you stayed in the same room as us. Have any arguments with that?” My eyes go
wide, arms falling directly to my sides as I bow without a second thought.
“I’ll happily do that, Captain!” I shout with head low. That dammed Pig… but,
Aoyagi-san would feel safer with me around? That rush comes back to my body,
heart jumping and falling into the pit of my stomach. Does he… no, no! I’m over
thinking this! Get a hold of yourself Issa! He’s scared and needs protection!
“Fantastic!” Teshima-san says with a light chuckle, “You can get your things
together after we have a snack then.” As collective as always Captain. My teeth
clench to my bottom lip as I feel my gut start to act up. Of all times! I
flinch back in a pain, hands falling to my abdominal region.
“A-ah! Right! But!” I stammer, “Uh- you guys do that! Sorry!” I push past them
both into the dorms, racing past a few people to reach the bathrooms. I
shoulder the door open and stumble into an empty stall, my stomach swirling in
every direction as I hang my head over the toilet’s bowl. Why do I feel like I
need to puke?! This is… different from my normal. Nervousness normally makes
the other end want to explode. Why has this situation gotten me so wrapped up?!
Dammit… DAMMIT!
—
After the bathroom experience, I meet up with Teshima-san and Aoyagi-san in the
cafeteria area. In the end, I didn’t throw up. I didn’t do anything besides
breath heavily into the open bowl. Every part of my body told me to expel all,
but nothing came. Instead, my head shifted gears around until they connected.
My thoughts became clear once again. All that mattered is making sure Aoyagi-
san is safe, I shouldn’t be focusing on anything but that. We had a pleasant
break together actually over, of course, tea.
“It was like, boom! Crack! And the Pig goes doooooown!” I shout joyfully in an
announcer-like voice, “Teshima-san is the winner! Ding ding ding!”
“You exaggerate too much, Kaguragi,” he responds with an amused smirk, “I just
got lucky. He happened to be standing at the right angle for that result to
transpire.” Aoyagi-san stopped half mid-sip to chuckle at our conversation. To
see Aoyagi-san fully smile again…
We also talked about the race tomorrow and went over a few plans. As expected,
Teshima-san tagged along to help support the both of us. He gave Aoyagi-san a
ton of pointers, but I was too distracted to pay full attention. I’d twitch
when a person roughly the size of Doubashi would come into view. Before we knew
it, our conversation lasted until the later hours. The lamps over the course
flicking on as I looked through a nearby window. Sunset already? That’s when it
hit me… All of us are staying in the same place. Every participant of the race
tomorrow will be in this building! For all I knew, Doubashi could be right next
door!
“Going to be a nice night…” Teshima-san comments. His eyes turn to me with a
thoughtful expression, which I stare blankly back. What? Is something on my
face? His blue eyes roll as his head nudges in the direction of the stairs.
“Shouldn’t you… be doing something, Kaburagi?”I blink for a solid ten seconds
straight as I try to get what he’s talking about.
“Oh, right!” I shout, standing up from my seat. My room needs to be adjusted! I
would be staying with a few of the other first years from around the area, but
tonight is different for obvious reasons. “U-uh- you and Aoyagi-san staying in
the same room without anyone else?” My voice is shaking uncontrollably now.
What the hell brought this on? Just the small thought of being in the same room
as them? Teshima-san fiddles with his bangs and nods in agreement.
“Yeah… why we’d rather have you around in the first place. Should take care of
that now, hrm?” As charismatic as ever… He stuffs a hand into his jersey’s back
pocket and pulls out a single key. It’s then pushed over towards me. “Room one
o’ two. Just lock up when you’re done, ok?” I take the item with a slow nod.
“But- you two will be fine here without me?” I wouldn’t want to leave just to
have Doubashi return. Sure, we’re in more of a public place, but I can easily
see that Pig making a scene.
“We’ll be heading to the bath house now. Already have some spare clothes
stashed there too. Can meet up with us after you’re done if you wish. Pretty
sure we can handle ourselves for a while.” He gives me that teasing wink as he
sips down the rest of his tea. He’s right, not like I’ll be gone for too long.
I nod again and turn away to walk off to the room with determination.
“Kaburagi…” I stop and jerk my head to look back to the pair, Aoyagi-san
smiling to me. “Thank you…” I bite down on my lip and look away, nodding
rapidly. What could I really say without sounding like a complete idiot? I rush
off into an open hallway, hand shaking as I grasp the key firmly. If only these
two days could go faster…
—
I head off to my room to collect my belongings. Luckily I didn’t unpack much
just yet, so it’s a quick grab. I also change out of my jersey to something
more comfortable. Too dark to continue riding, so I should wake up early
tomorrow to make up my missed laps before the race. The hallways and stairwells
are nearly empty seeing as everyone is either still out on the course or
hitting the bath at this hour. The stillness in the air, only my foot steps
echoing off the walls… It’s sorta eerie once I think about. Although, once I
reach the stairwell to head back downstairs, the silence is broken by another
set of footsteps. They’re heading up in my direction. Finally, someone else.
This place feels like one of those abandoned, haunted houses where something
could just pop out of the walls and give you a cheap scare.
“Hah! There you are!” I freeze up on the small platform when that voice booms
all around me. No. Not here! “Damned idiot, I knew you were walking around
here.” His gigantic form steps into my line of sight with that disgusting grin.
His lip has sealed up for the most part, but it’s swollen up good. I just stare
blankly, my voice not found. What the hell do I do?! I could try to run back up
the stairs, but I’d probably have to drop my bag if he chases me down. I have
no clue how fast this guy can run, but if it’s anywhere close to his biking
speed… I thought I was ready to face him again, but I can’t move! I’m screwed.
I’m so screwed!! “You just going to stand there, idiot?”
Doubashi steps forward and shoves at my shoulder, making me stumble back and
hit the wall behind me. My grip is lost on the bag, it plopping to the ground
beside me. “Do I need to knock some more sense into you?” That’s it. I’ve
haven’t enough of this asshole. My body shakes as my strength returns and I
grit my teeth in frustration. I don’t have the advantage of him bent over like
Teshima-san had, but I could at least hit him square in the stomach. I raise an
arm and punch out straight ahead. Although, the fist doesn’t hit. My wrist is
caught by a large hand of his and twisted hard. I scream out from the rush of
pain.
“Ahhh! You bastard! Let me the fuck go!” I attempt to shove him off with my
free hand, but that’s easily stopped when that one is gripped as well.
“Ha! Like that’s going to happen!” he shouts back. Both arms lifted over my
head and wrists held together by just one of his meaty hands. “I give you
points, Orange. You got some guts for trying to hit me, but I’m prepared this
time.” His grin spreads as he lends down so we’re face-to-face. “Sadly you’re
not Bambi-chan, but you’ll do for now…”
He doesn’t hesitate to slide that free hand under my shirt and squeeze at one
of my nipples. My eyes slam shut as I begin to struggle, my body waving and
jerking around for freedom. It seizes when my wrists are twisted once again, my
cry echoing down the stairs. “You better keep your damned mouth shut and I’ll
make this quick,” he whispers.
“Like hell I’m going to be quiet!” He tweaks it harder now and pulls firmly. My
voice cracks into an unwanted moan. This shouldn’t feel this good! A few tugs
and turns are made the other before the hand travels down passed my stomach.
“Ahh! Stop it!” Fingers trend over my groin, making a shiver run up my spine.
Disgusting bastard! “I said let go, dammit!!” My voice becomes even louder than
before. If anyone passes down the hallways, they’d be sure to hear me.
“You talk way too much…” he hums as he starts to rub the area with palm flat.
“Tch, already getting hard? You’re easier than I thought!” What?! My mouth
hangs a gap as he grips my regions firmly, confirming to myself his words are
correct. Stupid body, that’s the Pig doing it!
“That happens from any touching! Don’t get it worked up in your head that
you’re turning me on!” I stammer. It’s true! Heck, my underwear rubbing me in
the right directions can cause that. I would never allow myself to get flushed
from this Pig. I feel his warm breaths at my neck as he growls lustfully.
Gross.
“Right, right. Keep telling yourself that… but,” His head lifts to lock eyes,
the touching ceasing for the time being. There’s a calm and collective
expression on that face of his, making my mind swim with what he may have
planned. Going to tie me up? Duct tape my mouth shut while he takes advantage
of me? Every piece of me wanted to scream, but I froze up again. Whatever he
has planned, I can stop it myself somehow. He grins ear to ear and says,“… how
about we make a deal?”
***** Oh boy, It got NSFW… *****
Is this guy for real?
“W-what sort of deal?” I question. The grip on my wrists loosens up a bit as he
lowers my arms down, now holding them at waist height. The hairs on the back of
neck stand as he bumps our noses together, his brow furrowing.
“You go with this willingly and-”
“I’ll never do that!” I interrupt. What the hell is he thinking?!
“Let me finish, you idiot!” he barks. I keep quiet for the time being and
listen with interest. What is inside that giant head, Doubashi? “You do this
willingly, we have some fun, and I won’t touch Bambi-chan for the rest of the
trip. And if you do a good job, I won’t consider taking revenge on your Captain
for my lip. How’s that sound?” … WHAT!? No, no! I could never no that! My
throat locks up as I stare in silence, balancing the other options. Right now,
I could probably knee him in gut and make an escape. Although, that could just
piss me off even more. I could scream to get attention. At this point though,
I’d feel more like an idiot to have someone help. I know I can deal with this
bastard myself… I gulp roughly as he squints coldly. I can feel the anger
growing in those eyes. Think, Issa! Think! My voice returns as my wrists are
again bent and twisted.
“Ahhh, dammit! I’m trying to think! Pain doesn’t help with that!”
“There’s not much to think about, Orange. I’ll go over it again…” His head
turns to press his lips to mine. My eyes shoot open from the sudden kiss. My
heart feels like it jumped into my throat as he hums, lips parting and suckling
on mine. He pulls back after a short moment with a satisfied grunt. Did he do
that just to make me be quiet? “We do this, your precious teammates will be
safe. Simple, right idiot?” My chest is straining to breath steadily now. He
won’t touch… Aoyagi-san anymore. Or Captain. My head turns to look away with a
slow nod.
“I’m not an idiot…” I mutter under my breath. If I don’t go with this deal,
he’d just continue going after Aoyagi-san. And it’s not like Captain can always
be nearby. Even if he’s unable to touch him, he may even harass him with words.
Maybe during the race too. I’m out of options. “… you won’t talk to them?
You’ll leave them alone completely if this happens?”
“Now you’re speaking at the same level…” he scoffs, “If you do a good job!
Wouldn’t want my fun to be boring, now would I? We have a deal or not?”
Impatience is heard in that gruff voice. If I don’t do this now… I close my
eyes before turning back and slamming back into a kiss. I hear him purr in an
approving way as he pushes into it, tongue trailing against my lower lip. I
can’t muster the courage to just say yes, so this will have to do.
Although, he pulls back abruptly and releases my wrists. “Now, now. I know
you’re excited, but it shouldn’t happen here, huh?” Shut up, you Pig… I am not.
I’m doing this for Aoyagi-san. “I’m going to hit the bath real quick to
prepare, I suggest you make sure you’re cleaned up.” A hand slides at my hip
and around to grip my backside. A shock runs down my body. Don’t hit him, don’t
hit him! “Remember, make it worth my while, Orange. Meet me at my room in say…
twenty minutes? That should give us enough time. Third floor, room three
hundred fifteen. Don’t be late. And if I find out you chickened out or told
your teammates…” He backs off completely and turns around, walking away with
heavy steps. He didn’t have to say anything more, I know exactly what he means…
My back presses it the wall as I slide down to the ground, teeth clenched in
frustration. What the hell have I just gotten myself into? If… if I just get
this done quickly, this night can be over and I don’t have to worry anymore
about Aoyagi-san. After collecting my thoughts, I stand back up and grab my
bag. Right then! I have work to do! No turning back!
—
I toss my items into the third-year’s room and lock up with haste, not
bothering to actually get things in place. I’m running on a short amount of
time here. My feet are at top speed as I head for the bathhouse, making a few
residents not so pleased as I rush past them. Sorry! If only you guys knew.
Inside the changing room, I spot Teshima-san and Aoyagi-san almost fully
dressed. They’re done already?
“Kaburagi!” Teshima-san says with a wave, “That took a while. Did something
happen?” Shit! I was so focused, I didn’t come up with something to say to
them! An excuse…
“Ah- ah, yeah! I went to my room to get my stuff, ya know, and… well.” I pause
for a brief moment the buy some time, the gears clicking in my head. “Yeah! I
got a call from Danchiku and we got to talking! It took waaaay longer than I
wanted, so I threw my stuff into your room!” Bingo!
“I see…” he says while tying up his damp hair, “Then why did you run down here?
Not like you -had- to join us. You could have just waited for us.” Crap, he’s
right. My knees start to shake as my stomach starts to act up again. Not a good
time to be nervous!
“Uh- well, Danchiku got me really fired up about the race, so I wanted to take
a quick shower and then hit the course again! We are allowed to ride at night
after all. Know it could w-wait until after my ride, but maybe I just need to
relax. Testing the waters, so to speak. Worse case, I just head off to the
room!” I’m a genius! I surprise myself sometimes. They both stare to me with a
doubtful look. Please believe me!
“Glad to see you’re still in high spirits, Kaburagi,” Aoyagi-san says calmly,
smile returning.
“Yeah! I’m not going to let some Pig ruin my spirit! I-I know I should be
protecting you, but-” I’m cut off as Teshima-san clasps a hand to my shoulder.
He has a bad habit of doing that.
“I know you want to win. Don’t worry about it, go train. I’ll make sure he’s
extra safe while you’re gone. Just don’t take too long, ok?” I smile brightly
with a strong nod.
“Yes sir!” He nods back and holds out a hand, as if expecting something. “A-ah!
Right, the key. Here.” I stuff my hand into the pocket and return it to him
before walking off in the direction of the bathrooms. “I’ll try to make it
quick, but no promises!” I see them both smile before looking back forward with
a long sigh. They bought it!
—
I wasn’t wrong about the shower, it helped relax me significantly. My once
tensed muscled seemed to melt under the warm water. Luckily my bathroom break
didn’t take too long, so I had more time to get ready. I scrubbed my skin till
it reddened from irritation and even took care of the more… dirty part of it.
He did say “prepared” after all. I just really hope it’s good enough.
After getting dressed, I immediately take off to the stairs and head off to the
room. I can be the forgetful type, but I was sure to memorize the number. This
was important. I know this could have been avoided if I just told the
upperclassmen and adults, but I’m not stooping to that level. I know what I’m
doing is stupid, but it’s personal! I halt at the room labeled with “315” on
the door and stare stoically. I stand up straight and take in a large inhale;
puffing out my chest with confidence. I must have stood out there for a full
minute before I muster the courage to knock.
“I-It’s Kaburagi! May I have your permission to enter?” I say with confidence.
Not like this is an interview, why am I being so formal?
“Good timing. Sure, come on in. It’s unlocked,” I hear from behind it. Nodding,
I slide it open and spot Doubashi sitting on the single futon in the medium
sized room. There’s a few scattered pieces of clothing around the floor and his
jersey is hung neatly by the window. “Close it and lock it, would ya?” I’m
actually surprised by his tone. That demanding one he had earlier is gone, it’s
gentle even. For now. His temper changes as much as the wind shifts. I do so,
double checking it’s locked tight, and walk to the foot of the bed. He pats
down his hair with a plain towel with a smug grin. He wasn’t lying about the
bath. “What’s that look for?” Huh? Was I making a face that noticeable?
“Uh- well… I just expected others to be staying in here as well.” Normally
these rooms have at least two others of the same year staying in them. How come
he gets this large room to himself? He wipes down his jawline and tosses the
towel aside. With a snort, his legs fold over one another in a relaxing way.
“Hah, the other second-years didn’t want to share a room with me. They’re
afraid I might attack them in their sleep. They’d rather huddle up in the other
rooms for safety. Cowards. I can’t blame them though. Wouldn’t be the first
time.” His grin widens, showing all his teeth. Damn, this guy is scarier than I
thought. Regardless, it’s time to stop the chit-chat before he gets worked up.
“Got it, but… I came here for business! Should get to that!”
“Why in such a hurry? But seeing as you’re so eager…” He motions a finger,
signaling for me to come closer. “I won’t complain.” Gulping, I step onto the
futon, mere inches from him. Unsure on what he has planned, I wait for a move.
Shit, this is really happening. He reaches up and grabs me by the waist,
pulling me downwards. My legs spread over his huge thighs as I seat myself,
hands falling to his shoulders. My gaze lingers away as doubts fill my head.
“… you promise you won’t touch them after this? Right?” I mumble. I need to
make sure, this bastard better keep his word. If he doesn’t, there’s hell to be
paid. The few fallen strands of hair on my forehead are brushed aside by his
fingers.
“Said before, if you do a good job. This better not be a waste of my time.” His
head tilts so his lips are near my neck, soft breaths making shivers run down
my spine. I hear him take in a sharp inhale. “Hrm… you smell so good now.
You’ve done one thing right for me so far.” Before I know it, his tongue is
lapping at my skin. It rolls slowly, covering the entire side with liquid. My
voice skips from the tingling sensation, goosebumps rising on my arms. As he
teases, my fingers curl into his shirt. It felt… good. Really good, as much as
I hate to admit. The feeling only rose when his teeth came into the picture.
Soft nips are placed to the sensitive flesh, my voice again shaking. I don’t
want to make these noises, but they’re just coming out! But a good job… I need
to do that much. Remembering this, my hips begin to roll against him. This
makes Doubashi pleased, seeing as a hand grips onto one hip and squeezes it
firmly.
“Ahh, gentle…” I murmur, “Wouldn’t want t-… get too excited so quickly.”
“That’s what I like to hear, Orange,” he remarks, “Does feel good though.” He
then bites down hard, making a sharp moan escape my lips. My lower body starts
shaking from the sensation, face already soaked with sweat. He holds it for a
brief moment and pulls back, lips making an audible pop when contact is broken.
Looking back to my face, Doubashi grins with amusement. “Make some great noises
too. Delicious little Orange you are…” I can feel heat rise to my face.
“D-don’t talk like that…” I remark, “It’s making me embarrassed.”
“Then let’s stop talking for a while…” A hand cups under my chin and pulls me
in close; our lips then meeting. His hot breaths fill my mouth once my lips
part, his tongue already exploring. My eyes close as I allow the intrusion, jaw
popping when opening fully. Saliva trails down the corner of my mouth as he
presses far, tongue reaching near the back of my throat. Muffled moans are
accompanied by his own grunts of pleasure, my body heating up in an instant. I
start to move my own tongue when he backs out, giving me opportunity to invade.
I lap over his teeth before venturing further. His taste is tolerable.
Actually, is that mouth wash? Did this Pig go to that length for me? Our
tongues wrestle for dominance, only driving my hips to rock more. They
eventually part, a trail of saliva holding them together for a brief second.
The approving smile on his lips helps, knowing my job isn’t half bad. Might as
well keep this feeling going.
“Let’s get rid of this…” I placed my hands at the hem of my shirt and tug it
off with haste and toss it off in a random direction. That smiles only grows
when he places a hand onto my bare skin, fingers gingerly rolling over my
nipples. Just a few touches make them erect.
“You did like this quite a bit earlier. So sensitive…” Fingers take one and
pulls like before, making my breaths hitch. The mixture of pain and pleasure is
intense!
“I said gentle!” I blurt in a moan. He leans down and licks over my collarbone
with a low hum, clearly enjoying my reaction. This only encourages him to twist
and tug even harder, my body shifting from side to side. “Ngh, damn you
Doubashi!” My voice rises and echos off the walls, my thighs taut around him.
His hand switches off to the other, repeating the same action. I can feel a
pressure on my underside during my grinding. I’d be lying if I said I was
wasn’t getting excited as well. After placing a few feathery kisses to my
neckline, he looks up at me with a lick of the lips.
“Feel too good? If you sound like that just from your nipples, I wonder how
much you’ll scream when I’m inside you.” Did he just say… damn him. I look away
from him with a coy expression, cut off guard by such a lewd statement. During
this time, Doubashi pulls off his shirt and tosses it off near mine. A hand
rolls down to my lower back and gives my buttocks a firm squeeze. “How about we
get rid of these too?” This feels like it’s moving too fast for me to handle. I
just sit atop him with mouth covered, feeling too embarrassed to speak. “Acting
so shy now? What, you afraid I’ll laugh at your dick?” he says snidely. That
makes me snap.
“NO!” I shout, “I just… I- you know what, I don’t know!” My head is swimming
and won’t keep straight. My thoughts are blurred over by a haze of some sort.
Am I really that flushed from him? He just snorts at my response and slowly
lifts me off. I sit at his feet when he stands, hands fiddling with the zipper
of his shorts.
“I’ll go first. Will take make you feel better?” Again, he’s not demanding,
which still messes with me. Maybe he’s just doing this on purpose to make me
trust him. I can’t figure it out now, I probably won’t ever. I decide to stand
myself with head low, watching in silence. He huffs after undoing the zipper,
the shorts pooling to his ankles. The boxers underneath are slipped off as
well, his erection springing forth. It’s fully hard, as to be expected after
that much teasing. He’s a lot smaller than I initially thought, but not like
it’s microscopic either. I nibble at my lower lip as I stare up his body,
adjusting to the fully naked form. The clothing is shook off his ankles before
he takes me by the shoulders, turning me so my back presses to his chest.
Shocked, I peer up to him with mouth a gap.
“H-hey! I was going to- mrph!” My dispute is cut short when two fingers are
shoved into my mouth. They pinch my tongue in place, twirling the saliva about.
Every part of me told me to bite down, but I resisted it. How dare him…
“Don’t worry, I got this covered. Get these ready in the meantime,” he murmurs
while tugging at my pants. I can feel his length twitching against my lower
back. My lips suckle the invading digits, making sure they’re fully coated. He
eventually releases the pants from my waist and tugs down my briefs. What a
relief. My eyes travel down to catch his hand wrapping around the tool, fully
erect myself. “Hrm… it’s easy on the eyes. Cute little prick to match a cute
little Orange.” I wish his mouth was taped such at this point. Talking like
that to me… it’s too much to take. He begins to play and tease it with a gentle
grip, muffled moans pushing from my heavy chest. I tilt my head upwards to
stare up at him, eyes rolling to the back of my head. Every tug makes another
shiver run down my body, toes curled into the sheets below. Damn, does it feel
good.
“Doubashi…” I whimper between the fingers, which are withdrawn shorty after.
“Eager are we? I trust you did your job of cleaning up. Better not disappoint
me…” he utters as the hand slides down to my buttocks. After another teasing
squeeze on a cheek, I feel a sensation at my entrance. My body recoils at
first, the finger readying the area by spreading the fluid around. “Relax…” His
actions on my manhood slowed, giving me some breathing room. After a few shaky
breaths, I nod to give “permission” to his advances. Don’t think, Issa. Just
relax.
I hear an approving purr as the digit presses into the muscle, about an inch. I
remain calm as it slides in further, all the way down to knuckle.
“Tighter than I expected. I approve,” he grunts. Slowly, it pulls in and out,
arching when full length is inside. My moans are near nonstop now. These tingly
sensations pass through my entire body and only growing more frequent as time
passes. My manhood twitches in his grasp, already urging for release. “Am I
teasing you too much? You’re dripping…” The hand rises up to show me the amount
of pre-cum on his fingers, a laugh billowing from his chest. “Really enjoying
it, huh? Going to come so soon?” The finger pulls out, much to my displeasure.
My cheeks puff out in disappointment.
“I can hold it!” I splutter with frustration. I don’t want to come just yet, we
just got to the good part!
“Nice of you of wanting to last longer. Even if you do, I still get to have my
fun. Come now, on your hands and knees. That still needs a bit more warming
up.” I do so without hesitation. Facing away from him, I get into that
embarrassing position at the end of the futon. I look over a shoulder to watch
him fall to his knees behind me. The finger again traces over my entrance a few
times before sliding back in, this time with more force. My teeth snap together
from the rush, it exiting and entering at a rapid pace. He stops for a brief
moment to slide in the second, scissoring the tight muscle open.
“Ahhhhh~” I moan lewdly as I look away, hips arched towards him. Knees shake
and my fingers curl as they slam inside me. They reach far down, hitting
briefly onto that bundle of nerves. “Doubashi… pleeeeease…!!” I can’t this
anymore! He slows the pace, humming in a questioning way.
“What is it, Orange?” he sings out seductively, “You want something?” I bite my
lip to muster up my words, sweat rolling down all sides of my face.
“I need to come! Just fuck me already!” I’ve been holding back for far too
long. I feel like I’m going to explode! I don’t turn to face him, but I could
feel his dastardly smile on the back of my head. After removing the digits, I
hear a soft slurping sound; followed by a spit into his hand. Getting himself
ready, can only assume.
“Don’t have to tell me twice,” he groans. A moist hand grips roughly at my hip
before feeling something much larger enter me all at once. Now I’m really happy
he prepped me! My head hangs when the slick member moves, slowly at first, but
quickly picks up. My teeth find themselves locked on my lower lip again to
muffle some of my noises. He pulls me in by the hip with each slam, time after
time hitting my prostate.
“Yes! Yeeeees!” I find myself screaming without thinking. My heart rises up to
my throat as I near, muscles twitching and straining to keep my body upward. It
becomes even more a struggle once his other hand finds it’s way around my
length, tugging it briskly.
“Come… come for me, Kaburagi!” he roars lustfully. That’s all it took. After
giving one last, high pitched moan, my climax comes forth. Ribbons of my seed
spill onto his fingers and sheets, his motions continuing only for a moment. He
abruptly pulls out and pushes me over by the hip, my back now at the ground. My
tired eyes peer open to see him lingering over me on his knees, jerking himself
roughly at my face. How lewd. I don’t question my next action though. My mouth
opens partway to get one, get more air into my lungs and two, for Doubashi’s
own climax. I see a smirk fall to his face before his head hangs back,
expressing a low, pleasurable groan. His fluids splash onto my tongue and lips,
a few droplets also landing on my nose. It’s thick and salty, but I’m not
complaining. Not right now at least.
After wiping the last droplet onto my lips, he falls back onto the futon with a
long sigh of relief. I sit myself up, recovering from the experience. I wipe
the astray fluid from my nose and lick it from my hand, much to Doubashi’s
delight. He does the same with his dirtied hand, licking and kissing off my
fluids. How dirty, but I still smile.
“What was… that for? You could have came inside me…” I mumble, rubbing my
sweaty forehead. He responds with a gentle snicker.
“Would be rude to do that on our first time together, idiot. Maybe next time…”
he teases. Tch. Next time. Highly doubt that, only if we have to strike another
deal. “You did good, Orange. Real good~” He gives another purr as he reaches
forward, dragging me in by the waist. Once he has a good grip, he lays himself
down with me atop. I don’t struggle, this is just the icing on the cake for our
deal. I decide to nuzzle my nose onto his neck affectionately, making him
chuckle once again. “Glad you liked it. Actually surprised you went through
with the whole thing. Not as much of a coward I put you as.”
“… bastard…” I mumble into his sweaty neck. “So now you won't touch my
teammates anymore, right?” He gently pats at my back, nodding against the
pillow.
“Yeah, yeah. Don’t worry. This is probably way better than what Bambi-chan
would give me.”
“Like he’d go with it in the first place!” I blurt out, looking up at him.
“Just be lucky you got me… and stop calling that. It’s Aoyagi-san.”
“Whatever,” he grunts, disinterested now. “That left me beat… guess I can head
to bed early. Only if you want to cuddle for a bit longer~.” He wiggles a brow.
“I should probably get back to them… said I wouldn’t be gone long. Heh, told
them I was out training!” I couldn’t help by laugh at this entire thing. As
humiliating as it was at first, in the end, Doubashi isn’t half bad when he’s
not off his rocker. A bit of an asshole, but everyone is in the end. Hell, I
enjoyed myself. Just hope this won’t bite me in the ass later.
“You were training! Just with me!” he boasts, giving me a harder smack.
“Ow, ow! Hey, I’m aching here!” I roll off him with a grunt and shakily stand
to my feet. That hurts even more than the “pat.” My entire lower body feels
like it’s going to fall off. It’s like I’ve been out riding for hours.
“Hope you can still ride your bike after that… hell, I hope next time, you’ll
ride me like a bike.” Disgusting Pig!
“S-shut up! Go to sleep!” I lean over and pick up his discarded clothing and
toss it directly at his face. “We can argue tomorrow at the race!” I quickly
dress myself, as much discomfort it is, and saunter off towards the door. I
look back to Doubashi, who just has both hands behind his head in a relaxed
position; clothes still there. Smug bastard. I slam the door behind me after I
exit, making him growl.
“Watch your noise, Orange!”
“Shut your stupid face, Pig!” I stomp down part of the hallway just to annoy
him, just a little extra to get on his nerves. Once I reach the staircase, I
find myself covering my smile and laughter. My mission was successful! I
whisper a gleeful “yes!” to myself as I make my way downstairs, a spring in my
step. Aoyagi-san can be safe now!
—
There’s an awkward silence when entering the third-year’s room. Aoyagi-san is
looking straight at me with his game system in hand while Teshima-san goes over
a few papers on a clipboard. I could feel a pressure of some sort, but I
couldn’t tell from what. I slowly close the door behind me, the silence broken.
“So, have fun training?” the Captain asks politely.
“Yeah, had a blast actually!” I lie convincingly enough, “Kinda rough at night,
but heck, I needed to make up for lost time!” My eyes fall to my backpack,
still in it’s proper place and untouched. But, I see something wrong with this
picture.
“I bet you did, but it’s difficult to train without wearing a jersey, don’t
cha’ think?” Oh… shit! That familiar yellow jersey sticks right out of a
pocket, hanging out for all to see. The zipper isn’t fully closed, it gotten
caught on the shorts.
“I just wore this!” I blurt as a cover up. “I didn’t want to come alllll the
way back upstairs to get my jersey, so this was good enough.” A simple t-shirt
and cargo shorts? Nothing wrong with wearing those when out on a ride, just not
at a professional level. Teshima-san stares at me with a blank expression, the
pen twirling on a thumb. It’s probably written all over my face that I am
lying.
“If you say so, but it’s already getting late and we’re probably all exhausted
from today. Let’s just end the night off right, hm?” I catch Aoyagi-san nod to
him as he closes the game system and tucks it away into a bag. Whew. I’m done
with lying for today, I’m done doing anything for that matter.
We can finally rest.
***** Oh boy, it keeps going... *****
Chapter Notes
     (( Switched to Aoyagi's PoV~ ))
I can’t sleep, not with this headache.
I stir atop my bed for what feels like hours before sitting up, eyes adjusting
to the pitch black around me. To my right, I hear Kaburagi snoring heavily and
Junta’s soft breaths at my left. I wonder how long it’s been since I laid down.
I may have gotten a few hours of sleep in there, but the darkness indicates
it’s no where near sunrise. Even the birds aren’t chirping. Reaching off, I
pull out the phone from my duffel bag and turn it’s light on with a single
press. My eyes strain to the sudden light, but adjust quickly. Getting close to
three in the morning. Maybe three, no four hours of sleep in before I started
tossing and turning. And it’s not because of Doubashi’s antics, it’s
Kaburagi’s.
It’s clear he was lying, all the signs were there. Barely any sweat on his
clothing, voice stammering and nervous, knees shaking. Junta could see that
more easily than me too, so why didn’t he say anything? Junta has been taking
this situation very light heartily, which is fine for only so long. Both of
them headed to bed so quickly, like trying to cover something up. At least on
Kaburagi’s end, Junta just wants this whole thing to be over. Something
happened and I need to figure that out.
Quietly, I slide out my sweatshirt from the open bag using the phone as a
makeshift flashlight. That was the easy part. I don’t throw it on just yet, I
want to make sure I get out of here first. My given key is grabbed as well. My
blanket is, as slowly as possible, pushed aside and onto the floor. Clutching
the items, I tip toe my way across the creaky floor to the door. I pause there,
listening for any changes. Nothing. Being in the clear so far, the door is the
next obstacle. This is surely to make a lot of noise, no matter how slowly I
take it. Instead, I decide to take the more unsubtle approach.
After unlocking it, I slide it open quickly; making only one larger noise than
multiple small ones. I step out hastily and close it without slamming. I stand
with hand on the handle for another long pause, ears open for anything. Still
nothing. They must be out like lights or they’re both good at pretending to be
asleep. I’m already out, so it doesn’t matter now. I swiftly lock up and head
off downstairs, my target being outside. That’s where I can find out of
Kaburagi was indeed telling the truth.
—
Luckily, no one was at the front desk to stop me or at least question why I’m
going out at this time of night. My sweater is already pulled over me, and
shoes changed, before heading outside; the night air a bit chilly. Glad I
grabbed this after all. Although, shorts are not the best thing, but I wasn’t
going to try to grab my sweats too. Was risky enough. The walk to my wanted
location was a pleasant one, no disturbances besides the occasional chirps of
crickets and gust of wind. Enough lamps are around the front area of the course
to light my path straight on. It’s about a ten minute walk before arriving, my
paranoia making me check over a shoulder and at my phone every so often. I
stare to the bike rack closely, locating our bikes instantly. -All- of our
bikes. Kaburagi’s Felt hasn’t been touched for some time now, the water bottle
still within the stand. Just as I thought, he wasn’t out here at all. Figured
this is how it would be. Why would he park his bike at this distance when it
come have easily been locked up at the front? Our bikes don’t have to stay
together. I’m not surprised, even in the slightest.
A satisfied smile comes to my face, feeling relieved to have an answer to one
of my questions. I begin walking back to the main entrance, but stop when I
feel a buzzing at my hip. My phone? I remove it from my pocket and look down,
continuing my walk at a faster pace. It’s probably Junta worried sick. It’s
just my phone telling me the battery is critically low. I scoff at this and
tuck it away. Guess I should head back quickly. Wouldn’t want them waking up to
see me gone and then barging into Doubashi’s room thinking he’s the one to
blame.
I take a peek over my shoulder to see a faint glimpse of the area now off in
the distance. Why did Doubashi do that in the first place? A scare tactic
before the race perhaps, or maybe he really does like me. Not the best way to
express your feelings to someone for the first time. I look back ahead as I rub
at the cheek he dirtied earlier, my face contorting to disgust. Humiliating.
Especially crying in front of Junta and Kaburagi like that. I could have easily
escaped, but instead I stood there like a deer in the headlights.
“Bambi-chan…” I mumble to myself to break the stillness in the air. My hand
drops to the side to ball it into a fist. Next time, I’ll do the work. Junta
can’t save me all the time, I need to stand up for myself.
—
After arriving back, my curiosity speaks to me again. Still seeing not a soul
by the front counter, I walk behind the front desk and search about. It doesn’t
take long to find the registration log located in a large binder, every
student’s name and room number inside. Thankfully, it’s in alphabetical order
by last name, so he’s easily found.
“Doubashi Masakiyo, room three fifteen…” I whisper under my breath. I’ll be
sure to stay far away from the third floor. Not much up there besides the rec
room anyway. I take the mental note and return the file to it’s proper place
before returning to our room. I pull out my phone one last time to find it
completely dead, so even if they tired to call me, I wouldn’t know. Although,
if they are missing, I know what room they’d be trying to bust down at least. I
test the door handle to find it’s still locked, what a relief. It’s undone and
slid open with the same speed as before; eyes squinting into the dark. The few
hall lights illuminate it enough to spot Kaburagi standing atop his futon,
frantically trying to pull on a sweater.
“Aoya- mmph!” he yells, but then stops to cover his mouth. I peer over to
Junta, who is still fast asleep. “Aoyagi-san~.” He falls to a harsh whisper and
rushes over to me, only one arm inside the sweater. “You’re alright! I thought
the Pig stole you!”
“I just went to the bathroom,” I whisper back. He stares blankly at me for a
long moment, like he’s thinking far too hard.
“That reminds me! I need to take a piss! Mind coming to the bathroom with me
just in case he’s there?” I nod and take a step back into the hallway; giving
Kaburagi the room to exit as well. After closing the door, I lock it back up.
“Doubashi is on the third floor, I doubt he’d be down here,” I say more vocally
and stuff the key into a pocket.
“Yeah, I know. Room three hundred fifteen up there, but you never know. He can
be crafty when he wants to be!” A noise of shock erupts from my throat, eyes
widening. How does he know that…? “It’s a just in case tactic. Safety in
numbers, ya know.” He doesn’t even realize he just said that, like it’s common
knowledge to know where he’s staying. I ignore the statement for the time
being, seeing as we should be quite for the sake of the other students. I place
a finger to my lips to gesture to stay hushed and lead him off in the direction
of the bathrooms. He takes this time straighten out his sweater with that goofy
smile plastered on his face and gives me a thumbs up after completion. What an
idiot.
The bathroom is completely empty at this hour, which is no surprise. Kaburagi
immediately begins to search the room like he’s an investigator, checking
behind every door and stall.
“It’s clear!” he shouts pridefully. I just smirk and lean myself on the nearby
wall, hands stuffed into my sweater pockets. Luckily, I hit the bathroom before
heading outside. Otherwise, this would be awkward saying I went here only to
have the urge to go again. He finds a urinal and begins doing his business.
“Watching the door for me?”
“You could say that…” I respond. This would be the perfect place to talk things
over, seeing as he could be as loud as he wanted if a certain subject makes his
voice rise. Don’t think I’ll be able to sleep anymore if I don’t figure out
what happened. Knowing now that he knows where Doubashi sleep makes me more
suspicious. Did he follow him, stalk him while we weren’t around? I don’t think
he’s devious enough for that. Maybe I’m just being too paranoid, but it’s worth
asking. “Say, Kaburagi… how do you know where Doubashi is staying?” From this
angle I don’t have a clear shot of him, but I can hear his slippers move up and
slam back down like he jumped in surprise.
“Heh-eh… why do you a-ask?” he says in a shaky voice, finishing. There’s that
nervous tone again, he really needs to work on that if he wants anyone to fall
for those cover ups.
“I ask because it’s strange. Not like you asked or he just outright told you,”
I answer gently. There’s an awkward chuckle from him as he walks away from the
urinal, making the automated flush activate. He comes in my view when he walks
over to the sinks. He has his gaze at me, but it quickly turns away when he
spots me staring right back with a serious expression.
“Oh! Yeah… I just asked one of the other second years! You know, when I went to
the bathroom after the whole thing with him, I saw another person from Hakone
and asked so I knew to stay away from there!”
“How did you know they were a second year and why would this particular person
know where he was? Not like they all stay in the same room. Also, why didn’t
you tell us when you came back?” Kaburagi, you really need to work on your
excuses. Although, I give him points for creatively and speed on that one.
Sadly, I see right through your guise.
“H-He just felt like a second year a-and that one just knew!” he stammers while
washing his hands. “Got got lucky is all. And I totally forgot to tell you
guys!” I grit my teeth as I try to think this over harder. Not like there’s
bruises or any sign of a struggle on his visible skin, so I doubt they got into
a physical fight. I can’t see those two being civilized and talking it over
like adults either. Something… my eyes shoot open when that something comes to
mind. When he came into the room before bed, there was a slight limp in his
walk; like he’s been riding for hours straight. But seeing as he didn’t ride at
all, did Doubashi injure his legs so his wounds are covered?
“Kaburagi…” I mumble in his direction, his head turned towards me. I watch him
closely as he walks back over, that bow legged stance completely gone. I scan
over his legs, which are most the way covered by his sleeping pants.
“Something up?” he questions with a perked brow. He looks down, then back up
with an annoyed groan. “Did some dribble on my pants? I hate it when that
happens!” Panic-like he searches over the clothing for any spots or stains.
During this time, I removed both hands from my pockets and push off the wall,
now standing between him and doorway. He notices this and freezes in place.
“Mind telling me where you see it? I can’t find anything!” Dammit, you idiot!
Anger starts to well inside me from the sheer amount of frustration this is
causing me. I need to know!
“Kaburagi!” I shout nearly at the tops of my lungs. That surely got his
attention, back straightened out and arms at his sides with a startled yelp.
The amount of fear within his eyes makes me lower my voice back down, but I’m
still hold that harsh tone to make him listen. “You have to stop lying to me,
you have no reason to! I know you didn’t train, your bike hasn’t been
untouched! I checked! Now tell me the truth! What happened between you and
Doubashi?!” He takes a step back with a faint whimper, his gaze turning away
from me. I can’t blame him for not wanting to look at me anymore, not with the
strain and anger clustered on my face.
“I-I… just… stopped by his room… and w-we talked…” he mumbles under a sob. He’s
still lying! I’ve had enough of this!
“No! You didn’t just ‘talk!’ Did he hurt you?! Threaten you?!” I bellow back in
rage. My fingers curl so hard into my palm that my knuckles crack, shoulder
flinching to rise it. My expression and hand falls flat when I find his eyes
glazed over. His entire body is shaking. Shit, I went too far. I take in a
sharp breath before stepping forward in a calmed fashion, a hand at the side of
my head. I’m only my head ring more in pain. “Kaburagi… I’m sorry I yelled like
that, I just want to make sure you’re ok…” I lick over my dried lips and sigh
out. My heart is pulsing in my ears, palms covered in sweat. I think… I was
going to hit him. Every part of me told me to do it, an involuntary impulse. I…
almost punched him…
“I’m trying to make sure you’re ok too!” he suddenly shouts with fallen tears
on his red face. That makes me take the step back with a shocked gasp, my own
eyes hazing over with tears. My throat freezes, my whole body does in fact. “I
made a deal with Doubashi to make sure you’ll be fine, ok?! I’ll probably
regret it later, but for now, I’m just happy you’ll be safe!” No… he didn’t
have to go to that length.
“A deal…?” I question almost in a whisper. I wipe away my tears with the side
of my hand as I watch him carefully. It takes him a moment to finally respond.
He reaches up and tugs down the high collar of his sweater, exposing part of
his skin. I squint to spot the extremely large bruise at his neck. Once I think
about it, he took extra care in making his right side was faced away from both
of us. That or covered up by a hand like he was scratching his neck.
“It’s hard to hide something like this… you’d see it eventually anyway,” he
mumbles. At first, I thought it was just a normal mark, but then I see faint
imprints of the teeth still in the flesh. The limping, the mark. No…
“You… slept with him…?” I convey. I really hope I’m wrong, but by the way
Kaburagi is staring stoically back at me, I’m not. There’s an awkward pause for
what seemed like an eternity, both of us in shock from the situation. I can’t
believe he did this, but how was it for me? That part I don’t get. Before I’m
able to question it, Kaburagi speaks up again.
“He promised me if I had sex with him, he’d leave you and Captain alone. I know
it was an idiot move, but I… I wanted to have some sort of comfort that you’d
be safe. Yeah, he may have lied to me for all I know, but I’ll be sure to put
him in his place if it backfires. I care for you… so…” His little speech ends
when he breaks off into heavy sobs. Hearing that, I don’t think twice about
walking over and embracing him. His face buries into my shoulder as I gently
rub his upper back in a soothing fashion. I nuzzle my face in his hair
affectionately, forcing a smile to my lips. This idiot cares for me far too
much, even going to the lengths of getting himself involved in shady affairs.
We keep the hug close, the only sounds around us being either of our cries. His
head shifts against me while making incoherent words, but he soon finds his
voice.
“A-Ao-yagi-san…” he weeps into my shirt as he clutches at my sides, “… I- l-
e y-y-u…” I pull away to look into his soaked face, confused on what he
attempted to say. Snot bubbles burst and lips quiver periodically as he
composes himself.
“I like you… a lot,” he repeats more clearly.
He… he can’t be serious. I stare into those foggy red eyes to see nothing but
truth and earnest. He’s just saying that in the spur of the moment, right? I
can’t follow that up, there’s nothing I could say. What, I “like” him too? No,
I couldn’t. After a brief sigh, I lean up on the tips of my toes and place a
gentle kiss to his forehead.
“I know…” I finally respond. It’s the best I could think of in a situation like
this. Relief washes over his face as he embraces me fully, a light laugh
through his cries. He’s trembling more than before now. I wonder how long he’s
wanted to tell me that.
“I’m so sorry! If this gets out of hand, I’ll fix it! I swear!” I nod slowly
onto his shoulder as I stare off blankly. You idiot…
“Come on now,” I mutter, “Today’s been a rough day, let’s try to get some more
sleep before the race.” I need to lay down, I feel like I’m going to faint.
Never thought a simple day could so upside down so fast. I feel him nod before
releasing me, head hung low.
“Yeah… I’m sorry again…” he whimpers pathetically.
“Don’t worry about it for now,” I say collectedly. I’m starting to sound like
Junta now. I take him by the wrist and lead him back into the hallway, only to
stop when I see Junta leaning against the nearly wall in a causal fashion. His
expression is lacking of all emotion, steely eyes locked on me. I just
acknowledge him with a simple nod and continue leading the still sobbing
Kaburagi to the room. My heart sinks to my stomach. Seeing Junta with such a
cold stare… how much of that did he hear? I peer over a shoulder to see him
already gone, most likely into the bathroom.
“I’m so tired…” I hear Kaburagi laugh weakly, “How much longer until the
race…?”
“Enough time to get a few more hours in, it’s fine…” I remark with just as much
exhaustion. We arrive at the room and Kaburagi stumbles flat onto his futon. He
doesn’t bother to take off his slippers or anything, he’s out cold in the
matter of minutes. He needs the rest, I do too, but now my thoughts are filled
about Junta. Those few minutes of silence are complete relief to me, my sweater
discarded and rigid body upright on my own bed. My heavy eyes stare to the door
in wait. Eventually, Junta comes in with that same stern look. He doesn’t even
give a passing glance as he walks over to his backpack to pull out his jersey.
The awkward silence makes the air thick. Junta, how much did you hear?
“Maybe ninety percent…” he states indifferently, catching my thoughts. He still
doesn’t look at me after gathering the items into his arms and heading for the
door.
“Junta!” I speak in a hushed tone. I know you’re not fine with this, talk to me
Junta! He stops at the door and shakes his head slowly.
“Get some more sleep, I’m going to go train.” With that, he exits rather
swiftly, leaving me back in the quiet of the room. I wonder which part has
gotten on his nerves the worse? The Doubashi part or the declaration of
Kaburagi’s affection for me? It’s not worth chasing him down when he’s like
this, he needs his thinking time alone. I fall back onto my pillow with a solid
thud, gaze up at the ceiling. Please tell me this day was all just a horrible
dream. My eyes slowly fluttered closed.
Junta…
***** Oh boy, I'm still doing this... *****
The few hours I was able to sleep weren’t restful at all.
The sun peaks through thick clouds and birds sing as I rise from my futon, my
headache gone for the time being. It feels like I didn’t sleep a single minute,
even with the passing hours. I look off to my right to see Kaburagi still
passed out, body full spread on his bed. His slippers and blanket are strewn
about as he snores loudly. On my left though, there’s nothing. Junta’s setup
remains the same, indicating he has yet to return. I part my messy hair and
tuck the portion behind an ear as my gaze falls back forward. So much for it
being a dream…
Regardless, I lean over and start to organize my belongings. There’s still a
race today, that hasn’t left my mind. Doing an hour or two on rollers might
bring me some ease. The made noises make Kaburagi thrash about, making my
attention turn towards him. He scratches at his exposed stomach as his lips
smack together, glassy eyes opening slowly. After staring to the ceiling for
some time, he looks over to me with a bright smile.
“Hey…” he mumbles with grog, “Morning Aoyagi-san…” I look back to my bag and
pull out my cycling gear with a nod. Didn’t mean to wake him up, but we should
get to practice soon anyway.
“Morning,” I respond half heartily. I can only hope his mindset has changed
from the nap, but I’m disappointed in an instant. I feel his arms wrap at my
waist before his head nuzzles at my upper back with affection. I really
shouldn’t be surprised.
“You sleep ok?” he says after a long sigh. I place my gear to the side before
placing a hand atop his. I push it to the side, hopefully indicating I’m not in
the right mood for this. He continues to hug me close though. My gaze falls to
over a shoulder, giving him a cold stare.
“Enough to cycle today…” He blinks in his normal confusion he suffers far too
often. You idiot, take the hint. Even Junta isn’t this cuddly right after
waking up.
“That’s great! Should start right aw-” His voice cuts off when the door
suddenly slides open, both our gazes turning to it. I didn’t hear a jingle of
keys or footsteps due to my distraction. Junta stands at the door frame in his
jersey, a faint smile on his lips. It looks forced though. … good timing.
“Am I disturbing something?” he asks flatly. I express a noise of surprise as I
realize Kaburagi is still around me. Dammit you idiot! Junta is upset enough
already, this doesn’t help at all! I again pull at his hands, which makes him
react. He draws back completely, head low in apology towards our captain.
“No, not at all! I just woke up and wasn’t thinking!” he clamors. Unlike
yesterday, his words are genuine. That’s a first. “Sorry about that, I’ll just
excuse myself!” He reaches over and grabs his entire bag before rushing towards
the door. I watch in silence as Junta cuts him off by extending out an arm,
blocking the doorway completely. Junta’s head is hung low so his tangled hair
covers his most his expression. Kaburagi halts and slumps his shoulders in
defeat. Maybe he now realizes that he’s upset.
“No, we have to talk. All of us,” he says more sternly. His head rises slowly,
blue eyes filled with strain and fatigue. Wish you’ve gotten more sleep, Junta.
Sorry last night happened, but I couldn’t just ignore my urge to search for
answers.
“About what? … Oh, the race! This time, I -swear- I’ll listen to your strats!”
Kaburagi replies dumbfounded. You’re kidding me, he just said that. The tension
in the air is thick enough to cut with the knife and you say that? Are you
really that dense? The door is slammed shut, making us both jump in surprise.
We’re still locked on Junta, who looks anything but amused to the riposte.
“Not sure if you’re playing stupid just to be cute or just stupid, but frankly,
I don’t care right now,” Junta growls in irritation. Kaburagi responds by
backing away and flopping back to his bed. He clutches his duffel bag tight to
his chest, head half buried onto it. At least he looks like he’s listening now
by his alert air, but Junta didn’t have to be so harsh. He looks to me with
that grimace, brows knitted. If you want to talk, then talk Junta. “Fine, I
will,” he responds to my thoughts and looks back to Kaburagi. “Think it’s
obvious by now that I heard your conversation between you and Aoyagi last
night. Knowing you too well at this point, you probably didn’t tell your
superiors because you didn’t want to look uncool. Instead, you’ve made yourself
look like a complete idiot. Are you ok with throwing your pride away like
that?” The redhead looks away for a brief moment and stares back with a
determined spark in his eyes.
“Yes sir!” he shouts confidently after sitting up straight, “It wouldn’t be the
first time I’ve done so for the sake of the team. I’ll only regret it if
Doubashi decides not to keep his word!” Junta responds with a low sigh and
takes a few steps forward.
“You’re not lying for once at least,” he replies, “You know, I talked to
Doubashi while you two were asleep.” Kaburagi nibbles slowly at his lip.
“You didn’t talk about our deal did you?!” he blurts out in fear. Do you think
he really did that? Junta’s not stupid, you know.
“Aoyagi’s right, I’m not stupid. I wouldn’t let a secret like that slip so
easily out.” Kaburagi looks to me, then back to Junta with that addled
appearance. Has he not gotten used to our silent conversations yet?
“Well, what did talk to him about then?” Kaburagi asks with interest. I’m
interested myself obviously, what would those two talk about with a fight
breaking out? Junta looks like he isn’t injured, so maybe the deal did work out
in Kaburagi’s favor. Or he caught him in a more crowded area. Regardless, it
seems the confrontation went alright. Unsure why, but I feel a sort of joy
within Junta.
“About earlier, the thing that started this whole thing. Why he touched Aoyagi
like that.” Junta runs a hand through his sweaty hair as he plops to the ground
nearby us, a smile plastered on his face. What’s there to be smiling about
Junta? “Sorry to break it to you Kaburagi, but he just did that to scare us. He
was attempting to demoralize us in maybe not wanting to race. He admitted he
was going to try that tactic again soon, but ‘decided not to.’ Your deal
worked, but for the wrong reasons.” Kaburagi is in utter shock from this, mouth
agape and eyes fully open. Is this the truth?
“B-b-but that Pig touched me too before me made our deal! He did the same thing
to me! He’s just a disgusting pervert! How did you know he’s telling the
truth?” He did…? And yet you still went with that outrageous agreement? Why
can’t you learn anything Kaburagi?
“If you haven’t figured it out already, I’m good at reading people. It’s just
not Aoyagi I can do that with. It’s something that comes naturally. Instead of
taking the normal boastful, intimidating route he normally takes, he decided to
spice it up with a different tactic. That’s why I’ve been taking this so
easily, I knew it pretty much from the start.”
“Junta…” I say softly. He looks over to me, now frowning. Why didn’t you tell
us this earlier? This whole scenario could have been avoided!
“I’d have a feeling you say that…” he huffs in defeat, “The reason I didn’t say
anything is because I thought you guys would pick that up. We’ve been in enough
races to understand that some people will go to great lengths to win a race,
mentally and physically. I feel like such an idiot…” He rubs his forehead with
a growl, teeth gritting in frustration. “I’m sorry. If I told you guys that,
this could have-”
“Then why did he sleep with me?!” Kaburagi interrupts, “If touching Aoyagi-san
was just part of a plan, he could have just… ugerrrh! It doesn’t make sense! …
Actually, that confirms he’s just a big pervert!” Kaburagi does make a valid
point. This whole “deal” thing didn’t have to happen in the first place. I perk
a brow as I hear Junta begin to laugh under his breath. Why is this so funny to
you, this is serious!
“I’m sorry for laughing, but… well, I was told to give this to you.” Kaburagi
tips his head to the side with confusion as Junta reaches back into a pocket.
He pulls out a folded slip of paper and hands it off to him. “Doubashi said,
and I quote, 'make sure Orange gets this. It’s important.’ I only laugh because
of the look on his face when he handed it to me. Flustered? Embarrassed? It was
unlike him.” Kaburagi blinks to the slip and unfolds it with hesitation. We
both watch his face strain into a mixture of fear and surprise as he eyes it
over. “By that expression, can only assume, it’s a… I really can’t tell. Can
you tell us or is it a secret?” Kaburagi gulps heavily as he holds it to his
chest, face now red as a cherry.
“Uh- it’s… his number. Says to call him sometime. I-It says he’s sorry for
tricking me into doing that. He- he….” He places one hand over his mouth and
gulps roughly. Seems Doubashi is breaking some barriers as well. Sending,
maybe, a love note?
“He… what?” I ask calmly. Things just got more interesting.
“He made up the deal so he could… spend time with me. He was surprised I
actually… did sleep with him. Shit to… gah.” His voice cuts off to take a large
inhale. “You… YOU FUCKING PIG!” Now that’s a sudden change in tone, both me and
Junta wince from the sudden outburst. “He played with my damn emotions! I was
doing that for Aoyagi-san, not because I wanted to! Disgusting bastard! I
should go kick his ass right now!” Before he’s able to make a move, Junta and I
spring out and hold him by either shoulder so he can’t sit up. “You know he
deserves it! Come on guys!” He squirms, but not in hell I’m letting go! You
don’t have to be so violent!
“Kaburagi, please…” Junta says calmly, “I know it was wrong of him, but you
need to take this with a clear mind. Think of Doubashi and who he is. He’s
blunt, loud and doesn’t express himself in the most civilized way. Maybe that
was the only way he could express himself towards you without embarrassing
himself.” I get you’re trying to help Junta, but that doesn’t change the fact
Doubashi did do something that’s unforgivable. That note could be a lie, just
like his other actions. “Talk, Kaburagi. Just go talk to him. He did say he’s
sorry on that note, right?” Kaburagi struggled a little at our holding, but it
then stops completely once he hears that statement. He looks back to the paper
and nods slowly to confirm this. Really, I don’t trust this, but I can’t be
blamed. Not after what’s happened within these few hours.
“Yeah… I wonder if he actually is,” he mumbles, now more calmed down. “You’re
right Captain, you always are.” He gives a goofy smile as he looks to both of
us with rosy cheeks. “Truthfully, I did enjoy it. Can admit I sorta forgot
about the whole deal thing until the very end.” I shake my head slowly with a
sigh of disappointment. I’m not surprised yet again. How did a simple trip for
a race turn into those high-school dramas you see on TV? His expression does
suddenly change though, his eyes now locked on me. Sentiment and loving… dammit
Kaburagi. Don’t say it. I stare back questionably. “… this doesn’t change what
I said last night. I still really like you, Aoyagi-san.” … I don’t need this
now, none of us do. I was going to say something in return, but Junta speaks up
first.
“Come now, don’t bring that up now. You have more important matters to attend
to. Bet Doubashi and you have a lot to talk about. He still might be out front
on rollers or out on the course. And remember, still a race today that you’re
going to -win-.” Thank you, Junta. That’s exactly what I was going to bring up.
Kaburagi responds with a strong nod before reaching over to his belongings. I
can feel a sudden pressure off of him. Race. Win. Those words always make this
first year swell with excitement.
“You’re damn right! Have some, hopefully, not violent conversation, do some
training and I’ll take that trophy!” With that, he stomps out with a confident
laugh, bag under arm and spring in his step. An extraordinary idiot… but a
caring idiot. Seems like things are a little more settled now at least, but…
dammit. I should have seen the signs too. I knew something was off about
Doubashi when he did that to me, it didn’t feel genuine. Forced even. I was
just too much in shock to pick that up. I look to my partner with a blank
expression. Sorry Junta…
“Now don’t you play the overly sorry game too, Aoyagi…” he says warmly. He
scoots closer to me so our knees bump together and tilts his head with a broad
smile. “I’m the sorry one and I feel horrible, but I can’t take back the past.
It’s better just to think of the future with a smile. Can I get one from you?
Smile for me, Aoyagi~.” He says that in such an innocent way, it instantly
makes me grin. Stop being so cute, Junta. “I’ll stop doing that when you do~!”
He always know how to lighten my mood, but I know there’s still questions in
the back of both our minds. He shakes his head and says,“But, if I could get
serious for just a minute…”
“About Kaburagi…?” I ask softly as I reach out to place a hand atop his. “I
don’t like him back, if that’s what you’re going to ask.” Don’t worry, Junta.
I’m unsure if he’s the type to get jealous, but it shouldn’t matter. It’s not
like we’re officially together or anything.
“It was… and it’s fine if you did. I mean, come on, he’s a keeper!” Very funny
Junta. That doesn’t answer one question I still have.
“Then why were you so upset earlier…?” I ask in a serious tone. What bothered
you so much Junta? If not jealously, then what? His hand turns under mine to
grasp it firmly.
“Truthfully, I was pissed at Kaburagi for doing that. I know he’s an idiot at
times, but I never thought he’d go to that length for someone. It’s admirable,
but also… wrong. As you can tell, I’ve gotten over it for the most part. It was
his own choice after all. Don’t think we could have stopped him if we knew
anyway. Can be stubborn as a mule too!” I nod slowly in agreement. He would
have found some way to get around us if we got involved. He can be clever when
he wants to be.
“I should start my warm-ups, it’s already getting closer to race time.” Sorry
to break the mood Junta, but you said it yourself. There’s still a race. He
nods back and stands with an extended hand out to help me up.
“Let’s do it together and we’ll take that trophy.” I accept the lift to only
have him pull me into a tight hug. Junta… what’s this about? “Our two man team
will never break…” I return the hug, arms tight around his waist. As I thought,
he does care… even if slightly. No one can take me away from you.
“It won’t Junta. I promise.”
***** Oh boy, it got cheesy... *****
Chapter Notes
     (( Back to Kaburagi’s POV~ ))
Where is he… where is that damn Pig?!
After heading to the changing room to get into my jersey, I started my search
as soon as I went outside. Most the participants are out now, some on rollers
and others on the track. There’s about three hours before the races begins, but
I’d rather get this out of the way than begin my training. I mean, I know I’m
going to win anyway, so why should I bother? Give me thirty minutes and I’m
ready to go!
Speaking of which, about thirty minutes pass without a sign of him near the
warm-up area. I doubt he returned to his room, so the track is my best bet.
It’s small thankfully, around 3km in circular shape. Although, there’s a small
forested area in the middle that blocks off seeing people on the other side of
the track. Instead of wasting more time waiting to see if he passes by, I grab
my bike and head on. We’re bound to run into each other, worse case, I get my
practice in now.
I take the right side of the wide track at the starting line and ride forward,
my gears set to let me ride at the fastest speed possible. My legs and lower
body still ache from yesterday’s practice and bedroom situation, but I push
onward in hopes of finding him. The weather today is lacking of any winds and
an overcast is above blocking the sunlight. That’s right, there’s a chance it
could rain. As long as it isn’t too heavy, the race won’t be held off or
canceled. It’s a relief to ride without the sun beating down on me, making the
experience more tolerable. I speed passed many of the other participants
without regarding my own safety, my bike’s tires are right on the edge of
asphalt and grass to shorten the route. My breaths are steady and calmed around
half way down the short track, finally spotting that familiar jersey and
gigantic size.
“Heeeeey Pig!” I shout towards him with excitement, “Good to see you!” ‘Good to
see you?’ What the hell am I saying? He looks over a broad shoulder with that
devious grin of his, pace slowing so we meet side by side. We both switch to a
medium gear to ride at a more comfortable pace.
“Hey Orange~!” he grunts while reaching over and giving a firm smack to my back
like last night. Ow, you brute! “Guess you can still move! Means you’ll still
be a challenge today!” Talk about a friendly greeting.
“Yeah, yeah I’m fine,” I comment, “But I’m not here to boast how much of a
genius and how high my pain tolerance is right now. What the hell is with that
sudden note of yours? Could have slipped it under the door or waited until
later!” I see his expression switch to a soft smirk as he kicks, getting some
distance. I’m about to speed up to him, but he suddenly turns sharply to the
right and onto the grass. I screech to a halt nearby once I caught up, watching
him step off his bike and lean it to a tree. I look to him with confusion.
“It’s better to talk of without exhausted lungs,” he announces before turning
away and walking off into the brush.
“Hey! Wait!” I leap off my bike and drop it off near his before rushing off. We
don’t walk far into the patch, just enough so the sound of bikes is barely
heard. He seats himself onto a flattened tree stump and stares silently at me.
Even knowing he could gentle at times, my thoughts still doubt this setup.
Could be a trap for all I know, but not like the track is too far away. Easy
running distance if this turns sour. “… could have just rode to the dorms,” I
mumble.
“This is a better spot. Much more thinking room here. Besides, not like it
really matters in the end,” he comments as he scratches the back of his head.
“Well, I asked to be talked to after sending that ridiculous note to you. And
yeah, was going to give it too you before the race, but your Captain was right
there. Was a good opportunity to just get it out of the way right then and
there. Sure, could have gotten you all a fluster if I waited, but I wanted the
race to be fair.” He breaks off into a hearty chuckle as he unzips part of his
jersey for some breathing room. “Mind running that note over by me again? Was
half asleep when I wrote it.” My arms fold over my chest as I step forward.
This is unlike you, Doubashi.
“Well uh- it went like, 'Hey Orange. Just wanted to say sorry for last night. I
made up that deal on the spot just so we could talk more privately. I got
caught up in the moment and went with it without a second thought. Really,
there’s more I wish to speak with you about. Let’s do that later. Also, here’s
my number for when I return to Hakone. Will be nice to hear your…’ ugh, ’-cute-
voice when back home.'” I say mocking his voice, “Something like that. But
really, is that true?” He leans forward and props his chin onto a knuckle.
“Sounds like me. It’s all true. Mind if we get this out of the way now? Just
hope my words won’t scare you away from the race though!” he cackles. This guy
keeps confusing me more and more with every sentence. That 'gentle’ tone of
voice he had last night has returned, I even catch more redness on his face
than before.
“Sure, we can talk…” I say curiously, “Just don’t know where you’re going with
this.” He looks straight up to my face with a flat expression.
“How can I put this simply so your tiny brain can understand…?” he begins. Hey!
That’s not very nice! Even being offended, I keep my words to myself so I could
hear what else he has to say. “I think you’re cute. We should, you know, go out
or something. Like dinner or a movie.”
 
…
 
…………
 
Wait…
 
WHAT?!
 
Those are terms I understand crystal clear, but he has to be insane!
“… you’re kidding me! After what you made me do last night, you expect me just
to fall into your arms like a distressed damsel?! You know I only did that
because of my teammate’s sake!” I knit my brows together with a frustrated
growl between teeth. And he calls me the idiot!
“I know, and really, I said sorry. You just… got into it and so did I. Thought
you were having your own fun with it, so I played along,” he heaves. His gaze
is set on me, not looking away for even a second.
“You said I had to do a good job, you moron! I was somewhat putting on a show
so you wouldn’t case anymore trouble!”
“I said sorry, what else do you want from me?!” he exclaims as he stands back
to his feet. He now towers over me, my legs locking in place. Shit Doubashi,
you’re serious. “I don’t expect any positive response obviously, but I just
want you to know that! After you left I felt last night, I felt like a complete
ass because I do like you! Dammit Orange!” His teeth clench together in anger
as he expresses a growl. To think, this damn Pig has feelings for me… strong
ones too.
“… you could have just said something instead of molesting me and pretty much
forcing me to have sex with you. Maybe then I’d be more positive about this,” I
comment under my breath. Maybe the Captain is right, maybe he doesn’t know how
to just say it right off the bat. Things are sort of making sense, in a messed
up sort of way. I take that advice to heart as I reach out for for one of his
hands. I take it without any conflict and squeeze it firmly. “So, did you touch
Aoyagi-san to get my attention too?” He grips back with a slow nod.
“Yeah, kinda. Shouldn’t think you could have gotten jealous or something, not
with our past scuffles. Like I said, I feel like an ass. There’s no way I could
make it up to you and your teammates.” He pauses for a moment. “You guys are
strong, you demonstrated this during the Inter-High; as much as I hate to
admit. I should have never done this.” He’s completely honest, I can tell by
everything he’s doing. Confirming tone, keeping eye contact, strain on his
face. Maybe I am learning from Teshima-san after all. I can even see his eyes
become glossy on the verge of tears.
“You know I won’t forgive you just yet, but I get what you were trying to do. I
mean, I’ve made a lot of idiotic mistakes I wish I could take back too. Not
like this whole thing can be forgotten completely, but I can try.” What the
hell… my chest. It’s aching like all hell! That similar pain when around
Aoyagi-san. Do I… like him too? No, no, I’m just too forgiving and confused!
This guy did something horrible and he should pay! Yet, I can’t raise a fist. I
don’t want to hit him, I know he’s sorry!
“I’d kiss you right now as a thank you for trying, but that would be
disrespectful,” he guffaws, “So I’ll just say thanks Orange. If there’s
anything I could do to make it up to you, just say it.” This bastard, still
joking in the middle of a serious conversation.
“You could drop out of the race!” I clearly joke. Although, he doesn’t take the
joke lightly as he releases my hand.
“Sure, can do. If that will make you feel better,” he huffs without hesitation.
“H-hey! I was joking! I still want to beat your ass!” We both fall to laughter
for a moment, his expression changing. That toothy grin of his… it suits him.
“Guess that means I should try even harder so that won’t happen!”
“You’re damn right! Hey! Why don’t we do our practice together? Have a tiny
little race before the actual thing, huh?” My fiery spirit has returned!
“Naaaah~” he billows, “Let’s save our energy for the real thing. Can’t wait to
see another look of defeat on that cute face of yours!” His fist rises to punch
it to my chest in a friendly demeanor. Now that’s some motivation! I return
with my own punch square to the right side of his chest. Dammit Doubashi, you
can inspire me as much as my own team at times.
“You know, I can accept that kiss now,” I say with truthfulness. There’s so
many mixed feeling I have for this guy, but I feel like he deserves that much
after opening himself up and getting me worked up. He looks surprised by that,
thick brows high. He does smirk though as he leans down to scale our height
difference so we’re face-to-face.
“There’s that cute little Orange I appreciate…” he mumbles warmly before
falling into a gentle kiss. There’s no force behind it, just pure comfort. Both
of us exhale in solace when it’s broken, our eyes locked again for a brief
second. I don’t like to admit there’s something deep within me that admires
this man. I don’t get what I see in him, even after all this whole situation. I
give another quick kiss before withdrawing completely, now turned and bouncing
off towards our parked bikes.
“Don’t get all sappy on me now, Pig! We still have another hour or so to warm
up! Let’s get to it!” I shout back with a giggle. He wasn’t expecting the extra
kiss, his whole face reddened from – I could only assume – embarrassment. I
like this side of him. He wipes away at his lips with the side of his hand
before catching up to be at my side.
“That means after I kick your ass, you’ll send me a text or call, hrm?” he
grunts after catching up. I bump my shoulder onto his arm teasingly.
“Only if you do a good job!” I mock in his voice. Now this is fun!
“I’ll do better than good! I’ll whoop you so hard, you’ll go crying to your
mommy, first year!” We continue our comebacks until we reach our bikes and
speed back onto the track. We keep up pretty well with one another until the
front door of the dorms are back in my sights. I’ve been holding back again. My
stomach has been swirling since Doubashi brought me into the forest. Not enough
to cripple, but now it’s intense as I recall everything. Luckily there’s still
some time.
This really needs to stop…
***** Oh boy, this is getting long... *****
I’m getting really sick of these urgent bathroom breaks. I’m normally more calm
then this, but this entire trip so far has been a mess. My body is going to be
a complete wreck by the end of this. To make matters worse, it started to rain.
It’s about an hour before the start of the race now when it begins, but it’s
just small droplets at least. For now. Gets any heavier and it’s sure to be
canceled. Luckily, it’s a fairly short race – maybe take around twenty to
twenty five minutes – so I couldn’t see that happening unless it downpours. A
light shower doesn’t hurt, and plus, it’s cooling off the contestants. There’s
only around forty people here today for it, but a trophy is on the line. Tch, I
could still win if it was four hundred! Guess I could go for one more short
warm-up in. Although, I stop in my tracks when I spot the third-years taking a
seat on the front steps.
“Hey guys! The genius has returned!” I shout while approaching. Guess they’re
on break now. Been so caught up in the bathroom, I missed my opportunity to
train with them.
“Ah, Kaburagi!” Teshima-san says, turning his head to face me, “Cheerful as
ever. Guessing things went well with Doubashi?” Aoyagi-san looks to me as well
with a slight grin. I halt about three feet between them to stare blankly at
him, that tingly sensation returning to my gut. Luckily not from being nervous,
but this isn’t any better! Thin jersey hugging his muscles, cheeks flushed from
the chill in the air, long hair stuck to his forehead and in disarray. I can’t
help but stare. I would think after dealing with last night’s fuck-up, and now
Doubashi, I be able to look at him without getting flustered. But he’s… a
beautiful sight to look at. “Kaburagi~? You there?” Huh, is that Teshima-san’s
voice…? Why would I hear-
Oh crap! How long have I been gaping at him!? I snap back to reality with a
shake of the head and crack a timid smile. I see them both roll their eyes.
“U-uh, yeah! Sorry, mind blanked out there for a moment!” The captain gives a
modest chuckle and stands to his feet.
“Noticed. Soooo, how did it go?” he questions, now facing fully my direction.
Did he… say something before I blanked out?
“Huh, how did what go…?” I ask bluntly. He stands there with a shake of the
head, a finger tapping on a forearm like he’s waiting. I blink a few times and
think over what he may be referring to. Is Aoyagi-san that distracting to me?
What the hell did he say not just a moment ago?!I can’t recall anything.
“Junta…” Teshima-san’s attention returns to his teammate, who is now standing
as well. My eyes snap open as when I caught the sight of his full body. His
jersey is nearly see through! Tanned skin shining with moisture, muscles tense
from the cold… Ahhh, get a hold of yourself Issa! He’s your teammate too and
you shouldn’t be gawking at him like this! Thought this was already out of my
system! I turn away on my heels to let out a long, heavy sigh to bring some
relief. Best way to solve this, just don’t look at him! I can just do that for
today! And the next one! Then we’ll split up and everything will be fine again!
“You don’t have to ask for my permission,” I hear Teshima-san laugh.
“Sorry…” the other responds coyly.
“You don’t have to apologize. I’m just he’ll appreciate it. It’s innocent
enough, go ahead.” What the hell are those two talking about? Sort of rude to
speak in your guy’s “other language” while I’m standing right here!
“Kaburagi, turn around,” Aoyagi-san directs towards me. Oh, right. My back’s to
them. I spin back to them with vague expression, avoiding eye contact.
“Yeah?” I simply ask. Think I heard captain saying I’d appreciate something?
Wonder this could be about. Before anymore questions can come to my mind,
Aoyagi-san’s face is barely even an inch from mine. Our noses are nearly
touching! I freeze up yet again as I stare in those blank blue eyes. … oh shit,
is he going to kiss me?! This could be it! Maybe he’s finally expressing his
true feelings towards me while in front of his best friend! I knew he’d see
that- “OOOWWW!!”
I whimper aloud as my ear is roughly tugged down by the lobe, hard enough to
make my head tip off to the side. Aoyagi-san just shakes his head slowly as he
holds me there for a handful of seconds, the captain’s laughter heard in the
background. Are you serious, this hurts like hell! Don’t laugh!
“It’s rude to stare…” Aoyagi-san says after releasing me. I rub at my stinging
ear and whine loudly. Got my hopes up and everything…
“H-hey! I looked away! I tried to stop- eh?” My voice fades when he leans in
yet again only to give a soft kiss to the tip of my nose. Warmth rises to my
cheeks in an instant. “What was that for?!” Is he teasing me now?
“It’s for good luck,” he states before walking back over to the captain. Good
luck? It didn’t have to be a kiss! Now he’s just confusing me… was it just that
or a true sign of affection? I don’t- wait, I do understand! I’ve stopped
shaking and I can look at him with a straight face now! It was meant to calm me
down! It’s like when he kissed me on the forehead last night. There was so much
relief from that. A satisfied smile spreads over my red face.
“I wish you luck too! Same with Teshima-san! Does that mean I should get a kiss
from him too for luck?” It’s an honest question! Does the whole team do this
now?
“I don’t think you can handle a kiss from me. Even just on the nose. Might
leave you breathless and start having a crush on me too,” he boasts. We all
break into a short laugh. This day is already starting to look much brighter,
even with the rain.. “How about we do one last warm-up together? Still have a
good forty minutes.” Aoyagi-san and I nod enthusiastically and follow the
captain down the steps to the grassy area nearby the track. The rain has gotten
heavier in this short time, but still no announcements have been made over the
intercom that it’s canceled or delayed. I really hope not.
This will be, in fact, the last race I’m in with them. Unsure what they have
planned after graduation, but I know for sure it’s going to be hard on me. Only
one Inter-High and a handful or races together… dammit, if only we were in the
same year. Heard from Teshima-san that Aoyagi’s hair used to be a lot shorter
back in the day. He probably looked so adorable! I should ask to see a picture
of him sometime. …that’s not important right now. I have to do my best today
and show that Sohoku will remain strong with them gone. Before I’m able to set
up my bike, I’m suddenly picked up from behind by my waist. I don’t realize
what’s happening until I’m slung over a giant shoulder like a sack of potatoes.
I stare to the ground for a brief second, ears twitching from the voices.
“Hey, put Kaburagi down! Thought you weren’t going to bother us for the rest of
the trip!” I hear the captain shout.
“He spends time with you guys all the damn time, I need my share too! Plus, we
can talk about our date while we finish warming up!” the voice roars.
 
…
 
“…..Doubashi?! Dammit, let me down!” I bawl when I recognize that gruff voice.
Sadly being over him, I can’t see the faces of my teammates, but did I just
hear… Aoyagi-san chuckle?
“… a date?” he snickers. I did! Oh no, this isn’t good! My arms and legs begin
to squirm about in an attempt for freedom, but Doubashi holds me steady with a
hand at my lower back.
“Correct, Bambi-chan!” he billows, “This little Orange is going to treat me to
dinner!” Oh god, no! Stop it, you bastard!
“You asshole! There’s no date! No dinner! We’re not doing anything together!
Stop being such an ass! You said you wouldn’t be one, yet still are! Do you
ever listen to anything anyone tells you!? You better put me down right- AH!” A
firm smack is made by that hand, right on the sorest part of my lower back. Not
again! His hand print is going to be a permanent mark there if he keeps that
up.
“Shush, you’re making a scene!” Doubashi roars, “Is all you know how to do is
yell?!”
“Is all you know to be is an ass?!” I shout right back. You know, I expected
help a long time ago now, but there’s no feedback except for laughter. Laughter
from my own teammates! “Why are you two laughing?!” I can see how this is
silly, but not to me! I cover my face with a hand when I spot other members of
the race staring right in my direction. This is so embarrassing! He’s doing
this purpose… I feel Doubashi shift to the side for a moment before he turns
around and starts walking off in the opposite direction.
“Come on, Orange. My area is over here,” he scoffs. Woah, wait what? I gawk
over at Teshima-san and Aoyagi now, who are both just waving in goodbye. What
the hell are you two doing?! This is some huge joke to all of them!
“Have fun, lovebirds!” Teshima-san yells, “See you at the race Kaburagi!” You
guys are just as much of assholes! I also spot my bike missing. Now where did
that – My gaze falls slightly off to the right to see it parked under
Doubashi’s other arm and carrying it along like myself. There’s no use in
yelling anymore. Not like it’s going to do anything at this point. I fall limp
in defeat over him with a drawn out sigh.
“That’s much better, thanks Orange!” Doubashi taunts, “You can be a nuisance
when you struggle!”
“Don’t thank me for that…” I watch the sidewalk pass under me and into the
grass, followed by more cement. Just where the hell is he dragging me? A minute
or two passes in awkward silence, it breaking when my bike is dropped safely to
the ground with a light thud. His opposite hand hooks into my jersey pockets
and tugs, making me slide off his shoulder and into his arms. After shifting my
weight around, Doubashi smiles down at me while holding me bridal style. I feel
like a child in these muscular arms… I look away with a pout to see his bike
leaned against the side of the building and two rollers set side by side. He
prepped for this? “Where’s on the other side of the dorms! Why the hell are you
all the way out here?”
“Don’t you remember? I always go to a place where I can be alone before a race,
it’s a ritual,” he replies. I swear I’ve heard him say that before… can’t place
a finger on when though.
“If you like to be alone, why’d you bring me? This is the complete opposite of
being alone!” I puff out my cheeks as I look back to him, his smile from ear to
ear. He doesn’t respond, so I continue. “… and can you put me down now?! This
is embarrassing!”
“Not like anyone is around anymore, why don’t you enjoy the moment?” Tch,
bastard. Seems you only have a handful of lines in you. We don’t much time left
here! An idea pops into my head. I wipe my soaked bangs over an ear and put on
a sly expression.
“If I kiss you again would you put me down?” That should be enough.
“Heh, don’t sparkle at me, Orange,” he grunts, “But I won’t say no.” The arm
under my back raises as he tips his head down to meet with mine. “Have to
admit, got jealous when I saw Bambi-chan give you a little one. Glad to know
you’d still rather kiss me.” My eyes snap open when our lips lock in an instant
after the sentence. He just had to see that… swear this guy has been following
me. Right when I thought this was going to be a simple kiss just to satisfy his
appetite, I feel a tongue trying to barge past my lips. Dammit Doubashi, I’ll
amuse you for now, but this better be quick. My eyes flutter closed as I accept
the offer, a warm groan heard from him. As much I didn’t want to find enjoyment
from this, I can’t help but melt in his arms. At least his mouth isn’t just
good for jeering, he’s really good at this! Before I know it, we’re full on
making out.
Tingles from my spine travel all the way down to the tips of my toes while we
smack our lips together haphazardly. For some reason, I can’t help myself from
going all at it. Maybe it’s the feeling of the rain or driven by Aoyagi’s kiss.
Regardless, my hands clutch his jersey for support; eagerly exploring his maw
with broken breaths. Right when I’m enjoying it the most, he withdraws and
chuckles snidely.
“This time you aren’t pretending to like it…?” he huffs. Had a feeling he’s ask
that. Might as well be honest with him like he was earlier with me.
“… I’ll let you know the truth. I- well, I wasn’t pretending yesterday. At
first I wasn’t liking it, but then I enjoyed every minute of it…” I mumble
softly. To say that aloud to him… my heart won’t stop jumping!
“Had a feeling you were lying. After I was so open to you, you kept that back
from me? Tch, you really are an idiot.”
“I am not an idiot! N-now… can we just, get to training and forget about it?”
“You know, you gave me that kiss earlier in thanks for me being honest, so I
should reward you in return. Sure, it’s a bit late, but it happened. Plus,
don’t think you can ride with that.” I catch his eyes dart down my body then
back up to my face with a wiggle of his brows. Huh? I across my figure to see a
clear bulge between my legs, the wetness of the jersey just exaggerating it.
Guess I didn’t feel it due to the numbness of my skin. Did I just get turned so
easily yet again?!
“I-I- It will go away! You don’t have to!” I stammer in panic.
“True, but I want to. Think the same goes for you.” He waits for a response
from me, but I don’t say a single word. I already look uncool as is, my words
would just add on that. Instead, I nod in agreement. “Knew you couldn’t say
no.” He carries me to the wall before placing me down gingerly. He immediately
slides his thumbs into my waistband and pulls down my shorts fully to my
ankles. He gives a teasing smile before falling to his knees, eyes locked up at
me. This is not what I expected at all. If he’s that good at kissing, I wonder
how good he is at – My hand cups over mouth when his tongue finds it’s way
across my length; base to tip from the underside. He continues to stare
straight at me while doing so, not helping my already flushed self. My knees
can’t stop shaking. He places a firm kiss at the head before engulfing it past
his lips, making a jolt hit my spine.
“Doubashi…” I moan through my fingers. There’s no pause, mouth sliding down
till about half is covered. His tongue presses flat on the underside as he
bobs, taking a few centimeters more with each movement. My free hand grips the
zipper on my jersey and pulls down, exposing my upper body. Having some
breathing room helps tremendously, now allowed to express my moans fully.
Doubashi perks a brow with the corners of his lips upturned to a smile as he
envelops the entirety of my erection. “Ah-ahhhhhh!” My eyes rolls to the back
of my head from the sheer pleasure taking over my body. But it doesn’t stop
there. His cheeks become hallow with lips wrapped around, holding the deep
throat for a solid three seconds. Although, he does pull back swiftly to let
out a solid cough and wipes away his mouth.
“Wish I could hold that longer,” he scoffs, “Love hearing those noises from
you.”
“Y-you were doing great before that! Felt really good…” I state shyly.
“That so? Guess I should continue that feeling for you…” I nibble at my lip
from that. Why does he always have to talk like that during this, my cheeks are
burning up! Three fingers and thumb fold over the base when it’s taken back
into his maw. The tug at the lower half while his tongue and lips focus around
the head. This feels just as amazing, my lips parted to breath rapidly. I reach
out to flip his soaked bangs from his eyes, his response being an admiring hum.
Guess he doesn’t mind if I just keep it here. Fingers grip into the green
locks, which brings encouragement to work even harder. His full hand wraps
around it and jerks it a brisk speed, tongue flat against the slit. I grip even
harder as my voices heightens, knees wanting to crumple under me.
“Nngh… ah- oh yes…” I press out from my strained lungs. That tongue swirls
around the head as he moans out as well, cheeks flushed red. He’s really
enjoying this too. Goosebumps rise on my neck and arms from the mixture of cold
and warmth, the feeling of droplets rolling down my bare skin just adding to
the overwhelming feeling. Oh crap, if this keeps up…!!
I crank my head backwards as my climax comes, thighs twitching with the slight
forward movements of my hips. I don’t get any chance to warn him, it hit so
suddenly. Although, I hear his voice gagging and choking for air, which makes
me look back down.
Oh crap…
My hand is buried within his hair, and gripping hard, forcing him to take in
the area not covered by his fingers. Guess I… thrust harder than I
intentionally thought. Frantically, I release my grasp and give an awkward
chuckle. He covers his mouth the side of a hand to cough and sniffle, eyes
slammed shut. I’m bound to get hit from that! I wasn’t thinking, my hips just
took off! Luckily he was gripping it, otherwise that could have been much
worse.
“I-I didn’t mean to do that! Sorry! I got caught up in the moment!” I stutter
with hands up in defense. When the coughing spree ends, Doubashi’s stare turns
ice cold. He’s pissed now! I just had to ruin that…
“Damn Orange,” he remarks while standing back to his feet, “You’re a demanding
little shit sometimes. You know, I’d fuck the living daylights out of you for
that, but-” A sudden, booming chime is heard over the intercom. Perfect timing!
 
Attention racers, attention racers.
We’re sorry to inform you that today’s race must be canceled.
 
We both look over in the direction of the announcer’s voice with mouth agape.
Seriously?!
 
A storm front in moving into the area. High winds are expected, along with
heavy rainfall. It should be here within the next hour. We find that these
conditions are too dangerous for our racers.
 
Talk about canceling at the last moment!
 
The course will remain open until then. Feel free to use it for practice, but
be advised. All racers must leave the track once it hits. After that, all
practice sessions will take place in the front lobby until it passes. The race
will instead be held tomorrow morning, along with the award ceremony. We’re
very sorry for this inconvenience. I repeat, today’s race has been-
 
“Well, that’s a bummer,” Doubashi says over the voice repeating the report.
“Yeah…” I mutter, “Come on! A little rain and wind wouldn’t slow me down! Same
with you, right Pig?” I turn my head towards him to see eyeing my body up and
down. I don’t realize why he’s doing so until a gust of wind brushes past us.
There’s a draft… I forgot to pull my pants back up! Panic-like, I return the
clothing back over me with a uncomfortable chuckle. “Oh no, no, no! Just
because there’s no race, it doesn’t give you the right to do anything to me!”
“Tch. Don’t worry, that announcement was a bit of a turn off anyway. Think your
teammates might be searching for you now too. Wouldn’t want to get caught,
would we?” I should thank that announcement, but at the same time, it bummed me
right the hell out.
“True… dammit! I really wanted to have that race today! Now we have to wait a
full day again! Stupid rain!” I shout with frustration. I flinch when a hand is
slammed next to my head onto the building behind me, Doubashi’s large form
lingering over me. Huh, it’s like those wall pins shown in romance mangas. …
this can’t be good.
“But didn’t you listen, Orange?” he questions with a smug grin, “The course is
still open. How about we make another deal?”… really?
“No way! I’m not falling for that again! Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me
twice, shame on me.”
“This time around, you get to make your own bet though. Let’s say… five times
around the track. Quick and simple. Whoever takes first place, wins obviously.
If I happen to win, you spend the night in my room tonight. That includes
having dinner and a bath, full package. If you win, which you won’t, you get to
decide what you want. Sound like a plan?” Really, Pig? At least this time is
more fair at least, but it doesn’t change the fact he still has perverted
intentions for that ‘sleep over.’ I rub at my chin thoughtfully, humming
softly. Placing a bet on a race makes the pressure to win even greater, but
it’s encouragement to try harder. It would get my urge to race out of the way
too. But my bet…
Got it!
“Alright, sounds interesting,” I respond, “As for my side… you know the little
gift shop nearby?”
“Yeah, what of it?” he questions with an arched brow.
“They have joke gifts and animal masks for kids. If I win, I want to go in
there, buy a plastic piggy nose and wear it during the whole race tomorrow!”
I’m a genius! His response is a palm to forehead smack, followed by a long
sigh.
“… that’s really what you want?” he groans.
“Yup! Sounds like a good deal to me! How about it?”
“Fine. Deal. Better not get too wrapped up in the idea of me wearing that
though. I’ll definitely going to kick your ass.”
“We’ll just see about that, Pig.”
***** Oh boy, actual cycling... *****
I’ve been waiting far too long for a moment like this.
After taking a quick five minute warm up on rollers, myself and Doubashi find
ourselves at the starting line. Those mentioned high winds have already
arrived, gusts being easily 20 MPH. Due to them being from a storm front,
they’re completely unpredictable. One moment at my back, the next straight at
my face. This is going to be tough, but that’s exactly what I want. A
challenge. Doubashi’s large size is going to be a huge advantage here, seeing
those board shoulders can cut through this wind. I already have a plan up my
sleeves, so I’m not worried. Not even the slightest.
“Hey, Kaburagi!” I hear someone shout from across the track. I look towards the
dorms and see the third-years waving towards me. They’re already out of their
jerseys in dressed in causal attire, Aoyagi-san holding an umbrella over them
both. “What’s going on?!” Teshima-san shouts.
“Me and the Pig are having a race! Don’t worry, it’s a friendly one! For the
most part!”
“We’ll be hear cheering for you then! Be careful, the weather is only getting
worse!”
“Don’t you two worry! This genius is going to be just fine! It’s going to be
quick, like five laps, so – ow, dammit you bastard!” A sharp smack is again
placed at my lower back by Doubashi, brows knitted in distaste when I look back
to him. He really needs to stop doing that…
“Shush, no more shouting. Focus Orange,” he grumbles while snapping on his
helmet. He’s right. With these conditions, it’s not going to be a piece of
cake. But at least, I’ll have my teammates watching over me. After placing on
my own helmet, my jersey is zipped up to it’s full extent; eyes now on the
course ahead. “Hey, Sohoku Captain! Give us a countdown from five for us!”
“Sure thing!” I don’t see, but I hear him stepping towards us; along with
Aoyagi-san. “Are you two ready?” he asks when a few feet away on the grass.
“Couldn’t be more ready!” Doubashi roars.
“Same,” I simply state with my game face on. This isn’t the real race, but it’s
still intense. The last time I raced this guy, it didn’t end so kindly. Focus
Issa. Pretend this is the Inter-High all over again. I grip my handle bars
firmly and get into position, shoulder blades arched at a precise angle to help
slice through the wind. I take every note from the God of Orange Beena to
heart, even if received long ago now. I pass a glance to the third-years,
Aoyagi-san’s expression making my heart skip. There’s so much admiration in
those eyes, lips turned to the most loving smile I’ve ever seen from him.
“Good luck, Kaburagi,” he comments gently.
“Thanks, but I don’t need luck even I already have skill,” I boast back. He
simply nods in back before looking to the captain, who is grinning from ear to
ear. Excited to see me race? I won’t let you down, Teshima-san!
“Alright you two… five!” he shouts. I look back to the track in an instant and
clip one cleat in place.
“Four!”
I got this.
“Three!”
Get ready, Doubashi!
“Two!”
Here we go!
 
“ONE!”
 
In an instant, we both speed off onto the wet course without a single mistake.
Both our forms are on key, making a perfect lift off. Knuckles strain and crack
underneath my gloves while kicking at my hardest, overtaking my opponent
swiftly. Sure, I’m using a lot of energy right off the bat, but a head start
doesn’t hurt. If things go as my plan says, I’ll be able to have the lead
eighty percent of the time. After coasting around the first corner, I shift my
gears down to give my legs a short rest. As to be expected, Doubashi catches up
in a flash. A few meters down the straight line, he zooms past me with a loud
growl. Perfect! I kick again so I’m right behind him, using that body of his
block off the wind for the time being. Sort of glad there’s no inclines on the
course, but being the all-rounder I am, they wouldn’t be any trouble anyway.
Well, maybe the rain on those would be an obstacle. I wipe away my forehead
with the side of my glove before switching my gear and kicking past him before
the second curve.
“I see what you’re doing, Orange! You can’t fool me!” Doubashi heaves when he
lines up with me. We take the curve at the same pace, coasting it out and then
zipping down the straight. Gritting my teeth, I slow my pace and make my way
back behind him, but that doesn’t work in my favor. Doubashi swings off to the
left, leaving the wind at me again. “You better stay away from my rear tire!
I’m not allowing you a free ride!” Shit! There goes my idea, guess I just have
to press through it.
“You can do it Kaburagi! Keep it up!” I hear Teshima-san shout.
“Stay strong!” Aoyagi-san follows. Even he’s being vocal for me… that’s a rare
occasion. That simple encouragement gives a strength to my legs, back arched
and backside lifted to overtake Doubashi after crossing the starting line. Four
more, just four more! There’s already pain shooting through my spine, but this
is nothing. I can endure this! A huge gust of wind comes from behind, pushing
me forward and keeping my pace steady. Although, it does the same for Doubashi.
I hear him roar out yet again when we line up, that smug smile on his soaked
face.
“You’ve gotten stronger, Orange! Or just lucky!” I let out a faint laugh as I
reach out for my water bottle and take down a large swig. Even with all this
moisture, my throat is as dry as a dessert. Something doesn’t feel right. I’m
never this worn out just after one lap! After slipping it back in the stand, I
respond.
“You’re pretty good yourself, Pig! Too bad… I already have this win in the
bag!” Both of us are already panting and red-faced from pushing ourselves so
early, I can see the strain on his face. Mine probably doesn’t look better.
After reaching the curve, we’re zipping through the waters recklessly. I give
my breaks a squeeze to assist in the turn, but there’s no contact! The rainfall
has gotten heavier, making them slip and be completely useless! Instead, I rest
my legs to just slide along it a safe speed, but this makes my opponent now
have distance on me. Seeing as he was in the more open part of the track, he
had the space to steal the lead with one smooth motion. As for myself, I’ve
been riding near the edge to shorten to distance on bends. Dammit! I hear the
snaps of twigs and trees creaking in the distance as the gusts become a
constant threat.
“Three more!” Teshima-san again yells, “Don’t let him beat you so easily!”
“Go, go, go!!” Aoyagi-san again follows. You two… you guys are amazing. They
remind me of Koga-san on the second day of the Inter-High. No matter how much I
struggled, he pushed me forward. They’re always right though. Keep going, don’t
flatter Issa! Doubashi crosses the goal line yet again, but there’s still more
to go!
 
“I believe in you, Kaburagi!”
 
My eyes snap open from that voice, it latching deep within my heart. Aoyagi-
san… thank you. It’s time to get serious, one hundred percent! I feel those
gears turning in my head as my legs kick at full power to shorten to gap
between us. There’s another huge gust of wind, the trees rattling all around
us. We need to finish this quick or the people running this place will shut
down the course mid-race!
It’s early, but it’s time. This needs to happen. My body lowers further to the
ground as I reach out for the lower handlebars, slick gloves tightening around
them. Here comes your demise Doubashi! At the hook, I take over him yet again
from the extra burst of speed. The wet asphalt races past my vision as I tip my
head down to gasp out for air. My face is on fire, yet there’s a coldness deep
within my chest. My eyes can’t stop watering, my gasps ragged. What’s causing
this exhaustion? Sure the wind is brutal, but I’ve been through worse! My head
turns to stare back at Doubashi, who’s frantically trying to catch up to me.
Heh, that desperate to win? Your form is all off, it’s like you’re panicking!
 
“ORANGE! WATCH OUT!”
 
There’s no time to react. My bike hits something on the road, making me fly
straight off. The sound of it screeching against the concrete echoes in my ears
as my eyes slam shut, readying for impact.
 
……
 
I can’t open my eyes, my head is going in circles. I can only hear the rain…
and is that breathing? Warmth is all around my cold body for some reason, a
tightness held around my chest. It’s… relaxing…
***** Oh boy, it got kinda dark... *****
Chapter Notes
     (( Back to Aoyagi's PoV~ ))
They’re still not here… should have been over a minute ago.
“What’s taking them so long? You think they slowed up?” Both me and Junta stare
over at the bend where the racers would eventually speed by, but there’s
nothing. “… the weather just keeps getting worse. Don’t think they’ll have the
time to finish it.” I clutch the umbrella firmly as I look back over at my
partner, his face strained with confusion. Don’t worry so much, Junta. I’m sure
everything is fine. Wind brushes past us, making his curly locks strewn across
his cheeks. The protection of the umbrella is barely keeping us dry now, our
shirts nearly soaked to the bone. Holding onto it is becoming a struggle as
well, so I decide to close it up and tilt it against a leg. “Getting annoying,
huh? We could always head inside, pretty sure Kaburagi can handle this on his
own.” He turns towards me to fiddle with my hair; pushing back my bangs so
they’re behind an ear. “Wouldn’t want you to catch a cold too.” I shake my head
slowly as I stare up at him, expression flat.
“No, Junta. We should be here to support him. He’d do the same for us, even
with this weather,” I respond vocally. Junta’s more likely to listen to me when
I actually talk, but that goes for all people. The exception being Kaburagi.
Was actually surprised on how much he listened to me last night, but of course,
that was a more serious situation. And now, these two are racing? By that
burning pressure I felt off him, this isn’t completely friendly. You idiot…
what did you get yourself into now?
“You’re worried too, it’s fine…” Junta says, continuing to mess with my hair.
“Regardless of what is actually going on between them, we should cheer him on.
You’re right.” I nod in response before looking back over the track, now
growing just as concerned. Three minutes now… Suddenly, a huge gust hits us
from the side, the umbrella flying off into the distance. The winds roars past
my ears, along with the forest creaking all around us.
 
*CRACK*
 
Both our heads snap to a thunderous sound off in the distance. Trees bend from
the force, enough for a few smaller ones to break and fall straight over. That
sounded like a much larger one. It was some meters away from us, but still
dangerous. Even if a tiny sized branch landed on the track, it could be a
catastrophic if one of them fails avoiding it.
“Whew. Thankfully that wasn’t on the track… that could have been-” Junta’s eyes
widen as the realization hits him. “You… do you think?” I don’t think Junta, I
-know- something’s wrong now! We’re both silent for a moment, the wind slowed
for the time being. The silence is again broken by a sound, but this time, not
from the surrounding.
“AHHHH!!” Kaburagi voice echoes from the back of the track. I should have
known! Without a second thought, I sprint off towards the direction of my bike.
“Oh shit, Kaburagi! W- Wait! What are you doing?!” my teammate bellows behind
me.
“Go get help, Junta!! I’m going to go find them!” I shout back, now far ahead.
I look past a shoulder to see him rushing off towards the main building without
a word, the distance to grab his bike and ride down there would just be wasting
time. Both of us are decent runners at least, but the course is too long to
sprint it. I’m risking my own safety doing this, but I need to make sure he’s
fine. My hands are trembling as struggle to unlock my bike, heartbeat heard in
my ears. Shit, shit!!
Frantically, I lift it off the stand and jump on, riding through the grassy
patches by the track. My feet struggle to stay on the slick pedals without my
cleats, brakes ineffective. I don’t care! The bend is taken with an easy glide,
but the straight is the true problem. The wind shrieks past my shoulders while
riding driving through it, legs already beginning to ache. My teeth grit as I
continue to push forward, eyes and cheeks stinging. There’s something up ahead
on the track, I see them! To help press through this, I concentrate my body’s
energy into my thighs. My Bambi Style still only lasts for a short period, but
the extra burst is needed. Even if this exhausts me for tomorrow, I’ll have no
regrets. It’s not much further, I’m coming Kaburagi! Please be ok!
 
—
 
When I’m near my last breaths, I leap off my bike and run the final distance.
Wouldn’t want to accidentally run into them due my brakes not working. Both
their bikes are flat against the ground near them, paint scrapped and chains
fallen off. That disaster is nothing in comparison when I look to the pair.
Doubashi looks completely lifeless with back against the cement, muscles not
moving an inch. The whites of the the jersey are stained red with blood, along
with Kaburagi’s. He’s sitting up next to him, so I can only assume most of it
is from Doubashi. After sprinting over to them, I fall to my knees to check
over his injuries. There’s a few gashes on Kaburagi’s right arm and leg, but
otherwise, he looks uninjured. If he’s still this lively, it can’t be too
severe. That, or he’s sucking it up for the sake of Doubashi.
“Wake up, Pig! Wake up!!!” Kaburagi sobs as he shakes at one of his large
shoulders, eyes filled with tears. The larger man still doesn’t move, but his
chest rises and falls at a slow pace. He finally looks over to me, dread washed
on his dirty face. “Aoyagi-san! Thank god! H-help… please get help…”
“It’s alright, Junta’s on it,” I respond calmly, “I came because…” Once I think
about it, what could I really do in this situation? “I just wanted to… make
sure you’re ok.” He shakes his head rapidly and again pushes at Doubashi, sobs
becoming louder over the sound of pouring rain.
“I’m fine! He’s the one in trouble! If it wasn’t for him, I’d be like this!” My
eyes narrow to him, confusion washing to my face.
“What do you mean?” I question. Kaburagi looks back over a shoulder, my sights
falling to the area. A sapling lays in the middle of track, twigs and bark
crushed where the bikes made contact. He returns to me as he snaps off his
helmet and drops it by his side.
“… I-I didn’t realize it at first because it happened so fast, but he… caught
up with me to catch me before I hit the ground. He jumped off his bike… for
me…” he says with sniffles breaking his voice. I have no words in response to
this. Kaburagi’s weight on him, plus the overall flat hit to the ground, his
spine must be in horrible shape. Along with his shoulder blades, maybe even
broken. What a sacrifice. The stormy scenery brings on that cliché feeling of
dread depicted in movies and books even stronger. How fitting.
“H-hey… Orange…” Doubashi musters to say when he awakes. His eyes are opened
slightly to stare off at Kaburagi with a forced, pained smile. “Think this…
means I win.” Kaburagi covers his face with both hands and weeps into them,
body trembling.
“Y-yeah… you did…” his cries almost inherently, “Rest… you stupid Pig…” A snort
is heard from the larger man in response before tilting his head so he can look
to me.
“Bambi-chan… I did my best… it’s tough to see straight… is Kaburagi ok…?” he
huffs weakly.
Even at the brink of passing out again, he cares for this first-year. There’s
far more to this man than I initially believed. Nodding, I reach out a place a
hand at his shoulder in a comforting way.
“He’s fine, and you will be too. Thank you…” I answer strongly. I would never
think he’d do such a thing for my teammate… you just gained my respects,
Doubashi. His smile spreads as those eyes close once again, breaths becoming
more ragged. You and Kaburagi will be safe soon… My attention turns when a
noise heads up the track. A siren. A small emergency vehicle pulls up nearby
and several employees rush out to assist. I stand and back away from them to
give the needed room. Junta comes out as well and heads off towards me, that
concerned look still plastered on his face.
“Aoyagi! Are you ok? Did you make it here alright?” he stammers as he takes one
of my hands. I’m ok, Junta, it’s these two you should worry about. We both
watch Doubashi being placed onto a stretcher, the back of his jersey torn to
shreds. Multiple gashes and scraps are across his skin, those being the primary
source of the bleeding. Kaburagi is taken nearby the van to have his damage
checked out as well. His sobbing has ceased for now, sights glued to Doubashi
being rolled off to the back. I can even see a smile on him, just happy help
has finally arrived. Although, his body tips off to one side promptly; the
doctor checking him over catching him before the full fall. Shocked, he places
a hand at his forehead and yells to the other personnel,
“This one is burning up! Make sure there’s room for him too back there!”
No…
***** Oh boy, it got fluffy... *****
Right when I thought things were getting better...
Junta and I volunteered to take care of the fallen bikes while the injured were
dragged off to the main building for medical treatment. It was a long walk in
the pouring rain, but we eventually made it back to the dorms in complete
silence. Which is odd, Junta's the type to babble on for hours; especially
after a traumatic event. There was an occasional sigh or sniffle from him, but
otherwise quiet. I didn't try to provoke him into talking, it's better to just
think this over. It's not like our teammate was the one receiving the harder
blow, but to see him flat out pass out is worrisome. Not like he pushed himself
for too long like he did during the Inter-High, so what could be wrong? After
arriving at our room, Junta proceeds to take out a few towels to dry off with.
“Here, catch,” he finally says while tossing one to me. I give an approving nod
and start patting down my hair. He does the same, first taking down his
ponytail. “... I hope he's ok.” He plops to his futon with a groan before
slipping off his drenched shirt and tossing it aside. I take a seat on my own
bed and again nod with a low gulp. I don't care if he's unable to race
tomorrow, I just worry this will have lasting effects. This may be the last
time we actually get to hang out together as a team, rather than just friends.
We'll be heading out on our college plans in the upcoming weeks and to leave
with this as our last important imprint on him? He needs our support now,
otherwise we'll miss our last chance to do so.
After drying off my hair well enough, I place the towel aside to slip off my
own shirt. The chill is hitting me hard now, goosebumps across my arms and
chest. My nose tickles for a moment, making me sniffle lightly. This gets
Junta's attention, a smile coming to his lips. “You cold still? Let's warm up
before checking on Kaburagi, hm?” I smile back and reach out for my duffel bag
to grab some dry clothes. Glad I packed some warmer items just in case the rain
did get this severe. My motions stop when I see Junta scoot closer. Right next
to me in fact.
“... Junta?” Shouldn't you get changed? He tilts his head so his cheek rests on
my shoulder.
“I'm getting warm just like this...” he states under his breath. I can't see
his expression due to the angle, but I can feel something isn't right.
“Is something wrong?” I ask vocally with a hint of concern.
“It's nothing... well, that's a lie. I was just thinking over the idea of what
if that happened to you. You know, the injuries Doubashi gotten.” He follows
the statement with a simple chuckle, trying to lighten the dark statement. Why
are you thinking that? “Every part of me said I should have stopped you... but
I know you care for Kaburagi almost as much as you do for me. You have no idea
how worried I was.” He remains well composed, but but I feel liquid beginning
to roll down my shoulder. “I-I shouldn't be crying again. Getting so wrapped up
over that thought instead of Kaburagi's condition. I really am weak.” My heart
sinks to my stomach from those simple words. His whole body trembling at this
point. I adjust my position so I sit directly behind him, arms wrapped at his
waist. He leans against me with a long sigh and head hung in shame.
“Junta... I'm fine, nothing happened to me. Just please... stop crying,” I say
in a hushed tone. You're not weak, Junta. I tighten my hug as I bury my head
into his shoulder and gently nuzzle my nose to the skin. The coldness in my
chest begins to warm from the embrace, a relaxing sensation calming my troubled
thoughts. The peace doesn't come to my partner that easily though. He remains
still in my arms, occasionally sniffling and wiping away his tears. I need to
get his mind off of this. It's not as simple with Kaburagi, a kiss wouldn't fix
it. I've been saving this until after the race, but I know some good news will
lighten the foul mood. Better now than later.
“Junta... I have something to tell you,” I say after lifting my head. He's
still silent, not reacting in the slightest. Never thought Junta could get this
down just from a thought, but the piling emotions over these days aren't
helping the situation. We're both fed up with this drama and just want to enjoy
a race together. Before continuing, I reach out towards my blanket and toss it
around us both at the shoulders.
“Thank you...” he mumbles under his breath while clutching the cloth to his
chest. I reach around and place a hand atop his like I did earlier, his fingers
cold as ice. And he was the one worried about me catching a cold. I smile
briefly from the thought as I speak once again, voice firm.
“I was going to tell you later, but... this is a good time. I got the papers
back from the College.” I've been trying my hardest to get into a decent
college to expand my artistic skills, one particularly in mind. This gets his
attention, head turning so he could look to me. There's hope held in those blue
eyes, I'm glad he won't be disappointed. My smile spreads as I say clearly, “I
got in.” Junta's expression instantly snaps from sorrow to happiness in less
than a second. From the excitement, he turns around so he could embrace me in a
tight hug, nearly toppling me over from the force. Giddy laughter fills the
mostly empty room as he holds me, that icy chill fading.
“I can't believe it!” he exclaims, “We're really going to the same College?!” I
fall flat to the futon with Junta atop, him now peppering my face with kisses.
His vibes rub off on me soon enough, my own laughter echoing around us.
“J-Junta! Stop, that tickles!” I snort as the kisses fall to my collarbone. He
places a handful there before giving one last, large smack to my lips.
“Maybe we'll be roommates! And it's not far from home, so we can still visit
our parents and the team still! Oh, oh~! We can still ride together at the
club! We can support each other there too! And go to races and-” I hush him by
placing a finger at his lips, my cheeks stinging from how long I've held this
smile. Need to stop his verbal barfing now before he wears himself out too
hard.
“Hush, Junta. I know you're excited, but we have other things to take care of
now,” I respond, “Leave those thoughts in the back of your head now. We should
get to Kaburagi.” As much I enjoy the thought of curling up with him in bed
right here and now, we can't leave our teammate alone. Thunder booms off in the
distance and winds roar past the window, those the overbearing reminder that he
needs our support and care. Junta responds with a simple nod, much like I would
do, before lifting himself off and returning to his items. His pressure has
changed thankfully, darker thoughts pushed away for the time being. Hopefully
Kaburagi's state won't wash that tone back on.
---
We take little time in getting dressed and heading off to the main building,
the storm far worse than before. Many smaller trees haven't fallen to the
track, leaves and miscellaneous debris scattered around the entire area. It's
near hurricane conditions. We sprint the distance there, that short amount of
time enough to get soaked once again. So much for dry clothing, but it's not
like we're waiting until it passes.
“I cannot wait to take a bath after all of this...” Junta remarks after shaking
himself off. You and me both. We stop by the front desk and ask to visit our
friend, Junta doing the talking of course. It's a short and simple interaction
and we're soon pointed off in the direction of the medical ward. When we
arrive, there's a nurse exiting his room with a few clipboards in hand. “Excuse
me miss, our friend is in there. How is he?”
“Ah, so you're the two he was babbling on about! He's quite the talker, even
with his injuries,” she giggles, “You'll be happy to know that your friend is
going to be fine. He received a few bumps and bruises, but nothing too serious.
He did catch a cold though.”
“Is that the reason he passed out?” I ask her. She looks to the paperwork
briefly and gives a shake of the head.
“It seems the trauma of the event caused that, he didn't receive a concussion
and the sickness isn't severe. A slight fever, but it's stable now. Otherwise,
his vitals are completely normal for a young, growing boy. You can visit him if
you wish.” So he's ok! What a relief! I seriously can't thank Doubashi enough
for this. I wonder...
“We'd love to, but may I ask something?” I question. She looks to me and gives
a nod. “If it's not too much trouble, could we know the condition of the other
man that was involved in the accident. Doubashi Masakiyo.”
“Ah yes, the larger one. I was just about to check up on him. If you two are
staying with your friend for a while, I can give you a more recent update once
I come back.”
“We'll be here, thank you.” Both Junta and I give a short bow of the head
before she walks off down the hallway.
“You really that concerned about Doubashi? All he's done is be a nuisance this
entire trip!” Junta states before grabbing the doorknob. I stop him by tugging
at his sleeve, making him cock a brow. “There something I don't know or
something?” Should have really told him this earlier, but it completely blanked
out until now.
“Doubashi is the reason why Kaburagi is not seriously injured. He jumped out
and caught him before he fell. That's why I care.” The shock on Junta's face
tells me all I need to know about his response to the news. I release him and
urge to keep going, now just wanting to see Kaburagi. Junta does so, opening
the door and stepping into the cozy, white room. He sits atop the present cot
with phone in hand, thumbs typing away at a message. He doesn't notice someone
stepped in until the door clicks behind us when it's shut.
“Oh come on, I just took some medicine, I don't want to-” He takes a glance
over to spot us, a goofy grin spreading over his bandaged face. “Oh hey! It's
nice to see you two finally! Been getting sick of the monotone doctors and
nurses checking me over. …. N-No offense to the way you speak, Aoyagi-san!”
Always a bundle of energy. Being shirtless, we're clearly able to see the
minimal amount of damage he received. Not even a handful of bandages are seen
across his upper body and arms, along with a few scattered bruises.
“Knew a fall wouldn't break your spirit so easily,” Junta chuckles, “Guessing
they already got done with the awkward talk with your parents about it?”
“Yeah, yeah. They're used to me getting messed up when on my bike, so they
really weren't surprised,” he mumbles when turning back to the phone, “Just
telling Danchiku about it. Boy oh boy, he's not happy at all. Was told I won't
be able to race tomorrow if this sickness doesn't get better. He's going to be
disappointed if he doesn't see me race.”
“We'll be disappointed too, you idiot. Can't be too serious, seeing as you're
just texting away.”
“I'll be the really sad one if this doesn't go away! This is going to be the
last race I'll-” His words cut off when he falls into a coughing fit. The last
race... I hate being reminded of that. This was an opportunity to ride a last
time with Kaburagi in an actual one. Heck, didn't think I could get another
with Junta after the Inter-High ended. To have it possibly ruined...
“We should probably let you rest,” Junta says, “You won't get any better by not
getting that properly.” Kaburagi shakes his head rapidly as he holds up one
finger to indicate to wait, the fit continuing.
“Junta...” I say to grab his attention. We should wait for the nurse. Think all
of us want to know how Doubashi is doing.
“Ah, yeah... bet Kaburagi is dying to know.” Actually, he's dying from nearly
hacking a lung out, face completely red from lack of oxygen. I take the few
steps forward to reach him and place a few solid whacks to his upper back;
evading his injuries as best I could. During this time, I peer over at the
nightstand and find a small pile of cough drops; none touched. Sighing, I pluck
one up and hold it out to him with a scowl. This wouldn't be a problem if you
just took your medicine. He swipes the piece away and eagerly pops it into his
mouth, some relief finally coming his way.
“I thought I was going to die!” he blurts after catching his breath, the
medicine working swiftly.“Thanks Aoyagi-san, you're like a caring mother
sometimes!” Heat instantly rises to my face as I express a noise of shock. From
behind, Junta gently pats my shoulder and laughs.
“You would be a good mom, Aoyagi.”
“Junta!”
“Rarity to see Aoyagi-san embarrassed!” Kaburagi follows, laughing along with
Junta. I am not! Just... wasn't expecting that. Covering my face for a moment,
I saunter over to a nearby chair and seat myself to have a bit of distance on
them. Sadly, they continue talking about me.
“Awww, you made him blush~” Junta sings, “You should apologize for that.”
“But it's the truth! Maybe when you two are finally together, you'll come to
realize that both of you would be great parents!” Now Junta is blushing just as
much as I am. His eyes dart over to me, then back to Kaburagi with an
uncomfortable chuckle. “Don't give me that look, Captain. It's bound to happen
eventually...” His tone changes as that sentence ends, his sights now at me. He
shifts the cough drop around his mouth. “You two are prefect together...” Those
red eyes will with sadness, brows knitted to express his frustration. I return
my gaze blankly without change, which makes him smile slightly when looking
back to his phone. “Not like I can read his mind. What's he thinking about,
Captain?” Junta returns to looking at me with a weak smile, nudging his head to
make a gesture. His lips turn to a larger smile as he adds a finger pointing to
him. I get it, he wants to say something that will cheer Kaburagi up, even if
I'm not thinking it. I nod back to grant approval. Pretty sure Junta won't say
anything too embarrassing or off putting, he does have a way with words.
“Hrm... you'll be pleased to hear,” Junta begins as he takes a seat at the edge
of the bed, “He's thinking about how much he cares for you and wants you to
recover. He's been worried sick- heh, sick.” He chuckles at his own joke for a
moment, Kaburagi's smile spreading. At least he found that just as silly. “He's
just been worried about you, more than anyone else. Also, he's happy knowing
that you're ok and nothing serious happened to you. You're a good friend to
him... and always will be.” You couldn't have said it more perfectly, Junta.
Kaburagi is silent for a long moment as he taps out the rest of his message and
sending it off. He leans to the side to place the phone to the nightstand and
also grab another cough drop.
“I promise I'll get better for him... and for you as well, Captain. Thank you,”
he replies calmly as he cradles the item in palm. Before either of us can say
anything in return, the door clicks open. A tall doctor makes his way in, along
with the nurse from before with a bright smile. We all look to the pair with a
bow of the head in greetings, the doctor returning his own.
“Afternoon boys,” he starts as he takes one of the two clipboards from the
woman, “How you feeling Kaburagi?” The red-head grins brightly as he unwraps
the second cough drop and displays it out to him.
“I'm doing great! Starting taking these now, so you can stop pestering me~!” he
yelps with confidence. Your doctor was telling you to do so... why weren't you
in the first place? “They taste awful, but they do the trick!” Junta and I
glare at him, much like disappointed parents would.
“That's great to hear. I'm going to do one last checkup with you and if your
condition has approved enough, you'll be allowed to rest the night in your room
instead.”
“I really hope so!” he beams before popping the item into his mouth. As the
doctor approaches, Junta does the favor of moving himself to sit next to me
instead. We both look to the woman when she steps forward.
“About your other friend...” the nurse brings up, looking to the report.
There's a warm smile on her pale face, reassuring us that it can't be anything
too serious.
“Other friend? Who's that?” Kabuargi questions as he suckles on the cough drop
with an stethoscope pressed to his chest. Junta peers back over to him briefly,
along with myself.
“She means Doubashi,” Junta states, “We asked if we could hear how he is doing
as well.” Kaburagi's eyes light up as he leans to the side to look to the
nurse. I've never seen him so anxious.
“Please tell me he's ok! That Pig better be!”
“Kaburagi, please don't move...” the doctor protests. He mumbles a faint
“sorry” when he slumps back to the bed. You can listen just like that, you
idiot.
“Pig...?” the nurse questions, but back away from asking further. She instead
looks back to the clipboard, nodding softly. “Well, he's well enough. Nothing
too serious has happened that's necessary to send him off to a larger hospital
at least. Besides the cuts, his left shoulder is dislocated and needs plenty
days of rest to recover. His spine and upper back has received a large amount
of bruising and swelling as well, so he won't be able to ride a bike for some
time. The impact only caused a grade one concussion, so the damage was minimal.
Besides these, no internal injures or infections seeing as his scraps were
treated with haste.” We all seem to breath out a sigh of relief in unison from
the news. It could be far worse.
“That's awesome!” Kaburagi booms as the doctor continues to check him over,
“Can I go visit him now?”
“He should rest for the time being. Can always see him tomorrow, maybe before
the race,” the nurse answers.
“Guess I can wait... but how am I doing doc?” I look back to him to see the
doctor finishing up the simple exam. The stethoscope slides up his back and
holds it there for a moment, the man smiling with satisfaction. After pulling
it back, he starts to jot a few things onto the given clipboard.
“Your lungs sound a lot clearer and your pulse has stabilized. You should be
able to return to your room and rest up there. I'm still going to ask you keep
on your medicine intake as well as wear a mask. Wouldn't want the other
students catching the cold. No riding your bike either, the stress of that
could cause it to become worse. Rest for the day and return to me early
tomorrow to see if you're healthy enough to ride. Do you need any painkillers
to help with your bruises?”
“I told ya before. Scale of one to ten, they're like... a three at best! Pretty
sure I'll be fine,” Kaburagi replies with a bright smile. There's a few more
questions, along with handing out a few supplies to him. A bottle of cough
syrup, facial masks, the normal. After getting himself dressed and snapping one
around his face, he springs to his feet and exits with us. We decided it's
still best for him to stay with us in our room because of the sickness.
Doubashi has been taken care of, but we can't trust him to remember when to
take his medicine.
“We'll be watching over you tonight, so you better keep up on that. Otherwise,
we'll have to force you~,” Junta comments when we reach the front doors.
Kaburagi shakes the bag of supplies around with a chuckle.
“You senpais care far too much,” he sighs, “I can take of myself you know.
Trying to parents again I see~.” We both just roll our eyes to the comments and
head outside, the rain not letting up. It continues to pour, the winds just as
strong. I spot Kaburagi shivering from the bite in the air, the only clothing
he had around there being his soiled jersey. The blood stains are still
present, making a shiver run down my spine as well. Before heading out of the
protection of the awning over the doors, I slide off my sweater and hang it
over Kaburagi's shoulders. It's still damp, but it's better than nothing. He
looks shocked as he turns his head to face me. “H-huh?”
“Want to keep you a little drier. Wouldn't want that cold to act up more than
it is,” I say firmly. Seeing this, Junta takes his off as well and stacks it
atop mine with a hum.
“Aoyagi's right. Let's get through this and get to the bath,” he says while
flipping up the hood. Kaburagi tugs the cloth to over his eyes, most likely
hiding his bashful face. The mask does most the job already, but I can't blame
with for getting embarrassed. Junta and I smile to one another before entering
the downpour, Kaburagi close at our sides.
Maybe we would be good parents...
***** Oh boy, I can't even... *****
Does it feel nice to finally bathe…
All three of us immediately made our way to the bathhouse after grabbing a
change of clothing. It’s a large, public style one, but there’s a few private
ones as well. We decided to take one of the smaller rooms, seeing as we don’t
want Kaburagi’s sickness to spread to the other occupants. He protested at
first to bathing with us. We are his upperclassmen after all and, to add, he
does in fact have quite the crush on me. Was unsure myself on his reaction to
seeing me naked, but we’ve changed in the same clubroom for months now. It’s
not anything different really. We only insisted on with him joining us just in
case the sickness becomes worse. Who knows, he could pass out again.
“Come on Kaburagi! No need to be shy, there’s plenty of room~!” Junta shouts to
our kōhai from the filled tub. Us both have already made our way in, the warmth
of the water making my muscles feel like jelly. Been waiting far too long for
this. There is indeed plenty of space for the three of us to have room, but he
continues to stand by the door with a towel tight around his body.
“I-I could… just get my own room…” he insists shyly. He clutches the towel
closer to hide most his expression as he avoids eye contact.
“Nonsense! We said we’d watch over you, that means in situations like this as
well. It’s just a bath,” Junta replies with a dismissive hand wave. Kaburagi
gives a nod in return when he steps forward to reach the far end of the tub. He
peers into the water as he drops the towel off to floor with a low groan. Junta
is right as always, it’s just a bath. Not like we’re scrubbing him down or
anything. I peer over to see the bandages that were at his upper thighs and
arms removed, the wounds healing cleanly. Just hope one doesn’t open up again.
He sees me looking to him, which makes him jump straight in and plop down to
cover his lower half. He sinks lower into the water so just his eyes and orange
hair sticks above. Junta chuckles to the display. “It’s not like we’re shoulder
to shoulder. Just relax for once today.” Bubbles rise to the surface as he
breaths out, once again avoiding our glances.
“Do I have to come over there and make you relax?” I questions in a teasing
way. Maybe that line can knock some sense into him. It does. Eyes snap open as
he rises his upper body out from the water to lean onto the back of the tub in
a causal fashion.
“I-I was just enjoying the water on my face! Feels ni-nice~.” he stammers with
an added chuckle. Stretching out like this, one of his feet brushing past mine
for a split second. He flinches and again curls up, head buried onto his knees.
Junta and I sigh out with disappointment. He’s not going to get better cramping
himself up like that. It’s been a long morning and he needs the relaxation. As
much as I don’t want to do this, it seems like the only option. I look to
Junta, who stares right back at me. Mind if I kiss him again? Just the nose
again. It does calm him down, as silly as it is.
“That’s very true…” he huffs. He grins wide and gestures towards the other.
“Eventually that will stop working though. Might as well test if it still
works.” Nodding, I scoot my way across the large tub until I’m right next to
Kaburagi. He doesn’t react, still frozen solid. This is surprising knowing his
normal reactions when I’m at this distance. His eyes do turn to me though and I
offer him a soft smile in return.
“Lift your head, I want to check the cuts on your cheek. One looks like it’s
bleeding,” I lie to get his attention. He does so with a hand at said cheek, a
brow perked high.
“Really? Man, I thought these- !!” His words stop when I grip gingerly at his
chin, turning his head so our eyes are locked. I don’t look over, but I hear
Junta laugh faintly like he’s trying to cover it up. This isn’t supposed to be
amusing, Junta. “H-hi Aoyagi-san…” he mumbles with the same coyness. His body
slowly uncurls as I keep my gaze strong, just holding him for the time being.
This seems like it’s working enough, so maybe I don’t have to the deed. How
awkward this must look to Junta… I feel heat rise to my face that isn’t from
the water’s temperature. What the hell am I doing?!
Believing this has gone on long enough, I withdraw the hand. At least, I tried
to. My wrist is grabbed by the redhead before pulling away and held so my
fingers still touch his wounded skin. “Is it… bleeding or not…?” His tone has
changed drastically, like he’s involved in those stereotypical romance movies.
Now I’m the confused one, my fingers beginning to tremble slightly. I
frantically look over to Junta as if he’s going to help without asking.
Instead, he just smirks and watches in silence. Dammit Junta, this is getting
weird! Mind doing something about this? As I attempt to make contact with him –
my words not coming – Kaburagi leans in closer. With my head turned to my
partner, he plans a gentle kiss at my cheek with me noticing. My head snaps
back with a frustrated growl with face contorting to display my distaste. I
didn’t give you permission to do that, you idiot! Those red eyes fall half
lidded as he stares back blankly, lips slightly parted. It looks as if he’s
spacing out.
“Why don’t you give him a real kiss, Aoyagi?” Junta says across the tub. I look
back to him in complete shock. Are you insane?! That could make this foolish
crush even worse! Junta shrugs a shoulder as he tips his head rapidly towards
Kaburagi. He then lifts a hand to make a swirling motion at his head. I don’t
understand the meaning until I look back to Kaburagi, upper body swaying
heavily from side to side. I see, the given medicine and pain killers he was
administered when he first arrived at the medical ward are really taking effect
now. I shake my head a few times, finally finding words.
“I’m not kissing him now, Junta. Not when he’s like this…” I would feel like
I’m taking advantage of him. There’s no point in it now anyway. His mind is now
so addled on drugs his body is starting to slacken up. He starts slipping into
water when his grips flatters, but stopped when I lift him by either shoulder.
Junta rushes over as well to help, now a bit shaken by Kaburagi’s sudden
collapse.
“Oh shit, did he pass out again?!” His question is answered when he tilts
Kaburagi’s head up by the chin, eyes still half open and fogged over. This lips
turn to an idiotic smile.
“Hey Captain… you want to… kiss me too…?” he slurs out slowly. The exhaustion,
the drugs, the warmth of the water. It’s all finally starting to hit him.
“No, I don’t. Come on, it’s better you just get to bed now.”
“But… I didn’t get my good… night… kiss…” His voice starts to trails off as he
slumps further, it becoming a struggle to hold him up. Now I’m really glad we
decided to share the same bath.
“You’ll get one once we get you back upstairs,” Junta reassures him before
stepping out. “We can take a proper bath once we get him there, ok Aoyagi?” I
give a simple nod before stepping out myself and quickly wrapping a towel at my
waist. This is going to be annoying…
—
It felt like ages dragging our teammate upstairs. After finally getting him out
from the bath, we dried off most the water before getting him dressed. He
somewhat helped and insisted he could do it with out help, but failed
miserably. It was like a drunk man trying to dress himself in the dark. Once
that ordeal is settled, he’s nearly carried upstairs by us both; his feet
barely able to keep him standing. Let’s just say we got a lot of odd stares.
Had to inform some passersby that he’s just tried, which the exhausted Kaburagi
affirmed. Sadly the elevator wasn’t operational, so we had to take the stairs.
Only one flight thankfully, but still a hassle. If was a huge relief to finally
drop him to his bed, felt like his weight was only getting heavier and heavier.
Once settled onto his futon, those heavy eyes open fully.
“So… that good night kiss?” he questions weakly. Junta and I look to one
another. Have a feeling he’s just going to be a bother until that happens. You
just had to say that, Junta…
“Sorry…” he apologizes swiftly while scratching the back of his head. He clears
his throat before hushing his voice. “With any luck… he won’t remember it. Just
do it quick and we can head out, ok?” Kaburagi’s eyes are now closed as he
waits for it, lips slightly puckered out. With a roll of my eyes, I fall to my
knees so I’m at his height. Kneeling down, I draw my face closer and closer
until our noses are nearly touching. Before I could tip my head, Kaburagi
suddenly grabs the back of head and forces our lips together. My eyes go wide
in shock for obvious reasons. You damn idiot! Junta scoffs in the background as
we hold the kiss for some time, surprised he’s not being forceful anymore. His
fingers trail through my hair as he breaths softly through his nostrils,
soaking in the moment. I decide to amuse him by pressing into it. Not a good
idea. This encourages Kaburagi lips to part so his tongue brushes at my bottom
lip. I’m not accepting that, far too sensual for my tastes.
“That’s enough…” I mumble after pulling back. Despite not being able to advance
further, he smiles from ear to ear.
“Thank you… can you cuddle with me later too?” Now he’s just being crazy, but
that could be the drugs talking. Not wanting to make the same mistake Junta did
before, I decline the offer.
“No. I already risked catching your cold doing that. Do you want me in the same
state?” That questions makes his lips stick out in a pout, obviously not
pleased.
“Fiiiiiiine..” he says, defeated. His voice over exaggerates the word likes a
young child not wanting to sleep. That’s not going to change my answer. Once I
sit up, I look over to Junta. He’s standing right next to me, holding a stuffed
animal in his hands. I cock a brow. What are you doing, Junta?
“If he can’t cuddle with you, he can have this for the day. I’m not afraid of
his germs,” he laughs as he sets the panda bear next to Kaburagi’s head. “Be
gentle with him though, had him for many years now.” The redhead looks puzzled
as he snatches it up.
“Why… why did you bring a stuffed animal? That’s so girly!”
“Sometimes I can’t sleep when away from home, it brings some comfort though.
Even seen Aoyagi cuddle with it when we have sleepovers!”
 
…
 
Junta! Don’t tell him that!!
 
“That’s kinda… cute…” Kaburagi mumbles in a hushed tone. He takes the bear and
nuzzles it to his cheek, eyes fluttering closed. “It does smell like a forest…”
My entire face is red at this point, that line making me back away from the
pair and over towards the door. Junta, why did you tell him that? And how does
he know what I smell like?!
“It really is… but you should sleep now. We’ll be back up.” By the time he says
this, Kaburagi has already drifted off with animal in hand. Junta tosses the
blanket over him before sauntering over to me with a smug smile. “Let’s leave
him be now, hrm?” Dammit Junta… I return to my feet and swiftly exit the room
while covering my expression. “Oh come on!”
He shouts to me from down the hallway before catching up to my pace. “He
probably won’t remember it! I had to say something to get him to sleep. Even
with how tired he is, could assume he’ll act like the bratty five year old he
could be and attempt to stay up. You know that…” He attempts to touch my
shoulder, but I lean off to the side to avoid. You know I’m embarrassed, Junta!
I glance over to him through my fingers before walking faster and making my way
down the stairwell. Does he think this crush is just a silly game to him? I’m
not necessarily angry, more annoyed. Junta picks up on this when he decides to
walk behind me instead. “I know you’re upset, so how about we take our own bath
to cool down. Then we could meet up in the cafeteria to get something to eat.
Sound good to you?” Sounds perfect actually. Some alone time will probably do
the trick. Once we reenter the bathhouse, Junta already does the favor of
gathering his items from the one before and heading to an empty room next door.
Before entering, he smiles brightly to me.
“Sorry… but I’ll be right here if you need anything. We can talk about it
later,” he sighs out before closing the door behind him. Now he says sorry… I
roll my eyes from the statement as I set foot into my own room; locking the
door behind me. Finally left with own thoughts in the steamy room, I quickly
undress and sink into the still warm waters. The light hum of the bright lights
above me is my only company now, which is comforting. Awareness of my
surroundings dissolves as I find myself beginning to drift off – eyes heavier
than they’ve ever been before.
 
—
 
“You like that, Aoyagi-san?”
Kaburagi presses his lips to my ear as fingers work around my shaft; sending
jolts up and down my spine. My body feels paralyzed as I lay atop the cold
tile, half lidded eyes staring off the warm glow of the ceiling lights.
Droplets roll down my wet skin when I shudder involuntarily, the knots in my
muscles melting under the touch. Fingers creep up higher to place feathery
touches across my abdomen. “You feel ready… I know I am. I’ve been waiting so
long for this, Aoyagi-san.” His heavy breaths leave my ear when he rises up,
catching a glance of the redhead not wearing a stitch himself. Lightly tanned
skin is sparked with red all over, almost matching the shade of those round
eyes. In one smooth motion, he lifts a leg over my pair so he straddles atop me
– backside pressed to my groin. He lets out a bubbly laugh when reaching back
to position it at the entrance.
“I already prepped myself, so don’t worry…” I attempt to move to perhaps stop
this, but my muscles won’t give! Palm lay flat to the floor, much like the rest
of my body, despite my will to do so. My eyes dart violently around the room
when the realization is in full swing, I really can’t move! Wait… did I just
blink? I try to force myself again to do the action, but nothing comes. It’s
happening on it’s own! At first I thought this was only a small abnormality to
this already peculiar situation, but then an arm moves. My arm. Without
permission, it reaches up and sets at Kaburagi’s hip – guiding him down. A rush
of heat is felt in my lower half as the tool slides inside, Kaburagi letting
out a sharp hiss.
“Aoyagi-san~” he coos out warmly. All I can do is watch the act take place, my
thoughts and sight the only things I have control of. The other hand ways its
way to the opposite hip as well, assisting Kaburagi’s ride by lifting and
slamming back down with every thrust. My voice chokes out heavy breaths,
moaning along with the others’. I can look away… I can look away! Shifting my
sights away brings some comfort, but it doesn’t top my ears from filling with
the noises. That and the warmth and tension building at my lower stomach. They
only become louder when my defiant body lifts my hips and rocks with the
movements. Kaburagi’s body shifts when he places his hands at my chest to hold
himself up.
I glance back to see Kaburagi in pure ecstasy as his head hangs forward, long
bangs framing his flushed cheeks. Sparks of pleasure slide down my body – to
every toe – when he cries out my name. I call his right back, it sounding
unlike my true self. I would never say that name with so much love. Desire.
Passion. My eyes again turn away, should have never looked in the first place.
The vision hazes over as the heat rises, reaching closer and closer to our
peaks. It’s just on the edge, balancing unsteadily until something tips it off.
Kaburagi’s voice quivers, mustering out a single word,
 
“Hajime!!”
 
—
 
“Hajime! Hajime!! Open the door! Is everything ok in there?!” I awake to the
sound of Junta’s voice, along with pounding at the door. My head snaps to the
noise, body flinching with heartbeat up in my ears.
 
Why… did I dream about that?
***** Oh boy, it's filter time... *****
I feel so filthy...
Of all people to have a dirty dream about, did it have to be Kaburagi? Think my
mind is just playing tricks on me due to the stress of these days. And to
think, there's still one more day. The most awkward part of the entire thing
was waking up to see I was fully hard. My damned body is doing the same as my
thoughts. I feel no attraction or intense feelings towards Kaburagi at all,
he's just a very good friend. Although, I thought the same about Junta when
dreams such as that came up about him. Those are welcomed though.
I must have been sitting there for over a full minute without answering the
calls from outside the door, but for some reason, they've stopped. Did I just
imagine that? I swear I heard Junta's voice. Shaking it off as just my thoughts
making it up, I turn my attentions to below the water's surface. How shameful.
My legs fold over one another to hide it away, eyes shifting to the fogged over
mirrors. Once I think about it, how long have I've been out? The water's
temperature has changed drastically, near cold. My skin is wrinkled to the bone
as well. I'll catch a cold myself if I'm not out soon. When I decide to stand
up from the water, the door suddenly shoots open after the lock is clicked.
“Hajime!” Junta stands at the door frame, fully clothed and breathing heavily.
I nearly topple over from the shock, but instead, I sink back below the water
with a gasp. “Oh thank the gods, you're alright! I got worried when I didn't
get an answer from you a few minutes ago. Forgot I still had the key to the
room.” He tosses it high into the air and catches it with a scoff. “What
happened anyway?” He closes the door behind him before stepping forward and
breathing a sigh of relief.
“Junta...” I mumble softly. I... fell asleep. Sorry to worry you. Couldn't help
myself. After last night's lack of proper sleep and the already stressful
morning, it lulled me in an instant. He smiles back in return and gives a short
nod; then handing the key off to me.
“I should have known,” he chuckles, “Almost did the same myself. You've been in
here for over an hour by the way. Hope that nap helped you out.” He passes a
teasing wink and heads back towards the door. “Get washed up, I'm starving!
I'll get you something while you finish up, alright?” I clutch the key tight in
my palm and nod back, offering a warm smile. Thank you, Junta. As he grips the
doorknob, he smiles broadly over a shoulder with one brow arched high.
“Guessing you had a pretty good dream too. Naughty, naughty~. I'll let you
handle that on your own.” With that, he exits with a boisterous laugh.
…
Dammit Junta...
 
---
 
Now that's embarrassing.
I didn't even think about covering myself up when Junta barged in, so he got a
front row seat to seeing that unwanted frustration. In the end, I ignored it
and swiftly finished my other business. I did hesitate to use my bathing powder
thanks to Junta's earlier comment, but not like it could be taken back so
easily. It takes only about then minutes before I head off to the cafeteria,
soon finding Junta in a corner seat by a tall window. Thankfully, the rain has
slowed to a slower pace, but thunder still booms in the distance. What a
dreadful day.
“That didn't take long,” he comments while pulling out his laptop and setting
it at the table. “Our food should be getting done soon though. Hope you're fine
with oyako donburri.” I take the seat next to him with a nod. Any food sounds
great, we didn't a have a good breakfast either. My stomach feels hallow,
making the exhaustion far worse. “I'm thinking after this, we could take a
short nap to recharge. Meantime though, need to change up our plans for the
race tomorrow. The winds will be far different now and we might have to go
through this without Kaburagi. That completely shatters what I had in mind. Two
plans then...”
His voice trails off when the laptop springs to life, eyes locked at pulling up
programs and the internet browser. It doesn't take much to check tomorrow's
forecast. Seems it's going to be similar to the day before – scorching hot and
barely any winds in the way. Humidity will be higher though, so the heat is
going to feel far worse. Junta notes these changes in the plan book, along with
looking up our stats when it comes to these conditions. Shortest time taken,
fastest sprint, distance, the like. He keeps records of everyone around so the
best plan can be laid out. While checking these over, our food arrives.
“Ah, thank you!” Junta says to our waiter with a brief bow. To my surprise,
four bowls of the sweet smelling dish is presented to us. Fairly large sized
portions too. I perk a brow as two are pushed off to me.
“I know your question and it's a no. I'm not hungry enough to eat this much,”
he responds as he places one next to the computer. “I got permission to run one
up to Kaburagi. He must be famished. I'll do so once I take care of - hrm?” He
pauses when his phone buzzes in a pocket, the faint chime of his current
favorite J-Pop song heard. After pulling it out and checking who it is, he
sighs heavily. “It's Onoda... think I should answer it?” If it's from him, it
has to be somewhat important. He learned early on that calling Junta just to
ramble on about something nonsensical is pointless. I nod in response, Junta
picking up on those thoughts.
“Hey Onoda! … hrm, oh! Yeah, the race has been delayed until tomorrow. Maybe
you could actually make it then! … yeah. … wait. Woah! Repeat that!” Junta's
brows furrow as he listens to the other end, obviously upset by something. “...
you locked yourself out of the clubroom?! Again?!” I couldn't help letting out
a soft chuckle to that. This is the third time this month. “... hold on, I
moved the spare key. It's – actually, hold on a minute.” He muffles the phone
to his chest when he looks to me with an awkward smile. “This may take a
while... mind running that up to Kaburagi?” Don't have to ask twice, Junta. My
own food can wait, as tempting as it is to just gulp it down.
“Don't mind at all, Junta,” I answer aloud. I take the bowl, along with a pair
of chopsticks, and begin my way towards the room; the sound of Junta's voice
fading off into the distance. I wish him luck trying to explain that...
---
Besides bringing up the food, I did the favor of grabbing Kaburagi's favorite
drink from a vending machine. I'm sure he'd ask questions if a note didn't come
along with it, so I decided to write out a quick one on a notepad from the
offices nearby. It's sure to put him in good spirits.
“Kaburagi... Kaburagi...” I say softly why shaking at a shoulder. He's
completely out cold, that stuffed animal still held close. The want to just
take it away is there, but I refuse. He looks far too comfortable with it.
Those bloodshot eyes slowly open after some time and peer over in my direction;
dry lips turning to a sleepy smile.
“A-Aoyagi-san...” he grumbles, “What's up?” I gesture towards the setup nearby.
He slowly rolls over with a long groan, obviously not wanting to be awake, but
he grins brightly once it's spotted. “Orange Beena! Just what I need to get
better!” He suppresses a cough when he grabs up the bottle in an instant, the
note coming along. Before cracking it open, the note draws his attention. “A
note from the Great Spirit...? Here? Different stationary, but still has to
be... think it's trying to tell me something, Aoyagi-san?” I reply with a
simple shrug. I think he'll never catch on. He shrugs back and unfolds the
slip, those eyes lighting up to the simple statement written:
“Get better and win that race tomorrow.”
He clutches the note to his chest with a joyful smile and laugh, much like a
schoolgirl getting a love note from a crush. I smile to this, happy knowing he
became inspired.
“I will, Great Spirit! Don't you worry!” During his swell of enjoyment, I lean
off and grab another one of those cough drops and hand it off.
“I want you to get better too.”
“Thanks Aoyagi-san, I will!” Before popping it into his mouth, a long swig of
the sugary drink is taken. The amount of relief is shown clearly on his face,
that goofy grin prominent. “Thanks for the food too! That's... so kind of you.”
“Was Junta's idea, but the drink was mine.”
“Then I'm still thankful! Especially because of the note too!” He scoots the
bowl near the edge of the futon after sitting up. “I'll have this after food,
alright?” He shows off the medicine between two fingers. I nod in return.
“Of course. Enjoy. I need to get back to Junta.” I stand to my feet to hear him
groan loudly.
“Awww, can't you eat with me?” he whines.
“No. We have to discuss plans for tomorrow. That and we'll be back after we're
done eating ourselves for a nap. We'll be back soon.” He huffs a sigh of defeat
and turns back to the lunch, shoulders slumped. Sorry Kaburagi, there's still
things that should be addressed. He remains quiet when I exit, which I find
strange at first, but then realize he is sickly. Even if a minor cold. And
running on horrible sleep. Wonder how's he's still functioning so well... I
wonder how I am as well. When these thoughts how to mind, that headache from
before returns. Like I needed this...
---
When returning to Junta, he's already off the phone and eating away with eyes
straight at the screen. The bags under them stand out more from the glowing
light off it. Bet he's hoping for a nap more than me. Believe only four hours
of decent sleep are under his belt and now the stress of work is present.
“Welcome back...” he mumbles after a swallow, the bowl already half empty. Not
like I was gone that long. I seat myself back next to him with a faint '”thank
you” under my breath, my sights and thoughts only on getting some food in my
stomach. The throbbing in my head is near intolerable now, so the quicker we
finish up the better. Junta briefly takes a glance over to me with a gentle
sigh.
“How about this...” he begins while shutting the laptop closed, “We'll worry
about this later. Let's just enjoy a nice lunch, no work or stress, then head
off to bed? Can talk over things after that.” There's no need to answer that
question, seeing as he's in the same boat as me. Didn't have to put in question
form to begin with. I just bob my head while breaking the chopsticks apart; him
responding with a short laugh. “Thanks for the food!”
---
Barely any time passed to finish off our meals. The rice dish was the perfect
thing to settle my howling stomach and somewhat sooth this headache. Junta
notices my agitation and attempts to help by wrapping an arm at my waist as we
walk back to our room. Even being annoyed by his earlier actions, I appreciate
the gesture. He adds onto it by placing a soft kiss to the top of my head when
he pulls me in closer. We're in public, Junta! My head hangs while passing
other residents, that embarrassment finding it's way back. I think he's
purposely trying to get me flushed... have no idea why.
Entering the room, we notice Kaburagi already back to being snuggled in the
blanket and asleep. Or pretending. Less than half his food is eaten, but the
drink is drained to it's last drop. The medicine has been taken as well, the
wrapper laying nearby. Junta signals with a finger to stay hushed as we make
our way to our own beds. Seeing as we didn't bother with the task of folding
and storing them away, it's an easy enough task. Although, Junta decides to
make things difficult when he gestures for me to come closer. What is it
now...? I blink in a questioning way when he reaches over and tugs at the side
of the bedroll, his grin widening. Now is not the time for this, Junta... I
dart my head back to make it apparent of Kaburagi's presence.
“I don't care,” Junta whispers, now tugging harder. It's not easy for me to
deny a request from him, even if I'm at this state. With a roll of my eyes, I
move it closer so it's right next to his; much to Junta's delight. “Don't think
Kaburagi will wake up before us, so might as well take advantage of it.” When
did he suddenly become so bold? I get settled in with my gaze over at my
partner, that smile not fading. “I don't have my stuffed animal anymore, so I
need you instead~.” After the short sentence, Junta scoots closer. He turns to
his side so an arm lays flat across my chest and chin rests at my shoulder. He
momentarily brushes his nose by my ear with a low hum. “I hope we'll be like
this during College...”
You're being cute again, Junta... A smile comes to my face straightaway. From
under the blankets, I extend an arm out so I could hold his hand in mine. He's
so warm now... There's so much adoration I have more this man, many times
holding my tongue to actually speak my feelings. There's comfort knowing he
caught onto the want – no, need – to be together, but I believe neither of us
has the courage to outright say it. The way he sings songs with such passion,
the way he rides with all his might... all of Junta makes my heart swell and
pulse in my chest. Having him curled up next is near the best feelings I could
ever have. The thoughts that a now snoring Kaburagi being just a meter or two
away fades when I focus to the sound of Junta's soft breaths. I have to say
something... all this workup of Kaburagi and Doubashi's fondness for one
another, even if more one sided for all I know, is too much to take. Believe
it's just encouragement to finally let out words I've been wanting to say, not
just think, for so long. Maybe it's the lack of sleep, stress... something. It
doesn't matter what.
“Junta...” I start as my head turns to get a better view. His eyes are closed
and breathing more steady like in a gentle sleep. Unsure if he actually is or
not, I have to say it regardless.
“I love you, Hajime...” Junta says softly before I could speak. What...?
Junta... My lower lip trembles as I feel tears begin to well. I didn't just
imagine that... he actually said it first! There goes our syncing again without
a single effort to try. Overtaken by the rush of emotions, a single whimper
escapes my throat. This compels my partner to lift his head and prop himself up
on an elbow so he may look down at me. Now covering my face with hands to hide
my expression, I let my sobs out to their full extent; voice cracking as I try
to stifle them. “Hajime... what's wrong? Is his because of earlier...?” His
free hand places at my shoulder to rub small circles. No, Junta... I'm just-
“... just so happy...” I manage to choke out. My heart feels like it's going to
burst from my chest! To actually hear that word... Before I could let out
another response, a feel him draw closer.
“Move these...” he mumbles while brushes at my hands with his fingertips. Doing
so, I find him centimeters away with a wide smile plastered across his face.
“I'm happy too... feels like a weight has been lifted off my chest. And I'm
sorry about before... you're just so adorable when you're all embarrassed. What
am I saying... you always are.” With that, he leans down so our lips touch. The
sobs fade as soon as the kiss is engaged, the built up tension in my muscles
melting. It's not like we haven't kissed before, but this one... there's
something different. So gentle and loving... not as playful as our usual. Our
emotions speak through it alone.
“Heeeeeeeeeeeey....” We turn to the voice with a gasp, Kaburagi still asleep.
“Stupid.... Pig....” Is he... sleep talking? Before any questions are asked to
confirm this, the panda bear is tossed in our direction; completely missing and
ricocheting off the back wall. He then turns over with a grunt and falls back
into snoring louder than before. We turn back to one another with soft
chuckling.
“Guess he's having a good dream,” Junta jokes, still being quiet, “Think he's
trying to give us a hint.” After wiping away the few fallen tears, I nod with
my head against the pillow; smiling wider than I have this whole day so far. “I
got my bear back, but mind if I still cuddle with you?”
You don't have to ask, Junta...
***** Oh boy, the fluff returns... *****
Chapter Notes
     (( Back to Kaburagi's PoV!~ ))
I think my nose is running... yeah, it's definitely running.
Sitting up from the bed and eyes opening, the room is filled with the soft glow
of the setting sun coming in from the window. Rain patters off the glass,
filling the silence of the room. Upon wiping my nose across an arm, snot smears
across most it's length. Gross. Stupid cold. Reaching out for my bag to grab a
tissue or two from the side pocket, I accidentally shove my hand into the
donburri from before; it now ice cold.
“God damn- hmmph!” I stop my next words by biting my lip, now noticing my
senpai are still sleeping nearby. Sadly, the small amount of shouting disturbs
Teshima-san. He sits up after unwrapping himself from Aoyagi-san, sleepy eyes
locked at me. Wait, he was sleeping -right- next to him?!
“Evening to you too, Kaburagi...” he mumbles with agitation.
“A-ah. Sorry Teshima-san... it slipped out...” I look away from the pair with a
gulp. Did I disturb something or... wait, they said they'd be back up to take a
nap. Is this how they normally sleep in the same room? Obvious they didn't care
I was here in the first place, which... is annoying. “Sorry. Go back to sleep
with Aoyagi-san.” My voice fluxes to express my mild anger. I don't bother
looking to him when I exit with haste, slamming the door behind me. I clutch my
rice and egg covered hand into a fist when stomping off to the bathroom,
seething in rage. How dare they cuddle and be all lovey-dovey with me in the
same room! That envy again... Aoyagi-san knows how I feel about him now, yet
he... wait, did I imagine that before bed?
I stop in the middle of the hallway, eyes planted at the ground below. He
kissed me... didn't he? Was that all a dream? It had to be! He would never do
that... Damn painkillers. I told them I didn't need any, yet they insisted!
Once most the fumes run out, the realization that my body is in complete pain
hits. Hard too. I collapse to one knee from the rush with a distressed noise,
my breathing jittery. Shouldn't have pushed myself this hard right after waking
up.
“Hey! Are you ok?” I hear a voice say from above. Looking up, I see another
participant going to be in the race tomorrow offering a hand to assist. Younger
looking... perhaps a first year like myself. Longer hair, freckles on his
cheeks... forget the minor details, I look so uncool right now!
“I-I'm fine...!” I shout while bouncing back to my feet. “Just thought I saw a
one yen coin on the ground! Guess it's not my lucky day! Haha!” To not
embarrass myself further, I speed down the hallway without a second glance and
make a break for the bathroom. Do need to wash up anyway. Privacy... a place to
vent. That's what I need.
 
---
 
That was a mistake...
Was able to take the needed piss and get my hand and arm cleaned, but I had to
listen to a pair of idiots glorifying a woman from their school the whole time.
Bastards, that doesn't help at all... It only drove the thoughts of Aoyagi-san
and Doubashi stronger than before! Does Aoyagi-san not truly care about me...
cuddling with the Captain like that. Were all those helpful gestures for
nothing? And Doubashi. Those injuries... the crush. I'm supposed to be
recovering, damn it! Soon enough, my brain is just going to snap in two.
Exiting, Teshima-san is standing right in my path with arms folded over his
chest. Oh shit, his aggravated expression means business.
“Oh hey again! Sorry again for waking you... oh, and being so ang-”
“Save it, Kaburagi. I'd like to talk to you about some things... you mind?” he
interrupts with a calm demeanor. I'm going to get such a scolding, I know it!
“U-uh... sure.” Reluctantly, I follow the Captain when he walks off in the
opposite direction, aiming for the door on the first floor that exits to an
outside sitting area. There's silence the whole way, it broken when the sound
of sprinkling rain fills our ears. It's an indoor setting at least, screens and
thin glass protecting us from the elements outside. It's empty though, which
was obviously his goal. Of course there's things to talk about, but now of all
times? Something must be really bugging him. Sitting at one of the present
chairs, Teshima-san looks at me sternly.
“Well then, both of us need to get things off our chest I bet. In private. I
hope you'll listen, as well as talk, Kaburagi...” The lighthearted tone has
changed, the now serious side of the Captain showing. I take the other seat in
a slump, my eye contact broken. Have a feeling this is going to hurt... “Silent
for once I see. I'll do the talking first then... first thing I'd like to
address involves Aoyagi. I more lighthearted note though.” I doubt that... but
it does involve him, so it peeks my interest. I turn back with a questioning
look. “Do you know why I let Aoyagi kiss you? It's because... well, I find it
adorable. You two have had such a strong connection ever since the Inter-High
and it's great to see. As you know, he doesn't make friends easily thanks to
his quiet personality, so seeing him bond with someone else...” He pauses.
“...hrm- what I'm trying to say is, I appreciate the friendship you bring him.”
“That's nice to hear... I guess...” I mostly whisper back. Friendship, huh? By
now, I should realize it will never be more than just that. “The kisses are
really nice! Aoyagi-san is so kind and trustworthy... I'll say it again,
Captain, you two are perfect together.” I feel so defeated, a kōhai like me
could never be with someone so amazing.
“Yeah... we'll be going to the same College soon, but luckily, it's still close
to the city. We could still hangout when schoolwork doesn't distract us and
even race! That and...” His lips curve to a smile I rarely see on him. So
tender. “I'll... be officially asking him out soon. Probably after the race. I
know he'll say yes... so... I'm going to ask you a favor.” Asking.... out?
Like, actually dating?! Another string of pain hits my chest from the news. Now
I could never... be with him. I again look away with a sniffle, fighting back
the sure-to-come waterworks. It feels like my heart has been broken in two, as
generic as it sounds. But it's true. My chest actually hurts. “Kaburagi... I
still want you to be close. This doesn't change the friendship between us
three. Please understand that. I just ask... you stop being forward to him. You
know you'll... I hate to say it...”
“He'll never be with me...” I finish for him in monotone. Shit... shit!! As
much as the pain is there, I need remain positive. It -is- great! Two of my
friends are going to take one step forward in their relationship! “I hope for
the best, Captain!” Biting back tears, my attention turns to watch the rain
around us. It's calming. But as much as I'd like that feeling to stay, a choke
erupts from my chest. A scratching sensation comes to the back of my throat,
making me fall into a fit of coughs. This damn sickness! Those held back tears
come along with them, noises echoing all around us. Teshima-san stands to pat
me at the back like Aoyagi-san did before.
“I'm sorry... I'm pushing you further than you should go. It's time to take
your medicine anyway. I just had to get that off-”
“I want Aoyagi-san happy!” I shout to interrupt. This catches him off-guard,
the hand falling back to his side. “Please keep him happy for me!” I do. I
really do. All I want is for him to be safe and happy with a person he truly
loves. It's never going to happen with me, I need to accept this otherwise it's
going to become far too awkward to keep our friendship this close. I'm done
with these useless tears and thoughts.
“I will, don't worry. Come now, I already feel guilty enough for making you
cry...” The amount of said emotion in that voice gives me reassurance that this
is the truth. Still...
“Can I... have a minute or two to myself, Captain?” Without a word, he gives a
nod and leaves, the sound of rain now being my only company. I'm actually sort
of glad it turned out like this. In all reality, I wondered why those two
weren't together from the beginning. Sure, there's such thing as being close to
a best friend and keeping it platonic – especially between us men – but they're
a different story. They already act like a married couple. I find myself
smiling as I stare to the distorted reflection in the glass. I'm ok... I'm
really ok! To think, Aoyagi-san will have someone that will always be there for
him after highschool! Not like it's going to stop our friendship. Hell, it
might make it better! Say, if he had a rough night and Teshima-san was away or
too busy with school, he could turn to me for comfort.
Such opportunities... but even if there isn't, we'll still be friends. We
always will, much like with Danchiku. I feel... privileged to have them at my
side. The time alone with my thoughts is the break I was hoping for. Seems like
my nose doesn't want to run anymore either! With confidence built, I stand to
my feet with a satisfied grin. I need to get better now, I'll win that race
tomorrow! For their sake, Doubashi's and the Great Spirit's! Right when I'm
about to exit, I feel a buzz at lower thigh. … my phone. Guess I did leave it
in a pocket after texting Danchiku before taking my second nap. Flipping it
open, I see it's a message from an unknown number. Strange. It reads:
“Kaburagi? Hey, it's Nurse Mori from before. You're probably not feeling too
well, but I'm here to inform you that your friend Doubashi insists on seeing
you. Right after waking up, that's all he asked! I'm not going to say to push
yourself, but if you're up to it, he'd really like to talk ! Just make sure
you're in good shape, alright? I'm off duty, but I told the rest of the staff
you're allowed to come! Visiting hours are still for another four hours from
now, so if you don't catch him tonight, there's always tomorrow. Feel better!
<3”
Oh yeah, that cute nurse with the nice smile from before! Almost forgot she
took my personal information, including my number. What a kind thing to do...
and amazing to hear! That Pig is so stubborn! I laugh loud enough so probably
the whole floor could hear it. Even more of a boost! Stuffing the phone away
without responding, I dart back down the hallway at top speed. She can have my
thanks later, I just want to see him now! Although, the thought of going out in
my thin sleeping clothes comes to mind, my sights now locked at the room first.
Shit, I'm so excited to see him!
 
---
 
Heading back to the room was sort of a mistake.
Had to convince Teshima-san and the now awake Aoyagi-san that I'll be fine, but
first they insisted on wearing the mask and taking a dose of syrup I was
already late on. Of course I need to get better, but being on such a rush of
adrenaline, I did anything they said just to get me outside faster. The little
distance between the buildings felt like nothing due to the rain being just
small droplets and wind slowed to a gentle breeze. The once dark clouds have
broken apart to let the setting sun glimmer in the distance. Given the
circumstances and events that happened today, I should feel horrible, but I
can't stop smiling!
As they nurse stated in the text, there was no trouble at the front desk.
Already out of breath from the run, I slow to a steady walk. Wouldn't want to
looked pained or exhaust myself too much before seeing him. His room is easy
enough to locate with the given directions and I immediately step in without a
knock or warning. No staff is present in the copy-paste room that was like my
own, just Doubashi. He's awake, a large smile my way when the door is shut.
“Finally! I'd situp to hug ya, but I'm sort of stuck here!” he booms with
laughter. Right, his back was messed up from the fall. Walking closer, I spot
the multiple amount of small bandages across his entire body, the only thing
covering him up being a pair of boxers. Discarded on a tray nearby is his torn
up jersey, barely recognizable due to it's state. The amount of blood makes me
flinch, but I ignore it to focus on the man.
“Guess I'll have to hug you myself!” I chuckle back. The bed is fairly low to
the ground, so there's no work leaning over and embracing the man into the best
hug I could muster without disturbing him too much. For once, his hand just
rests at my lower back instead of the usual smack, but not like he has the
energy to be too rough. I wonder... does he still have some bite? “Look at this
tenderized Pig~.”
“And look, a rotting Orange!” he teases right back playfully. I wonder when
this guy -doesn't- have a come back. “What's with the mask, a new fashion
statement?” Pulling back from the hug, I shake my head slowly. Sadly, and
thankfully, he can't see the grin I'm sporting. I actually missed him.
“The nurse didn't tell ya? Caught a cold! Not like the symptoms kick on in just
a few hours, so I must have got it a day or two back. The rain just agitated
it,” I respond with a scratch at my covered cheek.
“What a shame, no more kisses for a while!” Being this close, it's clearer to
spot the damage on that left shoulder, the skin a deep shade of purple. Wonder
how swollen it looked before the pain meds. I find myself staring at it for
longer than intended, making Doubashi speak up again. “Pretty brutal, huh?
Hurts like a bitch too. Was worth it though...” He gazes to the wound as well,
smile weak on that split lip. To think he put himself in harm's way, for me.
“Why...” I question, “Why did you do it?” He turns back with a thick brow high
and nose upturned.
“Thought that was obvious, you idiot.” He gently pats a hand at the small space
next to him without eye contact, coyness back in his voice. That sensitive side
is showing again... I accept the offer and scoot my way on, the only position
suitable -- to be comfortable -- is on my side. A hand gently rests at his
chest when he pulls in closer; head against his uninjured shoulder. The strong
scent of disinfectants and alcohol burns my nostrils, but I suck it up for his
sake.
“I don't want to hurt you...”
“You are an idiot. Thinking that -after- you climbed on. Still cute you worry
about me.”
“You only got these because of me! And stop saying cute! And thanks for
ignoring my question, but you're right. It's really obvious...”
“Still as talkative as ever...” As much pain erupts from voice, he still forces
himself up just enough to plant a kiss to the top of my head. I don't protest.
In fact, I aid it by sliding up so it makes contact without much effort. He
follows with an affectionate rub to my lower back after slipping an arm around
and under me, again smiling fully. “Got some good news though. My folks are
paying for a hotel so I can recover here instead of trying to be shipped off to
my dorm in Hakone. About a week or so I'll be around.” My eyes round out from
the announcement, joy welling up inside. I get to see him more, yes! Something
good did come out of this! “Told them I have a friend out here that's willing
to help if need be. Hope you won't let them down.”
“I-I was just going to offer that actually! Well shit! I believed you were just
going to leave tomorrow with all those injuries without me doing something to
give my thanks!” I'll do anything to make up for this fuck-up! What guilt I've
been having ever since.
“I knew you'd be excited. If my recovery goes nicely, hell, might be able to
make that movie and dinner, am I right?”
“Not to mention that overnight deal we made!”
“You know I was just playing with you by making that bet, right? I never
intended you to be forced to stay a -whole- night with me! Was going to wear
that piggy-nose regardless if I won or not anyway.” Redness blankets my veiled
cheeks. There's an urge to curse him out, but I can't find the need to do so.
That feeling swells at my chest again and not from congestion. You know that
saying, butterflies in your stomach? It feels like ravenous bats are in mine!
“B-but! I... want to.” He looks at me with brows raises high, clearly confused
at the reply. Time to be honest again, otherwise it will fog my thoughts and
just be a distraction. “Now that I understand what you've been trying to do
from the beginning, – the touching, the deal, everything – I know it was your
best intentions. Sure, it's sort of fucked up, but every time I look into those
eyes of yours... you're sorry. That's all I see. The actions you took were
nothing but regrets and saving me from the fall was your true way of expressing
that apology. I've had time to think about this, probably not enough and maybe
it's just the meds talking, but...”
I pause from the speech to gulp down the lump in my throat. Nervousness and
that itching feeling to cough rise, but they're pushed back just to make this
point clear with interruption. He keeps his gaze locked on mine, expression
flat as he listens. “I... want to give us, as in together, a shot. And if it
doesn't work out, well, we at least tried. For all we know, these days have
just rattled our brains into thinking crazy, but my gut has been telling me
ever since you opened up earlier. Why not? What's the worst it could do? Now
that we're just not arguing and at each others' throats, there might be
something here that has yet to be unlocked.” It ends with me falling into a
sequence of phlegm coated coughs with eyes slamming shut. I got it out though.
Now I must be seriously nuts. I really said that aloud. Is it just because I'll
never have a shot with Aoyagi-san or being too thankful over the accident? I
may later regret this decision, yet right now... it feels like the right thing.
My stomach, heart – every part of me is saying this is the correct thing to do.
Arching an elbow, Doubashi's hand rises to pat at my upper back in a calming
way. How many pats on the back am I going to get today?
“Didn't know you could be so poetic...” he chuckles, “Is this how you ask out
everyone or just me?”
“I've never ask- cuh – asked someone out before!” I yelp through gasps of air.
I... I never asked someone out! I've never had a boyfriend, or girlfriend to
boot! The realization strikes me like a knife at my side, reality distorting.
It hits me again once another thing occurs to me. I've only had brief sexual
contact up until him too! Why is Doubashi of all people becoming my first in
these steps towards becoming a true adult?! “Oh my... spirit...” Before I know
it, I have my face burred onto his side and fingers curled at his skin.
Trembling, I can't help but shake! I'm not crying, so it's not sadness. Joy?
Anger? No, maybe it's...
“Strange how some people fall so easily after barely any interactions. You must
really love me, Orange.” Love...? No way! It can't be! My affections are for
Aoyagi-san, not this hunk of muscle who I've talked to only a handful of times.
Just to add, he's a complete jerk! Is he right? Am I in... love?
“Shuddup...” I mumble onto him, “You're making me embarrassed again.”
***** Oh boy, it's getting close to the end... *****
I never would think I'd spend hours rambling away with this guy...
Besides the occasional doctor or nurse stepping in the check vitals, me and
Doubashi talked into the night. About the upcoming race, our past ones and the
obvious topics. Favorite food, color, pointless things like that. Who knew a
giant like him likes cucumber?! Not like we knew much about each other in the
first place, so it needed to happen. In retrospect, may have wanted to get this
information before asking him out. The idiot side of me speaks yet again... in
the end, it means we'll have plenty to talk about! Later on, it's going to be
strange asking my folks if I can hang out in a hotel room for a few days with a
rival from Hakone, but that will come in time.
For now, medicine – I'm way overdue. The only reason I had to leave the medical
ward was because visiting hours closed up and both of us should be resting. Now
with his number though, we could text the night away. He sends me a simple one
to confirm my number when I reach outside, fresh air filling my lungs. No more
hospital smell, thank you. As I'm typing out a response, I stop mid-walk when a
thought occurs to me...
“How am I going to tell my friends and family I have a -BOYFRIEND-?!”
---
That caused my stomach to erupt in pain, forcing my way to the bathroom yet
again today. The awkward silence, judging stares, questions beyond questions...
why didn't I think that until now? Going to be long distance relationship, and
first one too! Maybe I was way over my head thinking this could work out, but
it hasn't taken a full shot yet! Give it time, Issa, give it time. They'll come
to understand and maybe the distance can make us closer! Positive, keep
positive.
Sliding the door open, I see the third years cuddled up together by a laptop on
the ground. Aoyagi-san is huddled up in Teshima-san's lap with a blanket around
their shoulders, both sporting a grin when I enter. Man, they do make a cute
couple. I can't be mad with them being cuddly anymore, there's no point.
“Welcome back, Kaburagi!” the Captain says with pep, “Didn't think a visit
would take that long. Was tempted to run the medicine over to you, but knew
you'd be back eventually. Must have had fun.” Flopping to my futon, I see an
array of charts and words displayed on the computer's screen. They're still
working? They began that when I left. Being inside finally, the mask is removed
and set down by my other supplies. I scoop up the bottle and start measuring
out the dose when I respond.
“Lots of fun! He's recovering really well too. Said he'll be in the city for a
few extra days thanks to the injuries, so we'll get to hang out some more!”
Gulping down the sticky, disgusting substance, my phone buzzes at my hip. Oh
crap, I never responded! Frantically I pull it out to read the new message.
“You better not have lied to me Orange!”
“Shit, sorry Doubashi...” I speak without thinking, thumbs now at the keyboard.
“Guess you accepted that whole number thing, huh?” Teshima-san chuckles. After
quickly texting out an apology, my attention turns back to the pair. Wonder if
I should tell them now or later... probably now would yield the best reaction,
seeing as they'll probably catch on to my new found attachment to Doubashi and
question it anyway.
“Yeah... actually, we sorta... well, started dating...?” I hesitated at that
last word, like it doesn't belong in the dictionary and made up on the spot.
That well too familiar heat is felt on my face when I break eye contact to
stare down at the dark screen of my phone.
“Seriously...?” I hear Aoyagi-san question.
“Yeah, not kidding! We... talked things over for a long time there and came to
the understanding that he's really sorry for what he did, like the note said.
Figured we might be able to hit it off.” They both give me a doubtful look.
“Day one: he molests Aoyagi, you have sex with him and break down. Day two: he
steals you to warmup with you instead of us, have a race that turns into an
accident, pass out in a bathtub, cuddle with a stuffed-”
“I get it, Teshima-san!!” I shout to cease the verbal ramble, “I know what
happened, you don't have to spell it out to me! What's your point?”
“Just trying to make it crystal clear that -a lot- of unforgivable and crazy
things have happened in the span of less than seventy-two hours and it ends
with you dating him? Kaburagi...” Disappointment washes over both their faces,
Aoyagi-san's head shaking to match. “I get that he feels bad for what happened,
but you know he pretty much forced you to share sheets with him, right?”
“I do! He feels really bad about it and I get why! I thought you'd two would be
happy...” I understand it, why can't these two?
“Perplexed,” Aoyagi-san follows.
“That's the right word. I mean, -I- wouldn't date someone that did that to me,
but... I get it. To a degree. He did save you back there.” Now he's making
sense of the situation!
“See!? Y-you were right! He just didn't know how to express himself. It was a
mistake I think he'll regret for a long time... I swear if something stupid
like that happens again, I'll kick him to curb!” That's the truth. Can tell he
wishes to take this relationship thing with full seriousness, so if any huge
fuck-ups arise, I'm done.
“Kaburagi...” Aoyagi-san stands from his partner's lap and stares stoically
down at me. “Can we talk?” Now he wants to? Thought I already got a verbal beat
down from Teshima-san! With no real way to avoid it, I mumble a “sure” under to
my breath and follow his lead. The Captain waves us off before returning to
work, like this was planned. Suspicious. Curiously enough, I'm lead to the same
exact sitting room Teshima-san dragged me in earlier. Are these two plotting
something?! Even with such hesitance, I plant myself on the same chair; the sky
now lacking of any clouds. The thin window is cracked slightly, letting the
cool air seep around us.
“So, what's this about?” I ask, glancing over. Aoyagi-san stands by the window
and silently stares back for a handful of seconds. Unsure if he doesn't want me
to interrupt anything, so I hold my tongue. Is this supposed to be obvious?
“Us.” He holds up two fingers with a gentle nod. “Things are going to change
soon and we need to tie off any loose ends. I'll be asking Junta out soon, so I
wish for you to cease your affections towards me.” … he is too?! So direct.
These two are in sych twenty-four-seven, aren't they? Guess this wasn't
planned, just a coincidence of sorts.
“Ah, Teshima-san is going to-!!” Shit, I don't want to spoil that for him! “Uh-
be really happy to hear that. I'm sure he'll say yes! Heck, don't know why you
two aren't already like that!”
“There's many reasons for that, but now most of my doubts have cleared up.
Simple as that.” He turns to stare out into the night sky with a low sigh. “I
won't be able to stop your crush, but-”
“Don't worry, Aoyagi-san! I'll try as hard as I can!” What else can I say? Wish
I could just cut that part of my brain out that holds this fondness for the
Captain's sake. His speech did help, but I still fell this attraction. Have no
clue just how long it will take, but I have a feeling it will fade once they're
away. To help, I have Doubashi now. Heh...
“Good. Now that's out of the way, anything you wish to get off your chest?” I
raise a brow to the question. Blunt and vague like the usual Aoyagi-san. Guess
it's an offer to vent, but not like there's much left after talking with
Teshima-san and Doubashi. I feel... free. There's no more weights at my
shoulders. Have been curious about one thing though, may as well ask now. I
lift off the chair to stand next to him, my sights out the window as well. The
clear sky is lit up with stars, the pale moon illuminating the surroundings.
What a sight.
“I just have a question. What started the whole 'star' and 'moon' thing between
you two? Had to be sparked from something.” His expression remains the same as
ever when I glance over, yet there's an new air around him. What pressure...
His arms fold behind his back while taking in a deep breath.
“Junta has always been a star. The whole nickname thing happened back in his
middle school days, stuck with him ever since. It started when we were out on a
long bike ride during a night much like this. Not a cloud in the sky, just the
stars and moon...”
---
“Damn it! Damn it!!!”
Junta pounds his fist onto a nearby tree with tears streaming down his face.
Due to the darkness, we accidentally collided during a practice of our
Synchronized Straight Twin. Both of us only received minor injuries, yet he
screams in pain from guilt.
“Junta...” I stand just a meter of two away, unsettled by the sight.
“It's all my fault! I wasn't paying attention! I'm sorry Aoyagi... this could
have been avoided!” The amount of pain in the voice is near driving me to
tears. I have to remain strong. Wanting to comfort my teammate, I embrace him
from behind. His whimpers stop dead in their tracks when the arms gingerly wrap
at his waist. I don't want to see him like this anymore...
“It's not your fault. Please don't be upset...” I whisper tenderly. His
breathing slows to a steady pace before turning at his heels. His arms find
their way around me to tighten the hug, chin rested at my shoulder.
“I'm sorry... I just feel so stupid. I thought we're always in synch, but
today... damn it...” His voice trails off to sniffle with more tears, fingers
curled into my ripped jersey.
“It was an accident. You're still a star, Junta...”
“A star, huh...?” His head lifts to gaze out into the clear night sky before
us, my sights following. The crescent moon hangs like a pendent over a silk
drape lined with flecks of glitter. Being out of the city limits, the stars
take up most the blue space. “I always thought... they looked so lonely without
the moon out, ya know? It's like it guides their shine and enhances their
beauty. Heh... I hate when I get poetic.” The true beauty stands before me when
I glance back. Moonlight dances on Junta's fallen tears and rounded cheeks,
blue eyes twinkling like the sky. An adorable smile spreads on the illuminated
face when a breeze brushes past, violet hair strung into unruly curls. You
really are a star, a beautiful one.
“I'll be your moon, Junta...” I'll guide you, I'll protect you. I want you to
shine the brightest you can be. I'll do anything to make this happen.
“You already are, Aoyagi...” Looking back to me, a hand places softly at my
cheek; thumb brushing at the skin. Reality swept away at the moment our gazes
locked. The air and time felt to have stopped as he leaned in closer...
---
“... and that was my first kiss with Junta. My first one with anyone actually.”
My jaw hangs loose from the short story told and eyes glazed over. I'm not much
one for sappy stuff, but to hear this... my heart feels like it's melting!
Never thought so much passion could go into a kiss, a bonus being their
connection to the celestial beings happening. How much more perfect can these
two be together?
“Wow... how romantic...” I choke out while fighting back tears, “Wish I had a
kiss like that. To think, my first with Doubashi was forced upon. Shit...” The
battle is lost when wetness rolls now my face. I can't hold these back. There
is still something to let out, a pain that's been there for months now. “I'm
jealous...” Aoyagi-san faces me with a concerned look. “I'm jealous of
everything you are! Of Captain too! I want that bond, that strength together as
two! I want... someone like that.” That word.
Jealous.
This whole time, that's what's been truly tugging at my heartstrings. How have
I denied it for this long? Aoyagi-san steps forward to brush away a tear on a
thumb.
“Crying again... thought you'd be dried up,” he states flatly. I would think so
too due to sheer amount over these days. “You'll find that someday, Kaburagi.
All good things come in time, you'll just have to wait. Tell me... how much do
you want to kiss me right now?” My eyes snap open, suddenly feeling wide awake.
Why... is he asking that? I realize why when I see the moonlight dancing on his
face, features glowing and amplifying his beauty. Captivating. Just like the
story, only on the other end. Those tender lips are calling, but I can't...
“Every part of me is screaming to just hold you as close I could possibly could
and kiss you until the sunrises. You're absolutely stunning, Aoyagi... but I
won't. The guilt of breaking our agreement would haunt me.” Might as well be
honest. Just like the day before, Aoyagi-san balances on his toes and kisses me
against the forehead. Guess this is the reward.
“You forgot the 'san' again...”
Thank you, Aoyagi-san...
---
Even with how awkward the whole setup was, there's a joy inside me. Both our
feelings were expressed without judgment, which I believe just strengthened our
bond. The best part of it was when we left. Aoyagi-san held my hand the entire
walk back to the room to comfort me. I mentioned how much ache there was thanks
to these sore muscles and bruises, so he insisted. Passing other occupants was
strange, yet there was no embarrassment. I just smiled and faced forward, arms
swinging together like we're mother and child on a fun walk. He smiled the
whole time too. I'm glad knowing showing some affections to each other won't
bug him, as long as they don't overstep boundaries. Wonder how the Captain will
react...
Stepping in with hands still clasped, Teshima-san sips from a teacup while
lounging against the back wall. The room is filled with the scent of green tea.
A newly arrived addition is in the room, a tray with three cups (including his)
and a teapot is in the center. There's a few plates as well with a small
sandwich on each.
“There you two are! Decided to do a little cleaning and grab an after nap
snack.” His smile grows he spots our hands still together. “Don't you two look
cute~. It's like you're a lost child, Kaburagi.”
“I am not!” I yelp while pulling away. I'm starting the loathe that word.
'Cute.' Bleh.
“He's not feeling well, so I helped” Aoyagi-san says as he takes a cup and
plate. “Thanks, Junta.”
“Think nothing of it. My treat.” A snack does sound rather satisfying, so I
grab my own share and settle onto my futon. He wasn't kidding about cleaning
up. My old bowl, tissues, any scraps I left behind are gone. What a thoughtful
gesture. To my surprise, Aoyagi-san sits himself next to me instead of the
Captain.
“Junta.” There's a short pause when eyes lock, doing their normal silent
conversations.
“Ah, yeah. Maybe that will make him feel better.” Teshima-san sits up and
pushes his items closer at my opposite side. The laptop comes along as well,
centered on the bedroll before he sits. We're shoulder to shoulder! Just what
in blazes is going on!? “Found a good video on the track we'll be on tomorrow.
Last year's Sprinter's Dash actually. You may have already seen it, but it's
still good review.” He pulls up a tab on the computer with said video on. “Me
and Aoyagi were going to watch it, but might as well get you involved.”
“Oh yeah, think I saw this one in person actually, but it would beneficial to
witness at other angles... didn't Sohoku win?” Captain cracks a board grin.
“Aoyagi did.” I knew I heard his name before! Gazing to him, that same dry look
is about; not a single change or word to perhaps boast. Just a nod. “Watching
the Inter-High from the sidelines last year really brought some inspiration.
Blew through it like- eh, it's better just to watch.” The opening ceremony
takes place, pretty basic. The normal welcomes and greetings from the
announcers. During this boring few minutes, I bite down at the given snack. A
flavor enters my mouth that brings a giddy smile.
Cucumber. How perfect.
“Last year's winner, Tadokoro Jin, is unable to make it due the recent victory
at the Inter-High, but two from Sohoku are here today,”says one of the
announcers.
“That's right!” follows the other, “Second-year Aoyagi Hajime and first-year
Naruko Shoukichi. We have high hopes for them!”
The camera cuts to the front of the pack, focusing on the pair of yellow
jerseys. Aoyagi-san... with short hair! And more of a light brown? So he does
dye his hair. Besides those minor features, can easily see the difference in
body shape just from a year. Those tiny little legs dwarf the muscular mass
they are now. He stares to the camera in silence while Nakuro-san waves
enthusiastically.“At least one of them looks excited!”
“Need to smile more often, Aoyagi-san,” I comment after a sip of tea. He just
rolls his eyes and falls back to the screen. It starts off soon afterward. The
camera work is perfect to study up. Aerial view, at all sides and a few that
were attached to bikes. This gave a feeling of how it's going to few to have
forty racers on such a small track at once. If the fear of injury in a wider
track was bad enough, this can make the worrisome type faint. Not me, this only
grew my excitement. Helps I've raced a handful of times on this same course, so
I question why I had to watch. Now I know. It's to watch my teammates. Aoyagi-
san and Naruko-san worked together for eight laps, switching off after a few
meters to draft. This wasn't against the rules, many people have broken into
the pairs or small groups to help save energy for the final sprint. Nothing
special. Once that eight lap completes, they break away from each other like
they're enemies. From the corner of my eye, Teshima-san watches intently.
“Watch and learn, Kaburagi. This is the interesting part.” With that note, my
eyes glue to them. Even if the shot focused on another group, I'd scan through
if they were in view. This sadly didn't work in my favor until beginning of the
final lap. They both kick to reach the front, bodies only slightly raised from
saddles. They're not using full power, yet they leave the once pack of leaders
in the dust. The camera locks down on the pair, announcers cheering them on
just as hard as the audience. A battle once of many turned into two from the
same school. It's about half way through when the bottom handles are gripped
and bodies raise by them both. Like clockwork. There's still a large distance
to the line, so why are they fully kicking now?
“They're starting the final sprint early!”shouts the female announcer.
“Is this some sort of strategy?! What's up Sohoku's sleeve!?”With the camera
just ahead of them, this gives a clear shot of their faces. Both hold a grin.
That's when Naruko-san pulls ahead and rides just ahead of the other, again
drafting. What the...?
“Wait, are they still working together?”
“Looks like it! Do they plan to push someone ahead?”
I ask these questions as well in my head. Just what is going on? Pulling at top
speed... how reckless, but effective! The amount of practice that went into
this... it's perfection! I don't remember seeing this, I know I came to this
race. Guess I was just too excited to see the brilliance of the strategy.
Handful of seconds, switch, more seconds, switch. This happens until the last
three hundred meters. To confuse me further, they again split; now neck and
neck to the line. Like lifetime rivals, they fight in one final burst. There's
no push by a hand, just emotions fueling their legs. The cheers soar as both
bikes zoom past the line in a blur.
“Wow, what a race! These two sure have passion! Just by three millimeters, the
trophy today is taken by second-year Aoyagi Hajime!”Nothing but the sounds of
applauds fills the speakers when the shot switches to Aoyagi-san extending an
arm to the sky, a finger pointed to show his trademark number one. Narkuo-san
only hangs with head for a few seconds to absorb defeat, but cants back to
smile. After they step off their bikes, he gives encouraging pats to a
shoulder; Aoyagi returning his own. How inspiring. Teshima-san steps into frame
to embrace Aoyagi-san, hard and strong enough to lift him slightly off the
ground.
“This concludes the men's Sprinter's Dash! Next up is-”Before the announcer can
finish, Teshima-san exits the tab out. What an adorable picture to end it off
on.
“Nothing important after that,” he remarks, “So, whatcha' think?”
“It was -amazing-!” I shout, arm swinging and almost knocking over a cup.
Whoops. Straightening it out with a chuckle, I look to them each. “I know I
went to that race, just forgot how breathtaking it actually was. You come up
with that idea, Teshima-san?”
“I did, and if you were actually paying attention yesterday, you'd know we plan
on doing this again.” I -was- paying attention! … I think. “If things fall into
place, you'll be doing the same as Naruko. You and Aoyagi will be fighting for
the line.”
“And what's your part...?”
“So, you really weren't paying attention,” he chimes in, “I'll be distracting
the others, blocking off any that may stand in the way. I lack the speed for a
final sprint, so I'll be supporting you in the back.” There's an obvious
question to ask.
“And what if I can't participate?” There's a short pause.
“If that's the case, I'll be pulling Aoyagi as far as I can muster. But I must
ask, are you willing to do this?”
“Of course I am! And when we lead the pack, I'll fight you just as hard as
Naruko-san did!” I show a smug smile to my “rival.” Like always, he just nods,
but a smile forms at the corner of his lips. “Why didn't Naurko show up
anyway?”
“Sick,” Aoyagi-san answers. Seriously?!
“Find it kind of funny that our sprinters decided to be under the weather this
week. Better not get to your head too, Aoyagi!” Teshima-san chuckles. They both
bump their shoulders to me in a playful way, my smile spreading from ear to
ear. This is how this trip should have been from the beginning! Laughter,
smiles, excitement! Our little bump battle is interrupted when my phone hums
awake. A response from Danchiku finally!
“Sorry bro, took longer than I expected, but I have it. You better be able to
race tomorrow! Coming to visit you early anyway. Feel better.”
For the sake of everyone, I sincerely wish for this to get better. Guess I
won't know until the morning...
***** Oh boy, it's the end...? *****
What a relaxing night...
After fixing up the final plan for our strategy, we came to the conclusion that
the rest of the evening should be spent having some fun together. Even with the
urge to bike, it's held back to not agitate the cold. It's slowly been getting
better already, so it would just be a waste to make it act up again. We headed
up the rec room to indulge in karaoke and some matches in table tennis, smiling
the whole way through. These third-year are more talented than I thought.
Aoyagi-san looked as if he was melting when Teshima-san sang. Adorable sight to
see him all enamored. All the fun exhausted us though, so we had a quick dinner
and headed to bed early. We need the energy anyway. Here's to hoping...
---
“Hey, Issa! Wake up!” Not being in too deep a slumber with the pain meds out of
my system, I awake to see Danchiku above me holding a small package. The blue
highlights in his hair look freshly done and he holds a warm smile. What a
welcoming face to wake up to.
“Hey Danchiku!” I shout, springing up the bed. I plant a firm punch to his
shoulder, him turning his own in hello. I already feel tons better than the
night before. It's promissing. “Surprised they let you in here.”
“When I told the front desk I had something for you, they didn't hesitate
letting me in to drop it off. Here.” He passes off the plainly colored
container with a short nod. Taking it and opening the flap, I tug out a fresh
Sohoku jersey still sealed in plastic. The bulkiness of confuses me at first,
but then I feel another set of clothing. A SS jersey, my own. “Decided to bring
that along too if you wanted to wear that instead. Or both!”
“Thanks man! I owe you one!” I beam with delight. Glad I remembered that I
brought no extra jerseys just in case. Didn't think it would it get covered in
blood though. Knew Danchiku would have my back.
“Not a problem Issa, but I should get back outside. Should reserve a good spot
to watch. You head off to that doctor. Text me any updates, alright?”
“Yeah, of course! But, I got a bit of news to tell you first.” He perks a brow
when he reaches the door frame, head turned to face me. “I got an significant
other before you!” I need to boast a little, both of us have never had one.
Until now. His expressions turns to complete shock.
“Shit, are you serious?! That's great, Issa! Who's the lucky girl?” I begin
unwrapping the jerseys with a mischievous smile, eye contact broken. This is
sure to get him worked up.
“I'll introduce -him- to you after the race, ok?” I dare not look back knowing
I'll burst into laughter. His face must be priceless. “You get outside. Can
talk later.” He gives no verbal response when exiting, footsteps echoing down
the hallway and fading off. That warmth comes back to my cheeks.
Wish we could have raced today, Doubashi...
---
After my best friend leaves, I notice that the third-years are gone. It's about
two hours before the race, so they must be warming up. Thinking nothing of it,
I change into more causal clothing with my jersey underneath. Decided to switch
up the uniform, Sohoku's at my chest and the SS style being my shorts. They
look pretty good together actually.
It's a breath of fresh air to see the sun shining once again. The heat has made
it's returned, actually hotter than the first day. That scorching end of the
summer heat... it truly brings more pressure to the race. Wearing the layers of
clothing, I'm already sweating. Luckily didn't have to be outside long. The
staff pointed me off to the room I was in before to meet with the local doctor.
It doesn't take him long to enter and go over my vitals, the simple stuff. Also
handed him off the rest of the bottle of syrup, it drained to nearly it's last
drop. Didn't miss a single dose.
“You did well, Kaburagi-kun,” he begins with a scribble at the clipboard, “You
recovered better than I expected! Only one day and you're almost at perfect
health. Blood pressure is a bit high though.”
“That's because I'm excited to race today, doc!” I shout with enthusiasm, “This
mean I'm able to?” He taps the pen with a long sigh.
“Normally, I would suggest my patients rest for a couple days, but in this
case...” He smiles with a push of his glasses. “I'll allow it. Be warned
though, this could make it act up again at higher levels. Especially with this
heat. You'll be risking your future health conditions. The only reason why I'm
saying yes is because of your will. I'm pretty sure if I told you no, you'd
still try!” My eyes light up to the news, body leaping off the cot with an
excited yelp.
“Even if I'm crippled after this, it's worth it to win! Thank you, doc!”
“Just make sure to visit me afterwords, ok?”
“I will! Thank you again!” After giving a handshake to express my gratitude
further, I step out and sprint towards the front doors. I won't be able to
fight Doubashi, but that isn't stopping me from taking the goal! Although, I
come to a stop when I see a familiar face. “Nurse Mori!” She turns with that
loving smile on her pale face.
“There you are! Things went well then?”
“They sure did! Are you going to watch me race?” She gestures towards the
outside with a point of a finger.
“Sadly, I have duties to attend to, but... I'm sure you'll be happy knowing he
will be.” He head cants to express my puzzlement, but it's cleared up when she
leads me back outside. In the sitting area nearby the front doors is Doubashi
perched in a wheelchair.
“Pig!!!” Excitement wells in me to see that face of his smiling warmly back at
me. I don't question anything when I jump over to embrace him into a tug hug.
“Ow, Orange! I'll still injured you know!” he roars with an added chuckle.
“I'm sorry, I just thought you wouldn't be able to watch!” With the main
building being on a small hill, this spot is suited for looking over most the
track. The starting line is in perfect sights.
“Figured you'd be well enough to participate, so I made the arrangements to let
your friend watch from here,” Mori chimes in. I look to her after releasing and
give the most idiotic smile I could muster. There's no real way to express my
thanks to this! My gaze is stopped when my head is turned by Doubashi hand, his
body tilted so our lips meeting for a brief moment. You bastard!
“Thanks for this, nurse. I get see my Orange race his heart out.” Pulling back
swiftly, I give an apologetic bow to the woman. Now's not the time to show
affection! And “-my- Orange!?”
“It's not a problem, you two. It's the least I could do. Be safe, Kaburagi. And
good luck!” She gives her own bow before stepping back inside. That's when I
turn to Doubashi with cheeks puffed out to express my distaste.
“Why did you kiss me?! That's so embarrassing!”
“We're together now, Orange. I want to show that. And I missed you.” There's
that sweet side of him again, it's hard to resist. That face so soft and
loving... “But enough sappy stuff, you should get down there and prepare
yourself. I'm giving you my strength. You better win for me...” He pauses for a
moment to muster up a word. “... Issa.” The feeling of pins and needles covers
my entire body from that single word. Calling me by my first name?! Not wanting
to show any weakness, I bite back the want to hug him once again. Things like
that shouldn't be distracting me right now.
“I will... Masakiyo.”
---
I do just that. After one more kiss, I head down to strip away my clothing to
my jersey and grab my bike. I also do the favor of texting back Danchiku about
the news seeing as I couldn't find him in the swarm that is the crowd. The area
around the track is packed with spectators from Chiba and the surrounding area,
all fans of cycling. Memories of last year come back in a instant, myself as a
middle schooler leaning on the barriers to get the best view of the race.
Strange how I was so attached to coming to this school because of Sohoku's
victory at the previous year's Inter-High to so easily forget the faces that
won here. What an idiot I can be...
The third-years were more than pleased to see me ready and raring to go. After
a brief breakfast to bring some energy, we get to warming up straight away. My
joints feel rusty and ache with every turn, but I suck up the pain. I can't
show any weaknesses now.
“Attention racers. Attentions racers,”the announcer’s voice rings around
us,“The race will begin in thirty minutes. Please make your way to the start
line.”It's almost time...
---
My blood feels like it's boiling when reaching the starting gate, all of
Sohoku's members at the front due to Aoyagi-san's victory last year. There's
even a section of the crowd that are cheering out his name, the majority being
women. Even more reasons to be envious. Although, he doesn't take the praise
positively by that stoic expression. Ignoring the screams, he simply leans over
to Teshima-san at his side to place a gentle kiss at a cheek. The voices stop
instantly.
“Hajime...” Teshima-san say coyly with a bit of color on his face.
“Do you need one too, Kaburagi?” he follows dryly without saying anything to
his partner. Now I know he's just teasing me. Snapping on my helmet, I let a
chuckle escape my lips.
“Already got one from Doubashi, I'm fine. Your kisses do bring good luck, but I
think I received one even better.” My gaze falls to across the track towards
the main building, Doubashi's figure just a blur in the distance. The fact that
he's watching me brings out more confidence.
“Do your best, Issa!” The familiar voice rings through the cheers, Danchiku not
far from my sights. He grips the edge of the blockade with a smile only a best
friend can express. Looking over, I just give a simple nod. It's time...
“Welcome to another year of the Sprinter's Dash!”the announcer's voice from
before rings in,“Thank you all for understanding the delay. To kick off this
hot, summer day, we have our men's dash! The winner from last year, Aoyagi
Hajime, has made his return! Along with two other members of the school!”
“There's first year Kaburagi Issa and fellow third-year Teshima Junta! Wonder
if they'll dazzle us like the other members did last year! One of these two may
be able to take the victory away!”shouts the other. A camera man steps onto the
track to get a shot of the three of us. Aoyagi-san holds a finger up in that
trademark way, Teshima-san following with a two. That or a “v for victory”
pose. Regardless, I play along with the act and hold out three fingers to
match.“These three seem close! They're sure to bring a fierce battle for the
other competitors! Let's check out the other schools here today!”
Once the camera leaves my sights, all other noises fade into the background.
With eyes forward, I'm left only with my thoughts. Keep a clear mind and
everything will go as planned. The soreness of my body is nothing in comparison
to the weight on my shoulders.
Win for Doubashi.
Win for Danchiku.
Win for the Great Spirit.
Win to show that Sohoku will be strong without Teshima-san and Aoyagi-san!
“Alright folks! Without further delays, let the Sprinter's Dash... BEGIN!”
---
In an instant, the racers take off. Teshima-san is the first to pull, each of
us going to switch off with every lap. At first, we start off slow, enough to
make us fall back to the middle of the group. By the half way point, there's
already a few racers who made their way around to the line.
“Tell me again why we're starting this slow?” I question with a long sigh.
People are passing us left and right!
“Remember, Kaburagi,” Teshima-san says, “It's all part of the plan! Play along
and everything will fall into place!” Taking the advice, I follow along. As
much as I want to just take off on my own, it's only the first lap. Patience,
be patience! Switching, kicking, turning... too slow for too long! This is a
race, dammit! This goes on for a grueling five laps! It's when we reach the
start of sixth I understand the true intentions of the strategy. The once
leaders just ahead of us are worn to nothing, cadence fallen enough to be
easily passed without full strength.
“I think I see now!” I shout while turning at the bend, “Thinking that we're
weaker this year, they used most their strength to try to get a lead on us from
the start!”
“Exactly!” Teshima-san beams, “There's still other competitors though, so don't
get too cocky. The tides will turn next lap though.” He pulls up next to me to
plant a hand on my shoulder, face contorted to exhaustion. Already out of
energy, Captain? “Once we hit the line, I'm taking back over to pull, but this
time... I'm using everything I have to get you two closer to the front. Make
sure to keep up. This is when the true race begins.”
“I couldn't be more ready, Captain!” With a smile, he pulls back behind me and
Aoyagi-san to get the little time to rest he has left. As confident as I may
sound, I've been in constant pain. Lungs feel even heavier than when the
sickness when was full force and my legs are feeling like rusted iron. I have
no idea how I'm going to hold on for other five laps, but I have to. I just
HAVE to!
The beginning of the seventh lap starts, Teshima-san doing as he said. Kicking
with full force, he takes lead. Singles to groups of people become a blur when
we zip past. He wasn't lying about giving it his all!
“Time your breathing with mine!” he commands while briefly resting his legs,
“One hundred percent now!”
“Yes sir!” me and Aoyagi shout in synch. This is what I've been waiting for...
Knuckles crack when flexing my fingers, grip tight at my handlebars. With one,
large inhale, full power is pressed into every turn of his pedals. Not being
the strongest sprinter in the world, I'm still impressed with this speed. I can
feel the passion and drive pushing him forward. He's doing this... for us. Even
with the circumstances of us being enemies on this track.
It doesn't take long to catch the few at the lead of the pack after crossing
the line, now on the eight lap. We're not the leaders just yet, but they're in
our sights. For around three kilometers straight, Teshima-san pulled, but his
breaths break into shaky gasps when he slumps to the saddle.
“That's... as far as I can go... I couldn't get you two to the main front,
but... it's close. I'll hold back any that try to catch up.” Slowing his pace,
he rides between us with a hand at our backs. “Go. Win this. For Sohoku!!!”
With a forceful push, me and Aoyagi-san are nudged forward, legs turning with
all our strength. There's a sudden, intense pressure felt off my teammate when
I glance over. With an gigantic inhale, he kicks forward to carry me behind.
His small stature has grown considerably when taking in the air around him.
It's just like the Inter-High.
Knowing the upcoming plans, I tail him until he signals for me to switch.
Naruko and him did break off during the eighth last year and then work together
later on, but we decided to do the opposite. I insisted during our warmup that
this should happen, seeing I want a true battle between us. It took some
convincing, but they eventually gave in. The goal line to start the final lap
is in my sights. The true strain of this race is about to go underway. A few
meters there, Aoyagi-san rides beside me.
“Sure you can do this, Kaburagi?” I probably look like a complete wreck right
now. My breathing has been less than steady and I'm coated in sweat. Recovering
from this sickness piled on by the beating sun and pressure to win... I'm
exhausted. Getting air into my lungs is becoming troubling, so I unzip my
jersey to let it flap carelessly in the breeze. It will reduce my win
resistance, but I need the fresh air.
“Yeah, I-”
“I don't want you to get hurt,” he interrupts, “Please make sure you're ok.”
I'm starting to doubt even more... but I need to risk this. Worse case, I ride
my heart out as far as possible. It's only three more kilometers! As quickly as
possible, I take one of the two water bottles from a stand and unscrewed the
top. I dump the remains contents over my head and toss the empty container
away. The lukewarm water on my skin gives a nice refresh, but not like it's
going to win me this.
“Let's go, Aoyagi-san! I'm ready!” Ignoring the shooting pain through my entire
body, I push forward and zip past the line; my opponent not far behind. The
once confident leaders of the race are left behind in a matter of seconds after
we take the bend. Every turn of my pedals sends a stab straight into my lower
back and knees, yet I keep going. Reality distorts around me, my vision
tunneling. The once roar of cheers in the distance fade out to nothing but
ringing in my ears. I blink away the sweat on my eyelashes to bring a little
clarity, but my perspective of things around me is off. The trees themselves
look like they're collapsing around me, the sun's light far brighter than it
should be.
Shit... I'm going to pass out.
…
It can't end like this...
---
My senses snap back when I feel something at my lower back. Snapping my head
over, Aoyagi-san is spotted with a hand there.
“Kaburagi, if you can't do this, then drop out now.” I bite down on my lower
lip and look away with a ragged breath. If it wasn't for him, I'd be on the
ground right now. I don't have time to contemplate the situation right now. My
head shakes slowly before placing strength back into my legs. There's no time
to be dwelling on this... the gears are turning.
“I'm willing to get hurt for the sake of racing you, Aoyagi-san!” I blurt
without a second thought, “Let's ride our hearts out!” The burning desire to
beat the person I admire so strongly fuels every kick and turn, sights locked
on the path ahead of me. Less than a kilometer to go. To my surprise, Aoyagi-
san comes into view.
“I don't care now, I'm pulling you till the final stretch!” he shouts, “Then we
can have our race!” My eyes widen out from the response. He... he can't be
serious! But I soon realize, he is. Taking the final bend of the lap, he stays
at the front; blocking any wind in the way. For... me. I can feel the same
passion of wanting to duke it out off him. He wants this race as much as I do!
Normally I'm the type to protest this, but... I won't. I can't! We both know
I'm in no shape to pull this off at one hundred percent! The gesture is taken
with open arms, my words held back. Those gears keep turning in my head...
clicking... screeching...
Then they connect.
The goal is right there.
Aoyagi-san breaks away to leave me back in the current of winds at the last
seven hundred meters. My sights don't break away, completely focused on the
sight ahead of me. Instinctively, my lower handlebars are griped as I raise
from my saddle. This is it. The rush I've been waiting for! My blood feels like
it's on fire! Gritting my teeth to brace myself, aching legs turn with my full
weight at the pedals.
600 meters...
Aoyagi-san is just in the corner of my eye. He's too close, push forward!
500 meters...
My heart is going to burst!
400 meters...
Doubashi believes in you! Everyone does!
300 meters...
“Fight, Issa!!!”
Thank you, Danchiku. I hear you...
200 meters...
My eyesight cuts off suddenly, body feeling limp. No, don't give up now, body!
100 meters...
There's blackness. My ears can't pick up any sounds. I can't tell... are my
eyes closed? My legs are still moving though. I'm still fighting! Push, push,
PUSH!!!
…
… everything hurts.
 
---
 
Silence...? Where's the cheering?
...
Plain smelling...? No asphalt or sweat?
...
I'm... I'm laying down. I have to get up!!
 
Shooting upwards, I find myself in a white room. A surge of pain in my back and
shoulder causes me to flop back to the mattress I'm on with a yelp. You're
kidding me...
“Don't try to move, Kaburagi!” a voice at my left says. Turning my head, the
third-years are sitting nearby with troubled looks. “You took a pretty nasty
fall...” Teshima-san smiles softly and Aoyagi-san gives a short nod. “It's
alright now.” I stare back up to the stark white ceiling in complete awe. My
body... gave up at the last moment.
“Dammit! DAMMIT!” My eyes fill with tears instantly and stream down my face.
Why? Why did it turn out this way!? I thought I was prepared... I gave it my
all, and yet I still failed!
“Whatcha' crying about, Orange?” I again turn my head to see Doubashi roll up
in the wheelchair with one arm, left unable to move thanks to the injured
shoulder. The third-years move away from my sights – both sporting smiles – to
let him be close at my side. Why are they smiling? There's... something in his
lap. I can't make it out just yet, my vision is too blurred over. Hell, most
the features on my friend's faces are distorted.
“... I did my best, yet I-I...” I pause to take in a deep breath. “... I lost.
If it wasn't for this sickness, I could have beat-”
“Tch. You idiot,” he says to cut me off. From his lap, he lifts the object and
places it onto my chest. That golden sheen and ribbon... It's... a trophy?
Shakily, I lift it up the get a better look. Inscribed on the plaque reads:
“1st Place – Chiba Sprinter's Dash – Issa Kaburagi”
“You won, Issa. You passed out soon after crossing the line, so you weren't
able to see your victory. That and the award ceremony. I accepted it on your
behalf though,” Doubashi continues. Really...?
“You impressed us all, Issa,” follows Danchiku's voice in the background.
They're all here... to celebrate my victory. The once tears of misery and
defeat take the sudden turn of joy when gripping the treasured item to my
chest. Looking back over to Doubashi, his face becomes more clear. He's
wearing... a piggy nose? I bet that nurse went out and got that for him. You
have to be kidding me...
I won.
***** Oh boy, this really is the end...! *****
Chapter Notes
     (( Aoyagi's PoV! Thank you to all that have read this to the end!
     Second part here: http://archiveofourown.org/works/5303108/chapters/
     12242933 ))
The sun begins to set to finalize the third day...
The warmth of the summer pools inside the small dorm room, air thick and heavy
on the lungs. This is merely a minor annoyance seeing as there's far more
important things at hand. Soon after visiting Kaburagi, myself and Junta
stormed off to our room to cool down. Was difficult to convince him that he won
on his own terms. Truthfully, I fought as hard as possible and was still unable
win. A dampener on my spirits, but that was soon pushed aside when Junta
approached me shortly after the ceremony. To think, he's been thinking the same
about us. Together. The team of two has only become stronger. The thought of
relaxing our tired legs faded when Junta wrapped his hands at my hips. Without
a single word, our lips met.
There was a recoil at first when he claimed me, but I soon sank into his arms
with passionate acceptance. The heat of our breaths accompanied the twirling of
tongues, heads twisting and turning to push deeper. Each kiss grew with
intensity as time went by, heart racing in my ears. Saliva trails between our
moist lips when it's broken for air, Junta's eyes narrowed to slits.
“Hajime...” With an amused smirk, he unwraps himself to relocate to the mess
that is our beds – they still next to each other from the previous night. He
signals for me to follow by curling his index finger towards me with a teasing
wink. Like I'm going to deny that face. After finding my way over, he again
takes me by the hips to pull me atop him. Our lips are reunited in an instant.
A hand reaches up to hold back my long strands of hair to not interfere when
Junta pushes against me. I bump back so his head is pinned to the sheets, fiery
kisses becoming a fight for dominance.
Being the one one above, it's simple enough. There's no fight back though, his
body limp and welcoming my advances. Tongue explores every inch of his maw,
taking in the sweet taste of tea still present. His fingers intertwine my hair
as he mewls softly through the sounds of sucking and slurping, warmth breaths
dancing on my cheeks. I pull back and tap our foreheads together.
“Junta...” Our blue glazes lock.
“I want you to take me tonight, Hajime....” A noise of surprise escapes my
throat. “Weren't expecting that, were you?” Of course there's no need to argue
over something that's been in the back of mind for months. The idea of Junta
under me... Our past interactions such as this are normally the opposite. I
don't protest, obviously. Always thought Junta was never the type to be
dominated, but today...
With a nibble at my lower lip, I nod shyly and shift my weight. Lowering, the
zipper of the jersey is undone to expose his full upper half. Eyes travel down
the tight, muscular body, hands joining to explore. Beads of sweat roll down
those firm curves, skin hot to the touch. Muscles involuntarily flex and relax
when traveling to more tickles areas, earning sharp inhales from my partner.
The eye candy only increased when the skin tight shorts are shed off as well,
along with the loose jersey. Junta's fully naked form now lays before me. I
can't but soak in the beautiful sight. The way the sunlight shines on his
sweaty skin, hair tossed and spread against the sheets, lips parted to pant for
air... it's hard not to stare. Not bothering stripping myself just yet, my
focus sets between those athletic thighs. My head dips between them to take his
tool into my mouth, it far from fully erect. Nostrils flare to take in a deep
breath, his scent filling my lungs.
“Hmmm, Hajime~.” he purrs seductively while sitting up and propping himself up
by an elbow. An arm extends to again hold back my hair with sights fixed down
at me. The feeling of the skin pulsing and growing in my throat just increases
my sexual desire, my frustration protesting my shorts. I ignore the painful
desire to just strip them off and get right down to business to instead please
my partner further.
I savor the taste of precum when rolling my tongue around the slit, the
reaction more than positive. Junta grips against my scalp with a lustful groan
as hips instinctively rock so it dances on my lips. Satisfied with the
slickness, I take the whole item into my throat in one take. I swallow hard so
my muscles tighten around it, Junta nearly screaming out from the sensation. To
add to this, a hand of mine finds its way to his inner thigh to rake my nails
over the tight flesh. His head snaps back release the pent up noises, voice
cracking and fluctuating. My tongue it pressed to the underside when pulling
back – slowly, to ride out the pleasure. Cheeks hallow inward during the long,
hard pull – lips popping once it exits. Junta's chest is already rising and
falling at a rapid pace, tanned skin sheen with sweat. Maybe I went a little
too far.
“Want me to come so soon...?” he murmurs out in a shaky breath.
“I like pleasing you..” I respond simplistically. I really do... you make the
most delicious noises, Junta.
“And you do a great job at it, but...” There's a smile plastered on his rosy
face when his body again lays flat against the bed. An arm extends out to reach
his belongings and fiddle through a pouch at the side. During this time, I do
the favor of stripping off my moist jersey and tossing it aside. I'm about to
discard the shorts as well until a small bottle is tossed my direction.
“There's other places you can please me~.” I look to it, then to him with a
perked brow. You really brought along lubrication, Junta? “Figured we would be
able to have some fun eventually... I didn't bring it to use on you though.”
The look of pure, unashamed lust washes over his face when he shifts against
the sheets – legs parting to grant more access. You're going to drive me crazy,
Junta! After swallowing the lump in my throat, I take the bottle and dispense a
fair amount onto two fingers.
“Sure you're ready for this, Junta...?” I ask when gently nudging the slick
digits to the entrance. His thighs rise off the ground to arch his hips onto
them, urging to intrude.
“Couldn't be more ready...” Nodding to affirm, I first spread the fluids around
the ring of muscle. Once content with the amount, my middle finger easily finds
it's way inside. Junta's muscles flinch from the rush, but soon slacken when it
begins to move. Slowly at first, from knuckle to tip. My eyes dart from
watching the lewd act to the expressions of my company, the corners of his lips
upturned to a smile. Figuring there's been a large of amount of teasing as is,
the second joins to loosen it further. This brings a keen inhale from him with
back arched, fingers curled into the cloth below.
My free hand finds its way over my groin to palm over the troublesome erection.
It's been held back for far to long, pre staining the thinner areas of the
shorts. Propping myself up on my knees for a moment, a hooked thumb tugs them
down with one smooth motion. The feeling of fresh air on the swollen skin sends
a shiver straight down my spine, causing goosebumps to rise on my arms.
After kicking them off to add to the pile of clothing, my full attention
returns to Junta. He's now cupping a hand over his mouth to stifle his noises
while pumping the digits inside at a more rapid pace. The sight of him
squirming from my touch... I don't want to sound lewd, but my cock is aching
for him. Not like it's wrong to think such dirty thoughts when already in the
mists of a sexual act, but to say that aloud in my mind... it seems so dirty.
“Hajime... please. I need your cock inside me~,” Junta purrs out seductively
through his fingers. My only response is a groan of delight with an aroused
look over my face. Glad I'm not the only one diving into the gutter of erotic
thoughts. After slipping the fingers out, a hand grips each of Junta's ankles
and raises his legs further so his back curves. Inching my way down the length,
my hands support his weight by the underside of his knees so my manhood can be
pressed to the entrance. Missionary position... simple, but a good one to start
off with for his first time like this. Another lump develops in my throat when
the warmth licks through my veins.
“Junta...” The muscles flexes and pulls my tool inside, the slippy liquid
assisting the invasion. His eyes slam shut when it reaches the hilt with
fingers tighter over his lips. There's sure to be the sensation of pain, but I
have to reassure him it will soon fade. “... does it hurt too much?” The last
thing I want to do is bring him discomfort.
“N-no... it just... feels really strange...” he musters to say through heavy
breaths. Knowing the same exact feeling, I rock my hips leisurely. Have to
start off slow, then build from that. Pulling back to the head, I thrust only a
few inches back inside and out. My body screams out to just plunge inside with
full force, but I'd rather take this at a gradual pace than hurt my partner.
Once uneasy and choking moans from Junta become ones of pure ecstasy, hand
removed to let those noises echo around us. Head snaps to cry out when pressing
further inside, that tender neck exposed. I... I can't help myself.
Bending down with hands placed at his sides, my mouth latches to the flesh.
Junta's body quakes at the mixture of pleasures rocking through him, in an
accepting way though. His sturdy legs wrap around my waist to coax the thought
of going deeper with every movement. Which I, of course, comply.
Shifting most my weight to my knees and descending my upper half, my hips
thrust harder than before. Mixing this with my tongue and teeth at the neck,
Junta's noises are ceaseless. His compassionate voice rings in my ears, they
just driving my movements. Moan for me, Junta... you feel so amazing. So tight
and warm... My brain is shutting off, the only thing present is the vulgar
thoughts of the man before me.
“I... I'm going to come...” his voice sings so fluently. My lips then take
action to crash onto his own, furthering the sensual embrace. His arms wrap
around my upper back to hold me as close as possible, his length pressed to my
stomach. Feeling it throb against me... oh gods.
Please come for me, Junta.
Our tongues again wrestle in a sloppy disarray while both our voices express
our desire. Fluid movements become uneven as my climax nears, the built tension
in my lower stomach about to be released. Junta abruptly turns is head to the
side to let off one last, cry when his peak is reached. Puddles of warmth are
felt at my abdomen while his hips twitch and squirm under my form. The tight
muscle around me becomes even more close-fitting and clamp me inside, sending
wave after wave of pleasure down the length. That welling pressure inside...
the tingling feeling down to every toe. That satisfying, aching sensation in my
groin grows.
“Junta!”
Without being able to react with movement, it hits. My entire body twitches
when my seed spills into my partner, breaths matching my actions. Uneasy and
broken. I keep my hips firmly against his thighs until the full pleasure is
played out, every last drop filling him. Despite the twinge in my lower back, I
sit up to watch the act of pulling out after sitting up. A trail of of liquid
leaks from the abused entrance and soaks into the sheets. Feel sorry for the
staff that has to clean these...
A smile finds its way on my lips when my eyes wonder back to Junta, stomach
coated with his seed. My own body is covered in a mixture of sweat and sexual
fluids, but I couldn't care less. From the exhaustion from the race atop
this... I need rest. Taking second place wasn't exactly easy.
“That was... better than I expected...” Junta murmurs while running a hand
through his tangled hair, “Damn. I should have let your do this earlier. My
body feels like jelly!” A hand cups around his backside to spread the muscles
apart, letting more fluids escape the opening. It's an interesting sight, I see
why he does it when I'm on the receiving end. “I'm still shaking~!” He lets out
a weak chuckle while his eyes fluttered closed, the burnout just as heavy.
What a way to end off this trip...
---
It ended just as perfectly as all of us wanted actually. To think, me and Junta
started dating! Although, the first few days of our newly found attachment was
spent caring for Kaburagi and Doubashi at the hotel room. Danchiku helped as
well when we couldn't, which was a thoughtful act. Kaburagi suffered with a few
bruised ribs and dislocated shoulder, but it soon healed up in time to care for
the crippled man he calls his significant other. Even the fever he had vanished
so suddenly. That first-year always surprises me. Then came the far more
important part... preparing for College.
My parents showed nothing but joy when I left with items packed under my arms
and over shoulders. With the distance that's between us and the location, I
could visit at almost any time just by biking. Think getting a driver's license
was a complete waste of time then. To add, don't have a car either. Regardless,
this brought comfort knowing I won't be far from the people I love. Including
my past teammates.
To make matters more fitting, me and Junta wound up becoming roommates. Seeing
as we're both from the previous high-school and year, the dean found it
suitable to pair us. We openly admitted our affections for one another to not
cause future conflict, which she responded with open arms. This is a College of
the arts – music, singing, painting, writing – all forms of expressing
yourself. She found this ideal for the establishment she runs. It's really like
we're part of some drama on TV... it's far too perfect.
I can see many struggles ahead of us, either it coming from school work or the
new cycling club we joined, but I know we'll support one another.
A team of two...
Oh boy... some fun times are in store.
Please drop_by_the_archive_and_comment to let the author know if you enjoyed
their work!