So.
Eric Andre is in that new Lion King remake.
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So.
Eric Andre is in that new Lion King remake.
You know the WORST part of Keith almost sacrificing himself?
Nobody knew.
No one on Team Voltron except for Matt & the rest of the rebel fighters knew he was about to do such a thing. Keith hadn’t even reunited with the team again since he left them in episode one. There was also no guarantee flying his ship into the particle barrier would’ve done anything. It could’ve been too hard to penetrate even with his death.
He would’ve died alone, estranged from his new family after spending months with the Blade, possibly in vain, and nobody from the team would’ve known about it until afterward.
ENHANCE
So uh... I don’t know if you guys noticed this but...
The cow in Voltron season 2? Kaltenecker?
It’s named after the Line Producer
Limerence (Oumasai Fic) Chapter 3 posted!
Eeeeeeeyyy y’all! Idk why I did so many words again, but I did... pray for my soul midterms are killing me. Quarter system is an unforgiving mistress -_-
Chapter 3: Love Blooms
Word Count: 7,215
Warnings: None this time! Pure fluff! ^u^
Fanart that inspired the chapter: Literally the entire second half of the chapter is based on this fanart by @mintysugas because it literally killed me when I saw it and I’ve dedicated my soul to it. Please reblog from them!! http://mintysugas.tumblr.com/post/156138962448/this-ship-wont-let-me-fucking-rest-i-have-a-class
AO3 Link
Chapter 1 2 4
Fic under the cut! ୨( ゚ヮ ゚)୧
"Amami-chan, I have a problem." "Hmm?" It was currently the weekend–school had ended and it was a day to relax. Except Ouma wasn't relaxing. Not really. He had much more pressing matters on his mind. "I said, Amami-chan, I have a problem." "I heard you the first time. So what's this problem of yours? You hardly ask me for help with anything." The two were currently sitting in beanbags on the floor, playing videogames together. Ouma knew Amami was going to pick rainbow road like an asshole, but he was certain he and Princess Peach could handle it. Neither would stand to suffer defeat today. Amami was just going to have to take his Shy Guy and deal with it. Ouma pressed on, "So you know Saihara-chan?" "Saihara-kun? I'm guessing you mean the kid who transferred in our class a week ago," Amami hummed as he, predictably, selected rainbow road and started the race. Jerk, Ouma thought as Amami continued. "Why do you ask?" Ouma scowled as he revved up the kart's engine. "It has to do with him," he answered vaguely. Amami, though still focused on the race that had started, shot his eyebrows up in surprise. "Has Saihara-kun been giving you trouble? He didn't seem like the type to pick on somebody, but-" "No, no, no, Amami-chan," Ouma corrected, leaning whichaway and that along with the turning of his kart. It was a juvenile habit, but a hard one to break. "Not that kind of problem. And you know how capable I am in dealing with morons who want to fight me." Princess Peach tossed a green tortoise shell in Shy Guy's general direction. It missed. Amami laughed lightly, "Of course I do. I just need to make sure no one is hurting you." "Oh, my dear Ammi-chan!" Ouma gasped, launching into dramatics. "Willing to fight someone for the sake of my honor! What chivalry!" "It's not like that and you know it," Amami cut him off nonchalantly. Of course Ouma knew it. They both did. Ouma and Amami had been childhood friends since grade school. The years of spending time together, working through school assignments as partners, and hanging out on weekends had forged a bond between them. It was strong and comforting, a rock that both of them could rely on in times of need. They were practically family at that point. Still, Ouma always loved a good joke. "So?" Amami prompted, unperturbed by his lowered ranking as Princess Peach whizzed by him. "What's the problem with Saihara-kun?" Ouma hummed as he debated. Amami may be family, and Amami's the first person Ouma would trust to talk about this. That said, he wasn't sure about this 'problem' himself. Is it a problem? he thought. He knew he could tell Amami anything but... "C'mon, you can tell me," Amami gently reminded him. "I won't judge." Ouma smiled in relief. If there was one thing he could pinpoint about Amami that he always appreciated, it was his ability to listen. It's probably why they had grown so close in the first place. Ouma ventured, "Well, it's not Saihara-chan that's the problem." He smashed the buttons harder as the final lap began. He knew Amami's tactics. He would relax for the first two rounds, but as soon as it was crunch time Amami would soar ahead. How was still a mystery. Doesn't matter, Ouma thought, Whatever strategy he had cooked this time, it won't beat my progress! He tentatively continued, "It's more like I have a problem this time." "Wow, you're admitting you have a problem?" Amami laughed. "It must be serious." "Don't joke around Amami-chan, or I won't tell you." "Right, right, continue," Amami conceded. Ouma felt tiny dregs of horror as Amami secured a blue tortoise shell. I didn't know he would get one so soon! Ouma frantically tried to lessen his speed, but it was in vain. Shy Guy soon whizzed by a burnt-up Princess Peach and cheered on in victory as he passed the finish line. Ouma scowled. He had been so close that time too. Damn blue shells. "Victory~," Amami sung. Ouma hated how proudly he wore that smug look of his. His friend had absolutely no qualms about rubbing his win in at all. "You only won because it was rainbow road. You're practically a god on that thing." "Yep, yep, didn't have anything to do with the fact that you rushed ahead and underestimated how slow NPCs were." Amami bore a shit-eating grin on his face. He was enjoying this far too much for Ouma's liking. Ouma's lip twitched downward. "If only Daisy were faster I could've used her to take the hit for me!" He muttered to himself. He tossed the remote aside and crossed his arms in frustration. It's a tried and true method, how could it have failed me now?! Anami chuckled in mirth. "Well, wasn't my fault somebody was distracted." His eyes turned serious as his smile faded. "So? You want to tell me what this problem is?" Ouma sunk lower in the bean bag, avoiding eye contact. He had been meaning to tell Amami. It wasn't like he wanted to keep it from him. That said, it was much harder to say out loud. He tried anyway. "I think I have an... interest. In Saihara-chan." "You mean a crush?" Ouma laughed, denying to himself that the statement gave him more nerves than he wanted it to. "Don't be silly! You know I don't get crushes that easily." Amami stared, unblinking. "Ouma, yes you do. You have infatuations with other people all the time." "Wh-I do not!" Amami shrugged confidently. "Yeah, right. Don't tell me you didn't have that brief interest in Kiibo when he transferred in middle school." Ouma turned his head and pouted further. "I did not! And I don't have those kind of feelings for Kiibo. He's just fun to tease!" Amami sighed, "Sure, sure." Ouma groaned in frustration. Whatever. "I'm telling you, this is different!" "Well then," Amami leaned closer. "Tell me about it." Ouma looked away from Amami to think about it. Then he giggled. "He's just so intriguing!"
—
"Intriguing?" "Yeah! Did you know the other day he could tell I was annoying Chabashira-chan on purpose?" Ouma's eyes began to gleam. "He even called me out on it!" Amami considered this. Many of their classmates had noted Ouma's behaviour and thought it annoying. But Saihara... called him out on it? Amami pondered. That was different. Most of them just wrote Ouma off as a 'troublesome guy' and stayed away from him. Ouma leaned toward Amami as he began to rant, "He wasn't even phased when I was about to use the waterworks! That works on everyone!" No, it's more like they concede because you're such a loud crier and it's a pain, Amami thought, but kept his mouth shut. "You found that out when you went to watch over him?" "Yuup!" Ouma grinned, all teeth. "By the way Amami-chan, have you noticed how handsome Saihara-chan is?" "And I guess you have?" Amami hummed. Ouma nodded, his eyes sparkling. "His hair looks so smooth and he has such long eyelashes! I don't think I've seen anyone with such pretty eyelashes!" Amami chuckled. "Really? Pretty sure I'm the guy with the longest eyelashes in the class." Ouma shook his head. "You're not cute like he is, Amami-chan." "You wound me, Ouma-kun." "It's just the truth!" Ouma grinned cheekily. They shared a laugh. Teases were commonplace between them and their friendship wouldn't be the same without them. After their laughter Amami's grin turned sly. "So? What are you going to do about it? Gonna try to romance your crush?" "Not a crush!" he reminded. "Right, and I'm het." "Get to the point Amami-chan." "Right, right," he conceded. Amami reveled in this new information. My best friend has a crush? Even if he won't admit it, this gives me so many ideas. His mind was overflowing with possibilities. This will be so much fun. Amami elaborated, "So, what are you going to do about Saihara-kun? Try to get closer to him?" "You bet I am!" Ouma smiled brilliantly. "I'm going to find out all of his secrets! It'll be a fun game to play!" "His secrets, huh? And how are you gonna do that?" Amami's smile turned devilish. "Bring him flowers? Make him chocolates? Some love letters might be a good idea." "A-ma-mi-chan," Ouma's smile was tight despite his sing-song voice. "I wouldn't joke around if I were you right now." "Or what? You'll beat me in Mario Kart?" "Oh yeah!" Ouma exclaimed, face washed completely of the menacing smile he wore before. He grabbed the controlled and faced the screen with determination. "I still have to take revenge for that last round!" Amami chuckled, picking up his controller. "In your dreams, Panta boy." "Seaweed-head." The two continued to play until the sun set and sky dimmed. Normally playing would be relaxing, but Amami couldn't help but think about the conversation they'd had earlier. The more Amami thought about Ouma's new interest, the more something worried him. He'd known Ouma since grade school. He'd seen people fall quickly in and out of Ouma's favor and visa-versa. Ouma was never interested in someone for long. People were never tolerant enough of his prying attitude to stay that long either. It's been a while since Ouma had a friend other than myself, Amami realized. The worry wouldn't go away. I have to talk to him about this. Even if this interest goes nowhere I... have to do something to preserve their relationship, at least, he thought to himself. He couldn't let it be any longer. Amami paused the game. "Ouma-kun, a word?" "Hmm?" Ouma turned to him with curious eyes. "Why so serious Amami-chan?" Amami chose his words carefully. He had to get this message across. He feared the consequences otherwise. He really didn't want this to fall through for his friend. "Ouma-kun, I'm... worried about you." "Worried?" Amami nodded. "It's... about your interest regarding Saihara-kun." Ouma's expression darkened, joy lost, with sadness and dejection taking its place. Amami pressed on, "Whenever you have an interest in something, you dive headfirst into it. You don't pay attention to what's happening around you because of it." Ouma stared without comment, so Amami continued. "You tend to push people more than they're comfortable with. I know you love jokes and games but a lot of people don't, especially when it comes to their personal lives. You've pushed a lot of people away like that." Amami thought of the brief encounter he'd had with Saihara in the school gym. "From what I've seen of Saihara-kun, he seems like the kind of person to value boundaries. I don't think he'd ever push someone to do something they don't want to do. He's very polite you know," he let out a humorless chuckle in the silence. "Ouma-kun... Saihara-kun may not be ready to give you all the answers to his 'secrets.' He may not even be willing to divulge them at all." Ouma said nothing, but his stillness told Amami he was thinking over his words carefully. "I know you want to jump right in and push Saihara-kun until he gives but... that won't be good for either of you." Amami looked into Ouma's eyes. "You understand that, don't you? I don't want you to make another enemy out of someone who could be your friend." Ouma looked down. He wasn't smiling. Seeing him like this hurt, so he tried to remedy the pain. "Look, I... I know you at least want to be friends with Saihara-kun. And he may want that too. But please... go slow? I'm not saying to not try at all but just... be respectful, you know? Let him divulge when he wants to and try to respect his space. I think you'll grow much closer that way." Ouma's eyes lifted back up to his, curious and hopeful. Amami smiled reassuringly. "Besides, wouldn't it be much more rewarding to have Saihara open up on his own?" Ouma's eyes brightened as he smiled back. "You're right, Amami-chan! It'd be much more interesting to have Saihara-chan come to me!" Amami finally grinned fully, thankful that he had gotten his point across. Hopefully that way he'd help things along for both of them. "All right, you've convinced me. I'll go slow with Saihara-chan, just for you." Ouma winked. "Now c'mon," he said while turning back to the screen. "I think we can get a few more rounds in before we pass out!" "This game again?" Amami sighed. He was still too happy to care much though. "Alright, but just a few more rounds." Ouma grinned as the race began to start. A few minutes passed before he spoke up again. "...It's not a crush, you know." "Don't worry, I won't tell~" "Amami-chan!"
—
Saihara's return to school the following week had flooded him with concerned classmates. Saihara was extremely touched that all of his friends (friends? Could he call them that now?) had gone up to him to make sure he was okay after hitting his head in gym class. Chabashira had apologized over and over, face red and looking like she was about to cry. He assured her no damage was done and he didn't even feel the bruise anymore. She finally conceded when he agreed to let her do him a favor in the near future. Once he swore his word on it, she had smiled and let the matter go. Classes passed by and it was currently his first Home Economics class. Last week he had had to go over some enrollment papers with the headmaster's assistant, so he had been excused from it. He wasn't that worried, though. This week they were learning how to make sugar frosted cookies. The skills to be learned involved using a cake mixer as well as making their own frosting. Seems simple enough, Saihara thought. He was glad it was an easier recipe this time around, that way he could focus more on helping his partner. "So, where do we start?" Harukawa asked as she looked at the baking tray. They both stood at their station for two, instructions and supplies placed neatly on the surface in front of them. In anyone else's eyes it would seem like Harukawa was unaffected by the task at hand, but Saihara could sense she was a little daunted by the materials. Saihara offered her a reassuring smile. "I think we need to start on the cookies first. That way when they're in the oven we can work on the frosting." Harukawa nodded, determinedly picking up the instructions and reading with a close eye. Since they were sugar cookies, the teacher had already made the dough and chilled it for two hours prior in the room's refrigerator. They each had a bowl of the appropriate amount of dough on the counter, and it was their assignment to make cookies out of it. Saihara started. "The oven usually takes a while to heat up, so I usually do that as a first step. What temperature does the recipe call for?" Harukawa glanced at the sheet. "...375°F." Saihara nodded, letting her input the baking temperature. "Next, you want to prepare the baking sheet. That way when your dough is ready you already have a place to put the cookies you make." As Saihara demonstrated how to grease the baking pan, Harukawa looked at him intently, hanging onto every word he said. Saihara would've flushed by the intensity of her gaze had he not known better. He looked away anyway. "Let's start on the dough, yeah?" He said nervously. Harukawa continued to pay close attention when Saihara showed her how to use the rolling pin to flatten the dough. There was flour everywhere due to how forceful her motions were, but Saihara didn't mind. She was doing it correctly, albeit roughly, and she was still learning. When the dough was flat enough, Saihara let Harukawa choose her cookie-cutter first. She chose a star-shaped design, while Saihara had stuck with a basic circle. He enjoyed smooth edges. They carefully lifted the cookie cutouts onto the baking tray, Harukawa struggling when a few fell apart on her. Saihara reassured her by showing her that the dough could be pressed back together if separated. She seemed to relax at that. When they put their trays in the oven and set the timer, Saihara gave a small smile. "Shall we start on the frosting now?"
—
"Ouma-kun, you're getting distracted." "I'm simply observing, Amami-chan." "You need to be observing your own work." Ouma pouted as he focused back on their station. He and Amami were partners because, predictably, most people in the class didn't want him joking around when their grade was on the line. Amami was the only one close enough to Ouma to knock some sense into him and get the project done. Except for today, apparently, since Ouma seemed far more content to be staring at another station instead of doing his own work. Amami didn't have to guess which one it was. "So?" He prompted, "What were you looking at?" Ouma let out a breathy giggle. "It seems like our dear Saihara-chan is teaching Harukawa-chan how to cook." "Maybe while he's at it he can teach you how to cook too." "Wh-hey!" Amami smirked when Ouma picked up his bowl and started to mix his frosting. Ouma never let an insult go by for too long. At least now, maybe he would focus... "Hey, do you think Saihara-chan knows how to make other foods?" ...Or so he thought. "How would I know? Probably." Amami shrugged. He turned the cake beater on low as he stirred and fluffed the frosting mix. Ouma started to work on his frosting too, but Amami could tell with a glance his mind was elsewhere. His eyes had a faraway look in them, but his smile betrayed his excitement for something. Amami and Ouma continued to work on their frosting until the oven beeped and the cookies were ready. When they set them out of a cooling rack, the duo began to dye their individual frosting. Amami died his a bright green with yellow, while Ouma preoccupied himself with making the best shade of purple out of the assorted reds and blues. Amami swore Ouma would probably die a world without purple. Ouma had done a rushed job on his decorations (not caring for presentation too much as he found it "unexciting" and "tedious"), and while Amami was distracted working on his, cheerfully announced, "I'm going to go try Saihara-chan's cookies!" Amami took two seconds, two seconds too long, to process the statement. "Ouma-kun!" he called back, only to see his friend cheerfully prancing over all the way across the room. Amami sighed. Well, whatever. I guess he wants to hang out with him whenever possible. ... This gives me an idea.
—
Saihara stifled a laugh, "Really?" "Yes," Harukawa huffed. "When we were told to pickle our own cucumbers, I thought I could handle it since it's pickles, they can't get any more bitter." She pouted slightly as she spread more frosting on the stars. Saihara enjoyed hearing about her experiences, even if they were about pickles that had enough salt content to rival salt water. "Unfortunately, I was mistaken." He and Harukawa had finished waiting for the cookies to cool and were beginning to decorate. Harukawa tried to use a knife to spread the yellow frosting–with sloppy results–when Saihara had told her about using a bag. He and she were now quietly conversing while they squeezed frosting carefully out of a ziplock with a punctured hole. "I swear you're a genius with this stuff," she had told him. Saihara quietly hummed as he finished decorating his last cookie. He had covered the tops of the cookies with pink frosting, circling the edges with red loops and finishing it off with a dollop of deep red frosting. Saihara leaned back to inspect his work, laughing slightly as he did so. "They kind of look like they're themed for Valentine's Day." "Are you gonna confess to someone with them?" Saihara gasped softly as he turned his head to see the source of the voice. Ouma was walking (skipping?) right toward them. "O-Ouma-kun, I didn't see you." Saihara told him as he approached. "Bet'cha didn't!" Ouma grinned. "I pride myself on being a ninja." "...Do you?" "No." Ouma smiled wider. Saihara let it go. "By the way, what are you doing over here Ouma-kun? Isn't your station over there?" "Well, I'm done with mine so I don't need to be by it anymore," Ouma said absentmindedly, eyes roaming over the cookies. He then looked up into Saihara's eyes excitedly. "Hey, do you know there's a tradition to eat the newbie's home ec. food every time someone transfers?" Saihara doubted that, already smelling a lie. "What would be the point of that?" "To rank you among the class to see who's the best cook of course!" "I feel like you're lying to me, Ouma-kun..." "I've never heard of such a ritual," Harukawa added, eyes still intent on her decorating. "Thank goodness! You'd be ranked on the bottom for sure," Ouma taunted. Harukawa didn't rise to the bait, but the twitch in her eyebrow gave away her displeasure. She ignored him, however, and the subject was dropped. Ouma turned back to Saihara and tilted his head. "So, can I?" "Eh?" "Try your cookies, silly!" Ouma laughed. "Oh, is that what you wanted?" Saihara glanced at his batch. Truthfully, they only needed to have five cookies to present to the teacher and he'd made more. It wasn't like he had much use for the rest anyway. "Well... I guess I don't seem the harm in it." "Yaaaay! You're the best, Saihara-chan!" Ouma quickly took one of Saihara's pink-and-red cookies and took a bite. To be honest, Saihara hadn't expected him to ask politely to eat some of his cookies. He thought Ouma was the type of person to not wait for answers and do what he wanted. Have I misjudged him? Saihara thought briefly. His thoughts were quickly sidetracked as Ouma sunk his teeth into the cookie, eyes suddenly turning wide and bright. Saihara had a brief flash of horror. Oh no, what if they didn't turn out?! "These are amazing, Saihara-chan!" Ouma exclaimed, mouth still full of cookie crumbs. Once he had swallowed Ouma continued to give out praise. "These are the best cookies I've ever tasted! Did you add magic to them?" Ouma's eyes were practically sparkling and Saihara couldn't help but feel his cheeks flush. "N-no, I just... followed the recipe..." Ouma's smile broadened and almost seemed to dazzle everything around him. Saihara caught himself staring and looked away with a blush. "Hey, do you want some of my cookies?" Ouma asked enthusiastically. Saihara shook his head, "Oh, you don't have to return the favor, Ouma-kun, I don't mind-" "But I want to!" Ouma exclaimed. "Wait right here I'll be back!" Saihara watched as Ouma dashed back to his counter. His impression of Ouma had drastically changed just in this brief interaction. When he first met Ouma he thought he would only make Saihara's life more difficult, with how he stole Kiibo's wrench and his hat just for a game. Yet here he was, exchanging cookies with him. I guess he really doesn't mean any harm after all, Saihara conceded. It felt relieving to believe it. He refocused from his musings when he saw Ouma prancing over once again. Ouma held out his creation in a paper towel in front of Saihara, bright smile still present on his face. "Here you are!" Saihara blinked. There were not one, but three cookies in front of him. They were small squares, each almost smothered in bright purple frosting. The execution was haphazard at best, with stray lines of frosting leaking over the edges, but to Saihara it only made them more endearing. Sloppy cookies weren't bad cookies, after all. "Are you sure, Ouma-kun? You did only eat one cookie, not three..." "I insist, Saihara-chan!" He stated confidently while pushing his arms out more. "Your cookies are worth at least three of mine." Saihara smiled at him, taking them into his hands. "Thank you, Ouma-kun. I'll be sure to eat them." Ouma nodded and walked off in a rush. Saihara picked up one of the cookies and took a bite. The frosting was a bit milky, and the cookie was burnt, but they tasted lovely all the same. Saihara tried not to feel too happy that he was already giving and receiving gifts from his friends (the word felt right and warm in his heart). Later, when Saihara was making dinner, he ate another one of the cookies before leaving the last and some of his own for his father. He would deny how happy the gesture made him, smiling even when no one was around.
—
"Hey, Ouma-kun, go grab my gym bag for me." It was early before school the following day, and Amami was currently standing in front of Ouma's desk. Ouma looked a bit startled to be asked something so suddenly. Then he smiled with tight lips. "Hmm? Could you repeat that Amami-chan?" "I said," Amami continued, "Go get my gym bag for me please." Ouma started laughing, incredulous eyes crinkling at the edges, "Amami-chan, didn't you just come back from a swim? Why didn't you think to pick it up then?" "Oh, I don't know, I was distracted I guess. Anyway I think you should go get it for me." Ouma stared at Amami. Amami continued to smile amicably, as if he wasn't asking for a huge favor without so much as a 'good morning.' Amami could see the confusion on his face but stood by his request, hands folded across his chest and eyes unwavering. Ouma sighed aggravatedly. "So? What are you gonna give me in exchange?" "Oh, I think we can discuss payment later," Amami chuckled. "In any case, I really would hurry. Class will start soon." Ouma continued to stare at Amami, unflinching. Then recognition flew across his eyes, and he got down from sitting on top of his chest and started walking. "Is it that important, Amami-chan?" "Yep! Thanks, you're a life-saver. It's locker 137!" Amami called back to him. Ouma simply huffed and closed the classroom door behind him. With Ouma gone, Amami could finally snicker to himself in peace. Amami Rantarou, you're a damn genius.
—
This is stupid. Ouma thought to himself as he walked down the hall. This is so stupid! He continued to walk briskly to the school gym, his pace indicating his frustration. Honestly! Why can't stupid Amami-chan remember to get his bag when he's at the gym?! And why involve me in it?! I was thinking about something important too! Before Amami had walked up to him and so rudely interrupted his train of thought, Ouma had been thinking about the day before during home ec. when Saihara had smiled at him. He had hurriedly walked away with the intent not to let Saihara see his face (which was absolutely not bright red. Blushing with just a smile? What was this, middle school?). And he was absolutely not thinking about how Saihara had had a bit of flour on his cheek and was cursing his lack of nerve for pointing it out. (Should I have said something? Wiped it off for him? No, too forward, that would've been terrible, way to go Kokichi-). As Ouma neared the entrance he pulled out his phone. If Amami was gonna be a jerk about it then so would he. Ouma: Amami-chan if this is a waste of my time I will hang you up by your ears. Amami: lol can u even reach my ears Ouma sent him a flipped off emoji and put his phone away with a huff. He quickly drew it out again when he felt it vibrate. Amami: I promise it's worth it Amami: and if you don't believe me even after you get it I promise to buy you panta That perked Ouma's interest. Ouma: it better be a pack of panta, Amami-chan Amami: yeah sure Amami: but go to the locker room and you'll see Amami: i think after this you'll even be asking to pay me~ Yeah right, Ouma thought. He swiftly pocketed his phone as he opened the gym locker room door. He was greeted with the smell of chlorine and the sight of black lockers throughout. It wasn't like he never went in here. He had to, for gym class, but mostly he just stayed away. He had much better places to be than staying here. Ouma paced around the locker room, searching amongst the many, many, locker numbers. Why on earth does this school need 300 lockers?! He screamed in his thoughts. He made his way from the 300s down. He was barely past the 200s when he stopped. Somewhere in the locker room someone was... Singing? Ouma walked quietly around the lockers, trying his best to stay silent. The voice was familiar somehow... did he know it? When he heard it getting louder he hid behind the row of lockers and peeked around the corner. His eyes widened as his legs froze. Oh my god! There was Saihara, changed in nothing but a towel around his waist, humming. Singing! Ouma felt transfixed on the spot as he watched Saihara walk down the aisle, fresh from the showers. His hair was wet and slick, sticking to his forehead, his stomach not rigid with muscle but still smooth and fit. Has he been working out? Ouma's thoughts registered late. It took Ouma a second to register that Saihara was still singing and humming softly as he walked unknowingly toward Ouma. Ouma watched and listened, rapt with attention. All other thoughts were blank. Saihara sung softly, "... I continue to chase the stillness. / I still can't find the words." The song was peppy, but elegant from the what Ouma could tell. Not a slow song by any means, but one with passion and intent. A song with feeling. He really is a good singer, Ouma thought. Saihara hummed some verses, a relaxed expression on his face. Ouma felt in awe of it. He had never seen such a look from Saihara before. All the stress and anxiety Saihara hid under forced smiles and wide eyes bore no trace on his face at all. His posture was languid and calm as he walked. He didn't look nervous at all. He looked-happy. "I wonder, is this the end?" Saihara hummed again, looking around for his locker, coming closer to Ouma's location. "Somehow, I want to do something." Ouma continued to watch as Saihara moved to his locker-145- and slid open the latch. Ouma quickly gained his senses and turned away, back against the row of lockers. Saihara couldn't see him here, and he knew he'd just be intruding if he continued to look. I... I can't just look at him while he's.... he's... Ouma felt the burn on his cheeks before the realization dawned on him. God! I'm such a creeper! He bemoaned. I didn't mean to...! What am I even...? Ouma paled in realization. Amami-chan's bag. He had to get it. And it was oh-so-conveniently in a locker close to Saihara's. Ouma felt dread sink in his veins. Oh god. Can I do this? Why am I freaking out? This so isn't like me! Ouma took in a deep breath. He could do this. This was no big deal. It was time to act casually. "Hellooooo? Anyone there?" Ouma announced as he made himself look like he'd been walking around the corner. No going back now. He locked eyes with Saihara (who was blessedly still decent in a towel) and grinned widely. "Saihara-chan! What a surprise!" Saihara simply stared at Ouma for a moment. Then he squeaked, a blush darkening on his face as he stepped backwards, back colliding with the lockers. Ouma allowed himself a snicker at the sight (after all it was very endearing) and slowly stepped toward him. "Hey, you don't need to be scared, Saihara-chan, I won't do anything to you." "I wasn't worried about that..." Saihara regained enough of his senses to say. "Aww, Saihara-chan trusts me? I'm so touched!" Ouma exclaimed in an awestruck tone. "No, I mean..." Saihara glanced to the side and sighed, apparently figuring that his point wouldn't get across. "What are you doing here Ouma-kun?" "Eeeh? Am I not allowed to enter the school gym anymore?" Ouma glanced to the side, pretending to be hurt. "N-no, I just...," Saihara raked his hands through his hair. Ouma took pity on him. "Oh, don't worry, I was just here to pick up Amami-chan's bag!" "Amami-kun's?" "Yep! He's so forgetful sometimes, the klutz," Ouma teased. "He didn't pick it up with him after working out this morning! Really, how thick can you get?" Even if Amami wasn't in the room to hear it, Ouma was most definitely going to take a jab at him. It was the least Amami deserved after putting him in this uncomfortable situation. Saihara looked like he had more to say, but after a brief silence seemed to reconsider, moving onto other topics. "Do you know which locker is his?" "Sure do!" Ouma beamed. "It's 137... I think it's around here, right Saihara-chan?" Ouma watched as Saihara glanced around and indeed saw locker 137 a few lockers down from his own. Saihara let out a sigh. Ouma, keeping the carefree act up, lightly walked over to Amami's locker and lifted the hatch. Ouma scowled subtly when he saw the bag sitting untouched on the top shelf of the locker. He didn't even lock it. He had this planned from the beginning, that jerk... "Um, Ouma-kun..." Ouma turned to see Saihara mumbling to him. Saihara had a slight flush on his cheeks as he continued to stare into his own locker. "D-did you... hear anything? B-before coming here?" Ouma stared at Saihara. Oh, he means his singing. Saihara's blush continued to deepen as he waited in silence. To Ouma, Saihara's singing wasn't anything to be embarrassed by. It was beautiful and melodious. If anything, Ouma wanted to praise Saihara for it. Judging by the look on Saihara's face, however, that was probably too much. Ouma pondered for a minute on how best to approach the question. Then he asked quietly, "Is it bad if I heard something?" Saihara visibly winced and stammered, "Um, I mean it's not bad, I-I just-" Saihara lost his words and looked down, lips pressed together and eyebrows furrowed. Ouma hummed and started to grab Amami's bag. "I thought I heard some beautiful singing." Ouma continued to stare in the direction of Amami's bag, preoccupying himself with zipping up the opened pockets, but he could see Saihara's head whip in his direction. Still focused on the bag, Ouma quickly added, "I don't really know who it was though." It was a lie. But hopefully it was one that would make Saihara more comfortable. Saihara continued to stare at Ouma, Ouma doing his best not to look back. He had to seem nonchalant, or else the act wouldn't work. Well, Saihara-chan's smart enough, maybe he's already able to tell it's a lie, he figured. Ouma decided to emphasize more. "It's a real shame too!" He complained. "Their voice was so pretty, but it turns out I didn't even get to meet them." His voice took on a hint of melancholy as he said quietly, "It's sad... I would've wanted to praise them on how wonderful it was." Ouma then turned to Saihara, smiling softly yet slyly, looking deep into Saihara's eyes. "Do you have any idea who it could've been, Saihara-chan?" Saihara gazed back. His eyes bore no confusion at Ouma's words, nor relief that no one had heard him singing. He saw what Ouma was doing. The message was clear. I won't tell anyone. Ouma saw recognition slowly fill in Saihara's eyes. Then he saw it replaced with something warm. Saihara smiled as he said, "Thank you, Ouma-kun." Ouma glanced away. "I don't really understand what you're thanking me for, Saihara-chan, I was just telling you what I heard." Saihara chuckled softly. "Mmhm, I guess you're right." Saihara then reached inside his locker, pulling out clothes and combing through his chlorine-soaked hair with a brush. Ouma watched Saihara subtly out of the corner of his eye. Saihara was still topless, drops of water dripping down from hus hair down his chest. Ouma felt his cheeks go warm. Saihara-chan really does look good... and it's not like I can... let an opportunity like this go to waste... Ouma took Amami's bag out of the locker and hoisted the bag's strap on his shoulder. As he closed the locker, an idea struck him. Just as he turned to leave, Ouma subtly opened an app on his phone. "By the way," Ouma added suddenly. "Before I go-," He whipped out the phone before the other could react and announced, "Gym selfie!" Ouma clicked the button before Saihara had the chance to protest. Ouma lowered his arm, examining the picture. In the photo Ouma held up a peace sign, face slightly pink and grin present on his face. Saihara was in the background, chest still bare and face flushed a raspberry red. The picture wasn't fine art to be sure, with a blurry focus and poor lighting, but it was instantly one of Ouma's favorites. Even when caught off-guard Saihara-chan still looks beautiful, Ouma mused. He quickly saved it to his phone. Ouma didn't have to look behind him twice to know Saihara was flushed beyond imagination. Ouma heard Saihara squeak as he stuttered, "O-O-Ouma-kun!!" "Hahaha, I'll see you later Saihara-chan!" Ouma smiled at him and skipped away. "Next time I'll think of something more fun to do! Until then, adieu!," Ouma quickly exited the locker room, breathy giggles accompanying him all the way. He could still see Saihara's blushing face, clear and fresh his mind as a spring morning.
—
Ouma stepped into the hall and sighed, relieved he could finally breathe again. His eyes widened when the realization sunk of what had happened. What he had walked in on. Who he had walked in on. Who had sent him there in the first place. The conniving weasel that had this planned from the beginning. As Ouma walked away from the locker room, gym bag slung over his shoulder, he took out his phone and began to type furiously. Ouma: Amami-chan, what on earth was that? Amami: lmao Ouma: Amami-chan I'm being serious Amami: what was what? (° ³ °) ? Ouma: you didn't tell me Saihara-chan would be there!! I almost walked in on him while he was changing!! Amami: hahah hooolly shit that's even better Ouma: So? Why was Saihara-chan there and how did you know about it? Amami: well ever since last week he comes in every morning and goes for a swim. Lol I thought it'd be nice for u to know Ouma: I Ouma: I am Ouma: Why Amami: soooo, what happened?? ୨( ゚ヮ ゚)୧ Ouma: what do you think?! Amami: oya? Oyaoyaoya???? Amami: ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) Ouma: NO Amami: ( ͡° ͜ ʖ ͡°) Ouma: seriously, nothing happened you pervert Amami: _/(─ ͟ʖ─)\_ Ouma: Amami-chan, I love you, but it you keep using those unorthodox emoticons I'm going to disown you Amami: (☞´ ͜ʖ`) ☞ Ouma: stop Amami: ¯\_ (º ᗝ º) _/¯ Ouma: Anyway, don't think this is over, Amami-chan. I'll get back at you for this. Amami: after I did you such a favor? I'm hurt (⸌ ε ⸍) Ouma: You put me in such an uncomfortable situation!! Amami: So you didn't enjoy it?? Ouma: ... Amami: H a h Ouma: nevermind that's not important!! Amami: sure, I believe you. Prick. Ouma thought as he shoved the phone in his pocket. He didn't have to deal with this over text. He'd just go to Amami right now and give him what-for. Ouma's pace quickened as he thought furiously, When I get back there Amami-chan is going to regret everything he's ever done in his miserable life- Ouma was jostled out of his monologue when his phone vibrated loudly. He pulled it out and saw a message from his so-called best friend. Amami: Just being a good guy and helping my bff out with his cruuuuusshhhhh Ouma felt his indignation blaze as he started to type, I am NOT in LOVE with- Saihara's smile flashed across his mind. Ouma halted in his steps, fingers raised but still above his phone's keyboard. Suddenly Ouma's mind flooded with images of Saihara. He thought about Saihara's laugh, his voice, the look he had given Ouma when he took the cookies from his hands. He thought about how cute he had looked with flour on his cheek. He thought about his face that became flushed with the slightest praise. He thought about how Saihara saw through all the lies he had told so far. He thought about Saihara's singing, the gentle tune rising high above the steam of the locker room. He thought about how Saihara looked resting on the cot of the nurse's room. He thought about Saihara's smile, the warmth that spread through his heart when he saw it, how the room seemed to brighten around him. He thought about how happy it all made him.
Oh.
Oh...
Ouma was speechless. The truth was there, and it was real. I... I really do have a crush on Saihara-chan.... The gravity of the realization knocked the air out of him. All at once, everything made sense, in a terrifying way. Ouma's fingers trembled slightly as he deleted his previous message and typed clumsily across the keyboard. Ouma: Oh my god. Amami-chan, I... think I really do have a crush on Saihara-chan. Ouma's face flushed with the confession. He had said it. It was real. Ouma started to laugh to himself, his chest feeling lighter and a smile stretching across his cheeks. He felt free. He felt alive. I have a crush on Saihara-chan! He screamed in his head. He felt giddy. He started to skip down the hall as he approached the classroom. When he felt his phone vibrate he took it out, not even caring that it was the same scoundrel that got him in this mess. Amami: Hallelujiah! The blind man finally saw! Ouma stuffed the phone in his pocket, not letting Amami's teasing affect him any longer. He had more important things to think about now. Like a certain new classmate, who was, and he finally admitted, quite adorable. Ouma continued to chuckle to himself as he made his way through the school. He had a crush on Saihara and nothing was going to ruin his mood. Not class, not homework, not anything. Not even Amami, who was currently blowing up his phone by sending him every verse of "I Won't Say I'm in Love" from the movie Hercules. Well. Maybe Amami was an exception.
Notes!
- Amami's eyelashes: haha on Kodaka's blog (@official-kodaka) he said Amami had better lashes than Saihara, so I used that (^▽^) Just search "eyelashes" on his blog and you should find it.
- Home Ec: I have not had a home economics class before, so I tried to research on what was taught in it, only to spend a lot of time finding nothing. So... I just... did sugar cookies. Because it's cute.
- Sugar cookies: Apparently for sugar cookies you have to chill the dough for two hours before you pop them into the over. I used this recipe for reference: http://www.bettycrocker.com/how-to/tipslibrary/baking-tips/how-to-make-classic-sugar-cookies
- 375ºF: 190.5ºC
- Saihara's singing: Saihara's VA, Megumi Hayabashira, is indeed a singer! The song he was singing was 4:00 AM by Taeko Ohnuki, because I love it so much :D. It's on youtube! The part Saihara sings is 0:37-1:05. I'm learning Japanese, so I changed some of the phrasing to fit better in English. I used this for reference for the lyrics: http://lyricstranslate.com/en/400-am-400am.html
- "You don't have to be scared...I won't do anything to you": based on a line in Ouma's Love Hotel scene
- Amami's emoticons: Fun idea I had to have him use completely random emoticons. >ヮ< Used random generator to come up with them. http://textsmili.es/?cr=bW91dGh%2BX2V5ZXN%2BX2VhcnN%2B
That’s all for now! See you next time! ^w^/
Limerence (OumaSai fic) Chapter 4 posted!
Chapter 4: Sunlight in Your Heart and Soul
Word Count: 6,494
Warnings: None~
Fanart that inspired the chapter: This chapter delves into Saihara’s mom and their relationship a bit, and whenever I wrote about her I imagined her as Kirigiri. So for this chapter I’m linking not one, but two artists who have drawn Kirigiri as Saihara’s mom! Thank you both @freya-bellamy and @qosic inspiring me and this chapter! :D
http://freya-bellamy.tumblr.com/post/157460387553/shuichi-wants-to-be-the-very-best-but-mommy-set
http://qosic.tumblr.com/post/158270279453/mommas-boy-inspired-by
And because I said I would link Oumasai fanart with each chapter, I’m also linking Oumamisai fanart from freya-bellamy’s wonderful parent au.
http://freya-bellamy.tumblr.com/post/157960839024/komahina-will-never-be-ready-to-share-their-son
Please reblog from both of those artists and support them!
Chapter 1 2 3
Heads up from now on I’m just going to link the AO3 because it takes a long time for me to reformat everything into a tumblr post. Please go to the link to read it!
AO3 Link
Ouma/Saihara fic just posted!
Hello you all! I wrote an Oumasai fic and wanted to share! Yahooo! My first contribution to the Oumasai fandom! :D
Title: Limerence
Summary: After his horrible experiences in his past school, Saihara is ready to enter Saishuu Academy and start anew. Now all he has to do is fit in. Easy. Or so he thinks. It isn't long before a classmate of his starts hanging around him more and more and more, practically existing around him like a benevolent shadow. What's his deal, anyway? It isn't like he asked for the attention, but then again, he's not saying he minds, either.
Basically a fluffy, loving, and supportive high school au where kids don't have to worry about killing each other. :D
Rating: Teen and Up
Word Count: 3,253
Warnings: None, though mentions of bullying. Stay safe!
Fanart that inspired the chapter: @emubirb‘s ouma and saihara fanart, because I love it! Please go check it out and reblog from them! ^◡^ http://emubirb.tumblr.com/post/155310356005/if-youre-taking-requests-could-you-draw
Chapter 2 3 4
AO3 Link ✌( ° ∀ ° ) Fic below cut~
Chapter 1: First Meetings and New Starts
New school, new you. There's nothing to fear. Nothing to fear, nothing to fear. Everything will be fine. This isn't the first time you've introduced itself and it certainly won't be the last. Everything will be fine, right? Saihara Shuuichi was currently waiting in the hallway outside his new classroom, convincing himself that transferring to a new school, in a new city, halfway through the year was not something to freak out about. This was a common practice, tons of people transfer schools. This is fine. These people didn't even know him. They had no agenda against him and it was going to be fine. He had come from a smaller-yet-not-cosy-small high school where everyone knew everyone but not on a close enough level to always care. It allowed people to witness drama and bullying but not be familiar enough to justify getting involved. He supposed that system had been kind to others... it certainly hadn't been to him. It had started off small. His peers had constantly teased his appearance, his studiousness, his reluctance to go out and drink with the rest of them at any given opportunity they could. He must have been an easy target: his face hadn't refined into the masculine jaw that his classmates had obtained, nor did his shoulders broaden to a significant degree to allow his masculinity to be apparent. He was constantly mistaken as a girl. He tried to assure himself that they were honest mistakes, but after weeks and weeks of the same misunderstanding from the same people, added onto the fact that their expressions were sneering, he had to come to the conclusion that they meant it on purpose. It was fine, really. He was never close enough friends with any of them to begin with. ...Or, it was, until– Saihara shook his head. Now was not the time to start that train of thought. It's okay, he thought, the people here look nicer. Which was true. He had seen various faces on the campus that morning, smiling and cheerful and not a shred of malice in them. This time, he thought, this time will be different. It has to be. No, I'll make sure it is! He breathed deeply. This was nothing to worry about. All he had to do was to introduce himself and fit in. Easy. Yet despite his self-reassurances, Saihara still pulled on the bill of his hat until it was over his eyes. Oh god, he thought. There are so many ways this can go wrong, aren't there? A sound abruptly crashed Saihara's train of thought. He looked to his left to see two kids half-running toward him. One had extremely pale hair and was chasing after another boy with short and flippy dark hair. Kids? In a high school? The pale-blonde shouted as the other boy laughed. "Ouma-kun! Please return my wrench to me! I need it for my fourth-period elective!" "Not until you promise to build me a super-cool robot arm, Kiibo-chan!" 'Ouma' continued to laugh heartily as he waved the other's wrench around, seemingly not concerned that he was waving around a wrench that could seriously hurt somebody. Saihara just stared. So, they aren't kids? They're my age? They're wearing the uniform... Could they be my classmates? Saihara was so shocked by the display that he hadn't noticed the dark-haired boy coming up to him. The boy stopped and turned to him, expression completely wiped clean of the mirth it had previously. "Huh? Who are you?" Saihara's previously forgotten nerves flooded his senses. It was happening already? He wasn't prepared at all. No, no, I can do this, he thought. He breathed out before responding, "I'm your new classmate... I think." The boy (Ousa? Ouka?) hummed, still standing in place a few feet from Saihara. His classmate, on the other hand, had not forgotten his quest to retrieve his wrench and yanked from the boy's grasp before he could retaliate. He gasped and pouted, "Kiibo-chan! Not fair!" "You weren't paying attention, it was clearly fair game," 'Kiibo' replied tactfully. "Booring." Saihara couldn't help but stare. This was so much more different from where he was before. His past classmates would have just walked off without sparing him a glance. What kind of place is this academy? The pale-blonde noticed Saihara staring at the both of them, awkwardly standing by the doorway. "Oh! A new classmate? So you're the transfer I was hearing about." He stuck out his hand to Saihara before smiling broadly, "My name is Iidabashi Kiibo! It's nice to meet you!" Saihara smiled faintly before returning the gesture and shaking his hand. "It's nice to meet you too, Iidabashi-kun." "Oh, please call me Kiibo! Everyone else does." Saihara started to relax. Such familiarity on the first day was a good sign, right? "Okay, Kiibo-kun. My name is–" "Ah! No fair! I wanna introduce myself next!" Saihara found his hand jostled out of Kiibo's grip and into a new one. Compared to the polite firmness of Kiibo's hand, this boy had clasped Saihara's hands in both of his warmly. Saihara looked from his hands to see his new classmate with a bright sparkle in his eyes. "Woow, your hands are so soft!" "Eh-?" Saihara blushed a little. That wasn't something people just said out loud. Who is this kid? "Uh, you are–?" "Oh that's right! I haven't said my name yet. Though with the way Kiibo-chan was shouting it I wouldn't be surprised if you already knew it by now," The boy giggled. "That's because you had taken my wrench!" Kiibo harshly reminded him. Saihara tried to piece it together. He had thought he heard– "Ouma...kun?" Saihara tried. "Is that your name?" "Yeess! You got it!" Ouma cheered. "My name is Ouma Kokichi. I'm super amazing! Did you know I once survived a whole month without food by only living on fruity soda?" Saihara stopped. That's... ridiculous. That can't be true... can it? Kiibo sighed. "It's a lie." "Huh?" "Yuuup! It was a lie. I'm a liar after all." Well then. Saihara sighed. What kind of person responds so cheerfully when getting called out on an obvious lie? "By the way, you haven't introduced yourself yet," Ouma continued. "You're not gonna be rude and make your classmates wait, are you?" Oh, shoot. He had completely forgotten. Saihara almost reached for the bill of his hat but remembered that his hand was still in Ouma's grasp. He steeled himself before looking the two in the eyes and introducing himself. "I'm Saihara Shuuichi. I came here from a different school. It's...nice to meet you both." He finished. There, that wasn't bad, he thought. "Yes! Welcome to Saishuu Academy," Kiibo said, beaming at him. "Hmmm Saihara-chan, huh?" Ouma was wearing an expression somewhere between a smirk and a genuine smile, eyes crinkled at the edges. Saihara stared at it. What is he-? "Anyway, I can't see your face very well with that dumb hat in the way." Saihara had barely any warning before Ouma tugged on his hand. Saihara fell forward slightly as Ouma arched his face up so it was right in Saihara's face, underneath his hat. Saihara stood there, uncomprehending the change in situation. He was suddenly staring into the dark, warm eyes of his classmate and when did he get so close close close– "Woooow, Kiibo-chan, Saihara-chan's eyes are gray! I've never seen anything like it!" "Wh-" Saihara couldn't help it; he blushed. What is happening? What is happening?! Saihara was saved from further embarrassment when Kiibo pulled on Ouma's shoulders, effectively dislodging their hands. "Don't mind him Saihara-kun, Ouma-kun can be a bit... invasive." "Hehe, I couldn't help it!" Ouma grinned, as if it was all one big game to him. Kiibo pushed Ouma towards the classroom door and opened it. "I hope you'll forgive him, Saihara-kun. Anyway, it was nice meeting you. I await to see you in class!" Kiibo declared with a smile after pushing Ouma and then himself fully through the door. Silence ensured before Saihara breathed a sigh of relief. It's only the first day and these are the kind of people I'm meeting... Saihara jolted when a head bobbed out of the open doorway. Ouma was staring at him with a blank expression. He then smiled blindingly. "It was amazing to meet you, Saihara-chan! I look forward to getting to know you this year~!" Ouma then closed the door, leaving Saihara once again in silence. ...Well that was... something. — Saihara had quickly and successfully introduced himself to the class once the lesson had started. His teacher had been unassuming and kind, placing him in the back of the classroom where the open seats were. That was a small relief. At least now if he made a big mistake, not as many people would notice. His hat had been taken off for the day in accordance with the school code and safely placed in his shoe locker. At lunch all of his classmates had introduced themselves and had vowed to make him feel welcome. A classmate who introduced himself as Kaito had instantly placed an arm around his shoulders, deemed Saihara as "a trustworthy individual," and accepted him as a friend right off. A red-haired girl named Yumeno had told him about a magic trick she was preparing to welcome him into the class, and an enthusiastic individual named Yonaga had offered up a prayer to her god to bless his initiation (what god and religion that was, Saihara still wasn't sure). Gokugahara, a large muscular classmate of his (How is he only in high school?) had even offered to give him a tour of the school gardens, ranting on the various bug types present there. Apparently he was an insect enthusiast? All in all his classmates had ensured a warm welcome and Saihara couldn't be happier about it. Things really were starting to look up. Currently he was walking beside a girl named Akamatsu Kaede, who had piano clips in her hair and a gentle smile always present on her face. She offered a tour around campus, which Saihara had gratefully accepted. Apparently this academy was well-funded. There were various classrooms that dealt with music, art, science, and various other fields of study. The gym had a pool, rooms for boxing and martial arts, and there were even rooms for sports like tennis and badminton. The library was full of books and shelves that climbed several stories. Saihara had been in awe. Am I really going to school here? In this amazing place? He and Akamatsu were currently walking to the cafeteria (or what he assumed was the way to the cafeteria, since Akamatsu was leading). She had asked him all sorts of questions, about his likes and dislikes, what kind of movies he watched and what hobbies he had, and she had responded with interesting facts about herself in turn. They were getting along swimmingly and he appreciated her overflowing kindness. He was already beginning to see her as a close friend. Saihara casually mentioned his interest in criminal mystery novels, to which Akamatsu cheerfully replied, "With all the books in the library, you'll be sure to find some good mystery novels!" The conversation kept progressing smoothly and Saihara began to relax a little. He had nothing to worry about. Her questions had been prodding, but not invasive. Right, as long as she didn't ask him why he transferred– "So, why did you transfer?" Well, crud. This wasn't a question he wanted to answer now. Or ever. Why can’t people just forget about it completely? Saihara let out a small breath, coming up with the most believable white lie he could. "Um... my father had a job change." "Oh, cool." Phew. That seemed to do the trick. Hopefully people would stop asking about it. It technically wasn't a lie: his father had come to the new city to work. The reason for transferring jobs however... that was a bit more than Saihara was willing to let his classmates know just yet. Akamatsu turned to him and smiled disarmingly. "Well, for whatever reason you came here Saihara-kun, we're glad to have you!" Saihara could feel his stress slipping away as he smiled back. Yeah... maybe I can make a new start here. — The day had ended and all of his classes had progressed smoothly. Saihara was immensely relieved that his classmates were so warm-hearted and accepting. With a smile on his face Saihara exited the classroom with his bag and headed down to the shoe lockers. Akamatsu had accompanied him with an offer to walk together until she had to go to her piano lesson studio. Akamatsu continued to ramble on about their classmates. "Shinguuji-kun may be a bit quiet, but he'll tell you anything you want to know about folklore. He's amazing! And Iruma-san might have a foul mouth but she means well. Harukawa-san isn't standoffish at all really, she's just shy! I'm sure you'll fit in in no time." "Thank you, Akamatsu-san," Saihara smiled back. "I really do appreciate all you're doing for me." "Don't mention it!" Saihara stopped in front of his locker and slid open the hatch. There were his shoes, right as he... ...Huh? "Akamatsu-san," Saihara asked, "Have you seen my hat anywhere?" "Your hat?" Akamatsu asked in surprise. "No, I haven't. You said you put it in your shoe locker right?" "Yes, I remember doing so..." "Maybe it's back in the classroom?" She offered. Saihara sighed. "I'll go check there. You can go on Akamatsu-san, I know you have a piano lesson to get to." "You sure? I don't mind..." She trailed off. "Don't worry about it," Saihara assured. "I'll just check around briefly. I'm sure it's around here somewhere." — Of course, of course it has to be lost on the first day of school. Saihara had searched the hallway, the bathrooms, and all the other places he had visited. He continued to scrounge in the classroom, checking in corners and under desks. No luck. He let out an aggravated huff. I need to find it soon, otherwise I won't be able to make it in time. He decided to search under the desks, again, when someone came to look in the open doorway. "Hmm? Saihara-chan, what are you doing here?" Oh, it's Ouma. "Nothing, Ouma-kun. I'm just trying to find my hat." "You hat, huh?" "Yes, I remember putting it in my shoe locker but-" Saihara had turned to face Ouma and saw exactly what he had been looking for. There was his hat, right between Ouma's fingers. Ouma noticed his gaze and waved the hat around playfully. "Oh, you mean this hat?" "...Yes." "Well Saihara-chan, I'm kind of fond of your hat. I thought I'd find it if I looked in your shoe locker." Ouma looked proud with his reasoning. "You... stole it from my shoe locker?" "Yup! I did! Hey, are you mad? How badly do you want it? Are you going to chase me for it?" Ouma grinned. Saihara blinked. He couldn't understand what was happening. The day had been going so well yet- The memories flashed through his head as he suppressed a shudder. Classmates holding his books and bag above him, taunting him, kicking his stomach as he tried reaching for his belongings, only to pour out his bag's contents on top of him when they'd had their fun. Their words rang through his head. Come on, Saihara, can't you reach it? What's wrong, too much of a girl to fight for it? Aw, look at that he can't even stand up! What a loser. Hahaha, hey, do you mind if I borrow your pen? I lost mine see, and you can't even stand up to reclaim it... Haha, hey wimp, are your parents proud of such a failure? Saihara felt the anxiety creep in. No, no... I can't let this happen again. This isn't like last time. No, I won't let this happen again. Drawing in a breath, he closed his eyes. When he opened them again, he calmly walked over to Ouma, who was simply staring at him. Saihara stopped in front of Ouma and held out his hand. "I want my hat back, please." The two stared at each other. Ouma had no traceable emotion on his face. He simply stared at Saihara as he remained firmly in place. Moments passed, and Saihara was starting to wonder what was wrong. I'm pretty sure he heard me correctly. Is he going to decide? Do I need to ask again? Saihara was about to request his hat once more when Ouma's expression changed. His eyes widened and his smile curled until his face was practically beaming with joy. That was... not what Saihara was expecting. Before he could question it, however, Ouma lunged forward and placed his hat haphazardly on his head, the bill pulled down so much it effectively blinded him. Saihara stumbled slightly. "Ah-" "Of course Saihara-chan! If you didn't want to play with me all you had to do was say so!" Playing? Is that what this is? "Anyways Saihara-chan, I don't think you even need your dorky hat. In fact, I think you look much better without it!" Ouma confidently declared. "Uh," Saihara eloquently replied. He wasn't sure how to handle this. Teasing to praise within such a short amount of time? Ouma, however, was unaffected by Saihara's confusion. "Bye bye Saihara-chan! Tomorrow I'll be sure to think of even more fun games to play. See ya!" Ouma left, closing the doorway behind him, leaving a shocked and slightly flustered classmate behind him.
— Ouma walked down the hallway of the school, almost giddy with excitement. How unexpected! He had seen Saihara's attachment to his hat and had decided to play around a little. After all, he thought, if it's so much fun to make Kiibo-chan chase after his things, maybe it'll be fun with Saihara-chan too! It was easy. All he had to do was take his hat, and then the fun would begin. When he waved Saihara's hat in front of him like a taunt, he had expected a chase, maybe even a distressed plea to return it. He hadn't expected Saihara's face to pale, and certainly hadn't expected his eyes to have a touch of fear. Fear? Was it fear? What had surprised him the most, however, were Saihara's actions. After the fear, Saihara had calmly walked over and asked for his hat back. He held his shoulders high and looked into Ouma's eyes resolutely, unflinching. There was no fear or wavering resolve in his expression. It had caught Ouma off-guard. Ouma had seen a spark. A spark that lied in Saihara's gaze. Behind the timidness and the lack of confidence lay someone who would rise to the occasion. Someone who could overcome even the darkest moments of life, someone who would face tragedy head on, someone who would stick by his beliefs no matter the circumstances. The person he saw (no, glimpsed) was a man confidence and willpower. Someone who would not bow down to anything or anyone. He hadn't expected it. He hadn't predicted it. It had been exciting. Ouma was practically bouncing his way out of the school now. Hey, who are you, Saihara-chan? Ouma thought as he started to skip. What are you capable of? I can't wait to find out! Ouma let out a breathy giggle as he exited the school, eagerly awaiting the next day that was already full of possibilities.
Notes!
- Limerence: (n) the state of being infatuated with another person - Kiibo and Ouma's interactions, and even Ouma and Saihara's interactions, were based on when Kaede first met Kiibo and Ouma. Ouma and Saihara's interactions were also based on their love hotel scene that I've seen translated (the part where they speak). - I based Kiibo's last name on the professor that made him in canon. I had Saihara switch to calling him Kiibo because I'm pretty sure even I'll get confused if we use that last name for long... - In this Au Ouma is not mentally ill (at least like he is in canon) and there is no killing game, just kids being normal high schoolers. (ノ◕ヮ◕)ノ*:・゚✧ - And yes, they are wearing uniforms to this school in the Au. If you need an idea, the clothes they wore in the prologue are a good reference. - More characters will be featured, just be patient!
Hope you all enjoyed it! \(^▽^)/
I.... might’ve gone a bit overboard with the icons....
But anyway! Virtual world Saihara icons for your virtual world Saihara needs :)
Credit to @mavieldevixea for the close up of this precious angel ( ´ ▽ ` )ノ




