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I'm Kind Of A Big Deal

@yanase-riki

This is a Riki RP blog. It was inactive for about a year and a half but we're back! Age:27 | Job:Government Official Blood type:O | Lb:156 | Height:5'11

2,525 posts

Jul 28, 2016

Who is sexeir you, kenshi, or tatsuro? (You better say tatsuro bs he is super duper sexy)

"What kind of question is that? It's clearly me."

Jun 9, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

“I see,” he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

“So you said you have a sister; is she older or younger? I’m pegging you for an older brother, but I could be wrong.”

“No you’re right. Practically raised her myself, why else do you think I’m so amazing?” He joked around

“So what makes you amazing?” She teased, “aside from the hair and smile, I mean.”

“Wouldn’t you like to find that out yourself?”

Her eyes lit at the challenge. “Yeah, that could be pretty fun; what do you have in mind?” She inquired, curious what he had up his sleeve.

He smirked and lifted her chin, “more than you think.”

She felt her cheeks beginning to grow warm, but her gaze continued to meet his in delighted curiosity. “Care to enlighten me, or are you leaving it for me to uncover?” A loud choking noise could be heard from the nearby kitchen.

“Heh, both” he replied before hearing the noise and looking around.

Atsumu came out, tea in one hand and a ice cold bottle of beer in the other.

“Don’t mind the sounds from the kitchen; my friend Takuto is feeling anti-social today.”

“Go soak your dentures, Beardless…” Could be heard from the kitchen, and Sami fought hard not to laugh.

“Your friend sounds nice,” she joked, and Atsumu shook his head.

“Don’t mind him; he was raised in the wild. Anyway, you mentioned you were a Scorpio, so I looked up your horoscope.” He mentioned, pulling a scrap of paper from his pocket and handing it to her.

“Atsumu, what exactly is Takuto doing back there?” He asked curiously eyeing him.

“He wanted to look at some footage on his laptop for the thing at the place.” Atsumu waved his hand lazily, hoping Riki would get that he meant for the upcoming job. “His work space got mopped and he wanted to go somewhere he could eat and work and I told him no pork noodles upstairs because of Hiro and Kenny making him drop his bowl last week.” Atsumu explained.

While the guys talked, Sami read her fortune. Then blinked and looked again as she realized there were two pieces of paper instead of one. A worried look flashed across her face before she ducked her head, quickly folded the notes back together and slipped them into her clutch. “Thank you, Atsumu; and the tea smells lovely.” She smiled at him, too preoccupied for the moment to be nosy about the discussion.

Riki laughed hearing Atsumu's explanation. "So you're making him eat pork noodles on the kitchen?, hope he doesn't drop his computer."

Jun 5, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

“I see,” he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

“So you said you have a sister; is she older or younger? I’m pegging you for an older brother, but I could be wrong.”

“No you’re right. Practically raised her myself, why else do you think I’m so amazing?” He joked around

“So what makes you amazing?” She teased, “aside from the hair and smile, I mean.”

“Wouldn’t you like to find that out yourself?”

Her eyes lit at the challenge. “Yeah, that could be pretty fun; what do you have in mind?” She inquired, curious what he had up his sleeve.

He smirked and lifted her chin, “more than you think.”

She felt her cheeks beginning to grow warm, but her gaze continued to meet his in delighted curiosity. “Care to enlighten me, or are you leaving it for me to uncover?” A loud choking noise could be heard from the nearby kitchen.

“Heh, both” he replied before hearing the noise and looking around.

Atsumu came out, tea in one hand and a ice cold bottle of beer in the other.

“Don’t mind the sounds from the kitchen; my friend Takuto is feeling anti-social today.”

“Go soak your dentures, Beardless…” Could be heard from the kitchen, and Sami fought hard not to laugh.

“Your friend sounds nice,” she joked, and Atsumu shook his head.

“Don’t mind him; he was raised in the wild. Anyway, you mentioned you were a Scorpio, so I looked up your horoscope.” He mentioned, pulling a scrap of paper from his pocket and handing it to her.

"Atsumu, what exactly is Takuto doing back there?" He asked curiously eyeing him.

Jun 5, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

“I see,” he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

“So you said you have a sister; is she older or younger? I’m pegging you for an older brother, but I could be wrong.”

“No you’re right. Practically raised her myself, why else do you think I’m so amazing?” He joked around

“So what makes you amazing?” She teased, “aside from the hair and smile, I mean.”

“Wouldn’t you like to find that out yourself?”

Her eyes lit at the challenge. “Yeah, that could be pretty fun; what do you have in mind?” She inquired, curious what he had up his sleeve.

He smirked and lifted her chin, “more than you think.”

She felt her cheeks beginning to grow warm, but her gaze continued to meet his in delighted curiosity. “Care to enlighten me, or are you leaving it for me to uncover?” A loud choking noise could be heard from the nearby kitchen.

"Heh, both" he replied before hearing the noise and looking around.

Jun 5, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

“I see,” he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

“So you said you have a sister; is she older or younger? I’m pegging you for an older brother, but I could be wrong.”

“No you’re right. Practically raised her myself, why else do you think I’m so amazing?” He joked around

“So what makes you amazing?” She teased, “aside from the hair and smile, I mean.”

“Wouldn’t you like to find that out yourself?”

Her eyes lit at the challenge. “Yeah, that could be pretty fun; what do you have in mind?” She inquired, curious what he had up his sleeve.

He smirked and lifted her chin, "more than you think."

Jun 4, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

“I see,” he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

“So you said you have a sister; is she older or younger? I’m pegging you for an older brother, but I could be wrong.”

“No you’re right. Practically raised her myself, why else do you think I’m so amazing?” He joked around

“So what makes you amazing?” She teased, “aside from the hair and smile, I mean.”

"Wouldn't you like to find that out yourself?"

Jun 4, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

“I see,” he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

“So you said you have a sister; is she older or younger? I’m pegging you for an older brother, but I could be wrong.”

"No you're right. Practically raised her myself, why else do you think I'm so amazing?" He joked around

Jun 4, 2016

dragonsrequiem said: "That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀)) Answer: “I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk...

continued from here… ((My first time doing from a link… I usually only post from mobile, so fingers crossed!))

She was curious why he’d worded it ‘if that’ll help,’ but shrugged it off mentally.

“I used to have a brother, but these days it’s really my mom, my cousins, and me. I love them, but I usually only gab with them if they need something since everyone is off living their own lives.”

@yanase-riki

"I see," he said not wanting to push down on the topic of her family.

Jun 3, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

“Yeah” he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

When she heard the name of the artist, she blinked. “Was he a big deal then? I don’t know much about art, but I think I’ve read it in a sketchbook I inherited from a friend…” She asked in a curious tone.

“Yeah, I wonder when they’re going to steal it,” he said in an oblivious manner. “You did?, that’s interesting.” His eyebrow raising.

“Yeah; I didn’t know it was that big a deal; her grandpa had a pen pal for several years, and she always thought the pictures were pretty. Things happened and I ended up with it a few months ago.” She said, glossing over the details so she wouldn’t have to discuss it. “Anyway, would they put when they’re taking it if they send a note? I mean, that’s pretty bold to begin with, but putting when make it even tougher…” They showed the letter on TV and she blinked. “Tomorrow night? Man, that’s definitely gutsy.”

“Yeah,but then again probably not much we’ll ever know about it.” He said shrugging. “Or at least not until they’re caught, or even if they’re caught,”

“True; gotta admit I’m curious though.” She told Riki with a grin. “Consider it a hazard of my occupation. I’m a shameless workaholic.” Just then she spotted Atsumu headed their way again.

He grinned back seeing Atsumu come back too.

“You’re food is cooking, but I forgot to ask what you and the pretty lady want to drink?” Atsumu asked. “And as true as it is to keep calling her Pretty Lady, a name might be better?” He suggested with a wink at Sami. “Oh sorry; I’m Sami Dragonsong.” Sami held out her hand to shake.

“I’ll just take a beer,” he said looking over at looking over at her for her answer.

“Kashiwabara Atsumu,” came the reply as he shook her hand, “absolutely delighted!” His eyes were lit with intelligence and amusement, and she grinned back.

“And if you have it, I could sure go for some rose hip tea.” She added in a friendly tone.

“You’re in luck! I just got some in from Charles Kingdom yesterday!” Atsumu nodded. “I’ll get that going!” He added before walking off.

Riki waited as their banter led to Atsumu scurrying back to the kitchen.

“He seems like a nice guy,” Sami commented before asking Riki, “So what’s your family like?”

Riki was slightly taken back from the question not expecting it. "My family? Oh well I have my father and my sister if that helps."

Jun 3, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

“Yeah” he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

When she heard the name of the artist, she blinked. “Was he a big deal then? I don’t know much about art, but I think I’ve read it in a sketchbook I inherited from a friend…” She asked in a curious tone.

“Yeah, I wonder when they’re going to steal it,” he said in an oblivious manner. “You did?, that’s interesting.” His eyebrow raising.

“Yeah; I didn’t know it was that big a deal; her grandpa had a pen pal for several years, and she always thought the pictures were pretty. Things happened and I ended up with it a few months ago.” She said, glossing over the details so she wouldn’t have to discuss it. “Anyway, would they put when they’re taking it if they send a note? I mean, that’s pretty bold to begin with, but putting when make it even tougher…” They showed the letter on TV and she blinked. “Tomorrow night? Man, that’s definitely gutsy.”

“Yeah,but then again probably not much we’ll ever know about it.” He said shrugging. “Or at least not until they’re caught, or even if they’re caught,”

“True; gotta admit I’m curious though.” She told Riki with a grin. “Consider it a hazard of my occupation. I’m a shameless workaholic.” Just then she spotted Atsumu headed their way again.

He grinned back seeing Atsumu come back too.

“You’re food is cooking, but I forgot to ask what you and the pretty lady want to drink?” Atsumu asked. “And as true as it is to keep calling her Pretty Lady, a name might be better?” He suggested with a wink at Sami. “Oh sorry; I’m Sami Dragonsong.” Sami held out her hand to shake.

“I’ll just take a beer,” he said looking over at looking over at her for her answer.

“Kashiwabara Atsumu,” came the reply as he shook her hand, “absolutely delighted!” His eyes were lit with intelligence and amusement, and she grinned back.

“And if you have it, I could sure go for some rose hip tea.” She added in a friendly tone.

“You’re in luck! I just got some in from Charles Kingdom yesterday!” Atsumu nodded. “I’ll get that going!” He added before walking off.

Riki waited as their banter led to Atsumu scurrying back to the kitchen.

Jun 2, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

“Yeah” he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

When she heard the name of the artist, she blinked. “Was he a big deal then? I don’t know much about art, but I think I’ve read it in a sketchbook I inherited from a friend…” She asked in a curious tone.

“Yeah, I wonder when they’re going to steal it,” he said in an oblivious manner. “You did?, that’s interesting.” His eyebrow raising.

“Yeah; I didn’t know it was that big a deal; her grandpa had a pen pal for several years, and she always thought the pictures were pretty. Things happened and I ended up with it a few months ago.” She said, glossing over the details so she wouldn’t have to discuss it. “Anyway, would they put when they’re taking it if they send a note? I mean, that’s pretty bold to begin with, but putting when make it even tougher…” They showed the letter on TV and she blinked. “Tomorrow night? Man, that’s definitely gutsy.”

“Yeah,but then again probably not much we’ll ever know about it.” He said shrugging. “Or at least not until they’re caught, or even if they’re caught,”

“True; gotta admit I’m curious though.” She told Riki with a grin. “Consider it a hazard of my occupation. I’m a shameless workaholic.” Just then she spotted Atsumu headed their way again.

He grinned back seeing Atsumu come back too.

“You’re food is cooking, but I forgot to ask what you and the pretty lady want to drink?” Atsumu asked. “And as true as it is to keep calling her Pretty Lady, a name might be better?” He suggested with a wink at Sami. “Oh sorry; I’m Sami Dragonsong.” Sami held out her hand to shake.

"I'll just take a beer," he said looking over at looking over at her for her answer.

Jun 2, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

“Yeah” he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

When she heard the name of the artist, she blinked. “Was he a big deal then? I don’t know much about art, but I think I’ve read it in a sketchbook I inherited from a friend…” She asked in a curious tone.

“Yeah, I wonder when they’re going to steal it,” he said in an oblivious manner. “You did?, that’s interesting.” His eyebrow raising.

“Yeah; I didn’t know it was that big a deal; her grandpa had a pen pal for several years, and she always thought the pictures were pretty. Things happened and I ended up with it a few months ago.” She said, glossing over the details so she wouldn’t have to discuss it. “Anyway, would they put when they’re taking it if they send a note? I mean, that’s pretty bold to begin with, but putting when make it even tougher…” They showed the letter on TV and she blinked. “Tomorrow night? Man, that’s definitely gutsy.”

“Yeah,but then again probably not much we’ll ever know about it.” He said shrugging. “Or at least not until they’re caught, or even if they’re caught,”

“True; gotta admit I’m curious though.” She told Riki with a grin. “Consider it a hazard of my occupation. I’m a shameless workaholic.” Just then she spotted Atsumu headed their way again.

He grinned back seeing Atsumu come back too.

Jun 1, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

“Yeah” he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

When she heard the name of the artist, she blinked. “Was he a big deal then? I don’t know much about art, but I think I’ve read it in a sketchbook I inherited from a friend…” She asked in a curious tone.

“Yeah, I wonder when they’re going to steal it,” he said in an oblivious manner. “You did?, that’s interesting.” His eyebrow raising.

“Yeah; I didn’t know it was that big a deal; her grandpa had a pen pal for several years, and she always thought the pictures were pretty. Things happened and I ended up with it a few months ago.” She said, glossing over the details so she wouldn’t have to discuss it. “Anyway, would they put when they’re taking it if they send a note? I mean, that’s pretty bold to begin with, but putting when make it even tougher…” They showed the letter on TV and she blinked. “Tomorrow night? Man, that’s definitely gutsy.”

“Yeah,but then again probably not much we’ll ever know about it.” He said shrugging. “Or at least not until they’re caught, or even if they’re caught,”

Jun 1, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

“Yeah” he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

When she heard the name of the artist, she blinked. “Was he a big deal then? I don’t know much about art, but I think I’ve read it in a sketchbook I inherited from a friend…” She asked in a curious tone.

"Yeah, I wonder when they're going to steal it," he said in an oblivious manner. "You did?, that's interesting." His eyebrow raising.

Jun 1, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

“Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it.” He responded in thought.

“I’ve only got one friend like that… it’s always nice.” She chuckled as she thought about her old friend Ronan. On the TV, a reporter came on, announcing the Black Foxes had sent someone a note.

“Oh hey, isn’t that the group of thieves you were talking about?”

"Yeah" he replied when he saw the news, thinking of the next mission.

May 31, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

“Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?” He asked already walking to the kitchen. “Yeah” Riki responded before Atsumu left.

She chuckled as the man left the room. “Your friend seems nice. How long have you known him?” She asked, making conversation.

"Atsumu? A really long time now that I think about it." He responded in thought.

May 31, 2016

"That's dirty!" ((From my main OC... See pic?... Anyway, you did say you were desperate- I read it as bored... 😀))

“I don’t think you can handle me” He states a smirk forming on his face

(Desperate man, DESPERATE))

Observing the slightly taller stranger, Sami gave a smirk of her own, her pale blue eyes blazing in friendly challenge under her baseball cap. “Pretty confident, huh?” She asked the stranger before signaling the pool. “Care to put your money where your mouth is? This seems like a good day to get wet…” ((How about a friendly race for our characters? :D ))

“Sure, get ready to lose” he said heading towards the pool before looking back “Hurry up will you? Unless you want to chicken out.”

“You’re on!” She looked excited at the thought of a good race, quickly tossing her cap and oversized cover up shirt onto a nearby chair. She’d gone for one of the vintage style swimsuits she favored, and her hair had been in a bun, so she was now ready to race. Assuming a comfortable starter pose, she slightly squinted in the sunlight as she looked over at him. “Ready? Set…”

“Go” he launched himself from the pool’s ledge. He focused on swimming to the other side. He swam casually looking towards his opponent.

When he called Go, she launched herself enthusiastically into the water. She didn’t go full out at first, taking a breath or two to observe his stroke pattern. Kicking her long legs, she soon found herself evenly matched to his pace. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, but she was far more interested in his swim style as she focused on her freestyle form.

He looked to his side surprised to see her near him. A smile broadened across his face. ‘What a weird girl’ he thought to himself never before seeing a girl react or act the way she did. He took longer strokes avoiding the nearby bystanders.

When he started to pull away, her pulse kicked up. /Yes! A real challenge!/ she cheered to herself, and took a gulp of air so she wouldn’t have to slow down to breathe. Grinning underwater, she strengthened her kicks, slicing cleanly as she focused on outstripping his pace. Seeing they were getting near the water, her mind raced. /If this guy’s so quick to take on a race, he must be a blast. Maybe suggest a prize to the winner if he wants another go round?/ she pondered in anticipation.

“Is that all you got?” He said teasing her. He looked back at her wondering ‘what kind of girl is this?’ as he quickly shook off the though exerting all of his body to finishing.

He got to the far wall a few tenths of a second before her, and she laughed good naturedly. “Great race, man!” She congratulated him, reaching out her hand in a friendly handshake. “You know, I don’t think I even introduced myself yet; I’m Sami Dragonsong!” She beamed at him, her left cheek dimpling slightly and her eyes continuing to squint slightly in the sunlight. If this guy was as fun to talk to as he was to race, today could end up being quite a bit more entertaining than originally planned.

“Right back at you” He said shaking the hand she had extended “Yanase Riki” he smiled at her genuinely thrilled to meet someone as competitive as him or as he assumed. He looked at her slightly entranced by her looks. Feeling more inclined to get to know her then get in her pants.

((Yeah, that’s what she had in mind too! Lol)) “So other than getting challenged to races by strange girls, what do you do for fun?” She joked at him, taking a moment to drink him in while she caught her breath and tried to decide if she would be turned down on a round two.

“What I do for fun?, well I’d say I give everything a try.” He said commuting their banter. He saw her out of breath “Don’t tell me you’re tired already, and here I was thinking we were just getting started.”

She shook her head in amusement. “No way! I was actually fixing to challenge you to a second run; just feeling the amount of time I’ve spent cooped up at my keyboard lately.” Her look was amused and self-deprecating before she shrugged lightly. “Loser buys the winner lunch when we’re done swimming?”

“You’re on” He replied already readying himself. A sudden thought coursed his head ‘If I lose I could take her to LRN which wouldn’t be so bad, but then again I can’t possibly fail right now.’

“On your mark,” she said, getting into position, “get set… GO!” As she cheered the word, she launched herself merrily, ready to swim as hard as she could. She thought of the little restaurant across the street from the apartment she was watching for her cousin. It looked like it would have good food, but she hadn’t been in yet. Le Renard Noir, the place was called, and she wondered what kind of food was served there as she focused on beating him. She didn’t take the time to measure his motions this time, but focused. Stroke, stroke, kick, kick. Her eyes burned in the water, but her gaze was pinpointed on the far wall, eager to give it all she had on this race. /Time enough to get to know the cute guy after,/ she decided, putting her rusty swim team skills to use and enjoying the pleasant burn in her muscles. It had been years, but her muscle memory made up for it, she decided in amusement.

‘Hmph, I won’t lose that easily’ he swam at his body’s capacity. He felt the bewildered gaze of the people staring at them. ‘I guess it is pretty weird to have a race in a public pool.’ He shrugged off the feeling focusing on winning.

She probably should have been embarrassed about acting like a little kid, but honestly, she was having too much fun racing him. If all her new neighbors were as fun as this guy, she was going to regret not getting out sooner. Kick, kick, stroke, stroke. She didn’t even peek over at him even though she wouldn’t mind buying his food; it was the principle of the matter. One simply did not throw a race.

He swam to his full extent determined to keep his pride. He liked the idea of being able to spend time with her. ‘She seems interesting, I wonder if she knows about us…’ The weird thought flooded his head. ‘No, no I can’t of things like that right now, I have to win.’

((Nah… Her moving there was a fun coincidence. Lol)) The wall was in sight. Stretching her fingers, she got there… At the same time as him. She came up out of the water with a laugh, turning to face him. “Another good race!” She chortled. “Wasn’t expecting a tie!”

“Yeah, same here” He also got out of the water. Him glad he at least didn’t lose. “So, who’s picking the restaurant?”

She chuckled. “Considering how we introduced ourselves, it’s tempting to discuss paper scissors rock, but how about we just discuss it like the mature grown ups we’re supposed to be?” She offered with a delighted air. “There’s a restaurant near me that I was considering; it’s called Le Renard Noir? Anyway, that was going to be my suggestion- it tends to smell pretty good, so I was curious to try it. What was your idea?”

“LRN? I was actually thinking the same thing.” He snickered at the coincidence. “Don’t worry about paying then, I’ll take care of it,” he said “I do suggest changing first though.”

“Yeah… Most places would frown over someone wearing a wet swim suit in,” she wrinkled her nose at the thought, clearly entertained. “We could change and meet up, though. It’d take me about half an hour, if you don’t mind.” She suggested, quickly scrolling through decent clothing options that would give her more time to get her hair clean, dry, and presentable. That much hair took some time.

“Sure, do you want my number so we know where to meet up then?” He said in a semi sly manner.

“Okay, sure. I can give you mine as well, just in case you get delayed.” She agreed in a reasonable tone, missing the slyness. She climbed from the pool with ease and went for her phone. “We should probably do that before I get sidetracked; I have ADHD issues.” She explained with a shrug.

He followed after her grabbing her phone and inputting his number to her contact list. “Here, I’ll see you later then Sami.”

She agreed, texting him. “Here’s my number, Riki,” She replied. She took a moment to add the nickname ‘Pool Boy’ and looked up at him once more. “See you there.”

“Yeah, bye” he gave one final goodbye before heading towards his home to change. ‘Heh, I wonder what she’s like outside of the pool.’

She made her way quickly, unwinding her hair as she went up the stairs to her place. She found herself curious about the kind of guy that’d take up a friendly race challenge from a complete stranger. Humming an old tune, she got out the outfit she was going to wear and hopped into the shower to clear off the chlorine. She was in and out of the bath in minutes, loving the lingering apple fragrance of her soap as she dried off and got ready. By the time her half an hour was up, she was headed back downstairs and across the road.

When he arrived home a quick shower the put on his typical casual clothes. He greeted his sister before leaving prepared to meet up his newly found acquaintance.

Sami crossed the street, seeing she had a minute or so to spare. Seeing her phone light up with a text, she glanced down to see a message from her editor. Sticking out her tongue like a little kid, she fired off a response that her next chapter would be in by tomorrow and then looked up, glad she’d thought to grab her white cats eye style shades on her way out the door. The early summer sunlight was killing her poor eyes.

He stood outside his house to text Sami for where their meet up location should be.

Seeing his text, Sami grinned. Should she tell him she was less than a block away? Nah… No point making him sweat it; some folks got antsy about making a girl wait. “Cool, meet you there.” She texted back, enjoying a slow stroll there. Enjoying the way the breeze made her hair tickle the back of her neck and her shoulder, she took out the notepad she kept in her clutch and a pencil, calloused fingers moving comfortably as she jotted down a couple ideas. Lost in the world she was creating, she knew no time at all would pass before he got there.

He arrived at their meeting place spotting her fairly quickly. He slightly tilted his head as her saw writing, a small smile appearing on his face. “What’re you writing?” He asked in a looking at the notepad.

At his question, she flinched slightly in surprise before chuckling. “Sorry about that,” she apologized, glad her shorthand cursive was illegible to others. “I was jotting down a few ideas for later.” Tucking her pencil behind an ear absently, she added, “When I’m not challenging friendly strangers to a race, I’m a workaholic. There’s a character I need to eliminate later.” She added, not thinking about how it would sound. “I’m torn between blunt force trauma and a good old fashioned stabbing.”

“Are you a writer?” He asked amused. “Eliminate? Just what kind of stories are you writing?” His eyebrow raising. “But still good to know you do things other than hanging out in a pool all day, you really are a strange girl.”

“I write thrillers with a touch of romance,” she explained. “My last one actually hit a couple bestseller lists back in the US but I needed a change of scenery so here I am.” On a laugh, she concluded, “For the most part though, I just never grew up. So what do you do?” She responded curiously, hoping he didn’t ask why she needed a change; some things one didn’t discuss with new folks.

“I see,” he noted when he has to later look into her books “Me? I’m a government official in the Ministry of Finance” he stated quite nonchalantly.

“So you help balance the government’s check books? I definitely have respect for anyone who can hold that job- balancing my own checkbook just about does me in.” She grinned good naturedly. “So is it something you fell into or something you enjoy?” She asked curiously, vaguely noticing that people were starting to look at them funny for standing around.

“I suppose you can say with how amazing of a person I am I was destined for a high position.” He said with his typical smug look. “We should probably get going to Le Renard Noir,” he suggested.

Her eyes twinkled merrily. “And so modest, too!” She teased in a delighted tone, before nodding. “Yeah, I’m getting a little hungry; let’s head there. I wonder why it’s named The Black Fox?” She pondered absently. Maybe a family mascot or something?“

“No need to tell me I know,” he said with the same expression. “The owner said just cause its sounds good.” He bluntly lied, “But there are some thieves called the black foxes, weird coincidence right?” he asked testing her.

“Seriously? That’s way more creative than back home- they just go by their names there- Bonnie and Clyde, Jesse James, that sort of thing. What kind of thieves are they- like bank robbers or what?” She turned an inquisitive gaze in his direction as they walked.

“Oh, they’re noble thieves” he said casually trying to make it sound as non suspicious as possible. “They steal art, there’s not much I know other than that.”

“What exactly is a noble thief? I was always taught that theft is theft. Do you mean like Robin Hood or the depression era robber who burned bank notes when he robbed a bank so families wouldn’t lose their home?” She asked, eyes lighting up as she pondered the concept before shrugging. It was obvious that his words had given her an idea; head cocked, part of her brain juggled the logistics of throwing a robbery gone wrong into her story.

“Yeah you can think of it that way, besides nothing is really know about them so we shouldn’t dwell on the topic,” he kept saying average things the everyday person would know with the subject to not draw any attention. “So, where exactly are you from then?”

“Texas; and no, I don’t own a horse or boots. Well, anymore, at least. I used to love boots, but you don’t really need to worry about rattlesnakes in the city.” She joked with a laugh. Seeing the restaurant, she asked, “So based on what you’ve said, I’m guessing you’ve been here. What’s good to eat here?”

“I see, well I have a friend who is strangely obsessed with pork noodles so I could recommend that.” He said mentally remembering Takuto’s strange obsession.

She grinned. “Pork noodles- excellent.” She nodded, following him into the dim restaurant. A TV played in the corner, and a few girls giggled away, peeking occasionally at the long haired man behind the counter. “Well, it smells delicious in here.” She said, picking up traces of pork and curry in the air.

“Yeah, let’s sit then” him walking up to the counter sitting in his usual seat. Motioning her to sit in a seat next to his.

She sat, continuing to look around a bit and take the atmosphere as she did. “This seems like a pretty relaxed place.” In a jocular tone, she added, “So, you come here often?”

“Yeah me and the owner are pretty close friends,” he replied casually.

She laughed in an amused tone as the cheesy pick up line flew over his head. “Well that’s good!” She grinned as a long haired man came over.

Atsumu came over greeting Riki the woman next to him.

Atsumu adjusted his glasses. “So who’s the pretty lady, Riki?” He asked before turning to Sami. “What’s your sign and I’ll tell you your future!” He offered in a friendly tone.

Sami was surprised but shrugged. “I’m a Scorpio, but I’m not sure how seriously I take horoscopes. They are fun, though.” She added, not wanting to hurt the friendly man’s feelings.

Riki signed shaking his head in disapproval. “Not this,” he sighed “don’t pester her with your cards.” He said with a neutral tone. “Riki, I’m hurt.” The 35 year old man said to him.

“I don’t mind him being friendly, really. My cousin swears he doesn’t steer her wrong. It’s just not my thing.” She thought for a moment about a safe change of subject. “So Riki says I should try the pork noodles?” She asked Atsumu, who looked to be pouting.

"Pork noodles? Sure! Coming right up, Riki the usual right?" He asked already walking to the kitchen. "Yeah" Riki responded before Atsumu left.

#much sad very depressing #sorry I took so long I didn't realize you responded #I'm also horrible at Atsumu so sorry about that too

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