Chapter Text
Wednesday Night
"Oh come on! Let me have the tickets!"
A brown haired girl demanded while trying to reach the hand that was holding the tickets away from her. The orange haired boy only stared with a rather judgmental expression, while using his other hand and trying to push her face out of his.
"Literally why????" I'm the one who won this." Akito grunted after finally pushing his sister off.
"Because you don't even like the aquarium! At least if I go, I'll be able to take cute pictures with all the animals!" Ena explained, dusting herself off. Akito only rolled his eyes and began to walk towards his room. "Okay! If you give me the tickets, I'll buy you those pancakes from the new bakery near Airi's school!" Stopping in his tracks, Akito turned with a rather...smug expression. "...Oh really? You will?"
Ena nodded frantically. Akito was about to agree before remembering something rather important. "Well...even if I say yeah to that, you wouldn't even be able to go."
"Haaah? What do you mean?"
'These tickets only work on the same day you got a date with Momoi-san, and aren't you guys already going to a concert?"
Ena only stared before pouting and pushing Akito aside and slamming the door to her room. Akito only stared before doing the same (without slamming his door.)
He could hear Ena complaining to Airi about how he got lucky with the tickets and Akito only groaned before getting ready for bed.
Thursday Afternoon
"Woah...what's up with you lil bro?"
Akito looked up to the voice above him - it was Mizuki sipping a strawberry milk cartoon and looking at him with a raised eyebrow. A few seconds passed before he slammed his head against the table.
"?! Akito-kun?! What was that about????" Mizuki shouted almost dropping her drink. "...Nothing." He lied. "Jeez...you scared me...oh..! Is this about those tickets?"
"Literally how do you know about that."
"Ahaha! Ena told me about it last night! In fact she told me so much about it that - she went on a 20 minute rant about how you got lucky, how it was unfair that you won and she didn't, oh! and how she got scammed because she went right before you~"
"...So she complained to two people about it - both you and Momoi-san."
"Four, including Mafuyu and Kanade!"
"Ugh.....its not even my fault I won."
"I know~ Anyways, she mentioned that you won two! Are you planning on taking Toya-kun with ya?"
Akito only stared at the pink haired girl who by now finished her drink, but was chewing on the straw.
"...I guess, I mean on that day I don't really have anything to do."
"Hehhh, I'm guessing you guys aren't really practicing that much recently?"
"Nah. It's better for us to take a break, especially since Toya performed with a fever a little while ago."
"Eh?! That's super dangerous!" Akito only nodded at that statement. He honestly wasn't really happy with winning these tickets - after all he could be doing other things, like going to that new bakery Ena mentioned or even secretly practicing.
Honestly, I don't even know if Toya would even wanna go. Though knowing him he probably would...ugh this is way too much work. Maybe I should just ask Akiyama since she already heard Ena complaining about it.
"...Hey, do yo-"
Before he could finish his sentence, he noticed blond hair walking in the distance. Mizuki followed his eyes and turned around - before quickly turning back with a smug expression.
"...What..?"
"Oh~ nothing!"
Akito only raised his eyebrow before standing up. "Well, I'm heading off." Mizuki only hummed before waving him away and going on her phone. Akito only sighed and walked towards the area the blond went into.
--
"I'm telling you Rui! I heard that there was an aquarium all the way in Kyoto that has a whole section dedicated to jellyfish! I would love to go, but I do not think I'll ever have the time to go there..." the blond said as he sadly ate a piece of salmon.
"I'm sure you'll find the time Tsukasa-kun. Though I understand your frustrations...it is a long way to go all the way there from where we live." Rui said with a pitiful smile while sketching what seems to be a new robot design.
"I also know you wouldn't justify spending that much money on yourself - though I wish you would spoil yourself a little more Tsukasa-kun."
"Mumumu....I wouldn't mind spending lots of money on anyone else...but you're right, I would find it difficult to spend money on myself...I mean look at how upset I was with myself for buying clothes that costed $200.." Rui chuckled at the blond as his nose scrunched up from the memory.
The two continued to converse, unaware that a certain orange haired boy was secretly listening from the corner. As he glanced back to the weirdo combo - Akito made his way back to Mizuki, now fully confident in his decision of who to take to the aquarium.
--
"Yo, senpai."
Tsukasa jolted at the voice and quickly turned around. "Akito!? What are you doing in front of my classroom? How unusual!" The blond said in an excited voice...loudly of course. Some of his nearby classmates put their hands to their ears with no harmful intent - just surprised at the sudden volume, but Akito remained unphased. He's gotten used to his seniors excited outbursts.
For some reason as well, he feels his body relax whenever he hears it.
"Just here to invite you somewhere."
"..?!" If Tsukasa wasn't shocked before (which he was), he was shocked for sure now. "Me?! You want to invite me somewhere?! Akito are you okay?! Are you sick?!?!" Tsukasa asked with panic - jumbling his hands around as he checked Akito's forehead, hands, and neck. To those walking by it looked like Tsukasa was teleporting around the junior.
Akito let it happen and only reached for his seniors' wrists when it looked like he was going to start the process again. "Yeah, you. I want to invite you somewhere, yeah I'm sane and no I'm not sick. You can calm down now Senpai." An amused face was displayed on the junior as Tsukasa finally calmed down.
"...Well, good. I'm glad you aren't sick Akito..anyways! Where to? I'm curious as to where my cute junior is inviting me!" Tsukasa asked, flashing a bright smile.
Akito didn't notice it, but his ears grew red at the random compliment. He also didn't notice how both his face and body relaxed when his senior flashed that smile.
"Uhh...well. The other day at the mall, I was shopping with my sister when we came across a table with some sort of raffle. Obviously my sister wasn't going to turn down a free chance of winning something, so she dragged me into it as well since she was confident she was going to win something. Honestly, it was funny seeing her disappointed face when she didn't win anything - but it got annoying when she made me do it as well." Tsukasa only nodded at the junior, while also waving his classmates goodbye.
"I told her, if I win anything - then she can't have it. She, obviously wasn't happy - but said okay anyways. So, yeah I did the raffle - didn't expect to win anything, but then..well." The orange haired boy slowly trailed off and looked at Tsukasa's face, who had very curious and bright eyes. Akito could've sworn that stars were popping off of his face. The junior only gulped at the expression and reached into his pocket.
"I won these..." Akito said softly, gently shoving them in front of Tsukasa's eyes. Tsukasa blinked at the tickets and read the label on it. He noticed how Tsukasa's eyes got more excited and how his body started trembling. Akito coughed, covering up his chuckle at the reaction.
He always found Tsukasa's actions amusing.
"A..Akito..! Are you serious!? You want to invite me to THE KY- ahem. Kyoto aquarium....!?" The senior asked with an expression that Akito hasn't personally seen up close before. His eyes were shining, and his cheeks were flushed - not only that his smile as well... looked happier than he's ever seen. Akito could've sworn he saw the side of Tsukasa's hair also move up and down.
"Jeez...how many more times do you want me to repeat it Tsukasa-senpai..? Yeah..I'm serious and I'm inviting you somewhere and its the Kyoto aquarium." Akito said in teasing tone, making the blond blush from his almost explosive reaction.
"Oh my dear Akito! I would be delighted to go with you! I'm so honored that you thought of me!"
Akito only nodded at that, too busy staring at the smile that appeared on the blonds face, as he pulled out his phone to set a reminder for the special day.
"Alright, I'll send you more info on LINE, Tsukasa-senpai. Get home safe."
Akito noticed how Tsukasa's face softened at that, followed with a see you tomorrow, he watched his senior walk away while humming a happy tune.
He didn't notice how long he kept staring at the back of the blonds head as he walked away.
--
"Oya? Shinonome-kun invited you to the Kyoto Aquarium Tsukasa-kun?"
The two 3rd years were walking to their usual cafe - meeting up with their other troupe members who left school together a while ago.
"That's right! I was surprised at first, but nonetheless I'm very happy! I get to visit the Kyoto Aquarium and spend the day with my beloved junior Akito!"
"Fufu~ I can tell Tsukasa-kun, your excitement is practically glowing off you." Rui chuckled, opening the door to the cafe. Tsukasa only hummed as he walked through and Rui followed behind him. Spotting the two girls they quickly sat down and looked at the menu.
"Tsukasa-kun! You're extra sparkly today!!" Emu mentioned with her head on Nene's shoulder - who didn't mind and continued looking at the menu and glanced up to see what Emu meant. To which the mint haired girl only nodded in agreement - too busy trying to figure out if she should get the grapefruit milkshake or grapefruit lemonade.
"Haha! Is that so Emu? Well, I have exciting news! You see, earlier today I was talking to Rui about-"
"Get to the point Tsukasa." Nene playfully said.
"Geh- so rude Nene!" Tsukasa pouted, though the two giggled right after. "Ahem- as I was saying! I was talking to Rui about the Kyoto Aquarium and how badly I would love to go. But as you know, expenses and distance - I don't see myself spending that much money on myself...however, Akito surprised me by saying he won tickets at a raffle and wanted to invite me!"
"Woah..two faced wanted to invite you..?" Nene asked, raising an eyebrow.
"I'm just as surprised as you Nene, but....I'm very happy that Akito wanted to invite me. It's almost like fate that he won tickets, hehe."
The three watched as his face softened and how his smile grew much warmer. They glanced at the other and only smiled at the blond. It was contagious after all.
"I'm glad that you and Shinonome-kun are getting along Tsukasa-kun. He is quite dear to you after all." Rui mentioned, waving the waiter over. The two girls only nodded, greeting the waiter and telling them their orders.
"..He is, isn't he?" Tsukasa replied with a warm grin.
--
"Shinonome-kun, you're going to the Kyoto Aquarium with Tsukasa-san?!"
The pigtailed girl was pretty much in Akito's face - eyes glowing with awe and a little jealously.
"Uh...yeah I am.." Akito replied, trying to back away from Kohane's face. An and Toya only giggled at the interaction before An tugged at Kohanes sleeve, gesturing her to calm down. "Still, I'm surprised you asked Tenma-senpai, Akito. I mean don't you not like him?" An asked with a curious look. Toya also gave Akito a curious look - though secretly happy his friend was spending time with his dear brother.
"Jeez...it's not that surprising." The orange haired started.
"It is!" The rest said in unison.
Akito only grimaced at the reaction - he couldn't understand why they were acting that way. Like seriously...I hung out with him outside of school a bunch. Why is it such a big deal now...
"Can't I just enjoy a day with Tsukasa-senpai? It's not everyday that he gets to go the aquarium." Akito mumbled. The three looked at him with a curious face - though An's face was more like a smirk, almost as if she was hinting something.
"Seriously what's with that reaction..? Akiyama had the same face during lunch."
"Whatever! Just take tons of pictures alright? I haven't been to the aquarium in ages~" An chirped, picking up the dishes in front of them.
"...You sound like Ena."
"Ahaha! That's a compliment to me! I love your sister!!"
Thursday Evening
Akito
Yo, Senpai. (23:34PM)
Tsukasa-senpai
Good evening, Akito! Is there something I can help you with? (23:34PM)
Akito
Nah, just wanted to let you know where we should meet up.
I'm thinking the station. Is that cool with you? (23:35PM)
Tsukasa-senpai
That's fine with me Akito! What time would you like to meet up? (23:38PM)
Akito
It'll take a while to go there, so how about 7? That way we get about an hour to walk around before heading to the aquarium." (23:40PM)
Read.
Akito stared at his phone with a smile. He never thought that planning to go to the aquarium with Tsukasa could make him so restless. Waiting for a response, Akito decided to go to the kitchen for a late night snack. As he walked to the kitchen - phone in hand, he saw Ena sketching at the table. Didn't seem like she noticed him.
"...Yo."
Ena looked up and only hummed in response. "We got anything in the fridge to eat?" Akito asked checking his phone.
"Hah? Go look at it yourself."
"Tch. Whatever." He mumbled, now feeling pretty annoyed.
Ena only rolled her eyes as Akito walked over to the fridge. He heard her mumbled that he was being lazy, so in response he bumped into her chair, startling her. "HEY! I'm drawing here!!" she yelped, turning to face Akito who stuck out his tongue in response. She was about to kick him, when he felt his phone buzz and immediately checked it.
Tsukasa-Senpai
I apologize for the late response Akito! I was saying goodnight to Saki and we ended up having a conversation.
That sounds like a great time to meet up. I cannot wait to spend the day together! I hope it'll be Sunday soon." (23:53PM)
Akito
Don't worry about it. 'Kay, 7 it is. I'll make sure to remind you the day before our hangout. See you at school tmr Senpai. Night. (23:53PM)
Tsukasa-Senpai
Goodnight Akito, sleep well. (23:54PM)
Akito sighed, not one from stress, but rather from content. His face displayed one of pure bliss. He completely forgot that he was annoyed with Ena - who was staring at him with a judgmental look. Still, she kicked his leg, causing him to almost topple over. Akito quickly turned his head towards her, but she just scoffed and grabbed her stuff, then finally went to her room.
"Ugh....so annoying." He mumbled, looking at the messages one last time, before smiling once more. He opened the fridge and found some leftover shortcake and decided to treat himself for a successful day.
Friday Morning
"Ah, Akito!" a voiced called out behind him.
"Morning, Senpai." Akito replied - his former tired face, instantly turning into one that would be considered soft to others. "It's rare for me to see you here this early! Do you have class duty?" Tsukasa asked, tilting his head, to which Akito felt his chest tighten at the action. "Y-ahem yeah. I do." he replied, putting his arm behind his neck and wondering why it felt so warm.
"I see! Would you like any help? I have time before I need to greet the students!" Tsukasa offered, once again, flashing that bright smile that made Akito feel so...weak.
Akito only nodded, afraid he'll stumble upon his words again. Jeez...why does my face feel so warm whenever Tsukasa-senpais around...? Shaking the thought from his head, the two began to walk to the juniors classroom - talking about future shows and performances that their groups may do in the future.
"Hehe, I'm glad I could talk to you like this Akito!" Tsukasa suddenly said, his face softening as he helped Akito set up his classroom.
"Ah...yeah, me too." Akito flushed, almost writing the wrong date at the sudden look.
"I'm very excited for Sunday! The Kyoto Aquarium has been one of the places I've longed to go to for years!"
"Years?"
"Mhm! I've always loved marine life, but I've never had the chance to go. I was always busy with piano rehearsals and recitals." The blond started. After a pause, he continued.
"I also...refused to go anywhere that was too far from home during middle school. Perhaps I was too worried that something may happen to Saki and I wouldn't get to the hospital in time...though if Saki heard me say this, she would say I deserved to enjoy my life more.." the blond admitted, trailing off near the end.
Akito only stared, unsure of what to say.
"Aha...! Never mind me Akito...I just wanted to get it off my chest." Tsukasa said, giving Akito a rather sad smile.
The junior grimaced at the reaction. He didn't like how Tsukasa's eyebrows were furrowed, how his eyes were closed, and how his toothy grin that didn't give off his usual brilliance.
"...I don't mind Senpai. I hope we have fun on Sunday." Akito mumbled, but loud enough for the blond to hear. Tsukasa's face lit up and he nodded. His sad expression, suddenly turning back to his usual bright one, which was enough for the room to lighten up. Akito tilted his head in response with a soft smile towards his Senior.
"Senpai, don't you need to greet the students now?"
"Ah! You're right! Thank you Akito! Please have a wonderful day to- oh! If you're not against this request, would you like to eat lunch together?" Tsukasa asked, right before he left the classroom, standing at the doors, with a rather pleading expression.
Akito smiled once again, "Yeah. I wouldn't mind." The both of them unaware of how soft and gentle his voice sounded.
Tsukasa smiled and waved goodbye, rushing to the front of the school.
Akito only went to the windows and watched Tsukasa from the building with a soft gaze.
He only stopped when he heard An and Nene greet him from the door.
Friday Afternoon
"Oi! Tenma! Some guy named Shinonome is here for you!"
Akito frowned at that, if this guy was going to refer to him like that, he could've called out Tsukasa himself. Though that annoyance quickly faded when Tsukasa appeared in his vision.
"My dear Akito! What a surprise! I was going to meet you at the courtyard."
"Eh, I was already walking in this direction, thought I might as well go get you anyways." Akito said, ignoring the fact that he rushed out his classroom to surprise Tsukasa.
"Fufu.."
Akito's relaxed manner immediately tensed up when he heard that chuckle. Glancing his eyes at his other senior that showed up behind Tsukasa, he gave a scowl.
"Shinonome-kun, it's quite unusual for you to come up to the 3rd years classroom willingly." Rui said, with his usual cat like smile. Though it seems like he was hinting something like An and Mizuki - to which, made Akito feel pissed.
"Literally, not that surprising." The junior replied, trying to defend himself. Sure, Tsukasa-senpai can annoy me sometimes, but its not like I hate the dude..jeez.
Rui only chuckled at that reaction, whereas Tsukasa remained oblivious. Akito scowled some more at that reaction and grabbed Tsukasa's wrist.
"C'mon Tsukasa-senpai." Akito said, before dragging the blond with him. "Eh??? Akito???" Tsukasa yelped, super confused about what was happening. Rui only looked at the two as they walked away with a shocked expression.
"...Could Shinonome-kun...no..that's not my area to investigate." Rui mumbled with a now serious expression, before Taniyama tackled him from behind.
--
"Akito, what was that all about?" Tsukasa asked.
The two boys were sitting on their usual bench, where Tsukasa placed the bento on his lap while Akito pulled out a sandwich from a plastic bag.
"Don't know, don't really care." The orange haired replied, noticing how he didn't feel as pissed when Rui was around. "Just Kamishiro-senpai pissing me off." Tsukasa only hummed at that response - more concerned at the food Akito was eating.
"Akito...that's not all you're eating is it..?"
"Uh...yeah, just a sandwich and this soda."
"?! You need to eat a more balanced meal! A sandwich and a drink is not enough!" The blond said with a serious tone and angry expression- to which Akito thought, Heh, cute.
The junior instantly erased that thought and only stared at the blond. "It's..really not that bi-" Akito started, but immediately was shushed by Tsukasa's finger. Akito felt a thump in his chest - which made his neck feel warm again.
"No, no, no! It is a big deal Akito! You're always practicing, so you need to make sure to eat a more balanced meal! If you're only relying on a sandwich and soda for lunch everyday - I should start making you a bento instead!"
Akito once again, only stared. Tsukasa was way too close and said his words with lots of passion. He's aware that his senior always wants the people he cares about to eat properly, but, right now the only thing Akito can focus on was how soft Tsukasa's finger felt against his lips. He can't help but wonder - why he keeps having these thoughts.
"Y..you don't have to do that Tsukasa-senpai.." Akito started, gently using his free hand to push Tsukasa back - which along, lifted up the finger against his lips. "If..it makes you feel better, I'll...start making my lunch too.." he said slowly, he really didn't want to stumble on his words again - though he was confused as to why he was stumbling to begin with.
Tsukasa only grinned at that response, "Mhm! It's important for you to eat properly Akito! So! For now, I'll share my precious luncheon with you!"
Akito only smiled back, "You're still calling it that?" he teased.
The blond pouted at that, causing Akito to chuckle. He really did find Tsukasas reactions amusing.
Friday Night
Two more days until the aquarium. Akito thought, staring at the ceiling.
Ena and his mom were in the dining room talking about whatever, while he was sitting on the couch - head hanging off the top of the couch.
I wonder why Tsukasa-senpai...has been making me feel so different lately. My body always feels warm when he's nearby. His reactions always make me...happy..? Not only that.. whenever he smiles...
A loud groan escaped from his mouth - making his mom and Ena jump from the sudden noise. "Jeez, what's up with you?" Ena asked from the table. No response from the younger brother. Ena only sighed from that and went back to rendering the pastries Airi sent her the other day.
Their mom only giggled before going to the couch Akito was sitting at. Akito felt the sudden shift on the couch and turned his head towards his mom - head still on the top of the couch.
"What's going on with you Akito? Lately, Ena said you've been acting weird."
"MOM!"
Akito only rolled his eyes at Ena's voice before looking back at his mom. "...Nothing."
His mom only shook her head, "Akito, I know when you're lying. If its something serious, I promise to help you."
He only hummed in response. Ena as well, stopped doodling to listen in.
"it's nothing bad I guess. Just...wondering why this person keeps...making me feel different." he admitted, ears turning red in the process.
No response from either of his family members, which caused him to feel embarrassed. "Augh, nevermind. Forget about it, I'm going to my room." He angrily mumbled, hopping off the couch, ignoring how his mom reached out to him.
"Do you like this person or something?" Ena blurted - causing Akito to stop in his tracks.
"Hah? What do you mean? Are you trying to piss me off?"
"Obviously not, but you get pissed off too easily anyways."
The two siblings only stared at each other with an angry and annoyed expression.
"Alright you two, enough. Ena stop teasing your brother and Akito don't jump to conclusions so quickly!" Their mom said, going to each of her kids and smacking the top of their heads as a punishment.
"Yes mom...." the two reluctantly replied.
Their mom only sighed before sitting down with Ena and asking her about her drawings - trying to keep the tension down. Ena immediately began to talk about her art piece to her mom with a happy tone, forgetting about Akito. He only rolled his eyes, but smiled at how Ena seemed more at ease when art was brought up. He quickly went into his room and closed his door.
Normally, he would get ready for bed, especially since it was only an hour until Saturday. Yet...
Do you like this person or something?
It was only a few minutes ago, but those words kept repeating in Akito's head. He rubbed his neck and felt it was warm again.
"Seriously....it's not that.."
Shaking his head, Akito decided to scroll on his phone for music inspiration until he fell asleep.
Saturday Afternoon
"Fuck...." Akito groaned, rolling over in his bed and covering his eyes with his arm. The lights peeking through his blinds weren't helping with his bad mood. He already missed his run due to sleeping too late and hearing Ena talking to her circle loudly through the night - causing him to oversleep some more. He was also aware that he had some missed calls, probably from Toya and them asking if he was free to hangout today.
Lifting his arms, he turned towards his phone which was placed on his pillow. He reached for it when suddenly his phone rang.
"...Might as well" he mumbled, reaching for the phone and looking at the name that popped up. To his surprise it was Tsukasa - making him sit upright on his bed and clear his throat.
"...Hello?" Akito answered.
"AKITOOOOOO!" he heard, completely unaffected by the loud voice in his ears. He only chuckled and asked, "What's up Tsukasa-senpai?"
"Oh nothing! I just wanted to call because I'm very excited for tomorrow!"
"Ehh, is that so?"
"Mhm! Are you excited too Akito?!"
Akito now a little aware, noticed how his body relaxed at the question - or rather...the person asking the question. He couldn't hold back his soft smile, "Yeah...I am."
He heard Tsukasa's laugh and his face grew even more softer. His eyelids halfway closed and with a large warm grin. Akito brought one of his legs to his chest and rested his arm on it - bringing his free hand to hold the side of his face. Sighing contently, the words, "I really...can't wait to see you tomorrow," escaped from his mouth.
Realizing what he said, Akito felt his face flush and furrowing his eyebrows he tried to fix his sentence, but Tsukasa interrupted him,
"I also can't wait to see you Akito! It's going to be lots of fun!" Tsukasa said in a happier tone, oblivious to the true meaning behind Akito's words.
Akito only hummed, hearing a notification from his phone. He quickly looked at it and saw it was a text from Toya asking if he was okay.
"Yeah...it is. Sorry Tsukasa-senpai, I gotta go. I forgot to call Toya back."
"Ah! No worries Akito! I only called to share my excitement, have a wonderful rest of your day!"
"You too." He replied before hanging up. He stared at his phone, which was now off and reflected his flushed face on the black screen. He was still leaning into his free hand - which was now gripping his hair from his earlier outburst.
The words Ena asked him yesterday began to repeat in his mind.
Do I like...
Before his thought could finish, his phone rang, showing Toyas name and profile. He sighed and answered,
"Sup Toya?"
"Akito, is everything alright? We've been trying to reach you for a few hours..."
Akito could hear the worry in his friends voice and he only sighed, before finally hopping out of bed.
"Yeah, I'm good. Just overslept - woke up about 10 minutes ago."
"Oh, that's unusual...are you sure everything is fine?"
"Yeah. Anyways, what's up?"
"Ah...we, Shiraishi, Azusawa, and I were planning on going to the arcade with Akiyama, Kusunagi, and Otori-san, if you would like to come."
Akito was about to refuse, really not in the mood to deal with people - but ultimately, he didn't want to think more about Ena's words from last night.
"...Sure."
"Alright, I'll send you the address and time. Do you want to meet up at the crosswalk?"
"I'm fine what that."
"Okay, I'll see you later then Akito."
"Yeah. See ya."
He sighed once again, and opened his room door only to find Ena dear with a knocking position.
"Oh, you're awake now." She said, with an unamused face, but rather concerned tone.
"What about it? Don't you wake up way later than this?" Akito replied rather sharply. Ena only raised her eyebrow at the reaction, "Jeez what's up with you?"
"Nothing."
"Hmph, if you don't want to tell me, be my guest. I don't really care. I'm only here because mom wanted me to check on you."
Akito only groaned and bumped his shoulders against Ena.
"Hey! You could at least say excuse me, jeez...not my fault you woke up on the wrong side of the bed."
"Kinda is."
"Hah? What do you mean by that?"
Ena followed Akito into the kitchen, where their mom was cooking some lunch. She nodded at her son who was covering his ears from Ena's questions.
"Ena, leave your brother alone - he clearly doesn't want to talk right now~"
"Ughh, fine! I'm just trying to figure out why he's blaming me for his poor sleep today!"
Akito rolled his eyes and turned towards his sister, who jumped a bit from the sudden reaction.
"It's because of your stupid words from last night. Not only that, I could hear you talking to your circle last night. Also didn't mom tell you to quiet down with the scary like singing??"
Ena only stared with widen eyes, before turning on her signature catlike smile. "Hehhhh, so you do like this person!"
If his red ears didn't show it earlier - his flushed cheeks clearly did now. "I'm heading out."
"Eh? What about lunch Akito?" His mom asked turning around, pinching Ena's cheek for her stifled laughter.
"Its fine. I'm going out with Toya and them in a bit. I'll eat with them instead." He said, turning to go to the bathroom for a quick shower.
Ena rubbed her cheeks after her mom let it go, "Ow..mom why did you do that?!"
"It's for teasing your little brother too much!" her mom replied before turning back to the stove.
Ena only sighed before helping her with any extra vegetables that needed to be cut - making a noise at the carrots she saw.
--
"Akito...are you sure you're alright?" Toya looked at his friend with concern. The moment he saw him at the crosswalk, he noticed how the orange haired boy was slouching and had a grumpy expression on his face. When he greeted him as well, Akito only mumbled a hey before walking off towards the direction of the arcade. Toya could only follow behind.
"Yeah, my bad Toya, just Ena pissing me off as usual." he scoffed, squinting his eyes at the sunlight above him.
"I see..." his friend hummed, used to their dynamic. "Well, hopefully the arcade can help you lighten up a bit Akito. I heard there's a collaboration character that Akiyama wanted to try and win." Akito only nodded in response, signaling he wasn't in the mood to talk, Toya didn't take any offense and took the moment to take in the silence in their walk.
The two continued to walk until they reached the arcade, to which they saw Emu and Nene waiting for them outside.
"Ah!! It's Akito-kun and Toya-kun!!! Good afterwonderhoy!" Emu greeted, doing her signature gestures. Toya reflected the gesture while Akito only nodded. Nene only gently waved at the two, before signaling for all of them to meet the other three inside.
"Look who finally made it!" Mizuki said once the group walked in - clearly talking about Akito. In response he stuck out his tongue and rolled his eyes. "Haha! What's with that reaction Lil' bro?" she giggled going up to the boy and gently patting his shoulder.
Akito only mumbled a nothing before taking Mizuki's hand off his shoulder and walking to An and Kohane who were paying for their game cards.
"Woahh, what's up with him?" Mizuki mumbled to Toya. The blue haired boy only shrugged his shoulder and followed along. Nene and Emu only observed the interaction before copying the others.
"Alright guys! Let's aim to win as many prizes we can today!" An said the moment they walked in the game area. Kohane and Emu raised their hands in agreement - while Nene and Toya were already eyeing a fighting game to play against each other. Meanwhile, Mizuki was practically dragging Akito to one of the crane games that consisted of her favorite character Mia.
"Heheh, today lil' bro we're going to win every single Mia-chan!! She is the cutest character after all~"
"You mean you right."
"So mean~ can't you help out your dear friend lil Akito-kun~~~" the pinked hair girl teased, batting her eyelashes towards the taller boy.
"Never call me that again." He grunted, moving towards the crane machine. Mizuki appeared besides him to cheer him on. Akito swiped his card and began to move the joystick around.
"Which one is Mia again?"
"Eh?! You couldn't have asked me that before you swiped your card?! Aough!! She's this one!!"
"Yeah, yeah, whatever." moving the joystick to the plushie that Mizuki pointed at. He adjusted the crane a bit, hoping to land it first try to not waste any more credits needed. He could hear Mizuki whispering, "Please please grab it!!!"
Akito decided to risk it and pressed the button. He hoped that all those crane hack videos he watched were worth it. The two watched as the crane lowered towards the Mia plushie and tensed up when it grabbed it. Mizuki grabbed Akito's shoulder harshly to which the boy could only wince at the sudden strength. They watched as the crane came closer and closer to the hole and -
"LET'S GO!!!!" Mizuki yelled finally letting go of Akito's shoulder and going down to the door to retrieve her beloved Mia plushie.
"A warning would be nice next time," Akito grumbled, rubbing his shoulder - though he didn't really mean any rude intent behind it. He could feel his earlier annoyance fade away as Mizuki laughed.
Perhaps it was worth going to the arcade.
"Oh, congrats Akiyama-san!" Kohane suddenly said, appearing behind the duo. Emu and An were behind her - playing some sort of dancing game.
"Ehehe~ Thank you Kohane-chan! Though, you really gotta say good job to Lil' bro, he's the one who won this!"
"Didn't I say to stop calling me that..."
Kohane only giggled as the two began to playfully bicker. "Anyways, Akiyama-san, Aoyagi-kun and Kusunagi-san said that they actually won some more items featuring your favorite character for you!"
Mizuki's eyes lit up at that and immediately went to the area that Kohane pointed at to go thank Toya and Nene.
Akito only watched before turning around on his heel to look around the arcade. He noticed Kohane walking beside him so he slowed down his pace a bit. His footsteps led him to the crane machines featuring a bunch of different characters and animals.
"Shinonome-kun look! It's a corn snake plushie!"
"Huh, that's cool."
"Mhm! I'm going to try it out!" the pigtailed girl said, running up to the machine with Akito following behind her. He mumbled a good luck before pulling out his phone just to check the time. He saw a notification from Ena, but chose to ignore it. He continued to scroll through his notifications until he saw Tsukasa sent him something about 30 minutes ago.
Akito didn't notice the big grin that appeared on his face.
He quickly opened the message and saw it was a few pictures of Tsukasa hanging out with a girl who looked kinda like him - so he assumed it was his little sister. He looked through the pictures and noticed that they were at the mall.
The first picture was of Tsukasa and his sister posing together with some sort of mascot. The two of them had a bunny eared headband on and both of them were winking with a big smile.
Akito smiled at that, oblivious to the fact that Kohane was struggling to get the plushie.
He swiped to the second picture which was the two siblings at the food court. This time the selfie was taken by his sister who had a peace sign next to her face and closed eyes with a bright smile. Tsukasa was in the background, sitting at the table with a curry plate in front of him.
Akito chuckled at that because it looked like Tsukasa was caught off guard, so he kind of looked like a deer in headlights. The expression on Tsukasa's face caused Akitos eyelids to softly squint at the picture. Kohane noticed how Akito's face changed to something softer in the reflection of the crane machine, she was curious - but too focused on trying to get the snake plushie.
Before Akito could swipe to the third picture, he glanced up to check on Kohane and saw the others walking in their direction, so he quickly texted Tsukasa saying he'll look at the rest later.
"Yoo! What are you guys trying to win?" An asked, increasing her pace to stand besides Kohane.
"Kohane's been trying to win that snake figure for a bit." Akito replied, bringing both of his arms behind his head. Nene cringed at that action, but was quickly tackled by Emu who jump on her back.
Toya went up to Kohane and Akito could hear him offering to do it for her instead - to which Kohane accepted with an apology. Mizuki and Emu (after she hopped off Nene) also decided to go to the other three and watched as Toya moved the joystick with confidence.
"Damn, Akiyama won a bit of stuff." Akito mumbled, before glancing at the mint haired girl who stayed beside him. Nene could feel his eyes on her so she turned her head to look at him.
"Yeah, it was fun winning them for her.." she said twirling with the ends of her hair. The orange haired boy only nodded, as the two began to walk towards the others who were cheering at Toya's win.
--
"Eyahh! The arcade was soo much fun!" Mizuki said stretching with her bags in hand. "Thank you Toya-kun and Kusunagi-san for helping me win all the merch of Mia-chan!!!"
The two mentioned only nodded, though Nene was a little flustered at the appreciated. As everyone began to conversate as they were walking to a restaurant, Akito decided to take this time to look at the remaining pictures that Tsukasa sent him.
Opening his phone, he swiped to the third picture, which consisted of Tsukasa holding a book to his face covering his mouth. Despite this, Akito knew how happy he was based off how his eyebrows furrowed and the little tears coming out the corner of his eyes. Akito's face grew fonder as he swiped to the fourth picture.
This time it was Tsukasa in a fitting room posing with his usual outfit. Akito figured it was a before and after type situation so he went ahead and swiped to the fifth picture - which was taken by someone else, to which Akito assumed it was his sister again.
Tsukasa held up a peace sign with his other hand in his pocket. This outfit's vibe was similar to the time Akito picked out an outfit for him along with Toya and Mizuki. Only this time, it was a black zip on hoodie with small white stars on the sleeve. He was also wearing a white collared shirt that wasn't buttoned up all the way to the top.
Akito felt his cheeks warm up as he stared at Tsukasa's collar bone for a second too long and forced himself to look at the rest of the outfit. He noticed the loose tie that Tsukasa was wearing and gulped - quickly moving his eyes to the pants the blond was wearing. It was ripped black jeans along with a small chain as a belt.
Akito learned a while ago that he really likes the street style on Tsukasa. With flushed cheeks he continued to look through the rest of the pictures which were different outfits. He noticed how Tsukasa was posing differently for each one, chuckling to himself he figured out that his senior and his sister treated it like a fashion show.
Nene looked back at Akito curiously, wondering what he was laughing at, only to see Shinonome with the fondest look ever. She looked at him with raised eyebrows, and slowed down to match his pace. Akito noticed movement from the corner of his eye and looked at the girl. Nene flinched at how he went back to his usual demeanor when he saw her.
"What's up Kusanagi?" he asked, putting his phone in his phone.
"Ah....just wondering why you're so quiet.." she mumbled, twirling with her hair again. Akito only shrugged, "Eh, just enjoying the silence I guess." Nene only nodded and looked down.
As they all reached the restaurant wondering what they should eat, the only thing on Akito's mind was wondering what outfit Tsukasa would wear tomorrow.
Saturday Night
"I can't believe it's almost Sunday Akito!" The orange haired boy smiled at the voice coming out of his phone as he looked through his closet.
"Yeah, me too." He replied, pulling out a white jacket with a moon print on it. He wondered if he should ask Tsukasa if he bought the first outfit, but shook the thought out of his head, feeling his neck go red as he remembered the outfit.
"I heard from Toya that you and the others went to the arcade today! Did you win anything?"
"I won one thing for Akiyama. That was about it."
"I see! It sounds like you had fun today Akito!"
"It wasn't bad," he paused, looking at the phone and rubbing his neck with his free hand.
..I think tomorrow would be more fun though...
"Hm? It sounds like you're quite trouble Akito, is something the matter?"
Akito only stared at his phone and slowly walked to it. He placed the jacket on his bed and debated if he should tell Tsukasa what he's been....dealing with lately.
"...I guess. It's not a big deal, but....lately I've been having mixed feelings about someo- something."
"I see...that does sound stressful to deal with Akito..hopefully our trip to the Aquarium will allow you to relax from it!"
The junior smiled at that, its clear Tsukasa wanted to try and help - but knew that the junior didn't like being pushed. It was a small detail that Tsukasa noticed and it made Akito feel warm.
"Yeah..I'm sure it will. Anyways, senpai, we have to get up early so I'm heading off."
"Ah! You're right! But before that...Akito, what do you plan on wearing tomorrow?"
Akito glanced at the jacket that laid on his bed.
"I'm gonna wear what I usually wear. What about you Tsukasa-senpai?"
"Ah...well, I decided to try out something different! A star has to shine brightly after all!"
"Cool. Alright then, goodnight."
"Goodnight dear Akito! I'll see you tomorrow morning."
After hanging up, Akito went back to his closet and got his outfit ready for the next day.
He didn't notice how he was softly smiling to himself as he got ready for bed.
Sunday Morning
Akito woke up at the sound of his alarm clock. It was 5am which was his usual time to wake up anyways, so he quickly hopped out of bed to go take a shower.
When he exited his room he saw Ena enter hers. The two exchange stares, not wanting to talk to one another. After all Akito was sure she was going to tease him for having a "crush" on somebody. Before he could turn away he heard a mumble from Ena saying,
"Have fun." as she closed her door.
Akito only stared at the door before sighing with relief. He quickly took a shower before heading back to his room to get ready.
He dried his hair, constantly styling it to make sure it looked good. He wasn't exactly sure why he was taking extra care of his appearance today, but something in him told him he had to.
"I wonder if I should eat something..." mumbling to himself as he patted his pants.
He quickly looked at himself in the mirror, inspecting his outfit..
If he doesn't wear that outfit, this is going to be embarrassing.
--
"Good morning Akito!"
Akito looked up from his phone at the sudden voice. He perked up from the wall he was leaning against and looked at the senior that was walking up to him.
"Morning senpai." Akito said, observing his senior's outfit. He smile grew as he realized that Tsukasa was wearing the outfit that he really liked. Tsukasa only stared back at his junior, a little confused, but ultimately happy.
"Well? How do I look Akito?! Do I look as bright as a star???" Tsukasa asked suddenly moving closer to Akito's face. Akito's breath hitched, aware of how little distance Tsukasa left. Akito recalled to the other day where it looked like stars were popping out of Tsukasa's eyes - to which he gulped once more at the memory.
"Yeah...you do. Senpai..you're a bit close."
"Ah! My apologies Akito! I'm just super excited to try out a new style in public!" the senior said with a bright smile jumping off a bit. He began posing in front of the junior, who rolled his eyes in a loving way. He continued to check out Tsukasa and forced himself to look away when he found himself staring at the blonds collar bone again.
"I must say Akito! Your outfit looks quite nice today as well!" Tsukasa suddenly said bringing his hand to his chin and tilting his head. He took a step back and looked at his juniors outfit.
It was a white jacket with a big black outline of a crescent moon that connected from his upper sleeve to the left side of his jacket. Akito was also wearing a black tee to go with it, along with white cargo pants and a chain belt that reflected Tsukasas.
Akito felt his body go hot, very happy with the sudden compliment. He really didn't understand why he reacted this way to Tsukasa only.
"Thanks..." he started, glancing at Tsukasa who was smiling.
"I...I actually tried matching your outfit..." Akito admitted softly. Tsukasa looked at Akito with surprised eyes before suddenly launching at his junior.
"?!"
"AKITOOOO YOU'RE SUCH A GOOD JUNIOR!!!!!!" Tsukasa exclaimed, tears coming out the corner of his eyes as his arm forced Akito to be eye level with him. Akito only stared with a pink face.
Holy fucking shit. He's so close?!??!
He cringed at his own thoughts, but he couldn't stop thinking about how close his senior's face was to his. "S-senpai." He coughed, forcing Tsukasa off of him gently. "Let's go..the trains almost here." Tsukasa's smile grew larger as he walked towards the platform, signaling Akito to follow him. With a flushed face, the orange haired boy followed him with a little pep in his step.
As they waited for the train to arrive, Akito couldn't help but glance at Tsukasa some more.
This outfit really does look good on him... A tug on his sleeve.
Not only that, he smells great..I mean. I guess he always does, but...today he smells even sweeter. Another tug.
...What the fuck am I thinking about???
Mentally slapping himself, he finally registered that Tsukasa was tugging on his sleeve. Looking down to the slightly shorter male, Akito was met with a warm gaze.
"Dear Akito, the train is here." the blond pointed out. As Tsukasa tugged Akito's sleeve to guide him to the train, Akito could only think about how softly Tsukasa said those simple words.
He could hear Ena's question from the back of his mind.
As the two of them walked into the train, it was noticeably empty. Quite surprising for a Sunday, but at least that means they get to sit down for a long train ride.
Tsukasa continued to tug Akito's sleeve to a seat in the corner and Akito let him. He couldn't help but think about holding Tsukasa's hand instead.
--
"We're finally here in Kyoto!" Tsukasa excitedly said hopping out of the train. He received a few glance due to his loud voice, but Akito only followed behind, more worried that the blond might trip due to his excitement.
As the two walked out of the station, Akito couldn't help but glance down towards the blond. He noticed how Tsukasa's hair was more fluffier than usual and how he had more energy in his walk today. Akito hummed at that, forcing himself to look ahead. He began to think back to the time where Mizuki and An had these faces on them whenever he mentioned going to the aquarium with Tsukasa. Normally he would forget about that, but Ena's question made him reflect back on everything.
Not just everything from the past couple of days, but in general.
Tsukasa's reactions to his teasing were so amusing, Shinonome couldn't help but continue. When the blond performed on stage, Akito couldn't help but stare. His senior's singing and personality made Akito feel so warm. That smile of Tsukasa's especially...made him feel so weak. He really didn't understand why the thought of Tsukasa, made his whole body so hot.
Did he really like him? Or was this just admiration?
Shinonome-kun, you're going to the Kyoto Aquarium with Tsukasa-san?!
jeez...it's not that surprising.
It is!
The sudden flashback with his members came across the juniors mind. Why did he feel the need to invite Tsukasa anyways? He was chatting with Mizuki before the blond appeared in his line of vision. Shinonome could've just ignored him and invited Mizuki instead. And yet...
He let out a sigh, which caused the blond to turn back to him.
"Akito? Is everything alright?"
Glancing at the blond, Akito noticed the hint of worry in his eyes. Akito only shook his head with furrowed eyebrows. "Nah, just..thinking about something." Tsukasa hummed not wanting to push it. He continued to walk, arms swaying by his side. The blond began to hum a song, to which Akito assumed it was either a new song WonderlandxShowtime created or one that his sister's band made.
The junior could feel his eyebrows relax at the sound of Tsukasa's voice. Seriously...why did he react this way?
"Senpai."
"Hm? Yes Akito?" the blond asked, turning around with that same smile that wanted to make Akito collapse on the ground. Gulping, the younger one pointed to a cafe across the street.
"Let's get something to eat.." he mumbled, bringing his hand to rubbed the back of his neck. He saw how Tsukasa's smile grow wider and nodded.
"That's a great idea Akito! Since you invited me out, allow me to treat you!" He said, putting his fist against his chest with a proud smile.
"You really don't have to Tsukasa-senpai, I'm the one who brought it up anyways."
"Nope! I won't take that answer Akito! As your amazing upperclassman, I will pay for our meal!" He flashed a bright smile towards his junior, and Akito accepted his defeat.
"...Fine, but I'm treating you next time we go out."
Tsukasa nodded and rushed to open the door for Akito the moment they reached the cafe.
If it was anyone else, Akito would've continued to argue, but....
Only Tsukasa could make him fold so easily.
--
"That was such a wonderful cafe Akito! Not only was the food delicious, but the prices were great!" Tsukasa said as the two of them began to walk towards the direction of the Aquarium.
Akito only nodded in agreement. Usually his mind would drift back to the food he just ate - usually fluffy pancakes or some sort of cheesecake, but this time the image of Tsukasa happily eating his breakfast set and parfait made him feel giddy. Akito could feel the thumping in his heart increase faster as he recalled the past event.
The way Tsukasa's eyes lit up when the food arrived at the table. The way he had a cute cat like smile as he chewed his food. Even the way Tsukasa kept trying to get him to try his crepes caused Akito's mind to go into a haze. Tsukasa was doing so much damage to him and to Akito...it wasn't really that bad.
I have to be getting sick or something... Akito thought as the two of them started to get closer to the aquarium. He noticed from the corner of his eye that Tsukasa's smile grew bigger and how his walking pace slowly started to increase. Almost as if he felt Akito's eyes on him, Tenma turned his head to look at his junior before squinting his eyes and flashing a small bright smile. Shinonome admired the view a little more before motioning his head towards the entrance of the Aquarium, signaling to Tsukasa that he could go faster if he wanted to.
It seems like Tsukasa got the message because he grabbed Akito's hand and dashed towards the Aquarium. The only thing in Akito's mind at that moment was literally everything about Tsukasa. The way Tsukasa's voice was telling Akito to hurry up, the warmth of Tsukasa's hand holding his, the way it was slightly smaller than his own, and...
I really want to hold onto this warmth forever...
Akito quickly pushed that thought away, but gripped onto Tsukasa's hand more tightly as they both approached the entrance. As Akito gave the tickets to the employee, he saw how Tsukasa pulled up a virtual map on his phone. Shinonome smiled at how prepared his senior was. It really showed how excited he was to hangout with Akito. The junior felt how the tension in his shoulders go away. He didn't want to think about Ena's question again, but Tenma really was making him feel strange.
Akito gripped at his shirt and frowned a bit. He hated dealing with confusing feelings and he especially didn't want to think about Tsukasa in any sort of negative way. It's not like he liked him or anything..but that thought made Akito's heart ached a bit. The orange haired boy bit his lip and looked down at the blond who turned to look back at him with that same warm grin. Shinonome forced himself to return the smile, even if this weird feeling was slowly killing him.
He didn't want to make Tsukasa's special day all about him.