Alright. I'll be waiting outside. [Leaving his hat atop the cash register, he stepped outside, hoping to at least enjoy the breeze until his hair was blown right in his face, prompting a dissatisfied little groan from the back of his throat. Pulling locks of hair aside, he rummaged through his pockets for the keys so he could lock up once Monika followed and then found the little slip with his shopping list.
He waited for something that would take a little bit more time to clear on foot. Knowing she'd been so happy to have a body that she'd gotten more than a fair sum of cardio in, Kisuke felt no guilt at all for making it that kind of date.
He only noticed a bit too later that someone scribbled 'Takoyaki' at the end of the list in haste. Ururu tried to copy Jinta's handwriting.]
[ Monika arrives a tad later than expected, mostly because she changed her clothes, putting on a white sundress and a hat. ]
I'm here!
[ She glances at the list and considers for a moment engaging in small talk-- But there's no point hiding what she knows. Or rather, what she suspects. ]
So... Is it a stealth date?
[ She had had the the three dates on her mind all the time after all, and he'd refused to plan out the dates beforehand. It was the logical conclusion-- At the very least, it was the logical conclusion for someone like Monika. ]
[Dressing down might have been an option for him but it certainly would have spoiled the surprise. Even so, he made it a point to not overthink the second date before the first was even underway.
If anything, Monika's smile, just as she sought out his intentions, prompted one out of him in return. He pinched his chin and stroked his stubble, pantomiming a wisened older man with little fuss.]
I didn't want either of us to be overthinking it though... I assume you caught on already, then.
[He brought just one canvas bag with him to guarantee it wouldn't be a bulky trip. The list and bag could be set aside for the moment as he brushed his fingers over Monika's wrist if only to gently urge her along with him down the street.]
Why don't we wander and see what catches your eye first?
Mhm! [Ehehe, it really was a date!] And don't worry, I'm not overthinking it. That part is already done.
[ The overthinking, that is. Because she sure as heck had spent a lot of time overthinking this whole thing. And she had reached a conclusion which she was about to share with him: ]
I already know there won't be a second "test" date.
[ The very idea of a "test" date was kind of silly, wasn't it? Either you were attracted to someone, either you weren't. In his specific case, she was fairly confident he was attracted to her. He wasn't the type who would "pity date" her and lead her on. So why go with something as silly as a test date? He'd already pretty much told her why last time. ]
You're just worried for me, right? [She cleared her throat.] "She doesn't know what she's getting herself into." [Yes, she'd just tried to imitate his voice. In an exaggerated and comical manner, but it was pretty good all the same.] "I'm not the right kind of person for her." [And a third time:] "If she knew what kind of twisted stuff arouses me she'd run away!"
[ She looked up at him and locked her arm with his. She was right on the money, wasn't she? ]
I'm going to pierce right through that armor of you and make sure you realize none of those things are true.
[ Truth to be told she was absolutely terrified that perhaps she was wrong, perhaps she'd misread the situation... But she wasn't going to show it. Faking confidence was of paramount importance right now! ]
[To say she was 'on the money' would be an understatement but his initial commitment to making those dates enjoyable for her was still present and strong even as he felt that barrier to welcoming her had already weakened before he even considered what they'd be doing for the first. Monika, with all her quirks intact, had been so pleasant that he couldn't turn her away with any reason other than his own crude traits in mind and she'd already made it clear she intended on weathering them.
To have her air his concerns out in the open spoke worlds of how sharp she was and he didn't seem at all interested in protesting. Instead, he smiled and gave her arm an affectionate little pinch.]
If you're hoping to settle your nerves, Monika, I must say that's a terrible way to go about it even as cute as it is.
[Really, she nailed his affectations near perfectly and to the point that he grew silently concerned that she'd kill at family get-togethers with that kind of material. Still, he could worry about that later. In the moment, he felt compelled to give her every opportunity to enjoy their first foray into that relationship without worries over whether or not the word 'success' had to be tied to it. In that, he supposed, he'd already lost his effort to protect her and instead wanted to soften the landing when she realized she already had him.]
After all, half of this is about you. If you're so worried about appealing to me, you'll forget the fun in being the other half of an equation. [With that, he offered her the canvas bag he'd been carrying for no reason other than to let her keep her hands busy while they walked.]
Now why would appealing to you somehow get in the way of my fun?
[ They would make a really terrible couple if so! Thankfully, it wasn't the case at all. She couldn't remember having ever had as much fun in her life... Nearly like the more determined he was to try and put a wall around himself, the more determined she got.
She got on her tiptoes and poked his nose. ]
I'm having lots of fun right now, after all~!
[ Doing that though made her realize how taller than her he was... She would have to put on some heels or find a trick if they did end up dating. It couldn't be convenient for kissing if there was too much of a height difference. ]
Are you though? [She took the bag and smiled at him.] You're half of that equation too... Though I have to say, I really don't like talking of love in mathematical terms, ahaha.
[Though, he wasn't happy to leave it there, even if it sounded like a retreat. In earnest, he'd find a way to steer her selfishness. While she might have worried about her aggressiveness at first, Kisuke didn't find it undesirable. Anything in extreme amounts was unhealthy but, really, there were helpful doses--
Of course, it would be inexcusable to bring that up on a first date. Just, subtly, he'd set the thought aside for later. In the middle of his introspection, she poked his nose and earned a quizzical look in return for it. Dressed up and in a fantastic mood, he might have argued that it was going wonderfully already. If getting to go out at all with him was a win then that condition might have been filled but, even so... he was an overachiever. A glance down the street and he caught sight of a few garish signs. Sales, events. Plenty to fill a couple hours of time when plenty to spare for groceries.]
You don't? I like the metaphor, ironic as it may seem. Want to wager why?
[He didn't think of it as a trap of a question but rather, something he'd need to answer for, himself. There were many unequal things in the world but if he were to give Monika more of himself to see?]
[ Oh gosh, a guess. She would go with a math pun, but... Unfortunately, mathematics-driven puns have never been her forte. So instead, she figures an honest answer is the way to go: ]
Mhm... [She sighs and shrugs.] Is the answer going to be something of a message to convince me you're bad for me?
[ That's what it's going to be, isn't it? Hopefully she's wrong... But if she's not, at least she won't be taken aback. She can't imagine he's going to give up that easily. If he really thinks he's the worst possible boyfriend for her, he's not going to let it go like that.
With another woman, it might even work. Alas, Monika is unlike them all. ]
[While it wasn't a response that could shock him anymore, Kisuke found himself a little disappointed with his own judgment. Perhaps he'd been too strict with their guidelines before--giving Monika a set of rules that she'd want to combat in earnest. Though, really, he didn't think that was an entirely undesirable outcome. Strange as it was, it was flattering. A reminder that she had a rather incredible will when it came to hardship even when she was feeling down on herself.
Shaking his head, he offered her a rather devious smile.]
I should be more outgoing if that's your first inclination. No, it's rather tepid, you see.
[He cleared his throat--a dangerous signal for anyone not so keen as Monika to hear him out.]
An equation needs to be balanced on both sides, right? Both halves share the same answer. So, regardless of complexity, a proper equation is always a reflection whether you're on one side or the other. That said...?
[Though, it coaxed him into slowing down, hushing his voice just a little more before lifting his fingers to guide Monika's chin up to meet his gaze.]
I'm sorry if I've put you on edge, Monika. Please, don't spend this time on the precipice of defeat.
[ Clearly he is right as far as the mathematical aspect of this is concerned. His devious smile confirms it. But she can absolutely turn this around. Maths aren't the point here, are they? She's told him before, she doesn't like to think of it as an equation.
And if this battle cannot be won, then she shall not fight it. Instead, she will claim victory and dare him to call her bluff. ]
I've already won and you know it. [She leans forward as he guides her chin up.] And honestly, it's a victory for you too.
[ Three dates? Pah. They haven't even begun their first date and here they are, arguing like lovers would. If he disagrees with her conclusion, he's free to say so. But... ]
That means you get a devoted and loyal girlfriend~! [A pause.] One who is more than happy to try any fancy you have-- Even the weird and twisted ones.
[ Now now, of course she's totally not as confident as she pretends to be. Just the idea of sex is still pretty scary, so beyond that... But that doesn't mean she doesn't want it. And she most certainly doesn't mind trying whatever he wants! And that's what matters. That he knows she's open-minded. ]
But more importantly-- One who treats love very seriously.
[ She closes an eye and smiles triumphantly at him. He could shut her off with but a word. But she doesn't believe he will. She doesn't want to believe it. That's a bluff, perhaps. But one she intends to win with. ]
Hm. [To say he sounded pleased would be an understatement. For better or worse, her confidence was important to him. Even if they parted, if she could hold onto that feeling then he might have found himself a better influence than he'd ever been elsewhere. Still, it would be calling for defeat to think too far in that direction, so he cut the thought short and followed her track to the letter.]
Now, I can't have you trying too hard to please me so soon.
[Though he wouldn't point out where he thought her limits were when it came to intimacy, he'd certainly put the slightest buffer to it when they were strolling out on the sidewalk. Certainly, one could construe it as embarrassment on his part but moreover, he just didn't want to fry her nerves by going along even if it was absolutely tempting.
There was, of course, that momentary glimmer in his eye that she was sure to spot--the hint that he wanted to corner her with that trail she'd left for him and make her question the time and place to bluff with him. Instead of biting, his smile softened for her and he let her free of his touch for a little while longer.
A part of him settled at the moment. That was it, he supposed. Beyond her confident declaration of victory and the smile she wielded as a sword and shield in equal parts, he realized there wasn't even a competition to have anymore. Still, there was no joy in resting on one's laurels. Seeing her best efforts would surely be enough to make him quell his regret with something finer.]
So, rather than thinking so far ahead, why don't you tell me what you'd like to have for dinner? Since you're keen on your victory, I'd imagine you've considered your victory feast? It wouldn't hurt to get it prepared.
[ Monika has to contain herself very hard because right there and now, she feels like exploding from joy. She's done it, hasn't she? They're officially a couple! She's managed to fight back every of his attempts at putting himself down or painting himself in the worst possible way.
Of course, that was the natural conclusion. The power of love reigned supreme, after all! Though much as she loved saying cheesy things like that, deep down she knew there was no such thing as a "power of love." Love on its own couldn't have made this dream into a reality without a lot of determination and persistence.
She leaned against his shoulder, beaming at him. ]
Something vegetarian, of course. [Not that she'll force him to eat vegetarian (she'll just gently try to nudge him in that direction), but she's very strict with her diet. Most of the time. Hopefully he's never caught her eating junk food on evenings when she was feeling morose.] How about spaghetti? Only one big dish for the two of us.
[ Now that might sound unusual... But it's leading in the exact direction one might expect from Monika. ]
The spaghetti scene in Lady and The Tramp is something I've always dreamed of reenacting.
[For all the diversity in Monika's efforts to catch up on every experience and taste when it came to food, Kisuke had begun to realize that telling her what his favorite food was almost seemed like a tragic waste of centuries of experience. Umeboshi onigiri--for all the comfort it gave him on a rough day, it was just adjacent to natto when it came to being basic and old-fashioned, wasn't it?
Perhaps he was overthinking dinner, as he did with everything else. The crease of his smile seemed to relax somewhat with Monika's growing confidence, feeling each little bump of her shoulder against his and the way she made every effort to be in his space, right up to the point that he took her wrist in his hand with a gentle hint of possessiveness as if to allow her that chance to gloat, to herself or however, she preferred. While he wished he should share her genuine enthusiasm for anything in the world, there were simply too many things hanging on him to let him bask in what was otherwise a moment of pure fondness and admiration for her.]
It's very cute, certainly, and I haven't had Italian in a while. After the Udon festival, you kind of rethink carbs, right? [Not to mention a logistical nightmare. Dissecting something meant to be light-hearted and cute was simply par for course when it came to Kisuke as he imagined he'd have to devise an attracting element to the one noodle of spaghetti they'd want to use. Would it be better to use some sort of compound to bind each noodle with its own reactive frequency so that the second person to pick up their fork would--]
[ She's not going to gloat, who does he take her for? Well, maybe a little bit... But discreetly! She won't expose their pure(?) and innocent(??) love for the world to see until she knows he's okay with her screaming at everyone he's now her boyfriend.
... In time, in time. ]
Super accurate, of course~!
[ That includes the spaghetti kiss, yes yes.
In fact that's the only reason she wants to do it. The music would be nice, but so long as she gets her kiss she'll be happy. Sure, maybe it's a bit early in their relationship for a kiss... It's not very serious to kiss that early, is it? And if she was to be like the typical love interests in video games, she should be blushing and stuttering like crazy at the mere idea of kissing so soon...
... To heck with that! She'll blush, yes, but she'll have her kisses! ]
[While Monika preferred to bask in the moment of victory she deserved, Kisuke took it as an opportunity to let the creative juices flow. Of course, the shochu he was going to pick up would grease the wheels along somewhat but in the interest of giving Monika at least one incredibly gratifying experience turning fiction into reality, he knew he'd have to buckle down and crunch numbers.
In the meanwhile, he spared her a warm little smile and interrupted that thought of hers with a damning question.]
Before that, though, do you have any other ambitious scenes in mind? While I enjoy letting you keep your cards close to your chest... [As he couldn't help but admire her sharper nature and the playful acting she indulged herself in so often.
Except in the moment, of course. The sappy smile cutting into her cheeks couldn't have been more obvious.] I like being prepared! Well. Reasonably so.
[ Any other scenes? Oh goodness. That was a big question, wasn't it? ]
Any other? Well, um... [She laughs awkwardly.] If I start listing them, we'll be there till tomorrow morning you know.
[ She is absolutely serious. Not all of them are scenes from fictions, most are just things she's imagined and hope to experience someday. Her time inside the game had felt like an eternity, and while she'd been all alone in that digital nightmare, such dreams had been the only thing keeping her going.
Regardless, she lets go of him and cants her head to the side to look at him. ]
But in this specific case... [Her face is redder than red now, isn't it? Gosh, she hates it so much! She's going to turn out being just like the one-dimensional girl she despises in dating sims at this rate, hmpg!] Do you think it's too early for a first kiss?
[For a little while, she seemed to settle happily on that thought but there was a moment's turn and he stilled somewhat at the realization that it was a bit more determined than usual.
So, whether or not she put on a good act to keep it bottled up during the day--the moment she had him alone, so to speak, it was all coming bubbling up. It was still better than her being cooped up in a database or hanging on the back end of a server but he couldn't help but feel it was something he could have worked on.
Everyone was lonely, one way or another, but hardly anyone could truly say they were stuck on an island in the middle of nowhere.]
Oh? Well, there's a problem in that. Those movies always seem to make it look flawless--not one blemish to the thing you want to see most.
...It takes a bit more practice than that.
[It might have been mean to try to disarm her that way and lay on the expectation that he'd turn her down but he was ever the 'sink or swim' type. The crease of his canvas bag followed as he tucked it under his arm, finding Monika's hip with his hand so he could draw her in close and kiss her. 'Practice' was one word to use but he wasn't taking it too easy on it--subjecting her to that feeling of being closed in on by someone with strength in their hands and the scratch of stubble touching her cheek.
It was his best effort to use a bit of his meaner side to stun her.]
She wasn't sure what she had expected. But that most certainly had not been this. So far, she had really been in control. She had thought about this date so much and prepared herself so well to make sure he wouldn't let his misconception on "what's right" for her get in the way of their feelings. And it had gone beyond even her wildest expectations.
But now? She had lost control over everything. In spite of her posturing as more mature and knowledgeable than she was, it was now revealed that at the end of the day... She knew nothing. Only what she'd read, what she'd imagined and dreamed of. She had zero experience. ]
I-I... [She looked at him with confusion before looking to the side.] Ahaha... I'm really just all talk, huh?
[ And yet... While her old self would have probably found this scary? She found it oh-so enticing. Oh-so intoxicating and wonderful? For him to hold her like that, with strength and passion, to pull her so close and push his lips against her... ]
What does it say about me... That I wish we would keep practicing?
[He wasn't unaffected. Even with a wealth of experience, for better or worse, there was still something different about closing that particular gap with someone he'd grown familiar with and fond of. Monika had been different in incalculable degrees but in every way that was lovely, she was very familiar. She paid him so much focus that she'd grown used to his littlest affectations and become accustomed to navigating them but there were still a number of cues he hadn't shown her, not because he didn't want to, but because there was ever that 'time and place' to consider.
As much as he liked to pretend to be overly flirtatious, it was patently untrue that he genuinely was. With every intent to appreciate the doe-like expression left behind he parted from her and allowed her that time to process the warmth in his eyes and, though fading with distance, on his lips. Even if it was the most disappointing kiss, he knew it was unforgettable--at least for the moment. The right attitude would be to erase and replace it with something even more unforgettable but... they were out on a public sidewalk. They could revisit that torture later.]
I'd say... one kiss is fine when you're out shopping. Two or more kisses and it'll get dangerous~. Now--come on and let's keep going so I can drag you along while you're all dreamy-eyed.
[ Sniff. Crushing her dreams like that. What a truly cruel man! ]
Awww, alright.
[ She leaned against his side and resumed their walk, though she was in a positively brighter and more dreamy mood than she had been mere moments ago. ]
You know, I don't mind if everyone knows I'm your girlfriend. [She put a finger against her lips.] In fact, I think I would rather like it.
[ Though besides holding hands, there aren't many ways to make that public knowledge... Well, rings serve that purpose but that's just too early for that! And they're really discreet things. Surely there are better things to do that... ]
My, my, you're becoming rather brazen, aren't you?
[Chiding her gently and, really, without any intent to make her stop, Kisuke turned his wrist just so slightly so he could meaningfully run his thumb over the inside of her palm while they were on their stroll.]
I'm of the same opinion, Monika, but there's something to be said about subtlety, isn't there?
[So, while she had her moment to think about the sweeter forms of declaring that transition between them, he was more than eager to distract with teasing that could stay well-hidden enough.]
[ Subtly... She was plenty subtle usually! But maybe the sheer euphoria of the moment was getting to her. Could you get drunk on love? It certainly felt like it. She smiled brightly as he spoke, closing her hand more tightly as she felt his thumb running against her palm. ]
Mhm, that's true.
[ She struggled real hard not to lean against him. Honestly... The entire time he'd spoken of himself as if he would be a bad influence on her. But it really felt like she was the one being a bad influence here! ]
You know, you made it sound like you'd be an unrestrained monster or whatnot... [She leaned to the side a bit.] But looks like I'm the one who needs to show restrain here, ahaha!
[He could hardly chide her over her attempts. Despite her desperate situation, Monika had never once tried to corner him in a way he wouldn't be able to come back from--finding it exceedingly charming that she would be so considerate with him.
Despite all rationale, he found it endearing when she seemed to hold back and wonder if she was pressing too much. If only she'd ignore that instinct once in a while?
Squeezing her hand gently, he let just about wrote it down for her to remember.]
As fun as restraints can be, you realize that it's unhealthy to hold yourself back as often as you do, right?
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He waited for something that would take a little bit more time to clear on foot. Knowing she'd been so happy to have a body that she'd gotten more than a fair sum of cardio in, Kisuke felt no guilt at all for making it that kind of date.
He only noticed a bit too later that someone scribbled 'Takoyaki' at the end of the list in haste. Ururu tried to copy Jinta's handwriting.]
Hm. She's certainly getting better at forging it.
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I'm here!
[ She glances at the list and considers for a moment engaging in small talk-- But there's no point hiding what she knows. Or rather, what she suspects. ]
So... Is it a stealth date?
[ She had had the the three dates on her mind all the time after all, and he'd refused to plan out the dates beforehand. It was the logical conclusion-- At the very least, it was the logical conclusion for someone like Monika. ]
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If anything, Monika's smile, just as she sought out his intentions, prompted one out of him in return. He pinched his chin and stroked his stubble, pantomiming a wisened older man with little fuss.]
I didn't want either of us to be overthinking it though... I assume you caught on already, then.
[He brought just one canvas bag with him to guarantee it wouldn't be a bulky trip. The list and bag could be set aside for the moment as he brushed his fingers over Monika's wrist if only to gently urge her along with him down the street.]
Why don't we wander and see what catches your eye first?
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[ The overthinking, that is. Because she sure as heck had spent a lot of time overthinking this whole thing. And she had reached a conclusion which she was about to share with him: ]
I already know there won't be a second "test" date.
[ The very idea of a "test" date was kind of silly, wasn't it? Either you were attracted to someone, either you weren't. In his specific case, she was fairly confident he was attracted to her. He wasn't the type who would "pity date" her and lead her on. So why go with something as silly as a test date? He'd already pretty much told her why last time. ]
You're just worried for me, right? [She cleared her throat.] "She doesn't know what she's getting herself into." [Yes, she'd just tried to imitate his voice. In an exaggerated and comical manner, but it was pretty good all the same.] "I'm not the right kind of person for her." [And a third time:] "If she knew what kind of twisted stuff arouses me she'd run away!"
[ She looked up at him and locked her arm with his. She was right on the money, wasn't she? ]
I'm going to pierce right through that armor of you and make sure you realize none of those things are true.
[ Truth to be told she was absolutely terrified that perhaps she was wrong, perhaps she'd misread the situation... But she wasn't going to show it. Faking confidence was of paramount importance right now! ]
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[To say she was 'on the money' would be an understatement but his initial commitment to making those dates enjoyable for her was still present and strong even as he felt that barrier to welcoming her had already weakened before he even considered what they'd be doing for the first. Monika, with all her quirks intact, had been so pleasant that he couldn't turn her away with any reason other than his own crude traits in mind and she'd already made it clear she intended on weathering them.
To have her air his concerns out in the open spoke worlds of how sharp she was and he didn't seem at all interested in protesting. Instead, he smiled and gave her arm an affectionate little pinch.]
If you're hoping to settle your nerves, Monika, I must say that's a terrible way to go about it even as cute as it is.
[Really, she nailed his affectations near perfectly and to the point that he grew silently concerned that she'd kill at family get-togethers with that kind of material. Still, he could worry about that later. In the moment, he felt compelled to give her every opportunity to enjoy their first foray into that relationship without worries over whether or not the word 'success' had to be tied to it. In that, he supposed, he'd already lost his effort to protect her and instead wanted to soften the landing when she realized she already had him.]
After all, half of this is about you. If you're so worried about appealing to me, you'll forget the fun in being the other half of an equation. [With that, he offered her the canvas bag he'd been carrying for no reason other than to let her keep her hands busy while they walked.]
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[ They would make a really terrible couple if so! Thankfully, it wasn't the case at all. She couldn't remember having ever had as much fun in her life... Nearly like the more determined he was to try and put a wall around himself, the more determined she got.
She got on her tiptoes and poked his nose. ]
I'm having lots of fun right now, after all~!
[ Doing that though made her realize how taller than her he was... She would have to put on some heels or find a trick if they did end up dating. It couldn't be convenient for kissing if there was too much of a height difference. ]
Are you though? [She took the bag and smiled at him.] You're half of that equation too... Though I have to say, I really don't like talking of love in mathematical terms, ahaha.
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[Though, he wasn't happy to leave it there, even if it sounded like a retreat. In earnest, he'd find a way to steer her selfishness. While she might have worried about her aggressiveness at first, Kisuke didn't find it undesirable. Anything in extreme amounts was unhealthy but, really, there were helpful doses--
Of course, it would be inexcusable to bring that up on a first date. Just, subtly, he'd set the thought aside for later. In the middle of his introspection, she poked his nose and earned a quizzical look in return for it. Dressed up and in a fantastic mood, he might have argued that it was going wonderfully already. If getting to go out at all with him was a win then that condition might have been filled but, even so... he was an overachiever. A glance down the street and he caught sight of a few garish signs. Sales, events. Plenty to fill a couple hours of time when plenty to spare for groceries.]
You don't? I like the metaphor, ironic as it may seem. Want to wager why?
[He didn't think of it as a trap of a question but rather, something he'd need to answer for, himself. There were many unequal things in the world but if he were to give Monika more of himself to see?]
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Mhm... [She sighs and shrugs.] Is the answer going to be something of a message to convince me you're bad for me?
[ That's what it's going to be, isn't it? Hopefully she's wrong... But if she's not, at least she won't be taken aback. She can't imagine he's going to give up that easily. If he really thinks he's the worst possible boyfriend for her, he's not going to let it go like that.
With another woman, it might even work. Alas, Monika is unlike them all. ]
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[While it wasn't a response that could shock him anymore, Kisuke found himself a little disappointed with his own judgment. Perhaps he'd been too strict with their guidelines before--giving Monika a set of rules that she'd want to combat in earnest. Though, really, he didn't think that was an entirely undesirable outcome. Strange as it was, it was flattering. A reminder that she had a rather incredible will when it came to hardship even when she was feeling down on herself.
Shaking his head, he offered her a rather devious smile.]
I should be more outgoing if that's your first inclination. No, it's rather tepid, you see.
[He cleared his throat--a dangerous signal for anyone not so keen as Monika to hear him out.]
An equation needs to be balanced on both sides, right? Both halves share the same answer. So, regardless of complexity, a proper equation is always a reflection whether you're on one side or the other. That said...?
[Though, it coaxed him into slowing down, hushing his voice just a little more before lifting his fingers to guide Monika's chin up to meet his gaze.]
I'm sorry if I've put you on edge, Monika. Please, don't spend this time on the precipice of defeat.
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[ Clearly he is right as far as the mathematical aspect of this is concerned. His devious smile confirms it. But she can absolutely turn this around. Maths aren't the point here, are they? She's told him before, she doesn't like to think of it as an equation.
And if this battle cannot be won, then she shall not fight it. Instead, she will claim victory and dare him to call her bluff. ]
I've already won and you know it. [She leans forward as he guides her chin up.] And honestly, it's a victory for you too.
[ Three dates? Pah. They haven't even begun their first date and here they are, arguing like lovers would. If he disagrees with her conclusion, he's free to say so. But... ]
That means you get a devoted and loyal girlfriend~! [A pause.] One who is more than happy to try any fancy you have-- Even the weird and twisted ones.
[ Now now, of course she's totally not as confident as she pretends to be. Just the idea of sex is still pretty scary, so beyond that... But that doesn't mean she doesn't want it. And she most certainly doesn't mind trying whatever he wants! And that's what matters. That he knows she's open-minded. ]
But more importantly-- One who treats love very seriously.
[ She closes an eye and smiles triumphantly at him. He could shut her off with but a word. But she doesn't believe he will. She doesn't want to believe it. That's a bluff, perhaps. But one she intends to win with. ]
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Now, I can't have you trying too hard to please me so soon.
[Though he wouldn't point out where he thought her limits were when it came to intimacy, he'd certainly put the slightest buffer to it when they were strolling out on the sidewalk. Certainly, one could construe it as embarrassment on his part but moreover, he just didn't want to fry her nerves by going along even if it was absolutely tempting.
There was, of course, that momentary glimmer in his eye that she was sure to spot--the hint that he wanted to corner her with that trail she'd left for him and make her question the time and place to bluff with him. Instead of biting, his smile softened for her and he let her free of his touch for a little while longer.
A part of him settled at the moment. That was it, he supposed. Beyond her confident declaration of victory and the smile she wielded as a sword and shield in equal parts, he realized there wasn't even a competition to have anymore. Still, there was no joy in resting on one's laurels. Seeing her best efforts would surely be enough to make him quell his regret with something finer.]
So, rather than thinking so far ahead, why don't you tell me what you'd like to have for dinner? Since you're keen on your victory, I'd imagine you've considered your victory feast? It wouldn't hurt to get it prepared.
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Of course, that was the natural conclusion. The power of love reigned supreme, after all! Though much as she loved saying cheesy things like that, deep down she knew there was no such thing as a "power of love." Love on its own couldn't have made this dream into a reality without a lot of determination and persistence.
She leaned against his shoulder, beaming at him. ]
Something vegetarian, of course. [Not that she'll force him to eat vegetarian (she'll just gently try to nudge him in that direction), but she's very strict with her diet. Most of the time. Hopefully he's never caught her eating junk food on evenings when she was feeling morose.] How about spaghetti? Only one big dish for the two of us.
[ Now that might sound unusual... But it's leading in the exact direction one might expect from Monika. ]
The spaghetti scene in Lady and The Tramp is something I've always dreamed of reenacting.
[ It was about as cute as things could get! ]
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Perhaps he was overthinking dinner, as he did with everything else. The crease of his smile seemed to relax somewhat with Monika's growing confidence, feeling each little bump of her shoulder against his and the way she made every effort to be in his space, right up to the point that he took her wrist in his hand with a gentle hint of possessiveness as if to allow her that chance to gloat, to herself or however, she preferred. While he wished he should share her genuine enthusiasm for anything in the world, there were simply too many things hanging on him to let him bask in what was otherwise a moment of pure fondness and admiration for her.]
It's very cute, certainly, and I haven't had Italian in a while. After the Udon festival, you kind of rethink carbs, right? [Not to mention a logistical nightmare. Dissecting something meant to be light-hearted and cute was simply par for course when it came to Kisuke as he imagined he'd have to devise an attracting element to the one noodle of spaghetti they'd want to use. Would it be better to use some sort of compound to bind each noodle with its own reactive frequency so that the second person to pick up their fork would--]
Still... How accurate would you like it to be?
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... In time, in time. ]
Super accurate, of course~!
[ That includes the spaghetti kiss, yes yes.
In fact that's the only reason she wants to do it. The music would be nice, but so long as she gets her kiss she'll be happy. Sure, maybe it's a bit early in their relationship for a kiss... It's not very serious to kiss that early, is it? And if she was to be like the typical love interests in video games, she should be blushing and stuttering like crazy at the mere idea of kissing so soon...
... To heck with that! She'll blush, yes, but she'll have her kisses! ]
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[While Monika preferred to bask in the moment of victory she deserved, Kisuke took it as an opportunity to let the creative juices flow. Of course, the shochu he was going to pick up would grease the wheels along somewhat but in the interest of giving Monika at least one incredibly gratifying experience turning fiction into reality, he knew he'd have to buckle down and crunch numbers.
In the meanwhile, he spared her a warm little smile and interrupted that thought of hers with a damning question.]
Before that, though, do you have any other ambitious scenes in mind? While I enjoy letting you keep your cards close to your chest... [As he couldn't help but admire her sharper nature and the playful acting she indulged herself in so often.
Except in the moment, of course. The sappy smile cutting into her cheeks couldn't have been more obvious.] I like being prepared! Well. Reasonably so.
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Any other? Well, um... [She laughs awkwardly.] If I start listing them, we'll be there till tomorrow morning you know.
[ She is absolutely serious. Not all of them are scenes from fictions, most are just things she's imagined and hope to experience someday. Her time inside the game had felt like an eternity, and while she'd been all alone in that digital nightmare, such dreams had been the only thing keeping her going.
Regardless, she lets go of him and cants her head to the side to look at him. ]
But in this specific case... [Her face is redder than red now, isn't it? Gosh, she hates it so much! She's going to turn out being just like the one-dimensional girl she despises in dating sims at this rate, hmpg!] Do you think it's too early for a first kiss?
[ That is how the scene ends, after all. ]
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[For a little while, she seemed to settle happily on that thought but there was a moment's turn and he stilled somewhat at the realization that it was a bit more determined than usual.
So, whether or not she put on a good act to keep it bottled up during the day--the moment she had him alone, so to speak, it was all coming bubbling up. It was still better than her being cooped up in a database or hanging on the back end of a server but he couldn't help but feel it was something he could have worked on.
Everyone was lonely, one way or another, but hardly anyone could truly say they were stuck on an island in the middle of nowhere.]
Oh? Well, there's a problem in that. Those movies always seem to make it look flawless--not one blemish to the thing you want to see most.
...It takes a bit more practice than that.
[It might have been mean to try to disarm her that way and lay on the expectation that he'd turn her down but he was ever the 'sink or swim' type. The crease of his canvas bag followed as he tucked it under his arm, finding Monika's hip with his hand so he could draw her in close and kiss her. 'Practice' was one word to use but he wasn't taking it too easy on it--subjecting her to that feeling of being closed in on by someone with strength in their hands and the scratch of stubble touching her cheek.
It was his best effort to use a bit of his meaner side to stun her.]
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She wasn't sure what she had expected. But that most certainly had not been this. So far, she had really been in control. She had thought about this date so much and prepared herself so well to make sure he wouldn't let his misconception on "what's right" for her get in the way of their feelings. And it had gone beyond even her wildest expectations.
But now? She had lost control over everything. In spite of her posturing as more mature and knowledgeable than she was, it was now revealed that at the end of the day... She knew nothing. Only what she'd read, what she'd imagined and dreamed of. She had zero experience. ]
I-I... [She looked at him with confusion before looking to the side.] Ahaha... I'm really just all talk, huh?
[ And yet... While her old self would have probably found this scary? She found it oh-so enticing. Oh-so intoxicating and wonderful? For him to hold her like that, with strength and passion, to pull her so close and push his lips against her... ]
What does it say about me... That I wish we would keep practicing?
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As much as he liked to pretend to be overly flirtatious, it was patently untrue that he genuinely was. With every intent to appreciate the doe-like expression left behind he parted from her and allowed her that time to process the warmth in his eyes and, though fading with distance, on his lips. Even if it was the most disappointing kiss, he knew it was unforgettable--at least for the moment. The right attitude would be to erase and replace it with something even more unforgettable but... they were out on a public sidewalk. They could revisit that torture later.]
I'd say... one kiss is fine when you're out shopping. Two or more kisses and it'll get dangerous~. Now--come on and let's keep going so I can drag you along while you're all dreamy-eyed.
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Awww, alright.
[ She leaned against his side and resumed their walk, though she was in a positively brighter and more dreamy mood than she had been mere moments ago. ]
You know, I don't mind if everyone knows I'm your girlfriend. [She put a finger against her lips.] In fact, I think I would rather like it.
[ Though besides holding hands, there aren't many ways to make that public knowledge... Well, rings serve that purpose but that's just too early for that! And they're really discreet things. Surely there are better things to do that... ]
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[Chiding her gently and, really, without any intent to make her stop, Kisuke turned his wrist just so slightly so he could meaningfully run his thumb over the inside of her palm while they were on their stroll.]
I'm of the same opinion, Monika, but there's something to be said about subtlety, isn't there?
[So, while she had her moment to think about the sweeter forms of declaring that transition between them, he was more than eager to distract with teasing that could stay well-hidden enough.]
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Mhm, that's true.
[ She struggled real hard not to lean against him. Honestly... The entire time he'd spoken of himself as if he would be a bad influence on her. But it really felt like she was the one being a bad influence here! ]
You know, you made it sound like you'd be an unrestrained monster or whatnot... [She leaned to the side a bit.] But looks like I'm the one who needs to show restrain here, ahaha!
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[He could hardly chide her over her attempts. Despite her desperate situation, Monika had never once tried to corner him in a way he wouldn't be able to come back from--finding it exceedingly charming that she would be so considerate with him.
Despite all rationale, he found it endearing when she seemed to hold back and wonder if she was pressing too much. If only she'd ignore that instinct once in a while?
Squeezing her hand gently, he let just about wrote it down for her to remember.]
As fun as restraints can be, you realize that it's unhealthy to hold yourself back as often as you do, right?