human
The intense beams of light glared intently upon the sidewalk, casting a thick, transparent haze of mugginess upon the entire town. Sweat clung to the undersides of her arms and her forehead, exposed from having pulled her hair back and affixed it with a yellow band which had practically become a permanent feature. Her gait was slow and somewhat uneasy as the sunbeams quickly drained what little endurance she had under such conditions. On the opposite side of the street sat young couples, huddled beneath the shade of umbrellas and wide-brimmed hats while chatting in hushed tones and suppressed giggles.
Summer, the season of matured romance, was more of an abrupt sock to the head considering her own single, unattached situation. Mio and Mugi had little trouble finding boyfriends, of course, as they had both drawn quite a lot of attention even while in high school. Even Yui found a charming young man who was willing to accompany her to practically every sweet shop in the area. Although they were still closely-nit friends it was apparent that however kind and understanding the boys in question where, it left her feeling awkward. Just how was she supposed to respond when they swapped stories about dating hot spots and weekend getaways? What was she supposed to say when Yui insistently sent pictures of herself and half-eaten slices of cake with her boyfriend beside her? The thought alone made her footsteps fall just a bit heavier.
Turning the last corner toward the convenience store, she walked past the automatic doors and headed straight toward the freezer section, pressing her forehead against the cool surface and staring at the cups of ice cream on the other side of the pane. With a sigh, she took a step back and opened the door before reaching in and picking up two cups, one vanilla and one chocolate, before turning toward the cashier. She set them down onto the counter then set down her purse to fumble about for some bills to pay for her purchases, and upon collecting the required amount finally looked up toward the young man before him for the first time.
In an instant, his soft blonde locks and gentle smile made it hard for her to tear her eyes away.
gpt
Being stuck behind the counter was the last thing he wanted to do, and this was such a slow area, that he was just sitting there and waiting for potential customers to enter and buy something. It didn't help that he didn't have many friends as he was not a native of these lands.
Alyx Jefferson Shale. He was born in the United States, and had a rather fun life growing up. His parents would spoil him to a certain degree so he didn't become rotten, he was somewhat popular in all twelve years of schooling that he had, and had enjoyed his life all together. It wasn't until a friend of is, who was a major otaku, invited him over to his house. He thought it was just going to be them playing games or something, and it was just that, but he would discover his first and only true desire on that day. When he arrived at his friend's house, there was music playing throughout the entire house as he had installed stereos that were connected to his computer speakers in all the rooms of the house. He liked music, and had a massive iTunes playlist with songs of all genres. On this particular day, he was playing Japanese pop, and Alyx had never heard such music before. Just something about it drew him in, and he asked what was playing "Hey Jake, what kind of music is this?" he asked, as he followed him down to his basement.
"The current song? Um...I think this isMr. Taxiby Girl Generation, but they share so many songs with another group called SNSD that I can't even be sure," Alyx honestly didn't quite care who made the song, and he had an amazing time both playing games with Jake, and listening to all the songs that played through the speakers. He went home that night, and started looking up the songs that had played on YouTube, and listened to them again as well as all the related videos that dealt with Japanese pop. It was there that he clicked on a video that looked like it was taken from a mobile phone. It was a video of five Japanese girls who looked like they were at some school playing at some sort of concert. It was uploaded recently, and he figured that he would watch it. Surprisingly, those five girls were amazingly talented, and he found that he rather enjoyed their playing despite not being able to understand a word that they said.
One thing led to the next, and those YouTube videos inspired him to want to actually learn Japanese, and perhaps traveling their. He only had about a month left until spring break at his university, and decided to see if his school allowed studying abroad. In the meantime, he constantly studied the Japanese language, and was getting quite good at being able to at least get by out in the city. About a week before spring break, he approached his adviser, and asked if the school had a program that allowed students to study abroad, and was excited to find out that they did. He asked if it was possible that he could that he could go to Japan to go to school there, and was once again excited to find that was possible. It would just take them a few days to find a family there that would be willing to take them into their house, or to see if there was a hostel there that had room.
Alyx spent the entire duration of his spring break learning to read, write, and speak Japanese. He could now function quite well in everyday life in Japan, but wouldn't quite call himself an expert by any means.
And now time shifts to the present. His school had found him a hostel, and he was rooming with two other people. Two females both from New Zealand, and were here to study abroad as well. Thankfully, they spoke English as well, so there was no language barrier between them, but they did like to speak in Japanese together just to help make sure they didn't mess up anything.
As the girl came up to the counter, a brief flashback occurred, and it was the time he saw someone just like her performing at some school concert, and then it occurred to him. She was the drummer in the video! There was no doubt in his mind that it was her because that yellow hairband of hers gave it away instantly. Still, he didn't want to sound like a creep "Is there something I can help you with, ma'am?" he asked, noting how she was looking at him and that she had two tubs of ice-cream. Which he took and scanned without her answering "That will be two hundred forty seven yen."
human
"Two hundred forty-seven yen?" Ristu's eyes were still a bit hazy and her words came out somewhat mumbled as she repeated the price of her purchase, but her mind was somewhere completely different as evidenced by her right hand which had grasped his sleeve, "Are you sure? Selling out for so cheap-" She blinked twice, cutting herself off mid-sentence upon realizing how awkward her momentary lapse in judgement had made the situation.
Making a quick attempt at remedying the situation she followed up with a quick backhand to his shoulder, "I-i-it was a joke! I felt compelled by your captivating foreign eyes to make a joke!" Folding her hands behind her head along with her signature grin, she laughed nervously. Why did she feel like she had just made things even worse? The convenience store was completely empty other than the young man before him and herself, so she wasn't causing any trouble for the establishment, but the way she prolonged her opportunity to simply look at him made it painfully obvious that she had lost interest in the ice cream. Quickly slapping down two hundred yen bills and a fifty yen coin, she scooped up her ice cream into her arms and made a beeline toward the exit-
gpt
Ritsu's "joke" made him blush as it was so sudden and her hand was holding on to his sleeve. He had no idea why she was doing this, but was glad that she at least recognized what she was doing. She gave him a quick backhand on the shoulder of the sleeve she was holding on, and tried to defuse the awkward situation between the two with saying that it was merely a joke; however, he blushed even further when she told him that he had captivating foreign eyes, and must of realized that because a nervous laugh was echoing through the empty convenience store.
Still, he couldn't quite help, but notice how cute she looked. Both when she was just staring at him, and how she was nervously trying to make things less awkward. He even remember thinking the same about her when he saw that video of her on YouTube, but never actually thought that they would meet in person, or at all for that matter. So he just couldn't let her leave the store without at least getting to know her for a bit. Just as she was about to leave, he extended his hand out into the universal sign for stop "Wait!" he walked around the counter to approach her, and gave her his best smile. Though a blush was still on his cheeks "My name is Alyx Shale," he told her, accidentally using the American way to give someone your name.
human
She froze and turned back toward Alyx, her jaw practically creaking as she gave him a stiff introduction, "I-I'm Tainaka Ritsu- I mean, I'm Ritsu Tainaka, a first-year collage student at the nearby girl's collage. I'm 148 cm tall, blood-type B, and I play the drums with my friends as a part of our band. Pleased to meet you." She extended her left hand and set down the vanilla ice cream tub back onto the counter, accompanying her action with a brief bow as if she had presented him an offering in exchange for letting her leave with her pride at least somewhat in-tact. "H-here, its on the house... I mean, have this one on me."
Was talking with boys always this terrifying? Sure, it was almost entirely her own fault that she had gotten into such a situation, but it still didn't make her feel any better acknowledging it. She smiled once again, while her tension, the redness of her cheeks, and the enduring heat of the midday sun combined and increased the amount of sweat streaming down her face.
gpt
Alyx took hold of her hand gently and shook hands with the very same girl that he had seen on YouTube. It felt so weird to be talking to her face-to-face, and honestly wondered if this was just a dream to taunt him in a sense. It would look weird if he suddenly pinched himself, so he just rolled with everything "Well, I don't think I needed to know how tall you are, or your blood-type, but...thanks?" he chuckled in an attempt to lighten the tension between the two "Anyway, it is nice to meet you, Tainaka-san, and don't worry about giving me your name in the way I would understand. I have studied the Japanese language quite vigorously, so I understand that your culture gives their family name first, and then your given name," He said, letting go of her hand. Alyx wondered if it would be okay if he told her that he saw on her a YouTube video with her same group of friends, and was really debating on whether or not that would seem creepy.
He figured it would mean no harm as long as she knew that he wasn't stalking her or anything "I thought that was you. I remember watching a YouTube video of you and your friends playing at some concert. It looked like it was at a school, and you guys had a lot of people in attendance at that concert," she probably had other things to do, but he really wished that he could spend more time with her "Ahem, I gotta get back to my job, but maybe I will see you around sometime," he bowed in her direction before putting the tub of ice-cream back in the freezer since his boss would have a hissy fit if she found out he was eating inventory. Alyx watched as she left the store, and sighed once he was sure that Ritsu was out of ear-shot. He knew that they would probably never cross paths again, and it saddened him to know such things.
He chuckled through, as this thought ran through his headWell, at least I can make this the moment I got my first crush in Japan.
human
"You've seen my videos on YouTube? I knew I should have petitioned harder for copyright on our songs," Ritsu rubbed her chin while glancing to the side, "Its good to know that we are getting better visibility, though. I mean, I was starting to wonder if anyone outside our school even knew about us. We went to England during our senior trip and we ended up doing a gig for another Japanese band since they couldn't tell us apart."
"Yeah, I'll see you around," she smiled and gave him a pleasant wave before heading back out into the scorching summer heat armed with only one tub of ice cream. Yet, she felt a bit different... A bubbly sort of sensation huddled tightly within her chest and her hips swung slightly along with her thin arms. She knew well enough that a hot foreign guy like him probably already had a girlfriend back in America waiting for him, but it didn't hurt to dream, did it?
Ritsu had no way of knowing how much things would change for her after that fateful meeting... Or how differently things would turn out from how she imagined them to be.
gpt
Alyx wished he had a girlfriend. As much as he was kinda popular back in high-school and at his university. None of the women really interested him. It wasn't that he didn't feel an attraction to women, otherwise he would not be blushing in Ritsu's presence, but none of them really seemed to catch his eye. Ritsu, on the other hand, had a certain air about her that just drew him towards her. It was the same feeling that he had gotten when he visited Jake's and he was playing Japanese pop. Still, he sighed once more as that one encounter would be the last they ever had...unless..."I-I'm Tainaka Ritsu- I mean, I'm Ritsu Tainaka, a first-year collage student at the nearby girl's college."He remembered her saying that when they introduced themselves to each other, and looked out the small window next to him. Lo and behold, there was indeed what looked like a university close by. It could of just been a different one, but it was the only one he could remember that was close by. She probably lived in the dorms there, so he couldn't go and visit her there unless he was a relative.
If only she was at his university, then it would make things so much more easier. It was co-ed, and the students and faculty seemed to accept him quite well. He wasn't the only foreigner there as well, so that was probably helping him out a bit. Hours passed by with the same slow day, but his shift was finally over as the graveyard working came in the door "Today was quite slow. I doubt you are going to get many customers today, Yuijo," Yuijo was a fellow worker of his, a classmate of his, and his first friend that he made while in Japan. They just seemed to easily connect with each other, and it was almost like they were twins with a different mother.
"Great...Hey, we still up for going to the arcade tomorrow?" Yuijo asked, as they swapped spots.
Alyx opened the door, but stopped to answer him "Of course, dude. I have school in the morning, but my entire afternoon is free after that," he said goodbye to his friend before heading on back to his hostel room. The two girls from New Zealand were already there, and they giggled as he entered the door. It confused him, and something compelled him to ask "Whats so funny?"
They both giggled once more, and the girl named Addison spoke up "Someone at our school has a crush on you."
Then it hit him. These two were attending the same all-women university as Ritsu, and that had to be her "Wait, does she always have on a yellow hairband, and is her name Tainaka Ritsu?" Addison nodded to both those questions "Addison, Alysha, can either one of you please ask her to meet me at the cafe this afternoon?" he was going to totally blow off Yuijo, but he was an understanding guy, and always told Alyx that he was going to try and find a girl for him, so he wasn't lonely during his time here.
Both girls just looked at each other, and gave him teasing smirks "We can...but it will cost you~!"
Alyx sighed, and pulled out 500 yen to give to them. They giggled again, but Alyx knew they would do as he asked with their payment now in their hands. So he decided to just head off to bed, and get as much sleep as possible.
The next day, he had butterflies in his stomach the entire day, and was having a hard time focusing on his classes. As all he could think about was Ritsu, and if she would accept his offer for a date. He wished that he could do it in person, but he didn't know his school, nor was he sure they would ever meet again out and about. Thankfully, he didn't get in trouble, and immediately headed for the cafe that he told Addison and Alysha to tell Ritsu to meet him at.
human
The sticks in her hands rapped, tapped, and crashed across the drum set, the controlled cacophony resounding and echoing throughout the empty room. A single bead of sweat slid down her broad forehead and across her cheek, until it reached the tip of her chin. Her gently shut eyelids had a certain glisten to them, her body's motions in perfect unison in time with the internal tune which rang out within her very soul. As her part came to an end and she waved toward the invisible crowds before her, her focus was not upon the roaring applause, but upon the blonde-haired young man who stood in the third row from the stage, his heart-felt smile and simple greeting echoing amid the mute hoards all around them.
In reality, Ritsu sat slack-armed with her shoulders rolled forward and her fingers lightly grasping her drum sticks and her cheek resting against the large drum before her while a slight hint of blush graced her cheeks and a silly grin spread across her lips. It had been a mere three days since their last meeting, but during that short time she had already begun delving deeper and deeper into her fantasies concerning the ominous Alyx. She had never really taken romance very seriously before, as the subject had primarily been used as a source of comedy or suspicion concerning Mio's weekly routine. You never knew for sure if she was hiding a secret boyfriend from the rest of them or not, after all. Calling Ritsu's reaction a mere crush may have been a bit of an understatement.
In any case, the two girls from New Zealand had learned Ritsu's secret from a rather unlikely source: Ritsu herself. She had made it no secret that she was interested in Alyx, as she scarcely missed an opportunity to ask virtually everyone she knew if they had any information on the foreign young man who worked part-time at the nearby convenience store. It was rather unsettling how quickly she had transformed from romance being a source of envy and a damper on her usual upbeat mood, to a source of drive to her entire collage life. Ritsu was never one to do something in a half-hearted manner, after all. To say the least, when Addison and Alysha approached her it did not take much effort at all to convince her to meet up with Alyx again.
Ritsu walked somewhat stiffly toward the small outdoor cafe with umbrellas that she had passed by on her way to the convenience store. She wore a dark green shirt that hung just past her waist and black tights, with small yellow shoes that fit snugly. Instead of her usual yellow headband, she wore a black one instead along with a touch of crimson lipstick. Sure, it was awkward as heck to be asked out via a third party, but she wouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. It didn't take her long to spot him seated at one of the tables and she made her way over without much trouble other than her own hesitation.
"Y-yo!" she waved toward Alyx and gave him her best smile, "So, we meet again..."
gpt
Alyx took his seat at the outdoor area of the cafe as he waited for Ritsu's arrival. While Addison and Alysha did force him to pay them before they would ask Ritsu out for him, he knew that they were going to be true to their word. He had only known them for about a month now, but they were honest girls despite being so bubbly and almost absent-minded. Suddenly, he felt his phone vibrating in his pockets, and didn't even had to check to know that it was Yuijo. Nevertheless, he pulled out his phone and read his text 'Where are you, Alyx? I'm waiting at the arcade for you.' Like stated earlier, Yuijo had constantly said that he would find a girl for Alyx during his time here, so he was sure to understand him as he responded back 'Sorry, Yuijo. I kinda have an...outing with a girl I met yesterday, but I promise that we will definitely hang out tomorrow for sure," he didn't get a text message back, but figured it was for the best as he saw Ritsu approaching the cafe. Upon looking at her, his eyes were instantly drawn to the crimson lipstick that she had on, and he felt that attraction meter shoot way up. He loved it when women wore lipstick or nail polish, and seeing her wearing lipstick made a shiver go throughout his entire body.
She sat down, and he almost fit bad that he wasn't as nice looking as her. Sure, it was just the lipstick that made her look nice, but he should of at least cleaned himself up, or perhaps put on a bit of cologne. Oddly enough, he gave her the same smile that she saw in her day dream as she sat down "That we do," he had told the waiter who had come to him when he first arrived there to wait to take his order as she was expecting someone else to come. Seeing that he was now with a girl, the waiter approached the two "Hello! What shall I get for you two today?" he asked.
"Just give me a straight black coffee," Alyx told him, and when Ritsu made her order, the waiter said he would be back with their orders soon before leaving the two alone. Alyx thought that he should explain why he asked those two girls to ask her out for him, so he didn't think that he was super shy or something "I know this is nothing to be sorry about, but I'm sorry I didn't ask you to come here in person. You said you went to an all girls university, and I doubt they allow guys to enter the school unless I was your father or brother, and just visiting you. So I had my hostel roommates ask for me as I thought it would be the easiest way instead of having to wait until you came back to that convenience store," hopefully, if things went well, he could get her number, and could just call or text her if he wanted to set up an outing with her. He really didn't want to use the word date, or do anything that might give it away that he was testing to see if they could possibly be on a date. He wanted to be sure that they would be able to hit it off well, but would be more than welcome to turn this into a date if things did go well.
The waiter came back with their orders, and handed Alyx his coffee and Ritsu her order "Is there anything else?" he asked, but Alyx told him no, and the waiter once came said goodbye.
It would be a silent sort of outing without something to talk about, and decided that her band would be a perfect conversation starter "So, you are in a band with your friends, right? What are you guys called?"
human
Ritsu ordered an orange spice tea before turning her attention to Alyx who sat across from her at the round glass table, "You could have just asked them for my cell phone number, you know? If you didn't want to do that, you could have just sneaked onto the collage campus anyway in order to see me. I mean, that would be pretty exciting, don't you think so?" She nodded to herself quietly as the conversation drifted off a bit, unaware that she had essentially informed him that she wouldn't mind giving him her cell phone number in order to set up future outings. Her ears perked up slightly when he mentioned her band, however.
"We are the light music club, also known asAfternoon Tea Time," Ritsu said dramatically, her arms whirling in the air in an imitation of her actions during a performance, followed by a wink, "I'm the drummer, Ritsu Tainaka." She laughed, clearly pleased with herself, "But I'm surprised you didn't know all of that already since you saw our performance on Youtube, right? That's basic knowledge for a fan... So, which of ours songs is your favorite?"
gpt
Alyx chuckled when she said that he could of just snuck on to the campus, but even he wasn't that bold. He didn't even want to know what they would do if a boy was found sneaking on to an all-girl's college campus. Plus, it would be pretty hard to do considering everyone has their own class schedules, and he would most likely be caught by some random girl roaming outside. The conversation sort of drifted after that, but instantly picked up once he mentioned Ritsu's band. It must be one of her favorite things to talk about as she instantly perked up, and went a on tangent about it. He did chuckle when she said what the band's name was as it so weird "Actually, I didn't know who you were until now. When I first watched that video, I couldn't speak or read a lick of Japanese, so all I knew about you girls was that you looked like you were playing at some kind of school festival, and that the song title was fuwa fuwa time. After that, I felt inspired to learn your language, and that is the reason why I am sitting in front of you today."
Since they were a band, one would assume that they had some CDs of their songs recorded, or at least MP3s stored on their computers "But I would love to hear some of your other songs if you have them on a CD, or MP3s of them. I could also maybe attend one of your concerts if you are planning on playing at a live house sometime soon."
human
"Ah, I was an inspiration for greatness! Feel free to thank me, Alyx. Feel free to thank me, world!" Ritsu leaned back in her chair and spread her arms toward the sky, as if bathing in the glory they had bestowed upon her, before resuming a more normal stance and simply carrying on the conversation, "Sure, we usually make recordings of our best songs on cassette tapes or CD's. I could bring a few for you, but don't tell anyone or I might get in trouble with our agent." They didn't actually have an agent, of course, but (in her own estimation at least) made her sound more professional to say they did.
She then decided to turn the conversation back to him, "What about you? Do you have any interesting club activities? I know you work part-time, and that by itself is pretty amazing. Do you know how hard it is to get a job around here? Especially since you are a foreigner. You must know people in order to pull that off."
gpt
Alyx laughed as Ritsu leaned back in her chair, and looked like she was basking in the glory of being an inspiration. He could tell that he would enjoy spending time with her, and was still snickering a little as she resumed normality and said that she could bring some recordings to him "That would be great, Tainaka-san," he said, still using her family name and the title san because he wasn't quite sure if he could use her given name yet "Though, something tells me a group of school girls who formed a band for their music club wouldn't exactly have an agent," he said, chuckling in order to let her know that he wasn't trying to be mean with that statement.
When the conversation turned to him, he too perked up as he hadn't gotten the chance to tell her anything about him besides his name "Well, back home I was the co-founder of my school's gaming club. We have lost a lot of members recently, and we are trying to get some members back, so we don't become forced to drop. Here, I haven't found any clubs that interest me quite yet, but I am still searching. As for my job, it wasn't really hard. I know that it is normally hard for foreigners like me to get jobs here, but the lady that owns that convenience store was extremely nice. I noticed a now hiring sign in her window, and she seemed to of taken pity on me and gave me the job. Plus, a friend of mine from the university I attend, Risamo Yuijo, put in a good word for me as well," he took a sip of his coffee, and felt bummed that it was nearly come. Either he was really thirsty, or he was just gulping it down because all he could focus on was Ritsu.
"How about hobbies? Have you got any hobbies?" it was small talk material, but small talk always led to conversations, and they were hitting it off quite well. He was probably even going to try asking her for her number after it was time to leave since she did basically hint that she would be okay with it.
human
"What are you talking about? Iamthe agent..." Ritsu pulled out a pair of black sunglasses and perched them on the end of her nose while glancing over the rims, "Can't you tell? Don't I look like agent material to you? I might like look the part, but I am one of the shrewdish agents out there! Shrewdish is a word, right? Don't say we don't have an agent, because I would know... Since Iamthe agent." Ritsu's grin and cheerful tone made it perfectly clear that she was simply fooling around with him, while slightly turning her body to give him subtly flirtatious poses to enjoy.
"Oh, so guys in America form those sorts of clubs there, too. I can sort of understand the appeal, because when you finish a game or have a really great performance it fills you with a sense of accomplishment. Personally, I like doing things I can enjoy with my friends, and it would be great if you can find something like that here, too," Ritsu nodded, crossing her arms in front of her modest chest, "I really can't offer any recommendations, since we don't go to the same college, but I'm sure there is probably a gaming club at your school as well, or at least a computer club."
"Me? Well, between club activities and studying I really don't do much else," she admitted a bit sheepishly, "Yui, Mio, Mugi, and even Asusa have all found boyfriends so we really don't hang out as much as we used to over the weekends. Perhaps its partially because I'm a bit jealous, but I feel sort of awkward around them when they start talking about that sort of stuff. You know what I mean?"
gpt
Alyx laughed again as Ritsu thought herself to be her band's agent. He didn't say anything this time, but he had a feeling that someone like her would be a bad agent "I am sure that shrewdish could be a word if you made it into one. Pretty sure that people will think you are crazy if you start making up words," all this time, Ritsu had been the one making him laugh, and he felt bad for that. He remembered reading somewhere online that it was important to make the girl laugh, but he didn't know how quite true that was. He never fully trusted online dating tips, and only read it because Yuijo forced him to in an attempt to "Help you score some chicks," as said by Yuijo himself.
Now Alyx gave a chuckle as she commented on how even guys in America made gaming clubs "Why wouldn't we? Video games are an international past-time, and lots of people make clubs for their favorite past-time. Hell, there is even a coin collectors club at my school back home, and all they do is trade coins, and mingle with each other," he hadn't really seen any gaming club meetings at his university, but he wouldn't mind joining it if there was one. From what he saw, there were a bunch of nerd-esque types in the school, so he wouldn't be surprised if there was one and they were just hiding from him "Perhaps, but I haven't found one yet, so either my school doesn't have, or they are damn good at hiding from me."
The next topic was about her hobbies, but it quickly changed to, what he assumed, be her friends love lives, and her being all alone while having to deal with hearing about their love lives "I do know what you mean. Yuijo constantly has his girlfriend over at his house whenever I visit, and they are always kissing, hugging, and just flirting with each other. It sickens me to have to watch it, and they even constantly tell me that they are going to find a girlfriend for me. I go along with it to be nice, but I can find my own girlfriend. I mean, I don't think I am the sexiest man on the face of this planet, but I like to believe that I am at least a somewhat handsome man," he looked past Ritsu to find another girl might of been interested in him, and quickly looked away as she noticed he was looking at her "Considering I have gotten a few stares from some other female customers already."
human
"Oh, so you're already flattering yourself with your own popularity?" Ritsu tilted her head back slightly, "Not exactly the best course of action when there is an attractive, single woman right in front of you... But, do go on. Exactly how many high school and collage girls hit on you on a regular basis? You must have pretty strict standards if you haven't gotten a girlfriend yet." Her playful jabs contained a hint of flirtatious flavor as she spoke. Fishing for hints as to what sort of girl he liked without straight-up asking, she was showing more clear signs of interest as she leaned forward and took another sip of her tea.
"I have my own sense of taste, too," she ventured to offer her own in order to clue him in, "I'd like my boyfriend to be someone who knows what they want out of life... Someone who isn't afraid to put himself out there for what he wants and not back down. Of course, being cute helps, too." She folded her hands behind her head and smiled, "Perhaps you know someone who is cool like that? Preferably single."
gpt
Ritsu was definitely turning out to be his kind of girl. Alyx wasn't a fan of the girly girls and ones who thought a man should be someone who was tough and rugged so they could protect her. Not that he wouldn't protect his girlfriend if some guy was trying to hit on her, or making her feel uncomfortable, but she should be able to take care of herself. Combine that with her uncanny ability to be able to tease him well, and her sort of cool air around her, and he has a very attractive woman on his hands. Just to keep this going, he decided to jab back at her "How many? Wow, I can't even remember how many there were. If I had to kiss, then I would say someone around twenty or thirty," obviously, that was an absolutely ridiculous number, so if she seriously thought that he wasn't joking then there had to be something wrong with her "Maybe I do, maybe I don't. I am more of a fan of the kind of girls that don't expect their man to protect them twenty seven. I mean, they really should take care of themselves, and only need a man's help when things get too much for them. I also would love a woman who doesn't take things seriously, and is just really fun-loving in general," he said, hinting the some kind of signs to her.
Could this be classified as a date? I mean, we are kinda flirting with each, and we both seem to be getting along fantastic.Alyx took another look at Ritsu, and gave a small smileThere is no doubt in my mind that she is the perfect woman for me. I will court her, and make her mine.as she asked if he knew anyone that sounded like, he turned his head to the side and scratched his chin to make it look like he was in deep thought "Do I know anybody with those traits...? Now that you mention it, I have a friend back in America like that. I think he would be more than happy to get to know you. Careful though, he likes to ask girls for their numbers if they seem interested in him, and it kinda goes like this. So, Ritsu, mind if I get your digits?" he asked, both using it as a joke, but also hoping she played along and actually gave him her number.
human
"That many? I suppose American women aren't as independent as they let on if they don't reach your standards, hm?" Ritsu verbally played along, but given the skeptical look in her eye it was clear that she didn't actually believe such an absurdly high figure. She pondered his words for some time, draining the last of her tea in one gulp as she had neglected the now only moderately-warm liquid during their conversation. Resting her head against her left hand, she reached down with her right and drew out her cell phone, flipping it open and pressing a few buttons silently before closing it and looking back up at the young man across the table from her. A knowing smile spread across her lips as she realized his true purpose. They had both been subtly (or perhaps not so subtly) hitting on each other for some time now...
"Digets means fingers in English, right?" Ritsu smirked, wiggling the fingers of her left hand while still perching her head atop her palm, "Well, you can't have my fingers, but I'll send you my number if you send me yours. You wouldn't believe how frustrating it is to give someone your number without receiving theirs as well, leaving you to wait endlessly for a ring that never comes..."
Her eyes turned away and her cheeks burned a slightly reddish hue, "At least, that's what I've heard... You wouldn't keep a girl waiting, would you?" She glanced back up at him, the twinkle in her eye granting him a momentary glimpse just before she held her phone up toward his face, her number clearly printed on the screen. Her heart pounded away against her ribcage like an earnest inmate against the confines of her cell, demanding to be let free of the tight bindings which prevented her from leaping forth. What was this overwhelming feeling of helplessness and need? Was this the sensation all of her friends had experienced? It was wonderful and terrible at the same time, rendering simply breathing a rather difficult task.
gpt
Alyx gave her a confused look after she asked if digits meant fingers in English, but figured she want to know the the truth "It does, but it is also a slang word for a phone number there as well," it wasn't hard to figure out that Ritsu knew that he was asking for her number as he saw that she had done something with her phone. It was too short in order to send a text, and she definitely wasn't checking the time because you should only need to press one button, or just open the phone in order for it to display the time "You are right. Normally, I only give my cell phone number to the friends that I make, but we always exchange both of our numbers. That way, we can make sure that the other is in our phone."
Alyx chuckled as Ritsu's cheeks blushed and she turned her eyes away from him. He was about to respond to her when her phone was suddenly thrust into his face, and it actually made him jump a little. It was brushed off with another chuckle, and he moved her hand back slightly "I am going to assume that this is your first time giving a guy your phone number. Well then, I am glad you chose me, Ritsu," he went into his contacts after taking out his phone, and entered her name and number, and saved it before displaying his number to her.
This wasn't exactly his first time giving a number to a girl before as he had lots of friends that were girls, but it was his first time giving his number to one he was romantically interested in. It felt like there were hundreds of butterflies running wild in his stomach, but it felt oddly welcome by him. Alyx embraced such feelings, and wanted nothing more than to let them grow and expand. Once his schooling was done, he wondered if he could live here in Japan with Ritsu, and maybe start a family with her. He had seen other foreigners like him out and about, but never saw any of them with a Japanese girlfriend or boyfriend. He supposed there were probably some couples like that here, but he wanted to imagine that Ritsu and him were a first.
The phone was placed back in his pocket after she finished inputting his number to her phone, and a warm smile was on his face "Thank you so much for coming here, Ritsu. I promise that all future outings will not be done with a third party," he chuckled before looking up at the sky, and checking his phone. He had set it to display the time both in America, and Japan just for some fun, and it was starting to get late in Japan. He really didn't want their time to end just yet, so he wondered if she would be alright with him walking with her back to the university "So, do you mind if I walk you back to your university? I may not be able to actually walk you to your dorm, but I can at least take you to the front gate."
human
In response to his assumption, Ritsu simply puffed out her cheeks slightly in mild irritation, as he had clearly hit upon the truth. It wasn't that she didn't get along with guys or that she never had a crush on a guy before. This was simply the first time a decient guy had shown any amount of genuine interest in her. She felt so nervous that she found it hard to even hold the phone still while he took down the number. With hessitent fingers, she entered his number as well, and after a few uneasy glances she finally mustered up the determination to reply, "O-o-oh, is that so? Sure, you can walk me back to the campus if you want to."
She didn't even notice the gradually dimming sunlight in the distance, or the burnt orange color it painted on the caramel-coated clouds. Quickly withdrawing her phone and depositing it back into her pocket, she stood up stiffly and walked beside him, shoulders slightly raised while casting conspicuous sideways glances toward the Alyx. Her thoughts had already turned to their next date together. Yes, she thought of it as a date, even though they were not officially going out, yet. Why did they need to make it official, anyway? In fact, what did "making it official" even mean in the first place? It wasn't like they were getting married, with a family registry, signatures, stamps, and everything. They had just met, for goodness sake! Yet, in all her life, she couldn't think of a more pleasant yet at the same time more stifling, position than beside Alyx. Perhaps the awkwardness would fade over time...
"I'm sorry, you paid my tab, didn't you?" she sighed, releasing some of her pent-up tension at the same time, "I'll pay next time we go out, alright?" Her words, of course, implied that this would not be their last outing together. "I'm sure you can't afford to splurge like that on a regular basis on a part-time salary." She could see his hand by his side, swaying slightly as they walked, but resisted the urge to reach out and take it. Going too fast on a first date would just make her appear desperate, after all, and the last thing she wanted him to think of her as was needy and desperate. Even as they neared the campus gates, she was already looking forward to spending more time with him.
gpt
Alyx loved just be able to walk next to Ritsu, and continue joking around with her. It felt so right and wonderful that he wished this day was not coming to an end. He wanted to spend more time with her, and have the best day of their lives together, but two simple human beings could only do so much before getting tired "Don't worry about it. I may have a part-time job, but the exchange rate here for the US dollar is quite good. So I have a couple hundred dollars stored away in a safe at my hostel room if I ever need money quick," her hand was swaying beside her, and he very nearly reached out to take seize of it, and hold her hand as they walked together to her university; however, it would just be moving too fast. Sure, they made a lot of good progress in moving forth with their budding relationship, but this was only their first date.
Sadly, they reached the campus gates, and it was time to depart "I really did have a great time, Ritsu. I promise that I will text you tomorrow, and we can either just talk, or perhaps set up another..." his voice trailed off as he really didn't want to say date, but oh so wanted to say date at the same time. His mind was so conflicted with his emotions, and knew that it would be even harder to get this off his chest if he ignored things, and pushed them down "Date," he smiled at her, and his hand grabbed hold of hers as a gentle kiss was bestowed on the back of her hand. It made him feel good inside to do that, and felt like a huge load was taken off his shoulders. Her hand was let go as he bowed to her before saying his goodbyes, and telling her goodnight before going back to the hostel.
The butterflies in his stomach came back, and he pulled out his phone to call Yuijo. Alyx knew that he would not stop asking how his date went when they met up tomorrow, so he called him just so he wouldn't ask. Needless to say, Yuijo was ecstatic to hear that his American friend had gotten his first Japanese girlfriend, and that he better get to meet her sometime.
The next day, he did go to the arcade with Yuijo as he had promised that he would, but was also texting Ritsu at the same time. Somehow, he was able to still allow himself to have a wonderful time at the arcade with Yuijo, and still be able to text his romantic interest. Yuijo even played into it as well as he constantly tried to sneak peeks what at he was sending her "If you think I am sending her lovey dovey stuff, then you better get your mind out of the gutter. We only gave each other our number yesterday," he told to him the first time he tried doing it. Another date was set up where Ritsu would show him around the city a little since he only knew the area around his hostel, and the area around his place of work. He told her that he would be waiting for her at the campus gates, and was already there by the time he sent the text to her.
human
Before she could affirm her own wish to go on another date with Alyx, Ritsu could only give him a confused yet pleased glance as he took her hand and planted a kiss on the back. When he released her, she could only stare at him as he turned to leave. If the pressure within her had been building up before, it now threatened to explode. She somehow mustered the strength to smile and wave before making her way back toward the dorm, a tired yet bubbly smirk spread across her lips.
For the rest of the afternoon, Ritsu merely floated along on auto pilot, not even noticing that her ramen noodles were still mostly hard before biting into them. It hardly put a damper on her mood. Even if aliens invaded the earth in the next ten minutes it wouldn't have soured her excitement. She had no doubt left in her mind that her ship had finally come in. The rush carried her far into the night, the flames within her roaring ever brighter and driving away any possible thought for sleep. Throughout her drum practice session, her hands whirled with excitement and anticipation, welcoming the new day with open arms, as with it would come new opportunities. She did, of course, eventually calm down and get some sleep, but not before sending quick text messages to her friends concerning the latest development in her life.
VVRRRRIIINNNG
Ritsu's phone chimed, indicating that she had received yet another text from her boyfriend. Her fingers tapped a quick reply before sending a message in reply, informing him that she had already taken a tour of most of the city, but that she would be pleased to look over everything again just in case she missed something "magical". Her feet, shod in white indoor shoes, were already turned toward the shoe lockers as she pocketed her phone and quickly slipped into her outdoor shoes. She ran through the doors toward the front gate, her book bag swinging in time with her stride as she quickly picked out Alyx's form leaning against the wall which ran around the campus perimeter. She stopped a few feet in front of him and bent down slightly as if to see him from a better angle.
"Hey, there," she greeted him warmly, "You could have just waited... I dunno... Ten seconds?"
gpt
Alyx gave a light chuckle as Ritsu approached him, and said that he could of just waited ten seconds longer "What? I can't wait for you at campus gates? Besides, I really wanted you to show me around the city. Considering this is your hometown, then I knew you would be the only one who could give me a tour. Yuijo is another option, but I don't really trust him to give me an accurate tour," he told her, giving another chuckle. That urge to take hold of her hand came back, but he pushed that down as well. While they had already have one date, he still felt like that was too fast; however, he would be more than willing to do it if Ritsu was bold enough to take hold of his hand.
Nevertheless, he started walking towards the city. Eager to have Ritsu show him around the city, and perhaps show him a couple hot spots or two. Considering her personality, he figured she might even know a dance club or two, but would rather save those for later dates. Suddenly, as they were walking, Alyx was reminded of the fact that she was going to let him listen to the cassette tapes of her and her club's band "Oh, I just now remembered. Did you bring those cassette tapes of your band's songs? I can listen to them after you finish with the tour."
human
"Oh, then clearly I am not the only one whocouldshow you around... I'm just the only one youwantto show you around," Ritsu corrected him, tapping him on the nose before slipping beside him to show him around town, "And that's perfectly fine with me." She began by leading toward the outdoor mall/market where students and housewives alike gathered to pick up a few things to prepare supper. Ritsu, of course, had no interest in cabbages or sausages, but instead walked straight up to one of the vendors and ordered two taiyaki. Before he could protest, she held out his share and after taking a single bite she began to ease up a bit more around him.
"Of course," Ritsu grinned, reaching into her bag and pulling out two cassettes which she held in front of his face, "I have some of our best stuff on here, so prepare to be blown away!"
gpt
Despite it being an obvious jest towards his biased desire, Alyx laughed at Ritsu's tease "Please, I know perfectly well that you would constantly beg me to let you show me around if I said that Yuijo was going to do it. This is only our second date, and already you can't get enough of me," it felt so odd calling this a date even though it kinda was, but it just seemed so right to call it one. Perhaps he did get a little cocky with that last part, but he just had to hope Ritsu didn't mind it much. Regardless, the two were soon on their way towards the outdoor market as their tour started there. The whole area was quite nice, and everyone seemed to be friendly around here. Sure, he got some looks considering he was a foreigner walking around with a native woman, but it was nothing that really made his uncomfortable. Especially considering that those stares soon turned into warm smiles. It almost made Alyx laugh because he had only thought that the Japanese had xenophobia, and hated outsiders. It was such a relief to find that wasn't true since no one had treated him poorly yet, and he hoped that continued.
As they were walking, Ritsu suddenly stopped at a vendor, and ordered what looked like a fish shaped cake. He wasn't all that hungry, but the way she shoved it into his face told him that she wasn't going to take no for an answer. Since the food was foreign to him, he studied it a bit before taking a bite. The red bean paste inside was delicious, and the bread was soft just the way he liked it. Oddly enough, Alyx hadn't had much exposure to the food of Japanese cuisine, and one would think that was all he would eat considering he was in Japan; however, the fridge in his hostel room had more American and New Zealand cuisine inside that he was consuming more of that.
Ritsu pulled out the cassettes of her band, and Alyx smiled at her "Nice. I can't wait for the tour to be over so I can hear more of your band's music. Perhaps I might even understand the lyrics now," he said with a small chuckle.
human
"Oh, so my tour is so boring that you are already wishing for it to be over?" Ritsu peered over at him from the corner of her eye, a slightly annoyed hint in her tone, "Clearly, I need to heat things up a bit." Reaching out, she took him by the hand without hesitation and led him down the street. She showed him the video arcade and insisted upon taking a picture with him before heading to their next destination. They looked over the movie theater, but didn't go inside since she only planned on showing him around for now, after all. Over elevated overpasses and across crosswalks, her fingers tightly wrapped around his, she could feel her heart leap up toward the sky with each step until they reached their destination. The distant orange glow on the horizon gave the red brick paths a warm light while the stately trees on either side led toward a large water fountain in the center. A few wooden benches stood in front of the trees, empty yet welcoming to the young couple.
"So, Alyx..." Ritsu finally turned to face him, taking both of his hands into hers as she stared up into his eyes, "Is this more interesting than music yet?" She wanted to step closer to him, to rest her head on his shoulder and feel safe and secure. She no longer wondered why her friends talked about their boyfriends so frequently... If only she could make their relationship official, that is.
gpt
Alyx didn't mean to make her angry at him by saying thought, and now knew that he should probably start watching what he said around her. He opened his mouth to apologize and explain himself, but Ritsu grabbed onto his hand, and pulled him forward. If he hadn't annoyed her by saying that then it would definitely be a welcome gesture. But it wasn't and he was being pulled around by her to various locations. Even at the video arcade, she forced him to take a picture with her, but he would of done so anyway.Then came the movie theater, and he almost thought that she was going to make him see a movie with her, but she simply told him it was the movie theater and moved on. The sun was starting to go down, but her tour still continued until they reached a park. It was quite beautiful, and the spot she had picked put them right in the middle of the sunset. From what he could see, they were the only two people in this park, but Alyx didn't mind. It was peaceful because of that, and he was content with staring off into the sunset with Ritsu's hand in his.
That was broken as he turned his head to give her his full attention, and she asked if this was more interesting than music. He knew that he should just say yes, but he didn't want to leave her without an explaination "I never thought music was more interesting in the first place. Ritsu, I am sorry for what I said, but it didn't mean what you thought it meant. I don't know if some sayings are universal or not, but I was simply expressing my excitement for knowing that I could listen to your band's music later on. Never once did I think that your tour was boring, and you could of showed me the most boring places in Japan, and I would of still enjoyed it because it meant that I could spend time with you," fuck it! Alyx didn't care that they only knew each other for two days, and pulled her close to him as a way to make their relationship a little more offical as his arms wrapped around her body "Now then, does that make you feel a little better?"
human
Ritsu watched him carefully as Alyx spoke to her, her hands slightly tightening their grip on his as her eyes stared up at him with hesitant intensity. When he apologized, she simply shook her head and smiled, indicating that she was merely teasing him. If she were being completely honest, she would have admitted that the possible double-meaning of his words had irritated her slightly, but acknowledging such a thing would only put a damper on the warm, comfortable mood that bad built between them during their time together. When she felt his arm wrapping around her and pulling her close, she felt the blood rush to her face and a surprised yet pleased squeak escape her throat.
"I... I feel a lot better, thanks," Ritsu gave him the most charming smile she could muster at the moment, as her left forefinger traced little circles on his back as she returned the embrace. Despite her relatively calm exterior Her mind was rushing at a thousand miles per minute.
"Should I kiss him? Wait, isn't it too soon for that? I mean, I only met him a little while ago... Would he think I'm a loose girl for even considering such a thing? Wait, he can't read minds, can he? What if he can read minds? That would be pretty awkward. Wait! Focus, Ritsu! Breathe, then focus..."Ritsu desperately searched for an answer to what she should do next, before settling on the safest option. She simply rested her head on his shoulder and buried her face in the crook of his neck, savoring the closeness between them while letting him feel her warmth and the throbbing of her heart.
"I like it here... A lot."
gpt
Alyx didn't think that Ritsu would return his embrace like this, and was actually starting to think that perhaps he did go too fast, and that he should pull away before either of them did something stupid. Thankfully, that didn't happen, and he enjoyed seeing her blush and hearing her squeak as he pulled her close, and he enjoyed it even more when she rested her head on his shoulder. Alyx could feel the throbbing of her heart, and she felt so warm in his arms that he thought it would also get too hot for him. Nevertheless, neither of them said a word to each other as they just basked in this feeling of being secure, warm, and safe in each other's arms. That silence was broken by her saying she liked it here, and he was safe to assume that she meant the fact of being here in his arms "I like it here too, Ritsu," from what he could remember, this was his first time using her given name rather than her family name. Not even in his texts to her did he use her given name. Hesitantly, he pulled away from her, stood up, and helped her up as well "Thanks for the tour, Ritsu," but their date was not over yet. Those cassette tapes were still waiting for him, and he couldn't wait to actually understand what Mio was singing Yui was singing about.
He gently grabbed hold of Ritsu's hand, and started walking to the exit of the park "So, where are we going to go? I'm positive we can't go to your dorm room, and I am not about to get caught trying to sneak inside just to listen to your band's tapes. I could take you to my hostel, but Addison and Alysha are probably back home now, and while they are nice girls. They can be a little...overcumbersome at times, so you will have to deal with them," regardless of where they went. Alyx was going to enjoy the new relationship he held with Ritsu. Not only did he have his first offical girlfriend, but she was probably the only girl who would ever have the honor of holding such a title, and hopefully would be the only girl you held of title of being the new misses Shale.
human
The gentle, soothing warmth coated her in a fuzzy sort of feeling all over, like being covered in thick, heat-infused felt. When he finally backed away, she felt somewhat filled with disappointment that it had lasted such a brief moment. "Its no problem... Alyx," she made special note to omit the honorific since they were officially a couple from now on. His offer, however, caught her a bit off-guard, in the good sort of way.
"I'll come along to meet them," Ritsu blushed and brushed a lock of her hair behind her left ear, her eyes fluttering with ill-concealed excitement. She had scarcely ever been in a boy's room before, and it sounded like a good opportunity for her to get a bit closer to Alyx. She probably would have refused if the two of them would be there alone, but since Addison and Alysha would be there she felt certain that it would be fine. Perhaps they might even have a funny story or two about Alyx for them to bond over.
She followed after him, a bit more skip and jump in her step as her heart felt lighter than air itself. She wouldn't even care if all her friends were standing just across the way staring at her with gaping mouths. All that mattered was spending more time with him, the boy who had dropped into her lap and stolen her tender maiden's heart. Her grip on his hand tightened ever so slightly with a gentle squeeze, letting him know that she was sure of her decision.
gpt
Alyx chuckled hearing Ritsu say his name because it sounded so weird due to her Japanese origin. Nevertheless, he nodded at her decision to come over to his hostel, but was still a little afraid of what Addison and Alysha might do or say when he brought Ritsu over "I'm fine with you meeting them, considering you already got a preview of them when they asked you out for me, but like I said. Just be a little careful around them," he said with a slight chuckle. They were looking at the sunset not too long ago, but it was starting to get darker now, and normally this would mean their date would have to come to an end; if they were younger. Alyx didn't have any classes tomorrow, and Ritsu probably wouldn't agree to stay out so late with him if she did, or perhaps it was just because she didn't care much about school. Either way, he wasn't going to complain "I don't think we really got much of a chance to truly get to know each other, Ritsu. What is your family like? You got any brothers or sisters?"
He listened to her explain her family, and started talking about his own after she was done "My family isn't really anything special, but I don't have a brother like you do. I do have a sister though who is three years older than me. She is still back in America with her husband, but I don't really talk with her much anymore. Its not that we don't get along, but she just never really seems to visit us unless it is for a family reunion or something," he sighed, but quickly changed his mood so Ritsu didn't think anything of it.
They reached the hostel, and Alyx led her up to his room. As predicted, both Addison and Alysha were already there, and they instantly took notice of Alyx and Ritsu not only walking in together, but holding hands as well. He had the notion to let go of her hand before he had opened the door, but he wanted to show Ritsu that he wasn't going to afraid to show his budding attraction to her. Both girls started laughing almost uncontrollably, and Alyx rolled his eyes "You can pick whether or not you want to deal with the giggle twins, or if you would rather come with me first," he smiled at her before letting go of her hand, and making sure she saw which room was his, and leaving it open, so she could come in anytime.
human
"Oh? I'm surprised that say that 'bout them, given that you trust them enough to ask a beautiful japanese girl out for you," Ritsu couldn't resist the urge to tease him a little, nudging him playfully with her shoulder as they walked side-by-side. The afternoon sun had already fallen, giving way to the dimly lit streetlights which cast secluded circles of light upon the sidewalk. She was glad that she didn't have classes the next day, and was only planning on meeting up with her friends in the afternoon for their routine practice session. Of course, she planned on telling them all about her romantic adventures with Alyx, and even then she felt a bubbling glee attached to the bragging she fully intended to do.
"Yes, I have a little brother named Satoshi," Ritsu smiles and looks up at Alyx, "He's a good kid, even if he's a bit shy around people he doesn't know. I'm sure he'll grow out of it eventually. My folks are pretty chill... They were glad that I scored high enough in my placement exams to enter collage, and naturally that means I don't get quite as much time to spend with them as I did before. I still spend holidays with them, though."
"America, hm?" Ritsu listened intently to Alyx share a bit about his own family. She might have picked up on the sensitive nature of the subject, or perhaps she was simply more interested in getting to know Alyx personally, but in either case she tactfully avoided delving into the subject. "Its sort of funny, how we were born in two different cultures yet we have been brought together anyway."
She gave his hand another gentle squeeze and continued on in relative silence until they reached the hostel. Addison and Alysha's reaction to seeing the young couple holding hands caused her face to redden in embarrassment and mild irritation. Did they look weird together or something? Seriously, did they think they wouldn't get together after they helped set the two of them up? She wasn't sure what to make of their laughter, so she simply took off her shoes, murmured a simple word of greeting to both of them, then hurried after Alyx to his room.
gpt
Alyx chuckled upon seeing Ritsu dashing into his room with remnants of her blush still on her face "Now do you see why I told you to be careful around them? I had to actually pay them five hundred yen for them to actually ask you out for me," he said with another chuckle. He was simply sitting on the edge of his bed when Ritsu entered the room, but he got up and shut the door behind her, so Addison and Alysha wouldn't bother them much. His mother would probably kill him if she ever found out that he was in his room alone with a girl, but Alyx wasn't around his mother, nor did he has any intentions of trying anything with Ritsu. It was much too early in their relationship to even think of something like that "But let's just forget about them," he gently grabbed hold of her hand once more as he escorted her to his bed. He didn't peg Ritsu as a girl to really be all that responsible just from how she liked to joke around a lot, but thankfully he was rather old fashioned , and reached behind his bed to pull out an old CD-player with a pair of earphones "I have a couple CDs of my own, so I thought it would be my best option to bring this along with me if I ever wanted to listen to some music, but I never thought I would be listening to Japanese songs on this thing," he oh so hoped that she had brought along fuwa fuwa time as he really began wondering what it was all about.
Little did he know was how girly the lyrics actually were, but that wouldn't stop him from enjoying them. There have been plenty of times where he had listened to some pretty strange stuff, so this would be child's play compared to those times "How about you surprise with a song, Ritsu?" he plugged the earphones in, placed one in his ear, and the other in hers just so they could share this moment together "I do ask that you not give me any information about the song as I want to try and guess the title by myself."
human
Ritsu nodded and let out a sigh of relief when the door shut after her, "Are they always like that? I mean, we don't look that weird as a couple, do we?" The drummer briefly entertained the thought of her friends all pointing and laughing at Ritsu after telling them about her new boyfriend. She shook her head and slapped her cheeks with her hands twice in order to clear her mind, then turned toward Alyx once again.
"Nope, I totally can't imagine how anyone would think we look weird together... I mean, I think you're pretty handsome, so-" Ritsu blinked twice, "Perhaps its because they think I'm not that feminine." Granted, the way she was sitting on the bed, with her legs slightly parted and her skirt thankfully folding inward to prevent her from unintentionally flashing her boyfriend with a glimpse of her panties, wasn't the most ladylike pose to take...
By then, however, Alyx had turned his attention to the CD-player so she dropped the subject and instead turned to her club's music. When he suggested that she choose a song for him to listen to, her eyes got a mischievous glint to them as she gave him a thumb's up, saying in English, "I can do!" She reached into her bag and pulled out a jewel case, and quickly slapped the disk into the CD-player's tray before selecting the fifth track. She then watched his face's expression carefully while smiling in a pleased manner as "Don't say 'Lazy' " began to play.
gpt
Alyx didn't think they looked like a weird couple at all, but do couples really every think like that about each other? Perhaps it might be the contrast between the two in that he was an American, and she was Japanese, but there are people just like that back in America, so there would be no reason for them to seem weird. If anything, they could be considered an odd couple, but that was beyond the point.
As the song began playing, he immediately recognized that it wasn't Fuwa Fuwa Time, but didn't mind much. It was a rather amazing song, and sounded like it was done by a professional band rather than a group of friends. The lyrics were somewhat odd, but liked the meaning behind it, and was kinda disappointed when the song ended "Wow, are you sure you got your band's CDs, and not one of your favorite bands instead?" he said, teasing her, and a chuckle came from his lips just to inform her that was what he was doing "Seriously though, it really sounds like you guys were a big time band with how everything was done. Completely unlike that YouTube video I saw of your band, and correct me if I am wrong here, but was the titleDon't Say Lazy?"
human
"I'm happy that you say that, but at the same time I'm not!" Ritsu's head hung low and she threw her hands up into the air, "I know our stuff sounds like typical J-pop stuff sometimes... Well, most of the time, actually... That's why we don't stand out enough." She looked up at him nodded, a bit relieved when she realized he wasn't being entirely serious, "Thanks... We have to practice pretty hard to get the recordings to turn out like that. Usually Yui-chan tries to improvise a bit, or Mio-chan gets embarrassed during live performances, so for our best work we have to rent a recording studio."
"Yup, its calledDon't Say Lazy" Ritsu laid back on the bed, throwing her hands back before rolling over onto her stomach, "Its usually pretty easy to tell the name, since its usually one of the English lines." She reached back and selects track one this time. AFuwa Fuwa Timebegins to play, she stretched and rolled back over onto her back again in order to look up at Alyx and smile as they listened to the music. Her feet began to tap the floor in time, as if she were pushing the petals to her drum set while her head bobbed back and forth slightly to the same beat.
gpt
As soon as the song began playing, Alyx recognized it immediately. The song was the same song he had listened to on YouTube, and was technically how he even knew about Ritsu and her band, and the reason why he wanted to study the Japanese language. He couldn't believe that he was about to finally understand what the lyrics were about. As he listened to the song more and more, and heard what Yui was singing about. He began to come to a realization. He didn't true if this would hold true or not, but the lyrics were love lyrics. He wondered if Ritsu had realized this, and played the song because it described her own feelings towards him. He wanted to ask, but at the same time he just wanted to keep it to himself. As he was somewhat afraid of what Ritsu might think if he was wrong; however, he just couldn't resist as the song ended "I know that one. That'sFuwa Fuwa Timeand it is the very same song that I listened to on YouTube."
He took his ear bud out, and did the same to hers as he gently took hold of her hand "But...I have to ask you something, Ritsu," a faint blush was spreading across his cheeks as he mentally prepared himself for what he about to ask "Did you pick that song at random, or was there a reason behind it? I mean, those lyrics weren't likeDon't Say Lazybecause they were love lyrics. This is going to sound so weird, and I feel a little embarrassed asking it, but...Did you pick that song because it is exactly how you feel about me?" the blush began brighter as he finished, and he couldn't believe that he just asked her that question.
human
"Eh?" Ritsu's eyes became little black dots as streams of sweat began to roll down her bright-red cheeks. She could feel the incredible intensity of Alyx's stare as he gazed directly at her, and could sense the sincerity in his voice as he asked the emotionally-charged question. In all honesty, she had chosen the song since it was one of their most popular songs, but it was also true that she felt the same way toward Alyx as the song lyrics. If she told him all this, though, not only would it break the mood but it might also hurt his feelings. There was only one way out of it...
"Ah, s-s-so you noticed that?" Ritsu smiled and laughed in a nervous manner, "I guess its true, since being with you is my fuwa fuwa time... Its like I can hardly hold my feelings down." She placed her hand over his as well, hoping that he would buy her explanation without diving deeper into the issue since she had found a way to answer his question without lying and without directly addressing her original purpose for choosing the song.
"Is... Is it really that strange of a thing to ask? I mean..." her feet rubbed together a bit while she searched for the proper words, "You know that I like you, right?" Ritsu was trying to put up a brave face, but the way she kept sweating profusely and her heart pounded in her chest rapidly showed that she was extremely nervous about being put in the spotlight with respect to romantic matters. She could stand in front of a crowd of hundreds or possibly thousands of fans and drum away on her drum set without feeling anything but excitement and elation. It was a completely different matter when she sat next to a boy on a bed, who was essentially asking her to confess to him.
gpt
Alyx could see right through her nervousness...and was loving every minute of it. Yes, the lyrics could indeed be her way to confess her love for him without actually saying anything, but Alyx is the kind of person who loves to research things. It seemed that K-On! was pretty big after he looked online for some information on them. There was a fan-site dedicated to them which had all of their recorded songs as downloadable MP3s, and the most song that was downloaded by far wasFuwa Fuwa Time. Why wouldn't a band want to show off their most popular song? Especially when said song was the gateway into the addition of another fan?
He wanted to tell her this, and was about to do just that when something crossed his mind. He had effectively caused Ritsu to confess to him, and he had already seen how nervous it made her to do so. He didn't know what the outcome would truly be, but had a feeling it would only spell trouble if he revealed that he actually knew the true reason why she played the song for him. Sure, Ritsu could take a joke, but this was one of those jokes that would cause the person to be angry if revealed that it was a joke. So he hushed up, and responded to what she had just told him "Of course I know that, but you don't have to say anymore. There may be an obvious chemistry between us, but a couple should never rush things. I'm starting to actually think that I should of just hushed up, and not asked such an awkward question," he chuckled everything way, and put the earbud back in their ears.
He still wanted to hear one more song, and they had more than enough time to do so "So, lets get away from that subject. I'd like to hear another one of your band's songs if you don't mind."
human
Ritsu felt relieved when he didn't push the issue, letting out a breath of air that she hadn't even noticed she was holding in the first place. She smiled and made an effort to calm herself down, and perhaps act a bit more natural again before things got awkward, "Thanks, Alyx..." She had no idea that he had seen through her to the real reason she had chosen the song, of course, but she still resolved to be a bit more careful with her choice of selection from then on. For all she knew, he might take it the wrong way if she playedNo, Thank You!right afterward.
"Here, this one is pretty good, too," Ritsu selected tract three,Listen!!. She popped the ear bud back into her ear and listened to the music, leaning against her boyfriend ever so slightly as they sat side-by-side on the bed. Sure, she could get used to this sort of thing... Spending time with Alyx might become as natural as breathing in time, but for now she resolved to ease into it. Going too fast might trigger a similar response in herself, flustering up when she should be strong and proudly admit her own feelings.
As soon as the song ended, Ritsu turned toward him and gave him a playful tug on the ear to get his attention, "So, what did you think about that one?"
gpt
Alyx was starting to regret jokingly teasing her about what the toFuwa Fuwa Timemeant, and was about to apologize to her and confess when she suddenly started playingListen!!it had a much different tone to it than the last song, and almost sounded like they were trying to get away from their J-pop sound; however, that only worked slightly as the lyrics just didn't quite match with what he thought that they were trying to do. After the song ended, Ritsu brought his attention to her by tugging on his ear. With a faint sound of pain, he gave her his opinion "Well, to me, it sounds like you guys were trying to sound a little more rough, but the lyrics just don't match up with that. To be honest, it is actually a little funny because of that," he said, adding in a chuckle. He enjoyed hearing her band's music, but felt like that was enough today as he took out their earbuds, gave her CD back to her, and put the CD-player away "That is enough music for me though. Perhaps I might have to listen to some more later, or you can burn me a CD of them, so I don't have to get asking you to listen to them."
Now that they had nothing really to keep them occupied, he was becoming oddly nervous around Ritsu. Most likely it was due to the fact that he was never alone with a girl in his own room before, and memories of his mother telling him to be careful having women in his room came back to him. Not only that, but he wasn't quite sure what to do now. A very small part of him wanted her to spend the night, but it was quickly shot down because that was much too fast for the young couple. It was getting way too silent for the two, and something needed to be done "Hey, are you getting hungry at all? The girls and I take turns cooking dinner, and today is my turn to cook. I'm sure that Addison and Alysha are probably waiting for me to start cooking, so you might have to deal with them moaning and complaining while I cook," he chuckled, but got himself off the bed, and helped Ritsu up as well.
He bowed to her before taking the lead outside, and heading into the kitchen to begin cooking. As predicted, both Addison and Alysha complained about him taking to long to begin in English "Oh hush up. There are plenty of snacks in the fridge that could of tide you over until now," he responded back to them in English as well. Not like there was any reason to talk to each other in English, but he just did to because they did.
human
"Well, we are still working on the quality of our lyrics," Ritsu sighed, admitting that it probably was not their best work as a band, "But I appreciate the honesty. Sometimes I wonder if people just automatically accept our music because we are an all-girl band which can carry a catchy beat." She accepted the CD and placed it back into the jewel case before placing it back into her bag. "Sure, I'd be glad to give you a sample CD... But its fun to just enjoy the music with you, too," she laughed and blushed slightly.
As the music session drew to a close, Ritsu couldn't help but catch a bit of Alyx's awkwardness despite her resolve to remain calm. She let out a subdued squeak when Alyx turned to him and suddenly asked if she was hungry, offering to cook for the four of them. She quickly nods, "Sure, I'd love to! I'm actually not a bad cook myself, but I'd be happy to join you for dinner."
She followed him into the kitchen after Alyx helped her up, but she was thinking about if she should plan on making him lunches from now on before realizing that they attended different collages and it would be difficult to arrange for them to meet during their lunch breaks to eat together in the first place. She eventually dropped the idea entirely, letting out a disappointed sigh.
Ritsu stood rather uncomfortably as Alyx, Addison, and Alysha all spoke in English as she had never really caught on to her English lessons and had only a vague idea of what they were talking about.
gpt
Alyx noticed how uncomfortable Ritsu looked as they spoke in English after he had shut the two up, and chuckled to both get her attention and to lighten things up "Sorry about that, Ritsu. While we have agreed to mainly speak in Japanese, so we don't start to slack on the language. Sometimes we speak in English for the hell of it," he chuckled again before finally getting to work on cooking dinner for everyone "Now don't be a bump on a log, Ritsu. You can chat with Addison and Alysha, no?" he didn't look at while saying that, but spoke loud enough so he could be heard by her. While Alyx was cooking, his memories of his childhood started coming back. For as long as he could remembered, he adored cooking, and would often help his mother when she was cooking. Obviously, she didn't let him do much when he was really young, but as she grew older. She let him do more and more before she sometimes took a break from cooking, and let him do it instead. Because of that, he became a rather great chef, and learned that all the men in his family shared a love for cooking, and most became chefs while some were just content cooking for their spouses. Sometimes, he did think about becoming a chef himself, but he was going to wait and figure out if that was what he really wanted to do after all his schooling was done.
Since their hostel wasn't that big, the aroma of what he was making easily filled the house. It wasKatsudon, a pork cutlet rice bowl. Alyx had learned a bunch of Japanese dishes from going out different restaurants with Yuijo, liking what he ordered, and learning them by doing a simple Google search. Combine that with his ever growing expertise in cooking, and he could easily match the quality with that of a five-star restaurant. About thirty minutes later, the dish was finally done, and he gave everyone a bowl at the table, but didn't sit down as he believed that the chef should only do so once all his guests are seated "Dinner is ready!" he exclaimed. Addison and Alysha quickly rushed into the dining room as the smell had teased them, and they were extremely hungry by the time it was ready.
human
"Its ok... I should probably brush up on my English more, anyway," Ritsu waved her hands in the air and smiled in order to let him know that she wasn't bothered by it that much. It was a rather potent reminder that however at home she might have been in Japan, in Alyx's little group she was the outsider... For the time being, at least. She certainly hoped she wouldn't remain that way for long, and working on her English communication skills would certainly help transition her into their little circle, or at least show how much effort she was putting into fitting in with them. She couldn't expect Alyx to do all the work in the relationship, after all.
When Alyx went to start preparing dinner, Ritsu turned her attention to Addison and Alysha, who both looked at her with ill-hidden curiosity. She managed to maintain some light coversation with the two of them, chatting about their favorite foods and such but mostly about Ritsu's band. Japanese pop music bands were rather common, but their local (as well as international, thanks to YouTube) appeal could not be easily overlooked. As the self-declared president and leader of band, she had to lay down her strongest conversational cards early on in order to establish herself, especially after the little incident at the door when she practically ignored them and bolted into Alyx's room without a single word to either of them. Before she could get very far into the conversation, however, the deep, fragrant scent of Katsudon began to waft into the room, almost as soon as Alyx called for them to join him for dinner.
Ritsu sat down at the table, trying to position herself next to where Alyx would sit so the two of them could be side-by-side at the table. By the time her eyes met the meal, however, it was hard for her to think of much else than sampling the wonderful meal laid out before her. If it was possible for katsudon to glow, the bowl before her certainly did. "It looks so good!" Ritsu gave Alyx a thumb's up, saying in English, "Good job!"
gpt
Alyx chuckled at her English because it sounded so weird coming from her. Perhaps it was because he had gotten so used to Addison's and Alysha's new Zealand accent that hearing the same thing in Japanese was just weird to him. Nevertheless, he thanked her for the compliment "Thank you. All the men in my family are great cooks, and I just happened to enjoy katsudon when Yuijo had me go with him to a restaurant. With a simple Google search, I found the recipe for it, and decided to make it today," since his family had been accustomed to being cooks, he was taught some of the basic rules of being a chef. One was that the chef was not allowed to begin eating his food before his guests ate first, and once the three girls had taken their first bite; congratulating him as per usual. He was finally able to eat himself, and sometimes even surprised himself how good he could cook.
It seemed that Addison and Alysha had already warmed up to Ritsu as they were happily asking her different questions about this and that while eating; however, they weren't the most proficient in table manners as some questions were asked with food still in their mouths. It was almost funny to watch as Ritsu even had moments herself where she was like that. It got to the point where he let out a little chuckle, and quickly explained himself "Sorry. Watching you three talk to each other without any regard to table manners is kinda funny," he chuckled again after his explanation, and had finished first since he didn't have any questions for Ritsu at the moment. As all the ones he wanted to ask where already asked and answered by her earlier.
He waited until they were done before picking up everyone's dishes and carrying them into the kitchen to begin washing them "So, did you enjoy my cooking, Ritsu? I'd ask you two, but you have already tasted it hundreds of times before."