human
Makoto Sohma
"But I don't want a new girl in my house." The idea of someone else living here was already kind of offensive to him. He didn't want to have to share anything, he had been an only child for the majority of his life, he had never even met the girl they were calling his half sister.
Despite the fact that the curse is supposed too only break for true love, a woman had managed to get far enough along with his father that it had broken. His father the former dog, had this stupid sense of loyalty that probably ended up causing the curse to be broken in the first place. Unfortunately his mother had only stuck with him for about two years before her own human disloyalty had caused her to up and leave with another mans child in her belly.
He had never met the other woman, or the child that had come from it. Aside from school he had lived his entire life in the compound of the Sohma main family house hold. His interactions with the outside world were limited, and he had never cared to explore them.
So the thought of them bringing this stranger into his territory was frustrating and annoying. However the woman whom had donated her eggs was now dead, and the father of this other child had apparently up and left, which meant that now at the age of 18, he was getting a half sister.
The thought did not thrill him.
"She's not even a Sohma, just because your curse broke doesn't mean you get to bring some brat into our house." Only apparently that was exactly what that meant because no matter how he tried to beg and plead for this not to happen they were still in a car going towards the court house to fill out the last of the paperwork and bring the girl home to live with them.
To say that Makoto was sulking was an understatement. His father was a silent impassive wall, only ever really saying that the girl needed them, and it was the least they could do.
"Can't we just let her go to some orphanage she will be in the system for like two years tops." Again no reply came, and deep down Makoto knew that they couldn't. He knew full well that they couldn't just send some girl off to the market to live alone without family. There was that sense of empathy in him.
He just really didn't want to share a room. When they got out of the car they were escorted to the office where the documentation and the girl would be waiting.
gpt
Akemi Fujioka
Oh boy. Akemi is nervous. No, thats the understatement of the century. If the sweaty palms are anything to go by shes having a frickin panic attack! Then again shes about to meet a man that, apparently, her mother used to be with way back in the day, and a half-brother? Oh boy doesnt begin to cover it!
How is she supposed to handle this? Its not everyday she gets to meet a man thats sorta like a stepfather, or a half-brother! Ugh! Akemi began to pace up and down the corridor, much to the receptionists irritation. Yeah, she knew. Of course she knew. Ever since she plopped her butt down in a seat, shes been getting nothing but the evil eye, but shes just gonna have to get over herself, now, isnt she? Mean old bat. At least nobody else is around. Yet.
Akemi paused by one of the large windows, just to glance out. It looks like shell have to wait a little bit longer. Its nice out, though. A few flowers are opening up, as if to show off their spring colors, and drops of dew are sparkling on the grass, on the green leaves.
Maybe itd help her anxiety if she had something to eat? Maybe, but the receptionist would have a conniption fit if she brought a crumb of food in here. Ugh! Akemi placed a hand over her grumbling stomach, only to sigh and start pacing again. There isnt much else she can do here, besides read.
Dont get her wrong, she loves to read she just cant sit down and read right now. Not with so much going on.
Is it weird? Is it weird that shes about to be taken in by a man shes never met before? Akemi rubbed her hands together, only to brush her palms over her skirt. With the school year about to start, she doesnt really have anything besides her uniform to wear that is, not anything she can impress her new folks with. Her hair was left down, too, even though she normally puts some of it up in a side ponytail.
I wish theyd hurry up and get here, Akemi told the empty silence. Put me out of my misery! Akemi couldnt resist throwing her hands up dramatically but of course, her sense of humor doesnt seem to faze the seventy-something year old lady typing away at the computer.
Fine. Be that way. Halfway tempted to stick her tongue out at her, Akemi rolled her eyes and instead plopped her happy butt down in one of the uncomfortable chairs offered to the general public. A leg went to cross over the other. Akemi crossed her arms, too, while she was at it not that it helped things any.
I hope they wont be too much longer. I dont know how long I can take this waiting!A hand lifted to brush a few threads of hair behind an ear, revealing a pair of thoughtful, if not nervous, purple eyes.
human
Walking into the courthouse, Makoto's brown eyes were laced with judgement as he looked at Akemi. He blinked for a moment as he looked at her, he had seen a few pictures of his mother, though not many had survived the time from when she had ran off, and if he really tried too he could think back to a time almost forgotten and try to remember a face, he supposed this girl in front of him was a close approximation of that plus another.
Which only made him want to kick and fuss at the woman. He knew nothing about her aside from the fact that seeing her face she was far too cheerful for the situation. He practically hid himself behind his father for a moment as the man bowed towards the sixteen year old.
"I am Daisaku Sohma, and the man currently trying to hide behind me is Makoto, It is a pleasure to meet you Akemi." Their father seemed to give a slight shove to Makoto.
Makoto who was supposed to be the older of the two siblings at 18 years old really didn't understand just how childish he was being, but their father excused himself to go and deal with the paperwork and finalize the fact that he was now the younger woman's care taker.
Makoto for his part just walked up to the girl, he sniffed the air slightly as he looked at his half sister. The only thing to come to mind that he could say was as a very curt. "you smell weird."
gpt
Its a pleasure to meet you, sir- I mean, ah Akemis voice crumbled and disintegrated, only for embarrassment to sink its claws into her. A frustrated groan bubbled up just seconds later. Daisaku? Do I call you that, or something else? It seems really formal Akemi couldnt help but break down laughing awkwardly, her hands brushing over the dark blue skirt. How the hell is she supposed to handle this situation? It only seems to be getting worse, too!
N-No, wait! Dont tell her hes-?! It was right about then that her heart dropped right into her stomach, and the acid started eating away at it. Akemi looked at the closed door, wishing more than anything she could join him inside, just simply because well, her brother obviously wants nothing to do with her. Its not a good way to start things, she knows that much.
Of course things went downright awkward, really damn fast. Akemi was trying to mind her own business, she really was only, he didnt seem to take it that way? No, he felt the need to try and make fun of her? It doesnt matter.
Huh? I smell weird?Isn't that weird to say, in of itself? Akemi thought of sniffing her sleeve, just to see if what he says is true but she'd rather not give him the satisfaction. Besides! It wasn't even two hours ago that she hopped into the shower! How can she possibly smell anything but nice?
Ah Okay? And you look weird, Akemi was quick to retaliate, but only after showing her skepticism. Im not complainin, though. Akemi flashed him a toothy grin, only to laugh moments later. Anyway Makoto, is it? Nice to finally meet you! Akemi offered him a hand to shake.
human
Daisaku chuckled slightly when she asked what to call him. "You can call me whatever you wish Akemi, Sir, Daisuke, some pet name, dad eventually if you would so desire." He seemed genuine and warm even as he answered her question about what their name could be. He didn't really know what to tell her, before going into the office to finalize the paperwork.
Makoto was looking like he was trying not to growl for some reason, he blinked for a moment when she said that he looked weird. He knew part of that was true. He was lanky, today was a day off so he was wearing a T-shirt and some sweat pants, he was practically in his pajama's compared to her. He also looked more tired, he had been up pacing most of the night so he didn't have a lot of the leg to stand on.
When she offered him a hand he looked at it, and took a deep breath, he supposed she had just lost her family, if it had been his dad he wouldn't have much of a say in this situation either, and she hadn't done anything really offensive, she been the result of her mother running away from his dad's true love, probably because Makoto had been born with the curse.
He tried not to think about it like that, and slowly gently he took her hand. "Sorry, I..." He let out a long breath. "Sorry for your loss, I don't want to make things harder for you." The less of each other they saw probably the better in all honesty.
"It's your shampoo, I have a strong sense of smell, artificial scents tend to burn my nose." He actually sneezed after he spoke and tried to hide his wattering eyes, it was the honest truth, scented shampoos always got to him. "It's fine, you coulbn't known."
gpt
Very reluctantly, he reached out to gently take her hand. To be honest, Akemi halfway expected him to smack the thing, but hes proven himself to be halfway decent just going this far. Neither one of em wants this. If anything, Akemi prefers to have her father back among the living only, that isnt possible. No, no; dont apologize. And thanks. I think youre the first person that hasnt danced around the bush about it.
Okay, did things just get awkward? Probably. Ugh! Akemi shouldve kept her big mouth shut! No, wait; did he say something? Big eyes that look purple in this light blink up at him, only to widen slightly. Really? Oh. Uh I didnt think my shampoo would be a problem Its just this stuff I was borrowing Akemi reached up to grab a chunk of her hair, to sniff it herself and see. Yeah, she can kinda, sorta smell it, but it isnt so strong shed be offended.
Ill have to keep that in mind. Um Anyway Akemi kicked at nothing in particular, just looking for anything that can be used as a sort of conversation starter. Only problem is? She knows next to nothing about this guy. Yeah, hes her half-brother, but thats all she knows. Akemi doubts they have well, anything in common. Maybe itd be best that she steers clear of him?
My, um My shampoo is bothering you, so Ill just go take a seat waaaay over there, okay? Ill leave you alone. Akemi pointed a finger at the chair in question, just to flash him an uneasy smile. You obviously want nothing to do with me, and I can kinda understand that. A shrug rolled through her shoulders then.
human
Makoto sneezed. Rubbing his eyes he didn't mind that she seemed to want to get away from him. Part of him wanted to explain that for him life was a mix of senses of a dog allergies like a human. It was a hell he didn't wish inflicted on another living being.
But when she said that he didn't want anything to do with her he blinked and shook his head. That wasn't really the case here. While yes her scent did burn him he also didn't want to make this situation harder on her, and he felt kind of bad that he already had. As she moved away from him he sniffled for a moment but the damage was done and his nose was going to hurt for a bit.
That said he still got up and moved towards her, taking a seat next to her regardless of what his nose wanted. "Sorry, I... don't get out much." He said lightly.
"I have a condition that keeps me home schooled, and as you noticed I have allergies to even week scents. So I don't really have a lot of social skills." He regretted that fact, but at the same time he didn't want to leave the girl with the thought that she would be forever unwelcome in what was supposed to be her own home.
He sighed having to breath through his mouth at this point. "It's probably a good idea to... have someone else around." He admitted. "I don't hate you, but I also don't really know you... so I have no idea what to talk about." He voiced the same thoughts she was having.
gpt
If its any consolation, I have trouble making friends. Akemi rubbed at a shoulder this time, not meeting his eyes or anything. I dont know why that is. I tend to ramble every so often, but I doubt it gets on anybodys nerves I just dont know why I Ah Its sort of hard to put into words. Akemi tries to reach out, she really does and yet, she cant seem to keep anyone as a friend not for very long, that is.
Anyway! Akemi spoke up with a clap of the hands, deciding to move on from this depressing subject. Um I know, I get it. I havent really had anyone for me since Daddy ran off. I mean, I cant help but wonder if it had something to do with me. I dont think Ive done anything wrong Its just It hurts, you know? And I know Im a total stranger, and that Im intruding in on your life and all and Im sorry.
Feeling awkward all of a sudden, Akemi rubbed the back of her neck while kicking at empty air. I dont hate you either. I dont know you, but Ive never had any siblings around. I guess thisll be a new experience for the both of us, huh? Akemi laughed at realizing this, flashing him a bright smile.
Lets see What should we talk about? Her purple eyes drifted up to the ceiling, her lips pursing in thought. Akemi tapped a finger against her chin, too not that it did a lot of good or anything, its just an old habit. Well, um Whats it like being home-schooled? Ive always gone to school, Akemi told him with a nonchalant shrug of her shoulders.
My favorite subject well, I dont really have one? I guess? I like them all just fine, though Ive gotta admit: math? It aint my friend. English is alright, Biology is pretty interesting and Geography is a royal pain, but whatever. Akemi let out a great big sigh, looking to him for any kind of input. A conversation is something that has to go back and forth, after all.
human
Makoto blinks for a moment as he is asked what it was like to be homeschooled. He kicks at the floor slightly trying to come up with an answer. "I suppose it's not that much different. I come from a rather large family on my dad's side of things, and me and a bunch of the other kids all take classes together because of... a condition."
He sighed he wished he could go to regular school, but no one wanted to take the risk of the curse being found out. It was a huge paradox how exactly where they supposed to find people they could fall in love with and break the curse if they were never allowed to interact with the outside world.
She was right about one thing though she rambled, a lot. He couldn't see why someone so cute though would have a hard time making friend's wait did he just think that his half sister was cute? He paused for a moment feeling slightly daft and when he realized he hadn't spoken for a number of minutes he opened his mouth to say something.
"I'm a pretty good writer." He said after a moment. "I try my best to write stories, small novels, I hope to one day become an author." Makoto blinked after a moment and got up from his seat it felt awkward always just sitting around a beurocracy.
"Do you wanna go for a walk?" He kicked the floor for a moment. "Those two could be another hour, I have some cash, and we are in downtown, we could probably get a coffee if you would like find a nice cafe."
He was pretty sheltered, and honestly didn't even know if that was a good idea, but for the moment anything was better than just sitting around and waiting, something that he was pretty sure this girl had done enough of today. "I have a phone, so dad will know where went."
gpt
A large family? Really? Akemi tried to imagine what itd be like, having several cousins in stones reach, but its kinda hard to. Mom died when she was little, and Dad he never mentioned having any family, and she never met anybody that was related, so it was just them two, for the most part. Am I going to take these classes, too? Akemi couldnt help but wonder, kicking her feet out at the empty air.
Itd be cruel if hes stuck at the house, and shes able to leave every morning to go off to school. Bright eyes glanced over as he spoke up, curiosity and intrigue sparkling in their depths. A smile spread across her face in just seconds. Really? You write? Hey, thats great, Akemi told him on a soft laugh. At least youre good at something. I tend to screw everything up. If youre cool with it, Id love to read some of the stories one of these days.
Huh? A walk? Nowthatsounds nice! Akemi hopped up out of her seat, twirling around to face him with a bright smile. You know what? Id love to. Ive been hanging out here for the past two hours or so? Im sick and tired of this place, she continued on with a wrinkle of her nose. I swear, the receptionist is pure evil. No matter what I do, I tick her off somehow. A smack on the desk and a glare from the old bag herself was evidence enough.
Tempted to stick her tongue out at the woman, Akemi rolled her eyes and decided otherwise. Coffee. Im down for that. Lets go! Akemi leaned down to take his hand and help him out of the seat, laughing a little all the while. How about you shoot your dad a text, so he knows where were going and he doesnt worry? Huh? I know Dad I mean, my Dad, used to worry if I go off without telling him.
Damn. It still hurts to think about how he ran off. Akemi swallowed past the lump in her throat, and instead pasted on a big ol smile to hide the pain and all. Do you know any good cafes round here? Ive never been in this part of the city before, she decided to throw out there with a small shrug of the shoulders.
Uh oh. Is she trying too hard? Probably. Akemi can never tell. A hand rubbing the back of her neck, Akemi went to snatch her purse up off the floor not that she has anything too terribly important inside, its just an old habit. Is it cool if I leave the rest of my stuff here? she asked the old bat behind the desk, not really caring if she says yay or nay. Jeez. Who the heck peed in her coffee this morning?
human
"You're mom never told you? You have about." He looked at his hands for a moment as if trying to count on each hand. "well there are a lot of us, around 8 cousin's and more aunts and uncles than i have ever seen at one table, oh, and not just large, but wealthy and old, we're one of the land owning families in Japan. You'll see what I mean when we get to our family estate." Makoto walked along side Akemi humming slightly the lady had said that her stuff could stay, and he quickly shot a text off to his father to let him know that Makoto was taking Akemi out for a walk.
"It's unlikely you will ever meet all of them, heck even I haven't, and I lived with some of them. Me and dad used to live in the main family compound, but a while back we moved out to a stock house on the outer edge." Makoto didn't go into anymore detail as to why, it happened around the same time their mother had ran off with Akemi's father. They had been moved outside of the central home.
Makoto shook his head. "No I don't get to come into town, but, that doesn't mean I can't find us some good coffee."
He closed his eyes, sniffing the air for a moment, trying to focus, the city always burned his nose, too many artificial smells. Keeping his eyes closed however he was able to focus, and started to lead them. "Follow me, their is a good one down this way." The smell of coffee was easy to pick out, and the ritcher the blend the easier it was to follow. By the time he was done walking with her it had been about six blocks, and several turns, no way anyone could have smelled, or seen it with normal senses, he rubbed his nose and sneezed. "Here we are." He opened the door for Akemi and lead her into an elegant looking caffee.
gpt
Whoa Seriously? Im part of an old and wealthy family?Its kinda hard to believe. Akemi has always thought it was just her, Dad, and the mother she can barely remember thats it. Her eyes drank in the sight of this unfamiliar city, her mind absorbing whatever hes willing to tell her about the family shes never known about. Its just Its so unreal. Why didnt anybody ever tell her about the eight cousins, the countless aunts and uncles? Akemi blinked as he told her to follow him, but seein as how she has no idea of how to get from Point A to Point B she didnt object.
I just cant believe it, Akemi murmured under her breath. Why didnt Dad ever say anything? Id have loved the idea of gettin to know everybody. I always wanted to have a bigger family Kicking out her feet with every step, it sure as hell didnt take long until they reached a nice-looking cafe. In fact, it was pretty elegant? Is that the right word? Normally Akemi wouldnt describe a cafe as elegant, but it certainly fit the bill here. Akemi shuffled between her feet, all of a sudden feeling uneasy. In a school uniform, she feels like she sticks out like a sore thumb.
Right in the middle was a pillar, with a black something-or-another wrapped around it to advertise their menu. It is somewhat dark, and yet chandeliers hung from the ceiling to provide ambience and lighting. Akemi definitely feels out of place here. Maybe theyre better off going somewhere else-? No, no. He decided to come here, so she should just suck it up, right? A blush rising to her cheeks, Akemi stepped inside and looked around, playing with a few threads of hair around a finger. Um This is nice she said first, even if its redundant and sort of obvious.
Okay, so um Where do we-? Akemi bit the corner of her lip, her hands pulling at her skirt now. A few bits and pieces of dark brown fell forward to brush against the girls cheeks. In order to try and banish this embarrassment, Akemi clapped her hands together with an awkward little laugh. I sure hope they sell caramel frappes here! she told him, a weak smile curving her lips. I absolutely love em! I used to order em every chance I get! Itd be really refreshing since its so hot out and all. Akemi brought a hand up to tuck the strands behind an ear, just to pull at the collar of her shirt a moment later. What are you going to get? she asked out of curiosity, tilting her head.
human
"I would assume your dad probably didn't know any of this." He took a menu as the two of them found a place to sit. He avoided eye contact with his half sister, mostly because he didn't really know what to tell her when it came to their family and why she didn't know. He had some memories of the family back when he had a mom, but not a lot. So how exactly was he supposed to comment on that. Plus there was the fact that their grandfather had the ability to erase memories, it was a very real possibility that his mother may not have even remembered he existed past the point of leaving their family, a fact that was... truamatic to say the least.
"I don't remember much of our mom, but enough to remember there was a lot of fighting between her and dad before she ran off with your father. She may have never looked back, or said anything to your father. She ran off when i was like 4, so I don't have a lot of context and my dad never talks about her, there are a couple of photo's i've seen but they are all in a box in the storage room. For most of my life it was like the woman just didn't exist." One memory stuck out, a time when he had asked his father if he was to blame, if he had done something to make his mom run off, His dad had pulled him into an embrace and just kinda cried. He never got an answer, which in a way was it's own confirmation.
Taking a deep breath as the truamatic memory subsided he sighed and leaned back into his seat looking up at the ceiling this place had quality stuff, but now that he was taking in the atmosphere that was probably because this place was wildly more expensive than he could comprehend. His dads credit card would probably take a beating. "Probably, all you need is a blender, some instant coffee, and a few flavoring syurups, i work as a barrista during the winter months, i can't work during spring or summer too many allergies."
"I worked as a barista for a winter, had to quit when spring rolled around too many allergies." He looked at the coffee shops menu. "I'll be getting a mochaccino, I am a sucker for chocolate."
He chuckled for a moment, at least he had one thing going for him over regular dogs, being a human did give him all the advantages of an actual human rather than having to worry about what he ate, or worse having to eat dog food. Though the few times he had eaten dog food he hadn't found it bad... not that he would ever admit that.
gpt
You kinda make it sound like my favorite drink is just a cheap excuse of coffee, Akemi said on an awkward laugh, though she didnt hold it against him. Im sorry, I just dont know a lot about coffee. Ive never had a chance to tryevery kind of brew.Akemi placed a hand on her chest in a dramatic fashion, putting special emphasis on her last words. Im just not as whats the right word for it Im just not as fancy as you are, I guess. A shrug rolling through her shoulders, Akemi placed her hands on the table, if only to bang a happy little tune on top of it. Hm I might as well grab myself a snack, too she murmured, taking a second look at the menu.
Akemi glanced over at him with a bright, cheeky sort of smile. Oh yeah? Im a sucker for chocolate, too. Always have, always will be. I just like to mix it up every now and then, or else Ill get tired of it. A hand lifted to brush a few pieces of dark brown hair behind an ear, only it lingered there as her eyes returned to the menu posted on the pillar. Let me see theyve got bagels, cake cupcakes, the whole nine yards, huh? Hows a girl supposed to choose? Akemi chuckled a little under her breath, a hint of a smile pulling at her lips. I think Ill order a chocolate chip mocha frappe this time round with a big slice of Devils Food cake! It sounds downright sinful. More than likely, shell regret it later, but right now? Oh hell no!
Do you want anything else besides your fancy mochaccino? Akemi placed a hand on the table, about to get her lazy butt up and put in their order. I have to get something else to satisfy my sweet tooth! A laugh filled the air only seconds later, Akemi flashed him a bright smile. I probably should get something healthy, but Im not really in the mood for anything like that. Akemi rose up out of her seat, waiting for an answer. A hand lingered on the table, her eyes on him with a smile still playing along her lips somewhat.
human
"Cheap is not a word I associate with Coffee."Makoto put a hand over his chest as if he was offended, but could easily tell that his half sister was joking. He didn't know if he was softening up towards this other or not. He still wasn't sure he wanted her around his home, and he knew things would get awkward as some point. She was going to learn about their family after all. Then again contact between him and the others of his family didn't activate the curse, so why would she?
Taking a moment to close his eyes and sniff at the air again he tried to decide what he wanted to eat without really looking at the menu. The problem with doing it like that told him a lot of different things, but not really how they tasted, and pastries lacked strong scents."I'll go with a Danish. The chery one preferably, and hey sweet tooths are great, don't let anyone boss you into eating stuff you don't want. And I agree, screw health food, lets go crazy sugar for days."
He chuckled awkwardly unsure what he was saying but trying to remain calm. He pulled out his dad's card, and seeing the hand lingering on the table reached out for it, taking her hand as he got up from the table. He was originally just going to pass the card to her, but for some reason he suddenly felt like... holding hands, he shook his head, but didn't let her go alone, not really sure why he was acting so weird today."I did say I was paying."
gpt
A cherry Danish, huh? Akemi wouldntve pegged him to pick cherry over chocolate, but then again shes just getting to know him.Id hate to tell you this If I dont get bullied into eating my fruits and veggies once in a while, Id be eatin nothing but caramel and chocolate.Akemi laughed at herself under her breath, just to blink as her hand is taken hostage. As strange as its gonna sound, her heart sort of flipped over inside her chest, only to start racing and a little faster than she liked.
Uh I dont think you did? I mean, I dont mind paying. Ive got a little cash on me It isnt much, but it should be plenty to cover the cost. Akemi blushed a little darker as she came to realize that his hand is really warm, gentle, too. What the hell? Whats wrong with her? This is her brother shes thinking about! Granted, half-brother but still! The tips of her ears burning, Akemi offered him a little smile while following him to the counter. Alright, its sort of weird that theyre holding hands and yet, not really?
In line, Akemi was shuffling between her feet. It was sort of cute. A hand lifted to brush threads of dark brown behind an ear, and with her shifting like she is, its hard not to notice how the white blouse of her school uniform clings to her breasts. The skirt doesnt do much in hiding her long, slender legs either.Ah Y-You know, I dont want to have to rely on you guys for everything Akemi spoke up, biting the corner of her lip.I already plan on getting myself a part-time job, to help out with bills and stuff. I just I know neither of you knew about me, and that Im sort of barging into your lives
human
"A couple of hours ago, I would have said great, but."The truth was she was starting to grow on him. He could hear the intesifying of her heart rate when he took her hand, and he could only really smile at that. He couldn't help but think that he kind of liked her, that this felt a bit more like a date, though it was one under tragic origins. The truth was he didn't get out much not this time of year, and he had never once had. "You've kinda grown on me, so i'm gonna pay. Also like yeah you could contribute, but did you hear the part where our family is rich? You really don't have too work unless you want too. I do it as a way to get out of the house in the winter."
Walking beside her he was insistent to put the bill on the credit card and paid for their meal, the waitress looking at them still holding hands, and saying one of the most awkward lines imaginable."Well aren't you too a cute little couple enjoying your date?"Before the two had a chance to reply she put an additional slice of chocolate cake on the table free of charge for the two of them to share thinking they were some sort of new couple.
He let go of Akemi's hand only so far as to take the food, and didn't correct the waitress, after all why give up free food just because this was his sister and not his girlfriend? He was already thinking this kind of felt like a date. His face did go slightly red at the idea that they made some sort of cute coupling. He blinked for a few moments as he walked back to their table, their drinks being made and would be brought to them.
Did he say anything? was this getting awkward. He swallowed and figured he needed to say something. It's just that he chose to say the worst thing."I mean we would be cute."
gpt
I dont care if our family is rich or not,Akemi huffed, even going so far as to pout.It doesnt feel right to rely on everyone else though were related I want to help out in whatever way I can.Wait, what? Akemi didnt expect to hear that, not so soon. The girl broke out into a bright smile, and she couldnt help but laugh a little, though shes blushing pink.Really? Well. Youve kinda grown on me. I think youre going to be a great older brother.Akemi smiled up at him, only the waitress behind the counter just had to say one of the most awkward lines in existence. In the blink of an eye, Akemi blushed dark red. Did they really look like a couple-?
Are the tips of her ears melting off? It sort of feels like it. Uh oh. Akemi had to reach up, just to make sure, and a relieved sigh left her lips shortly after. Its definitely embarrassing? Yes and no. It doesnt feel like the right word to use. Its awkward, yeah, awkward to be mistaken as a girlfriend instead of a sister. Following him back to their table, Akemi sat down and went to nervously play with her skirt. Does she say anything? If she doesnt, theyll be sitting in silence forever
Huh?! What? Dark purple lifted up off the floor, just to look incredulously at him. It didnt take long for her face to take on hints of shock and then melt into amusement.Ah Youre kidding, right?Akemi blurted out, using her hair as a distraction, twisting a piece of it round and round her finger.I-I mean I dont know about all that Im not cute at all, in case you havent noticed. Ill play along just this once, cause of free cake, but
No way. He cant be serious. Akemi swallowed past the lump in her throat, now taking this opportunity to look anywhere but at him. Her fingers were now playing with the pleats of her skirt, revealing the girls long, slender legs ever so slightly toned from who-knows-what. A leg kicked out after a little while, and then the other. Akemi has no idea what to say, now thatthatsbeen thrown out there. Its just sort of hard to speak up, or think of anything.
human
When Akemi blurted out that he had to be joking Makoto's reaction was almost immediate, his eyes lowered and he for a moment it was like someone had just called him bad or insulted him. A bit of the cheeriness in his face was gone, and he lifted up his drink and took to it quickly trying to wash away the disapointment with the taste of chocolate.
Just for a moment he had been able to kind of pretend that he had a normal life, and then that was gone quickly. When she called herself not cute, he shook his head, but didn't say any more on the matter. He had found her at least a little attractive and cute, but now he felt like if he said anything on the subject he would just end up furthering the devide between them. Instead he just tried to focus on something anything else. She had just called him a good older brother he supposed that was good.
"Sorry."His eyes a little more downcast as he sighed and went to the Danish. if nothing else food could shut him up for the moment. He just shrugged. He knew from a young age that he was never going to get things like dates, even if it had been pretend it would have been nice.
"We should find something else to talk about." Despite the desire to continue talking about what had just happened, he knew he had to change the topic somehow otherwise he was going to get sad again."So what are you studying towards? Do you have a goal in mind like university?"
gpt
Oh. Oh no. Akemi can sense the... the... disappointment? Is that right? It doesn't really matter, she's hurt his feelings."I-I didn't mean it, not like that..."How the hell is she going to explain? Akemi's halfway tempted to dig a hole and bury herself in it."I just... I..."A hand began to rub up and down an arm, only to play with the tips of her hair moments later.
"Alright. I'm gonna be completely and totally honest."Dark purple eyes lifted up off the floor to look at the brother she just met not even an hour ago, and who's intent to look anywhere else but her. "I think you're cute, Makoto. I mean... I can't date you, but if I could, I'd definitely... you know... blush and stutter every time I get close to you, and I'd awkwardly shuffle between my feet. I'm flattered that somebody thinks we're a cute couple. It's just... I've never dated anybody before, so... it's..." Akemi started to rub the back of her neck next.
"Let's, uh... Let's talk about something else. Ah. I... I do have a goal in mind for university, only... I don't think I'll ever be able to make it. I'm not very bright. I want to be an anthropologist,"Akemi just about threw out there, sort of like a peace offering only in the form of words instead of an actual present or anything.
Does he know what that means? Maybe. Akemi hates to assume, and yet... A finger began to trace up the glass, through the drops of condensation."Um... What are you studying towards?"she decided to ask next, the tips of her ears burning all over again."Or... do you want to go to university?"
human
"I can't date."Makoto admitted. His eyes didn't really want to go look up, but at the confession that she thought he was cute he couldn't help but smile at least a little. He looked up for a moment and a blush was practically written across his face as he did. He sighed as he looked at his sister, this was clearly a conversation that neither of them really wanted to have."Don't get me wrong, it's not forbidden or anything, and If we could... well I'll be honest you are kinda way out of my league in terms of looks."
"I'm sick, a lot, so I don't actually get to go out. I don't think I'll ever get to have a real date."It was the excuse he was so practiced at using that he almost believed it himself. He wanted that human connection, but he knew full well that it was impossible. He sighed and just ate his food, chuckling when she said she was studying to be an anthropologist, and letting the old conversation die. The thing about the excuse was that it made him sound like some cancer patient.
"I'd love to go to university, but... Well I won't be able too, Highschool already proved too hard for me." Sixteen different instances of the curse popping up and peoples memories needing to be erased. It was out of the 13 of them the highest number in the family.
"Basically I get to serve out the rest of this year, and then after that unless I can convince others that I'm strong enough or something changes, I just kind of get to lay around the complex for the rest of my life." He shrugged, and finished his drink and danish. "Sorry I've somehow made this even more depressing for you now. We should get the chocolate cake to go, dad is alergic to it, but we could at the least save it for later and start getting back to him, the paperwork is done."
He held up his phone showing the text from his dad saying to come back whenever they could.
gpt
Wait, what?No. Did she just imagine that he-? Akemi blushed at least five shades darker, to the point it was impossible to ignore or play off as nothing. Her heart sort of flipped over inside her chest, only to plummet into her stomach for whatever reason."I-I-I'm not... I'm not that cute or anything..."Akemi bit the corner of her lip now, not entirely sure if she should let the subject drop, or continue on a rant. Yeah... No."I'm sorry you don't really... get a chance to go out very often. I, um... I don't get sick but... once every... year or so, but... I..."
Uh oh, there she goes. Is she imploding? Probably. Ooh... Akemi decided to cut it off right then and there, to dive head-first into a totally different conversation."I don't see why you can't go! To university, I mean. Isn't there... sites online that you can take the classes?" Akemi's lips parted as she thought it over, a leg kicking out at empty space."I'll admit, high school was... pretty hard for me, too. I'm not the most popular girl. I didn't have any friends, and not for lack of trying, I just..."A shrug rolled through her shoulders next.
"I guess I'm not... sociable? I don't know. I'm trying not to let it get to me. I'm just a lone wolf."Akemi leaned in to take a sip of her frappe, not realizing that she's giving him a bit of a view. Tendrils of dark brown fell from behind a shoulder, and a hand was quick to whip up and brush the strands behind an ear.
Dark purple blinked as she read the message, just for a noise of confirmation to follow. Akemi wiped her lips to get rid of the little bit of whipped cream that had gotten there, and began to get up out of her seat."Okay. Um. How about I get these to go, too?"she asked, a finger gesturing back and forth between the two drinks."I know we haven't gotten our treats yet, either, so... I'll ask them to put them in some containers." Akemi flashed him a bright smile before spinning away to do just that.
Of course, she had absolutely no idea how many eyes were drinkin' in the sight of her long legs, of how high the school skirt flirted...
human
Makoto blinked for a moment when she mentioned university online courses, he had genuenly never thought about that before. Probably because some parts of the family barely owned a computer and didn't really know how one functioned. He himself had an old beat up PC, but with his savings he could probably get a better one. At the same time she was embarassed as all get out and he had to admit that the blush on her face despite her denial of not being cute she was probably the most adorable woman he had ever met."Yeah maybe not cute, but you are adorable."
More and more he was starting to notice the more sexual trates of the woman he was sitting next. His sister was physically very attractive, and watching her legs as she turned to get their drinks in a to go cup he blinked yep she definetly had an ass under that skirt, he had to wonder just how round and firm it was, heck her cleavage had been almost perky. He had to shake his head free of that thought she had already explained why that wasn't an option."I actually hadn't thought of that before. A lot of the family barely knows how to work a cellphone let alone a computer, so it's not something that comes up in conversation all that often. Don't worry our house is one of the few that has wifi."
He wouldn't deny he wanted to see more of her. At the same time it wasn't like he could just ask. Taking the food and walking along side her to go back to the government center. He sneezed when he got outside, the alergies hitting him like a wall as his nose burned and his head felt like it had just been stepped on due to the force of the sneeze which he had barely managed to put into his shoulder. "Uhg."
Makoto hid his nose for a moment trying to breath through a cloth to help dampen the effects of the pollen. Walking back towards the government building he was greatful to get back inside the car after helping Akemi with her luggage. Their father meeting them. He patted Akemi's head. "Well it's all done now, you are officially a Sohma, welcome to the family. Come lets get you home so you can unpack."
gpt
"Ah... Yeah, that's not really something I'm too worried about? I don't have a cellphone, and I definitely don't have a laptop."Money was sort of hard to come by when it was just her and Dad... Every so often, the electricity was turned off in their apartment because he forgot to pay the bill, or the water didn't heat up. Akemi tried to help out where she could, but Dad refused to let her, since it was 'her job to be a kid, not an adult'. Maybe that's part of the reason she can't seem to make friends very easily: cause she can't relate. Almost all of the other teenagers have one or the other, right? It only makes sense...
Dark purple eyes, so much like their mother's, blinked up at the man he just met an hour or so ago. A small tilt of the head had pieces of dark brown brushing against a cheek."Akemi... Sohma?"she recited to herself softly, just to laugh a little under her breath. "It doesn't sound half-bad!"It's going to take some getting used to, of course, but that'll just take time. Akemi went to slide in next to her older brother, not really sure what to expect of her new home. Makoto mentioned that she's part of a large, wealthy family... but all she's ever known is the small, cramped apartment she and her father lived in for several years. Does this mean she'll have a room of her own?! Akemi fiddled with the pleats of her skirt, nervous all of a sudden.
The drive was a lot longer than she thought it'd be. Miles and miles of trees went off into the distance... and as pretty as it all is, she couldn't really focus. Maybe it has to do with the fact she didn't sleep very well last night? Akemi was so anxious about this whole... ordeal, she couldn't get to sleep until some ungodly hour in the morning, and she had to get up super early just to be at the courthouse. Her eyes feel really heavy...
A great big yawn nearly breaking her jaw, Akemi blinked sleepily... shifting over to rest her cheek on Makoto's shoulder."Mind wakin' me up when we get there...?"she murmured."I'm just really tired..."A hand came up to rub at an eye, but of course that didn't help things any. Akemi's whole body rolled a little to press in closer to him."Is that okay...? If not, I can move, it's just that... your shoulder is a nice pillow..."
human
The great thing about being in a car was the feeling of wind on his face when he lowered his window and enjoyed the country side drive. Slowly he could feel the weight on his shoulder as his sister, Akemi now a Sohma started to lean on him, and then fall asleep on him. He sighed for a moment when she murmured he agreed to wake her up when they arrived."It's fine Akemi, You've had a long day, just don't drool on me."
When Akemi was passed out he jokingly said that he wished he had a marker. Part of him kinda wished he could draw kitty whiskers on her face. He sighed he brushed his hand against her thigh, a small gesture and one that their father couldn't see. He was uncomfortable sure because a woman was touching him, but he looked at his dad a soft smile on his face."I'm keeping her."
It got a chuckle out of him, but their dad didn't know that Makoto was very serious in that statement. Two hours latter he gently started to rouse Akemi. Shaking her shoulder so that she could get up as the car rolled to a stop in their new home. He unbuckled them, and got out onto the dirt road that marked their house."Like I said we don't live on the main compound, so our home is pretty well tucked away."
The housewas a two story cabin, large for it's size but isolated by it's surroundings. He moved to show her around pointing out the small pond."This is a fish pond, we tend to have some Koi in it, but around back, if you hike like a mile we actually have a lake on the property for swimming, oh and did i mention that all of this."He gestured to the mountain range."This is our families home. We own this shit."
gpt
Two hours later, Akemis being gently shaken awake by her new brother. A protest was right on the tip of her tongue only, she couldnt string together enough words to make a good argument, so she just rubbed at her eyes and moved her butt. A yawn breaking free of the girl, Akemi stretched her arms high above her head, back arching as she stretched very much like a cat would. Akemi even lifted herself up onto her tippy-toes for maximum satisfaction on that front.
Hm? Oh I love it!Akemi ran her hands through her hair next, hoping more than anything it aint a tangled mess. Itd be super embarrassing if it was after her little nap in the car.This place is a lot bigger than our apartment was!Her expression bright and excited, Akemi bent to take a peek in the pond.You have koi? Neat!Do they have any pets? Probably not, if Makotos allergies are so bad he cant go out during spring
Akemis jaw dropped at the bomb he just dropped, her eyes big as dinner plates.You Youre kidding, right? Theres no way-!How?! It didnt take long for the shock to sink in, or for the poor girl to stumble back.I I dont know what to say I mean, we had trouble paying the bills I didnt have a room of my own, and this place is bigger than our apartment building was! I just I dont know what to say!Akemi rubbed the back of her neck.
I better go grab my stuff, I guess?Akemi isnt the sort of girl to rely on others, not if she can do it herself. An awkward little laugh spilling free, she turned to fetch her things out of the car not that she has much to begin with. Nope. All of it is clothes, and there isnt much. Akemi couldnt afford the fancier stuff, and shes learned to live without begging for every little thing.Do you know where Im gonna be?Looking at Makoto, Akemi gestured to the house with a lost look written all over her face.
human
"Had we known about you sooner we would have come to your aid."It was the words of her new father. He seemed a touch troubled. He was trying to figure out if his ex had her mind erased or simply never passed on any information. How had the legal agency known to contact him? He had no idea how this was possible. He looked at the ground and sighed."I'm sorry we couldn't help you back then."
He knew why she didn't contact them, he knew why she had run away, and Akemi was going to learn soon enough. But he didn't want to say it. When Akemi grabbed her one bag he looked at her. "Did you want to go into town to shop sometime? It's a bit of a drive, but Makoto can take you."As he spoke he pointed to a much more beaten down car, one that looked like it may have been a family heirloom. It had a number of dents in it, the paint was scratched, and it looked like the front bumper had been impacted."If you can stand his driving."
Makoto nodded. "I'll set you up in the room across from mine, up until now it's been a guest room for when one of our cousin's stayed over, but we have other rooms for that as well." He started showing her around in doors, the house was kept rather clean due to the fact that Makoto's nose would burn around anything prolonged or rotten. His sensitivity to smells was probably the one reason that two men out in the woods would actually clean the place."We burn a lot of the trash, and recycle the rest. We don't have a compost."He gagged at the memory of when they had tried to do that for a garden, but the smell of rotting compost, mixed with manure made it... disgusting and impossible.
Walking up stairs he opened his door to show her his room. It was a bedroom with a double bed, painted soft green, there was a hand full of pictures on his desk. One of what looked like Makoto, and twelve others, some much older, others around his age, and one much younger. Another picture was of a young dark furred but large dog. He had a few posters, from various movies that he had enjoyed, but all in all it was a room that was sterile and meant for mostly study, there was a laptop, and a box of tissues next to it on the desk along with a bottle of what at a distance could have been hand sanitizer. realizing that some things were still out he quickly shut his door.
When he opened up the room across the hall from it looked less used and lived in that Makoto's the bed was made and the sheets pressed, but it lacked decoration, a desk had been set up in here, as well as a book case and a dresser."You can of course decorate as you see fit."
gpt
Oh no! Were not getting into that!Akemi brushed the words of her new father off, not even considering the idea or nothin. Her smile following that declaration happened to be bright, warm, and not the least bit oh, whats the word for it? Hateful? Ah, that works.Look. I didnt know about you, and you didnt know about me. Im not lettin that hang over my head, though, and I dont think you should either. I mean, lets think about it this way: itd have been super weird if we met when my dad was around, dont you think?
Akemis attention shifted to an old, beat-up car one thats definitely seen better days.Ah No, its okay. I dont want to be any trouble, she decided to put nicely. Its true that she doesnt want them to go out of their way for her or anything, but if the dents are any indication its probably best not to get into a car Makotos driving. Akemi followed her older brother around as he gave her the grand tour of the place, showing her whats behind every door. Of course shes gonna make a complete fool of herself sometime very soon. Its a lot easier than it sounds to navigate, when theres more doors than shes used to down just one hallway!
Really? Huh.Akemi twirled about to look at everything one last time before taking a peek into his room. It was a hell of a lot nicer than anywhere shes slept in. A lot bigger, too. Her eyes landed on the pictures hes got on his desk, and she just couldnt believe it. Is that their family? Wow. He wasnt kidding when he said their familys huge. Akemi didnt expect him to close his door so soon, though. Almost getting her nose crushed, Akemi stumbled back, blinking up at him. What was that all about-? Oh well. Its not like its a big deal or anything. A little shrug rolling through her shoulders, Akemi jumped at the chance to see her own room. Thisll be the first time shes ever had a room all to herself! It didnt look like much but then again, didnt he say it used to be a guest room?
Yeah Um, I wouldnt even know where to start decorating,Akemi decided to point out, though she couldnt rein in the awkward little laugh.Ive never had a room to myself before. Ill probably just leave it the way it is. Itd be way easier.Akemi pulled her single suitcase in from the hallway, lifting it up to plop it down onto the bed.I dont want to be a pain or anything. I wouldnt know what to do with this room, anyway.Akemi rubbed the back of her neck, bits and pieces of dark brown tumbling to emphasize the girls curvaceous figure. Is that weird? Dont get her wrong, she can paint the walls her favorite color, but other than that she wouldnt know how to make this room her own. Its not like shes listened to a lot of music, or have any favorite movies to speak of.
Now what? Akemi doesnt have much to unpack, not really, just a few clothes.Um If If you want, I can cook you guys dinner tonight,she threw out as an offer.I mean, Im not that great of a cook, and you can turn me down if you want I just I thought itd be nice, since you are letting me live here with you and everythingA blush rising to her features, Akemi groaned and tried to hide her face from view. Alright. Just ignore the rambling of this crazy person...she mumbled next.
human
"How many times do I have to tell you that... wait you can cook?"Makoto blinked when she said that she had no idea how to decorate her room, or that she had never had a room of her own. There was an odd moment of thought about just how poor the girl was. for a moment he wanted to sniffle or something, but passed on the thought as she didn't seem to want any kind of pity. He instead focused more on her offer to make food. He blinked for a moment before realizing that she was serious."Follow me."
"Dad!"He lead her down to the kitchen, to reveal what was otherwise the biggest secret that the two men had been hiding. He opened the fridge, and showed her, take out boxes. Several dozen stored take out boxes, from various places, Chinese, Thai, one or two pizza boxes, and sushi platters. More take out food than was actualy reasonable. He gestured between him and his father. Then at her."She can cook!"
"Neither of us know how to cook."He pointed to the oven, honestly the last time it had been turned on was probably the day or so that his mom left. He put his hands on Akemi's shoulders, wide eyed in admiration. "Mom left before she could teach me anything, and the most complicated thing that dad can make is a pot of coffee. I worked as a barista, but like the food was all... prepackaged kind of stuff, the most complicated i've ever gotten is I can grill a cheese sandwich."
"So the honest truth is we survive off of take out. If you need groceries I can take you into town." His offer was genuine he seemed honestly kind of excited. "We survive by ordering two different large family meals a week, and then we ration that out, it's a touch more expensive than grocery shopping, but there are places we use so often that they now give us discounts."
gpt
Huh? What did she say-? Akemi nearly tripped over herself as she was dragged from her new bedroom into the kitchen, without any explanation as to the reason why. It didnt take long to get answers, though. A crack of the fridge revealed everything she needed to know. Dark purple eyes blinked in horror at the several take-out boxes stuffed inside, not just from one place but from the looks of it, three or four? Do they eat out every night of the week? Thats really Akemi ran a hand through her hair, not even sure what to think of it.
Youre telling me neither one of you learned how to cook over the past sixteen years?Akemi lifted a brow, sending her brother an incredulous look.I mean, I never learned from Mom, either but I managed to learn through trial and error. Its not that hard!Both hands are thrown up into the air, only before she could scold him any further, he put his hands on her shoulders, his eyes practically sparkling with excitement over the prospect of a home-cooked meal. Akemis resolve withered just a tiny bit.
I guess I can throw something together tonight, if you take me into town. A blush had risen to her face, but Akemi pretended like she wasnt blushing and instead flashed him a small smile.Just dont be disappointed if it isnt anything fancy. I told you before: Im not that great of a cook. Dad wasnt very good at cooking, so I took it upon myself to learn how to. Its a good thing I did, otherwise Id have starved.Akemi laughed a little under her breath, a hand coming up to rub the back of her neck.
Does this mean shes in charge of meals from now on? It certainly sounds like it. Akemi didnt expect her new role in the house to be chef extraordinaire. Are we going to head out now, then? Akemi asked Makoto.I mean, I dont know what you two want for dinner, but the sooner we head out, the sooner I can get back and start cooking Im pretty sure you dont want to eat at ten oclock tonight.
human
The two of them just nodded confirming her fear that neither of them had ever learned to cook. The idea that they would actually be able to stop eating take out even for a little while was a prospect that clearly the two boys enjoyed on rare occasions."We have a few cousin's who cook as well, and when they come over we usually have them take over the kitchen, but yeah.... this is pretty much how we have lived up to this point. We tried to learn a couple times."
Makoto pointed to the ground, something about it was different than the flooring on the rest of the house. It was newer, cleaner. The rest of the house was old, almost ancient, but everything in the kitchen seemed kind of like at one point or another it had been replaced at least once."We nearly lost the house. We have three different fire extinguishers for when you need them."
Makoto walked with Akemi out to the car, opening up the slightly dented door, and taking a seat, grabbing his seat buckle, and then shutting the door, The interior of the car was a lot nicer than the exterior, The seats were less abused, and the milliage was rather low."The car was a hand down, from one of the others in the family. I mean we are wealthy, but we can't exactly afford to buy new cars all the time."
Pulling out of the driveway Makoto's steering jerked and he practically whipped the car around as he started to drive along the dirt roads the cars older and abused shocks rocking over the road, as he drove well over what anyone with sense would call a speed limit. "Don't worry we picked you up in the city, here we are going to town, it's also where your new school will be, I mean we could have walked, but it's getting late and there are wolves in these mountains."Makoto was talking To Akemi, his eyes on her as his head was turned towards her not paying any attention to the car as he swirved down the roads on rote memorization.
"We will hit up the local grocery, they close in about an hour, but I'll get us there in about fifteen minutes." He turned his head towards the front window finally, as the car basically jumped from dirt road to highway the sound of metal scraping as the low riding car kept moving."Man it's great to have someone to talk too while driving, dad won't let me drive with him anymore."
gpt
Uh oh. Why does she get the feeling she's gonna regret this? Don't get her wrong, Akemi likes to cook and all... it's just that... she has no idea what she's getting herself into. Akemi pasted a smile all over her face, even though there's a bunch of butterflies fluttering about in the pit of her stomach. The loud clip of her safety belt only put her at ease... a tiny little bit. Both hands brushed over her skirt nervously."I, ah... I can't believe you haven't had a home-cooked meal in... sixteen years? Is that right?"
Fear rippled over her features as the car whipped around in a way... it really shouldn't. Akemi held onto the seat for dear life, her heart in her throat."H-Hey, uh, Makoto?" she dared to speak up, a pathetic excuse of a smile making a surprise appearance."Don't you think you should drive below the speed limit-? I mean, I don't want you to get a speeding ticket or anything..."Honestly? It'd be a freaking relief to get pulled over. Maybe they'd be able to pick up her stomach that they left behind!
"M-M-My new school?" Akemi stuttered, her face paling as he ran a red light and just barely missed an elderly lady crossing the street."I thought I was gonna be home-schooled, like everybody else?" It'd be nice to attend school again, but it just wouldn't be fair to leave him at home while she goes off to school... to meet new people and make friends and everything else. "Fifteen minutes?" Did she just squeak? Yikes.
Is she going to die? Is she seriously going to die at sixteen? Without having her first kiss? Without getting her hands on a driver's license? Akemi is trying really hard not to panic, but... if he keeps this up, she's liable to fling herself out of the car. Seeing as how she's a bit challenged in the whole athletic department... it's not a good idea."Please keep your eyes on the road!"Akemi just about screamed, the sound of metal scraping echoing in her ears."I love that you're... enjoying this moment and all, but I'd really like to make it to the grocery store! Alive! Not in a body bag!"Akemi's face was pale as paper at that point, not a speck of color to be seen aside from her eyes.
human
Makoto relented and started to actually watch the road, but when she spoke about speed limits he laughed, even though his dashboard clearly stated he was going 90mph, and the needle was closer to 95."These are country roads, the speed limit is set by zoning, which means that between zones there is no actual speed limit."He nodded knowing he was in a sense technically correct, however the highest speed limit set in japan was 80, and he was currently 10 over that limit.
"We are perfectly safe, this car is german made."He pounded the roof, taking a hand off the wheel and veering to the left hard for a second."Volvo, former tank company this car is hard steel. If we crash we will rip through any other thing on the road."He spoke with such confidence that it evoked first hand experiance he should never have had.
Finally they started to approach the town denoted with smaller buildings, and more organized roads, and he slowed from 90mph, to a much more resonable 30."See I'm actually a great driver."He said as the car blitzed through a yellow light that he hadn't actually seen."Wasn't red so it doesn't count."
Slowing to a stop he arrived in a parking lot in front of what could best be described as a small mom and pop shop, turning off the car as he got up from his seat he stretched and felt great."We have eaten home cooked meals before, like i said we have a few other cousin's some of which can cook, and I don't know if you will be in school, but in all honesty it would probably be better than sitting in on lessons with us. We..." He tried to think of a way to explain their isolationism and why they prefered being alone. He honestly didn't really have much to say so long as she didn't know it would be better for her. "We can get pretty depressing."
gpt
Land!Akemi cried out, jumping out of the car to kiss the ground. Alright, so shes exaggerating just not a lot. His driving oh my God, his driving. It needs some serious help! Has he ever taken a course? A driving lesson? Akemi hasnt had a chance to get her learners permit, but she can definitely drive better than him! Its a miracle shes still alive!Ah Makoto?Akemi managed to say once shes managed to get her wits together,I hate to say this, but you are not -I repeat, you are not- a great driver.
How has he managed to survive this long?! It's just astonishing. Akemi ran a shaky hand through her hair, several tendrils of dark brown tumbling down the girl's back, and... the motion had her white blouse stretching tight across her breasts."Alright. Um... You said the store closes in an hour, so I better get started on the shopping, huh?"Akemi chuckled a little under her breath, twisting away to stroll through the sliding glass doors.
Okay. First question: whats she even going to throw together? Akemi has no idea what they like, or if theyre allergic to anything. Dark purple eyes swept through the aisles, but before she tackled this somewhat daunting task shes embarked on she twirled back around, not only to face him but to curl her fingers into his shirt. Their bodies were just millimeters apart, not that she noticed or anything.
Hey! Um! Are you guys allergic to anything?Akemi decided to blurt out.Is there any stuff you dont like? I just Ive got no idea where to start! I, um I ate just about anything, so Uh oh. Did this just get awkward? Probably. Is she rambling? Akemi put a quick stop to that and, after taking a deep breath let it out slowly.Okay. Sorry. Um Is there anything youd like to have for dinner?Akemi flashed him a shy smile, tilting her head slightly.
human
Makoto rolled his eyes when she cried out that they were on land, and told him that he was not a great driver he was certain she was being dramatic. Walking into the store, and he looked down the aisles The place was a bit on the abandoned side when it came down to it, at this late at night there was basically just a skeleton crew working. Walking through the place he pondered what was he allergic too."Nope all my allergies are to things like pollutants in the city, stuff that makes my nose burn."
"As for what i'd like to eat." He paused for a moment wanting to say her, but that seemed rather like he would get punched for such a comment. "spaghetti is good."He said tapping his chin, he didn't really have a lot of ideas since he had never really had home cooking just meals from various restaurants so going off that he would pick something that got to his plate on the quick side.
"Tell me what you need and I can get it for you, but first."He took Akemi by the arm and walked with her pulling her towards another person around his age. He gave a slight bow to the other."Akemi I'd like you to meet Usa Shoma one of our cousins. Usa this is Akemi my new sister."
The look the male gave was a little on the cold side, as he turned and went back to doing whatever inventory he was doing, but he did briefly pause looking at the two."Makoto drove you?"waiting for a yes or nod before he let out a sigh and patted Akemi on the head."I'm sorry for you."He said before walking off to attend to the shop.
gpt
Another one of their cousins? Seriously? Akemi blinked up at this other boy, taking in the sight of silvery-blonde hair. He looked to be about their age, maybe a year older.Hi!she chirped,its nice to meet you! Usa, was it?A hand was about to go out, since its only polite and all but he had decided to pat her on the head instead before moving back to inventory. Light pink spread over her features, just to darken to red a heartbeat later. Uh oh. Please dont tell her he can hear how fast her hearts beating Please dont-!
Luckily, Usa walked off to do something or another, leaving her to suffer in her own embarrassment. Akemi brought both hands up to pat her hot cheeks. If I didnt know any better, Id say it was illegal to be that cuteshe whispered under her breath, just to brush the thought aside. Its really wrong to think of her cousin that way! It doesnt matter how cute he is, hes off-limits!
Okay! So! Uh, spaghetti? Thats easy to make. Akemi ran a hand through her hair, just thinking of the ingredients shell need. Between the three of us, I think two pounds of hamburger meat will be enough unless you two are starving half to death, then well need three. Do you think you can grab that for me?
In the meantime, Akemi can grab the noodles and sauce. Do they have any spices-? It might be safe to assume no, so shell swing by that aisle, too. Oh! Hey! Akemi looked at her older brother again, just to blush a little. Is it okay if I grab a few things? Besides ingredients for dinner? Akemi doubts they have any extra, so shell need to buy shampoo, conditioner, and body wash for herself maybe other stuff, too, but that can wait until later.
human
Makoto blinked, she may have spoken softly, but Makoto for his part could still hear her thanks to the heightened senses of a dog. He knew he shouldn't have heard it, so he tried to not to take it personally, but he couldn't help but supress a tiny shudder of annoyance. why did everyone think that the rabbit was cute, dogs were way better. He shook his head trying to shake the jealousy off of him.
Going off to get hamburger like he was asked he did so without complaint. coming back with three pounds. When she asked if they could get anything else he just nodded. "Yeah I have the debit card, don't worry too much about expenses. Like I said we have a lot." He said with a soft shrug.
Makoto shrugged, pretty much everything was solvable if they threw money at the problem, well all but one problem. He tried to ignore the tension he suddenly had about not being cute anymore. Outplayed by Usa, he wanted to growl. "So what do you need." when she said shampoo he walked with her, and pointed out the scentless brands that he approved of. "Sorry, but it's just a lot easier on my nose if we can cut down on scents in the house."
gpt
"No, it's totally cool. I get it."Akemi looked through the options, but seein' as how they're all scentless... it didn't really matter what she picked out. It's sort of... disappointing. There's something super refreshing about stepping out of the shower, with steam fogging up the mirror, and smelling... well, clean. Oh well. It'll just be a thing of the past, at least for the time being. Akemi grabbed a couple of bottles, not spending a lot of time reading the labels or anything.
A hand lifted to tuck a few threads of hair behind an ear. A hint of a smile can be seen playing along her lips, and there was still a hint of color on her cheeks."Alright, so... you've got the hamburger meat. I picked up a couple of spices, and I have three boxes of noodles, so... I think we're pretty much set." Her eyes glanced back at him from over a shoulder, the light reflecting and refracting off the pretty purple. A small tilt of the head followed, and then... she twisted around to face him.
"Is there anything you need, while we're here?"Akemi kicked at empty space, trying to think if there's anythingsheneeds. Yeah, there's tons of stuff she'd like to get at one point or another... but that can wait, and after she finds herself a job. Nope. There's no way she's going to bother the Sohma family for anything that isn't a necessity. "Do you think... I can drive on the way back?" Akemi asked gingerly, not entirely sure if it'd offend him or not.
human
Makoto had to think for a moment when she asked if he needed anything. did he? he bit his lip, and had to think for a moment about something he needed. "Um, yes, but... it's personal."He walked away for a moment sneaking to an isle to get something. A long time ago, there had been an incident, Makoto had gotten sick in the rain and reverted to his dog form, and when a little girl had found him she had a dog treat, at first it had been humilaiting. Makoto had been starving and the girl asked him to do tricks never knowing he was actually a human,
but since then they had been a bit of a guilty pleasure that he had snuck into the house when no one was looking.
He pulled the small bag under his coat, and waved his cousin over to the till, he lifted up a finger, and his cousin added 120 yen onto their total. Makoto getting to keep his purchase a relative secret for the moment."He knows what i bought."
"When Akemi asked if she could drive Makoto looked at his car for a moment loading everything up and sneaking the treats into the back when he was sure his sister wasn't looking. "Fine, but i'm telling you that everyone drives that speed on that highway you're gonna end up getting us hit or honked at."He said though the chances of anyone being on the street now that the sun was setting was much much lower.
gpt
Akemi lifted a brow, but didn't say anything... not for a long while, anyway. A playful little smile curving her lips, not to mention mischief sparkling in the girl's eyes, she laughed a little while they approached the register."I really doubt 'everyone' drives at that crazy speed, on that highway or anywhere else. I just don't want to die before we get back."It was easy to unload everything on the counter, though she couldn't resist teasing her new older brother on his secret purchase. Maybe she should've waited until later to say anything, but what's the fun in that? Huh?
"Please don't tell me you bought something pervy," Akemi pretended to whine, even going so far as to roll her eyes in a dramatic fashion.
"I know you're a boy, and there's raging hormones and everything... I just really don't want to walk in on you... doing 'your thing'."How horrifying would that be? Akemi doesn't have enough experience with boys to say that she's used to that sort of thing... but she's read enough books to know a thing or two, at least!
"Then again, I can't say much about that sort of thing,"Akemi said with a nonchalant shrug."I've never even been kissed before. I can't imagine doing 'that' to myself, you know?" It took about... five, maybe ten seconds before she realized what she'd just blurted out, and to her new brother, of all people. Deep red washed over her features in an instant."And... there I go, rambling again!" Akemi laughed, looking anywhere but at him while rubbing the back of her neck."Is there a hole I can climb into-?"
human
Makoto looked at her for a moment as she asked if he had picked up something perverted, he looked at her for a moment, as she started to panic and want to climb into a hole, as she confessed that she had never masturbated, and he just looked at her like she was an alien. She was sixteen how in the world had she never masturbated before? it seemed almost impossible. She seemed interested in boys. He blinked slowly just thinking over how to handle his response but couldn't handle it.
"Wait so you've never masturbated? that's like... really weird. I mean no offense but I don't think that's how growing up works. I mean they go over it in health class, it's natural. Also I have a computer so who pays for porn?"He shook his head, seriously in the digital age who payed for porn.
When she asked if there was a hole she could crawl into he pointed at a ravine. "I mean that's a hole for you."He shrugged."Seriously who doesn't masturbate, it's great for stress relief and it's perfectly natural. I do it almost every night."
With that he walked to his seat. "Tell you what, drive us home, and when we get out of the car, I'll tell you what I bought if you hug me."he chuckled a bit as the demand seemed a bit awkward but this was something he couldn't explain otherwise.
gpt
"Yeah! No! I haven't!" Are her ears melting off? It sure feels like it. "I just... never tried it," Akemi confessed, mortification practically dripping off the words and splattering all over the poor girl's feet. "I either never had time, or I was too tired to try... or too shy. It was always something. I'm sorry if I'm not 'normal'," Akemi huffed, using her fingers as quotation marks around the words she wants to put emphasis on. Dark red was just turning darker on her pale skin."I was helping Dad pay the bills, and I was more worried about homework than about exploring my body. I get it, I'm weird."
Is she getting defensive? Probably. Akemi has every right to be, though. It's not as though she had the same opportunities as everybody else to explore her sexuality. Her life was chaotic. Not only did she have to worry about bullying, she had to hurry off to a part-time job, keep that a secret from her father, and finishing off her homework at ahalfwaydecent time. Don't even get her started on essays, or projects! Ugh! Akemi opened the door of the car, nearly throwing the bags into the back seat.
No, wait; is he serious? Not expecting that to come out of his mouth, Akemi blinked at him while sliding into the driver's seat. "You... want me to hug you? Seriously?" Incredulous, Akemi shook her head. "Don't take this the wrong way, but I got the vibe you didn't like to be touched too much."
A twist of the wrist had the car starting with a roar. "I mean, I don't know why that is, I just get the feeling, you know?" A shrug rolled through her shoulders and, after a quick glance over her shoulder, pulled out of the parking spot. Akemi was a better driver than he was, even if it's because she had a lot of practice... without a learner's permit. Hey, how was she supposed to get from Point A to Point B? Or, to be more specific, from the house to her job?
human
Makoto just kinda nodded "trust me i don't, but this will make sense when we get home." as for the fact that she was a ripe tomato she was adorable. As she started to drive he started to point out what she was doing wrong, helping her out showing he could drive sanely, but just seemingly chose not too. Aside from that he was prepping himself for what was going to come up next.
He sat as the car went along the roads in a calm orderly fashion basically just counting seconds till they reached the highway, and then when they did he leaned back."You're on your own here." He said waiting for it.
And then two cars blitzed past them, one of which honked it's horn loudly as it passed them on the right doing 130, where Makoto had just done ninety. The driver stuck his hand out the window to flip them off, Makoto just leaned back in his seat feeling justified."Such a good driver."
He wondered if he should appologize for his normal remark, but honestly normal was the kind of thing he wished he was. When they finally got home he just unclipped his seat belt and stepped out stretching himself for a moment."Okay ready when you are."
gpt
"Jerk," Akemi grumbled darkly, halfway tempted to flip him off herself. "I'm going the speed limit. As in, what the law requires us to abide by." A quick look over in the passenger seat showed a smug Makoto, just sitting back and enjoying the show. "Hush," she huffed, her eyes going back to the road. Where do these people learn how to drive? Makoto's awful, but it looks like others in this town are just as bad, if not worse!
It was a relief to get off the highway, and it was smooth sailing from there. Hardly anyone is out at this late hour. Akemi turned into the long driveway, and after shifting the car into park, climbed out of the driver's seat. "Look," she said on a sigh.
"We don't have to do this. I was just teasing you about the porn thing. You don't have to tell me what you bought if you don't want to, just like this hug thing. I love hugs, but I'm not going to force myself on you. I mean, you just don't me you're not a touchy-feeling guy."
Akemi closed the door, moving to fetch the groceries out of the back."Come on, let's head on inside. I'm sure your dad is starving by now," Akemi said on a laugh, already twisting towards the door."I'm surprised your stomach hasn't started growling already."
human
"This will make a lot more sense if you just do as i ask, and hug me."taking a bag as well he walked with her inside the house. He understood that she wasn't going to understand and he wasn't about to force himself onto her in any physical way. his main fear was that he had no idea which bag the dog treats were in at this point, was it in one of the ones he was carrying or in her bag.
It wasn't that he didn't like the idea of touchy freely moments, if anything he desperately wanted them, but he had never had any experience with anyone from outside his family, in all honesty part of him was curious. she was his half sister did that count? It had counted when his mother had hugged him as a child, so it probably would probably trigure this way too. He looked to his dad wondering if he could get any ideas from him about how to explain what he was trying to demonstrate. Walking into the kitchen with her.
"I've only ever met a few other girls my age, i'm not against the touchy kind of thing, but this isn't really about it, seriously it's important to me that you do this. It will help me explain a lot of things." He said rolling his eyes, great now he was the creepy one, all because he was afraid of his dirty little secret getting out, and it wasn't even that dirty.
He glanced around hoping that their dad wasn't around. He couldn't see him, so he could assume that the man had gone to his bedroom to take a nap while she made dinner.
gpt
Now this is just getting weird. Is he seriously insisting that she hug him? Why? Akemi let out a sigh, putting everything down on the counter. "You're starting to sound pretty damn creepy about this whole thing," she dared to speak up, not even looking over his way while she pulled out a box of noodles from one of the bags. "I mean, it's not a big deal. Like I said before, I was just teasing you about the porn thing, and you don't have to tell me what you bought. You have a right to keep secrets, just like everybody else."
How is this important? It's just a hug! It's not like it's the end of the world or anything! Akemi twisted around to face him, both arms crossing under her breasts as she leaned back against the counter. Of course, this only served to make the white blouse tighten across her breasts... as if to show off their generous shape without revealing any of the skin. "If you're so intent on this, why don't you just tell me instead?" she told him, exasperation clear in her tone. "I'm not going to judge. I'm not against hugs, either, but you're really starting to creep me out with all of... that."
A hand lifted to gesture towards him, though only half-heartedly. Akemi waited for an explanation, not expecting one anytime soon... and she wasn't surprised to find no words flying her way. Figures. "Okay, fine," she said on a sigh, her expression one that's obviously not very pleased."I feel like I'm being coerced into a hug, but whatever. Let's get it out of the way, shall we?"Both hands waved to portray fake enthusiasm.
Let's get this done and over with. Akemi pushed away from the counter, arms spread wide to accept this hug.
human
Oddly Makoto didn't seem exactly hype to hug her, but went in anyway once it was clear that the argument was done with. The moment her arms enclosed around him their was a large wash of smoke. when the cloud of smoke cleared Makoto was gone, but he had been replaced by a large blackdogand a pile of his clothing was on the floor. huffed and managed to put two paws on the counter his nose going through the bags finding what he had purchased.
With dog treats in jaw, Makoto walked a few steps away from her, and sat on the floor putting down the dog treats. "This is embarrassing as all hell, but here you have it." He said gesturing to himself, and the dog treats. "This is why mom probably never told anyone about us. our family has a bit of a curse. Are you familiar with the story of the zodiac?" He moved a paw to scratch the back his ear for a moment it had been a long time since he had actually taken this form, and he didn't usually do so for very long.
"basically god hosted a feast and invited his friends the 13 animals, mouse was a dick gave the cat the wrong time so god cursed the animals." He gave his fur coat a bit of a shake. "The Sohma are decendants of those animals. The curse can be broken, true love, blah blah you know the fairy tail, till then whenever we are embraced by a member of the opposite gender or we get weak, we revert to this state. And that's why I sometimes buy these."He picks up the fake jerky treats."Comfort food, okay that's what i bought."
"I figured you were bound to learn about this sooner or later. Best to rip off the band-aid early."
gpt
No... way. This can't be real! A cloud of smoke had Akemi stumbling, her back colliding with the counter rather painfully. A rustle of... fabric caught her attention, only... where did he go? His clothes are just a pile on the floor! Please don't tell her he's dead! How is she going to explain this to their father?! Wait. Calm down. There's gotta be a rational explanation for this! All sorts of flustered, Akemi was waving her hands to try and calm down, cool off, something along those lines... when she noticed a large black... dog?
Okay. Seriously. What's going on here? Akemi is totally freaking out here! All of the color drained from her face, her eyes providing the only color now. "You're... a dog?"Akemi spoke up finally, incredulous. How is this even possible?! The Zodiac is nothing but an astrology story, ain't it? A hand reached up to pinch herself, just to see if this is a dream or not."Ow!"No way. This is real? It's so tempting to make a bad pun, it really is. Would it be wrong to throw it out there? Probably. Is she going to do it anyway? Oh yeah.
"Does this mean you know the 'doggy position' better than anyone?" Akemi tried to hold it in, she really did. It's just... How could she resist?! This isn't funny, though. True love is the only way to break the curse? Isn't that just a fairy tale? Not once has she ever believed in it, personally. Akemi began to play with the pleats of her skirt, not entirely sure what to say now. It explains the 'seasonal allergies' bit, but... she feels kinda bad for him."I'm sorry this curse is on your family," Akemi finally told him, though it sort of feels... odd to blurt it out."I really am."
human
Makoto has to admit that he kind of enjoyed the look of panic across her face. It was kind of priceless, if he had thumbs he would have taken a pic with his cell or recorded a video as she freaked out. He nodded when she called him out and said that he was a dog."Yeah, sad lot all around. I mean I wish I could have met mom again to ask why she walked off, but i mean I think it's pretty obvious, who wants a puppy for a son?"His new height put his face at height with his new sisters stomach, and as she started to play with her skirt his head tilted slightly wondering if he could take a look at her panties thanks to all this."There are others like me, and I'm sure you will meet them in time."
Her comment about the doggy position made him surpress a growl."Your kidding right the girl who has never touched herself is seriously going to come at me with that kind of thing? Besides, just because I am a dog doesn't mean I like dogs. I like women, human women. You wanted to know why i don't seem touchy feely? this is it."
He got up from his seated position and stretched his body out for a bit. As he did his head naturally ducked down allowing his vision to dip down below her skirt and see what she was wearing under her skirt."True love is a load of shit, dad broke this curse cause he fell head over heals for our mom, but she ran off with your dad, and really who would ever want a dog in their bed, get real." He turned and walked away padding up to his room."Call me when dinner's ready, when i revert to being human again, I need to put on clothing."
gpt
Huh? A puppy for a son?Akemi couldnt help but consider the idea, though she didnt really have to. Her expression thoughtful, Akemi curled a finger under her lip, her eyes intent on nothing in particular.I think itd be fun to have a puppy for a son,Akemi realized after thinking about it long and hard.I mean, itd be lonely, because Id never be able to hold my son but theres so many things wed be able to do together!A soft, delighted laugh dancing through the air, it was a good minute or so before she realized that he didnt actually ask for her opinion, but asking a redundant question. It didnt take long to die of embarrassment on the inside. Akemi fought the urge to bury her face in shame.
Uh oh. Awkward! Quick! Talk about something else!Akemi decided to blurt out the first thing that came to mind, even if its the most ridiculous thing in the world. Anything had to be better, right?Youre right. True love is nothin but a fairy tale,Akemi huffed, taking this opportunity to gather his clothes together.Ive never believed in it. I just I dont know what it is, I guess Im sort of a cynic when it comes to love? Dont get me wrong, Id love to someday find somebody I can settle down with, have kids with and all that but true love? Please. I dont believe that one person is meant to be with another. It just doesnt sound right.
Akemi climbed up onto her feet, his clothes in her arms.Ill call you once dinners ready,she chirped, not entirely sure if she should hand his clothes over, or if he plans on getting himself a new set. Maybe she should leave it up to him?Ill just get started on it, thenAkemi placed his clothes on the counter, and leaving it at that, she turned to where all the bags are, taking out the hamburger meat first. It takes longer to cook, and she wants to drain the grease before doing anything else to it. Noodles can pretty much be left alone to cook, luckily.
human
Walking away with the familiar tics of soft claws against hard wood flooring he heard his new sisters comments about how it would be fun to have a puppy, he kind of felt like she was insulting him by doing that, walking upstairs he was safely out of sight before he turned back into his human skin, it always felt a touch uncomfortable. there wasn't any real pain associated with the transformation, no linguring feelings, but in all honesty he wasn't entirely sure which one was his 'proper' skin.
He was still angry as he pulled out new clothing and got dressed before he sat down and started to clean up his desk, hiding the lotion and box of tissues in his desk before sitting on his chair and leaning back into his seat waiting for dinner. She was right that it didn't sound right, but hadn't that been how dad had broken the curse? what even was the curse. He knew the gist of the thing, but it had been a while since he had been forcibly changed from a human to a dog.
It was weird how fast his sister seemed to adapt to the info he had given to her, though that could have been shock. He decided that for now the two of them could share the house, but he would do his best to give her space. He just pulled out his homework and started on it for the night and would come down when she called for dinner.
gpt
Did she say something wrong? Akemi sort of feels like it, but he didnt say anything, either. Maybe its just better if she keeps her trap shut. A soft sigh leaving her lips, Akemi ran a hand through her hair before going through the motions of tying it all up into a ponytail. Its been one hell of a day. First, she gets adopted by a man she didnt even know was still alive a week ago not to mention finds out she has a half-brother, and oh! He can transform into a dog if he gets a hug from a girl, or if he gets super weak! Yippee~!
Akemi just about smacked herself with that one, just cause. A groan and a roll of her eyes portraying the exasperation, Akemi decided she might as well jump into making dinner. If this is their first home-cooked meal in who-knows-how-long, she cant keep them waiting! Akemi began to hum a little as she threw the hamburger meat into a pan, taking this opportunity to add salt, pepper, and a touch of basil for flavor. How long has it been since shes last thrown a meal together for somebody other than herself-?
It wasnt long before the scent of basil had permeated throughout the entire house. Akemi set the table after a little while, though she didnt do anything more than put plates and silverware on. Its impossible to predict what theyd want to drink. Dinners ready! Akemi called out, just to disappear back into the kitchen and start pouring everything into bowls. Once she was through with that, Akemi placed both on the table, so they can serve themselves.