[Log] Jirou and Tomo-chan
Characters: Osakada Tomoka and Akutagawa Jirou
When: April 8th
Where: Town Park
What: A normal picnic and a not so normal conversation.
Rating: PG
Tomoka waited just outside the Dusk Dorm gates patiently dressed cutely as always. Jirou had been acting a bit odd and distant for the past few days but he seemed to have finally gotten back to his old self. At least it wasn't anything that she had done wrong, or so he had assured her. She just hoped that whatever it was he needed to think and sort out himself he was finally able to.
Either way, she looked forward to another day with her great vampire friend-- and without curfew as well! It was nice to be able to spend time with him and not have to worry about breaking the rules. Of course they had never stopped them before but being able to go out at any time freely and be together on campus whenever they wanted was nice. Any time she had to spend with Jirou was special and precious to her, no matter what mood she was in or what problems she was faced with Jirou would always make everything better somehow. Though she worried how close he was moving in her heart from silly little big brother to apple of her eye, but she wouldn't force her feelings on him. Happy outings like this made her able to hold back after all, they devoted plenty of time to one another.
Jirou never really took very long to get dressed, even if he liked to pile on layers. He wasn't wearing as many layers as he had on recent outings, only putting on two hoodies over a long-sleeved shirt as opposed to more, with a jacket over top for them to sit on if they ended up in the park, like they normally did. He grabbed his bag and slung it onto his shoulder, a container of fresh-baked cookies tucked away inside, and headed out of his room, down the stairs and out the door of the dorm.
He spotted Tomoka almost instantly and broke into a grin. "Tomo-chan~!" he called, waving a hand above his head and jogging to her side.
She smiled back as she saw the familiar boy bouncing toward her as usual, a bit less bulky in thiner layers. Tomoka couldn't help but giggle and wave back, noticing the unusual shimmer in his hair and on his bag still like he had mentioned. "Jirou~!" she called back to him as she took a few steps to meet him halfway so she could hug him. It was a little awkward between him carrying his bag and her small purse slung on her arm. "Still sparkly even after the shower I see, sure you're not going for the Twilight look?" she couldn't help teasing.
The blond hugged her tight, resting his head on her shoulder for the duration of the hug before stepping back. He pouted slightly. "Of course not!" he said before glancing around to check no one was in earshot. "I'm too awesome a vampire to be like them~" He grinned before offering his hand.
She happily took it and gave it a cheerful squeeze. "The most awesome of all~" she chimed back to him with a wink. Yes, he definitely seemed back to himself again which was a great relief; or at least he seemed as much himself as he normally was. If anything else was still going on with him it was all in his thoughts and not something she could really read, which she could live with. "So into town?" she asked, "Anything special or our usual spot?" She was curious, they did always seem to say they were going to town only to end up in the park. Not that she ever minded; it was a happy and simple ritual of theirs every time they went off campus after all.
"I don't mind," Jirou swung their hands between them as they started to walk. "I've got cookies for Tomo-chan~" He flashed her another grin. He didn't really have anywhere specific in mind. He just liked spending time with her. And even just sitting in the park or napping together was more than enough.
"Silly, that didn't answer my question." she giggled, enjoying the familiar swinging of their arms between them as they walked off campus. "I've got musubi for Jirou too, so I guess we'll just see wherever our feet take us." she smiled over to him. Which always meant in the park under their favorite tree. It would be a perfect outing in itself any day but it just so happened the sakura were blossoming too and they hadn't particularly been there yet. Their favorite spot may just turn out to be occupied and if not the view would definitely be more colorful.
Jirou gave a chimy little 'ooh~" at the sound of musubi and the grin widened. "Hopefully it won't be too crowded," He mused out loud. He knew they'd probably end up at the park. They always seemed to. Not that he minded or anything. "Maybe our usual spot will be okay and empty and quiet~"
"I sure hope so~" She didn't know how popular sakura viewing was in the small town but she imagined even there it was a fun event for people to go out in. Though their favorite spot was always empty even when they went there early since it was a bit away from the pond and sidewalk. Tomoka couldn't help crossing her fingers hoping it was but if not she had no problem with it. Rumors about them seemed to be downsized by plenty of other things happening at the school and it wasn't like they had anything to hide especially with curfew gone.
The blond giggled and continued swinging their hands, his free hand holding onto the strap of his bag. He didn't say much the rest of the walk, just humming almost happily as they went and let his gaze wander around. When they reached the park, he frowned a little at the crowd though it lessened as they neared their usual spot. It wasn't completely deserted, but the nearest group were far enough away that they wouldn't disturb them.
"Well at least it's lively for a change." Tomoka sighed trying to stay a bit positive about the situation as they finally arrived at their spot. Sure they wouldn't disturb anyone from their spot most likely but it wasn't as if they were completely out of sight from them all either. Hopefully they'd all clear out by the time she and Jirou decided to lay down for their usual nap. If not snuggling and giving each other little kisses might not be so pleasant to do; not that she cared if they were seen or not but it would feel awkward.
Jirou nodded slightly and lead her around the side of the tree that seemed the quietest. He took of his jacket off and lay it out on the ground before taking his bag off. Normally he wouldn't mind being seen, but after Yuushi had drawn his attention to just how close they were and with the amount of people around them... it made it seem a little more awkward. He sat down with a smile and slid the container of cookies through his bag.
Tomoka sat down beside him, slipping her purse from her shoulder. She sifted through to pull out the small bento of musubi and set it down between them as well. "I think my diet's going to turn into nothing but this if I'm not careful." she giggled. It was hard to not notice the people around and the slight buzz of conversations echoing around them. But at least it was close enough to quiet where they were so long as they kept up a conversation of their own at least.
"I don't think that'd be a bad thing~" Jirou chimed, taking the lid off the container and offering one of the cookies to Tomoka. "I think they might still be a little warm." He glanced up at the tree they were sat under with a smile before looking around them. He loved spring. The sakura were always so pretty and it meant his birthday wasn't that far away.
"It may not be a bad thing for you but I'll get all fat if I each too much sugar and carbs. Unlike Jirou I'm not a cute vampire." she jokingly pouted. Despite that she of course still took the cookie offered from his hand with her mouth and bit happily. She loved the sugary taste of his cookies most and it was still a bit warm which made it even better as it melted in her mouth. She aslo took the chance to also open up the bento and offer him a musubi as well. "The sakura are pretty aren't they?" Tomoka smiled glancing up to see the colorful petals as well. It was always a refreshing change from the winter, especially such a cold and snow filled one like they had.
Jirou happily took one of the musubi and popped in his mouth, chewing and swallowing. "They really are," he said happily, looking up again. "Not as pretty as Tomo-chan." It slipped out before he could stop it but instead of letting himself get embarrassed by it, he just grinned.
"Eh..?" She hadn't really expected that and a light blush brushed over her cheeks. Sure she was used to teasing Jirou and having compliments like that fly up whenever she flirted with him or others, but maybe it was just how honest it sounded that caught her off guard. It took finishing another cookie before she could think enough to respond to him. "A-Ara, Jirou flatters me too much~" she laughed lightly, aware that the slight heat in her cheeks was still there. He was just being cute and nice to her like always after all, though it did make her happy to be complimented as much.
"Nope~ I just speak the truth~" Jirou grinned wider and tilted his head to the side, his eyes closing for a moment. They opened again and the grin widened further at the sight of the blush. "Pretty and cute and really kind~~" It was all true and all stuff he'd said plenty of times before, but after thinking about everything like he had been the past few days, it was things that really counted as a part of Tomoka.
"Mou, Jirou~!" she pouted, not trying to hide her slight embarrassment anymore. She took the cookie she had been nibbling as a distraction and shoved it not too gently into his mouth. "You're making me blush." Perhaps it was just the atmosphere around them with the slight liveliness and the blossoms all around them as well. "But Jirou's cute and really kind as well, and could probably be hot if he tried... maybe." she teased lightly, reaching out to brush off some of the glitter that was still in his hair. She figured calling him pretty wouldn't have been a suitable compliment unless he had been going for a sparkly vampire look.
Jirou blinked at the sudden cookie in his mouth and chewed it. Once he swallowed, he pouted at her, despite the pink on his cheeks. "Tomo-chan's cuter," he protested before taking another musubi and nibbling it. "And I couldn't be hot. Only cute."
"Eh, you think so~? I think Jirou could be hot if you tried... maybe. It'd be interesting to see." she giggled, able to get her cheeks back to normal as the conversation shifted. Now it was him who was blushing a bit, a much better turn around. Though his protest almost had her turning a little red. Being called cute wasn't the biggest or best compliment ever given but it was an endearing one nonetheless; especially form a cutie like her vampire friend.
"I couldn't," Jirou pouted and finished off his musubi. He licked his lips clean before poking his tongue out at her. "Yuushi and Kenya and Atobe-sama and stuff, they could pull it off easily. I couldn't. I'm just cute." He was adamant about the fact.
"Hm... maybe, but maybe not." she mused, trying to imagine a Jirou acting like any of the others he had mentioned. It almost made her laugh-- almost, but she didn't get too caught up in the strange images to be distracted from the real Jirou sitting next to her. "Either way I still love Jirou and always will." Tomoka smiled, reaching over to remove a grain of rice that had stuck to his face.
Jirou blinked as she removed the grain of rice and pouted. "Oi," he whined. "That's mine." He pouted at her for a moment longer before picking up another cookie and holding the end in his teeth. He stared at her wide-eyed, offering her the other end.
She was about to offer him another musubi for stealing his grain of rice when she saw him holding out the cookie like a dog. "Are you sure you're not really a werewolf? I think the doggie look would suit you." she smiled. Moving closer she grabbed the other end of the offered cookie with her teeth. Her tongue brushed her side of the cookie for a moment and tingled with the sweet taste but she hesistated biting down on it just yet.
For a long moment, Jirou just watched her, holding the cookie with his teeth. He snapped the cookie in half and pulled away to chew his half. He stayed quiet even after he'd swallowed and just stared up at the tree above them. There was just something so very calming and soothing about sakura that made them his favourite places to nap under. It wasn't very often that he'd stay awake so long under a blooming one, but circumstances were different. He glanced at Tomoka with a smile.
"Hey, Tomo-chan," he said slowly, reaching for a cookie slowly. "Would you.... let me kiss you again?"
She blinked as the cookie broke in half before her and sat back to finish her half as well. It really was nice and peaceful and relaxing underneath their own little sakura with nothing but a sea of them to look up and out at. The crowd had been easily forgotten around them and soon enough they would all be gone. Who came to look at them when it was dark after all. Tomoka could definitely see herself sleeping soundly beneath them with Jirou after the crowd had cleared and without worry of a curfew.
When he called her name she looked to him expectantly but couldn't help be a bit confused by his question. "Jirou..." There was no way she'd say no but knowing Jirou it wasn't the type of kiss she was imagining; or at least that's what she was convinced of. She nodded and smiled back at him, "Of course silly, Jirou can kiss me anytime." Of course she meant that no matter what as she loved their sweet little kisses together too and even though she had slipped up the one time also the one they had shared before. Not that she dreamed of it happening again, Jirou was cute just like he said and innocent and she didn't want to confuse him further.
"No, I mean...." The blond trailed off and looked up at the tree above them. He bent his knees, hugging them to his chest so he could rest his chin on top of them. He stayed quiet for a long moment, thinking and trying to figure out how to say what he wanted to.
"A real kiss," he finally settled on, slowly dropping his gaze from the sakura to Tomoka. "Like that one time..." He tried to put some confidence into what he was saying, but he couldn't help but be a little unsure. Yuushi had insinuated that Tomoka liked him; at least, that was the impression he got. But that didn't mean that she definitely did and it was what was making it difficult to come to a final decision on anything. There was no point trying for anything if, in the end, her feelings for him were completely platonic.
"Jirou..." Here she had thought he had forgotten about that time completely, not that it was one she could easily forget. It had been a slip up of hers, a moment where she crossed the line from playful flirting with a friend to wanting to see him more seriously. What they had as friends was so special and almost fragile she thought that she didn't want to impose her real feelings on him. Tomoka had hardly been aware of them herself until perhaps the first time she let him drink her blood. No one had ever protected her so fiercely and without question. It had terrified her what he was capable of but at the same time she felt safe and like there was no one else in world she would rather be with than him. Those feelings had stayed the same and only grown stronger since, but she had to keep them to herself.
Jirou was so innocent and naive about relationships, even friendships. She didn't want to make things awkward between them or grow distant. But maybe that was just as selfish. She inhaled a sharp, small breath and glanced over to him softly. "Why... do you want to kiss me, Jirou..?" she couldn't help asking him."If it's just because of that one time then I don't want to confuse you. That was my fault for being silly and I don't want to make you feel awkward again." she laughed lightly, partially lying for course which would no doubt be seen right through.
For a long moment, Jirou stayed silent. He hadn't really thought back to that particular kiss until Yuushi had brought it up and he'd never really considered that it could mean anything more before that conversation, either. It had just seemed like a normal kiss like all the others that he shared with Tomoka all the time. But after talking with Yuushi, he'd thought back over just what exactly he and Tomoka actually did and what he had done for her and realization that no, he wouldn't have treated anyone's exes the way he had treated his friend's, no matter what they did.
"Do I need a reason?" he asked quietly. He couldn't think of why, apart from maybe liking her as more than a friend, but he honestly wasn't sure if he had to have a reason to kiss her.
"Yes." she responded a bit faster than she had imagined. Tomoka wasn't sure why this conversation was making her heart beat a little faster with each word-- or maybe she did, but she tried to ignore it. She wasn't sure what had gotten into him to even ask and as he had ignored her mentioning the last time from her point of view he seemed to only be using it at a point of reference and not fixated on it like she had been. But then she remembered why he probably was asking her such strange and yet innocent questions.
She let out another soft sigh, "It may not be an easy reason to explain but... Jirou that type of kiss is a special one that you do with people you like. Sure it's a greeting in some places but here it's a kiss that is meant for people you really like." Tomoka paused, glancing over to him and then away for a moment, a soft blush on her cheeks once more. "It's not the type of kiss you give family... or friends usually."
Jirou gave a slow nod and shifted his gaze to stare at the ground in front of him. "Then... does Tomo-chan like me?" His voice was even quieter than before and he sounded even more unsure about himself. He hadn't really wanted to outright ask her but she was the one who had brought the subject up so he figured he might a well. Besides, it took the attention away from why he wanted to kiss her himself.
"Of course I do." she responded without hesitation. Of course her heart seemed to lump in her throat before saying more. He knew she liked him but obviously the 'like' they were both talking about not was different. Things had taken a strange turn somewhere along their conversation, not that starting it with asking to kiss her hadn't been strange enough. She inhaled sharply again hoping to push back to odd lump in her throat and scooted herself closer and closer to him until she was sitting in front of his huddled figured. Saying that she liked him was just a matter of fact, they both knew that, it was saying anything past that where it felt odd. But she knew she had to do it, if not to be truthful to him than to be honest with herself.
Gently placing her hand beneath his chin she softly tilted it up so he was facing her and smiled. "I love you Jirou." It was simple as that though, she knew she had to say it and had before and whether he took it to heart or in the same cute way he always did nothing would matter-- either way she was just happy being with him. He was her friend, though she felt stronger than that to him but was always uncertain of it; but if all they ever remained was friends she would find a way to force her heart to accept it. She was just human after all.
When she appeared in his line of sight, Jirou lifted his eyes to look straight at her. He let the words soak in. His mind was a mess again, filled with all the thoughts that had been keeping him preoccupied lately, all because of something a fellow vampire had said. So she really did like him more than a friend. He wasn't sure if that made things any easier, though. He had a feeling that knowing it would make things harder. He didn't want to upset or disappoint her but he knew she'd want him to make a decision for himself, not based on her.
"I think.... I love Tomo-chan, too," He said slowly, never looking away from her. However this played it out, he made a mental note to find Yuushi after he got back to the dorm and pout at him. None of this would've happened if he hadn't popped Jirou's little oblivious bubble. Whether that was a good thing or not was yet to be decided.
"Jirou..." Tomoka couldn't help letting out a small gasp, unable to break her gaze from his. His was honest as always but she wasn't sure if he knew what he was saying or not. It made her incredibly happy to hear him say as much but she couldn't help thinking he was still not sure of himself, and he hadn't said it with complete certainty either.
"Is that why you asked to kiss me?" She couldn't help but smile and lean in to kiss him lightly on the forehead and move her hand to pat his head as she moved away again. "Silly... it's okay if you don't love me the same way back." Or perhaps what she really wanted to say was it probably wasn't possible for him to love her the same way back, not that she knew anyway. Her last relationship with a vampire had ended in disaster but she knew Jirou would never hurt her like that no matter what. But he was kind and innocent and naive about things; she didn't know what put it in his head to ask her about her real feelings toward him but if nothing else at least it was out in the open now. She just didn't want to put him in a strange situation or one he didn't want to deal with that would make either of them uncomfortable again.
"It is," Jirou nodded slowly, still keeping his gaze focused on Tomoka. "And... because I liked it." Even if straight afterwards, he had been left confused and lost, he still liked it. Though he had initially thought that was just because he liked all kisses with his Tomo-chan. He smiled slightly at the thought. 'His' Tomo-chan. He'd always been a little possessive of her as they got closer and closer, like screening her boyfriend when they'd gotten together and then beating him up when he'd gone and bitten her and then attacking him when his cheating had come to light. He'd even been a little sad when Yuushi had announced his engagement to Tomoka, and been relieved when it was revealed to be a joke.
"I know it's okay," he said, his voice not as quiet as it had been. "But it's okay if I do, as well, right?"
Her eyes widened in a bit of disbelief for a moment as she heard him. Or rather, she thought she misheard him but there was no doubt about it-- he had just confirmed that he loved her too one way or another. She was speechless for a moment and couldn't really stop the heat from rising to her cheeks. Somewhere between disbelief and pure joy was where her emotions were mixing right now but she didn't want to let herself get too wrapped up into it.
"Of course it's okay but... but do you really feel that way Jirou?" she couldn't help asking, it felt a little too good to be true. It wasn't like she didn't trust his words, he had always been honest with her even if he was reluctant sometimes.
The vampire paused a moment, his expression turning thoughtful, before nodding. A grin pulled at his lips. "Yup!" he chimed, lifting his head off of his knees. "Well... I'm pretty sure I do. If I don't, then I don't what to call it but it's only for Tomo-chan~!" Okay, so maybe that didn't much sense. It made barely any sense to him, at least. But he knew what he was trying to say and he just hoped that Tomoka would as well.
Jirou shifted to move his knees from hugging them to kneeling on them, the grin still on his lips and lighting up his face. His cheeks were a little red, but he either didn't notice or didn't mind.
She couldn't help but laugh. There was no way a confession between them would happen any way than one neither of them could even put into words or fully understand. Words always seemed to fail them anyway. But there were a few Tomoka had been confident in and always would be.
"I love you Jirou." she smiled and then slightly pounced the kneeling boy in front of her, knocking them both down to the ground on his jacket. At least she had closed up the food, or whatever was left of it, in the midst of their conversation earlier. Wrapping him up in a tight hug she looked to him and at his rosy cheeks that no doubt matched hers and smiled again. "Will you be my Jirou?" she couldn't help asking, pulling away from his chest enough so they could face each other honestly.
As they fell down onto the jacket-turned-picnic blanket, a giggle bubbled in Jirou's throat. He returned the hug, the bright grin still on his lips even when Tomoka pulled away slightly. He nodded without any hesitation in response to her question. The grin toned down to a happy smile and he nodded again. "Of course," he chimed, leaning forward to kiss her cheek. "Only if you'll be my Tomo-chan, though~"
"Always." she giggled, the blush still clear on her cheeks now as much as it was on his. She happily held onto him gently from their odd position on the ground close to snuggling. It felt nice to be claimed by him as odd as it might have seemed. She wasn't very possessive but it was nice to be fussed over and have someone to fuss over as well-- someone to love and be loved by in their own silly way like they always had. Leaning her forehead against his as she closed her eyes for a moment she finally breathed out in a small whisper, "Ne, Jirou... you can give me that kiss now."
"Really?" Jirou didn't wait very long for a confirmation. He leaned forward just enough to press his lips to hers, still slightly unsure. Cheeks and foreheads and noses he had no problem in kissing, but when it came to a proper kiss, his only experience had been the surprise one he'd shared with Tomoka before, and she had lead that one and he'd just followed along. He considered trying to lead on this one as well, but decided against it. He had no problem just following her lead again and being the one who had no idea what to do. It had happened a lot when it came to anything relationship-orientated, so what was one more time?
Tomoka couldn't help but smile, a tiny giggle tingling between their lips after he touched his to hers. There was nothing bad about it the way he kissed her just showed his inexperience-- it felt just like his kisses everywhere else but it was exactly that she enjoyed. She took it slowly, breaking away for a moment to nuzzle his nose with hers in an Eskimo kiss and then pressed her lips lightly back onto his. He didn't need to be rushed into kisses too much, they had just become an item suddenly after all. Besides there were quite a few people still around and Tomoka was pretty sure trying to make out in the middle of hanami would be a bit embarrassing for everyone.
The kisses were short and sweet, she spaced them out between a nuzzle here and there and moving to his chin and cheek. The fact he was willing to relinquish his lead just made him all the more cute in her eyes but she was sure he wanted to be a bit more daring too. In time he would be maybe but for now she had her sweet and innocent Jirou and his kisses all to herself.
When: April 8th
Where: Town Park
What: A normal picnic and a not so normal conversation.
Rating: PG
Tomoka waited just outside the Dusk Dorm gates patiently dressed cutely as always. Jirou had been acting a bit odd and distant for the past few days but he seemed to have finally gotten back to his old self. At least it wasn't anything that she had done wrong, or so he had assured her. She just hoped that whatever it was he needed to think and sort out himself he was finally able to.
Either way, she looked forward to another day with her great vampire friend-- and without curfew as well! It was nice to be able to spend time with him and not have to worry about breaking the rules. Of course they had never stopped them before but being able to go out at any time freely and be together on campus whenever they wanted was nice. Any time she had to spend with Jirou was special and precious to her, no matter what mood she was in or what problems she was faced with Jirou would always make everything better somehow. Though she worried how close he was moving in her heart from silly little big brother to apple of her eye, but she wouldn't force her feelings on him. Happy outings like this made her able to hold back after all, they devoted plenty of time to one another.
Jirou never really took very long to get dressed, even if he liked to pile on layers. He wasn't wearing as many layers as he had on recent outings, only putting on two hoodies over a long-sleeved shirt as opposed to more, with a jacket over top for them to sit on if they ended up in the park, like they normally did. He grabbed his bag and slung it onto his shoulder, a container of fresh-baked cookies tucked away inside, and headed out of his room, down the stairs and out the door of the dorm.
He spotted Tomoka almost instantly and broke into a grin. "Tomo-chan~!" he called, waving a hand above his head and jogging to her side.
She smiled back as she saw the familiar boy bouncing toward her as usual, a bit less bulky in thiner layers. Tomoka couldn't help but giggle and wave back, noticing the unusual shimmer in his hair and on his bag still like he had mentioned. "Jirou~!" she called back to him as she took a few steps to meet him halfway so she could hug him. It was a little awkward between him carrying his bag and her small purse slung on her arm. "Still sparkly even after the shower I see, sure you're not going for the Twilight look?" she couldn't help teasing.
The blond hugged her tight, resting his head on her shoulder for the duration of the hug before stepping back. He pouted slightly. "Of course not!" he said before glancing around to check no one was in earshot. "I'm too awesome a vampire to be like them~" He grinned before offering his hand.
She happily took it and gave it a cheerful squeeze. "The most awesome of all~" she chimed back to him with a wink. Yes, he definitely seemed back to himself again which was a great relief; or at least he seemed as much himself as he normally was. If anything else was still going on with him it was all in his thoughts and not something she could really read, which she could live with. "So into town?" she asked, "Anything special or our usual spot?" She was curious, they did always seem to say they were going to town only to end up in the park. Not that she ever minded; it was a happy and simple ritual of theirs every time they went off campus after all.
"I don't mind," Jirou swung their hands between them as they started to walk. "I've got cookies for Tomo-chan~" He flashed her another grin. He didn't really have anywhere specific in mind. He just liked spending time with her. And even just sitting in the park or napping together was more than enough.
"Silly, that didn't answer my question." she giggled, enjoying the familiar swinging of their arms between them as they walked off campus. "I've got musubi for Jirou too, so I guess we'll just see wherever our feet take us." she smiled over to him. Which always meant in the park under their favorite tree. It would be a perfect outing in itself any day but it just so happened the sakura were blossoming too and they hadn't particularly been there yet. Their favorite spot may just turn out to be occupied and if not the view would definitely be more colorful.
Jirou gave a chimy little 'ooh~" at the sound of musubi and the grin widened. "Hopefully it won't be too crowded," He mused out loud. He knew they'd probably end up at the park. They always seemed to. Not that he minded or anything. "Maybe our usual spot will be okay and empty and quiet~"
"I sure hope so~" She didn't know how popular sakura viewing was in the small town but she imagined even there it was a fun event for people to go out in. Though their favorite spot was always empty even when they went there early since it was a bit away from the pond and sidewalk. Tomoka couldn't help crossing her fingers hoping it was but if not she had no problem with it. Rumors about them seemed to be downsized by plenty of other things happening at the school and it wasn't like they had anything to hide especially with curfew gone.
The blond giggled and continued swinging their hands, his free hand holding onto the strap of his bag. He didn't say much the rest of the walk, just humming almost happily as they went and let his gaze wander around. When they reached the park, he frowned a little at the crowd though it lessened as they neared their usual spot. It wasn't completely deserted, but the nearest group were far enough away that they wouldn't disturb them.
"Well at least it's lively for a change." Tomoka sighed trying to stay a bit positive about the situation as they finally arrived at their spot. Sure they wouldn't disturb anyone from their spot most likely but it wasn't as if they were completely out of sight from them all either. Hopefully they'd all clear out by the time she and Jirou decided to lay down for their usual nap. If not snuggling and giving each other little kisses might not be so pleasant to do; not that she cared if they were seen or not but it would feel awkward.
Jirou nodded slightly and lead her around the side of the tree that seemed the quietest. He took of his jacket off and lay it out on the ground before taking his bag off. Normally he wouldn't mind being seen, but after Yuushi had drawn his attention to just how close they were and with the amount of people around them... it made it seem a little more awkward. He sat down with a smile and slid the container of cookies through his bag.
Tomoka sat down beside him, slipping her purse from her shoulder. She sifted through to pull out the small bento of musubi and set it down between them as well. "I think my diet's going to turn into nothing but this if I'm not careful." she giggled. It was hard to not notice the people around and the slight buzz of conversations echoing around them. But at least it was close enough to quiet where they were so long as they kept up a conversation of their own at least.
"I don't think that'd be a bad thing~" Jirou chimed, taking the lid off the container and offering one of the cookies to Tomoka. "I think they might still be a little warm." He glanced up at the tree they were sat under with a smile before looking around them. He loved spring. The sakura were always so pretty and it meant his birthday wasn't that far away.
"It may not be a bad thing for you but I'll get all fat if I each too much sugar and carbs. Unlike Jirou I'm not a cute vampire." she jokingly pouted. Despite that she of course still took the cookie offered from his hand with her mouth and bit happily. She loved the sugary taste of his cookies most and it was still a bit warm which made it even better as it melted in her mouth. She aslo took the chance to also open up the bento and offer him a musubi as well. "The sakura are pretty aren't they?" Tomoka smiled glancing up to see the colorful petals as well. It was always a refreshing change from the winter, especially such a cold and snow filled one like they had.
Jirou happily took one of the musubi and popped in his mouth, chewing and swallowing. "They really are," he said happily, looking up again. "Not as pretty as Tomo-chan." It slipped out before he could stop it but instead of letting himself get embarrassed by it, he just grinned.
"Eh..?" She hadn't really expected that and a light blush brushed over her cheeks. Sure she was used to teasing Jirou and having compliments like that fly up whenever she flirted with him or others, but maybe it was just how honest it sounded that caught her off guard. It took finishing another cookie before she could think enough to respond to him. "A-Ara, Jirou flatters me too much~" she laughed lightly, aware that the slight heat in her cheeks was still there. He was just being cute and nice to her like always after all, though it did make her happy to be complimented as much.
"Nope~ I just speak the truth~" Jirou grinned wider and tilted his head to the side, his eyes closing for a moment. They opened again and the grin widened further at the sight of the blush. "Pretty and cute and really kind~~" It was all true and all stuff he'd said plenty of times before, but after thinking about everything like he had been the past few days, it was things that really counted as a part of Tomoka.
"Mou, Jirou~!" she pouted, not trying to hide her slight embarrassment anymore. She took the cookie she had been nibbling as a distraction and shoved it not too gently into his mouth. "You're making me blush." Perhaps it was just the atmosphere around them with the slight liveliness and the blossoms all around them as well. "But Jirou's cute and really kind as well, and could probably be hot if he tried... maybe." she teased lightly, reaching out to brush off some of the glitter that was still in his hair. She figured calling him pretty wouldn't have been a suitable compliment unless he had been going for a sparkly vampire look.
Jirou blinked at the sudden cookie in his mouth and chewed it. Once he swallowed, he pouted at her, despite the pink on his cheeks. "Tomo-chan's cuter," he protested before taking another musubi and nibbling it. "And I couldn't be hot. Only cute."
"Eh, you think so~? I think Jirou could be hot if you tried... maybe. It'd be interesting to see." she giggled, able to get her cheeks back to normal as the conversation shifted. Now it was him who was blushing a bit, a much better turn around. Though his protest almost had her turning a little red. Being called cute wasn't the biggest or best compliment ever given but it was an endearing one nonetheless; especially form a cutie like her vampire friend.
"I couldn't," Jirou pouted and finished off his musubi. He licked his lips clean before poking his tongue out at her. "Yuushi and Kenya and Atobe-sama and stuff, they could pull it off easily. I couldn't. I'm just cute." He was adamant about the fact.
"Hm... maybe, but maybe not." she mused, trying to imagine a Jirou acting like any of the others he had mentioned. It almost made her laugh-- almost, but she didn't get too caught up in the strange images to be distracted from the real Jirou sitting next to her. "Either way I still love Jirou and always will." Tomoka smiled, reaching over to remove a grain of rice that had stuck to his face.
Jirou blinked as she removed the grain of rice and pouted. "Oi," he whined. "That's mine." He pouted at her for a moment longer before picking up another cookie and holding the end in his teeth. He stared at her wide-eyed, offering her the other end.
She was about to offer him another musubi for stealing his grain of rice when she saw him holding out the cookie like a dog. "Are you sure you're not really a werewolf? I think the doggie look would suit you." she smiled. Moving closer she grabbed the other end of the offered cookie with her teeth. Her tongue brushed her side of the cookie for a moment and tingled with the sweet taste but she hesistated biting down on it just yet.
For a long moment, Jirou just watched her, holding the cookie with his teeth. He snapped the cookie in half and pulled away to chew his half. He stayed quiet even after he'd swallowed and just stared up at the tree above them. There was just something so very calming and soothing about sakura that made them his favourite places to nap under. It wasn't very often that he'd stay awake so long under a blooming one, but circumstances were different. He glanced at Tomoka with a smile.
"Hey, Tomo-chan," he said slowly, reaching for a cookie slowly. "Would you.... let me kiss you again?"
She blinked as the cookie broke in half before her and sat back to finish her half as well. It really was nice and peaceful and relaxing underneath their own little sakura with nothing but a sea of them to look up and out at. The crowd had been easily forgotten around them and soon enough they would all be gone. Who came to look at them when it was dark after all. Tomoka could definitely see herself sleeping soundly beneath them with Jirou after the crowd had cleared and without worry of a curfew.
When he called her name she looked to him expectantly but couldn't help be a bit confused by his question. "Jirou..." There was no way she'd say no but knowing Jirou it wasn't the type of kiss she was imagining; or at least that's what she was convinced of. She nodded and smiled back at him, "Of course silly, Jirou can kiss me anytime." Of course she meant that no matter what as she loved their sweet little kisses together too and even though she had slipped up the one time also the one they had shared before. Not that she dreamed of it happening again, Jirou was cute just like he said and innocent and she didn't want to confuse him further.
"No, I mean...." The blond trailed off and looked up at the tree above them. He bent his knees, hugging them to his chest so he could rest his chin on top of them. He stayed quiet for a long moment, thinking and trying to figure out how to say what he wanted to.
"A real kiss," he finally settled on, slowly dropping his gaze from the sakura to Tomoka. "Like that one time..." He tried to put some confidence into what he was saying, but he couldn't help but be a little unsure. Yuushi had insinuated that Tomoka liked him; at least, that was the impression he got. But that didn't mean that she definitely did and it was what was making it difficult to come to a final decision on anything. There was no point trying for anything if, in the end, her feelings for him were completely platonic.
"Jirou..." Here she had thought he had forgotten about that time completely, not that it was one she could easily forget. It had been a slip up of hers, a moment where she crossed the line from playful flirting with a friend to wanting to see him more seriously. What they had as friends was so special and almost fragile she thought that she didn't want to impose her real feelings on him. Tomoka had hardly been aware of them herself until perhaps the first time she let him drink her blood. No one had ever protected her so fiercely and without question. It had terrified her what he was capable of but at the same time she felt safe and like there was no one else in world she would rather be with than him. Those feelings had stayed the same and only grown stronger since, but she had to keep them to herself.
Jirou was so innocent and naive about relationships, even friendships. She didn't want to make things awkward between them or grow distant. But maybe that was just as selfish. She inhaled a sharp, small breath and glanced over to him softly. "Why... do you want to kiss me, Jirou..?" she couldn't help asking him."If it's just because of that one time then I don't want to confuse you. That was my fault for being silly and I don't want to make you feel awkward again." she laughed lightly, partially lying for course which would no doubt be seen right through.
For a long moment, Jirou stayed silent. He hadn't really thought back to that particular kiss until Yuushi had brought it up and he'd never really considered that it could mean anything more before that conversation, either. It had just seemed like a normal kiss like all the others that he shared with Tomoka all the time. But after talking with Yuushi, he'd thought back over just what exactly he and Tomoka actually did and what he had done for her and realization that no, he wouldn't have treated anyone's exes the way he had treated his friend's, no matter what they did.
"Do I need a reason?" he asked quietly. He couldn't think of why, apart from maybe liking her as more than a friend, but he honestly wasn't sure if he had to have a reason to kiss her.
"Yes." she responded a bit faster than she had imagined. Tomoka wasn't sure why this conversation was making her heart beat a little faster with each word-- or maybe she did, but she tried to ignore it. She wasn't sure what had gotten into him to even ask and as he had ignored her mentioning the last time from her point of view he seemed to only be using it at a point of reference and not fixated on it like she had been. But then she remembered why he probably was asking her such strange and yet innocent questions.
She let out another soft sigh, "It may not be an easy reason to explain but... Jirou that type of kiss is a special one that you do with people you like. Sure it's a greeting in some places but here it's a kiss that is meant for people you really like." Tomoka paused, glancing over to him and then away for a moment, a soft blush on her cheeks once more. "It's not the type of kiss you give family... or friends usually."
Jirou gave a slow nod and shifted his gaze to stare at the ground in front of him. "Then... does Tomo-chan like me?" His voice was even quieter than before and he sounded even more unsure about himself. He hadn't really wanted to outright ask her but she was the one who had brought the subject up so he figured he might a well. Besides, it took the attention away from why he wanted to kiss her himself.
"Of course I do." she responded without hesitation. Of course her heart seemed to lump in her throat before saying more. He knew she liked him but obviously the 'like' they were both talking about not was different. Things had taken a strange turn somewhere along their conversation, not that starting it with asking to kiss her hadn't been strange enough. She inhaled sharply again hoping to push back to odd lump in her throat and scooted herself closer and closer to him until she was sitting in front of his huddled figured. Saying that she liked him was just a matter of fact, they both knew that, it was saying anything past that where it felt odd. But she knew she had to do it, if not to be truthful to him than to be honest with herself.
Gently placing her hand beneath his chin she softly tilted it up so he was facing her and smiled. "I love you Jirou." It was simple as that though, she knew she had to say it and had before and whether he took it to heart or in the same cute way he always did nothing would matter-- either way she was just happy being with him. He was her friend, though she felt stronger than that to him but was always uncertain of it; but if all they ever remained was friends she would find a way to force her heart to accept it. She was just human after all.
When she appeared in his line of sight, Jirou lifted his eyes to look straight at her. He let the words soak in. His mind was a mess again, filled with all the thoughts that had been keeping him preoccupied lately, all because of something a fellow vampire had said. So she really did like him more than a friend. He wasn't sure if that made things any easier, though. He had a feeling that knowing it would make things harder. He didn't want to upset or disappoint her but he knew she'd want him to make a decision for himself, not based on her.
"I think.... I love Tomo-chan, too," He said slowly, never looking away from her. However this played it out, he made a mental note to find Yuushi after he got back to the dorm and pout at him. None of this would've happened if he hadn't popped Jirou's little oblivious bubble. Whether that was a good thing or not was yet to be decided.
"Jirou..." Tomoka couldn't help letting out a small gasp, unable to break her gaze from his. His was honest as always but she wasn't sure if he knew what he was saying or not. It made her incredibly happy to hear him say as much but she couldn't help thinking he was still not sure of himself, and he hadn't said it with complete certainty either.
"Is that why you asked to kiss me?" She couldn't help but smile and lean in to kiss him lightly on the forehead and move her hand to pat his head as she moved away again. "Silly... it's okay if you don't love me the same way back." Or perhaps what she really wanted to say was it probably wasn't possible for him to love her the same way back, not that she knew anyway. Her last relationship with a vampire had ended in disaster but she knew Jirou would never hurt her like that no matter what. But he was kind and innocent and naive about things; she didn't know what put it in his head to ask her about her real feelings toward him but if nothing else at least it was out in the open now. She just didn't want to put him in a strange situation or one he didn't want to deal with that would make either of them uncomfortable again.
"It is," Jirou nodded slowly, still keeping his gaze focused on Tomoka. "And... because I liked it." Even if straight afterwards, he had been left confused and lost, he still liked it. Though he had initially thought that was just because he liked all kisses with his Tomo-chan. He smiled slightly at the thought. 'His' Tomo-chan. He'd always been a little possessive of her as they got closer and closer, like screening her boyfriend when they'd gotten together and then beating him up when he'd gone and bitten her and then attacking him when his cheating had come to light. He'd even been a little sad when Yuushi had announced his engagement to Tomoka, and been relieved when it was revealed to be a joke.
"I know it's okay," he said, his voice not as quiet as it had been. "But it's okay if I do, as well, right?"
Her eyes widened in a bit of disbelief for a moment as she heard him. Or rather, she thought she misheard him but there was no doubt about it-- he had just confirmed that he loved her too one way or another. She was speechless for a moment and couldn't really stop the heat from rising to her cheeks. Somewhere between disbelief and pure joy was where her emotions were mixing right now but she didn't want to let herself get too wrapped up into it.
"Of course it's okay but... but do you really feel that way Jirou?" she couldn't help asking, it felt a little too good to be true. It wasn't like she didn't trust his words, he had always been honest with her even if he was reluctant sometimes.
The vampire paused a moment, his expression turning thoughtful, before nodding. A grin pulled at his lips. "Yup!" he chimed, lifting his head off of his knees. "Well... I'm pretty sure I do. If I don't, then I don't what to call it but it's only for Tomo-chan~!" Okay, so maybe that didn't much sense. It made barely any sense to him, at least. But he knew what he was trying to say and he just hoped that Tomoka would as well.
Jirou shifted to move his knees from hugging them to kneeling on them, the grin still on his lips and lighting up his face. His cheeks were a little red, but he either didn't notice or didn't mind.
She couldn't help but laugh. There was no way a confession between them would happen any way than one neither of them could even put into words or fully understand. Words always seemed to fail them anyway. But there were a few Tomoka had been confident in and always would be.
"I love you Jirou." she smiled and then slightly pounced the kneeling boy in front of her, knocking them both down to the ground on his jacket. At least she had closed up the food, or whatever was left of it, in the midst of their conversation earlier. Wrapping him up in a tight hug she looked to him and at his rosy cheeks that no doubt matched hers and smiled again. "Will you be my Jirou?" she couldn't help asking, pulling away from his chest enough so they could face each other honestly.
As they fell down onto the jacket-turned-picnic blanket, a giggle bubbled in Jirou's throat. He returned the hug, the bright grin still on his lips even when Tomoka pulled away slightly. He nodded without any hesitation in response to her question. The grin toned down to a happy smile and he nodded again. "Of course," he chimed, leaning forward to kiss her cheek. "Only if you'll be my Tomo-chan, though~"
"Always." she giggled, the blush still clear on her cheeks now as much as it was on his. She happily held onto him gently from their odd position on the ground close to snuggling. It felt nice to be claimed by him as odd as it might have seemed. She wasn't very possessive but it was nice to be fussed over and have someone to fuss over as well-- someone to love and be loved by in their own silly way like they always had. Leaning her forehead against his as she closed her eyes for a moment she finally breathed out in a small whisper, "Ne, Jirou... you can give me that kiss now."
"Really?" Jirou didn't wait very long for a confirmation. He leaned forward just enough to press his lips to hers, still slightly unsure. Cheeks and foreheads and noses he had no problem in kissing, but when it came to a proper kiss, his only experience had been the surprise one he'd shared with Tomoka before, and she had lead that one and he'd just followed along. He considered trying to lead on this one as well, but decided against it. He had no problem just following her lead again and being the one who had no idea what to do. It had happened a lot when it came to anything relationship-orientated, so what was one more time?
Tomoka couldn't help but smile, a tiny giggle tingling between their lips after he touched his to hers. There was nothing bad about it the way he kissed her just showed his inexperience-- it felt just like his kisses everywhere else but it was exactly that she enjoyed. She took it slowly, breaking away for a moment to nuzzle his nose with hers in an Eskimo kiss and then pressed her lips lightly back onto his. He didn't need to be rushed into kisses too much, they had just become an item suddenly after all. Besides there were quite a few people still around and Tomoka was pretty sure trying to make out in the middle of hanami would be a bit embarrassing for everyone.
The kisses were short and sweet, she spaced them out between a nuzzle here and there and moving to his chin and cheek. The fact he was willing to relinquish his lead just made him all the more cute in her eyes but she was sure he wanted to be a bit more daring too. In time he would be maybe but for now she had her sweet and innocent Jirou and his kisses all to herself.