WIP... just needed some where to stick this...
'Cole: Here... let's take a drama break. *hands you a 'Hello I'm Watanuki' name tag*
Ben: Huzzah! *slaps on the tag*
'Cole: *fastens a similar tag that simply has 'Domeki' scrawled in big messy characters over the rest of the letters* ...
Watanuki: *eyetwitch*
Domeki: *points* ...yours is crooked.
Watanuki: *points* At least mine doesn't look like it was written by a four year old!!
Domeki: *plucks at shirt to stare at his tag* ...I can read it. *vaguely incredulous look* ...what does it matter? You know who I am. *slow blink*
Watanuki: *gnashy teeth* That's not the point!! *looks around, realizes there's no one else there... tugs at his name tag, trying to pull it off with little result* Why are we even wearing these?!
Domeki: Ah... *takes off his tag; point at Watanuki's* ...need help with that..?
Watanuki: *jumps back, one hand pressed over the tag* No! *smooths the edges that he had pulled at* It might be important... Yuuko-san said to wear them. *contemplative* Though she did have a lot to drink this morning... *back to angry* She probably doesn't even remember!!
Domeki: *plugs his ear, moving away from Watanuki* ...headache...
Watanuki: *seething* She always does this! It's either nothing or this stupid thing is gonna save the day... *pales* or get me killed. *waves his arms, jumping forward again and spinning around* Did you hear that?!?
Domeki: *shielding his eyes and looking up at the sun* ...almost lunchtime..
Watanuki: *glares at him* Jerk... you aren't even paying attention... *looks up* And so what if it's almost lunc-- Himawari-chan!! She'll think I'm avoiding her!! *tears... ah so lazy... goes rip roarin' off to those stairs where they eat. Himawari is 'oddly' absent...* Oh no!! *more tears, tearing at his hair* She thought I wasn't coming and left!!-- Or worse, she was abducted!!
Domeki: *eventually makes his way to the stairs, following the trail of dust Watanuki left; blinks at where Himawari should be* ... *shrugs* ...if she's been abducted.. can I have her lunch? *extends hand*
Watanuki: *turns slowly, eyes shadowed* Nani? *sound effect: PA POOM*
Girl: *walks up timidly to Domeki, holding out a piece of paper to him* Ah, Domeki-sempai.. ? Himawari-chan said to give you this... *blush*
Watanuki: *rants and raves in the background... hmmm, only rendered as duck noises. ^__^ *
Himawari [in note, whoot!]: Dear Watanuki-kun and Domeki-kun: Please excuse my absence, I have a dentist appointment that I forgot about until the last minute. I'll see you both tomorrow. -Himawari
ps- Domeki-kun can have my lunch, if that's okay.
Watanuki: *grabs the note* It says my name first!!
Domeki: *deadpan* Must be love. *points* She said I could have her lunch.
Watanuki: *sniff* It says, 'if that's okay'. *points* It's not.
Domeki: That's horrible. I'm sure I've heard her say how much she admires a man who shares. *raises eyebrow* Who shares food.
Watanuki: *eye twitch... sits down suddenly, throwing two of the lunch boxes at him, muttering loudly* Hate for her to think that I wasn't generous...
Domeki: .... *smiles, setting a lunch box on either knee and opening both of them; eats with both hands, dipping into the boxes in turn*
Domeki: *thinking: lucky!*
Watanuki: *sniffs, opening his own lunch* ... pig... worse than Yuuko-san... *eats in silence, anger slowly building...* Why'd she have to leave? And just for lunch?? *sighs loudly* Have to eat with this jerk... *looks over at Domeki, glaring* And watch all those blind girls swooning over him... *glares at a gaggle of girls in the distance*
Domeki: *stares* I can hear you, you know.
Watanuki: *glares at him again* Good! It's awful the way they all throw themselves at you... *shakes his head, pointing at Domeki with his chop-sticks, making stabbing motions* Totally shameless...
Domeki: *takes a moment to eat an onigiri* .... *chew chew chew* .... *closes eyes; opens them to stare hostilely at Watanuki* Hypocrite.
Watanuki: *frowns, freezing mid-stabby gesture* What? How am I a hypocrite? *anger clench*
Domeki: *sighs, giving a roll of his eyes* ... *clears throat, looking just over Watanuki's shoulder* Oh. Himawari-san... back so soon?
Watanuki: *jumps, whirling around and dropping his lunch* Himawari-- chan? *looks around quickly... turns back to Domeki, livid* Evil. You're pure evil. *grimaces at his spilled lunch. Looks at Domeki's multi-lunch...* Pfft...
Domeki: *stares at the ruined lunch for a moment* Hey. *hefts one lunch box, popping another piece of food into his mouth; shakes it at Watanuki*
Watanuki: *crosses his arms* ... *eyetwitch... his stomach rumbles loudly and he bows his head... sweatdrop. He grabs the offered box, jaw clenched* ...
Girl passing by: Oh! *tugs on her friends sleeve* Domeki-kun is so generous and kind! *they giggle and prance off as he looks up*
Watanuki: *he gonna 'splode...* ...
Domeki: *stares* ...just eat it.
Watanuki: *takes a deep breath... head still bowed* A-a-a-a-ariga--- *hands clench, bending the sides of the box, his whole body shaking, he glares at Domeki and starts to eat at high speed.. -Like hell I'm gonna thank him!! I made it in the first place!!- ... starts choking* !!!
Domeki: *slow blink* ...are you choking? *raises an eyebrow*
Watanuki: *manages to glare while still choking... turns slowly purple...* !!!
Domeki: *sighs, setting the mostly empty lunch box down and getting to his feet* ...this is what you get for being such a complete spaz... *lifts Watanuki from the step by his collar... does teh Heimlich Maneuver!! ...as a crowd of girls come to watch*
Girls: *general murmur of awe* !!!
Watanuki: *gets wid teh breathin' again... flails lots, fighting his way free of Domeki, eyes shadowed and his hands twitching* ... -why the hell does this always happen!!- *his hands clench into fists at his sides and he opens his mouth, nothing comes out* ... -guess this is another month of free lunch for him...- *clamps his jaw tight and sits down again, appetite completely gone*
*the crowd eventually disperses*
Domeki: .... *stares down at Watanuki* ... *crosses back to his seat, collecting his things, and closing the lunch box* You're welcome. *the bell rings and he heads off to class without another word*
Watanuki: *sighs* ...
*whoot! time passes!*
Watanuki: *in the home ecconomics room, still way out of it from earlier* ... *spots Himawari out the window and brightens considerably, gathering his things*
*as Watanuki approaches... Himawari is talking to Domeki, who was just out of view..*
Himawari: -so, I can't cancel dinner with my grandfather. It means so much to him. *smile eyes* How about tomorrow night!
Domeki: Can't. Archery.
Watanuki: Nng! *pulls up short, eyes wide, upset out of all proportion* -a.. a date??- *tries to hide...*
Himawari: Oh... *stomps her foot cutely* Darn it.
Domeki: *shrug* It's no big deal..
Watanuki: *tears* -kawaii~ !!-
Himawari: But it is! This was important... *screws up face in cute pout* ...I know! Why don't you ask Watanuki-kun?
Domeki: *stares* Watanuki...?
Himawari: *tilts his head* Well... He's just as good, isn't he?
Domeki: *rubs the back of his neck* I guess...
Himawari: I wonder where he- *looks around; spots Watanuki* Watanuki-kun! Over here! *bounce bounce wave*
Watanuki: *sweatdrop, tries to look like he wasn't hiding and raises one hand* Himawari-chan! H-h-how was your dentist appointment? -bakabakabaka-
Himawari: Great! No cavities! *bares pearly whites in a huge smile*
Domeki: *blinks at Watanuki hostilely* ...
Watanuki: *biiiiig smile* That's wonderful news, Himawari-chan!
Himawari: Oh! *looks at watch* I have to be going~! *touches his arm* Watanuki-kun... would you do something for me?
Watanuki: *all swoon-y* Anything!
Himawari: Oh, arigatou, Watanuki-Kun~! *all sparkles, she gets behind him and pushes him towards Domeki* I promised Domeki-san that I would go Christmas shopping with him! But I have somewhere to be tonight- *smiles, hopping away, pigtails bouncing* Thank you sooooo much for filling in for me! Tee hee~!
Watanuki: *jaw dops, eyes blank* H-h-h-himawari~chan~~ !! *twitchtwitch.. looks at Domeki...* ... !
Watanuki: *pulls himself together slightly [very slightly]* Well, I'm sure Himawari-chan will understand... but I can't. I have to wor-- *thought bubble:
Yuuko: I'll be gone until tomorrow, so feel free to take the afternoon off!! Bai bai!!
*face fault*
Himawari: *stops suddenly* Oh! I almost forgot! *scampers back* Here, Domeki-san.. *presses a piece of paper into his hand* This should cover everything. It's a schedule I made up when I realized I couldn't make it~! *hops away, waving over her shoulder* Good luck!
Domeki: *looks at the paper, eyes scanning the contents* ... *folds it up and puts it in his pocket*
Watanuki: *recovering due to necessity* What's it say??
Domeki: *dryly* It's a schedule. Like she said.
Watanuki: *rolls his eyes* I heard her... of what? You can't blame me for wanting to know. We do end up... doing some weird stuff... -together! why always together?!?-
Domeki: *walking away* You don't need to see it. *slouched, hands in pockets- raises voice just slightly* ...are you coming?
Watanuki: *frowning, hurries and follows him* Don't have much choice... I promised. *sighs* And-- earlier-- *swallows, clamping his jaw shut again* ...
Domeki: *looks over at him* ....
*downtown...!*
Domeki: *looking at the schedule in such a way that Watanuki cannot see it* Ah. Here first. *they are stopped in front of an ice cream parlor* .... *blinks at the schedule again*
Watanuki: *still trying to get a look at the paper, though attempting to be covert...* Ice cream? *brow furrows* You were going to go out for ice cream with Himawari-chan?? *rantyrantyrant*
Domeki: ... *makes a show of folding the paper and putting it back into his pocket* Apparently. Come on. *pushes the door open; .....pauses to hold it for Watanuki*
Watanuki: *glares, stomping through the door* ... *the place is packed... the only open table is a cozy little booth for two, decorated with romantic christmas things... Watanuki's lip curls* Nuh-uh. *whirls around on his heel, practically colliding with Domeki* I'm not sitting there with you!!
*several people turn to look at them*
Waitress: Oh, Domeki-kun! It's so nice to see you again! *small bow* Two?
Domeki: *frowns at Watanuki; turns attention to waitress* Hai. *he follows her to the table, casting an annoyed glance at Watanuki who lingers by the door*
Watanuki: *hands twitch... sighs. He follows them, dragging his feet, shoulders slumped, arms hanging in front of him...* razzafrazzal... *sits in the booth, shoulders still hunched*
Waitress: I must confess, this is the first time I've seen you here with a boy, Domeki-kun... *raises her order pad, smiling* Should I be worried? *giggles*
Domeki: *looking at Watanuki* ..What do you want?
Watanuki: *eyes shadowed* -what did she mean by that... ?- *looks at the menu, not really seeing it* Caramel mocha swirl... just one scoop, onegai. *summons a smile for the waitress... looks back at Domeki; anger clench* We have a lot to do, I assume? Since you won't let me see what Himawari-chan has planned?
Domeki: *to the waitress* A cup of coffee and a warm brownie with one scoop of vanilla.
Waitress: The usual, hai! *finishes jotting these down, looking at Watanuki again with an odd smile*
Domeki: Arigatou. *looks at Watanuki, eyebrow raised* Did you say something?
*the waitress leaves..*
Watanuki: *grinding his teeth* Come here often then?
Domeki: It's popular with the girls at our school. *pokes the ceramic reindeer next to the napkin container*
Watanuki: *snorts* Ah... of course it is... *frowns into the crowded room* ... -why am I stuck here with him??-
Domeki: *slow blink, staring passively at Watanuki* ....
*ta-da! their ice cream comes!*
Domeki: *sips coffee* ...
Watanuki: *eats his ice cream, still looking at all the happy couples, eyes narrowed* Why'd we have to go here? *he asks suddenly* There're plenty of other places we could have gone for ice cream... I don't even really want ice cream! *rantywhinyrantrave*
Domeki: *blink* Can I have it, then?
Watanuki: Pfft... *pushes it across the table* Whatever... you bought it anyway... *bristles faintly...* ...
Girl: *from a nearby table... watching them, she sighs* That is so unfair...
Watanuki: *stares at the table top, frowning...* ...
Domeki: *sets Watanuki's bowl next to his own... pauses and then reaches across the table for his spoon as well* ... *eats from both dishes in turn*
Watanuki: *watches him, lip curled* Is that necessary?
Different girl: *watching them as well...* That's so sweet!
Watanuki: *hands clenched on his thighs* Can we go? *he mutters* -what the hell is wrong with everyone today??-
Domeki: *frowns at him* ... *raises a hand for the check*
Waitress: *strolls across the room, pulling out the check tablet thing from her apron; pouts at Watanuki* Aw, we didn't like our ice cream?
Watanuki: *sweatdrop, waves his hands defensively [man, what a fruity gesture...] in front of his chest* No, no... it's just a little crowded in here... gomen nasai.
Waitress: *tears off the check, handing it to Domeki* Aw, I understand. You two go somewhere more private, okay? *smile eyes; she leaves*
Watanuki: *jaw drops... his voice fails* ...
Domeki: *sets some money down, placing the ceramic reindeer on it to anchor it; stands up, pulling his coat on* ...you coming?
Watanuki: *blinks, looking around suspiciously, following him outside mechanically... laughs nervously; anger clench* Can you believe she said that, Domeki? I mean... why would she think that when it's so obvious that I can't stand you??
Domeki: *seems to stare through him* ...yeah. It's quite obvious. *walks a little ahead of him, pulling the schedule out with an annoyed look* ...
Watanuki: *frowns, hurrying a few steps to catch up, trying to peer over Domeki's shoulder... he leans on his arm in his attempt... just as a bunch of girls come out of a shop ahead of them... they all titter and smile as they walk by... Watanuki leaps away from Domeki, his face crimson and his eyebrow twitching* This... day... *takes a deep breath* What now?
Domeki: *points across the street at a bookstore* There. *presses the button for the crosswalk, stepping up the curb*
*a huge group of schoolgirls all crowd around behind them, pushing and jostling as they wait to cross*
Girl: *whisper* Ohmigod, is that Domeki-sempai? *giggle*
Watanuki: *anger clench* ...
Domeki: *stares straight ahead, unheeding of their giggles and words of praise*
Girl: He is so cute~! *nudges the girl in front of her* Say something!
Watanuki: *angerclench angerclench* ...
Girl in front: Say what? Don't push! *slams into Domeki* Ah, gomen!
Domeki: .... *looks over his shoulder at her*
Girls: *squeal and swoon in unison*
Domeki: ... *looks away*
Watanuki: *dark cloud hangs over him as the light changes and they are all but swept across the street in the tide of schoolgirls...* ... can this day get any worse? *his foot gets caught on an overturned paving stone and he falls, smashing into Domeki and then crashing to the ground...* ow ow ow ow ow ow...
Domeki: *doesn't miss a step as he reaches down and grabs Watanuki's hand, hauling him to his feet* ...watch it.
Watanuki: *stumbles a step once he's upright, civil words on the very tip of his tongue... but then his eyes go to their linked hands and he pulls away sharply* Gah! Give me that!
Domeki: *deadpan* You can have it. *more annoyed looking than Domeki usually allows himself to be* ... *scowls as he stalks up the steps to the bookstore, slipping inside wordlessly*
Watanuki: *pauses for a second, surprised by the show of emotion* What did I do? *frowning, he goes into the bookstore as well, looking around for Domeki... he's already lost him... he immediately starts to feel oddly lightheaded, a slight burning itch starting on the left side of his chest, just over his heart... he raises one hand to the discomfort, confused when his jacket makes a slightly crinkly sound...* ... ? -oh, that stupid nametag! I wore it all day!!- *the discomfort increases, almost to the point of pain and he tries to peel the tag off with no success... he looks around for Domeki again* -why? like he can do anything...- *one hand pressed over the tag, he moves deeper into the shop... he spots his 'friend'...* D-- Domeki... *he winces... but the closer he gets to Domeki, the more the pain fades... Watanuki stands a few feet behind him grimacing..* -great...-
Domeki: *bristles at Watanuki's presence but doesn't turn, and therefore doesn't register the lingering discomfort on his face, nor notice the strain in his voice* What? *picking through books on Japanese gardening (gift for his grandfather)*
Watanuki: *backs away a step and the pain flares... he jumps forward on instinct and peers at the books Domeki is looking at, standing right next to him* It's nothing... what are you looking at? *still has his hand over his heart, shivering slightly*
Domeki: *grimace* Books. *sets a long hardcover book down and then frowns at it before picking it back up and stepping away from Watanuki* Let's go- unless you have something you want to... *trails off, looking at Watanuki with the slightest hint of concern to his features* ...what's wrong?
Watanuki: *even the slight movement makes his fingers clench* Nothing, nothing... I'm fine... *forces a smile* What do you care? *he steps toward Domeki, relaxing* Let's get out of here... lot's to do, right? *sweatdrop*
Domeki: *stares at him somewhat apprehensively and then turns and walks to the checkout counter with book in hand, grimacing faintly as Watanuki keeps perfect pace with him* ...
Clerk: Will that be all, sir? *scans the book boredly*
Domeki: ((he buys teh book! they leave!))
Watanuki: *he walks next to Domeki, completely absorbed in his brooding anger at Yuuko [this had to be her doing], and his effort to stay as close to Domeki as possible without actually touching him.* ... *the muffled comments of people they pass no longer really bother him, but beyond his discomfort, there is a growing unease in the back of his mind* ... *-great... now what?-*
Quiet, creepy voice near his ear: Mind your manners, child...
Watanuki: *jumps, glaring at Domeki* What did you call me??
Domeki: *glances at Watanuki's close proximity in the show windows as they pass, frowning; he scowls straight ahead* I didn't call you anything. *pulls out the schedule again, staring down at it with concentration inappropriate for a simple piece of paper*
Watanuki: *sweatdrop; looks around, but he doesn't see anything untoward...* Tch... *-of course not, with him right here...- He looks at Domeki sidelong, before angrily closing his eyes and turning his head away* So what now?
Domeki: *puts the paper back in his pocket, before coming to a full hault in front of cooking supply store; there is a moment of contemplation, and then he turns his head to glare at Watanuki* I don't want you to come in here with me.
Watanuki: *sweatdrop, eyes widened* Why not? I have to! I can't stay out here!! *pales*
Domeki: *stares* Because you're annoying, and I don't want you stumbling around, breaking things. I can't afford to pay for everything you knock over. *steps forward, pushing the door open..*
Watanuki: *takes an involuntary step after him, but he holds himself back, jaw clenched* Fine! But don't take forever. We have things to do!! *licks his lips, edging closer to the door but still holding himself back...*
Domeki: *blinks, watching Watanuki's odd actions* .... *steps into the store, closing the door behind him*
Watanuki: *as soon as he does, Watanuki clutches one hand to his chest... it feels like he's on fire, but it's nothing compared to the mounting dread building in the back of his mind... a mist of transparent darkness swirls around him and his knees buckle slightly, one hand to his chest and his other braced against the wall of the shop. Two girls walk by slowly, giving him concerned glances, but he doesn't see them...* D-D-Domeki... nng..
Girl 1: *to friend* That is so sad... ! *whisperwhisper*
Girl 2: I know! Did you see them fighting before? Poor guy... looks like he's just gotten his heart broken... ! *they move on, glancing back at him every few steps...*
Creepy spirit voice: *always just behind his right ear... it's growing louder* Such a stubborn child... but bad manners can't be tolerated. *trendrils of dark fog curl around his shoulders and he leans against the wall, panting...*
Domeki: *after a time, Domeki emerges from the store, a bag, filled with several wrapped parcels, hanging from his left hand, while his right already holds the Himawari-note to his face; he glances over the top of it, but doesn't see Watanuki* ..? *looks to his left... looks to his right- eyes widen minutely, and he drops his things, though his expression remains relatively blank, as is Domeki-style* ...Oi... *moves quickly to Watanuki's side* ..what's going on? *touches his shoulder*
Watanuki: *sighs, relaxing, the pain and creepy receding together.. he shrugs Domeki's hand off, pushing himself away from the wall slightly* Nothing. Nothing's wrong. -now- *he grimaces* Just got tired of waiting for you is all... *he looks really tired and his voice is strained... he looks at Domeki's dropped things suddenly* You... need any... help.. with those? *it's like pulling fucking teeth...*
Domeki: *slight alarm registers in his eyes as he follows Watanuki's line of sight; he crouches to pick up the things, shaking his head* No. I can handle this... *puts the parcels carefully back into their bags, pulling the handles of the bag closed as he stands* ...
*shopping montage! Watanuki and Domeki wander around downtown, ducking in and out of stores- Watanuki is eventually stumbling around, holding lots and lots of gifts, looking all annoyed and stompy... Whenever Domeki goes to far, Watanuki suddenly rushes to his side, an act which is very giggly and endearing to anyone watching... Domeki just looks extremely weirded out... which is to say he frowns a little*
Watanuki: *anger clench* Why do I have to carry all your things?? *rantyranty*
Domeki: *deadpan* I don't know. You haven't protested when I hand them to you... *stops, looking at him with an exasperated sigh* ...is it too much for you? *half-heartedly extends a hand* Give them here, then.
Watanuki: *snorts, hands white knuckled as he pulls back, wincing* I can handle it!! ... Just not sure why I'm bothering. *jaw clenched* Where to now? We have to be almost done, right?? *-then what? I can't go home... have to stay near him until... well, I'm not sure when...- he grimaces*
Domeki: *finger in ear* Will you stop yelling? *pulls out the paper, still angled towards Watanuki with his blocked ear facing him* Ah.. *a pause* Actually, we are done. *frown*
Watanuki: *blinks at him* ... we are? *-now what am I gonna do???- For once, he's at a total loss. He looks around at the darkening street and then bows his head, eyes shadowed and shoulders slumped* You... want to get something to eat... or something? My treat? *-Yuuko, I'll kill you!-*
Domeki: *open his mouth to reply, and then closes it, staring at Watanuki apprehensively* ... *shifts to look in the opposite direction; voice uncertain* ...what? ...you sure? *peers at him from the corner of his eye*
Watanuki: *eye twitch -when has he ever turned down free food??-* Of course I'm sure, moron!! Why else would I offer??
Domeki: *turns back to face him; face blank, he leans in to poke Watanuki in the forehead* Because you are touched. *a pause* In the brain. *straightens, tilting his head* In a bad way. *shrugs shoulders; the faintest smile* ...so where are you taking me?
Watanuki: *stares at Domeki; blinks in surprise.. -don't think I can take any more public humiliation today...- [as though most of that wasn't his own fault...] He takes a deep breath, eyes closed as he nods further up the street* I don't live that far from here... I don't have to cook for Yuuko-san tonight, so-- *straightens his shoulders, not looking at Domeki* Come on, it's getting dark. *turns, but doesn't start moving, not really certain if Domeki will follow right away, and not wanting to collapse or anything..*
Domeki: *follows dutifully* ... *after a pause he scoops an arm in, relieving Watanuki of most of the presents he carries*
Watanuki: *glares, but doesn't say anything, stomping down the sidewalk slightly ahead of Domeki... he keeps glancing back at him.. just to make sure he's not wandering off or anything* ... *the crowds have thinned, but the comments still filter through... he grimaces. -seriously... don't people have anything better to do??-*
*ta-da! His building!*
Watanuki: *turns to Domeki, thrusting the rest of the packages at him as he digs his key out of his pocket and lets them in* I have my own space... but try not to make... too... much... noise... *realized halfway through who he was talking to...* ...
Domeki: *not realizing the silly of that request* Ah... hai... *steps inside, ducking his head a little to avoid the low threshold... after a moment he steps back again and takes off his shoes* ... *shakes the gifts to draw attention to them* ...can I set these somewhere?
Watanuki: *blinks, taken aback by the absurdity of Domeki standing in his home... he frowns* Of course you can... *closes the door harder than he meant to, flinching slightly when the sound echoes in the hall... he grabs some of the bags back, for an excuse to lead the way across the tiny apartment.. he slides the door to his bedroom open and sets his portion of the burden inside, glancing back at Domeki* Hope this'll do.. isn't really anywhere else... *almost civil!!*
Domeki: *not really paying attention as he stares around at the tiny abode* ...ah, that's fine... *waits for Watanuki to step out of the way, and then places his packages with the rest; straightens, unable to resist peering into the bedroom briefly* ...wow. That's small. *points* Can you even stretch out in there? Or do you have to curl up..? *looks in again* ...I suppose you could lie diagonally...
Watanuki: *anger clench* I manage. *turns away from Domeki, but he's hesitant to even cross the small space of the main room...* What do you want to eat? I just went shopping for Yuuko-san yesterday, so I should be able to make anything you want... *snorts* As long as it's not one of your normal crazy requests.
Domeki: *shrugs* I don't really care... most anything you make is good. *crosses to the window, pushing the shade out of the way to stare down at the street... he remains there, silent* ...
Watanuki: *smiles despite himself, watching Domeki for a second... when the pain doesn't return, he sighs, relieved, and goes to the equally tiny kitchen area... he takes his jacket off and reaches for his apron* -maybe whatever that was is over... ? Then I can get him out of my house...- *that thought triggers the burning ache in his chest and he clenches his hand over it again, fingers digging into his shirt and the flesh beneath as he claws at the tag* ... !!!
Domeki: *bored voice floats from the window area* ...need any help?
Watanuki: If there's one thing I can handle, *he pants slightly, forcing the words out between gritted teeth* It's cooking you free food!! *he squares his shoulders, his hand twitching as he pulls it away from his chest and starts making, um... food. yeah...* ...
*fast forward to them eating...*
Watanuki: *stabbing his food angrily, but not really eating much* -how did this even happen?? I shouldn't have to invite him anywhere, let alone into my home!! ... but at least he wasn't with Himawari-chan... there's that...- *he stares at his plate, sighing* -should have been eating with her... she would have appreciated this meal...- *looks up at Domeki angrily* ... pfft...
Domeki: *furrows his brow as he chomps a piece of food* .... *chew chew chew; swallow* .....you invited me here, you know..
Watanuki: You think I don't know that?? *he snaps, wincing as a short burst of pain lances through him*
Domeki: *stare* If you want me to go, I'll go... *shakes his head, setting down his fork and getting to his feet* ...just seems backwards is all..
Watanuki: *looking defeated, but still angry* You can't leave. *avoiding Domeki's eyes, and not elaborating...*
Domeki: *blink* ...nani? *looks annoyed, but doesn't move*
Watanuki: *plucks at the nametag on his shirt* I mean, you could. But then that thing'll come back and I'll-- *snorts, standing and carrying his plate into the kitchen...* What do you care? Go, get out of my house... don't know what I was thinking-- *sweat breaks out of his face* -- inviting-- *hand over heart* -- you here... !!! *he seems to fold in on himself slightly, stumbling and dropping the plate*
Spirit: Tsk tsk, child... you never learn... *it says... but still doesn't act out in any other way...*
Domeki: *at his side immediately; a grim frown, brow furrowed* ..what's going on, here? *hands on his shoulders* ...something to do with this? *taps the nametag, tilting his head as he tries to wrap his mind around the suddenly critical situation*
Watanuki: *starts to pull away, but he can feel the weight of the spirit building ever stronger behind him, settling just above his shoulders, only kept at bay by Domeki's grip... the pain vanishes entirely when Domeki taps the nametag* Hai... But I don't know wha--
Spirit: Lies. You know what I want... give me what I want and I'll go away...
Watanuki: *glances over his shoulder* What do you want????
Domeki: *follows Watanuki's line of sight- as usual he sees nothing* ...
Spirit: *the floaty dark fog condenses slightly, looking almost human... it shakes its head* Stubborn boy... *it lifts an indistinct hand and several tendrils wrap around Watanuki's throat, careful to keep their distance from Domeki's hand...*
Watanuki*starts to choke, unable to breathe* ... !!! *raises his hands to claw at the insubstantial strands... to no effect*
Domeki: *alarmed widening of the eyes* Hey..! What...? *studies the situation for a moment, watching Watanuki's motions- thoughtfully, chewing on his bottom lip in a faint show of outward distress, he places his own hands on Watanuki's neck..*
Watanuki: *gasps for air as the strands of shadow retract, eyes closed...* Domeki... *he rasps* That's twice... in one day... *voice very quiet* A-a-ari-- *he stops, swallowing*
Spirit: *still growing behind him* ...
Watanuki: *a muscle in his jaw jumps at he forces himself to look at Domeki* Arigatou. *his voice is barely above a whisper, rushed and almost incoherent... but sincere* ...
Spirit: *pulls back, shrinking down to nothing* Was that so hard?
Watanuki: *grimaces* You can let go now...
Domeki: *very much surprised at the thank you* ..... *smiles* ... *withdraws his hands*
Watanuki: *steps away from Domeki, pulling at the name tag experimentally... it peels right off. He frowns at it* ... guess you can go now... I have to go to the shop before school tomorrow and it's getting late... *he glances toward where Domeki's things are* You need any help carrying everything home... ?
Domeki: No, I can handle it... *crosses to the bedroom and kneels, collecting the items carefully* ...unless you want to come... *stacks everything neatly in one arm, wrapping his scarf around his neck with the other* Never mind, I've got it. *fishes around in his pocket, pulling out the receipts... the schedule flutters out and slips neatly under a curio cabinet by the door- Domeki doesn't see this* ...think that's everything- *eyes scan the receipts and flicker back to the pile in his arms* ...ah, if you find anything I left behind.. please return it.
Watanuki: *anger clench* Of course!! What do you take me for??
Domeki: Heh. *smiles faintly, stepping to the door and slipping his shoes on* Thanks for dinner, by the way...*awkwardly* and for shopping with me... *shifts the packages around and opens the door* ...see you at school tomorrow. *leaves quietly*
Watanuki: *stares at the door for a second... snorts* Where does he get off being so polite all of a sudden?? *looks at the mess he made when he dropped his plate* Pfft... a disaster... but at least I can tell Himawari-chan how well I fulfilled my promise tomorrow! *eyes shine... he smiles and starts to clean up the mess... and because he's so manic, that turns into cleaning the whole apartment... he's sweeping around the door when the scrap of paper gets pulled ito view.. he blinks at and picks it up, surprised when it's written in Himawari's handwriting* What-- ?
Note: Have fun today! Sorry I can't go with you both... but I'm sure you'll be fine. And Domeki-san, remember to be patient. -^__^- Be safe! -Himawari
Watanuki: *flips it over, but there's nothing on the other side... he stares at it in shock for a long time...* ... *bottom lip wibbles* What does she mean, 'be patient'?
*bam! next day!*
Watanuki: *stomps into the shop* Yuuko-san? Are you back? *looks around, in a hurry* I'm gonna be late for school!
Yuuko: *from behind him* Ah, there you are... did everything go well yesterday? *smilesmile*
Watanuki: *eyes narrow, he slaps the nametag into her palm* Hardly. I got stuck with Domeki all day and then I almost got strangled after diner!
Yuuko: *actually looking surprised as she peers at the now useless nametag* You ate dinner with him? *knowing smile* Must've been a good day...
Watanuki: *anger clench* What is with everyone?? It was not a good day! I had to walk around all day practically glued to his side because of that damn thing! *points at nametag*
Yuuko: *blinks* Honestly... I didn't think it would take you that long to deal with the problem.
*anger clench* Well it did!! *stomps past her* I'm late... I'll see you later...
Yuuko: *catches his collar* There's one other thing, Watanuki-kun...
*at school*
Watanuki: *to Himawari* -- and then she took it out of my pay! Again!
Himawari: Oh, dear. *tilts head* But you had a good time? *is clueless*
Watanuki: Would have had a better time if you had been there, Himawari-chan. *remembers the note suddenly, pulling it out of his pocket* There was something I wanted to ask yu about.. the schedule you made... ? *pauses, frowning...*
Himawari: Oh! *palm to her cheek* I forgot! I have to get to the library before my next class- sorry Watanuki-kun... *raises an index finger* Hold that thought, okay? *runs off, passing Domeki as he approaches* Konnichi'wa, Domeki-san! *sparkles and flouncing, she sprints to the library*
Domeki: *over his shoulder, although she is long gone* Hey. *stares at the note in Watanuki's still outstretched hand* .... *furrows his brow* ...hey.
Watanuki: *glares pulling his hand toward his chest, holding the note like a weapon* Care to explain this? *doesn't wait for a response* You had me running all over the city to do your stupid errands all day!!
Domeki: *arches an eyebrow* ...and if I had actually had a schedule... this would be different how, exactly?
Watanuki: *anger clench* It would have been the schedule Himawari-chan had put together, that's the difference!!
Domeki: *blank stare* ...
Watanuki: *advances on Domeki, the note still held in front of him like a weapon... he punctuates each statement by poking him in the chest with it* I thought she was going to eat ice cream with you! *poke* I thought she was going to wander the city until night fall with you! *poke* Bet you wouldn't have made her carry any of your things! *poke*
*a small crowd gathers at a distance...*
Domeki: *swats his hand away, frowning* What does any of this matter..?
Watanuki: *waves his arms wildly* I wouldn't have been half as snippy and ill tempered if I'd known you were just making it all up as you went along!!
Domeki: No... *grimace* You would have just left. If you'd known she hadn't actually made a schedule for us... you would have thrown a fit and gone home. *implication: and I didn't want you to*
Watanuki: *waving his arms again* I do not throw fits!! *anger clench... he takes a deep breath* And how do you know what I'd do? *crosses his arms* I'll have you know that I have my own shopping to do... and I wasted a perfectly good afternoon helping you with yours!
Domeki: *points* You could have done your own shopping at the same time. That's what Himawari had planned.
Watanuki: *his eyes twitch* ... *-didn't even occur to me...-* How was I supposed to do that? *points* I spent the whole day following you around trying not to get strangled by-- *he looks around at the crowd and lowers his voice to a manic whisper* Do you not remember?
Domeki: *expression unchanging, he leans over to match Watanuki's height, mocking the harsh whisper* Yes, I remember. *normal volume* And the only reason that hindered you at all is because you were too damn stubborn to admit something was wrong. *straightens, turning on heel away from him* I apologize that you had such a terrible time. I'll thank you not to harrass me about it for the remainder of the school year though. *grimaces, shaking his head as he walks away, pushing through the crowd... although naturally they part for him, turning their incredulous, hostile stares on Watanuki (on account of they all love Domeki so much)*
Watanuki: *stares after him... catches the mood of the crowd/soon to be mob and storms off in the opposite direction* Am not stubborn... *he mutters* And what does he mean, harass him? He's the one who's always making fun of me and hanging around Himawari-chan... *a bell rings and he looks up suddenly* Oh no! Now I'm late... *looks around; sweatdrop* ... and lost.
*later*
Watanuki: *storms into the shop*
Moro and Maru: You're late~ ! You're late~ !
Watanuki: *grimaces* I know, I know... is Yuuko-san here?
M & M: *shake their heads in unison* She had to go out again. *Maru pulls out a piece of paper and hands it to Moro, who hands it to Watanuki* She said she had a job for you.
Watanuki: *unfolds the paper* Of course she does... *stares at the writing, his eyes wide* NANI?!?
*outside Domeki's home...*
Watanuki: *anger clench* ... *he turns around, ready to leave*
Domeki: *comes into view, head bowed slightly as he sweeps leaves from the stone entry way* .... *looks up; his eyes narrow slightly* ...what do you want?
Watanuki: *freezes, eyes shadowed... he turns slowly* Yuuko-san sent me to get something... but I'm sure I can find it somewhere else... I'll just go.. *points over his shoulder... -moron... where else are you going to find an arrow for exorcising hearth demons?-*
Domeki: *leans on his rake slightly, lifting his chin* What did she want you to get? *stare*
Watanuki: *blinks, pulls out the paper* Some arrow... figured this was the best place to check... *walks hesitantly across the yard, handing the paper to Domeki* I don't know why she wants so many...
Domeki: *stares at the paper for a second* ... *looks back at Watanuki* ...does she intend to pay for them?
Watanuki: *rubs the back of his neck* You know Yuuko-san... she's big on goods for goods... *pulls the black Mokona out of his bag, holding it up* Moro and Maru said he had your payment... but I don't know what it is...
Mokona: Domeki~kun! Mokona has a present for you~! <3
Domeki: *stare* ...
Domeki: *sighs and turns away, nodding ahead* Come on. *shoulders the rake and heads up the steps into the main shrine*
Domeki: Wait here.. *hands Watanuki his rake and disappears into some adjoining room to the main shrine area*
Mokona: Watanuki can use that for raking~! <3
Watanuki: Tch... *he shakes Mokona* It's a rake, of course I could! But I'm not gonna!!
Mokona: *is shaken* Wee~!
Domeki: *returns several minutes later with a carefully wrapped parcel under his arm* .... *comes to a halt several feet in front of Watanuki, raising his eyebrow* Well? *extends his hand*
Watanuki: *blinks at him... actually starts to hand him the rake back before he thrusts Mokona forward* Here... *he leans the rake against the wall* Let's just get this over with... I have work to do...
Mokona: *conspiratory look; he gestures Domeki closer*
Domeki: *leans in, looking blankly apprehensive* ...?
Mokona: *opens mouth and a slip of paper flutters out* <3
Domeki: *catches it as it floats to the ground* What's this..? *stares at the paper*
Mokona: That expires in one week's time~! It will disappear and be void after that~! *Yuuko impression, hand to mouth* Oh ho ho~!
Watanuki: *frowns* What's it say? *he leans forward* And really this time...
Domeki: *gives Watanuki a -look-* ... *sighs*
Note: Domeki-kun,
Congratulations! Your assistance has earned you a hardworking young slave for a limited time- try not to wear him completely out. I expect him back in one piece.
~Yuuko
Watanuki: *eye twitch* She wouldn't... *he shakes his head* There's no way I'll agree to this!!!
Domeki: *eyes drop to the very bottom of the sheet of paper*
Note: And please be advised Watanuki-kun, that if you fail to comply, something unpleasant will befall you. <3
Watanuki: Nng... *sweatdrop; eyes shadowed* That woman... *glares at Domeki, adopting an angry stance and pointing at him* If I die because of this, I'll haunt you forever!!!
Domeki: *rolls eyes, slipping the piece of paper into his yukata sleeve* You won't die unless you ignore her, baka. *points at Mokona* (Mokona: Hi~! *waves*) You need to take that home? *slow blink* Before you return to cook me dinner, that is.
Watanuki: *huffs* Hai... Mokona, get the arrows...
Mokona: *opens wide and swallows them, hopping up to Watanuki's shoulder* Yum~ ! <3
+_+_+END=SO=FAR+_+_+
*sweatdrop* Seriously... he'll crush my skull if he finds this... maybe I should filter it... and not post it here at all...
*bristles* But why should I have to hide from him? I helped write it!! Why shouldn't I be able to post it here? *fumefume*