Chapter Text
“Obnoxious?” He thought to himself after hanging up. Hopefully they don't cause too much trouble... It's already hard enough hiding his identity; someone not agreeing with it would be worse. If he ever revealed it by accident, what would they say? What would Ibuki say? He hasn't told him or anyone about it yet. It's probably best to keep it hidden for now.
The next day brought along a new excitement for Oguma. He hadn't been out and about in a good while, so he was looking forward to going somewhere with Ibuki. He was already getting ready when he received a text from Ibuki which read: “Would you like me to pick you up ?” A ride would be very appreciated, but he didn't need it, nor want to inconvenience Ibuki, so he replied: “I don't need it, but I appreciate the offer. When will you be arriving?” He wanted to make sure in order to not make them wait.
“Around 10 minutes before the movie starts , there are a lot of ads beforehand and it also gives us some time to buy snacks .” It seemed a bit late at first, but having to sit through several ads just wanting the movie to start would get a bit annoying, so the deer agreed. “Alright, that is fine with me. I'll see you there.” Ibuki sent a singular thumbs up and left it at that.
Oguma decided to drive himself, which he doesn't do often. Usually, he had a chauffeur that drove him around. Due to this, he didn't know his way around much, only following the GPS from his phone, especially on the other side of the city. Once he arrived and got down, he nervously looked at the entrance. He knew Ibuki and his friends were already in there, and something in him wanted to get away. However, not wanting to waste time, he ignored that urge and made his way in.
The lights and colors of the concession stands and the movie posters quickly hit him, which were overwhelming at first, but it wasn't anything bad. He looked around trying to find Ibuki, but they already spotted him and were making their way to him. His heart started pumping faster and his instincts were telling him to run away and hide, but he easily hid it and put on his usual stern face. He was already used to pressure and suppressing his emotions, even if it's completely different on the inside. Whatever it takes to land a good business deal.
“Hey, Oguma!” Ibuki went to shake his hand, and he received it as usual. What wasn't, though, was a side hug. Oguma slightly tensed up and pushed himself away. He wasn't used to this type of affection. Ibuki noticed but didn't comment on it. “I'm glad you could come. It's great to see you again. I wanted to introduce you to Free and Agata. Don't mind them much, though. They can be rather immature at times.” Free hit Ibuki's right arm and chuckled, while Agata rolled his eyes.
“I'm Free, and you must be Oguma, that one deer Ibuki couldn't stop talking about!” Hearing this, Ibuki turned away and combed his mane in embarrassment. Agata saw him and giggled to himself.
“And I'm Agata. You shouldn't mind Ibuki, actually. We just like to have fun sometimes, you know? Especially this animal. You should see him when he takes silvervine!” Agata pointed at Free, and he pouted in response.
Their personalities are much more outspoken and loud compared to his average client, but he could still manage. They didn't seem like bad people at all, but he was simply a more introverted and reserved person.
“Well, it's a pleasure to meet you both. What has he said about me?” He couldn't help but to ask, even though he didn't have a good feeling about it.
“He said he found a handsome and clueless deer at the store that needed help to use the self-checkout. You're one interesting fellow, aren't you?” Free laughed and lightly hit Oguma's back.
Both Oguma and Ibuki blushed at the word handsome. Did he really tell them that? Oguma shot a short yet effective glare at Free, causing him to get a bit uncomfortable.
“Do you want to get food first? The movie is starting in a few minutes.” Agata asked, having noticed the tense glare and changing the topic.
“I'm not sure. I would not want to spend money on overpriced junk food, but it is tempting.” The big advertising of food and combo deals were already getting to Oguma.
“I could pay for you, Oguma.” Ibuki finally spoke up, still a bit embarrassed. “This was all my treat, remember?” Oguma already knew that, but he had enough money to pay for everyone's food.
“I do, but I think this is also part of my treat. I think I have the money to pay for all your food. Let's go.” Oguma started making his way to the concession stand with no time for the others to say anything, so they followed him to the line.
“Are you sure...?” Ibuki hesitantly asked. He was already aware of Oguma's insistence, but he wanted him to confirm either way. “Yes, I'm sure. Order whatever you would like.” Free and Agata didn't want to argue when it meant free food, so they happily accepted while thanking Oguma.
They started making their way to their designated theatre with large slushies and overloaded buckets of popcorn, meanwhile Oguma had a small salad with water. They got to their seats, and Oguma sat to Ibuki's left while Free and Agata sat to his right. The lights dimmed and movie started shortly after, but they had already been making good progress to their food.
At some point during the movie, Oguma noticed that the three of them had their feet up. “How do you adjust the seat?” He asked quietly, realizing most of the people there also had their seats the same way.
“Oh, there's buttons on the side that you press and hold. Right here.” Ibuki leaned over and pointed to said buttons. His hand brushed against Oguma's thigh, and he glanced at his eyes. At first, it didn't seem like he noticed, but he looked back at Ibuki, making eye contact for a moment. Oguma didn't mind as much, but Ibuki quickly moved back and ignored what happened.
Oguma pressed the button, lifting the leg rest and moving back the seat. It certainly felt a lot more comfortable getting to lean back and relax. “Well, I think I could get used to this after all,” he commented. Ibuki laughed quietly at it. He was surprised he managed to do that, as he was just saying how he felt. However, what mattered was that he laughed, and it made Oguma happy to hear it. Ibuki asked, “Would you like some of my popcorn? I may have ordered too much.” He burped, covering his mouth. “Sorry.”
Oguma chuckled and thought for a moment. “Sure, a small portion wouldn't hurt.” A few minutes later, the remaining half of the bucket was almost completely gone without him even noticing. “It seems like someone was quite hungry. Do you want to get more?” Ibuki was already adjusting the seat.
“I'm sorry about that. I didn't even realize. I guess I could use some more.” Oguma was starting to get up.
“Who ate all my popcorn?” Free interjected, grabbing the bucket and eating the last few pieces.
“Oh, I gave the rest to Oguma. You didn't ask for it, so I assumed you didn't want any more.” Ibuki grabbed back the bucket and got up too. “We're going to get some more.”
“Alright, go ahead. But this time, pay for your little boyfriend.” Free giggled, until Ibuki gave him a side eye that, unlike Oguma's, made him giggle even harder.
“That's what he always does. You'll have to get used to it.” Ibuki sighed once they were going down the stairs.
“I can manage just fine. He's funny.” Although he was embarrassed, he knew he didn't make jokes to be mean or make fun of them.
“Just remember that if he ever makes you uncomfortable, tell me, alright?” Ibuki had a confident tone in his voice. He wanted to make sure Oguma wasn't bothered by his friends.
“Of course. I trust you to take care of him in case that happens.” He nodded and followed Ibuki to the concessions. “By the way, don't pay for me. I can do it again.”
“That's fine...” Ibuki hesitated. He was now aware that Oguma was very well-off financially, so he found it useless to keep insisting. They came back to their seats with a soda for Ibuki and another bucket of popcorn for everyone to share.
Oguma was starting to find himself a bit sleepy near the end, and the seat was definitely not helping. He let his eyes rest for a moment and relaxed. Before he knew it, the lights came back on.
“Oguma?” Ibuki nudged his arm a few times. “I'm awake, don't worry.” Oguma opened his eyes after a few seconds, then stood up and stretched.
“We thought you were asleep for a second! I should've taken a picture!” Free laughed and started picking up his trash.
“At least I wasn't the only one.” Agata commented and started helping Free. “I almost fell asleep too!”
“Maybe because you stayed up and ate real late last night, but who knows?” Free replied sarcastically, getting an “ugh” from Agata.
“It may have been the comfortable seats and the darkness. It felt like I was already in bed. Maybe I hadn't slept well either.” Oguma explained. They started exiting the theatre and throwing away their trash.
After a quick bathroom break, they made their way out. Oguma was already walking to Ibuki's car, thinking he was going with them.
“Wait, Oguma.” Ibuki grabbed his wrist, surprising him. However, he quickly let go, hoping Oguma didn't think anything of it. “The restaurant is only a few blocks away, so we're going walking. There isn't very good parking anyway.”
“That's fine by me. Walking will serve all of us good.” Oguma started following Ibuki, who was already going down the streets.
At some point, Oguma realized there were a few others that stared at them, either in curiosity or even judgement at times. He couldn't blame them, however, as seeing a singular stag with three lions would certainly be a surprising sight. Oguma felt a bit insecure with the eyes watching, but they were most likely directed at the lions.
The setting sun beautifully filled the sky with various colors, and there were many humble yet charming shops and houses. It made Oguma wonder what he could find in them. It was a beautiful evening, and he took it all in. This wasn't something he did very often, so he felt grateful to explore with Ibuki and his friends. He was hoping he could do this with him again soon.
But why him? This lion was constantly on his mind. Maybe he was glad he found someone to talk to that wasn't for business. It must be due to that. It does make sense wanting to get close to someone you barely know. He finally found a friend.
At some point, Ibuki took a turn, but Oguma's thinking almost made him keep walking. They were in an alley that was narrower than the other streets. Halfway through to the other end, they came across a small Udon restaurant called Be Be Be.
They made their way in, and Oguma looked around the restaurant. It had a humble and cozy atmosphere, a bit different from the luxurious diners he would usually eat at. The restaurant seemed a bit busy, but it wasn't to an overwhelming point, so they luckily didn't wait long for a waiter. An owl greeted them led them to a corner table with a banquette. Oguma sat down with Ibuki to his right and Free and Agata across from him. Starting with their drinks, Ibuki and Oguma got water, Free got Sprite, and Agata got Dr Pepper.
“Well, Ibuki, I wasn't expecting you to bless us with Udon today!” Free commented happily while chewing. “You know me real well.”
“It's the least I could do, especially because this restaurant is quite cheap compared to others around. I'm hoping you all haven't eaten too much, or you'll be too full to finish the food.” Ibuki drank a bit of the water that was served. “And don’t talk while chewing, it’s gross.”
“Whatever, man. If you guys don't finish, it’ll leave more food for me!” Free swallowed the food and drank almost half of his soda.
“I’ll make sure I finish so you don’t get any of mine, even if my stomach wants to explode.” Agata replied half-jokingly, making Free scoff.
“Well, I ate a bit at the theatre, so you may have the rest of mine if I don't finish.” Oguma would've been fine listening to them converse without contributing much, but he used this opportunity to offer something and be generous.
“You hear that, Agata? Now he's a real one!” Free laughed, once again. Oguma smiled, feeling a bit flattered. He wondered how this lion could be so energetic and outgoing. It was something he admired considering he's the exact opposite.
During their conversation, another waiter came up to their table. As expected, they all ordered udon with slight changes foreach of their tastes, along with sides of rice and eggs.
“Actually, yes, please give him your food. You could even have some of mine.” Agata picked up where their conversation left off. Free was surprised yet happy at Agata for saying that, until he started explaining. “Free oftentimes takes long naps after eating, especially after big meals. It means we won't have to deal with him for a bit!” This made Free grumble in annoyance, but a small smile appeared on his face afterwards.
“Definitely. On a few occasions, he's slept until the next morning! You should see him half-awake and hungover.” Ibuki commented and leaned into Oguma's ear to whisper. “I've taken some photos of him. I can show you later.” Oguma chuckled, making Free raise his eyebrow. They both ignored him and continued eating, but he wasn't going to take it.
“Well, what's that about?” Free looked between them both in suspicion and slight worry.
“Nothing much. I just told him that I have evidence of your antics.” Ibuki smiled smugly at Free, annoying him.
“What? C'mon! You weren't supposed to tell anyone!” He exclaimed, embarrassed that Oguma now knows.
“We never even agreed to that, so you can't blame me.” Ibuki replied, satisfied with himself.
“I got some photos too! I think you should stop eating so much if you want this to stop happening, don't you think?”
When they were almost done, the waiter came back and gave them the bill. They all glanced at Oguma, who was already reaching for his wallet.
“Don't even think about it. I already told Ibuki I was going to pay for this.” It was as if he read their minds. They stayed quiet and let him pay for everyone's food, awkwardly thanking him.
They made their way out and back to the theatre's parking lot. Now that it was nearing 9pm, the streets were less crowded and darker, but it still felt lively. It seemed like a good night to go to a bar, but that could wait for another day. Oguma would have to trust them more before going out to drink with them.
“Well, it was a pleasure going out with you guys.” Oguma stretched once he arrived at his car.
“Of course, it was for me too. I'll let you know of any other plans. I'll also send you those photos I mentioned.” Ibuki replied while giggling. Free remembered what they talked about at the restaurant and huffed.
“By the way, can you give me your number?” Agata asked. Oguma was slightly shocked but didn't decline, so he exchanged numbers with both him and Free.
“Alright, it's getting late, so I'll have to make my leave. I'll see you when I see you.” Oguma shook hands with all of them and got in his car.
“He must be very rich and fancy, but a little weird. How'd you even find that guy at the convenience store?” Free commented once they got in their car.
“I have no idea, honestly. I only know he went to buy medicine.” Ibuki turned on the car and started driving. “What makes you say he's weird?”
“He seemed a bit serious and quiet. You always gotta watch out for people like that. There's often a lot going on in their minds, you never know.”
“Well, that's just how he is. I am like that as well. Over time, I'm sure he'll get more comfortable with you guys.”
“I guess you both have at least one thing in common! There's hope for you guys after all.” Ibuki was unsure what Free meant, until he realized he was talking about a potential relationship with Oguma. Ibuki simply rolled his eyes but also felt a bit warm.
“You know, you seem to be very interested in talking about that. Could you possibly have any feeling towards Oguma?”
“What?! No!” Free growled, hitting Ibuki's arm.
Agata was quietly laughing at their interaction. “I guess Cupid's arrows hit you too, right Free?” This caused Free to look back and glare at Agata, only making him laugh harder.
“Relax, Free! We're just messing with you.” Ibuki chuckled a bit too. It reminded him of Free after his naps.
“I was too! Or was I? I mean, you're always talking about him and asking us how to answer his texts!” Ibuki stayed quiet at this for a few moments to think.
“I'm really not sure why. I guess... I needed a change. Getting a new perspective from outside the black market was refreshing.” Ibuki explained, the half-truth at least. He wouldn't tell them how cute he found that deer. They seemed accepting, but it would create endless teasing and embarrassment, way more than now. However, what if they said a joke that accidentally outs Ibuki and makes Oguma uncomfortable? What if he's not accepting? Could he cut him off due to that?
Ibuki simply kept driving and tuning out the conversation between Agata and Free. It will be hard having to hide this from Oguma for the time being, but it's whatever it takes to survive. Plus, he could have a chance, either as his boyfriend or at least as a great friend. He didn't want to make him uncomfortable in any way possible. They might have to talk about this one day. He was glad their base wasn't too far away, since at some point while he was driving, his glasses started getting blurry.