Chapter Text
"Erika! Good morning!"
Komichi greeted me with a bright smile as I entered our new classroom. I always looked forward to it, even on days where I felt groggy or stressed out. It was the start of our second year at Roubai Girls Academy, and I couldn't stop dreaming about our final performance at the athletics festival. That day was the turning point for me--how I thought of Komichi. Every dream emphasized the red bowtie on her special sailor uniform. Oddly enough, I couldn't even see her from where I was playing the piano, yet I knew the choreograph was perfect. I could imagine every move with how many times I rewatched the music video outside my normal rehearsal. Even if the dance wasn't the part I contributed to, I wanted to imagine. Still, as much as I wanted that moment to last forever, my fingers could only play so many notes--Komichi could only dance so long.
"M-morning," I eventually responded, snapping from my daze.
We were the first two in class, albeit by coincidence, or the fact we didn't want to be late. Looking at the seating chart on the board, my heart fluttered upon realizing...
"Looks like we're next to each other again!" Komichi stole the words from my mouth.
"Thank goodness," I sighed in relief and settled at my new desk for the year.
Komichi took her seat as well, sailor outfit looking cute as ever, even as her blue eyes outshone it. I got lost in them as we leaned on our elbows, peering cock-eyed at each other for no apparent reason. However, my attention drifted down to Komichi's big blue bowtie--her chest pulsing slowly and collar glistening with sweat from her early morning run.
"Something on your mind, Erika?" She asked with an innocent smile that knew no better.
You are, is what I wanted to say, even as I feared it would jeopardize our friendship. I'm not supposed to have feelings like this, yet...
"Sorry--just spacing out," I replied and faced forward.
I dug through my book-bag as a diversion. It was silly--all of this--and I knew it. Komichi didn't question further, grabbing her supplies and sitting up to greet the rest of our classmates as they trickled in. I didn't know where we'd would be without Komichi, and I wasn't sure if she even realized it.
Something else lingered in my mind while waiting for class. It was still related to uniforms, but bigger picture. I can't tell her this in front of everyone. It already took enough courage to play on stage. This is out of the question. I stared aimlessly at my desk, thinking of some way--any way to get this across without scaring Komichi off.
The time to lunch break dwindled ever so slowly because of how much I focused on the clock. I'm not sure how I got away with it, being in the front row, though our teacher had clear favorites: Komichi, Kei, Ai, and Kojou, to name a few. By no means was I a poor student, just not interested in hurrying to the top of the academic leaderboard. If anything, my parents insisted before last year that I focus more on making friends because of how isolated my experience was in elementary school. I wasn't best buddies with everyone like Komichi, but even just her was enough for me.
While the teacher had his/her back turned, a note slipped onto my desk, making its way between the pages of my textbook. I already knew who wrote it by the white and navy blue cuff over the sender's wrist, yet the gesture remained a mystery. With nothing better to do, I made sure the teacher still wasn't watching, then slid the note over the current page--close and center.
You look worried today. Wanna talk about it over lunch outside? ~Komichi
My breath hitched for some reason, not because eating with her was weird, but how observant she was despite acting nonchalant. Lying to her would do no good either. I stole a few glances, her face warm with anticipation despite paying attention to the chalkboard. A few attempts later, she brushed some hair back--and we made eye contact briefly. If it weren't for class now, she'd be asking me outright anyway. No matter, I can't leave her empty-handed. I blushed, shakily flipping over the scrap of paper to write my response.
Yes.
I handed it back at another lull, not as tactfully but delivered nonetheless. Komichi examined it right away, as if she just received a birthday present. With an inaudible cheer, she looked straight at me with a smile that read, I look forward to it!
Tomono and Toko were surprised by Komichi insisting that she wanted to eat with just me that day. However, Toko especially wore a devious grin as Komichi and I left the classroom. They should know that we're good friends already! Why does changing things up make this look funny?
Closing the door behind us, Komichi began, "Was it the new girl?"
I waited until we were out of earshot, then replied lowly, "Not really."
I mean, she looks old for middle school, but who am I to judge? I'd been so absorbed in my thoughts that I forgot that girl's name already. All I remembered was her mature frame and shy mannerisms, somewhat reminiscent of Riona.
As we headed downstairs, Komichi continued, "Well, I talked to her before class since she looked lonely in the back row. She opened up a little and she's so sweet, but--"
Komichi's voice trailed off, a rare sign from her.
"Her classmates used to pick on her size. It got so bad that she's transferred here to finish middle school," she finished.
"That's awful," I sighed. "It makes me realize how privileged we are--to have so many wonderful classmates. You really are the glue holding everyone together."
Recalling a similar fear I had during the entrance ceremony and Komichi's introduction last year. I'd be devastated and lonely if she left or got bullied out, no doubt there.
Komichi chucked nervously, her smile returning. "Only because you all were so patient and kind with me. Even today, I got goosebumps putting on my sailor uniform."
I stifled a laugh. "Really? Did you miss wearing it that much?"
To my surprise, she held back a pout as well. Though, she quickly returned the favor. The late summer sun kissed our faces with hot albeit pleasant rays. After all, we were used to breaking a sweat--if only we could go fishing right now. We planted under one of the larger trees in the courtyard, kicking our legs out for a much needed stretch after all those morning classes. We said grace, then jumped into our promised conversation.
Relaxing in the smells of nature (and her), I began, "So, Komichi..."
She listened patiently as I gathered my thoughts, not trying to force anything. While she was the one on my mind all morning, I knew that she alone wasn't the goal.
"I uh--I was thinking about how your mom made your sailor uniform. She must be really creative," I started.
That was also true, but not close enough.
"Isn't she the best? I'd be nothing without Mom and so would Kao," Komichi praised. "Wanna come over this weekend?"
Her invitation caught me off guard (compared to how indirect she was last year). Fortunately, I grew more comfortable as the discussion lightened. Komichi was an expert at diffusing tension with her infectious joy.
"About that," I continued, trying to word this casually as possible. "Have you ever um--cosplayed, say, with your uniform or another outfit?"
As a reasonably creative person, I had a myriad of hobbies, but this by far was my oddest whim yet. I'd never dressed up for the sake of roleplaying or staged photoshoots. I also wasn't huge into manga or anime However, it piqued my interest over the summer after seeing an upcoming cosplay star on my social feed.
Before Komichi could answer, another voice called from behind the tree.
"I have! I love cosplaying!"
Startled, we turned around warily to find the new girl with a passion unheard of. She carried her lunchbox with both hands, arms straight as she towered overhead. Upon noticing though, she lowered her presence like a gentle giant.
"Um... Sorry, I got carried away. You're Komichi and your friend is--Erika, right?"
"That's right!" Komichi clapped once. "Wanna eat with us? It's really nice with the shade."
The girl smiled again, accepting her offer graciously. Sitting beside Komichi, it looked like a princess of nature had descended from the tree.
Before eating, the girl bowed slightly and said to me, "I'm Shinju Inui. Nice to meet you."
"Likewise," I iterated. "Shinju... You're into cosplay?"
Shinju nodded proudly. From her enthusiasm now, one couldn't even tell that she was picked on at her old school. It made me want to bust the teeth of her bullies--they're lucky I don't know them.
"I did a shoot in the past year with my older sister and her friends. It wasn't easy, but--"
Shinju sighed, "I can appreciate all the hard work that goes into costume designs, photography, promotion, you name it."
Komichi's eyes lit up (as it never took long to impress her) with a wave of happiness, clenching her skirt in excitement. I loved how supportive she was to everyone she met (no matter what).
"That's what makes it fun though! Sharing your passion with others is the best feeling when they learn something new--or the opposite," Komichi remarked. "Erika and everyone showed me so much--their talents, how to lead and be led... I'm sure this year will be better, but I'll never forget my first year here."
"Yeah. Thanks to Komichi, I got back into practicing piano and violin last year," I recalled fondly. "I wasn't sure where that'd take me, but I'm sure I made the right decision coming to Roubai."
Shinju pondered this as she ate, hopefully not overwhelmed by Komichi's upfront tendancies. It wasn't unusual for my sailor friend to delve into nostalgic tangents, though I'll take advantage of that the next time I visit her.
"That's wonderful," Shinju remarked, folding her hands. "I wasn't sure what to expect when transferring after last year, but--you two are kinder right away than all my classmates were the entire year."
She sniffled as tears welled, running steadily onto her lap. Just how much did she go through? It pained me to imagine what she experienced, though relieved that she saw us as trustworthy friends.
"You're always welcome to hang out with us. We'll never turn you away," Komichi assured, using her handkerchief to wipe Shinju's cheeks.
"T-thank you," Shinju whispered sincerely, lifting her head again to lean against the tree.
We followed suit, basking in the remains of summer and the consistent sounds of nature. It might've been just the first day of a new school year, but Roubai was special, lunch was delicious, and friendships? Priceless.
Shinju's gentle enthusiasm soon returned. "So, what else would you like to know about cosplay?"
Unfortunately, the bell interrupted before we could delve into a proper lesson, but that didn't matter. Shinju shared that the best way to learn cosplay was seeing and experiencing it in-person. I didn't disagree with her on that as we returned for afternoon classes--eager to follow-up on this whim of mine.
After school, we met at Shinju's desk to talk more about cosplay and her connections in Tokyo. Even if I wasn't familiar with most of the lingo and trade secrets, she had such imaginative descriptions to rival my dreams. She explained everything in great detail, from the inception of a cosplay outfit to the execution of a shoot. Plus, seeing her eyes light up like Komichi's was a blessing for the ages.
"How can we get in touch with them? Do they take reservations? What cosplay would you recommend for us?"
Komichi jumped the gun with her questions, ignoring the fact that we were in middle school without jobs. Shinju didn't have one either, though her sister made enough to rent shoots and cover the cost of parts of the designs.
"I can give you their numbers, if you'd like. I'll let my sister know when I get home that you're interested," Shinju offered, pulling out her flip-phone.
As Komichi and I updated our contact books, I felt more excited than usual for the weekend--that is, if her high school friends weren't too busy with high school life. It reminded me that after Roubai, where would all my classmates end up? We still had two more years, yet with how quickly the first passed, time was becoming more of a concern as our childhood progressed. I didn't want to dwell on that too much though, not with all the blessings of the moment.
"Great! I look forward to meeting them soon," Komichi said while closing her phone.
I gathered my belongings as well, preparing to head home after an eventful first day.
Standing up, I asked, "Shinju, are you staying in the dorms or at home?"
"At home. I'd feel lonely without seeing my sister every morning and night. She'd miss me too, even if she doesn't want to admit it," Shinju disclosed.
Akebi giggled, "I know what that's like. My little sister, Kao, dreams about wearing a sailor uniform once she's old enough. She even tried to wear mine one time!"
We chuckled imagining this scene play out. Meanwhile, I wondered what Shinju's sister looked like or rather, what it would be like to have a sister to share my passion with. Of course, being an only child had its perks. On the other hand, it made for lonely moments when my parents weren't available.
As we left school, Komichi was still set on figuring out all the details ahead of time, while I was just thankful to meet more people and dabble in another hobby. We stopped at the front gate before departing our own ways. Komichi would run to and from school almost everyday--I still don't know where she get the energy to do that... Meanwhile, I took the bus, and it seemed like Shinju did as well.
"Thanks for connecting us with your friends, Shinju! I'll see you two tomorrow," Komichi thanked and started jogging.
"Um, Komichi!" Shinju called out before she could escape.
Dancing in place, Komichi asked, "What's up?"
Shinju fumbled with her hands, then responded, "Thanks--for talking to me this morning--and for letting me eat lunch with you. I thought today could go wrong so many ways, but you and Erika made it fun!"
Komichi grinned ear to ear, flashing a peace sign as she shouted, "That's what friends are for!"
Standing next to Shinju, it was like she warped me back a few years. She has to be 170--no, 180cm tall! It must be tough having a bust that large in middle school, even if it's not unheard of for her height. I did my best to ignore the details and make her feel comfortable in the meantime. The bus arrived a few minutes later--and I waved with a smile as Shinju left. It wasn't theatric like Komichi's exit, but I knew we'd see each other tomorrow in good spirits.
Entering the dorm, I went straight to my room, plopped on the bed, and held my phone overhead. Homework awaited, though new friendships are too exhilarating to put aside. Opening the messaging app, I made a beeline for Shinju Inui.
Erika: Enjoy your first day at Roubai? I remember mine like it was yesterday.
Shinju: It was great! HBU?
Erika: I was the first one in class 1-3. Komichi sneaks in at the worst time ever!
Shinju: What happened?
Erika: I was clipping my nails LOL. I know it's weird but it helps me relax.
"I won't tell her about the sniffing part," I muttered. "That's just too weird."
Erika: Who clips their nails at school?!
In hindsight, I couldn't help but crack up, even if it probably stunned Shinju.
Shinju: I'm a little embarrassed to admit this too...
Shinju: Every time I take a picture of something, I think about my sister.
Shinju: Maybe because I take all of her cosplay photos.
I didn't quite understand, but I could empathize with her and the fulfillment of working hard to support your friend's shining moment.
Erika: You must love cosplay and your sister to do that much for her.
Shinju: I do! She's the best sister ever!
However, her texts took a solemn turn.
Shinju: Without her and my friends, I wouldn't get to cosplay.
Shinju: I'm gonna get a job ASAP so they won't worry about me anymore...
Despite coming from a well-off family, I felt the same way regarding independence and growing up. And yet, my parents insisted: Enjoy your childhood and do your best in school. It'll pay off in the long run. Not every kid had those clear-cut privileges though, and I didn't want to be an indifferent snob who grew up to think otherwise. Sometimes, I imagined myself as a professional musician, even if it was just a hobby at the time.
Erika: I think the arts are a double-edged sword. I play piano and violin.
Erika: There's so much work to make it perfect. We look at other people and go, "Why can't I be like them?"
Shinju: Same! I was scared getting into cosplay because I wanted to dress like a boy. I thought my it wouldn't work and my sister would get mad.
Shinju: When my friends and I surprised her, it was the best day of my life!
I've had a number of deep discussions with Komichi last year, but none were this relatable. I paced around the room to settle down. A few minutes later, I brought the discussion back to Earth.
Erika: Do you live in the city?
Shinju: In an apartment with my sister. It isn't nice as home, but it works out better for our separate commutes. How about you?
Me, well... I didn't want to sound like I was bragging.
Erika: I live with my parents in the outskirts--close enough to walk most places but not as disruptive. We only like noise if it's music.
She probably wants to ask about Komichi.
Erika: BTW, Komichi lives in the country. It's so beautiful out there!"
Shinju: I agree. Nature is the best studio IMO--and it's free! My sister prefers inner city life, but I wanna live near a peaceful forest one day.
I wished to stay on the comfy bed and chat with my new classmate into the evening. However, homework and music practice wouldn't finish on their own.
Erika: Sorry for not remembering your name this morning.
Shinju: NP! I wasn't expecting to talk with anyone. When Komichi walked over with a big smile though..."
Erika: Then you were trapped? I know how her brain works.
Shinju: More or less LOL. Still, if you're able to share the details with me, I can apply that to my cosplay research behind the scenes.
I saw that as my green flag to investigate Komichi further--both so that she could enjoy cosplay to its fullest and as her best friend. Are we still just best friends? There lied a fine line in my memory between playful teasing and deeper hints. I certainly wouldn't lie to my parents if Komichi and I went further, but they'd write it off as an experimental phase in my life.
Erika: I have plenty of stories where that came from! Let's do some brainstorming tomorrow.
It was oddly liberating to connect with people one at a time, even if it took awhile to break out of my shell.
Shinju: Sounds good! See you tomorrow.
I let the phone slide down to my chest, sighing at the ceiling. In my eyes, Tokyo was a nice to explore, but I always thought folks from the country were more patient--more at peace with themselves and the world. Shinju amended that belief in a few hours without realizing. Looking over, the piano seemed to call my name fondly, whereas last fall, it lied dusty and dormant.
With nothing better to do, I rolled off the bed and snuck over to the piano. The well-used bench creaked as I sat down, the polished lid glistening with hints of sunlight. In the back of my mind, the summer performance replayed--muffled yet impossible to ignore. My heart crescendoed in anticipation, and opening the lid, so did the music as the door opened to that blissful memory.
Before I knew it, my instincts took over, accompanying Komichi's dance verbatim. From every step to each shadow from the stage lights, even the acoustics of the auditorium were reincarnated. This time though, I couldn't see what I was playing through the tears. That didn't matter, for as long as I played, she was there. I didn't have my violin for the last chorus, but that didn't bother me. My vision cleared as the piece reached its epilogue and I could breath again.
However, instead of hearing Komichi Akebi and the eccentric student body--silence. It was the only missing part of the memory. After all, I was so focused on her that the cheers were just that--noise. Closing the piano lid, I leaned on my arms and returned to the present. While I didn't have a roommate to witness my musical rants, there's no doubt my neighbors heard everything. A notification soon interrupted my dwelling. I reluctantly returned to the bed, checking my phone with a mix of bittersweet euphoria.
Akebi: Hey! Whatcha' up to?
I laughed weakly, my breath hitching. I can't even say it to her face... My fingers shook like hell.
Erika: Practicing piano. HBU?
Akebi: More productive than me RN. I'm watching TV with Kao.
Now or never. I've gotta tell her or this'll get worse.
Erika: Promise not to tell anyone?
Akebi: WDYM? Everyone loves your playing.
Erika: Sry, not that...
Erika: It's about the athletics festival.
Akebi: Yeah, I get goosebumps thinking about it! The best day of my life IMO!
Me too! is what I felt like sending, but dodging the truth left me guilty.
Erika: Not that either...
Akebi: Shinju?
Erika: No, it's about you--hard to say tho.
I almost expected Akebi to run back to school, even if she was busy at home. She'd do that, alright.
Akebi: NP! You can tell me anything. Just between us.
Erika: Ok...
I took a deep breath, trying to type my next words carefully, though they poured out disjunct.
Erika: What you asked me this morning
Erika: The truth is
Erika: Since that day, I keep thinking about your dance. I can't focus and my chest feels tight.
Erika: I was fine when we talked today, but when I started playing...
My fingers froze. I cursed myself for being wishy-washy over some texts. Still, it wasn't like I'd handle this any better in-person.
Akebi: I had no idea...
Akebi: You remembered so much about my part, when you were focused on yours for weeks.
My patience was wearing thin--filter about to burst again.
Erika: No, it's about you... I keep thinking about you everyday.
Erika: I like you, Akebi.
I dropped my phone the moment I pressed send in a hazy fit. WTF?! My heart pounding too hard to keep a level head. What's wrong with me?! Saying that out of the blue... Clutching my pillow, I screamed into the fluff with no chance of deleting those words, even if they were true.
I soon ran out of breath, though instead of beeping again, the phone rang a few minutes later. Oh-my-gosh she's calling me! The dread only escalated as I feared that Kao or her mother pickup up on this.
Accepting the call, I stammered, "H-hello..."
"Erika! I like you, too!"
The receiver buzzed a little, but her message was loud and clear. My heart dropped realizing what that entailed.
I asked in a panic, "K-Komichi! Why'd you yell that outside?!"
A little giggle, then she answered, "Because I want the wind to bring it to you. It'd have no meaning if I texted it back, but don't worry! You don't have to shout it like--"
I interrupted, "That's not the point! Ugh, when I see you tomorrow morning... Just, how can you be so casual about this?!"
She giggled softly, letting the wind take precedence again.
"Because it's true, Erika. We've been besties for a year now!"
Besties... Somehow, that title didn't satisfy me. I knew it was selfish, but I wanted more than the truth from her. It plagued me all summer--and backing down wasn't an option anymore.
"T-that's not the point either," I protested, lowering my voice. "We're--more than besties, aren't we?"
Being as innocent as she was, Komichi didn't catch the hint.
Now confused, she guessed, "Classmates? Sisters from another mother? BFFs?"
Time to burst the bubble. You leave me no choice--
"No! Komichi, we're... We're girlfriends by now, aren't we?" I hissed in a half-disappointed, half-hopeful tone.
Silence--so much that I swore the line's connection dropped. This's just getting worse. How many dumb things can I say in one day?! My heart bordered on an explosive attack--my mind unable to think straight, as if that wasn't already the case. I almost ended the call there, when...
"You're--You're right," she sighed. "I'm sorry for not paying attention. It's just--I've never had a girlfriend before."
My heart tightened as her voice broke. I never had a girlfriend either, yet the day of the concert changed me forever. No longer did I see Komichi Akebi as a friend--the idol of class 1-3.
She cried, "I was just happy to have a friend in my class after being alone in elementary school. The thought never hit me because I was so focused on that."
Grasping my forehead with one hand, I said lowly, "I'm sorry. I put you on the spot without thinking. We can stay besties if you'd like--"
"It's fine!" She insisted before I could change my mind. "Erika... We can be girlfriends from now on. We can do dates--like fishing, music, picnics, anything!"
There she goes, jumping the gun again. We went quiet again, getting twisted up in our odd imaginations.
She turned the tides and repeated with passion, "Erika, let's be girlfriends!"
Nearly jolting off the bed, I gasped, "I get it--I get it! Y-yes, let's--"
Komichi cheered before I could finish accepting, probably running around the block to tell everyone despite promising this as our secret.
"It's official then! See ya', Erika!"
"Y-yeah. Later," I managed to say amidst the chaos.
Hitting the red button, I dropped the phone and collapsed onto my pillow facedown again, laughing like a maniac to reclaim some sanity. I should be getting a few knocks on my door anytime now... Regardless, all that worrying depleted my stomach earlier than usual.
The evening air passing through the hall windows did little to cool my overexerted mind. A few other students occupied the dining hall, but nobody from my class since we usually ate together. Meanwhile, the usual chef asked if I was alright--to which I conjured an excuse about having a new strict teacher. Her concern was much appreciated, though I didn't feel like talking the rest of the day. I ordered a simple meal, asking for a little extra to account for eating an hour before expected.
Sitting down in one of the quieter spots, I stared listlessly out the window. My appetite slowly dwindled, only nibbling bits at a time. Skimping on nutrients as an active person would prove disastrous, after all. With each bite, the pressure of seeing her tomorrow eased as well. *I can't relax on an empty stomach...
Finished about thirty minutes later, I took the time to savor everything and replay that chaotic exchange. For once, it terrified me to have photorealistic memory and heightened senses. Before I could return to my room, familiar giddy footsteps approached. Only one girl at Roubai walked with that much pep in her step. I gulped, turning in my chair to ensure this wasn't another delusion.
Locked with eager blue eyes, I held firm, daring not to make the first move. Instead of a sailor uniform, she wore a white dress with a teal collar, reminiscent of a visit last year. Be careful what you wish for, Erika... She tilted her head as if playing a round of silent treatment.
Averting my gaze, I got up and said, "I'm heading back to my room if you wanna join me."
I didn't have to offer twice as she followed close behind, greeting the chef on the way out. Once out of plain sight, she grabbed my arm like I was an escort, leaning on my shoulder with a warm smile. We decided this today and you're already--never mind. Reaching for my key with a free hand, I unlocked the door in record time and scurried us in.
"Don't scare me like that," I groaned with hands on hips.
She was too entranced with my room to worry about the risk of unwanted attention--but why was I surprised? She wasn't the type to shy from physical intimacy, but I wondered: Did the ideals of friendship negate any desire for romance? Last year, the closest I'd gotten was a whisper in her ear and yet...
Komichi finally spoke--the nerve of her to stay quiet this long! "How could I not visit after you confessed? So much happening in one day..."
"You're not wrong there," I noted, sitting on the bedside. "I guess we really are--girlfriends now."
The word still held immense novelty, my heart skipping every time it was mentioned. I sat on the bedside to calm down.
"I suppose we are. What to do about it?" Komichi kneeled in front of me with a curious smile.
"W-what're you doing?" I asked fearfully.
She didn't hesitate to answer her own question, tilting forward as if to pray. Instead, she sniffed from my now bare feet, all the way up to my knees. My legs felt weak as she did as she pleased.
Komichi complimented softly, "It's no wonder you're a good climber and fisher. Your nails are so pretty."
"W-what's that supposed to mean? Those aren't even related..." I dared to ask, removing my blazer for some air.
Komichi didn't stop there, taking my hands for a closer inspection. She giggled fondly, feeling the contour of every finger and nail. Her cheeks flushed with satisfaction.
"When we first met, I had a hunch that you were good with your hands."
"A-and?"
"I was wrong," she concluded while massaging them. "Your hands are more than good... They're amazing."
I trembled, wondering if she understood how suggestive her actions were. I better stop her before this gets out of hand--no pun intended.
"K-Komichi," I urged, clearing my throat for emphasis.
"Erika?" She tilted her head, pitching her voice up as a tease.
"Since you complimented me once, I'll give one back if you stop. Deal?"
Komichi folded her hands and nodded with an obedient smile. She's enjoying this too much.
"Deal!"
With her waiting like that, I couldn't think of anything grandiose enough to teach her a lesson. She could see right through me in person. *This's embarrassing, but if she's gonna play the wolf game, I might have to.
"Come up here, but sit on the opposite side facing me," I requested as nicely as possible.
"Okay," she obliged yet again without batting an eye.
Once up, the bedsprings creaked under our weight, but I supposed they'd be fine with two girls of our caliber. There wasn't enough space to sit straight-legged with feet touching, so we went cross-legged. Thinking back on nail-clipping, a disturbing idea entered my mind. However, to get back at Komichi, there was no choice but to employ it. Her content silence was eerie after a year of nonstop cheering.
"O-okay, Komichi," I began, building up some courage. "G-give me your-"
My voice trailed, with tongue too twisted to finish the instruction. I hadn't felt this shameful since we met, suggesting it became a new annual ritual between us.
"Sorry, I didn't hear--"
"Your foot! I want your foot--"
I clamped a hand over my foul mouth, ashamed of how assertive that came out. Thank goodness Shinju isn't here to see this! While my parents didn't raise me as a stickler, they wouldn't appreciate me exploring this sub-realm of romance. Komichi and I shared a stunned look, her relaxed front all but gone.
"I uh--guess it feels different when you're on the defensive," I joked out of spite.
"R-right. I had no idea," she said, wiggling her toes. "I get so into drama club that crazy situations--they sometimes feel like an act."
My heart sank a little, considering how good she was at theatrics.
"If that's true... Is this an act too? It was for nothing?"
Komichi waved her hands hurriedly and clarified, "No-no! Everything about today was real. What we just did--it was real too."
I see. Thanks, Komichi. For all the flack I'm giving you right now, you're still the most trustworthy person I know.
Clenching her hands in motivation, she added, "I'll do it. I'll give you my foot. Then, we'll be even for today, right?"
Her blunt phrasing cracked us both up again, something I hoped would never get old. The request wasn't any less odd, but I wouldn't do this with anyone else in the world.
"Yes. We'll call it even there. Pick either leg," I confirmed, scooting back to give her space.
Komichi stretched her left leg out, blushing as the skirt/hem of her dress lifted. I'm glad she wore 'those.' Her flexibility was unrivaled in our class, making this position a breeze. Supporting her ankle, I let instinct take over before I could question everything and retreat. My nostrils flared as the scent of a runner's foot entered--sweaty but not unpleasant. I wondered what it'd smell like after a barefoot expedition. The roots of Earth? I had to know every scent. Leaning closer, I grazed just above the skin, smelling from heel to toe. In the background, Komichi snickered softly, the bottom of the foot being a ticklish spot for most people. Soon, my left leg rose against its will--So much for getting even. I didn't need to look to know what she'd do next. The air swirled around my foot, dancing at different angles and dynamics. The stimulation became too much, any chance of this being a casual teasing vanished.
"You better quit first," I grunted, spreading her toes to whiff in a new crevice.
"Not if you're still going like this," Komichi challenged with shaky breaths.
She took it up a notch by plunging her lips over my big toe, sucking along the nail
"Ah!" I yelped, returning the favor on hers with extra tongue.
"Bahaha!" She died laughing, though didn't let go.
Her barely muffled voice sent tingles all the way up my leg, rendering my retaliation futile. Regardless, the affair was more exhilarating than I anticipated--the give-and-take part being what we missed over summer. Not to mention, her cute dress added to the daring atmosphere, as I didn't want it wrinkled or dirty. I didn't dare taint the essence of Komichi Akebi.
When we finally paused for a breather, I panted, "Is this--why you--wanna cosplay so badly?"
Rather than answering, Komichi transitioned into the signature impression of her idol, Miki Fukumoto. Except, she used my big toe instead of lip balm. It's no fair that she looks cute doing it! I didn't think she'd pull that move again though. She peered with dreamy eyee, toe pursed between two fingers. With a gentle "mwah," she kissed the tip as a cherry on top. I shuddered at how perfectly she improvised it despite the circumstances.
Wiping her mouth, Komichi said casually, "I think so."
That's it?! You think so? After doing all that, you think so... Retracting my leg, I pouted as she appeared dumbfounded. Since talking wouldn't reach her, I repositioned to my knees to get the advantage.
Blinking a few times, she asked, "E-Erika, what's wrong--ah!"
I pounced before she could escape, unsettling the bed a few times as we rebounded clumsily. She didn't resist with her arms pinned, but now that I had a closer look than ever...
I whined in disbelief, "So you spend all day crazy on cosplay--and now you go quiet?"
Komichi was speechless, probably too stimulated to form a cohesive explanation--a rare event indeed. It also didn't help that I wagered on emotions the entire affair.
"Erika... Sorry, I'm--this's all so exciting," she chuckled, unable to keep a straight face.
"Y-yeah," I surrendered as my adrenaline wore off. "Let's call it there."
Checking the time, I didn't have my homework done, nor would the Komichi's family be pleased if I kept her too long. I helped her get up and presentable again, making sure her dress was neat and hair straight.
"Our first fight as girlfriends," she sighed all too tenderly. "I'll never forget today."
Fumbling with my hands, I said, "Just don't go around telling everyone, please--not until we're ready."
She couldn't help it though. Komichi Akebi didn't stop until she was absolutely overwhelmed, and time and time again, she bounced back with the same smile..
"I promise," she assured, spinning to admire her dress in the mirror. "It's always good to test the water before you dive in, right?"
Well, it's not like we'd get in trouble as long as we follow the rules and don't go bragging about it.
"100%. We'll be too having too much fun with Shinju to worry about this," I remarked and followed her to the door.
On the way out, she surprised a few more classmates making their way to dinner. Reasonably so, they were just as baffled by her visit, though as we chatted briefly, it felt like our risque scuffle never happened--and I intended to keep it that way.
The moment we stepped outside, Komichi returned to form. "So, when are we gonna come up with nicknames, or oh--matching jewelry? What about--"
"Patience, Koko--" I blurted without thinking.
Oh...
"I have my answer," she sang with a playful nudge. "Koko... I like it! Then, what about Eri?"
The nickname didn't irk me. The way she said it so childishly, however, did. At least it was better than super intimate titles like 'honey' or 'babe.'
"F-fine. Just not yet at school--or around your family!" I emphasized the last clause.
She answered too soon to be trustworthy. "Will do, Eri!"
I don't know if I'll ever get used to this, but it's fun in its own way. The second L-word is too crazy to think about now--baby steps. We reached the sidewalk for Komichi's route. Even when wearing her nicest dress, she was ready to run again. For the first time in months, it was hard to say goodbye, as if life would reset tomorrow morning with no recollection.
"Komichi... I'm glad we're still together. Let's--have another good year," I wished, blushing and hard-pressed to make eye contact.
With a gentle embrace, she leaned on my shoulder, pouring out the rest of her affection for that day.
"Me too. Here's to another awesome year, Eri-Eri," she whispered.
She's too sly for me...
"Just go home and eat dinner already," I coaxed with a hint of disappointment, giving a push to send her off. "Tell them I said 'Hello!'"
"Okay! See ya' tomorrow!" She called out and waved before rounding the block.
"Later, Koko," I wished under my breath, meandering back to the dorm. "I can't wait to see you cosplay..."