Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Friends are people you can fully trust, friends are people with you can have fun, hang out, have a good time and help you if you have problems, friends are honest and tend to tell the truth without fear, for Kita, that's being a true friend.

Or so she thought, until a week ago when she started taking advantage of her most sensitive friend, Hitori.

It's been more than 8 months since Kessoku band was officially formed with its 4 members, Nijika Ijichi the leader and drummer of the band, Ryo Yamada the bassist who rarely has money because of her tendency to buy instruments, Hitori Gotoh the lead guitarist who has social anxiety and last but not least, Kita Ikuyo, the singer and backing guitarist brimming with enthusiasm.

Kita originally joined in order to be with Ryo, no one can deny that is true, but eventually she understood that she didn't love her, however, they have a good friendship now and tend to get along very well despite their very different personalities. But, how did Kita understand that she didn't really love Ryo? After a certain event

The band had performed in an unforgettable way at the school festival, normally that would be a reason to be proud but one of the reasons it is unforgettable was because of the dive of Hitori, who comically threw herself into the audience hoping to be caught and failed miserably.

After being taken to the infirmary, Hitori was resting and next to her was Kita, who was dismayed as it was practically her fault that Hitori did that, she knew that Hitori was very socially awkward but she wanted everyone to see how amazing she is.

Why would she want that?

Kita was still thinking about the reason, she really had no idea but something inside her was growing more and more when she saw the amazing Hitori put on a show again with her guitar skills, it's not the first time she blows her away with such skills and Kita hoped it wouldn't be the last time. She also noticed that she was searching for Hitori with her eyes every time they played, her blue eyes seemed to glow under the locks of hair that covered her face, Kita could admire them and feel completely lost in those blue eyes that somehow she was always looking for.

At that very moment while she was waiting for Hitori's recovery she began to understand it, after analyzing those situations and comparing them with the little knowledge she has of the subject, provided by her other friends who have felt that way, she could come to a simple conclusion.

Kita was in love with Hitori.

She had never been in love like that before, she quickly understood that what she felt for Ryo was not true love but something felt out of admiration. But with Hitori it was different, she could feel it even though she didn't understand it, after all, this feeling is completely new to her.

Just thinking that she loves the pinkhaired made her face burn and turn the same color as her hair. Was that okay? They were both girls, that was normal? Hitori is a person with a lot of social difficulties, is it even possible?.

Kita's head was filled with questions and at the same time with an insecurity she had never felt in her life, she was afraid of ruining her relationship with Hitori, she was afraid of hurting her, she was afraid of losing her.

But she didn't have much time to torment herself, as a somewhat weak voice brought her out of her trance.

"K-Kita-san?..."

It was Hitori, who was just waking up as she rubbed her head with extreme care, Kita put aside the doubts rising inside her and stood up with some haste.

"Gotoh-san! Are you okay? Are you in any pain?"

Kita's concern caused her to approach the bed where the pinkhaired rested, resting her hands on the edge of the bed as she looked directly towards Hitori who only nodded slightly.

Then the guilt Kita felt and her own insecurities created by the discovery of her crush mixed together, a strange feeling welled up inside her and it forced her head down, seeing her hands clenching the bed sheet.

"I'm sorry... Because of me you ended up like this..."

Kita could feel tears forming in her eyes at any moment but they didn't, she was repressing her feelings so effectively that anyone would think she was simply apologizing.

But Hitori was a special case

Hitori could hear Kita's words, but she didn't just hear them, she could also feel the strong emotions radiating from Kita without her even realizing it. It might not be noticeable to others, but for Hitori, who could analyze the atmosphere well, it was as clear as day. She couldn't always be right, but this time she was sure that something was bothering Kita. So, she gathered all her courage and carefully placed her hand on Kita's head, gently stroking it.

The redhaired girl was taken aback at such an action, Hitori's hand trying to comfort her and make her feel better softened her heart and she smiled, accompanied by a little blush formed on her cheeks.

"C-calm down Kita-san.... I know y-you didn't mean to..."

Hitori began to whisper calmly.

"... Besides..."

The memory of her fall still pricked at her youth complex but the fact that she had played with all of them at the festival made Hitori feel relized, as if it had all been worth it. Then her hand let caress Kita's head and joined the other in her lap.

"Th-thanks to you I was able to play with the band today. Th-thank-you so much."

Ah, there it was.

Again it was Hitori vanishing Kita's insecurities with a simple movement, it was more than certain that she loved her and wouldn't stop loving her. Kita got up from the bed and looked at the pinkhaired who was looking at her with some curiosity with those beautiful blue eyes that she loved, then with the same energy as always she started to say "I'm glad to hear that!"

Seeing that Kita was acting normal again, Hitori felt herself being carried away with relief. Then Kita continued.

"You were amazing! You really were and I'm sure we'll have more opportunities to keep playing in more and more places, you'll see!"

Kita assured as Hitori nodded, honestly, she was dreading playing in more public places but her ability to say so was suppressed by the Kit-aura.

The two conversed a bit more before Kita decided it was better for Hitori to rest quietly, though Hitori said she didn't mind, she went straight to the door, opened it and just before leaving she said.

"See you later Go.... Hitoi-chan!"

And with a slight blush she walked out of the room, leaving Hitori somewhat anxious and with a slight smile on her face.

'It's not for me to go around being depressive and negative, I love Hitori and I'm not going to stand idly by, even if it's hard and not normal, I'll do anything to make her notice me!' Kita stated in her mind, and that's how she decided to make Hitori fall in love with her.

Or so she hoped but it's been several months since then and not much progress.

Flashing back to a week before the current events, the two girls find themselves on what Kita thought would be a date but for Hitori it was just another friend's outing.

Kita didn't even remember how many times they had gone out together and Hitori just couldn't tell that she was implying that Kita was looking for more than just being her friend!
To the cinema, to try out less crowded restaurants, to a quiet lake, sleepovers, all situations cautiously planned by Kita where Hitori wouldn't feel so uncomfortable with so many people. She had even gotten Hitori used to walking hand in hand with her! But every time she tried to confess, as if it was a bad romantic comedy, Hitori always said that she also liked her as a friend. WHAT THE HELL.

Was what Kita was thinking and was trying not to let out her frustration in front of the passible Hitori who was tenderly eating an ice cream they had bought.

"K-Kita-chan, is something bothering with you?...."

Hitori asked seeing that Kita wasn't eating her ice cream, causing the redhead to snap out of her frustrated little mind.

"Ah, no Hitori-chan, don't worry!"

She then brought the ice cream to her lips and started eating it.

Kita couldn't blame Hitori for not having experience with relationships, she understood that the pinkhaired would think it's a joke before even thinking that someone is proposing to her, what a mess she has on her hands, she found it a bit frustrating but she wasn't going to stop trying.

She had chosen a cute and simple outfit: a white dress, which matched perfectly with her summer hat and sneakers. When she arrived she earned a compliment from Hitori, who after Kita got angry once because she didn't notice that she changed her hairstyle for her started complimenting Kita every time they went out, Kita knew she didn't do it because Hitori liked her but she couldn't complain since being complimented by the person she likes is simply something she can't resist.

Hitori on the other hand, was wearing her typical pink tracksuit, Kita had managed to get her to wear other things from time to time but only in winter, which is when Hitori could wear clothes that covered her as she liked.

They were sitting on a bench under a large tree that covered them from the sun. Kita, as usual, chose a place with few people and a good atmosphere, but her attempts to make Hitori fall in love are overshadowed by the fact that she thinks they are just friends going out... That's funny, even if Hitori hasn't had any other friends not in the least a partner, it would be normal for her to know the difference between a date and a friend's outing... Then why?....

Kita started to ramble but as it led to nothing, she decided to put it aside. She turned to look at Hitori who was still eating and noticed a bit of ice cream lingering at the corner of Hitori's lips. Before she knew it, she was thinking of wiping it off with a kiss, causing her face to turn a deep red. But she ignored the desire provoked by Hitori's thin lips and simply wiped it off with her index finger, bringing it towards her mouth and tasting it. Even though it wasn't what she thought, it was the first time she did something more daring than hugging her and holding her hand, she could feel her face burning but despite her embarrassment she turned to look at Hitori and was brutally surprised to see her reaction.

Hitori was looking at her with wide eyes and her face had a similar color to Kita's hair.

It was the first time she reacted like this....

"K-k-k-k-kita-chan?!"

And then something inside Kita lit up.

'But of course! A hug and holding hands can be considered normal but a kiss can't!' Was what Kita thought almost instantly.

When Kita started holding her hand, Hitori was only surprised and a little embarrassed, the same with hugging. She never wanted to do something that would make her uncomfortable but she can't stay stuck forever!

With a somewhat mischievous smile, Kita innocently put the same finger she wiped the ice cream with on her own lip, still looking at Hitori with a bit of a blush.

"I just wanted to try it, hehe."

She said trying to hide her embarrassment, to which Hitori only reacted by averting her gaze and a barely audible sentence that Kita understood for "It's okay."

Kita's evil thinking was blossoming, the fact that Hitori is conscientious about kissing and her eagerness to advance their relationship converged into the worst possible combination!

She made sure there was no one else around, she knew there were no people passing by but she still made sure, she grabbed Hitori's shoulder and slowly approached. The pinkhaired could feel Kita's breath on her cheek which made her blush more and made her feel uneasy. Kita then whispered to her, a voice so seductive that it seemed to be inviting her to sin.

"Why don't you look at me, Hi-to-ri-chan?"

Hitori could only swallow hard at hearing that, the hand holding the ice cream started to tremble and her blush seemed to increase, Kita was loss at Hitori's reactions, she was enjoying it!

Then Hitori in a barely audible voice said before turning to look at Kita.

"Wh-wh-wh-what happened..."

Her voice was drowned out the moment she dared to turn to look at Kita, as her lips were caught by the redhead's, Hitori's heart was racing like never before in her life, she could feel her face burning and her already trembling hand dropped the ice cream towards the ground. She couldn't think clearly, her head felt dizzy and her strength was fading, as if Kita was sucking all her strength. It was her first kiss, Kita stole Hitori's first kiss and she couldn't understand what was happening now.

Kita on the other hand was having the time of her life, for the redhaired it was also her first kiss, she once thought it would be romantic and very nice.

But at that moment she could only think of eating Hitori's lips.

She was finally kissing the girl she has been trying to conquer for several months now, her lips, as he imagined, tasted sweet and were extremely soft. Kita was so lost in the lips of her beloved that she couldn't hear the faint "Kita-chan!" That from time to time could come out of Hitori's mouth, until it was the same pinkhaired girl who would end Kita's trance by pushing her with what was left of her strength, then she reacted again and could see a panting Hitori with a deep shade of red on her face while covering her mouth with one of her hands and the other one clinging tightly to the place where her heart was.

Kita was also panting, blushing as much as Hitori but her repressed desires at the time prevented her from thinking more clearly, it was extremely hard for her to resist but then she heard Hitori trying to articulate some words.

"W-w-w-w-w-w-" It was all that could come out of Hitori's mouth, until after taking a quick breath she was able to formulate her attempted question.

"Wh-wh-what?! W-w-w-w-why?!"

She said closing her eyes, but at that time, Kita wasn't interested in giving an answer with words. She just reached over, grabbed Hitori's cheek and tried to kiss her again but this time her lips collided against Hitori's hand, who seemed to be confused still.

"Hitori-chan..."

Kita started to say but the already flustered Hitori managed to say in a weak voice, but clear to kita's ears.

"F-friends don't do this..."

'Friends' just that word was enough for Kita to feel a needle embed itself in her heart, which only worsened the mix of feelings she already had and drove her to despair even more.

"We're not friends...!"

She wanted to say that she didn't want to be just her friend, but seeing Hitori's horrified, almost crying face upon hearing those words, Kita's heart clenched and her expression showed the realization of how insensitive she was.

"No! Wait, I didn't mean it like that!"

Kita tried to clarify, quickly hugging Hitori, who weakly reciprocated her embrace.

"I didn't mean it like that Hitori-chan.... I meant that..."

She hesitated for a second, depending on the words she chose she could lose Hitori forever, that was already on her mind and it was that same fear that prevented her from being honest right now.

"I meant we're not normal friends..."

Hitori had a few small tears in her eyes, but her trembling hands clutched at Kita, who had almost instantly regretted making the girl she loved cry. It took a few seconds for them to pull themselves together. After calming down a bit, still holding each other, Hitori still not understanding what Kita was referring to, so she asked.

"W-What do you mean...?"

Kita caressing Hitori's back simply spoke with complete honesty.

"I... I don't want to be just a friend to you Hitori."

Hitori instantly noticed the absence of the 'chan' in her name and her curiosity about what Kita was saying increased.

"I want to kiss you, I think about you all the time."

Kita's blush was taking on deeper and deeper tones.

"I don't want to just be your friend!"

Was what she was able to articulate, her voice somewhat brittle but it reached Hitori, her heart pounding with such intensity that it could be heard if she got close enough.
Hitori surprised at such a statement looked at Kita for a few moments, and began to whisper.

"K-k-k-kita-chan.... I..."

Kita was prepared to hear rejection, she was sure after making such a clumsy move that Hitori considered her strange and would want nothing more to do with her. But that was not the case.

"I... I wouldn't... I-I wouldn't m-mind being... More t-than a friend... F-for you..."

Hitori's voice was lower than a whisper, but Kita heard it perfectly, her heart filled with joy and she turned to look at Hitori with hopeful, shining eyes.

"S-seriously?!"

At last, after so long and so much effort at last Kita got what he wished for.

"Y-yes... Li-like very close friends?"

.... Why didn't she see it coming?

Kita's hopeful eyes now seemed to be empty, her heart slowly seemed to dull and all her effort seemed to matter nothing.

"B-b-b-b-but... K-k-k-k-k-k-k-issing is u-uhhh..."

Hitori said with a deeper shade of red on her face and a lot of embarrassment, but she did not seem to dislike the idea.

It wasn't time to regret yet, Kita seemed to come back to life after hearing that Hitori didn't totally disagree with kissing, it wasn't a formal relationship but she could work with that!

"Don't worry Hitori! You'll get used to it!"

She hadn't won but she hadn't lost, Kita didn't give up even though the outcome isn't what she wanted.

"W-wait K-kita-...!"

Kita had pounced on Hitori, kissing her again in that same spot.

This time it was different, something changed and even though Kita wasn't entirely satisfied she can move forward with all this, after all this isn't so bad and allows her to be more affectionate with Hitori.

What could go wrong?

Chapter Text

Hitori Gotou, better known as Bocchi, is a somewhat peculiar and troubled person.

She is a socially anxious girl full of insecurities and self-doubt, she lives in constant fear of disappointing those she cares about, even if they are not many, and she is afraid of interacting with people. But she has been constantly trying to change for the better since joining Kessoku band.

Little by little her insecure thoughts began to turn into hopeful ones, she looked forward to playing with her band, with her friends who accepted her as she was and didn't judge her even though she was a weird girl. She also wanted to spend time with them, to hang out and laugh together, they have been through so much together but Hitori wished that she and her friends could continue to be together forever even in the hardest moments.

Hitori trusted her friends completely, she knew they were honest with her and cared about her despite all the problems she has to accept it, she knows that.

But Hitori is not stupid.

She, despite not being someone very sociable or not having had friends until now, knows that it is not normal for friends to kiss each other. And even less like Kita did.

She knew that only lovers could kiss each other, so why doesn't she think of Kita as someone more than a friend since she kissed her and always asks her out? Hitori was aware of KIta's actions, there was just a problem with it.

Hitori thinks that there is no way anyone could love her like that.

She hasn't related to anyone but her family, it wasn't until she met the girls that make up Kessoku band that she would start creating relationships with other people, she may be somewhat innocent when it comes to that topic but she is completely aware of it, she just prefers to ignore that possibility. She has really changed since she met Nijika, Ryo and KIta but she can't disappear what she has thought of herself all these years so far.

Hitori knew the possibility that Kita was in love with her but she preferred to think that she was just looking to be a... Intimate friend.

It is something that can be found strange, but Hitori also had other reasons to think that way, reasons that soon would turn Hitori's life upside down like never before.

...

The day before, when Kita stole Hitori's lips, everything ended up getting a little uncomfortable due to the inexperience of both, Hitori was the first to say that she wanted to leave but she made sure not to make Kita feel bad, she didn't hate her or anything like that, she was just confused and wanted to avoid Kita to tear her lips.

Kita didn't want to let her go, but she had to understand that she was like this, this was the girl she fell in love with.

Once each of them were at home Kita made sure that Hitori arrived by sending her a message and seeing that she was taking her time the readhead decided to go take a bath.

Hitori had arrived and saw Kita's message, she put a little smile knowing that the redhead genuinely cared about her, but her face burned with the memory of their kiss, making Hitori seek to hide from that memory among her sheets for a few moments.

When Kita came out of the bathroom, Hitori had already responded with "Yes Kita-chan, I'm here but I'm very sleepy, so I'll sleep now. Good night"

Kita noticed that Hitori was nervous while writing, even though she didn't show it, that was enough for made her giggle, so she replied writing with great enthusiasm "Good night Hitori, see you tomorrow!" And she left her phone on the nightstand next to her bed, she was still wearing her bathrobe while she threw herself on the bed, she looked at the ceiling for a few seconds with a somewhat serious expression.

Then a loud scream came from her room, Kita screamed so loud that it made her mother rush to see her daughter, but she was just having what seemed like a fit of embarrassment she also went and approached her still worried.

"What's wrong with you Ikuyo? The whole neighborhood could have been scared by that cry"

Her mother spoke with a very serene tone but concern was evident in her voice as she approached the bed where her daughter timidly hugged her pillow trying to blend in to hide herself.

"Nothing mom, I just... I got a little scared"

Said Kita trying to lie to her mother, she hadn't told her anything about Hitori, it's not that she didn't want to tell her but she had a feeling it wouldn't be that easy, so she decided to tell her once Hitori is her partner so that she has to accept it yes or yes, since no matter what her reaction is, she would not breaking with Hitori because of what the others say, although they are not a couple yet.

Her mother looked somewhat doubtful at the answer as she sat on the edge of the bed and then looked at Kita, who was still with her face buried in the pillow.

"Are you sure?" She asked worried about her daughter.

"Yes mom, I'm going to change and I'm going to sleep in a while" the little redhead answered, causing her mother to just give her a little kiss on the head and leave her room after saying "Good night."

Kita was left alone with her thoughts, she really kissed Hitori without warning or anything, it's practically sexual harassment! She couldn't believe what she had done until she relaxed on her bed, which made her let out that shriek filled with shame.

'WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO ME?' Kita was screaming inside her mind as she banged her head against the bed. Regardless of whether she was desperate, the fact of kissing Hitori in such a way it was not good at all, it is normal that now everything was weird between them!

'...But Hitori didn't seem be against it'

The thought of Kita made hug her pillow again, now completely red as she tried to understand why Hitori was okay with it. 'Does she like me too?' It was the first thing she thought but she didn't seem very optimistic about that idea, so she sighed and got up from the bed to start putting on her pajamas.

Hitori wasn't upset, even when they were leaving she felt a strange air, a little uncomfortably but the pink-haired girl looked for Kita with her eyes, from time to time their gazes met and their faces turned red again.

It was somewhat strange progress... But with Hitori you can't progress normally, Kita knew that since she started trying to make her fall in love.

Already lying on her bed, the redhead remembered for the last time Hitori's flushed face after kissing her... Accompanied by her face full of horror and sadness, which made Kita close her eyes as if it hurt just thinking about it.

'I don't want to make her cry again... I have to be more careful from now on' Was what Kita said before falling asleep, she really loved Hitori from the bottom of her heart but she knew it was difficult to deal with her, that was not why she was going to give up but she have to be aware that Hitori is very sensitive, she feels bad for lying to her by telling her that they are only very close friends but she was never going to progress otherwise, she made the decision she thought was right.

Although now that Hitori is avoiding her she began to think that maybe it wasn't the best idea.

Today, at school, Kita wanted to meet Hitori to say good morning (She had been doing that for a few months) but when she got to her classroom Hitori was not there and when she asked for her, her classmates told that they thought they had seen her leave, because Hitori does not usually have a presence.

Kita searched for her in some dark and lonely places where she could find her but she was nowhere to be found, as if she were a ghost. She tried to find her until classes started and Kita decided to continue at lunchtime, she was somewhat worried knowing that Hitori might be avoiding her.

'She.. Does she hate me now?' It was a thought Kita had, but she quickly shook it from her head 'I'm not going to be negative, I have to calm down'.

Once lunchtime arrived, Kita quickly ran to Hitori's classroom to find her lonely desk. She quickly went back to looking in all the places she knew where the pinkhead could hide, but again she couldn't find her.

The redhead begins to get worried knowing that she could push away the girl she loves like this, she could feel that she could cry at any moment.

Then while she was advancing through one of the hallway she heard her.

It was the sound of a guitar being played with refined and experienced skills, she could instantly recognize that it was the pink-haired girl playing that melody.

The redhead stood in front of the door to that lonly classroom, enjoying the sweet melody produced by Hitori's guitar. It was powerful as always, attractive and enveloping chords that caressed the ear of whoever listened to them. But the melody touched Kita's heart so tenderly that her negative thoughts were swept away by Hitori's beautiful chords.

When the melody stopped playing, she entered the room, opening the door very slowly. In surprise, the pink-haired girl who was sitting in a chair with her back to the entrance jumped in fright.

"So here you were hiding" Kita said in a calm tone and with a relieved smile on her face. Hitori didn't turn to look at her, she was hugging her guitar and Kita could swear that Hitori's ears were red.

"G-g-good... M-morning.."

It was the weak whisper that Hitori could let out, but Kita heard it and closed the classroom door to go towards Hitori very carefully.

She grabbed a nearby chair and sat behind her, not wanting to force her to turn around if she didn't want to.

"I heard you play from the hallway" was what Kita said with a bright smile and blush on her cheeks "it was a very beautiful melody".

The pinkhead felt the redhead's gaze on her back, causing her to slowly turn around to look at her very shyly, then Kita could see that Hitori was completely blushing because of the redhead's comment.

Hitori seemed to want to say something, her lips moved but the words did not come out of her mouth. Her eyes avoided Kita's gaze, the redhead could notice it even under the strands of hair that covered those beautiful blue eyes.

She continued like this for a few more seconds, until she gave up with what seemed to be an attempt to acknowledge the comment. But after calming down and releasing her worries in a long sigh, she pressed her tracksuit in the place where her heart was and she began to say with all the courage she could muster.

"S-sorry.. I uh...." the pink-haired girl was trying to say while looking very shy and somewhat restless.

"I... I... I was embarrassed... T-to see you"

She was apologizing for the fact that she had been avoiding the redhead all day up to this point.

Kita understood, after all she understood her well and simply shook her head looking at Hitori with eyes full of understanding while she was blushing a bit.

"It's okay Hitori, don't worry about it..." Kita moved her chair a little closer, facing Hitori, who still saw her as a little nervous.

"Can we talk a bit?" Kita knew she had to clear things up if she wanted Hitori not to feel so confused, so she confidently tried to persuade her to talk.

The pink-haired girl was about to run away, but she lost her chance as Kita asked in that calm and understanding way.

There they were just sitting in silence, both flustered and flushed as their hearts somehow raced.

It was a peaceful silence, at first it was strange but as they exchanged glances the redhead began to let out slight giggles that relaxed the pinkhead and released the tension in the air.

It was Kita who broke the silence by beginning to speak from the bottom of her heart.

"I know... What happened yesterday may be strange but I don't want you to be more confused so-" Kita moved closer, letting her hands almost reach the pinkehead's and take them "I want you to understand that-" and she stopped short.

Hitori had her eyes completely closed, and her face was redder than Kita's hair, the fact that Kita took her hands and came closer made her think that the redhead was going to kiss her again.

... What kind of test is this, God?

It's already hard for Kita to contain herself but seeing the shy Hitori wait for a kiss like that only made this girl turn on again in the same way.

She moved closer, her hands caressing the back of Hitori's hands as her face reddened again but she stopped before even touching her lips.

The surprise of not being fiercely kissed made Hitori relax her eyelids allowing her eyes to see a Kita just as red and embarrassed as her.

"Hitori..." Said the girl in front of the pink haired girl, her voice showed some vulnerability and shyness but she continued "Do you want me to kiss you...?"

The question took a while to be understood by the pink-haired girl, who began to breathe erratically, unable to answer.

'Me?... I thought Kita was the one that wanted that... Am I being teased? Did she play a joke on me? It will be-' Hitori's thoughts tend to run and come up with an answer that is increasingly far from reality due to her inexperience with her relationships, she was really afraid of not being a good friend and she couldn't understand many things that included other people or feelings that she had never experienced.

But her thoughts could not go further with the next thing she heard from the mouth of the redhead who timidly continued caressing Hitori's hands with her fingers.

"I... I don't want to do it if you don't want me to"

Hitori felt like Kita was being considerate of her, she was trying to make sure the pinkehaired girl wasn't uncomfortable with it.

'So if I don't want to... She won't kiss me, will she?' It was what Hitori thought, she was very embarrassed since yesterday because Kita had kissed her, she was confused and felt strange but then a small seed of doubt bloomed in her thoughts.

'I don't want her to kiss me?'

The question was just that, a question, but it made Hitori think beyond what it really meant.

'I... I hate that Kita kisses me?... She looks like she really loves it, if so couldn't I be good to her and allow her to kiss me? Ah... I...'

At first, she thought only of satisfying Kita, as usual she thought of others before herself, but remembering the feeling of Kita's lips on hers while kissed them desperately began to make her feel a strange feeling, one that she had never felt before. Her hands were sweating a little, her heart was beating very intensely and her face was burning, she couldn't help but feel how her lips were once again devoured by the redhead.

Kita was waiting for Hitori's response, seeing her with no intention of rushing her, she just caressed her hands and offered her comfort so that she would not go into one of her anxiety attacks.

In the pink haired girl's head the moment of the kiss that took place the day before was recreated, how out of nowhere her friend had caught her own lips so intensely between hers. She was internally debating if she really hated it, if she really didn't want her to do it, but that strange feeling and the memory of that intense kiss made one of her thoughts will escape through her mouth.

"... I prefer a gentle one..."

The words hung in the air without her realizing it, and when she did, her eyes looked up at Kita who was redder and more embarrassed to hear that. The pinkehaired impulsively stood up still holding the redhead's hands and began to try to fix what she said.

"N-no! T-that ah!" Hitori blushed even more, her ears even felt hot as shame invaded her entire being "I-I-I-I... I didn't say that I d-disliked the other one... Ah..."

When she realized what she had said she decided to just sit back down trying to cover her embarrassment letting go of Kita's hands, covering her face with her own hands.

Kita couldn't help but feel embarrassed hearing her say that, and her heart warmed seeing how the girl she likes trying to make her feel better by being honest, despite how strange she can be sometimes.

Their relationship wasn't normal, even before attempting anything more than a friendship, and probably never would be, but Kita appreciated Hitori with everything that comes with it. Hitori probably can't understand the feelings that are occurring inside her, she couldn't know if she would ever understand it but she was sure of one thing.

It all started with Kita.

All Hitori knew was that after Kita kissed her this all started to get weird. She may not be very smart but she was trying to find a solution, something to help her understand all of this.

"So..." Kita start saying with a little smile and a more lighter blush "You want that kiss too?"

It was a question like a whisper, one that traveled to Hitori's ears making her feel goosebumps all over.

Maybe, just maybe if she let Kita kiss her again she could understand all this, she just had to accept right?

As if she could do that.

Hitori was afraid, Kita had already kissed her but now that she knows what will come her worries began to accumulate. She brushed her teeth, but did she have bad breath? She doesn't usually take good care of her lips, were they dry? She is clumsy, would she ruin the mode?

But one was the one that worried her the most.

Kita and Hitori were friends, they are bandmates, they play together and go out to have fun. Wouldn't this ruin it? If this goes wrong, Kita will probably hate her and never want to know more about her, this would dissolve the band and everything she loves would go to hell.

"Hitori?"

The sweet voice of the vocalist made her stop thinking about all that, making her see Kita once again. She was just there, waiting for Hitori with a smile on her face and having a look full of understanding.

"Kita is not a bad person... She really cares about me and is thinking about me even now..." It was what the pinkehaired girl told herself in her mind, convincing herself that Kita wouldn't abandon her for anything... Even if this wasn't exactly anything.

Her blush rose to a more intense level, she was sweating a little and closed her eyes, stopping thinking and trying not to let the negative thoughts dominate her.

She eventually decided that she didn't mind letting Kita kiss her, but she couldn't put it into words because she was too embarrassed to say it but she had to do it so Kita would understand.

After thinking about it for a few more seconds, she still didn't open her eyes, she just put her hands in her lap and timidly nodded.

A very vague confirmation, but it was very Hitori.

Kita took Hitori's lack of action as an invitation to do whatever she wanted, she moved closer, dragging the chair, causing small noises that made Hitori shudder.

Her hands took the pinkette's, she placed her hands on Hitori's that were in her lap. Her face carefully approached to the girl who closed her eyes and blushed violently as she felt the redhead getting closer.

Kita also closed her eyes as she felt her face become hotter as their lips began to touch.

This kiss was not a desperate and fierce one, Hitori could feel Kita's lips gently embracing hers as they danced in a tender and gentle kiss.

Hitori's hands began to relax, her lips began to move awkwardly next to Kita's, she didn't know how to do it but neither did Kita. Although for the redhead it seemed very cute how she tried to do it despite not knowing how.

Compared to the first one, this one was very smooth and slow. Both could better feel the sensation of the union between their lips, the softness of the other's lips and their taste.

The kiss had lasted just over a minute, both separated without seeing each other's eyes. Their faces covered in deep shades of red, and their hearts beat faster.

And silence returned, there were no comments about it, they just let the sensation of the kiss remain on their lips while that kiss was recorded in their memories.

Kita just held Hitori's hands firmly to which the pinkhead just let her do so.

Neither of them knew what would happen from now on, but the fact that they were still holding each other's hands made that not a concern.

And with It seemed that Kita had taken another step forward, this time it was something more romantic and direct but it was still not clear to Hitori, or well, not that she fully realized.

But Kita knew that she couldn't let anyone find out about it, less if they were her bandmates,xshe is trying to make progress with Hitori but her methods may be questionable. If Nijika and Ryo knew that she was taking advantage of Hitori in that way, only God knows what would happen to her.

"Hitori..." Kita broke the silence, her voice was soft and she was still blushing from the kiss "Do you think we can keep this as a secret?"

She was worried that someone else would find out, but keeping a secret like this with Hitori made her heart skip a beat.

"Ah.." Hitori blurted out almost instantly, as if she had messed up something.

It can not be, right?

"I uh..." Hitori continued as she began to shake, now afraid that she had ruined everything "I... I told Nijika-chan a-about yesterday..."

Crap.

Chapter Text

Fear.

That feeling that arises from your gut and warns you of imminent danger.

It is a primordial sensation in the history of humanity, to this day it remains an important element in everyday life.

It is a common feeling in animals, since it seeks to guarantee the survival of the organism by sending signals to the body due to insecurity.

Goosebumps.

Sweating.

Increased heart rate.

All your senses become sharper.

You are more aware of your surroundings, you can feel your hair brushing the back of your neck, your fingers plucking the guitar strings and the drop of sweat running down your cheek.

Your hearing is completely occupied by the music, the deep noises of the bass penetrate your brain directly along with the strumming of the guitars and the rhythmic sound of the drums hits your body.

But it's not all.

The muscles are tense, prepared to flee. Spasms run through your body and fear travels through your veins.

Kita's entire body is eager to escape from the piercing gaze of crimson eyes watching her from that throne behind the drums.

...

Shortly after that moment in that empty room, Hitori explained to Kita that she had already told to Nijika about it.

It turns out that the blonde and the pink-haired girl have had a very trusting relationship for some time now, although Kita didn't know that.

Needless to say, she was a little jealous when she heard that but that was the last thing that mattered!

Now Nijika knew what Kita had done to the innocent pink-haired guitarist, she couldn't feel anything but fear knowing what she would do to her knowing that the blonde is very protective of her... Maybe too much.

The redhead was expecting a storm and that scared her, she didn't want her friends to think of her as if she were a criminal!

Although if she explained the situation to her it might not turn out so bad, right?

...

To no one's surprise, Kita had not said anything even to her bandmates and her closest friends, this was because she didn't know if she and Hitori would become something more, and she was even afraid of creating unnecessary tension in the band.

Ironically, the only person Kita has told that she likes Hitori is the pink-haired girl herself, although those attempts, as we already know, were not very effective.

Now that the two guitarists from Kessoku Band are arriving at STARRY, the redhead can't help but feel nervous and want to run away.

If you asked Kita, why not make up an excuse to miss practice? Well, firstly because Hitori was the one who asked her if they could go together, it was nothing new but Kita could never say no when she asked to accompany her since Hitori feels less anxious on the road with the redhead.

Second because she knew that if she ran and didn't explain things now, things would get much worse, it was a complex situation but she was convinced that she could make Nijika understand that she's not doing anything wrong, or at least nothing very serious.

After all, they are friends.

...

That was what Kita thought before feeling the blonde's murderous gaze on her back.

Hitori and Kita arrived at the STARRY where Ryo and Nijika were waiting for them, who were sitting talking about something.

The moment they entered, Kita was prepared for an imminent scolding, but in the end it was not like that, Nijika stood up enthusiastically and greeted them as always.

It was pretty much the same as any other day, Ryo making her funny comments about making money with Bocchi or some other stupid thing, to which Nijika would hit her on the head and then all laugh together, there really seemed to be no problems of any kind and that made Kita feel safe.

That is, until they started practicing and Nijika's true emotions were being directed towards the redhead.

At first the vocalist thought it was her imagination, but after feeling it a few more times she confirmed that, indeed, her body felt danger in the blonde's gaze.

The fact that she could be so scary made her remember the manager and a revelation appeared in her mind 'You can tell they are sisters'.

But it was just a thought that would die silently as she was fearing for her life right now.

And apparently, she was the only one who noticed it.

Hitori was completely immersed in the incredible guitar playing and Ryo showing off her already well-known skills with the bass, a duo that usually focuses solely on the music when playing.

Despite this tense situation, the practice went well, everyone played as they should and none of them lost their rhythm, even Hitori could say that Kita played with greater precision, as if her life depended on it

"Very good, you all did a great job!" the blonde said enthusiastically as they finished the last song.

Kita couldn't help but sigh of relief as she felt that the gaze that penetrated her being had disappeared... At least for now.

The idea of making a girl who is so cute and small give off such an aura made the redhead doubt her methods but in the end she just accepted that this was not going to be as easy as she had thought.

"Bocchi, let's try to finish the new song" said Ryo who approached Hitori after having carefully put away her bass "Ah.. Yes" The pink haired girl said as she put away her guitar and then picked up her backpack and looked for her notebook.

Hearing this, the redhead's eyes shine.

Kita saw this while also putting her things away and started walking towards them, thinking It was really an incredible opportunity, Nijika wasn't going to scold her in front of Hitori because she'll think it's her fault and this way she could escape from the blonde drummer "Let me join you-"

Oh, poor Kita.

Unfortunately for her, she was stopped in her tracks by a hand that landed on her shoulder and held her firmly, it was a grip too strong to be from a small blonde girl.

"Kita-chan, why don't you help me here instead?" Nijika said making Kita gulp, she slowly turned to look at her and weakly started to say "B-but.."

"Have fun, you two," said Ryo, who with Bocchi left the room and Kita was left with a 'Wait!' stuck in her throat when she saw how the bluehead closed the door behind her.

They were alone in the room, Kita was alone with Nijika. This has never made her feel uncomfortable but right now she fears for her safety, so much so that she turned very cautiously to look with great fear at the girl who was still holding her shoulder only to find the same murderous look she felt when they were practicing, crimson eyes that seemed to tear Kita's skin when her gaze fell on her.

She was petrified for a moment when their eyes met. Kita began to tremble a little but a few seconds later the blonde closed her eyes and smiled kindly at her gaze.

"Please don't hurt me..." It was the petition of a resigned Kita who prayed not to get hurt, still confused by her friend's mysterious intentions.

"I don't know what you're talking about, let's go clean together" the blonde said with that smile on her face, leaving Kita even more confused and terrified by the uncertainty of what she will do to her.

Then, against her will, she was dragged by the blonde to one of the rooms where they kept the material while Hitori and Ryo went to the room where they had creative ideas.

...

They had started cleaning without saying much, Kita was organizing some boxes with old equipment while Nijika was sweeping the dust from the floor.

The silence made everything more disturbing for the redhead who had not yet been able to break the silence.

But she didn't have to, since the blonde began to speak while she continued sweeping, concentrating on her work.

"Kita-chan" Upon hearing her name, the redhead jumped in fright, it took her a few more seconds to respond "Y-yes?"

The air was beginning to cool, some chills ran down Kita's spine, she knew this was no coincidence, Nijika took her away from the other two to talk to her.

Finally, after another brief tension-filled silence, the blonde began to speak.

"What do you want?" She was direct, without hesitation and even without looking at the redhead, who swallowed hard upon hearing her question.

Once again, the desire to lie to escape from this situation only intensified, but the redhead did not run, she took a breath and slowly turned to look at the blonde that she still didn't turn.

"...What exactly are you talking about?" Kita wasn't trying to play dumb, she was just trying to make sure that's exactly what Nijika is asking.

Nijika stopped sweeping when she heard Kita, she is not irrational and understands from Kita's tone of voice that the readhead really wants to know what exactly she means.

She slowly turned around with a serious expression, her gaze directly into Kita's green eyes and tightly gripping the broom she was holding.

"Let me rephrase the question..." The blonde said before taking a breath and bringing one of her hands to her chest.

"What are you trying to do by lying Hitori like that?"

The question hit Kita like a bucket of cold water, it was true that he had been lying to the girl she likes... Well, yes and no.

Kita understood the situation because she caused it herself, but she would have to make the effort to make it known to her friend so that this horrendous misunderstanding does not reach undesirable levels.

The redhead was searching for the right words for a few seconds to respond, but before even saying a word the blonde continued talking.

"You... You're not taking advantage of her are you?" Nijika said, Kita could sense that by asking the question she was hoping she wasn't right.

Kita almost instantly responded with a "No!" It filled the room and apparently made the drummer relax a little.

Then, she took one last breath and started to say, "I... I'm trying to get her to take me seriously."

"Ehh?" It was an almost immediate response, Nijika was confused and somewhat dissatisfied with the answer given.

"I'm... Uh.." The redhead was gathering the courage to continue with her explanation, when she saw the crimson eyes staring at her waiting for an answer and then she continued.

"I... I'm in love..." her face started to turn a deep shade of red and her voice was a little shaky.

"...With Bocchi-chan?"

The redhead was somewhat attentive to her answer, the blonde said it even before she finished.

"How you-" was what she started to say before noticing that the blonde girl had started to shed a few tears, but her face still seemed set, as if she didn't realize she was crying.

"Nijika-senpai?..." Kita's voice showed understanding and some pain when she saw how her friend was crying, she tried to get a little closer but heard what she said.

"H-huh?" And that was where she noticed the tears that were rolling down her cheek, she desperately tried to hide them but it was too late since Kita noticed it.

"It's okay! I'm fine, really" She tried to wipe away all the tears but new tears kept coming.

They began to hear footsteps, the footsteps of Kita who was approaching the girl who was in front of her.

"I'm really fine, please don't worry about-" Nijika said but her attempt at an excuse was drowned out in a hug. Kita went to her and gently surrounded her with a warm hug.

The blonde only felt how more tears were welling up in her eyes and she seemed a little hesitant when it came to reciprocating the hug.

"It's okay..." Was all Kita said, who hugged the blonde a little tighter, who had begun to cry harder upon hearing and feeling her friend's warmth.

Kita may have loved Hitori, but she also loves her friends and bandmates. She felt her friend's sadness and couldn't help but want to hug her to relieve the pain and Nijika couldn't help but want a hug to feel better, they both had similar thoughts since they get along very well, they are very good friends after all.

And they stayed like that for a few minutes, both clinging to each other, enjoying a warm and silent hug, punctuated from time to time by some sobs from the drummer.

'I've never seen Nijika-senpai like this...' was what the dismayed Kita thought as she caressed her friend's back.

Despite the time they had shared and their experiences of all kinds, both good and bad, she had never seen Nijika so... Vulnerable. Kita could only console her until she decided when to stop and start telling what was tormenting her, the wait wasn't long because shortly after she separated from the hug, still rubbing her eyes.

"I'm... I'm fine now..." Was what she said, still with some sobs.

After seeing her like this, it's hard for Kita to assimilate that the girl who looked like she could glare at her was now so helpless and sensitive... But that doesn't matter now.

"Are you sure?..." Kita said with a soft and calm voice as she placed her hand on the blonde's shoulder.

"I'm..." She started to say and when she felt her friend's hand on her shoulder she brought her hand up to her and squeezed it, as if she was desperate to understand something she didn't understand.

"You... You're so stupid..." The little blonde started to say as tears began to form again in her eyes and the redhead was a little surprised to hear her say that, she wasn't expecting that.

"W-why do you say that?" Somewhat confused, she began to feel guilty seeing that her friend was calling her stupid while she began to cry again, this completely made her look like a villain taking advantage of a sweet maiden.

She took a breath wiping away the last tears that remained, then saw her again with a serious look still holding her hand, preventing Kita from looking away.

"You're... You're cheating!" She let out a kind of tantrum, a cute one if you asked Kita "You're taking advantage of the fact that Bocchi-chan isn't aware enough that someone might like her! And... And..."

Nijika began to turn red, her look seemed to have some embarrassment.

"You went and stole her first kiss in that wild way!" Her voice held a tone of anger but at the same time embarrassment, Kita's face turned even redder and she started to shake a little, as if she had been dealt a low blow

And as Kita feared, now her outbursts of desire for the pink-haired girl were exposed to her friend.

"It's... It's not fair!" Nijika had regained her composure only to start scolding Kita "Do you know how long I've been trying to make her fall in love with me and you come to steal her first kiss?!"

The redhead was thinking about how childish her friend is acting, she had already seen signs that she was like that a little bit but since most of the time she is like a mother she hadn't thought about it at all.

Kita was being overwhelmed by the usual Nijika who usually scolded only Hiroi or Ryo like this, she had mixed feelings about everything that was happening but one thing overcame the rest.

"Y-you like Hitori too?" Kita asked with some curiosity as she watched her friend take her signature scolding pose: putting her hands on her hips.

"Of course I like her, you big idiot" Kita was still absorbing what she was saying but being insulted was starting to piss her off. "Not only do I like her, I love her a lot! She is very kind, since I met her I knew she was very special but I didn't imagine I would come to like her like that!"

She began to tell her friend, as if her deep repressed thoughts were coming to light.

"When I had already noticed it, I would look for her at concerts and at practices, I would enjoy her company anywhere and I would invite her to go out to many places, although we normally spent it in my house-"

Wow, so they had been thinking the same thing all this time, what a coincidence that they thought and felt exactly the same thing. Kita completely understood her friend and couldn't help but feel empathy upon hearing her story... Wait a minute.

"SO IT WAS YOU!" Kita she exclaimed at the revelation that Nijika was also trying to make her fall in love with almost the same methods as her.

That would explain why Hitori, no matter what, considered everything as normal between friends, if they were her only friends and they do the same thing then it makes sense.

At least according to Hitori's logic, who needless to say doesn't have many friends.

"What do you mean?" Nijika asked, surprised by Kita's sudden scream.

"Ugh... I'll explain it to you but let's calm down"

...

"I see..." both of them had sat on two chairs that they found nearby while they finished discussing the topic of Hitori "So to sum it up, Bocchi-chan doesn't know the difference between a friends outing and a date because we both act alike?"

"Yeah... That's what I think" Kita finished explaining while resting her hands on her lap.

"It makes sense... Also, we're talking about Bocchi-chan..." Nijika accepted the hypothesis knowing Hitori, after all they know her very well and Hitori believed Kita's absurd story.

"But that doesn't give you the right to take advantage of her ignorance!" Nijika crossed her arms, looking at Kita with the same serious look with which she told her all her feelings.

"I was desperate, okay?!" Kita admitted with a lot of embarrassment and deep shades of red on her cheeks "I tried so hard to get her to notice me but nothing ever worked! It's all Hitori's fault!"

"Well..." Nijika blushed a little as she remembered that recently she cried out of helplessness when she realized that someone else had stolen the first kiss of her crush for the same reason as her "I can understand that... At least a little"

They both remained silent for a few moments, assimilating the situation and avoiding eye contact... There was still some tension in the air.

"Uh.. Nijika-senpai" the redhead broke the silence with a weak voice, somewhat vulnerable as she played with her hands.

The blonde just turned to look at her, watching her play with her hands, waiting for her to finish her sentence.

"You..." Kita seemed to tremble, she was afraid to continue but she swallowed and continued "Do you hate me now?..."

Nijika's eyes widened as she heard Kita's question, seeing her so frightened by the idea made her smile a little, even after all this and remembering that when she started to cry, her friend had hugged her to calm her down and make her feel better, it was a somewhat confusing feeling since she was still angry with her but not enough to hate her or stop considering her friend.

"I do not hate you, I can't hate you even if I wanted to." Nijika looked at her and offered her a sincere smile, a smile that only she could make look so honest and warm.

"You are very important to me after all, I wouldn't want our friendship to be ruined." Kita sighed in relief and smiled, also moved by the words of her friend who was sitting in front of her.

"Thank you very much, Nijika-senpai..." Nijika stood up from her chair and seemed to exude her aura again, full of life and energy "The 'senpai' is unnecessary" She said as she smiled at her redhead friend.

Kita was happy, she was really very happy to know that she still had her friend even knowing that they liked the same person.

"So, Nijika... Are we rivals now?" Kita said in a playful tone, trying to bring the topic in a lighthearted manner.

"You could say yes, although I'm not going to let you get ahead of me any further" The blonde declared to the redhead, a confident look on her face.

Kita felt a little guilty hearing that, Nijika knew just where to touch to make her feel remorse.

"You're not going to stop bothering me with that, are you?..." Kita blushed a little and stood up as well, following the energetic blonde.

"Nope, never" they began to laugh very animatedly, as if everything that had happened was just a childish fight.

A moment of tranquility, what Kita feared was that her relationship with her friends in the band was going to be damaged by her reckless actions but everything is fine now.

But within that beautiful and unique moment shared by the friends who have just made their friendship stronger, a feeling arose, another thought was blooming between those lively and happy laughter as they dissipated the tension, it was a thought that they both shared at the same time.

'If you think I'm going to let you have Hitori/Bocchi-chan you have more chest than brain'

Then an inexplicable feeling of competition was born between the two, neither of them knew that they thought exactly the same thing but somehow they felt insulted for no apparent reason.

Now not only do they know that they both love the same person, they are also aware that neither of them seems to want to go back and will continue with everything they have.

Unfortunately for the blonde girl, the redhead has the advantage because when the situation calls for it she can be a total scoundrel.

"Should we see how Ryo and Bocchi-chan are doing?" It was Nijika, who despite feeling insulted, gave an alternative to staying here and giving the opportunity for another fight to happen.

"Let's go then" Kita said and they both started towards the composer duo who were doing their job.

Kita had finally shared the feelings she had for Hitori and Nijika did it too, it seems that they had it well kept to themselves although they never gave up and continued trying court her in every way possible, it wasn't so strange that they both did the same since they think very alike but the fact that they haven't made any progress (not counting Kita's misunderstanding) It was still bothering Kita's head, even since yesterday.

"But it's still strange... Isn't it?" Before walking through the door Kita stopped and asked out loud, catching the attention of the blonde who was about to open the door.

"Exactly what?" The drummer said, turning around to face the redhead.

"Even though you and I have acted similarly, we are not her only friends, Ryo is too, so she must feel the difference, right?" Kita explained as she brought her right hand to her chin and her left hand rested on her hip.

"Now that you mention it..." Nijika also became thoughtful as she closed her eyes, she seemed to be analyzing everything that has been happening.

Then an idea arose in both minds.

"Nahhh" It was what they both said in unison, they seemed to be joking and about to burst out laughing.

"I think we're thinking too much about it haha" Nijika said while laughing along with Kita, who responded "You're right, I don't think Ryo-senpai is affectionate with Hitori haha"

Haha...

Ha...

It can't be, right?

They both stopped laughing suddenly, looking into each other's eyes in disbelief as if they had just understood an important event.

Then like two bolts of lightning, they passed through the door that opened wide, leaving an open view of the two girls who were working on the last song.

Well, actually only Hitori could be seen.

They both analyzed the surroundings and there didn't seem to be anything out of the ordinary, Hitori was sitting in her chair while writing something in her notebook, but her gaze was on those who entered so abruptly and scared her.

"W-w-w-what happened?" The pink haired girl is still scared by the intense sound of the door.

They both let out a sigh of relief, they seemed to have gotten rid of their suspicions and they saw each other again, now smiling in relief.

"Nothing Hitori, we came to see how you two were doing" Kita began to cross the room with Nijika to Hitori "Where is Ryo-senpai?"

"Ah" Hitori said and Kita got a feeling of deja vu "Ryo w-went to prepare t-things at her house."

"Wait, what do you mean at her house?" Nijika asked very strange and confused.

"Ryo and I u-usually work on songs in her room... So-sometimes we do it in o-other places but usually at her house..."

The three remained silent for a few seconds, Hitori looked very confused at the reaction of the redhead and the blonde who seemed worried.

"Hitori..." Kita began to say while covering her face with one of her hands "You two usually do anything else besides composing music?"

Nijika seemed to already know the answer but still narrowed her eyes, as if she were waiting for a shock of reality.

"Ah... N-normal friend stuff, I-I guess"

Well, what did you expect?

"Bocchi-chan... Things huh... Like the ones you do with me or Kita?" The blonde tried to make an effort to get the pinkhaired girl to confirm their suspicions.

Hitori thought for a few seconds before answering, then nodded and asked somewhat confused "Why?"

...

Damn it!

Chapter Text

The day was almost ending, the tranquility of the night began to cover the atmosphere of that beautiful and homely house.

The pink-haired girl was waiting sitting on the couch, you could tell by the play of her fingers that she was somewhat anxious and her gaze was fixed on the floor.

A voice made her turn up, a soft yet confident voice that announced her nickname with great serenity.

The blue-haired girl entered the living room from the kitchen, with two cups of steaming tea, an intoxicating aroma filled the room and headed towards Hitori's nose, who was enjoying that familiar smell, one that she loved.

Ryo prepared to leave a cup of tea for Hitori right in front of her on a small round wooden table that matched the red wine-colored sofas and sat next to her on that sofa.

Hitori thanked her softly for the sweet gesture, although this was something that happened every time she came.

The aroma of that delicious tea that she can always taste again every time she is at Ryo's house made her take the cup in her hands and she brought it to her lips, forming a small circle with them to blow on the cup and cool the tea, causing the smoke to deflect toward the front.

She tenderly closed her eyes and took the first sip, a drink full of flavor that made her tongue dance with joy, the heat of the tea traveled throughout her body warming and making her feel relaxed and comfortable.

"It's good?" The blue-haired girl asked after picking up the her own cup, smiling slightly as she watched the girl next to her enjoy the tea she made.

The pinkhaired nodded gently with the cup still in her hands "It's delicious as always" she whispered with a voice so gentle that the desire to hug her grew inside anyone.

And there was a brief silence, they exchanged glances and both smiled. There may be silence but it is not uncomfortable between them, two people who are not much for going out or hang out with other people enjoy of the peace that being this way generates.

A truly calming setting, a moment to enjoy and relax the mind and body, a gentle caress for the soul.

And a loud sip made the blue-haired girl turn to see two people who were having tea while they looked at them with bitterness.

Before addressing the red-haired girl and the blonde girl, she took a reassuring sip of that delicious tea, again left the cup on the table and turned to see them with a little smile.

"Why the frick are you two here?"

...

Upon discovering that Hitori was preparing to go to Ryo's house, the newly formed duo wants to explore the relationship between the bassist and lead guitarist.

So, without notifying the owner of the house, they convinced the pink-haired girl so that they could go with her.

Along the way, they tried to get useful information out of Hitori but it wasn't very helpful, since her answers were generally 'Creative processes and normal friend stuff'.

Dissatisfied with the idea of remain in doubt about this new mystery, they decided to get to the bottom of this situation.

When they finally arrived, Ryo directly opened the door "Hey, Bocchi" was how he greeted the pink-haired girl who was ahead.

But her gaze went straight to the girls standing right behind Hitori, seeing faces with innocent smiles as they greeted her.

"Eh... I don't remember inviting you guys" Ryo tried to sound as sarcastic as possible, making her other two bandmates feel one of their arteries enlarge with fury.

"We just decided it would be a good idea to come, I don't think there's a problem with that right?" The blonde girl tried to hide her anger and she spoke as usual "Besides, you always go to my house to eat for free, don't you think it's fair that I also come from time to time?"

A strong response that she couldn't deny anything about, she reluctantly accepted and turned her gaze to the red-haired girl "What about Ikuyo?"

"Do I need a reason, Ryo-senpai?" Unlike Nijika, Kita was radiating a more evil version of Kitaura! And Ryo can't tell which is more terrifying, the kitaura or the fact that she uses it while smiling sweetly.

"Uh.. No, not really" Ryo responded after sighing and letting the three girls enter.

And that's how they unexpectedly went to Ryo's house.

...

"There's nothing wrong with spending time like this as a band" The blonde tried to excuse herself while hiding behind her cup of tea, and both she and the redhead were thinking about how comfortable the pink head and the blue head were there a moment ago, as if they weren't there which, obviously, made them jealous "also, maybe this will help Bocchi-chan, like her inspiration or something"

She didn't notice it, but she blushed a little when she thought about that idea, although that didn't go unnoticed by the redhead who looked at her contemptuously like she knows exactly what the drummer thinks.

"I don't have a problem with it but..." the bluenette sighs, turning to the girl next to her "doesn't it bother you, Bocchi?"

"Ah.. Uh..." The pink haired girl started to babble a little before giving a clear answer "I-it's not that it b-bothers me..."

Both the blonde and the redhead were attentive to what the pinkette was about to say.

"I... I would be very embarrassed..."

'Embarrassed?' In Nijika and Kita's heads, Hitori's response only raised more doubts.

"You don't have to, Bocchi, it's just a creative process so take it like any other day" assured Ryo who, to calm Hitori, put one of her hands on her shoulder.

'Creative process?', 'Like any other day?' At this moment they only wonder how much they have missed from this unexpected relationship.

"Ah... Uh... Okay." Hitori resigned and nodded, still a little red.

Kita began to worry when she saw Hitori's reactions, Nijika too, but she was more curious to see how they have been working on all the songs together.

Then the blue-haired girl got up from her seat and was timidly followed by the pink-haired girl.

"W-where are you two going?" Kita asked as she watched them get up.

Ryo did not answer, she just went straight towards the stairs, Hitori who stayed behind was the one who gave the answer "T-to Ryo's r-room..."

After answering Hitori followed Ryo up the stairs, behind were Nijika and Kita who still seemed to be confused by all this.

"That Ryo... What the hell does she think?" The blonde got up and turned to see her friend "let's g-" Then she noticed that Kita was about to collapse.

"K-kita?!" The blonde worried about her friend grabbed her shoulders as she began to shake her.

"Hitori... What did she do to you to make those reactions?..." Her eyes seemed to lose their shine and her voice was weak. "I can't believe she took advantage of your innocence like that..."

"Hey, hey, come to your senses" Nijika shook her violently and to wake her up she started slapping Kita's cheeks. "Besides, I don't want to hear that from you."

After a moment to compose herself, Kita was back to her senses and stood up from the couch "I'm still nervous..."

"Don't worry," they both began to head upstairs, towards Ryo's room. "Ryo isn't one to make a lot of physical contact, I highly doubt that she will do anything inappropriate or very daring."

"Nijika..." Kita shook her head and seemed to regain a little shine. "If you say it, it must be true, of us you are the one who knows her best."

"I have never seen her like physical contact, even I've only hugged her a few times and she seems to barely stand it" They were both already at the door and the blonde grabbed the knob to open the door "You worry a lot Kita, the only danger for Bocchi is you."

The blonde opened the door and took a step inside, followed by Kita "How mean! I don't-" Then she collided with the drummer who was standing at the entrance to the room. "Hey, what's wrong with you-" and she immediately understood as she took a look of the room.

There was Hitori, without the top part of her tracksuit, wearing a black t-shirt which is not at all strange, both of them have already seen Hitori like this on several occasions, the strange thing about all this was that she was sitting on Ryo's lap!

There was a small table at ground level where you could see a notebook and some crumpled papers, Ryo was sitting on the rug while Hitori was sitting on her lap, the blue-haired girl's hands were tenderly surrounding the pink-haired girl, as if she were hugging a stuffed animal.

Nijika was stunned at the unexpected sight of Ryo and Hitori like that. This was certainly something she couldn't imagine after spending so much time with her.

However, the blue-haired girl and the pink-haired girl didn't even notice that they entered, it seemed as if they were so immersed in it that the rest didn't seem to exist.

Of course, until an evil kitaura filled the room and made Hitori shake from the sensation it produced.

In that, Ryo also felt it, although for her it was something more like a murderous instinct "Oh, it's you two" she said, looking towards them but without letting go of Hitori at all.

"What the hell are you two doing?" Kita said without hesitation in containing her already notorious anger, even Nijika who was not supposed to be the target of it had an unpleasant feeling and wanted to leave.

"Ah... N-normal friends stuff" Hitori said without much hesitation, finding the atmosphere somewhat tense without knowing why. In doing so, Ryo brought her face close to the pink-haired girl's ear, although her gaze was fixed on the notebook in which Hitori was writing.

"You can keep putting a little more feeling into it..." Ryo whispered with a remarkable calm, as if she hadn't previously felt that strange and malevolent aura radiating from the redhead who was now looking at them with confusion.

Upon hearing Ryo's voice, Hitori took one last look at Nijika and Kita before starting to write again in her notebook, returning to what seemed like a state of total concentration, Ryo hugged her firmly and rested her head on Hitori's shoulder as she watched her write, it seemed to be a kind of... Creative process?

The way Hitori was so focused that her pencil moved quickly and her eyes, despite not leaving her notebook, were full of life and feelings. Nijika thought that she looked almost as beautiful as when she plays and lets herself be carried away by the music, she can certainly feel the passion for Hitori's music that is somehow exploited thanks to Ryo....

But that doesn't make her feel any less jealous!

"What kind of creative process is this?! Why does it have to be like this?! Why am I not the one in Ryo's place?!!!!!!!!" Nijika thought all this while watching from the door as they continued with it, however she did not dare to approach because she was afraid of disturbing Hitori.

Something that didn't seem to bother Kita, who was about to attack Ryo, however, she was stopped by Nijika who was trying to be as rational as possible.

But it wasn't so necessary, because Hitori raised her notebook as if she were holding up a prize for first place.

"I finished!" She exclaimed with a feeling of satisfaction as she remained surrounded by Ryo's arms, who smiled slightly at the pinkette who was so excited "You did well, Bocchi" She said before starting to pet her head sweetly, as if she were some kind of puppy.

And again, between those cute (and somewhat strange) laughs, Hitori was letting Ryo pet her and it seemed like this moment was created specifically for them.

Unfortunately, it wasn't just them, there was a very jealous blonde and a redhead who were slowly approaching the place where they were.

It was Hitori who first noticed that they were approaching and smiled sweetly at them, as happy and proud as she only does after a big concert.

Seeing her like this, both of their hearts filled with sweetness and their jealousy and murderous instincts dissipated into the air, luckily for Ryo.

With a calmer mind, Kita took all her jealousy and put it aside just for Hitori, then began to speak.

"Ahem, can you show us your work Hitori?"

Hitori's eyes shone at that very moment, she was so happy to have finished that the only thing she thought about now was music, upon hearing Kita's request she began to get up.

"Yes I-!"

And she stopped dead, her attempt to get up thwarted by a blue-haired girl, who refused to let go of her just yet.

"R-Ryo?"

Hitori asked, who was surprised by her friend's action.

Hitori couldn't see her, but Ryo was blushing a little, which was very unusual for her, in the end, she just gave a light sigh and let her go without further ado. Something that did not go unnoticed by the two girls.

"Well... "

Nijika was trying to dissipate some of the tension there was, and avoid generating more.

"Why don't we go over the lyrics together? It's a good opportunity for an unexpected reunion for Kessoku Band!"

Ryo sensed sincerity in Nijika's enthusiasm, and couldn't help but get carried away by her as she usually does.

"Only if you make something to eat"

Was what the bluenette said, causing a small tantrum in the blonde, who despite reproaching her did not refuse to do so.

Kita also decided to go with the flow, after all, an unscheduled meeting sounded really good.

After a while reviewing Hitori's new lyrics and all just passing the time together, they ate the food that Nijika cooked and had a great time, like they usually did. The relationship that the members of Kessoku Band had was undoubtedly enviable, it was something that they all appreciated, especially Hitori.

There were moments where Hitori felt a little tension between her other friends, she didn't know what it could be but they all continued to coexist and smile genuinely. Nijika and Ryo performed their usual duo where the bluenette said something stupid and Nijika hit her, then they all laughed.

Kita also took advantage of the situation and convinced everyone to take a photo, Hitori resisted a little but it was in vain since deep down she also wanted to.

A beautiful memory of her dear friends, how could Hitori not want something like that?

.

.

.

Without realizing it thanks to the fun they were having, the time to say goodbye was approaching, everyone headed to the hall after spending a pleasant time together.

"Thank you very much for having us Ryo, it was really a lot of fun, we should do it again!!"

Nijika said with great enthusiasm, to which Ryo smiled slightly and sighed, not in a bad way.

"Next time, let me know you're coming."

Nijika and Kita laughed a little embarrassed by the answer, because they were somewhat impulsive by coming just because of what Hitori said.

Ah.

They had forgotten what their purpose was in coming here.

After coming back to reality, they both let those feelings go, they had spent a very good time together after all.

'meh, we'll find out more another day, today was fun enough' That was what the two girls who came here impulsively thought.

"So Hitori, do you want me to walk you to the station?" Asked an excited Kita, who was somewhat happy to be able to spend a little more time with the girl she liked.

"In that case, I would also like to accompany you two, I wouldn't feel good if I didn't know that you arrived safely to the station" Nijika added before smiling kindly, as if she wasn't jealous of the idea of leaving Kita and Hitori alone.

Kita seemed to be about to say something again, but Hitori's voice came through and caught both girls' attention.

"Eh... The truth is I... I-I'm going to stay over"

"What?" Was what the redhead and the blonde said in unison, incredulous of what they was hearing.

"Bocchi always stays over when we do this, it's nothing new" Was what the blue-haired girl said as if it were really nothing out of the ordinary.

"Well, I hope you arrive safely and be careful" That's what Ryo said before she started to close the door.

"B-Be careful, g-good night!" Hitori managed to say before Ryo closed the door and the pinkette could assure that Nijika and Kita's faces seemed stunned.

And so ended this day with the band, Hitori was quite happy to be able to share these moments with her friends, remembering the laughs she shared with everyone today, feeling her heart unusually warm.

"Come on, Bocchi, I'll prepare the bath for you." Ryo said after closing the door and starting her way towards Hitori.

She just nodded enthusiastically before smiling shyly, although this had happened before, it was still somewhat embarrassing for her to bathe in another house.

Although, to no one's surprise, they were interrupted by someone ringing the doorbell.

Damn, who could it be?

Ryo walked back to the door and open it slightly to see who it was and even before she could say anything, two hands went between the door and the frame, with almost Herculean strength, a blonde with crimson eyes began to push the door apart with terrifying ease, even though Ryo was resisting.

"It's already late at night," she said in a voice Ryo found unusually intimidating. "You wouldn't just let two delicate girls walk back home like that, would you?"

Ryo wanted to refuse, but she wanted even more to live another day, doubting in the depths of her mind whether anyone would find this little blond gorilla delicate... Normally she might have made the joke, but now that she feels a barbed wire around her throat, she refrained.

"Uh... No... You can stay."

Ryo struggled desperately to suppress the girlish scream that formed in her throat.