Archive of Our Own

On a typical night in Sixth Street, Belle went to 141 Convenience Store with Nicole to buy some general store quality cosmetics. While browsing through the aisle of mascara, lipsticks, and skincare, Belle took a few glances at Nicole, who was wearing lots of bright colors on her face today.

For reference, Nicole's usual makeup look consists of a thin cat eyeliner, mascara, subtle, sweet pink eyeshadow, and a light pink lippie. Today, the look has been elevated in saturation and shine, with lids a hot pink ombre that fades into a lime green, and lips iridescent and shimmery. Additionally, there was some jewel stickers on Nicole's left cheek shaped like bunnies and stars. With these fine additions, Nicole’s face looks super cute and vibrant, perfectly color coordinating with her candy colored nails!

Upon noticing Belle's gaze, the pinked haired girl then spoke up, waving her hand in front of the blue haired girl's eyes.

"Proxy? Helloooooo~?"

"Hm! Did I stare off again?"

"I was about to start charging you for every minute of you staring!"

"Huh?!"

"Haha! That look on your face! I'm kidding, but I might consider it if you do that next time~."

"Uh huh sure," Belle playfully rolled her eyes, before pointing to the pink haired girl’s eyes. "I know you like a lot of bright colors, but today your makeup looks a little more...flashy."

In contrast to Nicole's vibrant makeup that perfectly goes well with her multicolored creme polishes and outfit, Belle's makeup was as usual, so subtle you wouldn't realize unless you look very close. By that, it’s just one thing of peachy eyeshadow and some lip balm. Nothing too fancy, but pretty basic. For nails, they too were simple, either it’s just black or nothing. The one time she even bothered to do nail art was when she and Wise got their new Yunkui Summit uniforms from Yixuan Shifu. Excited for these new sets of clothes, she happily spent hours in her room painting her nails while humming the newest Astra Yao album: her newest monthly obsession.

So really, Belle isn’t opposed to girly things. In fact she very much enjoys it. Well, as long as it isn’t to the extremes. A shame she doesn't think about that sort of stuff very often considering how preoccupied she is with commissions or just doesn't feel like it. Although, if it came to hanging out with female friends who wanted to change up their looks, she'll tag along. Many went out of their way to invite Belle to stock up on cosmetics, go clothes shopping, or accompany them to their salon appointments. But there were days when they suggested testing some new makeup products on Belle, who initially hesitated before going along with it.

Just last week, Astra and Evelyn visited Belle to try out some PR makeup together, some of which she got to keep two glosses as a token of their friendship. Then the week before that, Nicole, Anby, and Belle restocked Nicole’s foundation bottle upon scolding Billy for trying to hide that he knocked her foundation bottle by adding water to it. Again.

Two days even before, she had a run in with Caesar asking Lucy for cosmetic recommendations at the beauty salon, then Belle went to buy new nail polishes with Vivian, who had been interested in doing more Lord Phaethon themed nail art.

Smiling at the work of art on her face, Nicole twirled her hair and smiled.

"That means you have very good tastes. The Cunning Hares found a good paying commission that got us a whole lotta Dennies to last for a month or two! I decided to reward myself with this trendy look I saw on the Inter-Knot~. I think if I wear this style, I'll have double the luck striking it rich!"

"So rich that you could pay us back?"

"Ahem.. well that's...that's not the point! I'm in a good mood right now, so I don't need to be hearing that...!" Nicole pouts. "You could at least say even more great things about my makeup today!"

"Well in the best way possible, it's very eye-catching."

"Wanna give the look a try? Doing your makeup myself does sounds pretty tempting. Besides, maybe you can also get great luck out of it.”

"Hah...you wouldn't happen to be the first to say that. Though I have gotten plenty of makeovers from others, they often told me how they also want to give Wise one too haha~."

"Hahaha! Now that I'd love to try!" Nicole laughs.

A chime noise played from Belle's phone, indicating something that demanded her attention.

Reading the message, Belle's eyes widen for a brief moment before there was a faint blush creeping on her face then spread through her ears. Nicole not wanting to miss out, side-eyed Belle's Knock Knock screen and slowly slid a little to her side.

With the best that she could pick out, she read the following. It was a lengthy text message likely transcribed via audio:

> Harumasa: Yo Belle! I want to see you today! Heh~ Did that come out of the blue? I'd like to think I'm pretty good at making people surprised. Usually, you'd be the one who invites me, but how the turns have tabled! Ahem, but why? Well...I was hoping...if I have time anyways, maybe I could....visit your store tonight? Tsukishiro is being mean again, forcing me to do a bit of overtime as usual! I can't believe it...
> Harumasa: My flawless, 100% guaranteed excuse I had planned, utterly shut down in less than a second! I don't want to think about work at all, so let me know if you can help out poor hopeless me by inviting me over at the store. That is if you're willing to let me stop by past closing time. Okie~ bye!

"Ah..he...he wants to come over tonight..." Belle blushes. "Wise is staying at the Outer Ring this week. I'm going to be alone with Harumasa at night!"

"Haha! Proxy you're going to make me laugh! Aren't you two dating?" Nicole laughs, pointing at Belle's flushed ears. Perhaps out of sympathy, she spares Belle from full on humiliation by pulling out two random nail polishes from the convenient store's beauty shelves to maybe ease the blue haired girl’s mind. "Here here. Proxy, which polish should I buy?"

"Surprisingly yes! But I still get so nervous whenever I look at him.." Belle speaks, glancing at the different bottles. "Hmm, definitely the one on your right. Metallic neon pink is a good color on you.”

As Nicole and Belle made their way to the three Bangboos in charge of the convenience store, Belle once again stared off into space. Honestly, how did she manage to score him? That handsomely, sluggish posing lad of the big name HSO6, compared to the underground (in)famous proxy, Phaethon, a humble video store manager, and the cutest little sister in New Eridu.

Well, it happened a long, long- just kidding, it was about a year ago. Not really too long is it? Anyways, it all began with a few encounters in Hollow Zero when they hadn't known about the whole proxy business. They just...suddenly showed up upon reports of Nineveh sightings.

At the time, she and Wise acted under the title of some ‘Independent Investigator Team Lead’ to not give it away, but looking back it was a rather flimsy lie Ray made up that eventually rouse some suspicions later down the lines (and this would be true). Sure, it was their job, but to encounter them during a qualification assessment, then to assist them all the sudden. At the end, they would eventually know their identities, confirming Harumasa's initial statement regarding how 'advanced' Eous was, and they were...surprisingly not arrested! Thanks in part to the Bringer case, saving Miyabi, and the likes. Despite the initial outlook of general proxies, Phaethon's motive and actions were in favor of helping others. Even though they were supposed to remain hidden, almost every government affiliated organization is within their contacts, even the mayor himself. But on the bright side, perhaps having all these connections means getting closer to finding their teacher, which was why Phaethon was created.

Naturally, Belle became the go to person for tackling special commissions for her friends, including that of Harumasa, who had found a new lead regarding his master's whereabouts. Initially, he did his best to be reserved about his personal life, but evidentially he would be forced to delve deep into his past, his illness, and the likes.

Despite the miracle that was a cure for Harumasa that saved his life, it wasn’t enough to fully cure him of his condition.

No matter what, he won't have enough time one day and that it will be inevitable, he says. He'll turn into an Ethereal. And he'll hurt others, even those dear to him. But in the meantime, he looked into Belle's eyes, and gently smiles, as if the words he'll say isn't much of an issue.

"When that time comes, I want you to be the one who ends my life."

With a long silence, Belle sighs before firmly nodding her head. "I will."

Naturally, such heartfelt conversations would lead to subsequent hangouts. Sometimes silly, sometimes sincere, bittersweet and sentimental, with a dash of friendly flirting.

Overheard conversations between Belle and that HSO6 scout:

(At Lumina Square)
"This lady here is my family member. If you don't mind, I'm having some private time with her."

Huh…family?

"Oh, so you found someone very special! I'm...I'm so happy for you!" The fan said who looked as if she was about to cry.

"A family member isn't jus-"

"We'll always support you no matter what Harumasamasa!"

Then she ran off, sobbing through her aggressive typing on her phone, likely to a friend.

"I think she misunderstood," Belle spoke as she saw the fan run off. "This is the second time this happened..and the same reactions too."

"Oh my...maybe it's not a misunderstanding."

"Wait, do you see me as family member?" she tilted her head.

"I guess there's nothing wrong with that, right?" he smiled.

(Alleyway in Lumina Square)

"No matter how much I try, cats just don't like me," the man frowns glancing at the chubby cat minding its business.

"Try meowing?" Belle suggested.

"Eh? It's a bit awkward Partner..."

"C'mon, please?"

Without much choice, Harumasa then awkwardly meows, but nothing caught the cat's attention.

"Okay I kid, maybe I just wanted you to do that," Belle said all the sudden.

"I- You! Belle, how could you do this to me?" Harumasa shakes his head, laughing. "Okay, so that didn't work but will this work?"

Harumasa then proceeds to make a few pspsps noises at the cat, who clearly looks like it wants to be left alone or at the very least wants to scratch him. It then proceeded to hiss at him, who was taken aback.

"This cat….It's likely the way I smell isn’t it? The cat that lives with me in my home was also like this too."

The blue hair girl gently sniffs the man's shoulders. "But I think you smell nice."

"…Thank you, I might smell a little like medicine and disinfectant but I hope you don't mind."

"Guess cat food really is the way to go," Belle then pulls out a can of cat food from her bag and places it near the cat, which immediately catches its attention. "Chonky gluttons, all of you.”

She then turns to Harumasa as they both gently stroke the cat. "This is THE true universal calling for cats: a can of food. Or, we can drag Seth into this. I did see him near the newsstand."

Harumasa jokingly rolls his eyes, but he can't deny. A feline Thiren like that PubSec guy would make things easier, but let's not do that.

(Richard's Teamilk)

"I got you a bitter melon teamilk. I know you love your bitter drinks. Still weird, but okay," Belle jokingly said the last part as she hands him his drink.

She happily sipped on her sweet teamilk. "Do you not like sweets?"

"It's not that I don't enjoy sweets," The man explained. "I'm just more used to bitter things."

"I probably won't get used to it." Belle jokingly sulks.

"That's alright. In fact, I'm a bit envious about that," The man taps his chin before smiling. "Mind if I try your drink?"

"S..sure!" Belle smiled and handed him her cup of teamilk, that he happily takes a small sip.

"Hehe, wow. Why does it feel like yours tastes better?" he smiles. "Haven't had sweet things in a long time, but it makes it all the more better doesn't it?"

"I don't like the way that you're looking at me sir..." the blue haired girl speaks, noting the mischievous expression on his face.

"Looking at you like...what?" He smirks. Belle quickly snatches her drink and begins to sip very quickly. However, his face was slowly getting close to her ears, to which she pulls away.

"Eek! I'm gonna head back home!"

In the distance, she could hear his laugh as he waved goodbye to her. Hah, she's very cute and fun to tease. By the time the Random Play car disappeared from his line of sight, Harumasa covers his mouth, realizing how warm his cheeks are. Whether it's from laughing, or because...

Huh...

Harumasa rested his head on his bed, facing the ceiling in this otherwise bleak room. Compare his home to a typical hospital room and there would be no difference.

He had that dream again. That dream where he became an Ethereal, just as his illness has foreseen. Perhaps in the next few years, a few months...no. Maybe next month. This month. This week.

Tomorrow. Today.

He felt a cold shiver down his back, heavily breathing at his paranoia.

"No, I'm...I'm not a monster," he assures himself every day. "I can't be..."

He glanced at the calendar on his wall, then the nightstand's photo frame that Belle got him containing a photo of them together in Reverb Arena next to his meds, his yellow headband, and his phone. It must have been because he once offered her a day to plan a visit to his home, and had warned beforehand that there's nothing here that felt as warm as her room.

And because of this, Belle was willing to find various things that could help fill his home with some personality. Some things she's gotten him included some of her favorite weird looking pillows, an album, a few fridge magnets, and that photo frame. Additionally on his birthday, she gave him an album book filled to the brim.

Belle told him that she and Eous spend an entire night compiling photos in the album. She even went out of her way to decorate it with some 'personal flair' including that of some puffy Bangboo stickers and a few silly doodles of her, Eous, Wise, and Harumasa all over the pages. Reminiscing as he through the pages, Harumasa softly smiled, brushing his fingers on a few photos he took of Belle glancing at him with the beautiful sunset of Port Elpis in the distance.

Proxy...Belle...why are you so thoughtful? What did I do to deserve you...

Belle truly is everything. Sweet, caring, determined, smart, lively, and very silly. She really does feel like the living embodiment of sunshine. Without her knowing, she's definitely helped him get out of work whenever she invites him, and whenever there were annoying missions HSO6 has to deal with that he especially couldn't talk his way out of, suddenly they feel like a breeze whenever she's involved. Plus, she's absolutely adorable to boot, with her cute glossy green blue eyes, her slightly small figure, and her soft hair the color of night skies.

Just the mere thought of Belle was enough to make him fall on his knees. That's how powerful this one girl is. But that bit of admiration was also what scared him. When that day comes...when reality becomes indistinguishable from his nightmares....

No he made it clear. He asked her to kill him. That was their little promise.

Dreams are unpredictable they say. Even the most familiar dreams can change itself in the background. He already saw her in his dreams before, and she did save him. But what if another dream with her in that nightmare comes again, this time...

She no longer recognizes him, and kills him on the spot? That in a way, was 'saving him' right? He wouldn't blame her if she was so terrified of him. He'd be too. He'd run away from himself if he could. He wished he could say it wasn't him but...that monster. It was him alright. There's no denying it.

If he could, he'd apologize to both her and Wise for his existence, hiding what he believed was his 'true form' in some human disguise. But alas, it was a dream. So put on a flashy smile for everyone, lie to everyone again with some half baked excuse for his tardiness, even lie to himself that he has accepted the life laid out for him. But once again, as he thought about that blue haired girl, he wondered if she would still be his little sunshine in this cruel world? Especially at his worst.

No. That's enough. Let's not think about this anymore.

The only positive he got was that he managed to get a three day leave thanks to his savvy quick thinking for excuses.

Beep beep. A message notification. He groaned in annoyance for a brief moment under the assumption work had planned to immediately drag him back last minute, before he smiled a bit recognizing that bangboo icon.

It's Belle! My favorite proxy~!

> Belle: You busy?
> Harumasa: I'm never busy when it comes to you! I'm off for three days~.

Assuming it's nothing work related right now that is, partner. Please spare me!

> Belle: Wow...Are you sure?
> Harumasa: Wdym partner! I would definitely tell you if I was!
> Harumasa: And cut me some slack~ Since you texted first, did you want to do anything today?
> Belle: Wanna hang out at Port Elpis?
> Harumasa: Sure thing, I'll see you there. 😉

As per usual, they took photos, ate fries, went fishing, and climbed up the lighthouse to do some sightseeing. At the end, there was a long silence of prolong thoughts. It was until that man opened his mouth to make a self deprecating joke.

"It's so relaxing. It makes me wish for someone to scatter my ashes to into the sea."

It hurts a bit to see him think less of himself, Belle thought, wanting to reach out and hold his hand. At best, she noticed the yellow headband almost coming loose in the gentle breeze to which she helped fix.

A gentle smile appeared on his face, but his eyes widened upon seeing Belle's beautiful blue green eyes nearly flooded with tears. Crud. Wise is going to kill him knowing he made his precious little sister cry...and well. He also didn't want to see the girl he likes upset.

Sometimes, it's moments like these where the thought of wishing Belle forgets him or never crossed paths comes to mind. But they're in too deep aren't they? It'd be impossible to break it off. Besides, he's indebted to her that he was able to find the answers regarding his master and save those kids. Despite his worsening condition and Belle's constant worry that he needs to leave immediately, Belle still stuck by his side believing he'd do the right thing. It were moments like these where he'd slowly warm up to the idea of family again.

There were many days that he spent with Belle that constantly made him feel like he could fly, and it was a high that he didn't want to let go of. He almost wanted to consider the idea of being with her for as long as he could. Not forever. That would be too impossible, but enough. Good enough to know if a future with Belle was possible.

It's a little silly to jump to that when he hadn't asked her out (yet). People had already made the assumption that they were an item. It seemed perfect, but he was too scared to be the first to outright say it. How would their relationship be described as? Unrequited. Not quite lovers, but definitely more than friends.

But the more he thought about it, the more he had concluded: that maybe it didn't matter. Again, they were already in too deep. No matter if he died when he got to be with Belle or not, it would still hurt her regardless.

He wouldn't wish to imagine her bawling her eyes when he kicks the bucket one day, and his silly reasons to hypothetically die from her hands because 'the girl he likes will be the last person he'll see when he goes,' or 'he doesn't want to aimlessly wander as an Ethereal' won't make the pain stop.

"Ah, B..Belle, I promise that was a joke! That definitely will not happen!" he waves his hands frantically as she pouts. Eventually realizing none of those words sounded convincing, he sighs, wrapping his arms around her and gently rocked her standing up.

Wise, I'm sorry I made your little sister cry! Ah, she's kind of like Soukaku, but is it wrong that I feel a little happy when they get upset about me?

"Hey, hey....shh shh....I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you upset," he gently brushed his finger to her eyes, wiping her tears away. Belle's face softened, holding his arms.

It was at this moment, Belle had made a realization that never crossed her mind even when she was helping him find his master's whereabouts: Harumasa looks very adorable when he gets worried or shy sometimes.

"None of that self deprecating talk within my line of sight..." Belle frowns before looking with a kind, worried expression. "I believe in you. I believe you'll live very long!"

"Heh...thanks, partner. I hope so."

Belle slightly blushes having to realize how long she had been in his arms. This would be a position that any of his fans would dream of experiencing.

"If you keep this up I won't be able to look you in the eye..." Belle muttered to herself.

Right as soon as he got out of his three off days...he gets sent immediately to the hospital to treat his wounds. An extra two days off. What the hell, sure.

"Oof...how embarrassing...I got another break, but at what cost..." Harumasa muttered to himself lying on the hospital bed. With nothing much else to do, he got his phone and began to go through some posts on Inter-Knot. Probably a few cat and Bangboo videos.

A knock on his door to bring him out of his zone. A gentle, familiar voice rang out, almost like the chime of a bell.

"Hey~ Harumasa can I come in? Yanagi told me you were here."

Ah, she's here? And of course it had been Yanagi who told her to come. It's almost as if...

Nah, he's overthinking it. It's probably not for the reason he thinks. After all, everyone knows how reliable Belle is.

Call Log between Tsukishiro Yanagi, Deputy Chief of HSO6 and Belle.

> Yanagi: "Hello Proxy."
> Belle: "Yanagi? Is there something the matter?"
> Yanagi: "Well, I have a favor to ask for you, considering how busy it is for me. N...not to suggest there isn't anything on your plate."
> Belle: "No worries! Anything for you, Yanagi!"
> Yanagi: "Well, you're very close to Asaba right?"
> Belle: "Huh?"
> Yanagi: "Hah...I figured that was the case. Mentioning your name is all it takes for his eyes to light up just a bit."
> Yanagi: "Hmm, are you in cahoots trying to help him get out of work?"
> Belle: "Hey! I wouldn't do that! At least, not that I'm aware of...!"
> Yanagi: "Hmmm...Hehe, just kidding. Sorry, was that not funny?"
> Yanagi: "I figured you'd at least like to know how he's doing."
> Belle: "...Is he okay?! Did he...?"
> Yanagi: "Don't worry, I can assure you it's nothing too bad, but he will need a few days to recover. I was hoping you'd pay him a visit to the hospital to check on his condition."
> Belle: "What?! Already? Even after his break...well. Alright, I'll get going ASAP..."

She opened the door with a bag of what's likely convenience store food, seeing Harumasa scrolling on his phone in bed.

"You're kidding me..."

"Nope."

Belle sighs, and sits beside him, reprimanded him before opening her bag, handing him a bowl of prepped noodles. "Hey, take care of yourself!"

"Wow, to get scolded and treated by Belle in bed. Aren't I the luckiest man..."

"What? But you really shouldn't have gotten hurt to begin with," Belle said as she gently pokes his cheek as he ate his noodles. "C'mon...I can always treat you anytime."

Harumasa laughs, fake coughing. "Belle, you better be careful when you tell a man that."

"Huh?"

"I might take advantage of you. Especially since you're alone in this room with me."

After a long while, Belle suddenly gets what he meant, and nods. "Oh! Well, I guess I should get go- huh!"

Her arm had been caught by Harumasa. Uh oh. Uh...uhhh. He really has a good grip.

"C..could you let go of my wrist?" Belle meekly asked.

"Ah sorry...I just wanted to tell you something," Harumasa scratches the side of his neck.

"Well. Go on."

"No, nothing. It's fine. It's probably nothing."

"Don't leave me on a cliffhanger!" Belle pleaded. "If it's that much of a secret then I won't tell anyone, not even my brother!"

Harumasa swallowed this throat with a bit of hesitance. Before long, he gently nodded his head. "Then...stay with me. Just a little longer then. Please?"

"Ah..." Belle felt his hands gently caressing her fingers. He smiled at the sight of her face turning red. "Harumasa.."

His bowl is empty, so Belle took it with her other hand and put it aside. And it looks like he's slowly falling asleep too. With the best that she could, she gently plopped the bag on the nearby table. If he's hungry he can get it himself.

"He's asleep...he didn't even get to tell me anything," Belle pouts. "Hmph, what a jerk..."

She then smiles light before gently brushing Harumasa's hair with her fingers, lulling him further to the land of nod, but not quite enough to let go of her other hand.

Geez, he's so bold. Normally he wouldn't be like this with anyone, not even his fanbase. He's been getting a bit handsy around Belle.

Like that one time a male customer was trying to be a little forward with Belle under the guise of asking for movie recommendations until Harumasa scared them off by holding Belle close and gave them a smile that sent chills down the customer's (and by extension, Belle's) spine. The same thing happened when she encountered Seth while waiting for Harumasa at the convenience store on Sixth Street. Whenever she saw those two together, she'd be convinced that the two had a bit of a 'friendly' rivalry going on.

Despite being grateful whenever he was around regardless of the situation, she can't help but feel a little embarrassed when he touches her, even briefly. Thinking about it made her pout, lightly scoffing at the hand that still clings to her.

Hmph, two can play at that.

Wait wait wait?! Belle?!

What are you doing??

Belle slowly lowers her head and pecks a small kiss on his head. She could have sworn she saw his mouth curl up in his sleep.

His expressions are so adorable, just like a little kitten. But by all means this man was definitely almost canine like with those little fangs of his. Dog. Cat. A mix of those two. No...fox like? What?

Whatever, all we need to know is that he is a very cute guy, even if he can be a little annoying (affectionate).

"Get some rest okay? Sweet dreams."

She felt the gentle grip on her wrist loosen, and using this opportunity, she got up and immediately left. When she got back, Eous and Wise looked confused as for why Belle would run off to her bedroom to muffle in her pillow.

The next week, Belle and Harumasa would spend time at the lighthouse in Port Elpis, with Belle apologizing for overstepping his boundaries at the hospital, to which Harumasa smiled without much joking intent, and simply said "I know."

W..was he actually not asleep this entire time?! Was he doing that 'not-really-closing-his-eyes' thing on me?! Oh bury me right now...He knew. He knew I did that....

"You can be really scary sometimes, what the heck..."

"Scary? I'm not going to eat you..." His face looked amused, slowly leaning on Belle's shoulders. "But in a weird way, I didn't hate it."

"Please just say something right now to make this any better!" Belle blushed as he slowly tucked her hair behind her ears and gently spoke.

"I like you Belle. Will that work?" He pulled away, noticing how red her ears looked and held back a malicious smirk, finding Belle's stammering expression too adorable. "Oh, and it's not a joke."

Belle squeaked like a little mouse, before covering her face and looking away.

"A..alright you damn rizzler..." Belle smiled in between her hands, quickly nudging Harumasa's shoulder out of embarrassment. "But in what way?"

"Ah geez Belle. Must I spell things out for you~." Harumasa chuckled, albeit boyishly. "I wanna try the whole 'dating' thing for a bit to see if we like it?"

Even if I can't be with you forever, I have to at least know that in my future, I can be with you when we get 'there'. I have to try before death catches up to me.

"Right now, I don't want to look at you for a second...n..not that I don't find you pretty! But why me?"

"Why shouldn't it be you? I can't think of anyone who'd fit that role, other than my dear darling Proxy?"

"Weh!?" Belle blushes profusely, taking small side glances at Harumasa, who looked as if nothing happened, enjoying his cup of bitter coffee. "You aren't as nervous about this as I am! How?!"

"Nope, not true at all," What did he mean by that? Doesn't he feel some kind of immunity thanks in part to his fans often trying to throw themselves at him? Clearly all the more reason why he shouldn't ask Belle out. That, and his illness.

"If you're concerned about my illness or those fans of mine, I took account of that as well. But unfortunately those things are out of my control. However, I’m not going to let that get in the way when it comes to you."

”Are you sure, Harumasa?" Belle slowly uncovered her eyes and raised one eyebrow, slowly letting go of the lighthouse rails.

"Absolutely not. I wouldn't lie about my feelings! Why don't you feel for yourself."

"Wait! Waittt!" Belle glanced down nervously, before her hand was guided to his chest. Belle gulped.

He's, surprisingly...kind of built. Definitely not like Lighter or Manato, but he's certainly not weak. And despite this, she could feel his fast racing heartbeat.

"..." Belle nervously smiled. "Heh, frail. Weak..you say."

"Fine fine~ I guess I'm not completely helpless~," he chuckled. "But I'm not lying about my condition though. That bit is true."

Belle let go of his heart with a visible flush on her face. "If you want to laugh at me, go ahead...I know you were trying to hol- actually no...you definitely weren't!"

"I would never laugh at you for that! Pfft. I think it's already a little too late," Harumasa smiled, gently petting Belle's head.

Belle grumbled before ultimately smiling lightly, albeit with a hint of mischief. "Well, I didn't realize how nervous you can be when it comes to me."

"Haaah Belle... you talk too much...You'll ruin my cool guy image!" Harumasa jokes, wrapping his arms around Belle. "But am I hearing a yes?"

"...of course..."

The drive back home wasn't any better. She had an almost erratic nerve-wrecking smile, almost wanting to shake aggressively in her seat.

"Hmmmmm..hmmmm....I have a boyfriend. I have...a boyfriend. I have a boyfriend! I have a boyfriend!"

In the end, he only got to say a fraction of what he wanted to tell Belle. Of course he's happy that he's dating her but...his nervousness omitted a good chunk of what he wished to say.

There's a bit of a silly smile plastered on his face. As he heard Belle's footsteps descend from the lighthouse, he sighed and placed his hand on his warm cheek before mindlessly talking to himself as he looked at the sunset.

"That was rather difficult. I bet I looked so stupid in front of her," he smiles bitterly. "I just...don't want to regret how impulsive I was in that confession. She shouldn't have to worry about my health. But I also..."

He stopped talking, distracted by the loud noises of a boat announcing its leave from the port.

What, what was he about to say? Ah, maybe next time. As usual.

Back in the present, Belle had been talking a bit about Harumasa as the two sat on the skateboard built bench near the Gadget Store munching on 141 quality snacks. Nicole had been attentively listening while munching on chips, somewhat trying to stifle her laugh at the blue haired girl.

"It's not…weird at all is it?”

"Nah. He'll probably take that as a compliment. What I'm hearing is that you need a bit of a confidence boost right?" Nicole then packs up the chip bag before straightening up Belle's shoulders. "We just need to make him really get a good look at you! Don't worry~, my service today is on the house!"

"Do you mean?"

"Exactly Proxy. I'm giving you a makeover. The Cunning Hare's style~. And we'll use all the products I bought today~."

Back in Belle's bedroom, Nicole had her beauty haul in hand, lightly tapping on the rows of lip glosses, compacts, and palettes with her nails. Additionally, Belle offered a few makeup products from her shelf to use thanks in part to Astra.

"Wow, you got some niche brands too. This one's supposedly keeps your lips nourished and glossy, and it's also nontransferable. What a steal!"

Belle raised an eyebrow without looking at Nicole.

"I'm not actually going to steal anything, Proxy! Sit still and close your eyes, I'm going to apply some eyeshadow!"

Belle closed her eyes so Nicole could work her magic. First, Nicole applied a gentle primer on her face, then lightly applied on a shimmery blue powder on Belle's eyelids.

"Proxy you got really cute lids."

"T..thanks? Is that a good thing?"

"It's a good thing!"

Belle could feel a gentle bit of blush dabbed onto her cheeks, the light bristles of the mascaras on her lashes, and a light bit of silky feeling gloss brushed on her lips. Finally, a few decorated jewels near her eyes and a setting spray to put everything in place.

"Okay open your eyes!" Nicole grinned, holding up Belle's phone on front face mode.

Belle's eyes widen in surprise, holding her phone and turning her face. By no means was the makeup anything that was subtle, but it really did feel very different. A touch of blue shimmer that blended seamlessly into a fading light peachy ombre, lined with some white, and decorated with a few stick on jewels. Additionally, the lashes were curled, the cheeks were rosy and delicate, and her lips looked like morning dew and melted sugar. "Oh wow, I feel so cute!"

"Do I get my thanks for this~? Hm, well you can always pay me~ just saying.."

"Sorry Nicole, you said it was on the house remember?"

"Erk! W..well!"

Belle gently smiles and makes multiple faces at her camera, making a peace and heart sign with her fingers.

Nicole smiled, "This is a good look for you! He's going to love it!”

"Ah, that completely slipped my mind," Belle's face froze remembering the text message. "He wants me to give him the okay to go to the video store. But, he can just go there without my permission no?"

She immediately pulls out her phone and tapped on her digital keyboard to send out a special invite, her fingers notably shaking.

"H..he's coming over and he's going to see my makeup..."

> Belle: I have a movie for you to watch. Come over to my place right now?

Her heart is racing with adrenaline and excitement. It's not like she hasn't invited him over to her room before, but as a couple...the air is starting to feel different. Plus, her makeup. It's definitely going to make him comment about her new look.

"Okay...okay, phew," Belle showed her message she sent. As soon as Nicole looks at the screen, Harumasa immediately responds and Belle squeaked.

> Harumasa: I'm free! Coming over ma'am~.

Again, why do I feel so nervous?!

By the time he got this message, or I guess any second of his time at work, he probably told the Deputy Chief that he was suddenly feeling 'something' for the hundredth time, and that he had to leave early as usual. How funny would it be if he said something like, "I'm going out on a date tonight so I can't do any overtime" or "you should let me leave early because my girlfriend misses me." It'd also be funny if Yanagi then suggests that it would be a good idea if Belle joined the mission to help with navigation. Technically, they'd be together. Working together that is. It was a little cruel, but that's just how it is.

It’s very likely he didn't tell any of his HSO6 colleagues that he's dating Belle, but you can bet that they definitely knew, especially Miyabi and Yanagi. Soukaku too, would probably out loud suggest that he and Proxy are very, very close, followed by some teasing remark from Harumasa. Considering his message, we can assume he managed to get out of his work. Right? Poor guy.

Taking this as a cue to leave, Nicole immediately then speaks. "Welp, now you just have to figure the rest out on your own! You got my fine makeup skills on your face, and you have your natural charisma to back everything up."

"Huh?! You're heading out now?"

"I can't be third wheeling your little movie date!" Nicole began to quickly pack her makeup. "Also, girl he likes you! You'll do well! Buh bye~!"

As Nicole heads out of the room, Belle frantically puts away her glosses and scrambled through her shelf for a movie to watch.

Ahhh what to watch what to watch...well knowing Harumasa, he'd probably be okay with anything as long as Belle is here.

Something horror? Romance like that Last Flight movie they watched together at Gravity Cinema a few months ago? Sleepwalking? That might open some of his wounds even though he was the one who suggested that movie...he did sleep near the end though. No no, let's not...

But in her words, it implies something that they, or rather he, hasn't watched.

Scared of messing it up even more, she added to her messages. Well, he's fine with anything, she was sure, but just in case....let's ask.

> Belle: It might be something you've watched, is that ok?

Beep. A response, and a sigh of relief.

> Harumasa: I'm down for whatever!

Yeah, just as she expected. Another message pops up.

> Harumasa: I'm in Sixth Street~

Okay, let's all panic.

18! Eous! 6! Hold the line! If you can!

Wise was out on his little 'vacay commission' thing in the Outer Ring, so he can't do anything here. But in hindsight...maybe it's best he's not here right now. Accepting that there is nothing she could do, Belle stood up and at least adjusted her outfit and hair before rushing downstairs.

Okay, what are we going to watch? Belle rummaged through the once organized shelves to find a set of movies.

If we want to base it off on observations, he gravitates to psychological thrillers, romance, and comedies. Harumasa is tolerant to horror, which was great for Belle, a horror film enjoyer. Action and tragedy are a mixed bag because he tends to have a pattern of easily falling asleep to those. But whether it’s because he was tired or just bored is something she doesn’t know. In conclusion, regardless of genre, as long as there was a good message in the film and it has substance, he may be attentive.

Belle pulls up a film that she recently stocked. It was a thriller romance that won a nomination at the annual New Ridu Film Festival. Reviews all over praised the cinematography, the costuming, and bits of comedic moments that became memes on Inter-Knot. However, when it comes to the general audience, the only gripe was the last part, with its “attempts to subvert into a tragedy at a rather unexpected time but not necessarily in a good way.”

Assuming he doesn’t fall asleep, this could be a potential conversation piece they could have. As she glanced at the tape, she jumped as she heard a single knock at the door.

He was here.

Right. The door. Get the door. She slowly opened the door, and he appeared with that little signature smile of his. God, he’s making her swoon…

"Good evening sir."

"Sir? No need for the formalities. I'm sure you know very well who I am~. Hm?"

He glanced at her face, and his smirk vanished. Instead, his eyes widened in surprise as he drinks the sight in front of him: courtesy of Nicole of the Cunning Hares, Belle’s makeover has transformed her into a cute, glittery water nymph.

Immediately, he shuts up, suddenly feeling butterflies in his stomach so to speak. He felt himself wanting to say something, but found himself swallowing his throat, speechless.

"W..wow. Belle..."

"Wait what's wrong? Do I look weird?" Belle nervously asks.

"No no! It's a good look on you! Really!" Harumasa smiles shyly. "You're always pretty yourself y'know? But wow, you're...extremely pretty."

Belle sighed and placed her hand on her heart. "Phew. I'd feel so awful if you didn't like it. Well, I have some stuff we can watch. Shall we head up?"

...

"I can't believe she'd do that! I was rooting for the two of them to get together..."

"Haha."

"Huh?"

"It's not that I didn't feel anything from the movie, but you're really into it as always. It's really nice," he put his arms on the armrest as he leaned on Belle's couch. "But I can agree. I think that was just weird writing on behalf of the director. Even though I expected her to do that, the execution for that betrayal scene wasn't great."

She heard a yawn come from his mouth and chuckles.

"Hehe, you seem glad to be back on this couch Harumasa. I'm already getting worried that you might fall asleep here."

"Hmm, now that is be a tempting offer I can't ever refuse. You don't mind if I do right?"

"Not really. You should get some proper sleep here. I've been told so many times how much this couch does wonders."

"That, and how your room feels very homey as always...It really feels nice to come back here."

"You could always just live with me," Belle said jokingly.

”Ah, well,” he cleared his throat. "As much as I appreciate the thought, I'm not sure if your big bro would like how chummy I am with you. He'd probably think I had some ulterior motive, which I definitely don’t, so I'd rather not get on his bad side because we're dating."

"Well, he doesn't mind your company either, but when he comes back. You might want to be careful. If he gets into big brother interrogation mode, I wish you the best of luck Harumasa~!"

"Hey! What's that supposed to mean partner!?"

Belle paying no mind, placed another video tape into the TV, but this time it's a movie that neither Harumasa or Belle wanted to pay attention to.

It was probably some franchise action thriller movie that was lackluster in the action department, with zero plot and just vibes. Hardly any stakes, no character that was willing to stay dead, and the scenes were too boring. Why was this even called a thriller? It’d be enough for him to not want to pay attention, but if he did maybe he’ll have something to say.

Well, about the movie, right? Halfway through the movie, Belle noticed he’s more or less looking at her.

"You've been looking at me for a while..."

"Am I not allowed to have a good look at my girlfriend?"

"Y...you can, it's just you stare a little too much. I assume you want to ask me something."

It takes a while for him to speak, as he puts his fingers on his chin pretending to think so profoundly. Then, he finally speaks.

"Hmm, maybe I do need something. If that's okay."

Belle tilted her head, preparing for the worst. Sensing this, he smiles.

"Relax, I just need you to sit still. Just like this."

"Uh, alright?" Belle sits up on the couch.

"Close your eyes for a bit okay?"

"Wait hold on a minute..." Belle stammers, hesitantly closing her eyes. Unknown to her, she was squinting her eyes that Harumasa couldn't help but stifle his laugh. Belle had a sudden inkling for what's happening, feeling his breath getting close.

”You aren’t closing them enough miss~. I can still see your eyes.”

”Stop teasing me...”

Her breath hitches as she felt a soft gentle touch on her lips. Suddenly, she shuts her eyes tightly. She can’t see it, but she knows he’s making such a malicious expression. He’s probably laughing at her in that head of his. But a part of her believes he truly is as flushed as she is, and that gave her a bit of comfort in this otherwise situation they’re in. But this is him we’re talking about: a heartthrob officer from HSO6. She can’t really keep calm at all.

"H..hey, you're too close- mmph!"

Too late. The room began to feel so blurry, with sounds from the TV muffled by her racing heartbeat and slow breathing as she had realized that their lips had really, really touched. A very long, intimate kiss as sweet as sugar, melting on the tip of their tongues.

She could feel her ears getting warm, a head rush from such an exhilarating feeling. Her heart is undoubtedly beating erratically, wanting out of her body. Even worse, her mind has taken consideration to jump into rather unsavory thoughts. It would be bad if they immediately jumped there, even if they’re in such a perfect opportunity to do that. Her racing heart is so eager to get there one day. Even Belle is itching to just blurt out a plethora of pet names for him right now.

Oh please…stop this..stop this right now.

All because of a silly kiss. Ugh, it’s all his fault for being so…so…!

Belle immediately pulls away with a heavy blush on her face and glossy eyes, but he pulls her back even closer to his chest.

Belle grumbles as she leans on his chest. After a little while, she accepted her fate, but not before she shook her head and retaliated. She tapped on his shoulder and pulled his face close enough for her to kiss his cheek, leaving a lipstick mark behind.

'Non transferable' they claimed...I can see my kiss on his face.

"The gloss is on your face I'm so sorry...!"

"!" Harumasa froze, but sheepishly smiles. A blush is very present on his face as he lightly scratched his neck.

Oh my god bruh, I'm gonna explode, Belle thought immediately. D’aww but look at him…, he looks so cute right now too…I want to squeeze him in my arms…

"W..well, it's all good,” Harumasa chuckles. The slight blush on his face made Belle’s heart race. Noticing her extremely flushed expression, Harumasa then leaned close to Belle’s ears, speaking almost huskily. “Though, if it's you...I'd let you kiss me anywhere~."

"I can't do that!!" Belle exclaimed, feeling goosebumps on her back, before meekly speaking. "Could I?"

Receiving the satisfaction of his girlfriend’s flustering expressions, Harumasa pretends to think with a charming expression. "Well...you have plenty of reasons why you should. First and foremost, you're my girlfriend. Second, Wise isn't here. And third..."

He gets closer to her face and winks. He is so annoying…

"That gloss looks good on both of us, if you catch my drift~."

"Smooth...get over here...!" Belle shyly grins before tackle hugging him down on the couch and pressed her lips on his once again.

While the two never escalated far beyond kisses, let's just simply say they've been at this for a while, and Harumasa left the video store with a satisfied smirk on his face that only made Belle angrily blush the entire night. That lipgloss was a little too good, but lied about its no transfer marketing claim. And in the heat of the moment, who really cares? Especially if these kisses have found their way a little under his collar just a teensy bit.

At the very least they agreed that he should at least clean those off when he left, unless he will incur the rage of his fans, not that he cares, but it would be too troublesome to deal with.

Though unknown to Belle, he decided to at least keep one lipstick mark that was almost on his collarbone a little longer. At least then, it was relatively hidden.

He'll have to get back at her for this one of these days. Maybe just a bite somewhere on her. Maybe double the amount of marks she made.

And perhaps he'd wait to tell her everything he initially wanted to say at Port Elpis on a day when he's feeling rather sentimental. Preferably somewhere with little to no noisy background sounds, and it's just them alone together like today.

It's a good thing Harumasa didn't pass by anyone when he left. The night had spared him from the hypothetical wrath of his fans. He should also be glad that Wise didn’t just randomly appear out of the blue because of his ‘big brother senses’.

Belle looked at her face in the camera, looking at her visible red face. Should she wear it again? Verdict says absolutely.

AFTERWORD 

As usual, the black haired songstress with those damn pair of sunglasses, entered the door of Random Play with a shopping bag filled to the brim with new products from some expensive makeup brands. Supposably, she got a text message from Belle that caught her attention: A mix of exclamation points and then the words "I have some tea I have to share in person!"

It seems today she went on her own without her bodyguard, Evelyn. A shame since Belle often liked seeing the two of them together. Opening the doors, she was glad to not see any other customer inside. No one but Bangboo 18 and a black cat sprawled on the hardwood floors.

"Astra! Astra!" Belle quickly went down the stairs briefly, enough to catch Astra's sight, motioning her to come to her room immediately.

"Belle! Calm down, we're not in a rush are we? Also, since I was coming to stop by, I brought even more makeup products for us to try~."

"Well good! Because I want to talk about....that. OR, something related to it."

...

"What?! No way! Belle has a boyfriend?! And you didn’t tell me?!" Astra Yao clasped her mouth in surprise as she put aside the cream blush that she gently brushes onto Belle's cheek, who had been recalling a story from a few weeks ago since their last hangout. More specifically, her little movie night turned make out session with Harumasa.

"Y...you don't have to say it out loud...!" Belle squinted, her face clearly getting hot. "That gloss lied! It said it wouldn't transfer…I could see marks all over his face. And neck...maybe a bit of the collarbone..."

"Oh? Hahaha, Belle you’re so cute," Astra grinned. "I didn't take you to be that much of a charmer~."

"Ahemmm..." Belle clears her throat, trying to find a way to divert the conversation. "Wow, I've never used cream blushes before, this is so much nicer than the typical powders at 141."

"Ah, Belle you really are missing out! Maybe I can give you this then,” Astra smiles before closing the lid to the cream blush. "Not only are cream blushes much easier to blend, but it really helps give your cheeks a nice dewy flush. Though....I can't tell because Belle already has a good natural blush on her face," Astra teased. She must have figured out Belle’s attempt to drive the conversation away from the juicy details that was her love life. "Maybe a bit too much~."

"Astra!"

"Oh c'mon, wear that look of confidence you had before when you too got a little heated. You know, when you were-"

"I was anything BUT confident...let's be serious here. I was shaking so much I didn't realize!"

"Don't worry, you said he left with a smile didn't he? All the more reason to keep that little gloss with you at all times for scenarios like this,” Astra grins playfully. “So go on~ I wanna hear more about you guys. Maybe I’ll just write up a cute little love song dedicated to you two~.”

Oh please don't remind me. I'm not over those kisses. Our faces heating up as we locked lips so many times on the sofa as I felt his hands holding my waist and back, sitting on his lap. He even got a little more comfortable that he started to undo his tie.

Belle clasped her mouth and shook her head. Too much too much.

Any longer, she'll end up really more than just kissing. The seed had been planted that night, but now..she may consider being a little more bold. WAIT, it's way too early to think that! They only truly started dating after all.

...

But it's not like they'd be against it, whenever the next time they meet up.