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Madoka and Homura have been childhood friends since they were 6 years old until the age of 14. Madoka is a very loving, sometimes shy but cheerful normal girl, while Homura is the exact opposite, always composed and quiet yet kind just like her.
Madoka's family only took Homura in as family after being found on the street about 8 years back. Homura was truly pitiful that day when Junko and Tomohisa found her all alone in a harsh blizzard...
But now here she is; Homura is now living with a very lovely family with amazing and kind people that supports her. Especially Madoka.
Both are really close childhood friends. Simply put, Madoka and Homura are likely sisters. That's what Madoka thought, but nope...
Madoka recently discovered that she was in love with Homura. Yes, I am in love with her childhood friend. And of course, Madoka's mother, Junko, caught her daughter in the middle of a gay panic attack. Though Junko remains supportive, she still teases Madoka from time to time.
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About 3 months passed until Madoka's discovery. It was a normal but increasingly cold day in November today. But Madoka is happy because they don't have school today. Yay! Vacation time, of course, because it's almost Christmas and New Year's Eve. Madoka was a little surprised that their vacation this year is almost 2 months, but she isn't complaining because she's happy to spend time with her family!
That's what Madoka thought, but nope... (Once more) Mysteriously, Junko and Tomohisa had a free two-week vacation in a hot spring that they got lucky with. At first Madoka was jealous because she wanted to go too, but she was relieved because she wouldn't be alone with Homura (because she was still becoming shy around her more and more recently); there was Madoka's cute sweet little angel boy Tatsuya, her brother!
That's what Madoka thought but nope... (For the final time) Junko, her smartass super Mama, made Saotome, who was Junko's bestie and Madoka and Homura's teacher, take care of Tatsuya.
Great, Madoka wanted to dig a deep hole, bury herself in there, and die...
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After Junko, Tomohisa, and Tatsuya wave bye to both girls who are now responsible for taking care of the house.
Currently they're lounging on the couch. Madoka is resting her head on Homura's lap, who's reading silently.
Madoka stares at the ceiling, deep in thought about her feelings for Homura. She occasionally glances at her friend's concentrated face. The sound of Homura turning pages is the only noise in the room, creating a peaceful atmosphere despite Madoka's inner turmoil.
Madoka thinks quietly. It had been almost 3 months now since she discovered her feelings. The first reason she discovered was she wasn't interested in guys from the beginning; that's why she didn't have any first crushes on boys. Secondly, she's a lesbian, and that was obvious because now she was helplessly in love with her childhood friend/stepsister. Thirdly, what was she going to do? Homura is very very VERY dense. Not to mention she's quiet and sometimes hard to read.
Madoka sighs softly, adjusting her position on the couch. She watches Homura turn another page, admiring how focused she looks. Her mind races with possibilities and scenarios. Should she confess? Would Homura even understand what a crush is? The thought makes Madoka's stomach twist with anxiety.
Madoka shifts closer, her arms wrapping around Homura's waist and burying her face on her stomach...
Homura lowers her book slightly, looking down at Madoka with a mix of confusion and concern.
"Are you okay, Madoka? You've been unusually quiet today." She places her free hand on Madoka's head, her touch gentle but questioning.
Madoka tenses slightly at being caught, her face still pressed against Homura's stomach. She considers her options carefully.
"I'm fine... just tired, I guess."
She mumbles into Homura's shirt, not wanting to reveal the truth about her feelings. Homura remains silent for a moment, her hand still resting on Madoka's head. The room feels heavy with unspoken words.
Homura sets her book aside and continues to silently yet gently stroke her hair as she looks ahead.
Madoka feels guilty for lying, but the silence is somehow comforting. She closes her eyes, enjoying the rare physical contact from Homura.
Homura notices Madoka's subtle shift in mood, her hand pausing briefly before resuming its gentle stroking.
"The weather's getting colder. You should wear warmer clothes."
Her tone is matter-of-fact, but there's a hint of concern in her words. She glances out the window at the setting November sky.
Madoka perks up slightly at the mention of clothes. She turns her head to look at Homura, still lying on her stomach.
"Yeah, I guess you're right. I should probably get some new sweaters soon."
She tries to sound casual, though her mind suddenly tells her something so loudly in her head: 'NOW WAS MADOKA'S CHANCE TO INVITE HOMURA AT THE MALL! '
Madoka takes a deep breath, gathering her courage. This was her opportunity.
"Hey, Homura... Speaking of sweaters... I was thinking of going to the mall tomorrow. Maybe you could come with me? You know, help me pick out some new clothes?"
She attempts to sound casual, but her voice betrays a hint of nervousness.
Homura looks back down at Madoka, her eyes showing a bit of confusion. 'Madoka usually complains before she invites me,' Homura thought, but she ignored it for now.
"Sure… I don't mind, I guess..."
Madoka tries to hide her excitement at Homura's acceptance, sitting up straight on the couch.
"Great! Tomorrow it is, then!"
She fidgets with the hem of her sleeve, relieved that Homura didn't question her sudden invitation.
Homura only nods slightly. Madoka soon stands up and waves bye.
"I should sleep early now. Good night, Homura!"
Homura watches Madoka get up, noting her unusually early departure.
"Good night. Sleep well."
She returns to her book, though she keeps stealing glances at Madoka as she leaves the room. Something feels off about this conversation.
Madoka walks to her room quickly, her heart racing. She mentally reviews her plan for tomorrow.
She flops onto her bed, staring at the ceiling with a mix of determination and anxiety. 'This is my chance,' she thinks to herself.
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Madoka spends her remaining time planning, readying, and even choosing her clothes for tomorrow...
She chose a comfortable and warm long-sleeved pink dress. With long fluffy white socks. Then her cute light blue jacket with her red scarf, purse, and boots.
Madoka eventually collapses onto her bed, exhausted from thinking so much. She hugs her pillow tightly.
"I hope this goes well..."
She whispers to herself, staring at the ceiling once again. The ticking clock on her wall seems unusually loud in the quiet house.
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In the end she didn't get much sleep, and it was already morning...
Madoka wakes up feeling groggy and disoriented. The sunlight streams through her window, making her squint.
She checks her phone and sees it's only 7 AM. The realization hits her—she had only slept for three hours.
Madoka groans and rolls over in her bed, pulling the covers over her head.
The thought of the mall trip with Homura fills her with both anticipation and dread. She knows she needs to get up and prepare, but her body feels heavy with exhaustion.
She eventually forces herself to sit up, rubbing her eyes. The sound of Homura moving around downstairs reaches her ears.
Madoka glances at the pink dress hanging on her closet door, suddenly feeling a surge of nervous energy.
Madoka then goes to the bathroom to get ready before going to the kitchen, where Homura was already up just cleaning the kitchen and some parts of the house...
She also wore something simpler. She had a long black baggy sweater. Then black shorts below the knees with black long socks beneath. Finishing off her look with simple sneakers and her brown shoulder bag.
Madoka approaches the kitchen cautiously, her footsteps light on the wooden floor.
She spots Homura methodically cleaning the counter, her movements precise and efficient. The familiar sight of Homura cleaning brings a small smile to Madoka's face.
"Good morning, Homura."
She tries to sound cheerful despite her exhaustion and nervousness.
Homura glances up when she hears Madoka's voice. She nods slightly and greets her back.
"Morning… you're up early..."
Madoka fidgets with the sleeve of her sweater, feeling self-conscious about her appearance.
"Yeah... I couldn't sleep much. I guess I'm just excited about today."
She forces another small smile, hoping to mask her nervousness.
Homura nods slightly again, but slowly now as she silently looks at Madoka.
Madoka shifts uncomfortably under Homura's scrutinizing gaze. She can almost feel her friend analyzing her outfit.
"Is there something on my face?"
She asks, trying to break the awkward silence.
Homura didn't say anything at first, her attention going back to what she was doing.
"Nothing… you look good today..."
Madoka blinks in surprise at the unexpected compliment. Her cheeks flush slightly.
"Oh... thanks. You look nice too."
She watches as Homura continues cleaning, feeling a mix of relief and confusion.
Homura remains focused on her task, not acknowledging Madoka's compliment. The silence between them stretches uncomfortably.
Madoka shifts her weight from one foot to another, unsure of what to say next.
"Are you... almost done cleaning?"
Homura finishes wiping down the last counter and turns to face Madoka.
"I'm done. Let's go then."
She says simply, adjusting her shoulder bag that was hanging on her chair.
Madoka nods quickly, grateful for the distraction.
"Right! The mall opens at 9. We should leave soon if we want to get there before it gets crowded."
She checks her phone nervously, realizing they have about an hour until opening time.
Homura checks her own watch. Noting the time also.
"Let's go. The weather forecast says it might snow later this afternoon."
She heads toward the door, her footsteps quiet but purposeful.
Madoka grabs her purse and jacket, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety about the day ahead.
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Both Homura and Madoka walk silently to the train station...
Madoka walks beside Homura, stealing glances at her friend's stoic profile. The silence between them feels heavy with unspoken words.
She tries to think of something to say to break the tension, but nothing comes to mind.
Homura walks silently, her gaze ahead and her hands in her pockets...
Everything was silent for a few more moments before suddenly, Madoka's stomach growled...
Madoka's face turns red as the sound echoes in the quiet morning air. She quickly places a hand over her stomach.
"I... guess I'm hungry," she mumbles awkwardly.
She mentally kicks herself for breaking the silence with such an embarrassing noise.
Homura looks at her, her eyes widening just a tiny bit before softening slightly. She looks at their surroundings for a moment before she spots a vending machine.
"There's a vending machine… we can stop by for a moment..."
Madoka follows Homura's gaze to the vending machine, grateful for the distraction from her embarrassment.
"Oh, good idea! I could use something to eat before we reach the mall."
She tries to sound casual, though she's still mortified about her stomach growling.
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Homura walks over to the vending machine, studying the options with her usual expression.
"Do you want anything specific?" she asks simply.
Madoka catches up to Homura, peering at the vending machine's contents.
"Hmm... maybe just some milk tea? Or maybe a sandwich?"
She feels slightly better now that they're talking about food.
Homura nods slightly and gets both the milk tea and sandwich for Madoka while she just takes a can of coffee for herself.
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Soon, both of them eat and drink silently. With Homura leaning on the wall as she casually drinks her coffee. While Madoka munches her sandwich and occasionally sips her milk tea.
Madoka takes small bites of her sandwich, glancing at Homura from time to time. The silence between them feels slightly less uncomfortable now.
"Thanks for getting this. I didn't realize I was that hungry."
She says between sips of her tea, trying to keep the conversation going.
Homura gives another slight nod in acknowledgment, her eyes fixed on the distance. She seems content to remain quiet.
Madoka takes another bite of her sandwich, unsure if she should try starting another conversation.
The train station buzzes with morning commuters passing by, but their small corner remains relatively peaceful.
Madoka finishes her sandwich and checks the time on her phone. The train should be arriving soon.
"The train should be here in about five minutes," she announces, hoping Homura might respond.
She fidgets with her empty milk tea packet, crumpling it nervously.
Homura glances at her watch, and it is indeed right. She takes Madoka's empty milk tea packet and plastic to dispose of it.
"Let's go then..."
Madoka watches as Homura disposes of the trash, feeling a bit surprised by the gesture.
"Right! Thanks for that too."
She stands up quickly, brushing off any crumbs from her dress.
The sound of an approaching train echoes in the distance, providing a welcome distraction from the awkwardness.
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Madoka's and Homura's ride to the train was mostly silent and fast. They soon finally arrived at the mall early. They went to a cafe first to eat breakfast...
Madoka enters the mall cafe, relieved to be in a more relaxed atmosphere.
"At least we're here early. I heard they have really good pancakes here." She scans the menu board, trying to decide what to order.
Homura takes a seat near the window, surveying the area with a critical eye.
"Pancakes are fine," she says simply, pulling out her phone to check something.
The cafe buzzes with morning activity as other customers arrive.
Madoka settles into the seat across from Homura, watching as her friend's attention remains fixed on her phone.
"Are you... texting someone?" She asks hesitantly, trying to make conversation.
Homura looks up briefly from her phone, her expression unchanged.
"Just checking the weather report. It's still clear."
She puts her phone away and signals to a passing waiter. The waiter approaches their table with menus and a notepad.
The waiter places menus on their tables and takes their orders.
"What can I get for you today?"
Madoka looks at the menu, then back at Homura.
"I'll have the strawberry pancakes, please."
She decides quickly, feeling slightly pressured by the waiter's presence.
Homura also checks the menu.
"Add a chocolate milkshake to that, then a simple egg sandwich with water. That's all."
Homura ordering a chocolate milkshake shocks Madoka...
Madoka's eyes widen slightly at Homura's choice of drink. She tries to hide her surprise.
The waiter soon thanks them politely and then walks away to prepare their orders.
"You're getting a milkshake? That's... unexpected," she can't help but comment, hoping it doesn't sound too judgmental.
Homura shakes her head slightly.
"Not mine. For you."
Madoka looks even more surprised, pointing to herself.
"For me? But I didn't ask for one..."
She feels a mix of confusion and gratitude at the unexpected gesture.
Homura leans back on her seat.
"I want you to have one, that's all..." she says. She knows that Madoka always loved chocolate milkshakes with almost anything she eats.
Madoka's expression softens at the explanation. She fidgets with her hands, touched by the gesture.
"Oh... thanks. That's really thoughtful of you, Homura."
She smiles slightly, trying to hide her surprise at this unusual kindness from her friend.
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The waiter returns with their orders, placing the chocolate milkshake and strawberry pancakes in front of Madoka. Then the egg sandwich and water in front of Homura.
"Here are your orders. I hope you enjoy." The waiter smiles warmly before leaving them alone again.
Madoka stares at the chocolate milkshake, a small smile forming on her face.
"I guess you remembered I like chocolate milkshakes..."
She pokes the straw into the drink, feeling a bit self-conscious about the special treatment.
Homura simply nods and starts eating her egg sandwich.
Madoka takes a sip of the milkshake, its sweetness bringing back memories.
"This is... really good. Thanks again, Homura."
She glances at Homura, trying to read her expression but finding her usual stoic demeanor.
Madoka takes a bite of her pancakes, the sweet strawberries complementing the fluffy batter.
"The pancakes are good too. You should try some."
She offers politely, even though she knows Homura likely won't take her up on it.
Homura glances at the pancakes briefly, then shakes her head.
"I'm fine with my sandwich. You enjoy yours."
She takes another bite of her food, her attention focused on the window where she can see people passing by.
Madoka nods understandingly and continues eating her pancakes. The silence between them feels less tense now.
The mall's background noise provides a comfortable backdrop as they eat.
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Soon after that, they went to the clothing store. The reason why Homura agreed to Madoka's invite. Buy new warm Christmas clothing.
Madoka leads the way to the clothing store, her steps lighter than before.
"We should check out the winter section first. I heard they have some really nice sweaters."<ñ
She looks around, taking in the various displays of winter clothing.
Madoka approaches the racks...
"I need new sweaters..."
Homura follows closely yet silently, her hands once again in her pockets.
Madoka starts sifting through the sweaters, pulling out ones that catch her eye.
"Look at this one! It's so soft and warm," she says, holding up a cream-colored sweater with subtle patterns.
Homura looks at the sweater for a moment before nodding slightly.
"It looks okay..."
Madoka places the sweater back on the rack and continues searching.
"Maybe I should try something different this year... What do you think about this blue one?"
She holds up a navy blue sweater with small white snowflakes embroidered on it.
Soon enough, both of them completely looked all over the clothes...
Homura continues to listen to Madoka's fashion conversation until they pick about 4 sweaters for Madoka to wear...
Madoka was actually having fun despite her nervousness earlier. And Homura was still following her and patiently listening and responding.
Madoka clutches the bags containing her new sweaters, feeling grateful for Homura's presence.
"Thanks for coming with me today. I probably would have gotten overwhelmed with all these stores," she offers a bright smile, genuinely meaning her words.
Homura only nods slightly.
"No problem..."
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They soon checked out on the cashier section. Homura was now carrying the bag of clothes with her hand, and the other still remained in her pocket as she continued following Madoka.
Now they're on the keychains, accessories, and plushie sections...
Madoka's eyes light up as they pass by the keychain display.
"Oh! These are really cute!"
She moves closer to examine the various designs, from simple ones to elaborate patterns.
Suddenly, Madoka saw something that caught her eye. She picks up a small cat keychain with purple eyes.
"This one reminds me of you, actually."
She says, half-jokingly, while still examining the keychain.
Homura looks at Madoka for a moment before she checks out the keychains, also.
Then she grabs a small pink bunny keychain, one.
"Then this looks like you..."
Madoka's eyes widen in surprise at Homura's response. She didn't expect her to engage with the keychains.
"You think so? I guess pink bunnies are pretty common."
She smiles softly, appreciating the small interaction despite Homura's brief comment.
Homura nods slightly, still eyeing the keychain.
"...I can buy it for you if you want..."
(Though she already paid for their foods earlier and the clothes, even for the train ride and the vending machine.)
Madoka quickly shakes her head, feeling guilty about all the expenses.
"No, no! You've already done enough. I can buy my own keychain."
She puts the cat keychain back on the display rack, determined to refuse any further help.
Homura watches as Madoka walks away. She looks back at the two keychains for a moment before secretly getting them...
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Soon, it was lunchtime, and so they ate. "They split the cash this time so it was fair," Madoka said to Homura.
They then explored more of the stores, then went to the bookstore to get some books for Homura.
Time passes again, and it was dinnertime, and they, of course, ate again for the final time.
After that, they came to rest on the sky view; the setting sun was already gone...
Madoka stands near the railing, watching the last bits of sunlight fade away. The city lights begin to flicker on below.
"I can't believe we spent the whole day shopping. It feels like we've been here forever."
She stretches her arms, feeling both tired and satisfied from the long day.
Homura nods slightly as she continues to look at the view...
It was getting colder now, but Homura doesn't seem to be bothered by it...
Madoka was about to speak again and ask Homura why she wasn't cold when she spoke up first.
"It's snowing..."
Madoka looks up at the sky, small snowflakes beginning to fall.
"Oh, you're right! I didn't even notice."
She reaches out to catch a snowflake, watching it melt in her palm.
The snow continues to fall, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Madoka moves closer to the railing, her breath visible in the cold air.
"I always liked snow... It makes everything feel so quiet."
She watches as the city lights begin reflecting off the falling snowflakes.
Homura gazes at Madoka for a moment before looking back at the view in front of her.
"I used to hate the snow.…"
Madoka turns to Homura, surprised by the admission.
"Really? Why is that?"
She tilts her head slightly, genuinely curious about what might have caused such a change in opinion.
Homura's eyes seem to soften, thinking quietly to herself for a moment before she finally speaks up again.
"When I wasn't in your family yet... I used to live on the streets all alone… people beating me half to death… starving… snow pouring down all over me until I was cold..." She pauses then continues. "But right now… it doesn't feel cold anymore… because you're here with me..."
Madoka's expression shifts to one of deep concern and understanding.
"Homura... I didn't know..."
She steps closer, her voice barely above a whisper as she processes this new information about her friend.
Homura then slowly reaches up to the bag she was holding and pulls out a small box.
"Here..."
Madoka looks at the box curiously, her previous sadness momentarily replaced by confusion.
"What's that?"
She takes a step toward Homura, still trying to process the heavy conversation they just had.
Madoka takes the box, opening it carefully and revealing the 2 keychains.
The black cat and pink bunny...
Madoka's eyes widen as she sees the keychains. She recognizes them immediately from earlier.
"You... you bought these anyway?"
She looks up at Homura, touched by the gesture despite her earlier refusal.
Homura nods slightly again. Her expression is softening even more now.
"I wanted to... It reminded me of both of us..."
Madoka gently picks up the pink bunny keychain, running her fingers over it thoughtfully.
"Thank you, Homura. This means a lot."
She tries to hold back the emotion in her voice, not wanting to make the moment awkward.
Madoka was about to cry, clearly touched. And she was becoming even more in love with Homura.
Madoka then shakes her head quickly and then smiles brightly at Homura.
"Let's share!"
She then gently places the pink bunny on Homura's hand. Then she holds the other keychain, the black cat.
"We'll always hold on to this. And whenever we get lonely, we will look at this and imagine it's us!"
Homura stares at the pink bunny in her hand, her usual stoic expression faltering slightly.
"I... I see. That's a practical solution."
She glances at Madoka's excited face, then back to the keychain. Finally, a rare, small yet gentle smile came to Homura's face as she looked back at Madoka fondly.
"Thank you, Madoka..."
Madoka's eyes widen at seeing Homura smile, her heart skipping a beat.
"For what? I should be thanking you for the keychain!"
She beams even brighter, trying to hide her surprise at seeing Homura's rare expression.
The snow continues to fall around them, creating a serene atmosphere as both girls stand in comfortable silence.
Madoka keeps stealing glances at Homura, her smile never fading. She's memorizing the sight of Homura smiling, a moment she might not get again.
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Both of them soon got home, quietly making their way to their own rooms...
Madoka watches as Homura heads to her room, still clutching the black cat keychain in her hand.
"Goodnight, Homura. And thanks for today."
She says softly, hoping Homura will acknowledge her.
Homura pauses briefly at her door, her hand on the doorknob.
"Goodnight, Madoka."
She speaks without turning around, her voice carrying a hint of something unspoken.
Madoka watches as Homura disappears into her room, the door clicking shut behind her.
She looks down at the black cat keychain again, a mix of emotions swirling inside her.
Madoka opens her own room. Taking off her scarf, jacket, and other things until she's only wearing her long-sleeved dress. She flops onto her bed, clutching the keychain to her chest.
Madoka then stares at the ceiling, her mind replaying the events of the day.
"She smiled... Homura actually smiled at me."
She whispers to herself, a small smile forming on her lips as she thinks about how the day turned out.
Madoka let out a small happy giggle as she rolled around her bed slightly...
Madoka hugs the keychain tighter, her mind drifting to the conversation about Homura's past.
"I wonder if she's sleeping already... or if she's still thinking about today too."
She sighs softly, the events of the day having left her feeling both emotionally drained and strangely energized.
Suddenly, Madoka remembers something... The reason why she invited Homura to the mall was because… She was supposed to confess her feelings, but she didn't...
Madoka sits up abruptly, realization hitting her like a ton of bricks.
"I completely forgot to confess! Ugh, what was I thinking?"
She groans and falls back onto her bed, staring at the ceiling with frustration.
"YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!"