Never Without You │ BOTW modern AU fanfic

One More Day

"I thought we agreed not to use that word," Riju pouts. "I'm almost a teenager and quite capable of taking care of myself."

"Can you drive yourself home?" I challenge.

"If you give me your keys," she smirks cheekily.

After losing a short debate, Riju walks ahead to get the elevator for us. I still feel awkward around Link, especially when we are alone. I hardly look at him when I bid him goodnight. I just don't know how to properly act around him anymore. After three weeks, I'm still having trouble getting used to this new version of him. But I'm trying.

Just as I reach for the door, a hand reaches for my arm and gently tucks at it. Instantly, I turn my head over my shoulder to find Link standing behind me, holding on to my wrist.

"Link," I gasp, staring at his ocean eyes so close to mine. "You shouldn't be walking without your crutches!" If I had a nickel for every time I've said those words to him...

"Can I take you out on a date?" He asks out of nowhere.

"What?"

"Tomorrow I'm finally leaving the hospital and I want to celebrate by taking my girlfriend out on a date."

"Right now?"

"No, dummy, tomorrow," he says the obvious and blesses me with the purest smile.

"Oh... Er... Are you sure—"

"Yes."

"No but are you sure it's a good idea?"

"Why wouldn't it be? I want to spend time with you."

"You might seek rest or time for yourself tomorrow. We've spent every day together since you've woken up from your coma, not that I mind, I don't mind at all, but... but I'm just saying, if you need more time for yourself, I'm okay waiting."

"We've spent a lot of time together, yes, but not alone," he clarifies.

"I see." I've wished for us to be alone at least a hundred times since spring break but even when we had the room to ourselves, a nurse or doctor would waltz in every time I attempted to get close to him. It never felt like the right moment to truly show him how deeply I feel for him. A moment alone with him... I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate his homecoming.

"So?"

"Where would we go?"

"I don't really care. Somewhere private."

"We can go to my house. Father will be gone all week."

"Perfect," he smiles and lets go of my wrist.

I remain standing right in front of him and briefly consider kissing him. But the door is wide open and my heart is clouding my judgment. Besides... What is one more day, right?

✤ ✤ ✤

The next day after school I return to the hospital to pick up Link. He's ready to leave when I get there. Standing by his bed, he looks as if he has been waiting for me all day. He's wearing sweatpants and a hoodie, black sneakers, and a backpack with the few belongings he had at this depressing place. It's comforting to know that his fashion taste hasn't changed one bit. 

"You look pretty today," he says as I walk up to him. "I like your outfit."

I look down at my skirt and crop top combo. This was Impa's idea. I was fine wearing jeans and a t-shirt but she said I should dress nicely for our date. Even though we are just going to hang out at my house. With flushed cheeks, I return a bashful "Thank you."