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Arc II - Many Firsts [Chapter 2: Dates]

"Wha-.", I want to intervene, but he hasn't even finished his sentence when he waves Tamamushi already over to us, who is just clearing another table.

Laha: "Reki.", *warns*

Reki: *mouths a 'Sorry' to me, then winks at Laha*

Well, Reki again. Sometimes you want to smother him with kisses and strangle him in equal measure.

Tamamushi: *arrives at our table*, "What good can I do you?"

Reki: "Izzy is dying to ask you something!"

Laha: *sighs*

As I investigate Tamamushi's dark brown eyes, the connection between my brain and vocal cords disfunction for a brief moment because I didn't have enough time to mentally prepare myself. And of course, my heart rate immediately increases now that his attention is on me. But I really want to improve in regard to my shyness, which is why I ask the question as confidently as I can, "E-hm, would you like to go on a double date with me, Shin and Kotatsu next Saturday?"

Tamamushi: *eyes widen a little, blushes*, "Yes, I'd really like to!", *fiddles apron of work attire*, "I could check with my boss today and take a suitable shift."

I smile happily with a slightly rosy complexion on my cheeks, "I'll write you later on if it really works out. We'll then also fix the time and meeting point."

Tamamushi: "Okay.", *looks at me sweetly*, "I'll be really happy if it works out."

"Me too.", I look sheepishly at my Latte Macchiato now.

Tamamushi: "Well then...I'll get on with my work."

"Uhn.", I say as relaxed as possible while my heart is performing somersaults. Once he's gone, I exhale loudly to give vent to both joy and relief.

Reki: *claps hands*, "Nicu~."

Shin: "Haaa~, I'm already nervous, and we don't even know if it's really going to take place that soon."

I'm honestly kind of nervous too already...Oh dear...Not that we're more likely to infect each other with our nervousness than anything else...I quickly rattle this pointless thought construct. No no no, I won't let that happen! I want to help Shin and therefore myself as well! I'd be laughing if the double date wouldn't turn out to be an absolute success! Exactly!

Laha: "Look at it this way. Kotatsu is probably just as nervous as you are. Just be yourself, the rest will work itself out."

Reki: *nods vigorously*, "That's right! And BAM," *snaps fingers*, "You're in a relationship."

I guess it's not that simple, unfortunately. But I still appreciate that he wants to motivate him with this statement.

Shin: *blushes*, "That would be so nice...", *voice gets quieter towards the end*

Laha: "I have a really good feeling. Same for you, sweetie.", *looks as if he is having a revelation*

Reki: "Izzy could make a complete fool of himself yet Tama would still stick his tongue down his throat and then go down to his knees before him immediately!"

Tomato mode at 100% instantly!

"Reki~", I whine and hide my face with my hands.

Laha: *sighs more than ever*

Cut that part with 'smother him with kisses'! Just strangle him now!

Kacchan: "Urgh, stop with this sappy bullshit already!", *runs his fingers through his hair*, "That's unbearable."