Linked Paths

Arc II - Many Firsts [Chapter 2: Dates]

I act immediately and use my primary on the ball to prevent it from crashing into the ceiling and causing damage.

Shin stands there, rooted to the spot, his back still to us.

Kotatsu: "Shinra?", *rises, walks over to him*

Meanwhile, I'm already standing myself, steering the ball safely back into the holder near the lane.

Tamamushi: *whistles impressed*, "Wow. You're awesome!"

He sees for the first time how I use my quirk. Needless to say, that I get warmer at his words, but I'm facing the scene now playing out on the court in front of me, nonetheless. It's like in a movie. Everything happens within a matter of seconds.

Kotatsu: "Are you okay?", *puts hand on Shin's shoulder*

Right away, Shin gets startled and spins around too briskly. Somehow, he manages to weirdly tangle his own legs in the process. He loses his balance and falls backwards in an unnatural posture, taking Kotatsu with him. Kotatsu squeaks as she falls. Shin lands awkwardly on the hard floor of the hall, whereas Kotatsu lands safely on top of him. And his hand, it's on her...and... Oh dear!

I quickly look away, embarrassed, because I suddenly feel like I'm violating their privacy. Now I understand what Shin meant.

My eyes meet Tamamushi's, which are already focused on me. The expression in his brown eyes makes me swallow hard and then look down at the floor, as I clumsily sit down next to him again. Shit...embarrassment from all directions!

I don't see what's happening between the other two, but shortly after I hear giggles coming from their direction which I see as a good sign. The moment I recognize that the two of them are back on their feet, I raise my eyes a little. I'm not quite sure what to make of it when the two of them suddenly rush past us. Kotatsu holds Shin by the hand and literally pulls him along behind her. Both he and she are bright red. Shin shows his shark grin.

Kotatsu: "Ehm, excuse us for a moment."

I can still feel the wind draft and then they're out of sight. It's obvious what they are going to do. Shin will come back as been-kissed.

I am happy for him. Sure thing! However, I can't help but wonder whether Tamamushi will kiss me today too. Stupid! I shake my head inwardly, disappointed with myself. It's important that we have our own pacing and don't allow ourselves to be wrongly influenced.

Tamamushi: "I'll keep that strategy in mind."

I giggle idiotically, "Y-yeah." Oh, come on! React cool for just once?!

Now that I'm alone with Tamamushi, my nervousness increases. I realize even more that the double date constellation indeed helps me and that the presence of Shin and Kotatsu calms me down to a certain extent. As always, Laha was right. But I just have to get used to spending time alone with Tamamushi. Damn Izuku! Get that stick out of your ass!

Needing something to do, I quickly grab the small tray with the Mochis in it, place it on my lap and immediately help myself to a few.

„mhm, also want some?", I mumble with my mouth full.

Tamamushi: *chuckles*, "No, I'm fine, thanks."

"Hm...", my shoulders slump down. Not because he didn't take my Mochi offer but because I have no clue how to behave in front of him right now.

Tamamushi: "But if it makes you this sad, I'll have one."

Oh no! Understandable that he takes it that way!