Asterism Hamal and I are going on a date. Whether we are followed, I haven't realised it yet.
🦋
We agreed to have breakfast outside, so I dress up slightly and leave the Universe Boarding House to wait in my car. Bypassing Venus Myrtle, I give her a wave and she wishes me to have a good day.
Stepping out, I see the silhouette of a person near my car. It is Asterism!
With glasses!
He is wearing stylish glasses!
So cool!
"Ah," noticing me, who is wearing a fluffy long coat in this Winter, Asterism has a wry smile on his face, "It seems like we thought about the same thing,"
Asterism likes fluff while I like glasses. Sounds about right.
I quicken my steps to stand in front of Asterism and stare at him to my heart's satisfaction. I hadn't been able to do it so consciously before, after all.
Finally having enough look, I take out my smartphone and snap a shot.
Seeing me do that, Asterism requests, "May I do it too?"
I give a slight nod, "I won't be posing,"
Smiling as he takes out his smartphone and takes a shot, Asterism responses, "I am aware,"
Done with the greeting, I comment, "You are very early today,"
Asterism releases a dry laugh, "I am afraid there will be a chance for me to fall asleep at the Planetarium though,"
"It can't be helped if that happens," not concerned about that; we don't really need to pay attention to the stars, because we are only doing this for fun and relaxation, I unlock the car and sit on driver's seat
Asterism sits at the passenger's seat, glancing at the rear mirror briefly, "Has it always been this quiet in the early morning?"
"The twins usually wake up early to jog," I let Asterism know
"Didn't see them earlier though," musing so, Asterism then decides to not concern himself about such thing anymore
As I don't know where the Planetarium is located, I ask Asterism to help me navigate. Asterism accepts such an abrupt mission without hassle.
"After Planetarium, do you have anywhere you want to go?" in the middle of the road, Asterism lets me know, "The Planetarium is built on a remote land,"
"Which means we will need to drive back to the City for other things," musing so, I ask Asterism, "Where should we go for breakfast?"
That's important. We haven't eaten yet!
"Before we leave the City, there should be several restaurants on the road," Asterism uses his smartphone's map function properly to look for places to eat, "What do you want to eat this morning?"
Usually, I just eat whatever is prepared by Cosmos Altarf or Venus. I don't know how to choose.
"How about porridge?" Asterism looks at me whilst I focus on driving, "If you don't want to, I will look again,"
Porridge? Okay. I don't mind. Since it's like that, we will drop by the porridge restaurant for breakfast 1st before arriving at the Planetarium.
Just like what Space told us, there is a campaign going on. Because we arrive rather early, we get to enjoy the stars comfortable.
I mean, we don't need to queue for the ticket for long. Plus, there are barely people sitting near us.
Stargazing is romantic and all, but for us, it becomes a very comfortable moment to sleep together.
Yes.
That's right.
Asterism and I both fall asleep.
And we sleep while leaning on each other.
My comment on such an accident: my neck feels sore.
Asterism ends up awkwardly suggest, "Shall we come again another time?"
I agree with a nod, "Maybe not so early next time,"
A slight smile on his face, Asterism also nods, "And not after we feel full,"
Even though we aren't the type to feel sleepy after a fulfilling meal, we still ended up falling asleep inside the Planetarium. How embarrassing. It's good that nobody paid attention to us.
"Where do want to go next?" before completely leaving the Planetarium, after we visit toilets individually, Asterism tries to form a plan
Thinking about it, I don't have anywhere I want to go. As an inexperienced person, I feel troubled with how to continue this date.
Seeing as I come up with nothing, Asterism suggests, "How about we go shopping?"
"Sure?" in my mind, it's about grocery shopping
However, after I drive us to the Mall Asterism directs me to, I realise: that's not it. It's shopping.
Literary.
Asterism takes me to a jewellery store with the plan to gift me a necklace. I don't usually wear 1, even though I do have some in my inventory. Asterism takes me to look around, see if anything takes my fancy, and asks me to try some he thinks will look good on me.
"Why don't we buy a matching set?" when I do see something I like, I plan to gift Asterism 1 too
Asterism looks at me with a smile, his eyes glittering, "That would be great,"
Thus, we buy matching necklaces. In the same colour too.
After that, with his goal reached, Asterism lets me take the lead.
I am not sure about what to do next. We still have time before lunch. Since we are already inside the Mall, there's no need for us to look anywhere else to eat.
But before we go to the restaurant... I was thinking of window shopping, yet we end up with Asterism following me as I am looking for new clothes to buy.
"It has been a long time since you updated your wardrobe," saying this, Asterism helpfully discusses with me on the clothes I pick, try on, or planning to buy
Feeling a little bad for making him do this, I promise Asterism, "After lunch, let's drop by the bookstore,"
Asterism blinks at me and smiles, putting a hand on my head, "It's fine. I think it's fun to see you trying new clothes,"
Hearing Asterism says that, I feel my heart warming up. I don't think I have gone shopping for clothes with anyone before, as Mercury. For Asterism to be my 1st, supportive, shopping partner...
Why don't I ask Asterism to try on some clothes too?
Asterism doesn't reject my suggestion and really tries on the clothes I think will look good on him, or just for fun.
At lunch, after we bought several bags of clothes from various stores, I comment to Asterism, "You don't seem tired after trying out those clothes?"
Asterism releases a chuckle as he reminds me, "My Older Sister likes to dress me up. I got used to it,"
En. That's right. Asterism did mention such thing before. Also giggling, I ask him, "Between Miss Constellation and I--"
Asterism suddenly lifts 1 finger; putting it on my lips, silencing me. I blink at him, in puzzlement, as Asterism gives a plea, "Please don't compare yourself with Sister,"
En. Something like that would put him in a hard place, to choose between us. However, I do need to get this out. Grabbing Asterism's hand, taking the finger away, I continue asking, "Who do you think to have the fashion sense which suits your taste?"
Generally, Miss Constellation Hamal and I have different tastes. Aside from being older and mature now, when she was my age, how did Miss Constellation dressed up Asterism?
That's what I want to know.
Even when he was wearing a High School uniform, I thought Asterism was attractive. Wearing casual clothes, older now, he is still attractive to me.
However, when Asterism was still an adolescent boy, with an Older Sister who loved to dress him up... I want to see it!
I wonder if Miss Constellation still has the photos taken at that time?
"Oh, that," understanding my question, Asterism takes some time to decide, "To be honest, I prefer your style. It's more comfortable,"
"But," I am glad Asterism thinks so. However, I do have to comment on it, "Miss Constellation has good fashion sense too. She successfully made you looked cool, after all,"
Asterism smiles, "Thank you for the praise. Personally, I prefer comfortable wear styles, like the ones you picked for me. Sister's fashion sense may be great, but it did make me feel uncomfortable wearing clothes, sometimes,"
I see. Being comfortable is important, "I will pay attention to it,"
Asterism widens his eyes slightly in surprise, "Oh, you don't need to do that. As I said, your fashion sense suits my taste a lot," brightly, Asterism chuckles, "With that said, I suppose I will trouble you to shop for me in the future,"
"Leave it to me," I take on this mission seriously, "I know your size now. Next time I see anything which suits you, I will buy it for you,"
"Wait," raising a hand in the motion to stop me, Asterism shakes his head, "You don't need to keep buying clothes for me. I have a lot I don't wear in my wardrobe..." saying until here, Asterism has a guilty look on his face, "It's because I rarely go out so I don't think I need to wear them..."
"The clothes from Miss Constellation?" I have a slight interest in checking Asterism's wardrobe now
Asterism nods, responding to my question, before assuring me, "You don't have to worry about these," he points at the shopping bags, "Those are the set of clothes I wear," then, pondering carefully, "Maybe I will sort out my wardrobe later,"
Changing out the old clothes with the new ones? I am glad Asterism likes the clothes we bought together so much that he is ready to wear them without delay. Me too, actually.
After lunch, where do we go next?
Asterism has no idea, since he is fine with following me. As for me, like promised, I choose to take him to visit the bookstore. Asterism sees interesting titles and buys them. I check the manga section and decide to buy them according to the volumes.
Waiting every month for the new volume? No. I only buy the completed set of books.
Now that I have bought the manga, I am itching to visit a video game store. After asking Asterism about it, I get the chance to visit the video game store in this Mall!
Asterism is not much of a gamer... Should I convert him?
...Why, yes, I should. As a beginner, let's have Asterism play otome-genre games!
"Your eyes are sparkling, Mercury," sounding amused, Asterism tells me something about myself
Glancing at him, the corners of my lips are turned up slightly, "I feel excited about what to come,"
Asterism pauses, before eyeing the game cards in my hands with apprehension, "Please go easy on me?"
I hum slightly, not answering him positively. After picking up the games, I then bring Asterism to go choose his handheld game console. After inquiring about my game console, Asterism decides to buy the same 1, in different colours. Well, it means I can share my existing game cards with Asterism.
"I have only seen you play the games in your phone," commenting so, Asterism pays for his own purchase
"Ah, that's because I only play other games when I stay in my room," it's a habit I picked up to avoid my parents finding out about this hobby
Asterism looks down at his purchase, a little lost, "Does that mean I won't be able to consult you when I play the games?"
Talking through calls when playing is a bother, after all. However, have no fear, "Let's play together in the living room or study room in Universe Boarding House,"
Looking at me, Asterism nods and smiles, "That would be great,"
On this matter, "You can consult Space too, if there is anything you don't understand," and as I recall the genre of games Asterism purchased, "If he can't explain anything, come look for me,"
I am unaware of the scope of game genres Space plays. If he doesn't touch otome game, like most male gamers, then Asterism is free to come to me.
Now, after the bookstore and video game store, where shall we go next?
"We have bought a lot of things," comments about the bags we are carrying right now, Asterism suggests, "Why don't we put them in the car 1st?"
That's a great idea.
🦋
After putting our purchases in the car, I drag Asterism to a place I saw when walking to the parking lot. There is a bazaar there!
Today, it feels like I move around a lot.
"Do you think I am annoying?" thinking of that, I aim to know Asterism's thought
Hearing my out of the blue question, Asterism is dumbfounded. Shaking his head, Asterism sounds confused, "Not at all. What makes you think that?" then, realising something, Asterism is worried, "Did I give you that impression?"
"No," I deny it, "I just think I have become somewhat annoying today, dragging you here and there,"
A pause for 5 seconds. Then, Asterism gives me a bewildered look, "Aren't we on a date? Isn't that the point of this date?"
"Is it?" truthfully repeating: I have no prior experience. I have no idea whether this is considered dating or me being annoying.
"I apologise if I make you feel insecure because I haven't contributed much for this date," after seriously thinking about it, Asterism tells me, "However, to me, spending time with you doing what you like is a date,"
"Doing what I like..." this sentence makes me recall what I have just done. Remembering it now, I feel like I did something embarrassing in front of Asterism. Shaking off the shame, I tell Asterism, "Why don't we do what you like?"
We have arrived in front of the bazaar by now. However, I do not plan to go in; if Asterism doesn't want to.
Asterism looks at the bazaar then turns to me, "Since we are here already, let's go in," and as he sees that I disapprove of his way to fulfil my capricious wish, Asterism strikes up a deal, "I will take full responsibility for our next date,"
Which means, we will be doing what he wants on our next date? I am fine with only visiting the library too, I inform Asterism as I show my agreement.
Chuckling, Asterism tells me, "Let's have a library date once we have played enough outside,"
Sounds good to me. And so, into the bazaar, we go.
Since it's a bazaar, it means there are a lot of stands selling a lot of things. I mostly prioritise on procuring consumables, aka foods. Once again, Asterism becomes my personal porter.
Having such a good looking young man becoming a porter... I am sure these crowds of young girls are scolding me in their minds. Their dissatisfaction with me is plain as day.
"Are you all right?" also noticing the looks we are getting in this bustling crowd, Asterism sticks closer to me and voices his concerned question above my head
I look up at him, seeing his face this up close, I feel my heart skip a beat. Tightening my grip on the food box, to make sure it doesn't accidentally fall because of the wave of weakness which washes over me, I take a step back.
Asterism widens his eyes behind the glasses, astounded by my movement.
En. No good. I am making this awkward, aren't I?
Watching over me, who has dropped my head in disappointment over my reaction about that point of view, Asterism ponders about something silently.
And in this silence, as I am distracted by my own thoughts on how to salvage this date, Asterism guides me to the sitting area.
To be honest, it isn't like this is the 1st time Asterism and I look at each other this closely. Prior to this, we surely have several occasions whereas we face each other. And then, the recent event at the Oceanarium, we faced each other closely too.
However, at that time, our relationship was different, though.
Is it because now that I consider Asterism to be my boyfriend that I unconsciously have some weird expectation and then react to it?
En. No. What expectation? It's more like I just feel too happy and nervous that I don't know how to act anymore. Distancing myself seems to be the default.
"Here," taking out a bottle of water from the pile of purchases, Asterism helps me unseals it so I can directly drink without delay
"Thank you," releasing a sigh, I accept the bottle of water and take some sips
Pulling the chair to sit beside me, Asterism rummages through the pile again to take out a bag of glacé fruit for me, "Eating something sweet will make you feel better,"
"Thank you," picking up a peach candied fruit, I eat it with a peace of mind
When I feel relaxed, that's when Asterism opens his mouth, "Shall we go back?"
Go back? Where? Into the bazaar? Seeing my confusion, Asterism shakes his head, explaining, "Back to Universe Boarding House,"
Back there? I look at the sky; a bit sunny, but not unbearably hot. I tilt my head at Asterism then, "Isn't it still too early to end this date?"
Asterism blinks at me, "Isn't it fine? Since you are already tired, we should go back so you can rest," and since Asterism has never gotten around to get his driving license, which means I will be driving us back, he murmurs, "I'm sorry I can't let you rest completely until we reach the boarding house,"
Tired, he says. About me.
I don't think I am tired at all though? It's more like... Too excited?
Well, being too excited does make it tiring.
But, to end the date abruptly...
"There is no need to feel bad for me, you know," Asterism tells me when he sees that I am being hesitant about making a choice
"Even if you tell me that..." sighing, I pick up a cherry candied fruit and put it on Asterism's lips, waiting for him to open his mouth
Body turning stiff, Asterism's lips spread apart, so I slip in the candied cherry. Taking my hand back, I turn away from him and take out my smartphone, delaying the end of this date. Asterism did make sense, that I should rest. Although, resting here is not a problem, isn't it?
We don't really have to go back to Universe Boarding House. Why don't we find a cosy restaurant to rest? That's a good idea, actually.
My shoulder suddenly feels heavy, so I am distracted from my smartphone to look at Asterism, who is leaning his head on it. When I inquire about his choice of action, he tells me, "I feel my heart blowing up,"
!?
That's dangerous, isn't it?!
"Mercury, may I hug you?" Asterism whispers such request; his voice is so small that I almost missed it
Nevertheless, I did hear him. And so, I reply, "Now? At this place?" it's not like I am being picky, so I agree, "You may,"
Asterism lifts his head up from my shoulder and directly engulfs me in his arms, whispering in my ear, "I really, really do like you," with a smile in his tone
I feel my heart blowing up.
Such a statement, I understand it now. As expected, it is dangerous.
I have never blushed because of anything; never lacking attempts from other people to make me blush too. However, right now, I do feel my cheeks warming up.
My face is hidden by Asterism's body; nobody should notice it, right?
I don't know how I sound, muffled or shy, but I respond to Asterism's words, "I like you too,"
🦋
I consider my 1st date with Asterism a success. We stay at that spot to rest for a few hours whilst chatting and snacking on what I have bought from the bazaar. After that, we also have dinner outside before returning to Universe Boarding House in the evening.
When we arrive at the building, there is no shadow of anyone. Asterism and I separate our purchases at the living room then return to our respective rooms to sleep.
It is tiring to stay out for so long, even though we spent the afternoon without moving.
After I have finished bathing, I receive a call from Aunt. Answering the call, I wonder why Aunt suddenly calls me.
[I heard you have finally got a boyfriend?] Aunt is excited, [Take him to visit the Family later!]
And by Family, Aunt means the usual reunion at my Grandparents' house.
Speaking of that, I have only told Dad about having a boyfriend; Dad knows it when I discussed with him my plan to reject the rest. Aunt probably knows from Dad. My Grandparents, Aunt must have told them too.
On Asterism's side... I am not sure if he has informed his Family. I didn't think to ask.
I am still on the call with Aunt. Her voice snaps me out from thought, [Mercury~ Why don't you send the photo over? I want to know which one of them you like!]
Photo? I nod without Aunt seeing it, "I will send it," I am thinking of taking new photos of Asterism, a formal one for the Family, so I inform her, "Tomorrow,"
[Tomorrow? Why not now? It's still early,] Aunt is way too eager to wait until tomorrow, [You just need to press attach then send!]
Simply put, Aunt has seen and known the candidates so she just needs to know which one. For her to ask which one, it makes me release a big sigh.
Dad didn't include which one when conveying the news to Aunt?
[Is it Cosmos?] Aunt's questions cause me to roll my eyes, [Or Space? Galaxy is good too. I don't know about the twins, but your Mother will be happy if it's them,]
Is Aunt asking this on purpose? I can't help but feel so, because she doesn't mention my boyfriend at all.
If it's not on purpose, then Aunt doesn't think Asterism has a chance? Or that, Asterism and I aren't suitable?
[Mercury? Why the silence?] Aunt is confused, [Anyway, if you really can't give it tonight, then I will wait until tomorrow. How about sending a lover's shot?]
I can't believe I am saying this to Aunt, "Don't be too greedy,"
[How is this greedy? This is normal. Nor-mal!] Aunt is huffing over there, [I am not annoying, okay,]
En. That's probably Uncle-in-law reprimanding Aunt. Thank you, Uncle-in-law.
[Thank you for entertaining your Aunt, Mercury,] here comes Uncle-in-law's voice over the phone, [Good night,]
I chuckle slightly when Uncle-in-law ends the call decisively without letting Aunt have another say. Sure, it's still considered early. However, what about Asterism?
I send him a message, asking if it's convenience for us to meet now. If it's not, or he doesn't reply because he has fallen asleep, that's okay. At least, I asked. And I have the proof for Aunt too.
To my surprise, because I was not hopeful, I receive a call from Asterism.
[Where...do...we...meet?] Asterism's voice is groggy
I feel concerned to have woken him up. Asterism tells me it's fine, and repeats his question. So, I respond, "The stair is fine,"
[See...you,] Asterism ends the call with these words; I faintly hear his yawn
I climb down from the bed and make my way out of my room. The building is really quiet. Where are the rest? It's already night, yet they still haven't come back? How long do they plan to play, or do they even plan to come back? Pondering on these questions without directly asking them, it is my way of wasting time when climbing the stairs.
Meeting up with Asterism who is unsteadily gliding down using the railings at the stair leading to the 4th floor, I show a wry smile. Asterism had already fallen asleep. At this rate, my wish to get a formal photo of Asterism can't be realised. Nevertheless, since I have already dragged him out of bed... Sorry, my bad.
Asterism doesn't speak. With his eyes closed, hard to open them, he waits for me. I take out my smartphone and press the camera icon. Then, I step closer to Asterism, aligning the camera to face us.
"Open your eyes a little for 5 seconds," requesting this to Asterism, I focus on the image reflected on the screen and snap a shot when I see Asterism squinting at the camera
That's good enough.
As long as we can see his eye colour, I consider this a good shot.
Asterism is starting to become unstable now that he knows I have finished my business with him. Feeling bad for causing this, I offer to carry him back to his room. Asterism hasn't responded yet when I sling his arm over my shoulder and carry him up after putting my smartphone away.
When half-carrying him to his room, I can't help but wonder, "Why is it you are always sleepy when the time is up?"
"Habit," Asterism's answer surprises me, because I didn't think he will reply
En. Since Asterism still walks with his own legs, of course he hasn't completely lost consciousness yet. As for his response, "Can't you change this habit?"
"I like it," Asterism's meaning: why change a habit he likes?
As it makes sense, I do not question it anymore. It's a good habit to sleep early anyway. Good for health.
Half-carrying Asterism to his own bed, I leave the door of his room open, I tuck Asterism under the blanket. Putting my arms on my waist, I consider myself doing a good deed.
This is the 1st time I enter Asterism's room. Seeing as I am here, I stand beside his bed to take a look around. I do not plan to touch anything.
Like what Cosmos once mentioned, Asterism's room is full of bookcases. Plus books. Lots of books. And the books are in different languages. Yes, multiple languages.
Tilting my head, I try to recall ever knowing Asterism is multilingual. If I am not mistaken, this skill is associated with the Hamal Family's business.
"Mercury...?" Asterism sounds a little husky when he calls me
Perhaps, my presence is bothering him from having a good sleep. In that case, I excuse myself now.
"Wait," seeing me turning away after giving him an apologetic look, Asterism raises his hand to grab mine
Asterism still looks sleepy, but he stubbornly insists on doing something.
Pulling me to sit on the bed, Asterism uses my hand he is still grabbing as leverage to sit up. Then, in a flowing motion, Asterism presses his lips on my cheek.
Falling back on the bed, Asterism yawns and sleeps, "Good night,"
...
Is this considered a good night kiss, a 1st date kiss, or a stolen kiss?