It was evening. The air was silent and cold. However, Aiko and Oda were enveloped by warmth, spurred on by their time together. Aiko was leaning on Oda's shoulder, lost in total bliss. Oda gave off another purr-like sound. Aiko raised her head with an odd look.
"Is that you?" asked Aiko in amusement.
"Sorry. It's involuntary. I swear that never happens," said Oda with an embarrassed smile. Aiko giggled as she leaned her head back against the boy.
"You're so cute. You're more like a big teddy bear rather than a lizard armadillo thing," said Aiko sweetly. Oda smiled bashfully.
'I can't believe this is happening. God, if this is a dream, I don't ever want to wake up,' thought Oda. By some stroke of luck, Oda actually managed to win Aiko's affection. He wasn't expecting it to happen but was glad it did.
Soon, the two teens were making their way into Aiko's neighborhood. They dreaded that they would soon have to separate, even after a great day as this. While it had rough moments, neither would change anything if it meant they didn't share that last moment together. The two stopped at a house, where Aiko turned with a warm smile.
"I had fun," said Aiko. Oda nodded, smiling back.
"Me too. I'll see you later," said Oda as he began to walk away. However, Aiko grabbed his arm and pulled him back to her. A flirty smile on her face as she traced a finger over his chest.
"Let's end our night on a positive note," said Aiko. She gently reached up to Oda's face and caressed it. The boy stared at her loving eyes as she licked her lips. Oda's heart began to race as she stood on her toes and leaned in close. Unable to resist her charm, Oda gave in. He began to lean into the girl as well. As their faces came within inches from each other, the door suddenly opened. Aiko and Oda both gasped with a start. They quickly released each other and found Mrs. Yamada standing at the doorway.
"M-Mama..." Aiko stuttered in embarrassment.
"Where have you been? It's 10:30! I said to be home by 9!" said Mrs. Yamada.
"I'm sorry. We got sidetracked..." said Aiko, looking down at the ground.
"Who's this?" questioned Mrs. Yamada, looking to Oda.
"Um... This is Riku Oda. He's uh... Well... We're together now, I'd like to think," said Aiko as she awkwardly glanced at Oda. The boy stiffly nodded.
"Y-Yeah. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Yamada," said Oda, nervously. He wasn't expecting to meet Aiko's parents so soon, let alone to state out loud that they were together. Things have gotten awkward fast.
"Funny, she's never mentioned you. Where do you attend school?" asked Mrs. Yamada. Aiko slightly furrowed her brows.
"Moooom, you're being rude to him," whispered Aiko in annoyance.
"Um... Sobu Academy?" said Oda. He noticed Mrs. Yamada to have grown pale. The woman's eyes were wide as she stumbled back.
"Mom?" called Aiko.
"Aiko, get in the house," said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko felt a chill from her mother's low tone.
"Mom-" Aiko gasped as she was yanked to the door.
"I said get in!" yelled Mrs. Yamada. As she pulled Aiko in, Mrs. Yamada grabbed a closed umbrella from the side of the door and began to jab it against Oda's chest.
"Get off my porch! Go on, get out of here!" shouted Mrs. Yamada. Oda stepped back, a stunned look on his face.
"Mom, stop it!" said Aiko as she attempted to pull her mother back. Mrs. Yamada forced her away and then ran up to Oda, raising the umbrella as though she were ready to strike. Oda stumbled back as she rushed towards him.
"Get the hell away from my house, before I call the police!" shouted Mrs. Yamada as she waved the umbrella. Oda found Aiko cupping her mouth in horror from inside the house. The boy frowned as he began to walk away from the house in silence.
Mrs. Yamada returned inside the house. She gave a relieved sigh. Aiko was looking at her angrily.
"What the fuck was that?!" yelled Aiko.
"What did I tell you about your language?" asked Mrs. Yamada as she narrowed her eyes.
"Don't change the subject! Why did you chase him away?!" asked Aiko. From the hall, Rei appeared.
"What's going on?" asked Rei.
"What were you doing hanging around one of those monsters? You know what kind of school that is, don't you?" asked Mrs. Yamada incredulously.
"He's not a monster! None of them are monsters!" argued Aiko. Rei looked to her mother and sister in confusion.
"Wait, wait! What monsters? Why-"
"Rei, stay out of this!" snapped Mrs. Yamada.
"Mom, if you'd met him, you'd see that-" Aiko was silenced as her mother smacked her hand against the wall. The clap echoed in the hall.
"I don't want that- That creature to be anywhere near this house!" said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko's face grew red with anger. It was happening again. Her mother never just talked to her. She always had to control her and yell at her.
"Why does it matter if he's a Transmutant?! What is it that makes them so damn terrible that they have to be treated the way they are?!" demanded Aiko.
"If you paid attention in school, you'd know!" said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko clenched her fists. Again, her mother just threw her own shortcomings back in her face. Even after she's been working to turn that around.
"Let me give you a little history lesson. Gojira Takeshi," said Mrs. Yamada. The name wasn't familiar to Aiko, but he must have been a big deal if her mother bothered to mention him.
"It's because of that one Transmutant starting a rebellion on Solgell, we've been plunged into a war with them. A lot of innocent humans died when the Transmutants tried to take those islands for themselves," said Mrs. Yamada. She then pointed to a counter, where photos were set.
"Your uncle was there and almost didn't make it home! I'm sure he has stories to tell!" said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko's eyes fell on the photo of a man in uniform. She had no idea that this man was present during this conflict. She never even knew the story of why Transmutants were feared.
"You can't trust any of them, Aiko. They're bombs waiting to go off," said Mrs. Yamada as she held her daughter by her shoulders. Aiko pulled away.
"No, you're wrong about Oda! He's nothing like that!" said Aiko. Mrs. Yamada merely crossed her arms.
"You're forbidden from seeing that boy. I don't want you being around him, I don't want you talking to him, and I certainly don't want you thinking about him!" said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko bore an appalled look. She felt her eyes stinging. She couldn't believe what was happening
"But-"
"And your grounded for a week for trying to hide him from me," said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko fell silent. She was completely stunned on how cold her mother was. The girl gritted her teeth as she walked to her bedroom door.
"He makes me happy. Why would you take that away from me?" asked Aiko. She slammed her door shut as she entered her room.
Mrs. Yamada sighed heavily. She turned and found Rei standing in the hall. The eldest daughter had her arms crossed as she shook her head.
"Don't give me that look," said Mrs. Yamada as she walked to the living room.
"You're unbelievable! You're grounding her from a guy because he's a Transmutant?" asked Rei incredulously.
"Rei, don't you start," warned Mrs. Yamada.
"Mom, you're being unfair. What if she's right? He might-" Rei fell silent as her mother glared at her.
"So long as she lives in my house, she lives under my rules. That goes for you as well. Are we clear?" asked Mrs. Yamada in a low tone. Rei merely furrowed her brows.
"Crystal," said Rei as she walked away. As the girl made her way to her own room, she heard Aiko softly weeping from her bedroom. Rei sighed solemnly.
Aiko was sitting against her door. The girl had her face buried into her knees. Her red face was drenched with flowing hot tears. What she thought would be the end to a wonderful night was ruined by the prejudice of her mother.
A prejudice that was spurred on from years ago, by one particular Transmutant. Gojira Takeshi, the one Transmutant that drove a wedge between their kinds. It was because of him that Oda wasn’t accepted. He was why the two were forbidden to see each other. Aiko seethed in her own anger and sadness.
It was the beginning of the week. Aiko was walking away from her home. She was in a solemn silence as she walked out of her neighborhood. The girl soon came across a familiar street corner.
Aiko stopped in her tracks. She found Oda to be standing at the street corner. The girl deeply frowned as she walked on ahead. Oda noticed her approaching. He smiled as he waved.
"Yo," greeted Oda. He lost his smile as Aiko passed by him. She didn't greet him with so much of a glance.
"H-Hey-" Oda called as Aiko seemed to have picked up her pace. The boy began to jog after her and grabbed her arm.
"Let me go," said Aiko, not facing Oda.
"What's going on? I haven't seen you for the rest of the weekend," said Oda.
"Please, just let me go," muttered Aiko as she attempted to pull away.
"Yamada, please just talk to me," said Oda, Growing desperate.
"I told you to let go!" screamed Aiko, her voice distraught. Oda released her, a confused and hurt expression was plastered on his face. Aiko held her school bag tightly as she tried to avoid eye contact. However, an unknown force just kept drawing her eyes to Oda.
"I... I thought that..." Oda found Aiko turn to him with tears in her eyes.
"I'm so sorry," said Aiko. Oda's expression softened. As he took a step forward, the girl stepped back with a look of panic.
"No! Don't come any closer if you know what's good for you!" said Aiko.
"I-I don't understand! I thought that we-" Oda rubbed his head, growing more confused.
"Oda, I can't see you anymore. My mom's gone full tyrant," said Aiko with a sniffle.
"Since when has the rules kept you from-" Oda was interrupted as Aiko quickly shook her head.
"No! Don't you see?! If I keep hanging around you, who knows what my mom will do! She might have you arrested just to keep us apart!" cried Aiko.
"S-So... You want us to be apart anyway? After last night?" asked Oda incredulously. Aiko glared at him.
"Of course not! But I don't want you to get into more trouble because of me!" cried Aiko. Oda's expression softened as he reached out to Aiko. But the girl sniffled as she walked away.
"Just stay away," said Aiko. Oda lowered his hand as his eyes teared up.
"Aiko... please, come back," said Oda in a weak tone. He watched as the girl began to run away from the area. He was left alone, his heart shattering into dust.
Two weeks have gone by. The days seemed to have passed slowly, giving the illusion of months. Aiko was walking to school with a blank expression on her face. Her heart cold and her eyes lifeless. Aiko passed a familiar street corner, which she has ignored during her time. After Aiko passed the area, Oda was walking on his path to school as well. He glanced from the corner of his eye, finding Aiko to be walking alone on her path.
Oda has taken the time to not wake up as early and to take his time getting to school. At least this way, he wouldn't have to bother meeting with Aiko. Ever since that day, the two never met, never spoke, nor make eye contact. They even stopped hanging out and exercising together. Things just weren't the same.
Aiko found herself riding the train. She was still cold, feeling a return to her old ways. The crowd made her anxious, the city made her depressed, and the travel to school made her feel stuck in a loop. She felt that she lost something vital to what kept her happy. She knew what it was, but did her best to ignore it.
Aiko spent the day, mindlessly going through the motions of her day at school. Enter homeroom, bow, listen to lecture, read, bow, and then head to the next class. Though unlike the old days, something was different. Aiko was holding a test sheet from one of her classes. She stood at her teacher's desk, who smiled in approval. Aiko returned to her desk with the sheet, finding a 100 score on her test.
Later at lunch, Aiko was sitting outside. She was next to Kobayashi, who was reading through a textbook, while Aiko slowly chewed.
"Thanks for helping me out lately, Yamada. It's helped me get my grades up," said Kobayashi.
"Uh huh." Aiko sipped from a milk carton with a blank look. Kobayashi glanced at her, growing a bit worried.
"You OK?" asked Kobayashi.
"No." Aiko replied. Her expression cold.
"What's wrong? You've been cold lately," said Kobayashi. Aiko shook her head.
"What's the point of it all?" asked Aiko. "What's the point of life if we're not allowed to be with the people we want to be with?"
Kobayashi was taken aback by this. The cold look and deadpanned tone in Aiko's voice was frightening to say the least. She never saw this girl behave this way.
"Life fucking sucks," said Aiko, tossing her milk carton at a nearby trash can. However, the carton barely reached the can.
Aiko was walking away from her school. Her body wanted to collapse and never get back up. She walked in the glow of the sunset, where she then rode a train to home. Everything felt mundane again. Aiko couldn't appreciate the sunset, nor the stars that were appearing. All she could feel was emptiness that she thought she had filled.
Soon, Aiko returned to her neighborhood. Again, she continued her walk down her street. She made it to her home, feeling her body giving in. She was truly back at the old routine. Nothing to change it up, and nothing to look forward to. This was Aiko's life.
Aiko entered the house. She closed the door, lazily removing her shoes. She didn't bother to inform anyone that may be around that she was home. There was no point to that. It wasn't like she was going to come home at unexpected times. Aiko proceeded to walk to her bedroom, opening her door. Her sister stepped into the hall, finding her to be entering her room.
Rei began to approach the door. She knocked and waited for a reply. None came, for there was only silence. Rei knocked again.
"Sis? Mom made dinner," called Rei. Silence.
"Is Aiko home?" Asked Mrs. Yamada, stepping into the hall. She approached the door and knocked.
"Dinner's ready," said Mrs. Yamada. Still, no reply came. Rei felt a pit in her stomach from the silence.
"Sweetie, why don't you come out and eat with us? I made your favorite~," said Mrs. Yamada in a sing song voice.
"I'm busy," said Aiko from her room.
"Doing what?" asked Mrs. Yamada, growing impatient. Rei sent her a glare and shook her head.
"What do you care?" asked Aiko. Mrs. Yamada scoffed.
"Excuse-" Mrs. Yamada was interrupted was Rei pulled her from the door.
"Sis, if you get hungry, I'll save you something," called Rei.
"Whatever..." said Aiko. Rei sighed as she ushered her mother out to the kitchen.
"Don't push me!" said Mrs. Yamada.
"Just leave her alone, mom," said Rei in annoyance. Her mother glared at her.
"You know, you and your sister have been getting-"
"That is enough!" said Mr. Yamada as he stood up, slamming his hands on the table. He was looking to his wife with furrowed brows.
"You have to stop this. Aiko's upset," said Mr. Yamada.
"I'm just trying to protect her! But she acts like I'm some kind of witch!" said Mrs. Yamada. Rei scoffed.
"What do you expect, mom?! Aiko resents you because you're keeping her from seeing that boy she likes!" said Rei.
"That boy is one of those monsters!" said Mrs. Yamada.
Aiko lied in her bed as the muffled arguments of her family reached her room. The girl curled herself into her bed as held her hands over her ears. She didn't want to listen to what they were saying. Aiko wanted to be alone. If she couldn't be with the one she loved, then she'd rather just be isolated from the world. Never to have to rise up every morning to face it. Because there was no reward in it.
Later, Aiko heard the door open. She didn't bother looking and just remained on her side.
"Aiko? I brought you your dinner," said Mr. Yamada as he stepped into the room. He carried a plate of food.
"I'm not hungry..." muttered Aiko. Mr. Yamada sighed as he set the food down at the desk. This was all too familiar. The father took a seat at her bed.
"You haven't been coming out of your room lately," said Mr. Yamada.
"There's no reason for me to. Mom's just gonna take away something else from me," said Aiko as she crossed her arms over her chest.
"It's not fair. I finally met someone that I could talk to and they'd understand, and she forbids me from seeing him. He's not a bad guy," muttered Aiko. She sniffled as her eyes began to water.
"Does mom just hate me?" asked Aiko. Mr. Yamada as taken aback by her question.
"Why would you think that?" asked Mr. Yamada.
"Why else would she keep me from seeing Oda? Why would she chase him away and threaten him? Why would she not acknowledge the efforts I've been making in school? I'm tutoring Kobayashi for God's sake!" cried Aiko, breaking into a sob. Mr. Yamada deeply frowned as he caressed the head of his youngest daughter. His heart was heavy from her sadness.
"Your mother doesn't hate you, Aiko. She's just scared," said Mr. Yamada.
"Scared of what? One of the nicest people I've ever met?!" demanded Aiko, raising herself out of bed.
"Aiko, I know how you feel. I personally have a bias towards Transmutants. Your mother can't stand it," chuckled Mr. Yamada. "But you have to understand. There's a reason why there's a prejudice against them. Every demographic has this problem."
"People just aren't used to different groups. Some groups are so different that it's jarring for the majority group. It doesn't help when there's bad apples falling from the tree of the smaller group," said Mr. Yamada as Aiko leaned against the wall by her bed.
"Whatever happened to not judging a book by its cover?" asked Aiko.
"Aiko, you have to understand what prejudice means. It's been made to look wicked, when it means to pre-judge based on key observations or experiences. For example, I'm prejudice about venomous snakes. If I see one, I won't approach nor touch it. I'll steer clear of it," said Mr. Yamada.
"But that's-" Aiko was interrupted as her father raised a hand.
"Let me finish. Prejudicing is how humans survive throughout their existence. It's hard wired into us. It doesn't make anyone evil necessarily," said Mr. Yamada as he adjusted his seating.
"Now, that doesn't mean that sayings like ' don't judge a book by its cover' are without merit. The heart and content of a person absolutely matters. But people tend to get along better with those who are like them, ideally and appearance wise. It's cohesion. It’s like how birds will fly with birds that are like them. Or how the sheep will herd with other sheep. It's in nature," said Mr. Yamada.
"Then does that mean that people can't get along?" asked Aiko.
"No, it doesn't. When people respect boundaries, whether it's of your home, your nation or what have you, people can get along. Foreigners can visit another's land and a guest can stay for dinner," said Mr. Yamada. He sat up as Aiko wiped her cheeks.
"The Transmutants are in a weird position, Aiko. While they're much different compared to us, they still carry the blood of the nation they come from. The Transmutants here are as much Neighponese as you and I," said Mr. Yamada. He placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder, who still looked teary eyed.
"But because of their power, they've always been feared. They are seen as a separate race entirely. It doesn't help that a band of them tried to overthrow Equestrian territory a few years back. So naturally, people are reacting accordingly. I don't agree with it, but they're reacting as expected," said Mr. Yamada. Aiko sniffled as she frowned.
"I wish things didn't have to be this way. Why can't we all be the same?" asked Aiko.
"Because we're not. We all have our own cultures, faiths, ideas and history. Trust me, I wish it was true that we were all the same and we could live in harmony. But it's not. We're all human, but we can only thrive if we're allowed to be with our own," said Mr. Yamada. Aiko's lip quivered.
"So... does that mean it could never work with Oda?" asked Aiko.
"That depends on the both of you. It may be frowned upon, but it all depends on you two making it work," said Mr. Yamada. He planted a kiss on Aiko's head and stood up from the bed. He proceeded to walk to the door.
"I think the best way that two different groups can settle conflict is if they find common ground. To find good," said Mr. Yamada. He stepped out of the room and closed the door. He turned and noticed that his wife was standing against the wall. A hand was cupped over her mouth as her hands ran with tears.
"I... I didn't know she felt that way about me," muttered Mrs. Yamada. She dropped to her knees and began to cry. Mr. Yamada knelt down and pulled her into his embrace. The mother cried at the realization of the severity of the sadness that she brought to her daughter.
The air was filled with a heavy cloud of depression. Oda was sitting at the small table in the living room of his home. He was slumped over the table, propping his chin up.
He was shrouded in darkness in the room during this evening. Nothing but the sound of his steady heartbeat filled his hearing. Yet the beat of his own heart seemed unreal. He felt like he had died inside once Aiko fled from his arms.
Throughout these past 2 weeks, Oda began to exercise less and less. Every passing day, he placed last effort. He just didn't have the same motivation in him anymore. Never has Oda felt this way. While he has gotten sad before, he never felt this way.
The light suddenly came on. Oda was still resting on the table, looking as if he were a mere statue, frozen in time. No reaction to the light, nor the man and woman that entered the apartment.
"Oda? What are you still doing awake?" called the man as he removed his suit jacket. Mrs. Riku eyes widened as she found her son sitting alone at the table. He was completely silent.
"Sweetie? Is something wrong?" asked Mrs. Riku, removing her heels. She made her way to the living room and knelt next to the teen, who didn't even acknowledge her presence.
"Oda?" called Mrs. Riku, bringing her son's face to meet hers. She found that he bore drying tears on his cheeks.
"Honey, what's wrong?" asked Mrs. Riku. Oda sniffled.
"You remember Yamada Aiko?" asked Oda.
"That girl you supposedly go to school with?" asked Mrs. Riku.
"Yes..." said Oda, looking to the ground. His mother bore an apologetic look.
"I'm sorry, you're upset. What about her?"
"Well, two weeks ago, we went to a festival together. We had a good time. In fact, I'm pretty sure that she liked me. But..." Oda bore a disheartened look. "Her family doesn't approve of me. So, we haven't seen each other since."
"Oh, Oda," said Mrs. Riku as she hugged her son.
"Why wouldn't they approve of you?" asked Mr. Riku, taking a seat on the ground as well.
"Because..." Oda paused. He never mentioned that Aiko was a human. He didn't know how his family would actually react to him trying to court a human. But he needed to talk about this. It was killing him inside by holding it in.
"She's a normal human..." said Oda. Mr. Riku sighed heavily as he rubbed his brows as Mrs. Riku deeply frowned.
"For goodness sake, Oda," said Mr. Riku.
"I-I understand that you’re mad about that," said Oda in a small tone.
"I'm not mad, son," said Mr. Riku.
"I'm actually more upset of the fact that you both tried to sell me on her going to your school," said Mrs. Riku.
"So... you're not mad that I was hanging around her?" asked Oda in surprise.
"Oda, I'm sympathetic. You were interested in a girl from a completely different world from us. That's never easy for people who were like that," said Mr. Riku.
"But what should I do? I hoped that she'd just bother to see me despite what happened. She's always been rebellious to stuff like that," said Oda. He sighed heavily. "Instead she's avoided me these past couple of weeks."
"Oda, I think it'd be easier if you moved on," said Mr. Riku. Mrs. Riku looked at him incredulously as did Oda.
"Dad, how could you suggest that?" asked Oda.
"Look, I understand how you feel. It can't be easy to like someone whose parents disapprove. But it'd be better if you’d forget about her. It'll save you both from trouble," said Mr. Riku.
"Don't say that!" said Mrs. Riku in disapproval.
"What do you want me to do? Lie to my son?" asked Mr. Riku.
"I want you to give him some hope!" Said Mrs. Riku.
"I'm only telling him this so he knows what's in store for him if he pushes it. That doesn't mean that I'm going to force him from seeing this girl," said Mr. Riku. Oda raised his head, a surprised look on his face.
"You aren't?" asked Oda.
"Son, just know what's in this path. A relationship between a human and Transmutant has different strifes compared to others. Is she really worth going through that?" asked Mr. Riku.
"Of course she is!" said Oda, without a hint of hesitation. His father just stared with a stoic look. He nodded as he stood.
"Alright, then," said Mr. Riku as he began to walk off. Oda watched as his father left. While the man seemed blunt and almost harsh, Oda was used to it. He's known this man, his father, for all of his life. Because of this, he could tell that his old man was worried, he just had a different way of showing it. Oda was wrapped into a hug by his mother.
"I'm sorry, Oda. I wish there was some way that I could help," said Mrs. Riku, regret in her tone. Oda sighed sadly.
"I wish I knew what to do as well," said Oda.
It was the next day. Oda was walking through the hall of his school in silence. A frown on his face. He thought back to last night with what his father told. There would be strife for a human and mutant couple. It was taboo. It was seen as a crime against nature.
However, Oda didn't dread these things. He was already used to not being looked at fondly by humans. Aiko was worth going through that. She was strong, kind under her shell, and she has been generous to him throughout the time they've known each other. Not to mention she's helped him grow stronger. Once his feelings developed, he started basing his motivation to be worthy for her. She was like a goddess in his eyes, while he was a mere puny mortal. And this goddess seemed to have fallen for the mortal as he did for her. However, they were being kept apart. Oda didn't fear consequences if he and Aiko were to be together. However, he worried if she did. After all, she did go along with her mother's demands.
As Oda was walking, he failed to notice a couple of girls walking by. One of them gasped and turned. She quickly made her way to him and tapped his shoulder. Oda was ripped out of his thoughts, turning to find Yuri.
"H-Hey, I didn't know you were in school," said Yuri timidly. A second girl joined her side.
"Why wouldn't I?" asked Oda in confusion.
"Well... You know..." Yuri cleared her throat.
"Because MONARCH showed up, remember?" asked the second girl.
"No, they pretty much left me off with a warning because I didn't have my tag on," said Oda with a shrug.
"Oh wow. I didn't know you could be such a rule breaker," said Yuri in surprise. Oda gave a forced chuckle.
"You could say that..." said Oda. The second girl looked to him apologetically.
"Hey, listen. I'm sorry about Hanamura at the festival. That wasn't cool. I hope your eyes are OK," said the girl as she bowed her head to Oda. The boy bore an embarrassed look. It was uncomfortable that someone who didn't do anything wrong was apologizing to him for someone else's actions.
"I-It's OK. How's he, by the way?" asked Oda. The girl scoffed.
"Ah who cares? I dumped that jerk right after that," said the girl dismissively.
'A woman's scorn is frightening,' thought Oda, surprised as the girl's sudden change in mood.
"So, who was that girl you with? She your girlfriend?" asked Yuri with an intrigued look. Oda sighed heavily.
"Not exactly..." said Oda.
"Uh oh. I know that look," said Yuri, analyzing Oda with an intense expression. The girl next to her looked at her oddly.
"A solemn demeanor, downcast eyes, a slouching posture. All signs of heartbreak," said Yuri with a nod.
"You're on target," said Oda with a sigh.
"What happened? She seemed to be all over you," said the second girl in confusion.
"She's a human. Her mother didn't exactly like me," said Oda. Yuri frowned.
"Oh. That sucks..." said the second girl. Yuri stepped over to Oda and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. She greeted him with a sympathetic smile.
"It's alright. I'm sure things will end up working out in the end. You seem like a good guy. Besides, forbidden love is the most romantic," said Yuri with a wink. Her friend just looked at her with a raised brow. Oda smiled softly, but he still felt a gloomy rain cloud in his heart. The bell suddenly rang, leading to students to begin to disperse and head for their classes.
"Thanks. I should get going," said Oda as he walked away. A deep frown on his face.
'Forbidden, huh?' thought Oda.
Meanwhile, Yuri and the second girl proceeded to walk to class. Yuri noticed her friend staring at her.
"Forbidden love is the most romantic?" asked the girl, quoting Yuri.
"Don't you think so? There's examples! Like Romeo and Juliet!" said Yuri. The girl sent a deadpanned look.
"Yeah, and they died in the end," said the girl. Yuri scoffed.
"Oh come on! Not every love story has to have a tragic end! I'm rooting for those two!" said Yuri.
It was the afternoon. Aiko was lying slumped at a library table. Kobayashi sat across from her with a grimace as she held a textbook.
Just recently, Aiko promised to help her study for an exam that was coming up. However, she's been slumped like this midway through their session.
"Yamada, if you want to go home, you can," said Kobayashi. Aiko raised herself up with a gloomy look.
"No, it's fine," said Aiko. Kobayashi sighed.
"Yamada, I dont wanna bug you if you aren't feeling up to it today. I get it," said Kobayashi as she sat her book aside. Aiko sighed heavily.
"I'm sorry. I know I promised to help but I'm just moping," said Aiko in dismay.
"Listen, if you need help, then just ask," said Mobayashi with a soft expression.
"You couldn't help me. I'm not allowed to see the guy I like because he's abnormal compared to us. Unless you can change people's minds about Transmutants, then forget it," said Aiko with a heavy sigh.
"I can't do any of that. But I am good at bending and breaking the rules," said Kobayashi with a smirk. Aiko shook her head.
"My mom would kill me. And possibly Oda as well," deadpanned Aiko.
"Since when were you chicken?" asked Kobayashi. Aiko glared at her in annoyance.
"It's not that simple!" said Aiko.
"Look, don't you like the guy?" asked Kobayashi.
"Of course! Why do you think I’m miserable?!" asked Aiko incredulously.
"Well, then fight for him! You told me that you were tired of your mother always controlling you. Now's the time you take a stand and tell her!" said Kobayashi. Aiko deeply frowned as she rested her chin on her desk.
Aiko knew that what Kobayashi was suggesting was radical. Not doing her homework or talking back to her mother was nothing compared what she was suggesting. Kobayashi was telling Aiko to defy her mother, who made it clear that she and Oda couldn't see each other, lest there be consequences.
However, Aiko was miserable living this way. Never having directly to speak her mind to her mother. She always fell back on a passive aggressive and bratty retreat. It was childish. She couldn't do that anymore. Aiko knew she had to speak her mind, so her mother could understand. But, she was fearful of the consequences. Aiko sighed.
"I don't know..."Aiko buried her head into her arms. Kobayashi frowned in response. It was sad to see a hot headed girl like Aiko down in the dumps as she was. It was here that an idea formed.
It was the late afternoon. Oda was slowly making his way home from school. A long sigh escaped him as he walked. This was the least favorite part of his days. Coming back from school, where he and Aiko once crossed paths. These days, the two stopped greeting, and Aiko would sometimes be nowhere to be seen. It wasn't easy going this way, but it was the quickest path to get to school on time.
Oda noticed that Aiko herself was power walking down the road. Oda grimaced as he looked to the ground, slowing his pace more. He wouldn't be able to bear the thought of her ignoring him or glancing at him. His heart would be broken if she paid him no mind if he was close. If Aiko glanced at him, he'd be unable to keep himself from getting her attention despite what she said to him before. He just wanted one last time to speak to her and convey his feelings.
The girl soon passed by. Oda kept his eyes on the ground, hearing her footsteps fade. He dejectedly began to pick up his pace. He had to keep moving. Oda felt like he was dying just by being out here. Unbeknownst to Oda, Yuri was hiding behind a building just by the street corner. She watched as the boy slouched as he walked away. A sympathetic look was on her face.
"How sad," said a voice behind her. Yuri sighed as she nodded in agreement.
"Yeah. It sure- Ah!" Yuri whipped around with a start. Behind her, she found Kobayashi standing against the wall.
"When did you get here?!" asked Yuri incredulously.
"Don't worry about it," answered Kobayashi as she stood off the wall. She crossed her arms as she eyed Yuri.
"So, what's your relationship with Riku?" asked Kobayashi. Yuri stiffened.
"I uh... I don't know you well enough to feel obligated to tell you that," said Yuri. Kobayashi hummed as she reached into her skirt pocket. Yuri whimpered as she stumbled back, raising her hands.
"OK! OK! I just go to his school!" cried Yuri, sweating bullets.
"Relax, I'm just getting a smoke," said Kobayashi as she drew out a cigarette and a lighter. Yuri grimaced as the delinquent lit the cigarette.
"Do you... know the girl that he likes?" asked Yuri, cautious.
"Oh yeah. I was tailing her to see if I can find out where Riku lives. But I wasn't aware that he had a stalker," said Kobayashi, blowing smoke. Yuri frantically shook her head.
"I-I-I wasn't stalking, Riku-Kun! I was worried because he's been down lately! Hey, weren't you the one who said you were trying to find out where he lives?!" exclaimed Yuri, a look of offense on her face.
"Well, since you're familiar with him, then maybe I can trust ya," said Kobayashi as she wrapped an arm around Yuri, pulling her close. The Transmutant girl whimpered in nervousness at this delinquent.
"You see, I got a plan on Romeo and Juliet getting the happily ever after that they deserve. However, I need to find where Romeo lives. But a delinquent human like me following him to his place would be suspect," said Kobayashi, waving her cigarette around. Yuri coughed as she cupped her mouth.
"So here's what I'm thinking. If you're worried about the guy like I'm worried about the girl, we should work together to make them both happy," said Kobayashi, taking another puff. Yuri gave another cough.
"What did you- ack! -Have in mind?" asked Yuri.
"There's a school dance coming up. Yamada's scared to be around him because of her mom, so she won't invite him herself. Just convince the guy to sneak over to our school and I'll convince Yamada to come with me to the dance for some fun," said Yamada. Yuri looked at her in confusion.
"How do I do that?" asked Yuri.
"Hell, I don't know. Maybe make something up. Like you gotta head somewhere that you need him around for," said Kobayashi.
"You mean you want us to go into the city? We uh... Transmutants tend to not really want to go there," said Yuri in reluctance.
"Oh you've been around the block during that festival, haven't you? I remember seeing you," snorted Kobayashi.
"Yeah, but that wasn't deep in the city!" said Yuri. Kobayashi sighed.
"Look, work with me here! Yamada's miserable without the guy! And I'm sure the same is for him!" said Kobayashi. Yuri deeply frowned.
"Well... Alright. For Riku-Kun. But if we're meeting at the dance, he'll need a formal outfit. I'm not sure if he'll come if he knew that he was going to a dance at a human school," said Yuri. She bit her thumb with a grimace. "I don't even know his size."
"Well judging by his form, I think I might be able to help you out with that," said Kobayashi.
"You can't just eye ball someone to guess their size," deadpanned Yuri. The delinquent merely shrugged.
"I've done it plenty of times before," said Kobayashi. She pointed to the street corner.
"Meet here tomorrow around the same time to let me know if he accepts. I'll try to get Yamada to agree. We only have a week to pull this off," said Kobayashi.
Aiko was sitting on a chair in the bathroom. Her older sister was setting aside a blow dryer and began to move her face from side to side to analyze it from all angles.
"OK. Glad to see you've been keeping up with using that ointment for your skin. Your skin's looking pretty good. A lot less blackheads too," said Rei in approval. Aiko winced as she rubbed her nose.
"I hate that metal thing you use to get them out," said Aiko in dismay.
"Well, skin care isn't easy. Besides, you wanna look your best for your big night, huh?" asked Rei with a teasing smile. Aiko blushed as she looked to the ground.
"I guess..." Aiko has felt as though the week has gone by slowly. Tonight, she was supposed to be joining Kobayashi to their school dance. It was a shock that the delinquent was the one who invited her. But, Aiko agreed nonetheless. Hopefully she could get her mind off of Oda for the night.
"OK, we have your dress ready, you're showered and your face has had one last cleanup. Now we just need to deal with your hair," said Rei as she ran her fingers through Aiko's hair. There were strands still sticking out like spikes.
"Sometimes I almost rather be bald..." said Aiko with a sigh. Rei gave a forced laugh.
"Now, now. There's no problem that doesn't have a solution," said Rei as she drew out a hair brush. She began to brush Aiko's hair, who yelped and winced in pain.
"Jeez, do you ever brush your hair?" asked Rei as Aiko whimpered from each brush stroke. Kobayashi then wandered into the bathroom, peaking through.
"Yo, you almost done? We should get going soon," said Kobayashi.
"Hold on, she needs to get her hair straightened out and some make up," said Rei. She then noticed Kobayashi standing in a black dress, covering her shoulders and bearing unkempt hair and a makeup-less face.
"You're not going out like that are you?" asked Rei incredulously. Kobayashi shrugged.
"What? I have the bare minimum," said Kobayashi. Rei shook her head in disapproval.
"No way! Both of you are going to look your best!" said Rei as she yanked Kobayashi inside. The girl groaned.
"Come on!" whined Kobayashi. Suddenly, Mrs. Yamada peeked through the door.
"Sooo... You girls almost ready?" asked Mrs. Yamada.
"Barely. Just need to get Aiko's hair right. And this one needs makeup and her hair brushed as well," said Rei in annoyance.
"Rei, at this rate they'll be late! Here, let me take care of Aiko and you handle her friend," said Mrs. Yamada as she began to take the brush from her eldest daughter. She held her daughter's head and began to brush her hair.
"Ah! Easy! Ow!" cried Aiko as she felt her mother coming hard long hair.
"So glad you decided to do something nice with your friend, Aiko. After all, you've earned it from all of the hard work you've put in," said Mrs. Yamada. Aiko glanced to the side as she heard this. She felt that she should feel pleased from hearing her praises. However, her mind was focused on other things that she couldn't feel anything for it. She wondered if she was over wanting her praise.
"Yeah, she kind of talked me into it," said Kobayashi nonchalantly. Aiko snorted, recalling that this was Kobayashi's idea.
"Yeah? Well, you seemed to be into it," retorted Aiko with a smirk.
Later, Mrs. And Mr. Yamada were standing in the living room. Kobayashi stepped out from the bathroom, her hair stylized into a ponytail. Her face bore make up, darkening her eyes with shadow and brightening her lips with lipstick. This brought out her face and matched her dark dress. Rei was stepping out too with a grin.
"You won’t even recognize her!" said Rei.
Aiko emerged from the bathroom. Her heels clacked against the floor as she approached. Her long hair was smooth and straightened. She bore light make up on her face, which darkened her eye lids around her eye lashes, defining them. Aiko wore a pink shoulder-less knee length dress. Her waist was wrapped by a sash that bore a white flower head pinned at her waist. Her legs were bare as she wore white heels. Aiko bore an embarrassed look as she stood.
"My little girl!" squealed Mrs. Yamada.
"You've done a good job," said Mr. Yamada, nodding to Rei. Aiko grimaced as her blush deepened. Suddenly, her smooth hair erected along her crown, the top, and along her base. She swore she heard a puff as her hair grew spiky again.
"Oh," said Mrs. Yamada in surprise. Aiko quickly reached for head and felt the prickly sensation on her palms. She groaned in dismay.
"Are you kidding me?!" cried Aiko. Kobayashi held in a snicker as Rei made her way over to her little sister.
"Well, maybe we can fix this on the way over. Come on," said Rei.
"Not so fast! I want a picture!" said Mrs. Yamada as she drew out a camera.
"Mom!" groaned Aiko.
It was sunset. Oda was following Yuri up a hill. He bore an odd look as he looked around, while Yuri carried a duffel bag.
"Tsukamoto-san, where exactly did you say we were going?" asked Oda. Yuri gulped.
"W-Well... We're going to this gathering my friends set up for fashion! Sorry about the long trip, but I appreciate you acting as my model," said Yuri, forcing a smile.
"No problem. I didn't really have anything better to do this weekend. I never knew you were into fashion. Are you planning on making a career out of that or something?" asked Oda curiously.
"It's... More of a hobby," said Yuri. She led Oda near some bushes, by the high school.
"OK, I want you to try on the suit! I want to make a good impression with you," said Yuri, handing Oda the bag. The boy bore a reluctant look.
"You mean out here?" asked Oda.
"Don't worry, these bushes are tall! Plus I'll keep watch. I promise not to look," said Yuri, quickly ushering Oda behind the bushes. She turned and stood near the outer gate of the school campus they were near. She looked around anxiously. She then looked to her watch.
"Come on, where are you?" muttered Yuri to herself.
"OK, I'm done," said Oda. He emerged from behind the bush. Yuri turned, a blush appearing on her face.
Oda sported an old grey tuxedo. The suit seemed to fit well. It almost made him look bigger compared to his normal stature. It certainly didn't give him a fat appearance. He rubbed the back of his head.
"I'm not really used to wearing something like this. How does it look?" asked Oda.
"You look handsome," said Yuri with a smile. Oda sighed in relief. He was glad that him being asked to model for Yuri didn't disappoint her. Suddenly, Oda noticed a car to be pulling up nearby. From the car, Aiko and Kobayashi emerged. Oda's heart jumped as he found Aiko. Her hair now smooth and straightened, as it blew in the wind. Her dress fluttered from the window as it hugged her slim waist.
"Thanks a lot, sis," said Aiko with a grateful smile. Rei nodded with a smile as she sat in the driver seat of the car.
"No problem, sis. Have fun," said Rei with a wink. She then began to drive away from the school.
"A-Aiko..." Oda bore a look of shock. He suddenly felt Yuri pushing him.
"Go get her, tiger!" said Yuri, ushering Oda forward.
"Wha- Yuri, you-" Oda stumbled as the girl ushered him along to the gate.
"I can't believe I let you talked me into this," said Aiko with a sigh.
"Hey, come on. Hanging out this way is way better than just studying isn't it?" asked Kobayashi.
"Well, hopefully it's not boring. What was this surprise you've been talking about?" asked Aiko, looking to Kobayashi, as the two began to make their way to the school gate.
"He's right here," said Kobayashi with a smirk. Aiko's eyes widened. At the gate, Oda stood with a stunned look, as Yuri stood beside him. The boy's heart was pounding like drums in his chest. Aiko felt her heart racing as well, as her sights fell on Oda.
"O-Oda? What?" Aiko stepped back. However, Kobayashi held an arm behind her back.
"You wanted to see him again, didn't you?" asked Kobayashi. Aiko looked to the girl in shock.
"Did you have something to do with this?" asked Aiko. Kobayashi smirked.
"Get over there!" said Kobayashi, pushing Aiko. The girl yelped as she stumbled forward. Without thinking, Oda lunged for the girl and caught her before she could fall. Aiko looked up at him, her heart pounding. It seemed that through their time, he's gone from average looking to handsome. Aiko wasn't sure if her falling for him changed her perception of his appearance, or if him building his strength and character manifested into his appearance as well. His hair was combed, as his jacket clung to his tall and the growing muscle defined body.
Oda stood her up to her feet. Aiko pulled away, looking down at the ground. The two were silent, both unsure what to say. Kobayashi and Yuri stood silently as they watched the two for several seconds.
"You know, usually people greet each other when they haven't seen each other in a while," said Kobayashi.
"I-I'm glad to see you!" squeaked Aiko. Oda quickly nodded.
"Y-Yeah! Me too!" said Oda, looking away. Kobayashi snorted as she shook her head. Yuri was grinning from ear to ear at the scene.
"Well, as much as I'd liked to stay to watch, I gotta go! See ya!" said Yuri as she ran off. Oda watched with a dumbfounded look. It seemed that he really was tricked after all. Kobayashi smirked as she drew out a ticket and handed it to Oda.
"Come on. You only get to do this once," said Kobayashi, as she began to tow Oda and Aiko through the school gates. The teens weren't expecting to have meet, let alone get set up. However, they weren't angry. They were in fact glad.
The trio had soon entered the gymnasium. Music played as the gymnasium was brightly lit up. Tables were set up throughout the room, holding refreshments such as punch. There were many students gathered here. So many teenagers, dressed in formal attire looking their best. Aiko felt herself grow intimidated at the other girls. They looked much more gorgeous than she could ever hope to look. All she did was put makeup on and straightened out her difficult hair.
"Alright. You two have fun. I'm gonna get some punch and chill," said Kobayashi as she walked off. Aiko called out to her but faltered as the girl was already passing through the crowd. Aiko glanced at Oda, who was glancing at her. As their eyes met, the two quickly looked away.
Aiko was frustrated. She had been lamenting of not being able to see Oda for almost a month. Yet here she was, cowering to make her move now that they were together here. She was still riddled with the guilt of likely hurting him when they began to cut ties. There was also the fact that she was embarrassed. This was the most feminine she made herself out to look. But she felt that it wasn't enough to impress Oda.
"A-Aiko..." Oda spoke. Aiko stiffened as her face blushed. She quickly turned to Oda as she tried to keep her composure.
"Y-Yeah?"
"I just... I wanted to say that it's good to hang out again. I missed you," said Oda as he smiled. Aiko gave a warm smile back.
"That's an interesting look. I almost didn't recognize you," said Oda.
"My hair? Yeah, just thought I'd try something new," said Aiko, nonchalant. Her spirits began to lift a bit. It seemed that he was taking a liking to her new look. However, Aiko's hair suddenly fluffed up. Oda recoiled in surprise as Aiko felt her head in alarm.
"Oh shit, not again!" cried Aiko as she brought her arms over her head in a futile attempt to hide her hair. She heard some laughing from behind. Aiko found a group of familiar girls grouped together, along with a few boys.
"Ha! Did you see that?! Porcupine-chan's hair puffed up!" said one of the girls. As the teens laughed, Aiko hid her face away, her face flustered in humiliation.
"Hmm. Yep, I thought so," said Oda with an analytical look. Aiko looked his way, her lip quivering.
"You're much hotter with your hair this way," said Oda. Aiko gasped as she recoiled.
"Wha-What are you saying?!" exclaimed Aiko. Oda chuckled in amusement. He held his hand out to the girl, who was still flustered.
"Wanna dance?" asked Oda. Aiko gulped as she shyly took the boy's hand. The two made their way to the dance floor, while the popular girls looked on incredulously.
"Who the hell is that guy?" asked one of the girls.
"Yeah, and why is he dancing with her of all girls?!" asked another girl incredulously.
Meanwhile, Oda had led Aiko to the dance floor. Among them, other couples were in the process of dancing. They turned heads as they noticed the couple.
"Hey, isn't that Yamada?" whispered a student.
"Wow, her dress is too cute!" whispered a girl enviously.
"Hey, does that guy go to our school?" asked another student.
"O-Oda... did you really mean what you said? About my hair?" asked Aiko, shyly.
"Every word," said Oda.
"You don't think it’s ugly or weird? I mean, all these girls have much better looking hair. And faces..." said Aiko, disheartened.
"I don't care about them. Your hair suits you. It goes well with that alluring smirk you always give me," said Oda. Aiko looked away as her entire face grew red. She was growing hot throughout her body.
"When did you have a way with words?" asked Aiko in embarrassment.
"I'm just telling you what I've always wanted you to know. Before I don't get the chance to again," said Oda. The music began to pick up. Oda and Aiko released each other.
"I-I don't really dance," said Aiko as she watched as the other students danced to the upbeat music.
"Just loosen up and have fun! That's what you tell me!" chuckled Oda, dancing the rhythm of the music. Aiko began to match his movements, an embarrassed smile on her face.
Meanwhile, Kobayashi was standing by a wall alone. She hummed to herself as the music played and couples danced. She chuckled as she watched Aiko and Oda dance.
"It's a lot more fun watching," said Kobayashi as she sipped her punch. She noticed a boy to be approaching from the side. He was rubbing the back of his head as he avoided eye contact. Kobayashi recognized this guy as one of her classmates, as well as a player for the school's basketball team.
"Hey, Kobayashi-san... Want to dance?" asked the boy. Kobayashi held her cup to her lips, having frozen. She stared as she slowly lowered her cup.
"Come again?" asked Kobayashi, stunned.
Later that evening, Oda and Aiko were standing together by the refreshment table. The two stood drinking punch, cooling off from their recent dance. They watched as the other students danced and mingled with the others. The two were content in each other's company. After yearning for it for so long, the two were finally experiencing it.
"So how was your trip over here?" said Aiko.
"I was nervous, but I just kept pushing. Honestly, I had no idea that this was going to happen. If I knew, I'd probably have some motivation," said Oda with a small chuckle. Aiko frowned.
"Sorry. I thought that it'd be better off if we stayed away from each other. But I can't stand not being around you anymore," said Aiko.
"Then be around me! Things don't have to keep going as they've been! We can start over!" said Oda, his tone almost pleading. It must have sounded pathetic, but Oda didn't want to lose Aiko. Not after what they've been through.
"Oda... You know that it won't be so easy to be together like this after tonight," said Aiko in a small tone.
"I don't care. I just want to us to be together like we used to," said Oda.
"But aren't you worried about what that'd bring? If we were to be so close?" asked Aiko.
"Are you?" asked Oda. Aiko fell silent. She looked to the ground, almost in shame.
"I am. But for you. I don't want you to suffer because of me," said Aiko. Oda turned to the girl, his face growing red.
"It's funny, because I feel the same way. I'm worried what I would bring to you. I'm a freak to humans. But... I'm suffering without you," said Oda. Aiko raised her head, finding the sincere look in his eyes. Oda's kind eyes. Aiko sighed as she set the cup on the table, a smile on her face.
"I guess my stubbornness must have rubbed off on you," said Aiko. She then took Oda's arm.
"One more dance?" asked Aiko. Oda nodded. The two made their way to the dance floor as soft slow music played. The lights began to dim, as couples took the dance floor and slowed dance.
Oda took Aiko's hand and held her by her lower waist with his other hand. Aiko was surprised, not expecting the boy to take the lead for this. Instead of commenting, she kept silent and allowed Oda to lead her. The two slowly danced to the soft, serene music, among the other couples. Aiko and Oda held each other's hands firmly as they stood close together. Aiko leaned her head on Oda's shoulder, savoring the dance and the feeling of his hand locked with her own. She was experiencing the same bliss that she did before.
Oda kept Aiko close. His heart was beating steadily as he held her. He wished that the two could remain this way forever, if it meant they didn't have to part ways again after tonight. But he knew that wishing would bring him nothing. He learned that when he met Aiko, who taught him how to be assertive. If not for her, he wouldn't have the self-confidence to do what he was about to do.
Oda released Aiko's hand and brought his hand under her chin. Aiko lightly gasped in surprise, staring into Oda's eyes. Her cheeks lightly flushed at his gentle touch. Oda was blushing intensely as he stared into her hazel eyes. Aiko wrapped her arms over his shoulders, shyly smiling as the boy gulped. Lost in the moment of each other's embrace, the music, and gaze, the two leaned in to each other. Aiko stood on her toes to reach the boy, who guided her closer to his face. The two teens then locked lips.
Aiko's heart leapt in her chest as she kissed Oda. She held him tighter as she savored the feeling of his lips locked with her own. The two broke the kiss, but Oda began to breathe quickly. Aiko's brows raised in surprise as she found the boy in almost a daze, hyperventilating as his face was flushing red hot. Some students and couples noticed the sound of his breathing and turned their heads in surprise and confusion.
"Is he OK?" asked a girl worriedly. Aiko couldn't help but laugh in amusement. While he was struggling to breathe properly, she couldn't help but find his embarrassment cute, especially since he was the one being forward.
"Anyone got a- Oh, thanks!" Said Aiko as a boy passed on a paper bag to her. She handed it to Oda, who began to breathe into it.
"I think that's enough dancing for tonight. Let's go," said Aiko as she led Oda away from the dance floor. Aiko giggled as Oda settled down.
"You were so confident too," said Aiko. Oda sighed in dismay.
"Sorry. I must've made myself look like a fool," said Oda.
"You kidding? It was manly! Besides, you're one hell of a kisser..." said Aiko as she bore a seductive smile as she traced a finger over his chest. Oda quickly began to breathe into the bag again. Aiko laughed. Oda cleared his throat as he settled down.
"A-Aiko... I never got to tell you properly. I... I love you!" said Oda, raising his voice. A few nearby students recoiled with a start. Aiko rested her head against his shoulder.
"I love you too," said Aiko. With that, a grand weight over the two seemed to have been lifted up. The two were aware of their feelings, but actually saying it aloud was freeing.
"You know what would be ahead if people know," said Oda. Aiko scoffed.
"Screw them. I'm fine with being in a relationship with a freak in this boring world," said Aiko. Oda nuzzled Aiko's neck, who squealed and giggled in response.
Meanwhile, Kobayashi was at the dance floor with the boy that asked her to dance. She smiled warmly as she watched Oda and Aiko.
'Hope it all works out for you,' thought Kobayashi as she leaned against the boy she danced with, who stiffened with a shy smile.
It was the end of the dance. Oda and Aiko had long since left the school grounds and the train station that brought them home. The two were walking arm in arm. The two were in Aiko's neighborhood, making their way to her home. However, they heard arguing.
"What's going on here?" wondered Oda. As the teens came closer, they found that the Yamadas and Rikus were arguing with each other. The Rikus stood outside of the house while Mrs. Yamada yelled from her home next to her husband. Her face red and her body trembling.
"Oh no!" said Aiko as she and Oda began to rush over. They didn't know what was going on or how these parents met. But it seemed that they were about to find out.
"I swear that once- There they are!" yelled Mrs. Yamada, noticing the teens approaching. The Rikus turned., their attention drawn.
"Mom, dad? What are you doing here?" asked Oda incredulously.
"That's our line!" said Mr. Riku with a stern look.
"Oda! Where have you been?! You've been gone all day!" said Mrs. Riku. Oda gulped.
"Wha... sorry, I-" Oda was interrupted as Mrs. Yamada snatched Aiko and pulled her onto the property.
"What did I tell you about hanging around this creature?! These people came here asking about him! How did you even find this house?!" demanded Mrs. Yamada.
"Oda keeps a notebook with addresses, which included yours. I figured he came here," said Mrs. Riku, glaring at the hostile woman.
"Aiko, I can't believe you've done this behind my back!" said Mrs. Yamada
"Mrs. Riku, we only just ran into each other today. It hasn't-" Oda was silenced as the older woman glared at him.
"Shut up! I wasn't talking to you!" said Mrs. Yanada.
"Stop treating him like that!" said Aiko.
"If he'd stay away like I said, we wouldn't be having this situation now, would we?" scoffed Mrs. Yamada. Aiko scoffed as she pulled away from her mother.
"I want them out of here! And you're grounded!" said Mrs. Yamada.
"How can you ground me for liking a boy?! You never treated Rei this way!" said Aiko.
"Rei didn't get engaged to a monster!" spat Mrs. Yamada. Oda shrunk back with a grimace, while his parents hardened their expressions. Oda felt his very presence was causing strife with Aiko and her family.
"Honey, call the police! Do something!" cried Mrs. Yamada as she turned to her husband.
"He hasn't done anything wrong. The two were obviously just hanging out together at the school dance," said Mr. Yamada. His wife gave him a slack jawed look.
"Y-You can't be serious," said Mrs. Yamada. She couldn't believe her own husband was siding with this creature over her.
"Mom, if you'd just give him a chance, you'd like him!" said Aiko.
"I want nothing to do with him! And neither should you!" yelled Mrs. Yamada angrily.
"Mom, if you really feel that strongly about him, then you don't have to like him. I won't even bring him over anymore. But don't keep me from seeing him!" pleaded Aiko, desperately. She knew things were going to turn out this way. It seemed that what happened with her uncle years before really set her mother on being against any mutant. Aiko at least wanted Oda to be an exception, but that didn't seem possible.
"Not a chance in Hell! So long as you live under this roof, you will not see him!" said Mrs. Yamada, venom in her tone. Aiko gritted her teeth.
"Honey-" Mr. Yamada stood up and approached his wife.
"Why?! Outside of the Revolutionaries and Gojira Takeshi, what has Oda done wrong that warrants this kind of treatment?!" demanded Aiko. She wanted to get to the root. Just to make sense out of all of this.
"Why?! Because he's.- He's one of them! He's just not natural! He-" Mrs. Yamada scrambled for more reasons. However, all of her reasons were all essentially just her repeating the same argument. It was all related to the boy being a mutant. While it all was sound in her head, out loud it didn't have the same weight. This forced the woman to fall silent and to keep working out her reasoning in her mind.
"Mom?" called Aiko.
Mrs. Yamada bore a blank expression as her eyes fell to the ground. The anger she felt earlier had burnt out. She began to walk to the porch and sat down, still staring at the ground.
"Mrs. Riku?" called Oda worriedly. Just moments ago, the woman was yelling at him and his family with the kind of parental belligerence he rarely sees. Now she was much like a deflated balloon.
"She'll be fine. She just needs a moment," said Mr. Yamada as he knelt next to his wife. He held an arm around her with a sigh.
"At these times, hatred and being prejudice is justified. A lot of people have been hurt," lamented Mr. Yamada.
"However, we can’t allow ourselves to be blinded by our emotions. It only wastes energy," said Mr. Yamada, standing to his feet.
"I think we can all agree with regardless of our negative feelings towards each other, the love we have for our children is greater," said Mr. Yamada.
"O-Of course," said Mrs. Riku, surprised that was even brought up. Aiko looked to her mother, who kept her eyes downcast.
"Yes..." muttered Mrs. Yamada. Her husband smiled.
"Then we have something in common," said Mr. Yamada, approaching his daughter. He turned her to face the Riku family and held her shoulders.
"My daughter has shown me that her love for your son is also stronger than hatred. Because of that, I will not stand in her way. What do you say?" asked Mr. Yamada, a smile on his face. Mrs. Riku looked to her husband, who kept a stoic look.
"You are aware of what this path may lead to, aren't you?" asked Mr. Riku.
"It can't be worse than seeing my child go back to the way she was. She's found something that she values. Or rather, someone," said Mr. Yamada. Oda looked to his father, who briefly closed his eyes. An intense and thoughtful expression on his face.
Present Day...
Aiko Riku sighed heavily as she walked through the hall of Rei's home. She unzipped the gym sweater she wore that helped allow her to act under cover at her son's school.
It was a long day. She was certainly glad to have been able to return. As Aiko walked, she noticed that Angirasu's door was open. She peeked inside, not finding her son in bed due to his recent cold. However, she heard the sound of the shower in the bathroom to have come on.
With Angirasu being confirmed to still be in the house, Aiko stepped into the room. She figured that since he's sick, she could tidy up his room a bit. Aiko began to gather up the laundry basket that was filled with dirty clothes. After she took the basket to the laundry room, Aiko returned to gather the empty dishes left behind, once holding soup and lemon tea.
Aiko stopped as she noticed a familiar picture frame to be resting on the dresser. The woman picked it up, her expression softening. She stared at the old photo of herself with Oda, and their son at the age of 9.
"I forgot I dug this out from snooping through his box. He must've left it," said Aiko to herself. She sat it down and began to take the dishes out. It was here she noticed Rei sitting on the living room sofa, holding a large book.
"Sis, check this out!" said Rei.
"What's that?" asked Aiko in confusion, making her way into the living room.
"I was going through the closet and found this old thing! It's my scrap book!" said Rei, opening up the book. Aiko took a seat next to her and found several old photos to be pasted on the pages.
"Check it out! This is back when we at the festival as kids!" said Rei, pointing to an old photo of the women as children. Both were with their parents as they were dressed in kimonos.
"Ugh. Even my hair was a mess back then," said Aiko, rubbing her head with a grimace.
"Here's my wedding pictures. Aw! Mai's baby pictures!" cooed Rei, finding pictures of her daughter.
"Damn she was a chunky kid," chuckled Rei.
"Ugh, I gotta scan these so I can put this all on social media. So many memories," said Rei with a nostalgic look. As she turned some pages, she found pictures of Aiko as a teenager, standing next to a teenage Oda. Aiko felt a pain in her chest.
"Oh yeah! You started mailing me copies of your photos. This one was cute. You still had long hair then," said Rei, flipping through some pictures. The pictures depicted Aiko and her early years with Oda. She had different outfits that she scrambled for to replace the old ones.
Some pictures were candid or purposeful, depicting the young couple. Though some depicted Aiko with Mrs. Riku, or the fathers, or all together. Along the way, Aiko and Rei's mother began to show in these pictures. She was photographed with Mrs. Riku and even Oda.
"It's funny. Even after you guys got together, mom avoided him and his family for a while. Only to become fond of Oda. Guess dad knew what he was talking about," said Rei. She noticed her younger sister to be deeply frowning. Aiko stared at a wedding photo. Her wedding. She had cut her hair by this time. She found her younger self and late husband smiling to the camera view. Below the photo, an old ultra sound photo depicted the only thing she had left to remember Oda. 'It's a boy!' was scribbled beneath the image.
Aiko merely turned the page, finding pictures of herself and her husband, raising their new child. From his infant years, his toddler days, and passed that to when he was around nine.
"I remember how Oda would put money away to take the family to Disneyland in Trotkyo," said Aiko, staring at a picture of a young Angirasu hugging a Goofy mascot.
"He would say, 'I want our son to have a childhood that he'll remember fondly'." said Aiko. She sniffled as she teared up
"I wish he was here right now," said Aiko solemnly. Rei pulled her close as she caressed her head.
"In your heart, he'll always be there," said Rei.