Another Day in the Life of Sae Part 8

1
>Well
>Today's the day
>The day of Banayato's judgement
>The day these past few months have been building towards
>The day that could decide the fate of your career
>The fate of your life
>You nervously tap the table as you wait for the judge to get back from his chambers
>Banayato and his lawyer are also waiting impatiently
>He's been in there a LONG time
>At least it seems like a long time...
>Ah jeez, this whole thing is killing you
>You felt somewhat comforted last night and this morning
>When Akira was with you
>Telling you everything would be okay
>But now...
>Sigh
>You feel like you've got a noose around your neck
>You try to remember everything Akira said and rationalize things in your head
>Alright, Sae
>It'll be okay
>You did everything you could
>Whatever happens next is just... what happens
>Whether you win or lose
>There's nothing you can do about it
>And even if things don't go well, then...
>It won't be the end of the world
>Your life won't be over
>It'll suck, but...
>You'll be fine
>The chamber door suddenly opens
>"All rise" one of the guards says
>You nervously stand up
>The judge emerges from his chambers and sits down at his bench
>After looking you and Banayoto over, he starts reading a piece of paper
>You try to listen, but can hardly hear him through the blood pounding on your ear
>That dies down as reaches the end of his statement
>You hold your breath in anticipation
>You feel like all the life in you could collapse in a second
>"...After careful consideration of the evidence provided by the State, as well as the cases of both the Plaintiff and the Defendant, this court hereby finds Ichiro Banayato... "
>You close your eyes
>Your lip trembles
>"...GUILTY on four counts of..."
>YES!

2
>Oh thank God!
>You let go of your breath
>A surge of relief overtakes you as the Judge continues to read off the charges
>Banayato and his lawyer look stunned
>You breath a sigh of relief and hold your chest as the judges reaches the end of his verdict
>"...And one count of perjury. I would like to thank the members of this court for their patience, and their cooperation in this case. This court shall reconvene again in three days for the sentencing, at which point-"
>"YOU FUCKIN WHAT?!" Banayto suddenly yells
>He nearly spills over his table
>"You- Y-You actually believe that- t-that WHORE?!" He shouts
>His lawyer tries to calm him down
>"Banayato-san calm down! You're just making this wors-"
>"I'm not gonna CALM DOWN! You fuckin incompetent sack'a SHIT!" He yells, slapping his lawyer in the face
>You almost burst out laughing
>The judge just sighs and orders the Bailiff to escort him out
>"Stupid fuckin BULLSHIT! And what's with that smile, Huh?!" He yells at you
>You struggle to keep a totally professional face as he makes a complete ass of himself
>You just can't help but smile at that piece of shit!
>"You fuckin WHORE! You BITCH! You-! Y-You washed up old HAG!"
>All his words just bounce off of you as he's taken away
>"Hey! Get ya fuckin hands off me! Do you know who I am?! I'm ICHIRO BANAYATO! I've made more money in my life than all your ancestors COMBINED! Get the HELL offa me!" He screams
>His fat body flails helplessly as he's dragged away
>Banayato's lawyer just pathetically rubs where he was slapped as Banayato continues to embarrass the both of them
>The grin on your face only grows brighter as his cries echo away
>Ha!
>In your face you dick!

3
>The court adjourns and you walk out the courthouse
>All the weight that's been's bearing down on you the past few weeks feels like it's just slid off
>Wow...
>Heh
>You actually did it
>You won the case! You-
>You're gonna be okay!
>Your job is safe
>You're safe!
>All that work you put in, all the progress you've made over the years, it's...
>It's not gone!
>Oh god yes...
>You lean against one of the pillars to the courthouse and breath in relief
>Jesus...
>It all actually worked out
>Banayato's going to jail
>You can still hardly believe it
>Sure, you still gotta fill out a shitton of paperwork, but...
>Right now that's taking a backseat
>It can't ruin how you're feeling right now
>Out of the corner of your eye you see Banayato's lawyer walk out the courthouse, looking depressed as fuck
>He's suddenly swarmed by a horde of journalists asking him questions
>Heh
>Serves him right, that slimy prick
>Let's see how he likes it!
>...Ah you shouldn't be mean
>He was just doing his job
>Sure he was a dick, but...
>No one deserves to get swarmed by journalists like that
>Man they're really ferocious today
>Are they grabbing him?
>Did his tie just fly off?
>Jesus...
>You're glad you're not in his shoes
>They're a lot more concerned with him than they are with you
>You guess his loss is more newsworthy than your win
>That or they haven't noticed you yet
>...You should probably go before that happens
>You slip away off the side as Banayato's lawyer is mobbed by the press

4
>Get to the SIU Building
>Ride the elevator up
>Get to your office floor
>Huh
>That's odd
>Where is everybody?
>Usually there's more people here
>Especially on-
>Ah whatever
>You don't care
>You walk toward the break room and-
>*POP* *POP*
>Wha-
>"Suprise!" a chorus of voices greet you, followed by more party poppers going off
>It's your co-workers
>They're all gathered and smiling at you
>The break room is even done up a bit, little streamers and banners on the walls
>Wha-?
>"W-What's all this?" you ask
>"Congratulations Niijima-san!" you hear a familiar voice say
>Akechi walks toward you
>Oh
>Hey Goro
>You ask him what's going on
>"We're having celebration!" He exclaims happily
>Celebration?
>"For you! For you winning your case!" he follows
>All this for you?
>"Well... really it's for all of us. For finally being through with this whole Suzuki business. Your case with Banayato just happened to be final one" he clarifies
>So they would've had this celebration regardless if you won or not?
>"Well yeah, but... we were pretty confident you'd make it. We even got a cake!" He says, holding it up
>Oh wow
>Heh
>No one ever got you a cake before
> :)

5
>You proceed to mingle with all your co-workers and celebrate finally being done with this shitshow of a case
>They're not stuffy dicks like they usually are, they actually seem pretty chill
>Friendly almost
>'Course, you did see a few with hip flasks so...
>Ah whatever
>It's not like they're wasted or anything
>Or grabby
>At least not yet...
>You shake your head
>Well it's still nice
>You actually feel sort of... connected with them
>Like you fit in
>Like you can let your guard down and just...
>Relax
>Heh
>Never thought you'd say that about anything work related
>If Only Akira were here
>Then it'd be perfect
>...Of course, given how jittery you're still feeling you'd probably need a little "relief" to calm your nerves, so it probably wouldn't be long before you dragged him off to the bathroom for the two of you to...
>Well
>You can think more about that when you get home...

6
>"Are you enjoying yourself, Niijima-san?" you hear Akechi ask
>What?
>Oh yeah, you're good
>This is pretty cool actually
>He smiles
>"Thank you. I'm actually the one who organized this" he says
>Really?
>"Yes. It took a lot of convincing for the SIU Director to allow this. We probably could've done it a restaurant or something, but... I figured it be good for 'office morale', haha" he says
>"Well it's nice" you say
>This place doesn't feel like a total hell hole for once
>"Yes, Yes... Uh, speaking of which, I was just wondering; Has their been any particular reason for your mood shift lately, Niijima-san?"
>What?
>M-Mood Shift?
>"W-What are you talking about?" you ask, """inconspicuously""" clearing your throat
>"Well it's just seemed to me that you've all of a sudden had a bit more, uh, 'pep in your step' lately. As well as a bit of a limp sometimes. Like you're sore. Have you been exercising lately, Niijima-san?"
>Uh
>Y-Yeah
>S-Something like that...
>"What type of exercise?" he asks
>Uh!
>Y-Ya know, just uh...
>"C-Cardio and stuff!" you answer
>"Really? Hm, that's interesting. Whenever I do Cardio I don't come to work bow-legged like you've been recently. Or happy, like I've got a new sense of purpose in life"
>Well!
>Y-Y-You, uh...
>Fuck
>He's really digging into you
>I guess your little "mood boost" ever since you and Akira started banging hasn't been as concealed as you like
>Especially to a detective like Goro...
>Alright, come on Sae, just make something
>Just BS him

7
>Um
>...Y-You just get real into it, ya know?
>It's real...
>R-Rewarding
>Heh heh...
>You swallow hard
>A bead of sweat drips down your neck
>Akechi shrugs
>"Well it's nice to hear you're keeping in shape, Niijima-san. We could all stand to be a little healthier these days"
>Y-Yeah, it really, uh..
>*Ahem*
>It really clears your mind, helps you... focus
>"I don't think I would've been able to win this case without it" you admit
>Akechi rubs his chin contentedly
>"I see, I see..."
>He tilts his head inquisitively
>"Is that a hickey, Niijima-san?" he asks
>WHAT?!
>You instinctively cover your neck with your hand
>You know exactly the spot he's talking about
>The little love bite Akira left on you last night
>You hastily pull your turtleneck up to cover it
>"O-Oh, t-that?! T-That's a, um..."
>You fumble with your words
>Akechi appears fascinated by your reaction
>Despite your best efforts, you only manage to dig yourself deeper
>"I-It's not like I-, l-like t-this is a-"
>A hand suddenly grips your shoulder
>You jump and turn around
>It's the SIU Director
>"Niijima! You got a second? I wanna speak to you in my office" he asks
>Oh! Uh
>Y-Yeah, boss, sure!
>You hastily leave with him, desperate to escape the situation and further incriminate yourself
>It's too late though
>By the time you looked back over your shoulder, Akechi had figured it all out, giving you a smug, knowing grin before chuckling and shaking his head, reintegrating himself with the rest of the party
>Ah jeez...

8
>Get to the SIU Director's office
>He shuts the door behind you as you sit down
>All the shit with Akechi dissipates from you begin to wonder what the hell the Director wants with you
>The only time he ever wants you here is if you've got a new case or if he wants to yell at you...
>Y-You won the case, didn't you?
>What could he want?
>As if reading your mind, he begins to speak
>"...I wanted to congratulate you on winning the Banayato case for us. Your performance was nothing short of excellent, aside from a few hiccups, of course" he says, oddly nice
>Oh, uh
>T-Thanks, boss
>You... r-really put a good effort in...
>He nods
>"I saw, and many others did too. I don't know if you've seen the news, but they're talking quite highly of you"
>They are?
>"Yes, although I don't think I saw you outside after the judgement was given, though."
>Oh, well...
>You didn't wanna get caught up
>And you sort of left earlier than everyone else, s-so...
>He waves his hand
>"Ah that's fine. I think I would've dodged the media too, the cockroaches... Reporters, am I right?" he jokes awkwardly
>You nervously chuckle
>He forces a jilted laugh back
>Heh heh, y-yeah...
>...
>...Okay, seriously, what the hell's going on?
>What's this atmosphere?
>What's with the friendly demeanor?
>It feels... weird
>The Director's actually being sort of nice for once
>Like he's trying to butter you up
>Or ask you something
>It's not a tone you've heard him use before
>It feels forced, but...
>He's actually being nice to you
>Why?

9
>"Yes, yes, uh... look, uh..."
>Hm?
>His tone becomes more serious
>He shifts in sheet and clears his throat
>"...You know Mirami-san, from the department above you?" he asks
>Mirami-san?
>That prosecutor's that's been working here for the past 30 years?
>Yeah, you know him
>You don't see him often, but...
>He's always seemed nice whenever you've talked with him
>"Right, well... he's retiring soon. Very soon. In fact, a lot of people from that Department are going to be leaving in the next 6 months or so"
>Oh, really?
>"Yes, uh..."
>He clears his throat again and puts on a more professional voice
>"The SIU is thinking of putting together a new... 'generation', so to speak, of younger, experienced prosecutors and detectives to represent it. To get some new blood in there"
>New blood?
>Wait
>I-Is he-
>"I was wondering if... maybe you wanted to be apart of this new... 'group'" he says hesitantly
>O_O
>You blink
>The meaning of his words all suddenly clicks
>You feel a chill run down your spine
>H-He means like...
>Like...
>"...L-Like a... promotion?" you ask
>"...Yes, a promotion" he says hesitantly
>The whole world seems to fade out as the weight of that word drops on you
>A promotion?
>A p-promotion?
>A Promotion?!
>A PROMOTION?!
>You can hardly contain your excitement at the very prospect of such a thing

10
>The Director rushes to reel you back in
>"N-Now hold on! Don't go getting any funny ideas; You'll still be answering to ME, and the cases you'll be working will be just as hard, if not HARDER. There will be no slacking, you hear? These are serious cases; no more paperwork on convenience store stick ups. As for benefits, well... the pay raise isn't exactly substantial, but..."
>He sighs
>"...Should you accept, you'll be moved from your desk outside to Mirami-san's old office, and have access to more... substantial advancement opportunities in the future, should you continue to prove yourself"
>Y-Your own office?
>Away from the reporters?
>Away from other people?
>A-Away from those IDIOTS you have to work with?!
>Y-You-!
>You stand up and bow deeply
>"...I-I would be h-honored, s-sir!" you say
>You can hardly hold yourself in
>A Promotion!
>A PROMOTION!
>The Director just sighs
>You get the feeling that he didn't really want to give you the job, but he doesn't say anything to the contrary, just pushing up his glasses and rubbing his face
>Maybe he's just tired
>You can't imagine this whole ordeal has been pleasant for him either
>"Right, well... we can discuss all the details at a later date. As for now, uh... why don't you just head home, eh? And take the next couple days off as well; You're not really needed here... But like I said, don't go getting any funny ideas! I want you there bright and early for the sentencing, just as good I saw you these past few days. I'll be expecting a lot out of you now, Niijima, even more than I usually do. You got that?"
>You straighten up like a soldier
>"Y-Yes sir!" you say, giving another quick bow
>"Good... now get out of here" he says, eager to shoo you off
>You don't even care
>You give another bow and leave his office, walking past your coworkers and out the building
>Hardly believing this is happening

11
>You step onto the subway and take a seat
>The events of today's all play back in your head as the subway carts prods along
>It's almost overwhelming
>A promotion...
>For you!
>A PROMOTION!
>All that hard work
>All those YEARS of slaving away and tolerating all the snide remarks and the BULLSHIT cases they made you take finally paid off!
>Sure, it's not much more pay
>And the workload will probably be even heavier, but...
>It's something!
>It's a step up!
>One step closer to finally being respected at that hellhole!
>Oh god...
>You lean back and close your eyes
>You can't believe this
>You can't believe this is happening
>It feels like a dream
>But it's not!
>It's real!
>The more you think about it, the happier you get
>You don't even care about all the weird looks you're getting from the other passengers
>You're just so pumped!
>Heh...
>God, you could squeal like a teenager!

12
>Get back to your apartment
>Open the door
>Akira's there waiting for you
>You try to speak but it all just fumbles out
>"I-I got the-! T-The case, it-!"
>"I know, I know! I saw on the news! Way to go!" he says happily
>You jump into his arms
>The two of you embrace, laughing as you celebrate your victory
>God, he's so warm!
>So close!
>You haven't hugged a guy like this in years!
>Eventually the hugging turns to kissing
>Passionate kissing
>Letting out that all that energy inside you
>You move to undo his belt-
>"Wait!"
>He suddenly pulls away
>You blink as he rubs his neck
>"Not that I don't want to, it's just... I was kinda hoping to... take you out tonight. You know, to celebrate" he says nervously
>T-Take you out?
>"...Like a date?" you ask
>"Yeah... 'Course, if you'd rather just stay in and do... 'that' all night then I'm fine-"
>No no!
>You'd-!
>You catch your breath
>You can hardly compose yourself
>"...I-I'd love to" you say
>Your cheeks are starting to hurt from how much you're smiling
>Akira smiles back at you
>"Great. Just, uh, gimme a sec to get ready and we'll go. Do you wanna change or...?"
>Oh no, you're good
>Um
>"Where are we going?" you ask
>"Oh, it's uh... well you'll see. It's good, trust me" he says, going to his room
>Alright
>Sounds good!
>He leaves
>Wow...
>Heh
>You haven't been "out" with another guy in forever
>Especially not one as sweet and charming as Akira
>He really is something special~
>You feel your heart throbbing in your chest
>Ahh...
>This is perfect
>You won the case
>You got a promotion
>And now you're gonna spend a romantic evening with a cute guy
>Nothing could ruin this
>*BZZT* *BZZT*
>Oh, your phone's going off
>You grab it out of your purse and answer it
>"Hello?" you say
>Yep, just you, Akira, and-
>"Hey sis!" you hear

14
>!!!!
>You freeze in place
>Your eyes shoot open
>Your blood turns cold as you recognize the voice over the end
>Oh
>Hey...
>...Makoto
>"What's up, how's everything been? I know it's been awhile since the two of us talked" she says
>You struggle to form a response
>Oh... ya know...
>It's been good...
>"I saw on the news that you won that case! Way to go, sis!" she exclaims
>Yeah
>Thanks...
>...
>Oh god, this is so awkward
>As bad as it sounds, you kinda... forgot about Makoto these past few days
>Forgot she was away
>Forgot she existed
>Forgot the fact that you were having animalistic sex with her boyfriend behind her back while she was gone
>Yikes...
>"H-How's your... c-college?" you ask, desperate to keep the conversation rolling
>"It's good! It's good... There are a few things are sort of, uh... *Ahem* But no, it's good! I tell you all about when I get back!" she says
>Oh
>Right
>When she gets back...
>Pangs of dread and guilt start to crawl down your neck
>Down to your chest
>Your heart feeling like it's being choked with poison
>You wince
>Eghhh...
>"That's actually why I called you, sis. I'm heading back tomorrow"
>What?!
>You nearly drop the phone
>T-T-Tomorrow?!
>"Yeah, around noon. I just wanted to make sure you remembered, what with how busy you've probably been... I didn't realize it till today, but I must've forgot my keys at home, and since you'll be at work, I-"
>Oh no, you're...
>*Sigh*
>You're actually off tomorrow
>"Oh, really? Well that's good. On second thought, I guess Akira could've let me in, but... ah whatever"
>Yeah...
>Akira...
>You fall back against the wall and cringe
>The guilt you've been suppressing these past few days is all boiling up at once
>Making you feel like absolute shit
>Oh G-God...
>"Are you okay, sis? You sound like you're shaking"
>What? Oh, uh, y-you're just...
>...Cold, is all...
>"Really? Hm, I coulda swore they said that cold front was passing... Oh well. Well uh, anyway, I should be back around twelvish tomorrow. I can't wait to see you two!"
>Yeah...
>You neither...
>"Bye sis, I love you!" she says happily
>...
>...You love her too
>Bye
>She hangs up
>You're left standing alone in the foyer
>...

15
>Oh no
>Oh No...
>Oh God No!
>You facepalm
>Oh Jesus, Sae
>What were you thinking?!
>Messing around with Akira behind Makoto's back?
>Oh god, you're terrible
>You're awful
>You're a piece of TRASH
>Did you hear how happy she sounded over the phone?!
>Happy to see her loving sis and boyfriend...
>No clue that they've been screwing like animals while she was gone!
>Oh fuck...
>You lean back further into the wall and rub your face
>Goddamnit
>You horny mess...
>If you had just kept it in your pants then-!
>Ugh!
>Whatever
>You can't change what's been done
>What you and Akira have been doing...
>Guess you don't really have a choice
>As tough as it might be, you and Akira are gonna have to... cut things off
>Stop banging
>Stop doing anything together...
>You don't want to
>He's the best fuck you've had in your entire life
>He's made you feel good in ways you didn't even know were possible!
>But...
>Sigh
>...You guess you have to
>It's the right thing to do

16
>You cross your arms
>Goddamnit...
>And it was so good too!
>Not just the sex, but...
>To have someone
>Someone to come home to
>Someone to spend time with and talk to...
>But you guess that's over now
>I mean, you can't just sneak around Makoto's back with him
>...Unless-
>No!
>No, Sae
>NO
>You are NOT even going to FINISH that thought
>You could never do something like that!
>Especially not to Makoto!
>Your sweet, innocent imouto
>That you betrayed...
>Oh god
>Just when you were having a good day, the best in forever, this happens
>Fuckin hell...
>You hear Akira enter
>He's changed out of his school clothes
>"You ready?" he says
>Yeah, uh...
>...Look
>The two of you need to talk-
>"We can do that when we get there, Sae-san" he says
>No no, wait, it's import-
>"Come on!" he says, grabbing your hand and pulling you out the door
>He's so excited he doesn't listen to you
>Before you know it, you're being dragged through the hall, down the elevator and through the lobby
>For some reason you can't bring yourself to stop him
>Guess it'll have to wait till you get there...

17
>Before you know it, you're on the subway with Akira
>His hand locking with yours
>You're suddenly incredibly aware of the fact that you're holding hands with a teenager in public
>In a VERY non platonic manner
>You try to pull away before anyone sees, but Akira insists on holding it
>"It'll be alright" he says softly to you
>His insistence just compounds the awkwardness of it all
>All you can do is just sit there and pray none of the other passengers notice or recognize who you are and what you're doing
>At least Akira doesn't look THAT young...
>Eventually you reach your destination
>"Yongen-Jaya. This is Yongen-Jaya" you hear over the speaker
>Get out the subway and the ride the escalator to the surface
>Alright
>Now's as good a time as any
>You'll pull him off somewhere secluded and-
>Your vision suddenly goes black
>Akira's put his hands over your eyes
>Uh
>"...What are you doing?" you ask
>"It's a surprise. Just trust me" he says
>A surprise?
>You're a little a weirded out, but decide to just play along
>"Uh... Okay" you say
>Akira chuckles and begins to move you forward from behind, directing you as you navigate blind
>...
>"...Keep going, Keep going..." he says
>You've been doing this for a few minutes now
>You still don't know where exactly you are, but you can hear a few people moving about
>"Are we there yet?" you ask
>"Almost... Right" he directs
>You turn right and keep walking
>"...Alright, stop" he says
>You stop in your tracks
>Akira positions you facing left
>"Keep your eyes closed"
>You oblige
>Apparently there's a door right in front of you, since you can hear him fiddling with a key and opening it
>You hear a little bell ring as he moves the both of you inside
>The distinct smell of spice and coffee enters your nose
>"Alright... open them!" he says
>You do
>You're in what looks like a small, dimly lit cafe
>With a bunch of coffee bean jars on the bar, and booths on the side
>One of which is especially laid out, with some napkins and silverware and a little candle in the middle
>Akira walks out in front of you
>"This... is Leblanc's!" he exclaims

18
>Oh, Leblanc's?
>That cafe he's told you about so many times?
>The one where he lives?
>"Yeah. My guardian Sojiro-san let me sorta 'borrow' it for tonight. For us..."
>You thought the electricity with this place was all screwed up? And that that's why he had to come stay with you?
>"Well it was, but apperantly Sojiro-san finally got it fixed a couple days ago"
>Fixed?
>Doesn't that mean...?
>"Yeah, it means I'll probably have to have move back in here soon"
>Oh...
>For some reason, that kinda makes you sad
>Akira shakes his head
>"But we can talk about that later, uh; What do you think about the place? Is it nice?"
>Yeah, it's alright
>His smile dips a bit
>"Oh, just alright? Sorry..."
>He rubs the backs of his neck
>"I-I know it's not the same as like nice, fancy restaurant, but..."
>Oh no no!
>You didn't mean anything like that!
>It's nice, really!
>It's real... homey
>Real cozy
>It reminds you of those old style inns that you used to visit when you were younger
>You like it
>Akira smiles
>"W-Well great! Just uh... Um"
>His confident demeanor breaks a little bit
>He's clearly nervous
>He's trying not to show it, but you can tell
>Like a teenager taking his crush on their first date
>It's a little... cute, honestly
>It's not something you see too often out of him
>Even after all you've done together...
>He seemingly regains his composure
>"J-Just, uh, take a seat right there and I'll... get us situated" he says, going behind the bar
>You sit down at the booth, putting your purse to the side
>You watch him as he digs around behind the bar and through the fridge
>"I figured you might've gotten tired of curry, so I got one my buddies to pick us up something from this one place I really like" he says, pulling some styrofoam containers out of a bag
>"It's steak and fried rice; it's real good. At least I think it is... Sojiro's usually got some leftover curry in the fridge, so I can heat up if you don't like it" he says, putting your meals on some plates
>Oh, that won't be necessary
>It sounds nice

19
>"...And, for us to drink... I got us some uh... heh"
>He chuckles nervously, pulling out out a bottle of red wine
>Wait, what?
>Wine?
>"Yeah, it's a bottle from 2002. Sojiro-san let me borrow it"
>You thought his guardian was 'pretty strict about that stuff'?
>"Well he is, but... I've been really helping him out lately, and I know you really like it so... I asked him, and he said that as long we didn't drink the whole bottle, it'd be okay"
>Wow
>That's pretty nice of him
>"Yeah, he's a really great guy..."
>You can tell from his voice how much he appreciates him
>This Sojiro dude must be pretty great
>Feels kinda weird you haven't met him yet...
>Akira brings over the food and pours both your drinks
>"Oh! Almost forgot"
>He goes back behind the bar and messes with something
>Smooth Piano Jazz starts playing
>Wow
>Music and a Candlelit Dinner all to yourselves?
>It certainly is very impressive...
>Akira must've been planning this for awhile
>Just for the two of you
>Akira and Sae
>No one else...
>A twinge of guilt and dread twists around your heart
>"So... how is it?" he asks, sitting down
>"It's good" you reply
>The wine and steak really are pretty good
>Nice and tender
>Real rich
>Their tastes complement each other well
>You can't even remember the last time you had them together...
>"Well good, good..." he says
>The two of start eating
>Okay
>You're all situated
>Now might be a good time to-
>"Alright, so how was it today? At work? I wanna hear everything! Did he squirm? Did they really have to drag him out?!" Akira asks excitedly
>Oh
>He wants to hear about your day
>You guess you could oblige him...

20
>You proceed to tell him about everything that's happened
>From winning the case, to the little party at your office, to getting a promotion
>"Wow, a promotion?! That's great Sae-san!"
>Yeah, thanks...
>"I'm real proud of you" he says
>You feel the flush in your cheeks deepen
>"...Thanks" you respond
>After that, the two of just started chatting
>Just talking about random things
>From his day at school, to little articles and books he read...
>He really kept your interest
>You never knew Akira was this much of talker
>He seemed so quiet when you first met him
>So aloof
>So... distant
>But now he doesn't feel distant at all
>The dinner
>The low lighting
>The warmness of between you two...
>It's all so intimate
>Between the little smiles and laughs, and the movements of his fingers on the table and with his food and just... everything about him is making your heart do double flips
>Despite everything, the wrongness of it all and everything you SHOULD be saying...
>You still feel drawn to him
>With the flicker of the little candle between you and the sound of the music playing while you just keep talking and talking
>No awkwardness
>No long pauses or being uncomfortable
>No underlying tension
>None of that
>Just the sound of your voices in the little cafe
>It's honestly the best date you've been on since college
>Fuck, maybe ever
>You can't imagine a single guy you've met that's a sweet or funny or as caring or charming as Akira
>He's so young and full of energy
>Like an excitement about life
>An innocence
>It's really quite refreshing compared to all the stuffy and lifeless people you usually have to deal with
>Just to hear someone sound so positive and energetic around you and about being with you and talking to you, it...
>It really felt special
>It was everything you ever wanted a date to be
>It was perfect

21
>You sigh
>Which is gonna this next part even harder...
>You clear your throat
>"Look, Akira, these..."
>Oh god
>Part of you doesn't even wanna say this...
>You push on
>"...These past few days have been great. Really, REALLY great-"
>He cuts you off
>"I know, right? Gosh, it's hard to think we were practically strangers before Makoto left" he says cheerily
>Well, that's the thing, uh
>*Ahem*
>"...M-Makoto called me earlier today and said she was coming back home tomorrow and-"
>He cuts you off again
>"Yeah, I know. We should really probably clean the apartment up. Might be a little messy from... heh, everything..."
>Y-Yeah Yeah, sure! But-
>Ah jeez, you didn't even think of that...
>Ah whatever
>You push on
>"...S-Since she'll be back, uh, w-we should p-probably-"
>He cuts you off yet again
>"Take her out to eat? Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. I was thinking maybe-"
>"STOP!" you yell
>Akira quickly shuts up
>He doesn't say anything more
>Just looks at you
>You recompose yourself
>"I-It's just that, um, what with Makoto being back and all, uh... D-Don't you think it's best if this little... 'tryst' of ours... ya know... e-ends?" you squeak out
>Akira looks stunned
>"What? You... Y-You wanna... stop all this? Stop... being together?" he asks
>W-Well yeah! You know...
>"Don't you think that's for the best?" you say
>You can see the joy draining out of his face
>All the energy and brightness from before just pouring down his neck
>"W-Weren't you having a good time? Us being together? Hanging out and... 'ya know'... Was that not good?" he asks confusedly
>Well, yeah, sure! It was nice
>REAL nice
>AMAZING! but...
>"Then what's the problem?"

22
>What's the problem?
>Wha-
>You scoff
>The problem is MAKOTO
>He's her BOYFRIEND!
>"So?"
>Wha- SO?!
>So... y-you can't do that stuff!
>"Why not? If it makes you feel better and keeps you from getting all stressed out, then..."
>You sigh
>Time to have an adult conversation with him...
>"Look, Akira. I get that you're concerned for me, and that you don't wanna see me all stressed, because I do get a little uh... Irritated sometimes but... what happened a couple nights ago was... a mistake. I was lonely, you were lonely... a-and it was nice to sort of *be* with someone for awhile, but... you shouldn't risk sacrificing what you have with Makoto just to keep an old woman like me happy..."
>"Oh, Sae-san, I'm not-"
>No, no
>It's alright
>It happened, but...
>It's over now
>"Listen, I don't think you're-"
>It's okay, Akira
>He doesn't have to say anything
>"No, seriously, I-"
>It's FINE, Akira
>It's over
>You threw yourself on him, a-and things got carried away, and it was great, but now-
>He bangs his fist on the table
>"Will you let me talk?!" he shouts
>You're taken aback
>You fall silent
>Akira pants
>"Do you not remember what I said last night?" he asks
>Um
>N-No?

23
>Akira sighs in frustration
>"Sae-san, I... I-I LIKE you, Sae-san; I like you a lot! I like your smile, I like your hair, I like your voice and the way you speak. I like your clothes, I like how you dress. I like your laugh and your sense of humor; I like your determination, how you stick with it, even when you're really doubting yourself! The way you get all giddy when you're happy! I... I-I like everything about you. You're one of the most amazing women I've ever met"
>What?
>A-Amazing?
>Wha-
>Heh!
>You laugh nervously
>Oh c-come on Akira, q-quit playing aroun-
>"I'm serious! I've felt like this for a long time; since I first met you!" he exclaims
>What? No...
>N-No no, that's-
>"It's the truth. It's how I really feel" he insists
>No!
>S-Stop messing around, this is serious!
>He doesn't REALLY feel all those things about you
>I-It's just his hormones playing tricks on him!
>It's nonsense!
>I mean, for fuck's sake, he's just a teenager!
>And you're nearly a decade older than him!
>He doesn't REALLY know how he feels
>Makoto's coming back TOMORROW, a-and you can't have any this CRAP still going on while-
>"Is that what you think this is? Crap?" he interjects
>Well, no...
>It-
>*Sigh*
>...You're sure that he finds you very... attractive (somehow), and that, right now, all those things about you must seem great, but...
>...I-It's not REAL, ya know?
>It's just... physical
>Just a crush!
>That's all it is
>And that's all it ever will be
>A-And now that you've got that all of your systems... y-you can move on!
>"Sae, it's not just physical! It's-"
>Akira, YES it is-
>"It's not! I-It's not just that, I-! I'm-!"
>His pushes the hair out of his face and musters all his courage
>"...I-I'm in LOVE with you!"

24
>His words hit you like a thunderbolt
>Your face turns totally red as the impact sinks into you
>L-Love?
>Oh no
>Oh No...
>No no no
>No No NO!
>This is worse than you thought
>WAY worse than you thought!
>"C-Come on, A-Akira, y-you don't really MEAN-"
>"Yes, I do" he replies calmly
>NO he doesn't!
>H-He's just-
>His mind is just-!
>...I-I-Infatuation!
>He's just INFATUATED with you, and-
>"It's not infatuation. I've thought about this for awhile. I really do love you, Sae-san"
>The thunderbolt hits your again
>That word
>Love
>It's got your heart churning something fierce
>Your mind's going in a thousand different directions
>"...J-Just STOP, alright?" you plead
>H-He doesn't really-
>"Yes, I do" he reiterates
>NO he does-
>"And I know you feel the same way"
>N-N-NOOOO YOU DON'T!
>You do NOT!
>NOT, NOT, NOT!
>"I can tell, Sae-san. I can tell you-"
>Just SHUT UP, alright?!
>"Just shut the HELL UP!" you yell
>Akira stops and falls back in his seat, leaving you stir in your emotional soup

25
>The room feels a thousand times hotter
>The turtleneck around your neck is feeling more and more restrictive
>Like you're being choked
>Your mind's swirling in confusion and panic
>You're practically starting to hyperventilate
>Akira hands you your wine glass
>"Drink some, it'll help" he says
>You shakily drink the whole glass down
>Your nerves still rattle as you set it back on the table
>"It's okay if you haven't had time to process all your feelings yet Sae-san, but I really do feel that way. I'm not just making this up to get in your pants or anything. Maybe it's not love, but I do like you a lot. And I'd like to be in a relationship with you, be your boyfriend, maybe... something more someday"
>S-Something more?
>Akira looks shamefully to the side
>"Don't make me say it..." he mutters
>All you can do is just sit there as the weight of that implication settles onto you
>He remusters himself
>"But like I said, I've had a lot of time think about this. I've been doing it ever since we first met"
>He chuckles a bit
>"Heck, part of the reason I was so quiet that first night was because I was so... 'in awe' of you, heh"

26
>That first night...
>It seems so far away now
>But you still remember it
>You got home after a long day at work
>And Makoto was there with Akira
>You remember thinking he was pretty attractive, but nothing beyond that
>Just typical bitterness
>You remember him being really quiet
>Polite, sure, but...
>Almost awkward around you
>You just shrugged it off as nerves at the time, but you guess it was more than that...
>For the most part, you just stayed out of their way
>And they kept to themselves too
>But every now and again, just out of the corner of your eye, you could've sworn you saw Akira looking at you
>Just staring
>But each time you turned to look, he was just chatting with Makoto
>You never caught him
>You thought you were just imagining things, but...
>Maybe there was more to it
>Akira keeps talking
>"...I tried telling myself it was nothing. That it was just a little crush and it'd go away. But it didn't; Each time I saw you or talked to you it just got stronger. I'd be with Makoto and I'd find myself thinking about you. I'd be in class and not be able to focus because I was imagining how soft your hands felt. It was crazy. I remember that one night when you caught us, I felt so awk-"
>Wait
>He KNEW that you caught him and Makoto screwing?
>"Of course I knew. I knew that other time too. You're not very subtle, Sae-san" he says with a chuckle
>You're left to silently reevaluate those encounters as Akira continues

27
>"But like I was saying, I felt real awkward at first, but the next time I saw you I just laughed it off. Seeing you blush like that, trying to hide that you knew... It was the first time I saw any real color in your face. When I was over for dinner that one night, and you were in the kitchen washing dishes, I decided to see if I could get that reaction again; sort of "test the waters", ya know, just as a joke, but... seeing you react like that; seeing that you COULD react like that; seeing that you might feel the same way! That... that really set me off. I knew then that I really wanted you, and that there was a chance, a real chance that we could be together. And every other time I tried something, you just confirmed it"
>He shrugs a little
>"Honestly, part of the reason why I stayed with Makoto so long is because... It was the only way to see you. I know that- that sounds BAD, but... it's the truth"

28
>He settles back in his seat
>A tense silence falls between you
>You have no idea what to say
>"So... what are you thinking right now? It's okay if you need a minute" he says
>Your mind struggles to form a response
>A million questions and thoughts are swirling in your head
>Eventually one comes to the forefront
>"...S-So all that stuff with Makoto, all that talk about how much you cared for her, your whole relationship... I-It was just... lies?" you ask
>Akira shifts in his seat
>"Well, no! I mean, I like her; she's... nice"
>Wow
>Is that really all he has to say about her?
>"...Ya know, she's alright to hang out with... But I really couldn't see myself having a future with her. I was only planning on staying with her till she graduated. Honestly, compared to you, it's... really no contest. You're just better in every way. I can see myself with you. I feel like we really..."
>He gestures with his hands
>"...connect, you know?"
>But-
>B-But-!
>B-But you're nearly TEN years older than him!
>"So?"
>SO?!?!
>So you're in entirely different worlds!
>He's a teenager in high school and you're a woman working on your career!
>He hangs out with students while you rub shoulders with bureaucrats!
>His biggest concern is whether he failed a test: your's is whether or not you lose your JOB!
>Not to mention the fact that what the two of you are doing is ILLEGAL!
>Akira shrugs
>"The age thing was never really a big deal for me. If anything, I just saw it as a plus; I like that you're more mature than most of the girls my age"
>Yeah, but...
>A kid his age shouldn't be chasing after an old Christmas Cake like you
>He should be out having fun with a girl like Makoto, someone who's got their whole life ahead of them
>Not entertaining some lonely old prosecutor...
>Akira rubs your hand
>"You're young enough for me" he says
>Your cheeks glow red
>You look away out of embarrassment
>G-Goddamnit
>He always knows just what to say to make your heart skip...

29
>Another question formulates
>"W-What about your guardian? What would he think of all this?" you ask
>Akira, of course, has an answer
>"Oh, Sojiro-san's very open minded. I already told him about you and everything"
>He did?
>"Yeah, he doesn't mind the age thing; Just as long we keep things quiet about it" he says
>What about his parents?
>"Well... my parents, they-"
>What would they think about him bringing home a girl nearly a DECADE older than him?
>"I don't know! I- *sigh* ...I guess I didn't really factor them in. They practically disowned me anyway so..."
>He sighs again
>"Look, I don't how they'd react, but it doesn't matter. I'd figure something out; I always do"

30
>You tap your nails nervously on the table
>"So... what? You're just gonna suddenly drop everything with Makoto and start dating me? Is that what you're saying?" you ask
>Akira shifts uncomfortably
>"Well, not exactly... it's not really what I planned. I was kinda hoping to just... you know, keep seeing each other and... her not know"
>What?!
>So just straight up cheat on her behind her back?!
>Your own sister?!
>The little two-timer!
>"Well... you are the one sleeping with her little sister's boyfriend here. I don't think you really have any room to judge" Akira counters
>That's-!
>T-That's beyond the point!
>So he really just wants to play the both of you at the same time?!
>Is that all this is?
>Just him trying to bang two sisters at once?!
>Akira quickly backpeddles
>"No! It's not anything like that! I want to be with you, just you! Really! It's just... not so simple, you know? I mean, what would Makoto think if she came back and discovered that I'd dumped her for you? Or that her boyfriend that she was kind enough to let stay in her home was wanting to shack up with her sister the whole time? She'd be pretty heartbroken, right?"
>You-!
>...Guess that's true...
>Akira continues
>"And I don't want to hurt her! Mako-chan's a sweet girl; she's kind and pretty and smart... She deserves a great guy! Not someone like me..."

31
>He sighs and takes a sip of his drink
>"I know it's not ideal, and I'd love to just be with you openly and have Makoto and everyone else understand, but... it's just not possible. Keeping all of... 'this' a secret, at least for now, is really the only way I see everyone being happy. What do you think? I mean, is this really even something you feel like pursuing?" he asks
>The ball gets passed to you
>Your mind's still a jumbled up mess
>You struggle to form a response
>"Do you want to be with me, Sae-san?" he asks
>The words just stumble out
>Well...
>I-In a perfect world...
>Where Akira was a bit older and, of course, not dating your sister...
>Y-You'd love to... CONSIDER being i-in an actual relationship with him, but-
>"Yes or No?" he asks
>He wants a straight answer
>But you can't give him one
>Words simply won't come out of your mouth
>In your mind, you've already lost the battle
>After all the debating
>After all the tribulation
>All the denial
>The answer's already been chosen
>You just can't bring yourself to say it
>So in the end, you just end up saying nothing
>The silence between you just growing

32
>Akira sighs in disappointment
>"Look I... I really want to be with you. I don't care about what Makoto, or your job, or what anyone else thinks about it. It's what I want. I WANT to be your boyfriend. I want to take you on dates, and spend time with you and... make love to you. And I thought that part of you wanted that too, but..."
>Akira resigns himself to defeat
>"But, I mean, I get it. I-I know this isn't an ideal scenario, and if you don't want to be apart of this, then I understand. I just thought that..."
>It's not that!
>It's just...!
>Your grip around his hand tightens
>Tears start to form in your eyes
>...Y-You're scared
>Your scared of losing this
>All of this
>Your job, Makoto...
>You don't want to lose them
>But you don't wanna lose this either
>What you have with Akira
>Being with him's made you feel happier than you have in years
>It's made your soul crushing existence bearable
>It's made you feel alive
>You can't go back to how things were before
>You just can't
>How could you go on living knowing that you'd let a great guy like him get away?
>...But how you keep going knowing you'd thrown everything else away just so you wouldn't be lonely?
>How could you?
>How?
>The thought terrifies you
>It seems like no matter what you choose, you end up losing
>And you don't want that
>You couldn't handle it
>You think you'd die
>Can't he see?
>You're just... scared

33
>"I don't want to lose everything, I... I-I just can't" you sob
>Tears run down your cheek
>Your soft crying is the only sound in the small cafe
>Akira rubs your hand reassuringly
>"You won't. I promise" he says
>He lays his other hand on yours comfortingly
>"I know it'll be tough, I know it won't be easy... but it won't always be like that. One day, when I'm older, and Makoto's moved on to some other guy, we won't have to hide it. If, for now, we can just play it smart, and keep this all a secret to everyone, then we can still be together and you won't have to lose anything. Sure, it might be a bit awkward, but I know you can do it. I know you and I can make this work. I believe it. Do you believe in me, Sae-san?"
>You look past the tears
>Akira's staring at you intently
>His face is soft and consoling
>Firm and supportive
>His words feel so genuine
>You can feel the sincerity in them
>In him
>It makes you feel warm
>It makes you feel comforted
>It makes you feel... safe
>Like maybe, just this once, everything will be okay
>Through your light sobs, you nod
>A small smile forms on his lips
>"Good. Then we won't have anything to worry about " he says, rubbing your shoulder
>You want to say something
>You try to speak
>It all just fumbles out
>"I... I-I love you, Akira" you confess
>O-Oh god
>What have you just don-
>Akira's smile only grows
>"I love you too, Sae-san"

34
>A flurry of emotions all rise in your chest
>The pit in your stomach letting them go
>Despite everything
>Despite knowing how stupid this is
>How crazy this whole thing is and the danger of what you just agreed to
>You just don't care
>Maybe it's the wine
>Maybe it's the adrenaline
>But in this moment, despite the tears on your face and your running makeup, you really feel at peace
>Like everything's going to be okay
>All the worries about Makoto and your job and the illegality of this whole thing just fade away
>Leaving only your beating heart, the warm room, and the sweet, black haired kid sitting across from you
>The one who stole your heart
>Each gulp of air you take breathing new life into you
>New energy
>New desire as you stare intently at the young, smiling teen who's changed your life so much
>The closeness
>The intimacy
>The desire and warmness you've felt for him all night
>It all comes to a head and spills over, your's and Akira's lips locking over the table
>Mmm~!
>Oh
>Fuck...
>He tastes sooooo goood~
>His lips are so soft and supple...
>Kissing them's like kissing a pillow
>A firm, warm pillow~
>You feel your loins start to stir properly
>A fierce hunger for pleasure growing in your stomach
>As your kiss gets more intense, so does the hinderance of the table between you
>You need to be closer to him
>You NEED to~

35
>You briefly pull away and sidestep out of the booth
>It isn't long before you're on the same side as Akira, pushing him back against the wall on the booth as you resume making out
>Your hands end up gripping his stomach, lifting up his shirt slightly as you continue to roughly kiss
>You're practically straddling him at this point
>Pushing him down as the heat between you grows
>Your tongues swirling and colliding in the dark corner of the booth...
>The position is a bit awkward, but you don't mind
>You're ready to fuck him right there
>Your hands eventually find themselves around his waist
>Around the band of his pants and his-
>Akira pushes you back
>"W-We should probably take this upstairs, Sae-san. Sojiro-san tolerates a lot, but I'm pretty sure he'd kill me if he ever found out we did this down here..."
>Your mind cools a bit
>You briefly return to your senses
>O-Oh, uh
>S-Sure!
>Heh
>L-Lead on...

36
>You follow Akira up the stairs
>You're led to a large, dusty room
>With a bunch of little knick knacks on the shelves and on a desk
>With a small bed in the far right corner...
>"This is my room, uh... I know it's not exactly grand or anything but..."
>You cut him off with a kiss, not caring how shabby the room looks
>Just as long as that bed can support the two of you
>It's not long before you end up there
>Furiously making out on the side of his bed
>You're just too pent up
>There's too much inside of you
>Too much of... everything!
>You need to let it all out
>His hands undoing our bra beneath your sweater...
>Your's undoing his pants...
>His cologne and musk only enhancing the sensation~
>Wanting to feel good
>Wanting to make Akira feel good for all the ways he's made you feel good
>Wanting to feed that hunger and that beating little drum in your chest...
>This feels special
>Magical, almost
>After all that's happened, you can hardly control yourself
>There's just too many emotions and thoughts to process
>All that adrenaline's got your blood pumping
>You feel like you're gonna explode if you don't kiss him
>Touch him
>Anything~!
>Your hand falls beneath his underwear
>You can feel his warm member hardening in your grip
>You pull away, strands of saliva still connecting your mouths
>"You... *huff*, Y-You want me to-?" you try to offer before Akira cuts you off
>"No... No, tonight's about you" he says, putting a hand on your thigh
>Another chord in your heart gets strum
>You swallow hard, knowing what's coming
>He gets up off the bed slightly, kissing down your neck as he shifts onto the floor between your legs
>Your pants come off soon after
>Akira's face is now level with your pantied crotch

37
>Despite going having gone through this song and dance at least a hundred times in the past few days, you're still on the edge of your seat
>Akira breathes hotly on your crotch
>Eugh~!
>You bite your lip as the heat travels through your stomach and up your neck
>Akira plants little kisses on your thigh before grabbing the waistband
>"You have such nice legs, Sae-san" he mutters as he pulls your panties down
>You gasp as your glistening slit is exposed to the air
>Akira pulls your panties around your feet and puts to them to the side
>He pulls his head back up between your legs
>He stops just before your slit
>Not doing anything
>Nothing
>The only sound being his breathing
>You pant painfully
>Oh, c-c'mon Akira, d-don't-
>He dives in
>AgHAgH~!
>Your hand clutches the back of his head
>Akira eagerly starts eating you out
>His hair is the only anchor you can hold onto as he dives into your folds
>Licking and tongue-fucking your leaking snatch
>G-Goddd~
>You lean back on the bed, supporting yourself with your other arm
>You close your eyes and smile as the sweetness of it all envelopes you
>No guy's ever eaten you out like Akira does
>Most of them either thought it was "icky" or just wanted to get to the main act
>Even some of your longtime boyfriends were iffy when it came to this
>But Akira, he...
>He really seems to enjoy it
>To enjoy you
>All of you~
>You feel his hands grip the bottom of your thighs
>"Wrap those legs around my head, babe" he pants
>Heh
>"Babe"
>It's fun being called that
>You let out a small giggle and oblige, lightly locking them around his neck
>Your thighs are now softly squishing his face and head
>Akira eagerly resumes, eating you out even more intensely than before
>You sigh contentedly as the pleasure floods back in
>Oh Akira...

38
>A warm shiver runs down your back
>The heat in your belly is fanned like a flame as Akira continues to devour you
>Your innards feel like their on fire
>You can feel the release coming
>L-Like you're going to-
>G-Going to-!
>AgH~!
>Oh God~!
>The little dam in your loins bursts
>A flood of hot juices pour out your snatch and into Akira's waiting mouth
>Fuck~!
>You grit your teeth
>Your grip around the back of his head tightens
>You're just straight up pulling his hair now
>Akira doesn't seem to mind, if anything being even more eager to lap you up
>He sucks your clit dry as your orgasm recedes
>Your moans soon follow, fading away as you fall back on the bed
>You pant and gasp for air, your legs loosening their grip around Akira's head and hanging off his shoulders
>Jesus...
>You hold your head
>It feels like it's spinning
>Akira finally pulls his mouth away from your crotch
>He's also out of breath, but that doesn't stop him from leaning up to kiss you
>The saliva and juices in his mouth mixing deliciously in yours~
>Despite having just cum, you can already feel yourself wanting more
>NEEDING more
>Your lower body tingles as you feel Akira's dick press against your slit
>"You ready?" Akira pants
>He's looking straight down at you
>Straight into your eyes
>You smile bashfully and nod your head, closing your eyes in anticipation
>You feel that same way you did last night
>Your heart beating out your chest
>"Alright" he says

39
>Akira pushes into you
>Gah~!
>His dick sinks in, your folds recognizing and conforming around him
>F-Fuck...
>You've been doing this so much these past few days that your vag is actually starting to memorize his shape
>Like you're his
>And he's yours
>Akira continues to push until he hilts
>Nngh~!
>"Ah~!" he moans
>So hot...
>He sucks in and starts lewdly grinding in and out
>Not really thrusting, just slowly pistoning in and out
>Each rub sending hot prickles of bliss through your core
>Like a slow, building fuse that'll spark and send goosebumps up your neck when he gets it just right...
>He's really taking his time tonight
>Going nice and slow
>Not that you mind
>It's just a more subtle kind of pleasure
>It lets you focus on other things
>Like Akira
>His messy hair and his glassy eyes
>His shirt clinging to his sweaty chest...
>On the surface, he looks calm, but...
>You can tell he's sort of holding himself back
>You don't know why though
>Maybe he doesn't want to blow his load too early
>...Or maybe he's trying to savor the moment
>The culmination of what was apperantly months of wanting you
>Taking you on date
>Getting you up here
>Telling you all those things...
>It must've really been Cathartic for him
>He doesn't seem the type to open up to others that often
>...Unless it's to you
>Which makes this whole thing feel even more special
>To put yourself out there to someone and look so vulnerable and sensitive...
>God, you love it when guys do that
>It makes you feel so bonded to them
>Connected
>Like there's more to all this beyond wanting to screw each other
>It makes moments like these where you're so close all the more...
>Romantic
>Heh
>*THUMP* *THUMP*
>Oh, there goes your heart again
>Making you feel all kinds of funny...

40
>Akira hits your sweet spot
>AGhgA~!
>You struggle to stifle a moan
>Akira readjusts himself and hones in on that spot
>Must've been what he was he looking for
>He starts properly thrusting in and out
>Slow at first, but quickly getting into a good rythm
>With you shifting your body and humping back in tune to his
>You're soon in more familiar territory
>Little explosions going off in your belly with each thrust
>You biting your lip and moaning as goosbumps travel up your body
>The slick sounds of flesh on flesh and Akira's small grunts only driving your excitement...
>It's incredible
>Despite all the other times you've done it, it still feels fantastic
>Just as passionate
>Just as wonderful as that first night
>It really feels like there's something there
>Something beyond the lust
>Beyond the steamy haze of it all
>Something-
>Akira picks up the pace
>"Sae-chan, Sae-chan!" he moans
>You're caught off guard
>S-Sae-chan?
>He stops, his face red and sweaty
>Almost embarrassed at what he just said
>"Sorry, w-was that too-?"

41
>You get a sudden rush of adrenaline
>You summon all the strength in your hips and pull him onto the bed, flipping him over and beneath you
>"W-Whoah!" he stutters
>He settles beneath you, his head landing on a pillow
>He stares up at you incredulously
>You guess he wasn't expecting that much strength
>The little stud...
>You chuckle a bit, smiling down at him lecherously
>You haven't been called "Sae-chan" in years
>Hearing Akira say it ignited something in you
>Something primal
>Something dirty~
>Your lips curl in a wicked smile
>Your hands move to the bottom of your sweater
>They slowly and delicately start to lift it up, pulling the garment up your stomach and to your chest...
>Akira's eyes widen as your breasts fall out of your sweater, deliciously bouncing back onto your chest~
>You finally pull the thing off and over your head, tossing it to the side as your hair settles back on your shoulders
>You're now fully bared to him
>Akira shifts beneath you
>You look down at him
>He's speechless
>Mouth wide open
>Almost intimidated
>At this moment, you're acutely aware of the age difference between you
>But instead of it being a detriment, it's actually a turn on
>A cute little teenager with a big dick laying beneath you...
>Wanting you
>Only you
>His big eyes glued to your supple flesh...
>So young
>So innocent
>So adorable~
>You bite your lip and smile as you run your hands up his chest
>His firm chest...
>Mmm~
>Yeah
>You're gonna fuck his brains out~

42
>You lean your chest over Akira's face
>His mouth quickly latches onto one of your breasts, fiercely suckling it like a starved newborn
>Sending warm little pricks of electricity through your brain...
>Mmmm~
>You rest your hands on his chest and lean further up, letting his mouth claim even more of your tits
>His hands and fingers groping and rubbing them just the right way...
>Fuck~
>You grab his dick and start stroking it
>Delicately pumping it back to full mast before putting it back inside of you
>Your sweaty hips rubbing against each other as you push your weight down on him
>Him eagerly surrendering control as he continues to worship your breasts...
>God, you almost forgot what this was like
>You always loved being on top
>Well
>You love every position, but...
>Top is always the most fun
>It makes you feel in control
>In power
>It lets you take things at your own pace
>Whether that's nice and slow or fast and intense
>...Which'll probably be soon because even you're at your limit

43
>You pull away from him and sit upright
>Impaled on his burning prick
>Feeling comfortable, you start to move, rocking yourself on Akira's dick
>Slow at first, but quickly falling into steady rhythm
>The same rhythm you and Akira hag been practicing all week
>You painted nails digging into his chest
>His hand resting on your ass
>Your steamy, lust filled moans filling the room as you bounce on his dick...
>You shiver with delight
>G-God~
>You can't believe you're already so close to cumming again
>How has Akira lasted this long?
>He hasn't gotten off all night!
>Through that messy hair, and those rosy cheeks and all the sweat you'd think he'd be on the verge, but no!
>He just keeps sucking in and clenching his teeth, meeting your thrusts every time you think he's gonna break
>Come on Sae, you can get that out of him!
>That break
>It's the least you can do for him after all he's done for you!
>Your face just keeps getting hotter and hotter
>Each rock and bounce feeling heavier and harder than the last
>You're holding in so much
>So desperate not to totally lose yourself till he does so you don't RUIN this moment where you're supposed to be giving him everything and making him feel good for how he makes you feel good and showing how much you care for him and how he cares for you and you're totally BLOWING it because you know won't make it because every blood vessel feels like it's going to POP because that STUPID heart beat of yours just won't stop POUNDING and-!

44
>You slip out of rhythm and fall forward
>Ah!
>You nearly slam into Akira
>"Whoah!"
>He quickly readjusts and catches you
>Before you know it, Akira's got you in his grasp
>Holding you on top of him, almost hugging you
>Your face nestled into his sweaty chest
>"Easy, easy... I gotcha" he pants
>You hardly even know what's happened for a few seconds
>When you pull your head up, its face to face with Akira's
>Eye to Eye
>His piercing into your soul
>All you can do blink, unable to break eye contact
>Completely enamored
>Totally speechless
>Each heartbeat feeling like a bomb going off
>Akira smiles innocently
>"You're alright, Sae, I gotcha" he pants
>For some reason, your face turns totally red
>W-What's this f-feeling?
>You feel exposed
>Totally naked
>Somehow even more than you already are
>Like all you are, inside and out, is exposed for Akira to see
>Every wrinkle
>Every eye bag
>Every little quirk and trait in your personality
>It's all out there for him to judge

44.5
>...But strangely enough, it feels okay
>Because Akira's the only one who can see and understand it
>What you really are
>A woman
>And through those you shaggy bangs you can see him for what he is too
>A man
>A kind, sensitive, caring man
>Who could look past the bitchy attitude and the professional front you've been putting up so long to treat you like how you always wanted to be treated
>Like a woman
>With wants and needs...
>...And a little beating heart that can break or swell just like any other's
>Akira pushes the hair out of your face
>"You want me take over?" he asks
>Your senses return
>"O-Oh, uh; N-No no! I'm-"
>You clear your throats
>"...I-I'm good!" you stutter
>You didn't even realize you were holding your breath
>"You sure?"
>"Y-Yeah!" you answer
>Akira gives you that reassuring smile of his
>"Alright, just making sure" he says, leaning up to kiss you
>When your lips hit it's like a shock
>Like you could feel everything you just thought in it
>All the pain, all the pleasure
>You entire relationship from the moment you met till now
>It's the greatest kiss you've had in your entire life
>When it's over, it takes a moment to regain yourself
>But when you do, you can't help but smile
>*THUMP* *THUMP* *THUMP*

45
>You awkwardly push yourself up and off of Akira's chest, back to how you were
>You feel lightheaded
>Light as feather, yet simultaneously heavy as a brick
>You still haven't cum
>Neither has Akira
>His dick throbbing inside of you
>J-Jesus...
>After you manage to catch your breath, you try to pick up where you left off
>Weakly rocking yourself on him
>You're so sensetive
>Each movement feels like a POP of static electricity
>With each shock making you-
>FuCK~!
>You nearly hunch over
>Tears in your eyes
>F-Fuck...
>Your mind is boiling
>You feel like you're going melt right there
>Akira rubs you reassuringly
>That cute little comforting smile of his beaming up at you
>G-Goddamnit Sae...
>Be strong!
>You suck it up and start rocking again
>Enduring every bolt of pleasure the best you can
>It isn't long before you're back to you're previous pace
>Your sweaty hips grinding furiously down at his
>G-G-Godamn...
>Why is this so hot?
>Why is it so intense?
>Your blood feels like it's about to steam out of your skin
>It's never been like this before!
>Never!
>Not even that night when you first fucked!
>The only time it's been REMOTELY like this is last night when....
>...O-Oh god
>You haven't been able think straight this whole time
>It's all just been jumbled up like spaghetti
>But...
>One thing has been echoing this whole time
>Behind your worries and the lust and pleasure
>...What he said to you last night
>What he said to you this evening

46
>How he really, REALLY likes you
>How he likes EVERYTHING about you
>How he has for a long time...
>That's what's been drive your crazy!
>It's him
>Everything about him...
>...The way he held your hand on the subway
>The little game he played taking you here
>How he went through the trouble of setting up this whole evening
>Just for you
>How he always wanted to talk to you whenever he was over
>How he'd always listen to your problems whenever you needed someone
>The way you bonded over your sisters and how hopeless you'd feel at times
>All the food he made you
>All the time he spent just doing random things with you that he didn't have to
>Brushing teeth together...
>Eating meals together....
>Watching a movie
>He never had to do any of that!
>But he did because... he wanted to
>He wanted to be with you
>The two of you aren't having sex because it FEELS nice
>It's because....
>You want to be together
>Oh-
>Oh God
>You-
>You understand now
>This connection you're feeling
>Your beating chest
>What happened last night, what's happening now
>This isn't just sex, it's-
>It's making love!
>That's what this is!
>LOVE!
>Not infatuation!
>Not just a crush or lust!
>Real honest-to-god LOVE!
>Two bodies and souls coming together to make something beautiful and amazing and wonderful
>A real connection between man and woman!
>That's what this is; what you never really had with another guy; what someone like Makoto or your Dad could never give you
>What you had to find yourself
>A true, romantic LOVE!
>love!
>Love!
>LOVE!

47
>You continue to wildly rock yourself on Akira
>At this point, you've completely lost control of your hips
>They're just moving on their own
>As is everything else
>You couldn't stop now even if you wanted to
>You're just so overwhelmed~!
>Every inch of your flesh is scalding with bliss
>Each bounce on Akira's pole of a dick is like a lighting bolt shooting into your stomach~!
>Every squeeze and squelch around him even hotter than the last...
>The realization of just what all this is what all is happening is just making it more intense
>It's like every bit of strength in you is finely pointed and devoted into fucking Akira
>And when his strong hips thrust up to meet you it just-
>AaaAGGHh~!
>You nearly scream in delight
>F-Fuck~!
>You just can't take it~!
>Whenever Akira does ANYTHING it's like FIRE
>Groping your breasts
>Squeezing your ass
>Running his hands up your stomach and smiling telling you how beautiful and wonderful you are to him
>How he wants to be with you and how he wants to make love to you and only you for the rest of his life
>Throwing every shred of coolness away just so he can wildly and passionately make love to you like how he's always wanted
>His words swirling and spinning past the blood pumping in your ears and echoing in your brain as you continue give him everything~!

48
>Tears of joy run down your cheeks
>You can't take it anymore
>You can't~!
>You feel like you're about to explode and so does Akira!
>You're going to-
>Y-You're gonna-!
>You-!
>mmmMMMMaAAGHGHHHhHHHHhH~~~~~~!!!!
>You cum with a mind shattering scream
>"NnNGG~!"
>Akira's boiling balls shoot deep inside of you
>!!!!!!
>Ropes and ropes of hot, sticky cum coat your inner walls as your juices flood out of you
>You're entire body is singed in white hot pleasure
>Every cord and spring of tension in you pops loose, sending sparks of indescribable joy and euphoria flying through you
>Only enhanced by the tsunami of thick spunk being shot into you
>Oh god YES~~!!
>You shake wildly with delight
>Up your feet to your spine and to your neck till you're quivering with pleasure
>You feel like your brain's going to MeLt~!
>You almost lose your balance but Akira steadies you
>Holding you up with his hands through your hands
>Your fingers interlocked~
>Every beat of your heart is a shockwave that just continues to spread the rapture you're feeling
>Which is only made better by the way Akira's face unashamedly scrunches in bliss~
>It's the best orgasm of your life
>You don't know if it'll ever be topped, but part of you thinks it will
>That this is only the beginning of something beautiful~

49
>The last bits of cum and juices ooze out of you
>As the heats of pleasure die down, you can feel your mind slipping
>Like every ounce of energy in you is drained
>Totally exhausted, you fall onto Akira's chest
>Through the slickness and warmness of it, you can only hear one thing
>His beating heart
>Perfectly synced to his
>Now and forever
>You weakly look up at him
>Through the panting, you can see Akira's tired smile
>Totally contented and fulfilled
>His eyes glistening in the moonlight shining through the window
>You summon your last bit strength and use it lean up and kiss him
>The final, delicious, satisfying cherry on top to this whole evening
>You slide your arms around him
>Hugging his body as tightly as you can
>The kiss breaks, and the last thing you feel before drifting away is your mouth forming a tired smile...
>...
>..
>.
>

50
>
>.
>..
>...
>...You feel the sunlight peering onto your eyes as you wake up
>You're in Akira's bed
>Held softly in his arms as he gazes out his window, having already woken up before you
>Neither of you say anything
>You don't have to
>Despite everything, despite knowing what you've agreed to and how wild an arrangement you've gotten yourself into, in this moment, this exact moment, you feel content
>Utterly content with your life, and everything about it
>Happy, even
>Like a new woman, but...
>Still you
>You wish you could stay here for eternity...
>...But not everything lasts forever
>"I'm... I-I'm gonna miss it being like this. Just the two of us... together..." you say
>Akira softly nods
>"I am too..." he mutters
>"Do... D-Do you really think everything will work out? That, someday, we can all be happy together?" you ask
>Akira lightly chuckles
>"Of course I do; you'll see... one day we'll get all this back. I promise" he says comfortingly
>You smile
>"I love you, Akira" you say
>He smiles
>"I love you too, 'Sae-chan'" he jokes, giving you a little kiss
>You giggle
>"You better not start calling me that while Makoto's around" you joke
>Akira chuckles
>"Yeah... What time did you say she was getting home today?" he asks
>Uh
>...Around Twelvish?
>"Hm... in that case we should probably get moving soon; So we can get back and clean the apartment up..."
>You sigh and agree with him
>"Yeah... place probably reeks of SEX" he says
>For some reason, you can't help but burst out laughing
>He starts laughing too
>"Wonder who caused that?" he jokes
>You playfully slap his chest
>"Oh shut up..." you say

51
>Get up
>Step on the wood floor and stretch
>Ah jeez
>You feel kinda... gross
>And you didn't pack a change of clothes either...
>"That's fine, you can just wear some of mine; there's a bathhouse across the street if you wanna clean up" Akira offers
>That... doesn't sound too bad actually
>He gives you some his clothes
>You slip on a loose shirt and and some shorts and head across the street with him
>It's so early that the cafe and streets are still practically deserted
>While he's bathing, you clean yourself off in the women's side of the bathhouse, letting the warm water warm you up from the cold air outside
>Ahh...
>Get out
>Do your hair up till dries
>Slip on a hoodie and some jeans and leave
>Akira's out there waiting for you
>"Oh, hey Sae-ch- Whoah"
>He stops and stares at you
>You're confused
>"What?" you ask
>He shakes his head
>"Nothing, it's just... you look real good with your hair done up like that. You should do it more often" he says
>You blush
>Oh, uh...
>Heh
>"...You think so?" you ask
>"Yeah! Well... N-Not that the way it looks when it's down is bad or anything! It's just- ya know, i-if you ever wanna change it up, I-"
>You giggle at his bumbling
>"I know what you mean, 'Akira-chan'" you say
>He smiles and shakes his head
>"Don't call me that..." he says, rubbing the back of his neck
>You giggle like a teenager at him
>He laughs back too
>For some reason, you can't stop smiling
>You're in a good mood today

52
>You go back to Akira's room to grab your shit
>The two of you briefly go over what you're gonna do and how you're gonna act when Makoto gets back
>How you're gonna clean the apartment, take out the trash, make sure there are no, absolutely  NO signs that the two of you've been fucking like animals there for the past week
>Or that's there something 'new' between you two...
>"We'll just have to act natural, okay?" he says
>Sure, it's no big deal
>You're good at faking things
>"I lie all the time at work!" you joke
>You feel a twinge of guilt saying that
>Especially in the context of doing it to your little sister...
>Ah well
>It is what it is
>The two of head back downstairs
>Alright, now you've just gotta catch the subway and -
>You stop
>There's someone here
>A balding, middle aged man with beard and pink shirt and black apron standing behind the counter
>Staring at you
>Clearly shocked to see a stranger descending his stairs at this time in the morning
>You try put on a friendly demeanor
>"Oh, uh, heh! Hello! M-My name is-"
>Akira steps in
>"Sojiro-san! You remember Sae-san, right? That *girl* I was telling you about?" he says
>The man blinks
>"Oh, uh..."
>He clears throat and looks away, clearly uncomfortable with this whole situation
>"Right, right, uh..."
>He awkwardly clears his throat again
>Still not making eye contact
>"Can I get you something? Some... coffee, or curry, or..."
>Uh
>Sure, that sounds nic-
>"Actually, Sojiro-san, we were just leaving" Akira says, grabbing your hand
>You guess you really should be getting home
>This isn't exactly the most easy of atmospheres...

53
>Sojiro looks down, cleaning a cup
>"Of course, 'course..." he says, still looking away
>The door suddenly opens, the bell above it ringing
>A small, orange haired girl walks in
>"Sojiro-san, have you seen my-"
>She stops when she see you two
>"Akira-kun? W-What are you doing here?" she asks
>Akira walks in front of you
>"Oh, Didn't Sojiro tell you, Futaba-chan? The power's back on. It's safe for me to move back in here again" he explains
>"Oh, okay..." she says, looking down
>She shuffles her feet a bit
>"...W-What's that lady doing here?" she asks, clearly referring to you
>"Oh, you remember Sae-san, don't you? She's Mako-chan's sister. You helped fix her RAM that one time. She kinda... stayed over last night" he says
>You can see Sojiro visibly cringe out the corner of your eye
>Futaba looks confused
>"Stayed over? I thought you and Mako-chan were...?"
>Akira holds a finger up to his mouth and winks
>Futaba suddenly understands
>"Oh..." she groans, a little blush warming her cheeks
>You grin sheepishly
>Sojiro fumbles around behind the counter
>"Hey, uh... Futaba! Why don't you, uh, get behind the counter; I can show you how I make those eggs you like!" he says, clearly desperate to get you two the fuck out of here
>Futaba sighs
>"Alright..."
>She goes behind the counter
>You and Akira move to leave
>"Right, well... I should be back here later on. I'll make sure to tell you if-"
>Sojiro shoos him off
>"Right, right, just... go!" he says, moving to the fridge
>Futaba gives a sad little wave as you two leave
>As the bell rings, you hear Sojiro sigh
>"That dumb kid..." he mutters under his breath
>Step outside
>Door closes behind you
>Huh
>So that was Sojiro...
>Akira awkwardly rubs the back of his neck
>"Yeah, sorry about that. I know I said he was cool with it, but I guess he wasn't really expecting to meet you like that, and..."
>You give him a reassuring smile
>It's alright
>"He seems nice" you say
>Akira turns to go
>"He really is..." he says

54
>Board the Subway
>Ride it back home together
>Get to your apartment
>Unlock the door and open it
>Yeesh!
>This place does kinda... smell
>Like sweat and juices
>Guess you two better get to work...
>Start cleaning
>Picking up trash and cleaning the furniture
>Not only are you trying to make the place look presentable, but you're also trying to cover up the residues of the intense sex that's been going on here for the past week
>That aren't just in your bedroom...
>Get to the couch
>Eugh!
>You revile back and cover your nose
>Ugh, it reeks!
>Guess that fuck session you had on it really did a number...
>Sniff one of the cushions
>Your nose crinkles in disgust
>Yeah
>You're definitely gonna need a new couch...
>Do your best to clean it
>Wiping and scrubbing and spraying everything you can get your hands on
>Akira taking the throw pillows and tossing them in the wash
>Along with your bedsheets
>"Hooh! Heh heh... don't know how we managed to sleep on these" he jokes, taking the filthy sheets and throwing them in the wash
>Laundry was a big part of it
>You had TONS of shit to throw in there
>You almost ran out of detergent with all the shit you were washing!
>While that was going on, you started mopping the floors
>Akira had to take the trash out because it was full of used condoms
>By the time he returned, you had actually managed to get most of it done
>From there, it was just little things
>You'd do one thing and figure "what the hell" and do another
>Things you hadn't done in years
>Getting in the dusty corners...
>The grime under some of the furniture...
>You and Akira even managed to clean out the cabinets and other containers you had
>Going so far as to rearrange them in some parts
>All that really wasn't necessary, but...
>It felt good to finally get around to it
>You and Akira made a pretty good team
>By the time you were finished, the place looked practically brand new

55
>Get a text from Makoto while scrubbing one of the countertops
>"Just got off the train at the station, should be home in 15 minutes"
>Ah shit, already?!
>Finish what you're doing and tell Akira
>"Alright, uh... you should probably take those clothes off before she gets here" he says, referring to his clothes that you're still wearing
>Take them off and throw on one of your sweaters and some pants, finally letting your hair down too
>"Oh, you got a, uh..." Akira gestures to your neck
>Ah shit, that hickey!
>You cover it with some makeup and pull your turtleneck over it
>Get another text
>"At the Subway, almost there"
>Do some finishing touches around the place
>Make sure there's absolutely NO more evidence lying around
>Going back over every surface you can find
>Your phone goes off again
>"Just made it, heading up now"
>Alright, she's nearly here!

55.5
>Set everything down and wipe your forehead
>Man...
>You really worked up a sweat!
>Getting into all those nooks and crannies really exhausted you
>Didn't help that you're still not exactly in shape
>And that you were under a time limit
>Worrying about Makoto...
>Ah jeez, you still feel so unprepared!
>How are you gonna act when she gets up here?!
>Just try and play it cool?
>You're no good at that...
>You've had the past few hours to sort this out and you're still nervous
>You guess it's to be expected
>Beyond your current, uh... "predicament", the two of you weren't exactly on the best terms when she left
>What with that fight you had...
>Sure, you made up
>And she sounded happy on the phone talking to you, but...
>Still
>It'll be weird seeing her in person after all that's happened
>You didn't even get to say bye to her when she left that morning
>As crazy as it sounds... you're actually sort of excited to see her again
>But is that crazy?
>To be excited to have your sister back after she's been gone for awhile?
>Maybe for you, you guess
>Honestly, after the haze of the past few months was lifted, all those you used to think were annoying don't seem so bad now
>It felt odd not having her around to jabber in your ear this past week
>You sort of missed it
>Missed her
>The prospect her coming home is...
>Well you don't know
>You can't describe it
>Your head's like a cocktail of anxiety and emotions
>You don't know what you're gonna do when you see her

56
>Hear a knock at the door
>She's here!
>Oh Jeez...
>"One sec!"
>Akira walks by and set some stuff down
>You can hardly keep still
>"How do I look? Do I look... ya know?" you ask
>Akira shakes his head
>"Nah, you look fine. Do I look...?"
>You shake your head
>"Good. Alright now just... act natural, alright? Loosen up, this'll be fine. We just gotta be ourselves; You can do that, right?" he whispers, holding your head in his hands
>You nod
>He smiles
>"Good; it'll be like nothing ever happened" he assures, giving you a quick peck before leaving for the door
>A-Alright
>Here we go!
>Your stomach swirls as he turns the lock
>Your breath hitching as the door opens, Makoto's familiar frame becoming visible
>With her brown hair and her blue jacket
>Her adorable little face lighting up as she see you two
>"Hey Si-"
>You rush to and excitedly hug her
>"Hey Sis!" you squeal, tightly embracing her and smiling brightly
>Oh god, you forgot what it was like to hug her!
>Your little imouto!
>Makoto looks a little surprised by your greeting
>"Oh, uh, heh... Hey Sis!" she says, awkwardly returning the hug
>You guess you haven't been this affectionate with her in a long time
>You'd be weirded out too, honestly
>You don't know what came over you, you just...!
>Mmmm! You're just so glad to see her!
>The hug goes on a little too long, Makoto tapping on your back to let go
>Oh
>Heheh...
>Sorry
>You break the hug and let her see Akira
>"Hey babe! You get in alright?" he asks
>Makoto smiles
>"Yep!" She beams, getting up on her tippy toes and kissing him
>Awww, that's so cute!
>That little kiss...
>She can't even tell that those same lips were on your cunt the night before!

57
>You and Akira help Makoto settle back in, putting her luggage in her room
>"Wow, this place looks really good! Did you guys clean it while I was gone?" she asks, looking at how neat the apartment is
>Akira sets a bag down
>"Uh-huh, though really all the cleaning was mostly Sae-san..." he says
>Makoto turns to you
>"Really Sis?"
>Yeah
>"We figured it be nice to... h-have look good for when you got back" you lie
>Makoto smiles
>"Aw, you didn't have to do that!" she says, giving you a little hug
>You're a little surprised, but return it anyway
>"Nah, it was..."
>"...It was nothing" you say, patting her on the back
>You see Akira smile at the two of you over her shoulder
>For some reason, despite the underlying tension of all this, this entire situation with Makoto being back and the new dangerous relationship between you and Akira, you can't help but smile too
>Sure, you're still nervous
>Nervous that one little thing may be off and Makoto will discover the whole charade and it'll be over, but...
>Right now that just isn't taking the forefront of your mind
>You're just kinda happy to see your sister
>You pull back from the hug
>"Hey, why don't I get that big lug over there to make us some coffee while we talk about your trip, huh?" you offer
>You see Akira playfully roll his eyes
>Makoto looks even more surprised than she did earlier, but but not in a bad way
>"Oh, uh... alright! Sure, heh, that sounds nice" she says

58
>You and Makoto sit down at the dining table while Akira makes you all some coffee
>The two of you making small talk in the meantime
>Usually, before, you found whatever she was babbling about annoying, but...
>For some reason, her voice just doesn't seem as grating as it was before she left
>It feels nice talking to her
>"Hey Sae-san, you wanna come fix yours?" you hear Akira call out
>Sure
>You get up and go into the kitchen, Akira taking his and Makoto's back to the table
>The two of you sharing a knowing,  approving little glance as he passes by, sitting down and chatting with Makoto like he always does
>This really isn't as bad as you thought it'd be
>You don't know if it's the pressure and uncertainty you've felt these past few months being lifted off your shoulders, or the "relief" of last night finally catching up to you, but...
>So far, things are going pretty good
>Makoto hasn't even noticed how-
>"What's up with Sis? Why is she acting so... nice?" you hear
>Your breath hitches
>You nearly drop the sugar packet you were pouring as you hear Makoto continue
>"Not that I'm complaining or anything! It's just... weird. Did something happen while I was gone?" she whispers
>Oh shit...!!!
>You peer over behind the wall
>You see Akira visually struggle to think of an answer
>You guess Makoto thought you couldn't hear from here...
>You hold your breath as he tries to come up with something
>Finally he speaks
>"...She got a promotion at work" he says, nonchalantly taking a sip from his cup
>Makoto's eyes light up
>"Really?! Oh that's great! I..."
>Phew!
>You breath a sigh of relief and finish pouring your sugar, stirring it with a little straw as you walk back to the table
>"Oh, Sis! Akira-kun tells me you got a promotion? That's great, way to go!" she beams, congratulating you
>You give an appreciative grin
>Thanks...

59
>You sit down and join them, taking a sip of your coffee
>Makoto and Akira are already talking about her trip to Twelve Monks Academy
>Her gushing about how nice it was and Akira just smiling and nodding
>It feels kinda weird watching the two of them talk
>Before, you thought they were so lovey-dovey and into each other
>But now you're noticing things
>Little things
>Like how Akira isn't really talking, how he doesn't seem particularly interested in what she's saying
>He certainly SEEMS like he's listening
>But he doesn't have the same glint in his eyes or enthusiasm that you saw last night at dinner
>It's subtle, but...
>It really does seem like he was telling the truth about not being too into her
>Not like he's miserable or anything
>Or that he even dislikes her
>He's just... not acting like how you'd expect a boyfriend to act after not seeing their girlfriend for a whole week
>At least to you
>Makoto probably doesn't know any different
>It is her first boyfriend after all...
>...
>Oh gosh
>Here comes the guilt again
>Bubbling up in your stomach
>Just... try to not think of it, Sae
>You're good at that, right?

60
>Makoto goes on to detailing everything she wants to do and her plans for the future
>From majoring in Criminal Justice to becoming a cop
>Just like dad
>Maybe even be Chief of Police one day
>It was surprising to be sure
>You never really thought Makoto was the type to take down criminals
>Though she does take those Aikidio classes...
>Well
>While you weren't exactly too excited that's what she was going into...
>...You were surprised by how much she had thought about it and all the plans she had
>It really did seem like she had her future sorted out
>In a way, you were sort of... proud of her
>She seemed so mature about it
>Still young and giddy, but...
>...Actually starting to sound like an adult
>These past few years, you haven't really payed attention to her as much as you should
>And you always just assumed she was like any other teenager, but...
>Without you even knowing it, Makoto was becoming a young woman
>With her whole life ahead of her
>Kinda like you were at her age
>Except it took your Dad dying to get your act together...
>But Makoto won't have that burden
>She's free to be young and energetic
>Free to live
>She really does seem like she has a bright future ahead of her
>That she's going to have a great life
>And instead of being bitter or resentful, you're... actually happy for her
>You're HAPPY for your sister
>Truly, honest to god happy for her
>Happy she's got it all sorted out
>Happy that she didn't let Dad dying ruin her
>Happy that you could be apart of looking after her and watching her grow from that sweet, innocent kid you knew to a bright young woman

61
>In a lot of ways, you see yourself in her
>But you aren't jealous of Makoto like you used to be
>That emotion just isn't registering
>And while things could change, and her future could go in wildly different directions...
>You're confident that she'll turn out great no matter what
>And while you still aren't sure how this whole Akira thing's gonna pan out for you...
>You think that, somewhere, someway... Dad would be proud of you
>And in a way, you're proud of yourself
>You feel like a good sister
>And despite everything that's happened, and everything that COULD happen...
>You really do love Makoto
>You're happy for her
>You really are
>You smile and put your hand on Makoto's
>"Well I'm real proud of you, don't ever forget that" you say
>Makoto smiles bashfully
>"Thanks Sis"

62
>Makoto stands up, stretching her arms out and yawning
>"Man... that was a LONG train ride" she says
>Akira looks up at her
>"You wanna stay here, just stay in and watch a movie or..."
>Makoto balks at this
>"Are you kidding? I've been sitting down for the past three hours; I wanna go out and stretch my legs a bit!" she says
>Akira thinks for a bit on what they could do
>"Well... we could always stop by Ryuji's, see what he's up to. Or we could wander around Jinbocho, I hear their book store is having some sort of sale" he suggests
>Makoto lights up
>"Oooh, that sounds fun. Let's do that! You wanna come with, sis?" she asks
>You're caught off guard by this offer
>What? You? No...
>"Are you sure? It's not like a date or anything" she clarifies
>No, you...
>You just wanna... kick back, you know?
>Enjoy your day off
>Not be a burden to them...
>"You're not a burden, Sis" she says
>A little blush goes to your cheeks
>Well, thanks but...
>You briefly consider it, but end up shaking your head
>Makoto shrugs and turns back to Akira
>"Alright, well just let me use the bathroom first, and we'll go; I've been holding it for HOURS" she says
>Akira chuckles and Makoto leaves for the bathroom
>You go to the kitchen to rinse the coffee cups out
>It isn't long before Akira joins you
>"See, what I tell ya?" he says over the running water "We're fine!"
>Yeah, you guess...
>Akira pats your arm
>"Oh come on, don't be like that; you did great! I know this won't be easy, but... we can really make this work!" he says
>Yeah, yeah, it's just...
>You don't like lying to Makoto
>She's your sister
>"I know, I don't either! I hate lying to her... But that's just how it has to be right now. Maybe after she goes to college, and her and I inevitably... you know, we'll have a bit more wiggle room. It won't be as bad then.  I wanna at least give her that, a few more good months together"
>...But sneaking around her back with you the whole time?
>"Well, when you put it like that, I..."

63
>Akira shakes his head
>"Look, it'll be fine. Trust me. She won't know a thing. Her and I will still be 'together', but... You'll always be my number one priority. What you and I have is special, I want to see it...!"
>He squeezes his fist and flushes
>"...I want to see it grow, you know?  I've never felt this way about anyone else, and it's frustrating that I can't be open about it. But I'd rather do all this and not be able to see you at all. I dealt with that for months, I can't go back to that" he says
>Yeah, you guess you feel the same way
>There's no way you're gonna be able to go back to how things were before
>Especially with your new job...
>Ah jeez, you forgot about about them
>Even when Makoto's out of the picture at college, there's still them to worry about
>Who knows what'll happen to your career if rumors start circulating that you're dating a teenager...
>Akira rubs your shoulder reassuringly
>"Well... we'll take things slowly, okay? Cross that bridge when we come to it. I mean, it's not like there's anyone who KNOWS besides us or Sojiro and Futaba, right? And they've got pretty tight lips"
>You think back to your encounter with Akechi yesterday, and that big shit-eating grin he gave you about your hickey...
>You shake your head
>N-Nope!
>No one...
>Akira smiles
>"Great!"
>You feel his hand under your chin
>A small smile forms on your face as you turn off the sink, knowing what he wants
>You turn to face him, looking deep into his eyes
>His pretty, crimson-grey eyes...
>You lean in, but before things can go any further, you hear the toilet flush from the other room
>The two of you pull back to a more platonic distance, and you let out a small, disappointed sigh as Makoto emerges from the bathroom, Akira going to meet her
>You guess that's just how it's going to be for awhile...

64
>As you see the two of them off, you start to feel a little sad
>You guess that you're just going to have to "share" Akira for awhile, and part of that's not being able to see him sometimes
>Like now
>Just you and yourself again
>In this big apartment...
>Maybe you could get a hobby
>Like writing
>Or start working out
>Try to make some "gal-pals"
>Something like that...
>Well, in any case-
>*KNOCK* *KNOCK*
>Huh?
>You open the door
>It's Akira
>"Sorry Sae-san, I forgot something"
>He pulls you in passionately for a kiss
>!!!
>The sweetness of his lips overtakes you
>A warm, happy feeling spreads all over your body
>Like a nice Spring day being blown into you
>All that uncertainty just melting away into bliss..
>Akira breaks the kiss
>"Sorry, I kinda needed that... Uh, well, Makoto's waiting downstairs, I'll see you when we get bac-"
>Wait!
>Akira stops, puzzled
>...I-Is that offer from her from before still available?
>To go and hang out with you guys?
>"I think so" he says
>A warm smile spreads across your face
>"...Tell her I'll be right down" you say
>On second thought, spending the day with the two people you love doesn't sound so bad after all
>Akira seems a little surprised, but ultimately chuckles at this
>"Alright, whatever you say... 'Sae-chan'" he jokes
>You giggle and shut the door behind him as he leaves for the elevator
>Before you go to put on your shoes, you stop and stare at the ceiling, grinning like a teenager
>Ah jeez
>There you go getting all giggly again...