Un musicien parmi tant d`autre

I'm sorry it took so long to update, please have mercy on me, this chapter was not planned at all but I felt like it needed to be done.

Now let's jump into reviews!

MiriuOniaya- The way you sounded really happy to read this story cracked me up. I read it and laugh so hard my mom was like "Have you gone insane laughing all by yourself?" But that's a daily occurance at my place since my computer is in the living room. Other than making me laugh it made me so happy that you were that loyal to my story!

Also, it made me happy when you said this is a 'Yuuri thing to do' because I feel like if you can say that means I did my job and discribed my character correctly. As for these quotes ou pulled out I re-read myself I thought that is totally something Yuuri would say, he's so impulsive he doesn't think before he speaks. I swear sometime I laugh too as I write that. And Kishimoto does love pushing Yuuri's botton, I'd even say it became is new favourite hobby because Yuuri gets angry so easily.- Thanks for the comment, you diserve waves of love!

Lisa- I'm glad you like this chapter since I was afraid some parts were lacking. You resured me!And I'm also glad you like Yuuri a little more but the whole point was for Yuuri to appear very rough at the beginning to give him a chance to grow. And yes he's got some anger issues, getting angry like that is some sort of defence mechanism for him.

Furthermore, yes, French is the most beautiful language in the world. *Nods proudly. You don't just how much you've boosted my ego there. For one thing I'm very proud of my French origins since I live in Ontario and we only have a little French community so we're trying really hard to protect it. Yes, a French girl from Ontario does exist. I'm saying that because poeple in Ontario and poeple in Quebec, our French neigbouring province, don't even know there are French poeple in Ontario. Once I told a Quebecois I was from Ontario and he was like 'Please explain it to me, how is that possible' and he was being very serious. Great, I've gone off rambling. Slaps myself, that's just what happens when I start talking about French.

Now 'J'oublai mon francais, Quel dommage' is almost all good except for 'oublai,' that word doesn't exist, in the present tense it would be 'J'oublie.' But don't you worry about that since I've learning French forever and I still confuse my verbe tense!- You also deserve waves of love, you're comment made me proud!

kylee- Yes, Yuuri tends to get a little protective of people he grows fond of, however, he would never dare admit that! And yes, Yuuri's second name might as well become denial.- Thanks for the comment and I hope you enjoys this chapter as well even though it took so long to come out.

BRM- I believe it's the first time I see you in the review section, it's not a really big one so I practically jump in joy anytime someone new comments. You see, I'm a little like Yuuri and I get angry easily, although I'd qualify it more as fake anger. So I'm not going to be tacked hugged without taking revenge so -tackle hug- to you too! And here it is, continued for at least another chapter!

And also a little noted, after 7 chapters I realised I never mentioned it but Kowai Kao Kuro means scary face Kuro. Slaps myself, I should have said that the first time I mentioned it! You have the right to slap me too if I do something confusing like that again and I will fix it and make a note. Sometimes I get too carried away when I write!

Now after so much babbling, enjoy chapter 7!

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On Sunday it was extremely windy, the weather looked as if a storm was about to hit. I wanted nothing more than to stay inside, especially since last night my shift ended at three am and I had another one in the morning until two in the afternoon but going out was a necessity. My cupboard were almost empty and I would need something to eat for the rest of the week, since I also work tomorrow I won’t have time for groceries. Furthermore, on Sundays there are usually some really good special in the superstores.

I’ve cut out the low price items and the coupons from the fliers. It’s troublesome and it takes a long time doing and I have to do a lot of different stores but I end up saving a lot that way. I ran a hand through my hair as I entered a store, the wind had blew them all over the place. May effort to keep them in place went in vain since I still had three more stores to go to. I brought my backpack along to carry the items but it got heavy quickly. I was glad when I reached the last store on my list.

“Is that all?” The girl at the cash asked as she was putting the items in a plastic bag.

“Yeah.” I said without looking up, I took out a few bills out of my pockets. By now I had drawn the hood of my sweater over my head to shelter myself from the cold. In the last store I hadn’t bother take it off. But for that reason the girl at the cash didn’t recognize me until I spoke.

“Yuukun is that you?” She asked.

“You work here?” I asked with a grunt as I looked up to see Junko’s smiling face. Who else would have called me ‘Yuukun?’

“You don’t have to sound so disappointed.” She said with a pout putting a hand of her hip.
“I have enough of dealing with you during the week, I’m not so trilled of meeting you in the weekend.” I said grumpily.

“How mean.” She said.

“Well, what do you want, I’ve got a reputation to uphold.” I said. “So are you going to take my money or not?” I asked, I was starting to be impatient.

“Are you going to come to my place?” She asked.

“Why would I want to do that?” I asked with a scowl. She only grinned.

“You said you’d die my hair the other day.” She said.

“Oh great.” I said shaking my head. I can’t believe I actually told her something like that. “I honestly thought you wouldn’t remember. And since I don’t have the heart to refuse her I end up at her place to dye her hair. At least I get a good meal, she’s a good cook.

I ran my hands trough her hair gently to wash out the excess of dye and smiled to myself. How long as it been since I did that for someone.

“You’re so gentle Yuukun, I never expected that from you.” Junko commented. “It seems like you have a lot of experience at doing this but it’s a little feminine for a hobby.” She added.

“You idiot.” I growled directing the spray at her face instead. She shrieked and she straitened up abruptly.

“Why did you do that for.” She said grabbing a towel to dry her face and the water dripping from her hair.

“It’s not a hobby. I would do it to help a friend out.” I said grumpily.

“Was it a girl?” She asked. My body stiffened at the question.

“What makes you ask such a stupid question.” I said turning around swiftly. Because of her question I couldn’t help thinking back to the days when I would do that for…

“It’s because you were so gentle.” She said, even with my back turn I know she must be grinning right now. Damn her for being so sharp.

_____

“Yuuri kun, would you do mine too.” I heard a soft, almost shy voice, ask from behind me. I rubbed my hair wildly with a towel to dry them the best I could. The terry cloth was tainted blue by the dye.

“What? Dye your hair?” I asked in a nonchalant manner turning around to face a girl. She was my age but she looked a little younger. She was a few inch smaller than me but it’s her face that made her look younger. She had a cute round face and pale skin, her chocolate brown eye was wide and bright. She only had one visible eye since the other one was covered by an eye patch due to an injury. She never told me what happened to her eye, it was like that when we met three years ago. We were both seven at the time. She nodded at my question.

“You with dyed hair! You got to be kidding Megumi chan! You way too nice for that.” I said with a smirk. She shook her head, her long black locks whipping against her face as she did so.

“I’m part of the gang too you know.” She said with a frown. I sighed.

“Fine, which colour do you want?” I asked. She must know I can’t refuse her anything when she makes that face. Ito Megumi, ever since we met I’ve vowed to protect her since, just like me, she doesn’t have anyone else in the world.

“Red.” She said with a smile.

“Why red, it’s got to be the most complicated colour to make.” I whined ruffling my hair.

“But you like redheads more don’t you?” She asked.

“What makes you say that?” I asked with an annoyed tone.

“You keep talking about Haruka sama’s red hair. I want you to look at me too.” She said pouting. I couldn’t stop a blush from creeping up my face. I looked at her for a moment. It’s true that she would be cute with red hair, dark red, just like Haruka sama’s were.

“Fine, fine, I’ll do it.” I finally gave in.

“Thanks Yuuri kun.” She said bouncing, her face brighten as she smiled. It was the first time I ever dyed somebody else’s hair, I was a little rough and clumsy.

“Ow, don’t yank so hard.” Megumi complained as I was rinsing her hair.

“Sorry.” I said rolling my eyes. “I’m not a professional hair dresser you know.” I said in annoyance but I tried to be a little more gentle to finish the job. I combed my fingers through her now dark red hair almost tenderly. When I was done I sat back and lit up a cigarette.

“How do you like it?” I asked tossing her a portable mirror, it was old and cracked in the middle but it was good enough for her to see her reflection. A bright smile appeared on her face again and I couldn’t stop myself from smiling too.

“Thanks Yuuri.” She said looking at herself in the mirror once again. I was right, she’s cute as a redhead.

__________

I smiled a little as I remembered this scene. I was much younger and I still lived in Japan back then. I would never forget Megumi chan. No matter how much I try, she was an important part of my life.

“See it must be a girl, you’re smiling!” Junko exclaimed.

“You right, it was a girl. A redhead, and she was much cuter then you are.” I said teasingly.

“Would you like me too if I was a redhead?” She asked with a grin.

“Of course not, you’re way too annoying.” I said crossing my arms.

“But you do have a thing for redheads!” She pointed out.

“So what if I do?” I snapped. That girl, she does everything she can just to push my buttons. Can’t she see I’m not interested to speak of my preference in girl with her?

“Kuro’s a redhead.” She stated, I froze.

“Don’t you even dare finish that trail of though. My attraction for redheads is exclusive to chick!” I shouted. Why the hell does everything I say as to come back to that redhead. Even if he’s a redhead he’s got to be the least attractive person in the world!

“You’re blushing how cute.” She said with a giggle.

“That’s it I’m leaving.” I said grabbing my coat before I lose control and break something.

“Don’t be so cold Yuukun, I’m only teasing you.” She said following me to the entrance. I glared and raised my middle finger, she only giggled more. “You can come back anytime you want.” She said teasingly.

“As if I’d want to come back.” I snapped. “Thanks for the food.” I said before slamming the door behind me. Would they just leave me alone with Kowai Kao Kuro?

On Monday, when I came to work at the café, I was introduced to what I’d like to call the ‘Nightmare Cake’ or how the café calls it ‘Sakurai’s special giga chocolate cake!’ It a massive and unbelievably chocolaty cake. Out of all the food on earth, the one thing I can’t stand the taste, or even the smell, is chocolate. And now on this beautiful Monday I get to serve it to clients all afternoon, since it’s the most popular cake the house, f**k my life.

Of course Junko and Yukari ordered this cake with a big smile on their face. As I served their cake I tried to hold my breath the best I could. I hadn’t even been in the café for an hour and the smell was already making me nauseous. Enough to make me wish I hadn’t eaten lunch today. Furthermore, with my pride I wasn’t going to ask Ren to let me leave for something like that. I’m strong enough to deal with a stupid chocolate cake!

“Thank Yuukun!” Junko said as I set the cake in front of Yukari and her.

“By the way, that’s a really nice job you made with Junchan’s hair.” Yukari said, however I was in no mood for chitchat, I only wanted to get away from the smell as fast as I could.

“Yeah thank.” I just said, normally I would have probably said something along the lines of ‘that stupid girl force me.’ Since I was being so calm the girls gave me weird looks.

“You’re awfully nice today Yuukun, is there something wrong?” Junko asked with a grin.

“No no, it’s fine, I got to get back to work.” I said sounding a little detached. Damn, the smell was giving me a headache. I turned on my heels and headed back toward he kitchen to get more orders, the girls exchanged worried glances.

I don’t know if I can manage to work three hours with this scent. I’m already sweating uncontrollably and I feel like my heart is at the back of my throat. I clenched my teeth and tried to take deep breaths but I only managed to inhale more of the scent . I was space out for a moment because Kishimoto had to pat my shoulder to get my attention.

“Inoue, have you seen the…” He started to ask. “Hey, are you alright there buddy?” He asked as I turned to him.

“I’m fine.” I said pressing a hand to my forehead.

“Have you seen the colour of your face? You’re as white as a sheet.” He said, his tone held a hint of urgency and concerned. “Do you feel sick?” He asked. I shook my head but my stomach heaved without warning. I only just managed to suppress a gag.

“I’m going out for a smoke.” I quickly mumbled out before heading to the door. The moment I step outside I almost feel like crying out in joy. Fresh air is just like heaven to me right now. I sat down on the step at the side of the café and lit up a smoke with a shaky hand. I really thought I was going to lose it back there.

“Did you puke InoueÉ” I jumped as Kishimoto came up behind me. I was so distracted that I hadn’t even here the door open. There was a slight hint of amusement in his tone.

“F**k off.” I growled, I really wasn’t in the mood to deal with him right now. At my disappointment, he ignored my rudeness and sat beside me.

“Do you need any medicine?” He asked, this time he sounded a little more serious.

“I said I was fine. I just can’t stand the smell of chocolate, it’s disgusting.” I admitted grumpily.

“Chocolate? That’s rare. Are you allergic?” He asked.

“Don’t think so. I used to be able to eat it, as a kid. But now I can’t even tolerate the smell.” I answered. It’s really odd, I used to be able to eat it just fine before, and I really liked it too. However, one day I started to find the smell repulsive and when I would try to eat it I would get sick. That’s why I’ve grown to dislike sweets in general.

“If you knew that, than why didn’t you tell Ren about it? He would have changed you shifts with Kuro or someone else.” He said with a frown.

“It’s fine, I can handle that much.” I glared at him.

“Inoue you proud bastard!” He said with a laugh punching me in the shoulder. “You don’t have to endure stuff like that.” He added.

“Che, don’t underestimate me, I can deal with it!” I snapped punching him back on the arm. He shook his head giving up on trying to convince me.

“You stubborn Kohai. Do you want aspirin at least?” He asked, I glared at him but nodded slowly. He grinned. Why the hell is that guy so friendly? Didn’t he say we were enemies? He thinks I want to take his precious Kuro from him so why is he so nice? We went back inside, the aspirin Kishimoto gave me at least helped suppress my headache. However, I still looked like a wreck when I came out of the café. I’m thankful I don’t work at the restaurant tonight. At least I can try to recover from the nightmare cake. I’m glad I wasn’t asked to eat it too!

“Inoue wait up!” Kishimoto called out to me as I started to head home. I rolled my eyes. What the hell does he want now?

“What now?” I snapped.

“I’m surprised you managed to live through that.” He said with a smirk.

“Of course, that was nothing. It will take more than a little chocolate for you to get rid of me.” I said smirking back at him. Is he trying to pick a fight with me, that cocky bastard.

“You don’t have to get so defensive Inoue. I’m only trying to be friendly with you.” He said slapping my back playfully. I glared at him.

“Don’t waste your time on someone like me, I can live just fine without your friendship.” I said crossing my arms. These guys, can’t they see they’re just making me uncomfortable by trying to get close to me. I don’t need help from anyone, I thought I made that clear last time. Beside, I’m not a friendly person.

“Don’t be so cold buddy. I’m actually quite intrigued. I don’t see what Kuro likes so much about you.” He said smirking.

“That kid’s a lunatic, he doesn’t sense the danger of rubbing against someone like me.” I growled. Kowai Kao Kuro, he’s not afraid of anything. He’s careless, he doesn’t see I could bite him back at any moment.

“You’re just like a hedgehog Inoue.” Kishimoto said with a laugh. It seems like I don’t intimidate him as much as I’d like to. He said ruffling my hair playfully.

“Don’t touch me.” I growled.

“Come on over to my place, mom’s making steaks for supper.” He said brightly. I would have refused on the spot but I considered the food thoroughly. I barely have anything to eat at home and meat sounds like a really good idea. I don’t get to eat a lot of meat since it’s so expensive.

“Sure.” I said looking away. I was a little embarrassed to accept his invitation after being so rude to him but he didn’t seem to mind because his smile only brightened. People here are all insane, they’re much too nice. I never saw anything like this. No that’s not right, Haruka sama was like that. He was kind and gentle beyond my comprehension.

“Come on.” He said dragging me off to his red Honda. In the car he turned the radio on and sang along to some French song, I didn’t understand a word he sang.

“It’s a love song.” He said. “It says: I think I’m losing reason, every time I see you looking at me. My smile tastes better when I’m with you, when we’re together it seems like our body are so light. If I’m surprising you with these words, it’s because with you I forget about the rest of the world.” He translated for me.

“Che, what a stupid song. As if you’d actually say that to someone.” I said grumpily looking out the window. I listen to the song quietly. It sounds really nice to the year, it’s very smoothing, very free. The singer sounds really truthful. What a moron, real life is nothing like that.

“There isn’t anybody you’d like to sing that song to?” Kishimoto asked.

“Of course not.” I growled at him.

“If I’d be better at the guitar I’d sing this song to Kuro chan.” He said with a grin as he pulled into his driveway.

“Che.” I grumbled. Kishimoto shook his head. Kishimoto as a really nice place, just like Kuro’s its two stories high. The place as a nice feel to it, warm lighting and smoothing colours. Kishimoto’s room is on the second floor. It’s really big! Of course, every room seems big compared to mine but his room is bigger than Kuro’s or Santa’s. He as a television in his room and a double bed. Furthermore, two guitars on stands in a corner of his room, one of them was electric, a Fender.

“She’s nice right, that Fender is one of my treasures. I got it for Christmas last year.” He explained he took the guitar and invited me to sit on the bed. “Can you play the electric guitar?” He asked holding it my way.

“I played it a bit back in Japan, when I could have access to one.” I said, I took the guitar from his hands carefully. I’ve never been able to touch a brand new instrument like that. I’m almost afraid it will break in my hands. I started to play the introduction of Led Zeppelin’s ‘Heartbreaker.’

“That’s Zeppelin.” Kishimoto noted. I nodded and moved on to the solo part. Kishimoto was wide eyed looking at me play.

“I love American and British rock.” I said taking a pause and than proceeded to play a bit of Clapton “Layla.” Than played ‘Smoke on the water’ and a little bit of the Beatles. “This is one of my favourites to play.” I said playing Chicago’s ‘25 or 6 to 4.’

“You’re really talented Inoue! I practice a lot and I can’t play that well, you sound like a pro!” He said sounding quite exited. “Did you have easy access to foreign music in Japan?” He asked, I had to smirk at this.

“Me and aniki were really poor so we would smuggle American goods. We would sell them in large quantities and for cheap so we made a lot of money off that.” I explained. I guess it can’t hurt if I tell him that much about myself. “That way I would get access to the popular music and I met a lot of Americans. It’s like that I picked up the language. Since I was young I picked it up quickly so I would deal with the clients most of the time.” I explained.

“You’ve had quite the special life.” Kishimoto noted.

“Yeah.” I said laying on my back. “I’ve had a good time when I was with aniki.” I said. Through all the shit I still have pleasant memories.

“Hey! Play some more Zeppelin!” Kishimoto said suddenly. I smirked again as I nodded. At least I’ve got one thing in common with the white haired senior, we both enjoy the same music and playing the guitar. He’s a fun guy to hand out with when we’re not at each others throat. We got off on a bad start and I still see him as some kind of rival but also a good friend. He’s a nice guy too.

I went through most of my Zeppelin knowledge until his mom called us down for supper. I was surprised to see two ladies at the table, one of them being Kishimoto’s mother and the other, Julia, her girlfriend. Apparently, Kishimoto’s parent when through a hard divorce the year he started high school. Thing lightened up a lot when his mom meet Julia. I don’t doubt it, she’s a sweet lady.

After supper the weather took a turn for the sour. I looked at the freezing rain with a death glare. As if this could change anything. I don’t want to make Kishimoto driving me in that rain so I may as well start walking. If I had Kuro’s girly umbrella I wouldn’t be drenched be the time I get home.

“Wow, this weather is really bad!” Kishimoto exclaimed looking over my shoulder. We were upstairs in his room. “I have an extra futon here so I think it’s best if you stay. It wouldn’t be safe to drive around in this storm.” He said in a decisive tone.

“It’s alright, I can walk.” I said in defence.

“You’ll get sick if you walk in that weather.” Kishimoto.

“I’ve seen worst.” I said. I’ve walked home from work in storms much worst before. I crossed my arms. In fact, I was too embarrassed to accept his over, I didn’t want to abuse on his or his parent’s generosity.

“You don’t have to do it tonight since it’s not much more trouble to let you sleep here.” He said with a grin. “Beside, I’ve already started to make your bed.” He said taking out a futon from his closet.

“Fine, but don’t think I owe you anything.” I answered stubbornly.

“You can’t just accept something gratefully, can you?” He asked, this time he sounded a little annoyed.

“It’s you guys that keep insisting on these things, I already told you I don’t need anything from anyone.” I said glaring at him.

“Yeah, you already said that, but don’t you think it feels nice to have someone help once in a while?” He asked glaring back at me. “All night I’ve been trying to be friendly with you and all I get from you are those rude comments!” His tone was getting louder with every word.

“You have got it by now, I don’t want your friendship!” I shouted back taking a step toward him.

“What, are you just going to live all your live alone?” He asked throwing his hands in the air.

“That’s always how it’s been and I’m not about to change my way of live just to fit your ideals!” I snapped. This time I was answered by a fist rather than words. I was only stunned for a few seconds and I was quick to reply with my own fist. The fight degenerated until we were rolling on the floor brawling and getting as much hit as we could. That went until we were exhausted, bruised and the anger had dispelled. We laid on our back breathless. I rolled on my side to look away from him.

“I’m just… not used to having people look out for me. In fact, I never let anybody look out for me. I don’t want to owe anything to anyone,” I took a pause, I had to bite back my pride to be so truthful. “Because, I have absolutely nothing to give back.” I admitted.

“I can see why Kuro is so tender toward you.” Kishimoto started. “You’re a good guy after all.” He said with a laugh.

“I’m not a good guy.” I snapped but this time it was out of embarrassment.

“Don’t worry, how did Kuro chan say that,” He thought for a moment. “It’s not out of pity, or because we want something from you. it’s because we care.” He said. I blushed at this, I couldn’t help but hear Kuro’s monotone voice and face as he said that. The senior gave out another laugh.

“I’ll go take a shower, make yourself comfortable. You can take some clothes form my drawer if you want.” He pointed out his drawer before leaving the room. When he was gone I searched around. I found a comfortable pair of joggings to sleep in or at least until we go to bed, it’s better than my uniform. Usually I’d rather sleep only in my boxers or even naked if it’s warm enough. I don’t bother finding a shirt. Compared to my apartment, here I can walk around shirtless without being cold.

Kishimoto’s clothes were about my size maybe a little bigger since he has a healthier diet than I have. He’s the size I should be. When he came back he was fully showered and dressed in only a pair of pyjama pants. I was sitting cross legged on the futon as I waited, it was pretty comfortable. More than my old mattress with the springs that sticks out.

“Is that a real tattoo?” He asked as he came back into the room.

“Yeah, is it the first time you see it?” I asked turning my head to see him. He was still admiring the detailed artwork.

“Yeah, it’s awesome. Looks like there was a lot of work into this. Did it hurt?” He asked. I grinning.

“That thing hurt like hell. My aniki did it for me, he’s a traditional tattoo artist. This is hand made, no machine, only needles.” I said proudly. The senior hissed thinking about it.

“It’s just like a Irezumi.” He commented.

“Yeah, something like that.” I said nonchalantly. Not like a irezumi but a irezumi. I’d rather him not know about that, I don’t want go people going around saying I’m a yakuza. I bet that sneaky girl, Chantal, would be way too happy with a rumour like that. I wanted my tattoo to be a full body suit but my aniki refused to make it that big under the excuse that I was too young. He said he might finish when I get older. That doesn’t matter anymore. I probably won’t see him again. Kishimoto walked over his television to open it.

“I have to finish a homework, do you mind watching a movie or something while I do that?” He asked.

“Sure, a movie is fine.” I said.

“What do you want to watch?” He asked.

“I don’t really mind. I most likely haven’t seen it anyways.” I said. I don’t have a television to watch movie and I didn’t really have any interest in that back in Japan. I only watched a few old Japanese samurai or yakuza movie. Since I didn’t mind Kishimoto popped in a random movie. I moved up closer to the end of the futon to see the television clearer and I used one of the blankets to cover my back, it was a little chilly.

“You can sit on the bed, you’ll see better.” He noticed.

“It’s fine, the futon is comfortable.” I said before turning my attention to the movie. Even though it was only eight, not too long after the opening credits my eyelids were already beginning to feel heavy. I try to blink the sleepiness away. It’s not like me to get sleepy like that. It usually takes me hours to fall asleep and I’m a really light sleeper. Unconsciously, I lay down on my side and curl up with the blanket. Somehow, here, especially with Kishimoto in the room, I feel very safe…

“Inoue, time to get up.” Kishimoto’s distant voice stirred me awake.

“Go away.” I mumbled groggily. I was too comfortable bundled up in the blankets.

“Inoue, I can’t let you sleep any longer.” He said with a laugh poking my cheek. “You already had an almost full fourteen hours of sleep and the second class is in half an hour.” He added.

“Class!” I exclaimed suddenly sitting up right. My messy bang fell over my eyes. “What the time?” I asked.

“Nine thirty.” He said.

“Nine thirty!” I exclaimed. I hadn’t even realise I had fallen asleep.

“Yeah you must have been tiered.” He said with a grin. “I looked at you not even twenty minutes in the movie and you had already crashed. You’re just like a kid.” He said. I was dumbfound. I don’t think I ever fell asleep as fast and slept for so long! No wonder I feel so rested all of a sudden.

“I had a good sleep.” I said rubbing the sleep out of my eyes.

“I bet you did, you didn’t even stirred when I moved you.” He noted. He did that? I must have fell asleep in a weird position since I was watching the movie but now I was on the other end of the futon with a pillow under my head and covered by all the blankets. I must have felt very safe to fall in such a deep sleep.

“Didn’t you have class in the first period?” I asked.

“Nope, it was my free period so I figured I’d let you sleep. You didn’t have anything important in the first period right?” He asked. I shook my head, that’s when I usually have music and I’m not even allowed in the class anymore. However, me and Santa have a project to hand in in the next period history.

“No but I have a presentation in history.” I said.

“Better hurry up than. There’s breakfast down stairs.” He said with a smile before heading for the door. “By the way, I think I’m beginning to see what Kuro likes so much about you.” He said smirking.

“What was that supposed to mean.” I growled but the senior was already gone. I quickly got dress and ate some breakfast before we headed for school. Santa was already waiting for me in the history class. He looked a little anxious, since no one saw me all morning he must have though I would ditch him.

Now that I had shown up he was more relaxed and the presentation went pretty smoothly. The class as well as the teacher seemed to be enjoying our presentation. However, I was a little nervous when the teacher called me outside the class right after we were done. Only me though, Santa gave me a questioning look. I really think we did a good job so what could this be about.

“Inoue kun, I can see that you’re really smart, you worked really hard on this project and it was good. But I just corrected the writhen portion of your work and I didn’t feel like it was the quality the work of a eleventh grade student can and out.” I clenched my fist at her word. I know that my writhing skills are not the best. I can speak English just find but I can barely understand what I read, I have a very low level of education.

“I feel like a fifth grader could have hand in something better. I smoke with your other teachers and they said the same thing. Inoue kun can you read?” She asked with a concerned expression.

“What kind of question is that? Of course I can read.” I said with a nervous laugh but I couldn’t met her eyes.

“If you can read than this is not the kind of work I expect from a student your age. You’ll have to prove me you can do a little better. I’ve talked with your other teachers and we came up with some homework to see what you are really capable of doing. Please really try on these, it’s merely texts reading and summery. If you can’t at least convince me with those you’ll have to take some special classes.” He said, I was surprised at how concerned she sounded.

“Why the hell do you care about my grades, if I pass or I fail, it doesn’t concern you.” I said but I didn’t snapped, I sounded rather calm. Actually, I was curious about the answer she would give me.

“Aren’t you silly Inoue kun, of course I care about your grades! You’re a student just like any other and I want to help you if you need it.” She said frowning severely. My eyes widened a little but I smiled. In Japan, at least in the schools I was in, the teachers didn’t give a damn about what happened to me, as long as I was out of their class as soon as possible. After all, what is a stray like that doing in school? He should stop school and start working instead. I heard some teachers say about me once. I was really glad with the answer she gave me, even though I clearly look like a delinquent this woman threats me just like any other kid. People in this country are really different. I nodded at her.

“I’ll try my best miss.” I said with a smile. However, when I was faced with a pile of homework I didn’t feel as confident. On Saturday I came to Kuro’s place since it was my day off and he said he’d lend me his computer to type my work. Unfortunately, it’s the fourth time I read this article and I’m only beginning to understand what it’s talking about. That’s only one of the article I have to read, plus, I’ve got one in French. Since, like she said, this is Quebec and it’s important to know French as well.

I scratch my head in frustration. Even though I’m very fluent in English my reading and writhing skills doesn’t reflex my knowledge. Since me and my aniki used to smuggle American goods we got used to speaking English with them, furthermore, I listened to a lot of English music. But that didn’t require any reading.

In fact, I’m not all that good reading Japanese either. I started school in fifth grade and didn’t attend class that much since the teacher would rather not have me around. It’s the first time I ever really give a try at school. Of course, in my school record, it says I’ve done all my school years up to here but that’s falsified information. Now, I’ve stuck with this stupid homework while I’m almost illiterate. Screw my life! I don’t want to have to take special classes, that would take up way too much of my time! I have to work too!

While I was breaking my brain over this stupid text Kuro is on the bed, laying on his stomach nonchalantly reading some manga. He’s probably done with all his homework but it still annoys me to see him do nothing while I have to work my ass off. If he would play his violin at least. I only got to hear him once but I’m looking forward to hear him again. It would definitely calm me down.

“Do you need help?” Kuro asked rolling lazily on his back, his head hanging upside down on the edge of the bed to look at me.

“I can manage just fine.” I growled. Of course I’m too proud to accept any help. “This is easy anyways.” I tried to cover up my problem but he’s a clever little bastard so he must have noticed I’ve been reading this same article for the last two hours. He just shrugged it off and went back to reading his book, still upside down. If I didn’t know better I’d say he’s bored.

Now, why the hell do I have the time to contemplate that, I’ve got work to do! I scratch my head angrily. No matter how many times I re-read the stupid thing I can’t seem to be able to phrase a good summary. Where was I when they thought that in school? Probably not in school…

“Kuro, for the love of god help me out here!” I finally shouted sending my copy of the article flying all across the room.

“You can’t manage anymore?” He asked rolling back on his stomach getting dangerously close to the edge.

“Stop doing this you’ll fall down the f**king bed.” I exclaimed standing up. It seems like today he’s even more calm than usual, or I just notice more than usual and it frustrates me!

“Do you want me to read it for you?” He asked and he was just about to roll over again, I was already so fired up so it took me about half a second to rush over the bed and grab his arm to keep him from falling.

“I told you you’d fall off!” I snapped, my grip on him was the only thing that was keeping him from falling off right now.

“I knew you catch me.” He said cocking his head to the side, this time, even though his face never changed I could tell this last phrase was supposed to sound mischievous. I growled in frustration while I let go of his arm. He didn’t even looked startled when he crashed on the carpet. The fall wasn’t too high and he didn’t fall hard enough to hurt himself.

“Serves you.” I said crossing my arms. He sat up on his knees and cocked his head to the side again.

“Do you still need help?” He asked.

“I,” I scratched my head nervously. “I sort of have trouble reading it. I…”
“It’s alright, I’ll help you. After all, it’s your first time at a none Japanese school, right?” He asked picking up the sheets I had thrown earlier. I sat down beside his coffee table. I nodded slowly at his question. He’s so nice, assuming the best of me first. He sat down at the table in front of me.

“I’ll read it out loud for you first than we can go over it and figure what to right, okay?” He asked looking up at me. I nodded again and he began to read the article. Although his voice is monotone it’s incredibly smoothing. He doesn’t usually talk for so long and I find out that the more I hear is voice the more I appreciate it.

Kuro is extremely smart. He’s got a way to explain things to me that make me understand. He’s patient too. He spent hours helping me out. In the evening it got cold, it was snowing lightly outside so I helped him and we took out his kotatsu. The kotatsu is a tick blanket drapped around the table to cover our legs, it also has a heater under it. It brought back pleasant memories of Japan. On cold winter nights, with my makeshift family we would eat sukiyaki under the kotatsu. Some of the few good memories that I keep dearly.

Even the French part was simple with Kuro’s help. I swear that boy must be the Buddha, his patience has no limits. Since this was complicated material for me it took us way longer than it would have taken him alone but he didn’t complained. He pulled an all nighter with me. The end of these homework came with the first rays of dawn. I typed the last period and leaned back against him.

At some point we ended up sitting back to back, that because I kept complaining that my back was hurting for staying in the same position all night. Wordlessly he stood up and sat behind me like that. At first I complained, I was embarrassed but than he said he wanted to support me till the end. He used the words ‘you can share your burden with me.’ He didn’t see my face but I smiled at his words. I’m comfortable against his warm back, it gave me just enough drive to finish this damn project.

“Are you asleep Kowai Kao Kuro?” I asked leaning my head against his shoulder.

“It’s not snowing anymore, I didn’t expect the sunrise to be so beautiful after the cloudy day we had.” He said to show me he was still around.

“Sunrise already, ne?” I commented more than ask. I rubbed my eyes lazily, now that this stupid homework was done tiredness was catching up to me.

“It’s probably around five.” He said.

“Sorry about that, I kept you from sleeping.” I said.

“I’d rather spend a sleepless night helping you than spend it staring the ceiling.” He said. So a sleepless night is not a rare occurrence for him. I should have guessed that these dark circles around his eyes didn’t randomly appeared.

“Thanks.” I said truthfully.

“You knew I’d help you right?” He asked. “Just like I knew you’d catch me before I’d fall off the bed.” He said. I didn’t say anything on that but he knew he was right. In such a little time I’ve grown to trust him more than anybody else. He was truthful when he said he’d save me so I feel safe when I really on him.

“You know, if we manage to sleep until noon our sleep schedule might not be too f**cked up.” He said, I felt him nod against my back. Lazily, we climbed into bed. Since it was a double bed we could both sleep up there without touching each other too much. I can’t sleep in another guys bed after all.

That redhead, he didn’t wake me up at noon and I ended up sleeping up until three. It seems like I manage to get a better sleep at other people’s place than at my own place. As for him, I don’t think he slept that much, I think he might have a sleeping problem. Even though we spend more and more time together he still feels like a mystery to me and I can’t tell what’s on his mind.

After all that work I was rewarded with a really good grade, all of this thanks to Kuro. I'll have to do something nice for him sometime, he helped me a lot with this thing. Moreover, he was so tired on Monday he got hit by a basket ball right in the face for not paying attention. Poor Nagayama had the bad luck of having thrown that ball and had to face the wrath of my furry.

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I'm super, super sorry! I really wanted to keep on schedule and post a chapter every Friday but there's been such a long gap since I last update. Even though this dosen't forgive me for being so slow, this chapter was never supposed to exist. At the last minute, like last thursday, I came up with the idea for this chapter and wanted to write it before jumping into something else. This explaines why I couldn't have a chapter for Friday and with work I could only write this bit by bits. I'm really sorry once again but here it is, chapter 7.

In order to repent I'll post chapter 8 Saturday in the day or Sunday morning and I'll try not to make the readers wait for such a long gap again. *Bows in shame.

Other than that, I hope you enjoy and tell me what you think. Since most of the other chapters have been written for a while I've had a chance to go over them a few time but not for this one and I fear it might be bad. Tell me if it's crap and I'll try to fix it as best as I can. All the other chapter have been read by a few friends but not for this one, it's an exclusive!

Please look forward for the next chapter, with love-Mimi