Here Lies Love and Trouble (Raychu & Harifah)

[Raychu]

 

 

 

Name: Koichi Toyokuni

Nickname(s): None

Age: 24

Height: 5ft 8in

Birthday: May 12th

Sexuality: Homosexual

 

Hair Color: Dark brown

Eye Color: Golden

Extra: His hair is usually messy, he wears glasses

 

Personality: Outgoing, Outspoken, Calm, Patient, Friendly, Gentle, and Caring.

Likes: Classical music, writing, reading, hiking, fuzzy blankets, and vibrant colors.

Dislikes: Newer generation music, horror things (movies, stories, etc.), disorganized places, and technology.

Occupation: High school, homeroom teacher

 

Bio: Koichi was always an overachiever as a kid, wanting to beat all the kids in the knowledge department. His parents divorced when he was young, making work harder. His mother was always gone for work so he was alone to fend for himself. His grade school teacher was his inspiration for becoming a teacher. He wanted to help all the kids he could with education and problems at home, he wanted to be the one that the kids could talk to comfortably. He's a spit aloof and spacy at times. He doesn't really have a relationship with his parents because they disapprove of his sexuality but he doesn't let that get him down.

________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Koichi sighed, the day was hot and long. He didn't get much sleep the night before, he was up all night grading tests. The day was at its end and he was ready to go home, sadly he could not. He had to stay after to help moves boxes to the new home room. Since he was the newest teacher he was always stuck with the after hour jobs. He did find it unfair but he didn't want to complain, there was no point. He looked around at the students packing up to go home. Perhaps he could convince one of them to help out for a bit. His eyes stopped on Shinnosuke, his best excelling student.

 

He walked over to him before he got a chance to leave. He lightly tapped Shinnosuke shoulder, smiling slightly. He spoke in a more firm tone than he wanted, "Kiritsume. May I please have a word with you?" It sounded a bit like he was going to scold the boy for doing work thing wrong, even when he was not. He had a hard time talking in a soft tone when he constantly had to redirect the delinquents in the class. He loosened his shoulders, realizing how tense he was, smiling a bit more, trying to make up for his harsh tone that he had just displayed.

 

"Don't worry, you're not in trouble for anything. I was just hoping I could hold you up for ten minutes or less, I need some help moving boxes. Of course you do not have to agree, it'd just be nice. Maybe we could talk a bit more than just about your homework," he said in a bit softer tone. He pushed his glasses up on his nose, brushing his hair out of the way of his eyes. He wanted to be friends with the kids in his class, he wanted to be the person they could express their worries to. His grade school teacher did the same for him, he needed to carry on that good willed spirit. He was curious to know Shinnosuke more than just his student, he was curious to know about all of them, but he was usually shot down. Many kids would ignore his friendly attitude, thinking they could use it to walk all over him. He looked at Shinnosuke, slightly eager to hear his answer, hoping for a yes.

[Harifah]

 

 

 

Name: Shinnosuke Kiritsume

Nickname(s): Shin

Age: 16

Birthday: September 3rd

Sexuality: Homosexual

 

Hair Color: Black

Eye Color: Green

 

Personality: Quiet, Studious, Serious, Straightforward, Kind, and Indecisive.

Likes: Greenery, silence, reading, soft things, and sweet foods.

Dislikes: Bitter things, sports, and strong colognes.

Occupation: High school student, 2nd year

 

Bio: Shinnosuke grew up in an orphanage during most of his childhood, not knowing why he was there in the first place. He made only a few friends and talked even less in his younger years. He got adopted when he was 7 into a family of five, currently six including him. His siblings are all females, hence the reason for his adoption; the parents wanting a male child. Shin gives all of his effort in excelling his studies so that his adopted family will be proud of him. He does gets along well with all of them but from time to time quarrel with his younger sister. After discovering his sexual orientation, he kept it hidden from anyone else especially his family, fearing they will not want him anymore.

__________________________________________________ ______________________________________

 

The last bell rang, signifying that school was over for the day. Shinnosuke grinned at himself with satisfaction for just a moment, being able to completely understand today's lessons. Before leaving, the teacher closed his book and waited for the class representative to give the usual farewell while at least most of the class followed suit, Shinnosuke included. Once the teacher was out of sight, he bend down a bit to reach for the books he kept under his desk in between classes. Putting them back inside his bag, he reaaranged them as well so they would fit with the books that are already inside.The friends he made wished him goodbyes as they left the classroom in which he returned them warmly.

 

He did not have any clubs activities after school today, so he planned to immediately head for his shoe's locker. As he stepped into the corridor, he felt a touch on his shoulder. He turned around to look and made eye contact, already expecting it to be a teacher since normally another student would just call out his name from afar. It did not took long for him to recognize that it was Kouichi because he tends to remember the teaches' name when they introduced themselves. Though, Shinnosuke was quite startled when the teacher spoke in a stern voice, making his shoulders stiff. More words came out of the teacher's mouth after that but it was more gentle. He was a bit more relaxed but still unconsciously had his guard up since he was with someone he barely knew.

 

There was about a minute pause before he replied, contemplating on what to do. "Sure. I don't mind." He returned his smile, trying to avoid giving a bad impression but could not help in using his serious tone. He would have to refuse if it was last year, knowing that his sister would be waiting for him. Now that she had graduated from high school, he had to wait for no one and no one was waiting for him. If it did not take up much time, there is no harm in helping, he thought to himself. He was also somewhat used to this since teachers frequently asks students favors.

[Raychu]

Koichi gave a sigh of relief, this kid surely was a lifesaver. "Thank you. Let's go shall we?" he said softly. He started walking down the hall. He was glad that he caught Koichi before he left, though he felt bad for keeping him there longer than he was supposed to be. He was tense, not knowing how to talk to the kid, trying to think of a conversation starter. He rarely talked to the kids at the school, he wouldn't know where to begin with them. He sighed uncounsiously, showing how nervous he really was. This is a lot more difficult than I anticipated, he thought to himself.

 

He turned the corner, going up the stairs, heading into the third year hall. He needed to think fast before he seemed to awkward. "So how is life at home? You never really seem interested in talking about it in your papers." He spoke quickly, almost jumbling up his words. He wanted to slap a hand on his mouth for trying to get personal too fast. He knew that the kids had boundaries that he shouldn't go over, and he felt like bringing up life outside of school was one of them. If the student really wanted him to know, they would say it themselves without having him pry. He needed to be more careful about what he said from now on, this might've given Shinnosuke a bad impression of him as a teacher.

 

He stopped at Class-A, sliding it open, stepping in. The boxes seemed to already be filled with all of the things that needed to be taken to the classroom at the end of the hall. He pulled up his sleeve of his jacket and shirt, not wanting to accidentally rip them on something. Koichi was clumsy, he constantly would do something ridiculous. He didn't have a strict demeanor, causing many kids to not listen to him. "We just need to move these packed boxes to the classroom at the end of the hall," he instructed, his stern tone returning. He tried to make himself sound strict but if you knew him personally as a teacher, it was just a facade that he put on, though he naturally would go into it. Sometimes he thought he was too good at pretending he was a strict person.

[Harifah]

Giving him a stiff nod, Shinnosuke put his bag on a desk that was positioned at the front and near the door seeing that he needs his hands free to carry the boxes. He followed not too far behind Koichi, letting him lead. While he is fine with people around his age or younger, he finds it troublesome that he would be restless if the person was older than him besides some exception like his family which did take time for him to get used to them. He became very much aware of the teacher's presence, noting his every move. It was rare to see the bothered expression of a teacher yet he just kept quiet about it. In his opinion, they would usually be stern or kind, depending on the situation.

 

Hearing the question regarding his personal life, the discomfort was obviously showing on his face. He bit his lip but not too hard so that it would not bleed, pondering on a proper response. It was not that he did not want to give a reply, he just does not know what would be a suitable answer, not wanting to accidentally badmouth his family. He did not have any problems with his adopted family and intends not to make any. They get along well but he still felt some kind of barrier between him and his family. Since Koichi seems to be not pushing him for a reply, his silence continues as he walked.

 

Knowing that he had arrived when seeing the teacher stopped, Shinnosuke gave a peek into the classroom before completely entering it. He habitually rolled his sleeves as he glanced at the boxes, having done some labour both at home and in school. He looked at the teacher before doing anything. "Understood," was all he said after hearing his instructions. He then went over to the boxes and and tried lifting the nearest one. He would be classified unfit with the lack of exercise thus making him fidget a bit before extending his arms towards the targeted box. Feeling the burden of the load made him heaved a small groan. Nevertheless, he managed to move and started walking towards the directed classroom.

[Raychu]

Koichi chuckled when the boy had a difficult time carrying the box. He wasn't trying to be rude, it just reminded himself of when he was young. He went over, grabbing a box and stacking it on top of another, picking them both up at the same time and heading out of the room towards his destination. His arms were sore from the lifting he had to do the previous day, so he constantly kept stiffening and loosening his arms as he made his way to the classroom. He put the boxes on one of the empty desks, looking accomplished.

 

He headed back to the classroom to grab more boxes. The faster he was the quicker the two could get out to there. He pondered how he should thank the boy for helping him after school. There wasn't much he could do as a teacher without getting frowned upon by his fellow staff. They never shred the same excitement for teaching. To some it was just a job, to other it was a dream that they wish they could take back, but to him it was an honor. He was already looked down upon for having such an odd attitude about being a teacher. He pursed his lips, before sighing out loud. It's best to not think about it so much, they'll get used to him eventually.

 

Koichi went to grab another box when he tripped on the leg of a desk, stumbling backwards, falling on his behind. He hit a box with his arm, as it fell down with a loud thump. It broke open with old year books falling out of it. He rubbed the side of his face with his hand, mental cursing himself for being so clumsy. That was one of his worst qualities. He always seemed to screw something up. Perhaps he'll be staying longer than he wanted.

[Harifah]

Shinnosuke was still overly conscious and when he heard laughter coming from Koichi, he could not help but feel embarassed in which he increased his pace a little. After he had placed the box in hand, he return back to the previous classroom in order to take another one. Seeing that his teacher was able to carry two at a time while he was unable to carried more than one, he envied him a bit. His physique was less impressing compared to his classmates. He had low interest in sports thus gave full attention in his academics, being that it was his strong suit.

 

As he was mostly focused when he carries the boxes, Shinnosuke was alert and careful to ensure not to make any mistakes when moving the boxes. His straighten up his posture and his arms was warped around the box completely. Seemingly that Koichi wanted to hurriedly finish the task, he would not wish of giving the teacher a hard time when he was depending on him. There was also the fact that Shinnosuke dislike making his parents worry if he returned home later that he was supposed to. He did adjusted his fingers from time to time, trying to be comfortable in how he was holding the box. He laid it down, pushing them to make space for more while also making sure that they would not fall. Koichi had already put his share of boxes down and had already went out while he was doing that. Several more times back and forth then they would be done, he estimated as he entered the classroom that needs to be emptied of boxes.

 

Alarmed after witnessing Koichi fell and hearing a clear thud, Shinnosuke rushed over to him, avoiding the books that tumbled out. Kneeling beside the teacher, he wore a worried expression and was concerned of his current state. "Are you hurt, Sensei?" he asked, unaware that he was using a pensive tone.

[Raychu]

Koichi snapped out of his thoughts, looking at the boy. He seemed extremely worried. He laughed, turning red form embarrassment. His face felt hot. He brushed his hair back with one hand, keeping himself propped up with the other. He held a wide smile trying to brush the incident off as nothing, which it really wasn't. "I'm fine! No worries! Are you okay? I must've given you quite a scare!" he said, slightly amused.

 

He sat up, picking up the year books and putting them back in the box neatly. He hated disorganized areas, he had to have everything neat and clean, which is probably why he was constantly stuck with the mundane tasks. He stood up when he had completely gathered the books up and put them back in their rightful box. He looked at the clock, frowning. Shinnosuke had stayed after long enough to help. He could finish the rest by himself. "You can go home now if you want, Kiritsume," he spoke softly. It would be a long night by himself but he did not want to worry the boy's family by keeping him so long. He was already greatful the boy stayed after for even five minutes.

 

He bent down, picking up the box full of the year books, straightening his back. He nodded his head to Shinnosuke, showing his gratitude as well as his goodbye. He walked out of the room, walking quickly before he tripped with the box again. He got in the other classroom, setting down the box, and heading back for the other classroom. It would take just a couple more trips if he took two at a time again. This night is going to be tiring.

[Harifah]

Convinced with his teacher's smile and reassuring words, Shinnosuke tries easing himself back. Looking at his whole appearance, Koichi seems not to have any kind of obvious bleeding so it might not be serious. "Yeah, I'm okay." he responded after a moment of pause albeit somewhat curious how he managed to smile in this situation. Now that his thought was clearer, he realized that he was kind of being to close. Bothered that he might be invading the teacher's personal space, his face was heating up with it being lightly flushed.

 

Shinnosuke could only observed Koichi when he was reorganizing the scattered books back into the box, frozen in his place for a moment. He then got up, about to walk and take another box in an attempt to brush off those thoughts before given the permission to return home in which at first he was hesitant. Even if the fall did not cause injuries, it is possible the teacher was slightly in pain. It took a bit of time for him to decide on what to do, troubled if he would do something unfavorable. He looked down and played with his fingers, considering whether he should return the farewell.

 

"Then, I will excuse myself," he uttered before Koichi leave the classroom, unsure why he wanted to show politeness. Probably that a part of him was feeling guilty that he could not stay and help any longer. He was pleased that at least he could help lessen Koichi's burden. He gave the teacher a single look as he was bringing the boxes over to the other classroom before going down the stairs. He went back to his classroom to retrieve his bag and then walked to the shoe's locker. After having done with exchanging his inside shoes with loafers, he exited through the school gate.

[Raychu]

Koichi continued to move boxes from a room to another, making sure they were set up neatly on top of each other. He had seen the boy leave, causing him to feel guilty that he kept him longer than he should've. He had seen Shinnosuke read many books, perhaps he could give him one of the classics he had stored on one of his shelves. He didn't have much use for them anymore, they were just collecting dust sitting there. He smiled at the idea, that would be his way of thanking the boy for staying after.

 

________________________________

 

The bell had rung, signaling the end of school. Koichi was eager to go home today, he didn't have any extra tasks to complete, he could just relax and take a break for the night. He just needed to catch Shinnosuke to give him the book. Setting his textbook into his case, he stood up, following the students out of the room. He bowed for his goodbye, though few returned it. His eyes peered over the students walking through the halls, his eyes stopping on Shinnosuke. He waved his hand as he called out to the younger boy, "Kiritsume! May I have a word with you real quick?"

 

He leaned against the hall wall, staying out of the way of the students rushing to go home. He set his case down, crouching down, and opening it up. He pulled out the novel that he assumed the boy might like, he hoped he would. He closed his case again, standing up, holding the book. The book was Spring Snow, one of his favorites. It was the first book in The Sea of Fertility tetralogy. There were four books in total and if Shinnosuke liked the story perhaps he could lend the other three as well. He really hoped Shinnosuke liked the book, he didn't know what else to give him to show his gratitude for the previous day.

[Harifah]

During recess, Shinnosuke would usually be found eating around the courtyard, sitting on one of the benches. The lunchbox he brought from home was self-made since he learned cooking from his adopted sisters by watching them. He was not fully skilled in making food but what he made was not detestable. He ate alone, mostly uncomfortable with eating while chatting with others. He also enjoyed watching the scenery, biting on the food while lightly kicking his feet. After he had finished, he packed the lunchbox and did some reading with the book that he had brought along. He had held interest in books even as a child since he finds it hard to start a conversation with another person. He went back to his classroom a few minutes before the bell could ring.

 

The last class ended abruptly when the sound of the bell was heard as the teacher was reading a paragraph from the textbook. The teacher was quick to end it right there without finishing the whole text and collected his things at the teacher's desk, expecting the usual routine before he could leave. After the class was done giving the farewell, most of them was preparing to go home while some of them had left their bags, only bringing what was required for their club activities. Shinnosuke's club was not holding anything mandatory for the day so he was free to return as well.

 

Not expecting Koichi yet, he was surprised when he notices him calling for him. Expecting another favor, he was quite compelled in needing to refuse this time. For today, he has a duty of buying food ingredients that was about to run out that his mother had asked for that morning. His walking was rushed, tightly grabbing his bag while going towards the teacher, wondering if it was sonething else. He stopped near Koichi however he had given some distance while being close to the wall. "That is?" he questioned, pointing at the book he had just brought out.

[Raychu]

Koichi smiled widely, handing him the book, urging him to take it. "My gratitude for yesterday," he said in a slightly playful tone. "I've seen you reading and assumed you might want a new book. It's Spring Snow from The Sea of Fertility tetralogy. I have the other three novels if you're interested. I just decided to give you the first one for a preview. They are just sitting on my shelf collecting dust, at least if I give them to you, I know they'll be going to use."

 

Koichi hated the way people would treat books. He thought of them as actual beings at time, expressing their stories so vividly. They never disappointed you, betrayed you, or made you feel worthless. They were peaceful. The hard covers of the books, the perfect spines, the gentle, rough feeling you got from the pages. With books, you could never go wrong. Treat them right and they last you a lifetime, but treat them wrong and they fall apart quickly. It was like being in a relationship, you had to be delicate with your significant other, not rough.

 

Koichi pursed his lips, speaking in a more serious tone, "But if this is not a proper way of showing my gratitude then I'm very sorry. I'll try to think of a better way of showing it than a dusty old book." He chuckled lightly at the thought of it. He was never good at showing his thanks, and when he did, many students would say he was making advances towards them, never being the case. He just enjoyed giving people presents, he loved the reactions they would show. It always make him feel accomplished, but being a teacher it was deemed morally wrong in many ways.

[Harifah]

"No, this more than enough. I really didn't do much yesterday," Shinnosuke spoke quickly, flustered and forgetting to speak formally with a teacher. He hurriedly accepted the book, his fingers trembling a little because of how he was not used to accepting gifts from others especially from someone he know little of. When he had calmed down, he glanced at the title of the book and beamed. "Thank you. It seems interesting," he added with a soft voice while his smile remains, facing back up to the teacher. Koichi seemed sincere and he would not want to hurt his feelings and reject it. Moreover, he was feeling excited to know what it is about. He was not in the middle of reading anything since he had just finished a book that he had borrowed from the library, planning to return it soon.

 

Shinnosuke did not feel like anything else would be better and was content with it. He never heard of the name, guessing it was probably published in the nineties. Books like this are very uncommon in shops so he only read a classic for only a few times when he was able to find them.

 

There was hardly any collection of books at his current home. His father only reads the newspaper, other than that, there are magazines and catalogues. Scarcely any literature that he could enjoy himself with. From time to time, he would buy books using the allowance he had saved that was given by his parents. He had his own small shelf in his room, about halfway full. They consists of various genres that he had took interest in mostly anything with one of the exception being horror. He does have a difficult time handling the supernatural which the two of his elder sisters used to teased him with but he was less afraid of them in the present. More like those kinds of books did not give him any satisfaction.

[Raychu]

Koichi saw how flustered Shinnosuke was, it was adorable. When taking the book his hands slightly shook, worrying the teacher. Did he do something wrong? Was giving him a gift weird? He didn't mean to seem like he was trying anything weird if that's what was going through the boy's head. He really was just trying to show his thanks, he hoped Shinnosuke didn't take it for something it wasn't. He as a teacher knew that was morally wrong. His eyebrows furrowed as his pursed his lips, he felt sick. It terrified him that a simple act of kindness could make him lose the into job he's ever wanted.

 

Thank you. It seems interesting. Shinnosuke smiled slightly, speaking in a gentlier voice. Koichi was only half convinced, but he decided not to push on the matter. He returned tried to return the smile but he felt off about doing do, so he just nodded his head. He felt a need to defend himself over the book, trying to explain why he did it, but he had a feeling that would make the situation worse if he did. If Shinnosuke already thought he was being creepy then no amount of self defense would make it seem less believable.

 

"Well then I am going to excuse myself. I need to hurry home, I have many papers to grade. Sorry for holding you up," he said in a tone that was higher pitched. He was nervous over the book. He instantly regretted giving the boy the book, he should've just said thank you and moved on, it was more formal as a teacher. He leaned down, grabbing his briefcase, and straightening his back. He nodded his head to the younger boy, still worried.

[Harifah]

Shinnosuke brought the received book to his chest, hugging it. "It is fine," he assured and leaves a short pause before continuing.

"... See you tommorow," he muttered, a bit quieter than before. He was thinking that whether he should give an opinion about the book when reading it. He imagined that the teacher must have like the book if he picked it out for another person to read. "I will be going then," he excused himself, returning to his serious tone. He bowed slightly, in order to show respect and continued walking so that he could do what he was told.

 

Arriving at the shoe's locker, he kept the book inside his bag since there was room for more and brought out the list his mother had given, looking at it while changing his shoes. The grocery store was on the way home from school thus Shinnosuke was fit to do the job. He usually had help but recently he was doing it himself but it did not change anything much with him still stuck carrying all the stuff. Paying heed to his mother's neat handwriting, he collected all the things needed and payed with the money that has been given to him that early morning. There was various kinds of things in his hand but it was much lighter compared to yesterday's boxes.

 

His father oftenly comes home late, unsurprised if he was still at his office at this hour. His mother is a housewife which Shinnosuke and his siblings sometimes help her doing housework. Walking home did not take long. Once he got home, he could use one hand to open the gate but had to put the things down so he was able to unlock the door. Giving a greeting, his mother returned it and help him with the items, together they put them where it should be. He went to his room after and remembered the book he had got from Koichi, completing a few chapters before dinner.

[Raychu]

Koichi was relieved that the boy showed interest in the book. He really did hope then go liked it. But if he didn't he could surely give him another one to try out. He returned the bow, smiling, a little less panicked than before. He walked out through the shoe locker, continuing around to his car. Perhaps Shinnosuke would tell him his opinion on he book. He was curious to hear about it from another persons point of view, as he had never had anyone else read the tetralogy except for himself. He unlocked his car, getting it, starting her up, and heading for home. He was excited to finally get more than two hours of sleep.

 

________________________________________

 

The next day was long and hard for Koichi. Many of the delinquent students started acting up, earning themselves cleaning duty for a week, two people switching out each day. He dropped his homemade lunch on the floor, having to buy a quick snack from the vending machine. Worst of all he spilt coffee on his new textbook, having to borrow one from another teacher. He was embarrassed and this was surely giving his co-workers a bad impression of his worth ethic. He was given another task for after hours to watch over the art club while the teacher was out caring for her sick baby. At least he wasn't moving anything, but he really didn't have time to stick around.

 

The bell rung signaling the end of the day. Koichi packed up his textbook in his briefcase, waiting for all the students to leave the room. He would most likely head to the teachers lounge to work and if the art students needed anything then they could come ask him. He didn't mind helping out every now and then but all the time was ridiculous, he was a teacher with responsibilities as well. He was agitated but he tried to smile it off as always. Everyone has bad days, this just happened to be his.

 

Walking down the steps towards the teachers lounge, he caught sight of Shinnosuke. He contemplated whether or not he should call out to him, but he decided he wanted to hear if the boy had any thoughts on the book yet. "Kiritsume!" he called out, louder than he anticipated himself to be. He waved his hand, signaling him over by the wall of the shoe lockers. His destination was in the opposite direction but he could take a couple minutes out to chat with the boy. After all, he was curious to see how Shinnosuke felt so far about the book, wondering how far he got into it.

[Harifah]

When recess came, one of Shinnosuke's classmates by the door yelled for him, stating that there was someone who wanted to see him. It was the vice president of the English club, the very club he was a member of. She wanted his help of making copies of the printout in her hand since his class was on the same floor as hers. It would usually be the secretary's task however he was absent for the day, letting it fall onto her hands. The photocopy machine was located in the teacher's lounge which was available for anyone to use. There was no queue so they were quick to get the copies enough for the club members. Shinnosuke had hoped to see Koichi, wanting to discuss about Spring Snow for a moment. He made no conversation with the vice president but she was used to how quiet he was when there is nothing to talk about. They brought the copies along with the original printout to the clubroom and he returned to his class after she had thanked him. Since there was less time, he ate in his classroom at his desk. There was some time for him to continue reading Spring Snow before the bell rung.

 

After entering the English club last year, Shinnosuke's English had improved quite remarkably. He was happy with it, being able to read more books that are in English. Mandatory activities are always held twice a week, though he is free to come to the clubroom if he wants. He would normally ask help in the definition of the word if he were to pass by the clubroom where the president always spends his time there after school for reasons he was not so sure about.

 

Being on trash duty, Shinnosuke was responsible for emptying out the trash bin. It would always be full by the end of the day. Removing it from inside the locker behind the classroom after the final class ends, he brought it out and walked through one of the back exits of the school. There was a group of delinquents hanging out nearby. He managed to avoid them by not making any eye contact. He finished putting out the trash behind the school where garbage was collected so that the school janitor would take care of it. Feeling uneasy on walking through the back door again, he decided to enter the building's main entrance. He was going to head back to the classroom to put back the trash bin and take his bag so that he could go for club activities. Hearing his name made him stopped to look for the source of the voice, recognizing who the owner was. His mood lighten up, glad it was who he had expected. "Sensei, good afternoon." he smiled, starting to walk closer to Koichi.

[Raychu]

Koichi smiled when Shinnosuke began to approach. He saw the trash bin he was holding, raising his brows. "Am I holding you up once more? Would it be easier for you to meet me in he teachers' lounge? But if that's too much trouble we can always talk tomorrow," said Koichi in a slightly concerned voice. He really hated the thought of holding the younger boy up once more because of wanting to talk with him. Maybe the boy didn't want to talk at all and he was being pushy about it. Koichi frowned at the thought, he didn't enjoy being a bother to the younger boy.

 

Koichi began fidgeting his hands, unsure of what to say or do next. He rubbed the back of his neck, his hands feeling weary from being so nervous. Am I annoying this boy? Am I not being considerate enough? You're a teacher Koichi, you need to learn your place! He dropped his hands, looking down at his feet. He knew he was pushing boundaries constantly having friendly chit chats with the boy, but he didn't see ho wit was wrong. Maybe Shinnosuke did think it was wrong and weird, but he was just being polite not to mention it.

 

"I was just hoping we could talk about the book. I want to hear someone else's opinion on it," he said awkwardly. Koichi didn't understand why the morals of being a teacher prevented you from being friendly with students, how was it wrong? Maybe he was older but he wasn't fliriting with them, it was genuine kindness. He really hoped Shinnosuke saw that and not him trying to be weird. He knew his own boundaries but being a cold, serious teacher all the time wasn't going to be one of them.

[Harifah]

About to respond that he could come to the teacher's lounge after, Shinnosuke was reminded that he need to go to the clubroom soon. He had noticed the teacher eyeing the bin in his hand. "I have club activities today. I am sorry," he answered slightly dejected than usual. It surprised him how it slipped his mind for a moment. It is likely because of the excitement when having someone else to talk with regarding his interest. There was little to no people that he could speak about his fascination. The fact he had found someone that shares something that he likes to do appealed to him.

 

Shinnosuke was uncertain on what to do. He really wanted have a chat with Koichi about the book. His finger was idly tapping lightly on the surface of the trashbin while he held it, making only a sound that was very hard to hear. There was no helping that it could not be today which made him dissapointed.

 

"I would love to discuss Spring Snow. Then tommorow... are you busy during recess, Sensei?" he then asked, wanting know if he had an opportunity to talk to him more the next day. Shinnosuke still needed to return early when he had nothing to do after achool. So the only thing he could think of was spending his recess which would constantly have at least a bit of time for him to read. He wished Koichi happened to have time to spare however knowing that he is a teacher, there are supposedly more things to do concerning work.

[Raychu]

Koichi slightly pouted at the rejection. He really had hoped for another input on the book, no ien else really cared to discuss the opinions on such classic novels. He shoulders slumped, but he straightened himself, trying to look professional. "Do not worry, it was in the wrong of me to hold you up when I should've considered that you actually had things to do than be chit chatting with a teacher like me," he said softly. He didn't even think about the fact that the boy had other things going on, he as too excited to talk to him. He needed to keep his professionalism, he was a teacher. This was getting out of hand. It wouldn't be long before he got caught getting off duty, and be fired.

 

Koichi lit up at the boy asking if he was free during recess, knowing that he was suggesting they could talk then. He most likely had a couple of papers to grade but he could push that aside finishing it in the evening, he had nothing better to do anyway. He gave a wide smile, speaking in an excited tone, "I am free during recess, we can discuss the book then. Sorry for keeping you so long, it was rude of me." He was glad he boy wanted to discuss the book with him, relieving him of any worry he had before that he was being too pushy. The thought of being a bother really tore him apart, he hated being a something no one wanted around.

 

Koichi, stopped fidgeting his hands out of nervousness, putting them to his side. He was excited to hear what Shinnosuke had to say on the book, hoping his views were the same as Koichi's, but he also wanted to hear what the younger boy found different. It delighted him to have another view of the book from another perspective. He loved discussing books with people when he got the chance, just hearing the thoughts the other person formed intrigued him. He enjoyed knowing how each brain worked differently. That was his favorite part of teaching was seeing how each students' mind worked. Their strengths, their weaknesses, and their motivation level. He had patience to teach anyone knowing how they worked.

[Harifah]

Shinnosuke's face brighten, hearing that he would have a chance to exchange opinions on the book with Koichi. He was unable to stop grinning. Having somewhat expected a refusal, he was very much elated. "No, I'm glad that we could arrange a time for a discussion about the book," he spoke, his tone becoming more mellow. He was already intrigued after reading the first few pages, grateful he was given the book.

 

Although, there was still something that had made him concerned. "Should we meet at the teachers' lounge?" His voice was uncertain, feeling hesitant if it were true yet he still tried to hide it behind a smile. Shinnosuke would not want to disturb Koichi if someone were to look for him. He guessed that they would only be doing small talk and would not take much time thus another reason why he finds during recess to be suitable. Speaking with a teacher there would usually be about discipline or requiring assistance from them. Never did a student talk to a teacher about common interest or at least without being subjected to ill rumors.

 

Shinnosuke had never spoke more than he should with a teacher before. He only tends to ask them questions if he could not understand their lessons or wanted to know more in depth. Not at all would he go off topic, avoiding himself from inquiring what seemed to not be important. Even when helping with favors, he would rarely converse with them due to his quiet nature. He always keeps a respected distance since he was comfortable that way. Though, he was increasingly getting used making conversation with Koichi in comparison to when he first started talking to him.

[Raychu]

Koichi nodded at the boy's words, "As am I. I'm really curious to hear what you think of the book. Having read it so young, no one my age shared interest over it," he said in a calm tone. He saw the boy's smile, bringing joy to his heart. He always had a soft spot when it came to students smiling a real smile. It was the best moment when teaching, most kids just looked annoyed or irritated with the work that was given. Very rarely could you catch a kid who was actually happy with school. That's what made each kid so different. It showed how you worked with each kid day in and day out.

 

Koichi had his full attention on hearing about the book the next day. He pondered whether it would be a good idea to meet in the teachers lounge, probably not. Many teachers were there at recess and he would be put down because he was having idle chit chat with a student, or he was being too lenient on the boy. He disliked working with the strict robots his co-workers were. They were too uptight, probably the reason so many kids would act out in their classes more than they would in Koichi's. He shook his head side to side, speaking in a firm tone, irritated at the thought, "That wouldn't be a good idea, just meet me in my classroom to eat lunch with me if you'd like. In the teachers lounge it's quite noisy, we wouldn't be able to hear ourselves think." He immediately tried to laugh off his rude tone, getting nervous again.

 

Koichi hated how his emotions would show and how obvious his feelings were. He hoped the boy had not noticed his irritation about being in the teachers lounge, it'd be quite embarrassing for him to attempt to cover up that he actually disliked his co-workers, which was a hard task. Maybe they were nicer outside of work but at school they were just assholes to the students and staff alike. They acted like they held the power of the world when teaching, which was not the case. His smile dropped slightly, his face turning red from the embarrassment. He rubbed the back on his neck nervously.

[Harifah]

Noting the discomfort coming from Koichi when he had suggested somewhere else, Shinnosuke assured himself that the teachers' lounge was probably not an appropriate place on doing a discussion about the book. He also might find himself difficult in expressing his thoughts with the other teachers being able to hear it. His mind was more in ease, feeling more relaxed with only Koichi present, the intended person of talking about the novel. "Understood." He used a rather cheery tone along with letting out a small sigh of relief, looking at the teacher. "I am looking forward to it. See you tomorrow, Sensei."

 

In spite of enjoying the small chat he was having with Koichi, Shinnosuke realized that he would be late. If there were anymore questions, he could ask them the next day. "Then I will excuse myself now," he added, bowing slightly with the smile still remaining on his face. He walked off, returning to his classroom. Putting back the trash bin in the locker of the classroom, he closed it before taking his bag from the hook of his desk. The meeting place of his club was located in the corridor where mostly academics clubs are. It was in another building so it took quite a while for him to arrive there.

 

Shinnosuke entered the clubroom, barely when they were about to start. He was still in a pleasant mood in which it was clearly evident and did not go unnoticed by the other members. While it was unusual, none of them said made any comments or anything about it. The club activity continued normally, following what had been already planned mostly by the president of the English club. His pace on the way home was much faster, being a bit impatient since walking while reading made it hard for him to concentrate. He had gotten really excited in reading more of Spring Snow once he had gotten home, sleeping later than his usual bedtime.

[Raychu]

Koichi returned the bow, smiling from ear to ear, watching the boy leave in silence. He headed for the teachers lounge, relaxing in his favorite chair. He was already getting impatient for tomorrow. Was this even okay with how obsessed he was talking with the boy? Surely this wasn't right, but he didn't care. He pulled papers out of his briefcase to read and check over. Tonight was going to be long since he was looking so forward to tomorrow.

 

___________________________________

 

Koichi was practically trying to rush the day to recess, talking faster in class than normal, having the students get done early. But no amount of rushing would make the day go by any faster and he dreaded that fact. He really wanted to talk to the Shinnosuke now. He didn't want to wait any longer, he was too excited to wait. Most people would be disgusted with his excited he was to speak to a student, but he wouldn't care. It wasn't their life to dictate, it was his. He was allowed to do anything he wanted as long as it was within his respected boundaries. No amount of complaints from other people would change that fact.

 

When the bell was about to ring for recess, he was practically bouncing around in his chair, extremely excited. The bell ranged and he immediately dismissed everyone for lunch. Most went outside or to the lunchroom, others left campus with permission to go eat at a fast food restaurant or something. As everyone left he pulled out his lunch, opening it up. He attempted to put all his nutritional needs in it, but it was mostly meat in there. He rarely ever had vegetables or fruits, not that he disliked them, he just didn't want them in his lunch. It wasn't his fault, it was normal for him. He never liked eating vegetables or fruits with meat, it tasted funny. He usually ate them as a snack for later. He was glancing at the sliding door anxious, waiting for Shinnosuke to come in.

[Harifah]

Shinnosuke was constantly glancing at the clock hanged on the wall right above the blackboard in between classes, calculating how long it will be until recess. He hardly could contain his patience, trying to pacify it with either idly twirling around the pencil in his hand or tapping the table, making a faint noise. His focus was not entirely into the lessons with it being distracted by his desire for time to quickly pass. He had to stall for a bit before getting the answer to a question, stuttering in his words when a teacher called for him at one point. He felt embarassed for a while to act like that in front of the class after given the permission to sit back down.

 

When the bell had rung, Shinnosuke was beaming while he was searching for his lunchbox in his bag. His lunchbox basically consists of rice, eggs which he had added extra sugar to his liking, some meat and vegetables. He was normally supervised by his mother when making lunch so it always ends up nutritionallly balanced, excluding where he liked making it sweet. In return, he was asked to drink water regularly. Exiting his classroom, he hated how they were unable to run in the corridor, grumbling under his breath while he headed for where they were supposed to meet. There was so much to tell and express while reading the book as well as having so many things to ask about in some scenes of the book, what Koichi was thinking when he had read it.

 

Arriving there, there was a bit of nervousness wellling inside of him. For some reason, he was disturbed by the fact that they were going to be alone together. At the same time, it excites him that they were about to do a discussion about the novel he was recently reading. Shinnosuke knocked on the door a few times before he entered. " me," he spoke as he walked in, a lunchbox in one hand. He fidgeted while approaching the student's desk which was closest to the teacher's desk, where Koichi was sitting. He placed the lunchbox on it and smiled at the teacher before sitting down. His fingers quivered slightly as he unpacked his lunch.

[Raychu]

Koichi returned the smile, then saw his shaking hands, instantly frowning. "You seem to always be trembling when you're near me. Did I do something? You would say if I did right? I'm being too pushy right? I'm sorry," he said in a higher pitch, feeling just as nervous as the boy. When he was nervous his voice always raised a pitch, he couldn't help him. He hated how that would show for him just as much as sadness, irritation, anger, and so many more. He couldn't mask his feelings when he needed to and it was beginning to become sort of a bother for him.

 

Koichi really hoped he once again, hadn't upset the boy. He was still thinking Shinnosuke was only being kind because he was a teacher. That was his biggest fear of time is making people uncomfortable and not being able to see it properly. He should know if Shinnosuke felt bothered by his presence, but he was too slow for that kind of things he didn't read the hints very well and that's what made it so hard for him. He didn't know how to tell when a person didn't want you around, didn't want to be bothered by you. Usually most kids were blunt about it, but not Shinnosuke. He had a feeling of the younger boy didn't want him around, he wouldn't be as blunt as most.

 

Koichi signed, smoothing it over with a genuine smile. "About the book, I would love to hear your views on it first then I will later express mine. The book was my favorite when I was your age, but in my day, it was extremely hard to find anyone else who liked it. We had many kids who would read all the time but they just thought the book was too boring. I don't even know what they were reading then, this book is very climatic, that's for sure," he said in an excited voice. Boy was he overjoyed to finally tslk about the opinion on this book for the first time in his life.