Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Wise stood by the conveyer belt waiting for his luggage to finally reveal itself.

“Thank God, they didn’t lose my stuff” Wise managed to find his bag and quickly reached for it

“Now I just gotta wait for them to arrive” Wise dragged his luggage over tot eh benches to wait for his ride.

“It has been over a year since I left, I wonder if things changed” Wise said to himself as he leaned back into the seat

“I’M HUNGRY!” a blue oni girl bellowed as she ran over to the food court while followed by a taller woman with glasses while she dragged two suitcases.

“Good thing I don't have any kids” Wise remarked before turning on his phone to see an unread message

LIL SIS: WHERE ARE UUUUUUUUU!?

BIG BRO: BY THE BENCHES

Wise replied as he put down his phone, soon after two women walked up to him prompting Wise to stand up and greet them

“WELCOME HOME!” Belle hugged her brother tightly

“Ah....can’t breathe” Wise’s face was turning purple

“She just missed you a lot” Carole said as she hugged Wise

“Welcome home, my son”

“Thanks” Wise reciprocated the hug

“Come on, let me help with your bags” Belle grabbed Wise’s satchel and walked away

‘She only grabbed my backpack’ Wise thought as he grabbed the rest of his luggage and walked over to the car. In a matter of minutes, the three took off for home.

“Soooooo” Belle started

“Whaaaaaat?” Wise reciprocated jokingly

“What are you gonna do for the next couple of months?” Belle asked

“I don’t really know” Wise said while contemplating the same question

“Maybe you can find work” Carole suggested as she looked back with the rearview mirror

“That’ll be great, then you can spoil your beloved little sis with gifts and pocket money for school” Belle had puppy dog eyes

“Aren’t you old enough to get a part-time job?” Carole mused

“Part-Time is hard and I have really important exams this year” Belle excused

“Hmp, fair enough” Carole smiled

“So on the topic of a job, are there any places hiring?” Wise inquired

“Richard Teamilk needs another worker from what I’ve heard from Coco” Belle suggested

“I don’t really like Teamilk” Wise said

“WHAAAT!?” Belle was shocked

“Too much sugar”

“Not nearly enough in fact” Belle argued

“I have to agree with your brother, it’s not good for you”

“It’s just a drink” Belle countered

“A drink which will give you chronic heart disease and diabetes on top of that”

“Tch, these Biomed Students” Belle remarked

“I’m actually doing computer science” Wise reminded

“Still, you’re a smarty pants, aren’t you?”

“Hehehe” Wise chuckled lightly

The car ride was filled with reminiscence of the memories and job suggestions from Carole before they all arrived home.

“Home sweet home” Belle walked in first

“The place hasn’t changed one bit” Wise looked around at the surroundings

“I didn’t really have much time to prepare your bedroom; I was backed up with work so I think your sister will help with that” Carole looked at Belle with expectation plastered on her face.

“Ugh, fine” Belle reluctantly agreed and the two got to work, moving boxes, cleaning shelves and emptying any other miscellaneous items.

“Phew, done” Belle plopped down on the bed

“Tired already?” Wise teased

“Hey, I’m not some star athlete and you aren’t one either” Belle shot back

“Fair point” Wise agreed

---------------------ELSEWHERE----------------------

“How’s everything Carole?” a man asked over the phone

“Just fine Mayflower, my son is back home”

“Wise?”

“The one and only”

“Is he alright?”

“He’s healthy”

“That’s good to hear, college these days is harder for youngsters” Mayflower commented

“He’s a smart cookie; he can handle himself like it’s nothing”

“Hmmm, interesting”

“You’re thinking up a scheme, I know that tone” Carole said

“I have no malicious intentions brewing, that I can assure you”

“But you still have intentions, no?”

“Yes, but they aren’t bad”

“Still”

“Quick question”

“Go ahead, ask away”

“Does you son need a job?”

Carole’s attention was piqued by the inquiry

“In fact, yes he mentioned looking for one”

“What degree does he do again?”

“Computer Science”

“Perfect” Mayflower said before cutting the call

“Rude” Carole turned off her phone before returning to what she was doing

---------------------THE FOLLOWING WEEK-----------------------

“Wise” Carole peered her head into the living room

“Yes?”

“I have news”

“What’s up?” Wise sat up on the couch

“I got you a job” Carole crossed her arms with pride

“A job?”

“More of like a temporary attachment but a job nonetheless”

“What is it?”

“You’re going to be a teaching assistant at New Eridu Highschool”

Wise’s brain shattered at that moment

“T-T-T-Teaching Assistant?”

“Yep, just a temporary position for the next few months, the pay is good, and you can even open a savings account for your return to college”

“W-Wait but don’t they have enough teachers already” Wise countered

“No not really, they are an up-and-coming school, a good chunk of teachers there might be younger than 30 at max, you have some people your age there or older as well” Wise said

“I’m 21” Wise deadpanned

“So? 20, 25, 24, same range” Carole said

“I am still in the middle of college; I can’t teach a class” Wise replied

“Teaching assistant, you won't teach all the time”

“Oh good lord” Wise put his face behind his hands

“Hey, don’t be worried, it’s just a few months of work then you can go back to college with a few extra dollars in your account”

“I never thought I would get a job like this; I would have preferred that teamilk job instead” Wise said exasperated

“I personally think this job is better than pouring drinks all day, you can practice that computer science knowledge from college too, think of it as a study opportunity with an added bonus of money on the side”

Wise sighed knowing his fate was already sealed

“Where is this school anyway?”

“New Eridu academy, they opened up a just after you graduated”

“The school Belle moved to”

“Great” Carole smiled

“When do I have to start?”

“Well, you need to go to the school in a couple of days to sign your contract then you can get started from there”

“Fine” Wise reluctantly agreed

“Great, better get prepared” Carole walked off

“Teaching assistant? This is going to be hell” Wise lied back down onto the couch

Chapter Text

“How do I look?” Wise turned to Carole who was seated on the bed behind him

“Adjust the tie to your left” Carole said while casually scrolling on her phone

“Like this?”

“It’s fine now” she said

Wise could feel goosebumps forming on his arms and had beads of sweat forming on his temples

“Relax, you won’t teach first day, it never happens like that” Carole assured

“What if I do?”

“Mayflower won’t resort to such, I made sure of it” Carole said

Wise took a deep breath and somewhat calmed his nerves

“Does this shirt look funny? I think it looks funny, let me change it”

“The shirt is fine” Carole said

“Really?”

“Who are you trying to impress? Highschoolers?” Carole giggled at this accusation

“I AM NOT!” Wise clapped back embarrassed making Carole fully break out into laughter

“Look, this is your first job and your stressed, I understand but try not to let your nerves get the best of you” Carole advised as she stood up

“You’re right” Wise agreed although he still felt nervous

“Come on, Belle will finish all the bacon if we don’t get there fast” Carole said as she walked out

Wise sighed before looking back into the mirror

“It’s just the first day” Wise motivated himself before walking out of the room

---------------------A LITTLE LATER IN THE MORNING-------------------------

“Big bro is joining me at school today~” Belle teased Wise as he leaned his head into the car window

“Belle you’ve been teasing a little too much” Carole commented

“It’s just fun having bro back in school with me” Belle said

“I get it but simmer down on the teasing” Wise said

“Okay Mr. Grumpypants” Belle joked

They finally arrived in the school parking lot and the two siblings disembarked from the vehicle.

“Have a good day, you two” Carole sped off

“Time to shine bro” Belle grabbed Wise’s free hand as his other was carrying a laptop bag

“Woah” Wise nearly stumbled at the sudden pulling force

“This is my school” Belle walked through the opened entrance with Wise in tow

Wise analyzed the surroundings, bustling corridors with many students of all shapes and sizes, thiren or human, they were all present. The floors were polished clean, lockers although had graffiti, seemed to be intact.

“This place is-”

“Great, I know” Belle said as she led her brother down the halls.

Wise could feel multiple eyes on him, students observing him like a hawk.

“Who’s that guy?”

“I don’t know but he’s kinda cute”

“Is that Belle’s bro?”

Were common murmurs amongst the people in the corridors

“Hold up, I wanna get my books” Belle stopped and opened her locker

“Yo Belle, can I have the math homework?” a shark thiren walked up to the two, she momentarily locked eyes with Wise

“Who are you?” she asked bluntly with a lollipop in her mouth, her sharp teeth although mostly covered were still visible.

“Uh, I’m Wise” he said with a hand outstretched

The girl looked at it for a moment before saying

“Ellen, Ellen Joe” she said without shaking his hand

“Nice to meet you Ellen” Wise put his hand away shyly

“The math homework” Ellen turned back to Belle

“Didn’t you do yours?” Belle hugged the folder to her chest

“I slept on it”

“Of course” Belle said with a little surprise in her voice as she handed a paper over to Ellen who walked off right after receiving it

“She seems....nice” Wise said

“She’s a bit cold on the outside but she seemed a bit nicer today” Belle said

“Really? I think she looked the exact opposite”

“Come on you just got here” Belle punched him in the arm

“I guess you’re right” Wise said

“Let me take you to the reception office” Belle said

The siblings went over to the location

“Guess this is where we split” Belle said as she waved and walked off

Wise walked over to the desk to see a woman with grey hair and dark red eyes seated while typing on her computer

“Oh good day” she greeted with a graceful smile

“Hello ma’am, I’m Wise”

“Oh good, Principal Mayflower was expecting you” she stood up and walked over to the office door and knocked

“Principal, he’s here” she informed as she gestured for Wise to enter

“Uh good morning” Wise said as the door closed behind him

“Welcome son” Mayflower greeted

“Hello sir”

“No need to be so formal, we are basically family” he said

“Thats, reassuring I guess” Wise said as he sat down in front of him

“Let’s have a look here” he went through some folders on the desk before pulling one out

“Carole said you are doing computer science?”

“I fast-tracked undergrad”

“You’re done with undergrad already?” Mayflower was shocked

“I was given an option to take a condensed course which cut down learning years and I took it” Wise said

“You’re going for a master's any time soon?”

“In a few months I am going back to do it” Wise answered

“And in those few months you are working here”

“I guess so”

“You’ll be helping Ms.Venus, our very own Computers Teacher, she has light green hair and blue eyes, you can’t miss her”

“Green hair, blue eyes” Wise repeated

“Good, now go on” Wise got up and walked out

‘Crap I don’t know how to get around’ Wise thought before his eyes landed on the receptionist woman

“Uh excuse me again”

“You need direction?”

“Yes” Wise nodded

“Come with me then” she stood up and began leading Wise to his destination

“How are you liking our school so far?” she said

“I think it’s nice” Wise complemented

“Oh my, what a pleaser” she mused

“Uh, I don’t think I caught your name”

“Oh please forgive my bad manners, I am Alexandrina Sebastiane, but you can call me Rina for short”

“Nice to meet you Ms. Rina, I am-”

“Wise, I already know” she finished off for him

“Oh right” Wise chuckled

“And here we are” Rina pointed towards the door in front of them

“Thank you Ms.Rina, you’ve been a big help”

“Just Rina is fine”

“Thank you, Rina” Wise said once more with the correction added in, a small blush was present on the womans face

“My pleasure” she said before speeding off

‘Was it something I said?’ Wise thought as he saw her speedwalk around the corner

Wise walked into the classroom to see a bunch of kids seated by each desktop, the light chatter stopped as eyes landed on him.

“Oh goodie, you’re here” a woman stood up from her desk and walked up to Wise

“Uh, yeah”

“You must be Wise, I am Venus and this is my class, atleast one of my classes”

Wise turned to see the children still staring it him

‘What are these guys thinking?’ Wise anxiously tried to deduce what was on their minds

“Attention please, this is Mr Arna, he will be my teaching assistant for the foreseeable future, please show some respect to him”

Some whispers were heard from the corner of the class

“Ellen” Venus called out

“What?” the girl responded

“Have something to say?”

“Nothing” Ellen rolled her eyes and put her sweet back into her mouth

“What about you Ruby?”

“Nothing ma’am” the girl said

“Okay then” Venus said before turning back to Wise

“You can just join me at the desk over there” the two sat by the teacher's desk and Wise started out his new job by helping sort out papers, soon the period bell rang, and the class emptied leaving the two inside

“I’m sorry if you felt pressured by them, I should have met you during an open slot” Venus apologized

“It’s fine” Wise accepted, and he smiled at her, making her get a bit flustered

“I-I-I guess it is, isn’t it?” Venus smiled back with a light flush on her cheeks

“Yo Veenie, can I get a whiteboard marke-?” a woman cut herself off as she walked in

She wore a black suit skirt with a white shirt, her pink hair contrasting hard with her green eyes and she stood there looking Wise up and down.

“Hello?” Wise said awkwardly

“Uh hi” she absentmindedly waved

“What’s wrong Nicole?”

“Marker” she came back to her senses and regained composure

“Oh here is one” Venus handed the item over to the woman who promptly exited

“Who was that?”

“That’s Nicole, she was hired recently as a business teacher” Venus explained as she sat back down next to Wise

“She seems nice”

“She is, at least some of the time”

“What?”

“Don’t mind it, you two could make good friends, I think she’s close to your age”

‘I have to admit, she is kind of right, I can’t be a loner the whole time and I can’t rely on Belle for company either, I gotta make one friend at least’ Wise thought

“I guess you’re right” Wise agreed

“It’ll be good for you” Venus reinforced

--------------------LATER THAT DAY---------------

KNOCK KNOCK

“Come in” Nicole said

“Uh hello” Wise peered his head into the room.

“AH!” Nicole exclaimed as she fixed her hair and straightened her clothes

“Hello” Nicole greeted back

“Did I come at a bad time?” Wise opened the door as he stepped in

“No, not at all” Nicole put on a mask of confidence

“Oh great” Wise walked up to the desk and sat down across from her

“So um, I just came over to say hi” Wise said

“Hi then” Nicole said as she flickered her lashes at Wise

“Okay you got me, I just came over to try and-”

“Make a friend?” Nicole finished off with a knowing smirk on her face

‘She saw right through me’ Wise thought

“Yeah, make a friend” Wise confessed

Nicole leaned back and began laughing at Wise’s approach

‘S-She’s laughing at me’ Wise thought with embarrassment

“Okay” Nicole said as she calmed herself down

“What?”

“I’ll be your friend” she agreed

‘Wow that was eas- wait, how did she know?’

“Thanks, I’ll see you tomorrow then” Wise said as he was standing up

“That’s it?” Nicole said

“What?” Wise sat back down

“You’re not even going to ask for my number?”

“Oh right” Wise pulled out and handed his phone over to Nicole who typed in some digits for him

“Call me~” she mused as Wise got up and walked out

Just as he shut the door, Nicole exhaled deeply and began trying to calm down her heart rate

“That was risky, thank Sunbringer he agreed” Nicole leaned back to try and rein in her thoughts

On the other side...

“Wait was she flirting with me?” Wise said as he thought back to the interaction

BEEP BEEP

Wise turned to see Belle waving out the car window with Carole casually sitting at the drivers seat.

“How was your first day?” Carole asked

“It was normal” Wise said

“Make any new friends here?”

Wise looked at the new contact on his phone

“Uh yeah, I made one”

“I saw you leave Ms. Demara’s office~” Belle had a smug grin on her face

“I-It was just work” Wise covered up as he put his phone away

“Okay then bro” Belle backed off but still with her suspicions

“Something I should know about?” Carole asked with a raised brow

“No, nothing at all” Wise and Belle said in unison piquing Carole’s interest

“Okay then” she took the answer for now

Chapter Text

“Watch ya step kid” the bus driver warned as Wise exited the bus

“So early” Wise groaned as he carried his folder and bookbag while walking towards the school's direction

“And these assignments are so heavy, I should have never taken this job” Wise finally saw the school building in his eyes

“And to top it all off, Belle is only going to get here when after an hour, when school is supposed to start” Wise complained as his eyelids felt heavy

He finally made it to the school but in the corner of his tired eye he noticed something peculiar or to be more precise heard something peculiar. The sound of metal clanking from a farther region of the school area.

“Guess a small peek wouldn’t hurt, Venus isn’t here yet either” Wise resolved as he turned to go to the source of the noise.

He walked over to where the school vehicles were kept, finding a person underneath a small minibus. Wise’s eyes wandered down to two mounds of flesh perking up.

‘Definitely a female’ Wise concluded with a small nosebleed

“Uh excuse me” Wise called out but to no avail as the person kept on working

‘Probably the noise drowned me out’

“Excuse me” Wise called out once more getting her to stop and crawl out from under the vehicle

“Oh hey there” she put her goggles up to rest on her forehead

“Hi, I just came over to check if everything is good” Wise said

“You’re that newbie, aren’t you?” she stood up and dusted herself off

“Uh yeah, this is my first week here, I’m Wise and you?” Wise outstretched his hand to find her back working on the car.

“Huh?” she turned her attention back to him

“I said my name is Wise”

“Oh cool” she turned back and began digging in her toolbox

“Um, can I get your name?”

“What is it?” she looked back

“Your name?”

“Grace, Grace Howard” she finally found what she was looking for

“I see, nice to meet you Grace” Wise smiled at her though she wasn’t looking at him

“I guess I’ll see you” Wise started walking away

“See ya” Grace crawled back under the car and resumed her work

---------------------2 HOURS LATER---------------------

“Hey, I gotta bounce for my next class, just mark these for now” Venus said as she walked out

“Got it” Wise responded as he began his assigned task

“Hey bro~” Belle crept into the office slowly

“Belle, what the hell are you doing in here?” Wise scolded in a low voice

“Just checking in on my bro” she casually plopped onto the chair in front of Wise

“You can’t be here; I could get in trouble”

“Family matters” Belle shrugged

“Ugh” Wise gave up knowing his attempts would be futile

“What’s going on with you?”

“Just marking some assignments”

“Booorinnggg” Belle teased

“Hey, you wanted me to take this job”

“Boooooooriiiiiiiiinnnnnnng” Belle spun around in the chair

“Tsk” Wise was successfully rage baited

“Oh hello there” Grace suddenly walked in, glistening with some sweat

“Hello Ms. Howard” Wise smiled at her while Belle was just an onlooker

“Well hi” Grace greeted back

‘She stinks’ Belle thought

“I need you for a moment or an hour” Grace said to Wise

“Me?”

“Yes you” Grace pointed at him

“What for?”

“You’ll see”

Wise sighed as he got up and followed Grace leaving Belle still seated on the chair

“I wonder what my score was” Belle peeked at her grading

“Ahhh come on bro, I’m your sis” she complained

Grace dragged Wise to the last place he would expect

“The boiler room” Wise mouthed

“Yep, now grab that wrench” Grace clapped her hands like a master commanding a servant

“Uh”

“The wrench” Grace reiterated

Wise knew all too well it was pointless in refusing now.

“Okay” the two got to work, mostly Grace giving Wise instructions.

“There, now the water outta be back in the bathroom” Grace said as she dusted her hands

“Yuck” Wise took off the jumper he wore before getting to work with Grace

“Now let’s go check up on the bathrooms”

The two made their way upstairs however the place they arrived had Wise sweating bullets

“Uh, is this the right place?” Wise gulped as he saw the Venus symbol stuck onto the door

“Yeah, the problem is mostly in here”

“This is the women’s bathroom”

“So?”

“This is the women's bathroom”

“And I said so?”

“I can’t go in there; I’ll lose my job”

“It’ll be quicker if we go in together plus if something isn’t right in there, I have my little helper here”

“I still can’t”

“Ugh, give me a break” Grace dragged Wise in by force

“AH!” Wise passed the boundary and instantly covered his eyes with his hands and for extra precaution closed his eyelids tight.

“You can’t work if you can’t see” Grace pried his hands from his face

“MY EYES!” Wise saw the place was empty

“It’s empty drama queen”

“Oh, but still, this is a sacred place”

“It’s a toilet, no big deal” Grace began checking the pipes of the sinks

“DAMN!” Grace exclaimed as a pipe began shooting water out violently

“LET ME!” Wise jumped in and covered the leakage with his hands while Grace worked her magic and sealed it tight

“Got it” Grace wiped off the water dripping from her face

“I’m soaked” Wise looked at his stained clothing and groaned in frustration

“Let’s go dry up” Grace got up from her crouching position as did Wise however fate was not kind to them. Just as Grace turned to go and find something to dry herself, she slipped and tumbled down.

“AH!”

A loud thud sounded as Grace started regaining agency in her body.

“Ugh” she found herself with a warmth below her body

“My back” Wise grunted in pain before he realized the compromising position he was in.

Suddenly the door swung open, and footsteps ceased.

“Uh” Grace peered back, still straddling Wise

“Oh hey Nicole”

“W-W-WHAAAAAAA!” Nicole froze up in shock

Chapter Text

“WHAAAAAAA!” Nicole screeched

“I-IT’S NOT WHAT YOU THINK!” Wise tried to cover up

“THEN WHAT THE HELL IS THIS!?” Nicole pointed at the two, who were still in their position

“Oh” Grace casually got up off Wise and Wise scrambled to his feet though slipping a bit due to the wet floor

“She slipped and.....fell on me” Wise finished off with a bit of shrewdness

Nicole stood there expressionless with eyes seemingly looking past the two

“We were fixing the pipes, and they exploded” Wise tried frantically to explain

“Help me here” Wise looked over at Grace who was just wiping down the wrench

“GRACE!” Wise called out

“What?”

“Explain” Wise gestured over to Nicole who was still motionless

“Oh, I fell on him” Grace said before beginning to walk out

“GET BACK HERE!” Wise grabbed her wrist

“Humans, what is it this time?”

“Tell her you dragged me in here”

Grace and Wise went back and forth while Nicole was just in her own head.

‘He’s piping first week here at work?’

‘And they were all wet too’

‘I need to up my game, ugh, why am I thinking into it so much?’

----------------------2 HOURS LATER------------------------

“Thanks for the clothes” Wise said as he looked at the jumpsuit he wore.

“I was surprised it fit on you” Grace said

“Thanks anyway”

“It was the least I could do, I kinda got you wet back there”

“Why did you call me anyway?”

“You just came to mind after I met you early morning” Grace said

‘That’s it?’ Wise thought with a feeling of underwhelming

“Yeah, so that's why I came to you”

“So you’re telling me you basically had no reason to come get me and still did?”

“If you put it that way then yes” Grace said

Wise sighed, knowing anger wouldn’t really do much

“Fine” Wise said before he started his exit

“I’ll swing by again next time” Grace told him as the door closed

“What a helper” Grace smiled at the door as she thought of Wise

On the other side

“Can’t believe I got into that situation”

“HEY YOU THERE!” A voice called out to him

‘Me?’ Wise turned to be face to face with a blonde woman.

“Yeah?”

“You’re the cleaner right?”

“Um n-”

“Great come on” she cut him off as she dragged Wise over to the chem labs

“W-WOAH!” Wise nearly stumbled as he tried to keep up with her high energy, soon enough Wise’s cardio ended when they reached the chem lab which horrified Wise

“Oh lord” Wise saw mash of different colored foam all over the floor along with dirty beakers and test tubes sitting in the sinks.

“What happened in here?” Wise looked at her

“WELCOME TO BURNICE’S CHEM CLASS!~” Burnice chimed

‘Oh no this is the teacher Mr. Mayflower warned about’ Wise’s anxiety levels jumped to 100 very quickly

“Uh, I’m not the cleaner” Wise said to try and escape

“Oh” her mouth formed an “O” while her eyes slightly widened

“Yeah, my clothes got soaked so I borrowed these” Wise pinched his outfit

“Anyways, grab a mop” Burnice tossed Wise the item

“I sai-”

“I know but you’re already here so let’s get to it” Burnice clapped her hands before starting with scrubbing the floor

‘I don’t get paid enough for this’ Wise thought

After an unknown amount of time cleaning, the floor was clean, and the apparatus was spotless. However Wise was seated on the floor with his back against the wall while trying to recover from rigorous scrubbing.

“Tired already?” Burnice teased as she stood in front of him

Wise looked up and slicked his hair back to look at her clearly.

BA-DUMP

Burnice’s heart skipped a beat as she gazed into his eyes

“My arms are dead” Wise groaned

“Uh, yeah” Burnice responded as she deepened eye contact unnerving Wise a bit

‘Is she okay?’

‘He’s a cutie, is he single?’ Burnice plotted

“Do you have a girlfriend?” Burnice snapped Wise out of his thoughts

“I-I don’t” Wise replied

‘WOOHOO!’ Burnice celebrated mentally

“Why?” he followed up

“Just curious is all” Burnice playfully tapped Wise’s feet with her own

“Okayyy”

“What are you doing this weekend?”

Wise’s eyes widened as he looked at Burnice

“Uh, nothing really, I’ll be at home” Wise said

“Go out with me”

Burnice pressed her hands against the wall trapping Wise, cleavage in his face with intense eye contact to this blonde bombshell in front of him. In that moment Wise regretted being seated on the floor.

‘WHAT DO I SAY!?’ Wise screamed mentally

“Well, what do you say?” Burnice said flirtatiously

‘She’s dangerous, Mayflower was right, okay Wise, do something sensible’

“Um sure” Wise agreed hesitantly

“YIPPEE!” she celebrated as she opened space for Wise to get up and he took the opportunity to scramble to his feet despite his fatigue.

“I’ll see you Saturday~” Burnice teased before planting a kiss on Wise’s cheek and skipped out of the chem lab.

“What did I get myself into?” reality hit Wise in that moment before his phone rang

“Hello?”

“We’re waiting outside, get over here” Belle said before cutting the phone

Wise got up and went to the parking lot but not before collecting his now dried clothes he wore before.

“Something happen?” Carole asked as she saw Wise in a completely different getup than before

“Uh yeah, a lot happened actually” Wise said as he sat shotgun

“Woah, who did you makeout with?” Belle asked

“What?” Wise inquired before he realized and quickly wiped the lipstick off his cheek

“Teehee, Big bro is a dog” Belle joked

“This is your first week and you’re doing this already?” Carole joined in

“I-I” Wise stuttered before silencing himself

“Next thing you’ll tell us you got a date” Carole remarked before lightly chuckling however Wise remained silent

“Bro?” Belle peered from the back to look at Wise who looked guilty

“YOU GOT A DATE!” Belle realized the circumstances judging from her brother's reaction

“So quickly?” Carole’s eyes widened

“You guys don’t understand, it wasn't my choice”

“The ladies are forcing him now; my son really is dog” Carole commented

“Ugh” Wise groaned from the teasing as he leaned his head onto the window while Belle and Carole just laughed the air out of their lungs.

Chapter Text

“Hey Wise~” Belle tiptoed into the office

“You have to stop sneaking in here”

“Come on, don’t act like you don’t wanna see me” Belle said as she playfully smacked her brother’s arm

Wise just sighed and accepted that his sister's habit would never cease

“So, what’s up?”

“Just checking in but I did hear something interesting from some people”

“What?”

“People think you’re dating Ms. White” Belle whispered into her brother’s ear

“WHAT!?”

“HOW!?” Wise exclaimed in shock

“I don’t know maybe a little birdie saw you two on your little date”

‘Somebody saw us?’ Wise was now in a panic as he began thinking about all possible ways his career could end then and there

“W-Who?”

“I don’t know but people are talking about it”

“It was you” Wise pointed at Belle who just looked shocked

“Me?”

“You are the only student who knew”

“I didn’t tell anybody, I swear to Sunbringer” Belle insisted but Wise’s suspicions did not diminish

“Then who could have seen us?”

“More important issues, can you bump my grade up just a wee bit? I really need this class to be a B at minimum”

“I knew it” Wise said with no surprise in his voice

‘How is this going to affect us?’ Wise’s mind went back to Burnice

-------------------------LATER ON THAT DAY--------------------

“I’m sorry but could you take over the rest of class?” Venus whispered to Wise

“Why? What's wrong?”

“I’m having a migraine, I didn’t really sleep all that well this past week”

“I got it, you can go”

“Thanks” Venus walked out of class leaving Wise on his own

“Mr Arna” a girl raised her hand

“Yes Ruby?”

“Is it true you’re dating Ms. White?”

Wise choked for a moment as all the eyes were on him

“Uh no, why?”

“Just asking for a friend” Ruby gave a subtle side eye

“Oh okay then” Wise said with a bit of confusion

Ellen elbowed her friend in the side

“Ow” Ruby clutched her side

“I don’t believe him” Monna said

“Yeah, he hesitated” Lynn said

“Guys I swear I’m not dating Burnice” Wise denied the allegations thrown at him

“Well why not?” a boy said from the back

“Yeah, she’s hotter than a bonfire”

“Guys settle down, no more talking” Wise said silencing the students

In the corner of Wise’s eye, he noticed glances from Ellen who was nudged slightly by Lynn to get her to look back down at her notebook

‘Huh that’s weird’ Wise thought as he went back to work

After a while the period bell rang, and students dispersed

“Go girl” Wise heard some whispers as Ellen and her friends momentarily slowed down their exit

“No, shut up Ruby” Ellen snapped back as she walked out with her friends in tow

“Weak sauce” Monna said

“Yeah, totally weak sauce” Lynn agreed

“Leave me alone” Ellen said

“Come on girl, stop denying your feelings” Lynn said

“Can we stop talking about this?” Ellen opened her locker

“Nope, we are going to keep talking about it till you admit it” Ruby leaned on the locker next to Ellen’s

“Ugh” Ellen rolled her eyes

“It wouldn’t kill you to be more upfront with things” Monna said

“Upfront about what?” Ellen whipped her head to look at the bovine thiren

“About your liking to Mr. Arna” Lynn answered

“I don’t have any feelings; he’s just some guy”

“Some guy you like” Ruby added on

“I don’t like him; he just got here like last week and he’s probably secretly dating that psycho chem teacher too”

“And you fell for him in that week plus he just said he isn’t dating her”

“Guys” Ellen tried

“I wonder how you fell so easily too”

“Is it because of his looks?”

“Shut it” Ellen slammed her locker and began walking off

“Looks like she’s hungry” the three watched as their friend walked in the direction of the cafeteria

“She’s totally smitten” Lynn said

“I know right, did you see the way she tried to look at him in class?”

“I wonder when this started”

“Oh oh I know” Ruby said

“Go on, tell us while we walk to lunch”

“So last Thursday...”

-----------------QUICK FLASHBACK--------------------

“The hell?” Ellen looked at the grade in front of her eyes

“You got a 50?” Ruby peered over her shoulder and was swatted away with her shark tail

“Ouch” Ruby rubbed her arm

"This guy literally just got here and I already get this shit" Ellen complained as she looked at her friends

“What did you guys get?” Ellen turned her work over to hide her grade

“I got a 75” Monna said

“60” Ruby said

“A 94” Lynn said

“Crap, this isn’t good”

A shadow loomed behind Ellen

“Uh can I see you after class?” Wise asked

Ellen just groaned as Wise walked back to the desk

“Great” Ellen grumbled under her breath

“Ohhhh, you’re in trouble” Ruby teased

“Shut it” Monna flicked Ruby’s forehead

The class emptied leaving Ellen behind as she stood in front of the desk

“I just wanted to talk abou-”

“My grade? I know”

“Ellen”

“Just spit it out already, teach”

“I know I don’t exactly have much of a say since I’m just an assistant, but I just want you try harder”

Ellen just looked at Wise making him gulp

‘She looks a bit intimidating’ he thought

“I just care about your future” he added making Ellen tilt her head

‘She looks mad’

Ellen just sighed

“Fine, fair enough Mr Arna” Ellen took her paper off the desk

“Let’s drop the Mr, you can just call me Wise”

“You sure?”

“It’s totally fine”

“Thanks, Wise”

“No problem”

Ellen walked out and shut the door behind her

Upon closing the door Ellen leaned back into the wall

‘H-He cares?’ her heart was moving a bit too fast for comfort

“Teehee” Ruby giggled from around the corner

---------------------BACK TO PRESENT TIME--------------------

“Woah” Monna’s eyes were widened at the story

“Yep”

“Hey, next please” the lunch lady called out

“Oh”

“She was totally red in the face; you should’ve seen it”

“Hey, what are you talking about?” Ellen said as she looked at her friends sitting down on the table

“Oh nothing” Lynn said

“You better not be talking about me”

“We aren’t” Ruby raised both hands

Ellen locked eyes with Ruby who just looked down at her food

“I don’t like him”

“Who said anything about that?” Lynn said smugly

“I know that’s what you were thinking, I know you people inside out”

“And we know you too”

“Specifically, that you like Mr Arna”

“I don’t like Wise” she immediately covered her mouth at her slip-up

“Oh, first name basis now~” Monna teased

“When did this start Ellen?” Lynn feigned shock

Ellen just abruptly got up and went to dump her tray

“She’s in deep” Ruby watched as Ellen left the cafeteria

“Seems like she’s conflicted” Monna remarked

“She’s just in denial, give her time and we’ll see her true colours” Lynn began eating

“Wait we forgot about one crucial detail, isn’t he too old for her?” Monna asked

“She’s literally 18” Lynn said

“Oh yeah” Ruby realized

“Guess it’s alright, he doesn’t seem that old either, we’ll just ask Belle later” Monna said

“Enough talk let’s eat” Ruby began scarfing down on the school lunch

Chapter Text

‘Yuck, this school lunch is so..bland’ Wise thought as he looked at what was supposed to be chicken

He glanced around the staff lunchroom looking for a place to sit. Wise didn’t really have many friends amongst the teaching staff yet at least besides Burnice and Nicole so he naturally tried to find them, but he couldn’t.

‘Looks like I’m sitting alone, maybe one of them will show up’ Wise chose a random empty table and took a seat then started eating.

“Hey” A tall man with sunglasses approached the table with a tray in hand

“Uh hi” Wise looked up at him

“This is where I sit” he said

“Oh sorry I’ll move” Wise was getting ready to go

“I never said leave, I was just saying” he put the tray down next to Wise and sat down

“Oh, sorry” Wise ceased all activity to move from his position

“It’s cool man”

“Uh, you’re Lighter right?”

“Yep”

“I’m Wise”

“Nice to meet you bro” Lighter and Wise fist bumped

“Anyone else sits here with you?” Wise asked

“Nope, I prefer the solitude, it really helps a bro think”

“I get it, my first week was a whirlwind” Wise said

“Speaking of that, I heard something from some kids in my P.E class”

“Oh god” Wise already knew what was going to happen

“You dating Burnice?”

“I’m not” Wise looked around for any eavesdroppers

“You sure?”

“I’m positive”

“How did you land a date anyway? I know some guys who tried and failed horribly”

“I don’t even know man, she mistook me for a cleaner and made me help her clean up and dirty chem lab then she asked me out”

“Cool” Lighter said as he adjusted his sunglasses

“I don’t know what she was thinking” Wise said

“Her mind is a jungle; trust me we know” Lighter said

“I saw that on our date too”

“What happened on that anyway?”

“Do we have enough time?”

“Plenty, we are staff members, we can be late” Lighter said

Wise just shrugged and began his telling of the past events

---------------------ON SATURDAY-------------------

“WE HERE!” Burnice chimed as she hit a pose

“The amusement park?”

“Yep, let’s go” Burnice grabbed Wise by the hand and dragged him into the park

“W-Woah” Wise stumbled at her surprising speed.

“Keep up skinny” Burnice teased as she relentlessly dragged Wise through the park, weaving between oncoming bystanders and mascots.

“And we start here” Burnice stopped in front of an attraction which horrified Wise

“N-NO!” Wise refused as he looked at the rollercoaster’s peak reaching probably 200m high.

“Hm? Why not?” Burnice turned back with a tilted head

“It’s too high and too early for that”

“Oh, I see, you wanna warm up first” Burnice concluded

“Heh?” Wise raised a brow as suddenly he was grabbed and dragged elsewhere

‘What does she mean by warmup?’ was all that ran through Wise’s head

“Now here we go, no backing out here now” Wise looked like the ride went so high up he couldn't even tell the peak

“WELCOME TO THE DROP TOWER OF DOOM!” Burnice exclaimed

“Oh, my lord” Wise looked up and felt an indescribable anxiety build up in his chest

‘I should have said no, I really should have never agreed to this date’ Wise thought

‘Maybe she could get bored waiting, and we can move on’

“Just our luck, we are in this going group, come on” Burnice grabbed Wise and moved towards the ride

‘Nooooo’

After a quick safety announcement from the conductor and securing people to their seats. The tower started rising slowly.

Wise gripped the bars so tightly that they were lowkey gripping him back

“Please please please please please please please please” Wise pleaded with closed eyes, he felt his feet leave the ground a while back, he didn’t dare look down

“Wise check it out” Burnice tapped his arm startling him

“No” Wise tightened his eyelids

“We’re so high” Burnice kicked her feet out playfully

“I see some birds up here” Burnice told Wise who was now visualizing the sheer height he was at currently

Suddenly a small jerk was felt and the ride ceased it’s rise

“Huh?” Wise opened his eyes and looked around

“Is it broken?” he turned to Burnice who just looked giddy

In an instant Wise felt a hard dip and strong downwards force causing him to burst out screaming.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

“WWWHHHHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!”

After about 30 seconds of dropping, the ride settled back into starting position

“Thank you for you patronage” the conductor said as people disembarked

“Phew, that was quite the tumble” Burnice said as she walked hand-in-hand with Wise

“Hey, you good?” Burnice waved a hand in front of Wise’s face to try and bring him back to the real world

----------------------------BACK TO REAL TIME-----------------------------

“Seems like it was a wild ride”

Wise just looked at Lighter with a straight face

“Sorry bad joke” Lighter mused

“So she dragged me to lunch afterwards........

-----------------------------BACK TO STORY-------------------------------

“You gonna eat that?” Burnice reached for Wise’s fries regardless

The girl looked at Wise who still looked shook

“So fast” Wise murmured

“Calm down silly, it was just a warmup” Burnice playfully smacked Wise’s arm

“Warmup?”

“I said so before, we gotta lot more rides to go on”

“Dear God” Wise feared for the worst

“Want a bite?” Burnice offered a half-eaten sandwich to a Wise in a trance like state

After their lunch Wise was dragged on Burnice’s tour of the amusement park, going on ride after ride, his lunch surprisingly stayed in his stomach.

“Whoa, I could use a breather before we go on the grand finale” Burnice plopped down on a bench and Wise sat next to her. There was a small distance between the two which Burnice quicky closed by scooching right next to Wise

“Sooo” Burnice started

“Yeah?”

“You really don’t have a girl?”

“Oh no, I’m single as ever” Wise said

“Me too, me too” Burnice said

“That’s a shocker” Wise said

“Hm?” a question mark popped above Burnice’s head

“I'm just surprised you didn’t have anybody; I was shocked when you asked me out too”

“Why were you shocked?”

“I don’t know, you just” Wise paused and sighed

“You just seem out of my league”

“Leagues? Like League of Legends?”

‘Oh no’ Wise was disappointed at Burnice’s air headedness

“I just mean, you are too good for me” Wise said“ Oh no, I don’t care about that, it’s time for our ride” Burnice grabbed Wise and dragged him to the rollercoaster

“WAIT!” Wise pulled into the cart.

“Come on Loverboy, let’s ride till our heads pop” Burnice said as the safety bars locked in

“Please don’t do this, please” Wise looked at the technician

“Sorry sir but we can’t stop now” he said nonchalantly

“NOOOO!” Wise screamed as it took off at top speed

Following the tumultuous ride Burnice had Wise’s arm slung around her shoulder to support him as he tripped around in a daze.

“Oh, wait here” Burnice dropped him onto a bench while she ran off momentarily and returned with two small photos

“Here is yours” Burnice held one of them out

“What's this?” Wise sat up slowly

“Our coaster cams, they take this all the time” Wise looked to see his face contorted with fear as Burnice held onto him with a puppy like smile plastered on her face.

“You look excited” Burnice giggled at the photo

“Really?” Wise slid it into his pocket

“I’m gonna frame this at home, ooohhh or at my school office”

“Home, definitely at home” Wise said knowing she would frame it regardless, better to pick the less embarrassing option

“Awwwww, I really wanted this one at work, but I guess it’s cool, I’ll frame it at home” Burnice agreed to the request which gave great relief to Wise

‘Thank god, who would’ve known what people would think if they saw that picture’ Wise thought

“Today was fun, right?” Burnice looked up at him expectedly

Wise had a small smile, despite all the insanity of the day and the constant adrenaline rushing through, he did have fun.

“Yeah, I guess it was”

“WOOHOO!” Burnice pumped her fist in the air

“I can drop you off if you want” Wise offered as they reached the car

“Mmmhhh” Burnice hummed in thought

“Sure, what a gentleman” Burnice opened the door and sat shotgun

------------------------BACK TO REAL TIME--------------------------

“Woah bro, where is the photo?”

“None of your business” Wise said

“Cool” Lighter surrendered

“Anything else happen from there?”

“Nope, I just drove her back to her apartment building and left”

“Are you sure?” Lighter looked at Wise skeptically

“I am positive that nothing happened”

“She is one of my friends, I can go an ask her”

“You wouldn’t dare”

“Hey, you got me, I wouldn't do that to a bro”

“Thanks man” Wise said

“Hey, looks like lunch is done” Lighter stood up with his lunch tray and walked off

‘This guy is in danger’ Lighter thought as his mind wandered to Burnice and Wise

Chapter Text

“Bored again?” Wise asked as he looked over at his sister who was by his side

“Yep, by the way can you come with me?”

“To where?”

“The library” Belle shut her locker and began walking with a book in hand

“You’re horror books again?”

“Come on, you know I love me some horror”

“I don’t get you horror fanatics, not that I’m scared or anything”

“The adrenaline rush is like a drug”

“You sound just like-”

“Ms. White?” Belle had a raised eyebrow

“Yeah, just like her”

“Anyways, here we are” Belle walked through the already open double doors with Wise in tow

“Look who’s here” a woman at the desk said

“Ahh, Ms Qingyi, I can explain”

“A week late”

Wise looked at his sister who looked guilty

“Sorry”

“I suppose you remember the repercussion”

“Yeah yeah, late fee” Belle said as she dug for dennies in her pouch but to no avail

“Uhhhh” Belle slowly looked back up at Qingyi who was waiting patiently for the payment

“I’ll pay” Wise put a few dennies on the table for Belle

“Bro, I had it”

“You’re flat broke, no need to hide it” Wise deadpanned

“WISE!” Belle exclaimed

“No yelling in the library” Qingyi reprimanded

“Sorry”

“Now get to class” Qingyi said as she took the book and the dennies

Wise and Belle left the library, but Wise felt eyes on him during the exit, but he just ignored it.

---------------------THE FOLLOWING DAY-----------------------

“Excuse me” Wise turned to see the librarian right behind him

“Uh can I help you?”

“Good, we’re already on the same page” Qingyi said as she led Wise by the sleeve

“Where are we going?”

“The library of course” Qingyi answered with a smile on her face

Wise and Qingyi finally arrived at the library

“So, what do you need me to do?”

“Just a bit of help with organizing here and there”

Wise’s eyes widened at huge stacks of books sitting on 2 of the study tables

“All of these?”

“Just a small task, with you here we can handle this within at least 2 hours”

“2 HOURS!?”

“Shhhh, we are in the library”

“Sorry” Wise piped down

“Why am I the one you called?”

“Well, for starters you seem responsible and secondly it’s your job, so let’s get to work” Qingyi said

Wise just sighed as the two began their work, after much organization and stacking and a whole lot of heavy lifting, they finally completed their task.

“Phew, done” Wise said

“You work really well” Qingyi complimented

“Thanks, but I can’t compare to an experienced librarian”

“And there are the complements” Qingyi remarked

“I’m just saying” Wise said

“You should be careful; some words can lead to....unexpected situations” Qingyi finished off in a suggestive tone

“Noted” Wise said as he walked out

“Charmer” Qingyi said under her breath as she watched Wise walk out of the library

-----------------------SOMEWHERE ELSE---------------------

“Yo Belle, pass me the Physics would ya” Harumasa said as he yawned

“Do you ever do your homework?” Belle said

“Sometimes” Harumasa leaned his back onto the locekr next to Belle’s

“Oh please, you just get one of your fangirls to do it”

“Oh my, I’m not that shallow”

“Yeah right” Belle rolled her eyes

“They just volunteer of their own free will, what kind of guy would I be to say no to such lovely ladies”

“See, shallow”

“It’s called opportunity” Harumasa said as he painted out imaginary letters in the air

“Yeah, yeah but this is the last time” Belle held out her notebook

“Thanks I’ll bring it back next class” Harumasa reached for the book and brushed hands with Belle causing a small blush to appear on her face

“Thanks” Harumasa said as he walked off with the book

“Idiot” she muttered

--------------------BACK TO WISE--------------------

“Hey~” Nicole peered her head through the door

“Oh, hi Nicole” Wise greeted

“I just came to check in” Nicole entered and casually sat on the desk nearby Wise

“Really? Thanks” Wise smiled at her making her feign a cough while trying to hide a blush

“So, you busy after work?”

“Uh” Wise looked at his phone

“No, I have nothing going on really”

“How about a drink?”

“Just the two of us?” Wise asked

“W-Well if you want a group that's fine too but I thought just us two would be good” Nicole spoke fast drawing suspicion from Wise

“I guess sure, I’ll have a drink with you”

“You will?”

“Yeah, I’ll come get you end of day”

“Okay then” Nicole’s confidence bounced back stronger than ever as she strutted out of the office.

“See ya~” she looked back and winked at Wise

Wise watched her close the door and walk out

“Wonder what that was about” Wise said before getting back to work

---------------------END OF DAY------------------------

“Nicole, it’s time”

“GAH!” Nicole scrambled as she fixed her hair

“J-Just a minute” Nicole tumbled round her office looking for different items

“Let’s go” Nicole said as she almost instantaneously put herself back together

Nicole drove them to a nearby bar

“Here, let’s take the corner booth” Wise said

“This place is-”

“Nice I know, and cheap too” Nicole finished off

“Okay”

“What can I get for ya?” a man appeared

“Just two beers” Nicole said

“Coming up” he walked off

“So” Nicole started

“You went out with that crazy chick”

“Here we go again”

“Do you like her or something?”

“I just went out with her one time; we aren’t together or anything”

Their beers arrived mid convo

“Cool, so you aren't seeing anybody”

“No, I’m still single”

“I see”

‘Teehee my luck just keeps going up’ Nicole jumped around mentally

“Is that you bro?” an unexpected face appeared

“Lighter?” Wise looked at the man

“What’s up man?”

“Hi”

“You’re drinking here too?”

“Yeah, Nicole invited me out” Lighter looked over at Nicole who put on a fake smile

“Yeah, I just thought it would be fun”

‘FUCK OFF!’ Nicole yelled in her head

“I’m here with a few friends so I guess I’ll head off” Lighter said as he walked

‘I can’t stop winning’ Nicole was ecstatic

“THEY’RE HERE!?” a familiar voice exclaimed alarming Nicole

“Oh great” Burnice ran over to the booth

“Oh hey” she greeted

“Hi Burnice”

“Yeah, hi” Nicole was livid

“Burnice, stop bothering people” a short angry blonde appeared

“Come on Lucy, stop being a fun killer”

“Gah” Lucy had a vein bulging from her temple

“Could use some more drinking pals” a tall muscular woman appeared

“Of course, the boar needs more to drink”

“Caesar, glad you could make it” Burnice said

“Oh hey, you’re the new guy and, Nicole?”

Nicole was gritting her teeth under her smile

“Oh hey guys, what are you all doing here?”

“This maniac dragged us out for a drink” Lucy said as she pointed at Burnice

Lighter once again reappeared

“Guys, are we drinking or what?”

“Yep, we are drinking together” Caesar declared

“What?” Nicole was confused but suddenly got thrown back into reality as Burnice plopped down next to Wise while Caesar seized the position next to Nicole.

“Ugh, since we’re here anyway, I’ll allow it just this once” Lucy plopped down by Burnice

Nicole looked at Lighter who just silently mouthed sorry

“Great, just great” Nicole whispered

“What was that?” Caesar asked

“This is great”

“I know right” Burnice agreed

‘Very clever Nicole but this one is mine’ Burnice said mentally

“WAITER! BRING A ROUND FOR EVERYONE!” Caesar called

"AND A NITRO-FUEL!" Burnice added

'This didn't go to plan' Nicole thought angrily

'But I won't let him slip, this is my moment and mine alone'

Chapter Text

“I never saw you as the drinking type” Burnice turned to Wise

“I dabble here and there”

“Why’d you bring them here?” Nicole whispered to Lighter

“I didn’t mean to”

“You ruined my plans”

“It wasn’t my fault, they are impulsive”

“Guh” Nicole just left it alone

“You want a sip? NitroFuel is really good~” Burnice offered her glass to Wise

“I’m fine with this” Wise declined

“You’re no fun” Burnice pouted

“Stop making people drink that crap” Lucy said

“When’s Pips getting here?”

“She isn't” Lighter said

“Sleeping in?” Caesar asked

“Yep” Lighter nodded

“Awww, but at least we have Wise” Burnice said

“I guess having a bro around is cool too” Lighter said

“So, were you two on a date?” Burnice asked

Nicole and Wise both stiffened

“She invited me for a drink” Wise answered

“It’s clearly a date you moron” Lucy cut in

“It’s not, just an outing” Nicole interjected

‘FUCK ME, I FUCKED UP!’ Nicole beat herself up mentally

“Oh, seems like we aren’t intruding then” Caesar downed another glass

“Slow down boar”

Nicole looked over at Burnice who was basically stuck to Wise

‘I need to do something’

“Is it just me or is it boring in here?” Nicole said

“What?” Caesar slurred

“How about we play a little game?” Nicole said

“Game?”

“Truth or Drink”

“I don’t know about this, someone has to drive home” Wise was hesitant

“It won’t go too far” Nicole assured

“You know what, let’s play” Caesar agreed.

Soon a waiter brought multiple shots to the table

“That’s a lot of alcohol” Lighter said

“Right, now who to start” Caesar looked around

“Oh oh, I’ll go first” Burnice waved her hand in the air

“Alright” Ceasar propped put down another glass

“Mhhh, anyone caught your eye?” Burnice looked at Nicole

“W-W-What? That's not how the game goes” Nicole slurred

“This seems fun” Lucy looked at Nicole

“I uh” Nicole immediately took a shot

“Sneaky girl” Burnice teased

“How about you huh?” Nicole snapped back

“Of course I do, he’s a cutie~”

“Who is it?” Caesar inquired

“Nu uh, that’s a secret” Burnice said as she casually took a shot

“Some strong stuff”

“What about you Luce?” Caesar turned to Lucy

“Hmp, nobody is deserving of my eye”

“And you bro?” Lighter looked at Wise

“Well” Wise noticed intense gazes coming from Burnice and Nicole making him gulp

Wise resorted to taking a shot

‘Looks like he has one but won’t answer’ Nicole deduced

“How brave” Lucy commented

“Best to not stir up any rumors” Wise smiled

‘Or cause any fights’ he thought

“I agree, drama is so unnecessary” Lucy said

“My turn” Caesar downed a shot

“You’re supposed to ask a question you idiot”

“Oh yeah”

“Guess she’s drunk already” Lighter said

After a few rounds of truths and many more drinks the night progressed farther than Wise initially thought. It was time to part ways but however things wouldn’t be that simple. Nicole was face down on the table with Caesar out cold leaning back onto the seat. Lucy was very tipsy and Burnice drooling on Wise’s shoulder.

“Looks like they were really into it” Lighter remarked

“This is going to be a pain, do you have a ride?” Wise asked

“I gottaaaaa, ride in the looooot” Lucy slurred

“Nicole brought a car” Wise said

“I’ll take these three, you deal with her” Lighter said

“Cool”

“Help me move em” Lighter said.

“Don’t *hiccup* touch me” Lucy weakly tried to resist but was too weak for Wise’s grip

“Got these two” Lighter had Caesar on his back piggyback while Burnice was carried bridal style

“I’ll come back for Nicole”

“Stop *hiccup* holdin me” Lucy squirmed on Wise’s back

“We’re almost at your car”

“Cold” Lucy leaned into Wise’s back

“We’re here, put Lucy in shotgun” Lighter instructed to which Wise obliged

“Uhhh, so cold” Lucy mumbled

“Here” Wise took off his jacket and put it on Lucy

“Take *hiccup* this off me” Lucy once again fought but she eventually passed out

“Thanks for the drinks bro” Lighter and Wise shook hands

“It was fun I guess”

“Oh and uh, sorry for ruining your date”

“It wasn’t a date per se” Wise said

“Anyways, see you at work man” Lighter said as he got into the car and drove off with the three drunk women asleep in the car

“Now that leaves Nicole” Wise went back into the bar to get his unconscious friend

“Come on” Wise struggled to carry her out of the booth

‘Got you’ Wise managed to get her into a bridal carry

He pushed himself to carry her all the way to her car

‘Why did we park so far?’ Wise complained as he placed Nicole in the backseat and got inot the driver’s seat afterward

“Where does she live again?” Wise said

‘Her license’ he thought of a solution

“Sorry” Wise reached into her purse to find nothing

“Ohh, that’s bad, where do I take her now?” Wise sat contemplating his options

------------------------NEXT MORNING---------------------------

“Ugh, my head” Nicole sat up in bed with her hand rubbing her temple

“How did I get here?” Nicole reached for the nightstand but felt something off

“Where’s my alarm clock?” she finally came to her senses as the landscape was not familiar in the slightest

“Where am I?” she immediately checked under the blankets to see she was sporting a change of clothes

“WHAT THE HELL!?” she exclaimed in distress as she jumped out of bed despite her bad hangover and opened the door and rushed down the staircase.

“ANBY!” she frantically screamed

She made her way halfway through the ground floor until she encountered three people sitting down at a breakfast table

“Oh, seems like she’s awake” Carole remarked

“Morning Ms. Demara” Belle greeted with a cheeky grin on her face

“Eh?” she looked over at Wise who was just rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly

“W-What happened? Did we-”

“Woah, there are kids here” Belle cut in as she playfully covered her ears

“Let me explain” Wise started

Wise explained the events of the past night to Nicole who was now just suffering from sheer embarrassment

“Oh god” she sat with her face behind her hands

“You had a wild night huh?” Carole commented

“What even is the time?”

“It’s 7:30” Carole said

“I’m going to be late for work too”

“Don’t worry, you can borrow some clothes from me although the tops might not fit” Carole said as she looked at Nicole’s chest causing her to blush

“I’ll borrow her a shirt”

“Then it’s settled, you can use our shower too” Carole offered

“Thanks, I guess” Nicole said

“Want some more bacon?” Belle offered

------------------------------ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL------------------------------

Nicole had parked the car in the teacher's lot, but her and Wise had not yet disembarked

“You go out first then I’ll follow” Nicole said

“Got it” Wise discretely exited the car and snuck around strategically to avoid being spotted

“Okay, now’s my turn” Nicole exited the car and made it into the school building without being spotted herself.

‘Looks like the coast is clear, now it’s time for the morning brief’ Nicole said with a smug smirk on her face as she walked into the staff room. As soon as she walked in she noticed some glances from the other members of staff as she walked through to her seat

‘Why are they staring at me?’ Nicole thought in confusion before glancing at Wise who looked mortified as well

“Uh, Ms. Demara” Mayflower started

“What is it?” Nicole was now totally lost

“Is that yours?” he pointed at Nicole’s torso to which she looked down and her eyes widened in horror as her face lost all colour

Her employee tag was swapped and it was swapped with Wise's

‘Fuck me’ Nicole swore internally as the others’ glanced between her and Wise.

Chapter Text

“U-Uh” Nicole quickly removed the tag, and her face was flushed a deep red

“H-How did that get there?” Nicole tried to divert

Mayflower raised an eyebrow before briefly glancing at a terrified Wise

‘That boy really is something’ Mayflower thought

“Alright since everyone’s here...”

The briefing went on for 10 minutes but for Nicole it felt like days in that room. Her heart was racing and her mind swirled with an array of different thoughts

‘They think we slept together, they definitely think we slept together’ Nicole panicked

‘What about him?’ Nicole discretely glanced over at Wise who managed to keep a calm expression although there were some remnants of worry present in his eyes.

‘How did she take my tag?’ Wise was trying his best to retrace their steps back at his house

“And that’s all for today, so get out and work hard” Mayflower concluded before exiting the room.

Soon groups of people streamed out of the room to tend to their classes, but Wise was stopped in his tracks by none other than Nicole.

“Here” Nicole swiftly handed the tag back to Wise as she dragged him to a private spot

“What are we gonna do?” Nicole looked like she had seen a ghost

“I think it’s best we don’t say anything”

“But that will arouse suspicion”

“Don’t tell unless asked” Wise said

“Damn this” Nicole muttered before walking off to teach her class

“This is a mess, but it’ll blow over”

“What happened?” a voice startled Wise

“B-Burnice?”

“Did you go take her home, hm?” Burnice had her head tilted waiting for an answer

“Uh, yeah, but it was because she was drunk, and I didn’t know where else to take her”

Burnice’s eyes narrowed before returning to her normal bubbly self

“Okay, see ya later~” Burnice skipped off

‘Looks like she didn’t get him’ Burnice thought as she got away from Wise

“Phew that was stressful” Wise said before leaving for his office

-----------------------SOMEWHERE ELSE THAT DAY------------------------

“Tch, that player, getting girls every night like it’s easy work” Lucy pouted as she looked at the jacket folded neatly sitting on her desk.

“Was he just trying to play me too?” Lucy held it in her hand

‘He didn’t have to do that last night, but he still did, typical players’

“He should take this back and not come to my face”

“Ms. De Montefio?”

“KNOCK FIRST, I’M A DIRECTOR!” Lucy scolded as she hid the jacket in her drawer

“Sorry” Wise walked in

‘Is he here for the jacket?’

“Mr Mayflower said I should give these to you” he handed her some documents

“Oh” Lucy took them and laid them on the desk as Wise walked out

“H-Hey” Lucy called out with her hand on the drawer

“Yeah?” Wise looked back causing Lucy’s heart to beat irregularly

“Nothing, just leave” she let go of the drawer

“Okay” Wise walked out

‘Huh, weird’ Wise thought

“Dammit Lucy, why couldn’t you just hand it back to him” she beat herself up

“It’s fine, it’s fine, I’ll return it to him at a later time” Lucy collected herself and sat back down

“Now back to these papers” Lucy got back to work

----------------------FOLLOWING DAY-------------------

“Phew okay Lucy, just return the jacket”

Lucy walked to the door of the office and was about to knock on the door, but she heard chatter on the inside

‘Someone’s inside’ Lucy pressed her eat against the door

“I brought the homework, sorry it’s late, I forgot my book”

“It’s fine Ellen, I’ll get it back to you by end of day” Wise said

“Say, how long are you staying here?”

“Hm?”

“I mean, when are you leaving like forever?”

“Hah, I’ll be here for a few more months, still a long way to go” Wise said

“How has it been?” Ellen sat in the chair opposite to him

“It’s been ‘eventful’, but it’s okay”

“Hmm” Ellen put a lollipop in her mouth

“You do Karaoke?”

“Karaoke?”

“My friends and I are going on Friday, I just wondered if you want to come, we have an extra ticket and we just don’t want to waste it”

‘Why is she asking me? Why not Belle?’

“Uh, did you ask Belle or any other friends?”

“They got plans so next best thing is you”

“I don’t know Ellen, this could risk my job, hanging out with students and all”

Ellen just rolled her eyes and sighed

“It’s not like, it’s a date or anything, just a hangout, plus you’re like young and stuff”

‘She’s asking him out’ Lucy thought before she hovered her hand over the door handle

‘Come on Lucy, put a stop to this’ Lucy’s hand hesitated before freezing

‘But why do I care so much? It’s not like I like him or anything’ she glanced down at the jacket

‘Fuck’ she swore internally before dropping her hand

“I guess there’ll be no harm, so see you on Friday” Wise agreed although with his reservations

“Cool, see you” Ellen got up and walked out

Lucy managed to evade detection by using her small size to hide behind nearby some lockers.

“Tch” she felt a nagging frustration at the situation.

On the other side....

“He said yes” Ellen said

“REALLY!?” her three friends squealed and ululated wildly

“Jeez, calm down” Ellen said with a blush on her face

“What happened?” Ruby held Ellen’s hands in her own as she came up into her face

“He was worried about the whole student teacher thing, some convincing then blah blah blah, he said yes”

“All according to plan” Lynn smiled as she adjusted her glasses

“Now we wait till Friday” Monna said

“This is so fun, like that one T.V show” Ruby said

“Ellen’s going to get a boyfriend” Monna gushed

“And he has a job too; he’ll spoil her to the moon” Lynn joked

“You guys are embarrassing” Ellen began walking away but her friends began hovering behind her

“But you still love us~” Ruby poked her tail

“HEY!” Ellen recoiled her tail closer to her body and away from her friends

“Don’t touch thiren tails without consent you idiot” Monna flicked Ruby’s forehead

“Ow” she rubbed her the red spot on her head

“Operation: Shark Love, begins now” Lynn said

“Stop with the stupid names” Ellen said causing her friends to chuckle

Chapter Text

“Going on another date?” Carole remarked

“Not a date, I was invited for karaoke”

“Ohhh, serenade them big bro” Belle said

“There again with those jokes” Wise said

“I’m just pulling your leg”

“But do make sure to stay in tune” Carole said

“I’ll try; I’m not much of a singer”

“I see, want a ride?”

“Mmmh, no I’ll take the bus”

“Okay then” Carole walked out

“By the way Belle, didn’t you tell Ellen you have plans tonight?”

“Pla-” Belle paused before clocking what was going on

“Uh yeah, I’m going out after you” Belle saved

“Really, that’ll be really late out, I don’t think mom will be happy”

“She’s uh, she said it’s fine” Belle lied

Wise just shrugged

“Guess it’s time to go” Wise said

He left soon after leaving Carole and Belle home

“Mom” Belle said to Carole

“Hm?”

“If Wise ever asks, I wasn’t at home for the next 2 hours”

“What?”

“It’s for a friend, please do this” Belle brought out the puppy dog eyes

“Ugh, fine” Carole just decided to accept

----------------------------THE HANGOUT-----------------------

“Hey old man” Ellen walked out into the living room

“Yes Ellen?” Lycaon turned to his surrogate daughter

“I’m going out, I’ll be back around 9” Ellen said as she put on her shoes

“Stay safe”

“Whatever” Ellen walked out of the apartment

As she walked out of the apartment she took out the ticket to the place and sighed

“Here goes nothing”

Ellen managed to catch the bus much to her luck, the place was not much farther now.

‘Remember the plan, invite him out, talk and tell him’ Ellen reminded herself of rundown of the plan

“Is that him?” Ellen glanced at Wise who was just standing outside of the building looking at his phone

‘He’s here already’ Ellen took a deep breath and approached him

“Oh hey Ellen” Wise smiled at her

Ellen buried her cheeks in her hood

“Where are the others?” Wise looked around

“Yeah, where are the others?” Ellen pulled out her phone and called Lynn

“Hey” Lynn said

“Where are you?”

“Sorry Ellen, we aren’t coming” Monna spoke from the background making Ellen freeze

“Huh?” Ellen distanced from Wise a bit

“What do you mean you aren’t coming?” Ellen scolded in a harsh tone

“We mean, we aren’t coming, this was the last part of the plan” Ruby said

“You didn’t tell me about this”

“If we did, you would never have gone through with it” Lynn reasoned

“You traitors” Ellen spoke

“Sorry Ellen we love you” Monna said before cutting the call.

Ellen turned back to Wise who was just waiting for her

“Are they coming?”

‘What the hell do I say? Do I cancel?’

Ellen hesitated

“Uh they said they couldn't make it; Ruby has some stomach problems” Ellen lied

“Oh, that’s interesting”

“So, it’s just us” Ellen sped into the building

“Woah wait up” Wise trailed behind

Wise and Ellen managed to find themselves an empty karaoke room.

Ellen plopped down on the couch and Wise sat down as well.

“So” Wise started

“What do you want to sing?”

“Huh?” Ellen’s eyes widened

“S-Sing?”

“Yeah, we are at karaoke after all” Wise stood up and began setting up the machine

‘I was never supposed to sing, those assholes’ Ellen thought of her friends with cheeky grins on their faces.

“If you don’t want to go first, I can start us out”

“You sing?” Ellen had a question mark hover above her head

“No not really but I can try, I did karaoke once in college”

Wise plugged in the mic and the music started playing, lyrics rolling on the screen. Wise’s vocals were not the best out there, he wasn’t the best singer in the world, but he certainly wasn't the worst. After a minute and a half of his vocal cords straining Wise completed his song and hit a bow.

Ellen lightly clapped

“Thank you, thank you, I love all my fans” he mused as he held the mic out to Ellen

“W-Wuh?” Ellen was flustered

“It’s your turn”

‘He already sang, I can’t be a downer and not sing’ Ellen mustered up courage to grab the mic and start her song.

Ellen was surprisingly decent at singing, an untrained although good sounding voice. Wise was shocked.

“BRAVO!” Wise clapped frantically

“Stop it, you idiot” Ellen hid her flushed cheeks in her hoodie

“You’re good, you should join the school choir or something”

“Stop with the complements”

Ellen’s words did not reflect how she felt, deep down she enjoyed the praise coming from Wise and craved more but did not want to look needy

“That was fun” Wise leaned back into the seat with eyes closed. Ellen took notice and used the opportunity to shorten the gap between them. The space was now minimal, her tail resting on her lap and quiet but erratic breaths.

‘It’s now or never’

“Wise”

“Yeah?”

“I-I have something to say”

“What’s up?” Wise was now fully facing her

Ellen swore she could hear her friends pushing in the back of her head. Her heart raced faster than an F1 race car.

“I” She paused

“I love-” Wise was still gazing at her intently

“I love singing that song” she changed up last minute, she choked and couldn't admit

‘FUCK ME!’ she beat herself up

“I loved the song too, you’re really good at singing, you should really join the choir”

Ellen sighed with disappointment towards nobody but herself

‘I blew it’

After another hour together the two were stood outside the venue talking to each other.

“It is pretty late out; I couldn’t allow myself to let walk home by yourself” Wise said

Ellen felt heat creep up on her cheeks

“Whatever” she said

Wise lucked out by finding a late-night cab for them both. Wise being the responsible person he was also rode with Ellen back to her home.

“The old man is home, just letting you know” Ellen unlocked the door

“It’s fine, have a good night”

“Wait” Wise turned around was suddenly embraced

“E-Ellen?”

“Thanks” she released him before going back into the apartment

“A minute late” Lycaon said

“Calm down, I just got here” Ellen shot back

“Was that the boy you like?” Lycaon mused

“W-What it’s to you?”

“Just curiosity”

“How did you even know about that?”

“Your friends are abnormally loud over the phone”

“You know what, I’m going to sleep” Ellen walked into her room and shut the door

“Hmp” Lycaon smiled to himself

Chapter Text

“So how did it go?” Monna asked

“I-I chickened out” Ellen muttered

“What?” Lynn was shocked

“I couldn’t do it, I got cold feet”

“That’s a shame” Ruby said

“But it’s not the end”

“We’ll help you out and won’t give up till you get him” Monna declared

“Guys...” Ellen was speechless at her friend’s dedication and loyalty

“Shhhh, no need to say anything” Ruby put a finger over Ellen’s lips

“Let’s go to class” Lynn said

Around the corner was an eavesdropping ear

‘Looks like nothing changed between them’ Lucy thought

‘But why am I happy about it? It’s not like I like him or anything, I'm just concerned for a student, yeah concerned for a student’ Lucy thought in denial

‘Now it’s time to return that jacket’ Lucy walked with the item folded, down the hall was the office where he usually did his work.

‘Teehee, looks like nobody’s there’

Suddenly she heard approaching footsteps coming from the down the hall

‘Crap nobody should see me with this’ Lucy in a panic threw the jacket into the nearby dustbin and began to act naturally

“Oh, heya youngster,” said another short blonde

“Piper” Lucy acknowledged

“What ya up to?”

“Nothing just scanning the halls for some strays”

“Those kiddos need some good discipline; them youngsters think skipping class is cool” Piper said

“That’s why I’m here, to knock some sense into those knuckleheads” Lucy said

“Anyways, I was just coming over to see this kid” Piper pointed at Wise’s door

“Heh?” Lucy’s eyes widened

“W-What for?”

“Some field trip needs some staff members, so I just decided with the easiest startin point” Piper explained as she opened the door.

‘Crap’ Lucy impulsively followed her inside

“Oh hey guys”

“Sup” Piper casually greeted

“Hello” Lucy said awkwardly

“What brings you here?”

“Got a field trip for the senior class youngsters, we need some teachers on site” Piper said

“Oh, you want me to go?”

“If you will?”

“Hmm” Wise was in thought

‘Shit I forgot his jacket, if he goes, when am I supposed to give it back?’ Lucy’s mind was racing

“How long will we be gone?”

“From next week Monday to Friday”

“5 days?” Wise put his finger on his chin to contemplate

“I guess I’ll come if you need me” Wise agreed

“Great, now to get a couple more” Piper started walking out

“I’LL GO TOO!” Lucy exclaimed

“Huh?” Piper turned around in confusion

“I’ll go too”

“That’s odd, aren’t you some big-time director?” Piper asked

“So?”

Piper just raised her hands in surrender

“Cool, if ya wanna go, you can go” Piper accepted as she walked out

‘Why did I just do that?’ Lucy questioned her actions

“I guess I’ll see you on the trip” Wise smiled at Lucy

“GAH!” Lucy sprawled out in a rush shutting the door.

“Was it something I said?” Wise was confused

‘Fuck, a director going on a field trip, how could I be so impulsive?’ Lucy beat herself up as she fished Wise’s jacket out of the bin

“And I have to wash this again” Lucy groaned

Lucy pouted as she made her way back to her office.

----------------------LATER ON THAT DAY-------------------

“Sup youngster” Piper peered her head into Wise’s office

“Yeah?”

“Venus ain’t here?”

“No, she’s in a class, what brings you back?”

“Need some help with something” Piper said

“Okay, let’s do it”

Piper took Wise over to the school bus shed

“What are we doing here?”

“Need to do one of them safety checks” Piper pulled out a clipboard

“Isn’t Grace supposed to be doing this?”

“She ain’t on campus so the boss left it to me, so I called you up to lend a hand to lil ol me”

Wise sighed

“Guess it’s my job” Wise said before him and Piper began working

“First things first, we need to check them tires”

Wise crouched down and inspected for any holes or cracks on the wheels

“Now time for pressure tests” Piper pulled out a tire pressure gauge and began working on each individual wheel

“You’re really savvy at this” Wise complemented

“When you’re a dedicated driver like lil ol me, you’ll pick up a thing or two”

“That’s really cool”

A light flush appeared on Piper’s cheeks

“Nough of that flirtin” Piper said

‘Flirting?’ Wise was confused but he just brushed it off

The two checked the bus thoroughly, making sure every screw as tight and every bolt was secure except for one place.

“Alrighty, now we gotta check a recent fixer, that thing better be right” Piper said

The two went to the side of the bus together with a ladder

“Alright, make sure keep it secure”

“Got it” Wise tightly gripped the ladder as Piper climbed to the top

Piper reached the peak and began testing the repaired component of the exterior

“Seems a bit loose” Piper said

“Can it be fixed?”

“Yep, just a pushing here and it’ll be stuck in” Piper began pressing onto the part

“Almost there” Piper took another step, but misfortune hit at the worst moment possible

“WOAH!” Piper slipped off the ladder

“PIPER!” Wise stepped directly under her to break her fall, a loud thud echoed, and silence followed momentarily

“Ugh” Piper uttered

“You alright kidd-” Piper stopped as she realized the compromising the position they were in.

Piper was straddling Wise

“I-I’m fine, are you alright?” Wise looked up at her blushing face which was looking down at him as well

‘Where is she? Did she write my name on the staff list?’ Lucy thought as she entered the area but froze as she saw the two at distance. Lucy immediately hid behind some crates

“A-Are they?” Lucy peered over to look

“Ahem” Piper stood up instantly

“Sorry bout that, my foot slipped” she said

‘What are they saying?’ Lucy closed some distance to better listen

“It’s all good” Wise said as he got up

“Sorry about the slip, Getting it in was a hassle”

‘What is she talking about? It can’t be about his, no it probably isn’t’ Lucy continued eavesdropping

“I’m just glad it didn’t turn out bad”

“It did end up good anyway, I feel great” Piper said

‘D-Did they do it? In school? No that’s not possible, they don’t even talk that much, or do they?’ Lucy’s mind was racing with theories

“I’m glad you’re okay” Wise said

“Good thing my back wasn’t blown out” Piper said

‘THEY DID IT!’ Lucy concluded as her mind was plagued with images of Wise and Piper

“What is the time?”

“It’s, oh it’s end of day” Wise said

“Let’s go kiddo, we’re done with what we wanted” Piper said as her and Wise walked out

“I can’t believe this” Lucy mouthed

She grit her teeth

“No, I won’t accept defeat” Lucy got up and left afterwards

Chapter Text

“Bro let’s go” Belle whined

“Hold on” Wise zipped up his small suitcase

“Come on” Belle piped up

“If we left now we’d be over half an hour early” Wise deadpanned

“I know, the best seats are available by then”

“It’s a bus, who cares where you sit?”

“You just don’t get it, it’s a young people thing”

“Haha, nice joke” Wise’s sarcasm seeped out from that line

“I know, now get your ass out of here” Belle forcefully grabbed Wise’s bag

‘Atleast she helped this time’ Wise thought as he walked out

“You two know remember what I told you” Carole said

“Yeah yeah safety first” Belle said

“And?” Carole looked at her

“No messing around with boys” Belle said bashfully

“Good”

“And as for you, make sure your little sis is safe” Carole said

“I will”

“I’m not a five-year-old, you know” Belle cut in

“Yes, but you’re still my baby~” Carole playfully pinched Belle’s cheek

“Uuuuhhhhhh” Belle sounded as Carole gently tugged on her cheeks

“Alright enough of that” Carole released her daughter

“Are we going now?” Belle rubbed her slightly sore cheeks

“Yes, now get into the car, I have work to get to” Carole instructed

“Finally” Belle muttered

After a relatively calm drive, the family made it to the school building, Belle’s first instinct was to rush for the bus shed with her luggage. Wise towed behind her at a distance. Much to her chagrin there were in fact early arrivals who were already waiting there.

“Damn it” Belle stopped her trek with Wise arriving a minute after her.

“Caught you” Wise said in between breaths

“I told we should have gotten up at 3 am” Belle scolded

“Belle, it’s only 6:30” Wise looked at his phone

“But the sweet spot could be gone already” Belle complained

“It’s just a seat plus nobody got in the bus yet”

“You’re right, I still have a chance” Belle went into thought

“Oh what’s up Belle?” a young girl approached the two

“Ah, besides the roof, nothing much”

The girl just looked at Belle with a smile

“Bad joke, got it” Belle retracted

“Hi Mr. Arna” she waved at him

“Uh hello?”

“Oh , you don’t know me yet, I’m Ju Fufu” she introduced with an outstretched hand

“Nice to meet you, I think I’ve seen your name, just never had a face”

“I’ve always seen you around the halls even though we’ve never talked before” she said

“You see me often?”

“A lot” she said

“Oh, well nice to meet you”

“See you~” she waved as she skipped off

“A friend of yours?” Wise looked at Belle

“I think she likes you~” Belle teased

“Stop the teasing”

“I was just kidding, it’s too soon to tell”

“Belle” Wise groaned

“Kidding, just take a joke”

“Is that you being early?” Harumasa appeared

“A-A-Asaba" Belle stuttered and blushed

“Good day Mr. Arna” Asaba turned to him

“Hello Harumasa” Wise smiled at him

“What are you doing here Asaba?” Belle crossed her arms

“I’m going on the field trip” he said

“I know that, but why are you over here specifically?” Belle gestured to the space occupied by her and her brother

“Just checking on my favorite teacher and girl” he said

Belle just rolled her eyes

“Oh brother” she groaned

“I think, I should step away” Wise said as he walked off

“B-BRO!” Belle tried to grab Wise’s sleeve, but he already was far away

“What’s wrong? Can't’ stand me?” Asaba feigned hurt

‘Is this revenge on me bro?’ Belle glanced at her brother who just walked out of sight

“Anyways, you ready for this?”

“I’ve been looking forward to this for the past week” Belle said

“Got a seatmate?” Asaba asked

“W-Why?” Belle stood on guard

“I don’t want to get lumped with just anybody”

“Don’t you have friends or something?” Belle shot back

“I do but most of them are my fangirls”

“And what makes me different?”

“I don’t know you just are” Harumasa said playfully

Belle just sighed

“Fine”

“See you on the bus” Asaba put his hands in his pockets and lazily walked off

‘What’s he up to?’ Harumasa looked back and winked

‘I’m not some floozy; you can’t mess around with me that easily’ Belle declared

After about half an hour of waiting, people entered in dribs and drabs. Following the arrival of everybody involved the bus was filled with the seated students, staff members outside discussing logistics and talking amongst themselves about final prep before departure

“Is somebody missing?” Piper looked around

“I’m here, sorry for worrying you” Wise appeared

“Look who decided to show up~” Burnice crept up Wise’s arm

“I was already here, just went for a walk”

“Without me?” Burnice pretended to be hurt

“Enough of that” Lucy cut in aggressively

“You good Luce?” Caesar looked down on the blonde

“Just fine” Lucy tensed her jaw

Lucy and Burnice glared at each other intensely although Burnice had a smile and the atmosphere became thick

“Ahem” Lighter intervened

“Nice to see you on the trip bro” Lighter pulled Wise away from the two women and into a hug

“You owe me” he swiftly whispered into Wise’s ear

“Anyways did we introduce you to kitty?” Burnice changed the subject

“Who?” Wise looked around till his eyes landed on a cat thiren woman standing unamused by all.

“Stop with that bullshit nickname”

“Aww don’t be like that” Burnice hugged her tail

“LET GO!” she growled as her fur stood up

“This youngun here is Pulchra” Piper introduced

“Our very own school logistics expert”

“Whatever” Pulchra rolled her eyes

“She’s coming too?” Wise asked

“Yep, need somebody to handle our resources, food distribution and all that pollock” Piper explained

“Let’s hop in, these kids can’t be left alone for long” Lighter said

“Right, let’s do this team” Caesar declared as she charged onto the bus

“Typical boar” Lucy remarked

The teachers all boarded the bus, but another issue arose, the seating plan.

Lucy sat in the front passenger beside Piper, mostly because she used her director rank but her internal motivation was, she was just too nervous to sit by Wise

“Now where to sit” Wise looked around for any free seats

Pulchra was stuck with Burnice like paper with glue. Lighter took the seat by Caesar and noticed his friend was still without a place

“It’s a bit hard to find a seat” Wise remarked.

“You can take mine” Lighter offered as he stood up

“Oh no, I can’t possibly”

“Don’t worry bro plus those kids at the back need a close eye on them” Lighter pat him on the shoulder

“But you owe me two now” Lighter whispered as he walked to the back of the bus.

Wise sat down by Caesar

“Looks like I got a new seatmate” she grinned

“Yeah, guess I am” Wise mused

“BUCKLE UP!” Piper’s voice boomed via the speakers as the bus took off

“Classic Piper, always the smoothest takeoffs” Caesar said

‘Smooth?’ Wise wondered as he felt the contrary, his body shifted once more with a hard jerk before stabilizing

The jerk caused Caesar’s bag to fall to the ground and a book fell out

“YIKES!” Caesar scrambled to hide it but was far too late, Wise already managed to get a glance on what it was

“Did you see?” Caesar hugged her bag clsoe to her chest

“Should I say no?” Wise awkwardly asked

“You already saw” Caesar blushed wildly as she looked out the window

“What’s wrong? It’s just a manga” Wise said

“Shhh” Caesar shushed as she looked through the crack between the seat for listeners

“I can’t let anyone know I read these”

“Why?”

“I-I just can’t” Caesar said shyly

In Wise’s mind from the minimal interactions they had, he always assumed Caesar was the brawny sports coach, but he never expected to see this bashful side of her nor did he expect she had one.

“Don’t worry I won’t tell anybody” Wise assured

“Pinky promise” Caesar stuck out her small finger

“Promise” Wise intertwined his around the much stronger one

‘Just like the manga’ Caesar thought

“Is that Space Princess: The Ultimate Solar Love?” Wise asked

“You know it?” Caesar’s eyes widened

“Well, if have a little sister who loves anime, you kind off pick things up willingly or not” Wise smiled

Caesar felt her heart skip a beat

“W-Would you like to read it with m-me?”

“If you don’t mind” Wise said

“C-Cool then” Caesar discretely took it out and opened the book, for the next 15 minutes the two read through a couple of pages together

‘He doesn’t think I’m a weirdo otaku’ Caesar fawned

“Ohhh, what’s that?” Burnice peered from the front

“NOTHING!” Caesar zipped up her bag instantly

‘What are these two doing?’ Burnice wondered as she locked her sights on the bag clenched in Caesar’s arms

“Cool beans” Burnice slowly resettled herself back into her seat

“Stop fidgeting you maniac” Pulchra said as she tried to get comfortable

“Calm down kitty, it’s not my fault you ass is big”

“Hmpf” Pulchra just huffed as she faced the opposite direction trying to go to sleep

“That bimbo” Lucy uttered as she looked back at Burnice

‘At least she isn’t near Wise, the boar isn’t a threat, and neither is that cat’ Lucy looked at Piper next, who was just looking at road

‘And neither is she’

Lucy looked back at the road; trees passing by and being left behind, oncoming traffic moving by and some cars overtaking too.

‘They won’t win, as long as I’m here, they won’t win’

Chapter Text

Lucy felt a small rocking motion jolting her awake

“What’s up youngin?” Piper asked

“Can’t you drive a little smoother?” Lucy complained

“This is the smoothest we can get, not my fault the roads all tacky”

“Ugh” Lucy rolled her eyes and looked back to see Burnice drooling all over Pulchra’s shoulder, who was also asleep. Lucy leaned to catch a glimpse of Caesar’s full weight out cold on Wise’s shoulder. Drool also leaking to of her mouth

‘That gorilla’ Lucy grits her teeth

Piper took a sharp turn, and the momentum lightly woke Caesar

“Huh?” her eyes opened with drool still leaking from her mouth

She stretched her hands and yawned then she looked over at Lucy who quickly faced the front.

‘Huh that’s weird’ she thought before her thoughts were interrupted by Wise falling onto her shoulder

“G-Gah” she uttered before shutting her mouth

‘Just like the manga’ Caesar thought with a blush on her face

Caesar’s fingers hovered close to a hair strand by Wise’s temple

‘Just like the main girl Caesar, you can do this’ Caesar lightly brushed the strand back into place and Wise stirred on her shoulder

‘KYAAAAHHHHHH!’ she gushed in her head

‘Calm down Caesar, you’re an adult not a kid’ Caesar tried to rein in her rampant mind

Wise once more stirred and woke up

He yawned and looked up at a blushing Caesar, realizing where he was, Wise suddenly sat up with straight posture.

“Ahem, sorry”

“N-No problem, it’s all c-c-cool beans” she stuttered

‘I hope I didn’t make her uncomfortable’ Wise looked at her and she avoided his gaze

‘She’s totally uncomfortable’ Wise concluded

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean-”

“IT’S TOTALLY COOL!” Caesar’s voice cracked as her blush deepened

“You sure?”

“Yep” Caesar nodded furiously

“I’ll lean on the other side from now on” Wise adjusted himself accordingly

‘NO! NO! NO! COME BACK!’ Caesar screamed in her head

Caesar took a deep breath and leaned in the opposite direction

Towards the back of the bus.....

“You’re good at this game” Harumasa watched on a Belle played with her phone

“I play it everyday”

“You know what they say, practice makes perfect” she added

“Can I try?” Harumasa held out his hand

“As if” Belle distanced the phone away from him

“Come on, I’m not going to eat your phone” Harumasa joked

“Keep your hands to yourself” Belle pouted

“Woah, I’m not a handsy guy” Harumasa raised both hands

“You're sure about that?” Belle gestured over to a bunch of sleeping schoolgirls

“Hey, they touched me, a huge difference”

“Still, you touch each other, I’m not about that” Belle said

“Cool, boundaries, love em” Asaba mused

Belle just sighed clearly tired of his antics

“What’s the game called?” he asked

“Why?”

“Seems fun”

“Rust Blasters” she said before going back to playing

“Noted”

‘Why is he so invested in this silly game?’ Belle thought

After another couple hours of riding and bathroom breaks, the travelers finally arrived at their destination. A camping site which was selected as the case study for the geography class’s final exam later in the year.

“GAH!” Ceasar stretched her back

“Finally, here” Pulchra groaned as she walked around the stretch her legs

“So what do we do from here? ‘director’” Burnice said to Lucy

“Tch, we settle, it’s almost dark anyway” Lucy replied with a bit of venom

“Oh goodie, who’s my roomie?” Burnice locked her sights on Wise

‘What is she implying?’ Wise thought

“Oh, I sorted rooms the rooms out” Lucy pulled out a clipboard

‘You’re really good huh?’ Burnice thought

“Wise you’ll be bunking with Lighter obviously” Lucy said

“Boar, you’ll be with this maniac and the cat”

“I’ll be with Piper”

“Why do I have to share with two people? And specifically these two” Pulchra argued

“A problem?” Lucy looked at her

“Yeah, I don’t want to share with these two, they’re far too chaotic” Pulchra pointed at Burnice and Caesar

“HEY!” they exclaimed in unison

“Well too bad, you’re stuck with them” Lucy said

“No chance in hell, I’d rather sleep on the bus”

“Ugh” Lucy groaned in annoyance

“It’s either you move, and I take Piper or Piper moves, and I take you” Pulchra gave an ultimatum

“Sorry kiddo, but my cabin got a nice heater by the bed, I can’t give that up” Piper refused

“Then I guess the bus it is” Pulchra decided as she began to get back onto the vehicle

“Wait, you can take my spot” Wise volunteered

“Huh?” Pulchra raised an eyebrow

“You can take my room, I’ll be in the one you were sleeping in”

“Are you sure?” Pulchra asked

“If it will bring back the peace, then yeah”

‘A SELFLESS PRINCE LIKE IN THE MANGA!’ Caesar blushed

“Cool”

‘YES! YES! YES!’ Burnice celebrated mentally

‘NO! NO! NO!’ Lucy panicked

“N-NO!” Lucy refused

“What?” Wise turned to the short girl

“T-That’s inappropriate, you can’t sleep with two women” Lucy refused

“What’s up guys? What did I miss?” Lighter appeared

“Tell Wise he can’t sleep with two women in the same cabin” Lucy said

“Woah, how did that happen?”

“Kitty doesn’t want to bunk with us, so this gentleman offered to let her take his room” Burnice clung to Wise’s arm

“And I’ll gladly take it” Pulchra said

“That’s the problem?”

“Yeah that’s basically everything” Caesar said

‘I can’t let Wise be left with those two, he’ll die in there’ Lighter thought as he looked at Caesar and Burnice behind his shades.

“How about you stay, and I’ll swap?” Lighter put forward

“Oh, really now?” Burnice smiled at Lighter

‘I won’t be intimidated; Wise is safer with Pulchra than these two’ Lighter thought

“I think that’d be better since we’re closer to each other than you guys are to Wise plus Pulchra doesn’t really like socializing” Lighter explained

“AGREED!” Lucy immediately piped up

“Whatever as long as I’m not with these two” Pulchra took her luggage and began walking off

“Looks like this tussle is resolved” Piper said

‘What just happened?’ Wise was still confused

‘Now I have nothing to worry about, the boar is a bigger threat than I thought’ Lucy thought as she glanced over at Burnice and Caesar.

“Guess it’s time to settle” Lucy said as she merrily walked off dragging her suitcase with Piper in tow

The remainders went to their assigned rooms.

Wise closed the door behind him as he stood and looked at his surroundings.

“Lock the door” Pulchra came out in pyjamas

“Oh sorry” Wise did as requested

“I’m going to sleep, so keep you noise down” Pulchra said as she shut her door

“At least it’s peaceful here” Wise said as he walked into his room

In another cabin....

“Okay girl, now that we’re at camp, we’ll make sure to get you opportunities” Monna said to Ellen

“Yeah, good thing we’re in the same cabin” Lynn said from her bed

Ruby grabbed Ellen’s hands in hers

“In the next 5 days, Wise will become your boyfriend, we’ll make it happen”

“Ugh, just go to sleep” Ellen pulled away and ducked under the covers

Chapter Text

Gentle rays of light peered through a crack in the curtain, causing Wise to stir till he awoke on his bed.

“Morning already?” Wise yawned as he sat up in bed

“My alarm clock didn’t even ring” Wise said as he looked at the still active program on his phone

“Early bird catches the worm I guess” Wise resolved as he walked out of his room

Wise glanced over at Pulchra’s closed door

“It is pretty early, she’s probably still asleep” Wise reached for the doorknob to the bathroom, but it opened at that moment.

He stood face to face across from Pulchra, who had a bath towel wrapped around her torso, barely able to conceal her cleavage.

“GAH!” Pulchra exclaimed as she pulled her towel up further to hide vulnerable skin

“I-I, SORRY!” Wise covered his eyes and turned away

Pulchra rushed over into her room and shut the door with an audible click indicating its locked status.

‘I-I thought she was still sleeping’ Wise thought with a nagging feeling of awkwardness

After a following 30 minutes of preparation for the day, Wise exited his room, but his luck was still running low. Across from him Pulchra also just walked out

Pulchra glanced at him for a moment before walking off, not saying a word

‘I’m in so much trouble’ Wise worried

“Pulchra” Wise called out as she walked out of the cabin, Wise followed behind her

“Pulchra” he called out once more

“What?” she turned to look at him

“I’m so sorry for the morning, I didn’t me-”

“Forget it” Pulchra said

“Huh?”

“For...get...it” she reiterated slower

‘Am I still in trouble?’ Wise thought

“But don’t mention this to anyone, especially that maniac” Pulchra warned as she held Wise by the collar making him gulp

“Okay” Wise said with his voice pitching a little higher

“Good, it’s time for breakfast” Pulchra said

‘Phew at least nothing bad happened’ Wise thought with a bit of relief.

Pulchra and Wise made their way over to the canteen. Some of the kids were already present, mostly the early birds and surprisingly a couple of the teachers.

“Well well well, look who showed up” Burnice mused

“Can it” Pulchra hot back as she sat down

“Something interesting happen in there?” Burnice played on

“I said shut up” Pulchra responded

‘Looks like something happened’ Burnice thought as she looked between Pulchra and Wise

‘How does she know?’ Wise panicked inside

“Just pulling ya leg” Burnice ceased her teasing

“D-Did you sleep well?” Caesar asked bashfully

“I did, even though the bed was a bit stiff”

“Glad to hear it” Lighter said

“Good mornin’ younguns” Piper and Lucy arrived and sat down at the table

“Ohh, we’re eating some of them waffles” Piper said as she looked at the caterers prepping the plates

“High calorie foods” Lucy said in an exasperated voice

“What’s wrong with em sweetie?” Piper asked

“They’ll make my thighs bigger than the boars”

“HEY!” Caesar exclaimed in offense

“Hahahaha” Burnice chuckled

“Shut it” Caesar lightly punched the girl on the arm

“Ouchies” Burnice rubbed her sore arm

The teachers all ate their breakfast with Lucy eating as little as possible to avoid weight gain. The day’s activities had to begin from there, the senior group which travelled was relatively large so the solution which was put forth was to divide them into groups to be taken by supervisors from the staff.

“Let’s hope luck is on our side” Monna said to Ellen

“Yeah, I guess” she said lazily

“Ellen get ready, target approaching at ten o'clock” Ruby warned

“WHAT!?” Ellen felt a jolt of energy as she turned to see Wise approaching with Lighter.

“Are we in his group?” Lynn whispered to Ellen

“I hope so” Monna said

“Uh, Ellen?” Wise stopped in front of the friend group

“Y-Yes?”

‘WE’RE IN THE SAME GROUP!’ Ruby celebrated internally

“You’re in our group” Wise pointed at him and Lighter

“Yep” Lighter nodded as he looked the clipboard

“Cool teach, let’s go” Monna said

“Woah, hold on there” Lighter stopped

“What?”

“Ellen is in our group, the rest of you are under Ms. De Montefio” Lighter informed

The girls looked at Ellen with shock and worry

“Crap” Monna mouthed

“Guess this is where we part ways” Lynn hugged Ellen

“You’re on your own but make sure you don’t chicken out” she whispered swiftly but Ellen managed to get the gist of it

“BYE BYE!” Ruby waved as the three walked away

“You have amazing friends” Wise complemented as the three walked together to head to the other group members

“Thanks, Wise”

“Woah, first name basis now” Lighter mused

“Ahem, I mean Mr. Arna” Ellen quickly corrected

“You two seem close” Lighter commented

“We talk every now and again” Wise said

“Okay cool, I won’t pry into your business”

“Who’s in my group?” Ellen asked Lighter

“Oh, here they are” Lighter said as they arrived

Ellen looked at the faces in her group and it was indeed a mixed bunch. There stood Harumasa, Belle, Ju Fufu, a red-haired angry girl, a cat thiren girl and a girl wearing headphones and a green hoodie.

“Bout time” the red-haired girl said

“Calm down” the headphone girl said nonchalantly

“DON’T TELL ME TO CALM DOWN!” she yelled but the girl seemed unfazed

“Looks like Koleda is going off again” Ju Fufu whispered to Belle

“And Anby is the victim” Belle whispered back

“I HEARD THAT!”

“Nyahahaha, looks like somebody’s mad~”

“This goddamn cat” Koleda groaned

“Oh brother, this group is going to kill me” Ellen muttered to herself

“WELCOME TO THE TEAM!” the cat thiren pushed Ellen closer to the group

“Cut it out Nekomata” Ellen squirmed out of her grasp

“Looks like they get along, looks like this will be smooth sailing” Lighter commented

“I hope so” Wise said

After conversations and a long trek up the mountainous landscape, teh group reached the a high vantage point together

“Watch your step” Wise instructed

“Aye Aye captain” Belle said

‘There she goes again’

“Make sure to get good photos” Nekomata said to Anby

“I’m hungry, I want a burger” Anby said

“You always want burgers huh?” Ellen said

“They are life, they are my favorite thing” Anby said

“I think they’re cool too” Wise said

“Really?” Anby turned to him

“Yeah, they’re delicious”

“What is your favorite part of the burger?” Anby now walked beside Wise

Ellen glanced over and rolled her eyes before hearing her friend’s voices nagging at her in her head.

‘YOU’RE LOSING HIM!’ was all that rang in her head

Belle looked over and clocked the situation

‘Looks like somebody needs help’ Belle thought

“The view up is pretty nice” Asaba said

“Shush” Belle drifted off

“Weird” Harumasa uttered

“Say bro, what about candy?”

“What about it?”

“A burger is good but sweets after are even better”

“I guess but I don’t know any good sweets”

“Well, we have an expert right here” Belle pushed Ellen towards Wise and quickly vanished

‘BELLE YOU BITCH!’ Ellen internally screamed

“Uh yeah, I love candies”

“Nice work” Harumasa said

“What are you talking about?” Belle feigned ignorance

“You’re little save there, you’re trying to help her aren’t you?”

“And what if I am?”

“Woah, no problems here, just an observer” Harumasa said

“Always so nosy” Belle commented

“I’m a guy who keeps to myself”

Lighter was trailing behind the whole group; he observed Wise conversing with the shark thiren and burger loving girl while Koleda was being pestered by Ju Fufu and Nekomata.

His sights locked on Wise with the two girls on either side of him

‘Hmp, better be careful there or else things can get even more messy than they already are’

Chapter Text

“I’m pooped” Nekomata said

“TEACH! CAN WE TAKE A BREAK!?” Ju Fufu yelled from the top of a large rock

“Go ahead” Lighter said with a thumbs up

“Finally” Ju Fufu slid down and plopped down on a fallen log

She pulled out a chocolate bar along with some other snacks

“You have food?” Nekomata looked closely at the foodstuffs

“Hey this is for me, paws off” Ju Fufu protected her snacks

Anby’s stomach grumbled loudly

“Hmp” she uttered as she casually rubbed her belly

“You hungry?” Wise asked

“Yes”

“Here you go” Wise handed her his packed lunch

“What about you?”

“I ate a big breakfast plus I’m responsible for all of you” Wise smiled causing a light flush on Anby’s cheeks

“Thank you” Anby sat down and began digging into the food

“Nice one bro” Lighter said

“Yeah” Wise said as he felt his stomach grumble as well

Ellen watched on from a distance away from the others with crossed arms and furrowed brows

“You good?” Belle appeared over her shoulder

“Just fine” she groaned

“You sure? You look a little mad”

“I’m not mad” she said with a vein bulging from her temple

Ellen kicked a pebble with full force sending it flying

“You know my bro is a bit dense with women” Belle said

“So what?”

“I know you’re hung up over him”

“Tch” Ellen sounded as she faced away from Belle

“Come on, just bear with him”

“He just met burger girl and she’s already all over him”

“I wouldn’t say already”

“Look at them”

Belle looked over at the distance to an Anby eating from Wise’s lunch

“Maybe you’re right”

“See” Ellen leaned against a tree

“Come on, you just need to be more direct with him, he’s a bit dense” Belle whispered the last part

“Oh, what’s going on here?” Harumasa appeared

“Go away” Ellen bore her sharp teeth

“Woah, okay” Asaba retreated immediately

“My advice to you is to take more initiative” Belle said

“Initiative huh?” Ellen put a hand on her chin as her tail swayed from the side to side

“Let’s go meet up with the others” Belle grabbed Ellen’s arm

“Wait, slow down” Ellen said with a bit of annoyance

“TEACH! TEACH! TEACH!” Ju Fufu waved her hand frantically

“Yes Ju?” Lighter looked at the girl

“When are we heading back?”

“Soon, we just need to visit the valley then we’ll turn back” Wise said

“I can’t wait for lunch” Ju Fufu said

“Me too, I hope they serve mackerel” Nekomata’s mouth watered

“You two always think about food” Koleda remarked

“Don’t act like you sont think about you’re ultra super girly strawberry lambkin milk” Nekomata shot back

“GRRRR! DON’T MENTION THAT!” Koleda looked back at Lighter and Wise who pretended not to hear anything

“And neither should either of you” she pointed at the two men

“Hey, we didn’t say anything” Lighter said

“And you” Koleda pointed at Anby, who had crumbs on the corners of her mouth

“What?” she asked with her mouth having some food in it

“Don’t blurt about this to anyone”

Anby just shrugged

“What’s so embarrassing about it?” Wise asked

“It, it just is” Koleda stuttered

“I don’t think it’s embarrassing, I kind of like that flavor too”

BA-DUMP

“S-So?”

“Just saying” Wise said

“I think it’s time to head out” Lighter stood up

The group managed to get things done in decent time, although slightly latte for lunch, they parted ways with Wise and Lighter heading to the teacher's lunch table.

“Bout time, ya joined us” Caesar said with cheeks full of food

“Chew first you mongrel” Lucy said

“How was your hike?” Burnice asked as she locked eyes with Wise

“Well it was interesting and energy consuming, I’m starving” Wise said

“Didn’t you pack a lunch or somethin?” Piper asked

“He gave it to a student”

“Always so selfless” Burnice gushed making Lucy pout

“Who’d he give it to?” Lucy inquired to try and buy some of Wise’s attention

“I gave it to Anby” Wise said causing a deafening silence on the table

“The burger girl?” Pulchra asked

“Yeah”

‘HE GAVE A GIRL HIS LUNCH!’ Lucy panicked in her head

‘Well played Anby but this is my rodeo’ Burnice thought with a smile on her face

‘I have a love rival, no, love rivals and I’m falling behind’ Caesar thought with a furrowed brow

‘These guys are totally overthinking’ Lighter thought as he ate his food

“She was hungry or something?” Pulchra further enquired

“Yeah, her stomach was grumbling and all, I couldn't just let her starve”

“Nice one kiddo, you should really work here full time” Piper mused

“Oh no, I won’t be here for long” Wise shot down

‘SHIT! I FORGOT HE’S LEAVING!’ Caesar once again felt panic and a throb in her chest

“That sucks man, but maybe we could stay in touch~?” Burnice teased

“I guess so, I wouldn’t really mind” Wise said

‘FUCK HE JUST CAUSED A STORM!’ Lighter freaked out internally

‘She’s good’ Lucy thought as she glared at Burnice

“Uh, is it me or is it getting a bit hot in here?” Lighter tried to defuse

“Yeah, I feel it too” Burnice joined on the subject

“Yeah, this old bag of bones is feeling it now that you mention it”

‘The storm is clear for now at least’ Lighter was relieved

After an afternoon of just recreation, the day came to an end but for a certain individual, her thoughts were stirred from an earlier interaction today.

“But she’s just a student, there’s no way” Lucy said as she strolled around the dim camp on her own, she looked down at jacket in her hands

“Maybe I could return this to him now, I’ve held onto it for a while” Lucy resolved as she turned to make her way to Wise’s cabin

In the cabin Wise lay on his back looking up at the roof, failing to fall asleep when suddenly he heard a knock on his door

“Yeah?”

In came Pulchra who looked like she was rubbing her back

“Hey, got a minute?”

“Yeah, what do you need?” Wise sat up on the bed as Pulchra turned on the light

“That maniac made me take a fall; my back’s been acting up since”

“You need help with what exactly?”

Pulchra lied down on her stomach on the bed

“I need you to just rub it for bit”

“P-Pulchra this is a bit inappropriate, don’t you think?”

“Come on, it’s just us in here and I can’t go walking to another cabin now” Pulchra gestured to the spot

‘Looks like I have no choice’ Wise obliged as he rubbed the middle of the thiren’s back

“Ohhhh, right there” she moaned

“Feeling better?”

“Keep going” she said in a breathy voice

“A little lower” Pulchra instructed, and Wise did as he was told

After a couple of minutes of rubbing Pulchra readjusted herself to all fours

“P-PULCHRA!” Wise exclaimed with a blush on his face

“I need you to press down over here and I’ll do the rest”

“This is getting a bit weird now” Wise remarked

“Just do it”

Just outside the cabin Lucy arrived but was shocked to find Burnice had also arrived

“W-What are you doing here?” Lucy hid the jacket behind her back

“Oh ho ho, what is that?”

“Nothing” Burnice didn’t accept that answer and approached Lucy at a fast pace, then a tussle began and ended with Burnice holding onto the jacket

“This is”

“Give it back” Lucy snatched it back from the woman’s hands with a blush on her face

“His jacket” Burnice finished

“What are yu doing here?”

“I’m here to check on kitty”

‘Liar, I bet she’s here to see him’ Lucy thought

‘She’s also here for Wise’ Burnice thought

“Kyah~” the two’s squabble was interrupted by a moan

“What was that?”

Burnice and Lucy rushed to the bedroom windows, and they soon located the source of the noises which was Wise’s window. From their end the shadow outline looked like something not exactly kid friendly.

“That’s good, just keep pressing like that” they heard Pulchra say

“A-Are they?” Lucy’s eyes were wide while Burnice pressed her ear to the window

“Is that good?” Wise’s voice resonated through the walls

“A bit harder”

“EEP!” Lucy sounded but she immediately covered her mouth

“What was that?” Wise asked

“Just the wind, keep going”

Lucy also joined Burnice by pressing her ear onto the window as well

“Do you have a lubricant or oil or something here?”

‘Kitty, I never thought she would go this far, even I wouldn’t have done this now’

Soon the two hear squeaky noises and an occasional plop here and there

“Let's go” Lucy pulled Burnice who looked like she was in a trance

“Are you sure you didn’t hear something?” Wise once again asked

“You’re good with your hands, have you had a girl perhaps?”

“I think it’s time for bed” Wise dodged

Chapter Text

“So what’s going on Ellen? Any progress?” Monna asked

“No, burger girl interrupted” Ellen said as she put a lollipop in her mouth

“She likes him too?” Ruby’s eyes widened

“I don’t know but he gave her his lunch” Ellen said

“Okay we still have a couple of days left here; something can happen”

“Hehehehehe, what’s going on in there?” Nekomata stood around the corner listening in on the convo.

Somewhere Else....

“Hey” Pulchra walked into Wise’s room

“Yeah, what’s up?”

“Somethings up”

“What’s going on?”

“That maniac and Lucy are acting weird”

“Like how?”

“They’ve been asking some dumbass questions about us”

‘Like what?’

“I don’t know like: how’s your back? You seem happy today yadadada”

“Aren’t those normal questions?”

“That maniac never asked about my back before, something is seriously wrong”

“What about Lucy?”

“She’s just quiet and she’s stiffened up around me”

“That is weird”

“You don’t think they?”

“I did hear something by the window” Wise finished off

“They totally heard” the two said in unison

“What do we do?” Wise was seated on teh edge of his bed with his face behind his hands

“Tch, calm down, you’re acting like it’s a problem”

“Is it a problem?” Pulchra crouched down right in front of Wise with little distance between their faces

“Well, it’s best to not stir rumors around, right?” Wise sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck

‘Now that I look at him, he’s kinda cute’ Pulchra thought as she had a little smirk on her face

“Well back to the issue at hand, what do we do?”

“That’s easy, we do nothing”

“Nothing?”

“Yeah, they already think we did it and there’s no convincing those two especially so just let it be”

‘I think it would be best to have him to myself for the time being’ Pulchra thought deviously

“Maybe you’re right, it’s probably too late” Wise said as he laid flat on his back

‘Should I make a move now? He looks vulnerable in that position’ Pulchra contemplated

‘Hmp, maybe it’s a little too soon’ Pulchra resolved as she walked off

-----------------------2 HOURS LATER--------------------------

“Sup bro” Lighter greeted Wise

“Hey man”

“You ready?” Lighter asked

“Yeah, I have been ready for this hike” Wise said as he flexed his arm

“Ya ready partner?” Wise felt a strong-arm curl around his shoulder

He turned and faced up slightly to see Caesar with a childish grin on her face.

“Caesar?”

“Ohhhhh yeah, sorry bro I forgot to tell you that I had to swap out the group for today so you’re going with Caesar” Lighter apologized

“Yep, so you’re trucking with me” Caesar said

“Alright I guess, let’s go”

Wise and Caesar met up with their group for the day and hiked for an hour down the stream.

“Ms King” Nekomata whined

“Sup kiddo”

“When do we stop walking?” Nekomata pleaded

“Shut it cat, just walk” Koleda cut in

“Thank you so much” Ellen remarked before yawning and looking back over her shoulder to Caesar and Wise walking side by side.

“How am I supposed to do this?” Ellen thought when she suddenly felt light drips landing on her shoulder

“Huh?”

“Oh it’s pouring” Caesar looked up at the falling rain

“And we don’t have umbrellas”

“We should head back” Wise said

“But it’s an hour walk away, we’ll be soaked by the time we get there” Koleda said

“Look over there” Belle said as she pointed at a slightly worn-down shack across the stream

“And we can cross with that fallen tree”

“That doesn’t seem safe” Wise said

Anby casually balanced and crossed to the other side without a single slip, everybody jsut looked at her with neutral expressions on their faces

“It safe” Anby said from the other side

Wise looked at Caesar

“Don’t worry, I can swim like a shark, I’ll save anyone who falls in” she reassured with a grin on her face

“Eh, looks like we don’t have a choice”

“Nice, I’ll go next” Ju Fufu ran across the log without a second thought

The other’s followed soon after and all that’s left was Caesar and Wise, at this point the rain intensified.

“COME ON BRO!” Belle yelled as she waved her hands

“COMING!” Wise yelled as he lined up when suddenly a strong wind hit the trunk managing to break it down making it fall in the current.

“Shit” Caesar uttered

“ARE YOU OKAY!?” Ju Fufu yelled in concern

“WE’RE FINE, GO AHEAD!” Caesar said

“JUST GO INTO THE SHELTER, WE’LL MEET UP AFTER!” Wise backed up as he and Caesar left to find cover. The kids ran into the shack and settled inside.

Wise and Caesar still stuck inside pouring rain, found a stroke of luck as they managed to spot a cave entrance large enough for cover. They rushed inside together with Wise panting due to the run while Caesar was already used to this level of activity

“Tired?” Caesar looked at a hunched over Wise who was breathing rapidly

“I don’t usually go this far” Wise straightened up and took a final breath before recovering

“It’s really pouring out there” Caesar stood behind the boundary behind dry cover and a wet shower

“Ye-” Wise cut himself off as he looked off to the side

“What?” Caesar asked before looking down to see her soaked white shirt showing more than it was supposed to.

“GAH!” she shielded herself with her arms

“D-DON’T LOOK!”

“I’M NOT!” Wise turned around

Caesar plopped down on the ground while still shielding her chest

“Here” Wise reached into his backpack and pulled out his jacket

“A-Are you sure?”

‘This is straight out of my manga, Summer Camp Heartburn’ Caesar thought as she pictured a manga panel eerily similar to her manga. Caesar’s gushing was ceased by flooding worries and insecurity.

“I-I don’t think it’ll fit” she held it out fully extended

“It doesn’t matter, as long as your warm and covered up”

“B-But I’m so big and tall, there i-”

“I don’t care if your big or small, you are a lady first” Wise interrupted as he sat down next to Caesar

The woman’s face was now fully red and her heartbeat irregularly.

“Uh” Caesar held her tongue and just leaned back onto the cave wall, the space filled with noises of the rain crashing onto the ground.

‘I-I never thought he’d feel that way, why is my heart feeling so funny?’ she thought as she gripped the jacket around her shoulder

“Are you okay?” Wise asked

“I’M FINE!” Caesar exclaimed nervously

“Oh, okay then” Wise accepted

‘That was so embarrassing’ Caesar mentally beat herself up

The two sat there for an unknown amount of time, the rain calmed down, but it was still present, they decided to wait for more clearance before they head out.

“Hey, Wise” Caesar called out

“Yeah?”

“Are you and Pulchra....together?” Caesar bashfully poked her index fingers against each other

“W-WHAT!?” Wise feigned a cough to compose himself

“I mean, are you a couple or anything like that?”

‘This might be because of Burnice or Lucy’ Wise concluded

“No, we aren’t together or haven’t done anything either” Wise clarified

“I see”

‘YES! LUCY AND BURNICE ARE TOTALLY LIARS!’ Caesar celebrated

“Why do you ask?” Wise inquired

“Uh, just asking” Caesar lied horribly, feeling intense pressure from his gaze

“That’s cool then” Wise said

After a half hour of sitting in the cave, the two headed out after the rain cleared. They managed to make their way back to camp after finding out their group made their way there some time back.

They were received by the other teachers but upon approach the air was a bit tense.

“Oh welcome back” Lighter said

“Yeah, we’re here, it was quite the journey back here” Wise joked

“Nice to see you made it” Pulchra said

“Oh, it that a new jacket?” Burnice remarked as her eyes landed on the garment sitting on Caesar’s shoulders

‘B-But he gave me his jacket back then’ Lucy lamented internally before she felt a stir in her chest

‘They are all threats’ Lucy discretely looked at Piper who just yawned

‘She might be one too, I have to be careful’

‘She’s slyer than I thought’ Burnice thought as she looked at Caesar

“Is there any food ready? I’m so hungry I could eat a horse” Caesar asked

“Yeah, come on in kiddo” Piper invited as the group walked inside but Lighter slowed down with Wise

“Dude” Lighter waited for the girls to enter first

“What’s wrong man?”

“Did you feel that tension?”

‘Now that I think about it, it did feel weird when Caesar and I got here’

“Yeah, I guess I did”

“Word of advice man, please be careful” Lighter said before walking inside

Chapter Text

“Hey kiddo” Piper knocked on Wise’s door

“Piper? Come in” Wise said

“How ya doin?” Piper walked in, closing the door behind her

“I’m fine, and you?”

“I’m good, sorry for lettin myself in, this ol bag of bones didn’t get a response at the door” Piper apologized

“It’s fine, you need my help or something?”

“You youngsters are gettin smarter, I need a hand again”

“With what?”

“The bus, I need to swap out a tire before heading out tomorrow”

“What about Lighter?”

“He’s busy with somethin so I came here” Piper said

Wise sighed

“I guess that’s fair”

Wise got up and put on some shoes and walked out with Piper

“So, what’s wrong with the tire?”

“Noticed a few cracks here and there on that ol girl, so I thought better to replace it now than on the road where the risks are greater” Piper said

“You’re really reliable Piper” Wise complemented causing Piper to have a small flush on her face

“Psshh, this is routine for this codger” Piper dismissed

‘These younguns always flirtin and playing around with women’ Piper thought as she looked up at Wise

“Is there something on my face?” Wise suddenly looked back at her

“Nothin” Piper turned away quickly

‘Sheesh, he caught me staring back there’ Piper thought with a bit of embarrassment

The two arrived in a few minutes time and Piper already had her toolbox sitting by the bus already.

“What do you need help with Piper?” Wise looked at the wheel

“I need a hand moving this damn thing” Piper began unscrewing the bolts on the tire

“Alright, I’ll help to the best of my ability”

‘Ahh, youth’ Piper thought

Wise with considerable effort and some street smarts removed the wheel and safely laid it on the ground.

“Nice work kiddo” Piper said

“Thanks” Wise responded with some breaths

“You need a breather?”

“I’m fine, let’s finish this” Wise said as pushed his hair back away from his eyes

‘Mighty fine’ Piper thought before shaking her head rapidly to delete those thoughts

‘What are ya thinking ol girl?’ she scolded herself

“Piper?” Wise managed to pull Piper out of her own head

“Oh yeah, the tire”

Wise and Piper got back to work and, in a few minutes, replaced the tire together. Afterwards they sat atop the removed one resting after they completed the job

“So....” Piper started

“Mh?” Wise turned to look at her

“You sure do know how to handle a wrench and couple of tools” Piper remarked

“Well, at home it’s my mom and Belle so I kind of had to do these things” Wise said

“You the man of the house?”

“Yeah, I guess I am” Wise said

“That’s cool, not many younguns take responsibility like you, most of em just run amok, living it up till the gas runs out” Piper said

“I guess but it’s not all of them though, some are really chilled people, I have a friend from school and she’s cool” Wise said

“She?, you got a girl?” Piper asked

“She’s just my friend, not a relationship” Wise clarified

“Oh got ya, so anybody catch that young eye?”

“Where is this coming from?” Wise questioned

“Oh nowhere, just wondering is all”

“Well, I guess I have met some beautiful ladies” Wise said as he looked up thoughtfully

“Oh you mean us?” Piper said

“As of now I can’t say but you guys are all amazing” Wise said

‘This silver-tongued Casanova, he’s making me feel all young again’ Piper thought with a small blush

“Oh stop that” Piper lightly smacked Wise’s arms as she yawned

“You’re tired?” Wise asked

“All that work really runs you through the ringer especially at my age” Piper stretched her arms up during another yawn

Piper suddenly slouched over on Wise’s shoulder

“P-Piper?” Wise looked at the woman resting on his shoulder

“Just a minute please...” Piper dozed off

‘She’s asleep’ Wise thought as he looked at her rhythmic breathing

“Maybe I should take her to the cabin” Wise resolved as he slowly slipped Piper into a bridal carry, the woman snoring as she lay her head into Wise’s chest

‘Now gently’ Wise stood up slowly as he carefully carried Piper off

‘Let’s hope my arms last the walk’ Wise thought as he felt light tingling in his biceps

Wise managed to power through and reach Piper’s shared cabin with Lucy

‘I wonder if she’s in’ Wise looked through the front windows to see nobody

‘She isn’t in, I just have to let myself in’ Wise concluded as he carried Piper inside by his own volition

“Okay, now slowly” Wise found Piper’s temporary quarters and slipped her into her bed

“Sleep tight” Wise said as he pulled the covers over her

‘Now I must leave before Lucy gets here’ Wise exited her room just to have his luck dissipate in front of his eyes as he saw a wide-eyed Lucy, who had just walked in through the front door.

‘Crap’

“W-W-What are you doing in here?”

“L-Let me explain”

‘He was in Piper’s room just now’ Lucy’s mind flashed back to when she saw them in the bus shed back at the campus

‘They’re definitely doing each other’

“Piper was sleepy and I-”

‘But him and that cat could have done it as well, the boar might have been easily deceived’ Lucy backed into her own head

“And then she leaned on my shoulder-”

‘Piper is also a threat, just as much as the other girls’

“So that’s what happened” Wise finished off

“I see” Lucy said as she walked over into her room

‘I’m losing horribly, I can’t lose, not now, never’

“Lucy, is everything alright?” Wise inquired

‘Everything’s just fine and get out too” Lucy shut the door

‘She thinks I’m a perv’ Wise thought as he walked out

“Phew, Lucy get yourself together, Piper and that cat have already had a piece”

She held out the jacket Wise gave to her

“But I will win his heart at all costs, that means I’m going to have to go against those bimbos head on” Lucy resolved

Chapter Text

“Time moves by so quick” Wise said to Lighter

“Yeah, last day already” Lighter said as he and Wise walked towards the table

“Ready to head home kiddos?” Piper said

“When I get back, I’m going straight to sleep, camp was so physical” Wise remarked

“Haha, tired already, I could go on for another week” Caesar said

“Of course, the boar likes rolling around in the mud” Lucy said

“HEY!” Caesar exclaimed

“My fur is all messed up from the humidity here” Pulchra said as she rubbed her arm

“DON’T FORGET THE TAIL!” Burnice grabbed the thiren’s tail

*HISS!* Pulchra recoiled

“Awww, kitty is angry”

“I told you not to touch my tail” Pulchra said with a growl in her voice

“Sorry kitty” Burnice apologized

“So, same spot on the bus?” Caesar said to Wise with a bit of bashfulness

“I guess so, I wasn’t really planning on moving anyway”

The other girls felt a stir inside when they heard that

‘Something’s not right here’ Lighter thought as he felt a small chill up his spine

“That’s no fun, how about we swap around today?” Burnice proposed

“NO!” Caesar outburst

“I-I mean that’s too much of a hassle right plus Wise is comfortable already” Caesar quickly added

‘She’s definitely jealous’ Burnice thought

“Well it’s not always good to be in your comfort zone, sometimes it’s better to jump into the mud” Burnice countered

‘This isn’t good, those two are trying a bit hard’

“Ahem” Lucy cut in

“I think being seated with either one of you is already too much for him, he deserves a more tame and refined experience” Lucy said

“You moving from your seat?” Piper asked

“Yes, if you put it that way” Lucy admitted with a small blush

“Then you can join me in the front kiddo, need those young eyes” Piper said o Wise

‘P-P-Piper, you traitor, I knew she was like them’ Lucy thought

‘Pips is in this too’ Burnice thought

‘Another love rival, at least Pulchra is out’ Ceasar thought

“You guys are so immature” Pulchra rolled her eyes

“You’re better off with me” Pulchra said to Wise

‘SHE’S IN!’ the other girls thought in unison

“I’m drivin the bus, I need another pair of eyes” Piper argued

“Well, then the boar can go in the front, she loves action, doesn’t she?” Lucy countered

“I need a fun new seatmate; the kitty is boring” Burnice put forth her own argument

“W-We were reading a manga together” Caesar blurted out in a desperate attempt to keep Wise

“What?” the table had a deafening silence

“You heard me, I read manga, so what?” Caesar said

“You guys are all too noisy for me, I prefer someone quieter plus the air conditioner in the front directly hits my face and I don’t like that” Pulchra said

‘Tch, they’re being so damn difficult’ Lucy complained

“What’s going on here?” Wise whispered to Lighter

“I warned you” Lighter said

“How about we draw straws?” Burnice suggested

“From where?” Lucy asked

“Yeah. You’re right, how about rock paper scissors?”

“Winner gets priority in the seats” Pulchra straightened up as she put out a closed hand

“This ol gal is a pro in this” Piper said

“Tch, we’ll see about that” Lucy put out her hand

“Guys I’m here too” Wise said

“No use now, they’re already invested” Lighter said

“Rock, Paper, SCISSORS!” Burnice called out

Lucy won the first round

“Dumb luck” Pulchra commented

They went again and again

“Should we stop this?” Wise whispered to Lighter again

“It’s too late man, all we can do is watch”

“I win you bimbos” Lucy smirked at the others

“Tch” Pulchra uttered

“Lucky” Burnice said with a disappointed look on her face

‘Now my plan is turned to a hundred’ Lucy plotted in her mind

“I’m swapping with the boar” Lucy declared

‘NOOOOOO!’ Caesar’s mind was in full panic

“Guess that’s it then, we lose” Burnice said

‘At least for now’ Burnice thought

“This youngun got luck on her side but experience beats luck by a mile” Piper said

--------------------ON THE BUS--------------------

Lucy was shaking nervously as Wise plopped down next to her, she sheepishly looked over at him as he played a game on his phone.

‘Act Lucy, now or never’

“Ahem”

“Hm?”

“You seem to be enjoying yourself with these ‘games’” Lucy said

“Oh this? This is snake duel” Wise turend his phone over to Lucy

‘Snake duel? Maybe I could find out more about what he likes’

“I don’t get the appeal of these games you play”

“They’re fun, I enjoy playing them to kill time” Wise said

“Want to give it a try?” Wise held his phone out

“Why I-I, why would a refined lady like me play such ‘games’?” Lucy deflected

“Come on, just a round or two” Wise persuaded

“Fine but one round” Lucy took the phone out of his hands and began died literally 2 seconds into her first playthrough.

“Uh, good effort I guess” Wise said

‘He’s pitying me, I don’t like being pitied’

“Again”

“What?”

“How do you play this thing again?”

“You press here” Wise inched a bit closer causign heat to flush up Lucy’s face

‘So close’

“And there you go” the game started and Lucy died instantly

“H-Hey, I wasn’t ready” Lucy complained

“Okay, let’s go again”

The two played multiple rounds, Lucy’s frustration at her poor skill built up inside but quickly dissipated at her final attempt

“Yes, 2 minutes lasted” Lucy said

“I’m proud of you, you got better” Wise complemented

“Tch, of course I’m good, I’m a de Montefio after all” she said with a blush on her face

“I have other games to play, want to give it a shot?”

“No, I’ve had enough stimulation from screens for now”

Burnice looked back at them through the crack between the seats

‘These two’

“Hey, stop shifting” Pulchra pushed Burnice back into her space

“Shush” Burnice put a finger over Pulchra’s mouth

“Hey” Pulchra slapped it away

‘She’s stressing over Lucy and I am too somehow’ Pulchra thought

Ceasar looked back at Lucy and Wise

‘My prince has been taken away; my love rivals are winning’ Ceasar

‘That youngster was plotting the whole damn time, looks like this ol bag of bones needs to step outta retirement’ Piper thought as she looked at the rearview mirror

Lucy investigated her satchel on the side, Wise’s jacket sat inside.

‘Okay Lucy, do it now’ Lucy gathered courage as she pulled it out

“Here” she held it out towards Wise

Her heart pounded intensely

“My jacket, you still had this?” Wise grabbed it from her hand

“I-I forgot I had it” Lucy lied

“You washed it, it smells fresh” Wise smiled making Lucy gulp

“S-So what? It's bad manners to return something dirty” she deflected

Wise just smiled

“You know what? I think you should keep it” Wise offered it back

“W-What?” Lucy blushed furiously

“Think of it as a gift” Wise laid it on her lap

“B-But I returned it”

“I think it suits you better” Wise said

“F-Fine, it's rude to reject a gift anyway, not like I want it or anything” Lucy folded it up neatly

‘Right’ Wise thought skeptically as he watched her care for the clothing item like it was an ancient relic worth a fortune.

‘Lucky’ Burnice looked back at them again

“Move back” Pulchra pushed her again

Chapter Text

DING!

Wise’s phone emitted a noise

“Looks like I’m needed again” Wise said to Venus

“You’ve been getting busier these days”

“And I went on a long trip last week; I’m still a bit sore” he said

“If you need me to get them to lay off, I can give my input” Venus offered

“No need, I’ll be fine, but thank you though” Wise said as he walked out of the office

“I wonder what they need this time” Wise thought as he passed by Rina who gave him a small wave which he reciprocated

“Ah there he is” Mayflower spoke

Wise looked at the people inside and he saw Vice Principal Lycaon, Mr Mayflower and a small anxious looking girl.

“Very punctual” Lycaon complemented

“Hi” Wise said as he closed the door behind him

Wise’s eyes et on the anxious girl who hid behind Lycaon

“It is alright Corin” Lycaon comforted

“Nervous? That's why I called in our very best” Mayflower said as he gestured over to Wise

‘This guy’ Wise thought as he looked at the man who was all sunshine and rainbows towards Wise

“I can verify the principal's statements myself, there is nothing to worry about” Lycaon said

“Wait, what am I doing exactly?” Wise asked

“Oh, how rude of me, I forgot to fill you in, I am assigning you to be a primary monitor of Corin” Mayflower said

‘Primary Monitor, Me?’ Wise thought in confusion

“Basically, you are to just be her go-to person for any issues at the school, if it’s too big for you to handle then you take it up to either me or Mr. Mayflower” Lycaon said

Wise looked behind at Corin who was behind Lycaon, she peered over to look at Wise

“M-My name is C-C-Corin Wickes” she introduced meekly

“Nice to meet you Corin, I’m Wise” Wise smiled at her to which Corin gave him a small smile of her own

‘Looks like they’ll get along just fine’ Lycaon mentally reassured himself

“Introductions are done, she’s all yours” Mr. Mayflower said as Lycaon gave Corin a little nudge towards Wise

“P-P-Please take care of m-me" she said

“I’ll do my best” Wise said

The two left the office and were now standing in the hall in silence, Wise contemplating what to do next and Corin to socially anxious to start any kind of small talk.

‘Maybe I should give her a tour’

“Do you want to check out the school together? I can show you around”

“Y-Y-Yes please” Corin nodded as she followed behind Wise

The two walked around the school premises with Wise giving Corin a full run around of the building and layout of the school while the girl attentively took notes.

“Is that all?” Wise mumbled to himself

“Oh I forgot, follow me” Wise said as he led Corin behind the school building

“And over here we ha-”

“STOP THERE!” A stern voice cut in as a quick blur suddenly dashed towards Wise

“What?” suddenly Wise’s vision was upside down followed by a sharp pain in his back

“OW!”

“What were you planning to do with that girl?” a woman said as she tightened her lock on Wise’s arm.

“Gah, I’m giving her a tour” Wise said between grit teeth

“P-P-P-PLEASE STOP!” Corin yelled in desperation

“Huh?” the woman looked at Corin who was on the brink of tears

“H-He is telling t-t-the truth”

“Oh my” the woman immediately released Wise and stood back with guilt in her eyes as she watched Corin help Wise to his feet.

“My back” Wise groaned as he rubbed his back

“A-A-Are you okay?”

“I’m fine or I’ll be fine” Wise said

“I’M SO SORRY!” the woman apologized frantically

“It’s alright, you were just doing your job” Wise forgave as he stretched his back

“I-I didn’t mean to, I thought you had malicious intentions”

“I guess it was weird for me to do that”

“I-It won’t happen again, I’m sorry” she said

“I think you’re really good at your job, that was one hell of a throw” Wise said trying to ease her mind

“This was horrible, I’m really sorry” she once again apologized

“I said it’s okay, I’m not that hurt, am I Corin?”

“Mhm” Corin shook her head

“Thats somewhat relieving” she said with a nervous smile

“Don't worry about it...” Wise looks at her name tag

“Ms. Zhu Yuan” he finished off

“Oh, the tag” she said

“My name is Wise, I think you might have heard of me”

“I’ve heard the name but never seen a face”

“Yeah, I’m a bit new here, same as Corin”

“W-W-We're both new” Corin said

“Welcome to the school then, sorry if it’s a bit late, I’m always so busy so I don’t really have time to pay attention to these things”

“I don’t blame you, being a security guard is hard work, I actually praise your efforts”

Zhu Yuan had a small blush appear on her face

“I-I should get back to work” Zhu Yuan rushed off

“Was it something I said?” Wise asked Corin

“I-I-I don’t know”

“It is what it is, I guess”

----------------WITH ZHU YUAN-----------------

Zhu Yuan burst into the library, luckily which was empty at that time

“Look who’s here” Qingyi said

“I messed up” Zhu Yuan leaned onto the desk with her head resting in her hands

“What did you do?” Qingyi ceased from drinking her hot water

“I almost seriously injured somebody”

“Who? A trespasser? A student?” Qingyi put forth her guesses

“I threw the new guy onto the ground” Zhu Yuan admitted guiltily

“Wise?”

“Yes” she looked off to the side

‘I wonder what might have happened’

“I saw him walking around with a student towards unusual school areas and I thought the worst”

“So, you attacked him?”

“I-It was reflex” Zhu Yuan explained

“This is......interesting”

“What do I do?”

“I take it you already apologized”

“I did but I think words alone can only do so much”

“So what did you come here for?”

“I need way to show hm how sorry I am”

“I see then may I suggest you take him out for a meal”

“A meal?”

“Or a date if you will?” Qingyi said

“D-D-D-DATE!?” Zhu Yuan’s mind fried at the suggestion

“Don’t tell me you are scared of going out with somebody?”

“I-I’ve never dated before”

“I already know, my two cents is you just take him out for a meal and air out any problems” Qingyi finished before going back to her work

Zhu Yuan gulped as she walked out

‘A date? How am I going to do this? Will he say yes?’ she worried as images of a distraught Wise

‘Seems like this will end with them getting closer, I think I could start my move’ Qingyi thought as she sipped on her beverage

Chapter Text

“Hey”

Fingers snapped right in front of Zhu Yuan’s face

“Huh?” the woman came back to reality

“You’re out of it again”

“Sorry, I was jus-”

“Distracted? That’s a first”

“I did something horrible yesterday”

“You finished the report a second late?”

“No Evelyn, I may have accidentally judo thrown somebody” Zhu Yuan said with guilt in her voice

“I think I should go cover another perimeter” Evelyn walked off

‘Ugh, I feel so bad’ Zhu Yuan thought of the pained expression on Wise’s face

“Perimeter secured” a voice said behind Zhu Yuan

“Oh, Harin”

“11” she corrected

“Right sorry”

“What shall I do from here? I am awaiting your orders” she said

“Just uh, just cover this area while I look inside the building” Zhu Yuan said as she walked into the dim school building.

The atmosphere was so different at night with no children roaming the halls and maybe a handful of staff working overtime. Zhu Yuan swept the halls with her flashlight scanning for any anomalies and hazards.

‘Looks clear, now I should just check the doors’

Zhu Yuan fiddled with every door handle with all the ones tested being locked up until she reached an office. This one was used by none other than Venus and temporarily Wise, Zhu Yuan just looked at the door and sighed.

‘Lights are off, they’re probably at home by now’ she walked off

‘That was so embarrassing, how can I face him again?’ she grimaced as she imagined Wise looking at her with a disgusted of fearful expression

‘Security is meant to protect people, not scare them’ she beat herself up as she continued with her patrol.

------------------FLASHBACK------------------

“I’m home” Zhu Yuan walked into her house

“Ah, my daughter is back” Ms. Zhu smiled as she looked at the woman

“Hi mom” Zhu Yuan greeted in a low voice

“What’s got you all down? Is work stressing you out?” the two women sat down on the couch

Zhu Yuan sighed before starting

“I messed up today” Zhu Yuan confessed

“What happened?” her mother was now worried

“I-I hurt an innocent man today” she said while looking down in shame

“Oh my, is he okay? How bad did you hurt him?”

“He said he was fine, but I still feel bad, I thought he was grooming a student, and I just acted out on impulse and her I am”

“I see, this is a bit of a pickle”

“I didn't mean to” Zhu Yuan added on

“This could be bad”

“I could lose my job; he could report me for this” Zhu Yuan's mind wandered rapidly to the worst thoughts

“Calm yourself” her mother held her hands tenderly

“Hm?”

“Everything is going to be fine, I’m sure of it”

“I should fix this, but how?”

‘She’s overthinking again’ her mother thought in an exasperated manner

“Maybe I could pay him for any damages? Or maybe purchase a bus pass for the month?” Zhu Yuan brainstormed ideas while her mother just watched on

“Just stop thinking so much”

Zhu Yuan looked at her mother in confusion

“I’m home” her father walked into the house

“Oh, you’re early” he smiled at his daughter

“Something wrong?” he noticed the atmosphere was weird

The man quickly got an explanation of the situation at hand

“That is a problem” he went into thought

“I might as well start looking for a job elsewhere”

Zhu Yuan’s mother nudged her husband, and he started.

“You know, there is one option”

“A solution?”

“Back in our day, if you wrong somebody, you have to treat them to a meal” he said

“A meal?”

“Maybe I could buy him some takeout food and bring it to campus?”

“That is definitely your daughter” her mother said

“What's that supposed to mean?”

“I think you should take him out for a meal” she added on

“That could wo-” Zhu Yuan’s eyes widened

“TAKE HIM OUT!?” she exclaimed in shock as Qingyi’s advice returned into her mind

“L-L-L-Like a date?”

“Not a date but just an outing”

“I’ve never done that before, how could I possibly-”

“Think of it as just a friendly meeting” her father reassured

“I-I need to rest” Zhu Yuan dashed off flustered

“We aren’t getting grandchildren anytime soon, are we?” Ms Zhu looked at her husband

“Nope all we can do is hope and dream” he said

In her room......

“A-A date?” she mumbled into her pillow

“Calm yourself Zhu Yuan, your job is on the line” she thought

‘Looks like I need to be brave’

---------------------CURRENT TIME-----------------------

Zhu Yuan walked down into the halls

‘Empty, students are in class, let’s hope he isn’t busy’ she stopped herself from entering the office

‘I CAN’T WALK IN EMPTY HANDED!’ she scolded herself as she dashed towards the cafeteria

She soon returned with two cans of cola

“Phew, let’s do this” she knocked gently on the door

“Come in” he answered

“Hello t-there" Zhu Yuan nervously walked in

“Is everything alright?” Wise asked with concern

“F-F-Fine, I drink bough-”

“I bought you a drink” she corrected herself

“Wow thank you” Wise grabbed it from her

“Cool cool” Zhu Yuan tensed up once more

“S-So...”

Zhu Yuan’s mind started racing

‘This is weird, this is so nerve racking’

“Ms. Zhu Yuan, you’re shaking”

“I-I am?”

‘Come on, just do it’ she motivated

“I-I’m sorry for the other day”

“It’s fine, no need for apologies”

‘Now or never’

“I-I still f-f-feel bad so I just wanted to make it up to you” she said

‘Make it up to me?’

“How about I treat you to a meal? When you’re free of course” she asked anxiously with beads of sweat forming on her temple

‘A meal?’ Wise began contemplating

‘I guess it wouldn't be all bad, if it’s what it takes to put her mind at ease’

“Sure, why not?”

“I jus-” Zhu Yuan paused

“Did you just say yes?”

“Yeah, who would deny a free meal?” Wise mused

‘I-Is this a date? Is this really happening?’

Outside the office door...

“Seems like she’s making a move” a certain librarian thought

“My advice seems to also have worked against me; ah curse my capacity for friendship” Qingyi sighed as she walked off down the hall.

Chapter Text

“Another date?” Carole mused as she leaned against Wise’s doorframe

“It’s not a date, just a lunch” Wise clarified

“If you say so, do you need a ride?” Carole asked

“I can take the bus”

“You can’t show up to a date in a bus, you’ll scare the girl away” Carole threw the car keys at Wise

“Ouch” Wise rubbed his sore temple

“Make sure to take care of it, it’s expensive” Carole said before walking away

Wise sighed as he put them into his pocket

‘Does this count as a date?’ Wise began thinking back to his mother’s words

---------------------A DRIVE LATER-----------------------

“I hope I’m not late” Wise remarked as he got out of the care and walked around to find Zhu Yuan

“Where is she?” Wise reached for his phone before stopping himself

“Right, I didn’t get her number” Wise remembered before sitting down on the bench.

“D-Did you wait long?” a voice said from next to him

“You’re here” Wise stood up to greet her

“Y-Yeah” Zhu Yuan looked nervous as she anxiously twiddled her thumbs

She was dressed in a button up shirt with casual pants and some flats on her feet. The outfit was close to her security guard uniform on the job.

‘Seems like she must really love her job’ Wise thought as he looked at her outfit

‘Does he hate my outfit? What if he’s saying I look bad?’ Zhu Yuan worried

“I-I’m not the biggest fashionista out there, I rarely go out like this” Zhu Yuan said

“I don’t mind at all, you look great” Wise complemented

Zhu Yuan felt her heart skip a beat as heat crept onto her face

“Really? T-Thanks" she managed to get out

‘I was regretting my choice for a moment, I thought maybe I should have listened to her’ Zhu Yuan’s mind ran to a certain rat thiren.

----------------FLASHBACK-------------------

“Oh no, what did I just do?” Zhu Yuan panicked as she sat down in her guard booth

“This is a mess, I should have never listened to Qingyi or my parents” she put her face in her hands

‘What am I even going to wear? I don’t have any nice clothes’ she thought

“Is that our head guard panicking?” a voice teased from behind Zhu Yuan

She sighed

“Jane” she acknowledged

“In the flesh” she walked into the booth

“What are you doing here? Why aren’t you going home?”

“I had to see my favorite officer before going back to my little lonely apartment” she feigned heartbreak, but Zhu Yuna knew her better.

“Just go home, I have to start my rounds” Zhu Yuan stood up

“What’s got your panties in a twist?”

Zhu Yuan blushed

“N-Nothing, why would you say that?”

“I’m a student psychologist, you kind of have to get a degree in these things plus I heard you mumbling to yourself from outside”

“Crap” Zhu Yuan cursed herself

“You asked out the cute assistant? How greedy~” Jane teased

“M-MY JOB WAS ON THE LINE!” Zhu Yuan immediately explained the circumstances

“Ohhh, your job is definitely on the line” Jane said

“I have to make peace between us, or I could be fired”

“So you asked him out on a date?”

“It’s not a date, just an outing to clear up any bad blood”

“If he agreed then don’t you think you’re already in the clear?”

“I must be thorough to ensure there is no animosity”

“Or is that an excuse to cover up your little crush?”

“I-I-I-I-I don’t have crushes” Zhu Yuan’s blushing face was redder than a tomato

“Don’t worry hun, I’ll help you prepare for your date~”

“Huh?”

On the following day, Jane and Zhu Yuan rendezvoused at Zhu Yuan’s home to prepare an outfit.

“Sheesh, this closet is dead” Jane looked at the dull colors

“Hey, I’m not a fashion person”

“You don’t have to be a fashion person to at least have a decent closet” Jane picked up a pile of button ups

“This is going to take a while” Jane remarked as she eyed multiple uniforms in her closet along with minimal casual clothing

----------------------BACK TO CURRENT TIME---------------------

“This is a nice place” Wise said as he cut into his fish

“My friend always brings this place up; I just never had the time to visit”

“Your friend really knows her stuff” Wise smiled at her causing a small flush on her cheeks

‘Seems Jane was right to pick this place; he seems pleased enough to not pursue any action against me’

“You aren’t eating your food” Wise noticed

“Oh” Zhu Yuan picked up her chopsticks and started eating

‘I was so worried I forgot about my food’

“Do you still feel bad?” Wise asked

Zhu Yuan momentarily chocked on her food

“W-Why do you ask so suddenly?”

“I just don’t want you to feel bad for what happened back then”

Zhu Yuan sighed

“That’s reassuring” Zhu Yuan said

“Ms. Zhu Yuan, please don’t feel bad for doing your job, I was also in the wrong there”

“B-But...”

“I won’t report you for anything nor condemn you either, in fact I praise you for your hard work” Wise said causing Zhu Yuan’s brain to stop working

“I-I uh”

“So don’t worry about a thing anymore and keep doing your job” Wise shot her a comforting smile which caused Zhu Yuan’s heart to start rapidly beating

‘N-No what’s happening? What is this feeling?’

As their lunch progressed Zhu Yuan’s mind was still thinking about the compliments given to her by Wise and even during the ride he gave her home.

“This is the place right?” Wise asked as he walked Zhu Yuan to the door

“Yes, than-”

“Oh you’re home” her mother opened the door suddenly

“And this the man you were talking about”

“MOM!” Zhu Yuan exclaimed as she covered her mother’s mouth

“Is that our daughter?” her father also walked out

“And her date is here too”

“DAD!” Zhu Yuan turned to her father with a blushing face

“I’m just playing, you got her back relatively early young man, I’m impressed” her father complemented Wise

“Thank you, Mr. Zhu” Wise said with gratitude

“You want to come in for a few?” her father suggested

“H-HE HAS TO GO HOME!” Zhu Yuan pushed her parents back into eh house in a rush as closed the door behind her.

‘I wonder what all that was about’ Wise thought as he headed back to the car

Chapter Text

“So how was your date?” Jane appeared by the booth again

“I’m eating lunch” Zhu Yuan said in-between chews

“Hey, I’m just trying to check in on a friend” Jane said feigning hurt

“It wasn’t a date and it went well, my job is safe”

“Is that all you have to say?” Jane looked at Zhu Yuan skeptically

“Yes”

“No sparks?”

Zhu Yuan momentarily chocked

“N-Nothing, just lunch”

‘Gotcha’ Jane thought

“If you say so” Jane backed off

“But I’ll warn you, if you don’t accept it, it’ll slip out of your hands, or it might have to be confronted head on” Jane said before walking away

‘If she doesn’t want to admit something’s going on then I guess I’ll help her be more in tune with her feelings’ Jane declared

“There she goes with her mind games”

“CAPTAIN!” Zhu Yuan was startled

“Yes Seth?”

“I finished lunch early; can I start my rounds?”

“Knock yourself out” Zhu Yuan said and with that Seth took off to his daily duties.

Her mind wandered back to Jane’s words

“Tch, what does she mean?”

------------------ELSEWHERE-----------------

“And these are my children” Venus showed Wise photos of her pets

“They look so cute, what are their names?”

“Pika, Mochi and Empire” Venus smiled as she introduced her pets

“They are a mixed bunch, but I love them regardless” Venus added on

“I like them too, they seem fun”

Venus had a small flush on her face

“Really?”

“Yeah”

“Maybe I could bring you over some time, to see them of course” Venus said

“I wouldn’t mind”

“Oh Venus dear~” Jane walked into the office

“Ms. Doe, how can I help you?”

“I need your assistant for a moment or a few” Jane said

“Me?” Wise pointed at himself in confusion

“I guess, we’ll talk later” Venus said to Wise

‘Guess I’m going then’ Wise got up and followed Jane out of the office

“What am I doing?”

“You’ll see~” Jane said playfully

After a short journey Jane and Wise arrived at her office

“Don’t be shy, come in” she invited and as Wise walked inside, she closed the door behind him.

“What do you need help with ma’am?” Wise asked

“Please I’m not even old, just call me Jane” she said

“Alright, Jane”

“Much better, now we’re all comfortable”

“Sorry to be a downer but, what do you need again?”

“Just some filing here and there” Jane opened her comedically large file drawer

“And some reorganizing” Jane added

“That’s a lot of files”

“Well, student’s counseling needs to be monitored thoroughly, so I keep these” Jane dropped a large stack of files onto her desk

“Forgive the mess”

“There are a lot of these” Wise ran his fingers through the disordered stacks of documents

“And two of us, so let’s get to work”

Jane and Wise started what was about to be a long days' worth of work. After about an hour of sorting things out Wise was out of breath.

“Tired already? I was just enjoying our time together”

“Just need a breather plus the paper cuts aren’t exactly nice” Wise said as he looked at the small cuts on his fingers

“Shame on me, I let this fly under my radar, let me take a look” Jane reached into her drawer and conveniently pulled out a small med kit

“You have these in here?”

“Safety rules, every staff member needs one readily available” Jane plopped herself down next to Wise, the distance between the two was basically little to none.

“Give me your hand”

Wise obliged and held out his hand as Jane began tending to him. As the disinfectant landed, Wise winced in pain.

“Am I being too rough?” she asked

“No, I just wasn’t ready”

“I’ll be gentler~” she teased

“I heard you went out with our very own captain” Jane masterfully changed the subject

“Well, I guess I did, she invited me out to lunch”

“Brave, isn’t she?”

“She looked a bit out of it” Wise said

“Don’t worry, she can be a bit eccentric but she’s a good person”

“I agree, she was really kind” Wise said

‘Looks like he has a favorable impression of her already, my job is easy then’ Jane thought

“A second date is in the works I presume”

“I haven’t really thought about it, I assumed it was a one-time outing as we didn’t talk about it from there”

‘That naive girl didn’t bring this up at all, this is more complex than I thought’

“Would you like to go out again?”

“I wouldn’t mind, I really enjoyed her company” Wise said

‘This is good, there is possibly a chance of chemistry here, but full-blown love is not developed here yet’ Jane analyzed but her absentmindedness was a mistake

“Ouch” Jane uttered as a cut on her finger appeared and slowly blood leaked out

“Are you okay?”

“Just lost focus there” Jane looked down at the medical scissors in her hand

“Let me help” Wise took the kit from her hand and began tending to her

“This is so embarrassing, I wounded myself when tending to somebody else”

“It’s not embarrassing, you were just trying to help” Wise said

Jane just sighed

“My noble efforts turned against me, how terrible” she mused

“Disinfectant coming in” Wise warned

“Tch” Jane winced for a moment as Wise carefully cleaned her up

“And there” Wise finished off by placing a band aid over her cut

“Good work, you really do know how to clean up a lady” Jane complemented

“I have a little sister; you learn a thing or two” Wise said

“You are very capable”

“I try my best” Wise said

“And humble too”

‘Now that I think about it, Zhu Yuan is too busy with her work life to be worried about romance’ Jane looked at Wise as he put back the first aid kit

‘And he’s also a quite looker, that’s a bonus’, should I continue with this matchmaking?’ Jane contemplated it was snapped out of it by Wise

“Are you coming back?” he was positioned near the files, ready to resume organizing

‘Nah, let me just leave things be’ Jane decided as she got back to working with Wise

After a while longer working together, they finally finished off

“Thank you for your help dear” Jane said

“It’s alright, just doing my job”

“If you need anything from me, just call~” Jane chimed as she slowly closed the door

‘That was a lot of work’ Wise began walking back to the office

‘Seems like the rat is also trying her luck, another variable added to the equation, it’s time to act’ thought a certain librarian as she watched Wise as he walked down the corridor.

Chapter Text

“Target is currently eating lunch”

“Huh?” Zhu Yuan perked up as she looked at her shorter friend

“Chewing is not fast or slow, shows control”

“Ms. Qingyi, what are you saying?” Zhu Yuan asked as she looked around the area

“Nothing to worry about, just rambling”

‘She really has no social awareness huh?’ Zhu Yuan thought before looking back to see Qingyi had vanished

“Where did she go?” Zhu Yuan scanned the area before locating her friend heading towards Wise

‘W-Why is she going there?’ Zhu Yuan wondered as she eyed the scene

“Hello Ms. Qingyi” Wise greeted as he wiped his face with a napkin

“I see you are enjoying your lunch” Qingyi sat down at the table, right next to Wise

This move got some attention from others in the area, and it wasn't the good kind

‘Grrr, that damned librarian’ Lucy grit her teeth discretely while Caesar pouted with jealousy stirring.

“How is your day going Ms. Qingyi?” Wise smiled at the woman seated at his side

“My day has been so-so, organizing literature, collecting late fees, correcting children...etc.” Qingyi said as she propped her head onto her arm cemented onto the table.

‘T-That cunning short stack’ Nicole thought with veins bulging on her head

Suddenly a tray planted itself onto the table drawing attention from some bystanders

“Ms. Jane...” Wise uttered

“Glad you remember me dear” Jane also sat at the table on Wise’s other side

‘Oh ho, seems like my rouge element is intervening’ Qingyi thought as she looked over at Jane who shot her a discrete wink

‘YET ANOTHER RIVAL!’ Lucy and Caesar both thought in unison

“I was running a bit late for lunch and my luck as always is high, I managed to catch you~” Jane gave Wise’s arm a little rub

‘Oh, he’s definitely finished’ Lighter thought as he watched the scene while getting his food

‘J-Jane, Qingyi’ Zhu Yuan thought as an unfamiliar stir manifested in her chest, she tightened her grip on her spoon

“What brings you over Ms. Doe?” Qingyi questioned

“Am I not allowed to sit wherever?” Jane inquired with feigned ignorance

“Just curious on your selection choice, you usually don’t frequent anywhere else” Qingyi said putting emphasis on the conclusion on her statement

“I just thought it might be good to check out other spots and what better way than to help our new assistant settle in better”

‘She’s a good liar but her intentions are as clear as day to me’ Qingyi thought

‘She’s very observant, I expect nothing less from our librarian’ Jane thought

Wise felt a bit of tension in the environment with Qingyi and Jane pressing on either side of his, not to mention some glances from other staff members but Lighter soon appeared and sat down on the table.

‘A way in’ Lucy’s quick thinking appeared as she suddenly picked up her food trasy

“Luce?” Caesar clocked the girl's intentions and followed suit raced over

“H-Hey guys” Caesar said suddenly appearing and covering the shorter Lucy behind her

‘YOU BOAR!’ Lucy mentally yelled

“Just wanted to talk to Lighter for a few, no big deal right? right” Caesar sat down next to Lighter

“Smooth moves” Lighter whispered before feeling a sharp elbow hit his rib

“Oh hi Lucy, need something?” Wise asked

Lucy’s eyes landed on Qingyi and Jane who were looking at her with scanning eyes

‘I won’t back down to you two’

“Hmp, I am simply here because the boar requested it” Lucy sat down

“I didn’t-”

Lucy pinched Caesar’s thigh under the table silencing her

“It’s nice to see you guys get along” Wise smiled at her causing a blush to appear on her face

‘She’s in too’ Jnae and Qingyi thought in unison

“Ahem” Lighter feigned a cough to get attention away from Wise momentarily

“This table is fuller than usual” Lighter commented

“I know right, the more the merrier~” Burnice chimed as she appeared out of nowhere with Piper in tow

“Woah, we changed seats, you younguns sure don’t settle” Piper commented

‘Right, these two’ Lucy thought as she remembered yet another two of her competition

“Awww, these two got the good seats” Burnice frowned as she looked at Qingyi and Jane

“Aren’t all seats the same?” Wise questioned

“So dense” everyone on the table said

‘So many people on that table’ Zhu Yuan thought before locking eyes with Jane who just gave her a small smirk and blew a playful kiss towards her

‘Tch, is this her doing? An elaborate plan to get me to act?’ Zhu Yuan thought

‘Nicole, you’re losing him’ Nicole mentally scolded herself as her hands gripped the edges of ehr lunch tray, readying to also approach the table.

‘Go’ Nicole tried but failed die to her lack of confidence

‘This isn’t like me, I can swindle anybody, anywhere, at any time, so why can’t I just go over there?’

Back at the table....

“This is quite a party you’ve gathered” Jane said to Wise

“Me?”

“Never mind what I said?”

“Ahem” Lucy cut in

“Yes Lucy?”

“Your jacket is well, jsut to inform you”

‘His jacket?’ everyone besides Burnice and Lighter was confused

‘That’s right, assert my dominance over all you monkeys’ Lucy thought smugly

“Oh yeah, I got a jacket too” Caesar piped up

‘Tch I forgot about this damn boar’

“You’re giving girls, your clothes hm?” Jane teased

‘There seems to be some undertone with these women’ Qingyi internalized

“You sure are one of kind Wise, he even carried me back to my cabin, I felt like a bride on her wedding day” Piper said as she fondly remembered the experience

‘Seems I’m further behind than I thought’ Jane thought as her mind wandered back to Zhu Yuan

“Ooh ohh, Wise, when are you taking me for a second date?” Burnice randomly said causing Wise to choke on his drink

“I uh”

“A second date? I haven't even gotten a first one~” Jane feigned hurt

‘Using the situation to your advantage as usual’ Qingyi thought

“So when are we going out?” Burnice had puppy dog eyes as she looked over at Wise

‘Think fast Lighter, your bro is in danger’ Lighter found a solution to the dilemma almost instantly

Using his brute strength, he discretely flicked a chicken bone towards the bell causing it to ring

‘500000 IQ move’ Lighter thought

“Seems lunch is over, time to head back to work” Qingyi stood up

“Guess I’ll see you later” Burnice smiled before skipping off

“See ya youngsters” Piper lazily walked off

Soon everybody else dispersed and walked off leaving Wise and Lighter

“You owe me another” he said before leaving

Chapter Text

“What is Jane trying to pull?” Zhu Yuan wondered as she walked into her home.

“Welcome home my little Yua-” her mother stopped herself as she saw her daughter’s face scrunched in thought

“Something the matter?”

“Oh it’s nothing” Zhu Yuan quickly covered up her feelings

“I told you to not take extra shifts, too much work is too stressful for you” she scolded as she grabbed Zhu Yuan by the arm

“I-It’s not work” Zhu Yuan mumbled

“What?” her mother’s eyes widened

Zhu Yuan quickly covered her mouth

‘Damn it Zhu Yuan, keep your mouth shut’

“Is somebody harassing you at work? HONEY!” her mother asked right before calling her father who rushed out his bedroom

“What’s going on?” he asked

“Our daughter might be being harassed at her job”

“N-N-”

“WHO IS IT!?” He roared as his mind already thought the worst

“I-I’M NOT BEING HARASSED!” Zhu Yuan quickly shot down their theory

“Really? Then what is going on?”

“Nothing, I was just thinking about something personal”

“Personal?’ her mother gasped

“Is it a boy?” her father asked with uncertainty

Zhu Yuan blushed as she thought of Wise

“You hit the nail right on its head” her mother congratulated

“T-Totally not a boy, is it just me or am I tired?” Zhu Yuan managed to slip away into her room and locked the door

“Definitely a boy” her mother said

“Looks like our grandkids are going to come after all” her father said

‘I slipped up, they know everything now’ Zhu Yuan lay on her bed in fetal position

----------------FOLLOWING DAY------------------

Zhu Yuan got out of her car and locked it. She begins her walk towards her post.

“Captain, you are a minute late”

“Late?” Zhu Yuan looked down at her watch then back at 11

“I am actually an hour early” Zhu Yuan corrected

“But later than me nonetheless, it is still late” 11 said making Zhu Yuan sigh

“Whatever, just go to your post” Zhu Yuan said

“Orders understood” 11 walked off leaving Zhu Yuan to enter the security cabin to find Evelyn prepping her equipment

“You’re early as well?” Zhu Yuan put her bag down

“My morning jog wasn’t possible, so I decided to come now” Evelyn said before walking out

‘Guess I’m late for once” Zhu Yuan thought

After about an hour, some staff started arriving slowly. The usual small waves towards the security as a courtesy and an acknowledgement

“Perimeter is secure, nothing out of the ordin-” Zhu Yuan stopped herself when she saw Wise arrived with Belle in tow

“Do I have to be early? There are barely any other students here” Belle whined

“It saves gas if we both get here at the same time” Wise said

“But you got a job, you can afford to spend more gas now” Belle argued

“You’re still in high school, you’ll understand when you go to college” Wise said

Belle’s eyes wandered over to the security cabin and landed on Zhu Yuan who quickly looked away.

‘That’s weird’ Belle thought

“Is something wrong?” Wise asked

“The security guard was staring our way; did you do something bro?”

“Nothing, I did nothing” Wise defended

“If you say so” Belle said

“Wise~” a sultry voice called out from behind him

“Jane?” he turned to see the rat thiren stood there

“Jane” Zhu Yuan tensed her jaw and gripped the handle of her coffee cup tighter

“How lucky, you are the first person I’ve seen today” Jane said

“I think I’m gonna go” Belle slipped away swiftly leaving her brother and the rat woman

‘Smart girl’ Jane thought

“Your sister is an excellent student” Jane complemented

“Thanks, she learns from the best”

“You, I presume?” Jane asked with a flirtatious undertone

“How did you know?” Wise mused

“Brains seem to run in your family” Jane said causing the two to chuckle

Zhu Yuan grit her teeth and suddenly felt herself stand and leave the cabin

‘Oh no, what am I doing?’ Zhu Yuan mentally scolded

‘Oh, looks like trouble is coming’ Jane saw the woman approaching from the corner of her eye

“Ahem” Zhu Yuan cut in

“Oh, hello Ms. Zhu Yuan” Wise greeted

“Hello there~” Jane also greeted

‘What do I say? They aren’t doing anything wrong’ Zhu Yuan began running multiple cover ups through her brain

“I- uh, just came over to say hello” Zhu Yuan covered up

“Okay, hello then” Wise said

“Is that all? Or you have more to say?” Jane goaded

‘Grr, this rat’

“Just saying hi” Zhu Yuan said

“Then I guess that's the end of it, come on dear, let’s go inside for briefing” Jane said

“Alright” Wise and the thiren began walking off while Zhu Yuan watched

Jane looked back and gave Zhu Yuan a smug wave and wink

‘She is so frustrating’ Zhu Yuan thought

‘Looks like the officer is getting pressed, next time she should learn to be upfront’ Jane thought as she glanced at Wise who was walking beside her.

Jane and Wise entered the school building and Jane’s time met an abrupt end.

“Oh, how fortunate” Qingyi appeared seemingly out of nowhere

‘For you’ Jane finished off in her head

“I need a helper, and one shows up so quickly” Qingyi grabbed Wise’s sleeve

“Ms. Qingyi” Wise acknowledged

“What do you need him for?” Jane stood between Wise and Qingyi

‘She’s on the defensive’ Qingyi thought

“Just some bookkeeping before the library is accessible for the day”

“Your computer is functional, no?”

“Actually, it’s updating, and it takes a while”

“Call a student then”

“I don’t trust a student’s judgement plus it’s still early, there's barely any around” Qingyi shot back

“It’s okay Ms. Jane; I’ll go help her out” Wise agreed

‘Damn it, she got him’ Jane thought

“Then I guess you’ll need more hands, I’ll assist” Jane proposed

“One person is enough” Qingyi shot down

“I see”

‘Clever’ Jane conceded to the woman

Wise and Qingyi parted ways with Jane and found themselves in the library.

“Where do we start?”

UPDATE COMPLETE

The desktop sounded

‘Fairy’ Qingyi thought exasperated

“I guess there's no need for me to be here then” Wise said as he turned to leave

“Wait” Qingyi grabbed him by the sleeve

“Hm?” Wise turned and looked down at the shorter woman

“I-I don’t know how to use the new version update” Qingyi covered up

“You need my help with it? I can do it” Wise said

“Thank you”

Wise sat down on the chair in front of the desktop and began working as Qingyi sat next to him

“I’ll teach you how to use this interface”

“Go on” Qingyi said

Every teaching from Wise, Qingyi took an opportunity to slowly inch closer to Wise until the distance between their bodies was almost non-existent.

“And there, any questions?” Wise said as he finished off

“All understood but I need you help simplify the auto keeper” Qingyi said trying to buy time

“Alright”

“What is your type of woman?”

Wise choked on his own saliva

“Um, where is this coming from?”

‘Perhaps I was too forward, I must have misinterpreted that dating manual’ Qingyi thought

“Out of curiosity” Qingyi answered simply

Wise cleared his throat before starting

“Well, I guess somebody who has a good character and someone I know will love me as I am” Wise answered

“Hmm, I see” Qingyi said

“And all done” Wise said before getting up and leaving

‘Valuable information secured, this attempt was a success, future encounters should be easier to turn into my favor’ Qingyi thought

Chapter Text

“Girl, get up” Monna poked Ellen’s tail

The girl was face down on the bench table

“Huh?” Ellen mumbled still face down onto the table

“Stop moping around, you have a boyfriend to get” Ruby chimed up

“Ugh, can you guys just chill?” Ellen finally sat up and face the three

“No we can’t, now more than ever” Lynn said

“Why is that?”

“You haven't seen or heard any rumours?” Monna said

“Nope, that damn science project got all my attention” Ellen said before popping a lollipop in her mouth

Ruby leaned closer to Ellen’s ear

“Rumour has it, Ms. Doe is hanging around him a lot these days, same with Director de Montefio, Ms. Wheel and Ms. King” she informed

“Don’t forget about Ms. White, she’s also in that bag” Lynn said

“That is some serious competition now” Monna said

Ellen just sighed and rolled her eyes, her outward demeanour showed nonchalance but inside there was a storm stirring.

“What are we gonna do?” Lynn asked Ellen

“Just leave it be” Ellen said causing her friends to look at her oddly

“Are we hearing correctly?” Monna asked

“Yes, I have a science project to deal with, see you guys later” Ellen got up and walked off with her book bag slung over her shoulder.

“She’s not alright, is she?” Monna said

“We should try to convince her more” Ruby suggested

“I think we should leave her be for now” Lynn said getting confused looks from the other two

“Explain” Monna said

“It’s all an act, just wait and see” Lynn took out her phone and started scrolling

With Ellen......

‘Ms. Doe, Ms. King, Ms. White’ the images of the women flashed in Ellen’s mind

She opened her locker and started sifting through her items, the uneasy feeling in her chest could not be shaken. Jealousy stirring and feelings festering together forming a messy ball of emotions tangled together.

‘Take a breath Ellen, the old man is going to be a pain in the ass if you act out’ she mentally calmed herself down

“Let me put this on hold for a bit and get to my next class” she mumbled to herself as she walked off to her next lesson

She arrived in time; no teacher was present and some of her peers were just chatting to themselves. Ellen made her way over to her seat and waited for her teacher's arrival but something unexpected happened.

“Good morning Class~” a flirty voice sounded followed with the clanking of heels against the tiles of the floor

‘Huh? She’s not supposed to be here’ Ellen thought

“I’m your substitute for today so please treat me well” Jane spoke causing small blushes to appear the boy’s faces.

“Y-YES MA’AM!” they all sounded in unison

“Oh, I almost forgot” Jane slightly paced up towards the door and opened it and in walked Wise holding stacks on papers.

“And our teaching assistant as well” Jane introduced

Ellen’s eyes focused on Wise, her heartbeat quickened but soon this was replaced with jealousy as she watched the scene before her.

“You can just sit over there; I’ll join you after a few” Jane said while near him

Ellen tensed up and tightened her grip on the corner of the desk, Jane however also took notice of this.

‘Oh, is she angry?’ Jane thought as she glanced at Ellen through the corner of her eye before quickly looking over at Wise

‘Is it maybe because of..?’

“Uh Miss Doe?” a student’s hand was raised

“Yes dear?”

“Where is our teacher?”

“Oh, she left, so I’m going to be here for now until your replacement arrives”

“Yes” some students celebrated amongst themselves

‘Now back that girl, Ellen Joe, was it? jumping to conclusions now is a bit presumptuous, perhaps a test is in order’

“Open your books to page 104” Jane began her lesson

After about 20 minutes of engagement, Jane left the class to write an in-class exercise and joined Wise on the teacher's desk.

“Venus is a lifesaver, giving me her assistant like this” Jane remarked

“Just doing my job too” Wise said

“She helped you adjust well; you’re already grading like a pro” Jane complemented

“I learn pretty fast, just a quirk of mine”

“It’s a ‘handsome’ quirk” Jane said suggestively

“Thanks, you have pretty nice ones yourself Ms. Jane”

“Oh my, is that flirting?” Jane mused

“Just giving my compliments” Wise gave her a small smile

Some students weren’t focused on the assignment and on the exchange between the two. Jane discretely glanced at Ellen who seemed very tense.

‘Tch, that damn rat woman’ Ellen tensed her jaw as her gaze intensified

‘Looks like that is the case’ Jane concluded

‘But just to make sure’

“Oh, did you correct this one?” Jane took initiative and guided Wise’s hand on the sheet.

SNAP!

Everyone’s heads turned to Ellen, who held half a pencil in her hand.

“Oops” she said passive aggressively as she dropped the remnant onto the desk.

‘Gotcha’ Jane thought as she gave Ellen a smug smirk

“How unfortunate, allow me to lend you one of mine” Jane walked over to Ellen’s desk and placed her pencil on it. She crouched down to pick up the other snapped off half of the pencil and momentarily was by Ellen’s ear

“Your aggression isn’t going to win him over” she placed it on the table

“Please don’t break this one” Jane said before going back to the teacher's desk

‘Who do you think you are?’ was all that ran through Ellen’s mind, the rest of the class Jane and Ellen exchanged glances. Poisonous eyes meeting arrogant ones every couple of minutes until end of the lesson.

After clearing out the classroom, Ellen slowly walked up to the desk and slammed the pencil down. Luckily Wise made his exit prior to Ellen’s approach. Jane sat leaning back into the chair with a calm, unbothered demeanour.

“How scary” Jane teased

“I know your game” Ellen said baring her sharp teeth

“Oh my, are you talking to a teacher in such a manner?” Jane feigned shock before putting her smile back on

“Run along now girl, you are a shark thiren but these waters are too much for you” Jane said as she shooed Ellen off

“Tch” Ellen just walked out of the classroom in a sour mood

“A student has fallen for him as well, competition from all ends but they don’t have the confidence to challenge me at all, especially that cop” Jane comfortably reclined into the seat.

‘That old hag’ Ellen grumbled as she aggressively opened her locker shocking Ruby

“A-Are you alright?” she asked in fear

“Just fine” Ellen managed to get out with a tensed jaw

Chapter Text

“Have you noticed Ellen’s been in a sour mood lately?” Monna said

“Yeah, I saw her bite straight through a lollipop the day before" Lynn said

“And she always has a scowl on her face” Monna added

“Did we do something to her?” Ruby asked with concern

“Hm?” Lynn began recalling all their interactions prior to Ellen’s shift in mood

“No, I can’t recall anything besides that karaoke incident, but we apologized for that” Lynn said

“Then what’s going on?”

“Shhh, speak of the devil” Monna said just as another person joined and plopped down on the table

A momentary awkward silence was present in the atmosphere

“Something wrong?” Ellen asked with a hint of annoyance

“Nothing” they all side simultaneously

Ellen sighed

“If you got something to say then say it” Ellen said

“Well...” Ruby started but paused

“You’ve been a bit mad these past few days and...” Monna said

“We just want-”

“It’s nothing”

“Is it about......Wise?” Ruby asked cautiously

“It’s nothing” Ellen said with a bit more aggression making Ruby slightly jump

“Okay okay, got it” Ruby surrendered

‘Definitely about Wise’ her friends thought

“So....you finish your project?” Monna asked

“Done and dusted”

“How's math? I heard your class got a new sub”

Ellen’s lollipop snapped in her mouth at the mention of ‘her’. Ellen’s friends jumped at the sudden action.

“Uh, s-sorry" Ruby said

“Gah, another good one wasted” Ellen said as she took out the other half from her mouth

“Did she say something wrong?”

“Just mentioned that sub, I don’t like her one bit” Ellen said

“Why?”

Ellen ignored the question and stayed quiet

“Who is the sub anyway?” Monna whispered to Lynn

“Ms. Doe” Lynn whispered back

“Oh” Monna gasped

“Stop gossiping, I’m right here” Ellen said

“Uh, did Ms. Doe do something?” Ruby asked blankly causing Monna and Lynn to facepalm

“Tch, she’s just arrogant” Ellen answered

“Does it have to do with Wise?”

“I never said anything about him” Ellen snapped back

‘Definitely about him’

“Anyways why are you guys always trying to tie everything I do to him? It’s so damn annoying” Ellen said as she got up and walked off

‘Damn friends, those damn women too’ Ellen grumbled as she walked around the school grounds

It’s either her luck was low or high but regardless her next encounter was unexpected. Ellen bumped into another person.

“Watch where you’re goin-” Ellen looked up to see Wise

“Oh, sorry for that, I lost focus out here” he said

“Tch, whatever” Ellen said as she looked off to the side with a small blush on her face

“Is everything okay? You seem a bit tense” Wise said

‘He noticed that?’

“Want to go for a small walk and talk?” Wie proposed

“C-Cool” Ellen agreed with a small flush on her face as the two began walking around the campus together and conversing with each other

“My sister usually likes to call me names like rizz god and rizzler but I don’t agree”

“Huh?” Ellen turned and looked at Wise

“I don’t understand real girls” Wise said

‘You dense idiot’ Ellen thought with frustration, but a hint of endearment mixed in as well

‘Maybe his thickness is a good thing and a chance to find out, a chance to see if I can compete’

“Hey, Wise” Ellen stopped causing Wise to do the same

“What’s wrong?”

“What do you.... think of me?”

‘Think of Ellen?’ Wise started trying to interpret the girl's words

“I-It’s not rocket science, just tell me, okay?” Ellen’s demeanor was now bashful

Wise lightly sighed before starting

“I think you’re an...”

Ellen’s chest tightened with anticipation

“Quite frankly, I think you’re a great girl. Strong, kind and smart, an all-around great woman”

“A-Alright that’s enough” Ellen said with her face now totally red

“Okay” Wise put his hands up in surrender

At a certain distance away...

‘I-Is that what I think it is?’ Zhu Yuan thought as she saw Ellen’s mannerisms around Wise

‘A-Are they flirting?’ Zhu Yuan clenched her fist before her legs suddenly had a mind of their own

‘What am I doing?’ Zhu Yuan thought but she really couldn’t stop herself

“Did you mean it?” Ellen mumbled

“Hm?”

“Did you mean what you said?”

“Of course, I think you are amazing” Wise complemented

‘Maybe I do have a chance after all’ Ellen thought with a newfound drive

“E-EXCUSE ME!” a sternish voice sounded

“Ms. Zhu Yuan” Wise greeted causing a small blush to appear on her face

“Ahem” Zhu Yuan began regaining her composure.

Ellen being as observant as she was, noticed the shift in Zhu Yuan’s body language and quickly went on guard.

‘She’s in this too’ Ellen’s eyes narrowed slightly at the guard

“Is there a reason for you to be out here with a student?” Zhu Yuan asked

“Oh, we were just walking and talking” Wise explained

“Don’t you think it’s a bit inappropriate?”

Wise opened his mouth to speak but he couldn't

“So what?” Ellen cut in causing the two to turn towards her

“Excuse me?” Zhu Yuan did a double take

“Nothing’s inappropriate and I consented to being here” Ellen retorted

“It’s just protocol” Zhu Yuan felt her blood pressure rising

“For what? Kids? I’m not a minor, I’m 18, I can make my own decisions and consent to whatever” Ellen stepped up to Zhu Yuan who towered over the thiren

Zhu Yuan and Ellen just stood face to face, staring each other down.

“I advise you to apologize, right now” Zhu Yuan said

‘Looks like things are getting serious, I need to step in’ Wise thought

“Uh, Ms. Zhu Yuan, I apologize, this was my fault” Wise said as he walked up to Ellen’s side

Zhu Yuan momentarily took her attention off Ellen and towards Wise

“Fine, just avoid doing this ag-”

“Ah there you are” another person appeared

“M-Ms. Howard?”

“I need a hand; my baby is acting up” Grace grabs Wie and drags him away while Ellen and Zhu Yuan watched with wide eyes and scrambled brains.

“GRACE!” Wise exclaimed in surprise as the woman with surprising strength kept dragging him with ease

“A word of advice for you” Ellen started getting the older woman’s attention

“If you’re also in this, if you’re into him too then you’re gonna have a tough time, I’m not backing out” Ellen said before storming off

“Kids these days, no respect” Zhu Yuan said before storming back to the security cabin to be met with a couple of the other guards.

“Uh, captain, are you okay?” Seth asked with fear

“Just fine, now get back to work” Zhu Yuan said with a seething undertone

Seth looked over at Evelyn who just sat nonchalantly sipping on her coffee

“Y-YES CAPTAIN!” Seth rushed out in a blink of an eye

Chapter Text

“GRACE SLOW DOWN!” Wise screamed as the woman dragged him into the school vehicle garage

“Oh lord” they finally arrived

Wise slumped over and tried to catch his breath, some beads of sweat formed on his forehead

“You’re tired already? How are we going to work on my baby if you can’t even make a simple run like that”

“It was sudden” Wise said still out of breath

Grace just sighed in disappointment

“Humans” she said

‘I left Ellen and Zhu Yuan; I should finish this off fast before something bad happens’ Wise thought

“What...are...we doing?” Wise finally straightened up after his recovery

“My baby needs a good fix” Grace said as she walked up to a stationary car

‘I forgot she loves this kind of thing’ Wise thought

“Ta ta, let’s get to it” Grace shoved a toolbox into Wise’s hands as Grace crawled under the vehicle

“Wrench” she outstretched her hand

‘Where the hell is Piper?’ Wise thought as he obliged to the woman’s instructions

After a couple minutes of work, Grace pulled out from under the car.

“Phew, could use a breather” Grace sat up

“Why did you call me to help you?”

“Hm? No reason” Grace shrugged

“Damn these shoes, they’re so restricting” Grace took off her shoes suddenly

“W-Woah” Wise stumbled on his own words

“What?” Grace stretched her toes as she tossed her shoes elsewhere in the garage

“Woo, much better” Grace leaned her back onto the car tire

“D-Don’t you feel weird? With no shoes and all” Wise asked

“Nope, I work better with bare feet somehow, my focus on my children is sharpened and un wavered” Grace said just as she took off her work coat and tossed it aside, leaving her black crop top.

“Phew, now I can work better” Grace said

“You really like machines, huh?” Wise diverted his gaze from her chest

“My devotion to my babies is my upmost priority, tinkering and building things is my passion” Grace gushed with stars in her eyes

‘She really likes this’ Wise thought

“You know I did computer science at college; I really like working with machines too” Wise said trying to find a common ground

“YOU LIKE MACHINES TOO!” Grace’s face had a wide grin and her eyes burning with a fiery passion

Wise gulped

“Uh, yeah, I do” Wise said

“Oh, finally somebody gets it” Grace sounded relieved

“Gets ‘it’?”

“The wonders of a mechanical world, the beauty of turning gears and codes running through a processor, I tell this to my little cousin, but she calls me insane” Grace fawned as she had images of machines in her head

“You know what, I don’t think you’re insane at all, you’re just very passionate, I think you’re pretty cool Grace, you’re love for machines is unmatched” Wise complemented

“Why thank yo-” Grace paused momentarily as a foreign thought popped into her head

‘W-What did he say?’ Grace’s mind was now a scrambled mess, like a computer trying to load terabytes of data all at once. The silence was now worrying Wise

‘D-Did I take it a step too far?’ he thought with some regret

‘Is this what Koleda talked about that time? Is this what she called romance? LOVE?!’ Grace peeked over at Wise before looking away just as quickly

‘I offended her’ Wise concluded

“I-I’m sorr-”

“L-LET’S GET BACK TO IT!” Grace was suddenly back under the car with her wrench tightly gripped in her hand, twisting at the gears in what looked like the blink of an eye.

‘She’s totally weirded out, best to just leave it be for now’ Wise thought

‘W-Was he trying to romance me? Koleda’s movies usually show this type of stuff’ Grace thought as she worked on the oil filter.

She was under the car for what felt like an eternity though it was just like 5 minutes, her mind still trying to wrap around Wise’s words. Her focus was slightly divided and this allowed for an error to be made, she accidentally opened the oil release.

“GAH!” Grace exclaimed as the liquid began pouring over her

“GRACE!” Wise pulled her out from under the vehicle

“Here” he pulled out his handkerchief for Grace to clean her face up with

Heading towards the garage......

“What was that noise?” Zhu Yuan walked towards the entrance

She lost her footing and nearly faceplanted, shoes lying on the ground randomly.

“Whose shoes are these?” Zhu Yuan picked one up before dropping it back immediately

“They smell like mouldy cheese” she pinched her nose

Soon her attention diverted to an overcoat laying randomly on the ground before voices filled her ears

“It’s in my eye” a female voice spoke

“I’m sorry, I’ll clean it up” a familiar male voice said

‘Wise?’ Zhu Yuan’s curiosity got the better of her as she approached the source of the noise

“It’s so warm and gooey, it was really full” Grace said

Zhu Yuan froze, and her mind went blank

“The tank hasn’t been active in a while; it must’ve backed up”

‘W-What are they t-t-talking about?’ Zhu Yuan slowly crept to see just a bit of the scene. She lightly peeked to see Wise hovering over Grace who was clad in her black crop top and bare foot.

“Thanks for the clean up”

“Of course, it was my responsibility as well, since you invited me here”

Zhu Yuan immediately covered her eyes and as swiftly and quietly as she could to create some distance.

‘T-They did something not safe for work” Zhu Yuan quickly exited the garage and speed walked out into the parking lot.

“T-They did the deed” Zhu Yuan moved through the parking lot, with images of the scene in playing back in her head

“C-Calm down Yuan, they’re both adults and it’s just the birds and the bees”

‘But at work? Was he in a relationship the entire time? I like a taken man?’

‘N-No, I don’t like him in that manner at all’ Zhu Yuan denied herself

‘So why do I feel like this?’

‘E-Even if I did like him, going after a man in a r-r-relationship would make me a homewrecker, a floozy’

The images of Wise and Grace irked her to her core

‘I will be upstanding and exemplary; I won’t intrude on another relationship’ Zhu Yuan said to herself as she entered the security cabin.

She anxiously began tapping away at the desk with a feeling eating her from the inside.

‘B-But technically, if I was to get him to leave her on his own accord, would it count as homewrecking? I would still be within the boundaries’ Zhu Yuan thought

‘N-NO! STOP THINKING LIKE THAT! YOU WERE RAISED BETTER!’ she scolded herself mentally

Back at the garage...…

“And there, all done” Wise said as he put the now filthy handkerchief aside

“Thanks, assis-, Wise” she corrected herself

‘That’s odd, she never calls me by my name’

“You’re welcome” Wise got up and walked away leaving Grace to her devices

She looked down at her wrench

‘Romance huh? This new mechanism is complex’

Chapter Text

Belle was seated in the library; from most angles it seemed as though she was embroiled in her studies, but she just hid her phone behind a large encyclopaedia, turning the page every now and again to seem genuine.

‘Oh crap I lost again’ Belle peeped over the top of the book to see Qingyi just typing away on the computer

‘Alright I’m sa-’

“Is that a phone?” Harumasa said in a non-discrete manner whatsoever.

“Shush” Belle sounded causing Qingyi to look over

“Silence in the library” she said in monotone

Harumasa plopped down next to the girl who turned her screen away from him

“Woah, I’m not going to judge or anything” Harumasa put his hands up in surrender

“Why are you over here?” Belle asked

“Ouch, that’s a bit harsh, my feelings are hurt” Asaba said playfully

Belle just sighed and rolled her eyes

“I’m studying”

“Playing ‘snake battle’, yeah right” Harumasa retorted

“Ugh, fine, what do you want?”

“I’m just here to see my fave girl, that’s all”

Belle felt heat rise to her cheeks

“Ahem, Rachel is history class” Belle retorted

“Who said anything about Rachel?”

“Enough distractions” Belle stuck her nose in the large book avoiding eye contact with Harumasa

“Okay cool, heard about your bro?”

“Hm?” Belle perked up

“You heard the rumour?”

“What rumour?”

‘If there is a rumour of Wise and I haven’t heard it then...’

“They say he’s dating Ms. Doe” Harumasa said casually

‘Bro and Ms. Doe? No wonder why I saw her take him the other day when we arrived at school’

“Where did you hear this?”

“Oh just a friend of mine”

“Mary?”

“Nope”

“Brie?”

“Nope”

“Yuzuha?”

“Nope I won’t tell”

“Urgh, you’re so useless”

Suddenly a shadow loomed behind the two

“What rumour are you talking about?”

“M-Ms. Qingyi, we weren’t talking at all” Belle excused

“I already heard you, what rumour are you pertaining to?”

‘Why is she so invested?’

“Ugh, i-it's about the special lunch meat” Belle lied with beads of sweat forming on her temples

“Yeah, I heard somebody said they hunt does and cut em up” Harumasa backed up

“That’s just absurd”

‘Deflection tactics, very clever’ Qingyi thought

“Keep it down from now on” Qingyi warned before going back to her desk

‘Jane is more proactive than me at the moment, but the silver lining is nobody else is acting out of place’ Qingyi analysed

‘I already have the information on his type; I could use it to my advantage and become such an individual’

----------------LATER ON-------------------

“And approximately in one minute, I have reached his office” Qingyi opened the door to find an unfavourable setting for her

“Oh, why welcome” Jane greeted with her usual smile

Jane was seated by Wise’s side with a stack of math papers she deduced were being graded but the setup was too elaborate to be just marking.

‘She is cunning’ Qingyi and Jane locked eyes

‘You are very insistent on getting in my way’ Jane thought

“Ms. Qingyi, what brings you by?” Wise asked breaking their incognito stare down

“I came to receive advice on my software management” Qingyi lied

‘An excuse to stay for a prolonged period, came out a bit too smoothly, this was planned’ Jane deducted

“Oh, what do you need to know?” Wise said

“Allow me to make myself comfortable” Qingyi took Venus’s chair and scooched to Wise’s other side with a small notebook in hand.

Jane momentarily met Qingyi’s eyes which had a certain glint, Jane took this as a formal declaration of war.

“I have to get a recommendation from an expert, my OS is currently on Fairy but I wish to upgrade to another, which do I choose?”

“Oh this is a simple question so...…”

‘She’s trying to divert attention’ Jane glanced down at the math paper and snatched it from the front of Wise

“Oh Ms. Jane, I was just distracted for a moment, no need to do it for me”

“I thought you were busy with her, I didn’t want to distract from helpful counselling” Qingyi had a small hint of frustration plastered on her usually indifferent face

‘Gotcha, lose your cool and scare him’ Jane goaded with her eyes

“I have it” Wise gently took it back from Jane and placed it back in front of him

“Sorry Ms. Qingyi, I should’ve have been a bit more decisive, now isn’t the best time, I’ll come to the library later on to assist you better” Wise apologized

“I see” Qingyi stood up and placed the chair back in its original position

‘Tch, my plan backfired, I’ve given her an opening for victory’

“I’ll see you soon” Qingyi said as she walked out

‘Your impulsivity is usually rare but today I was fortunate to get it to work in my favour though it wasn’t the original plan’ Qingyi thought as she walked away

‘I have to find a way to prevent this terrible consequence’ Jane’s mind began thinking of ways to rectify the mistake the made

“Ms. Jane, are you alright?”

“Hm?” her rat ears lightly twitched as she snapped back to reality

“Oh, don’t worry about me, just a bit ‘hot’ is all”

“I can get you a drink” Wise stood up and began walking off

“Looks like this is a chance” Jane took out her phone and began quickly scrolling on the web, after about 5 minutes Wise returned.

“I hope you didn’t wait long” he said as he handed Jane a cold tea milk

“No, you were gone for an adequate amount of time, no need to worry” Jane said with a devious thought in the back of her mind

After the two finished grading the papers, Jane’s phone began receiving rapid notifications.

“Oh dear, would you look at that, I must’ve forgotten, I put up an small exercise on the Inter-Knot Classroom” Jane feigned forgetfulness

“You need assistance as well?”

“If you do not mind”

“I said I’ll help Ms. Qingyi as well”

“Oh, do not worry, I can get an adequate replacement”

----------------WITH QINGYI----------------

“Where is he?” Qingyi was wondering where her proposed helper was at the moment

“Ms. Qingyi, I heard you needed help with your computer” a girl in a hoodie appeared

“Rain?” Qingyi questioned

“Ms. Doe told me to say that Mr Arna is caught up and can’t be of service, so she sent me”

‘Send a senior student Jane? Devious' Qingyi thought

Chapter Text

“Nicole”

The woman in question just silently drove, seemingly lost in her thoughts.

“Nicole”

“Huh? What?” she responded

“Can we stop for a burger?”

“I packed your damn lunch at home, eat what you have”

“But there is no burger”

Nicole let out an exasperated sigh

“Reach in my purse and take 5 dennies, buy from the cafeteria”

“Understood, thank you for your kindness”

“Anby” Nicole sighed as the girl grabbed the money

“This is the last time, bills have to be paid, and I can’t be splurging much”

“Are you completely functional?” Anby asked

“Heh?”

“Are your emotions in check?”

“Why are you asking dumb questions?”

“Your grip on the steering wheel is excessive and your brow is furrowed, signs indicating of distress”

“Tch, just turn on those headphones of yours until we get to the school”

“Does it have to do with the teaching assistant?” Anby asked with no restraint

“W-WHERE DID YOU GET THAT IDEA!?”

“The road, watch the road” Anby warned

“A-Answer me, where did you get such an idea?”

“You mumbled his name in your sleep this morning”

“S-So what? That doesn’t prove anything”

“You also allowed his name to slip while watching the romance movie the other day”

“Tch, just shut up will you” Nicole now had a flush on her face

“Is your romantic life being difficult?”

“No it’s not, I-I get plenty of dates” Nicole weaselled away from the accusations

“From my memory, you have spent the past few weeks at home with me” Anby said

“Shut up”

“The most appropriate advice, coming from a movie quote would be ‘Act before it’s too late’ then the dramatic theme begins playing” Anby said

‘This kid’ Nicole thought before an idea entered her head

“Hey Anby, you were in Wise’s group at that little camp, right?”

“Yes, why do you ask?”

“Did you interact with him?”

“Yes a few times during our expedition”

“What would you say is your current relationship?”

“I would say we are acquainted” Anby answered

‘Teehee, I got a money-making idea’ Nicole had a devious smirk on her face

“Nicole” Anby snapped the woman back to reality

“Huh?”

“Why do ask these questions?”

“You’ll see” Nicole said with a small chuckle, but Anby just brushed it off and put her headphones back on

-----------------AT THE SCHOOL-----------------

“And we’re done” Wise said

“Being a math sub is difficult work” Jane said

“Yeah, but I’m here to help” Wise said

“That is very reassuring, you sure know how to make a lady feel supported” Jane lightly grabbed Wise’s arm

“I’m just doing my job” Wise smiled at her

Jane sighed as she released Wise's arm

“Something wrong Ms. Doe?”

“Mr. Mayflower contacted me, he said I will be relieved of this class, a new hire has been made” Jane said with a pained expression

“Isn’t that a good thing?”

“Our time has been cut short, I really enjoyed our interactions, but you have to go back to Venus”

“It doesn’t have to end here, we can still talk, I enjoyed our interactions as well”

“Oh dear, my heart is fluttering” Jane said as she put her hand over her chest

‘I have now achieved casual access, closer to end goal than everyone else’ Jane said

KNOCK! KNOCK!

‘Another interruption, how unfortunate’

“Come in” Wise said

“Mr. Arna” Anby walked in with her usual blank expression

“Anby, is there something you need?”

“Yes, I request your presence” the girl said

“Is it urgent?”

“Yes” Anby turned to leave

“I’ll see you later, Ms. Doe” Wise got up and followed behind Anby

‘Something is not right, Anby Demara appearing so randomly, Nicole must be plotting’ Jane deduced as the door shut leaving her there alone

‘But no worries, my progress is further than all the others, I have won by a landslide’ Jane smirked arrogantly

With Anby and Wise......

The girl took him to the computer lab and lead him to a seemingly error coded monitor.

“Here, my project file is loaded on this device, and I need it recovered” Anby said

“What’s wrong with it?” Wise began using the mouse and clicking away popups and error messages, but they just kept reappearing.

“Any idea how this happened?” Wise sat down and began working

“No, I arrived, and it started acting like this” Anby lied

“Don’t worry I’ll get your project file back”

“Thank you, I’ll wait here” Anby plopped down next to Wise, and she discretely took a small note out of her pocket and read the contents

“If” Anby looked back down

“If you could go to one place to have fun in the city tonight, where would you go?”

‘That’s a weird question but Anby is a bit odd’ Wise thought

“I guess, I’ll go to probably an arcade”

“What do you do for fun?” Anby inquired

“I just read novels and watch movies and game sometimes”

“Watch ‘movies’?” Anby repeated

“Yeah, I love watching movies”

“What type of movies?” Anby closed distance almost instantly as her eyes had a glint despite her flat expression

“Uh” Wise took his fingers of the keyboard and leaned back thinking

“Probably, action/thrillers, I enjoy them the most, followed by comedy” Wise said

“By coincidence, action and comedy are the most prominent genres in Anby’s top 50 must watch movies” Anby said

“You have a list?”

“I created it during my free time; I recommend Nicole to watch them” Anby took out her phone and showed Wise notes of the film titles

“Oh ‘Port Peak’ I watched that one last weekend” Wise pointed out

“Number 14” Anby said

The two conversed the whole time until the final bell rang

“And just in time” Wise said as he removed a flash drive from the CPU.

“Here is your project” the two’s hands brushed and Anby had a red hue on her cheeks

“Thank you” she said in a meek voice

‘Is she alright?’ Wise thought

“I hope to see you again tomorrow” Anby said

“You’ll definitely find me” Wise smiled to which she returned her own small one

“Guess it’s time to clock off”

The two made their way out of the school building conversing with each other, Nicole took notice from the driver's side

“Yes, the plan worked, now just hurry u-”

“Wait is she smiling?” Nicole noticed before honking the horn out of impulse drawing attention from Anby

“I must leave” Anby said before walking away and entering the car

Nicole immediately backed out of her parking space and drove off.

“Seems like they’re in a rush” Wise said

Wise turned his head to see Zhu Yuan walking

“Maybe I should go say hi” Wise walked to catch up with her

“Ms. Zhu Yuan” he called out to her

She momentarily stopped and Wise caught up

‘Oh no’ she thought in a panic

“I came over to say hello, I haven’t seen you today” Wise said

‘H-How can I face him after what I saw?’ the images popping up in her head caused heat to rise to up her cheeks.

“Ahem, h-hello"

‘She seems odd today’

“Are you alright?”

“F-Fine, I need to start patrol” she sped off in the other direction

Wise simply shrugged and began his journey home

‘That was so embarrassing, I’m not ready to face him yet’ Zhu Yuan scolded herself

'But being a homewrecker, it's against my morals'

-------------------AT THE DEMARA HOUSEHOLD-------------------

“What did you find out?” Nicole questioned

“Nothing important, he was guarded in his answers”

“Oh really?” Nicole walked up to Anby and reached into her pocket and took out the note

Nicole checked the inner fold

“Aha, you’re such a liar” Nicole said

“The transparent tape I put here is loose, you definitely opened this note” Nicole said

Anby’s demeanour changed and showed slight panic

“I’m going to shower, then come back, and then you’ll tell me what you found out” Nicole said as she left her adopted sister in the living room alone.

‘Why would she lie? This is so unlike her’ Nicole began thinking off reasons for this to come to be, her eyes widened when a theory surfaced.

‘S-She likes him too, yeah, she doesn’t want me taking him away’ Nicole deduced

'So many turncoats nowadays, even your own sister betrays you' Nicole thought

Chapter Text

“Competition is rising up, that rat is stuck to him like glue and not to mention those idiot blondes are in this too” Nicole murmured to herself as she waited for the traffic light to signal go

Anby seated next to her with her headphones playing music

“Not to mention this little deviant” Nicole side-eyed her adopted sister, who was just casually scrolling on her phone

“I need to up my game” Nicole declared as they pulled into the school.

“Go to class and don’t try anything funny” Nicole said

“Understood” Anby said as she walked off with satchel hung over her shoulder

‘I guess the lecture I gave her last night worked, she doesn’t seem bothered by my demands at all’ Nicole thought

“I wonder how I’m going to move from today onwards, that rat is taking up his schedule, I can’t just demand his services immediately” Nicole said

‘And that damn briefing as well, I hate going to these things’ the woman entered the staff room to find a couple of people inside already, some of which were also against Nicole in this whole conflict.

“You’re early, Ms. Demara” Lucy said condescendingly

“What’s that supposed to mean shor-, Director” Nicole said

“That’s more like it, know your role” Lucy said

“Woah, Lucy is acting all tough” Burnice teased

“Shut it maniac” Lucy shot down

“Why are you so moody today?” Caesar asked

“Grr, I'm not moody” Lucy said with an annoyed expression on her face.

“Looks like it to me” Nicole spoke up

“Shut it, I’ll fire you all, just keep it up” Lucy warned

“Woah, I don’t want to get burned” Lighter joked

“Another terrible pun” Burnice said

“My jokes are ‘pun’-ny” Lighter said causing the women to facepalm

“Oh my, threatening termination” Jane entered the conversation

“And who called you over here?” Nicole turned to the rat thiren

“Am I not allowed to speak to my coworkers?” Jane feigned a look of confusion

“Ms. Doe” Lucy acknowledged

“Director, how are you this fine morning?” Jane greeted back

“So-so, I’ve seen your many requests for the teaching assistant, is work pressuring you?” Lucy asked with narrowed eyes

“Yeah, you take him a lot these days, don’t ya?” Burnice smiled at Jane

‘That’s my queue to leave’ Lighter backed away and went to sit somewhere else in the room

“Hmp” Jane just shot the women a smirk

“And what if I do?”

“You seem to be overusing the new temp” Qingyi cut in

“And our librarian as well” Jane said

“Yeah, give him a break for a little while” Nicole said

“I do give him adequate time to recover, our work is ‘strenuous’ after all” Jane winked

‘D-Did she already?’ Caesar’s mind went to certain NSFW places while Lucy had a blush at the implications

“V-Venus has claim, he was hired to suit a request from her” Lucy reminded

“No, his job description states assisting with tasks assigned to teachers e.g grading and heling with lessons and the job opening needed filling” Jane rebutted

“Still, you call him more than Venus does” Qingyi said

“Why are you all so pressed? Is this jealousy?” Jane stuck a nerve in the women causing a mass blush amongst them

“Speak of the devil” Jane noticed Wise enter from the corner of her eye

The group of women all looked at his direction

‘Hm?” Wise felt stares in his direction

‘I-Is my outfit funny?’ Wise wondered as he looked down at his shirt

“There’s my queue” Jane began walking over to Wise

‘N-No’ Nicole dashed past her and reached him first

“H-Hey” Nicole greeted nervously

“Hey Nicole, how are you doing?” Wise said

‘Ohh, getting bold, are we?” Jane thought as she continued her approach

“I’m cool, uh, let’s go sit over there” Nicole led Wise by the hand towards the corner of the room nearby Lighter.

‘Oh no, more drama’ Lighter thought in a tired manner

‘Evasion tactics, but their position leaves room fo-’

“HEY!” Burnice chimed as she plopped down on the other side of Wise suddenly

“Good Morning Burnice”

“It’s been sometime since we last talked”

“I’ve been busy helping Ms. Doe teach her math class, sorry if I haven’t said much”

“It’s cool, so how about that second date?” Burnice said with her usual whimsical charm

‘I-I’m losing’

“H-Hey Wise, look at this” Nicole took out her phone and showed him a random photo in her gallery.

“What’s that?”

“A-Anby’s burger pillow” Nicole said

‘My love rivals are winning’

Suddenly Lighter felt a pull in the other direction. Caesar planted a chair right by Nicole but close enough to speak to Wise

“H-Heya guys, I-I'm sitting over here now” Caesar said awkwardly

“Tch” Nicole felt her blood boiling

‘At least not everyone is here, less embarrassing’ Lighter was filled with gratitude

‘I’m not dealing with this today’ Lighter thought as he just adjusted his shades and leaned back into his chair

“Ahem” Lucy and Jane stood in front of the women around Wise

“I want that seat” Lucy said to Burnice

“Hm?” Burnice put a hand to her chin and looked like she was in a state of contemplation

“Nope” Burnice refused causing a vein to bulge on the smaller blonde’s temple

“I’m a director, I outrank you, you report to me” Lucy said

“It doesn’t have your name on it, so get lost” Burnice said with a casual smile

‘Burnice’ Lucy seethed with rage

“Um, you can take my seat” Wise volunteered as he stood up

‘Right my opening’ Jane celebrated

"N-No nee-" Lucy was cut off

“Oh, how gentlemanly, you can join me over there since you need a reliable seat” Jane suddenly led Wise away by the arm, she turned back at the women momentarily and shot them a smug wink

‘I lost him’ they all panicked internally

“Greetings” Qingyi appeared on Wise’s other side

‘Right, another variable is still in this equation

‘No openings for infiltration, my only worry now is the rat’ Qingyi thought

Just at that moment before anything else could ignite, more staff members flooded into the room lastly joined by Mayflower and Lycaon.

The speech started off like it usually did, welcoming staff onto the grounds, reminders and notices for future but today however an unexpected turn of events occurred

“An important last point of this briefing and perhaps the most interesting thing to happen” A few chuckled erupted amongst the staff

“To inform you, Ms. Doe has diligently done her duty as the substitute Mathematics teacher, and she has been relieved of the responsibility as effective today”

Applause for the woman sounded throughout the staff room even form those who were reluctant i.e Lucy and Co.

“In that spirit, I would like to introduce you to a new hiring. Please come in ma’am” Mayflower spoke, and the door slid open, and a tall woman walked in. Heels clicking onto the floor before ceasing and facing towards the small crowd.

“Please introduce yourself” Lycaon said

“Good morning everyone, my name is Tsukishiro Yanagi and I’m the new mathematics teacher and your new co-worker, let’s get along” she said before giving a small bow of respect. A short pause lingered in the room before a welcoming applause began.

“Your arrival will be a fresh start for all of us” Mayflower concluded

“Thank you sir” she smiled

Chapter Text

“Very well everybody, dismissed, and have a productive day” Mayflower spoke

“Ms. Tsukishiro please stay behind” Lycaon whispered to the woman

“Understood” she sat on one of the chairs in the front row as her coworkers walked out

“Sorry Mr. Arna, please remain for a moment” Mayflower gripped Wise’s wrist

“Oh, okay” In a matter of moments the room was empty save for the four left inside

“Right, Ms. Yanagi, this is Wise, our teaching assistant” Mayflower introduced

“I see” Yanagi adjusted her glasses as her gaze locked on Wise

‘S-She looks so responsible and mature’ Wise thought

“Since you’re newly acquainted, I suppose I can entrust her to you” Mayflower said as he turned to Wise

“Uh, sure” Wise said

‘I’m still new though’ Wise thought

“Good, please help her navigate and get settled into her office” Lycaon said as he and Mayflower walked out

“I assume you’ll begin the tour” Yanagi said

“Oh yeah”

“However” Yanagi started

“Hm?”

“We must stop by reception; I have business to handle” Yanagi got up and began walking out

‘Seems like she’s leading me’ Wise thought as he trailed behind her

To somebody without context, it looked like Yanagi was giving Wise a rundown of things.

“Good morning Ms. Tsukishiro” Rina gave her usual graceful smile

“And to you too, Mr. Arna” Rina greeted

“Hello Ms. Sebastiane” Wise greeted back

“Good day to you too, I came for those papers” Yanagi spoke

“I was wondering when you would arrive, I prepared them ahead of time” Rina handed Yanagi some documents

“Thank you, no please take me to my office” Yanagi requested

“Okay, let’s go” Wise said as he led her down the halls around some turns

“Here is your office” Wise opened the door for her

“Thank you” Yanagi gave Wise a small smile as she walked in

The room was basically bare, apart from of course the necessities of an officelike the desk, a chair and lastly empty shelves.

“It is clean” Yanagi rubbed her index finger across the desk

“The janitors here are very thorough” Wise remarked

“Now I need to fill this out” Yanagi sat down at the desk and began working on her document

‘Aren’t I supposed to show her around or something? I wonder what she is doing’ Wise thought as he curiously looked at the woman who had laser focus on what she was doing

‘Would it be rude to ask?’ Wise thought just as she looked up

“Is something the matter?”

“No, nothing’s wrong, just curious”

“About what I’m doing?”

“Well, I never said that” Wise sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck

“It’s not a secret, you’re free to ask, if you wish to that is”

“Then may I ask?”

“Enrollment papers” she answered turning the page towards Wise

“Really? Y-You have a child or?”

“Yes and no” Yanagi said

“Alright”

“Oh, forgive me, context is needed”

Wise looked at her awaiting an explanation

“I have a younger sister living with me, she’s high school age, so I decided to enroll her here for convenience” Yanagi said

‘And the teacher’s discount seen on the benefits’ Yanagi thought at the back of her mind

“I see, you’re a very responsible sister” Wise complemented

“Why thank you, I just do my duties” Yanagi shot Wise a warm smile

“What’s your sister’s name?”

“Soukaku, I could describe her as a...” Yanagi took a moment to think

“A bottomless pit if you will” she finished off

‘That’s a weird description’ Wise scratched his head

“No need for any more details” Yanagi said with a small smile before returning to her work

‘Guess I’ll just wait over here’ Wise sat on the other chair

After about 10 minutes of waiting, she finally finished and the two headed back to reception.

“I’ll process that for you as priority” Rina said as she filed it away

“Thank you for your diligence” Yanagi said.

“Ms. Rina is always reliable” Wise complemented eliciting a small reaction from the woman

“No need for such flattery, it’s just my responsibility” Rina said

“I assume you’re going to begin guiding me around the premises” Yanagi reminded

“Right, enjoy your day Ms. Rina” Wise said before leading Yanagi off

‘Ah, these youngsters always trying to stir up a storm in a woman’s heart’ she thought with a smile on her face

Back with Wise and Yanagi......

“This is the senior quad, where all the senior classes are done” Wise said

“I see” Yanagi looked down at her notebook and rigorously took notes

“And over there are the science labs” Wise pointed to the left

“Right” Yanagi dotted that down

“And this is the gymnasium” Wise opened the double doors to see a large space with courts on the ground.

“Alright, noted” Yanagi wrote that down as well

After a few more places they found themselves in the parking lot

“I guess that concludes the tour” Wise said

“Thank you for an enjoyable experience” Yanagi had a smile on her face

From the upper floor window.......

“And that will be your homewor-”

Nicole cut herself off and dashed to the window

‘Are they-?’

She saw Yanagi chuckling lightly as Wise had that awkward smile on his face, the smile Nicole had come to love

“Tch” Nicole sounded causing students to look confused

‘That new girl’

“Ms. Demara”

‘They’re totally flirting’

“Ms. Demara”

“Huh?”

“Could you repeat the homework, I didn’t get it” a child said

‘Damn brats, I don’t get paid enough for this shit’ Nicole backed away from the window

Back in the parking lot......

‘That’s the new hiring’ Zhu Yuan observed before her eyes went wide

‘They seem to be enjoying each other’s company’ Zhu Yuan thought causing a stir in her chest

‘But Wise is with that mechanic woman’ she tightened her fist

‘All these other women, Jane, Qingyi, they are all still going after him regardless, s-she probably isn’t keeping him happy’ Zhu Yuan smacked herself after the final thought popped in

‘No bad thoughts, no bad thoughts’ she reminded

‘But now that I think about it, if the others manage to pull him away, they’ll have him’ she smacked herself again

‘S-So what? They're love lives aren’t any of your business’

Thoughts of Jane and any of the other women being together with Wise began tormenting the officer.

Zhu Yuan’s heart was now at the climax of its conflict and after a few moments and gears turning in her head, she made a decision.

‘That’s it, no more being passive or considerate, forgive me Grace but I must be selfish here’ Zhu Yuan thought

‘It’s going against my code but I-I'll atone for my wrongdoings’ Zhu Yuan concluded with a bit of uneasiness but if one thing was known for sure. It was she was not going to allow the others victory.

Chapter Text

KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Come in” Wise spoke

“Am I intruding?” Yanagi spoke

“No not at all” Wise put down his phone

“How is your day?” she asked as she sat down across from Wise

“It’s fine, just killing time”

“I see” Yanagi nodded

“Did you need something?”

“Was I that obvious?” Yanagi gasped

“I guess, it doesn’t take much to put two and two together” Wise spoke

“Very true, I commend your deduction” Yanagi praised

“What did you need anyway?”

“I just need a small favor”

“Sure, go ahead”

“Could you please watch over my little sister until 3 o’clock? I have a lot on my plate, and she is still in the middle of processes”

‘Huh? Me?’ Wise wondered

“If you’re wondering, she couldn’t have remained at the reception with all the parents coming in and I don’t really have any friends here to leave her with” Yanagi said

“It’s fine, she can stay with me” Wise said with a warm smile

“Thank you, you’re a lifesaver" Yanagi got up and opened the door, then in walked a short blue girl with horns.

“You took so lonnnngggg” she whined

“I was just explaining the situation, we don’t want to intrude” Yanagi said

The girl’s eyes set on Wise, and she tilted her head as if she was confused

“Who is he?” she asked with a childlike curiosity

“My apologies, I must have forgotten my manners”

“Soukaku, this is Mr. Arna”

“And Mr. Arna this is my younger sister, Soukaku” she introduced putting a gentle hand on the girl’s shoulder

“Nice to meet you but you can just call me Wise” Wise said

“Wise, I like it” Soukaku said with a toothy grin

‘Guess she won’t be much trouble’ Yanagi felt relief flood her chest

“Please be on your best behaviour”

“Will I get red bean buns later?”

“Sure, we’ll get them but at the end of the day of course” Yanagi lightly pinched Soukaku’s cheek

“Staawp” she mumbled

‘So cute’ Wise felt his heart reach the verge of bursting

“I have a class to teach; I’ll take you to orientation at 3 so be ready” Yanagi exited leaving some silence in the room

‘Okay, uh’ Wise began thinking of ways to break the ice properly

“Y-You two live together?”

“Mhm” Soukaku nodded

‘Now that I think about it, Ms. Tsukishiro mentioned that they were sisters, but they look nothing alike, adopted maybe?’ Wise put images of the two side-by-side in his head.

“Where did you live before?” Wise spoke

“Me and big sis Nagi lived in Japan before coming to New Eridu”

“Japan? long way from home” Wise said

“I think I like our apartment better here”

“Really?”

“In Japan we slept on the floor, and I always wanted the tall beds”

“And you got that here”

“Big sis wanted to get the futons, but I said no” Soukaku gestured an ‘X’ with her hands

“I think futons are pretty cool”

“Real beds are better, all the way to a 100” Soukaku argued

“Okay, you win, real beds are better” Wise raised his hands in surrender

“But the food here is so huge, the burgers are the size of my head and the red bean buns are delicious too”

“You know there are many foods served at the cafeteria; the chefs make them so good, you’ll lose your mind eating them”

“FOOD!? DID YOU SAY FOOD!?” Soukaku was now mere inches away from Wise’s face with a glint in her eyes

Wise gulped

“Yeah” Wise replied

“YIPPEE!” Soukaku dashed out of the office

“SOUKAKU!” Wise yelled as he got up to pursue her

The moment he exited, he found her gone like a whisper in the wind.

‘The cafeteria’ Wise thought as he ran in the direction of the location

Upon arrival he found it empty with some staff working in the kitchen

‘Maybe I should ask if she ran by here’

Wise approached a large panda thiren

“Excuse me” Wise called out to the thiren

“Yes?” he approached

“Have you seen a blue oni girl run by here?” Wise asked

“Mh” he put his finger on his chin and entered thought

“No, no activity here, just the rustle and bustle of the chefs” he said

“Thank you uh...” Wise looked for a name tag

“Oh, the names Pan, Pan Yinhu but you can just call me Senior Pan” he said

“Thanks, Senior Pan” Wise said before speeding out of the cafeteria

‘That’s it, she probably doesn’t know her way around, she must have gotten lost’ Wise deduced before stopping to think of any possible location of the girl

‘Mh? She could be anywhere, maybe the camera could give me a clue’ Wise headed to the office and knocked onto the door

“Enter”

Wise walked inside to find a sliver haired woman seated by the monitor

“Hello, ma’am”

“My I.D badge states 08015QU4D5O1D13R11” she stated with in a militaristic voice

“Okay”

“Refer to me simply as 11” she spoke in her authoritative manner

“Have you seen a blue on-?”

“What shall I refer to you as?”

“Wise” he answered

“I see, it is a pleasure to meet you Scarlet Nexus”

‘What the f—k?’ Wise thought in confusion but he ignored it as that was not the priority

“Have you seen a blue oni girl running around somewhere?” Wise asked

“The feed has not picked up any such anomalies”

‘Crap’ Wise thought in fear as he checked the time on his phone to see 3 was approaching

‘Soukaku has orientation at 3, I gotta find her fast’ Wise thought

“Thank you 11” Wise spoke as he ran out

‘Where do I find you?’ Wise moved up and down the school grounds with urgency as he looked around every possible corner for signs of the girl but to no avail. His pursuits led him right back to the reception.

‘I’m exhausted’

“Mr. Arna, is everything alright?” Rina asked

“No, it’s not” Wise said in between tired breaths

“May I ask what the problem is?”

“Ms. Yanagi left me to monitor her sister while she teaches a class and she vanished; I can’t find her anywhere”

“Oh, is that the issue here?”

Rina seemed very unbothered by the statement

“Well, that’s the core issue”

“I see, I must inform you that the little one made her way into my care not too long ago” Rina got up and directed Wise to the filing room behind her desk.

He found the oni girl asleep with some sort of purple sludge resting on her cheeks

‘What’s that goo on her face?’ Wise thought

“She said she was drawn to the smell of my special blue cheese fish with whipped cream; she said it reminded her of her mother’s cooking style” Rina said as she opened her up her lunchbox with a smile. A rancid smell flew right into Wise’s nose causing him to gag.

“Is something the matter?” Rina tilted her head in concern for the man

“Just fine, the strong flavours just surprised me is all, you’re a really good cook” Wise held in the puke gathering in his oesophagus

‘That’s poison, how did Soukaku manage to survive?’

“Oh dear, you have quite a way with words” Rina had a small flush appear on her cheeks

“Soukaku? Wise?” Yanagi appeared by the reception

“It seems our time has been cut short, wake up little one” Rina chimed

After the series of events that ensued Soukaku did manage to make her appointment with Yanagi, Wise returned to his office to wind down after the vigorous activity. It was now end of day and people were clocking off.

Wise was exiting the building and into the parking lot. He was met with none other than the two sisters.

“Hello Mr. Arna” Yanagi greeted

“Ms. Tsukishiro, how was the orientation?”

“It was super cool, they told me all about eh school and stuff, the sports and most importantly the food menu” Soukaku seemed to be a ray of joy.

“She really liked what they had to speak on” Yanagi had a smile on her face

“Oh, what’s that?” Soukaku wandered off in another direction

“Thank you for what you did today, I know she caused trouble here and there but still thank you” Yanagi said with gratitude

‘It was my pleasure; she was fun to be around even though we weren’t together for long”

“That short period seemed to give her a strong first impression of you, after leaving the orientation, you were all she was talking about” Yanagi adjusted her glasses

“BIS SIS! THE BUS!” Soukaku yelled from the distance

“I suppose it’s time for me to head home, we’ll meet again tomorrow, Mr. Arna” Yanagi said

“Just call me Wise, we’re friends now” he said

“I understand, I’ll see you tomorrow, Wise” she smiled at him before walking off

With the sisters...…

“Nagi, you’re smiling a lot” Soukaku noticed

“Am I now? That is peculiar”

“Is it because of big bro Wise?”

Yanagi snapped her head towards Soukaku with a deep red blush on her cheeks

“S-Soukaku” Yanagi hushed the girl

Chapter Text

“And there, neatly packed” Yanagi muttered as she put a lid over a lunchbox

“Soukaku’s lunch bo-, I mean lunch bag is full to the brim, my lunch is packed as well and as for...” she looked at a third one with a light blush on her face

Yanagi took a breath before sliding the two lunchboxes into her work bag

“SOUKAKU! SCHOOL!” she yelled from the kitchen

“COMING!” the Oni’s voice rang from her room

Yanagi walked to the door with the items in hand awaiting her sister’s arrival

“I-I’m here” Soukaku came out with a poorly knotted tie and her socks unaligned

“Hold on there, young lady, you’re not going to school dressed like that” Yanagi stood firm at the door

“Aww, go fix your uniform, now”

“Nagi...” Soukaku pouted as she dragged herself back to her bedroom

“We’re going to be late again; Mr. Mayflower is not going to be happy with this attendance”

-------- 45 MINUTES LATER ---------

“Ms Tsukishiro, you’re late” Lycaon spoke

“Sorry, I was handling a home emergency” Yanagi apologized

“Well, you missed the briefing but don’t worry, it wasn’t anything important, just some reminders” Mayflower said

“But I do suggest a follow up with another attendee” Lycaon said

“I see, that shall be done” Yanagi said

“Good, you may start your day” the two men walked off

‘Looks like Soukaku’s getting up at 6 instead’ Yanagi thought as she walked through the hall

She sighed as she returned to her office, before she was able to settle, she heard a knock at her door.

“Come in” Yanagi said

“Oh hey, I missed you at the briefing” Wise entered the office

Yanagi momentarily had a blush on her cheeks before composing herself

“Yeah, we missed you” Nicole slithered into the office as well

“I took notes, and I came by to see if you wanted to read through, I didn’t want you to be left behind” Wise set a notepad onto her desk

“I see, thank you” Yanagi gave the man a small smile

“How polite it is to give gratitude” Nicole said

“Yes, it is very polite” Yanagi agreed before locking eyes with Nicole

Aggression plastered in Nicoles gaze as Yanagi retained a calm expression

“Nicole...” Wise called out

“Oh hm?” Nicole adjusted her hair

“You said you needed my help?”

“Oh right, my office” Nicole gripped Wise’s hand as she led him out of the office

‘That woman’ Yanagi thought

With Wise and Nicole......

The man was crouched by the drawer of Nicole’s desk with stacks of papers by his side while Nicole sat on the desk.

‘Come on Nicole relax, you got him alone, this is your time and your time only’

“So....you’ve been busy these days” Nicole remarked

“Yeah, teachers are piling their stuff onto me more often, I guess I can’t complain since it’s part of the job” Wise said

“Those guys are lazy, can’t work to save their lives” Nicole said

“Maybe, but I don’t know much, I got here recently so...”

“I get it, taking time to adjust, been there done that”

“By the way, would you mind joining me for lunch today?” Nicole asked

“I sit with Lighter usually” Wise said

“So, Lighter’s the problem?” Nicole cocked an eyebrow

“Not really, I just don’t want to leave him high and dry, he’s kind of like my first bro here” Wise said

“Cool then” Nicole tensed her jaw at the refusal

‘Damn it, this was a miss, I need another opening’ Nicole thought

“And there, we’re done here” Wise got off his knees and dusted off his trousers, liberating them from any dirt

‘Crap, my time has been cut short, this was bullshit’ Nicole grumbled as Wise exited

‘Maybe if we can’t eat lunch together, I could join him and that Lighter guy for lunch’ Nicole

“The thought of double sausage and one Nicole is disgusting, but if I have too then so be it” Nicole settled on her actions to be taken

With Wise.....

‘I need back my notepad from Ms. Yanagi, I left it in her office before Nicole dragged me out’ Wise took a turn around the corridor to head to that location

In less than two minutes he arrived and followed through with a knock

“Ms. Yanagi?” Wise peered into the office to see the woman and another familiar face

“Yes” Yanagi adjusted her glasses

“Ah, my helper~” Jane cooed

“Ms. Doe, how are you?” Wise walked inside

“Oh you know I’m fine, just telling Ms. Tsukishiro about my progression as the sub for that class is all”

“Thank you very much Ms. Doe for your help” Yanagi said

“Did you need something from me?” Yanagi looked back up at Wise

"Yeah, I left my notepad in here”

“Oh I finished off with it just now” Yanagi handed the item back to Wise

“Oh my, leaving items in another woman’s office? Would Venus be happy?” Jane cocked an eyebrow

“Oh it’s not like that, she missed the briefing and-”

“So you stepped up? So kind~, I like kind men” Jane said

Yanagi tightly gripped the armrest of her chair

“I think being kind to everyone is a good thing so I just do it” Wise said

“By nature, am I correct?” Jane mused

“If you say so then yeah” Wise chuckled

“How about you treat me kindly and walk me back to my office?” Jane stood and clung onto Wise’s arm

“If you need company then, it’s fine” Wise and Jane turned then exited leaving Yanagi in the office

‘She did this seamlessly, no issues whatsoever, Jane is dangerous’

---------- LUNCH TIME -----------

“So, this kid puked all over the court” Lighter finished off

“Dude it’s lunch time” Wise said

“Come on man, the ladies are still getting their eats, we’re just chilling here”

“Um, excuse me” a voice spoke behind Wise

“Oh Ms. Tsukishiro” Wise turned to see the woman with a lunchbox in hand

“Are you eating your own cooked meal?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“No, I brought this one for you, as a thank you for watching Soukaku yesterday, so please accept it” Yanagi held out the lunch box

Some eyes glanced over at the two, others went back to their own business but a certain few lingered on longer with drips of envy poising their being

“Thanks, I was getting hungry and the line’s a bit long over there” Wise took the container from the woman. He opened it up and took a small spoonful of the fried rice

“Mhmm” Wise nodded

“This is really good, you’re amazing” Wise complemented

“Thank you” she scratched her cheek nervously

Nicole gripped onto her spoon so tightly is snapped in two while the Calydon girls watched on with jealousy.

“I have to head back to eat my food, you can return the lunch container end of day if you like” Yanagi said before walking to her own table.

“Smooth moves” Jane muttered under her breath

Elsewhere....

“Mhm, I see” Mayflower spoke

“I understand, you are a very important partner for the school, and we are very willing to do that”

“I understand, she can be received whenever you want us to”

“My daughter will arrive soon” the man on the phone spoke

“We’ll be ready” Mayflower said just as the phone cut

The man sighed as he sat on by his desk

“Soon huh?”

Chapter Text

“Remember, our students our reason” Mayflower finished off as the room began to clear out

“Hey Wise” Caesar approached the man

“Hi Caesar, are you doing alright?” Wise asked

“I’m cool, I just came over to say he-”

“Wise” Mayflower called the man

“Oh sorry, I’ll get back to you”

‘Damn’ Caesar thought disappointedly

“Come with me for a moment” he led Wise out of the staffroom and to his office

Mayflower shut the door behind then, somewhat alerting Wise

“So uh...”

Mayflower walked right up to Wise and the two stood face to face

“Everything alright sir?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Son” Mayflower put a hand on Wise’s shoulder

“Woah” Wise’s eyes widened

“I need you to do something for me and this is very vital” his other hand landed on Wise’s unoccupied shoulder

“What’s wrong?”

“We have an important partner of the school who has invested a lot in this operation, the de Montefio’s are important, but this family is just as crucial to satisfy” he explained

“So, what am I supposed to do?”

“Our partner has a daughter who is landing in New Eridu today, she’s coming here to evaluate the infrastructure, extracurriculars, sports, etc...”

"This is for the next few days" he added

“I want you to go and pick her up then bring her back here” Mayflower said

“Why am I doing it? Can’t you ask Piper or Mr. Lycaon?”

“No, we need to make her feel welcome here and I think you suit that role best” Mayflower said

‘This guy is full of crap, I bet nobody wanted to take this job’ Wise thought

“Please son, I’ve known you since you were a toddler, I picked you up from school and bought you food and-”

“Fine, just please stop with the guilt trip” Wise removed his hands from his shoulders

“Good, here’s the school car keys, you head over there now and wait for her to get here, my job is on the line” he shoved Wise out of the office and slammed the door behind him

Wise sighed before he began the task given to him, after clearance and a long drive Wise finally made it to the airport.

“This guy owes me a serious raise; I need my money’s worth for this” Wise shut the car door and walked into the building. He looked down at his phone which displayed an image of the woman.

He scanned the people seated on the benches, the people in line and every other passer-by for the woman.

‘Nothing yet’ He plopped down on the nearest seat and exhaled as he opened a game on his phone. About 2 hours passed until the next flood of people came from luggage collection. He paused and looked up to scan the masses once more.

Wise sighed before approaching the conveyor belt and analysed once more until his eyes landed on very prominent ears. He looked down at his phone once more

‘Same features, that’s gotta be her’ Wise brushed past a few people to meet the woman

“Uh, Hoshimi Miyabi?” Wise said

“....”

The woman stood looking towards the conveyor belt

“Ms. Hoshimi?” Wise peered over her shoulder

“.....”

A large suitcase was dragged out by the machine

“There it is”

“Let me he-” he was cut off by Miyabi effortlessly lifting it off the belt with one arm

She turned and bumped into Wise causing him to stumble backwards

“Oh, a person” Miyabi said

“Ms. Hoshimi, I’m Wise, I’m here to pick you up” Wise outstretched his hand to which she returned the gesture. Wise felt immense pressure lock around his appendage but he fought to maintain a straight face

‘She’s strong, too strong’ Wise thought as his hand ached

“Pleasure to meet you, for your training you can pick up the duffel bag” Miyabi walked with the suitcase over her shoulder and a satchel on her back.

“Duffel ba-” Wise grabbed the straps and the bag refused to move an inch

“What the hell?” Wise tried once more with both arms just barely lifting it off the floor

“D-Damn”

After a strenuous time carrying the piece of luggage outside albeit Miyabi took over halfway, the two were now ready to head out.

There was a silence present in the car just as Wise entered the driver’s seat.

“Ahem, do you want the air conditioner?” Wise asked

“If you wish”

“Okay, I’ll take that as a yes” In a few moments cool air blew into the car against her pale skin prompting a light twitch of her fox ears.

Wise backed the car up and began the drive back to the campus

‘Make her feel welcome, okay got it’ Wise recited

“Ahem, so uh, where did you fly from?”

“Japan”

“So, you’re Japanese? That’s cool, do you like anime?”

“I have no time to watch anime; I am always training”

‘That explains that grip’ Wise thought as a lingering pain still rung in his hand

“You know I watch a lot of anime, mostly because of my little sister but I still find it exciting”

“That is good for you” Miyabi said

‘She’s a bit eccentric but I think we can work here’ Wise looked back at the windshield and in the distance, he noticed an ice cream shop

“Hey, how about something to cool off?” Wise proposed

“I suppose it is hot” Miyabi removed her jacket leaving only a work shirt

'I have to be as hospitable as can be' Wise thought

“Let’s stop here” Wise pulled over near the store and the two disembarked to head into the store.

“Good afternoon” a woman greeted

“Hello uh, can I get two ice cream cups?”

“Flavors?” she picked up the cups and a scooper

“Melon” Miyabi speaks

“Mhhhh...” Wise thought

“You know what? Make it two melon ice creams, need to shake things up once in a while” Wise mused

“Coming right up”

Wise felt eyes on him causing him to turn and see a staring, Miyabi.

“Uhm, is something wrong?”

“Nothing” Miyabi looked back at the ice cream

‘That was weird’ Wise thought

“Here you go” Wise handed her some cash and the two returned to their travel

In the car, Wise steered with one hand and with the other he took a scoop.

“Mmhhhh, this is good, I never tried the melon flavor before” Wise remarked

“Melon is my favorite thing to eat” Miyabi said

“I’ll take note of it just in case” Wise joked

“How much further is the school?” Miyabi asked

“Oh, just around this turn” Wise followed through, and the campus came into view

Miyabi scanned the building and nodded

‘Looks like she likes the initial view’ Wise thought with relief

‘Now we need to keep it rolling’ Wise pulled over in the parking lot

“Am I in the space fully?” Wise looked at the rear view mirror to see the vehicle was parked perfectly

“Great” Wise unbuckled his seatbelt

“We’re here Ms. Hoshim-” Wise paused before his eyes landed on the cheek of the thiren

“What is the matter?”

“Oh you have something..” Wise pointed

Miyabi brushed her face but somehow missed the stain, she looked back at Wise expectedly

‘Crap, there might be no option’

“L-Let me” Wise leaned over and wiped off the ice cream with his thumb

“There” Wise said

Miyabi stayed motionless with a neutral expression on her face, a blank stare at the man

‘Shit, I messed up, I should have guided her hand instead’ Wise thought in a panic

“U-Uh, let’s go inside” Wise practically jumped out of the car and created some distance from it.

Miyabi felt some heat rise to her cheeks

“Ahem” she cleared her throat before following as well

'I was too impulsive, now she's disgusted' Wise worried as he partially glanced at Miyabi who had her eyes set on him

'She's mad, her face is straight but she's definitely mad'

An awkward tension stirred between the two as they made their way to Mayflower’s office.

“Ms Hoshimi” the man stood to greet the woman

“Mr. Mayflower”

“I trust your travels were smooth”

“I have no complaints”

“And the ride her was good?” Mayflower’s eyes drifted to Wise who nervously adjusted his collar

"Uh" Wise mutterd

“I....have no complaints” Miyabi said as she fought a light flush on her cheeks

‘That hesitation there, something happened’ Mayflower picked up but he decided to leave it for the time being

“We have some things to discuss” Mayflower sat back down

“You don’t mind” he looked at Wise s he gestured to the door

“Oh right, got it” Wise exited the office promptly

‘I thought my job was gone’ Wise breathed a sigh of relief as he walked away from the office

Chapter Text

“So how did you like the school so far?” Mayflower asked

“I am very much impressed with the cleanliness of your grounds and architecture”

“Thank you so much” Mayflower felt pride brewing in his heart

“However, I still haven’t evaluated anything concrete”

“I can say without a doubt, you won’t be disappointed, I’ll even go as far as saying you’ll leave 5 stars on our page” Mayflower chuckled

“We’ll see, I must get to my accommodation” Miyabi stood

“I’ll contact a taxi” she turned to leave

“Wait, how about we drive you there?” Mayflower offered

Miyabi stood in contemplation

“If it won’t be trouble”

“Great, no trouble at all, I have somebody who can do this" Mayflower called a phone number

RING!

“Oh, is that a girlfriend perhaps?” Venus joked

“No, it’s the principal”

Wise’s heart pounded

‘Maybe Ms. Hoshimi told him what happened earlier’ Wise hesitantly answered

“Hello?”

“Get down to the office” the call cut immediately

Wise exhaled and stood

“Something wrong?” Venus looked concerned

“I don’t know, I’ll have to see” Wise said as he walked out

He moved to the office at a brisk pace, not letting anything stop him even though he worried about what was to come. Within two minutes Wise was walking into the office to find Miyabi and the man still seated

“There you are” Mayflower said

“Ahem, yeah” Wise said

“You need to hit the road” Mayflower said prompting panic to flood into Wise’s mind

‘I-I can’t believe it’ Wise glanced at Miyabi who was locked onto him

“I-I can expla-”

“Where are the keys?” the man asked

‘My office keys? He won’t even hear me out’

“Uh what keys?”

“The ones to the car, you need to get back on the road, Ms. Hoshimi needs to get to her place” he opened the drawer to check

“Oh uh, I have them here” Wise took them out of his pocket

“Great, Ms. Hoshimi, Wise will escort you to your place” Mayflower looked at Wise with a certain stare

Wise gulped

“Yes, I’ll get you there smoothly” Wise’s voice cracked

“I see” Miyabi spoke as she got up and walked out leaving the two dumbfounded men in the office

“Follow her” Mayflower pointed

Wise sighed before trailing after the fox, the walk to the car was quiet and still a bit weird for both parties.

Miyabi suddenly stopped

“What’s wrong?”

“Miyabi?” Zhu Yuan walked up to the two from Wise’s blind side

“Zhu Yuan” the fox spoke

“What are you doing here? I haven’t seen you in years” the two shook hands

“My father sent me to evaluate the campus; I’m here on business”

“What are you doing with Miyabi?” Zhu Yuan looked at Wise

“I was to-”

“We’re going home together” Miyabi casually spoke

Zhu Yuan paused and her mind started racing

‘Taking her home? Does she mean....no Miyabi isn’t the type to do that’

Zhu Yuan glanced at the two

‘Or maybe she changed back in Japan? No Zhu Yuan, you don’t even have the full context’

“To be specific, I’m driving her home” Wise said

“Oh, well, I suppose I shouldn’t delay you two” Zhu Yuan walked back onto her route

“You two seem to know each other” Wise and Miyabi entered the car

“Yes, we were classmates in middle school” Miyabi spoke as she buckled her seatbelt

“What classes did you guys share?”

“All of them” Miyabi answered

“You guys must be close” Wise said as he reversed the car

“We were but I returned to Japan for higher education” Miyabi said

“Like best friends or...”

“Close friends” Miyabi said

“I see, that’s cool”

A silence fell on the two once more, a pressing feeling in Wise’s chest egged him on

“Uhm, I wanted to say sorry for earlier, I didn’t mean to cross boundaries, I shouldn’t have touched your face like that”

“It’s fine, I missed the stain anyway” Miyabi faced away from Wise with a flush

“Okay then” Wise took a breath of relief

‘Are you...friends with Zhu Yuan as well?” Miyabi changed the subject quickly

“I guess so, we’ve talked enough to be considered friends”

“That’s fine”

“Where do you live anyway? We’re getting closer to the city square, all kind of directions from there” Wise asked

“I’ll direct you there”

Miyabi spent the following amount of time instructing Wise where to go, the woman’s instructions were sometimes vague and odd but Wise managed to get there in time. The man did a double take as he gazed at what was before him.

“Am...I seeing correctly?” Wise scratched his head

“What were you expecting?”

“Like an apartment building or a regular house?” Wise said

“Is this not a regular house?” Miyabi looked confused

“If you call an estate a house then I guess it is”

Miyabi reached over and honked in sequence prompting the gate to quickly open

“Woah” Wise pulled into the large estate building’s grounds

“This is my New Eridu residence” Miyabi spoke

‘I can’t believe this and here I was thinking I’d never step foot into a mansion’ Wise turned off the engine

“MS. HOSHIMI!” Some groundworkers greeted by her window

“Good day, my luggage is in the trunk” she turned to Wise

“Would you like a short rest before you leave?” Miyabi offered

‘I’m already here so’

“Yeah, if you don’t mind” Wise and the woman exited the vehicle

“This place is so nice” Wise spun around lightly to get a good view of the scenery

“Father is strict when it comes to presentation, he always says things have to be balanced” Miyabi spoke as she pushed open the double doors

Wise stopped last second and took off his shoes leaving him in only socks

His first step against the cool wooden floor sent a chill up his spine

Miyabi and Wise walked through the vast halls until they sat outside in the courtyard by an open sliding door.

“The sun may be out, but this part of my home does not gather much heat, you’ll find it comfortable here, the air is relatively cool”

Wise took in the view of the place, a small pond with koi fish swimming in harmony within, some shade also provided by the tree placed nearby.

“This is amazing” Wise said just as a maid left some green tea

“I haven’t been here in 3 years” Miyabi said

“Really, Japan must be really fun”

“It’s where I was born, my roots are from Japan but most of my childhood I lived here” Miyabi said

Wise sipped on the beverage

“Ah, this tea is so good” Wise complemented

“Miko will be happy to hear that” Miyabi had a small smile on her face

“The maid?”

“Yes, the maid”

“How much to take her from here?” Wise joked

“She’s not for sale” Miyabi couldn’t fight a smile forming on her lips

“Then how often can I come by? I could use a cup of tea every now and again”

“I won’t be here for long, so you only have about one week”

“That’s a shame, I really like being here” Wise said

‘Mr Mayflower really set me up with this place, I guess taking the job was worthwhile after all’ Wise thought as he finished the drink

“I do not wish to keep you long, you have work” Miyabi reminded

“Oh right, but I think I can squeeze in maybe 15 more minutes with you here unless you’re busy of course”

“I have nothing scheduled, we can remain here then, together” Miyabi said

Wise’s senses began to dwindle the more he relaxed in the area, he plopped down on his back.

“Are you tired?” Miyabi asked

“Just closing my eyes, that’s all”

Within a moment Wise’s awareness melted away and he drifted off to the realm of sleep. For what felt like an eternity, the man lay there motionless.

Soon he stirred upon being nicked at the nose by a fluff, it happened once repeatedly until Wise twitched to consciousness.

“Mh?” Wise felt weight on his chest, he cautiously looked to find none other than Miyabi’s head resting there. Her breathing was light but present.

Wise’s eyes drifted to the sky, and he moved suddenly causing Miyabi to shoot up as well. The sunlight had shifted to a gentle orange in the horizon

“Oh crap, how long did I doze off for?” Wise checked his phone to find it was practically end of day.

‘I have to return the school car’ Wise hurriedly got up

“Thank you for your kindness, Ms. Hoshimi” Wise rushed out of her view.

‘Warm’ was all Miyabi could bring to her mind as she blushed

Wise zoomed through town, taking shortcuts as the road had been taken over by men and women returning from a long workday.

‘I hope he’s still there’ Wise panicked as he pulled into the parking lot, he disembarked and rushed into the building. There was low activity, only from some staff remaining late to finish off work and the security guards on their usual patrol.

‘I have to leave these then find a ride home’ Wise thought as he finally made it to Mr. Mayflower’s office.

KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Come in” his voice spoke

“Sorry sir, I got-”

“Distracted” Mayflower finished off

“Sorry” Wise set the keys on his desk

“I called you 2 hours earlier” he said

“Really?” Wise opened his phone to find no notifications present anywhere, he opened his call logs to find the statement was truthful.

“I-I don't remember answering” Wise said

“You didn’t answer it” Mr. Mayflower stood up and moved to stand directly in front of Wise.

“Ms. Hoshimi did”

Outside....

Zhu Yuan sighed as she looked at half of a key on the chain

‘Damn it Harin, you should have been gentler with the key’ Zhu Yuan thought with disappointment

‘Now I have to get yet another spare from Mr. Mayflower’s office’ Zhu Yuan inched closer to the door but slowed down as she heard familiar voices speaking.

‘He’s busy’

“Ms. Hoshimi did” she heard causing her interest to pique

‘Miyabi? What did Miyabi do?’ Zhu Yuan walked closer to listen in

“Oh uh, then I guess you know” Wise rubbed his arm

“I do and I’m disappointed in you”

“I-I just dozed o-”

“How could you sleep with a board member’s daughter?” Mayflower looked betrayed

Wise paused and took a moment to play the man’s words in his head

“W-What?”

“She told me”

-------- EARLIER THAT DAY --------

RING! RING!

Miyabi stirred awake at the noise

“A call, that is not my ringtone” Miyabi saw Wise’s pocket vibrating

“Hm” she reached for the device and looked to see a familiar name on the screen

“Hello?” she answered

“Wise?”

“No this is Hoshimi Miyabi”

“Ms. Hoshimi? Where is Wise?”

“He is sleeping next to me” she said before a light yawn

She could only hear static for the next 15 seconds

“Hello?” Miyabi spoke once more

“C-Can I have more context of the situation?” he spoke

“We are together” she answered

Mayflower gulped

“I-I see” he cut the call immediately

"Wise, you can't tell me you seduced this woman so soon, no wonder they were acting odd earlier" Mayflower pieced together what he'd seen

--------- BACK TO PRESENT TIME ----------

“Y-Y-YOU MISUNDERSTAND!” Wise said

“I never thought you’d have turned into a playboy” Mayflower sat down on his chair

“J-Just hear me out” Wise said

“I get that young people have hormones, but this was a lack of self-control, you just met her today” he lectured

“Mr. Mayflower” Wise said

“Look, if she tells her father about this, we’re screwed, we’re losing a lot of money and that’s on you”

Wise could not find words to utter at the man

“You need to do damage control, make sure this doesn’t spill, got it?” Mayflower said

“S-Sir-”

“Go home, Carole will be worried” he turned his chair away from Wise

Wise sighed as he walked out to head home while behind the corner Zhu Yuan hid

“H-He slept with Miyabi?” Zhu Yuan mouthed

“S-She’s changed, she’s not the same person I knew years ago”

‘W-Why do I feel so betrayed?’ she thought of the two together with each other

Chapter Text

Wise took a breath as he walked through the halls

‘Okay Wise today you have to sort this mess out, Mr. Mayflower thinks you and Miyabi had sex, I need Miyabi as well to clear things up, he might think I’m trying to divert’ Wise thought as he walked into the staff room for briefing.

“And that’s everybody” Lycaon said taking note of the man’s arrival

“So, I would like to introduce you to Ms. Hoshimi Miyabi, she’s going to be evaluating our institute for the following week, Ms. Hoshimi” Mayflower stepped aside

“My name is Hoshimi Miyabi, I will be evaluating the quality of education” she said before sitting back down

“Great, so guys please show her what we do best and how top-notch education looks like” Mayflower said

“She’s a bit odd” Lucy whispered to Burnice

“I know right” the woman whispered back

“We hope things will go well this week” Mayflower’s eyes landed on Wise

‘Oh crap’ Wise exhaled lightly

“Please treat Ms. Hoshimi with the respect she deserves” he emphasized as he locked onto Wise

“Did you do something bro?” Lighter mouthed to Wise

“Hey, that’s none of your business” Wise hushed

“Thank you” he finished off and that was the queue for the staff to get to work

“Wise” Miyabi called out, some women were alerted to this action

“Yes?” Wise turned to face her and in the corner of his eye managed to catch Mr. Mayflower shooting him a look of expectation before leaving

“Show me to the gymnasium” she said

‘That evaluator is taking him off’ Jane observed

‘That damned fox’ Lucy grits her teeth

“Alright then” Wise said as he walked out with her next to him

‘Mh, following those two would look odd of a librarian’ Qingyi thought

With Wise and Miyabi....

“Starting off with physical stuff huh?” Wise said

“I have my method of checking I perform” Miyabi said

“And what would that be?” Wise opened the door for the woman, and she walked inside

‘I have to find a time to talk to her about yesterday’

“I test it myself” Miyabi said

“What? You’re gonna use everything in here?”

“Yes, this is simply warmup when I train” Miyabi removed her coat and tie then held them out to Wise

She did a light jog on the spot and light lunges

‘I hope she’s covered with tights under the skirt’ Wise thought

Miyabi stood frozen for a moment with eyes closed

“Miyabi?”

Suddenly like a flash she vanished causing Wise to back up startled

“What the?” Wise’s eyes darted around to see dodgeballs suddenly flying towards the wall at high speeds, but no Miyabi was visible. Next basketballs were swishing into the basket, but no Miyabi was visible.

‘Where is she?’

Shadows flew above Wise’s head multiple times within a few seconds before the woman returned right in front of Wise’s eyes.

“Phew” she exhaled lightly

Wise looked around at equipment laying on the floor

“I-I didn’t even pick up on a thing” Wise muttered as Miyabi took back her possessions

“This was less than warm up, as you see I have no sweat anywhere” she spoke

“Y-You’re amazing” Wise complemented with his mouth agape

Miyabi felt heat creeping onto her cheeks

“Thank you for your kindness” she said

“You’re so fast”

“Training helped me achieve such feats” Miyabi said

“Let us move on” Miyabi spoke as she walked out with Wise in tow

The two moved onto none other than the school vehicles

‘This place is kind of relaxed, maybe I could bring it up here’

“Miyabi”

“Hm?” she turned with her hair twirling in tandem

“Uh” Wise nervously cleared his throat

‘I need to gather courage to say this’

“Oh, my favorite youngun” Piper slid from under the bus

“Piper” Wise said

“You came to pay this ol gal a visit, how sweet” Piper lightly tapped Wise’s arm

“Well I was-”

“What are you doing with this gal here?” Piper scratched her head

“He’s my guide, I am the evaluator” Miyabi cut in

“The one which pulled in yesterday right? Nice to meet ya, I’m Piper Wheel, resident gearhead” she had a light smile on her face

“Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Wheel” Miyabi said

“Oh, so you checking my Steeltusk? Come on, I’ll show ya” Piper led the woman into the bus

‘Okay, looks like I can’t do anything now’ Wise thought as he got inside behind them

“The seating arrangement is good, enough space for even the tallest thiren” Miyabi nodded

“Great to hear, now let’s check out the exterior, that’s where the real magic is”

The three were now situated by the buses tire

“See, pressure’s up” Piper gave the tire a light punch

“Efficient” Miyabi said

“You know funny story, that part up there was loose some time back”

“Oh, you fixed it?”

“Sure did, this gentleman right here helped me out” Piper laid a hand on Wise’s arm

Miyabi’s eyes locked onto the contact between the two

“Oh, I didn’t do much” Wise waved off

“Nonsense you saved this gal’s back from being a mess, last second he caught me falling off the ladder”

Wise blushed at her story

“I see” Miyabi said with her neutral expression

‘I can’t read her at all’ Wise thought

“I have seen enough of this one, what about the smaller cars?” Miyabi spoke

“Them things, I’ll show ya till satisfaction” Piper said

The next hour was of Piper demonstrating the safety of the vehicles while Wise was thinking of a way to properly bring up the issue.

“And that’s all of them” Piper dusted her gloved hands

“I see” Miyabi said as she walked off

“There she goes” Wise muttered

“You're stuck to her like glue” Piper said as she closed some distance

“Uhm” Wise’s eyes darted to Miyabi’s moving form

“You like her or something?” Piper cocked her head to the side

“Ahem, I-I'm just a guide, just walking her around the school” Wise said

“Maybe it’s the heat, this ol gal was thinking she got you tied down” Piper chuckled

“I have to go” Wise rushed after Miyabi

‘Maybe I can still spare some youth for a bit of loving’ Piper thought as Wise left her sight

‘It’s just us now, but we’re in the corridors, some kids might hear us’

“Miyabi” Wise spoke

“....”

“Miyabi” Wise called out once more

“....”

‘She’s doing that thing again’

“Miyabi” Wise turned her around with her arms held in his hands

“....”

“Miyabi” Wise gave the woman a light shake to get her senses back

“Miyabi” Wise spoke out

“Page 41” Yanagi spoke as she walked out of her class

Wise froze in position and so did Yanagi

“Uh, what’s going on?” Yanagi adjusted her glasses

“N-Nothing” Wise released the woman

‘Doesn’t look like nothing to me’ Yanagi thought

“L-Let’s go Miyabi” Wise led her away while he held her hand

Yanagi watched with narrowed eyes

‘Snap out of it’ Wise thought as he dragged her into Venus’s office

“D-Did he just...” Lucy dropped her binder and steadily moved to the door

“Wise?” Miyabi’s pupils returned to normal

“Finally, you’re back” Wise celebrated

“Forgive me”

‘Maybe I can bring it up here’ Wise thought

“Uh, before we go back out, can we talk?” Wise said

“Aren’t we already conversing?”

Yanagi made her way down the corridor to find Lucy just pressing her ear to the door

“Ms. de Montefio”

“Eeep” Lucy jumped at the sudden callout

“What are you doing?” Yanagi walked up to the door as well

“Shut it” Lucy leaned back to the door

Yanagi sighed at the retort but curiosity also arose in her prompting her to join as well

“Hey, what are you doing?” Lucy resisted the woman’s push

“Quiet” Yanagi said as her ear pressed onto the door as well

“About yesterday...”

“Yesterday?” Yanagi and Lucy mouthed in tandem

“I’m sorry for falling asleep at your place” Wise started

Lucy and Yanagi’s eyes widened as they pressed their ears with more force

“It was only natural the atmosphere was calming, and you must have been tired from rigorous activity”

‘Rigorous activity?’ Lucy thought

“And about sleeping there, Mr. Mayflower told me he called”

“I answered it”

“Why didn’t you wake me up?”

“I didn’t wish to disturb your rest”

“Oh, they’re talking about resting” Yanagi spoke to the shorter woman as they detached from the door

“Well, you worded it a bit weirdly and now he’s uh....stressed out” Wise said

Miyabi took a moment to think about the event

“Mh? You mean when I said we slept together?”

Lucy and Yanagi locked back in

“Yeah, y-you can’t just say that aloud, now he thinks-”

“Forgive my rashness” Miyabi said

“It’s fine we just need to clean things up and sweep it under the rug” Wise said with a sigh

Miyabi blushed

“That will be a difficult conversation” Miyabi said as she looked off to the side bashfully

“We must or else people might hear about it and-”

“I get it, no need to speak any further” her flush deepened

The two women outside heard movement before quickly running into the nearest hiding spot which was Yanagi’s office.

Lucy took time to catch her breath from the escape while Yanagi adjusted her skirt for any creases.

“Ahem” Yanagi sounded

“D-Did you hear that too?” Lucy asked

“Yes, I couldn’t believe my ears”

“B-But this could be a misunderstanding, i-it's happened before” Lucy tried to reason

“Possibly but the way the spoke about it, judging from their voices alone, it must have been exactly as we thought”

“The fox looks a bit airheaded, I highly doubt she’d pounce first day”

"And Wise is upright, kind and-"

"Cute" Lucy added as the two had a silence of realization wash over them

“Don’t judge a book by its cover, there is a good chance it’s exactly as we heard it is”

Elsewhere....

“Hey” Evelyn flicked Zhu Yuan’s forehead

“Ow” the woman rubbed the stinging area

“You’re out of it” Evelyn said

“Oh it’s nothing, just tired” Zhu Yuan sipped on her coffee

“Whatever, if you say so” Evelyn walked off

‘Miyabi and Wise....’

‘I can’t let it continue, it won’t progress as long as I’m alive’ Zhu Yuan declared

Chapter Text

“Do we speak to Mr. Mayflower now?” Miyabi asked as the two walked out of the office

“I think we should, better to clear things up early” Wise said

“I see” Miyabi had a small flush form on her cheeks

“I don’t want anything to break out and make our lives hard” Wise said

“You really care that much?” Miyabi asked

“Yes, I do, I don’t want to taint your image” Wise said prompting her ears to lightly wiggle

The two moved past Yanagi’s office alerting Lucy and the woman, she creaked open the door to see the Wise and Miyabi just turn the corner.

“They’re leaving” Lucy said

“Let’s go” Yanagi swung the door open

“Don’t you have a class?” Lucy asked

“I gave them work” the two women pursued them quickly albeit sneakily

Wise and Miyabi reached the man’s office and the fox stopped Wise right before entry by gripping his sleeve

“Wise”

“Hm?” the man looked back at her

“Thank you for your thoughtfulness” the locked eyes for what felt like eternity before Wise shook himself back to his senses with a light flush

“I-It’s fine, no need for thanks” Wise nervously cleared his throat

KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Come in” his voice spoke out

He saw Wise walk into the room with Miyabi and he shut the door behind them

“The principal’s office, maybe we’re out of bounds for now” Yanagi said

“Tch, damn it all” the two went back

“Don’t you dare mention this to anybody” Lucy warned

“I was about to say the same thing” Yanagi adjusted her glasses as the two parted ways

In the office....

“What seems to be the matter?” he asked

“We’d like to speak to you” Wise started

“About what?” he closed some folders and sat intently

“Well about yesterday” Wise said

“Ah, let’s put it behind us, we forget that ever happened” Mayflower waved off

“N-No I think there must have been a bit of miscommunication back there” Wise said

“Forgive my wording, Mr. Wise and I did not engage in sexual intercourse we merely fell asleep” Miyabi offered a light bow

“M-MS. HOSHIMI!” Wise exclaimed with embarrassment at her bluntness

“Oh, seems I jumped the gun, sorry” he apologized

“It’s fine, don’t ponder too much on it” Wise nervously rubbed the back of his neck

“Looks like I was worrying a bit too much there” Mayflower leaned back into his seat

“Sorry for any troubles I may have incited” Miyabi apologized

“It’s fine”

“I owe you an apology as well” he faced Wise

“No need, as long we’re good” Wise said

------------ FOLLOWING DAY -------------

“So, how’s the evaluator liking the place?” Lighter asked in-between chews

“She seemed really positive about everything; I am confident she likes the school” Wise said

GRUMBLE!

“Sorry man, just hungry”

“The granola bar isn't doing it for you?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Nope, when are these dames going to finish being served?” Lighter removed his shades and planted his face onto the table.

“These girls make me starve for a good 15 minutes everyday” Lighter groaned

“Well, I don’t know everybody yet so...” Wise shrugged

“Hey man, all I’ll tell you is you’ll find out more the longer you’re here” Lighter sat up straight, and his eyes drifted to just behind Wise

“Hm?” Wise scratched his head and looked over his shoulder to find Miyabi with a tray in hand

“Is this seat taken?” Miyabi asked

“Uh, no” Lighter spoke prompting the woman to sit by Wise

Some eyes drew to the scene almost immediately

‘She’s taken my throne’ Lucy raged

‘Looks like the gal’s got some gusto’ Burnice thought

‘Interesting’ Qingyi observed

“I suppose I can take this one then” Yanagi’s lunchbox landed on Wise’s other side

“G-Guys” Wise muttered

“Do you mind? Is someone here?” Yanagi asked

“Well no, usually it’s just me and Lighter” Wise said before looking to find Lighter gone

‘Lighter?’ Wise looked around and found the man seated with some other male staff members. He looked at Wise and raised his hands in surrender before mouthing.

“I’m sorry”

Lighter turned back to face the other men

'Sorry bro but this has gotten out of my control'

Wise looked somewhat betrayed

“Looks like Lighty left me some space, quite the gentleman” Burnice arrived

“Sup dudes” Caesar’s mountain of food also appeared

“The table has gotten crowded today” Jane appeared with Qingyi in tow

‘I’m the only sausage on the table’ Wise thought as he looked over at his male co-workers chatting.

‘I can’t stay here forever, maybe Lighter and I can join those bros’ Wise decided

“So, Ms. Tsukishiro, you changed seats?” Qingyi immediately shot first

“Why yes, I intend to work here long term, why not make any friends while I am at it?”

“You have many friends” Miyabi commented

“Uh, d-don't mind them much” Wise said

“Yeah, don’t mind us, we’re just a couple of pals” Burnice locked eyes with Wise who quickly averted to look to the side, eliciting a small giggle from the blonde

“There ya are Wise, I ain’t seen you today” Piper arrived lazily

“More seating buddies, how fun” Jane ended with sarcasm

“Where’s your food?” Caesar noticed

“Oh, I was waiting for you ladies to get it first” Wise said

“How kind, did I mention I like kind men?” Jane mused

“You told me” Wise chuckled

“Best get your food before some of those animals finish everything” Lucy said

“Right, I’ll be back” Wise got up and walked to the serving area leaving the table

Nicole suddenly slammed her tray and took her seat

“Moody?” Qingyi turned to the woman

“Must have slipped” Nicole said as she took her place

Miyabi silently ate her portion as some eyes bounced off her discretely

‘This fox’

“So...” Miyabi suddenly started getting attention from the others

“You are all friends of Wise?”

“Damn right, day one is right here, I don’t know about these ones” Nicole spoke up

“Ahem, we are all friends of Wise” Yanagi cut in

“Mh, I see” Miyabi said

‘This fox slept with the guy already; she’s playing us for a fool’

“So, you must have memorable encounters with him?” Miyabi continued

“Yep, passes my garage at least once a day, this old codger enjoys the company” Piper said

“Helps me out with the sports equipment stuff, he’s good at math” Caesar said with stuffed cheeks

“What about you? You’ve been all over with him, haven’t you?” Jane asked

“Yes, that is true, as for an encounter...” Miyabi sat momentarily as a red appeared on her cheeks, the sensation of the man’s calm form breathing gently by her in the warm weather contrasting with the cool breeze

“I have to say the most vivid is when we slept together at my residence” Miyabi spoke

Nicole froze as he fork fell straight into her mashed potatoes, no movement happened on the table, it was as if time stood still.

‘W-Wise did it with her...’ Caesar’s face was now reminiscent of a tomato as was Nicole’s

Jane’s ears stood in shock, Piper’s sleepiness wore off instantly, Qingyi sat replaying the statement repeatedly. Burnice’s mouth formed an “O” shape with widened eyes. Yanagi and Lucy sat relatively normal but irked because they were aware of the fact already

“What do you mean by “slept together”?” Qingyi questioned

“I was asleep by his side initially then I found myself on top of his chest” Miyabi described

“W-What happened before?” Jane asked

“We had gone to town with each other” Miyabi spoke plainly

‘I knew it, they did it’ Yanagi thought

“W-We see, we haven’t done anything of the sort with him” Yanagi spoke trying to divert

“Hey guys” Wise returned silencing the table once more as he took back his seat

“Everything okay?” Wise asked

“Things are fine youngun, just chewing is all” Piper said

‘These kiddos really are active; will this old gal’s body be the same after getting the man?’ Piper wondered

‘I knew this woman was dangerous upon first meeting, never thought she’d jump to the last base so quickly, I need to step things up’ Jane analysed Miyabi’s mannerisms

‘Mh...Zhu Yuan mentioned something about a Miyabi some time back, maybe a consultation might be the best course of action’ Jane thought

‘How did she bed him within a few hours? That code is hard to crack’ Qingyi thought of different scenarios in her head

‘Did Miyabi say something to these guys?’ Wise looked over at the woman by his side

‘Probably not, I think she learned her lesson with wording’ Wise went back to eating his lunch

Lucy tapped Yanagi’s thigh under the table prompting her to look at the smaller woman

“My office, later” she mouthed causing her to nod discretely

‘Secrets?’ Jane managed to catch the exchange

----------- THAT AFTERNOON ------------

“You called” Yanagi entered the room

“Take a seat” Lucy said

“I think we know why I called you here” Lucy spoke

“Ms. Hoshimi is it” Jane suddenly swung the door open with the others in tow

“You dare disrespect me? When did you knock?” Lucy stood with aggression

“You’re totally trying to sabotage us” Burnice spoke out

“Not cool Lucy” Caesar crossed her arms

“Hey, you don’t even get the gist of why this is happening”

“Okay, why is it happening then?” Zhu Yuan entered last shutting the door

“A guard? What the hell are you doing away from patrol?” Lucy asked

“I called her here, on business of course” Jane said

“Tch, a simple notice I’m giving to Ms. Tsukishiro, get the hell out before I cut you all off” Lucy threatened

“Did you just lie to us?” Jane asked

“Tch, hah, of course not, now get out” Lucy had beads of sweat form on her temples

“Come on kiddo, we ain’t dumb, we know you’re trying to connive” Piper spoke out

“Look, even if I am it’s none of your business” Lucy said

“You won’t beat Miyabi” Zhu Yuan said silencing the room

“I’ve known her for years, she never loses at anything, everything she sees is training and she’ll be the best no matter what” she explained

“So you’re saying none of us have a chance?” Caesar scratched her head

“If alone then no, but if we work together, we can beat her” Jane said

“Here I thought you were better than the rest of us, turns out you’re just as powerless” Qingyi spoke

“I know when I’m outmatched, and this happens to not be in my favour”

“So, you propose we work together for the time being?” Lucy spoke

“Temporarily” Nicole added

“We just have to deter her from Wise until she’s done with her evaluation nonsense and goes back to Japan” Jane explained

Everyone exchanged glances

“How do trust we won’t betray each other?” Yanagi piped in

“Easy, if one of us breaks then Wise is gone straight into her hands, she’s already screwed the guy so we can’t afford to make any mistakes, we can bounce back if we really want to” Jane said

‘Miyabi...’ Zhu Yuan thought of the fox

“Tch, fine but if any of you turn traitor...” Lucy started

“Heard it all before, we’re fired?” Nicole rolled her eyes

“Just so y'all know, this all ends when she goes back” Burnice warned

“We know, we didn’t forget a thing” Piper said

“Alright ladies, time to sabotage” Jane said

“I don’t feel comfortable with sabotage” Zhu Yuan said

“Fine, time to “deter”, are you happy now?” Jane said

“Much better”

Chapter Text

“Remember kiddos, make sure to keep her away” Piper reminded

“Yeah whatever, now why is everybody always coming in my office, get the hell out” Lucy demanded

“Sure, thing boss” Caesar said

“See ya Lucy~” Burnice chimed as she skipped out

The women cleared out leaving Lucy to herself

‘I don’t know why but I don’t trust that stinking rat’ Lucy thought

-------- FOLLOWING DAY --------

“Good morning Ms. Hoshimi” Wise smiled at her prompting a light blush

“Hello Wise, are you well this morning?” she asked with a small smile of her own

“Yeah, I slept a bit late but it’s nothing a little coffee couldn't fix” he chuckled

“You set up over there today?” Wise pointed at the isolated chair

“Yes, I am merely an observer, not a staff member” Miyabi said

“It looks a little lonely there during the briefings” Wise said

‘Those two are early, too early’ Nicole crept into the staff room

“I have no such qualms with solitude; I have trained my mind to such a degree” Miyabi said

“No need to boast, you showed me your talents in the gym, I believe you could do literally anything” Wise complemented

“You have a way with words” Miyabi smiled at him

“H-Hey guys” Nicole cut in

“Nicole? You’re early” Wise said

“What? A girl can’t be early?” Nicole feigned a chuckle

Miyabi side eyed the pinkette

‘This woman....Nicole was it?’ Miyabi thought

“And you too Ms. Hoshimi, nice to see you in such good shape, is that new makeup?” Nicole diverted

“No, I do not wear makeup” Miyabi said

‘S-She doesn’t? t-that skin isn’t normal; how does she look like this?’ Nicole pondered

“F-For real?”

“You may rub my face for any evidence you seek”

“No need, I believe you” Nicole said

‘She’s socially inept too’ Nicole thought

“Of course, Ms. Hoshimi’s beauty is natural” Wise spoke

“Thank you” Miyabi looked to the side bashfully

‘Shit, that cop was right, she doesn’t even try and he’s shooting complements her way’ Nicole thought

“And you don’t want to say anything about me? I bought this outfit from a designer store you know” Nicole twirled

“I have to admit; you look pretty good as well” Wise rubbed the back of his neck

‘Gotcha fox, I can play that game too’ Nicole said

“You were saying I was lonely by my seat” Miyabi turned back to Wise

“Heh?” Nicole cocked an eyebrow

“Would you like to be seated with me today?” Miyabi asked

“Oh, well....”

“N-No, he can’t” Nicole butted in

“Why not?” Miyabi asked

“H-He has to sit with the staff, yeah, with the staff” Nicole had beads of sweat form on her temple

“Is he not with the staff in the same room?” Miyabi stood face to face with Nicole

‘D-Do I feel ice in here?’ Wise shivered slightly

“Yeah, but...”

“There are no buts, he is entitled to whatever seat he wishes, what do you say?” Miyabi turned back to Wise

“I guess it wouldn’t hurt, let me get my chair” Wise spoke

The rest of the workers flooded into the staff room with a good amount of the female gaze making its way over to Wise’s sudden shift in position. Wise and Miyabi sat behind the entirety of the teaching force side by side looking onwards.

‘That is odd, the boy changed his seat’ Mayflower observed

“Why did you let him slip?” Jane muttered to Nicole

“T-The fox was too strong, plus I was alone” Nicole defended herself

“Tch, next time call for backup, dumbass” Lucy whispered

“Backup whe-”

“Ms Demara, is something the matter?” Lycaon asked drawing eyes to the woman

“Ahem, I was simply asking the time” Nicole put on a professional mask instantly

“I see” Lycaon spoke

Miyabi looked up from her clipboard to watch the briefing

As Lycaon led the talks Mr. Mayflower gazed back at Wise and Miyabi’s newfound relationship.

“Mh” he rested his chin between his thumb and index finger as ideas popped into his mind

‘Their closeness is baffling, it’s only been around 2 days, and he shifts so suddenly...’

‘I smell opportunity’ he thought

---------- A FEW HOURS ---------

“What are we doing today, Ms. Hoshimi?” Wise asked as they moved down the halls

Miyabi flipped a page on her clipboard

“Club activities”

“Oh good, I can lead you to a couple”

“Where is the Drama & Theatre club?” Miyabi asked

“Oh well, from what I heard from Mr. Mayflower they aren’t here right now, they went for some festival across the country” Wise said

“Martial Arts Club?” Miyabi turned to Wise

“I heard they went for a tour like exhibition; Ms. Qingyi told me they left right before I started working here”

“I see, then what is your opinion on the two?” Miyabi asked

“Well, I haven’t met who runs them nor have I seen them so...”

“What is your honest guess?”

“I think they’d be great clubs” Wise said

“Mhm” Miyabi nodded and added ticks to her clipboard

“A-Are you sure you want to take my word for it?”

“I trust your judgement; you haven’t given a reason of doubt”

“Sup guys, want to check out my club? Burnice’s Super Duper Mixer Chemistry Club” Burnice slid into view

“Ms. White, I don’t thi-”

“Let us proceed” Miyabi cuts off the man

‘Great’ Wise thought as he begrudgingly followed into the chem lab

“Clean apparatus, good temperature regulation, safety measures up to standard” Miyabi added ticks

“Only the best from Burnice” Burnice puffed her chest with pride

“Good work, Wise let us move on” Miyabi turned to leave

‘Damn, they’re getting away’ Burnice panicked

“How’s about I make Nitro-Fuel from scratch, that sound good for ya” Burnice stepped in front of Miyabi’s path

“What flavour?” Miyabi narrowed her eyes

“M-Melon?”

“I see... Wise let us remain for her showing” Miyabi took a seat

‘Yes, now just gotta put a little wedge between em’

“So, you guys been moving around pretty often” Burnice chimed

“Burnice...” Wise groaned

“Yes....is there an issue?” Miyabi cocked her head

“Nope, just wondering, cause I never got my second date” Burnice dropped causing Wise’s chest to almost implode on itself

“You went out with this woman?” Miyabi turned to Wise

“O-Only once”

“I need my second date pookie~”

“Can we talk about this later?”

‘Now she defo got the message, Wise is mine’ Burnice thought

“Did you sleep with Wise as well?” Miyabi spoke

“WORDING!” Wise exclaimed

“Nope but we’ll get there one day if he takes me out again” Burnice said as she shook the flask

Miyabi couldn’t help but feel a little bit irked at the blonde’s proclamation

“Ahem” Wise nervously cleared his throat

“I must apologize” Wise said

“No need” Miyabi dismissed as Burnice placed a cup of the drink in front of Miyabi

“Bottom’s up” Burnice said

“Thank you” Miyabi began downing the beverage but ceased halfway through

“You said you liked melon as well?” the fox glanced at Wise

“I do, why?”

“That was only for ice cream, what about Nitro-Fuel?” Miyabi held out the cup towards Wise

“Ms. Hoshimi...”

“It would be rude to finish it when you are also here with me” Miyabi slid the cup in front of Wise, it did a light rotation before sitting before his eyes.

‘I can’t see any lip marks or anything, Ms. Hoshimi wears no lipstick, her mouth could have touched anywhere’ Wise hesitantly picked up the cup

‘Oh crap’ Burnice thought as the edge of the cup touched the man’s lips

Miyabi watched on with a light flush

‘A-An indirect kiss? On the lips?’ Burnice stood stunned at Miyabi’s move

The blonde glanced at Miyabi whom already had her gaze set on her before breaking the eye contact.

“Ah, it was pretty good, it would be better if it was cold” Wise complemented but it was met with sheer silence

“Ms. White?”

“Let us move on” Miyabi gripped Wise’s forearm tightly

“Ow, Ms. Hoshimi, you’re too strong” Wise said as the door swung shut leaving a stunned Burnice.

‘T-That rotation was perfect, h-he kissed her...’ the chemistry teacher thought

------------ LATER THAT DAY -------------

“You guys are freaking useless, first you let her take him from our proximity in the briefings, now you watched her kiss him indirectly” Lucy scolded

“She’s that good” Nicole said

“Come on, haven’t you seen her IQ is practically 0? how are you being lapped by her?” Lucy asked

“I’d like to see you try” Nicole shot back

“I will, and I’ll show you why you’re all losers”

“Hmp, good luck, director” Jane scoffed

“I won’t watch her kiss him, that’s for sure” Lucy said

“Oh dear lord” Zhu Yuan facepalmed

“Probability of victory according to my calculations is 1.6% for Lucy” Qingyi said

“I don’t know about this Luce” Caesar piped in

“Shut it boar, we have to push”

Chapter Text

“Tch, those damn fools can’t keep Wise even for an afternoon, I’ll show them” Lucy stepped out of her office and stormed down the corridors, passing students practically stuck to the wall in hopes of not crossing her path and being on the receiving end of a scolding.

‘Tch, where are those two?’ Lucy checked in common places to find Wise, Venus’s office, Venus’s classes and so on but nowhere to be found.

‘Think Lucy, what was said earlier today?’

The woman stood in thought for a moment before words rang in her head

‘Club evaluation’ she thought

“Yeah, they’re evaluating clubs, now which ones?”

‘Astra is at that stupid festival, Yixuan is on tour with those flippity monkeys, that’s two clubs out, Burnice has been checked, that leaves only a couple more’

‘Where could she be?’ Lucy thought

Elsewhere....

“I wish to see the sporting club”

“I think they’re doing cardio today, probably outside” Wise said as he led MIyabi out of the building.

The two spotted Caesar and Lighter standing by as a few students ran laps around the field huffing and puffing.

“FASTER! MY GRANDPA COULD RUN THAT IN 2 MINUTES!” Caesar yelled

“YES MA’AM!” the student’s voices cracked

Lighter turned and spotted the approaching individuals

“Yo we got company” Lighter nudged Caesar, she turns and spots Wise then turns into the equivalent of a tomato.

‘He’s c-coming here now? I-I'm not mentally prepared’ Caesar mentally slapped herself

“What’s up guys?” Wise greeted

“Hey man, Ms. Hoshimi” Lighter greeted

“Good day, I am here to observe” Miyabi said as she flipped a page on her clipboard

“C-Cool, just sit back and watch” Caesar turned away from Wise’s gaze

‘Calm down Caesar, right now you can't be a coward, Miyabi we have to stop Miyabi’ she took a breath

“GATHER UP!” she yelled and in what seemed like a few seconds a group of student’s appeared

“Ms King” they said

“This here is Ms. Hoshimi, a very important person”

“MS. HOSHIMI WELCOME!” they bellowed in unison

“Good” Caesar looked around

“Where’s that big kid?”

“Do you mean Manato?”

“Where is he?” Lighter asked

“Uh, h-he called in sick”

“My best athlete isn’t here” Caesar groaned

“Discipline is high” Miyabi muttered to Wise

“Caesar is great with this leading stuff” Wise spoke but Caesar managed to catch the complement and returned to her dark red shade

“Ms King? Are you alright?” a girl asked

“BACK TO THE LAPS!” she commanded in embarrassment

“YES MA’AM!”

“Urgency is good” Miyabi complemented again

“Equipment” Miyabi muttered

“What?”

“Where is your designated equipment?”

“Oh yeah, we use weights and some other stuff in the gym” Lighter said

“Show me” Miyabi spoke

Inside....

“I swear I heard the boar’s kids yelling Ms.Hoshimi” Lucy looked out towards the field to find nobody present

‘Camera’s it is then’ Lucy decided

Back with the group......

“This is the school’s gym” Caesar pushed open the door and the group flooded inside

Miyabi nodded

“Smith Machine, is it maintained?”

“Watch” Caesar went over to the weight and squatted them casually

Miyabi nods at the display before handing Wise the clipboard and her tie

“Ms. Hoshimi”

The thiren raised her skirt’s length slightly, eliciting a blush from Wise

‘D-Damn’ Caesar thought

“I shall try myself” Miyabi removed her heels

“Y-You don’t have to Ms.Hoshimi” Wise said

“I prefer my own testing, spot me please” Miyabi turned to the man

“W-Woah, I can do it” Caesar cut in

“No, you are simply too tall for me to be adequately spotted, the same with you Mr. Lorenz” Miyabi efficiently added more weights onto the machine

“I-Isn’t that a bit much?” Caesar gulped

“No this is my slightly below my average, usually I would add 100 more kilograms, but the machine cannot take all the weight” Miyabi spoke as she positioned herself under the bar

“Wise, p-please position behind me” Miyabi had a flush appear on her face

‘There he goes again’ Lighter shook his head

‘N-No, I won’t be defeated today’ Caesar declared

“Ready?” Wise settled in his place

“No, please come closer”

‘Crap, at this rate we will touch...’

Wise inched closer to the woman

“3, 2, Go” Miyabi suddenly dropped down, and Wise followed as fast he could

“Shall I slow down for you?”

“I-I think I can keep up” Caesar approached

“No, you cannot drop fast, you are very tall” Miyabi reinforced

‘Shit, she’s right’ Caesar panicked

“Once more, I shall control the weight more powerfully”

“I don’t know” Wise hesitated

“Then wrap your hands around my waist slightly tighter”

Caesar’s eyes turned blank white at the statement

“Ms. Hoshimi, we-”

“I do not have my flexible clothing, I need you here as a control, I don’t want to rip my shirt, nor damage my clip on the skirt” Miyabi explained

‘I don’t want her good exposed either, bear with it Wise’ Wise encouraged himself as he did as instructed

“Your distance is far, please push forwards” Lighter observed

Wise gave him a look, but his eyes were covered by the sunglasses, Caesar glared at her friend with anger, but he just avoided glancing at her

“For safety of course”

Wise took a breath accidentally sending a shiver up Miyabi’s spine

‘H-He’s close’ she thought

Wise pushed up closer onto the woman

“G-Good” Miyabi then proceeded with her testing as Wise spotted her from behind, the few reps were like agony for Caesar.

‘N-Nicole was right, she’s too good’

“Thank you” Miyabi straightened upwards to lock the bar, just then a familiar face walked into the room and froze at the scene

A click from the locking was heard as heads turned to face Lucy

“W-What the hell?” Lucy observed as Wise was practically hugging Miyabi from behind with her posture bent backwards onto his persons

“I-Is it locked?” Lighter broke the silence

“Yes”

“Then why aren’t you splitting up?” Lucy crossed her arms with a vein bulging on her temple

“I-I’m stuck” Wise said

“What do you mean by you’re stuck?” Caesar asked

“Uh, Ms. Hoshimi is gripping me” Wise said

“Oh, under my armpits” Miyabi said

‘They definitely screwed, that closeness is too comfortable’ Lucy thought

“Forgive me” Miyabi unlocked Wise

‘She did that on purpose, she’s trying to show her dominance or something, but I won’t submit to that fox’ Lucy tensed her jaw

“What are you doing here Ms. De Montefio?” Wise said

“Lucy” she corrected

“Uh?” Wise muttered

“We are not strangers, call me by my name, Lucy”

“Okay...Lucy”

Miyabi narrowed her gaze slightly at the blonde

‘I’m falling behind, crap’ Caesar thought in a rut

“H-Hey Wise, want to try a bicep curl with me? I-It's fun” Caesar awkwardly said

“I don’t know if I have ti-”

“I was about to test that next, bring me that barbell” Miyabi said as she stood in front of the man

“That’s for deadlifts”

“Bring it and leave the weights on” Miyabi spoke

‘Tch, the boar has no game whatsoever, I have to carry her sorry ass too’ Lucy rolled her eyes

Lighter rolled the item towards Miyabi who stopped it with one leg, she bent down prompting Wise to look off to the side

‘A lady, she’s a lady’ Wise played Carole’s voice in his head

Miyabi positioned herself and curled it, her biceps bulged through the sleeves of her shirt

‘Holy shit’ Caesar gave her biceps a light squeeze

THUD! Miyabi dropped it onto the mat

“Good maintenance of equipment, I’ll give you that “Director”” Miyabi faced Lucy

‘Tch, getting cocky? I’ll show you who has the power here’

‘Things are getting heated’ Lighter noticed and slowly crept to the exit

“Woo, is it me or is it hot in here? The kids on the track need to be checked on, so...” Lighter slipped out immediately leaving Wise, Caesar and Lucy present in the room

“Impressive stuff” Lucy feigned amazement

“I want to check athlete products next, bring me your water” Miyabi said

“Alright, Wise get the water” Lucy commanded

“Sure...” Wise moved to the door

“W-Wait, let me come with you, just in case” Caesar rushed pushing Wise out

‘That damned gorilla, we were supposed to deter her together, not take him whenever’

“I am very impressed by your workers” Miyabi complemented

“Which one in particular? Let me take a guess, Wise?”

Miyabi had a slight flush appear on her cheeks

“Yes, he is most outstanding”

‘She’s totally head over heels but that won’t last long’ Lucy thought

“That’s a bit of a touchy complement”

“I-I have a right to speak however I please, so do not target my statements” Miyabi warned

With Wise and Caesar...

“I don’t see any water over here” Wise said as he stood up from his crouching position

“Damn” Caesar drooped her head backwards and as a result spotted a 2 litre bottle seated a top the shelf of the cold storage

“Up there” Caesar pointed

“Oh, that’s high” Wise said

“There’s a ladder over he-”

Caesar’s strength managed to break a vital support beam on the contraption

“Oh crap, I messed up, I should have been more careful” Caesar’s eyes widened

“It’s okay Caesar, people make mistakes” Wise put a comforting hand on the woman’s broad shoulder

‘P-Physical contact....’ she melted despite the cold atmosphere

“Now how do we get that down?” Wise scratched his head before looking at a bashful Caesar

“D-Don’t freak out but what if I lifted you up?”

Wise paused at the suggestion

“You see the thing is I’m kind of scared of heights” he chuckled nervously

“Sorry I didn’t know”

“It’s fine, but the lifting idea is good, you’re pretty smart Caesar” Wise complemented causing her to blush

Wise suddenly crouched down next to the woman

“H-Huh?”

Wise tapped his shoulder

“Hop on” Wise encouraged

“But I’m big and tall, c-can you even-”

“You are still a lady, I can handle it” Wise said

Caesar’s mind flashed with manga panels of a scene akin to the one she was at

‘Like Princess Kiana and Prince Rupert when he helped her escape the dungeon’ Caesar blushed as she hesitantly placed her weight on the man’s shoulders.

‘Crap, I overestimated myself’ Wise took a breath

‘3,2,1, GO!’ Wise in a burst of temporary strength managed to get the burly woman up

“G-Get it” Wise spoke with a tensed voice

“Got it” Caesar reached up to grab the container, but she couldn’t ignore Wise’s huffs and puffs.

‘He said he’d be fine but why is he making those noises?’ Caesar thought

‘He said I wasn’t heavy, so...d-do I smell bad?’ Caesar panicked as she managed

‘MY KNEES!’ Wise held in a pained groan as he placed Caesar back onto the ground

“Here it is” Caesar looked away in embarrassment

“Nice thinking Caesar” Wise gave her a smile

‘H-He totally thinks I stink’ Caesar bit her tongue

------- END OF DAY -------

“What the hell did you pull?” Lucy confronted

“You guys said to deter her” Caesar argued

“Yes and you didn’t have to sneak off with Wise to do it” Yanagi said

“What happened with him anyways?” Piper asked

“N-Nothing, just getting the water” Caesar averted her gaze from any potential eye contact

Jane took notice and scanned her body language thoroughly

‘She’s hiding something, I just can't prove it’ Jane thought

“This is the second time Wise got behind cheeks and you let it happen” Burnice said

"Yeah, I was about to say the same thing" Piper spoke

“That wasn’t my fault, s-she suggested it a-and Lighter pushed it too” Caesar defended

"M-Miyabi also locked his arms around her" she added on

"An elite move for someone of "0 IQ", hmm Lucy?" Jane turned to Lucy

"Whatever, she's just getting lucky, she's still daft" Lucy said

"R-Regardless, t-those guys pushed things" Caesar spoke up again

“And you let them progress things” Nicole crossed her arms

“Don’t forget Lucy is to blame too” Caesar pointed at the short blonde

“What did you say?” Lucy cocked an eyebrow

“You sent Wise out to get the water”

“So what? Did I send you with him?” Lucy stood up to the tall woman

“We have a damn truce; we work against Miyabi until she’s gone” Zhu Yuan spoke up

“Don’t mess up again” Jane spoke to Caesar

“Alright” Caesar groaned

Chapter Text

“Where are those two?” Lucy asked Jane

“I have no clue; I don’t stalk people” the thiren said

“Briefing is about to begin and they’re nowhere to be found” Qingyi scanned the room once more

“Tch don’t tell me they’re getting it on” Nicole said

“There is a possibility but that might not be the case” Yanagi said

“Oh, here they come” Burnice quickly hushed as Wise and Miyabi walked into the staff room drawing some looks from people.

‘People really can’t keep to themselves huh?’ Wise thought as he and Miyabi took their seats

Lucy discretely took a glance back at the couple, Miyabi’s sharp senses picked up on her gaze and the two locked eyes. A momentary stare down happened

“Miyabi, everything okay?” Wise turned to his seating partner briefly but it seemed she did not pick up on anything

‘She’s doing that thing again, let me chill’ Wise leaned back onto his seat casually

‘That fox, she’s locked her fangs in Wise I know it’ Lucy thought but was knocked out of her own head by the arrival of Mayflower and Lycaon

“Good morning” the wolf man greeted to begin the briefing

‘Her gaze had flashes of aggression, but I am not moved by such’ Miyabi thought as she glanced at Wise whose attention was on the speaker’s

‘She must be after Wise as well as the others, but they know not what they are facing, I shall not release him willingly’ Miyabi thought

After about a half hour of the meeting, the school day was ready to begin, workers already began flooding out of the staff room to assume their posts.

“Wise, can you come here?” Mayflower called the man

“Sorry Ms. Hoshimi, I have to go” Wise apologized

“I see, I shall meet you later” Miyabi spoke as the two parted ways

‘I must now evaluate school security; I have to find Zhu Yuan in the meantime’ Miyabi wandered off

Yanagi glanced at the fox’s solitary movement

‘This is a good chance, they are separated, maybe I could deter her for now, I have no classes or assignments to mark right now’ Yanagi proceeded to meet with the woman

“Ms. Hoshimi” Yanagi called out

Miyabi stopped and turned to look back at the woman

“Yes?”

“I came over to greet you” Yanagi held out her hand to which Miyabi accepted

‘Oh, that’s quite a grip’ Yanagi kept a straight face through the crushing force

“Do you need a guide perhaps? Since Wise is busy, I’m new to the place but I know my way around”

“Mh” Miyabi narrowed her eyes at the woman

‘She does not seem to be one of the women after Wise’

“I have no issues with that temporary arrangement” Miyabi spoke

“Good, now where are we going to?”

“Security evaluation” Miyabi said

With Wise....

“You wanted to see me sir?” Wise closed the door behind them

“Yes” Mayflower’s hands planted themselves on Wise’s shoulders with a strong grip

“Uh” Wise tensed up lightly

“Son, I have known you for years”

Wise rolled his eyes with a sigh

‘Not this speech again’ Wise groaned

“I have bought food for you, given you gifts, monitored you when you and Belle were still small enough to run under tables”

“Can we skip the speech?” Wise lifted the man’s hands off his shoulders before straightening his shirt out

“I see, growing up does change people” Mayflower cleared his throat

“I have noticed your close camaraderie with Ms. Hoshimi..”

‘Oh no, what does he think this time?’ Wise thought as he prepared for another accusation

“I just wanted to ask for a favour”

Wise cocked an eyebrow

‘No accusations this time?’

“What is it?”

“I need you to act as a bridge to Hoshimi family”

“W-What?

“Strengthen the alliance with the Hoshimi family, if we have a closer relationship, accreditation and investment are always going to be guaranteed for our institute”

Wise looked off to the side with confusion

“What?”

“Please son, I beg of you” Mayflower did a subtle bow towards Wise

“I don’t think I can do that”

“Please, the Hoshimi’s are very important, it’s one thing to prove reliability with this evaluation but to have a strong relationship is another, it opens more doors, please” Mayflower pleaded once more

Wise sighed

“Why am I doing this?” Wise asked

“Out of everybody in this institute, you are the only one who Ms. Hoshimi seems to resonate with, your word could be strong”

‘This guy isn’t going to let up, I know him’ Wise thought

“Look, it’s not that I don’t want to do it, it’s that I can’t, I met her like 2-3 days ago, my word means nothing, I’m sorry but no” Wise said before walking out of the office

‘That was a dud, maybe I got too ambitious, they don’t even know each other well’ Mayflower thought

‘Mr. Mayflower was acting strange’ Wise thought as he walked down the halls

“Oh, is that my kind strong man?” a familiar voice echoed behind him

“Ms Doe” Wise turned to see the woman walking over to him

“In a rush? I could use a hand” Jane spoke as she placed a hand onto the man’s shoulder and another one onto his chest

‘I guess it’s my job anyways’

“Please” Jane asked

“Alright, let me help you’ Wise agreed

“Good” Jane moved to hold onto his hand to lead him away

‘If these girls want to break our truce, I’ll break the truce’ Jane thought deviously

With Miyabi....

“I have had business in Shinjuku as well; the railway is very busy” Miyabi spoke as they arrived at the security cabin

“Imagine living there, Soukaku was a pain to get into the train early” Yanagi chuckled

“Zhu Yuan” Miyabi casually waltzed into the cabin without worry

‘She really has no social awareness’ Yanagi thought as she watched the thiren’s approach

“Miyabi?” the woman in question stood up

“I am here to go through security measure” she prepped her clipboard and pen

“Alright, let me get my team”

Elsewhere in the school....

Lucy eyed the camera feeds, scrolling through each one until landing on the parking lot, where she saw the guards gathered with Miyabi and to her surprise, Wise was not present at the area.

‘Looks like Yanagi is the only one with a brain cell’ Lucy thought

‘Now where is Wise?’ she scrolled through each feed again but could not find any sightings of Wise present at all

‘That’s weird, where could he have gone?’ Lucy leaned back onto the chair

‘Too many cameras to play back, quicker to look for him on foot’

With Wise....

“Oh, my back is hurting” Jane got off her seat and walked around the room with her hands resting on her back.

“Are you alright Jane?” Wise stood and moved over to the woman seemingly in distress,

“Oh no, I’ve been working so hard today, bending over sorting out my cabinet, my back’s been killing me” she leaned near the door and discreetly locked it

“Please lay on the couch, I’ll handle the rest of the files” Wise said as he took her place at the desk

‘Good, I’m in a good place right now, the only problem is to get him close enough to pounce’ Jane thought as kicked off her heels and she took her place on the sofa

“Hm?” Wise muttered

“A problem? Bring the file to me” Jane said

‘Yes, this way he’ll fall right into my trap’ Jane thought

“Not really, I just haven’t seen these names or faces since I got here” Wise opened a document

‘Shit, I have to try something else’

“Is there a Ukinami Yuzuha here? Did she transfer or something?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Nope, suspended with some of her friends” Jane explained

“I won’t ask” Wise slid the document back into the cabinet

‘Time isn’t on my side, maybe I could try...”

“Ohhh, my back” Jane groaned

“Jane are you alright?” Wise stood in concern

“Could you get me the water in the fridge over there?”

Wise did as instructed and walked over to the woman stationed on the couch

“Just roll it under here” Jane shifted her weight

“Like thi-”

Wise felt a strong pull downwards before a rotation suddenly put him under Jane’s body with the woman fully mounted on top.

“Such a kind man indeed~” Jane whispered into Wise’s ear

“J-Jane, I thought you were hurt”

“My backs all better now” Jane said before a glint shined in her eye as she tossed the bottled water aside

With the women....

“Tch, you idiots haven’t seen Wise?” Lucy asked

“I have no idea where he is” Nicole crossed her arms

“Where’s Jane?” Qingyi brought up before realization dawned on them

“SHE’S LOOSE!” Burnice exclaimed before they all rushed out

With Miyabi....

“I am also able to run 25 kilometers without ceasing” 11 spoke

“Impressive”

“Are we done with this little check? I must get back to my routes; I don’t get paid off my routes” Evelyn said

“Yes, I am through” Miyabi signed off on her clipboard and the team dispersed

Yanagi gave Zhu Yuan a nod

“How about we catch up for a bit?” Zhu Yuan chimed

“You are acting strangely” Miyabi bluntly spoke

“S-Strange, how am I strange?” Zhu Yuan tensed up a bit

“You never brush off work for chatter”

Yanagi’s posture straightened

‘Lucy was wrong, this woman is not daft at all’

“Are you purposefully keeping me here?” Miyabi brought up suddenly

“N-N-N-NO!” Zhu Yuan immediately denied

“I shall trust you my friend, what do you wish to speak about?” Miyabi changed her tune sending relief through Yanagi and Zhu Yuan

With Wise....

“Ms. Doe...”

“Shhhh, call me Jane, I like when you call me Jane” Jane's tail gently brushed over Wise’s cheek

‘I-It’s like one of those videos but in real life, am I dreaming?’ Wise thought still in shock at his current position

Wise glanced to see the thiren’s lips descending slowly, as if to savor the moment

‘No resistance in his body language, looks like he consents, makes me all giddy like a school girl’ Jane partially opened an eye to see Wise’s open form

‘Sorry ladies I wish I could have kept this arrangement, but they say strike while the iron’s hot’

Suddenly the door knob twisted rapidly followed by violent knocks coming from the other side of her door stopping Jane in the middle of her tracks

“JANE GET OUT HERE!” Lucy’s voice slipped through

“Ohh, seems our time was cut short, we'll pick things up later~” Jane gave the man a kiss on the cheek before hopping off him.

‘S-So close...’ was all Wise could think as the woman adjusted her skirt to remove any creases.

“Hmp” she smirked as she unlocked the door, the other women came flooding to find Wise on the sofa with a lipstick mark on his cheek.

“Is something the matter ladies?” Jane feigned innocence as she looked at some displeased faces of her “allies”.

“Yeah, an urgent committee meeting, in my office, right now” Lucy said with a tensed jaw

“Alright, director” Jane smirked

“I’ll see you dear” Jane blew a kiss back at Wise who blushed furiously at the gesture

“Tch” Nicole clicked her tongue in disgust as the door shut leaving Wise

‘What just happened?’ Wise sat up and fixed his clothing

‘I-I have to find Miyabi; she must be waiting for me’ Wise got up and left the office with images of Jane clouding his mind

'Breathe Wise' he reminded himself but the words did nothing as his heart rate still pulsated faster than a bullet train

After a decent walk around the school, Wise managed to spot Miyabi and Yanagi just outside the security cabin chatting with Zhu Yuan.

‘Oh no, he’s coming back’ Yanagi sighted the man’s approach as did Zhu Yuan

“Wise” Miyabi had a small smile plastered on her face as he arrived

“Ms. Hoshimi, were you waiting long?” Wise rubbed his cheek clean

Miyabi’s sharp eyes picked up on a very light remnant of the foreign colour

“Where were you?” Miyabi asked

“Mr. Mayflower called me to his office then Ms. Doe asked for help with something, sorry for the delay”

“It is fine” Miyabi said

‘Jane took Wise?’ Zhu Yuan thought before locking eyes with Yanagi who knowingly nodded

“I guess, I’m not needed anymore, it was fun Ms. Hoshimi, until next time” the woman walked off

“I have to return to my rounds, I can’t slack off” Zhu Yuan swiftly vanished from their sight

“Uhm, what are we doing now?” Wise asked but was met with silence

“Ms. Hoshimi?” Wise uttered

‘Zhu Yuan and Yanagi fooled me, they were keeping Wise away from me, they’re behavior was not normal’

“Ms Hoshimi can we move on?” Wise asked breaking her out of her thoughts

“Y-Yes, we shall” Miyabi said as she took point

‘They fooled me once and it won’t happen again, if they wish to resort to dishonorable methods such as these, then there shall be no holding back’

---------- ELSEWHERE -----------

“What did you do?” Zhu Yuan barged into the room with Yanagi in tow

Jane sat casually on the other chair

“Oh nothing to bad” Jane said

“Then why were your shoes off then? You didn’t answer that” Nicole pressed

“Is it wrong to want comfort after walking in heels?” Jane said

“Locked door? Shoes off? Wise in the room? You tried to do him” Lucy said

“And I was close to doing so, you just interrupted before I could even get to the good part”

“We had a deal” Caesar said

“And you broke it first when you took him off yesterday” Jane rebutted

“N-Nothing happened” Caesar said

“Keep up the lies, I simply returned the energy I was given, if you guys want to turn traitor, don’t expect me to sit and leave him be for you to take” Jane’s tone turned to a rare seriousness

“Tch, this is the last time, you’re on thin ice” Lucy warned

“Am I?” Jane mocked

“Don’t pull this crap again, any of you” Nicole looked around the room

“Now we left those younguns together out there” Piper spoke up

“You’re right Pips, we gotta go make sure she doesn’t get any more ground” Burnice agreed

Chapter Text

“Sup” Harumasa leaned onto the locker next to Belle’s

Belle took a breath to mentally prepare herself

“What is it Asaba?” Belle rolled her eyes

“You are not happy to see me?” Harumasa asked with a façade of hurt

“Nope” Belle closed her locker and walked off with books in hand

“H-Hey” Harumasa moved to catch up to the girl

“You know, you could chill a bit, it’s a free period” Asaba said

“Maybe for you, I actually care about my grades” Belle mused

“Just because I get an A- doesn't make it a bad grade” Harumasa said

“I get A pluses so I’m better”

“Belle the A rank student” Harumasa joked

“S Rank actually”

“My bad” Harumasa said

“So what are you looking for with me?” Belle asked

“Is it wrong to say hi to a friend?”

“Depends on the friend saying it to me” Belle said

“Ouch, so you don’t like me one bit”

“Let’s go to the library” Belle said

“Ohh, are we-”

“No, I’m not one of your little “besties”, we’re studying and that’s it” Belle brushed off

-------- ELSEWHERE -------

“This is the archive, where we keep near original copies of manuscripts of world history, Mr. Mayflower says accuracy is key” Ye Shiyuan explained

“I see, very good organization, very good preservation of the textbooks, I am impressed” Miyabi nodded

“Thank you, ma’am” Ye Shiyuan offered a bow of respect

“We shall move on, let us go Wise” Miyabi spoke as she turned

“Yes Ms. Hoshimi” Wise followed after her but not before giving Ye Shiyuan a nod of respect

“What is left?” Wise asked

Miyabi scanned through the extensive writings she had made and noticed only very few spaces remaining.

‘My time here is almost up, evaluation period is nearly finished for me’ Miyabi thought

“Miyabi?” Wise voice picked her out of her trance

“Yes?” Miyabi’s head snapped to Wise

“Where are we heading next?”

“Mh...”

“Kitchen facility”

“Cool, let’s hope they aren’t too busy” Wise joked

“Yes let us hope so” Miyabi spoke

------ FLASHBACK ------

Miyabi sat at her desk sorting through her records, a single lamp illuminating the space.

She exhaled

“Ms. Hoshimi?” her servant appeared

“Miko” Miyabi acknowledged

“Master Souichirou has booked a return flight for you end of the week” she knelt before Miyabi

“End of the week?”

“Is there an issue? Have you perhaps not finished?”

“No, that is not the problem” Miyabi leaned back onto her chair

Miko walked closer to the woman

“Ms. Hoshimi, you can talk with me about your troubles”

Miyabi remained silent for a moment to contemplate the offer, she sighed before straightening her posture once more.

“I-I do not wish to depart” Miyabi confessed

“Is something wrong? Are you in trouble?”

“No, I-I do not wish to leave somebody here as I return to Japan”

Miko stood stationery in thought

“Ms. Hoshimi I am not understanding”

“I-I have grown attached to a man”

Miko’s eyes widened at the woman’s statement, Miyabi’s cheeks were flushed red but the lighting angle towards her face masked the flush.

“I see, that is a predicament”

Miyabi’s grip on the pen tightened

“I do not wish to disappoint father with disobeying his instruction to return but I also do not wish to cut my time short with Wise” Miyabi covered her mouth at letting his name slip

“I see” Miko had a smile form on her face

“It is natural to have these feelings Ms. Hoshimi, you are the type to never let this cross your mind but I see this has afflicted you deeper than even the socially intelligent, no offense of course”

“My advice is, spend time until you leave New Eridu, ask him out for a date”

“A....date?” Miyabi cocked her head

‘Oh dear, Souichirou is definitely a girl parent’

“I can explain the concepts to you” Miko volunteered

“Please do, I shall take it as my before bed training”

------ REAL TIME ------

“And this is the high-grade wok” Pan Yinhu showcased the monster of a cooking tool with steaming fried rice settled in it

“And this could feed up to how many students a time?” Miyabi asked

“About 50 good portions”

“Good” Miyabi marked down on her clipboard

The security camera moved and faced the talking group

“There they are, the cafeteria” Lucy spoke

“Seems it’s just a regular evaluation for now, I don’t think she picked up on anything yesterday” Yanagi said

“Let’s hope she didn’t” Zhu Yuan added

“Is that kitty?” Burnice scratched her head at the figure appearing on camera

“Hey Pan, got your stuff” Pulchra wheeled in some boxes, the thiren’s eyes wandered before landing on Wise

“Ohh, is that Wise?”

“Pulchra, it’s been some time”

“Just a few days and you’re missing me?” Pulchra said

“Is this your girlfriend? Never seen her before” she swapped her attention towards Miyabi

‘Girlfriend?’ Miyabi repeated in her head

“She’s the evaluator for this week, Ms. Hoshimi Miyabi”

“Here I was thinking you got tied down” she spoke as she handed a box to Pan Yinhu who carried it away

“Oh no, I’m still single” Wise chuckled

‘Still single? Looks like those blockheads haven’t even made a single move’ Pulchra thought

‘Maybe I could take him for myself, steal the treasure while they fight’

‘This woman is shady’ Miyabi thought as she scanned Pulchra

“Wise, let us move onto the bathrooms” Miyabi gripped Wise’s sleeve and pulled him off

“Hmp, stingy” Pulchra muttered

The camera moved along as Wise and Miyabi exited the cafeteria

“They’re on the move” Piper spoke

“Who’s moving in this time?” Jane asked

“I’ll g-” Zhu Yuan was cut off by the lunch bell

“Lunch time” Qingyi said

“We know, shortstack” Nicole retorted as they led out

“At least this way we can keep an eye on the fox and each other” Lucy looked around before settling her gaze on Jane

“Hey, I can’t just pounce on him in front of the public eye, though I wouldn’t be opposed to it” Jane mused

“You’re a sick woman” Qingyi commented

“I am simply using my free speech” Jane said

The staff lunchroom was being flooded in dribs and drabs, with the group of Wise’s chasers arriving last.

“Finally, the women are all here, now just get their food” Lighter spoke with relief.

“You sound happy?” Wise said

“Yeah, I am”

“By the way, I’m out before your girlfriends flood the table” he warned

“I’m not dating even one of them, I would never take more than one girlfriend at a time” Wise said

“If you say so” Lighter said before being cut off by Miyabi’s arrival

“Do you wish to come to the line with me?” Miyabi requested

“I can’t do that, ladies first” Wise declined

“No worries, you may cut in front of me” Miyabi spoke

Wise looked at Lighter who was just facing off to the side, not wanting to engage.

Wise felt his stomach grumble

‘I am hungry, maybe this once’ Wise decided

“I guess I can go” Wise said as he got up and walked to the serving station with Miyabi

‘Looks like he’s getting an early lunch’ Lighter groaned

“She’s bringing Wise here” Burnice observed

“To the girl's line? Is that even allowed?” Caesar looked around confused

“It’s allowed today” Jane spoke

“Excuse me” Miyabi sliced through the line with a strong arm lightly pushing back Nicole

“H-Hey” Nicole exclaimed

“Relax, she has priority” Lucy reminded giving Nicole a light tug backwards on her arm

‘Tch, damn fox’

“Wise” Miyabi moved back to give the man space

‘This feels so wrong but I’m starving’ Wise thought as he entered, the guilt suppressed by the hunger he felt

“Come on dude, the new guy is cutting the line” Anton spoke to Lighter

“Relax, he was invited” Lighter said

“Aww, when am I getting an invite?” Anton said as he glanced at Wise’s position

“Is everything alright Ms. Hoshimi?” Wise looked back at the woman

“Everything is fine”

‘Damn, she got him to check up on her more than us, she really isn’t as daft as I thought’ Lucy thought as the line progressed, soon everybody had a plate full of food. The usual group of women and Wise were back at their table.

Miyabi’s demeanour had shifted the longer they sat there.

‘Just ask him’ Miko’s advice played back into the fox’s head

“Wise” Miyabi looked up from her plate

“Ms. Hoshimi?”

“Please go out with me”

Wise’s fork fell into his celery

The table and nearby ones ceased all speech and in turn causing the whole staff room to turn silent

‘T-THIS FUCKING FOX!’ Nicole’s rage built up instantly

Wise felt gazes from all directions towards him and the most pronounced was none other than Miyabi whose red eyes were looking directly into his green ones.

‘Shit, in front of all these people, where is her social intelligence?’ Wise thought with panic

“I wish to prepare for my journey back home; I want you with me as well” Miyabi elaborated

“I hear it is referred to as a “date”, so will you go on a date with me?”

“H-Hey, look I-I got a funny looking broccoli, see” Caesar tried to divert but her attempt was poor and didn’t work at all.

“What is your response?” Miyabi focused only on Wise; the silence grew even louder now as onlookers watched the exchange

‘She is daft, in front of everybody?’ Lucy reinforced before a realization dawned on her

‘S-She’s asserting dominance’

“I-I guess I wouldn’t mind, sure” Wise agreed

“Is your guy willing to save some ladies for the rest of us?” Anto whispered to Lighter

“Shut up” he shushed the man

“I see, I shall pick you up at your home on Saturday” Miyabi got up with her finished tray and walked off

Eyes were still glued to Wise.

“W-What are you looking at?” Wise called out before people returned to their business

‘THAT FOX!” Lucy seethed

‘Maybe I should have ignored their knocks yesterday’ Jane thought

‘M-My rival is too powerful’ Caesar felt overwhelming despair

Chapter Text

Carole sighed as she leaned against Wise’s door frame

“Yet another date” she smirked

“It’s-” Wise groaned

“Yes, it’s a date” Wise admitted

“Seems sending to work for Mayflower gave me so many options for a daughter in law” Carole spoke as she sat down on the man’s bed

“I’m not getting married; I don’t even have a top job yet” Wise said

“Isn’t this Hoshimi girl rich? What do you need a top job for? Just marry her and finish things” Carole mused before breaking into a laughing fit

“Thanks for the advice mom” Wise rolled his eyes

‘This one could be my ticket to early retirement’

“As an adult to adult...” Carole suddenly changed her tune

“Mh?” Wise’s attention turned to his mother

“Please, I beg of you, do not use protection for this one, I want to die knowing I’m covered”

“Ugh” Wise groaned

“Please bro, for my college fund” Belle peered her head into the room

“BELLE!” Wise exclaimed

BEEEEEEPPPP!

“Listen to that, my daughter came to pick you up” Carole teased as she moved to the window

“Phew” Belle whistled at the sight before her eyes

“And in a serious ride too, you’re living in luxury huh?” Belle turned and flashed Wise a smile

“I have to go” Wise slipped his jacket on and walked out of his door

“USE A BREATH MINT! DON’T FORGET THE BREATH MINTS!” Belle yelled as Wise rushed down the stairs

“SHUT IT!” Wise yelled back as he opened the door to see a Miyabi just about to ring the bell

Wise paused as he eyed Miyabi, she wore black women’s dress pants with a teal blouse, she had her usual heels on her feet to complement the colours.

“Good morning” Miyabi had a flush from Wise’s gaze on her

“Uh, h-hi" Wise muttered like an idiot

“Sorry, I was just thrown off” Wise apologized awkwardly

“Is there something wrong with my dressing?” Miyabi worried as she looked down

“I-I wished to try something different and-”

“You look beautiful Miyabi” Wise complemented

“Yes” Belle accidentally gave away her and Carole’s hiding position

“Belle” Wise said with a tense voice

“He saw us” Carole and Belle retreated elsewhere

“Sorry about them, they’re just like that, maybe we could head out now if you like” Wise said

“Yes I would like that” Miyabi had a small smile appear on her face as the door swung shut

Belle and Carole peered their heads out once more

“Looks like bro is bringing home the jackpot this time around” Belle said

“Retirement could be on the horizon for me” Carole felt a wave of relief wash over her

------- 35 MINUTES LATER -------

Wise looked out the car window to see the vehicle moving into a part of New Eridu he’d never been in before, high class buildings and stores came into view.

“Uh, Ms. Hoshimi, where are we heading?” Wise asked

“To the clothing store, I wish to bring back some items to Japan with me” Miyabi spoke as the car pulled into the parking lot.

‘Maybe I should have worn a tux or something, being here is so weird for me’ Wise thought as he and Miyabi disembarked from the vehicle and moved into the store.

Wise took a moment to digest what he was seeing, top tier brands lined up everywhere, rich looking men and women taking their selections at clothes.

“This place is...”

Mh?” Miyabi turned to look at Wise

“Kind of intimidating” Wise remarked

“No need to worry, here I shall navigate for you” Miyabi held Wise’s hand suddenly

‘Her grip isn’t as tight as before’ Wise took notice in the pressure difference

‘Without that monstrous grip, holding her hand kind of feels nice’ Wise thought as he savored the sensation.

Miyabi walked Wise into what seemed to be the men’s section

“Father usually likes flower patterns at the seams” Miyabi spoke

‘She’s still holding my hand’ Wise thought as they walked through the aisle

“I think teal colour like that would suit him” Wise suggested

“Similar to mine? Like an indicator of blood relation?” Miyabi held out the proposed option

“Not exactly, I just thought it looked nice” Wise chuckled

“I see, do you also wish to buy one?” Miyabi asked

“Uh, I don’t think I can afford-”

“I shall buy it on your behalf, free of charge” Miyabi said

“It does look good, but I don’t feel comfortable being bought expensive things” Wise said

“Please allow me to do you this favour you have also helped me these past few days”

‘She seems really committed to this...’

“Fine, but one shirt and that’s all” Wise said

“Understood” Miyabi smiled at the man

“Please bear with me as I shop for my own clothing, I suggest you look at it as training” Miyabi said

“Whatever you say, you picked the location” Wise agreed as he trailed behind Miyabi as she skimmed through different options, the scene was akin to that of an old couple rummaging through a store, eventually Miyabi found herself in the dressing room.

“Are you okay in there?” Wise asked

“I am fine, these pants fit loosely” Miyabi gave her feedback

“I’ll wait by the bench here” Wise said as he backed up from the door

“Waiting for the Mrs?” a man approached with a friendly smile

“Oh hello sir” Wise greeted

“Hi there”

“I’m kind of on a date, she’s trying things out” Wise said

“I see, I can relate, I had a wife as well”

“We’re not married or anything, just a date” Wise clarified

“Oh I see, testing the waters, you young people” he chuckled

“You know I have a daughter in senior year of high school; she’s a bit shy, I try to push her to be more social but no luck yet, getting her to go on her club trip was hard work”

“I hope it gets better, uh....” Wise outstretched his hand

“Lionel, Lionel Thymefield but you can just all me Lionel or even Leo if you want to get hip” he joked

‘Thymefield? I swear I’ve heard that name somewhere’ Wise thought

“Have a good one” the man walked off

“Thank you for waiting” Miyabi stepped out with the clothes in hand

The two moved to pay for the items which totaled at a price Wise could not even fathom, soon they were back in Miyabi’s transport zooming around the city once more.

‘That price was enough for my tuition fee’ Wise thought as he looked down at the shirt in the paper bag

“Do you wish to eat?” Miyabi asked

“Yeah, actually I was about to suggest a place” Wise spoke

A few minutes later Wise and Miyabi found themselves seated in a fast food place. Miyabi just scanned the area around them, children running by the play area with other’s already seated in booths.

“How do you like the place?” Wise asked

“I have no issues with your selection however your order was most peculiar as it was titled the Collector’s Chest” Miyabi said

“Trust me with that one, they give little colletables in each box, there is a super rare one I’ve been meaning to get, it’s called the Tailless sword” Wise said

“A toy sword?”

“You’ll see if I get it” Wise said as the waitress brought their meal

“Here’s your meal, lovebirds” she said before walking off

Miyabi looked into her containment box to see some French fries and a burger inside, a small green cylinder inside drew her attention

“Aw, I got the Jadestone Diamond Ring” Wise said

Miyabi glanced at an open cylindrical container in front of Wise

“I see, that’s what it is” Miyabi reached in and twisted it apart, a small sheathed plastin sword fell out of it

Wise paused

“Is that?”

Miyabi slid the figure’s blade out of the sheath, a blue glow emitted from the edge

“That’s the Tailless” Wise said

“Is it?”

“I’ve been looking for one of those in forever” Wise said

“Guess’ you got it first try” Wise chuckled

Miyabi looked down at the item before holding it towards Wise

“Huh?”

“Take it, you have been searching for it all this time”

“I can’t, it’s yours”

“No, I have no need for this” Miyabi said as Wise hesitantly gripped it from her hand

“Thank you so much Miyabi” Wise showed gratitude towards the woman who returned it with a smile. Wise looked down at the ring in his other hand and back up at Miyabi who was about to dig into her food.

Suddenly Miyabi felt her hand being grabbed

“Wise?”

The man slid the ring onto her finger gently, treating her like a delicate lady despite her immense strength over his own.

“This is yours, a gift from me to you” Wise smiled prompting heat to rise to the thiren’s cheeks

“T-This resembles an engagement ring” Miyabi spoke

Wise laughed lightly before a warm smile sat on his lips

“I guess that makes you my fiancé now Ms. Hoshimi or should I say Miyabi” Wise kept a smile towards the woman

“Fiancé” Miyabi repeated with a flush on her face; she looked down at the ring on her finger.

‘I-I’ll cherish it’ Miyabi clutched the ring in her hand

The day spent between the two progressed as natural after their lunch, a couple of stops here and there with chats between the two, In the back of Miyabi’s mind she could not shake the gesture done for her even until they reached his house.

“Allow me to walk you to your entrance” Miyabi said as she also exited the car

The dimming sky in the background as Wise and Miyabi made their way to Wise’s porch.

“Thank you Ms. Hoshimi-uh, I mean Miyabi” Wise said

“You’re welcome” Miyabi played with the ring on her finger

“YOu really like that ring huh?”

“I-It’s a special ring”

“A toy ring?” Wise cocked an eyebrow playfully

“Yes, a toy ring” she smiled

The two stood in silence in each other’s company

“I think they’re kissing” a voice murmured from behind the door

“I don’t hear any noises”

‘Mom, Belle...’ Wise thought with shame

“I suppose I should return to pack my items” she turned to leave but paused

“I-Is it possible for you to see me off during my departure?” she asked

“I won’t miss it” Wise said

“I see, thank you” Miyabi spoke, a smile hidden from Wise as she made her way to the car

“TRAVEL BACK SAFE!” Wise wished prompting another smile right before she entered the vehicle and it took off

Wise took a breath

‘Miyabi...’ he thought of the woman as he entered the home to see Carole and Belle standing there with hands on their hips.

“So....” Belle’s mischief slipped out almost instantly

Wise sighed

“Did you do as I advised?” Carole asked

“Guys, I just got home”

Chapter Text

Miyabi zipped up her suitcase and sat in silence for a moment

She sighed lightly as her mind drifted to Wise, she turned to see the ring settled on the nightstand.

“Hm..” she muttered as her servants walked in to pick up her luggage

The thiren walked over and slid the accessory onto her ring finger with a light blush

“Ms. Hoshimi?” Miko walked into the room

“Uh, Miko” Miyabi turned to face the woman

Her servant looked at her ringed hand before the fox hid it behind her back

“I didn’t see that when you returned last night” Miko smiled

“It was a gift” Miyabi didn’t bother to hide it anymore

“A ring from the man called Wise?”

“Yes” Miyabi nodded

“Mh, you are a young lady after all Ms. Hoshimi” she smiled

“Miko...”

“Your transport is ready; your luggage has been packed”

“Thank you”

“My pleasure” she bowed before leaving Miyabi in the room

‘Is he going to be there on time?’ Miyabi worried as she scanned for any remaining property before leaving for the airport.

Elsewhere....

“When you get there, hey listen to me” Carole snapped her fingers

“Hm?” Wise turned to face his mother

“When you get there, make sure you kiss the girl, seal the deal, I need that retirement” Carole said

“Ugh, there you go again” Wise rolled his eyes

“This is important, you never know what life can throw at you, better to be safe than sorry” Carole urged

“I’m going to see her off then I’m coming home and that’s it, no kissing” Wise said as he walked out of the home

‘That boy, he’s trying to make me work till 60’ Carole thought in disappointment

‘I hope Miyabi hasn’t flown away yet’ Wise entered the car and started it up

Back with Miyabi......

“Ms. Hoshimi, we have arrived” the driver spoke as Miyabi saw the long runways come into view, some planes being prepped for flight and one of them of course was hers.

Miyabi looked down at her ring then checked the time on her cellphone

“Where are you?” Miyabi whispered to herself as she thought of the man

‘Father says I should always prepare for the worst, maybe he won’t make it on time’

‘I wonder if I was clear on my timeline’ Miyabi thought with some worry

Back with Wise....

“It’s 10 a.m, Ms. Hoshimi’s time is coming eventually, I have to get there” Wise took a turn and increased speed heading into the airport’s range.

‘There it is, let’s hope she’s there’ Wise said as he slowed down as he drove onto the airport's roads, the slowed pace only added to his anxiety.

He scanned for a parking space from the distance and managed to pick one however it was a considerable distance from the airport entrance itself.

“Crap, this isn’t the best I could get” he shut the door and bolted as fast as he can into the building. He walked through the revolving door and took no moment to catch his breath as he scanned the masses, eyed the gates for the woman.

“Did she already enter?” Wise looked down at his phone’s time

“Oh crap, she might have gone in earlier” Wise worried as he navigated around to find the woman, pushing past some people on the way. After a fruitless search Wise found himself standing in the middle of the lobby with no sighting of Miyabi at all.

‘I missed it’ Wise felt guilt plague his mind as he imagined a sad Miyabi’s expression

“Ohh this is bad” Wise muttered to himself as he checked for any missed calls

‘None? She must have been angry’

“Wise?” A voice made him straighten up and rotate quickly

“Ms. Hoshimi? You’re still here?”

“My flight has not been called” Miyabi walked closer to the man

“I was looking for you everywhere” Wise spoke out of breath

“I can see” Miyabi saw beads of sweat on his temples, but this only made her blush as she thought of his efforts to search for her.

“I was merely using the toilet” Miyabi said

‘A bit blunt but I’m glad I didn’t miss it’ Wise thought

“I’m glad I could see you before you flew off” Wise spoke

“I am very glad as well” Miyabi smiled with a flush as they gazed into each other’s eyes

“You’re still wearing the ring” Wise observed

“Oh, yes” Miyabi pulled her hand up to a better view

“I have cherished this gift from my fiancé” Miyabi spoke as she played with the accessory

“I’m glad you liked it; I was worried you’d refuse and keep the sword” he chuckled

Miyabi was silent for a moment but soon her thoughts got jumbled as soon as her announcement rang through the speakers

“FLIGHT 148, PLEASE COME TO THE GATE!” the reception spoke

“I guess you’re leaving now” Wise said

Miyabi’s body moved on its own as she suddenly felt her arms curl around Wise’s torso.

“Ms Hosh-, Miyabi...” Wise returned the gesture with his own arms wrapped around her as well

“Thank you for being my guide” Miyabi spoke

“Anytime” Wise smiled to himself as they slowly separated though minimal contact remained.

‘Hesitation is defeat’ Miyabi’s brain suddenly played these words repeatedly

‘Even if we were together for a week, I’m really going to miss Miyabi’ Wise thought of the woman. He looked down at the woman and time slowed as he felt his head tugged down by immense power. A soft texture resting on his lips as he felt strands of foreign hair brushing on his face

Suddenly air could re-enter through his mouth once more, with widened eyes he looked at Miyabi’s retreating form, a hesitant hand slowly raised to the corner of his mouth.

‘W-What just happened?’ Wise thought as his brain still struggled to process what had occurred.

The next few minutes was followed by Wise standing in view of the runway of Miyabi’s plane as it slowly started wheeling down the stretch.

Wise waved rapidly to get the woman’s attention, and it somehow worked as Miyabi sighted his small form from her seat.

She glanced out the window with a smile

‘Sit tightly fiancé, I shall return as soon as possible’ Miyabi declared as she saw the ground getting farther away

Back on land...

A realization came into Wise’s mind

‘S-She kissed me....she really kissed me’ Wise thought back to the event

‘Mom was manifesting I bet’ Wise’s mind had images of grinning Carole flash

Wise sighed

“Guess we go back to work tomorrow” Wise muttered

Wise returned home later that afternoon to be bombarded with questions from his family.

“Guy’s I just got home” Wise said

“Did you take my advice?” Carole asked

“Well...” Wise contemplated spilling the beans but his judgement knew better

“I have to poop” Wise rushed then locked himself in the bathroom

“He did not do as I told him, typical children” Carole spoke

“Bro can be an idiot with women but somehow he gets even more”

“I guess that Hoshimi girl was a pipe dream, now onto you...” Carole turned to Belle

“H-HEY!”

“When are you bringing that Asaba boy to meet me?”

“HE’S NOT MY BOYFRIEND! HE’S DISGUSTING!” Belle ran off

“I’m never getting grandchildren at this rate”

Wise took a breath as he leaned on the bathroom door

‘My head is all jumbled up, let’s hope work isn’t hectic tomorrow’

---------- FOLLOWING DAY ---------

“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU MEAN SHE’S NOT COMING TO WORK!?” An angry voice bellowed through that section of the building

“Ma’am please, I’ve explained the circumstances”

“Bring me that martial arts bozo right now” the woman seethed as she rolled up her sleeves

“M-Mom please calm down”

“Quiet, the grown-ups are talking”

“As I have said before, Ms. Yixuan is on a temporary break to rest from the exhibition starting today since she returned yesterday, I cannot call her into work until her leave days have passed, that’s the law” Mayflower stood his ground

“Well how the hell am I supposed to know if these two numbskulls even studied on that club trip they took?”

‘Shit, this is a serious case’ Mayflower worried

“Ma’am, Ms. Yixuan is trustworthy and responsible, she knows students have academics as well as extracurriculars”

“Hehe, she’s big mad~” a girl mused

“Shush” the woman snapped

“I don’t trust her, I want remedial lessons for my girls, now”

“Mom we studie-”

“Orphie”

The girl silenced herself at her name being called

“Ohhh” the other one looked with her mouth formed into an "O" shape

“Seed”

“Yaa-hoo”

“I meant quit talking” Magus scolded

“Ms. Magnusson, please, you know remedial is complex especially with the teacher’s schedules, they studied, trust me if you don’t trust Ms. Yixuan” Mayflower

“I don’t trust you either since you employed that third rate instructor which I told you to fire multiple times” Magus pointed at Mayflower

‘Looks like I have to find a compromise, this is on short notice’ Mayflower thought as he rubbed his forehead to cope with the stress placed on him

‘Lycaon has other commitments, Rina is busy with receptionist duties as well, no teacher is free enough to teach these two separately, crap, I’m in serious crap’

Suddenly an idea popped into the man’s head

“Hey, give me a response when I’m talking to you” Magus knocked on the man’s desk angrily

“I have somebody who could do it” Mayflower dialled a phone number

“Tch, this better be good” Magus crossed her arms

“Mom, we don’t need remedial lessons, we read during the trip” Orphie pleaded

“Read what you liked, when you liked to read it, I want things done according to the syllabus, down to the last letter” Magus spoke

“Mhhh, you're being a mother hen” Seed pouted at the woman

“Tch, I don’t raise deadbeats, I’m not busting my ass for my kids to fall behind and fail just because of flips and kicks” Magus scolded

“And lots of punches too” Seed added

“Zip it, I don’t want another word from you Seed” Magus pointed at the girl who covered her mouth with her hand

“Right just a minute” Mayflower cut the phone and placed it back on the table

After a short wait, a knock was heard at the office’s door

“Come in” Mayflower said

“Good morning” Wise slowly crept into the room

“Who is this fool?” Magus pointed at the man

“This is our attachment” Mayflower informed

“A damn temp hire?” Magus cocked her eyebrows

"Ms. Magus please be respectful of my staff, I know you are unhappy" Mayflower said

‘Magus? I think Trigger talked about her back at school’ Wise thought as he looked at the new faces

‘That must be Seed and Orphie then’

“My name is Wise” he outstretched a hand towards the woman

“Oh hoo hoo, a cute one~” Seed giggled

“Tch, keep your hands to yourself” Magus refuted the gesture making Wise slowly drop his hand by his side

'Mom is really mad' Orphie thought with guilt

‘Not the best start to my morning’ Wise thought

“Where is the teacher?” Magus turned back to Mayflower

“He’s right there” the man pointed at Wise

“You cannot be serious, this guy is a temp, you can’t have him teach my girls shit, that’s a horrible idea”

“Ma’am I’ll have you know, this boy is very educated in a lot of fields, he has a bachelor's he completed early and has a scholarship for master's right now, that is some serious achievement, and I think he can do it very well”

“Very well my ass, get me someone qualified”

“Excuse me may I say something?” Wise piped up

“Go ahead, please do” Mayflower allowed

“I know my stuff, their syllabus isn’t much different from when I was in high school, I can help them out”

“As I said, get me someone qualified” Magus rebutted

“Mom, please stop being rude” Orphie muttered with embarrassment in her voice

“This is your future I’m worrying about” Magus turned to Orphie

“Yeah, this your future” Seed backed

“And yours too airhead” Magus reprimanded the girl

“Ms. Magnusson, listen to me when I tell you as a concerned principal, I also care for my students like they’re my own children, I want them to pass and succeed, thus I’m giving your daughters Wise to tutor them” Mayflower explained

Magus exhaled to control her temper

“And you’re sure?”

“Yes” Mayflower nodded

“Great, just f—king great, if these kids fail don’t expect to live to next year” Magus stormed out

“Come here” she called prompting Seed and Orphie to follow

“I’m sorry” Orphie murmured to Wise as she left the office

“W-What was that?” Wise looked back at Mayflower with wide eyes

“Sorry for putting you on the spot, I didn’t have anybody else available”

Wise sighed at the challenge presented to him

“Look, I’ll give you a 8% raise for this, extra work isn’t going unpaid, please just do it” Mayflower pleaded

“Uhhh”

“15%” Mayflower increased

Wise sighed once more

“Fine”

“Thank you son, I appreciate this so much”

“Whatever” Wise spoke as he turned to leave

'This is going to be hell, my mind's already a mess from that kiss and now I have to deal with an angry parent and her kids' Wise thought

Chapter Text

“Oh lord” Wise plopped onto his seat

“Are you alright?” Venus asked

“Nope, not at all” Wise said

“What’s wrong?” Venus scooched her chair closer to the man

“I just got assigned to tutor two kids parented by an angry woman” Wise said

“Oh that sounds like, Ms. Magnusson” Venus immediately understood

“Looks like she’s well known” Wise said

“Of course, we all know her especially Yixuan”

“By the way, I think I heard her yelling about this Ms. Yixuan, what’s the story behind the aggression?”

“Ah, those two do not see eye to eye at all, one time Ms. Magnusson challenged her to a fist fight after school hours right outside the campus” Venus said

“They fought?” Wise sat up in shock

“No, Orphie somehow got her mother to leave it be, but things haven’t been settled”

“You know what, I’m not going to ask” Wise said

“Is this an overtime thing?” Venus asked

“Yeah, sort of, he said he’d give me a raise for it so, I guess I have no choice” Wise said

“I’m sorry I can’t help, I’m tied up” Venus apologized

“It’s fine, I’ll handle it”

“I can get the other teachers off your back if you want, just so you don't get stressed out”

“It’s just tutoring, it can’t be that bad”

“Ahem” Venus sounded

“Is it that bad?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Well, since you were given to me, I have to warn to you”

“About them? Are they delinquents?” Wise tensed up

“No, Orphie is a bit shy and quiet but as for Seed...”

“You mean the blue haired girl?”

“Yes, that one, she can be a bit, how do I say this? She’s weird like super-duper weird” Venus said

“I deal with Belle” Wise said

“You see the difference is that Seed isn’t really wired like Belle, she’s more unhinged, think of Ms. White on weed” Venus said

Wise paused as fear seeped into his heart

‘Shit, I should have said no’ Wise thought with regret

“I just wanted to warn my dear assistant” Venus gently rubbed Wise’s cheek

“I’m in trouble, aren’t I?”

“Not necessarily, but just be careful” Venus said

---------- LATER ON IN THE DAY ---------

“I wonder if they’re in here” Wise walked into the library

“Ah, Wise, how can I help you?” Qingyi smiled at the man

“Hello Ms. Qingyi” Wise leaned over to speak to the woman

“Came to pay me a visit?” she cocked an eyebrow

“Well not right now but I can drop by later” Wise said

“Hmp, I see, why have you come here?”

“I’m looking for Seed and Orphie, I was told they’re supposed to study in here” Wise said as he read a small note

“Ah the returnees, they are in the next wing” Qingyi said

“Thanks, I’ll swing by later” Wise said

‘Secured a slot with him, good’ Qingyi smirked

Wise moved into the next section of the library, a bit less bookish as it was where most computers where found.

‘Seed and Orphie’ Wise scanned before his eyes landed on the two girls by the corner of the room. Orphie’s brain looked jumbled as she flipped pages while Seed casually disassembled the mouse seemingly for fun.

‘I see what Venus was saying’ Wise thought as he approached

“Hey guys” Wise said

“Ya-hoo” Seed replied

“H-Huh?” Orphie straightened up but accidentally knocked her calculator onto the floor

“Orphie, you’re being clumsy again” Seed pouted

“I-It was an accident” Orphie spoke

“It’s fine” Wise bent down to retrieve her item

Wise suddenly felt a suction on his sleeve

SNIFF!

“You know, I really like your scent” Seed said

‘Venus was definitely not wrong’ Wise thought

“Uh, thanks” Wise said

“Seed, mom said not to smell people” Orphie spoke

“You smell like one of my kind” Seed said

“Your kind?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Yeah, computer lovers”

“How could you tell?” Wise asked

“I can smell it” Seed poked her nose

‘Belle isn’t on this level’ Wise thought

“Is something wrong Mr. Wise?” Orphie asked

“Well, I thought I could come over and discuss the schedule with you guys” Wise pulled out a chair and sat by the two girls.

“I was thinking club time for now, since your instructor isn’t here” Wise said

“Isn’t Senior Shunguang there?” Orphie asked

“Uh, I am not familiar with that person” Wise said

“The club captain silly, she’s our captain” Seed lightly punched Wise in the arm

‘Crap, that one hurt’ Wise thought as he resisted the urge to rub his bicep

“I think she’ll understand, I’ll talk to her for you two” Wise said

“So, we meet at 2 everyday got it?” Wise asked

“Yes, captain my captain” Seed saluted

“Sure” Orphie said

“Great, we can start tomorrow” Wise said as he got up to leave

“He’s nice” Seed complemented

Elsewhere....

“Ye Shunguang, I wonder she i-”

“Mr. Wise” a familiar voice called out

“Fufu?” Wise turned to see the thiren skipping over

“How are you?” Wise asked

“I’m fine, I saw you passing by and decided to say hi”

“Well hi then”

Wise noticed a badge on the front of Fufu’s clothing

“Uh, you’re in the martial arts club right?”

“Of course, can’t you see my muscles?” Fufu flexed her small arm

“Y-Yeah, I totally do” Wise lied

“REALLY!?” Fufu’s eyes turned into stars

“Yeah, now back on track, do you know a Ye Shunguang?”

“Oh, Junior Ye?”

“Junior? I thought she was captain”

“She is, but she’s also my junior”

“Oh” Wise nodded

“Can you tell her Seed and Orphie are occupied during club time from tomorrow?”

“Why?” Fufu’s ears perked up

“Well, it’s for academic purposes” Wise said

“Alright teach, you can rely on Senior Fufu to handle it” the tiger thiren swiftly moved away

“That’s one issue down, now I just need to actually start teaching them” Wise murmured to himself

-------- FOLLOWING DAY -------

“I wonder where they are, class is almost about to start” Wise said as he looked at the wall clock

“S-S-S-Sorry I’m late” Orphie clumsily bolted through the door

“Ya-hoo, Mr. Wise” Seed rolled in on a scooter

‘What the hell? A scooter on school premises? Is that allowed?’ Wise thought

“Uh, okay, today we’re doing Algebra” Wise decided to ignore Seed’s mode of transport and opened a teacher’s book.

The lesson started off relatively calmly, Seed was surprisingly behaved completely overturning Wise’s expectations though her stare and smile could be unsettling for Wise. Orphie seemed to be diligently taking notes from Wise’s teachings despite looking like her gears are turning on overtime.

“I think Page 45 is a good exercise, not too hard, not too easy” Wise said

“Alrighty, watch me ace this” Seed cracked her knuckles

Wise settled back at the desk for a good 10 minutes while the two girls worked on the assignment. Seed was face down on her table with snores being heard coming from the girl

“Uh” Orphie looked at the variables and equations in front of her eyes with hesitance as her pencil hovered over the page.

“Need help?” Wise spoke out

Orphie looked up with a shameful flush and nodded

“You can come over here, bring your chair” Wise scooted to the side

Orphie got up with her items leaving a snoring Seed on her desk, the girl settled next to Wise at his desk.

“This is subject of the formula...” Wise read through the questions and referenced it with Orphie’s solutions

“I think you are on the right track, just not executing it right”

“Sorry, I’m not very good at this stuff, it’s a bit hard”

“No worries, that’s why I’m here” Wise gave the girl a reassuring smile

BA-DUMP!

“R-Right, tutor” Orphie spoke as her eyes bashfully landed to the side

“First you move the X to the left of the equals sign...”

Somewhere else....

“Girl, you look so down” Monna spoke

“Tired” Ellen mumbled

“Need a candy?” Ruby held out a lollipop

“That was in your mouth” Ellen spoke

“Candy is candy though” Ruby said

“Whatever” Ellen lazily shifted to sleep on the left side of her face

“Hey, no sleeping in the library” Qingyi tapped Ellen’s desk

“Ugh, it’s a club not reading time” Ellen sighed as she sat up

“Much better posture but library rules still stand” Qingyi walked off

“Any progress with him?” Ruby brought up

“Hey” Ellen’s voice slightly raised

“Shush” Qingyi sounded from a distance

“He’s busy these days, that evaluator came like last week, he was busy with her” Ellen said

“He’s not busy now, I think..” Monna said

“Tch, just drop it, I’m not in the mood” Ellen crossed her arms

Ruby sighed

“I’m going to the bathroom” her friend stood to leave

‘Ellen is really down these days’ Ruby thought of her friend’s demeanor as she passed through the halls. Suddenly her ears perked up at a familiar voice

Back Inside....

“Uh, I haven’t done this before” Orphie eyed the equation

“Don’t worry I’ll guide you through it” Wise said

“Move this around like so” Wise instructed

“L-Like this?” Orphie misunderstood and did the wrong thing

“Okay, uh, let’s take it a little slower, good effort” Wise said as he gently guided her hand to write on the page

‘M-Mom said to not hold hands with boys’ Orphie blushed at her predicament

‘B-But it’s for school, I-I guess it’s okay’ she felt the heat settling on her cheeks

Outside....

“A-Are they?” Ruby stood near the door

‘I-I have to tell Ellen’ Ruby rushed back

“Ellen” Ruby loud whispered as she sped to the thiren

“Shut it, Ms. Qingyi will yell at us” Lynn reprimanded

“You won’t believe it” Ruby said

“Spit it out”

“O-Orphie made a move on him” Ruby said

Ellen’s posture straightened up

“What?”

“S-She was on some first-time type energy with Wise, I swear” Ruby raised her hands to indicate transparency

“Tch, swear on it” Ellen said

“I swear on my momma”

“She’s being serious” Monna’s eyes widened

“But Orphie and Seed just returned from the exhibition” Lynn muttered

“I’ll see for myself” Ellen mumbled

Back with Orphie...

“You’re doing good Orphie, you’ve gotten better” Wise complemented

“Really? I did this on the bus but I didn’t understand much”

SNORE!

Seed suddenly jolted up

“Ya-hoo” she yawned

“Awww, what about me?” Seed said

“You can come over too Seed” Wise said

Outside....

“See, I told you” Ruby whispered to a crouched Ellen

“Ellen?” Ruby tapped the girl’s shoulder

“Tch” she clicked her tongue as she stood to walk off

‘S-She’s mad’ Ruby thought

‘Those two did it so easily huh? I’ll show you them, all of them’ Ellen thought

Chapter Text

“Is it true?” Monna asked

“Yeah, heard it myself” Ellen crossed her arms

“Ohh, Ellen are you okay?” Lynn asked

“Isn’t it kind of weird, a staff member messing with a student ?” Monna asked

“Isn’t he closer to our ages?” Ruby asked

“Doesn’t make it less weird, he’s still over 20” Lynn said

“Tch, you guys better keep your mouths shut, don’t say a damn thing to anybody” Ellen warned

“Woah” Ruby backed up with widened eyes

“No telling, I won’t let him get fired” Ellen said

Ellen’s friends looked at each other and a collective nod came after

“Fine, we’ll keep it under wraps” Monna looked at Ruby

“What?”

“Keep your mouth shut, did you hear that?” Ellen said

“I will” the blonde spoke

“If you don’t we’ll tell the school about that time you tried to-”

“I SAID I WILL!” Ruby blushed

“Shush” Qingyi sounded once more

Elsewhere.....

‘First lesson went relatively well’ Wise thought to himself as he moved down the corridors

‘Seed was a bit strange’ Wise thought back to the girl just as he entered Venus’s office

“Ah, my bestie is back” Venus said

“Hi Venus” Wise spoke as he plopped down on the chair

“So?”

“What?” Wise looked at the woman

“How was it? Your tutoring I mean”

“Oh, it was alright for the most part, I saw what you were saying about Seed, she is a bit you know” Wise spoke

“Don’t mind her too much, she’s like that” Venus said

“What about Orphie? Was she alright?”

“She looked like she was struggling but, I taught her a bunch, I think she’s better off now” Wise said

“That’s great to hear, at least you know how it’s like to teach” Venus chuckled

“I guess so” Wise leaned back onto the backrest

KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Hm?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Come in” Venus said

“H-Hello” Orphie peered her head into the office

“Get your butt in there” Seed shoved Orphie into the room

“S-SEED!” Orphie exclaimed as she regained her balance

“Is there something I can help you girls with?” Venus asked

“We want Wise” Seed pointed at the man

“What? It’s sports time” Wise sat up in surprise

“Uh, w-we can’t do sports until we catch up with our assignments” Orphie said

“Is that a rule here?” Wise looked at Venus

“Yes, it’s to make sure nobody is left behind” Venus said

“We need a supervisor~” Seed spoke

“Can’t you go to the library?” Wise asked

“Ms. Qingyi is organizing” Orphie said

Wise looked at Venus

“Sure, go ahead, he’s all yours” Venus smiled at the two

Wise once more glanced at Venus who just shrugged casually

Wise sighed as he got up to accompany the two girls

“You found a free class?” Wise asked

“Yep, I cleared out the debate club, they were practicing for some competition” Seed said with pride

“Cleared out?” Wise repeated with confusion

“Yeah, a couple tried to argue but I said no, I don’t do talking” Seed said

Wise quickly registered the fate of the kids

‘Crap’ Wise thought

“Ugh, i-it wasn’t violent” Orphie quickly defused

“Oh, okay” Wise nodded

“I wonder what she did to them” Wise muttered

“Here it is, the one with the new whiteboard” Seed said as she turned and scooted into the class

‘How hasn’t that scooter been confiscated yet?’ Wise scratched his head

“Uhm, you go in first” Orphie stood aside to let Wise inside

“Oh no, ladies first” Wise declined

“B-But you’re a teacher”

“Attachment, plus I still say ladies first” Wise smiled at the girl

“O-Okay” Orphie blushed as she moved into the room

Wise entered last to find Seed had plugged in her mode of transport to the outlet on the wall while she sat on the chair. Orphie took her place next to her sister in the front of the class.

‘2 hours till quitting time, I guess the upside is I won’t get called for tasks during this time anymore’ Wise settled at the desk

“Lalalalala” Seed silently hummed as she scribbled away on her papers

“Oh no that isn’t right” Orphie murmured as she erased her work at a rapid pace

‘Orphie seems to be having trouble again’ Wise thought

“Need help Orphie?” Wise asked

“N-No I’m fi-” her aggressive erasure tore her answer sheet dead in its centre

“Oops” Orphie muttered

“Orphie pulled another woopsie” Seed mused

“Seed...” Orphie groaned

“I can print another one for you” Wise offered

“D-Don’t go through the trouble”

“No problem” Wise stood up

“I-I know the paper, let me come and help you” Orphie said

“Alright” Wise said as the two walked out the door

“Wait up” Seed hopped onto her scooter and sped after the two

“You guys can't leave me alone in there” Seed said

“Sorry Seed” Wise apologized

“Hm” Seed pouted

“I’m sorry” Wise apologized with a light chuckle as the approached the computer room, totally empty inside.

“And there is the printer...” Wise sat by the connected desktop and Orphie took a place next to him to select the paper.

“2012 Papers please” Orphie said

“Okay, 20...12” Wise typed

“Ohhhhhh” Seed rested her forearms on Wise’s shoulder’s to also get a view of the screen

‘Is that her stomach?’ Wise felt the girl's torso behind his head

“Seed, space....” Orphie said

“Space? But we’re on earth” Seed cocked an eyebrow

‘Looks like personal space is foreign to Seed’ Wise thought knowing that any reprimand would probably fall on deaf ears, so he just stuck it through

‘Her social awareness reminds me of Miyabi to some extent’ Wise thought of the fox

“Variant two” Orphie pointed at the monitor

“Okay and there, just a few minutes” Wise said

“Can you print me next? Then there can be a paper Seed and a human Seed” Seed said

“Well we can’t clone you, I think I like the human Seed better though” Wise said

Seed gasped

“You like this Seed?” the girl asked with widened eyes

“Yeah” Wise said

‘Two Seeds might destroy New Eridu’ Wise thought as he imagined two versions of Seed scooting over the ruins of New Eridu

“I like our Seed too” Orphie smiled

The printer began humming as pages came out one at a time.

“And when they’re done you can join me at the desk” Wise said

“I-I was handling it” Orphie said with a light blush

“I just want to help” Wise said in a reassuring manner

“O-Okay then” Orphie agreed

After a couple of minutes of light conversation and printing the three were back in the initial class, hard at work once again.

“Make sure to never mess up with the positives and negatives” Wise taught

“Okay” Orphie dotted down the notes

KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Come in” Wise said and in came a shark girl with a book bag slung over her shoulder

“Ellen?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Sup” she gave the man a peace sign as she plopped onto the other desk besides Seed

“Are you supposed to be in here?” Wise asked

Ellen blew a bubble from her gum, it popped and she went back to chewing.

“I’m here to study” Ellen said as she pulled out a textbook and a notebook

“Well, the thing is, this isn’t really an inclusive thing, I was told to tutor these two” Wise said pointing at Orphie and Seed

“Yeah, why are you here?” Seed backed up

Ellen chewed on her gum for a moment before reaching in and pulling out a note

“Got my note” Ellen said

Wise squinted to read the writing

“Ellen Joe is to.....be tutored during sports time as effective today by order of....Vice Principal Lycaon” Wise muttered the statements written on the slip

“Alright then, you’re free to stay since you got permission” Wise said

‘I thought these two would be at sports, looks like they aren’t going either’ Ellen thought as she discretely glanced at Seed and Orphie

‘I wonder why he wrote that, her grades aren’t exactly horrible’ Wise thought

“Uh Mr. Wise? Is this correct?” Orphie asked

“Oh uh, let me look at it”

--------- EARLIER ---------

“Are you sure your pops will allow you?” Ruby asked

“He will, he’s been trying to get me to study” Ellen casually turned the door handle to Lycaon’s office prompting her friends to dash out of view

“Hey dad” Ellen plopped down onto the chair across from her father

“Ellen, I told you to knock” Lycaon said as he stamped an envelope shut

“Sorry” the thiren apologized

“What brings you by? You never visit me at school” Lycaon spoke

“Can I get a study excuse note?” Ellen asked

“No skipping sports” Lycaon dismissed casually

“I’m not skipping anything” Ellen shot back

“Whatever you say” Lycaon said without batting an eye

“I want to study more” Ellen said

Lycaon looked up with confusion

“What?”

Ellen sighed

“I want to study more; I want to ace the midterms” Ellen said

“This isn’t my Ellen, you'd never say this on a sober mind” Lycaon placed his pen back into the stationary basket

“Can I just get the note?” Ellen groaned

Lycaon narrowed his eyes at the girl, scanning her for any ulterior motive but her face remained neutral.

“Who is it to? Ms. Qingyi?” Lycaon took out an empty slip with a sigh

“I heard Mr. Arna is tutoring kids now” Ellen brought up

“You want to join Seed and Orphie then?” Lycaon asked

“Yes, I want remedial lessons too” Ellen said

“Fine, you can start tomorro-”

“Today” Ellen quickly corrected

“What?” Lycaon asked

“Today, he’s free now and I want to start off early, so I think things line up” Ellen said

Lycaon sighed

“Just start tomorrow” Lycaon said

“Don’t you want me to study?” Ellen asked

“Yes I do, but you can start tomorrow”

‘He’s making me break out the big guns then’ Ellen mentally prepared herself

She momentarily shut her eyes before reopening them to reveal twinkling little glints

“Please papa” Ellen spoke

‘This is making me sick; this cutesy stuff is totally not my style’ Ellen thought

Lycaon sighed

“Fine, just stop with those puppy dog eyes, you’re supposed to be a shark thiren” Lycaon quickly wrote the note and slid it to Ellen

“Thanks old man” Ellen stood up and walked to the door

“What’s for dinner?” Ellen asked before her exit

“I’m coming home late, so just order in and eat with Corin” Lycaon said

“Cool” Ellen left as she shut the door

Chapter Text

THUD!

Ellen closed her locker

“So, how is your remedial so far?” Ruby asked

“Fine” Ellen said as the group started moving down the halls

“I still can’t believe you coerced your dad to let you join” Monna said

“I simply asked him; no coercion was done” Ellen said

“So, progress with the guy, spill the beans” Ruby pressed

“It’s been two days since I got in that group, what progress can happen in two days?” Ellen asked

“I don’t know, ask him out or something” Monna suggested

“Ugh, you guys are insufferable”

“So, you’re meeting him again today?” Ruby asked

“It’s every day, I meet him every day and I’m about to meet with him now” Ellen said

“At least you’re closer than ever now” Lynn said

“Yeah, at least that but there are cons to the arrangement” Ellen said

“You mean Seed and Orphie?” Monna asked

“One of them to be specific” Ellen grumbled

“Who? Seed?”

“Nope” Ellen said

“Orphie it is then”

“I don’t know but Wise always helps her the most, she doesn’t even raise a hand or call him, he just randomly moves her to his desk to assist, she could literally just make a thinking noise and next thing he’s taking her” Ellen ranted

“Maybe she’s a bit slow and he knows about that” Lynn suggested

“I know that but it’s just hard to get around is all” Ellen said

“Why don’t you just mess up more then?” Ruby proposed

“What?” Ellen scrunched up her eyebrow in confusion

“That’s actually a good idea, Orphie is not very academic so Wise gives her more attention than you and Seed, plus maybe you could you know, make a few “mistakes” here and there” Lynn elaborated

“You mean fail on purpose?” Ellen asked

“Yeah, something like that and don’t forget to look like you’re struggling too, so you add to the illusion” Monna spoke

Ellen sighed

“You know what? Let's give it a shot” Ellen said as she rolled her eyes

“Good, now we got to change for sports” Monna said

“Bye Nom-nom shark” Ruby waved as the group parted ways with Ellen

The shark thiren stood outside the reserved learning space and took a breath

‘Look like you’re struggling’ Ellen reminded herself as she opened the door to find her other mates already inside with Wise

“Oh Ellen” Wise greeted

“Hey” the girl spoke as she took her seat

“Page 48~” Seed leaned over to the shark thiren

“Cool” Ellen said as she took out her books

“Mh” Orphie muttered

‘Crap, that’s the queue’ Ellen thought as she registered the sound

“Need help?” Wise locked his gaze on Orphie

The red head got up with her books and moved next to Wise

‘I just got here and it’s already looking bad’ Ellen thought

“So for this equation, I want you to look at the x like a number...” Wise began

‘He’s focused a lot on Orphie right now, trying to get his attention will make me look crazy’ Ellen glances Seed casually solving the equations like it’s nothing

‘At least Seed doesn’t seem to be a problem’ Ellen thought

‘I have to wait for an opening’ Ellen hovered the pencil over her book

The thiren sat for the next 20 minutes as Wise guided Orphie. Every minute felt like a millennium as she waited for an opening to arise

“No, you don’t extrapolate like that” Wise said

“I’m sorry” Orphie immediately rubbed her paper clean

“Let me show you” Wise moved but paused

“Uh can I borrow your hands?” Wise asked making Ellen perk up

“M-My hands” Orphie blushed furiously

“I-If you don’t want to I can show you with my own” Wise said

“I-It’s fine, I want to learn” Orphie splayed her appendages onto the desk and Wise took a hold of them gently

“So first of all, mark these points....”

‘Crap, holding hands and all, I need to get over there, right now’ Ellen thought as she watched for a potential window of attack

“You understand now?” Wise asked

“Mhm” Orphie nodded

“Great”

“Yo” Ellen raised her hand

“Ellen?”

“I need some help” the thiren said

“Well uh...” Wise moved a bit more to the side to make space for the thiren

“Come over then” Wise instructed

‘Finally, caught a break’ Ellen settled by Wise’s other end

“Aw don’t leave Seed behind” the girl got up and moved to stand behind Wise with her chin resting on the top of his head and her arms placed on his shoulders.

“Uh, Seed, space” Wise said

“Too much space?” Seed enclosed Wise’s collar area with her arms

“Better? I didn’t know you liked tight spaces too” Seed smiled

‘Scratch that, both of these girls are a problem’ Ellen thought as she saw Seed’s casual invasion of Wise’s space

‘If somebody walked in, this could look bad for me’

“Seed, I think he meant to give him more space” Orphie spoke

“Ohhhhh, sorry” Seed retracted her arms back to their original placement

‘Better than before at least’ Wise thought

“What did you need Ellen?” Wise turned to the thiren

“Oh uh, question 12a” Ellen started

The session moved by at a moderate pace for the group, Wise teaching at his best despite his personal space invaded by Seed and her social shortcomings. Now time for departure had come

“Don’t forget to do study cumulative frequency graphs and for that Geo question, make sure to read the case study before answering, helps with remembering” Wise advised

“See ya Mr. Wise~” Seed waved as she scooted out of the class

“Bye Seed” Wise spoke

Orphie stopped by the exit and turned back to Wise

“Uh, enjoy your evening” the girl said with a blush

Wise gave her a warm smile

“Same to you Orphie” Wise replied

The girl had a small smile plaster on her lips before going after Seed only leaving Ellen packing up

“Everything alright Ellen?” Wise asked

“I’m cool” the girl slung the bag over her shoulder

“Thanks for the lesson...” she said

“Anytime, I was happy to help you out” Wise smiled

Ellen couldn’t help but feel a blush settling on her cheeks

“Make sure you get home safe Ellen, night falls faster these days” Wise chuckled

“I’m pretty tough, no thugs can mess with me” Ellen reassured

“Just concerned is all, see you tomorrow” Wise said

“See you” Ellen’s eyes softened as she took a glance at Wise before her exit

‘Guess I gotta head home’ Wise thought

-------- TWO HOURS LATER -------

“You guys learn something useful?” Magus asked as she sliced a piece of steak and shoved it into her mouth

“Yeah, I learned how to extrapolate graphs and calculate frequency density, it’s so easy now” Orphie said

“And you Seed?” Magus turned to the girl

“I learned Mr. Wise used rosemary shampoo”

Magus took a breath of defeat

‘At least Orphie looks to be getting better’ Magus thought

“Oh yeah before I forget, clear up the other room and make it sparkle, I want it clean” Magus commanded

“Is there a guest coming?” Orphie asked

“Your deadbeat sister is coming back from college” Magus said

“Ohhhhh, Triggy is coming back?” Seed beamed with joy

“Yep, she called earlier” Magus spoke

“The house is going to be so fun, big sis Harin is always working late, at least Triggy stays home” Seed spoke

“Oh yeah I almost forgot about that kids night shift” Magus chuckled

“We have to go clean it now” Seed held Orphie’s hand

“Ugh Seed” Orphie groaned

“Come on, Triggy is coming back, we have to make her room shine” Seed dragged Orphie off

Chapter Text

“Look who decided to come early” Magus spoke as she saw Harin enter the house still in uniform

“Greetings mother” Harin spoke as she kicked off her boots and handed Magus car keys

Magus sighed

“Hey kid, nightshift again?” she said

“I am training my visual scanning skills, thus I take the nightshift”

Magus sighed

“Just take a shower and sleep” Magus said before looking towards the staircase

“ORPHIE! SEED! SCHOOL!” Magus yelled

“We’re here” Seed scooted to the door with her bag straps on her shoulders and Orphie following behind her sister

“Let’s go” Magus walked out with her kids and moved to the car

“Put that scooter in the back, not in the backseat” Magus warned as she got into the car with Orphie. Seed folded the gadget and put it away then entered the car

RUMBLE!

“Come on you stupid thing” Magus snacked the dashboard as she turned the key again

RUMBLE!

“Finally” Magus spoke as she backed out of the driveway

“You should get the car checked” Orphie spoke

“It’s fine, it just needs a little encouragement” Magus knocked on the dashboard

“I can fix it” Seed peered her head between Magus and Orphie

“No, you’re not dismantling my engine like last time” Magus shot down

“Aww” Seed retracted back into her seat

“You packed everything?” Magus asked

“Yes, lemon chips, spicy grape candy jui-”

“I meant school supplies” Magus cut in

“Oh yeah, they’re in my bag pocket”

“And you Seed?” Magus asked

“Everything’s a-okay" Seed gave a thumbs up

“Good” Magus said as the three travelled to the campus, Magus stopped right outside the school gate.

“Don’t use the lunch money in one-go, that’s for both of you" Magus said

“Bye mom” Orphie waved

“Bye mommy Magus” Seed also waved

Magus gave a thumbs up before speeding off

“We’re too early, it’s only 7:30” Seed said as she scooted next to Orphie

“It’s better than being late” Orphie said

Seed stopped with a gasp

“What’s wrong? Thugs?” Orphie took a karate stance

“No, even better” Seed pointed at an unassuming Wise getting out of the car with Belle at his side

“Mr. Wise?” Orphie looked with a light blush

“Let’s follow them” Seed revved her scooter to prep for a high-speed movement

“N-No” Orphie jumped in front of the girl

“Why not?” Seed cocked her head

“T-They’re siblings talking, we can't interrupt” Orphie refused

“Oh, but that guard lady is interrupting” Seed pointed at Zhu Yuan who was now also conversating with the two

“What?” Orphie glanced before looking back to find Seed had already started her advance towards the three

“S-SEED!” Orphie chased after her sister

“HEY STOP INTERRUPTING THEM!” Seed reprimanded as she skids to a stop

“W-What?” Zhu Yuan raised an eyebrow

“You’re being rude, stop interrupting Mr. Wise and Belle” Seed’s brow furrowed

“I-I was just talking to them” Zhu Yuan responded to the accusations

“Good morning Seed” Wise smiled at the girl

“S-STOP!” Orphie rushed towards the group, but she missed a step and moved in a chaotic manner

“W-WOAH!” Orphie braced for her face to kiss the pavement with closed eyes, but she felt no friction of the concrete

“H-Huh?” Orphie opened an eye to find an arm under both of her armpits propping her up

“Are you alright Orphie?” Wise’s voice asked

The girl looked up to see Wise looking down with concern along with Belle, Zhu Yuan and Seed at the sides.

‘I-I’m in his arms...’ Orphie’s face surpassed her hair in terms of colour shade as it was way deeper.

“I-I’M SORRY!” Orphie scrambled back to her feet and quickly straightened herself up into a military like posture.

“As Seed was saying, you are very rude” Seed turned back to Zhu Yuan

“I-I’m not rude...” Zhu Yuan began to look back at her actions

‘Oh crap, I did interrupt the two’ Zhu Yuan thought

“I’m going to get back to patrol, enjoy your day Wise” Zhu Yuan said

“Hey what about me?” Belle asked

“And Belle” Zhu Yuan acknowledged with a light chuckle

‘Oh no Wise might think the same, I was being rude, nobody likes rude people’ Zhu Yuan worried

“You guys are early today” Wise spoke to Seed and Orphie

“Mom dropped us off extra early today” Orphie said

“Why don’t we head inside? I don’t like the morning breeze” Belle spoke

“I told you to carry your jacket” Wise said as the group moved into the school

“It looked hot” Belle shrugged

“Yo Belle can I get the homework?” Harumasa waved from his locker

Belle facepalmed and sighed

“Oh hollows” she rolled her eyes

“Go to your boyfriend Belle” Seed casually said

“HE’S NOT MY BOYFRIEND!” Belle said as she parted from the group

‘Time to go for some staffroom coffee’ Wise thought

“I-I’m going to my locker” Orphie spoke as she also split

Wise moved down the corridors without really caring about much besides getting to the staffroom, but a gentle humming of a machine was trailing behind him, almost sounding like a computer CPU fan movement.

‘That’s odd’ Wise turned to see Seed casually scooting behind him

“Seed? You’re still with me? I thought you went with Orphie” Wise spoke

“We are the same kind; birds of a feather flock together” Seed smiled

“What?” Wise cocked an eyebrow as the staffroom door came into view

‘She can’t follow me in there, surely she won’t’ Wise thought as he pushed the door open and made a B-line towards the coffee machine

“You should put more beans” Seed advised

“Huh?” Wise turned to find the girl had in fact followed him inside

“You’re not allowed in here” Wise whispered as he scanned for any incoming staff

“I’m not? When I come in, Mr. Mayflower never says anything” Seed said without a care in the world

‘You know what? I don’t get paid enough to deal with this’ Wise decided to leave her be

Just then the man himself walked inside and froze at the sight of the girl

“Uh, sir I can explain” Wise quickly said

“M-Ms. Flora...” Mayflower tensed up as he gripped his sleeve with what looked like fright

“Morning mister” Seed smiled at him

‘Crap, today might be the day she gets me’ Mayflower slowly backed off

“Mh? Where are you going?” Seed looked confused

“I-I locked my car in my keys” Mayflower vanished instantly

‘Weird’ Wise shrugged

‘Guess that explains why nobody confiscates the scooter’ Wise thought as he reached for the coffee cup and took a sip

“Mh, nothing beats a cup of coffee in the morning” he smiled

“Oh really?” Seed snatched the cup from his hand

“S-Seed” Wise looked to see the girl drinking from it

“Mhhh” she smiled with satisfaction

“Here we can share” Seed held the cup back to Wise

‘T-This girl has worse boundaries than Miyabi’ Wise thought back to the fox’s many social failures during her stay

RING!

“Oh, that’s the bell, I have to go” Seed waved as she zoomed out

“I don’t have another cup” Wise sighed as he twisted the edge around to a clear spot to drink

--------- LATER THAT DAY --------

Orphie and Seed were making their way to the remedial class

‘I have to apologize to Mr. Wise for earlier, it was so embarrassing’ Orphie thought to her fall

‘I wonder if he has another drink to share’ Seed looked to the ceiling in thought

“Hey guys” Ellen met the two at the door

“Hi Ellen” Orphie greeted

“Hi Nom-nom shark” Seed said

Ellen sighed at the nickname

“Hey Seed” Ellen said as she opened the door, and they found Wise who seemed to have just arrived

“Oh, looks like I didn’t wait long” Wise said

“Sorry for the delay, Ruby had a nosebleed” Ellen said as she in a turn of events took a place on Wise’s desk

‘Ellen moved?’ Orphie looked at the change of position before moving to Wise’s side as well

“Oh, you’re here today?” Wise turned to Ellen as she sat by him

“Is that a problem?” Ellen asked

“No, not problem at all, you’re free to sit here” Wise said

‘I’m not here to take up his attention totally, Orphie needs more help than me, I’m just here to deter’ Ellen thought

“Excuse me...” Orphie said

“Yes Orphie?”

“Can I move there too? I-I don’t want to keep moving up and down during class” Orphie asked

“Sure” Wise scooted more towards Ellen

Orphie approached and took her usual spot by Wise’s side, opening her chemistry textbook and notebook

“Mh” Seed pouted at her exclusion

‘I’m enclosed here, at least Seed is-”

THUD!

Wise looked to find Seed plopped right across from him on the other end of the desk with a smile.

“You’re here too?” Wise smiled nervously as he felt Seed’s gaze locked solely on him

“Yep” the girl without a single delay swiped Wise’s water bottle and took a sip before placing it back next to him

‘S-She’s so casual about it’ Ellen tightened her grip on her pencil

‘That’s another drink down, the vending machine is so far from here’ Wise thought as he started his session.

It passed relatively normally with no notable problems; it was now end of day and the students packed up to leave with Ellen’s exit being the earliest as she was due to cook dinner for Corin and herself.

“Mr. Wise” Orphie approached the desk with her bag on her back

“Orphie, something wrong?” Wise said

“N-No, not really I just wanted to talk to you” Orphie said

“Orphie, mom is in the parking lot” Seed looked out the window to see Magus leaning on the hood of the car impatiently

“Let’s walk and talk” Wise offered as he escorted the two girls out of class

“I-I wanted to apologize for this morning, I-I tripped and-”

“It’s fine, it was an accident” Wise waved off

“Orphie almost fell on her face” Seed teased

“S-So what?” Orphie blushed at the jab

“Come on Seed, it was just a little slip” Wise said

“Hey, you done flirting with my girls?” Magus spoke as she approached

“M-M-M-M-M-M-MOM!” Orphie exclaimed with a deep flush

“Ohhh, Mr. Wise was flirting with me?” Seed spoke

“No flirting took place here, just walking” Wise denied

“Whatever, hop in the car” Magus spoke, and her children obeyed the instruction.

The family drove off with Seed waving out the window to Wise who waved back

‘Looks like that’s another day down’ Wise thought

-------- ELSEWHERE ----------

“FLIGHT 36!”

A woman stood up and strolled to the gate, she waits in line for a couple of minutes before walking through the scanner

BEEP! BEEP!

“Any metals?” the guard asked

“My visor”

“You're blind?”

“Mostly”

The woman scanned her with a metal detector to find nothing suspicious

“Fine, go through”

“Thank you”

Chapter Text

NOM! NOM!

Magus sighed as she watched her daughters scarfing down the breakfast at a rapid pace

‘These two are animals’ Magus thought as she saw Seed’s cheeks filled with toast

“Mother” Harin walked into the dining room still clad in uniform

“Keys” Magus stretched out her palm

“The car is still functional however it would be better to replace the radio, it plays horrendous music whenever I connect to the station” Harin spoke as she handed the woman the keys

‘That’s my goddamn CD you brat’ Magus thought with a mix of anger and embarrassment

“Mom my scooter isn’t working” Seed spoke in between chews

“Hey, that’s money you’re asking for” Magus said

“Yeah, and?” Seed tilted her head to the side

“It doesn’t grow on trees” Magus said

“I know that silly, I tried it once” Seed spoke

“W-What?” Magus sat up and locked her eyes on Seed

“Nothing~” Seed chimed

‘I am missing 100 dennies’ Magus thought

“Stop stuffing your faces and get your bags” Magus said as she got off her seat

“Aww, going early again?” Orphie complained

“I have a lot to do today including going to the damn airport, get your asses in the car” Magus said as she dropped her dishes into the sink

“I can’t wait to see Triggy today” Seed bubbled

“And clean up these plates since you’re staying here” she turned to Harin

“I have to sleep” Harin excused

“Tch I keep forgetting about that damn nightshift” Magus kissed her teeth

Magus moved to the car outside with Orphie and Seed trailing behind

“Can you open the boot?” Seed asked

“Why? What are you putting back there?” Magus asked

“My scooter”

“I thought it was broken” Magus said

“It is, I’m gonna fix it at school~” Seed said as she placed the item in the back and shut the door

“Whatever, just don’t slack off” Magus said as she started the drive to the campus

‘So much to do today, can’t believe I have to hunker down at that smelly airport’ Magus groaned

------ 2 HOURS LATER ------

KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Come in” Venus spoke

“Hi~” Seed squeezed into the office

“Seed?” Wise sat up

‘Where’s her scooter?’ the man thought

“Something you need Ms. Flora?” Venus asked

“Yes, I want Mr. Wise right now” Seed giggled

Venus’s head slowly rotated to look at Wise who seemed mortified

“What do you need?” Wise asked

“I need help to fix my scooter; it’s not working right” Seed said

“You can take him” Venus agreed easily

“Thanks~” Seed chimed as she grabbed Wise and dragged him off with her surprising strength

“Where is this scooter?”

“It’s in my locker” Seed said as she moved to her assigned locker, she casually twisted the dial with her combination and opened the door for Wise to see the tool somehow sitting comfortably inside the locker.

‘How did she get it to fit inside? I swear it’s larger than that’ Wise was confused as Seed pulled it out

‘Now that I think about it, isn’t she supposed to be in class or something?’

“So I looked at CPU and found a little charring there, I think it overloaded” Seed explained

“Hey how about we take it to a friend of mine?” Wise proposed

“A friend?”

“Yep Grace, you know her?”

‘I think that’s the easy way, solving this problem will make me mentally tired’ Wise thought

“She’s a girlfriend?” Seed gasped

“N-No not a girlfriend in that sense but just a girl whose my friend” Wise said

“But the garage is too far to walk on foot” Seed whined

“Sorry but you’ll have to go the distance” Wise said

“Aww” Seed pouted

The two made their way over to Grace’s location, Wise and Seed found the woman situated under a school truck.

“Grace” Wise called

The woman slid out from under the vehicle

“Ah Wise, nice to see you here” Grace stood and pat the man’s shoulder leaving a light oil mark

“Yeah..okay” Wise looked at the mark

“Oops sorry, working hard under there”

“It’s fine, hard workers are the backbone of New Eridu am I right?” Wise chuckled

“Awww you flatter me” Grace mused

“Anyways can you help out Seed?”

The girl held out her scooter

“Mh? A model X-124 scoot master 3000” Grace immediately recognized

“So you do know it” Seed smiled

“Yep, looks fried here, I can get this running by end of day” Grace said

“Really?” Seed beamed

“Of course, easy work” Grace said

“Thank you” Seed said

“No problemo”

“Thanks Grace, you’re so reliable” Wise complemented

“Ahem, no problem” Grace had a small flush appear on her face

“Oh and uh...” Wise took out a handkerchief and wiped off a small speck of oil from right above her eye

Grace’s face turned a rare red contrasting with some of the oil marks on her cheeks already

“I didn’t want the oil to fall into there” Wise placed the item into her hand

“You can keep it” Wise smiled as he walked off to catch up with Seed

The mechanic looked down at the handkerchief for a few moments before smiling to herself.

‘Looks like my heart is not just gears and wires after all’

Wise just exited the garage to find Seed waiting outside for him

“Aren’t you going?” Wise asked

“Nope, my scooter isn’t working” Seed said

“Come on Seed, you have to power through with the walk” Wise said

“Can I use you as my scooter instead?” Seed turned to the man

“Uh, no...” Wise said

“Why not? My scooter is broken” Seed spoke

“It’s a bit weird if I let you ride my back” Wise said

“Please only to the main hall” Seed pleaded with a cute smile

Wise felt his walls being torn down by the girl’s pleas

“Fine but not far” Wise turned his back to Seed

“YIPEE!” Seed hopped onto Wise and clutched tightly with her arms and legs

“You’re too tight” Wise said with strain

“I feel cozy here” Seed pressed her cheek onto Wise’s back

“Just gotta power through”

RING!

‘And it’s lunch, great now people are more likely to see this’ Wise groaned

Initially carrying Seed on his back was not supposed to be a hard in question as the girl was quite light but adding on avoiding any peeping eyes made it very difficult but Wise using his high IQ managed to find a route to avoid being spotted in that position. He was now on his way to the lunchroom after dropping Seed off by the cafeteria door

------- ELSEWHERE ------

“How was that plane ride?” Magus asked as she took a turn

“It was fine, I didn’t like the food though”

“Miss my cooking that much?” Magus smirked

“Nope, I’m still the better chef”

“Lucky your eyes are behind that visor, I would have given you a nasty bruise” Magus joked

Trigger lightly chuckled

“Are we heading home? The sounds and scents outside aren’t familiar to me” Trigger said

“Nope, we’re heading to Orphie’s school, I have to see that loser principal for something” Magus said

“Couldn’t you have dropped me home first? I am tired”

“Quit your yammering, we’ll be home by 2 o’clock” Magus said as she pulled into the parking lot

Trigger and the woman exited the vehicle and made their way into the school building, Trigger grasped onto Magus’s arm for navigation.

“Oh yeah, you aren’t familiar with the place” Magus allowed the contact

“I smell food, is that the cafeteria?” Trigger asked

“Nope, the staff lunchroom is close”

Trigger tensed up as her ears picked up on a familiar voice, the woman released Magus and changed direction

“Hey, we’re going this way” Magus sighed before leaving the woman be and continuing on her course

Trigger walked through following the voice’s

‘Could it be?’

“So you’re teaching those two?” Jane asked flirtatiously

“It’s obvious he is” Lucy quickly cut in

“I wasn’t talking to you, director” Jane said

“Well I’m talking to you, Ms. Doe”

“How childish” Yanagi muttered

“What you say?” Lucy turned to the woman

“How childi-”

“Trigger” Wise stopped the conversation at his sudden change in posture, the room silenced at the foreign presence inside

“Ma’am, are you lost?” Qingyi asked

“I didn’t know you would be here” Wise immediately got up and moved to hug the woman to which the gesture was met with equal reciprocation

“WHAT!?” The jaws of Wise’s table and some of the other staff dropped at the display

‘Shit a storm is about to break out’ Lighter worried

“I didn’t know you lived close by, I thought you lived across New Eridu” Trigger spoke

“What are you doing here?” Wise slightly pulled back from the embrace, but his hands still rested on the woman’s hips and her hands on his shoulders.

‘They seem to have no issues with the touch barrier, in fact Wise initiated first, they know each other very well, too well’ Jane deduced

‘S-She made him go to her so easily and she just f—king got here, how the f—k did she do that?’ Nicole thought with envy

“I just landed today, before I go home, aunt Magus wants to see the principal” Trigger said

“Let’s talk outside” Wise said as he turned and led out the woman with a guiding hand on the small of her back

‘T-The hell?’ Burnice’s eye twitched in shock

‘A-All that work to get the fox off his ass and another took her place like that?’ Lucy thought with panic setting in

‘That youngun stole him faster than I could say go’ Piper thought

“Bro, isn’t that like the second chick he brought from outside?”

“Relax Anton” Lighter spoke

“I-Is he coming back?” Caesar asked looking at Wise’s half eaten plate

“I need to use the bathroom” Jane said

“Uh me too” Lucy also followed

“Hey, I’m coming too” Caesar said

“F--k it’ Nicole said as the others also cleared the table

“Think there’s any meat left on their plates?” Anton turned to Lighter

“Anton, act normal please” Lighter said

With Wise and Trigger....

“I can’t believe it” Wise smiled

“It’s nice to see you as well” Trigger’s visor turned a bright yellow

“How did the exam go?” Wise asked

“It went well, shame they had took too long to bring the braille edition, we might have flown back together if it was earlier” Trigger said

“I wish so too, it would have been nice to have company on the way back” Wise said prompting Trigger’s visor to turn pink

“I never knew you wanted it too” Trigger said

“You know what? Lunch break is about to end, how about we meet up over the weekend?” Wise proposed

“L-Like a date?”

“Totally a date, just you and me” Wise said

“I-I uh...sure” Trigger’s voice cracked lightly with embarrassment

‘There are eyes watching us’ Trigger sensed

“Shit” Nicole murmured before they rushed back quickly

“Anybody say a damn word and your fired” Lucy warned everybody else who quickly looked down at their plates without batting a second glance

“H-He asked her out?” Yanagi removed her glasses and rubbed her temples

“I know right, this might be worse than fox lady” Burnice said

“Shit” Nicole planted her face onto the table

“Just when we thought we caught a break” Qingyi spoke

Chapter Text

“I have to go back and finish my lunch” Wise spoke

“Oh, I see, then I suppose I should leave you to it then” Trigger smiled

“Where were you heading again?” Wise asked

“The principal’s office”

“You need an escort there? I can take you” Wise offered

“No need, I can smell my way to my aunt” Trigger said

“I’ll facetime you tonight” Wise spoke

“I’ll be waiting” Trigger smiled

“See you” Wise spoke as he moved back into the lunchroom

‘So many women surrounding him’ Trigger thought as she moved towards Magus’s location

‘We’ll meet this weekend anyway’ Trigger thought as she knocked on the door

“Come in” the man’s voice spoke

“Aunty, are you finished?” Trigger walked in

“No, not until this bozo tells me when that Yixuan is coming back” Magus said

Mayflower sighed

“You still have issues with that woman? You’ve been ranting about her over the phone for the longest time now” Trigger said

“This problem will end when we talk.......with fists to be specific” Magus said

“Ms. Magus, Ms. Yixuan is left with only 8 days until she’s obligated to return” Mayflower spoke

“Fine, when those 8 days are up, I’m going to be posted right outside the gate first thing in the morning” Magus said

“Whatever you say” Mayflower sighed

‘She’s not doing a damn thing’ Mayflower thought

“Let’s get you home Trigger” Magus got up and walked out with Trigger following behind

Back with Wise......

“Who was that?” Nicole asked immediately as Wise took his place

“She’s a close friend from college, her name is Trigger” Wise said

“Close friends, are you?” Jane cocked an eyebrow

“Yeah, sat next to each other in class, worked on projects together, etc...” Wise spoke

‘Oh no, the childhood friend has come into the story, I have to get stronger to beat her’ Caesar thought

“Mh” Wise sounded as he finished the last bite of his food

“See you guys around” Wise got up to dispose of his plate

“This isn’t good” Lucy spoke

“I know, that harpy stole him” Nicole said

“Looks like we need another plan” Piper spoke

“What do you mean we?” Qingyi asked

“Us” Piper said

“There is no us, after what this rat pulled while the fox was here” Lucy said

“Of course, still as bitter as ever” Jane said

“I take it there is no alliance this time” Yanagi said

“Definitely not” Nicole agreed

“Too bad, some of you need the help” Jane mocked before leaving them on the table

---------- LATER IN THE DAY -------

“Where’s Mr. Wise?” Orphie looked around for any sightings of the man

“Maybe he’s making another coffee?” Seed suggested

Footsteps were moving towards the two

“Why are you guys out here?” Ellen came with a lollipop in her mouth

“Mr. Wise isn’t here yet” Orphie said

Ellen sighed as she walked into class prompting the two to follow her inside

“Ahhh” Ellen plopped down on her spot at the teacher’s desk

Seed in one of her out of pocket moments decides to settle on Wise’s chair

“Mr. Wise has a such a nice chair~” Seed wiggled around on the piece of furniture

“Sorry I’m late-” Wise paused at Seed’s takeover of his seat

“Uh, you’re teaching today?” Wise joked

“Don’t worry Mr. Wise, I’m not very big, you can fit right here~” Seed moved to open a somewhat decent space which Wise simply just looked at

“The tighter the space the better” Seed whispered

“Go back to seat you freak” Ellen pinched Seed’s cheek

“Owie” Seed rubbed her face as she got up

“Thanks” Wise said as he took his chair

“Why are you late today? You’re never late” Orphie said

“Sorry, something came up” Wise apologized

“What are we doing now? Biology? Math? Accounting?”

“Geo, I want to do Geo” Ellen spoke

“Cool, take out y-”

DING!

“Sorry” Wise got up and walked to the corner of the class propping the phone to his ear

A light chuckle could be heard before he whispered back a voice note of his own, he returned to skeptical students looking at him

“What?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Who is that?” Seed asked

“Nobody important” Wise slid his phone into his pocket

“Mh, Mr. Wise is hiding something~” Seed chimed

“Nothing is being hidden Seed, let’s get back to the geography” Wise insisted

‘Whoever he’s talking to doesn’t matter, I have to get ahead of these two’ Ellen thought

“What did you need help with?” Wise turned to Ellen

“Bearings” Ellen pointed at her textbook

“Alright, you got a protractor?” Wise said

“Yep” Ellen pulled out the tool

“Okay then, let’s look at this map here” Wise leaned in closer

‘Good, he’s close’ Ellen had a light flush at the proximity

“You line it up here like this, don’t forget to take note of the angles” Wise said as he directed Ellen’s hand

“Right” Ellen said

‘Maybe a little closer’ Ellen gently scooched towards Wise who seemed to have not noticed the change in distance

‘Just little touches here and there’ Ellen said

“Wait, can you show me the angle stuff again?” Ellen held Wise’s hand

“Uh, sure”

‘Her hands are surprisingly soft’ Wise thought

“Mh” Orphie pouted as her eyes bounced from Ellen and Wise’s proximity back to her notebook

‘Mr Wise is giving her more attention today...’

‘Come on Orphie, other people need help too, you can’t be selfish’ Orphie looked back to find Seed somehow inserting her head between Ellen and Wise’s

“S-Seed?” Wise said

“Now we’re all snug, continue Mr. Wise” Seed encouraged

‘Definitely worse than Miyabi’ Wise thought as he tried to retract but Seed’s cheek stuck to his regardless of his movement

“Hey, ever heard of personal space?” Ellen called out with a displeased look

“Huh? Personal space?” Seed detached from Wise and turned to the shark thiren

“One word: boundaries” Ellen emphasized

“Oh I don’t think she gets it Mr. Wise”

“Gets what?” Ellen cocked an eyebrow

“We’re the same kind, same scent, same passions, same mind, hehe~” Seed giggled at the end of her sentence

‘The f—k?’ Ellen’s gears started turning

“Mr. Wise’s personal space is my space; my personal space is Mr. Wise’s space too”

‘She knows what she’s doing, that smile tells me everything I need to know’ Ellen’s eyes narrowed

“Tight fits are the best, so cozy and warm~” Seed added

‘S-She’s crazy, and he’s just allowing i-’ Ellen’s eyes widened to see Wise’s attention had been directed towards Orphie

“I still don’t get it, ohhh this is hard” Orphie worried

‘Crap, I got distracted’ Ellen thought

“Don’t worry, I’m here for you” Wise reassured with a gentle hand on her shoulder eliciting a blush

“Now I’ll go a bit slower, please pay attention”

Ellen glanced at the gap left by the shift of Wise and looked at Seed

‘This girl loves Wise’s personal space; I won’t let her take it this time’ Ellen using her shark tail propelled herself to close the gap practically shutting Seed out of the loop

“Oof” Wise felt a slight push which inched his face closer to Orphie's

‘U-UH!?’ Orphie panicked in her head

‘H-He’s close’ Orphie turned her head back down to her book

‘Calm down Orphie, w-we're just studying’ the horned girl mentally told herself but the heat on her cheeks would not subside

“Hey, that was my spot” Seed pouted

“Ellen?” Wise turned to see the shark thiren was now much closer

“I want to see as well” Ellen excused

“Oh uh, I guess it’s okay, let me just turn a bit” Wise shifted allowing Ellen’s line of sight to be clearer

‘I’m less closed off now, let’s see that invader try something here’ Ellen glanced back to find Seed had vanished from behind Wise and was now situated on Orphie’s lap

“Now let’s get to it Mr. Wise” Seed said

“S-SEED!?” Orphie exclaimed

‘She’s persistent, but she’s no closer than me’ Ellen thought as she looked at the two sisters

‘Orphie’s steal was a bit too smooth; this might be more than study for her’

‘A bit of a tight fit but I think I can power through the smell of women’s perfume’ Wise thought

The session moved by almost normally if you don’t count the new positions Wise’s students took and his claustrophobia inducing entrapment.

“Seed, you can go home now” Wise said as the girl on her scooter hovered right next to him as he packed his items

“Remember” Seed raised a reprimanding finger

Wise sighed as he shook his head

“Birds of a feather...” she started

“Flock together” Wise finished off

‘Looks like I have to take her to her mom, I really didn’t want to see Magus today’ Wise thought as he slung the bag on his shoulder

‘I hope she doesn’t keep mom waiting’ Orphie thought as she left

“Hey” Ellen called out from behind the girl

“Huh?” Orphie turned

“Heading home now?” Ellen and Orphie now walked side by side

“Y-Yeah, mom usually picks us up and I don’t want to keep her waiting” Orphie spoke

‘Let’s test her out’ Ellen thought

“Mr. Wise is kinda cute huh?” Ellen said making Orphie tense up

“W-What?” Orphie’s face slowly turned red

‘Gotcha’

“You don’t think so?”

“I-I do, I-I mean I don’t, ugh, just ignore that” Orphie covered her hands

“Would you ever make a move?” Ellen spoke

“I-I’m not ready for that stuff yet...” Orphie said in a meek voice

“Cool” Ellen said as a silence fell between the two

“W-Why are you asking?” Orphie asked

“No reason, just messing around” Ellen lightly nudged Orphie’s arm

“I-I have to go home; my mom is over there” Orphie split with what seemed like steam coming from her ears

‘That girl isn’t the type to go after guys like that; Ruby was full of shit’ Ellen thought as she spotted Corin waiting by the bus stop.

“Where’s that wacko?” Magus asked

“Oh, uh..” Oprhie muttered

“Seed is here” Seed wheeled in behind Wise

“It’s you again” Magus cocked an eyebrow at Wise

“Good evening Ms. Magnusson” Wise greeted with a smile

“See you tomorrow Mr. Wise” Seed said as she slipped into the car

“E-Enjoy your evening” Orphie spoke as she slipped into the driver’s side passenger

“You keep flirting with my girls, I see it” Magus said

“I have no idea what you’re talking about” Wise raised his hands to show transparency

Magus did an “I’m watching you” gesture at Wise before taking the wheel and driving off

Wise sighed as he took his own way

--------- AN HOUR LATER --------

RING! RING!

“I told you about no phones at the table” Magus said

“CALLER ID: WISE FOR A VIDEO CALL” the phone informed

Trigger just pulled it out and answered

“Hey Trigger” a familiar voice spoke out

“Is that...” Orphie’s eyes widened with a light blush

“Mr Wise, hey” Seed came into view

“Hi Seed” Wise responded with a light wave

“It’s dinner time” Magus leaned into view

‘Shit, I called at a bad time’ Wise panicked at Magus’s sudden appearance

“Call me at 10, I’ll be awake” Trigger said

“We’ll be awake~” Seed added just as Wise cut the call

“So that’s why you split earlier” Magus said

“Looks like you found me out” Trigger’s visor had pink

“I didn’t know you were friends with Mr. Wise” Seed’s eyes widened

“I am” Trigger spoke

“Great another one is connected to that guy” Magus leaned back into her chair

“First my Orphie, then Seed now it’s Trigger, who’s next? Harin?”

“I never thought you knew Mr. Wise” Orphie said

“We’re classmates and very close friends at that” Trigger smiled

“Oh brother” Magus sighed

‘Very close...’ Orphie repeated in her mind with a stir in her chest

“Since you’re close, do you share personal space too?” Seed asked

“W-WHAT!?” Magus straightened up with an angry voice

Chapter Text

“Again? Are you going to bring somebody home for once?” Carole spoke

“I’ll have you know I asked this one out this time” Wise said

“Oh, big bro got brave” Belle mocked

“Shut up” Wise said

“Who is this Trigger anyway?” Carole asked

“I told you about her all the time over the phone when I was at college” Wise said

“Oh, I don’t remember” Carole said

‘Of course, she forgot’ Wise rolled his eyes

“But regardless, I’m getting tired of you fumbling my potential in-laws, the Hoshimi girl was the best one I've ever seen” Carole nagged

“Pretty, devoted, disciplined and wealthy, the full package” Belle added

“You just want money, that’s why you were pressing it” Wise shot back

“Your happiness is our happiness; she just happens to have a lot of money” Carole said

“She needed to go back to Japan, what did you want me to do?” Wise said

“Go with her” Belle and Carole said

“Wow, my own family wants me gone” Wise finished tying the knot to his shoe

“Please bring somebody home” Carole spoke just before Wise walked out

Carole turned to Belle

“So..”

“Uh uh, no mentioning Harumasa here” Belle covered her ears and sped off

“These two are doing everything but finding love” Carole sighed

With Wise....

RING! RING!

“Hello?” Wise answered

“Are you coming?” Trigger asked

“Yeah, I'm driving to your place right now” Wise spoke

“Remember the address I gave you” Trigger said

“I have a GPS on; I’ll be there soon” Wise said

“I’m waiting” the call cut, and Wise resumed the drive

The man sighed as he mentally prepared himself for the ultimate challenge he will encounter, Magus.

‘I really hope she isn’t home, please may Magus not be home’ Wise prayed as he sped up a little. The drive was a decent distance; Wise was now passing through a different neighborhood from his.

His eyes scanning homes until the GPS spoke

“TURN LEFT”

Wise did as instructed and stopped right outside a decent sized home, nothing very flashy but still looked cozy.

Wise disembarked from the car and looked to the second-floor window to find the curtains quickly shut. He took a breath to mentally prepare himself

‘Seed and Orphie are definitely here, I just hope she isn’t’ Wise walked up to the front door and rang the bell. He stood outside for about 2 minutes before the door slowly swung open

“Trigg-” he paused as he noticed a bigger Orphie standing by the door

‘Crap’ Wise cursed mentally

“What are you doing here?” Magus stood with her arms crossed

“Uh, ahem” Wise nervously cleared his throat

‘I saw this coming’

“I’m here to pick up Trigger” Wise said

“My girl?” Magus stood face to face with Wise

Wise gulped at the woman’s imposing stature, muscular arms and shoulders with a tail and horns, combined with a nasty temper made her akin to a devil.

“Wise you’re here” Trigger came into view with Seed and Orphie in the background

“You’re seriously going out with this kid?” Magus turned to Trigger

“Yes, he’s a special person” Trigger answered as she brushed past Magus

“Hi Mr. Wise~” Seed waved

“Hi Seed” Wise gave her a smile prompting a giggle

“Stop messing with my girls” Magus pointed at Wise

“M-Mom, you’re being embarrassing” Orphie held Magus’s arm

Magus sighed

“Whatever” Magus walked off

“Please be safe” Orphie smiled at them

“We will, little Orphie” Trigger pats the girl’s head before her and Wise take off.

Orphie closes the door and turns to see a smiling Seed

“I wanted to go too, then it would be a triple date” Seed said

“S-Seed, Trigger was the one who got asked out” Orphie said as she bashfully rubbed her arm

“I want Mr. Wise to ask me out too” Seed said with a dreary expression

“S-Seed, if mom hears you...”

“Don’t you want too as well?” Seed asked

“I-I....” Orphie blushed deeply as images of Wise proposing on his knee flashed across her mind

“I-I have to use the toilet” Orphie ran off

Back with Wise and Trigger....

“This song is called PinKing, I found it on the Inter-Knot reels” Wise said as he bobbed his head to the tune

“It has nice guitar strums and the chords are harmonious as well” Trigger’s visor had a bright yellow on her visor

“You really like it huh?” Wise said

“Another one for my playlist” Trigger chuckled

“Just a few more minutes, I got a great place in mind, I went here some time back with a coworker” Wise said as he took a turn

“Oh, I smell buttered popcorn, the amusement park” Trigger deduced

“Sharp senses as always, but I will warn you, no high rise rides” Wise mused

“I was hoping for the Ballet Twin Tower Death Drop” Trigger smiled

Wise had a flashback to the traumatic experience which made him shiver on the spot. The two finally arrived at their destination and disembarked from the car. After purchasing entry Wise and Trigger were moving in the park together.

“It’s getting a bit crowded the more we move into the park” Wise spoke to Trigger

“Mh” Trigger inched closer to Wise who grasped her hand

“Don’t worry, I’m not going to lose you here” Wise assured as he tightened his grip on her hand

Wise’s eyes wandered around the ground activities, and they landed on a shooting booth game with an array of prizes.

“Hey” Wise spoke to the woman

“Hm?”

“Let me win you something over there, a shooting game” Wise said

“If you want to, it’s fine by me” Trigger smiled as she was led by Wise

“Wanna win something for your girlfriend? Look no further, only 5 dennies a pop” the old man advertised to Wise who gave him 20 dennies.

“That’s 4 good shots lad, make it count” he stepped aside as Wise took aim

‘Girlfriend?’ Trigger thought as her visor turned pink

‘He didn’t deny it either...’

BANG!

“Ohhh, terrible luck, 3 more son, don’t want to look bad in front of your babe” the man said making Trigger’s heart stir

“I can make it” Wise said as he took aim once more

‘His babe...’

BANG!

“You’re bad at this aren’t you? Good thing she can’t see it” he joked

“Two tries lef-”

Wise suddenly felt the gun get snatched from him and in a second two targets were shot dead center.

“What is the prize?” Trigger said as she put the gun down

“Trigger...” Wise looked at her with wide eyes

“Uh” the man at the booth looked around

‘She’s blind though......’ he thought

“Here, a harmonica and locket for your troubles” he said as he placed the items on the counter

“Uh thanks” Wise said

“It’s crowded” Trigger reminded

“Oh right” Wise interlocked his arm with Trigger’s as they led off

“You’re amazing” Wise said

“J-Just lucky I guess” Trigger moved a loose strand of hair back to the side

“I wanted to win something for you though; skill issue held me back” Wise sounded disappointed

“Don’t be sad, you can buy me red bean buns at the food stall”

“I guess I can” Wise said as he turned to eating area with Trigger

Wise left the woman on a nearby table as he placed an order for a serving of red bean buns for the both, they came out steaming withing 5 minutes and ready to be eaten by a starving Trigger.

“I skipped breakfast at home” Trigger said as she scarfed down 3 within 20 seconds

“What happened? Didn’t like something?”

“Seed cooked” Trigger answered as yet another one went down the hatch

“Oh, I get it” Wise said as he reached to find the basket empty already

‘I-I only ate one’ Wise thought

“Are they finished?” Trigger’s hand brushed over the now empty basket

“Did I eat too many? Are you hungry?” Trigger worried but Wise placed a calming hand over hers

“It’s fine, I’ll buy more” Wise said as he got up to head back to the stall

‘Oh no, I must have looked like a pig right now’ Trigger worried

After another 5-minute wait Wise returned with another steaming basket of red bean buns, however this time Trigger paced herself slowly

“Why the change?” Wise asked

“I want to make sure you eat too” Trigger said

“I’m not a huge eater plus I’m the one treating you today” Wise said

“B-Bu-” Trigger couldn’t get the sentence out as Wise stuck a red bean bun into her mouth

“Eat up, don’t hold back” Wise said

Trigger held the treat and chewed of a piece

‘He’s always been so kind to me’ Trigger thought with a blush

“After this why don’t we make use of that locket? A photo booth is nearby” Wise suggested

Trigger smiled

“I would love to”

“Fill up first” Wise said

“Mh” she nodded

After a hearty meal of bean buns the two found themselves in the booth together, waiting for the flash.

“Should we do a formal pose?” Trigger asked

“I was thinking something goofy” Wise said

“Goofy?” Trigger looked confused

“You don’t like it?” Wise said

“I can’t really see the photo so, you can pick” Trigger said

“Maybe something tame for today” Wise pulled Trigger closer towards him for the photo

FLASH!

“It’s done” Wise said

“W-Wise” Trigger was a blabbering mess

“S-Sorry, the timer was ticking and-”

“I-I didn’t complain, just taken by surprise” Trigger had a pink light on her visor

“Uhm, want to go the bumper cars?”

“I can’t see” Trigger mused

“Don’t need to see to drive a bumper car, it makes it more fun” Wise said

“Mh.... an intriguing offer, I’ll have to accept it and see” Trigger joked

“Prepare to get smashed” Wise spoke as he snagged Trigger’s hand

“S-Smashed?” Trigger gulped

The day was a load of fun for the two, reminiscing about their time in college and catching up with each other. The sky was a mix of dark blue and orange showing nighttime was encroaching.

Wise was walking Trigger to the porch

“I had fun” Wise said

“Me too, oh” Trigger suddenly perked up and dug into her pockets

“What are you doing?” Wise asked

“I owe you some money for paying” Trigger held out some loose dennies

“No need, I did it because I wanted to” Wise refused and pushed Trigger’s hand back

“I-It feels a bit wrong”

“Don’t feel like a freeloader”

“I’m not a freeloader, if fact I’m paying for the next date” Trigger declared with a red light on her visor

“I didn’t me-”

“Took you long enough” Magus swung open the door

“Aunty” Trigger spoke

“Dinner is ready, come and get some” Magus said

“Bye, I’ll see you later” Trigger said as she walked into the home

“Hey, I hope you didn’t do anything shady” Magus spoke to Wise

“I didn’t do anything” Wise said

Magus narrowed her eyes as she slowly turned back into the home and closed the door, a click telling it’s locked.

“Welcome home Trigger” Harin smiled at the table

“Yay, big sis Triggy is here” Seed celebrated

“H-How was your date?” Orphie asked with a blush

“Oh uhm...” Trigger looked nervous

“Yeah, how was your little “date” with that kid?” Magus took her place on the table

“We went to the amusement park and I got this harmonica” Trigger reached into her pocket and pulled out the item

“Ohhhh, play us a song” Seed said

“No thank you, I’m hungry” Trigger chuckled as she took in the spoon of soup

‘Wait, how can I pay for the next outing if I don’t have much money?’ Trigger thought in panic

‘Maybe aunt Magus can sip me some cash, but no, she probably won’t budge since I’m home’

‘I guess that leaves one option, a job’

Chapter Text

“Looking for a job?” Wise spoke into the phone

“Yeah, I realized I’m actually broke right now” Trigger spoke

“Like broke broke?” Wise asked

“I have 17 dennies in my bank account” Trigger deadpanned

“Oh that is broke” Wise said eliciting a chuckled from the woman

“Now you’re making fun of me?” Trigger joked

“Sorry, I was messing around” Wise said as he leaned back in the chair

“What are your options right now?” Wise asked

“I applied at Richard Teamilk and Coff Cafe for a part time thing” Trigger said

“Okay, so making drinks?” Wise said

“I’m just hoping to get a call back” Trigger said

“You’ll find a job, don’t worry” Wise said

“Reminds me of that freshman mixer back in college, when we told to dish out food together” Trigger spoke

“Oh yeah, you slipped hot sauce into Shepherd’s drink by “accident” that day” Wise laughed

Outside the office...

"Who's he talking to?" Piper asked

"None of our business, let's leave" Lucy said

"Very funny Trigger" Wise's voice sounded prompting the three to rush closer to the door

“Is he talking to that lady from last week?” Burnice whispered to Piper

“Shut up, he’ll hear us” Lucy spoke

“I think Richard Teamilk is cool, chill place” Wise said

“I’m looking for anything else just in case I get rejected” Trigger said

“Mh” Wise sounded

“You’re thinking about something?” Trigger asked

“Hey crazy idea, why don’t you work here at the school? Like an attachment thing like me” Wise proposed

“The hell?” Lucy muttered

“Her coming to work here?” Burnice cocked an eyebrow

“Work there? With you?” Trigger blushed

“Yeah, I think we could use another hand around here, I’m the only guy who works as an assistant” Wise said

‘Working close to Wise....’ Trigger thought with a warm smile

“Of course, you don’t have to, I was just spit balling” Wise spoke

“I’ll do it” Trigger said

“Huh?” Wise paused

“I’ll apply for a job there too”

“T-That’s great, should I get you an application form or...”

“Yes please, that would be a big help but if you’re free of course” Trigger said

“I can do that now, I’m not busy” Wise got up

“Shit, hide” Burnice spoke as the women scattered

Wise walked out with the phone still at his ear, still speaking with Trigger.

“I tell you this place is an awesome work environment, nice food, air conditioning and the students aren’t much of a headache from what I’ve seen so far” Wise said as Rina’s desk came into view.

“I’ll call later bye”

“Bye”

Wise cut the phone as he approached the woman

“Oh Mr. Wise, what brings you by today?” Rina smiled

“Oh, I’d like one job application form” Wise said

“Are you not already working here?” Rina cocked an eyebrow

“It’s not for me, it’s for somebody else, she wants to work here” Wise said

“She?” Rina repeated

“Yeah, her name is Trigger”

“I see, it must be nice to have such a supportive man as a spouse” Rina complemented as she slipped Wise the form

“Thanks for the complement but I’m not seeing her” Wise lightly laughed

“I see, forgive me for my assumption” Rina said

“It’s all good” Wise said

“But my words still stand” Rina said

“Thank you, I think you’re pretty great too Ms. Sebastiane” Wise smiled at the woman

“Please refrain from such speech, words such as yours are known to swoon a woman’s heart” Rina clasped her hands together

“So I’m not allowed to speak on my observations?” Wise chuckled

“Oh, dear I must get back to work” Rina said as she averted eye contact with Wise

“Alright I understand, I’ll leave you to it” Wise walked off

‘Got her form’

Elsewhere......

“You can’t be serious” Yanagi’s eyes widened

“We all heard it” Burnice said

“You’re telling me that Wise’s college friend is applying for a job here?” Jane’s ears perked up

“Yeah, heard them on the phone, she’s applying here” Lucy said

“Oh, that is an interesting development” Qingyi said

“You guys think Mayflower will let her in?” Caesar asked

“Wise is already in the teaching assistant position; I highly doubt that old buzzard would pay another salary for a rudimentary position” Lucy said

“Would that be a good thing if she’s turned down?” Jane asked

“Why do you say that?” Qingyi asked

“It means we can’t keep tabs on her and Wise effectively”

“But Wise is here for 5 days of the week” Piper said

“And the weekend?” Jane asked

“Oh I see where you’re coming from” Lucy said

“But regardless, we still have the proximity advantage, we see him more than she does” Yanagi said

“I think it’s better the way it is now too” Qingyi said

“Why are we even talking about this crap? She’s not getting hired, end of story” Nicole said

---------- 2 DAYS LATER ----------

“Good morning staff, I hope you are well” Lycaon started

“Today it would be just usual routine but, something came up” Mayflower said

“I wonder what he’s talking about” Burnice leaned towards Lucy

“Shush” Lucy silenced the woman

“We have a new addition to our ranks, a truly exceptional young woman” Mayflower said

Wise’s admirers tensed up immediately

Nicole’s heart dropped at the statement as some eyes glared at her

“Ms. Phlegethon” Mayflower called out and in walked Trigger clad in blue jeans and a pink button up shirt.

“Hello everybody, my name is Trigger and I’ll be the second teaching assistant” her visor had a yellow rest on the indicators.

“She’s hot” Anton whispered earning a smack from Lighter

“Ms. Phlegethon will share duties with Wise, so please use both of them sparingly” Lycaon spoke

‘Shit, she was actually hired, how did I miss that? I’m also in charge of these things’ Lucy thought with confusion

‘Mh, our lives just got a lot harder’ Jane thought

------- LATER ON --------

“Who interviewed her?” Lucy asked the two men

“It was in fact I” Mayflower said

“I thought I did that job, why are you taking my responsibilities?” Lucy crossed her arms

“Ms. De Montefio, I am principal, I have overall authority over all my employees regardless of ties to the school, I don’t owe you an explanation” Mayflower said

“Is that how we’re doing things now?” Lucy cocked an eyebrow

“I simply saw her as a promising candidate is all, I had to process her myself” Mayflower said

“And what was so promising?” Lucy’s brows furrowed

“Hardwork ethic, intelligent and.....” Mayflower nudged Lycaon

“Good at caretaking of youths, it balances out Wise’s weakness in that field” Lycaon quickly added

“Ugh, whatever” Lucy rolled her eyes as she stormed out of the office

“Thanks for the cover up” Mayflower said

“No problem” Lycaon said

“Remind me why you hired her, I am still not understanding your reasons” Lycaon asked

------- FLASHBACK --------

“Ms. Phlegethon, is it?” Mayflower said

“Yes” Trigger said

“I’ve seen your family background, and it says you are related to Ms. Flora as well?”

“It is a bit complicated, her adopted mother is my aunt/guardian as well” Trigger explained

“I see, so you are close with Flora? Do you get along with her?”

“Yes, she is very close to me”

“Okay” Mayflower ticked a box

“So, hypothetically if you were to per se ask her to clean her room, would she listen to your instructions?” Mayflower asked

“Yes, she listens to me and aunt Magus without any pushback”

“I see” Mayflower quickly jotted onto the folder on the desk

‘I could use somebody who can keep Flora under control at school, screw procedure, she has to come here’

“You start tomorrow” Mayflower extended a hand to which Trigger took

“B-But I haven’t answered-”

“You start tomorrow, I’ll draft a contract right now, you need to start working here as soon as possible” Mayflower stood and exited the office in a rush

‘That was easier than I expected’ Trigger scratched her head

--------- BACK TO REAL TIME --------

“You hired her on the spot as a result of your irrational fear of a student?” Lycaon asked with confusion

“Don’t underestimate that girl” Mayflower’s gaze intensified, his eyes showing only fear

“I don’t understand, she’s half your size, she

“She’s not to be toyed around with, she’s dangerous”

"Is she really that bad?”

“She’s plotting to kill me”

Lycaon sighed as he shook his head

“Whatever you say Mr. Mayflower”

Chapter Text

“Turn left, I smell eucalyptus” Trigger said

“And I’m supposed to trust a blind woman for directions?” Magus said as she took the turn

“I recognize the cues in the environment”

“Remind me why I’m picking up that Wise kid” Magus said

“Because we decided to pick each other up to go to work together” Trigger said

“That’s gas money you owe me” Magus said

“I’ll pay you when my first check comes out” Trigger said

‘Trigger and Mr. Wise sure are close...’ Orphie thought as she gripped her sleeve

‘N-No Orphie you can’t feel....why do I feel this way?’

Trigger rolled down the window and sniffed the air

“Stop” Trigger said

“That the place?” Magus asked

“Yes” Trigger got out of the car and walked up to the porch to ring the bell

“Tch” Magus impatiently got out and joined Trigger at the door

“HEY! OPEN UP!” Magus yelled as she knocked on the hardwood door

“Aunt Magus” Trigger reprimanded

Suddenly the door swung open to reveal a middle-aged woman standing with an unimpressed expression on her face

“I take it you’re the one blasting my door” Carole turned to Magus

“Where’s your scrawny son?” Magus asked

“Nice to meet you too” Carole said

“Is that Trigg-” Wise appeared and froze as his eyes landed on Magus’s presence beside Trigger

‘Shit’ Wise thought

“You’re holding us up; my kids have to get to school” Magus said

“I’m coming” Wise said as he walked off with the two

‘At least the door didn’t cave with her knocking’ Carole thought

Trigger took her shotgun position back leaving Wise to go to the backseat with Orphie and Seed

“Don’t be shy Mr. Wise~” Seed pats the space next to her

“Get in” Magus pressed looking at him through the rear-view mirror

‘I don’t have a choice here’ Wise slid into the car next to Seed

‘Looks like my space isn’t invaded today’ Wise thought in relief just before Seed practically pulled him in along with Orphie on the other end

“S-Seed?” Orphie muttered

“All better, now I’m snug and cozy”

Wise noticed Magus gaze from the rear view before her eyes returned to the road

‘Shit, I might be in trouble here, being in the same car as Magus is stressing me out’ Wise thought

“Seed, space” Magus commanded

“Awww, I don’t like wide spaces”

“Space” Trigger reinforced prompting Seed to release the two

“I’ll be back later~” Seed whispered to Wise

“Oh no you won't” Trigger said almost defensively

“Ohhh is big sis mad? Does she want Mr. Wise’s space too?”

“G-Guys...” Wise muttered

‘Magus in the car won’t do me any favors' Wise feared the woman’s potential actions.

The car ride was relatively calm for all but Wise who was very much uncomfortable around the menacing Magus. The woman was now leaving the group be at the school.

“Make sure they don’t finish the lunch money early” Magus spoke before driving off

“Mom always says that” Orphie groaned

“I think she cares” Wise said

“I know but she’s always saying it” Orphie spoke

“Come on Orphie, you know Ms. Magnusson cares” Wise put a gentle hand on her shoulder

“Y-Yeah” Orphie blushed furiously

“No fair, touch me too” Seed said

“What?”

“I think that’s enough from you Seed” Trigger intervened stepping between Wise and Seed

“But Mr. Wise is in my flock, we’re the same kind” Seed said

“Same kind with some boundaries to be attached” Trigger spoke

“Awww, you’re always such a mother hen” Seed pouted

“Yeah whatever, time for class” Trigger ended

-------- A COUPLE OF HOURS LATER ---------

“Sorry for Seed earlier” Trigger apologized

“It’s alright” Wise said as he picked up Trigger’s lunch tray as well as his own

“She can be a bit touchy with people she’s comfortable with” Trigger said as she took her seat

“I saw it some time ago” Wise chuckled as he laid Trigger’s food in front of her and his in front of him.

“The car ride as well” Trigger brought up

“Huh?”

“I knew you felt uncomfortable in there, I know aunt Magus can be rough but she’s a good person, she just takes time to adjust to new people” Trigger said

“She’s scary though, her and Orphie look the exact same but temperament is what makes the difference” Wise said

“Don’t mind her too much”

“I try not to but she’s so imposing”

“You’ll get used to h-”

“Hey guys” Nicole greeted as she and a couple of others appeared at the table

“Oh hey” Wise greeted the group

“Looks like you’re back in my seat yet again” Jane glanced at Trigger’s placement

“I never saw any name here” Trigger said

“Very funny” Jane took her spot elsewhere

“So, still teaching those kids?” Qingyi started

“Yeah, they’re pretty good” Wise said

“I can tell the difference, Orphie’s marks have improved, fruits of a good teacher” Yanagi complemented

“Oh, please stop with the flattery, I just give a nudge” Wise said

‘Smooth attack four eyes but you’re a bit too tame for a man’ Jane thought

“I’ve been looking for tips to improve my own lectures, maybe you could give me a “tip” if you aren’t tied up?” Jane asked

‘This rat is going full on flirting mode’ Lucy thought

“Uh...” Wise fidgeted as he felt heat rising up to his cheeks

‘Gotcha, so you do find me enticing, that is good news for me, a bit more pressing and I’ll get him yearning for me’ Jane licked her lips as her eyes were resembling that of a vixen

“You’re supposed to be skilled enough as it is, Ms. Doe” Yanagi intervened

“Is it wrong to get some new info?” Jane feigned ignorance

“If you have experience in the field then it is strange” Qingyi also joined in

‘This rodent, is trying to pace us up’ Nicole thought

“My second date cutie, remember~” Burnice winked

‘Second date?’ Trigger felt a stir as her visor’s lights glowed red

‘Oh, she seems displeased’ Jane observed Trigger’s shift in mood

“Oh right....” Wise nervously rubbed the back of his neck

“We should go out drinking again, I can open schedule tonight if you want~” Nicole chimed

Trigger’s grip on her spoon tightened as more advances spewed out from their mouths

‘These women are being forward with Wise, I don’t like it, not one bit’ Trigger thought as she seethed with anger

“Wise” she said getting his attention in a snap

“What is it?”

“I want another spot, I feel crowded” Trigger said

“Like another table?”

“Yes, another table” she said

“Oh uh... sorry guys” Wise apologized as he grabbed Trigger’s tray as well as his and shifted to an unused table

‘T-That power...’ Lucy thought as Trigger momentarily glanced back at them

‘She’s more influential on Wise than I thought’ Jane thought as the two settled down together elsewhere

“Was there too many stimuli for you?” Wise asked

“Yes, I was overstimulated, I prefer a calmer environment” she looked past Wise and back at the group she and him parted from

‘She’s mocking us through that dumbass visor’ Nicole grit her teeth

“I know it was hard to leave your friends, I appreciate it” Trigger gently held Wise’s hand

“It’s fine, they can understand” Wise returned with a grip of equal force

‘Holding his hand? H-holding hands’ Caesar blushed deeply

“That youngun got him under what the old folk call a hex” Piper said

“Damn it” Lucy groaned

--------- LATER ON --------

“So the problem you have now, is you keep mixing up the positive and negative signs” Wise explained to Orphie who attentively took notes

“I want you to watch for the value switches and to avoid making the same mistake”

“Yes Mr. Wise” Orphie corrected the question

DING!

“Sorry” Wise got up and moved to the corner of the class

‘Trigger again...’ Orphie thought as she eyed Wise at the corner of the room

‘This girl is staring too long, definitely likes him’ Ellen thought

‘I-I bet he and Trigger are...no, she never said anything about it, it’s not confirmed’ Orphie fell deeper into her own thoughts

‘B-But why do I care so much? Whether Wise is in love with my sister or not isn’t my business’ Orphie told herself but a stir in her chest said otherwise

“Sorry, important convo” Wise returned and Seed placed her chin back atop Wise’s head once again invading his space

“Orphie?” Wise turned to see the girl in a daze

“Orphie” Wise called out with a light grip on her arm snapping her back

“U-Uwah” she muttered

“Are you paying attention?”

“Y-Yeah” she blushed

Ellen narrowed her eyes at the girl’s behaviour

‘Looks like I’m not just against those hags in the staffroom, this one here is also a threat’

Ellen’s eyes drifted to Orphie’s chest

‘A big one at that’

After Wise went through his now daily duty of tutoring, he was now escorting the sisters and Trigger to the car. Well mostly he was speaking with Trigger which didn’t seem to bode well with Orphie.

“You finally brought my kids here early” Magus said to Wise

“You can’t keep making the same mistakes am I right?” Wise said

Magus sighed

“Whatever” Magus slipped into the driver’s seat

“See you tomorrow” Trigger hugged Wise

“See you too” Wise spoke as they separated

Once Trigger entered the car, Magus sped off for their home.

Orphie leaned her head onto the window as she looked out at the setting sun in thought

‘Trigger....Wise...’ she thought of the two making her heart stir

‘D-Don’t be jealous, she’s your family’ Orphie thought as she suppressed her feelings

Magus looked back at her daughter’s seemingly troubled demeanour

‘This kid...’ Magus aligned her eyes back onto the road

Chapter Text

“Mh” Orphie shifted in her bed

BEEP! BEEP!

The girl moved her tail to shut off the loud alarm clock; she sat up with her blanket covering her legs

YAWN!

She stretches her arms upwards, and her tail follows in tandem

“Orphie~” Trigger peered her head into the girl's room

“Trigger?”

“Good, you’re awake, aunt Magus said you should be getting ready”

“I’ll get to it” Orphie yawned once more

“Good, breakfast will be ready when you’re done” Trigger shut the door leaving Orphie to her own thoughts

‘Trigger...’ Orphie couldn’t help but get images of Trigger and Wise flash into her head, her grip on the blanket tightened

‘N-Not now Orphie, you have to get ready for school’ the girl hopped out of bed and went by her usual routine as normal, speedy and efficient, just as Magus drilled into her.

Now the family was gathered at the breakfast table together.

“Harin is late with the car” Magus spoke

“Don’t worry, Wise is coming to pick me up, he can take Orphie and Seed as well” Trigger said

“Ohhhh, we’re riding with Mr. Wise today?” Seed lightened up with a wide smile

“Yes Seed” Trigger smiled

“Can I take the seat next to Mr. Wise?” Seed called

“Depends on the situation” Trigger spoke

“What about you Orphie? What seat do you want?” Seed turned to her sister

“Oh uh, anywhere is fine” Orphie spoke

“You don’t want to sit next to Mr. Wise too?” Seed nudged the girl’s shoulder

“S-S-Seed?” Orphie blushed furiously

“Cut it out” Magus said

“Mh, mother hen” Seed murmured with a pout

“And stop with that mother hen crap, it pisses me off” Magus added

“But it is an important question, I think seating order could be a problem” Trigger said

“I-I’ll take anywhere, no worries” Orphie said

“Are you sure?” Trigger said

“100%” Orphie gave a thumbs up

“Yeah, enough yapping, eat up before the food cools” Magus said

“Yes mom” Orphie replied

After a hearty breakfast Wise and Belle arrived in the car to find the girls waiting for their arrival.

“Looks like they’re already posted” Carole said as she stopped by the group

“Crap, what is Ms. Magus doing there?” Wise sighted the woman

“Took you long enough” Magus spoke to Carole

“Nice to see you too” Carole spoke

“I call shotgun now” Belle quickly shifted to the front

“Hey, that was my seat” Wise called out

“It’s not now” Belle smirked

“Little sisters” Wise sighed

“It’s fine Mr. Wise, you can sit next to me” Seed said as she slipped into the backseat and patted the spot next to her

Wise sighed as he scooched next to the girl

“Uhh..” Orphie looked inside and then back at Trigger

“Oh, not enough space back there” Carole observed

“They’re just being sissies, squeeze in there” Magus picked up her daughter and shoved her inside

“M-MOM!?” Oprhie blushed at the proximity to Wise

“Nice and snug” Seed commented as she latched onto Wise’s arm

“U-Uh...” Wise felt the squeeze even more as Magus shoved Trigger inside as well

“A-Aunt Magus..” the woman in question shut the door

“Did you a favor there glasses” Magus spoke to Carole

“Thank you uh....muscles” Carole replied

“And you” Magus pointed at Wise

“Me?”

“Don’t try getting touchy with my Orphie, I have eyes on you” Magus warned

“Yeah, she has eyes on you” Belle looked back with a mischievous smile

“Belle” Wise looked at his sister

“L-LET’S GO TO SCHOOL!” Orphie exclaimed in embarrassment

“Don’t worry Ms. Magnusson, Wise typically doesn’t touch women” Carole vouched as she began to drive off

“Tch, now where’s my other useless kid with that goddamn car?” Magus walked back into her home

‘So close...’ Orphie thought as she slowly glanced at Wise whose attention was on Seed who was clung to his other arm

A light blush appeared on her cheeks the more she thought of their proximity

‘He’s right here, next to me...’

Belle’s eyes momentarily observed the red head’s body language before a smirk appeared on her lips

‘Ohh she’s totally into bro, time for some fun’ Belle thought

“How are you holding up there Orphie?” Belle asked

“I-I’m fine, why do you ask?”

“Oh you just seem a bit squished there, I was worried you know” Belle said

“Why? The more squished the better” Seed said

“Maybe for you Seed” Trigger said

“I was just thinking you know, if you ever get to squished maybe you could sit on bro’s lap” Belle mused

“H-H-HUH!?” Wise and Orphie both exclaimed in unison

“Orphie can sit on me instead” Trigger cut in swiftly

“Belle” Wise called her name in a stern but slightly shaky manner

“Hm?” Belle looked back with a cheshire grin

Carole stifled a light chuckle

‘These two are the worst’ Wise thought as he glanced at his mom and Belle

Wise turned to a loudly silent Trigger, no visor light just silent and unmoving.

‘Is she alright? I can’t see what she’s thinking’ Wise thought

Orphie took a breath to calm herself as she still felt the heat on her face

‘How far is the school?’ the girl thought to herself

After about 15 more minutes of driving the group arrived at the school and disembarked from the car.

“Ahh, sweet school” Belle inhaled the air

“I thought you hated class” Wise said

“I said school, not class” Belle spoke

Orphie’s eyes darted from Wise back to her walking path multiple times.

“By the way Seed, aren’t we getting our quiz scores today?” Belle looked at the scooting girl

“Yep, today’s the day” Seed spoke

“You guys had a quiz?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Y-Yeah, we wrote it yesterday, it was a bit hard” Orphie answered

“Aww, don’t say that you hammered it out of the park, I know you did” Wise encouraged making Orphie blush

“T-Thanks”

Belle rolled her eyes

‘It’s like he communicates via flirting’ Belle held in a chuckle

“I also think you did great” Trigger added as she suddenly shifted between Wise and Orphie

“Thanks Trigger” Orphie spoke to the woman

‘Is it just me or did she almost shove us?’ Wise thought as he looked at the blind woman who immediately turned to face him

“Is something the matter?”

‘Crap, I forgot how sharp she is’ Wise thought

“Nothing at all, just walking” Wise said

‘His eyes were definitely on me, was my deterrence too obvious?’ Trigger wondered

“Mr. Wise, let’s go share another coffee” Seed said

“About that, you have to stop waltzing into the staffroom” Wise said

“But we share coffee there, nobody says anything” Seed said

“Until now, no more barging in there” Trigger’s voice was full of authority as she gave the command

“B-But Triggy...”

“No. More”

“Mhmmm” Seed pouted and turned her nose away from the woman

“Don’t worry Seed, I can buy you a drink during tutoring” Wise assured

“And you'll shar it with me?” Seed’s attention turned back to Wise who sighed

“I’ll buy my own, we can share the same flavor, how about that?” Wise said

“Mhmmm, okay” Seed accepted

“Let’s go for briefing, you three head to class” Trigger said as she grabbed Wise’s hand and split

‘Wise’s college buddy is almost as touchy as Seed’ Belle observed as the two walked off with Trigger still holding Wise’s hand

‘They’re holding hands again...’ Orphie looked down at her own appendage

“Hello ladies” Harumasa approached the group

“This guy...” Belle sighed

“Don’t act like you hate seeing me” Harumasa said

“Let’s go guys” Belle said as they walked past Harumasa

“W-Wait” the boy gripped Belle’s wrist

“Hey” Belle had a small flush as she twisted to face Harumasa

“I kind of need-”

“The homework?”

“Actually, I need some company” Harumasa said

“Go ask your friends or something” Belle said

“Aren't you my friend?” the guy pleaded

“Ugh” Belle groaned

“Fine” she agreed

“But only until class starts” Belle said as the two began their walk side by side

“Sorry for splitting you from Seed and Orphie” Asaba apologized

“I’ll meet them at lunch anyway”

“So what’s up with your brother and the new assistant?”

“What about them?”

“They seem a bit close, are they dating?”

“No, they aren’t plus why are you invested?”

“There are some guys who made a bet about who your brother is pounding”

“People are betting on Wise’s love life?”

“Yeah, he’s a money maker for us, I made about 400 dennies last week”

“Of course you resort to gambling for money”

“Don’t act as if I won’t buy you something” Harumasa mused

“You say that to all the girls” Belle rolled her eyes

“Uh not really, you’re the first I made the offer to” Harumasa smirked

“Am I?” Belle cocked an eyebrow

“Yeah, you are”

“In that case...”

“Since you offered, I’d like a new Fairy phone, 500GB storage, 16GB Ram and of course a high-res camera front and back plus I want a data bundle plan already prepaid” Belle said

“Woah slow down, you lost me at new phone”

“Cheapskate” Belle said as the two made their way into class

------ THAT AFTERNOON ------

“Uh Mr. Wise” Orphie walked into class

“Orphie, tutoring doesn’t start for another 10 minutes” Wise looked at his phone

“I-I wanted to show you something” Orphie reached into her bag

“What is it?” Wise watched curiously as Orphie pulled out a sheet of paper

“I-I passed the quiz” Orphie held out a 80/100 score”

“Oh, wow” Wise held and skimmed through the sheet

“This is good”

“Mhm” Orphie fidgeted nervously

‘Maybe she’s a bit down about the score’ Wise thought

“Don’t worry Orphie, 80 is a strong score” Wise placed a hand on the girl’s shoulder

Orphie’s gaze shot up to meet Wise’s, a moment of silence fell as the she stared into his eyes

‘H-He’s...’ Orphie’s face was basically a tomato at that point as the eye contact continued

“I think you’re getting there really quick, we haven’t been doing this long” Wise further complemented

“T-Thank you...” Orphie immersed herself in the man’s irises

“Sup Wis-” Ellen walked in and paused

“Oh, hi Ellen” Wise retracted his hand from her shoulder

‘That girl’s good for the socially awkward type’ Ellen thought

“I’m here early” Ellen took her position at Wise’s desk

“Great, now we just need Seed” Wise said as he also settled

Ellen’s eyes locked onto Orphie who averted her gaze as she sat down

‘I’m getting left behind, I need to step up my game’ Ellen thought

---------- FAR LATER IN THE DAY ---------

“Well I’ll be damned” Magus looked at the score presented by her daughter

“Y-Yeah” Orphie said

“80 out of a freaking 100, stronger than before” Magus put down the paper and pats Orphie’s head

“Nice job kiddo, keep it up and I might allow you buy those weird snacks you like so much” Magus said

“R-Really?” Orphie’s eyes widened

“I said I might” Magus said

“I’ll take it” Orphie smiled at her mother as she walked off

‘That kid really is doing better, in such a short time too’ Magus thought back to Wise

‘Mh, maybe I was too harsh on the guy’

Magus walked to her bedroom and shut the door

‘Orphie’s progress cannot be denied, maybe a bump up in tutoring time can send her even further’ Magus contemplated

Elsewhere....

RING!

“Your girlfriend is calling?” Carole mused

“It’s Trigger” Wise looked at the caller Id

“She’ll have to call back, it’s dinner” Wise declined the call

“Just answer, dinner shouldn’t get in the way of love” Belle mocked

“Shut i-”

RING!

“She’s calling again?” Belle smirked

“Just answer it” Carole said

Wise sighed as he answered

“Hello?” he held the phone up to his ear

“So you think you’re tough?” Magus’s voice sounded making Wise tense up

‘Crap, it’s Magus’ Wise thought

“Uh no, I’m eating”

“Yeah whatever, I saw Orphie’s score, you did that?” Magus spoke

“Uh, it was mostly her effort but...”

“You tutored” Magus said

“Yeah, I did”

“What do you say about more sessions with Orphie?”

Wise cocked an eyebrow

“What’s happening?” Belle whispered

“Uh, what about Seed?” Wise asked

“She doesn’t need as much help, her grades are better than Orphie’s” Magus said

“I don’t think my work schedule can get more time in a school” Wise said

“I think it’s Magus” Belle whispered to Carole

“Oh the muscly woman?”

“No I mean you come here to my place” Magus said

Wise froze

“Y-You’re place?”

“Look, I admit I may have been a bit harsh and we still don’t see eye to eye but if it’s for Orphie’s future, I’m willing to tolerate it at best”

“Uh...”

“Look, I’ll pay for the sessions, if that’s what you want to hear”

A moment of silence washed over as Wise went into thought

“Hey, I have things to do” Magus spoke

“I guess it’ll fine, we can discuss times later” Wise said

“Fine” Magus cuts the call

“Tutoring?” Carole asked

“What is it this time?” Belle asked

“Just some business, no worries’ Wise said

‘Oh crap, going to Magus’s house on a regular is going to drain my soul’ Wise thought

Chapter Text

‘Alright Ellen, no more holding back’ the thiren walked into the class

‘They aren’t here, good’ Ellen thought

“Early again” Wise smiled

“Got a problem with it?” Ellen spoke as she took a seat next to Wise

“No, I’m actually kinda glad you show up early, makes me feel like I’m doing a good job”

“Don’t blow it out of proportion, I just show up on time” Ellen joked

“So, I can’t say anything good about you?” Wise chuckled

“You ended by complementing yourself, a bit narcissistic” Ellen spoke

“How dare you throw accuse me of narcissism?” Wise feigned offense

The two laughed

“Are we starting or what?” Ellen asked

“Let’s wait for the others first, you are super early” Wise said

“Oh right, almost forgot” Ellen said

“So, what was your score on the quiz?” Wise asked

“Where’s that coming from?”

“Oh, Orphie showed me hers so...”

“Ah right, progress check?”

“You don’t have to disclose if you don’t want-”

“88”

“Hm?”

“I said 88 out of a 100”

“That’s amazing” Wise said

“W-Whatever” Ellen blushed as she looked to the side

“Enough about my grades” Ellen shut down the topic

“Alright, I’ll back off” Wise surrendered

“S-Since I told you, c-can you answer a question for me?” Ellen spoke

“Uh...sure” Wise agreed

‘Come on Ellen, you have to know’ she mentally prepared herself

“W-What is your type?” she asked with an unseen bashfulness

“My type?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Like, type of girl” she clarified

“Don’t take it the wrong way, j-just curious” Ellen added

“Type of girl?” Wise looked up in thought

‘H-He’s really thinking about this...’

“I guess if I had to describe an ideal type, I’d have to say I like strong women” Wise said

“Strong? What do you mean by strong?” Ellen said

“Like, strong character, strong values, and physically strong doesn’t hurt either” Wise said

“C-Cool” Ellen retreated to her mind

“Do you think I’m strong?” Ellen blurted before covering her mouth

“Why?” Wise turned to face her

“N-Never mind”

Wise sighed

“I think you’re plenty strong” Wise smiled at the girl

‘S-So I might have a chance..’ Ellen thought with a blush

‘Maybe this could be my time, I can win or lose it all right now....’ Ellen decided on her next action, soon her body shifted like it had a mind of it’s own

‘She’s getting closer’ Wise observed as Ellen leaned in

“Ellen” Wise muttered her name

‘I-Is she...’

Time slowed down for Wise as the thiren lips inched closer to Wise

“Seed is here~” the girl barged in prompting Ellen to quickly retract and face the other way with a pacing heart.

“Are we late?” Orphie rushed in afterwards

“Well no, not at all” Wise clears his throat

‘What just happened?’ Wise’s mind raced as Orphie took her place next to him

Wise discretely glanced at the thiren and simultaneously the girl averted her eyes

‘S-Shit, they came in at a bad time’ Ellen slowly turned to face Wise who was now focusing on Orphie

‘W-Would he have allowed it? I-I might never know now’ Ellen cursed the horrible timing

“Heeyyyyyy~” Seed tapped Ellen’s textbook rapidly

“Huh?”

“We’re doing chemistry today, that is math” Seed pointed at the book’s cover

“Oh right” Ellen quickly swapped it for the correct subject

‘Ellen is acting weird’ Orphie looked over at the girl who wore a perpetual flush on her cheeks

‘D-Did something happen with...’ Orphie glanced at Wise

‘N-No, Mr. Wise isn’t that type of man, h-he didn’t’ Orphie thought with a stir in her chest as she tightened her grip on her pen

‘It’s study time, mom said to focus on my studies’ Orphie took a breath before redirecting her focus back onto the tutoring session.

Orphie had to pull out all the stops to keep her mind from drifting to Wise and Ellen, the session moved by slower as she’d sometimes and unwillingly fall into her own intrusive thoughts.

“And that’s time up” Wise spoke as he looked at the dimming sky outside

“Ahhhhhh” Seed stretched in her seat

“I hope you all learned a lot today” Wise said

“Yep, I now know you don’t backwash water” Seed spoke

‘This girl needs to stop sharing my drinks’ Wise thought as he looked at a quiet Ellen

“What about you Ellen?” Wise spoke to the woman

‘H-He’s speaking to me, crap, I feel so awkward right now’ Ellen

“Mh..” Ellen had a flush on her face

“I-I learned uh....stoichi-whatever” Ellen murmured

“Stoichiometry?”

“Yeah, that” Ellen crossed her arms and tucked in her chin bashfully

“Mr. Wise don’t forget, you have to go home with us” Seed spoke out of the blue making Ellen perk up

“Oh” Wise sounded

“What do you mean go home with them?” Ellen asked

‘S-She’s back to normal it seems’ Wise observed

“For a little “study session” with both of us~” Seed spoke

‘Study session? S-She can’t be talking about....’ Ellen looked at Seed’s grin

‘Seed...and Orphie going home with Wise, I-I couldn’t even get a kiss in’ Ellen thought with a tensed jaw

“They’re mom asked for more tutoring” Wise explained

“Oh, cool” Ellen got up and took her things

“I suppose you should get home early” Wise said

“Y-Yeah, I’m cooking dinner again” Ellen said

“Get back safe” Wise said

“I will” Ellen walked out with a deep blush

‘Fuck me, why did I hesitate? I might have gotten it in before those two showed up’ Ellen grumbled as she pulled her hood over her head.

“It’s 5 p.m, mom is about to arrive any minute” Orphie said as the rest of them walked out

“We better not keep her waiting then” Wise encouraged as he paced up

‘I don’t want an earful, going to her home is already bad enough’ Wise’s mind had images of an angry Magus pop into it

They rushed down to the parking lot to find Magus’s car just pull in

‘Good, I was not ready for a lecture’ Wise thought as they approached the car to get inside

“Uh uh” Magus stopped Orphie in her tracks

“Huh?” her daughter looked with confused

“The back, I want sissy boy right here” Magus said

‘Fuck’ Wise cursed

“No fair, I wanted Mr. Wise next to me” Seed complained

“Too bad, my car my rules, I want him here” Magus said as she pointed at the shotgun seat

‘Shit’ Wise cautiously slipped into the car and gently closed the door to avoid pestering Magus

The car ride was nerve wracking for Wise as he was practically in the red zone, right by the side of the woman of his nightmares aka Magus. Her eyes were fixed on the road the entire time however that did not mean Wise could relax even for a moment. As they pulled into the driveway, Wise practically shot out of the vehicle.

‘That was so tense’

“Mr. Wise, wait up, I have a key” Seed got out and rushed to Wise with the house key

“Oh right” WIse said

“So you’re running huh?” Magus commented as Seed fiddled around the keyhole

“Uh, no, I was just eager, yes eager to get started” Wise said

“We have to eat first Mr. Wise” Orphie said

“I-I’m eating here?” Wise questioned

“What? You think the quality of the food I buy is crap?” Magus pressed

“Of course not, I just don’t want to intrude” Wise defused

“Mom, you’re being a bit much” Orphie spoke up

“Tch, whatever” Magus walked into the home followed by her daughters and last came in Wise who was hit by a delicious aroma.

‘Ohhh’ Wise melted as he followed the smell to the dining room to find Trigger placing some pots on the table.

“Wise, you’re here” Trigger’s visor lit up as she smiled at the man

“Yeah” Wise smiled back

“Mh” Seed pouted as she looked at the two

“Looks like you got to work early” Magus said as she took her seat

“I didn’t want the dishes washed late so I cooked early” Trigger said

The family took their seats at the table; there were a couple of spaces available on the table and Wise plopped down next to Trigger who seemed pleased with the decision.

‘Atleast I have a screen from Magus’

The meal was undoubtedly some of the very best Wise had ever had, after assisting Trigger with clearing the table. Orphie and the man were now settled there deeply enthralled amid their study.

“I see” Orphie spoke as she took down notes

“It’s not very difficult if you label the edges of the rhombus” Wise pointed at the diagram

“So I have to do it every time?”

“Yes, I recommend it every time” Wise said

“That’s so easy” Orphie smiled

“Of course it is” Wise affirmed

“Ahhh” Orphie leaned back on the chair with a stretch

“Now my head doesn’t get messed up by those questions” Orphie said

“I’m glad to be of service then” Wise looked down at the time on his phone

‘7:31 p.m.? it’s getting a bit late’ Wise thought before he looked back up and froze

“What are you teaching there?” Magus was looming over his shoulder

“Mom” Orphie greeted her mother

“Oh uh....geometric questions and stuff” Wise answered

“Okay” Magus nodded before sitting down at the table as well

‘She’s staying here, crap’ Wise panicked

“What are you doing mom?”

“Observing, I want to see how he teaches” Magus leaned back with her arms crossed and eyes narrowed at Wise

Wise could feel an unseen force suffocating him from a distance

‘Shit when do I get to go home?’ Wise thought of the safety of his house

“Oh uh... I was teaching volume of a complex shape” Wise resumed albeit with a slight shakiness at the new party in the room

“Since we have broken off sections, we have to complete the shape via calculations, we need the angles and lengths of the shown sides” Wise explained

“Oh, so I need to....uhhhhh” Orphie paused mid-sentence stumped

“Uh, draw a line from the corner there” Wise instructed

“Like this?” Orphie did as she heard however it wasn’t as Wise had spoken

“No, you have to use the protractor, let me show you” Wise gripped onto Orphie’s hand to guide them.

The unwarned action elicited a blush on Orphie’s face to which her mother immediately took notice.

‘He’s holding my hands again, so warm’ Orphie embraced the contact

Magus’s posture changed as she suddenly leaned forward glaring at the scene before her

‘Shit’

“Is that part of the lesson too?” Magus asked

“Uh...guidance” Wise answered

“Guide without touching my little girl” Magus warned

“Yes ma’am” Wise immediately retracted his hands

“Mom, I need this” Orphie pouted with a blush

“Yada yada, get back to it” Magus dismissed

“Mh” Orphie puffed up her cheeks before looking back down at her books

Magus’s eyes were still trained on Wise as the session continued. Eventually Wise was able to make it home albeit a bit later into the night. He was currently plopped down onto the bed as Belle waltzed into his bedroom

“How was it bro?” Belle asked

“Stressful” Wise mumbled with his face deep into the pillow

“Too many panties to steal?” Belle mused

“Go to your room” Wise spoke

“Boring” Belle commented before skipping off

‘At least I’m getting paid for this’ Wise thought

Chapter Text

“Remind me why we’re going to the library” Trigger spoke

“Well, I promised Ms. Qingyi I’d drop by more often” Wise spoke

“Do you have to drop by this often? I mean the library is so quiet and boring” Trigger said

“Well I said if you didn’t want to come, you could stay with Venus” Wise spoke

“I never said I wasn’t happy to be here, I was just saying” Trigger said

“I get it, it’s a bit out of the blue to accompany somebody to the library” Wise joked

Inside the library Qingyi looked at her watch

‘He’s supposed to be here right about now; did he get caught up?” Qingyi thought

“Ms. Qingyi” Wise enters prompting Qingyi to wear a smile on her lips

“Ah Wise, you kept your promise”

“Of course I did”

Trigger followed in shortly after dampening Qingyi’s mood

‘She’s here too...’ the short woman thought as her eyes set on Trigger

“I brought Trigger with me as well” Wise smiled

“Ah yes, Ms. Phlegethon how are you on this fine day?” Qingyi put on a smile

“I’m very fine Ms. Qingyi” Trigger replied

“So what are you doing? Anything fun?” Wise looked at the computer screen

“Just some bookkeeping, nothing too special” Qingyi spoke

‘I need to separate these two’

“By the way you reminded me, Ms. Phlegethon I need you to deliver this report to Ms. Sebastiane” Qingyi pulled out a random file

“Alright then” Trigger reached out her hand to grab the file

“Oh I can do it for her” Wise volunteered

“You don’t need to; I can handle it” Trigger insisted

“I can’t let you do so much, I couldn’t live it down” Wise said

‘This is tougher than I thought, he’s willing to do favors for her so easily’ Qingyi thought

“Actually, I need help with my computer again” Qingyi said

“Hm? You need me?” Wise turned to the woman

“Yes, I do” Qingyi said

“I’ll go with it” Trigger said as she slowly turned to exit but not without a momentary look towards Qingyi

‘She’s harder to read than most, even with that damned visor’ Qingyi thought as Wise settled next to her

“So what do you need?”

‘Looks like my plan progressed well so far’ QIngyi looked at the distance between them for a moment

‘But in order to use my womanly charms, this distance is not it’

“Can you come closer? I want to show you better” Qingyi said

“Uh, alright” Wise wheeled the chair to close the distance

‘Good, not much hesitance, a good sign to move things along, next establish a common interest’ Qingyi thought

“I wish to download what they call an MMO” Qingyi said

Wise blinked at the statement

“Are..you being serious?” Wise cocked an eyebrow

“Is that not what it’s called?”

“No, I mean I never thought the librarian would be into video games”

“It’s an interest I just picked up, I have seen threads of gameplay on the InterKnot and I wish to also experience it” Qingyi said

“Well, let’s get started then, I have a few I can recommend” Wise presumably unwittingly placed his hand over Qingyi’s to maneuver the mouse

‘Touch barrier broken, seems my prep time has proven fruitful’ Qingyi smirked

‘Multiple research articles stated, scent is a strong attractor, vanilla is the top of all, just a shift slightly under him’ Qingyi repositioned herself leaning into Wise’s space more

‘This is bound to arouse something in him’ Qingyi thought

“Alright, Ms. Qingyi, I got you on this site, just bookmark it for later” Wise continued leading her hand

‘No release yet, is this a sign of acceptance? A sign to push things forward?’ Qingyi thought as she looked up at the man as he enthusiastically scrolled through her browser

“By the way, do you prefer turn based or real t-” Wise looked down to see Qingyi’s unbreaking gaze fixated on him

“Uh, is something on my face?” Wise asked

“No, nothing at all” Qingyi’s voice lowered as she slowly shifted up with half lidded eyes

‘The rat isn’t the only one who knows men’ Qingyi thought as she leaned in closer

‘She can’t be...’ Wise thought as his eyes widened

“I’m back” Trigger slammed a binder onto the desk breaking down the attempt entirely

“Trigger” Wise cleared his throat

“Have you been “helped” Ms. Qingyi?” Trigger asked

“Hm, sufficiently so” Qingyi said as she grabbed the binder without even as much as a slip in her composure

‘She was very close to Wise’ Trigger thought

“Those are stamped reports, I was told to bring them here” Trigger said before turning to Wise

“Let’s go chill somewhere else”

“Oh uh, bye Ms. Qingyi” Wise got up to exit with Trigger

“Come again sometime” Qingyi smiled casually as the two left

‘She’s swift to defend him, her speed ruined my advance last minute’ Qingyi thought

With Wise and Trigger....

‘Ms. Qingyi had odd behavior just now’ he turned to see Trigger simply facing her path

‘And she’s a bit quiet too’

“Everything okay Trigger?” Wise held her hand immediately breaking the silence

“Just fine” her visor showed pink

‘These women around Wise are getting bolder, this Qingyi’s advance was forward’ Trigger thought

‘I can’t let them take him; I can’t be complacent and rely on our connection alone’

“So where did you want to head to?” Wise asked

“J-Just a walk around”

“Outside then?” Wise proposed

“I don’t mind some fresh air” she agreed with a gentle smile

The two took the nearest exit to get outside the school building, the moment they stepped foot outside. Trigger took a deep breath then exhaled calmly

“The air is nice and cool”

“I know right, I enjoy days like these, reminds me of college a bit” Wise said

“Me too” Trigger tightened her grip on his hand

“I remember how it was during our first days at school when you would lead me around, holding my hand just like this” Trigger smiled

“Those days were fun, I was really lucky to have met you, I thought I’d only have Shepherd as a friend” Wise chuckled

“I was the lucky one” Trigger murmured to herself with a light flush

Trigger sniffed the air once more

“I smell battery and some metal”

“Probably coming from the security cabin”

“We’re near there?”

“Yeah, we just walked past it”

Inside Zhu Yuan’s eyes locked onto Wise and Trigger’s interlocked hands

‘H-He’s holding hands with another girl? I thought he was with Grace’ Zhu Yuan froze before impulsively rushing out

‘Another girl got to him’

“H-Hey Wise” ZHu Yuan greeted

“Zhu Yuan?” Wise released Trigger’s hand to tend to the new woman

“Y-Yeah, rare seeing you out here” Zhu Yuan awkwardly spoke as Evelyn watched from the cabin.

“I was just taking a walk with Trigger, you know Trigger right?”

“I-I’ve seen her around” Zhu Yuan shook the woman’s hand

‘This one’s heartbeat is fast, she must have rushed here’

‘She must also be after him, I have to get on guard’ Trigger concluded as she gripped onto Wise’s hand again

“Oh, sorry” Wise apologized to the Trigger

“It’s fine”

“Oh, I didn’t know you two were...” Zhu Yuan slightly backed up

“Oh no, we aren’t dating or anything, this is just normal for us” Wise explained

‘She’s dangerous, touching Wise like it’s as easy as breathing’ Zhu Yuan observed Trigger who despite being blind seemed to also scan the guard back

“I-I should get back to patrol, it was nice seeing you” Zhu Yuan turned to leave

“See you” Wise and Trigger also returned to their intended path

‘Come on Zhu Yuan, you aren’t weak, you’re a dam security guard’ Zhu Yuan mustered courage to turn back

“H-Hey” she called out

“Hm?” Wise looked back

“D-Drop by mre often, i-it's nice seeing you” Zhu Yuan said with a blush

“I will, don’t worry” Wise said

Zhu Yuan smiled as she saw Wise and Trigger shrink the farther, they got, simultaneously Evelyn walked up next to her.

“Does he really make you that nervous?”

“G-Get back to patrol” Zhu Yuan said with a crack in her voice

“I’m on break remember?”

“Oh”

“I don’t see the appeal” Evelyn turned to walk off

Back with Wise and Trigger....

“Is there somebody missing? Where’s the other guard?” Wise asked

“Oh you mean Harin? She takes the night shift usually, right now she’s probably asleep at home”

“I was wondering, because I rarely see her around” Wise spoke

“Maybe one day you can get properly acquainted” Trigger said