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[ They probably won't be gone for too long, especially with the rate this keeps going. Next Jun will be dreaming about the collar and it'll creep into his daily life, wondering and hoping to be used again.
And, honestly? Neither did Jun! It seems the House really wants to cash in on it, even to the point where they must think it's humorous to bother him on an outing. Jun hasn't any idea what's triggered this, because it's not as if he feels funny, or cursed. ]
Uh, maybe? But seriously...
[ When he thinks about it, there's no sudden compulsion right this second. Even when Hiyori brings it up, there's no urge to act like a pet, bark or anything else. ]
I'm thinking 'bout it, and I'm doubting it's my subconscious. Honestly, Ohii-san, I feel just fine.
[ No compulsion to begin barking again, he's not even in the mood to act like Ohii-san's beloved pet today! So, what gives? ]
And, honestly? Neither did Jun! It seems the House really wants to cash in on it, even to the point where they must think it's humorous to bother him on an outing. Jun hasn't any idea what's triggered this, because it's not as if he feels funny, or cursed. ]
Uh, maybe? But seriously...
[ When he thinks about it, there's no sudden compulsion right this second. Even when Hiyori brings it up, there's no urge to act like a pet, bark or anything else. ]
I'm thinking 'bout it, and I'm doubting it's my subconscious. Honestly, Ohii-san, I feel just fine.
[ No compulsion to begin barking again, he's not even in the mood to act like Ohii-san's beloved pet today! So, what gives? ]
(On the night after this thread...)
[He falls asleep the same way he has the past few nights: clinging tightly to Jun for warmth, his arms around Jun's middle and his cold face pressed into Jun's neck. In his dream, however, he's alone.
His footsteps echo through a dark, frigid hallway. He hugs his arms against the chill, shuffling forward slowly—towards what, he doesn't know. Perhaps he'd been exploring and gotten lost in one of the resort's endless halls; all he knows is that there's nowhere to go but forward. He lifts his wrist and turns on his smartwatch. The glow of the screen provides at least a little illumination, which he uses to peer down the hall. Nope, no end that he can see. Then he looks to his side.
There's something on his left. When he casts his watch in that direction, he sees that it's a statue. There are several in a row, all stone statues standing on pedestals, not just on his left but also to his right; both sides of the hall are decorated with them. That's nothing new around here, but it still gives him the creeps. Then he hears a humming noise.
A light above one of the statues suddenly turned on. It pierces the darkness, bathing the statue in an eerie, ethereal glow. When he sees what it looks like in the light, his stomach drops.
He knows whose figure this is. The small stature and short ponytail, the arms held aloft like a conductor leading a symphony orchestra. That smile. They all point to one thing, one person. And yet a part of his brain refuses to accept the truth, even as he drags himself closer and looks at the statue's face.
This can't be Leo-kun. He just saw Leo not too long ago. It was close to a week ago, granted. He'd meant to check on Leo a few days ago but gotten sidetracked on the way up to his room—that was when he ran into Esikko and the whole connection thing began. But Leo has just been holed up in his studio making music, right? He failed to answer his messages because he was busy composing. That's what Hiyori assumed. Not that he disappeared. Not that the House turned him into this.
He feels too sick to continue looking. He looks down at his smartwatch instead, and his clumsy fingers fumble to pull up Rinne's contact. He gives him a ring. No response. He rings again. Still no response—a problem with the reception? He opens his messages and tries texting instead, furiously typing a stream of accusatory gibberish. Come here. You have to see this. Did you know about this? Why didn't you stop this? I look after Jun-kun. Looking after Leo-kun was YOUR job. Did you even check on him? Why didn't you do anything? You should've stopped this. We should've stopped this. It doesn't matter what he types, though, because none of the messages go through. And what's stranger still is the message he receives. ERROR: User not found. What does that mean, "user not found"?
And then a second spotlight hums to life directly behind him.
Slowly, with his heart beating wildly against his ribcage, he turns around. An icy feeling grips his heart when he sees the next statue lit up: a tall man, rambunctious body language, tufts of hair sticking out every which way on his head, a smirk carved into his face. Not an approximation of Rinne-senpai but the real thing, frozen in time, no longer a menace or a rebel but a fixture of the resort.
He's nauseous. He's shaking all over, and not just from the cold. There's nothing else to do, no one else to turn to except the one person he's always turned to. The one person he can rely on in the resort, the only thing he has left now that Rinne and Leo are like this. He rings Jun's watch.
No response.
Come here, he texts him, his fingers trembling on the tiny screen. Please come here. I'm scared.
The screen buffers endlessly. He's still waiting for the message to send when a third light hums on at the end of the hall.
Slowly, he lifts his eyes from the screen.
This time his thoughts don't race. This time his head is completely, utterly blank. He doesn't comprehend what he sees. His feet move without his brain's knowledge or consent, taking him to the end of the hall, until he's standing directly before that statue. But his eyes must be playing tricks on him. That can't be— No, that can't be—
His eyes raise higher—
(They can't)
until they fall—
(They can't take Jun-kun away)
on the statue's face.
(Anyone but Jun-kun)
He collapses to his knees on the cold tile.]
No...
[It starts out quiet. Something half-gasped, half-sobbed into Jun's shoulder.]
No!
[And then it changes to something louder. Inside the dream, his own anguished cry pierces his ears, and that's exactly how he wakes up: with a scream on his lips and hot tears spilling from his eyes, wetting the fabric of Jun's shirt, his fingers clenched tight in Jun's clothes.]
[He falls asleep the same way he has the past few nights: clinging tightly to Jun for warmth, his arms around Jun's middle and his cold face pressed into Jun's neck. In his dream, however, he's alone.
His footsteps echo through a dark, frigid hallway. He hugs his arms against the chill, shuffling forward slowly—towards what, he doesn't know. Perhaps he'd been exploring and gotten lost in one of the resort's endless halls; all he knows is that there's nowhere to go but forward. He lifts his wrist and turns on his smartwatch. The glow of the screen provides at least a little illumination, which he uses to peer down the hall. Nope, no end that he can see. Then he looks to his side.
There's something on his left. When he casts his watch in that direction, he sees that it's a statue. There are several in a row, all stone statues standing on pedestals, not just on his left but also to his right; both sides of the hall are decorated with them. That's nothing new around here, but it still gives him the creeps. Then he hears a humming noise.
A light above one of the statues suddenly turned on. It pierces the darkness, bathing the statue in an eerie, ethereal glow. When he sees what it looks like in the light, his stomach drops.
He knows whose figure this is. The small stature and short ponytail, the arms held aloft like a conductor leading a symphony orchestra. That smile. They all point to one thing, one person. And yet a part of his brain refuses to accept the truth, even as he drags himself closer and looks at the statue's face.
This can't be Leo-kun. He just saw Leo not too long ago. It was close to a week ago, granted. He'd meant to check on Leo a few days ago but gotten sidetracked on the way up to his room—that was when he ran into Esikko and the whole connection thing began. But Leo has just been holed up in his studio making music, right? He failed to answer his messages because he was busy composing. That's what Hiyori assumed. Not that he disappeared. Not that the House turned him into this.
He feels too sick to continue looking. He looks down at his smartwatch instead, and his clumsy fingers fumble to pull up Rinne's contact. He gives him a ring. No response. He rings again. Still no response—a problem with the reception? He opens his messages and tries texting instead, furiously typing a stream of accusatory gibberish. Come here. You have to see this. Did you know about this? Why didn't you stop this? I look after Jun-kun. Looking after Leo-kun was YOUR job. Did you even check on him? Why didn't you do anything? You should've stopped this. We should've stopped this. It doesn't matter what he types, though, because none of the messages go through. And what's stranger still is the message he receives. ERROR: User not found. What does that mean, "user not found"?
And then a second spotlight hums to life directly behind him.
Slowly, with his heart beating wildly against his ribcage, he turns around. An icy feeling grips his heart when he sees the next statue lit up: a tall man, rambunctious body language, tufts of hair sticking out every which way on his head, a smirk carved into his face. Not an approximation of Rinne-senpai but the real thing, frozen in time, no longer a menace or a rebel but a fixture of the resort.
He's nauseous. He's shaking all over, and not just from the cold. There's nothing else to do, no one else to turn to except the one person he's always turned to. The one person he can rely on in the resort, the only thing he has left now that Rinne and Leo are like this. He rings Jun's watch.
No response.
Come here, he texts him, his fingers trembling on the tiny screen. Please come here. I'm scared.
The screen buffers endlessly. He's still waiting for the message to send when a third light hums on at the end of the hall.
Slowly, he lifts his eyes from the screen.
This time his thoughts don't race. This time his head is completely, utterly blank. He doesn't comprehend what he sees. His feet move without his brain's knowledge or consent, taking him to the end of the hall, until he's standing directly before that statue. But his eyes must be playing tricks on him. That can't be— No, that can't be—
His eyes raise higher—
(They can't)
until they fall—
(They can't take Jun-kun away)
on the statue's face.
(Anyone but Jun-kun)
He collapses to his knees on the cold tile.]
No...
[It starts out quiet. Something half-gasped, half-sobbed into Jun's shoulder.]
No!
[And then it changes to something louder. Inside the dream, his own anguished cry pierces his ears, and that's exactly how he wakes up: with a scream on his lips and hot tears spilling from his eyes, wetting the fabric of Jun's shirt, his fingers clenched tight in Jun's clothes.]
Then I'm not sure what you call that. A Freudian slip?
[Yep, he's stumped. But after a moment, he shakes his head, his expression brightening up again.]
Well, as long as you feel fine, that's what counts. There's no need to make a big deal out of some silly noises. Perhaps you felt so glad to be eating here with me that you got overwhelmed, so you simply didn't know what to say, and your brain decided to substitute some nonsense sounds! ♪
[He proposes this new theory cheerfully, taking his fork and using it to stab the strawberry that fell on the table. He transfers to Jun's plate for now, picking up another piece of pastry with his fork so that they can try the feeding thing again.
But in his mind he's still hung up on the barking. And after going over their previous interaction again he adds,]
Unless it was "Good boy" that was the trigger. It does sound similar to "good girl," which is what I call Mary.
[Yep, he's stumped. But after a moment, he shakes his head, his expression brightening up again.]
Well, as long as you feel fine, that's what counts. There's no need to make a big deal out of some silly noises. Perhaps you felt so glad to be eating here with me that you got overwhelmed, so you simply didn't know what to say, and your brain decided to substitute some nonsense sounds! ♪
[He proposes this new theory cheerfully, taking his fork and using it to stab the strawberry that fell on the table. He transfers to Jun's plate for now, picking up another piece of pastry with his fork so that they can try the feeding thing again.
But in his mind he's still hung up on the barking. And after going over their previous interaction again he adds,]
Unless it was "Good boy" that was the trigger. It does sound similar to "good girl," which is what I call Mary.
[ He hardly minds the cold face pressed up against him, nor the even colder body huddling against him for warmth. It has been that way for the past couple of nights, Jun wanting to keep Hiyori warm and snug, just as he always wants. It can’t be different from any other night, Jun singing a lullaby, carding through knots.
Having the same dream he has every night, a happy ending to the Hell that is the Golden Peacock resort. Beginning with Eden performing for their fans, but not only that, they’re performing for them overseas. Something Jun’s wanted for as long as he could remember. Before too long the scene changes again, Hiyori and Jun walking hand-in-hand towards a row of beautifully decorated roses.
Something feels off the closer they get. First, the roses look fake! As if the red has been painted on. Second, an unknown uneasiness creeps up on dream!Jun. A daunting feeling of fear, sending him into a deep conundrum of anxiety. Thankfully he’s still dreaming, not bothering to find an answer to his sudden bout of depressing thoughts.
Something shakes him awake, a knowing fear washing over him. Feeling as if a bowl of water has been dumped on his head, he groggily feels himself waking only to hear Hiyori yelling something in his sleep. ]
… Ohii-san?
[ He murmurs, groggily, still half-asleep as his shirt feels soaked through with something he isn’t aware are tears just yet.
Running the hand across Hiyori’s back in circles, wanting him to know he’s right here. ]
I’m right here.
Having the same dream he has every night, a happy ending to the Hell that is the Golden Peacock resort. Beginning with Eden performing for their fans, but not only that, they’re performing for them overseas. Something Jun’s wanted for as long as he could remember. Before too long the scene changes again, Hiyori and Jun walking hand-in-hand towards a row of beautifully decorated roses.
Something feels off the closer they get. First, the roses look fake! As if the red has been painted on. Second, an unknown uneasiness creeps up on dream!Jun. A daunting feeling of fear, sending him into a deep conundrum of anxiety. Thankfully he’s still dreaming, not bothering to find an answer to his sudden bout of depressing thoughts.
Something shakes him awake, a knowing fear washing over him. Feeling as if a bowl of water has been dumped on his head, he groggily feels himself waking only to hear Hiyori yelling something in his sleep. ]
… Ohii-san?
[ He murmurs, groggily, still half-asleep as his shirt feels soaked through with something he isn’t aware are tears just yet.
Running the hand across Hiyori’s back in circles, wanting him to know he’s right here. ]
I’m right here.
[The sound of Jun's voice penetrates the dark cloud of misery surrounding him. He pulls his face out of Jun's shirt and tries to look at him, blinking blearily through wet eyelashes.]
Ju... n... kun?
[His voice trembles, confused and fragile and vulnerable. He's still out of it, still waking up and still terrified after his dream. His heart feels like it's been ripped in two. But the sound of Jun's voice and Jun's warm, solid presence bring him back to reality. His fingers pull tight in Jun's shirt again and his eyes well up with even more tears.]
Jun-kun...!
[He reburies his face in Jun's chest and sobs. Crying from stress, but also from relief. Jun is here. He's with Jun. He can touch him, hear his voice, feel his warmth. He can listen to his heartbeat—proof that he's alive. Jun-kun isn't a statue. Jun-kun is here in his arms. It was just a dream, Jun-kun is alive.
Jun-kun is alive for how much longer?
His chest constricts and another harsh sob wracks his body. His fears haven't gone away—that dream made them feel all too horribly real. But he keeps clinging to Jun, unable and unwilling to let him go after that.]
Ju... n... kun?
[His voice trembles, confused and fragile and vulnerable. He's still out of it, still waking up and still terrified after his dream. His heart feels like it's been ripped in two. But the sound of Jun's voice and Jun's warm, solid presence bring him back to reality. His fingers pull tight in Jun's shirt again and his eyes well up with even more tears.]
Jun-kun...!
[He reburies his face in Jun's chest and sobs. Crying from stress, but also from relief. Jun is here. He's with Jun. He can touch him, hear his voice, feel his warmth. He can listen to his heartbeat—proof that he's alive. Jun-kun isn't a statue. Jun-kun is here in his arms. It was just a dream, Jun-kun is alive.
Jun-kun is alive for how much longer?
His chest constricts and another harsh sob wracks his body. His fears haven't gone away—that dream made them feel all too horribly real. But he keeps clinging to Jun, unable and unwilling to let him go after that.]
[ A Freudian... what? Is what Jun would like to say if this entire thing wasn't and say again he feels fine; no "horny" curse, no sweating, and nothing else. Besides the sudden need to bark, his eyes watch the strawberry being moved to another plate. ]
I’m not gonna make a big deal out of some noise. We’ve eaten here together before, Ohii-san. And now you’re just making things up...
[ He's happy to accept more of the pastry, instead of voicing some new theory, preferring to open his mouth and be fed by his partner! And again, he'd say more if only the "good boy," comment wasn't brought up again. It's another compulsion he can't stop, the same feeling bubbling up in his throat as another low bark rumbles from his throat.
His eyes widened again, with an attempt to keep his mouth shut, hoping no more sounds would escape. Unfortunately, this silly, mischievous curse has different ideas and causes another bark to escape, due to Hiyori saying "good" twice. This time, someone at another table glances over with concern. Jun, avoiding eye contact, focuses intently on the strawberry on his plate. ]
Ohii-san... you're the one setting it off!
[ He says through gritted teeth, thinking how could this get any worse. ]
I’m not gonna make a big deal out of some noise. We’ve eaten here together before, Ohii-san. And now you’re just making things up...
[ He's happy to accept more of the pastry, instead of voicing some new theory, preferring to open his mouth and be fed by his partner! And again, he'd say more if only the "good boy," comment wasn't brought up again. It's another compulsion he can't stop, the same feeling bubbling up in his throat as another low bark rumbles from his throat.
His eyes widened again, with an attempt to keep his mouth shut, hoping no more sounds would escape. Unfortunately, this silly, mischievous curse has different ideas and causes another bark to escape, due to Hiyori saying "good" twice. This time, someone at another table glances over with concern. Jun, avoiding eye contact, focuses intently on the strawberry on his plate. ]
Ohii-san... you're the one setting it off!
[ He says through gritted teeth, thinking how could this get any worse. ]
[ It's been a long time since he's felt this uneasy, not since Hiyori came home with the link, all cold and shivering. He holds his body closer, running his fingers calmly across Hiyori's back, pressing soft kisses against his hair. ]
I'm right here, Ohii-san.
[ He murmurs again, trying to calm him down. Slowly rousing from sleep, he now feels his shirt damp with tears. Unsure of what transpired, he continues to soothe Hiyori, holding the sobbing body close. ]
Hey, what happened? Didja just have a nightmare or something?
I'm right here, Ohii-san.
[ He murmurs again, trying to calm him down. Slowly rousing from sleep, he now feels his shirt damp with tears. Unsure of what transpired, he continues to soothe Hiyori, holding the sobbing body close. ]
Hey, what happened? Didja just have a nightmare or something?
[He's still not sure he buys that it was just "some noise." But, as he said, he's willing to drop it! Today is Jun-kun's birthday, so he won't bully his partner too much. They can enjoy a lovely breakfast and leave those doglike noises in the past!
Or so he thought. But then Jun makes one again in the present.
The bit of pastry on Hiyori's fork falls off. Again. ... At least this time it lands on Jun's plate next to the strawberry rather than on the table, but that might just be the only saving grace here. His eyes bulge. No way.]
That is the trigger!
[He sound shocked by his own discovery. Alas, his loud and booming voice does nothing to divert attention away from them. At least somebody barking over breakfast probably isn't the weirdest behavior their fellow guests have seen in public before. For most it wouldn't even crack the top 10!
But it's definitely weird for Jun-kun. Hiyori looks at him with a mix of curiosity, surprise, and faint concern.]
... is it psychological? Or do you think it's some kind of curse? You haven't noticed any other doglike thoughts or feelings, have you?
Or so he thought. But then Jun makes one again in the present.
The bit of pastry on Hiyori's fork falls off. Again. ... At least this time it lands on Jun's plate next to the strawberry rather than on the table, but that might just be the only saving grace here. His eyes bulge. No way.]
That is the trigger!
[He sound shocked by his own discovery. Alas, his loud and booming voice does nothing to divert attention away from them. At least somebody barking over breakfast probably isn't the weirdest behavior their fellow guests have seen in public before. For most it wouldn't even crack the top 10!
But it's definitely weird for Jun-kun. Hiyori looks at him with a mix of curiosity, surprise, and faint concern.]
... is it psychological? Or do you think it's some kind of curse? You haven't noticed any other doglike thoughts or feelings, have you?
Junjun, yer hurtin' my feelings here. Ya sayin' ya don't know the answer to that until now?
[Yes. The answer is yes. He will in fact fight them, rather sneakily yet aggressively, as he always has with ES when they try to pull the wool over their eyes. He doesn't like being manipulated, after all.]
Well, if yer worried 'bout cheatin', maybe ya just need a third party who doesn't mind just watchin'.
[Yes. The answer is yes. He will in fact fight them, rather sneakily yet aggressively, as he always has with ES when they try to pull the wool over their eyes. He doesn't like being manipulated, after all.]
Well, if yer worried 'bout cheatin', maybe ya just need a third party who doesn't mind just watchin'.
[Tears continue to spill from his eyes. But Jun's warmth and comfort and affection do, at least, help calm him down. He asks if he had a nightmare—did he? After a moment he half-hums, half-whimpers his response.]
M-Mm.
[It's not the first nightmare he remembers having here. It's not even the first one Jun would remember him having. The first one happened during the Clubs game, as punishment for bailing out of Truth or Dare early; an erotic nightmare where he got chased around by different objects all trying to insert themselves into his orifices. He tossed and turned while that was happening, but he was cagey about the details when Jun asked about it later, just saying he had a weird dream. And then the second one occurred after Rinne's head turned into a clownfish head. He did wake up screaming in fright from that one, and Jun comforted him afterwards.
But this isn't anything like those dreams. Those dreams didn't make him cry.
He trembles in all Jun's arms, from cold and from cold-blooded fear. He doesn't know where to begin or how to explain himself: that it didn't just feel like a nightmare, but something terrifyingly real. That he's still afraid it's real, even now; not that Jun has turned into a statue, but that he will eventually. That he'll leave him all alone, that he'll disappear and die and it'll be his fault, his selfish love that killed him. Hiyori's never felt so powerless, so useless before. His stomach churns with fear and guilt and he feels sick. He needs to tell Jun. He can't keep it in any longer.]
Jun-kun... I...
[He shifts his head against Jun's shirt, starting to look up at him.
But before he can formulate anymore words, a shrill sound emits from the other room. One that sounds like cheep cheep cheep! or chirp chirp chirp! or squawk squawk squawk! It's their lovely little bird daughter. She's woken up and now she's crying out, too.]
M-Mm.
[It's not the first nightmare he remembers having here. It's not even the first one Jun would remember him having. The first one happened during the Clubs game, as punishment for bailing out of Truth or Dare early; an erotic nightmare where he got chased around by different objects all trying to insert themselves into his orifices. He tossed and turned while that was happening, but he was cagey about the details when Jun asked about it later, just saying he had a weird dream. And then the second one occurred after Rinne's head turned into a clownfish head. He did wake up screaming in fright from that one, and Jun comforted him afterwards.
But this isn't anything like those dreams. Those dreams didn't make him cry.
He trembles in all Jun's arms, from cold and from cold-blooded fear. He doesn't know where to begin or how to explain himself: that it didn't just feel like a nightmare, but something terrifyingly real. That he's still afraid it's real, even now; not that Jun has turned into a statue, but that he will eventually. That he'll leave him all alone, that he'll disappear and die and it'll be his fault, his selfish love that killed him. Hiyori's never felt so powerless, so useless before. His stomach churns with fear and guilt and he feels sick. He needs to tell Jun. He can't keep it in any longer.]
Jun-kun... I...
[He shifts his head against Jun's shirt, starting to look up at him.
But before he can formulate anymore words, a shrill sound emits from the other room. One that sounds like cheep cheep cheep! or chirp chirp chirp! or squawk squawk squawk! It's their lovely little bird daughter. She's woken up and now she's crying out, too.]
[ He knows it's not just "some noise." But he's unwilling to admit it! He'll deny it no matter how often Hiyori brings it up, especially since it's his birthday.
But the House seems to have other ideas.
It's almost as if a headache is forming, a noise that can't be stopped rumbling from the back of his throat. He won't live this birthday down, but at least the pastry is saved this time. ]
... geez, you can't seriously think that.
[ He rubs at his temple as he grumbles. Yep, a headache is forming! Hiyori's loud, booming voice isn't helping the situation, as more heads turn to stare. If only Ohii-san's voice had a volume control, or if he could read the room or read into the glare Jun was giving him. ]
What the hell are ya talking 'bout? I just said I wasn’t feeling like Mary! You're making some kinda jab at me being just like some dog...
[ Really, it is weird for him! And it's safe to say he hasn't noticed any other doglike anything, just as he said!! ]
But the House seems to have other ideas.
It's almost as if a headache is forming, a noise that can't be stopped rumbling from the back of his throat. He won't live this birthday down, but at least the pastry is saved this time. ]
... geez, you can't seriously think that.
[ He rubs at his temple as he grumbles. Yep, a headache is forming! Hiyori's loud, booming voice isn't helping the situation, as more heads turn to stare. If only Ohii-san's voice had a volume control, or if he could read the room or read into the glare Jun was giving him. ]
What the hell are ya talking 'bout? I just said I wasn’t feeling like Mary! You're making some kinda jab at me being just like some dog...
[ Really, it is weird for him! And it's safe to say he hasn't noticed any other doglike anything, just as he said!! ]
It's not a jab! It's just that those noises you're making sounded like a dog's bark. Plus there is that collar they gave you...
[He trails off, his cheeks heating as he flashes back to the best sex he's ever had in his life.
But nope, he can't be thinking about that now, since they're in public!! He shakes his head, hurriedly trying to clear away those thoughts!]
Well, anyway.
[He coughs a bit.]
... I was just concerned, since some people get cursed on their birthdays here. I wanted to make sure they hadn't done anything to mess with your head, that's all. But it's just some involuntary response to the way I talk, you think?
[It literally hasn't occurred to him that anyone could call Jun a "good boy" and trigger the same result. He thinks it's a unique reaction to him! He's Jun's loving owner, after all.]
[He trails off, his cheeks heating as he flashes back to the best sex he's ever had in his life.
But nope, he can't be thinking about that now, since they're in public!! He shakes his head, hurriedly trying to clear away those thoughts!]
Well, anyway.
[He coughs a bit.]
... I was just concerned, since some people get cursed on their birthdays here. I wanted to make sure they hadn't done anything to mess with your head, that's all. But it's just some involuntary response to the way I talk, you think?
[It literally hasn't occurred to him that anyone could call Jun a "good boy" and trigger the same result. He thinks it's a unique reaction to him! He's Jun's loving owner, after all.]
[ He gently massages Hiyori's back, whispering soothing words while planting tender kisses in his hair. It's the least he can do to help Hiyori relax; having never seen him react this way before, it's clear that he's worried.
This isn't the first nightmare that Jun has helped Hiyori through, but it's the first time he's seen him wake up in tears. Something troubling has occurred, and all Jun can do is concentrate on comforting Hiyori. And while it's not the first instance of Hiyori shedding tears in front of him. The last time was on the couch in his and Kohaku's dorm room, where Hiyori was sniffling over Conquest. This moment feels different, and Jun knows he can't scold Hiyori for his tears this time. ]
Hey, it's gonna be okay.
[ He looks down, giving Hiyori a soft smile.
Although unsure of what type of dream he's had, Jun still helps him through the rough part. He'd continue that if it weren't for their rambunctious bird daughter! While she's quiet, it's easy to forget the bird's presence... until her insistent chirping starts again. Maybe she's sensed something amiss, she's taken on some of their personality traits, such as Hiyori's constant need to talk.
He shifts, still holding Hiyori close, not wanting to move. ]
I don't wanna leave you, Ohii-san, but she's not gonna keep quiet 'til one of us checks on her.
[ And she starts again, even louder this time, as if she knows her parents are talking about her. ]
Or d'ya want me to bring her back here? Maybe she knows something's up...
[ Kind of how Mary does! He doesn't say it, but that's what he's thinking. ]
This isn't the first nightmare that Jun has helped Hiyori through, but it's the first time he's seen him wake up in tears. Something troubling has occurred, and all Jun can do is concentrate on comforting Hiyori. And while it's not the first instance of Hiyori shedding tears in front of him. The last time was on the couch in his and Kohaku's dorm room, where Hiyori was sniffling over Conquest. This moment feels different, and Jun knows he can't scold Hiyori for his tears this time. ]
Hey, it's gonna be okay.
[ He looks down, giving Hiyori a soft smile.
Although unsure of what type of dream he's had, Jun still helps him through the rough part. He'd continue that if it weren't for their rambunctious bird daughter! While she's quiet, it's easy to forget the bird's presence... until her insistent chirping starts again. Maybe she's sensed something amiss, she's taken on some of their personality traits, such as Hiyori's constant need to talk.
He shifts, still holding Hiyori close, not wanting to move. ]
I don't wanna leave you, Ohii-san, but she's not gonna keep quiet 'til one of us checks on her.
[ And she starts again, even louder this time, as if she knows her parents are talking about her. ]
Or d'ya want me to bring her back here? Maybe she knows something's up...
[ Kind of how Mary does! He doesn't say it, but that's what he's thinking. ]
[The bird's cry pierces his ears from the other room. Hearing her tugs on his heartstrings, despite how preoccupied he is with his own misery. No matter how sad he is, he still has sympathy to spare for a helpless baby animal, especially one who depends on him like a child. And yet he's too tired to get out of bed. He's exhausted physically and emotionally, and even when he was worried sick about Nagisa during SS and wracked with guilt about how things were going in ex-fine, he's never felt like this before.
The good news is that Jun is willing to get up and check on the bird for him. The bad news is that this requires Jun to leave. Hiyori's stomach clenches at the thought of him going, even though it's just to the other room, and at that moment, he realizes he's just like their bird: clinging to Jun for warmth and relying on him just to get through the night. The Jin Sagami poster hangs on the wall next to them, and the phrase "security blanket" echoes in his mind.
Slowly, he untucks his face. His grip on Jun's shirt loosens and he meets Jun's gaze, blinking at his words, surprised by the suggestion that the bird might have sensed something is wrong. Did he wake her? Then Jun suggests bringing her here, and he pauses, thinking about the bird, about the nightmare, about the conversation him and Jun need to have.
He gives a small, subdued nod.]
... mm.
[It's all he says. But yes, Jun can bring the bird over, if she's amenable. He'll let go and sit up in bed, allowing Jun to leave, despite how clingy he still feels.]
The good news is that Jun is willing to get up and check on the bird for him. The bad news is that this requires Jun to leave. Hiyori's stomach clenches at the thought of him going, even though it's just to the other room, and at that moment, he realizes he's just like their bird: clinging to Jun for warmth and relying on him just to get through the night. The Jin Sagami poster hangs on the wall next to them, and the phrase "security blanket" echoes in his mind.
Slowly, he untucks his face. His grip on Jun's shirt loosens and he meets Jun's gaze, blinking at his words, surprised by the suggestion that the bird might have sensed something is wrong. Did he wake her? Then Jun suggests bringing her here, and he pauses, thinking about the bird, about the nightmare, about the conversation him and Jun need to have.
He gives a small, subdued nod.]
... mm.
[It's all he says. But yes, Jun can bring the bird over, if she's amenable. He'll let go and sit up in bed, allowing Jun to leave, despite how clingy he still feels.]
Well, that's just your opinion, Ohii-san. But I dunno what that's gotta do with any of this...
[ Maybe he ought to wear it more often if it's the best sex Hiyori's ever had! Anyway... Jun's still adamant this is all Hiyori's fault.
He looks on, ready to pack it up and it's tempting to shrink away and pray he never comes into contact with the other people here again. ]
You don't sound concerned to me! Like I said, it's gotta be you setting it off. I dunno what you're saying to trigger it, but, uh... maybe it's just your voice?
[ He sounds unsure, biting the inside of his mouth in thought. Is it really Hiyori's voice? Jun can't seem to fathom otherwise. ]
[ Maybe he ought to wear it more often if it's the best sex Hiyori's ever had! Anyway... Jun's still adamant this is all Hiyori's fault.
He looks on, ready to pack it up and it's tempting to shrink away and pray he never comes into contact with the other people here again. ]
You don't sound concerned to me! Like I said, it's gotta be you setting it off. I dunno what you're saying to trigger it, but, uh... maybe it's just your voice?
[ He sounds unsure, biting the inside of his mouth in thought. Is it really Hiyori's voice? Jun can't seem to fathom otherwise. ]
What’re you—
[ … saying is how he wants to end it. Jun knows Rinne’s capabilities when it comes to fighting, he’s seen first-hand how deep his capabilities can go. So the answer is yes, Jun knows that for sure.
It’s the second thing that comes out of Rinne’s mouth that catches him off guard. Eve’s suite didn’t have a canopy surrounding their bed for nothing! (Though, it’s there to keep the House from watching.) ]
Look, Rinne-senpai, what you’re saying is sorta impossible. Ohii-san doesn’t want anyone watching… I don’t want anyone watching! Something like that is not gonna happen, even giving that sorta “performance” sounds all wrong.
[ What if you can’t get it up and you become the laughing stock of the casino!? Your name will be infamous as the person who has “stage fright” and it’ll follow wherever you go.
But Jun’s curious, so! ]
… have ya done it like that before?
[ … saying is how he wants to end it. Jun knows Rinne’s capabilities when it comes to fighting, he’s seen first-hand how deep his capabilities can go. So the answer is yes, Jun knows that for sure.
It’s the second thing that comes out of Rinne’s mouth that catches him off guard. Eve’s suite didn’t have a canopy surrounding their bed for nothing! (Though, it’s there to keep the House from watching.) ]
Look, Rinne-senpai, what you’re saying is sorta impossible. Ohii-san doesn’t want anyone watching… I don’t want anyone watching! Something like that is not gonna happen, even giving that sorta “performance” sounds all wrong.
[ What if you can’t get it up and you become the laughing stock of the casino!? Your name will be infamous as the person who has “stage fright” and it’ll follow wherever you go.
But Jun’s curious, so! ]
… have ya done it like that before?
[ It wasn't the best time for their daughter to wake, though; it's hard to ignore her once she demands attention. And it's not as if Hiyori doesn't demand attention, either, especially right now. No part of Jun wants to leave his side, with his shirt still stained with tears, holding Hiyori's trembling form. The thing is, he can’t grasp how Hiyori must feel waking up from a nightmare, leaving him in tears. It’s been a while since he’s had one of those himself, and they haven’t talked about it much yet.
His fingers resume moving slowly through Hiyori's hair, cupping the back of his head. Jun doesn't really need the poster anymore; it's more of a sentimental comfort than a real necessity these days. Since he started staying over and eventually moved in, his insomnia has faded away, replaced by more peaceful nights. Perhaps Hiyori has become his new security blanket—or maybe he always was. ]
Don't worry, I'm gonna be back in a sec.
[ Nodding back, just to reassure Hiyori, he leans forward, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. As Hiyori sits up, he slowly moves the blankets back, the chirping getting louder by the second. He smiles at Hiyori, fond and warm, as he finally gets up and begins the walk into the other room.
It doesn't take long, but the second he opens the door, her chirps grow louder. Jun's chest constricts, struggling to keep up with the sudden surge of emotions. ]
C'mon, it's gonna be alright! Ohii-san just had a nightmare, so real sorry for waking you ♪
[ He murmurs, trying to calm her down before picking her up. She flaps her tiny wings, and with a tilt of her little birdhead, she seems to understand. Or perhaps it's because she's garnering attention from one of her parents. It's likely the latter; she does seem to take after Hiyori in that aspect, even though she's a proud little chick.
Scooping her up, the chirps calm down, coming each second rather than as insistent as they were moments ago. Next, he picks up her nest, tucking it under his arm, while their little chick curls up underneath Jun's arm. He walks back into the room, still whispering words of comfort to the chick, setting down her nest on the bedside table, and gently placing her inside.
He turns back to Hiyori, leans forward, and thumbs a finger underneath his eye. ]
Told ya it wouldn't take long! Now c'mere and tell me what's up.
His fingers resume moving slowly through Hiyori's hair, cupping the back of his head. Jun doesn't really need the poster anymore; it's more of a sentimental comfort than a real necessity these days. Since he started staying over and eventually moved in, his insomnia has faded away, replaced by more peaceful nights. Perhaps Hiyori has become his new security blanket—or maybe he always was. ]
Don't worry, I'm gonna be back in a sec.
[ Nodding back, just to reassure Hiyori, he leans forward, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. As Hiyori sits up, he slowly moves the blankets back, the chirping getting louder by the second. He smiles at Hiyori, fond and warm, as he finally gets up and begins the walk into the other room.
It doesn't take long, but the second he opens the door, her chirps grow louder. Jun's chest constricts, struggling to keep up with the sudden surge of emotions. ]
C'mon, it's gonna be alright! Ohii-san just had a nightmare, so real sorry for waking you ♪
[ He murmurs, trying to calm her down before picking her up. She flaps her tiny wings, and with a tilt of her little birdhead, she seems to understand. Or perhaps it's because she's garnering attention from one of her parents. It's likely the latter; she does seem to take after Hiyori in that aspect, even though she's a proud little chick.
Scooping her up, the chirps calm down, coming each second rather than as insistent as they were moments ago. Next, he picks up her nest, tucking it under his arm, while their little chick curls up underneath Jun's arm. He walks back into the room, still whispering words of comfort to the chick, setting down her nest on the bedside table, and gently placing her inside.
He turns back to Hiyori, leans forward, and thumbs a finger underneath his eye. ]
Told ya it wouldn't take long! Now c'mere and tell me what's up.
[Ah, now wouldn't that be nice? To go to bed with the cute, collared Jun-kun every da— ... er, every alternating Thursday! Not every day, since that would be too much of a good thing! His brain would turn to mush!
Though it still might not be as mushy as Jun-kun's brain, since Jun seems to keep forgetting how human speech works.]
I agree it's probably me, since if you were a dog—I know you're not of course, but if you were—then your owner would be none other than me! But it can't just be my voice by itself. I've talked to you plenty since we got up, but you didn't bark until just a minute ago. And it was because I said the so-called trigger words, right? The one that starts with "g," and the other one that starts with "b"!
[He waves his fork around as he explains his theory (once again ignoring anyone who might be watching or listening in). He's pretty sure he's cracked the code! (Even though he's wrong about it just being his voice that triggers the response!) But supposing he is right, what do you even call this? A curse? A Pavlovian response?]
Though it still might not be as mushy as Jun-kun's brain, since Jun seems to keep forgetting how human speech works.]
I agree it's probably me, since if you were a dog—I know you're not of course, but if you were—then your owner would be none other than me! But it can't just be my voice by itself. I've talked to you plenty since we got up, but you didn't bark until just a minute ago. And it was because I said the so-called trigger words, right? The one that starts with "g," and the other one that starts with "b"!
[He waves his fork around as he explains his theory (once again ignoring anyone who might be watching or listening in). He's pretty sure he's cracked the code! (Even though he's wrong about it just being his voice that triggers the response!) But supposing he is right, what do you even call this? A curse? A Pavlovian response?]
Never say never, Sazanamin. I ain't sayin' ya gotta be a P**nhub regular, but if ya trust someone who wouldn't mind watchin', ya might at least get their card. It ain't cheating if they ain't participating.
[He shrugs, but he won't push it further than that. He isn't exactly an exhibitionist himself, even if he does like to perform for a partner.]
I ain't got yer issue, so never really had to.
[He shrugs, but he won't push it further than that. He isn't exactly an exhibitionist himself, even if he does like to perform for a partner.]
I ain't got yer issue, so never really had to.
[ It might be nice if it weren’t a little overwhelming, so every alternating Thursday it is. Besides, the collar has finally received the recognition it needs to no longer feel any neglect. It must be happy!
Someone who’s not happy with whatever curse, or prank, this is- almost does a double take. Has Jun heard him correctly? Could this be the first time Hiyori’s doubled down on referring to him as a dog? He thinks so! ]
… didja just not refer to me as a dog? You sure you’re not coming down with a fever, Ohii-san~?
[ He can’t help but tease, wanting ti poke a little fun. Besides, if he’s truly cursed, it’s not like it’s a horny curse! So it’s best for both of them! ]
But d’you seriously think it’s a buncha words? I guess you said ‘em twice already… I dunno if I’m convinced!
[ Only because when he’s being praised, even outside their bedroom, it feels nice! As if there’s a warm blanket encompassing him. Squeezing him tight! ]
Let’s just say you’re right ‘bout it… and those’re the “trigger words”! You’re not gonna keep saying ‘em, right?
Someone who’s not happy with whatever curse, or prank, this is- almost does a double take. Has Jun heard him correctly? Could this be the first time Hiyori’s doubled down on referring to him as a dog? He thinks so! ]
… didja just not refer to me as a dog? You sure you’re not coming down with a fever, Ohii-san~?
[ He can’t help but tease, wanting ti poke a little fun. Besides, if he’s truly cursed, it’s not like it’s a horny curse! So it’s best for both of them! ]
But d’you seriously think it’s a buncha words? I guess you said ‘em twice already… I dunno if I’m convinced!
[ Only because when he’s being praised, even outside their bedroom, it feels nice! As if there’s a warm blanket encompassing him. Squeezing him tight! ]
Let’s just say you’re right ‘bout it… and those’re the “trigger words”! You’re not gonna keep saying ‘em, right?
[Jun really is a good boy. Kissing him before he goes, smiling at him so gently even though his sleep was interrupted. There is a pang in his chest when Jun enters the other room, as pathetic as that is. He feels so cold without him, and he's just so scared, so anxious something will happen to take Jun away.
But he need not be too anxious. The gold string connecting their hands hasn't been severed, and Hiyori can feel the slight tug as Jun moves around in the other room. A constant reassurance that Jun is still moving around, still alive. Not frozen in stone. It may be inconvenient in some ways, but it's also a comfort. After that dream, it feels like a lifeline.
(Is that why it stubbornly won't come off...?)
He hears Jun's voice amidst the chirps in the other room, his own nickname among other words. And the gentleness in Jun's voice makes him crack a faint smile, despite everything. Then he thinks about Jun's smile as he left the room and his heart hurts. More than anything, he wants to protect that smile.
Then he thinks about the glimpse he'd gotten in his dream of the statue's frozen face at the end of the hall, and his smile falls all the way off.
Jun returns cradling the little bird like a baby. She's quieter now, her voice soft. Jun's presence and his soft smile calms her down, it seems. They really are alike, him and that bird. What would either of them do without him?
He watches the bird in her nest for a long moment, before finally looking up at Jun from his position on the bed. By "come here" does Jun mean get out of bed? He'd rather have Jun join him again. He almost demands it, almost reaches out his arms and prompts Jun to hold him. It's what he wants, and Jun would do it if he was asked. Hiyori trained him well in that regard. But then he thinks about what he needs to tell Jun, where he needs to begin, and his stomach churns, his lungs choking with guilt. In that moment he feels like he doesn't deserve to be held.
His eyes stare down at the bedcovers.]
You might want to sit down. There's...
[He swallows, that toxic concoction of guilt and fear bubbling up in his throat.]
There's something I didn't tell you. Even though I promised not to hide anything. It's...
[He shivers, from his nerves and from the cold.]
It's about why people go missing.
But he need not be too anxious. The gold string connecting their hands hasn't been severed, and Hiyori can feel the slight tug as Jun moves around in the other room. A constant reassurance that Jun is still moving around, still alive. Not frozen in stone. It may be inconvenient in some ways, but it's also a comfort. After that dream, it feels like a lifeline.
(Is that why it stubbornly won't come off...?)
He hears Jun's voice amidst the chirps in the other room, his own nickname among other words. And the gentleness in Jun's voice makes him crack a faint smile, despite everything. Then he thinks about Jun's smile as he left the room and his heart hurts. More than anything, he wants to protect that smile.
Then he thinks about the glimpse he'd gotten in his dream of the statue's frozen face at the end of the hall, and his smile falls all the way off.
Jun returns cradling the little bird like a baby. She's quieter now, her voice soft. Jun's presence and his soft smile calms her down, it seems. They really are alike, him and that bird. What would either of them do without him?
He watches the bird in her nest for a long moment, before finally looking up at Jun from his position on the bed. By "come here" does Jun mean get out of bed? He'd rather have Jun join him again. He almost demands it, almost reaches out his arms and prompts Jun to hold him. It's what he wants, and Jun would do it if he was asked. Hiyori trained him well in that regard. But then he thinks about what he needs to tell Jun, where he needs to begin, and his stomach churns, his lungs choking with guilt. In that moment he feels like he doesn't deserve to be held.
His eyes stare down at the bedcovers.]
You might want to sit down. There's...
[He swallows, that toxic concoction of guilt and fear bubbling up in his throat.]
There's something I didn't tell you. Even though I promised not to hide anything. It's...
[He shivers, from his nerves and from the cold.]
It's about why people go missing.
Huh?
[Hiyori blinks back in response, before cocking an eyebrow.]
You don't think I actually thought you were a dog this whole time, do you? That would just be silly! Jun-kun is an idol, and my beloved partner. Of course he's not a dog.
[He lets that sit for a moment. But then, inevitably, he adds:]
Though he is somewhat dog-like. And hyena-like!
[Yep. He just had to say it.]
And I guess he's occasionally cat-like.
[... but he didn't have to say that. Alas, between the Springtime game and Jun's brief stint as a nekomimi strawberry maid, Hiyori simply couldn't resist. Still with an innocent smile, he digs back into his own breakfast (which is probably a spinach and feta danish if we're still going by the Tous Les Jours menu), munching while Jun ponders what the trigger might be. After finishing his bite he says,]
You don't want to keep making those noises, do you? I'd rather not cause a scene or spoil your birthday, so of course I won't say them.
[He sips his flavored tea. Then he adds,]
Unless you think we should test it out just to be sure. But if so, we can do that back in our room.
[Hiyori blinks back in response, before cocking an eyebrow.]
You don't think I actually thought you were a dog this whole time, do you? That would just be silly! Jun-kun is an idol, and my beloved partner. Of course he's not a dog.
[He lets that sit for a moment. But then, inevitably, he adds:]
Though he is somewhat dog-like. And hyena-like!
[Yep. He just had to say it.]
And I guess he's occasionally cat-like.
[... but he didn't have to say that. Alas, between the Springtime game and Jun's brief stint as a nekomimi strawberry maid, Hiyori simply couldn't resist. Still with an innocent smile, he digs back into his own breakfast (which is probably a spinach and feta danish if we're still going by the Tous Les Jours menu), munching while Jun ponders what the trigger might be. After finishing his bite he says,]
You don't want to keep making those noises, do you? I'd rather not cause a scene or spoil your birthday, so of course I won't say them.
[He sips his flavored tea. Then he adds,]
Unless you think we should test it out just to be sure. But if so, we can do that back in our room.
[ He no longer forgets these things, not since they've been together. They make sure to stay close, and thankfully Jun doesn't mind when his sleep is interrupted. Leaving Hiyori, especially after the nightmare, was the difficult part, but their noisy little chick demanding attention would have made it harder to talk things through.
Despite the stubbornness of the strings connection, the bond between them remains strong. He speaks to their little chick with the utmost tenderness, as if she were the most precious gem. However, Mary likely wouldn't appreciate this, so it's best she remains unaware.
Their little nestling flutters excitedly in her nest, content to be with her parents. Her soothing chirps fill the room as Jun gazes at her with a weary, fond smile.
But Jun wants Hiyori to remain comfortable in bed, knowing it would be easier for him to beckon Hiyori over if he was already lying beside him. Scooting back, Jun tilts his head slightly as he waits for Hiyori to finish.
He feels a little slighted that Hiyori is keeping something from him, despite their promise to be open with each other. Jun has tried to be transparent, sharing everything he's learned, whether relevant or not, but now he's troubled by the thought of Hiyori concealing information. It's an unsettling feeling, suddenly his entire body feels cold, or as if he were suddenly stabbed with a thousand icy needles. ]
That so...
[ He's groggy, voice still thick with sleep. Unsure of what to say, he positions himself up against the headboard, drawing his legs up to his chest. From the corner of his eye, he glances at Hiyori, noticing he's looking down. ]
... different from what Rinne-senpai told us 'bout?
Despite the stubbornness of the strings connection, the bond between them remains strong. He speaks to their little chick with the utmost tenderness, as if she were the most precious gem. However, Mary likely wouldn't appreciate this, so it's best she remains unaware.
Their little nestling flutters excitedly in her nest, content to be with her parents. Her soothing chirps fill the room as Jun gazes at her with a weary, fond smile.
But Jun wants Hiyori to remain comfortable in bed, knowing it would be easier for him to beckon Hiyori over if he was already lying beside him. Scooting back, Jun tilts his head slightly as he waits for Hiyori to finish.
He feels a little slighted that Hiyori is keeping something from him, despite their promise to be open with each other. Jun has tried to be transparent, sharing everything he's learned, whether relevant or not, but now he's troubled by the thought of Hiyori concealing information. It's an unsettling feeling, suddenly his entire body feels cold, or as if he were suddenly stabbed with a thousand icy needles. ]
That so...
[ He's groggy, voice still thick with sleep. Unsure of what to say, he positions himself up against the headboard, drawing his legs up to his chest. From the corner of his eye, he glances at Hiyori, noticing he's looking down. ]
... different from what Rinne-senpai told us 'bout?
[ dammit that was meant to say couldja not didja... this is why i shouldn't write replies while half asleep.
He raises a brow, frowning. Did Hiyori honestly have to say any of this? The answer is clearly no, but does anything surprise Jun anymore? Nope! ]
... what're you talking 'bout? You've seriously lost it, Ohii-san. Where didja hear that from? Think you're getting hard of hearing, 'cause, for the millionth time, I'm not a dog!
[ Or wants to say these things on purpose. When Jun truly thinks about it some more, it must be the latter. Instead of dignifying it with an answer, he groans instead, exaggerated and frustrated which causes a few of their fellow café-goers to glare back.
It's not that he forgets his time as a cat or his brief stretch as a nekomimi strawberry maid, but he can't handle responding to Hiyori the way he usually does when any moment another dog-like sound, that's most definitely a woof, threatens to spill from his lips. ]
D'you think I'd want everyone looking 'round at us 'cause of you~? 'Course I don't. It's seriously bugging me.
[ He sips at his own strawberry protein shake, almost fed up by whatever curse he's been given. Still, he's unsure if the "Good boy" is a trigger, or something else. All he's realised is Hiyori's the trigger,not that anyone calling him a "Good boy" will trigger the curse. ]
How're we gonna test this back in our room? Easy for you to say, huh~? When you're not the one makin' weird noises!
[ Not that barking is a strange noise when it comes from Mary, but coming from a human? Yep, call it strange! ]
He raises a brow, frowning. Did Hiyori honestly have to say any of this? The answer is clearly no, but does anything surprise Jun anymore? Nope! ]
... what're you talking 'bout? You've seriously lost it, Ohii-san. Where didja hear that from? Think you're getting hard of hearing, 'cause, for the millionth time, I'm not a dog!
[ Or wants to say these things on purpose. When Jun truly thinks about it some more, it must be the latter. Instead of dignifying it with an answer, he groans instead, exaggerated and frustrated which causes a few of their fellow café-goers to glare back.
It's not that he forgets his time as a cat or his brief stretch as a nekomimi strawberry maid, but he can't handle responding to Hiyori the way he usually does when any moment another dog-like sound, that's most definitely a woof, threatens to spill from his lips. ]
D'you think I'd want everyone looking 'round at us 'cause of you~? 'Course I don't. It's seriously bugging me.
[ He sips at his own strawberry protein shake, almost fed up by whatever curse he's been given. Still, he's unsure if the "Good boy" is a trigger, or something else. All he's realised is Hiyori's the trigger,
How're we gonna test this back in our room? Easy for you to say, huh~? When you're not the one makin' weird noises!
[ Not that barking is a strange noise when it comes from Mary, but coming from a human? Yep, call it strange! ]
[ What the heck is a P**nhub? His poor, innocent ears! ]
I dunno, 'cause what if I trust the person but Ohii-san doesn't? And vice versa...
[ He can't even question Rinne, because, of course, Rinne knows. Is there anyone here he trusts enough? Sure, maybe if it were Rinne or Leo, only due to them being from home. Would anyone want to watch them? Eve's fans certainly would, but who really cares about idols here? ]
Well, I mean... have ya ever had a third-party watch?
I dunno, 'cause what if I trust the person but Ohii-san doesn't? And vice versa...
[ He can't even question Rinne, because, of course, Rinne knows. Is there anyone here he trusts enough? Sure, maybe if it were Rinne or Leo, only due to them being from home. Would anyone want to watch them? Eve's fans certainly would, but who really cares about idols here? ]
Well, I mean... have ya ever had a third-party watch?
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