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Chapter Text

“Mmm… Elicchi…” Nozomi moaned loudly, gripping Eli’s hair tightly, keeping the blonde locked on her position in between her legs.

Eli grinned, her tongue continued to move sensually until Nozomi’s grip on her hair tightened, and her thighs squeezed her head. The violet-haired girl’s back arched, a loud cry coming out her lips as she was brought to the peak.

A few moments later, Eli wiped her mouth on the back of her hand, crawling up the bed until she was face-to-face with the panting girl, “Good?”

Nozomi’s chest heaved, looking at Eli, biting her lip, “Fishing for compliments now, Elicchi?” she laughed.

Eli laughed along, rolling over until she was hovering over Nozomi, tugging on her partner’s blouse, “I just want to make sure that I could still please you.”

“Mmm…” Nozomi wrapped her arms on Eli’s neck, pulling the blonde down for a passionate kiss, slowly massaging the blonde’s tongue with her own. She let her hands roam the blonde’s back, slowly bringing it to Eli’s front until she could stop the hands from trying to take off her top.

“Wha…?” Eli asked dazedly, looking at Nozomi confusedly.

“As much as I want to continue what we’re doing,” Nozomi laughed, pushing Eli off her, “I just got home, and you attacked me. I’m hungry for actual food.”

Eli blinked quickly, still catching up to what was going on. Her gaze settled on Nozomi who got off the bed and slowly shimmied off the skirt she was wearing, leaving her bottom half bare. She groaned, pouting up at the teasing shake Nozomi was doing.

“Fine…” Eli grumbled, “Do you want anything specific? I can cook something.”

“Nope,” Nozomi answered, “I brought something home. Though, I didn’t think you’d be here… Do you want anything?” she tilted her head.

Eli shook her head, “I’m good. I’m not really hungry.”

“Not for food, anyway,” Nozomi winked, laughing when Eli blushed as she sauntered towards the walk-in closet to grab more comfortable clothes. She skipped back to Eli, holding her clothes, giving the blonde a quick kiss, “Give me a moment. I’ll be back to satisfy you.” She winked.

I’m so in love with you… ran through the blonde’s mind as she watched Nozomi walk to the ensuite bathroom.

Chapter Text

Nozomi watched patiently as her friend walked back and forth. She made her way to the area in the room with an electric kettle along with some tea and coffee for them to drink.

Tojo Nozomi – 29 years old – a professional racecar driver. She started competing in amateur races when she was in middle school, getting the love for racing from her father. She’s been living alone for half of her life, so she’s always happy to spend time with her friends.

“This is bad! This is bad! This is bad!” Hanayo kept muttering under her breath, pacing the length of the room in quick strides, holding her wedding dress to make her steps easier.

Koizumi Hanayo – 27 years old – a senior web developer for Japan’s #1 idol-based website. She’s very passionate about her work, knows everything idol, and could talk anyone’s ear off if you get her started.

Nozomi and Hanayo (plus Rin) met through Nozomi’s best friend, Maki, who Hanayo and Rin met in high school when they were assigned to the same class. The two of them got quite close, without interference from said best friend, through their shared love of photography.

“Hanayo-chan,” Kotori called in her high-pitched voice, tugging on Hanayo’s hand to make her stop, “Calm down.”

Minami Kotori – 28 years old – a fashion designer starting up her own boutique. She’s always wanted to be a fashion designer, so she studied in France and just got back in Japan to start her own line of clothing.

“But…” Hanayo blinked, tears forming in the corner of her eyes as she held onto her dress, “What if Rin-chan’s having second thoughts?”

“That’s highly unlikely, Hanayo-chan. Rin-chan loves you very much and she wouldn’t have accepted your proposal if she didn’t want this.” Kotori soothed, running her hands up and down her friend’s arms to calm her down. She looked directly in Hanayo’s eyes and smiled kindly, “Why don’t you tell us about that? How did you propose?” she urged, despite already knowing the story.

Hanayo visibly calmed down, nodding as she looked into Kotori’s eyes. She turned to their other friend who was waiting for the water to boil.

Nozomi smiled calmly, nodding to Hanayo in encouragement.

“Well…” Hanayo started, blinking once, a little insecure that she doesn’t have her glasses to fiddle with, “It was 4 years ago. I already had the ring for months before I did anything…” she smiled then, “Maki-chan helped me pick it out.”

“I’m surprised you got her to go shopping with you,” Nozomi giggled, putting tea bags into cups and slowly pouring the hot water.

“And then?” Kotori urged, pulling Hanayo to sit down with her, glad that they successfully calmed the bride down.

Nozomi walked to the table and put the tray of tea down. Sitting down across from her friends as she continued to listen to the story.

Hanayo then had the softest expression – which was surprising since she’s always been the calmest member of their group – as if placing herself in the memory, “And then hours before she was supposed to come back from the Olympics, I was preparing all these pictures in our apartment…” with a laugh, she looked at Kotori and Nozomi, amusement twinkling in her eyes, “Then she came in the front door!”

===

“Kayo-chin cried!” Rin exclaimed animatedly, her eyes filled with the regret and apology she felt for ruining Hanayo’s proposal even years later. “It wasn’t funny!” she glared at the giggling Honoka.

Unlike her partner, Rin was more excited than nervous. With her energy, everyone with her was trying to keep her focused on one thing to avoid ruining her make up or messing up her dress so, they got her talking about Hanayo's proposal.

Hoshizora Rin – 27 years old – an Olympian (retired). She won gold during her last run at the Olympics but, she also retired since she wants to be closer to Hanayo once they were married.  

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” Honoka whined, wincing when Umi flicked her ear.

Kosaka Honoka – 28 years old – a bar owner. She grew up helping in her parents’ Japanese sweets shop, so she wanted to open a shop of her own.

“We need to keep her calm.” Umi’s voice lowered dangerously as she glared at Honoka, taking her duty as Rin’s Maid of Honor quite seriously as she does everything else.

Sonoda Umi – 28 years old – also a retired Olympian, as well as a Literature Professor. She’s the heiress to a dojo that practices Archery and Traditional Japanese Arts.

Rin met Umi during their first time in the Olympics 8 years ago. Rin was running the 10000m, while Umi was competing in Archery. They enjoyed each other’s company enough to make promises to meet up back in Japan, and when they did, Rin happily introduced Hanayo to Umi.

That first introduction led to two with Umi introducing Honoka, who Rin immediately had a connection with. Then Nozomi and Maki were introduced. And before they knew it, they started hanging out as a group together. Then during Umi and Honoka’s 3^rd year in University, Kotori was added to the group when she visited Japan.

“Tell us what happened after she cried, Rin.” Maki’s voice floated from her position on the corner of the room, simply watching over everyone.

Nishikino Maki – 27 years old – a surgical resident in her family’s hospital. She’s set to inherit the hospital, next in line to become director.

Maki met Rin and Hanayo when they were assigned to the same class during their first year in high school. At first, she made the effort to avoid Rin and Hanayo because she found the redhead to be draining. But they grew to be two of her closest friends.

Rin’s smile widened – which none of them thought was even possible – as she recalled the events leading up to her engagement, “I told her to just do it. Because I'll say yes to anything she'll ask me.” She said in her softest voice, which was somehow still louder than her bride’s normal voice, “Then, she showed me this ring…” she raised her left hand, waving her fingers to show off the jewelry, “She wiped her face, then simply asked “Rin-chan, will you marry me?” in her cutest voice. I said yes.”

Umi gave Maki a subtle thumbs up for keeping Rin calm, then turned to glare at Honoka again.

“It’s a wonderful story, Rin,” Maki smiled as she stood up. She’s heard the story multiple times by now, but she always listens when Rin or Hanayo brings it up since she enjoys the happiness that radiates from her friends when they do, “And here we finally are, 4 years later.”

Rin nodded, smiling goofily, “Because I wanted to go for the Olympics one last time, and it wouldn’t be fair to Kayo-chin if I’m too busy most of the time…” she then smiled wistfully, “She’s the best…”

Maki smiled warmly, agreeing, “Hanayo will support you through everything.” She fondly remembered the day that Rin and Hanayo became official.

They were in 2^nd year and a girl from another class was taking most of Hanayo’s time with her questions about idols. Rin had enough and declared that Hanayo was hers in front of the whole student body.

All the romance in the air was making Maki yearn for her own partner, “Would it be okay if I find for Nico-chan for a while?”

Rin nodded happily, turning to Umi and Honoka to tell them something about sports.

Maki gave another sweep of the room, making sure everything was in place before opening the door, stopping completely when she saw her intended target about to knock.

Nico smiled impishly, not giving Maki the chance to announce her presence to their friends and just pulled the redhead to an empty corridor.

Yazawa Nico – 29 years old – a bigtime celebrity. She’s been an idol since she was a teenager from her persistence in auditioning.

The idol looked around their general area, scanning possible onlookers and cameras. Satisfied that they were alone, she pulled Maki down for a chaste kiss. When she was about to pull away, Maki gently pushed her to the wall and deepened the kiss.

With a quiet moan, Nico reluctantly pulled away, pouting up at the redhead, “Mou, Maki-chan. That’s not fair…”

“Hmm? It’s not fair that I kiss my wife?”

Nico made a face – a cross between a wince and indignation, “You know what I meant.”

Quick correction. Nishikino Nico – 29 years old. It was the only demand Maki’s parents had that Nico readily agreed to when they married. Despite Nico being a household celebrity name, it was stressed that Maki’s name had more weight in everything outside of fame.

The two have been married for 7 years now, but it’s kept as a secret to preserve Nico’s career – right now, only their closest friends and family know. The decision to get married was made when Nico was about to leave for a year-long tour and Maki didn’t want to let her go even after only dating for a mere month.

Maki laughed, “Of course,” she moved away from the idol, wanting to keep their ruse up for as long as she can.

“Now, where were you going?” Nico asked, looping their arms together, “Is it all right to leave Rin alone?”

“She’s got Umi. She’ll be fine.” Maki answered, then tilted her head, “Now, why is Hanayo's maid of honor not with her?” she teased.

===

Nozomi swiped the door open, smiling widely as soon as she saw the couple. She first let Nico in with a brief hug, then proceeded to give Maki a huge squeeze as well as a kiss on the cheek.

“Even after knowing Maki-chan for years now, it's still really weird to see her so affectionate with Nozomi-chan and Nico-chan.” Kotori commented with a tilt of her head.

“Well,” Maki started with a small grimace, “wife,” she pointed to Nico, “best friend,” she pointed to Nozomi, “they said it's non-negotiable.”

Maki and Nozomi have been best friends since they met when they were children. They sat beside each other on a Circuit Race where their fathers brought them to. The two of them took up kart racing after that, but only Nozomi pursued it as a career.

They also dated for a while just to try it out, but it ended after a few months because of the awkwardness since they didn’t feel that way for each other. A few months after they broke up, Nozomi met Nico in a racing-themed photoshoot. They befriended each other, and a few months later, Nozomi introduced Nico and Maki – who fought like cats and dogs for months before they got together.

Nico and Nozomi hi-fived, proud that they trained the redhead well. While Kotori and Hanayo laughed in the background.

Maki rolled her eyes as she walked towards Hanayo. Looking her friend up and down, she gave her a small smile in approval.

Hanayo caught the gesture, knowing how restricted her friend is at showing emotions. Smiling back at Maki, she anxiously asked, “How's Rin-chan?”

“She’s great. She's ready.” Maki answered, taking a look at her wristwatch, “I need to get ready, too.”

Hanayo nodded, feeling calmer now with Maki's assurance.

“You look great,” Maki complimented, patting Hanayo's shoulder, “You'll have a wife by the end of today.”

“Thank you, Maki-chan.”

“Nico-chan, I'm leaving her to you.” Maki leaned down, aiming to kiss Nico's forehead, but the idol tilted her head so the kiss would land on her lips.

Nico laughed when Maki left without another word and a red face. She turned to her friends with a grin.

“You keep Maki-chan on her toes, don't you?” Nozomi laughed.

“It must be nice…” Kotori added, “Still being that close even after all the time you’ve been married…”

Nico’s expression softened as she regarded Kotori, “We’re both really busy so, we make sure to make the most of our time when we actually are together.”

Kotori nodded, “That makes sense…”

Kotori and Umi just recently started dating, with the both of them prioritizing their education and careers. When Kotori got back from her interning at a famous boutique in France, they finally did something with their mutual feelings much to Honoka’s relief.

“It’s actually really nice that Maki-chan found someone like you,” Hanayo added. She’s always seen Nico and Maki’s relationship as something to aspire to. She turned to Kotori, “But I do believe that everyone’s relationship is different, and it would never be healthy to compare it with anyone else.”

Being a huge idol fan, when Maki introduced Nico to Hanayo and Rin as her girlfriend, Hanayo fainted right in Rin’s arms. Nico found it hilarious while Maki spent the rest of that introduction apologizing to her girlfriend for her friends.

Before anyone else could say anything, Nozomi’s phone beeped. The racer peeked at her phone; eyes lighting up as she read the message.

“Elicchi’s here!” Nozomi smiled, “I’m just going to say hi, I’ll be back soon!” she dashed off, skipping on her way out.

The three people she left in the room could only watch.

Nico clicked her tongue, “And speaking of how different everyone’s relationships are…”

===

Eli easily caught Nozomi who practically flew into her arms. The blonde squeezed Nozomi’s waist as she gently guided her back to the floor. She took a step back to get a better look at what Nozomi was wearing, suddenly feeling a wave of desire as she inspected Nozomi’s bridesmaid dress.

“You look great, Nozomi.”

Ayase Eli – 29 years old – a lawyer for child celebrities. She wanted to be an open book and ally to the children as she was taken advantage of when she was a ballerina as a child.  

Nozomi grinned, “Don’t I?” she teased, “You look great, too.” She gave a once over to Eli’s chosen dress. A little more casual than her own but flattering with Eli’s body figure. She’s quite sure the blonde will go home with more than a few phone numbers.

Eli raised her arms for Nozomi, which the racer easily took. They walked back inside the hotel, gaining attention from the other guests. They ignored all the looks as they went further inside.

“I guess I’m going this way…” Eli paused, pointing to where there was a sign for the Koizumi-Hoshizora wedding to an event hall.

“And I have to go back up to Hanayo,” Nozomi answered, looking to where the elevators are, “I’ll meet you during the reception?”

“Of course, Nozomi.”

===

Maki took a deep breath before her hands descended on the keys, playing her own version of the wedding march for Rin and Hanayo’s entrance. The doors opened and Rin and Hanayo got their first look at each other.

As the brides’ closest friend, Maki was vetoed to be a choice for either their maid of honor or bridesmaid. They still wanted the redhead to be part of the wedding, though, so they were relieved when Nico suggested that Maki play the piano as they walk down the aisle.

Rin smiled wider, while Hanayo’s eyes started to water from the emotions overflowing inside her. They slowly walked towards each other, smiles widening the nearer they got to each other.

Eli smiled as she watched the two walk down the aisle. She’s met them a few times and the only reason she was here was to be Nozomi’s plus one, but she’s happy for them. They’re very sweet and innocent. Despite being Maki’s original friend, she always found it amusing just how different the redhead was from her friends.

Her eyes drifted to the left, where Nozomi was. She couldn’t help it when she began to imagine Nozomi wearing a white dress as she waited for her at the altar. She barely focused on the ceremony, only looking at the racer supporting behind Hanayo. She tuned back in to the ceremony when it was time for the vows.

“Kayo-chin, you have always been my biggest supporter,” Rin started, squeezing Hanayo’s hand, “We’ve known each other since we were in kindergarten, and I would love to still be by your side when we’re old.”

Hanayo sniffled, but didn’t take her eyes off her bride, “Rin-chan…” she started, her voice cracking. Clearing her throat, she tried again, “Rin-chan, I’m grateful for you. You have always pulled me forward and given me courage to do things that I wouldn’t have done if I was alone.”

===

Their usual group – sans Hanayo and Rin as the guests of honor for the day – was seated together in a table near the front where the brides are. Most of them were already there and were having small talk.

“Hello? Mic test. 1. 2. 3.” Nico’s voice floated in the air. She nodded in satisfaction when she heard the clarity in the speakers, “Good evening, everyone! I’m Yazawa Nico, Hanayo’s Maid of Honor.” She introduced herself with her practiced idol persona.

There was a moment of applause. Some in awe that someone with Nico’s celebrity status was in front of them.

“I would like to start off with a congratulations to the newlyweds. I am so happy for you.” Nico continued, starting another round of applause for the couple.

Rin grinned, pumping up her fist in the air. Hanayo shyly nodded, a tinge of red coloring her face.

“I have here with me Hanayo and Rin’s best friend, Nishikino Maki,” Nico walked to the piano where Maki was already situated at. The redhead gave a small wave to the crowd. “The two of us have prepared a song that we’d like to sing for the newlyweds.”

“Rin, Hanayo,” It was Maki this time, “Please listen to Love Wing Bell.” She expertly played the intro on the piano, smiling at Nico.

Hanayo leaned in Rin’s shoulder, intertwining their fingers together as Nico began singing the first words to the song.

The time has come to welcome the moment we’ve been waiting for
Is it okay for me to be feeling so much happiness?
This road we walk down, beckoned by the light,
Continues on to the future, brimming up with hope

===

“Nico, you look great in your dress.” Tsubasa – Honoka’s plus one – winked, leaning forward in the table coolly from her position just as Nico and Maki came back from the stage.

Kira Tsubasa – 29 years old – a professional and famous idol. Leader of super idol group, A-RISE. She’s known Honoka, Kotori and Umi from high school, and was pleasantly surprised when she found out they were acquainted with Nico-nii. The group is also Nico’s closest friends in the business, and ones of the select few to know of her marital status.

Honoka met Tsubasa in high school when she accidentally delivered the wrong kind of sweets to one of their parties. Tsubasa found her energy likeable and before they knew it, they were friends. Which turned out to be more. Then not. Then on. Off. You get it.

Nico held Maki’s hand and led her to the vacant seats, knowing that her wife would be irritated with the comment. She smirked flirtatiously at Tsubasa, “Of course, I do.” She drawled, “Where’s the rest of you?” she asked to change the subject, referring to the rest of A-RISE.

“Probably in their apartment, having fun.” Tsubasa answered with a wink, to make sure her insinuation would catch on. She laughed when most of the table grimaced at her choice of words. Then she turned to Nico’s partner as soon as they were seated, “Maki-san, I assume you composed the melody for that song. Might I say that the world is missing a talented composer.” She sighed wistfully.

Nozomi laughed, “My manager feels the same but for racing. She’s impressed when we do exhibition matches together.”

“Maki-chan is right where she belongs!” Nico chimed in, leaning her head on Maki’s shoulder, “Right beside me!” she declared.

Maki, already flustered by the comments from Tsubasa and Nozomi, felt all the heat from her body rush up to her face. She abruptly stood up, “I’m just gonna go congratulate Rin and Hanayo again.” She was gone before the sentence was over.

There was more laughter.

Eli was watching Nozomi the whole time. Feeling endeared by the openness and happiness the racer was showing compared to her usual vague and mysterious persona. When a slow song played, she leaned into Nozomi and whispered, “Do you want to dance?”

Nozomi whipped her head to the side in surprise, not expecting Eli to suddenly be so close, “Elicchi… sure…” she responded, suddenly shy. But she pushed it away at the bright smile Eli had at her acceptance.

The blonde stood up first and offered her hand to the other girl. When Nozomi intertwined their fingers, she couldn’t help but feel complete. I’m so in love with this girl. I’m screwed.

Nozomi and Eli met on Nico and Maki’s wedding day. They had an instant connection, but both insisted they weren’t ready for a relationship back then. However, the pull was so strong, they told each other that it could just be fun between them, and they had sex.

Extra #1: (13 Years Ago) How RinPana got together

“Rin”

“Hmm?” Rin turned her head in Maki’s direction, but her eyes were trained to where Hanayo was across from them. The shy girl was talking to someone from a different class.

They were in the courtyard having lunch together, but as soon as that girl saw Hanayo, she took her hand and led her away from her friends. Hanayo met the girl when she asked about an idol keychain on her bag, and they’ve been talking non-stop ever since.

Rin’s also been frowning ever since.

“Do you have-hey, where are you going?” Maki – still oblivious about emotions at this point in her life – didn’t even notice that her friend was upset. Looking at her bento, then Rin’s bento, she decided to stay in her place as she watched what her friend was about to do.

She was not expecting what would happen next.

“Back off-nya! Kayo-chin is mine!”

Maki gaped. Even she could see that there was something more between Hanayo and Rin, but she didn’t think they’d be so… public about it.

===

For the rest of the day, most of their classmates teased Hanayo and Rin. Maki even made sure to steer clear from everyone, including her friends, to avoid being questioned about their relationship.

So now, the two best friends were walking home together. In awkward silence.

Rin was thinking of ways to apologize for her outburst earlier. Normally, they would be talking non-stop with each other as soon as Maki separates from them – the topics would vary from school, to idols, to sports.

She paused when she noticed that Hanayo stopped. Looking up, she noticed they were in front of her house.

Oh…

“Kayo-chin-”

“Did you mean it, Rin-chan?”

Rin looked at her best friend for the first time since lunchtime. She gasped at the intensity she found in Hanayo’s eyes. This was the first time she’s seen this kind of expression on her best friend’s face, and she’s known her since kindergarten, “What?”

“Rin-chan,” Hanayo took a step closer to Rin, “Did you mean it?”

Rin gulped, “I did… um… I do…”

Hanayo smiled.

That was the first time that Rin felt a pinch in her chest and her breath caught. But it definitely wouldn’t be the last time.

Chapter Text

Eli smacked her lips together as she finished putting on her lipstick. She smiled at her reflection before going out of the ensuite bathroom to check on her companion.

Who was taking a nap…

“Non-tan…” The blonde shook her head exasperatedly. She crept towards the bed, a smile slowly forming on her lips the nearer she got. She climbed onto the bed as carefully as she could. Sliding into the covers, she put a hand on Nozomi’s waist. Inhaling at the feeling of naked flesh under her palm.

Nozomi moaned, leaning closer into Eli.

The blonde’s cheek darkened, as if they hadn’t just done more intimate things earlier. She squeezed, leaning down to press a kiss on Nozomi’s neck. The racer leaned her head to the side, giving Eli more room.

Nozomi reached up, pressing the blonde’s head to her neck, “Elicchi, harder…” she whispered sensually. She turned her head to press their lips together. Her hand moved lower, frowning at the fabric she touched, “Why are you dressed?”

Eli regretfully scooted away from the violet-haired girl, and Nozomi quickly reduced the space by turning around and following the blonde’s movement, “Because we have to go soon… You need to get ready…”

Nozomi played with the collar on Eli’s blouse, smiling coyly, “Really?” she asked slowly, peering up at her lashes.

Eli gulped, “Yes.” No.

“Hmm…” Nozomi’s smile disappeared when Eli sat up. Then a thought occurred to her, “Elicchi?”

The blonde didn’t even have time to react before Nozomi was straddling her. Eli’s throat dried, her eyes drifting down to Nozomi’s breasts.

“Are you absolutely sure…” Nozomi drawled, putting her hands on Eli’s chest. Playing with the edge of the blonde’s collar, “that we don’t have time…?”

Eli forced her eyes upward, meeting mischievous emerald eyes, “I…” she gulped. Screw it. She pulled Nozomi’s head down, crashing their lips together.

Nozomi grinned into the kiss, pulling the lawyer’s shirt over her head.

===

“I thought it’d be boring, but it’s not! I still get to run!” Rin said proudly, smiling as Maki handed her the bowls of chips and sauces for the middle of the table, “It was pretty amazing-nya.” She added, her high school habit of adding “nya” at the end of each sentence showing in her excitement about her new job.

Maki nodded proudly, putting plates with spoons, forks and chopsticks on the end of the table as Rin continued to tell her about her week. The athlete decided to become a sports scientist, working at one of the Nishikino Hospital’s affiliates.

Nico smiled. From her position in the kitchen, she can clearly see and hear the conversation going on in the dining room. It was always endearing to see Maki’s soft side for their friends as the redhead’s aloof exterior usually intimidates others.

Rin and Hanayo just got back from their honeymoon and just finished moving into their new apartment. It was bigger and more modern than their previous one – perfect for newlyweds – so they invited everyone for a dinner party to thank them for their attendance to their wedding.

Nico insisted that she wanted to help Hanayo prepare the food, so they came earlier than the others.

Hanayo looked up at Nico, noticing the contentment as the idol gazed at their wives, “Is this how it always is?”

“Hmm?” Nico looked at Hanayo.

“Marriage…” Hanayo responded, “I wonder if I’m allowed to be this happy…”

Nico smiled, turning the stove on low heat, “That’s how you know you chose the right partner.”

Hanayo smiled. She didn’t have to marry Rin to know that she’s the perfect partner for her.

Ding!

“Oh! The pizza’s ready!” Hanayo hurriedly walked to the oven, putting on the oven mitts to take out the pizza.

They were cooking a mix of Western and Japanese food for variety. Nico was just finishing up on curry, while Hanayo just got the pizza to let it cool. They also prepared some sandwiches, spaghetti, fried shrimp, fried chicken, beef, and of course, rice.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

“I’ll get it!” Maki immediately offered, running to the front door.

Nico and Hanayo shared a look, then laughed. It wasn’t unusual for Maki to try to run away from Rin for a few minutes whenever the athlete gets too excited about something.

“Hey,” Maki greeted the trio on the other side, “Come on in.” she opened the door wider for them to pass through.

“Hey Maki-chan!” Honoka gave Maki a big hug as she passed, dashing to the kitchen to maybe steal a few bites.

Kotori followed with a quicker hug than Honoka following her best friend inside. She went to Rin and rearranged some items to make room for the cheesecake she brought.

“Good evening, Maki.” Umi greeted, more subdued than the first two.

Maki waved a hand, then gestured for Umi to get inside. The redhead was about to close the door when the elevators chimed. She curiously waited, just in case it was the rest of their friends.

Sure enough, Nozomi and Eli came out. Maki raised an eyebrow, smirking as they walked towards her.

Nozomi made a zipping motion with her hand. Kissing Maki’s cheek once she was near enough, “Good evening, Maki-chan.” She greeted, looking her best friend over.

“It does seem to be a good evening for you two.” Maki tilted her head innocently, eyeing the couple’s interactions.

Eli blushed. She wouldn’t be surprised if Maki knew the dirty details of their nights from Nozomi. Too ashamed to say anything, she barely looked at Maki as she walked inside.

Nozomi giggled and was about to go inside when Maki pulled her back. Before the racer could ask what was wrong, the redhead closed the top button of her shirt, hiding a hickey that was previously visible.

Nozomi blushed. Putting her hand over Maki’s mouth to hide the amused smile. The redhead took the hand and pushed Nozomi inside as she closed the door.

===

“You’re all just in time!” Nico said, putting the curry on the table, and bypassing individual greetings.

Hanayo was in host mode, going around the room, asking what everyone wanted to drink while Nico brought the rest of the food out with Maki and Rin. Plates and utensils were passed. Compliments on how everything looked and smelled good made Nico and Hanayo proudly grin.  

Once everyone filled their plates, they took their seats. Maki was at one end of the table with Nico on her right and Nozomi on her left beside Eli. Kotori was at the other end with Umi on her right beside Nico. Honoka brought a chair to put between Kotori and Umi.

Hanayo led Rin to the couch with their plates.

The ginger tilted her head to look behind her friends, “We need a longer table…” she muttered, “Or maybe a foldable one…”

Hanayo smiled, knowing her wife was already planning the next time they host another dinner party.

“Maki-chan, how long have you and Nicocchi been here?”

“Around 3:00, I guess…”

Nozomi was surprised, “It’s rare for you two to spend a shared day off with friends.” She knew that the two spent more time apart than together with their busy schedules.

Maki shrugged in response, taking a huge forkful of her spaghetti.

“I wanted to help Hanayo cook,” Nico added when her wife didn’t respond verbally, “And we’d probably just sleep the day away if we didn’t come here early.” She added as an afterthought.

“That’s how 7 years of marriage look like.” The racer teased, laughing when the idol just winked at her.

Kotori sighed, “I’m jealous…” she looked at Umi meaningfully as she said that.

“Kotori…?”

“Kotori-chan…” Hanayo looked at her friend curiously, “You know everyone’s relationship is different,” she reiterated what she said to her friend on her wedding day, “And there’s no specific timeline for the perfect relationship. Each relationship is perfect for whoever’s in it.”

There was a moment of silence as everyone processed what Hanayo just said.

Then Umi smiled, “Well said, Hanayo,” she praised, before turning to Kotori, “We did it right. Moreover, I don’t think our relationship would’ve survived the long distance.” a light blush covered her face at the admission. She suddenly wanted to push their friend from between them and take Kotori in her arms. But she kept control and settled for a smile.

“Really?” Kotori asked, suddenly feeling a little insecure.

Everyone else was watching with rapt attention at the rare display of affection – even without the physical contact – that was coming from Umi. Out of every couple, they were the most in control of their actions whenever in public. Honoka reacted the most obviously, grinning as she listened to her oldest friends discuss love.

“Well, it wouldn’t back then,” Umi responded logically, “We were still figuring life out, and there were so many changes when we went to college. But now, if for some reason, you need to go back to France and I need to stay here, I’m sure we’ll make it.”

 “Umi-chan…” Kotori smiled, pleased at the reassurance.

“Gaaahhh!” Honoka exclaimed, pulling her best friends into a group hug, “I’m so happy for you two!”

Everyone smiled at the wholesomeness.

“See, Kotori-chan,” Nozomi started, picking at her bowl filled with beef, “Just look at Honoka-chan and Kira-san’s relationship. It’s different but it works for them.”

Honoka blushed, “We’re just friends…”

“With benefits.” Kotori answered out of reflex. Then, put her hands over her mouth as if she realized what she just said.

The room was stunned into silence. Honoka always insists that she’s just friends with Tsubasa even though they all know that the two of them… do it…

Then, as if everyone realized at the same time, they all turned to look at Nozomi and Eli.

Eli stiffened, cursing Nozomi in her head for making an example of the one friend who was – technically – in the same situation as them. “It’s just…” she cleared her throat, suddenly feeling exposed.

“We just know how to have fun,” Nozomi chimed in with a giggle, “Right, Honoka-chan?”

“Right!” was immediately answered.

“Wait-nya!” Rin cut in before the topic could change, “How did your arrangement start? I mean, I knew Nozomi-chan longer and I’m not surprised…” she shivered as she remembered a time she walked in on Nozomi and Maki… then another when she walked in on Nozomi with another girl… she shook her head to keep her focus, “But Eli-chan, you don’t seem like-”

“Rin-chan!” Hanayo pulled her wife down, “You don’t ask people things like that…”

“Really…?” Rin pouted.

“It’s okay, Hanayo-chan,” Nozomi answered, “Maki-chan and Nico-chan already knows. What’s wrong with the rest of our friends knowing?”

“Oh, there’s a lot of things wrong with that…” Eli muttered, feeling the heat from her neck to her cheeks. She put her pizza down and dusted her hands. She crossed her arms, resigning herself to her fate. She wouldn’t be able to stop Nozomi from telling their friends even if she tried.

“As all of you know, the two of us met on Maki-chan and Nicocchi’s wedding. We hit off, I brought her home, then we had sex.” Nozomi summarized as best as she could.

“On the day you met?!” Rin and Honoka exclaimed at the same time, scandalized.

Hanayo shushed Rin with a finger on her lips, while Umi pinched Honoka’s ear.

Eli closed her eyes, trying her best to fight off the blush. Even after years of being friends (with benefits) with Nozomi, she somehow can’t say no and contradict the other girl. She only looked up when she heard Nozomi’s tinkling laugh.

“It works for us,” The racer said, “and we’re happy with what we have.”

Nico, Hanayo, and Kotori were looking at the blonde when Nozomi said that. The three of them felt bad when the blonde winced – the blonde was trying to keep it a secret, but her feelings were becoming more obvious the longer their arrangement went on.

The idol grinned, leaning on the table, “I guess that’s what 7 years of… whatever you two have… looks like,” she teased back, to lighten the mood around the blonde.

Hanayo, catching on to what Nico was trying to do, “You know,” she didn’t even have to pretend to be upset as she remembered the day Maki told them she got married, “I’m still so mad that I wasn’t invited to that wedding…” she pouted.

Maki swallowed before responding, “It was really more of a formality than anything.” She shrugged.

“Don’t worry!” Nico piped up, slapping Maki’s arm for dismissing Hanayo’s thoughts so easily, “you’ll be invited to my next one, Hanayo!”

Maki raised an eyebrow, putting her fork down to look at her wife, “And why would you have another wedding?” she demanded.

“Oh, I don’t know,” Nico teased, drawling out the last word, “Maybe someone sweeter would sweep me off my feet.”

“Hmm.” Maki didn’t say anything more, but she kept on staring at Nico, as if daring the idol to push her farther.

Everyone was pretty used to the other couple bickering, so they just continued to eat as they waited for the disagreement to die down.

Nico laughed, squishing Maki’s face in one of her hands. The redhead didn’t even attempt to pull away, just jutted her lip out further to a pout, “I may be Mrs. Nishikino now, but you still owe me a grand wedding!” she declared, letting go of Maki’s face. She didn’t let her wife respond once she noticed her plate was almost empty, so she immediately put more pasta for the redhead.

Kotori’s laugh died and her face darkened when she noticed the serving that Maki’s eating, “How is it fair that Maki eats 3x as much as me, then still end up looking like that!” she complained.

“Hmm?” Maki looked up from taking a bite of garlic bread, “Like what? She raised an eyebrow confusedly.

“Like a freaking model!” It was Hanayo this time. For all the time that she knew Maki, she’d always been jealous of how her friend could eat whatever she wanted, anytime she wanted. Especially during that time in high school when she tried to go on a diet.

“That’s probably my fault,” Nozomi piped up. Remembering how Maki helped a lot in keeping her loneliness at bay when she started living alone.

“Probably?” Maki raised an eyebrow, smirking at her best friend, “It is your fault.”

“No one told you to eat everything!”

“Fine. Let’s share the blame.”

Eli scoffed, “As if you didn’t share enough…” she said bitterly. Normally, she could hide her jealousy of Maki well, but the embarrassment of sharing her history with Nozomi earlier still had her feeling on edge.

Everybody thoughtfully ignored Eli’s comment. Honoka made the mistake of asking Eli why she was in a bad mood when a childhood story about Nozomi and Maki was brought up before; it was the first time most of them ever saw Eli angry.

“How did Maki’s appetite become so…” Umi tried to ask but couldn’t find a word to describe the doctor’s eating habits without sounding so disrespectful.

Rin lit up excitedly, “You’ve never heard the story?! I love this story!” she looked back to high school, remembering how happy she was when she finally had a friend who could match her appetite.  

“What story?” Honoka asked with pizza on her mouth, tilting her head to the side.

“Okay,” Nozomi started, always happy to relive memories with friends, “So, when I first started living alone, Maki-chan visited often. I was used to cooking for 3 people and I couldn’t get the servings quite right, and the leftovers got wasted the first few times.” She looked at her best friend, “So, the next time that Maki came over, she ate everything that I didn’t.” She looked at her best friend fondly, “But when I finally figured out the servings, Maki-chan’s already used to eating enough for a whole family.”

“How did you not gain weight like that?!” Honoka asked in amazement, looking at Maki as if she had the cure for cancer.

“Imagine growing up with two of those…” Hanayo griped. Glaring at Rin, then at Maki.

Honoka then turned her glare to Rin, who just tilted her head cutely.

“My parents insisted that I live an active life,” Maki responded to Honoka’s original question, “They didn’t discourage my eating habits, but they made sure to offset it with exercise and a personal trainer.”

“It really was lots of exercise,” Nozomi whispered, remembering a memory of joining Maki’s exercise routine for a day and not even halfway through it, she was tapping out and taking a nap.

“Yeah-nya…” Rin agreed. Remembering the time when she jogged with Maki; she was definitely faster, but it was amazing how Maki kept up with her.

“Even I follow a very strict diet to maintain my form,” Umi joined in the conversation, a frown forming on her face.

“Oh!” Honoka grinned, poking Umi’s cheek, “Even Umi-chan gets insecure about this!”

“I do not!” The archer immediately deflected, glaring at her friend.

“Anyway!” Kotori cut in, stopping the inevitable fight that was to come with Honoka antagonizing Umi, “We all seem to have forgotten why we’re here,” she looked at their hosts and smiled, “How was the honeymoon?”

“It was awesome!” Rin answered, pumping her fist, “Australia was awesome! We got to see kangaroos and koalas!”

Hanayo nodded, hyped by her partner’s enthusiasm, “Yes! We got souvenirs for everyone; we’ll give them out later!”

===

Nozomi giggled as she pulled Eli into her apartment, “That was fun, right?”

“It was,” Eli agreed easily, “I still can’t believe that Hanayo and Rin are Maki’s friends.” The blonde laughed.

The dinner with their friends concluded shortly after Nico drunkenly tried to seduce Maki on the couch. The doctor immediately said that they were going home when Nico tried to take off her top in front of all their friends.

Eli only intended to take Nozomi home, then go home to her own apartment. But now, it seems that the racer has other plans as she was led further inside the apartment, “I’m pretty sure you didn’t drink that much, right, Nozomi?”

“I’m not drunk…” Nozomi giggled, pulling Eli down with her on the couch, making the blonde giggle along with her.

“You’re ridiculous,” Eli scooted upwards until they were face-to-face. She looked deep into Nozomi’s eyes, thinking just how beautiful the girl beneath her was, “Nozomi…”

“Yeah?”

Eli cleared her throat, suddenly wanting to express her feelings for the racer, I love you. “I need to go home…”

Nozomi pulled the blonde back in her arms, wrapping her arms around Eli. The blonde inhaled deeply. It was as if Nozomi knew that if the racer gave her any attention, Eli would do everything she asked of her.

She probably did. She had amazing intuition.

“Nozomi…?”

“Do you really have to?” Nozomi looked up, batting her eyelashes at the lawyer. After having a great time hanging out with her friends for the night, she didn’t want to be left alone. She knows she’s not being fair to Eli but, if she could get the blonde to stay…

As soon as Nozomi’s lower lip started to jut out, Eli knew she just lost the battle. So with a sigh, she responded, “Okay, I’ll stay… But I have to leave early, okay?”

“Yay,” Nozomi cheered, giving Eli a kiss on the nose.

Eli’s heart skipped a beat when Nozomi gave her a sleepy smile. She raised her hand to brush Nozomi’s bangs away from her eyes. The racer gave another sleepy smile before closing her eyes.

“Nozomi?” Eli asked curiously. Smiling when she realized that Nozomi had fallen asleep. Feeling a sudden burst of courage, she started to say the words she’d been feeling for years now. She wouldn’t be able to say when she exactly realized she’s started to feel more for Nozomi, but as each day passed, her restraint in not telling was waning, “I-”

But for today, she could still keep her feelings inside.

So she settled on just holding Nozomi tight for the night.

Extra #2 (14 Years Ago): MakiRinPana’s Friendship

Rin and Hanayo were sitting down beside the closed door of the music room, listening to the piano music coming from inside. They’ve been doing this for a few weeks now ever since they stumbled on one of their new classmates singing a song neither of them knew.

“She’s so good-nya!” Rin squealed when a particularly happy melody played.

“Ssh, Rin-chan!”

…

“I think she didn’t hear us…”

“But the music stopped-nya…”

“Ahem.”

They looked up to the now open window where their redheaded classmate was looking down on them.

“Ahh! Nishikino-san!” Hanayo stood up, “This is-”

“You were so good!” Rin complemented, coming face-to-face with Maki and holding her hands.

“Umm… thanks…” Maki responded before fleeing.

Rin and Hanayo shared a look as they watched the other girl run away from them.

===

That went on for a few months. Rin and Hanayo would often try to get the redhead to interact with them, and every single time, Maki would run away. Especially if it was Rin trying to get her attention – she thought the ginger was too loud and energetic.

That was, until their class began planning for the cultural festival. Majority of their classmates voted that they wanted to do a play. And by some stroke of bad luck, during the lottery for parts assignment, Maki was one of the main characters, along with Rin and Hanayo for a play about three friends.

===Cultural Festival===

Maki walked into their classroom early on the day of the cultural festival to panicking classmates.

Rin was on her face the next moment, “Nishikino-san! I can’t find Kayo-chin-nya!”

“What?” The redhead asked, pushing past the ginger so she can put her bag down on her seat, “Don’t you come to school together?”

Rin nodded as she followed Maki in the classroom, “But she left after we got here…”

Maki thought for a moment before nodding, “Let’s go look for her.”

===

After spending a lot of time rehearsing with the two friends, she had an idea of where she could find the missing girl. With quick steps, she went into the music room, and sure enough, Hanayo was there.

“There you are…” Maki breathed out, relieved.

“Nishikino-san…”

“Everyone’s worried,” Maki took a step closer at the visibly nervous girl, “Especially Hoshizora-san.”

“Sorry…”

Maki regarded Hanayo for a moment before sighing. She smiled at the other girl, “We’ve been practicing for weeks now, you got this.” She assured.

Hanayo’s teary eyes looked up in wonder at Maki’s, surprised about the sincerity she can see in her usually stoic classmate. She nodded slowly, not trusting her voice.

Maki nodded back, turning to walk out.

Hanayo nodded again, wanting something else now, “You can call me…” her voice lowered at each word until she couldn’t be heard anymore.

Maki knew what the shy girl was asking. She had to admit, she found her and Rin’s company… okay, so, “Okay, Hanayo.” She smiled awkwardly, “You can call me by my first name, too.”

Hanayo brightened at the offer, and she was about to, until-

“Maki-chan!” Rin glomped Maki, showing herself from her hiding position just outside of the room.

“Wha-? Rin!” Maki’s voice was not amused.

Hanayo laughed, finally relaxing.

Maki and Rin stopped their struggling at the sound – Rin still on Maki’s back. They looked up at the now calmer Hanayo.

“You’ll do great, Kayo-chin!” Rin encouraged, unconsciously squeezing Maki’s shoulders in her excitement.

Maki nodded, “Let’s go back before everyone else gets even more worried, Hanayo.”

Hanayo nodded gratefully, “Thank you, Rin-chan…” she smiled at the redhead, “Maki-chan.”

They’re really not so bad… Maki thought as they walked back to the classroom together.

Chapter Text

Eli took a sip of her coffee, sighing as the warm liquid went down her throat.

“Elicchi, it’s barely lunchtime.” Nozomi scolded lightly, eyeing the blonde’s mug in disapproval, “How many of those have you had today?”

The lawyer raised her hand with 3 fingers up. She waved her hand in front of Nozomi when the racer looked like she was about to scold her, “I need this, I stayed up last night reading some documents.”

Nozomi pouted but didn’t push. She knows Eli goes the extra mile for her clients, which was precisely why she sneaked out of her training and decided to steal Eli for lunch. The blonde had history of not taking care of herself whenever she’s occupied with work.

The waiter came back with their food; a hamburger steak for Nozomi and a chicken with tomatoes sandwich for Eli. After putting the utensils down, the waiter idled for a bit. Eli waited patiently for the inevitable.

“Umm…” The young waiter started, “You’re Tojo Nozomi, right?”

Nozomi subtly sat up straighter to regard the fan, “Yes. Are you a fan?”

Eli watched fondly. This exact thing has happened a few times before, and she learned to just let the fans get their excitement out lest she wanted another blackeye. She took another sip of her coffee, watching the shift in Nozomi’s posture and the way she carried herself. It’s always great to have other people tell Nozomi how amazing she is.

“Thank you so much!” The waiter was practically vibrating as he looked at the autograph. He turned to Eli with a bright smile, “You’re so lucky you’re with her!” was his parting statement, already going back to the kitchen before either Nozomi or Eli could correct his misunderstanding.

Eli gave Nozomi an apologetic look. But then again, the two of them are used to being confused for an actual couple. But last Eli checked – or was asked, quite loudly by her sister, “Why are you not dating?! You two have pictures all over the internet!”

Why, indeed? Eli recalled how their arrangement started, and she couldn’t find a way to get out of it.

“Well, technically,” Nozomi drawled, grinning at Eli. Her teasing demeanor back now that they were left alone, “You are with me. And you’re very lucky to be.”

Yes, I am. “You don’t have to tell me that…” Eli blushed, shaking her head. One thought sneaked up in her mind. I love this woman. Clearing her throat and pulling her plate closer towards herself, she changed the subject, “What are your plans for the next few weeks? I need to relax.” She smiled lopsidedly, knowing that the other girl liked that.

Nozomi bit her lip as she looked up from Eli’s lips, knowing exactly how she can help the blonde relax, “There’s this weekend event in Saitama with my brand sponsors. They said I could bring someone with me.”

Like how it was not unusual for them to be seen having lunch together, it was not unusual for them to be seen at events together. Maybe they should stop wondering why the public is saying they’re in a relationship…

Eli mentally thought about her schedule, checking if she had any plans for the upcoming weekends. “Hmm. I’ll have to check my calendar later but, I’m pretty sure I’m free.”

A serene smile comes up Nozomi’s lips at the blonde’s answer – making Eli’s breath hitch – as she said her next word, “Perfect.”

===A Few Weeks Later===

Once Rin found out that Nico would be spending the weekend in Saitama for idol-related events, at the same weekend that Nozomi and Eli would be attending a sponsored event for the racer, she decided that it was time for her, Maki and Hanayo to hang out like they used to in high school.

 After the wedding, it was as if the universe was conspiring against them because their schedules wouldn’t match, and they haven’t seen the redhead in person for almost 3 months now.

First, she made sure that Maki had the day off or at least could get off work at a reasonable time on that day. Luckily, she did. She was on-call for the day before, so she’ll be coming home early. The doctor said she’ll just get some sleep and will be in the couple’s place in the afternoon in time to help with dinner.

Which should be… right… about…

Ding Dong

Now!

Rin dashed from their bedroom to the living room in 10-seconds flat, leaving Hanayo to call out a warning to be careful as she followed her wife at a much slower pace. Rin opened the door wide, grinning widely at her friend on the other side.

“Maki-chan! Welcome!”

Maki nodded, pushing past Rin to get in the entrance hallway. She couldn’t move fast enough to get out of the big hug from Rin, though, “Pardon the intrusion…”

“Welcome, Maki-chan,” Hanayo greeted, much calmer than her wife. The redhead smiled, handing the box of cake she was holding to her other friend, not trusting Rin with the delicate dessert.

===

Kotori and Umi, on the other hand, were in Honoka’s bar, supporting their friend. Honoka finished up making a drink, looking fondly at where Umi was being challenged to darts by some regulars. These days, the bar was doing good – more than good. It has been doing very well since A-RISE and Nico Nii have been advertising and vouching for it.

But that wasn’t the case when she was starting…

Most of their friends were there in the beginning, too, but none more than Umi and Kotori. She was eternally grateful that even after the many nights the two spent helping her when she was struggling – some even turning into fights between them, they were still there now that she was successful.

The bartender shook herself off her sudden reminiscing when she saw Kotori wave her over on the other end of the bar. Looking at the other patrons, she confirmed that no one needed her attention. She skipped over to her friend, almost hitting some alcohol bottles on her way.

“Hi Kotori-chan! Do you need anything?” Honoka asked as soon as she was within earshot of the designer.

“Nope,” Kotori answered, sneaking a glance to her girlfriend who just hit the center on the dartboard, “Umi-chan’s busy. And I wanted to ask why you looked so happy over there.”

“Oh!” Honoka laughed, suddenly remembering something Tsubasa told her about.

Cheers sounded on the other end of the bar. Another look said that Umi seems to have won the challenge if the way she was confidently sauntering back to them was any indication.

“Hey,” The blue-haired girl greeted, immediately taking the seat beside Kotori. “Did I miss anything here?”

“Nope, you’re just in time.” Kotori responded, swiveling in her chair so she’s facing her girlfriend. She turned her head to look at their friend, “Honoka-chan was just about to tell me something.”

“Oh?” Umi looked at Honoka, intrigued.

Honoka grinned, doing a peace sign with her hand, “Tsubasa booked the bar for a few days for an A-RISE PV.”

Kotori clasped her hands in front of her, happy for her friend. While Umi simply nodded, unsure how she should feel.

The archer bit her tongue in disappointment – she thought it was finally the time that Tsubasa and Honoka start dating. It wasn’t a secret that Honoka felt strongly for the idol from their very rich history stemming from high school.

Kotori, as if sensing just what her girlfriend is thinking, took Umi’s hand in her own and answered, “That’s really cool, Honoka-chan!”

Umi cleared her throat, schooling her expression to something a little more positive, “It sounds great. Let me know if you need any help with permits or documentations.”

Honoka beamed. “Thanks, guys! You’re the best!”

===

In a different prefecture, Nico invited Nozomi and Eli to an early dinner at a nice restaurant. The racer’s first event ended that afternoon, with her just needing to make one last appearance with the sponsors the next morning. But Nico had events scattered throughout the day with an online live stream later with another idol.

Nico watched the couple across from her with interest. She can’t believe that they’ve been playing whatever game it is they’re playing for 7 years now. Well, maybe she can believe it for Nozomi, but Eli… she’s known the blonde since high school.

Eli has convictions and is responsible. That’s why she became a lawyer. And she’s incredibly loyal. Sure, the blonde had fangirls in high school, but she ignored them most of the time. She dated that one girl in college, but they broke up right before she met Nozomi.

Nico observed deeper. The couple didn’t even care that they had company as Eli brought up her fork to Nozomi’s lips for a taste of her steak. Okay, maybe she was a little jealous because she can’t be that forward in public with her own wife. But-wait. Was Eli blushing?

Eli is loyal. Nico’s eyes widened as she connected the dots. Despite the signs being obvious… She can’t believe it took her this long. She knew Eli felt more for Nozomi than normal, but she chalked it up to getting sexed up by the racer for all these years. She didn’t think it could be so much more.

With a smirk, Nico took a sip of her wine, eyeing the blonde’s slightly flushed cheeks. Oh, Eli. How can you be so stupid?

===A Few Days Later===

Nico got home late the previous night, around the same time as her wife did. The idol went home directly from her last event, while Maki had to stay later to assist in a surgery that took longer than expected due to a complication.

As soon as they saw each other, they forgot the tiredness from their long days being separated. Maki scooped up the idol in her arms and rushed to the bedroom. Needless to say, their night went long… and interesting.

 Nico blinked her eyes open a few hours later. Smiling when she felt the familiar warmth of her wife snuggled up to her. She wiggled and turned as subtly as she could to grab her phone to check the time.

4:17 AM.

She cursed at the realization she’s only been asleep for barely 2 hours. She shook the thought off. Luckily, she had nothing in her schedule for the day.

“Maki-chan!” Nico whispered in Maki’s ear, a hand coming up to rest on the redhead’s hip.

Maki groaned, opening one eye to look at who dared disturb her sleep. Any sleepiness evaporated once she realized it was her wife, “Nico-chan? You’re really here?”

“What?” Nico asked teasingly, a laugh already bubbling from her throat, “Did I make you feel so good last night that you thought it was a dream?”

“No.” was the immediate answer. Then, Maki’s eyes widened, “I mean yes. I-” she clamped her mouth shut, cheeks turning a bright red.

Nico took pity on the doctor, so she began rubbing her sides, noting that both of them are still naked under the sheets and they could be doing other things. “You okay, Maki-chan?”

Maki nodded, “I was just so tired yesterday… Then I saw you, and I just couldn’t help myself.” She admitted, burying her face on her wife’s shoulder.

Nico laughed, burying her fingers in Maki’s hair. It was ridiculous just how young and in love Maki makes her feel. “Mm. It was a nice welcome.” She kissed the top of Maki’s head. “Are you feeling better? Still tired?”

“Nope.” Maki responded, rolling over until she was on top of Nico, their stomachs and breasts pressed flat against each other’s. To prove her point, she leaned down and pressed her lips to Nico’s, passionately moving her lips against the idol’s swollen ones.

Nico resigned herself to her wife’s wandering hands.

===

Nico plated the grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup she prepared for breakfast while her wife was taking a bath. Unfortunately, Maki had an early shift despite the overtime she did the previous night. And with another long day ahead of her, she wanted to make sure that Maki had the energy she needed to get through at least the morning.

Yawning, Nico stretched her neck to the side and winced. Raising a hand to put a hand on her neck, she winced again as she ran a finger on a bite mark on her neck, “Mou, Maki-chan… My manager is gonna throw a fit…” despite the thought, she smiled. Maki was good at respecting her no-dating clause but, on times like last night… she could lose control, too… she smiled bashfully, as if they were still newly dating.

The redhead walked into the living room, already dressed up for work with a simple blouse and dark brown slacks.

“No need to walk around the house looking like a model, Maki-chan!” Nico teased, putting the plate of sandwich and bowl of soup on the island counter, before she removed her apron and brought another bowl over as she sat beside Maki. What her wife was wearing might be plain on others, but the way she carried herself and her confident steps made her look…irresistible. Or maybe it’s just Nico.

“Thanks, Nico-chan.” Maki smiled, taking a spoonful of the hearty soup. She sighed in contentment once the taste hit her tongue, “I’m so glad you’re my wife…” she said as she ate the half of her sandwich in 4 bites.

Nico giggled shyly. Despite arguing with Maki when with friends, and showing a tough exterior to everyone else, inside their home, she turns into any other lovestruck fool. They continued to eat their food in silence for a few more moments, until Nico remembered her brief dinner with Nozomi and Eli.

“What is it?” Maki asked, alarmed when Nico suddenly jumped in her seat.

“What do you think of Nozomi and Eli’s relationship?” Nico asked, swiveling in her seat so she’s facing Maki directly.

Maki frowned, confused at the topic since the two of them were the first ones to try to stop it when it started. “I mean… I still don’t like it, because I know Nozomi deserves a proper partner,” she answered, “Eli, too.” She added as an afterthought.

“But what about now?”

“Now?” Maki’s brow furrowed deeper.

“Nozomi and Eli!” Nico replied exasperatedly.

Maki sighed, putting her spoon down as she fully faced Nico. It would be easier to just entertain the idol’s thoughts, “It’s working for them, and I don’t think it’s hurting them.”

“Ha! That’s exactly it!” Nico responded, pointing a finger at Maki as if she just solved a clue, “Eli’s hurting because she’s in love with Nozomi!” she announced her big revelation.

…

…

…

“Why are you not surprised?” Nico asked suspiciously, poking her finger on Maki’s nose.

“Eli told me about it…” Maki hummed, looking up, “maybe 3 years ago? On that big banquet thing…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?!” Nico slapped Maki’s arm, “And why did she even tell you?”

Maki shrugged, “She was drunk.”

“Eli got drunk?!”

“Someone was flirting with Nozomi the whole night.”

“Ahh…” Nico nodded in understanding, “But why didn’t you tell me?!” she slapped Maki’s arm again.

“I forgot about it…” Maki shrugged again.

“Fine,” Nico conceded. It was one of the rare mornings they have together, so she changed the subject, “How’s work?”

Maki lit up, “It’s great! I’m getting to help in surgeries now.”

They spent the rest of the morning talking about the parts of their jobs that excited them until Maki had to leave.

===A Few Weeks Later===

Nico was sitting with Kotori in a boardroom. They were supposed to talk about her costumes for her next concert. This would normally be her manager’s job, but she liked to involve herself in all aspects of her concerts, especially if she’s gonna work with friends.

“Now that you mention it…” Kotori tapped her pen on the table as she thought about what the idol just told her, “Eli-chan does seem different around Nozomi-chan these days…”

Okay, normally they would be talking about costumes. But Nico decided to hijack their meeting and talk about Nozomi and Eli because her conversation with Maki did not help her at all.

“Right?!” Nico exclaimed, leaning back in her seat now that she’s got someone who gets what she’s feeling about the non-couple.

“I think Hanayo-chan’s working from home today,” Kotori suddenly said, picking up her phone and typing out a message, “Maybe we can take this meeting outside? Have lunch with Hanayo-chan? It might be nice to get another perspective.”

===

“Hmm… Now that you mention it…” Hanayo said, looking at Nico as if she just told her something scandalous. “But isn’t it just because they’re doing it?” she suggested, “Isn’t it normal to feel more for someone you have sex with?”

“Yes, it is!” Nico responded, lowering her head when a few heads turned their way. She did not need to be recognized. “But I swear Eli’s in love with Nozomi!”

The three of them agreed that they can see Eli was feeling more for Nozomi, but to call it love?

The conversation paused for a moment when their food arrived.

“But you know,” Hanayo started, breaking her chopsticks, “They act more like a couple than most couples I know.”

“You’re right!” Kotori agreed. Turning to Nico, she wondered if she should say what’s on her mind. At the idol’s confused look, she decided to continue, “Even Nico-chan and Maki-chan who’s been married for years don’t act like that in public.” She lowered her voice, in case anyone was listening to them, then continued in her normal volume, “If I put you two beside them and ask who I thought was the married couple if I didn’t know you, I’d choose them.”

Hanayo nodded as she happily ate her rice.

“That’s different.” Nico defensively answered, lowering her voice, “I have a no dating clause…”

Hanayo and Kotori smiled in sympathy, though they would never really know how it feels like.

So, Nico decided to change the subject, “Anyway, how about you two? How are your love lives?”

“I think Umi-chan’s getting the hang of being in a relationship!” Kotori answered, clasping her hands in delight, “She sent me flowers last time when I had a presentation. The whole office was jealous!”

“Don’t do it back,” Nico suggested playfully, “She might explode.” Laughing as she thought of Umi receiving flowers with her students or teammates watching. It would be hilarious.

“Mean, Nico-chan.” Kotori chided lightly, but she laughed along. “What about you, Hanayo-chan? How’s married life?”

Hanayo brightened up, “It’s amazing! And I’m happy that Rin-chan’s around most of the time now. Plus, she loves her new job!”

===

Though, talking to Hanayo and Kotori may have achieved more than talking with Maki did, Nico was still not happy about what she got so far. She wanted to give Nozomi and Eli a little push in being together, but she can’t do it alone.

So, now she’s calling in the big guns: Honoka and Rin!

The three of them used to hang out all the time since out of everyone else, the three of them share the same sense of humor so it’s always fun when they’re together. Nico thinks they are the perfect conspirators for what she wants to happen.

Which is proving to be true as now that she’s in a video call with them, they’re giving out random ideas that they can use to get Nozomi and Eli closer.

“This is great. I don’t know why I didn’t involve you guys sooner.” Nico said, finally satisfied that things were finally going her way.

“Rin-chan! Your ramen’s ready!” was heard from Rin’s microphone, and the former athlete looked at the camera with a grin.

“I have to go! Let’s talk more about this once your back, Nico-chan!” Rin said, not even done saying the last word before she disconnected.

Nico laughed, “Thanks, Honoka. I’ll see you guys soon.”

“Bye bye, Nico-chan!”

Nico looked at the time and was surprised that it was almost time for her to go to rehearsals. She was on the call longer than she thought she did. Grabbing her phone again, she typed out a quick message for her wife before her manager decided to pick her up.

===

In Nishikino Private Hospital, Maki’s phone was vibrating on one of the tables in the operating room. There was blood all over the floor, and Maki was sitting down, leaning on the wall as still as she can.

Another doctor approached, kneeling beside Maki. When she put a hand on Maki’s shoulder, the redhead grabbed onto her as if she was a lifeline – wide eyes searching for comfort. The other doctor was surprised for a moment, but she pulled the redhead into a hug.

The doctor whispered reassurances in Maki’s ear, then she leaned her head down, gently pressing her lips to Maki’s.

===

Nico smiled, satisfied once the little checkmark was under her message. She put her phone in her pocket and began skipping to the dance studio.

Nico-chan: Do your best, Maki-chan! There’ll be a Nico for you when you get home!

Extra #3 (3 Years Ago): Eli telling her feelings to Maki

Maki grimaced when Eli plopped down on the seat beside hers with a glass of vodka. The only reason she was here was because Nico was out of the country for a meet-and-greet. Laughter resounded from somewhere in the venue, both of them looked and saw Nozomi laughing along with some people in suits. She looked amazing with her purple sleeveless dress.

They were in a banquet hosted by Nozomi’s main sponsor. The racer was required to attend, and she persuaded Maki (plus the unavailable Nico) and Eli to join her, citing that she needed company for the event, which was proving untrue when different men and women were hovering over the racer.

“Maki,” Eli slurred the name.

The redhead raised an eyebrow, slowly looking to the blonde, “Are you drunk?” she asked incredulously. She’s seen the blonde drink – she can finish an entire bottle of vodka and be only slightly tipsy.

“No…” The blonde’s brow furrowed, “Yes.” She nodded, not really wanting to lie.

Maki pursed her lips, thinking if she wanted to comfort a sulking Eli, “Why?” she asked, knowing Nozomi (and Nico, for that matter) would want Maki to be more involved with their friends’ lives.

“Nozomi’s flirting…” Eli pouted up at Maki, small tears pooling in the corner of her eyes.

Maki panicked, straightening up in her seat, “Don’t cry! What? Why is this a big deal? She flirts with everyone!”

“Exactly!” Eli’s voice raised slightly, gaining looks from some of the other guests, “She flirts with everyone even though I’m in love with her!”

Maki’s eyes widened a fraction, but other than that, she didn’t show any other reaction to Eli’s revelation. She cleared her throat, trying to buy time from responding.

“Hey!” Nozomi suddenly popped up beside them, putting an arm on her best friend’s shoulders, “What are we talking about?”

“How I’m-ow!”

“Nothing!” Maki cut off, kicking Eli’s shin from under the table.

Eli sulked, rubbing her leg with a pout.

Nozomi looked at Maki incredulously, “What was that?”

“What?” Maki asked innocently.

“Tojo-san!” someone called, getting Nozomi’s attention.

“We’re not done talking about this,” Nozomi said playfully, patting Maki’s head, then Eli’s, before going back to the crowd to fulfill her duties for the night.

“Why’d you kick me?” Eli whined pitifully.

“Because that is not how you’re confessing to Nozomi.” Maki responded resolutely, crossing her arms as she continued to watch over Nozomi from her position. While also watching over the blonde beside her.

Chapter Text

Eli sped up her hand when Nozomi began whispering, “I’m close” over and over again near her ear. Unable to resist and feeling incredibly wound up, she bit Nozomi’s neck just below the back of the racer’s ear. She was on top of the racer on her living room couch.

“Elicchi~!” was cried from Nozomi’s lips as she climaxed. She looked up at the blonde with hooded eyes, groaning when Eli made a show of licking her fingers that was drenched with her juices.

Eli giggled and leaned down to press her lips to Nozomi’s gently. A moan escaped her lips when Nozomi ran a hand through her hair and pressed on her head, deepening the kiss.

Nozomi pulled away from the kiss with a pop after a moment, “That was really good…” she whispered breathily, “You are soooo good.”

“Appreciate the complement,” The lawyer chuckled, pressing her lips once more to the racer’s, “And you taste so good.” She winked before pushing upwards into a sitting position and stretching.

Nozomi sighed happily as she opened her eyes, then she frowned as she looked up at the lawyer’s ceiling, “Elicchi?”

“Hm?”

“Have you told your landlord about this?”

“What?” Eli looked at Nozomi, then up to the cracks that Nozomi was looking at, “Oh… well, no.”

“Well,” Nozomi raised an eyebrow, “you should.” She said seriously then tapped the blonde’s nose playfully, “Or better yet, with what me and Nicocchi are paying you, I’m pretty sure you can afford a better place.” It was true. They were Eli’s highest profile clients.

Eli laughed lightly but nodded anyway. She stood up and put her panties back on, “I’m going to grab a shirt, do you need one?”

Nozomi looked at the clothes scattered around the floor, “Nope.” she leaned over and picked up the blonde’s button-down shirt and put it on without buttoning anything, “This is all I need.” She grinned.

Eli blushed and bit her lip at how sexy Nozomi looked with her shirt on, so she left for her room to grab a t-shirt without another word.

“Elicchi?”

“Yes?” Eli came back out to the living room wearing a light blue t-shirt with a backwards “R” on it and shorts.

“Do you think everyone’s acting weird?” Nozomi put an arm on the back of the couch, looking at Eli from across the room.

“Weird how?” Eli asked confusedly, walking towards the couch. Then she paused, thinking about it, “I actually haven’t seen anyone for a while.” That wasn’t unusual. They were more of Nozomi’s friends than hers, anyways. She only gets to see them when there are occasions or when Nozomi decides to bring her over like the dinner party at Rin and Hanayo’s.

“Exactly,” Nozomi responded knowingly, opening a drawer beside the couch and taking a deck of tarot cards out and shuffling them, “It feels like we’re being avoided.”

Eli leaned her weight on the back of the couch, “Maybe you? I mean, they’re more your friends than mine?” she voiced her earlier thought.

Nozomi looked at the lawyer incredulously, “C’mon Elicchi, you know that’s not true.” She admonished lightly, “Everyone likes you. And it’s been 7 years, you can’t possibly still think that.”

Eli could only shrug self-consciously. She was never good at making friends, but she was happy with just Nico in high school. Then she met Nozomi who opened her up to this group of amazing people…

“Elicchi…” Nozomi sighed exasperatedly, “You’re gonna make Hanayo-chan cry if she hears you say that.”

Eli laughed nervously, “So, you think everyone’s acting weird?” she changed the subject back to the racer’s initial question.

Nozomi rolled her eyes, immediately catching on to what Eli was doing but didn’t call the blonde out. So, she simply nodded, “Even Maki-chan’s been asking questions!” she said exaggeratedly, making the blonde laugh.

“Only you can make Maki talk too much.” The blonde commented.

Nozomi shook her head, “Nicocchi’s very good at getting her to open up.” She refuted, still shuffling her cards, “Plus, I’m pretty sure that the questions were from Nicocchi. Maki-chan is not that curious.”

“Or nosey.” Eli added with a laugh, going around the couch to sit beside Nozomi again and quietly observed as Nozomi focused on her cards, "I'm sure it's gonna be fine."

===Attempt #1===

This is not fine. Nozomi and Eli thought the moment that Rin and Nico joined them on their table and took control of the conversation.

Eli tilted her head as she watched Nico talk to Rin. They would never turn their friends away, but it was too much of a coincidence to be a random encounter. The lawyer leaned towards Nozomi to whisper, “Nico asked my plans this morning.”

Nozomi nodded suspiciously, regarding their friends across from them as well, “Where are Maki-chan and Hanayo-chan?” she asked innocently, trying to see if she can figure out what her friends were planning.

“Maki-chan’s still at the hospital.” Nico answered immediately, while Rin answered, “They’re hanging out.” They shared a panicked look.

Nozomi raised an eyebrow, while Eli just smiled amusedly as they watched the two fumble.

“Hanayo’s meeting Maki-chan in the hospital, then they’re going somewhere!” Nico saved, stuttering in the middle.

Rin nodded, “They’re-” she yelped when Nico leaned in too hard on her, squeezing her leg tightly.

“Let’s order!” Nico rushed out, flagging down a waiter.

Nozomi’s eyebrows raised higher when Honoka was suddenly beside their table, “Hi Honoka-chan, on your break?” she asked, trying to confirm if the bar owner was in on whatever Nico and Rin were doing.

“Ahh, no… I’m…” Honoka stuttered. She chanced a glance at Nico who was glaring at her, “I’m just shaking it up…” she said softly, then with her usual energy, she raised the notepad and pen she’s holding, “So, what’ll it be?”

Nico’s glare intensified. This was not the plan. “Honoka,” she called sweetly, smiling her Nico-nii smile, “Isn’t there something new on the menu?”

Honoka tilted her head to the side, “Something… new-oh!” she turned to Nozomi and Eli as if she wasn’t just interrupted, “We have this new drink for couples! I’ll get you that!”

Nozomi stopped Eli when the blonde tried to protest, wanting to see what would happen.

“Nozomi?” Eli asked curiously.

Nozomi winked at the blonde then continued to watch their friends.

Honoka looked at Nico and Rin, wondering if she should offer the same thing. This was not part of the script. “Do you two…”

“Just get us a menu, Honoka.” Nico sighed, rubbing her temple with a finger.

“And fries, Honoka-chan!” Rin called before Honoka could walk away.

Having seen enough, Nozomi put a hand on the table and tapped her fingers, “You know, Nicocchi…” she started, then paused for effect, “I’ll figure this out.”

Nico gulped, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She answered bravely.

“I’m sure Rin-chan does.” Nozomi grinned innocently at Rin who let out a squeak at the threatening glint in the racer’s eyes.

Nico and Rin decided not to test Nozomi’s patience any more than they have. Opting instead to observe the couple so they’ll get ideas on what to do next. The longer they watched, the more they see how compatible the two are. Especially when the two comfortably – shamelessly – flirted and fed each other without regard for their presence all night.

===Attempt #2===

“Joining us today for this exhibition match, Olympic gold medalist, Sonoda Umi!” The announcer’s voice came from the speakers. Umi graciously bowed to the audience and smiled at her fellow archers as the announcer introduced them.

Nico, Rin and Honoka were suspiciously conspiring in one corner, gaining weird looks from some of the people passing them by. It was even more suspicious with Nico’s getup with the facemask and neon pink sunglasses.

“So, that’s the plan.” Nico said, voice low to sound commanding, “Any questions?”

“No, captain!” Rin and Honoka answered. With the runner raising a hand to salute.

“What are you three doing?”

The three of them whipped around to find Eli looking at them with a confused frown. They looked at each other for a moment and answered at the same time, “Nothing.”

The lawyer nodded slowly, not really wanting to get involved with whatever they were scheming. She took slow steps away from them to the stands where the rest of their friends were. Nico, Rin and Honoka followed behind, exchanging sneaky looks on the way.

Eli immediately sat down beside Nozomi as soon as she was in their row. The racer smiled at her, linking their hands. Rin gave Hanayo a kiss on her forehead and sat as close as she could to her wife. Kotori immediately chatted Honoka up about the match, the two of them familiar enough about archery due to watching Umi practice the sport since they were children.

Nico looked at how effortless Nozomi and Eli are making a relationship seem. Even without being in a relationship… She smiled, imagining how happier they’d be once they became official. She can’t wait to go on double dates with them. Her smile turned into a frown as she thought about her wife – it was such a shame that Maki couldn’t join them today with her busy doctor schedule.

===

There was a short break after the first elimination. Umi, as expected, easily passed to the next round. Rin wanted to congratulate her personally, but Honoka and Kotori pulled her back saying that Umi doesn’t like distractions during events even if she was on breaks.

So, Rin proceeded to move on with their plans.

“Eli-chan, do you want to play with me?” The runner asked, tilting her head to the side to look at the blonde. Guests are encouraged to try and shoot arrows during the intermissions, which was perfect.

The lawyer thought about it for a moment, “I’ve never tried it before… Sure.”

“Oh!” On cue, Honoka raised her hand, “Can we make it interesting?”

Eli paused, now regretting what she just agreed to, “Can I still say no?” she asked slowly, looking between Rin and Honoka, not trusting whatever it is they’re plotting.

“Nothing big! Let’s just say the loser will do something for the winner!”

“Doing something for either you or Rin doesn’t sound very appealing…” Eli commented, already moving to sit back down, but Nozomi wouldn’t let her, pushing her lower back before she could sit. The blonde looked confusedly at Nozomi.

“You already agreed, Elicchi. No turning back.” The racer commented with a mischievous grin. Like Eli, she figured that this is probably another attempt at whatever it was they were doing at the bar.

“Nozomi!” The blonde startled, complaint already at the tip of her tongue.

===

“And that’s it!” One of the attendants assisting guests on proper handling and shooting of a bow finished explaining to Rin and Eli. Honoka joined them in the stands, making sure to watch over the bet. She lowered her hand with the bow as she finished the demonstration.

The blonde sighed with a half-hearted glare to the racer who waved mischievously as she noticed the look. She really needed to work on her ability to say no to Nozomi.

“Okay!” Honoka said loudly, getting Eli and Rin’s attention, “The bet says the loser will do something for the winner!”

Rin gave an enthusiastic nod, while Eli just looked – glared – at Honoka, refusing to say anything.

Honoka gestured for Eli to go first, smiling innocently. The blonde grumbled something incomprehensible for her, so she pulled on Rin when the blonde focused on the target.

“Okay, Rin-chan!” Honoka whispered – or whispered as low as she can. “You have to win this so you can ask Eli-chan to ask Nozomi-chan out!”

Rin nodded determinedly.

Whoosh.

They turned to the sound of the whistling arrow, watching as it hit the board. Both of them clapped slowly. It wasn’t quite in the center, but it was near enough. Rin gulped, suddenly pressured. The only way for her to win the bet was for her to get a bullseye.

“You got this, Rin-chan!” Honoka patted her back, pushing the runner forward.

The runner stumbled forward nervously, slowly reaching for the bow.

Honoka then got distracted when she saw a cute girl pass by. Leaning back to get a better view, she accidentally pushed one of the bouquet decorations on the side, getting a domino effect of multiple decorations falling to the ground, before Rin could even pull the bowstring.

The attendant coughed to gain their attention, “I’m sorry but I’m gonna have to ask you to step out of the range.”

The three of them sheepishly walked away. Nozomi was laughing the whole time they were coming back. Nico looked plain annoyed. While Kotori and Hanayo were amused, immediately catching on that something was going on with the trio.

===Attempt #3===

Nico looked at the dining table she just finished setting up. She put her hands on her hips triumphantly, pleased with herself. She had raw beef in the middle of the table with three small portable grillers set up on the sides.

It’s been a while since she’s cooked for someone – with Maki coming home late most nights, and her siblings being busy with school – that she spent most of the afternoon preparing the sides for their dinner. She decided to invite Nozomi, Eli and whoever’s available to continue their plans.

Sadly, Honoka wasn’t available – the drawbacks of being a business owner – but at least she’ll still have Rin tonight. Hanayo’s joining her, and she even managed to get Umi to come who said she didn’t have anything better to do with her girlfriend and best friend busy.

Ding Dong

Nico hopped once excitedly, almost falling in her haste to get to the front door. She opened the door, grinning once she saw that everyone was there, “Welcome, welcome!”

“Pardon the intrusion!” Nozomi answered, walking inside first with their friends following.

Nico led them to the dining room where everyone was amazed at the set up.  

“Wow…” Rin was the first to voice her admiration.

The table had various side dishes that complemented yakiniku, including potato salad, coleslaw, white rice and more.

Nozomi excitedly pulled Eli to sit on one side of Nico and Maki’s fancy 10-seater dining table, knowing just how well the idol can cook. Plus, it’s yakiniku! Who doesn’t like yakiniku? Probably people who’ve never eaten yakiniku with side dishes made by Nico.

Rin quickly followed, pulling Hanayo to sit down beside her across from Nozomi and Eli, mouth watering slightly at all the food laid out for them, “This looks so good!”

“Thank you!” Nico replied, pushing two of the grills to the seated pairs. She then turned to Umi, “Where’s Kotori?”

“Overtime,” Umi answered, “Maki?”

“Same.” Nico answered bitterly. It wasn’t unusual for the doctor to come home later than usual, but it was as if the redhead was deliberately making herself busy on the nights she knew Nico would be at home.

“Maki-chan seems to be working an awful lot these days,” Nozomi commented, looking between Nico and Umi.

“Oh, you know. Hospital heiress duties.” Nico defended with a huff. Then she turned to Umi, “C’mon,” she grinned, “You get the wonderful Nico-nii to cook for you.” She led the archer to the seats beside Hanayo and Rin, so they have a good view of the non-couple.

They all turned the heat up on their grillers, with Nico slapping Umi’s hand away from helping. Hanayo and Rin were being sweet, taking turns putting meat on their griller. Nozomi and Eli, though, were being extra – the lawyer had on a flirty smile, feeding Nozomi a random side dish for each piece of meat they put on their griller.

Umi looked like she was about to pass out from the amount of flirting going on with her friends.

Luckily for her, Rin decided to start the plan.

“So, Eli-chan!” the runner started, waiting for the right moment to ask her question, “When are you finally going to ask Nozomi-chan out?” which was right when the blonde just took a bite of meat.

Eli immediately choked in surprise. Nozomi helpfully pat her back and gave her a glass of water as she flashed an exasperated glare at Rin.

Umi put her chopsticks down with a grimace as she decided to just watch whatever Nico and Rin were doing play out – more because Kotori told her to not intervene if they did do something.

“Rin!” Eli glared at the runner as soon as she could breathe again, “Why would you even ask that?”

Because the best way to get either of you to make a move is a direct approach. Nico thought wryly, ignoring the look she was getting from the racer, “It’s a valid question.” She pushed through despite the fear she was feeling from Nozomi’s stare.

Umi took a perfectly cooked piece of meat that Nico put on her bowl, “For all we know, Nozomi could ask Eli out.” If she wasn’t allowed to stop the conversation, might as well just join in.

Eli’s cheek flushed, an image of Nozomi telling her she loves her flashing in her mind. She hates how she still lets herself hope even after all these years.

“Plus,” Hanayo joined in, “they’re already doing it.”

Umi spat out what she just chewed at Hanayo’s words. She probably won’t be eating anything for the rest of the night.

Dinner continued in that fashion, with Nico and Rin pushing Eli’s buttons which Nozomi skillfully navigated for the two of them. To Nico’s frustration, they were all done eating and neither Eli nor Nozomi were continuing as normal if a little bit flustered.

“I’m home…” A tired, weary voice came from the living room, then Maki walked into the dining room a moment later, “Good evening, everyone.” She greeted softly.

“Maki-chan!” Nico lit up, running towards her wife. She jumped and immediately wrapped her legs on the doctor’s waist, and her arms on her neck, “Welcome home.”

Maki, for her part, easily caught the idol, her arms going around Nico’s back. She pressed her lips to her wife’s cheek as their usual greeting when they’re home, before letting go.

The idol quickly seated her wife on the chair at the head of the table. Both of them too caught up with each other, they didn’t notice the looks they were getting from their friends.

They’re always careful in public since they didn’t want a scandal to break out and possibly ruin Nico’s career, so their friends are always happy to see them so carefree when it’s just them.

“You’re just in time for dessert!” Nico announced, not even waiting for a response before running to the kitchen, coming back a minute later with a tray full of Crème Brulé for everyone. She distributed one to each of her friends, pushing a blowtorch to Umi as she focused on her wife, “Have you eaten?”

“I’m not really hungry…”

Nico frowned.

But Umi was first to scold the doctor, “A good diet is important, Maki. You really shouldn’t miss meals.” She handed the torch to Rin, who excitedly took the item.

Maki huffed, crossing her arms.

“Maki-chan! You’re being rude to our friends.” Nico pinched her wife’s cheek, her frown deepening.

Maki simply huffed again, but before Nico or even Nozomi could say anything about her behavior, something was burning.

In sync, everyone turned to look at the panicking Rin.

Maki moved quickly, running to the kitchen to retrieve a fire extinguisher. She took off the pin and sprayed the fire which led to foam spreading throughout the table. Feeling the frustration she’s been trying to bury suddenly bubble up again, she turned to Rin, “What is wrong with you?!”

“Maki-chan-”

“No! Nico-chan, what the heck? Are your sources cartoons?” were Maki’s last words before she stalked out of the room.

Nico excused herself, running after her wife.

===

“What is wrong with you?” Nico asked as soon as she closed the bedroom door.

“Me?” Maki turned around so quickly, Nico took a step back, “You’re the one who’s been spending most of her time trying to get Nozomi and Eli together with Rin and Honoka!”

“Are you jealous?”

“What?” Maki looked offended, “Of course not.”

“What’s going on, Maki-chan? You’ve been moody for days.” Nico bravely took a step closer when her wife didn’t answer, “You’ve been… distant.”

“I’m distant?” Maki scoffed. Then with a sudden defeated sigh, she looked away, “You’re the one who’s barely home…”

Nico’s breath hitched. For all the years they’ve been married, Maki has never taken a hit at her work. To hear it for the first time just… hurt. “Fine.” She muttered, wiping the tears from her eyes before going out.

Maki inhaled deeply, willing her tears away as the door clicked shut.

===

“Is everything okay?” Nozomi asked as soon as Nico was back, “Do you need me to give her a talking to?”

Nico shook her head, leaning on the archway as she watched her friends cleaning up, “Is anything salvageable?”

“No,” Hanayo answered ruefully.

Umi silently shook her head, picking up some utensils that fell on the floor.

“I’m sorry, Nico-chan.” Rin followed up, “I’m sorry for making Maki-chan mad. Can we help with anything?”

Nico sighed, “No, it’s okay. She’ll probably yell at anyone who’ll try to talk to her.”

Nozomi pursed her lips, wondering what’s stressing her best friend out so much. Rin and Hanayo shared a look; the last time they saw Maki this emotional was when Nico went on that first tour after they got married. But obviously, whatever’s going on is deeper than that.

“Anyway,” Nico started, smiling lopsidedly, “When are you asking Nozomi out, Eli?” she asked to lighten the mood, going back to their main topic for the night.

Umi groaned but continued to listen quietly as they continued to clean.

===The Next Day===

“G’morning, Elicchi!” Nozomi greeted, bounding to the kitchen wearing only Eli’s shirt. She ran up to the blonde and jumped on her, making Eli yelp as they both tumbled down to the floor.

“What are you doing?” Eli laughed, checking Nozomi over for injuries. She spent the night since she didn’t want to leave so late after taking Nozomi home.

Also, she was seduced into staying.

Nozomi put her head on Eli’s chest, looking up with a smile, “Just checking if you can carry me like how Maki-chan does with Nicocchi.”  She pouted.

Eli stopped breathing, but she carried on the conversation, “Nico probably weighs nothing.”

Nozomi’s eyes narrowed, “Are you saying I’m fat?”

The lawyer’s eyes widened, “What? No!”

Nozomi’s twinkling laughter resounded in Eli’s heart, making the blonde fall in love all over again.

Extra #4: UmiRin’s Friendship

Umi plopped down on the grass, breathing heavily. She looked at her companion who’s still breathing like they didn’t just run 5 kilometers. Nonetheless, she felt the satisfying aching of muscles coming from the workout.

“You okay, Umi-chan?” Rin tilted her head as she asked the question. It was the first time she invited the archer to go on a run with her, assuming the other athlete would keep up with her easily.

 “Yeah,” Umi nodded, smiling up at Rin, “I’ve just been reminded that I’ve been neglecting my cardio.”

“Yeah,” Rin nodded regretfully, “I expected more from you.” She added teasingly, running away and Umi immediately stood up to chase her.

===

They ended up in a secluded café near the park to get breakfast. Umi ordered a simple fruit shake while Rin got a full English breakfast. The waitress giggled at the sharp contrast with their orders and shyly asked them about the Olympics.

They continued talking about random things as they ate. This wasn’t what Umi expected when Rin sat down beside her on the plane to the Olympics, but she was glad she gained a good friend from that encounter. Rin is a breath of fresh air from Honoka and Kotori.

Chapter Text

To: Elicchi
I just got in the bar. Too bad you couldn’t join me tonight.

From: Elicchi
And I just got in my boss’s house. Why am I here again?

To: Elicchi
Because it’s his Birthday and he invited you personally.

Nozomi giggled as she typed out her last reply, remembering when the blonde told her about the party. Eli’s boss didn’t give the blonde much of a chance to turn down his invitation and agreed just to make him stop.

“Nozomi-chan!”

Nozomi looked up, immediately seeing Kotori’s raised hand on the bar. Umi was beside the designer, while Honoka was inside the bar, leaning on the counter as she chatted with her friends.

“Welcome, Nozomi-chan!” Honoka greeted with her fists in front of her chest, “The usual?” It was that time of day when she got to relax before the usual influx of customers would come in.

Nozomi shook her head, “Not today. I’m here to order chili fries and 2 mozzarella sticks to go.” She took the seat beside Kotori as Honoka went to punch in Nozomi’s order.

“For Maki-chan?” The designer asked. Everyone knew that Maki loved the mozzarella sticks from the bar because of the salsa that Honoka makes. Frowning at Nozomi’s nod, she continued, “I heard about the dinner party. Is everything okay with Nico-chan and Maki-chan?”

“I’m actually not sure…” Nozomi sighed, thinking about the message she received from Nico that Maki was still incredibly grumpy since the dinner party a few weeks ago, “Nicocchi asked me to check on Maki-chan. That’s why I’m getting her the mozzarella sticks so she’d let me in.” she laughed to lighten the mood once she noticed the concerned looks from her friends.

“Do you want me to go with you?” Umi asked, trying to be helpful.

Nozomi shook her head immediately, “No.” she shot down the idea verbally to get her point across, “Maki-chan will probably be more…receptive if I come alone.”

Honoka nodded sadly, “I’m sorry we added to Maki-chan’s stress by monopolizing Nico-chan’s time,” she apologized, “We just wanted to-” she stopped speaking immediately once she realized who she was talking to.

Nozomi’s eyes narrowed, recalling how much Honoka, Rin and Nico have been conspiring recently, “Whatever it was you were doing…” she started, smiling mysteriously at Honoka, “I hope things go in your favor…”

Honoka gulped at the warning she can see in Nozomi’s eyes.

===

Maki stared at Nozomi who was at the other side of her front door. Her best friend gave her a wide smile, but her face remained impassive. As far as she knew, Nozomi had a key to her house so there’s a reason why she’s knocking. She’s pretty sure it’s something stupid but not that she left them. Nozomi’s mischievous but not careless.

They continued to stare at each other for another few seconds until Nozomi raised the bag she was holding. The redhead begrudgingly stepped out of the way and let Nozomi in – she stayed standing there for another moment, took a deep breath before following the racer inside.

Maki was confused when she didn’t find Nozomi in the living room like she expected, so she made her way to the dining room where the bar food was already set up on plates with an ice bucket filled with bottles of beer.

“C’mon, Maki-chan,” Nozomi said, already seated on one of the chairs, “have a drink with me. Auntie told me you’re working too hard, and you’re not on shift tomorrow.” She didn’t mention that Maki’s mother told her the exact reason why she was at home; the redhead was burning herself out trying to get out of going home by volunteering for the on-call shifts for many, many consecutive nights in a row.

The doctor remained quiet but took a seat on the chair directly across from Nozomi. She grabbed a bottle and took a sip, eyeing her best friend suspiciously. Her eyes narrowed when Nozomi pushed the plate with mozzarella sticks and salsa towards her before taking her phone from her pocket.

To: Elicchi
I’m with Maki-chan now. Wish me luck. I hope you’re having more fun than I am.

From: Elicchi
I hope things go well for you. I’ll have twice as much fun for you.

Nozomi pocketed her phone and played with the bottle she was holding, watching as Maki basically devoured half of the plate in a minute. “Have you eaten at all today?” she asked worriedly. Granted, Maki could eat more than her even if she wasn’t hungry, she noticed how spotless the kitchen was for this time of day. Maki was organized, but she wasn’t known for her cleaning skills.

Maki shook her head.

“Are you finally ready to talk about whatever’s bothering you?” Nozomi asked, looking at Maki directly.

Maki took a swig of her beer, “If I’m not talking about it with my wife, what makes you think that I’ll talk to you?”

“Because I’ve known you longer and I know all your secrets.” Nozomi answered with a teasing smile, then her expression turned serious, “Honestly, Nicocchi told me to check on you because you’re still grumpy. But looking at you…” it took her a while to think of a good word to describe Maki, “you just look sad.” She knew she hit the mark when the doctor stiffened.

…

…

Sob

Nozomi wasn’t sure if she heard right, but when Maki crumpled into a continuous sobbing fit, she stood up in alarm and rushed to the doctor’s side, “Maki-chan?” for all the time she’s known the redhead, she can count the number of times she’s seen her friend cry. And not one of those times has Maki sobbed in any way.

“I cheated on Nico-chan…”

Nozomi immediately stopped moving, now just gaping. Shocked at her best friend’s revelation. She shook it off when her best friend looked up at her with red-rimmed eyes, “Cheated…” she gulped, unsure how to proceed, “as in…?”

Maki took a deep breath, “I kissed someone else…” she whispered, saying it any louder would be too much.

Nozomi exhaled the breath she wasn’t aware she was even holding, “Okay…” that wasn’t so bad… If it’s just a kiss… Even Nico’s admitted to being kissed by some other idols and even fans at random. Okay. Nozomi stopped her thinking. Nicocchi avoids those encounters as much as she can. Even though Maki’s her best friend, she would never tolerate cheating, “Can you go back a few, and tell me what happened before the… kiss?”

Maki nodded, “We lost a patient that we’ve been seeing for a while on the operating table,” her eyes dimmed as she recalled the event, “I stayed in the room for a while, then my attending came in to comfort me…” she frowned, face souring at the memory, “then she kissed me.”

Nozomi nodded, unable to find the right words to say. At least Maki’s obvious about her dislike for this doctor – she’s not as good of an actress as her wife, and Nozomi’s had years of reading her best friend, “I assume Nicocchi doesn’t know yet?”

Maki shook her head.

“What time is she coming home?”

Maki thought about what day it was and how Nico’s schedule looks like, “She has a live stream with A-RISE tonight… Probably around 2am.”

Nozomi nodded, “You should tell her.” She didn’t voice out that she doesn’t think Maki cheated on her wife – unintentionally or not. “This secret is obviously killing you. And you’ve never lied or hid anything from Nicocchi, don’t start now.”

Maki nodded, wiping the remaining tears on her face with her hands.

“We haven’t been hanging out much lately, huh?”

Maki finished her first beer, giving Nozomi a look, “You’ve been spending most of your time with Eli.”

“Or you’ve been avoiding everyone including me,” Nozomi stuck her tongue out, “How about we go have a track day on our next shared day off?” she asked when Maki remained silent, raising her beer bottle.

“Yeah…” Maki agreed, sealing the promise by tapping her beer bottle with Nozomi’s.

===A Few Hours Later===

“Maki-chan?” Nico called cautiously when she noticed that the lights in the living room were on. She took a peek at her phone for the time. Just a little past 2am.

She walked slowly further inside, relaxing once she finally saw her wife. She rolled her eyes at the compromising position the redhead was in with Nozomi – it wasn’t unusual, and she was used to it at this point, but the lack of intimacy or anything from Maki for the past few days... Anyway, the two were snuggled comfortably together with Nozomi’s head on Maki’s shoulder with an arm across the redhead.

Gently putting her bag down, she leaned down and poked the redhead on the cheek, “Maki-chan~”

Maki, being the light sleeper that she is, slowly blinked her eyes open and gasped when she saw Nico, “Nico-chan!” she roughly pushed Nozomi away from her and hugged her wife tightly, tears beginning to fall down her eyes.

“Wha-Maki-chan?” Nico asked confusedly, returning the hug with as much desperation. It was the most physical contact she had with her wife for what felt like forever. She looked at the groaning Nozomi with alarm, trying to ask with her eyes what was happening.

The racer was rubbing her head with a pout, glaring at the back of Maki’s head, but the sound of sobs made her soften. “You two need to talk.” She sighed, stretching a little once she sat up.

“You’re staying in the guest room,” Maki answered immediately, sniffling from Nico’s neck, “I’m not letting you go home drunk.”

Nozomi nodded, knowing better than to fight Maki on this since Nico will probably back her wife up. Plus, she can definitely still feel the alcohol in her system. It would look bad if she got in a car accident for drinking, especially since she’s basically the poster girl for road safety in the country.

“You okay to get there on your own?” Nico asked sheepishly, gesturing to Maki who was still clinging on to her.

Nozomi nodded, making shooing motions.

Nico immediately guided Maki upstairs to their bedroom, but not before shooting Nozomi a grateful glance. She’s been trying to get Maki to talk to her for days now. This was a bigger reaction than she was expecting, but it was so much better than the silence and avoidance.

The racer covered a yawn with her hand as the married couple disappeared from her sight. She patted around for her phone, until she grabbed hold of it under a pillow. She unlocked it and immediately went to her messages with Eli.

From: Elicchi
Just got home. I hope you’re okay over there.

From: Elicchi
I assume you two are talking. I’m going to turn in now.
Good night, Nozomi.

To: Elicchi
I fell asleep drinking with Maki-chan so, I’m staying here tonight. I’m sleeping now. G’night, Elicchi!

Satisfied with her message, she pulled herself up and walked to the guest room that is basically hers at this point.

===The Next Day===

From: Elicchi
Good morning, Nozomi. I’m on my way to work now. Take care on your way home.

To: Elicchi
Good morning, Elicchi! Have a great day at work!

Nozomi stepped out of the guest room with a yawn as she sent out the message to Eli, walking towards the kitchen to grab a glass of water. She paused once she noticed Nico sitting on the kitchen island. Apprehension filled her. Were they okay?

She cleared her throat to let the other woman know she was there.

Nico turned her head slightly but didn’t fully turn around, “Hey Nozomi.”

“Nicocchi,” Nozomi walked towards the idol slowly, as if approaching a scared animal. Her apprehension increased when she noticed the idol’s puffy eyes, implying the idol must’ve been crying for most of the night.

“I feel like the worst wife in the world, Nozomi,” Nico sighed, lower lip trembling as she said the words, “How could I make Maki-chan feel so neglected?”

Nozomi didn’t know how to respond. She didn’t expect to still be in their home after Nico and Maki talked, much less to listen to Nico after talking to Maki the previous night. When she introduced the two of them, she didn’t expect them to fall in love, but she can’t deny how good they are together.  

Nico sniffled, “She still chose me, Nozomi…”

Nozomi wasn’t sure if the idol was relieved or just in disbelief.

“She chose me over someone that she sees everyday…” Nico breathed out shakily, as if the words were affirmation enough, “She ran away from that woman once she realized what was happening… She chose me.” She wiped her eyes, smiling shakily, “She said she can probably get some security footage as proof… But I trust her, Nozomi.”

Nozomi relaxed. Maki didn’t tell her that part, but she trusts Maki, too. “I know how far Maki-chan’s loyalty goes. She won’t intentionally do anything to make you question that.”

“I know that!” Nico’s voice raised, startling the racer a little bit. “But am I just holding her back because we’re married? Is she still happy?”

“Of course I am.” Maki said from the kitchen entrance.

“Maki-chan!” Nico whipped around at her wife’s voice, stumbling from the bar stool she was sitting on.

Maki took long strides to get to Nico and pulled her wife in her arms, holding her up as she trembled. “Please don’t leave me…” she pleaded, squeezing the woman in her arms, “When you’re away for work for hours and days, it motivates me to work harder at the hospital.” She started, starting to sway, unfazed by Nozomi’s presence, “I look forward to the days you come back more than anything. And I’d rather continue what we have, than wake up not yours, Nico-chan.”

Nozomi raised an eyebrow but managed to push down the urge to squeal. That was the single most romantic thing she ever heard from Maki or anyone else. As she thought about waking up to be someone’s, she was surprised that the first person she thought of was one blonde lawyer.

Nico wiped her face on Maki’s shirt, and the redhead was unfazed by the mess the idol was making on her. “You’re just so…” she couldn’t find the right word to describe how her wife was making her feel, “I love you, Maki-chan. I won’t leave you so, stay with me, okay?” She settled on saying.

Nozomi was actually surprised that the couple allowed her to witness this, since they keep the details of their relationship private most of the time.

“Thank you, Nozomi…” Nico whispered, finally pulling herself away from Maki, but kept close enough to still be leaning on the redhead.

Maki nodded, “Thanks, Nozomi.”

“Anything for you guys,” Nozomi responded, “I introduced you two, so I feel responsible for your relationship.” She joked.

Nico turned to look up at her wife, ignoring their friend’s comment, “On our next day off together, I’ll do whatever you want, Maki-chan.” She suggested.

Maki raised an eyebrow, the start of a smile coming up on her face. She looked at Nozomi who offered her something similar the previous night, and the racer immediately nodded at the unasked question. She looked back to Nico, “You’ll go to the track with me and Nozomi?”

Nico bit her lip and for a moment, she looked like she was about to protest but eventually nodded. She never liked watching Maki race because it looks so dangerous; she can barely even watch whenever they go to Nozomi’s official races. Wanting to change the subject, she looked at the racer, “Are you staying for lunch?”

Nozomi looked at the time on her phone, smiling when she confirmed that she has enough time for what she’s planning, “I’m gonna have to say no, I need to be somewhere. And you two need some time alone.”

One day would probably not be enough for them to talk and make up for the days they missed, but Nozomi was pretty sure that they’d be fine.

===

“Nozomi!” Eli waved, jogging towards the racer with a wide grin. She thought she was dreaming when she received the message that Nozomi wanted to have lunch with her.

“After last night, I needed to be with someone calm.” Nozomi responded honestly, “C’mon! I haven’t had breakfast. I’m hungry!”

“No breakfast from Nico?” Eli gasped exaggeratedly, then laughed. She offered her arm to Nozomi, and they began walking to a café they frequent whenever Nozomi has time to have lunch with the lawyer.

The bell chiming once the door opened relaxed Nozomi. This café was associated with a lot of calm memories with Eli – if one of them had a bad day or anything, they go here. They were led to their usual booth and quickly ordered as they knew the menu off the top of their heads by now.

Nozomi sighed, looking at the lawyer with a pout, “Thanks for making time, Elicchi. I know you’re busy.”

“Are you kidding?” Eli smiled, “I’ll always have time for you. I missed you last night.”

Nozomi smiled serenely, “I missed you, too. Last night was so stressful! But I think Nicocchi and Maki-chan will finally be okay.”

“Anything you can share?” Eli asked cautiously, knowing how private Nico and Maki are about their relationship.

Nozomi pursed her lips as she thought about the question, “Their arrangement just got to them.” She decided on the simplest explanation, “but they’re gonna be okay. Some quality time and they’re gonna come out of this better.”

Eli nodded, “That’s good. They’re an amazing couple.”

“You didn’t think so the first day.” Nozomi laughed, a teasing twinkle in her eyes.

Eli laughed along, “To be fair, that was the first time I met Maki. Imagine having your friend invite you to her wedding a few hours before it happens.” She shook her head as she remembered the day clearly, Nico was her closest friend in high school, and she just broke up with her then girlfriend a few days before. She wanted to rant to Nico, and the idol decided she needed to be around love, so she asked her to be another witness for her alongside her mother.

“Maki-chan wasn’t the only person you met that day,” Nozomi winked.

Eli sighed serenely. Of course. That day led to her meeting this amazing woman who she fell in love with. And with every single day that passed, she felt like Nozomi was getting farther and farther from her. But she couldn’t find the courage to tell her how she really felt.

Their food was then delivered quickly, putting a slight lull in their conversation.

"Alisa will be visiting in a few weeks," Eli initiated the conversation again, strategically steering away from their previous topic, “She’s excited to see you again.”

“Aww, that’s sweet! Just tell me when, Elicchi.” Nozomi smiled. She likes Alisa. She looks a little bit like Eli, but her personality couldn’t be any more different from her older sister. She was more open and playful than the lawyer. “Maybe I should come visit Russia with you and finally meet the obaa-sama.” She teased.

That’s not fair, Nozomi. Eli thought as she nodded to Nozomi’s words, her heart racing at the prospect. She’s never brought anyone to meet her grandmother before, but if she was going to, she wants more than anything for it to be Nozomi. How could she have let it get to this point? Surely, they could adjust the terms of their… arrangement?

Her thoughts continued that path as they continued to eat. The conversation was light as they savored the few minutes that they had away from everything together.

===

“Hey, Nozomi.”

“Hmm?”

They were now walking back to Eli’s office building, just a few minutes before the blonde’s lunch break would end. The racer had her arms wrapped around Eli’s arm again as they waited for the pedestrian signal light to turn green.

“Do you wanna grab dinner later, too?”

Nozomi laughed, squeezing Eli’s bicep as they started walking again, “Can’t get enough of me, huh?”

“Never.” Eli answered immediately, flustered at how the truth easily came out.

They stopped just outside of the office building, Nozomi letting go of Eli’s arm.

“Sure, Elicchi.” Nozomi nodded, “Come over after work. I’ll cook for you.” She offered.

Eli smiled brightly, both at the prospect of eating Nozomi’s home-cooked meal, and having dinner with Nozomi, “Great! I’ll bring dessert.”

“Okay, Elicchi. Work hard now!”

“I will. I’ll see you later!” Eli nodded, walking back to her desk with renewed determination for the day.

Extra #5: NozoNico’s First Meeting

“Hi! I’m Nico!” The idol greeted Nozomi as soon as the executives and their managers left the room. It was rare for her to get to work with someone her age in this industry, so she was excited when her manager told her who she’ll be doing the photoshoot with.

“Nozomi,” The racer introduced herself, smiling at the idol. Unlike Nico, she wasn’t actually sure what to expect from working with someone her age, since she’s been working with people much older than her since the beginning.

It was an ad for a sports drink who wanted to appeal to the younger people, so they looked for the biggest icons in both music and sports to sponsor who happened to be Nico and Nozomi at the moment.

“So, have you ever done photoshoots before?” Nico asked, curious about the other girl. She wasn’t in the entertainment world like Nico, but she’s working professionally in high school as well.

“A few,” Nozomi answered, “But nothing big like this. I’m quite intimidated, to be honest.” She admitted sheepishly.

“You’ll be fine,” Nico assured, standing up straighter in hopes of looking more professional.

“I know I’ll be,” Nozomi smiled innocently. She brought out a deck of tarot cards, shuffling it and drawing one card, “But will you?” she asked, her smile suddenly turning mischievous.

Nico gulped. Maybe working with people her age wouldn’t be fun at all.

===

Nico let out a relieved sigh as soon as the last photo was taken. Nozomi’s ominous words left her second guessing every pose and every smile she did. She felt off her usual game during the photoshoot that she now feels tired and unfulfilled.

“Here,” a sports drink bottle of the brand sponsoring them was handed to the idol.

Nico narrowed her eyes when she met Nozomi’s. “Thanks…” she finally responded after a minute. Her mother would scold her if she found out she wasn’t polite even for a moment.

“You did great!” Nozomi praised, following Nico when the idol began walking out of the set.

“No thanks to you…” Nico grumbled, glaring at Nozomi as she opened her bottle.

“What?” Nozomi asked amusedly, continuing to walk with the idol.

“Your weird fortunetelling made me unfocused for the shoot!” Nico accused, hitting the racer on the arm, “You’re a bad fortuneteller!”

Nozomi laughed, “I can give you a better fortune, if you want?”

Nico raised an eyebrow, “Don’t think I don’t know about you and your reputation, Tojo Nozomi.”

Nozomi laughed again, “Who doesn’t?”

Nico rolled her eyes. But she was persuaded by Nozomi to join her for dinner that night, starting a wonderful, interesting friendship that led to other amazing meetings.