A Shy Kiss

Chapter 20

Tamaki seemed to warm up to your family pretty quickly. After your family was aware of his painful shyness they took it easy on him in regards to questions and handshakes. Your mom loved how quick he was to offer help in washing dishes and grabbing the big platters from the basement for Thanksgiving. And your dad was impressed by Tamaki wanting to make some special pork dish for the dinner. Tamaki actually offered to make it tomorrow night for dinner instead of Thanksgiving so your mom's turkey would stand out more for the holiday meal. Your mom laughed and agreed since she was excited about having dinner made by a 'world class chef'. Tama blushed at her words, reminding her that he's technically not a chef yet.

You decided to sit down with your parents after lunch and explain why you both came early for the holidays. After all Thanksgiving was two days away.

"I know you guys might be curious as to why we came early..." you started off saying.

"Honestly we thought it's 'cause you missed us." Said your dad as he drank his soda. You laughed a little, some of your serious attitude fading away.

"That too, but there have been things going on around campus."

"Like what?" Asked your dad as he straightened up in his seat. Your mom also sat up, sensing something was wrong.

"There were two murders. One off campus but nearby, and the other was a student on campus." You said, deciding it best not to beat around the bush. Your parents on the other hand went pale at the news. Your parents both started asking questions nonstop, not really giving you guys a chance to answer any of them.

"All I know is they haven't caught the killer yet and the school is gonna be closed for the holidays for everyone, including all staff. That's also why I asked to bring Tamaki over. His home is really far and I didn't want him to be stuck on campus and possibly be in danger."

"You shouldn't go back to that school at all if that's been happening! Why didn't you tell us sooner?" Asked your mom.

"I didn't want you guys worrying over me. This has never happened before on campus so at first everyone thought it was some wild animal. Then when more informatiom came out, we knew we were in danger."

You dad rubbed his face while your mom went to hug both you and Tamaki for comfort. Tamaki smiled a little, appreciating the motherly support.

"We have a friend whose brother is part of the investigation, so he can probably update us soon if they find the criminal. For now though, I'm glad the holidays were close so we could leave campus together." You mentioned, trying to give your parents some better news. Your dad sighed before getting up and placing his hands on both your and Tamaki's shoulders.

"Stay as long as you like. Even if the campus opens up again you're both welcome to stay."

"Thanks dad, we'll think about it." He nodded before going to his room, most likely to read more about what's been going on around campus.

"I think this talk has earned us some hot cocoa." Said your mom before clapping her hands together and heading to the kitchen. Tamaki nodded in understanding.

With the news out, both you and Tamaki felt a little weight off your shoulders. His hand met yours, a knowing reassurance between you both.

The following day went smoother, Tamaki gaining some more confidence as he helped your mom in the kitchen. And by helping he was mostly just cutting a few vegetables for my mom because she just loves to see the way he chops them up like the chefs on tv. He blushed at her words, reminding her again that he's not a pro but he's happy to help. He also was working on the marinade for the dinner he was making, letting the pork bathe in the marinade for a few hours.

Time at home felt so relaxing. You didn't have to wake up early for classes, home cooked meals were aplenty, and Tamaki seemed to fit right in with your family. He even made a joke with your dad. A joke! The ever shy Tamaki was bonding with your dad! You couldn't help but smile. You've been together for almost 4 months, and it feels perfect. While your dad was watching a match you 3 were cooking up a storm; your mom was cooking up her famous stew, Tamaki was working in the bakyard with the grill on very very low heat, and you were preparing mini apple pies for dessert.

Lunch was delicious and the day passed so quickly soon after. You took Tamaki to the nearby park while the pork was slow cooking, your mom showed him family pictures, and you guys eventually had dinner together. The cuts of pork were sliced into thick squares, juice dripping from the meat as Tamaki sliced it. He accompanied the meat with piping hot rice and some bok choy. The aroma of sweet and umami tenderness of the meat filled the kitchen as he served the plates.

"Oh my goodness! This truly is a feat!" Said your mom as she saw the dish. The pork was a slight pinkish red color from the marinade, thick sauce dripping off from the meat and gliding around to the soft rice on her plate.

Your dad on the other immediately went to take a bite. "Son of a bitch, that's delicious!" Said your dad, prompting him to pat Tamaki on the back. You laughed a little, surprised at his outburst. You all took a bite, and were wide eyed at the taste. It was sweet, and oh so tender. The sauce and juice of the meat practically dripping down your chin. You wiped yourself with your napkin, a little embarassed at the mess you made.

"Tama, this is the best meal you've ever made!" You said, in love with the unnamed dish. He smiled, proud of himself for impressing everyone. You mom nodded in agreement as she chewed on another piece of pork.

"Thank you, I'm so glad you all like it. This is my first time making this dish."

"If this is your first time making it," said your dad as he finished chewing. "I'd like to taste that paella of yours one day."

Tama smiled so big, his hands together in his lap fidgeting. "Y-yes sir! N-Next time I'll make some for everyone."

"Sounds like a plan Tamaki, come back anytime you'd like."