Withering Head Wounds - Soudam

The Innocence in Offering

It was only Monday and Gundham was already noticing his own mood shift as he examined Kazuichi throughout the day. For one, he noted that he felt lighter than he ever had before and now there wasn't a lingering anxiety of being caught in the act. He didn't feel like he was fighting for anything now, and that made him feel like this partnership was closer than ever.
Perhaps killing Sonia was the best thing he could've done.
He'd been thinking about that single hug they'd shared earlier all day, which made him a little cheerier than he should've been after a recent death, but he was definitely feeling the positive effects the event had upon his ego. He could always hide his smile if he really needed to anyway. But because of that bit of extra confidence, Gundham wanted to try his hand at actually spending time with Kazuichi. The two of them had only ever done so when the class did activities together, but they'd never really hung out one on one. That was mainly because Kazuichi seemed to loathe him entirely, but that couldn't be true now, right? He'd trusted Gundham with his feelings, that means he'd be willing.

Either way, it was worth a shot. The breeder decided it was better to start small - the closer they got, the grander he could go. Plus he had the perfect excuse.

The end of the school day was soon approaching, and in all honesty, Kazuichi really didn't want to go back to his place. He didn't want to be alone again. While it was embarrassing to have the occasional breakdown while he was at school, his friends still seemed to bring him at least distract him a little throughout the day, but at home, there was nothing of the sort. He knew he would probably just collapse in his bed and cry until he passed out from exhaustion, and that didn't sound very favourable.
"Kazuichi!" He quickly turned to see Gundham walking up to him. Strange how he'd gotten so talkative with him today. "I should inform you that we shall be holding a service in the deceased maidens' honour this weekend. However...I ask that you and I meet beforehand. I- wish to invite you to have a proper discussion at my place of dwelling...if you so desire."
It was nice to know that they were going to hold a memorial service for her, but it was just another reminder that she was truly gone, and that stung. Nevertheless, he nodded a bit at the request. They were both struggling, so maybe finally there was something they could try and build a relationship on. Kazuichi didn't mind the idea of becoming friends with him.
"Yeah...I'd rather not go home anyway...is today okay?" Was it weird this man seemed like the only one that felt truly comforting at this time?
"That would be most convenient!" Gundham was honestly a little surprised that Kazuichi was so quick to accept. And they could meet today? This had to be one of the greatest days of his life. If he gave the mechanic the best possible hospitality, perhaps he would start to see some appeal in him, even just as a friend for now. Gundham didn't care how long it would take at this point, his desire to be closer to Kazuichi was coming true, and so easily.

How lucky he must be.

"Thank you for accepting, tamer of automations." Tanaka gave him a small bow of thanks, making a mental list of every type of tea he had in the house at the moment. "You would be among the first to gaze upon my realm. Consider it quite the honour." Of course, he couldn't express how overjoyed he was to know Souda wanted to be together a bit more today. He didn't care why that might be, all he cared about was that he did. Expressing that you've had a crush on your rival festering for a good few months the day you begin talking was certainly a little too forward. And Kazuichi was easily frightened.
"We may leave at once if you are prepared. I assure you, the journey is not difficult, I shall guide you." Gundham motioned towards the mechanic to follow him once they were prepared, heading out the main school gates and down the street. He couldn't help but wonder how many times they'd walk like this in the coming months, having to remind himself several times to not wander off in a daydream otherwise he might accidentally ignore Kazuichi.