I Got Reincarnated In Highschool Dxd (Reboot)

chapter 23: the familiar forest pt 1

Finn's first person view

As I woke up early in the morning, Rias was still nestled comfortably in my arms. The gentle warmth of her body against mine was soothing, and for a moment, I considered just lying there a bit longer. But as usual, the responsibilities of the day pulled me from the comforts of the bed. I yawned and stretched, my voice still groggy from sleep as I greeted her.

Me:Good morning.

Rias stirred slightly, a sleepy smile spreading across her face as she blinked her eyes open.

Rias:Morning, love

she murmured, her voice soft and affectionate. It was moments like these that made waking up early worth it, just to see that smile.

I groaned a little as I remembered what was planned for today.

Me:Oh, babe, we should start getting ready to go.

Rias chuckled lightly, clearly still half-asleep.

Rias:Oh yeah, the familiar forest thing... I really needed more sleep

she admitted with a sigh. But she didn't move to resist. Instead, she started to unwrap herself from the sheets, her movements languid and graceful.

I nodded in agreement as I reluctantly pulled myself out of bed.

Me:Okay then, let's get moving.

As I headed towards the bathroom, it was almost routine now that Rias would follow. The morning ritual of us bathing together had become a normal part of our day, and while it was still a bit of a novelty, it was also something that I had grown accustomed to. We both got dressed, each movement in sync as if we had done this a thousand times before.

As I was finishing getting ready, a voice suddenly broke the morning quiet.

Mom:Good morning, you two lovebirds!

Rias and I turned simultaneously to see my mom standing in the doorway, a wide grin plastered on her face. My little sister Kira was right beside her, holding onto her hand with a mischievous smile. My mom had that look on her face, the one that always made me feel like I was five years old again.

Me:Oh, hey, Mom

I replied, my voice tinged with the usual annoyance that always crept in whenever she decided to tease me.

Rias:Ms. Akio

Rias greeted politely, though I could tell she was trying to mask her own discomfort.

Mom:C'mon, Rias, I told you to call me Mom too!

My mom’s enthusiasm was unrelenting, and it only served to increase my growing irritation.

Thankfully, before the conversation could continue down the path of eternal embarrassment, Asia entered the room, dressed in her school uniform and looking as prim and proper as ever. "It seems we're all ready," she said with a gentle smile, oblivious to the tension in the room.

As we left the house, Rias slipped her hand into mine, holding on tightly. Asia walked beside us, her presence calming and quiet as usual. The walk to school was peaceful for the most part, at least until we reached the gates.

As we entered, the buzz of students around us was almost immediate. Whispers, gasps, and envious glances were thrown our way, mostly directed at Rias. The boys especially seemed to be nearly foaming at the mouth with jealousy.

"Wow, I can't believe she's with him!"

"How did he score a girl like Rias?"

"He's so lucky, man!"