Takuma smiled at those of the Night Class that called out greetings on the way to his room. Again, Hanabusa had offered to take over for him in watching Kaname sleep and Takuma had accepted. He waved to two more new students before pushing open the door to the lounge between his room and the majority of the Night Class dorms.
Rima glanced up from her corner of the room, but Shiki, head propped on her lap, spoke first. "You're late."
Takuma chuckled. "Gomen. Hanabusa and I stopped to talk for a bit before we split." He set aside Kaname's blade in a crook of another chair and took a seat. "Besides, it's not like you've a chance at beating me this time."
Rima glared and thrust out the playing cards. "Sit down and cut them, baka!"
"Hai Hai," Takuma smiled. He paused then lifted a third of the deck away and placed them on the low table before them.
Rima set her part over them and poked her load. "Oi, Shiki, you're in the way."
"Pocky first," Shiki murmured, squinting his eyes at her sharp prods.
Rima sighed, but Takuma watched a slight smile pass over her solemn features. "You're hopeless." She pulled out a piece and fed it to the red head quietly.
"Arigatou," Shiki said moving off. He picked up a book he had discarded. "Hurry up and beat him. I don't like the light."
"Quit complaining, baka. It's not light yet." Rima muttered, dealing the cards. She raised her hand.
Takuma grinned and pulled out the first card, a queen which matched his own. He placed the pair on the table, much to Rima's chagrin. She sighed and let him pick again.
The game continued.
. . . . .
With dawn peeking in between the curtains, Shiki pulled a red-faced Rima away from him when she lost yet again. Takuma couldn't help but chuckle, making it worse. Finally, she slumped in Shiki's arms and he let go. Blushing deeply, she called both of them idiots and ran away towards her room near the secluded lounge, nearly running into Akatsuki on his way out. She mumbled a curse under her breath and disappeared around the corner. Akatsuki chuckled and continued out, exchanging greetings with Shiki and himself. In a monotone voice, Shiki said he had lipstick on the collar of his shirt. The fire user waved and didn't stop in his stride. Shiki blinked then shrugged, stretching and yawning.
Smiling from his chair, Takuma held his hand out. They shook and Shiki also retreated. Takuma sat down in his chair once more, watching the sun between the thick curtains. When a robin called out the morning greeting, Takuma's smile grew. Hazel eyes bright, he retrieved his sword and also moved on to his room.
"Good night again, Kaname," he intoned.
