hm-best

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Eight Ball | White Rook

“You guys are terrible at this,” Seiji spoke from the side watching as Lyn almost climbed the table to get in position to hit the white ball, he was holding an empty bottle of beer now but was too entertained with those two idiots to move.

“You say this as if this is the first time you’ve seen us play, G!” Tae jumps in, drawing something on the pool board that was definitely not related to the game, G wondered if they would get banned from the pool table in this bar as well. 

Cindy stood on the opposite wall, smiling as she watched Lyn concentrate so hard she had the tip of her tongue out, but she could tell Lyn was already not completely sober so her money was on these two losing by missing too many shots. She glanced at her ex on the other side but quickly moved back to Lyn, it was still weird between them sometimes, but thankfully they had Tae and Lyn as great loud buffers. 

“FORK!” Lyn yelled as she failed to even hit the right ball, shaking her head dramatically and starting to whine and pouting at her current competition, “I don’t wanna lose to you, Tae, I know I suck but don’t let me be the one that sucks the most!" 

@hm-best

“Can I play?” a voice came from the side as a few bodies moved toward the group lingering by the pool table. Marley placed her gin and tonic on the corner of the pool table. “Why don’t we do teams, huh? I’ll take you, and uh-Devan, why don’t you take Tae.” she said, pointing to the boy across the pool table.

“Oh c’mon, why can’t I get the pretty femme?” Devan said obnoxiously, nodding in Lyn’s direction as she walked past them to get her hands on a pool stick. Her baggy cargo pants hung around her hips, letting the skin of her stomach show under her cropped cami. 

Marley snorted, “Fine, why don’t you guys pick?” she said, turning to face Lyn and Tae. She leaned her balance on the pool stick that stood straight at her center against the floor, Devan standing beside her with her hand in her pocket. While looking at the pair, Marley teased in Lyn’s direction, silently pointing her thumb at her chest with a goofy grin while mouthing ‘pick me pick me’. 

“She’s telling you to pick her, ain’t she?” Devan said dryly while facing straight, not even looking at Marley beside her. 

Wren laughed softly with some space behind them, her arms naturally crossed, as she decided which side of the pool table to make herself comfortable. She saw Cindy and nodded at the girl, having seen her earlier that week at the library while they studied with Rafael. When Wren noticed G, she realized she knew the least about the boy and moved slowly toward him to stand shoulder to shoulder facing the table their friends made chaos around. “I take it you’re not much of a pool player?” she said slowly between the two of them, just slightly leaning over in his direction. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

The Birdcage | White Rook

As Max immediately brightens at Sunshine’s upbeat energy, Evan waited for their drink, their bartender wasn’t just that, she was a friend of some of them, right? 

Evan grinned at the very fitting nickname for Max, nodding as he watched her work, “Are you from here?” he asks, being one that also mixes slangs from both USA and England, his own accent coming out stronger sparsely, mostly when he talks with Max, but usually with Americans it was automatically to change his speech. “I’m Evan, by the way. Don’t know how good you are with names as you seem to be at mixology.”

“Thank you!” Max chimed in, hearing Summer say what she’ll serve him. He didn’t care much for drinking, but he loved how beautiful cocktails would look and there were many sweet ones that only burned a little.

Max already knew Sunshine’s bright personality was a fun one to be around in situations like this, he doesn’t know much about them but they seem to be as friendly as Max himself. On the other stool, there was Rafael, who still seemed a bit out of place. From the little he saw, he could tell King was his Max, the one dragging his friends out with him to socialize and live out of their campus.

Max changed seats to stay between these two new friends, switching his gaze from on to the other, “Sunshine, what pronouns do you prefer me to use?” he wanted to check again, not wanting to be ignorant mid conversation, “How did you two know each other? Do you share a class, maybe?” he tried to stay clear from personal stuff for now, testing waters to see if he read them right and genuinely curious to learn more about them group. 

Summer looked up as she made Evan and Max’s drinks, sporting a wide grin when Evan asked where she was from considering the three of them all had accents of their own. “I’m Australian.” she said proudly before looking back down briefly to see what she was doing.

“And proud.” Sunshine groaned with an air of humor, “Don’t ask her about it or she’ll start talking in idioms all night long.” they teased, and Summer blew her tongue at them in retaliation. 

“Little Freidrich here is just mad that their accent isn’t as attractive.” Summer teased dryly before sliding two drinks across the bar in Max and Evan’s direction. “Bottoms up, and the devil laughs.” she joked, and Raf choked on his drink to laugh at her. 

“That’s not what your papa said last night in my bed.” Sunshine teased in their loose German accent, and it always seemed like Sunshine and Summer existed in a world that was only theirs, and everyone else was just in the space around them. 

Summer’s face straightened, “Dude.”

Rafael’s lips thinned in an awkward smile and his eyes bounced around between the four people around him. “Yikes.”

Summer rolled her eyes, immediately turning around to tap her fingers against the tablet on the other side of the bar that she used to charge people.

“What are you doing?” Sunshine called to her, “Summer Habibah Abdelaziz, what are you doing?” they called again, leaning closer over the bar.

“Shots on Sunshine!” they called with a laugh, not hesitating to set out five shot glasses, holding a bottle over them and letting the alcohol drip slightly onto the counter as she filled them up.

“Oh, hurentochter.” Sunshine mumbled to his dearest friend, son of a bitch. 

Summer looked back over at the boys, “Summer.” she half smiled, finally introducing herself. “And this is Sunshine, and Rafael obviously. You guys seem to know each other. I met you both that one night Cora was in town right? Briefly but, I remember you guys and your friends.” 

Sunshine’s personality always calmed slightly when talking to people one on one, whereas they grew more colorful in group settings due to a need to be the center of attention. They leaned their head on their hand when listening to Max talk, “I go by they/them, very sexy of you to ask.” they smiled, and flinched when Summer flicked their head despite being involved in her own conversation. As a group, Rafael’s eyes darted and he looked down into the drink he was nowhere near finishing when Max asked how they’d met. 

Sunshine looked up at Summer as if for permission before shrugging, “I live with Marley who I go to Uni with. Marley and Summer used to date and I met Summer through Marley and we fell in love instead, but now we’re all just friends.” they grinned, and though Sunshine and Marley were also close, Sunshine valued their friendship with Summer so dearly. 

Rafael chimed in, “I met Wren through King, Wren and Marley are old friends, and now we’re all here. Long story short.” he smiled, and without trying there was always such a genuine charm in his eyes. “You and Evan are childhood friends right? Crazy that you both ended up here. Are you guys studying, or just picked D.C. to spend your 20s?” he asked, truly interested but unsure. “I know you are, Evan, since you’re roommates with Wade.” he added, realizing after the fact. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

The Birdcage | White Rook

“It sounds like you’re saying Hamburglar, the McDonald’s character!” the three of them shared a laugh, as they entered the bar.

Marja that had her arms attached with Max’s quickly letting go of him and floating her way into Lyn’s arms. Lyn and Tae look like they were having another pool competition, not that either of them were good it, but it was fun enough to keep them entertained while the others drink another round or three before they get as buzzed as those two, such light weights.

“Ev, look let’s go say hi to the bartender friend!” Max tugged his friend’s clean shirt, pointing at the direction of the bar where they could see a few familiar faces, “Her name is Summer, right? She’s beautiful, isn’t she?" 

Evan nodded, knowing well it was just Max being himself, always complimenting people which was often mistaken as flirting when in reality he’s just a constant positive person. He tailed after the other anyway, grinning as they approach and say their hey’s and hi’s, Rafael they had already seen before but not Sunshine and Summer.

"Can we sit here with you?” Max asked, with his ass already on the stool next to them. Evan chose to stand, turning his face to Summer, throwing a hey how are ya, before asking for their drinks, “A caipirinha for me and an whatever sweet drink you like better, Max likes surprises and sugar." 

Sunshine looked across the bar at some familiar faces, lifting their hand to exuberantly wave at Marja, dramatically blowing her a kiss the way kings and queens wave. As Sunshine noticed Evan and Max approaching the trio, they quickly inched closer to their friends. “3 o’clock, don’t look, two beautiful men are walking over here.” 

“That’s Evan and Max...” Rafael responded, his head also inched close to Sunshine’s, “Why are we whispering?”

“Obviously, I’m not stupid.” Sunshine countered, tilting their head curiously, “I don’t know, feels right.”

Summer picked her head up, “Oh yeah, I remember them.” she said casually.

“I said don’t look! Christ, you delicate little flower.” Sunshine shook their head in mock disappointment. 

“Oh, piss off.” Summer responded, turning to open up a tab on Sunshine’s credit card paid by their mothers. 

When the two men finally reached them, Sunshine turned to face them and smiled brightly. “Of course you can sit with us, but only if you’re a fun time. We’re the cool kids over here.” they said, reaching their arm out to gesture to the two people beside them. 

“Maybe not Raf, he’ll babysit that drink all night.” Summer laughed. Rafael just shrugged with a grin and responded with, “Guilty.” 

“Welcome to the bottle-o. I don’t care either way, as long as everyone tips generously.” Summer teased, looking back over her shoulder as she grabbed a few bottles. 

“Honey, I would never do you like that.” Sunshine said offended, “Love you.” they offered, reaching over and pursing their lips at the girl. Summer turned and bent to purse her lips back at them over the counter, and they gave each other an air kiss with their lips a few inches apart. 

Summer looked at Evan and gave him a nod, “No one orders that. Fun.” she said with a chuckle at the end, and when he asked her for a fruity drink for Max she laughed out loud. “Caipirinha for you and a Sex on the Beach for Sugar Rush over here.” she said gesturing to Max with her head. “I’ll put a little orange slice on the rim for ya, mate.”

[hm-best]

The Birdcage | White Rook

Naturally, in a mess to get to the bar for a night out, everyone had failed to even tell Summer they were stopping by. Marley didn’t, as to not make things weird (and they weren’t, it had been months, after all). Sunshine didn’t, claiming they lived for surprises, and Rafael didn’t considering he was being dragged and it hadn’t crossed his mind. When a small group of them first arrived at the bar Summer was tending to another guest, two bottles in hand when she looked up and saw familiar faces. “Aye!!!” she yelled, her arms extending in the air as she cheered. 

“Aye!!!!!” a few of them cheered back at her collectively, Sunshine giving a small shriek at the end as they immediately and expectantly rushed to the bar to hug her over the counter. It had been about forty five minutes into the night, Sunshine slid into the bar stool closest to Summer already pretty wasted. “You’re staring.” they said to the girl, who had dozed off staring at their ex-girlfriend mingle with a group across the bar. Summer immediately pouted and grabbed some empty glasses to put away. 

“Was not.” she said.

“Oooooookay, sweetie.” Sunshine shrugged, “Malibu Bay Breeze, please and thank you.” they grinned at their close friend. Sunshine looked over and immediately waved their hand between Raf’s face and his cellphone. “Why come to a bar to scroll through your email?” they asked.

Rafael looked up and gave an embarrassed chuckle, sliding his phone into his back pocket. “And what do you suppose I do?” he stuck his arm out questioningly. 

“Drink, duh!” Sunshine yelled matter-of-fact, “Two please.” they said to Summer with a peace sign on their hand. 

“You got it, baby.” Summer said, sliding two fruity cocktails toward the pair. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Friday // Hana & Jun & Others

Unlike Camryn, Jun has met Emiko way better, well over a handful of times he’d confirm, since they’re both related to the Kawaharas and similar in age, on occasions they would all be put together to interact with each other while the adults wanted to chat amongst themselves.

They might not be very close, but Jun knew her enough that picturing her taking care of a child made him laugh at Camryn’s explanation of her son. Haruki rolled his eyes, not surprised of his brother’s reaction, but unlike him Jun, Haruki thought she would actually be great with little ones. He had a feeling that children were too pure for her to dislike them, not that he would bet money on this, “They must be having fun, in some unconventional way but fun nonetheless.”

Jun observed Hana taking in his home and wanted to be able to ask her what are you thinking, do you like it here, but instead he too looked around his own house. It was tiny, as most apartments in Japan, but Jun and Haruki didn’t like spending money unnecessarily, so most of the walls were bare and the furniture reduce to items that felt essential to have, like a nice kotatsu for winter time.

He thought of his room, other than his bed, what mostly took over the space was his desk and computer set up, other than that one would say it felt very minimalist. Not intentional, but like himself Jun kept his personality and preferences closed with a blank wall, only revealing clothing pieces or trinket that had meaning to him for people he trusted. Would she freak out if he offered to show her his room? Probably. Maybe if he suggests Haruki to give them a “house tour” that would last about 30 seconds, she might be able to see it.

“Uh, you can stay sitting there, that’s the biggest table we have here so,” Haruki explained a bit embarrassed and pointing at the low table with pillows around it, “I’ll bring the food here, give me a moment.” he rushed to go back to the kitchen area, grabbing two large plates one with tempuras and other with waffles stacked up together while his brother grabbed the tableware, using knives and forks because how in the world would they eat waffles with chopsticks?

As costume the women sat on one side while they sat on the opposite side, it was a habit more than a preference because now Jun wanted to scooch over closer to Hana so they could talk without having the other two participating. A win is a win, he told himself and spoke as he settled on the pillow, “I suppose I’ve cheated slightly, Hana, it was Haru that made most of the waffles, I was out of practice.” he offers a little lie, since the reason he didn’t have time was him being too distracted wondering how that night would go and getting the recipe wrong twice, before his moment of frustration with the machine and leaving Haruki to fix the rest of the food.

“True, but I only had to put the batter into the machine, the recipe is still Jun’s so if it tastes bad, it’s his fault. My food always tastes good,” he proudly stated, putting the food on everyone’s table only to apologize, “I forgot to ask if you all wanted the waffle at first, sorry, do you prefer to change?” his English came out a bit stiffer now nervous his manners weren’t compatible with theirs and he was coming off as pushy. 

Camryn laughed at Haruki’s comment, but then stopped when they realized they weren’t entirely sure if it was a joke or not, “Right, some unconventional way. Best kind of fun.” they shrugged one shoulder, their eyes dancing to the side whimsically. 

When Haruki explained that they’d be eating in that spot, Hana made sure to catch Haruki’s gaze before she gave him a soft, comforting smile, “I much prefer this. It’s very intimate.” she reassured him, giving him a nod before making herself comfortable. 

Hana smiled at Jun as he spoke, and Camryn gave a small laugh at his confession. “At least you’re honest.” Hana teased, “This only implies you’ll have to cook for me again in the future, to redeem yourself.” she said almost lowly, and it seemed that when she spoke she spoke only to Jun, as though no one else was in the room. When Haruki reentered she grew shy again and let her gaze flutter around them and back down at the table as Haruki set down the entrees. 

“Oh my gosh, this looks delicious.” Camryn said, excited, nearly dancing in place. “My hotel is small, and I haven’t had a home cooked meal in like, weeks, that wasn’t my own doing. And, I’ll be honest, I’m not...Michelin Star worthy.” she teased herself, rolling her eyes. 

Both women laughed at Haruki’s comment about his food always tasting good, and then they both put their hands out at the same time to ward Haruki off of feeling the need to correct their plates. They looked at each other after the parallel movements and laughed, and for the first time Hana felt like she had...a girl friend? Suki wasn’t like Camryn, so it was, different. 

“Do not worry, I am very excited to try it regardless of the order.” Hana said, fingers approaching her utensils, “Though, I....really do want a waffle.” she gave a giggle, reaching to put a waffle on her plate. She paused shyly for a moment, before smothering it in syrup and, as elegantly as she could, trying to cut is so she didn’t look like a feign. 

Camryn tended to her own plate, “Besides, it’s literally all going in the same place. I’m typically such a messy eater so, I’ll start with...not the waffles.” she said with a breathy laugh, taking a bite and closing her eyes dramatically. “Ugh, I could live in this moment forever.” she joked. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Friday // Hana & Jun & Others

Holding the bottle he bowed to thank them both, hearing Camryn explain herself and before he can say anything, Haruki shows up, still wearing an apron and smelling like fried dough. “Food is ready! Hey, Hana- Camryn? You’re our secret guest? That’s great!” he means genuinely, thinking during their brief encounter he judged her to be a good person but he felt sad for her to have met Yuji not long before he passed away. 

While Jun disliked people quickly, Haruki felt like he connected with people easily. “How have you been? Where’s your son?” and before Haruki throttle their conversation, Jun excused himself to grab the glasses for them before sitting on the low table and speak, “We’ve having waffles tonight.” he said it throwing a smile at Hana, “But Haru here made tempura as well, if you prefer something else.”

Jun is curious about Camryn showing up, but it doesn’t distract him from sneaking glances at the girl he’s been thinking about the past several days. “Hey.” he offers quietly, not knowing if he’ll be able to charm her the same he does through the e-mails.

“Haruki, it’s so good to see you. I hope you’re well.” Hana smiled and gave him a short nod, hands resting shyly in her lap. Suki had told her to give her regards, but Hana decided against it. “I see you’re our chef this evening?” she teased. “ Jeremy has mentioned your cooking. I suppose I should apologize for my odd dinner request.” 

Camryn tried to keep her spirits up, knowing she came to support her new friend Hana, and that this wasn’t about her in the slightest. Her nerves eased when Haruki entered the room and had the opposite reaction that Jun had. Camryn grinned, “Hey! I’m glad it’s great! That’s good to hear.” she raised an eyebrow in slight surprise, laughing at Haruki’s sweetness. “I’m great, really. I’m only here for a few more days and TJ’s spending the day with Emiko. She’s not thrilled but, she knows we won’t be here long so she uh-reluctantly requested it. I’m sure they’re...having fun.” Camryn’s smirk blended into a chortle. She didn’t not like Emiko, but everyone who knew Emiko knew she could be a little...well...frigid. “...Thanks for asking.” her smile now softer and more genuine; she felt a little more at ease. 

Hana bit her bottom lip in an attempt to not smile so hard. She looked around at the apartment. She’d never been in Jun’s home before and she was interested to see his space. She could feel her cheeks pinking, or at least a warm heat on her face. “Hi.” she nearly whispered back to him when Jun looked over at her, looking at each other for a moment, and she wanted to talk more but she didn’t really know how. She found it funny how much they spoke through email, so fluidly, and yet in the flesh she struggled to pull together words. She felt silly, like a teenager with a bad crush. “Oh!” Hana jumped, realizing Haruki had said dinner was ready, “We should eat while it’s still warm, no?” she got up, and Camryn rose immediately after.

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Smoke Sesh // White Rook

Cindy and Lyn mirrored each other’s reactions seeing they’re not in trouble and chuckled at each other. Despite it being common for students to smoke weed and all, Cindy still had a scholarship to take care of so she couldn’t afford being caught like that. 

Meanwhile Evan is holding the door for the cute freckled girl to get in as Wade left to talk to his sister outside. “Welcome!” he offered extending his arm to let her into his shared room that was already filled with too many people, he loved it.

Max mouthed Wade’s name to Evan, wondering if everything was alright, but Evan didn’t hear any raised voices or anything and besides they’re siblings, it’s normal for them to fight right? So he just shrugs back to his friend and then go back to sit on Wade’s bed. “Is anyone else coming here?”

“Actually, it would be better if we moved to the bar already.” Cindy argued now unease with the thought of being caught still hovering her head. At least at the bar she could drink and not worry.

Being invited in, Marley grinned at Evan and nodded to him, scurrying into the room. She knelt and flopped onto King’s stomach as he laid on the floor and he huffed, letting out a groan and a whiff of air, “Fuckkk.”

Marley laughed, adjusting herself to sit upright and leaned her back against the legs of the chair Raf was sitting at. She looked up at him and he passed the blunt to her, smiling at each other the pair fist bumped. “Bar?” Marley asked, looking around the room as she breathed out smoke. She looked over at King, “Don’t you have an exam?”

“Yes.” Raf replied for him.

“Y’all are no fun.” King shrugged, “If you’re going to mind my business might as well make it worth my while.” he taunted Marley and she kicked him hard, making him curse under his breath. Marley looked over at the others in the room, “It’s nice to see you all again!”

Wade and Wren came back down the hall, their voices faint but getting louder as they got to the door. “Just call dad later, okay?” Wren said to Wade as he walked back into his room.

“Will do.” he replied carelessly, “Maybe we should put that out?” he suggested and King quickly went to take one more hit before taking care of it. 

“So, the bar?” King repeated, and Wren (who was standing comfortably outside of the room at the doorway.)

“Bar?”

“We going to Summer’s place.” he replied.

“I’m not talking to you.” she said flatly, but her lips curved into a sneaky smirk at the end

“Damn.” he said, raising his hands at shoulder level as if surrendering. 

“If I have to go you have to go.” Rafael said at the desk chair, giving Wren a smile and she smiled back at him, showing she was capable. “Should we head out?” he suggested, figuring the faster the night started the sooner it would end. “Separate and reconvene at Birdcage?” 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Friday // Hana & Jun & Haruki & Camryn

It was interesting to see Haruki so in his element, being confident with his pan and chopsticks while Jun struggled to make the waffle maker work, like a printer knowing the deadline is here and they refuse to work as if they’re just being petty.

“Are you nervous?” Haru asks him taking the machine away from his brother’s hands and easily turning it on before Jun breaks it. 

His brother gives him an annoyed look because of course he is nervous. It’s his first date with Hana even if his brother and a friend from Hana’s would be there as well. Jun murmurs, “You’re making us tempuras, right? I don’t think we’ll actually eat just the waffles so.”

Haruki nods happily, going back to the stove and frying the treats. “You should go take a shower, they’ll be here soon, right?” which only makes Jun curse and run to the bathroom. It’s better this way, Haruki likes the kitchen for himself, even if he’ll basically make the waffles himself. At least they’ll definitely taste good.

After the knock, Jun’s hair was still wet but he was wearing clean clothes and ready to greet both girls with a smile, “Hi, Hana! Hi… Camryn?” he asks noticing the woman he met during Yuji’s first year of death ceremony. So it wasn’t like they had time or a proper way to know each other, all Jun and Haruki knew was that she was dating Yuji before he died and apparently had a son with him. 

He’s heard more about young Tadashi through Asami, but she didn’t add much about his mother, so seeing her standing in front of his door is very surprising. “Sorry, come in!” he steps to the side inviting them in. 

Jun was so focused on Hana until that moment, he hadn’t thought about the other person that would be joining them, especially someone they knew through their relatives in Canada. “Please be comfortable! Food is almost done, so you two can just sit here for a minute. I’ll bring drinks, what do you two want?”

Camryn could tell immediately that it was a little awkward. Why wouldn’t it be? What was she even thinking, agreeing to go to dinner with Hana and the Sakurais? She smiled anyway, and Hana and her walked into the home. 

Hana looked over at Jun as he spoke, “Such a good host.” she said quietly and sweetly, so that when he looked at her she could smile with her eyes in a way that was just for them. 

“Oh, what’s for dinner?” Camryn asked as her and Hana took seats in the living room, her hands plopping on her thighs.

“Waffles?” Hana asked, a soft pout in her voice. Camryn looked over at her and grinned, looking back at Jun for an answer.

Hana pondered her drink, over thinking every little thing. “Whatever you have.” she said, better just let him pick.

“We brought wine!” Camryn offered excitedly, reaching into her bag and taking out an expensive bottle they had bought just ten minutes before arriving in a panic, laughing in the liquor store as they picked the most obscure brand. Camryn nervously considered if she should say something about having come, feeling like it was a bad idea. While Hana may not have, Camryn had a hard time not clearing her thoughts. “I hope it’s okay that I’m here. I’m in town for a few days and I just thought it would be nice to...” she chose her words wisely, “get to know some of the Kawahara’s extended family better.” she smiled.

Hana knew a little about the history from talking with Camryn, and she kept out of it. She looked at Jun and her eyebrows knit just slightly, as if she was also requesting the same thing. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Smoke Sesh // White Rook

As expected the whole room laughed, making Max pull a dramatic bow at the mention of his naming being exactly what he tries not to appear to be, even if he is indeed rich and his quite privileged. He let it roll, though, knowing it wasn’t like an insult, just his reality. Evan’s eyes caught him as if asking if he overstepped revealing Max’s name like that. Max offered a grin, they were going to find out eventually.

Lyn took a puff while she sat next to King, her hand still pulling Cindy inside the room but dropping it when she noticed Raf was there looking at her friend, Lyn didn’t know much about him but he seemed like a hardworking person, probably a good match for her best friend and a good change after G.

Cindy threw a hand back at Raf, offering a smile back, not sure how she felt about him yet but encouraging him to show more of himself to her. She chose to sit glued to Max, though, familiar with the other boy. As much as she had joked, if it was really necessary she would totally let him sit on her lap. Her eyebrows raised slightly hearing King answering for Raf, but she didn’t say anything.

Evan looked at his room wondering how many more they could fit in there, only worrying about the room getting stuffy and his belongings being messed with the moving bodies. The bar sounded like a good plan.

Everyone scrambled hearing the door knocking, worrying they were getting caught, maybe they shouldn’t have let the door open for too long when Cindy and Lyn arrived, did the smell gave them away? If not before then it definitely would once whoever it was entered the room.

Thankfully Evan hardly got agitated, so he crossed the room trying to avoid stepping on anyone’s foot and opened the door just slightly, “Yeah?” was all he offered, voice deep and relaxed. Be chill, guys.

Wade, and honestly the rest of the gang, watched a little nervously as Evan went to open the door. When Evan opened the door Wren cocked an eyebrow, her tall thin body leaning against the door frame with her upper arm, leg tucked behind the other for balance. “My brother here?” she asked, and without waiting pressed her hand on the door and looked over Evan’s shoulder into the room. “What the hell is going on? And why does it smell like....oh boy.” she did a soft eye roll. A shorter, thicker girl with short curly hair and a snap back on tried to peek in as well at the smell of the weed.

“Wren?” Wade half called and half sighed to release the breath he was holding. King perked up at the sound, “Ayeeee! My girl!” he said, excited to see her. 

“Are you kidding?” she said, eyes switching between him and her brother on the floor, who King had clearing just sold weed to. “Really?”

But before King could say anything, Wade, feeling babied, grumbled, “Like you’re a princess?” he half laughed while teasing her, “What are you doing here?”

“Oh, because I wasn’t invited?”

“Stop being annoying.”

“I need to talk to you really quick, and then you can come back and do whatever you’re doing.”

Wade pushed himself up from the floor and walked over, nodding at Evan as he grabbed the door and walked past Wren who slowly turned to follow him. Marley, a little unsure of where to put her body, waved awkwardly at the door. “Can I like, come in? Or, more importantly, can I have whatever the party’s serving?” she grinned goofy, her dark freckles scattered on her face.

[hm-best]

Friday // Hana & Jun & Others

Hana was incredibly excited to have dinner with Jun that Friday. It was a weird feeling, something she hadn’t felt before, not exactly, and because of that it made her equally nervous. Butterflies in her stomach the days leading up to it, she spoke on the phone with Suki the night before and, though her judgment begged her not to, had asked her younger sister for advice. 

“I just don’t want things to somehow escalate as they seemed to in our past interactions, you know what I mean?”

“It’s Jun, he’s gonna find a way to escalate something.”

“You’re being mean.”

“You’re being a baby. You’re a woman, Hana, push up your tits, walk in there, and fuck your man. Like? I can’t believe you’re really bringing someone like a chaperone. Dinner dates are only cute if there’s wine and you’re naked by the end of the night. Can’t really do that with Haruki there, be careful, he might find out where you live.”

“Suki!”

“I’m joking!”

“I don’t think Jun wants to do all that with me.”

“Oh honey, he’s a ma-”

“Not like that, Suki. I mean, I don’t think it’s all he cares about. I think he really wants to get to know me, and I’m scared I’ll let him down.”

Suki stayed quiet a while, “Hana....the man child has literally not even held your hand and he is so about you. Only way you could let him down is by not giving him the shot.”

“Hm.”

“That’s all the nice advice I have for one night though, sorry sis.”

A few days earlier, when Hana had stopped by Jer’s restaurant while he was in town, she asked if he would go to dinner with her but he unfortunately was going to be busy on Friday. An acquaintance of his who was visiting Japan for family reasons was in on the conversation, and claiming that she had known Haruki and Jun due mutual connections and family relationships, shrugged and offered to accompany Hana. The pair had gotten coffee twice before the dinner, and while they were fairly different, Hana enjoyed the company. She didn’t have many friends in Japan, even if the woman wasn’t staying. 

Hana took longer than she’d ever had to get ready, putting her hair up and down multiple times but she never wore makeup unless Suki forced it on her so she didn’t have to do much. She wore a loose baby doll dress, her legs long and thin, had her signature tote bag, and her hair in waves with her bangs just over her eyes. At the address, she knocked on the door and when it swung open she smiled. “Hello!” and nervously turned to the person beside her. “I know I mentioned I would bring a friend. This is Camryn, you know her and she is in town for a few days, so I thought that would be alright.” Hana smiled nervously. 

The blonde’s smile was much more relaxed and joyous, “Hi! How are you!” her shoulders scrunched up adorably.

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Subject: Unknown  | Jun & Hana

hm-best​:

From: SEUNG Hana To:  SAKURAI Jun

You’re terrible! But I’m laughing! Suki would never agree anyway. Okay. I am up for whatever it is you may want. 

Oh, right. I’m happy to hear that. I don’t think I would have anyone to invite, but I can consider it and get back to you beforehand. 

………..Stop c: 

I will see you on Friday, Jun. Your apartment sounds like a plan. I am really looking forward to it.

Hana Seung

From: SAKURAI Jun To: SEUNG Hana

I ammmm, better get used to it. (￣∇￣)v

Sure, if you think of anyone just let me know before Friday.

I guess I’ll see you then? I’m looking forward to it, it’s gonna be nice to be able to hear your voice again, I noticed that other than the disastrous few interactions we had personally in the past, most of them weren’t happy ones. Hopefully later this week, I’ll be able to make you laugh for once.

See you then.（*´∀`* ）

SAKURAI, J.

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Subject: Unknown  | Jun & Hana

From: SAKURAI Jun To: SEUNG Hana

I’m cursing myself as I type because I want to have dinner just the two of us but maybe it’s better to have Haruki around to keep things lighter, I guess. Unless we do find Suki and bring her to this dinner as well. Ψ(｀▽´)Ψ

Haru has been doing great these past years with the whole obsession thing, I think he would even be okay seeing her eventually but I’m not that mean, let’s just do us three, unless you want to invite someone? Let me know!

F R I D A Y Here at my apartment? It’s not huge nor fancy but fits all of us.

No ps from me, I just need to say that you are adorable and that’s what’s relevant to me here. (人･㉨･)♡

SAKURAI, J.

From: SEUNG Hana To:  SAKURAI Jun

You’re terrible! But I’m laughing! Suki would never agree anyway. Okay. I am up for whatever it is you may want. 

Oh, right. I’m happy to hear that. I don’t think I would have anyone to invite, but I can consider it and get back to you beforehand. 

...........Stop c: 

I will see you on Friday, Jun. Your apartment sounds like a plan. I am really looking forward to it.

Hana Seung

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Smoke Sesh // White Rook

As Max took his turn, still hearing Raf’s good response, he smiled nodding happily, “Yup, but if it’s easier you can call me Queen, since you already have a King close to you.” he gestured towards King, passing the blunt to Evan without looking but regret it instantly with Evan intruding their conversation to make sure everyone knew what was Max’s real name. “Thank you, Byron Maxwell." His reaction was to only shrug, yes it was pretentious and ridiculous, but it was the name he’s been given so.

Holding a smirk for his work, Evan turned to look at Wade, when the younger boy said it had been "one of those weeks”, what did that mean? For whatever reason, Evan liked Wade instantly, which was great with them being roommates. Worrying something might’ve happened and Evan failed to notice he raises his eyebrows questioning Wade without speaking at all.

Before he could get an answer, King was making a suggestion he approved, “I’m in.” was all he said and exchanged a glance with Max that cheerfully answered, “That would be delightful, King!” and started typing a message on his phone, letting the others know where they were heading.

Mid sentence, Max got a notification from Lyn. “Oh, the girls are outside!” he jumped out of the bed to open the door, both of the girls looked at him and then the rest of the crowd on the room. “Is there even room for us there?” Cindy asked, checking both beds filled with guys, “I just fake smiled for eight hours straight, I am not interested in having you sitting on my lap just for a smoke.”

Lyn instead poked her head in, waving at everyone with an open smile, “Helloooo, did we make you wait long? Sorry, we have to make a pit stop before heading here.” she offered without anyone even asking but wanting to make sure she apologized if anyone felt offended with their “tardiness”. Cindy wanted a change of clothes. “Are we going to the pretty girl’s bar tonight then?”

Max was filled with so much energy and spunk that it caught Rafael off guard. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever call him Queen, mostly out of forgetfulness, but he smiled anyway, “Yeah, ok man, I’ll see if it sticks. I’ve known King since I was a pre-teen, I don’t even remember his real name anymore.” he joked, adding a laugh at the end to make sure Max knew he was kidding. King laughed from where he was on the floor, laying on his back. 

When Evan revealed Max’s real name the whole room fell into an abrupt laughter. King, still laying on his back, kicked Max’s foot to get his attention, “We laughin’ but that’s dope man. You sound like real royalty. Byron Maxwell Queen. That’s some rich people shit.” he joked. 

While the others talked, Wade noticed Evan make brief eye contact with him and he shrugged, waving his hand to dismiss it as not a big deal. It really wasn’t a big deal, Wade just wasn’t like Wren, and adjusting to college after being popular and on the football team in a small town during high school was more difficult than he expected. Wren was so smart and driven and focused, but he hated most of his classes, and that really started to settle in this past week. He honestly just wanted to hang with his friends, get high, and forget about it. 

All their heads looked up when Cindy and Lyn entered. Raf tried to make eye contact with Cindy, giving her a shy smile and a quick wave from his seat by the desk. 

“Always room for the ladies.” King beamed from the floor. He passed the blunt over to the new guests in the room by sticking his arm straight up in the air until someone took it from him.

Wade laughed too, mostly at King’s confidence, he both envied and appreciated it. He patted the space around him, “Dorm is tight but we’ll always make room for you guys. Where are you coming from?” When Lyn mentioned going to the bar as well, King looked around at the room for further confirmation. “I’m down.” Wade said.

“Dope. Raf is cool with it too. We gonna have fun tonight.” King decided, and Raf looked over at him a little exasperated but knew it was out of his hands so he shrugged. After the girls settled in and got comfortable, there was a heavy authoritative knock at the door. In a panic, King and Wade jumped in their spots and straightened. They quickly shuffled around in an attempt to hide the weed, assuming that the person was likely a Residence Assistant and they’d be in Deep Shit if they got caught smoking in the dorms. King grabbed a pillow and straight fanning the air around them (it did nothing) and Raf quickly threw the weed in a desk drawer. Wade looked at King and Rafael nervously, yelled “Coming!” and then immediately turned to Evan and motioned his head toward the door as if signaling his roommate to go and handle the situation. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Subject: Unknown  | Jun & Hana

From: SAKURAI Jun To: SEUNG Hana

Does that mean you’d prefer to have dinner just with me? Or am I making waffles for three? ఠ_ఠ

How’s Suki? Haven’t heard of her in a long time, I admit she was fun to chat, even if she got on my nerves most of the time lol

!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now I’m extra curious to read it. Send me whenever you’re ready!

SAKURAI, J.

Peeps: You shouldn’t have said that, now I’m going to add extra ones after every sentence. （〜^∇^)〜

Peeeeeps: Tell me when and where, you know I’ll be there. Or if you want those waffles for dinner, WELL (☞ ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)☞ hmu

From: SEUNG Hana To:  SAKURAI Jun

I would love to have dinner with you and Haruki? But I would also love to have dinner with just you, as well.

She’s the same as you’d expect, but slightly more empathetic and partially responsible with her money. 

Wow, so many exclamation marks! Really? Oh, that makes me really happy. I may do a few edits and send it to you in a few days. 

Hana Seung

PS: I don’t regret it, they’re adorable. 

PSS: Friday?

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Subject: Unknown  | Jun & Hana

From: SAKURAI Jun To: SEUNG Hana

I can make Haru cook the braised pork rice dish or I can probably manage to make a decent waffle myself if you ever want to have dinner with us one day!  (ง •̀ω•́)ง✧

How are your siblings? Are you all in contact with each other?

In my opinion to each their own, I’m glad to have the option to read something like Murakami’s work where I can relate to some of the characters living this strange adventure but sometimes don’t you wish you could be anyone else but you? So why not go for a fantasy novel, with supernatural beings and humans being just one of many different species living here on Earth? 

There are books that make me wanna toss them away from wasting money and time with it and feeling like I learned or felt nothing after reading it, but overall I’m open to read anything as long as it entertains me.

What is the theme of your novel? I know people often see me as rude, which I suppose I am with the tone of voice or my face, dunno. But I value honesty from the people I care about, so it’s only fair for me to reciprocate, especially if it leads to growth and positive changes.

Peeps: I’ve never been this happy to receive a notification on my phone as I do know thanks to you. (/ω＼)♡

Peeeeeps: This is the internet, there are no rules, do what you want!

SAKURAI, J.

From: SEUNG Hana To:  SAKURAI Jun

That’s so nice of you. I wouldn’t want Haruki to make it if he didn’t want to. Waffles for dinner? I think I would very much like that. 

Yes much more now than in the past. Vincent is almost done at university, and Suki and I talk every other day. You know, she often teases me about my chosen solitude, but I think she might be the one who has no other friends and so she’s constantly talking to me. :p

Gosh, exactly! I think reading Murakami inspired me to read other magical realism novelists like Morrison, Rushdie, a bit of classic Kakfa. Most of what I write is heavily inspired by this genre. So I suppose, I have you to thank for that original recommendation. (: 

I value your honesty, but it can be intimidating nonetheless. Though, I see its purpose. It’s loosely autobiographical, and it’s partially told in youth flashbacks and then modern day London. I guess, to be vague, I tried to write the story I think childhood me wished she had, if that makes sense? As in, what place would that magic have, what role would it have had, if it really existed back then? But also maybe, me trying to find pieces of my life where I felt there was a real magic, even if it didn’t seem prominent. Retelling events but, you know, with a little bit of color. I don’t know. I get a bit shy talking about it since it’s so personal. Enough about it, though. I shall send it soon, I think. 

Hana Seung

PS: Your little keyboard faces are so cute! 

PSS: I didn’t know what to say to your comment because I was a bit flustered. I asked Suki and she told me I should just be honest... I’d really like to see you soon. 

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Subject: Unknown  | Jun & Hana

From: SAKURAI Jun To: SEUNG Hana

What is your favorite food? (´ｖ｀)

As a Japanese I feel like I’m obliged to support him no matter what, especially because he’s often criticized by Japanese traditionalists. How is it okay for us a society to accept pedophilia in mangas and anime, even if under the covers, but openly criticize a book because it contains “controversial” opinions, refusal to have a “traditional” family and depressed characters directly related to our culture? 

End of rant, I don’t get it how two faced we are with our people, not even going to mention how messed up it is our portrayal to other cultures, that’s another intense discussion.

OKAY END for real now.

Maybe you should attach your file in your next reply. ´･ᴗ･`

But you know I can be painfully honest, so only send it if you’re ready, alright?

Thanks.

SAKURAI, J.

From: SEUNG Hana To:  SAKURAI Jun

Hmm. If I had to narrow it down, I would choose between Braised Pork Rice, Fan Tuan (this is kind of like a breakfast burrito, but wrapped in rice with different stuffings), or...waffles. My mother used to cook when we were really young and the first was always a comfort food in our house. I did not look forward to a lot of things as a child, so I suppose eating well whenever she made time to cook were my fondest memories of my youth. We never did get to eat those kinds of things once we left, and as teenagers sometimes Suki and I would try to find places that had more traditional foods in London. It was hard, and sometimes disheartening, but also sometimes fun when she wasn’t being a bully. Waffles because they’re delicious. 

That’s really interesting, Jun. You make really good points. I feel as though I can’t really have an opinion since I’m not super versed on the topic, but I think it’s so important for us to...rethink what we’ve learned I guess? I always really liked that his characters were kind of sad; isn’t everyone a little sad? Shouldn’t we write real people? 

That only made me a bit more nervous! Maybe I’ll attach it soon. I know it’s far from complete, but I suppose I always considered I’d want to send it to you for that very reason. I guess I always kind of knew you would tell me the truth, even if it wasn’t pleasant. 

Hana Seung

PS: I’m really glad we are doing this. :)

PSS (?): I’ve always wanted to put ‘PS’ on something. Also, I know PSS isn’t a thing.

[hm-best]

sinnerisms​:

Subject: Unknown  | Jun & Hana

From: SAKURAI Jun To: SEUNG Hana

I didn’t care about food at all as a kid, but with enough exposure through Haruki’s own passion, I started to understand. How food can be an expression, like an art form, or lyrics. And it’s up to us, to interpret it whatever way we want to. Still cannot name anything or tell the difference from expensive and cheap fish though 

1Q84 is a major trip but felt refreshing reading from a second perspective and one of a woman and not the usual boring mid 30-40s man that has nothing extraordinary on his life but will eventually go through a weird sexual interaction that will change his life. I like his books, but it’s get boring if he keeps writing about the same character. ノಠ_ಠノ 

Regarding Sputnik I’ve had some thoughts that I didn’t have before. Not sure if I see them as positive or negative, but I suppose I now relate to some of the moments he describes. Hope some of them don’t become predictions of my future, that would suck.

Will you let me know if/when you decide?

SAKURAI, J.

From: SEUNG Hana To:  SAKURAI Jun

That sounds so beautiful. I do agree that food is an experience, and everyone experiences it, tastes it, and processes it differently. I always find it so interesting how my favorite food could be someone’s least favorite food. And, I suppose, it really does give people pleasure in a way other things just can’t. I don’t know if I’ve ever eaten anything Haruki has made. I would really love to.

You are right! Did you just perfectly sum up almost every Murakami book I’ve read? Still, I somehow find myself drawn to them anyway? Also, how do you make those little faces with your keyboard? I love them. c: 

Oh? I guess relating is the best part about reading. I’ve been working on a magical realism novel. I wanted to tell you when we first met up for tea. It’s the longest thing I have ever written and I really wanted second opinions from someone I trusted literature wise. Though, I suppose, it may have been overreaching for me to ask you to read what I have after we had not spoken in so long. Maybe one day I’ll be able to share it with you. 

Yes, absolutely. 

Hana Seung