"First" Ride!

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Hey guys, I'm gonna go on a little rant here. Please don't take this as me begging for money or getting mad about people not showering me with dollars. This rant is about the lack of support, and it's been kind of frustrating me. Now, I'm not going to be a hypocrite and say I don't expect any financial support from my readers. My Patreon page is there for that reason because I do need your support, but that was always secondary.

I write because I genuinely enjoy it, and I want people to share their ideas with me. When no one does, it feels like I'm just talking to myself instead of having a meaningful conversation. I mean, I don't even know if there are still people out there reading my novels at this point. I really think it might just be a couple of die-hard fans.

Anyway, both my novels currently have only one patron each. "Koushin" is about to wrap up, so I'll finish that one, but "High School Chronicles" has just started. I mean, it's only been three weeks since school started, for crying out loud!

So, if anyone out there is reading this, I just want to say I love you.

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Orion chuckled, "Ms. Robin, are you admitting to a tiny crush?"

Robin playfully swatted his arm, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Impudent! But let's say I enjoy a good game, and right now, this game involves throwing a spanner in your perfectly laid-out plans."

He smirked, "Well played, teacher. Just remember, I always return the favor."

Outside the cabin, the girls watched with a mix of frustration and humor, Luna mumbling, "Who'd have thought Ms. Robin had such a mischievous streak?"

Tatsumaki, her arms crossed, mused, "It's going to be a very interesting day."

Vivi sighed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Okay, ladies, regroup. We've got a teacher to outdo."

Inside the Ferris Wheel, Robin and Orion were nestled side by side, their arms maintaining a touch that seemed more than casual. The closeness made Orion's pulse quicken, an exhilarating mixture of surprise and anticipation buzzing through his veins. Robin noted the slight change in his demeanor, her grin widening, playful mischief lighting her eyes.

"So, Orion," Robin teased, her voice a gentle prod, "you seem to have gathered quite the collection of lovely companions. How do you juggle your time with them?" The question, laced with casual curiosity, was a subtle dance around the topic.

Orion leaned back, his eyes locking with Robin's, a hint of amusement flashing in them. "It's about balance, and keeping a pulse on everyone's feelings," he shared, his voice even, revealing nothing but a shimmer of concealed mischief. "Everyone's unique. They all have different wants, different needs."

Robin chuckled, sensing the depth beneath his playful demeanor. "And you enjoy catering to all those wants and needs?"

Orion smirked, his gaze never leaving hers. "It's interesting, playing the varied chords in the symphony of personalities. Every reaction, every blush, it's a new melody."

Robin raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his perspective, "A symphony, you say? And what part do you play in this harmonious arrangement?"

Orion's eyes twinkled with unspoken thoughts. "I'm the conductor, orchestrating the harmony, ensuring each note resonates perfectly."

"And what about you, Orion?" Robin leaned in, her eyes searching his. "What resonates with you?"

His smile softened, and for a moment, a veil lifted, revealing a glimpse of his true self. "Genuine connections," he mused, his voice softer, "those rare, unguarded moments, they're the true melody."

Robin watched him, seeing the genuine warmth in his eyes, realizing there was more to Orion than the charming, playful exterior. "It seems you have a deeper understanding of relationships than most give you credit for."

He winked, the veil falling back into place. "People see what they want to see."

Robin was taken aback. Indeed, people perceived what they wanted. She'd mistakenly boxed Orion into the stereotype of a carefree playboy without truly understanding the depth beneath his surface. Witnessing the genuine affection and camaraderie between Orion and the girls around him, her assumptions crumbled. His impact on those around him was palpable; the girls' cheerful arguments over him were a testament to his warmth and kindness.

A pang of guilt washed over her, feeling that she might've been too quick to judge. She opened her mouth to express her regret, but Orion interrupted, gesturing toward the window.

"Look, Robin," he murmured, pointing outwards as the rising sun illuminated the park below, casting a golden hue on everything. The sight was undeniably romantic.

Without a second thought, he adjusted himself, offering his shoulder. Robin hesitated momentarily before leaning into him. The warmth and security she felt were overwhelming. It was as if they were in their own little world, separated from the outside chaos.

"Just Robin," she whispered, her cheeks flush with warmth, "we aren't at school."

Orion turned to face her, a teasing grin on his lips. "Robin," he echoed, emphasizing the name. The intimacy of the moment made her heart race.

The two shared a moment of comfortable silence, punctuated only by the occasional hum of the Ferris Wheel mechanism. Robin's thoughts spiraled. Every interaction she had observed between Orion and the girls—Hinata's playful banter, Vivi's infectious laughter, Tatsumaki's fiery spirit—suddenly took on a new light. They all willingly flocked around him, and now she understood why. It wasn't just charm; there was a profound emotional connection.

Robin's past was a haunting melody, an echo of heartache and betrayal. Losing her mother early in life was her first introduction to the world's cruelty. And when she thought she had a safe haven in her uncle Jaguar D. Saul, fate struck another blow. She still remembered that horrifying day, the shadow of Saul's business partner looming in the doorway, their disagreement reaching a deadly crescendo, leaving her world in tatters once again.

As a young girl, she would sit by the window of her small room, watching as the world moved on outside. The bustling streets were a montage of laughter, love, and loss. In her solitude, Robin came to perceive the world as a stage of deception. People wore masks, hiding their true selves behind veils of falsehoods and self-interest.

Yet, as she leaned into Orion, feeling his steady heartbeat, she was transported back to those moments when her uncle would hug her close, and she'd feel safe. The kindness emanating from Orion was undeniable, pulling her from the icy fortress she'd built around her heart. His warmth seeped through the walls she had erected, touching the untouched corners of her soul.

Orion's voice broke her reverie. "What's on your mind?" he inquired, a gentle note of curiosity in his tone.

Robin hesitated, her gaze flitting away for a split second. "Just... remembering the past."

Orion's fingers brushed against her chin, gently guiding her face to meet his eyes. The intensity of his gaze was unnerving, yet comforting. "We all have shadows," he murmured. "But sometimes, a single ray of light can dispel the darkest of nights."

She chuckled softly, "Philosophical, aren't you?"

Orion smirked, "Only when it matters."

She took a deep breath, deciding to open up, "Growing up, I saw so much deception, so much pain. Trust was a luxury. But sitting here with you, it feels like... I'm seeing the world in a different light."

His thumb traced circles on the back of her hand, offering silent support. "Life's a mixtape," he mused, "Some tracks are painful, others uplifting. But every song has its place, shaping who we become."

She smiled, feeling a weight lifting off her shoulders. "Thank you, Orion. Your perspective is refreshing."

Just then, the Ferris Wheel cabin rocked slightly, signaling their descent. The park below came into view, with students like ants scurrying about, excitement palpable.

As they disembarked from the Ferris Wheel, a chorus of playful protests and boos filled the air, primarily from the cluster of girls who had been waiting for their turn with Orion. Robin's cheeks were tinged with a faint blush, amused yet slightly embarrassed by the fact that she had, in a sense, snatched Orion away from them. She could see the lightheartedness in their jesting, though it was laced with genuine amusement.

Robin's laughter trickled into the evening air as she teased, "I've assessed Orion's expertise in romantic rides, and I assure you, he's quite the connoisseur." Her words stirred a mix of amusement and mock resentment within the group, especially among Orion's girlfriends. They shot him fiery, jealous glances, the air around them becoming electric with faux indignation.

Orion, catching Robin's infectious giggle, shot her a playful glare. "You'll pay for this," he joked, the twinkle in his eyes softening the vow.

Without missing a beat, Hinata swiftly claimed Orion for herself, dragging him towards the looming roller coaster with an excited gleam in her eyes. The others trailed behind them, their excitement undiminished, keen to savor the thrills the amusement park promised, even though the solo time with Orion was reserved for Hinata this time around.

As they all approached the roller coaster, Hinata swiftly secured the front seat next to Orion, while the rest settled behind them, affording them a semblance of privacy. Hinata's hand found Orion's, her fingers interlacing with his as she rested her head on his shoulder, her words a cheerful murmur about the thrill she anticipated. However, beneath the excited cadence of her voice, Orion detected a subtle tremor, a whisper of fear, and he started to soothe her, his voice a gentle hum, words of reassurance interspersed with endearing whispers.

"You excited?" he whispered, his lips grazing her ear, sending shivers down her spine.

"Very," she replied, her voice wavering slightly. Her eyes, gleaming with a mix of excitement and apprehension, met his, and he could see the swarm of butterflies flitting through her stomach.

"Orion, I can't believe we're finally going on this ride! I've been waiting for so long," Hinata muttered, her grip tightening around his hand. Orion, ever the comforter, entwined his fingers with hers, reassuringly pressing a kiss to her knuckles.

"Don't worry, Hinata. I'm right here with you," he softly spoke, a teasing glint in his eyes, "And maybe, if you're brave enough, there might be a reward at the end."

A blush stained Hinata's cheeks at his whispered words, a mix of excitement and embarrassment dancing in her azure eyes. "Is that so? Then I guess I'll have to be exceptionally brave," she mumbled, her voice playful yet tinged with genuine curiosity.

The others were enwrapped in their conversations, the buzz of anticipation apparent, yet they respected the subtle barrier around Hinata and Orion, offering them a semblance of privacy. Hinata's heart raced, both from the impending thrill of the ride and the intimacy shared with Orion.

The roller coaster started its ascent, and the world below seemed to shrink. Hinata's breath hitched, her eyes widening at the towering height. Orion, sensing her unease, leaned closer, his words a soft murmur in her ear, "Just focus on me, Hinata. It'll be over before you know it."

Hinata's gaze locked onto Orion's, her fear dissipating in the sea of his comforting eyes. The air was charged with tension, both from the imminent plunge and the closeness of their faces. The slight touch of their noses sent electric shocks down Hinata's spine, her breath mingling with his. "Thank you, Orion," she whispered, the sound lost in the roaring wind as the roller coaster plummeted.

The ride wove through its course, the whirling wind intertwining with their laughter and screams. Hinata's initial apprehension melted away, replaced by exhilaration and the comforting presence of Orion. Each dip and turn brought them closer, their bodies swaying in unison. His whispers of encouragement mixed with teasing remarks sent shivers through Hinata, making her heart flutter.

The ride finally came to a halt, leaving the group in a mix of exhilaration and relief. Hinata's cheeks were flushed, a dazzling smile gracing her lips as she leaned into Orion. "That was amazing," she breathed out, her eyes shimmering with unshed joy.

Orion smiled down at her, his thumb grazing her cheek, "You were brilliant, Hinata." His words were a soft whisper, his gaze intense yet tender. "How about that reward?" he teased, his lips brushing against hers in a fleeting kiss, leaving Hinata breathless.

A light laugh escaped Hinata, her fingers tracing circles on his hand, "I could get used to this kind of reward," she mumbled, her voice laced with affection and playful defiance.

The others disembarked, their faces glowing with the thrill of the ride, the playful banter resuming as they headed to their next adventure. Hinata lingered, her gaze lingering on Orion. "Thank you," she murmured, her words heavy with unspoken emotions.

He simply smiled, squeezing her hand gently, "Anytime, Hinata."

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