spiritingaway | (no subject)

[Minako has been staring at her math homework for what feels like centuries, and she's certain if she sees another algebra problem she might go insane.

Honestly, when she'd asked Rei to tutor her, she didn't think they'd be studying this much. A few sessions, maybe, but she thought he would have asked her out by now. She's certainly been turning on the charm, and there's no way he's immune! Right?

No, no, that would be impossible.

At the moment, she's supposed to be doing the next set of problems so that he can check them over for her, but her brain has completely shut down. The could be watching a movie and she could be cuddling up to him right now! They could be at the arcade! She could be sleeping! Instead, she's staring at her textbook until her eyes can no longer focus, pretending she's engrossed in the work because part of this whole plan involves her trying to impress him with her... determination? Work ethic? Something. Honestly, Minako can't remember. She just can't fake her concentration anymore, either, so she sighs, peeking up at Rei through her eyelashes. In the back of her mind, she can picture Ami judging her.]

Hey, Rei... Don't you think we should take a break?

[She's doing her best to sound calm and unaffected, to keep the internal chorus of please please please please out of her tone. She half succeeds.]

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[Unfortunately, Minako didn't have Nagisa warn her about Rei's diligence when it comes to his studies. That's hardly a secret, but it's no exaggeration either. That diligence comes with the expectation of his study partners to do the same. ]

We are not due to one for another twenty minutes, Minako-san... [He answers her, not looking up because he's writing up this last sentence for history. He's actually working ahead with his assignments, like he always does. It's been the most efficient way for him to learn for classes the next day.

But even Rei can sense the pleading in her voice, so he finally looks up, eyes meeting hers.]

Hmm...why don't you show me your progress so far?

[Oh. Oh. That's the flaw in her plan, that he actually wants to check up on her before considering it. Really, someone should have warned her how intense he is!

Still super cute though. Worth it.

Minako slides her notebook over to him, shooting him the most charming smile she can manage, although there's something sheepish to it. She's done a good job on the first set of problems, because she really has been trying to pay attention to him, but the last few haven't been touched, and there are random doodles in the margins.

Cue begging.]

Can't we just take our break a little early and keep working after?

[Okay, she's been trying to impress her with her diligence, but she's desperate!]

I don't think I can handle anymore! And aren't you hungry?

[Really, she's hitting him with a low level of theatrics at this point.]

I am fine, thank you. [Those questions have been noted, but Rei is more focused on Minako's work in front of him. He goes from nodding quietly to letting out a long hum. This isn't evidence of someone who isn't trying. It's signs of someone who does need a break, and breaks are important!]

Very well, Minako-san. Although there are somethings that you need to go over, that can wait. [And he'll help her through the process, of course. Rei closes his notebook and sets it aside, glancing over at his school bag and an idea comes to mind.]

Actually, I am wondering if you can help me with something, if you are inclined to. [It IS a break but if Minako isn't the one getting tutored then it should be okay, right?]