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Xander’s sitting with them today. Them as in referring to both Teruko and Nico themself; though really, it’s more like Nico is on the side watching them both. Xander is doing most of the talking, and Teruko is mostly nodding along.
Nico doesn’t really understand why they like Xander. They get why they like Teruko—it’s odd, because they really should avoid Teruko; there’s no denying that strange things happen around her. But she’s always willing to try to help out, and she doesn’t force them to talk. She’s a little quiet, just like them.
Xander meanwhile is loud. They’re not fond of loud noises and loud people. Maybe it’s because he’s always willing to protect Nico, even when they’re standoffish and seem rude, but that’s unexceptional. Xander protects everyone.
Maybe that’s the point. Hu means well, but her protection makes Nico feel like something lesser. It’s good for someone to not try to walk around eggshells around them.
The conversation has moved to… something about clothing. Which is interesting, because Xander and Teruko both wear high school uniforms. Teruko looks unimpressed at Xander’s suggestion.
“Really? Window shopping? What’s the point?”
“There doesn’t have to be a point! It’s just for fun.”
“Your definition of fun is letting yourself salivate over clothes you’re too poor to wear? I know you don’t have it in you to force David to pay for your clothes, even though you really should.”
“You are all so mean to Mr. David.” Nico thinks it’s a little deserved.
“How about we ask Mx. Nico instead?” Teruko suggests.
They sputter awkwardly, “Buh? Me?” Please do not ask me if David deserves to pay for everyone’s expenses. I don’t think I could lie with a straight face.
Xander smiles at them. “Would you like to come shopping with us?”
“I agree with Teruko. What’s the point?” Nico answers.
“The point is to imagine yourself in the future, wearing those clothes someday. It’s good to motivate yourself, even if you can’t be that person now!”
So Nico tries. Tries to imagine themself wearing clothes, nice clothes, silk, bows even.
… It hurts to think about.
Better to be a coward than be destroyed.
“No thanks. I agree with Teruko. What’s the point in hoping for a future you know won’t come?”
They try hard not to look at Xander’s expression, all too full of knowing in these kinds of moments.