Staying up late without a computer to shape my thoughts = GSG/Evangelion crossover idea

Claes found that japanese boy, Shinji, in the vegetable garden, contemplating a half-grown squash. “If you’re hungry, staring won’t make it grow any faster.” she said, interrupting his reverie. He looked up, startled and embarrased enough to refuse to meet her eyes for more than an instant before returning them to the ground, as if in fear it might fall away if he stopped keeping an eye on it. Claes stood there a moment longer before giving up on conversation and returning to her task. She filled up a watering can and started to work her way around the garden, skirting around the motionless Shinji the way she did the fruits and vegetables. “I’ve been reading about Japan since your team came here, but you can’t learn everything from books alone.” Claes stated, not really expecting a response. “Have you ever been to Kyoto? The Imperial Palace?”

Shinji looked up again, holding Claes’s gaze this time. “I only know they exist from my classes…Father’s always busy with his work…so is Misato-san…and I wouldn’t be allowed to leave NERV on my own.” He murmured softly, sounding more resigned than sad that he’d never been able to see such important landmarks when he’d lived around them all his life.

“I can understand that….” Claes replied after a moment, thinking. Maybe the two of them had something in common, since they’d both been shut away their entire lives, and had lived and learned only through reading whatever they could. Then, she had an idea. “I could lend you some of my book while you’re here then, if you like, but you can help me with this first.” She pushed the watering can into his arms with a slight smile. “Go fill this up, please.”