imtouchestarved

[imtouchestarved]

Hey guys^^

Will it be funny if I tell yall that I kindaaa ran out of ideas for spin-offs? 😨😭

That's why, until I come up with something on my own, you guys can request any situation that you want me to write. Since I don't want to keep yall hanging Lolol. Feel free to write them down below if you want XD

[imtouchestarved]

Spin-off#6

Im backkkk. Sorry for the wait!!

I'm not sure if this is a part of the storyline or not.. i just wanted to write this out! Whether you want it to be or not is gonna be your choice. Just enjoy some wholesome kyojuro fluff~♡♡

(I know that it's painfully short. It's the max I could do </3)

Mornings were always an irritating thing that (Y/n) needed to get through to start her day. It was always cold, and tiredness made it more insufferable than it was. Thus, it was such an unfamiliar feeling for her to wake up with her heart and body at such ease.

Ever since her and her lover, Kyojuro, moved in together, mornings seemed more comfortable than before.

The warmth of his body snuggled up to hers in the early hours of dawn paired alongside the sweet aroma of fresh brewed tea carried by the morning breeze sure made a wonderful start of the day.

As she sat beside the kitchen table, watching her lovely boyfriend humming with the chirping birds while preparing breakfast, she couldn't help but let a small smile spread on her lips accompanied with a subtle chuckle. Kyojuro turned to her from the sudden sound, "What's so funny, dear?" He asked as he smiled with her.

"Nothing," she responded as she tucked some hair strands behind her ear. "I'm just happy, I suppose." A tender sigh escaped her still curved lips as her gaze fell to the warm wooden table affected with the soft sunshine rays.

"Those sure are good news." Kyojuro shifted closer to her, placing a small kiss on her cheek before returning back to his work in the kitchen. With how giddy he seemed now, there will definitely be something burnt today. She smiled again at the thought. Her boyfriend is such an airhead.

"The forbidden thought of happiness suddenly don't seem so out of reach." She muttered as she quoted a poem she wrote not long ago, amazed from how one's life can be changed so easily with just one mere person.

She took a quick glance at her boyfriend's wide back before a playful smirk appeared on her face. She quietly shifted closer to him and gave him a sudden bear hug from behind. "Hahah, gotcha!!!" She giggled while squeezing him tightly as he gasped from the unexpected gesture.

"(Y/n), You gave me a fright!" He started giggling and turned towards her and tickled her in her stomach area.

Her back was now pressed to the kitchen counter. "Gah! Stop that...!" She started to wriggle as she tried to get his wiggling fingers off her while laughing hysterically.

"I will not!" He yelled as a devilish smirk appeared on his face. "It's payback time!"

[imtouchestarved]

Spin-off#5

A/n: with bonus at the end ;) (a special thanks for all of your lovely support, I appreciate it more than you can imagine!)

The sound of metal hitting metal was ringing all over the training ground. It was a clear day. No cloud was up in the sky, and no wind blowed, making the weather quite suffocating.

Mitsuri and (Y/n) were in the middle of a dual, beads of sweat formed on each of their forehead from the prevailing heat outside as they blocked each other's attacks with perfect speed.

The other pillars and corps members were looking at them, some hoping to learn new battle moves, some just admiringly staring.

A few meters away from them, Kyojuro and Tengen were resting beneath a tree, hiding from the pestering sun as they cooled down after a shared dual.

They had a nice chat. Well.. it was more of a one-sided conversation since Kyojuro spent his time staring at (Y/n) unashamedly; lingering at every move she made and every attack she laid. "-Juro.. Kyojuro!" A large, waving hand blocked his field of vision, causing him to feel a little irritated as he tried unsuccessfully to continue admiring his girlfriend. He glanced at his friend's direction with a visible annoyed expression. "What?" He hissed.

"What do you mean what? I've been trying to get your attention for forever now! But all you keep doing is fangirling and drooling over your girlfriend."

"Can you really blame me?" He asked rhetorically as he returned his gaze to the dual in front of them. "Look at her. Isn't she so amazingly stunning?" A dreamy tone accompanied his tone while a grin started to spread on his lips as he looked at (Y/n) with what seemed like heart eyes.

Tengen made an irritated sound and sighed while rolling his eyes. "C'mon man, get a grip." He pat Kyojuro's shoulder before laying on the tree trunk.

Kyojuro ignored him, watching the ice pillar's final move as she pinned the tip of her blade to Mitsuri's neck, making her drop to the ground as she whined "Awww, no fair! Let's try againnnnn~!" He heard her say.

(Y/n) just laughed and offered Mitsuri a hand to lift her up the ground. As she wiped off some sweat from her face, her eyes started to wander around the area as she searched for Kyojuro among the crowd. The corners of her lips formed a big smile as she spotted him, waving at him slightly. He immediately got up and made his way towards her while waving back, ignoring Tengen's sigh as he watched him leave.

"You were incredible! I couldn't keep my eyes off you!" He said gleefully as he stopped himself from holding her hand, aware of the people around them. Their relationship wasn't a secret, but it wasn't something really official on the outside. They didn't really want any rumors going around.

"You were watching me all this time?" She scratched the back of her head shyly as a faint giggled escaped her lips, "I feel embarrassed."

He laughed loudly before responding. "How could I not?! With the way you moved gracefully with the blade, you can make one's attention on you be undivided for eternity!"

She laughed warmly at his compliment, and then a sudden idea blossomed in her mind. "Kyojuro, let's have a dual!"

He blinked surprisingly, unsure about the idea. They fought together in battle before but never against one another. (Y/n) was an excellent fencer, without a single doubt.

"I suppose one dual won't hurt, won't it?" He couldn't refuse her request, not when she was a second away to jump up and down. She smiled with excitement, feeling enthusiastic. "I'll do my best!" She pressed her hands against each other and bowed.

He slowly started to unbutton his uniform shirt, causing her gaze to fall on his bare, scarred chest. The man had to swallow down a chuckle. "Don't act like it's a first-time show," he whispered and added a brief wink to his tease.

(Y/n) couldn't help but laugh nervously while directing her eyes to a different area around her as a subtle blush accompanied her cheeks. They both settled into position, holding their blades in front of their bodies as their gaze didn't leave the other's. They just stared down at each other, waiting for the first move.

Kyojuro landed the first attack, it was so fast (Y/n) barley blocked it. She had a hard time adapting to his strength at first. He was a man, after all. Though she quickly caught up and landed attacks of her own. They fought with wooden swords so they wouldn't cut each other to shreds.

Ouch! She got distracted and got hit at her ribs. A few minutes into the dual, she suddenly could see right through Kyojuro. Being able to read his body language and knowing beforehand which way he will direct the sword.

It gave her a huge advantage, and she gladly used it as she kept blocking all his attacks. Kyojuro seemed surprised at first, not understanding the sudden change and why she could read him so easily. Though no matter how many attacks they blocked and received, it seemed like they were in equality.

After what felt like decades with no progress, (Y/n) raised her hand, "Okay, that's enough!" She yelled. "If we continue like this, we can go until the sun sets and even further. There won't be a winner." She grunted as she let herself fall to the ground while trying to catch her breath.

Kyojuro agreed and placed his hands on his knees while panting. "THAT. WAS. AMAZING!!" Someone suddenly yelled, causing them to turn to the source of the noise only to see Mitsuri heading towards them with Shinobu beside her. The women waved at each other.

"In all of the duals I've seen, this was the most impressive one, indeed." Shinobu greeted the couple with a bow and a smile that didnt reach her eyes. (Y/n) didn't see her until now. She must've just arrived.

The four had a nice conversation, and after a while, Tengan joined in too as he declared having a dual with (Y/n) as well. It was obvious, but in the end, the sound hashira won, making (Y/n) promise she would beat him someday in the near future.

....

Bonus:

(This bonus will contain a little peek from Kyojuro and (Y/n)'s shared night from the last chapter. Have fun 🤭)

As the weirdly refreshing night air was filled with desire and yearning, so did the hearts of the ice and flame pillars.

The tip of her chilly, shaky fingers traveled on his torso, exploring his toned muscles and caressed his rough battle-scars. She bit her bottom lip slightly, desperately trying to hold herself back. If she wanted this night to last forever, she mustn't go all out now. The girl swallowed thickly, acutely aware of his penetrating gaze as he studied her face and her bare body.

Kyojuro let out one shaky breath as her fingers found themselves back on his abs, this time more intensely. A moment of silence and uncertainty washed the couple. It quickly broken by (Y/n) hesitate lips pressed to the bottom of Kyojuro's jaw, subtly making their way down towards his collarbone. A slight moan left his mouth.

She sighed and pressed her forehead to his chest. "You're just so.." she began to say, stopping for a quick inhaled and exhale. "You're just so hot, Kyojuro.."

[imtouchestarved]

Next chapter will take a while, sorry! (I promise it's gonna be worth itttt!!!!)

[imtouchestarved]

Spin-off#4

"Your father is actually nice," (Y/n) said as she took off her hair pins in front of the mirror in Kyojuro's room. "You looked more nervous than me when I was the one who was supposed to meet him." She giggled as she recalled his anxious reaction when she asked to meet his father.

He laughed and shifted closer to her, wrapping his arm around her waist as he hugged her gently from behind. "You can't blame me. You know he can't control his liqueur. I was scared he was going to show up drunk and make a scene." He rested his chin on the top of her head, causing a tender smile to appear on her face.

"Fortunately, he didn't. I really liked your younger brother, though. He's so adorable! Like a mini version of you!" She pinched his cheek slightly.

"I must agree with you! Senjuro is a good kid!" He beamed at the mention of his beloved younger brother. "Even though he gave up on joining the corps, he still join practice with me when he have the chance!"

She leaned on him a little more. "Ooo, that makes him even more adorable! Really, all I want is to hug him and spin him around!" Her laugh changed into a giggly scream when Kyojuro did exactly what she said, but to her.

"Like that?" He asked as he put her down. "Yes, exactly like that!" She replied and placed her arms on his shoulders, her fingers slightly stroking his hair as she rested her chin on his chest, looking up to him.

The look in his eyes suddenly changed. They radiated a more feral feeling. He cupped her cheek with his hand and placed a brief kiss on her lips, though she felt unsatisfied and chased after him for more, deepening the kiss.

But to no avail, she still felt the need for more of it, of him. "I love you." He suddenly said as they pulled away, causing (Y/n) breath to be taken away.

"I love you, (Y/n)." He repeated more intensely, and (Y/n) swore she could sense flames in his piercing sunset-yellow-red orbs. The girl paused, both from shock and excitement she tried desperately to contain.

"I love you, too." She finally replied. And to her surprise, it didn't felt uncomfortable nor hard to say. It just felt.. right and even relieving, like a heavy weight was lifted off her shoulders and her heart.

Kyojuro sighed with relief as his gaze softened. "Even though it feels good to say, I still feel somewhat unsatisfied. It seems like those simple - yet powerful- few words don't have the ability to express my true and raw feelings towards you." He stated as his palm shifted from her back to the curve of her neck. "Loving you," he started speaking again, his voice gentle and controlled, "Is like the feeling of watching fireworks on a particularly dark night, or the feeling of causing a child to smile, or the feeling of getting held in your mother's tight embrace. it feels special.. comfortable." He finished his speech with a tender kiss on her hand, one for each knuckle, making her already flutter heart melt even more.

"Gosh, Kyojuro," she said as she buried her face in his chest. "Do you have the intention to kill me? I'm afraid my heart will stop soon with how fast it's beating right now."

He responded with a heart-warming, loud laugh.

They went to sit on the bed, since it was directly in front of the window and (Y/n) requested to gaze at the stars. "Your room is very clean. Do senjuro clean it for you when you're not around?" (Y/n) asked as she scanned the area once more.

Kyojuro nodded as another smile appeared on his face. "Indeed! Though I let him use it when I'm out on missions so he won't feel lonely." Even though he tried to fight it, guilt still appeared in his eyes from the feeling of not being there for his brother enough.

She smiled at him. "That's very sweet of you," she leaned on him, resting her head on his shoulder as she felt his body temperature rise slightly from her touch.

A few moments of comfortable silence went by. (Y/n) lifted up her head to look up at him. Though it seems Kyojuro had the same idea since they both met eyes.

It came back, the feral look. But this time, from her eyes. He kissed her once again, with so much passion that she thought he's going to eat her alive. He groaned inside her mouth, his fingers going from tangling her hair to absorbing every curve of her body.

He slowly laid her on the bed, still not letting go of her lips as he placed himself on top of her. As they pulled away, both panting and shaking slightly from excitement, he reached out his arms and caressed her face and her hair that spread over the bed. "You're so beautiful," he whispered to himself as he devoured her with his eyes.

She let out a shaky breath as his hand slowly caressed her leg and reached her thigh, gripping it gently as he tried to quite down the amount of longing he had for her. Though it seemed it grew stronger with every second. Every cell in her body eagerly swallowed his touch, screaming and begging for more. She let out a soft moan she tried to stifle unsuccessfully, and it made Kyojuro get more intense, desperately trying to hear that sweet sound again that came out of her mouth.

He proceeded to kiss her again, leaving a trail of kisses as he went down from her jaw to her neck. She immediately gasped when he found her sweet spot. her nails dug into his back, though he didn't stop and even deepened the contact of his lips against her skin. She whimperd slightly under his touch.

Suddenly, a number of doubts started to appear in her mind.

'Should we really do this?'

'I don't think I'm ready..'

'We should stop here.'

"Kyo..wait.." she started to say in between her heavy breathing. he lifted up his head to meet her eyes. But the second she met his eyes, all her thoughts disappeared, and she was left with only one.

'No,' she thought to herself.

'I want this.' she proceeded to place her hand on the back of his head, bringing him closer to her as she crushed her lips against his.

'I want him.'

...

The refreshing morning breeze caressed her face, causing her to open her eyes slightly, though immediately closing them since the sun rays blinded her. She got up to a sitting position, rubbing her eyes and opening them - completely this time - only to be confused about her current location. 'Is that Kyojuro's room? What am i doing here?' she hummed as she recalled last night's events. 'Ah, right. I met his family. I must've stayed the night after since I didn't want Kyojuro to feel lonely.' She remembered that his brother and father said they would only be back the night after.

She nodded to herself and approached the end of the bed with the intention of getting off, but the second her feet met the cold floor, a stab of pain climbed through her lower back, causing her to wince in pain. "Ack...!" she rubbed the sore area bitterly. "Why is my back so sore? did i sleep wrong?' she muttered to herself with a sigh and headed towards the restroom.

While washing her face, she took a quick peek in the mirror, and her jaw dropped slightly at the sight of her horribly messy hair. 'How did that happen?!?! It's so tangled...' her gaze fell on the clothes she wore. "This kimono robe isn't mine..?" she proceeded to grab the soft fabric, recognizing it as Kyojuro's.

Her eyes winded when a sudden memory rush hit her. All the memories of last night floated in her mind, causing her to whimper as she crouched down while one of her arms was still holding the sink. 'No way, no way, no way, NO WAY!' No way it really happened!

She felt her head starting to spin from how flustered she was. A sudden knock on the restroom door pierced the air. "WHOA!" she got startled and fell to the floor, immediately regretting it as she groaned and winced from the pain of her sore back. "(Y/n)?" it was Kyojuro behind the closed door. Despite not seeing his face, she could tell he was concerned from his tone.

"Y-yes?" she managed to reply without her voice shaking from embarrassment.

"Pardon me for startling you.. I just wanted to make sure you're okay. I heard some noises, so I thought I might need to check up on you." His voice sounded hesitant, and he struggled finding the right words.

"I'm.. I'm okay. I just had a little accident. Don't worry about me!"

"I see.."

(Y/n) waited until he left, and then she got up. There's no way she could face him right now! Just thinking about seeing his face at the moment made her head spin even more.

She slowly unlocked and opened the door, trying to make as little noise as possible so she could slide away unnoticed.

she sighed with relief when she opened the door slightly, knowing she passed the hard part, now all that's left is going through the door. She looked left and right. Good, he's not here.

Bamp! she accidently bumped into something hard, causing her to wobble and hold the door frame for support. As she looked up, she saw no other than, of course, Kyojuro.

She squealed inside her head. Once again, he had proven she could never run away from him.

"I knew you'd try to run away." He looked down at her as he declared, though he did not sound accusing. She whined as she pressed her forehead against the door frame. "Oof.. you know me way too well. Sorry.." She admitted as she ran away from his gaze, still not willing to look at his face.

"Are you feeling okay? you look agitated." He reached out an arm to tuck some hair strands behind her ear, only to stop when he saw it made her even more disturbed. His heart felt heavy from the fear he did something wrong that made her this uneasy around him.

"Yes, yes, of course! I'm feeling gr-" A strong hand gripped her chin, making her head turn towards it. "Why won't you look at me?" Kyojuro asked simply, feeling hurt from her sudden distant behavior.

(Y/n)'s expression softened from the sight of the wounded look on her lover's face. She let out a sigh. "Sorry.. I don't know why I'm acting like this. I think I'm just embarrassed." She admitted once again, this time looking in his eyes.

"You shouldn't feel embarrassed, we're in the same boat." He smiled softly at her, making her heart flutter as she wondered once again how can someone be this perfect.

She exhaled and rested her head on his chest. "You're right. Though I can't help but feel so.. Ugh, I'm surprised I can even look at your face without dying right now."

That statement made Kyojuro laugh. "Come, I made some warm breakfast," he scratched the back of his head shyly, "Though I tried my best.."

(Y/n) giggled and started to make her way towards the kitchen with him but then winced when another stab of pain appeared in her lower back as her feet hit the ground. She leaned on him as she groaned. "Is everything okay?!" she wanted to laugh about how worried he sounded, though her current condition made it a little difficult.

"Y- yeah, I'm okay.. it's just my lower back that has been a little sore since I woke up." she rubbed the area again, hoping it would ease the pain.

Kyojuro suddenly looked a little flustered. "That... might be my fault.." He said as a little blush started to make its way to his cheeks. (Y/n) tilted her head at him, "What do you mean?" she asked.

"Umm, maybe I was too harsh on you last night.." he laughed nervously, and the blush on his cheeks darkened.

A/n: First time I'm writing something like this, I hope it turned okay and met yall's expectations, hahaha!

She pressed her lips together and lowered her head to hide her blush. "I.. I see..." she whispered.

"It seems like you didn't go any easier on my hair, too. Since it looks like a total catastrophe." (Y/n) elbowed Kyojuro and laughed.

"Oh, come on, you're exaggerating! You still look breathtakingly beautiful!"

"Even when I look like a caveman?"

He lifted up a finger. "Especially when you look like a caveman!"

[imtouchestarved]

Spin-off#3

Girl talk! ><

"KYAAA! I knew it! I always knew it!" Mitsuri yelled as she jumped in place, splashing water everywhere. They were both in the hot springs at the swordsmith village. When (Y/n)'s sword got broken mid-battle, she went to the village for a new one when she unexpectedly met Mitsuri. The two were very happy to see each other again.

"D-don't make it sound like a big deal.." (Y/n) got embarrassed from Mitsuri's reaction about her and Kyojuro. "How can I not?! The way you both looked at each other before you got together made me want to scream from the top of my lungs! It was going to happen sooner or later." Mitsuri splashed more water on (Y/n) as she moved non-stop while talking enthusiastically.

(Y/n)'s face got even more red and she hugged her knees to her chest. "But lately, he's been acting kind of weird.." she admitted as she recalled why she felt the need to relax and head to the hot springs in hope to clear her mind. Mitsuri's bubbly behavior stopped as she heard the distress in her friend's voice. She slowly sat down next to (Y/n). "Why is that?" She questioned.

(Y/n) sighed and leaned back. "I don't even know. His behavior just seems..odd. in our short encounters, he doesn't say a lot. It always seems like something is weighing his mind. When I asked him about it, he just smiled nervously and said that he's tired. Though I can clearly see that he's feeling unfulfilled with something. Perhaps I'm just making him uncomfortable.." She finished her rant with another long sigh.

Mitsuri didn't respond for a while as she pondered (Y/n)'s words and analyzed Kyojuro's behavior. Just when (Y/n) lost hope that she will ever reply, she suddenly clicked her fingers as a huge grin spread on her face. "Got it!," she yelled, "The reason why he's acting like that, the reason why he seems unfulfilled, is because he wants to say the three big words!" She crossed her arms and raised her chin, feeling satisfied with her abilities.

(Y/n) tilted her head, not knowing what she was talking about. "The three big words..?" She asked.

"C'monnnn~ don't tell you don't know the three big words!!" Mitsuri turned to (Y/n) with her surprised expression.

When her friend shook her head in confusion, she sighed and started to explain. "You know..! The three big words that every couple has to say to each other eventually!" Under (Y/n)'s still puzzled expression, Mitsuri squealed as she realized she had to say them out loud for her to understand.

"The 'I love you'..!" She whispered in (Y/n)'s ear, her face immediately gotten red. "W-w-whaaatttt!!" She yelled as her eyes winded while shooking her head repeatedly. "Nonono! It's way too early for that! We've only been dating for-"

"Almost 5 months now!" Mitsuri completed her sentence. "And the most far you two went is a kiss! How slow can you guys possibly be!"

(Y/n) became even more red from the thoughts of going anywhere further than that. "And that's completely fine! Really now, you don't expect us to.." her stomach did a weird flip as she struggled to finish her sentence.

Mitsuri sighed. "Listen, I'm not judging you guys at all. It's reasonable to keep it slow. I'm just saying.. maybe Kyojuro-kun wants to take it a step further." She leaned back and played with the warm water, splashing a little on (Y/n) to try to get her attention, though the girl only buried her face within her palms as she whined.

"Now you made me all nervous. Just the thought of him saying it is making me feel like I'm going to burst! And after that.. we're going to take it a step further and..!!" She slowly slipped into the water in hope of hiding her very defined blush, leaving only the nose and up exposed.

Mitsuri stared at her flustered friend, trying not to giggle at how cute she looked. "Oh, come on," she wrapped her arms around her. "It's all going to be okay! Do you love him?" Her unexpected question made (Y/n) eyes to widen as she took her head out of the water.

"What kind of question is that?!" She raised her voice.

"Answer me, do you love him?"

(Y/n) ran away from her gaze and nodded slowly as the blush reappeared on her face. "Then you don't have a reason to worry. It will all happen when it needs to happen." She backed away from (Y/n) and let herself sink in the calming water around her. "You both are just so cute!! I'm starting to feel jealous!" She giggled.

"Ah, don't play dumb with me, Mitsuri." (Y/n) smirked slowly, suddenly realizing she can now tease her friend back. "What do you mean?" Mitsuri tilted her head, causing one of her braids to slip in the water. "I don't think that there's a single piller who's oblivious to you and Iguro," she giggled. "Well, except for Muichiro - Though I don't think he really counts."

Mitsuri immediately raised her upper body out of the water. She was so flustered that it seemed the blush even reached her neck. "WAS IT THAT OBVIOUS?!" She screamed, causing (Y/n) to flinch and cover her ears.

"Be quite..! Some people might be asleep!" (Y/n) scolded her, but Mitsuri didn't seem bothered at all. Heck, (Y/n) doubted she even heard what she said.

"I- I mean, we're not official yet.. though I think he's about to ask me the big question! Oh! and the other time.." she kept talking about him. And (Y/n) realized she won't stop soon. But she didn't mind. she listened carefully and asked questions, making Mitsuri talk faster and faster, obviously excited about finally sharing someone about her romance with the snake piller.

A/n: The next chapter might be a little spicy.. be prepared!!

(No smut tho, ofc!)

[imtouchestarved]

Spin-off#2

It was late, though not cold. Since it was that time of the year when the sun got brighter, and the remnants of the snow began to melt and seep into the ground, making it a little damp. Kyojuro and (Y/n) were just on their way back from a mission together. It was exciting for them. Since the battle with Akaza, they didn't have the chance to fight in combat together.

"It's getting late. We should set up camp." (Y/n) stated as she stopped walking, scanning the area for a decent place. "There," she pointed at a place that looked the driest.

After a poor dinner, she said she will keep first watch. Kyojuro obviously disagreed and insisted she should get some rest. Though (Y/n) kept being stubborn, so Kyojuro gave up. "Don't even think of not waking me up like last time! It would not be forgiven!" He frowned at her, though the softness in his eyes stayed, like always.

She grabbed his hand and giggled. "Yeah, yeah. Got it." She placed a brief kiss on his cheek. "Now go to sleep, it's really late."

His face softened as he sighed one more time, realizing he could never win against her. Especially when she acts like this. He had a weak spot for her affectionate actions.

...

It has been an hour or so. As the time kept passing, it became colder and colder. (Y/n) tried not to shiver, knowing that if Kyojuro will notice, he will drag her into her futon and make her stay inside until she's warm enough. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to keep her body heat up as she looked around her in hope of distracting herself.

"I can see you trembling, you know." She suddenly heard and glanced at Kyojuro, who was inside his futon. "I'm not shivering..! It's not even that cold." She denied, though it was terribly obvious.

The wind suddenly started blowing faintly, causing (Y/n)'s embrace on herself to tighten. Kyojuro chuckled when he watched how determined she was to show him otherwise. He proceeded to pat on the empty area next to him, "Come."

She stared at him, then glanced at the futon. "Pardon?" She asked. He patted the futon once again. "You're cold, no? Come here."

She turned away from his gaze, feeling a little flustered from his request. She felt her cheeks starting to warm up and suddenly didn't feel so cold anymore. She hoped the moonlight wasn't so bright tonight, so her slightly tinted cheeks weren't visible to the eye.

"Umm.. are you sure?" She asked once again, and he replied with a nod and a smile. She shifted closer to him, and he opened the blanket. But instead of sliding inside the covers beside him, she sat there as she tried to contain the butterflies in her stomach. "If you feel uncomfortable doing so, you don't have to." Kyojuro spoke since (Y/n) didn't move for a while. He started to close the blanket, though she stopped him by grabbing his arm.

"Sorry.. I shouldn't be this nervous." She still didn't look at him in the eye. Trying unsuccessfully to hide the blush that covered her face. Kyojuro stifled a chuckle, knowing that would make her more flustered than she already is.

She took a deep breath and slid inside the covers. Feeling the immediate relief from the chilly night air. "Whoa, it's like a sauna in here!" She gasped and made Kyojuro laugh.

Despite the narrowed futon, they still tried not to touch one another. Fearing it will make the other uncomfortable. "How come you were still awake?" (Y/n) suddenly asked while breaking the silence. Kyojuro exhaled through his nose, "I couldn't sleep," he answered her question.

She hummed in response, and there was silence again. (Y/n) felt a little uncomfortable in her current position, so she began moving a little and accidentally touched Kyojuro's right bicep with her fingers. She immediately flinched and backed away. "Sorry," she whispered. She then suddenly felt his arm wrapping around her waist as he pulled her close to him. "Don't be," he replied.

Her hand was on his chest, and their faces were inches apart.

He was so close, so close that she couldn't breathe or think properly. She could feel his heartbeats and his warm breath on her skin. "Kyo.." she whispered under his piercing gaze. After hearing his name fall on her lips, his eyes winded, and he loosened his arm that was on her waist. "M-my apologizes, it seems I got carried away." He suddenly looked a little embarrassed or maybe even regretful.

She then shook her head and pulled herself close to him again, burying her face in his chest as she snuggled against him slightly. "You didn't, it's okay."

With hesitation, he wrapped his arms around her. One hand resting her her waist and the other on the back of her head, caressing her hair slightly.

She then started to feel sleepy from his warmth. As she inhaled, she couldn't ignore how nice he smelled.

"Is it going to be okay for me to close my eyes for a little while?" She asked as her eyes began to feel a little heavy. "Yes. You don't even have to ask," He replied.

She snuggled against him once again, falling into a deep sleep as he held her tight, not letting go even when dawn came and the sun awakened.

[imtouchestarved]

I am taking a small break, since exam season is here and I'm kindaaaaa freaking out here lololol

Also it's my birthday today, yayyy!!🥳🥳🥳

[imtouchestarved]

Spin-off#1

"Are you sure I look fine?" Kyojuro asked for the 100th time already while fixing his tie nervously over and over again, only making it more crooked with each time. (Y/n) chuckled slightly, seeing how anxious he was. "Yes, you look amazing! Don't be so nervous," she said while fixing his tie for him. "You already met my parents before, relax. They're going to love you!" She reassured him once again.

"It was under different circumstances! At the time, we were friends. now we're.." he struggled to get the words 'boyfriend and girlfriend' out of his mouth as he blushed slightly. (Y/n) couldn't blame him at all. Every time she remembered kyojuro was now her boyfriend, she would bury her face in her palms and sometimes even scream into her pillow.

As she finished fixing his tie, she backed off to look at him. Gosh.. he looked so good in a suit. "It doesn't matter if we're..in a relationship or friendship. Believe it or not, you already got my father's blessing even before we were official!" She placed her hands on her hips.

She wore a blue kimono with thin golden stripes crossing diagonally, making the white stars pattern stand out. Her hair was up in a bun, and little pins of flowers in color of blue, gold, and sliver were clipped beside it.

Kyojuro took a minute to admire her. "What is it?" She tilted her head gently. When he noticed that he was staring for too long, he turned his head and cleared his throat. "That kimono.. really suits you well.." he mumbled as he became a little flustered.

(Y/n) tucked some hair edges behind her ear, blushing slightly at his words. "W-we mustn't keep them waiting, come on!" She then grabbed him arm and dragged him to the restaurant they requested to attend.

...

For Kyojuro's relief, the meal went well. (Y/n)'s mother kept questioning him and talking to him cheerfully, totally thrilled that her beautiful daughter got together with a fine man like him(her words). Her dad, on the other hand, only made small talk a few times. He didn't look displeased, not at all. Aside from his frowning face, he radiated such an approving feeling.

"I can't wait to meet my future grandchildren. They're going to be so adorable!" Her mother suddenly said, causing Kyojuro to choke on his drink as his eyes winded, and (Y/n) to turn completely red as she slammed her hands on the table from embarrassment "M-mother..!!!" She yelled at her.

Her mother giggled as she waved her hand up and down, "I'm just kidding!" She proceeded to grab her cup of tea, getting it close to her lips, "Though I really do can't wait to meet them." She said before sipping from the cup.

(Y/n) whined as her face turned even more red. "It's okay.." Kyojuro whispered to her. She looked up, and he smiled gently at her. He grabbed her hand carefully under the table, making her calm down a little as she bit her tongue slightly to fight the huge grin that threatened to spread on her face. Knowing her mother will definitely tease her for it.

...

Kyojuro was just on his way back from the restroom when he met (Y/n)'s father along the way. He stopped and lowered his head, "There's no need, lift up your head," Kyojuro did as he said. There was a brief silence, both of them didn't know what to say.

Her father then cleared his throat, "I failed as a father," he admitted as his face darkened. "But seeing my daughter so happy makes me feel nothing but pure joy. I must thank you, from the bottom of my heart. For years, I mourn my mistakes, thinking I've damaged her completely. Though, you proved me wrong. And I can't be more thankful." He finished his statement by bowing at Kyojuro, who was totally surprised.

"No, please!" He shook his head. "I did nothing. This is not my doing, but rather (Y/n)'s. She is an incredible woman. so incredible that sometimes I doubt that I even deserve someone as kind and generous as her. For that, for her existence, i should thank you." He now bowed, causing (Y/n)'s father's face to form a faint smile as he sighed. "I don't deserve praises, but I will accept yours. Thank you."

...

After the meal, (Y/n) and Kyojuro decided it will be nice to walk around under the shining city lights. They said goodbye to her parents and went to their way. As they wandered around the streets, holding hands as they just simply enjoyed each other's company, Kyojuro looked up to the sky as he sighed. "It's a beautiful night, isn't it?" He rubbed his thumb on her hand gently.

"Indeed, though it's a shame the stars aren't visible because of the city lights."

He turned to her, "Then let's go somewhere more quite, shall we?" Although he really did want to see the stars, his real intention was to spend some alone-time with his girlfriend. She smiled and nodded, then they headed to a silent hill near the city.

As they quietly star gazed, (Y/n) looked at the sky with longing. "I.. I wrote something for you.." she whispered and immediately regretted it, her last hope now was that he didn't hear it.

"Really?!," oof. "Can I take a look?" He asked expectantly. She couldn't refuse to him now.. she nodded heavily and took out the little notebook that she always carried with her. While she flipped through the pages, looking for the specific poem she wrote, she noticed how he couldn't hide his excitement, and that made her more anxious than she was. What if he will be disappointed?

"Here.." she handed him him the notebook nervously, and he started to read carefully.

The days passed without an eyesight

Just like petals being carried around by the wind

And just like those petals

you were as beautiful as the sun

And just like the sun

You brought me the warmth i so desperately needed.

As he read it quietly, her heartbeats started to race. "BEAUTIFUL!!" He suddenly yelled, startling her and causing her to flinch slightly. "Absolutely beautiful! Such an inspiring poem! I love it!" He kept praising her, making her more flustered as she thanked him over and over.

"You know, I actually noticed something," he held his chin with his fingers. "You love the sky, don't you, (Y/n)? I mean, it's obvious you have a special longing to the stars and moon. And now I can see you like writing about them too, the sun as well."

She was once again surprised by his ability to read people so well. She then nodded and returned her gaze to the nightsky. "Yes. I wish to be as beautiful as the stars," she laughed at her words, which sounded a little foolish out loud. "Well, if it was possible."

He tilted his head softly, "You are, though." She turned to him, surprised. "What?"

"For me, you're beautiful as the stars at night and the sky at dawn." He shifted closer to her and held her hand. She just stared at him, not fully realizing the words that came out of his mouth. "You just keep complimenting me," she said and got closer to him.

A week ago, she couldn't do what she did now, which was kissing him softly on his lips. He kissed her back without hesitation, cupping her right cheek gently.

As they pulled away, they smiled at each other tenderly and returned to gaze at the breathtaking sky.

A/n: Sorry it took a while, exam season is tough!

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter fifteen

The dimly sunshine rays began to spread across the room, leaving warmth as they passed by and hid behind the cloudy sky. "My first mission after so long.." (Y/n) adjusted her uniform's collar as she stared at herself through the mirror.

At a normal situation, she would feel a little annoyed to return back to work after a while. But now.. she was so relieved that she could avoid Kyojuro again. Since the.. accident..she didn't see him once. She didn't reply to his letters and didn't even open them, in fear of what there would be written in them.

Such a childish behavior. Though, for her defense, she was absolutely terrified of facing him after what she had done, she was terrified of losing him. So she ran away..

She buried her face between her palms as her cheeks started to tingle from the blush that appeared. Although she regretted her actions, she couldn't stop thinking about how soft his lips were.. how warm they were, and how she desired to have a taste of them again. 'Nonononono!' She squealed at her thoughts.

Suddenly, some rain drops began to hit the ground. She glanced at them, feeling guilt and shame as she faced her reality once again. "After this mission," she decided. "After this mission.. I'll talk to him.."

She exhaled as she started to feel the anxiety permeating her body and walked out her room's door.

"You're leaving today, huh?" She turned around to see her parents behind her as she put on her shoes at the house entrance. She stood up and nodded, "Yes, I've been called on a mission. My resting period has come to an end." Her father walked over to her and patted her on the head while her mom pulled her into a tight embrace, "return back safely." She whispered as she backed off.

(Y/n) lingered for a moment, letting her parent's affection sink in as she the edges of her lips curved into a soft smile. "I will," she waved them goodbye and started to make her way towards her mission's location.

'It's really raining, huh?' She raised her arm slightly, letting the rain drops meet her hand as she looked up at the sky. 'They're so cloudy.. I doubt the sun will come out today.' As she returned her gaze to the ground, she immediately felt a strong presence near her. She turned around and saw no other than kyojuro in the distance, who hadn't noticed her yet.

Her heart dropped, and her breathing began to quicken. 'What is he doing here?! Oh no, this is bad, He might see me!!' She quickly started to run away to the other direction frantically while criticizing herself about being such a cowered.

She hoped the rainy weather will cover her tracks and the sound of her feet hitting the puddles beneath her. 'Now I'm all filthy..' she glanced behind her and sighed with relief, there's no signs of him, she lost him.

...or so she thought. A second later, she bumped into something and fell to the muddy ground.

A sudden Deja vu?

As she looked up, she saw kyojuro, crossing his arms while looking absolutely furious. What was she thinking? That she could seriously run away from him?

She didn't even bother standing up and just let the filthy puddles stain her haori. "You.." he started to say, and her heart dropped once again, terrified of what's going to come out of his mouth. "You've been avoiding me, not answering my letters, running away.." he stopped to settle his thoughts, his mind was an absolute mess, he had so many things he wanted to say for so long now. "You kissed me, don't think I will ignore that fact. I-"

"I GET IT!!" (Y/n) suddenly yelled, causing Kyojuro to stop talking while staring at her with a puzzled expression on his face. "I get it," she repeated after herself while she slowly stood up. "I know that you're mad, which you have every right to be! I made a huge mistake, and I'm aware of it! I kissed you without your permission, then had the audacity run away and completely ignore you!" She stopped to breathe as she placed a hand on her chest, gripping the fabric.

"I keep messing up, I keep running away, I keep making mistakes. Over and over again. And now I am going to be completely selfish and ask you to stay by my side..and I hate myself for it!"

"..(Y/n)-"

"I just don't dare to think about what will happen to me if I lose you. Im absolutely terrified of it because you are so, so dear to me."

"(Y/n) plea-"

"No, you don't even have to say anything, I get it! I really do!" Tears started streaming down her face as she frantically started to speak once again. "I'm so terribly sorry, I'm sorry for avoiding you, I'm sorry for acting so childish, and- ..!"

Warm lips pressed against hers, making her stop talking. Her eyes winded as she processed the situation. Kyojuro carefully pulled away, but (Y/n) found herself chasing after him for more.

Like he got permission, he deepened the kiss without hesitation, placing his hand on her back and pushing her body close to his. She placed one hand on his chest as the other one dug into his wet hair.

As seconds flew by, the kiss deepened and deepened as they desperately tried to satisfy their burning hunger for the other's touch.

"Now," Kyojuro said as they both pulled away, "we're even." (Y/n), completely flabbergasted, just stared at him as she waited for an answer. "I wasn't mad at you for kissing me," he finally said under her piercing gaze. "I was mad that you disappeared, I was mad that you didn't explain yourself ,and...I was mad that you didn't let me have the opportunity to kiss you back."

She pondered his words, making sure she really heard it right. "I fancy you, (Y/n)," Kyojuro said under her lack of answer. He laid his hand on her hand that rested on his chest, moving it gently to the area of his pounding heart. "My heart calls your name, without a doubt." It wad so loud, his heartbeats.

"When you kissed me.." he didn't stop explaining himself. "It made me happy..to know that I wasn't the only one who was holding back."

There was a brief silence, just the sound of the rain drops hitting the ground was heard in the background.

"..my apologies, it seems like my mind is a complete mess at the moment. Just a second.." she finally replied.

A few seconds later, after she sorted out her thoughts, she said: "Even if it took me a while to realize, I really.. really like you, kyojuro." The complexion of her cheeks now matched his, totally red as they even struggled to keep eye contact.

A sudden wide smile spread on Kyojuro's face as he laughed, "Then I'm the happiest man alive!!" He then lifted (Y/n) off the ground and started spinning her around, causing her to laugh and scream slightly at the same time.

"How did you know that I was going out on a mission?" She asked as she slicked back some hair that stuck to her face. He hesitated a little before responding, "Hmm.. let's just say I got a certain letter from a certain master who seemed to acknowledge my situation. " He then winked and dropped the topic.

They both walked together to her requested destination, holding hands as single rays of sunshine peeked through the clouds.

A/n: whoaaa, I wanted to write that scene for so long!! I'm so happy I made it this far. Also, I'm going to finish the main story here and then upload a few spin-offs. I have a few ideas in mind, so stay tuned!

And just like that, they started another beginning under another pouring rain.

--The end--

Another quick announcement, I mightttt start a giyuu fanfic after I finish some of the spin-offs. I do need a little more time to think it through, though. if any of you guys have a certain character that you want me to write a fanfic about, lmk!

[imtouchestarved]

Feeling a little unmotivated rn so the next chapter will take a while.. haven't even started writing it😭😭

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter fourteen

There was moist mist all over the streets. It made the air feel humid, though oddly comforting. The two walked by each other, chatting and laughing silenty since it was an hour after midnight.

"It's quite funny how you can make even a serious man like my father feel flustered." (Y/n) said as she recalled the moment before they both left her house.

"I see you're taking her for a while." Her father said as he crossed his arms.

"Indeed!" Kyojuro nodded. "Well then, mister Rengoku-" her father started to say, but was cut off by kyojuro.

"Please, call me kyojuro!" He requested. The man began looking a little uncomfortable. He only met kyojuro just now, so calling him by his first name already? "Uh.. so.. Mister kyojuro-" he got cut mid sentence once again. "No need for mister, just kyojuro!!" He gave him a thumb up as he corrected him.

Her father scratched the back of his head while glancing on the floor, "Eh.. well then,kyojuro.. it was nice meeting you," He finally managed to say what he wanted out loud.

They both chuckled at the memory, "You know, you and your father are very alike," he came to a conclusion.

As they walked by each other, they silenty decided to hold hands. Kyojuro must've remembered what (Y/n) said about how it's hard for her to keep her body heat, so he initiated it, and seeing (Y/n) didn't resist, they just stayed that way.

"Really?...now that I think about it, I can see what you mean," he rubbed his thumb on her hand gently, which made her a little flustered. Kyojuro nodded and started to explain his statement, "Though I don't know him like you, he seems stubborn, calm and introverted. Which makes his first impression seem like he's a cold person, but perhaps just have a hard time expressing.." he finished his sentence when his gaze on (Y/n)'s.

She exhaled as she said: "It didn't come to my knowledge that you're so good at analyzing people, kyojuro." As his name fell on her lips, his smile began to widen. Just like every other time. "Uh, well.." he became a little flustered from the compliment.

She pondered his words before replying, "Yes, my father does have those traits. But I'm afraid you forgot something, although he seems like a cold man, he has a kind heart," she placed her hand on her chest. "It must be weird for me to praise my father like that, since he was the source of most of my problems. But at the end on the day, he was just a little boy that desperately wanted to prove that he's more than his fear." She gazed at the stars as she talked, amazed from their shining presence. Even though the ground was all foggy, the stars and moon didn't seem to be bothered by a thing that must look so foolish to them.

Kyojuro stopped walking, causing (Y/n) to stop as well since their joined hands. She turned to him, confused. "Then you got that too," he whispered as he pointed at the area of her heart. "The kind heart, I mean. You got that as well."

He was so close to her that she could hardly breathe. And now with that statement.. does he have the intention to kill her?! Her chest felt tight, but not the same as when she fought with her father.. it felt.. warm.

She backed off a little, but Kyojuro closed the distance almost immediately. "Kind heart? Ehh, well.. I believe that i just have human empathy..haha," she tried to ease the mood. But perhaps only she felt the tension in the air. Kyojuro shook his head without breaking eye contact, "No, you have a kind heart. It's like a little flame burning inside of you. I see it, and I saw it from the first time we met." He insisted as he chased after her gaze. He wanted her to look at him, to see he's not lying.

"Really? You can really see it..?" She asked him sincerely as she got locked in his eyes. He nodded slightly, suddenly lost in thoughts. She turned away from his gaze, and he backed off a bit.

"Th-thank you.." the blushing girl said as they continued walking again. "No need to thank me!" He went back to his usual behavior.

(Y/n) thought about it for a second. Kyojuro is a passionate man at everything he does. It's a known fact, and it's very obvious. Though sometimes he's so intense, like he was right now. His eyes become piercing, and the usual strong aura around him radiates so much passion. She wondered what it was about..

"We're here!" He interrupted her from her thoughts. She looked around her and saw his house. It's the first time she's here, so she took a minute to scan the area. They stood there in silence, not willing to admit that their time together had come to an end. Kyojuro's grip on her hand tightened slightly as she said: "Uh.. well.." she hesitated. Oh, how much she wanted to stay beside him. "It's time for me to take my leave, isn't it?"

His grip tightened even more, "Why won't you come in? It's late and cold! Surely, just one cup of warm tea won't hurt!" The wind started blowing behind him as he speaked, ruffling his hair softly. She could smell his cologne as the wind passed by her. It smelled good. She sighed as she considered the offer. Her parents won't mind, won't they? Either way, she's an adult.. she can decide for herself. But what if they'll worry?

'I really don't want to leave, though..' she sighed one more time as she nodded. "Ah.. I guess not.." he beamed as she accepted and laughed, not loudly since the hour.

...

"My father's probably out drinking, though my younger brother's asleep, so we mustn't do a lot of noise!" He whispered as they let themselves in. 'It's so warm inside..' (Y/n) thought as she looked around. "Your house looks cozy," she took off her shoes and set them aside Kyojuro's.

"Thank you!" He made his way into the kitchen and started to look around the cabinets. "Would you like some tea, or..." he lingered for a second, still fishing around a cabinet that was placed a little higher than him. Then suddenly, he pulled out a sake bottle. "Something Spicier?" he finished his sentence as he smirked playfully while waving the jug slightly so the contained liquid won't spill.

(Y/n) glanced at the bottle, then at him. She hesitated as she thought it through. "Though I do miss the euphoria I felt.. I'm afraid of how I'll act this time." She admitted as she blushed slightly, remembering the memories she buried deep in her mind. Kyojuro chuckled and started pouring the liquid into small cups, "Ah, don't be a mood killer. Your behavior last time was nothing. If you'll see other people's behavior when they're drunk, you'll thank the gods. Now here," he shoved one of the cups close to her lips, signaling her to drink it. She gripped and stared at it, sighing as she drank it while knowing she will regret it later.

Kyojuro gave her a thumb up and drank his, then immediately pouring himself another cup. "Wasn't so bad, was it? Want another?" He asked as he held the bottle, waiting for her to decide. (Y/n) tapped her finger repeatedly on the cup while thinking about the offer, "Hmm.. I assume another won't hurt, won't it?"

...

It was warm, he was warm. Kyojuro and (Y/n) sat down at the living room, (Y/n)'s head peacefully resting on Kyojuro's shoulder while they both shared memories and thoughts. The wind was blowing outside, heralds the coming of the rain that is about to come soon. "Do you think it's going to rain?" (Y/n) asked as she glanced out the window at the gloomy weather.

Kyojuro followed her gaze, "Seems like it. If you're feeling any more cold, let me know!" His cheeks were tinted. She didn't know if it was from the sake or from her clinging onto him. "Do you remember," she started to say as she recalled past memories, "it was raining when we first met too."

Kyojuro smiled softly at her words. "Indeed.. though strangely, when I think about rain now, I feel nothing but joy. Unlike before. I wonder.." he held his chin with his fingers. His gaze fell on (Y/n), and then suddenly his dim expression became clear, like he came to a conclusion. "Ah, now I'm aware why," he tapped the tip of her nose gently. "It's because of you!" The man declared.

Instead of getting flustered, what she would have been if she wasn't drunk, (Y/n) simply grinned. She reached out her arm to his face to caress it. Instead, she accidentally bumped into her cup, and it fell over. Breaking loudly. She squealed as she got away from the glass and started to pick up the broken pieces while apologizing. "My.. these glasses are sure are fragile. There is no need to apologize. Let me help you,"

They both carefully cleaned the broken glasses when (Y/n) suddenly groaned. Kyojuro turned to her, noticing a small cut on her wrist. She tried to wipe the blood that gushed out, only smudging it on her skin. Kyojuro immediately got up, "I'll go get some bandages. Just wait here!" He stated as he walked away. Though (Y/n) refused and said: "No, don't worry about me. I'll get them myself." She started to make her way towards him.

Maybe it was her bad balance from the sake, or maybe she bumped into something, either way she accidentally stumbled forward. Causing her and kyojuro to fall on the floor.

"Ungh.." she slowly got up. It was only when she opened her eyes when she realized the kind of situation she was in. Kyojuro was below her, one of his arms at his side to help his upper body stay up as the other resting on (Y/n)'s lower back. She was on top of him, her legs between his.

They only stared at each other, not fully accepting the situation. Or perhaps.. just not willing to move as they devoured each other with their eyes.

She could feel his body heat through his uniforms clothes, even though there were a few centimeters separating them. His grip on her hip tightened slightly as his gaze pierced into hers. Their breathing became heavier.

She slowly glanced at his lips, and she felt like something was possessing her. The warmth in her chest that she usually felt around him intensified. It was unbearable. She wanted to share that feeling with him. Maybe it'll ease it even by a little. She found herself leaning forward, pressing her lips against his gently.

It was a small peck, nothing more. She backed off. Then she met his surprised gaze and immediately realized what she had just done. Her eyes winded as she quickly got up on her feet. "I'm.. " she started to say while stumbling away from him. "IM SO SORRY!!"

(Y/n) ran away into the foggy night while tears streamed down her face. 'What have I done? What have I done! WHAT HAVE I DONE!!'

A/n: Writing that chapter sure did take a while, didn't it? I hope it was worth the wait lololol

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter thirteen

It's now been days that the father and daughter didn't say a word to each other.

For (Y/n), it was causing her an immense amount of pain. Every time he passed by her, she wished he would talk to her, apologize, or just say anything.

She considered talking to him herself, but every time she tried, she got cold feet and backed off. She started to regret everything she said. 'Maybe I took it too far..' she thought as she helped her mother hang some sheets at the front yard.

Exchanging letters with Kyojuro helped her, though. He shared her frustration and comforted her through them. He even said he's on his way back and should be here any day now. She couldn't be more excited!

"Mother..?" she said to the humming woman who had just stretched out a white sheet in her hands. "Yes, honey?" She replied as she hanged it. "Do you..think he'll talk to me someday..?" (Y/n) started feeling a lump in her throat as she speaked.

Her mother's expression softened with compassion, and she sighed as she placed her hands on her hips, "If he won't, I'll talk to him, okay? For now, I want him to initiate it himself."

(Y/n) took a second, nodded heavily, and then returned back to her work.

After a minute or two, her mother's gaze was suddenly stuck to the front of the yard, "who's that man over there, you know him, (Y/n)? He seems lost," She asked. (Y/n) immediately turned her head towards the direction and saw Kyojuro looking around the houses, probably not sure which was the one.

Her lips curved into a big smile as she beamed and ran to him. "Kyojuro!" She yelled while waving her arm. The man immediately recognized her voice and turned to her with a huge grin on his face. "(Y/n)! It sure is more than lovely to see you again!" He said as he reached out his arms and held her hands. "I didn't think you would arrive so soon, I haven't prepared at all!" She shook her head slightly, then suddenly remembered that her mother was a few meters from her. She got embarrassed and backed off a little, loosening his grip on her palms.

"My mother is right there," (Y/n) pointed into her mother's direction. "I'll introduce you to her. Come one!" She dragged the visibly anxious man.

"Right now?! Let me prepare myself first!" He begged as he stuttered, but (Y/n) reassured him, "Don't worry! She won't bite. Now come onnn!"

She waved to her mother, who smiled softly as (Y/n) Introduced kyojuro. "Mother, this is a good friend of mine. We're both on the same rank." She said as Kyojuro bowed deeply, somehow not falling over. "MY NAME IS RENGOKU KYOJURO! IT'S NICE MEETING YOU!"

(Y/n) giggled and patted him on his shoulder, "There's no need to be so nervous, kyojuro. My mother is a kind woman."

Her mother nodded, and when kyojuro lifted up his head, she put a hand on her lips as she chuckled softly. "My my, you sure are a handsome young man, aren't you?" The wind suddenly awakened, and her mother turned to grip the laundry so it won't fall off.

"TH-THANK YOU VERY MUCH!" He bowed one again as he yelled, causing (Y/n) to flinch like the birds on the trees, who flew away for a less lively place to rest.

"Ah, pay I no mind. (Y/n), go make him some tea, won't you? He must be tired from his steep way here." Her mother requested while hanging the rest of the laundry. (Y/n) nodded and asked before heading towards her house, "Are you sure you won't need any help?"

"Yes, I'm sure. Now shoo!"

...

"Please don't mind the mess here, I haven't had the chance to clean it up yet," they both sat at the living room table. warm tea cups peacefully resting in their hands as they shared each other's thoughts.

"No, no!" Kyojuro shook his head, "very nice environment indeed!" He took a sip of the warm, refreshing tea and yelled, "TASTY!" The birds outside once again flew away as they tweeted angrily.

(Y/n) stifled a chuckle, "i didn't know you're saying that when you're drinking too, until now," She admitted.

"Well, of course I do! When something tasty reaches my mouth, I have to do everything in my power to savor it!" He explained as he took another sip and repeated the same cycle. Other people might have found that quite annoying, but (Y/n) couldn't help but smile every time.

The two had a lovely chat. Kyojuro enthusiastically tells her about his mission and (Y/n) quietly listening while nodding and smiling, which made Kyojuro's heartbeats fasten by a bit.

Unfortunately, before long, kyojuro had to leave. (Y/n) offered to escort him home, and he couldn't be more full of joy.

As she got ready in her room to leave, she heard someone closing the door behind her, and when she looked back, her breath was taken away.

Her father stood there by the door, keeping his head down as he sat down on the floor.

There was a brief silence, where (Y/n) could barely breathe. "I'm..sorry for letting myself in without knocking." His voice sounded so fragile, something she never thought she could hear. She quickly shook her head, "No.. it's fine. I don't mind." Her first words she said to him in almost a week.

Silence again.

The man who sat in front of her was nothing like she ever thought of him. Embarrassed, ashamed, insecure.

"I owe you an apology," he started to say quickly, like he's out of time. "I'm sorry for being so hard on you, I'm sorry for suffocating you, I'm sorry for ruining your dreams since I couldn't fulfill mine..and I'm sorry for being such a terrible father.." he whispered those last words, like he was too ashamed to say them, like if he would admit them out loud, he would fall apart.

"I'm sorry for my unforgivable behavior when you arrived..you see, when we got the news, your mother and I, we froze in place. You, being our only daughter, were our pride a joy. We wouldn't know what to do with ourselves if you're gone. I found myself blaming myself, and I was so terrified of getting close to losing you again that I took it all out on you."

He went on and on, saying how much he regret his past mistakes and how he wished he could go back in time.

But there was one sentence that kept ringing in (Y/n)'s mind. 'Our pride and joy'

'Pride and joy'

'Our.'

Tears started streaming down her face, and she immediately turned away and wiped them. Her father stopped talking and looked even more disturbed now.

"You were never disappointed in me..?" She asked, trying to reassure herself. He shook his head slightly, "how could I ever be disappointed when my little girl grew up to be such a powerful, beautiful young woman.. no.. there is nothing you could do to make me more proud than i already am, (Y/n)."

Her eyes softened as she shifted closer to him, grabbing his hand that was resting on his lap. There were so many things she felt at that moment, she couldn't find any words to describe them except two

"Thank you," she exhaled in relief. These two simple words, explained and expressed so much. Her father looked puzzled. Why should she thank him? He must've asked himself.

"I know you must be confused, but believe me, I am too. I just feel the need to thank you. First, about your apology. You said the words I longed to hear for years now.."

She took a second to find the right words in her messy mind, "and second, I thank you for making me join the corps. Ah, it must be so bizarre, isn't it? But well.. even if it took me a while to realize, I don't regret joining the corps. I like how my life is right now. I like that I can be someone people can be dependent on, I like that I can protect myself and my beloved ones. But aside from that, I met good people, made amazing friends, and beautiful memories. And I don't think I could accomplish all of that without you."

The corners of her lips curved into a soft smile as she finished speaking her mind. Her father stared at her in disbelief, tears froming in his eyes, but he blinked, and they were gone. "..I'm happy you feel that way. But I'm afraid I won't be able to accept your thanks yet," he tightened his grip on her hand. "I promise to make it up to you."

(Y/n) nodded and giggled, "Of course." She replied. Her father scanned her for a second, then said: "You know, you seem different."

"Mother said that too, I honestly don't feel anything.."

Her father crossed his arms as he considered the possibilities, "It's that boy, isn't it?" He asked playfully as he reached a conclusion.

(Y/n) immediately got flustered, "Oh stop, father, it's nothing like that.." she shook her head while trying to keep her cool. Her father giggled shortly, "he seems like an honest man, which is why I will allow it," He winked as he got up on his feet.

She immediately started denying, "You won't allow anything because there is nothing to allow!" She insisted, but her father pointed at her face up and down with his finger, "the blush on your face says otherwise, though."

She reached her hands to touch her cheeks, ugh.. they were warm. "Y-yeah, right. Now get out of here!"

He closed the door, and she squealed in embarrassment.

Her with Kyojuro? No way! 'I mean, he is handsome and kind and- NO! (Y/n) forget about it! You have no time for romance!'

But deep down, she knew, her heart called his name so loudly. She won't be able to deny it any longer..

A/n: kind of a boring chapter, I knowww! But i promise the next have some juicy stuff!!

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter twelve

"(Y/n)..?" Her mother placed soft knocks on the wooden door. (Y/n) immediately opened her eyes and then moaned in pain when she felt all her sore muscles. A cause from her falling asleep in that same position she sat against the door the night before. She slowly got up on her feet while stretching her aching body. "Yes?" She finally replied.

"Oh, I woke you up? Sorry, honey. I just.. wanted to let you know that breakfast is ready," The hesitation in her dimly voice was visible even behind the closed door. "I'll be out in a minute," she called and felt her mother's relief through the door.

"Good, we'll be waiting for you at the table," she then walked away. 'We..' (Y/n) thought as she brushed her tangled hair. Her heart sank. 'I..really don't want to face him at the moment..' she shuddered at the thought.

Then, she had a realization. Why should she be afraid? She's not the little girl who obeyed her father's words like before. She could stand up for herself, even against him.

With renewed courge, she got up and walked out the door.

She found her parents sitting around the table. her mother looked anxious, and her father didn't even meet her eye. "Good morning," she said as she sat down.

Her mother smiled in relief, "Good morning, how did you sleep?" She said as she handed her a bowl of freshly cooked rice. "Wonderful. it's good to be home again," actually, she slept horrible. But she couldn't say that. (Y/n) took a bite out of the food and sighed with joy, "I missed your cooking, mother."

Her mother's expression softened, and she reached out her arm to caress her face.

The women chatted through the breakfast. (Y/n) told her about her adventures and the fight with Akaza. When Kyojuro's name was mentioned, she tried to fight the grin that threatened to spread on her lips.

(Y/n)'s father didn't say a word or made any sound through all the meal. It was like he wasn't even there. The second he was done he immediately got up and left the table.

...

The blazing sun didn't make things easier for (Y/n) when she was training. Even though the weather became more chilly at night, the second the sun rised, it eliminated any signs of the freezing night air.

As she took a break to relax her muscles, a crow dived from the sky. She immediately recognized it as Kyojuro's. The girl couldn't hide her excitement, and a big smile started to spread on her face. She quickly took off the white strap that was wrapped around its leg and sent it to its way.

Dear (Y/n) (L/n),

Ah, you can't even begin to understand the desire that I have for this mission to end!

But as long as I can at least exchange letters with you, it will be less insufferable.

For my sake, I must ask how have you been? It's only been a day, I'm aware of that fact. Though I can't help but wonder how are you dealing with the situation.

Yours, Rengoku Kyojuro.

She sat under a tree, hiding from the sun rays as she finished reading the letter. "Oh Kyojuro, believe me, i understand," She murmured.

She finished training quickly, took a quick bath, and then sat down to write a reply. She found it quite challenging, though. It was the first time in her life that she stared at an empty paper without a clue what to write.

It's not that she didn't have anything to write about. She had way too many things. 'Sould I tell him about the situation? Or should I lie and tell him everything is fine..' She thought to herself while some ink stained the paper.

She replaced it and sighed, 'I'm just going to do it,' she decided and started to write the truth.

Dear Rengoku Kyojuro,

Oh, believe me, I understand. If I could, I wouldn't hesitate to join you like last time if the master would allow it. But unfortunately, he doesn't.

About me, I'm fine. I did have a fight with my father when I arrived.. nothing serious, though.

He raised his voice at me for not training as soon as I got home, which led me to leash out on him without noticing.

I said the words I wanted him to hear all those years, but for some odd reason, it felt suffocating.

it is strange how words can often leave a bitter taste in the mouth when it finally comes time to say them out loud.

Ah, It seems I wrote alot. My apologies.

Return safely.

Yours, (Y/n) (L/n).

She gave the letter one last look, then nodded and summoned her crow. As she watched it leave, she found herself just staring off at the distance. Her heart suddenly ached.

'Why won't he talk to me? Why won't he apologize?' She gripped her haori as she tried to fight back tears. 'And why.. does it hurt so much..'

The tears in her eyes burst their way down her face as she recalled her childhood memories, desperately trying to figure out when it all went wrong.

'Father..' she thought while leaning against the window frame, burying her face within her arms.

'When did I stop being your little girl..'

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter eleven

There were a few moments left for the sun to leave while coloring the sky with breathtaking colors. Kyojuro put on his demon slayer uniform. he belted his nichirin sword to his waist, its sheath peacefully resting on his hip. "So you're leaving today, huh?" He turned around to see (Y/n) sitting on the bed, wearing her uniform as well. How did she get here, who knows?

He nodded and smiled, "Correct, I've been called on a mission!" He lifted up a finger as he explained. "Well then, I wish you luck." She carefully stood up and headed towards the door while holding her arms behind her back.

"What about you? Are you going to stay here until your next mission?" He suddenly asked, trying to keep up the conversation. She turned her head as she held the door frame, "Ah, no." She shook her head, "Since I've fully recovered, I'll head home. There's no reason for me to stay here," She replied.

"I see.." he studied her gaze carefully. She looked.. depressed. "What is that look?" He asked as he shifted closer to her, and she suddenly looked tense. "What do you mean?" She backed off a little when he shoved his face into her direction. "You look disturbed! Tell me, what's weighing your mind?" He demanded.

(Y/n) grinned nervously while stroking a piece of hair with her fingers, "Oh, I guess I'm just a little depressed since you're leaving. That's all," She said. Kyojuro nodded and backed off, "Don't worry, I'll write a lot! And after it is done, I'll come see you." The last gold sun rays peeked through the window, shining on his face, making him look magnificent as he made a promise.

She just stared at him at a loss for words, suddenly feeling overwhelmed with emotion she couldn't quite understand.

With much hesitation, he slowly reached out his hand and cupped her cheek as he moved some hair strands that fell on her face with his thumb. She melted into his touch, placing her hand on his, signaling him to keep it there. The corners of her lips formed a small smile that spread across her face. "I'll be back," he whispered as he took her other hand and kissed it so ever gently. His lips were warm and soft, making her body beg for more. That small gesture made (Y/n) knees wobble and her breath to become heavier. 'Stupid heart, calm down,' she thought as she pursed her lips together.

She managed to nod slowly, and kyojuro went to his way, leaving her struggling to breathe as she gripped her uniform in the area of her heart. 'Calm down, calm down!' She yelled at herself.

...

As she walked in the empty halls of the mansion, heading towards the exit, she suddenly had the aurge to thank the girls who took care of her for their hospitality.

She searched for them and found them all in the kitchen, "(L/n)-san! Are you here for a snack? Let me make something for you." Aoi said as she stirred a pot with half cooked rice. (Y/n) quickly shook her head, "No, no. I'm just here to deliver my thank you for taking care of me." She bowed slightly, "thank you all for your hospitality."

There was a brief silence, then the triples started to weep, "(L/n)- chan you're leaving..??" Naho asked, the other two looked at her for a reply. She nodded her head heavily, feeling bad. "When are you coming back?" Sumi asked as she wiped some tears from her eyes, "Well, I'm not sure.. I'll try to visit, though. You did so much for me it's the least I could do."

Aoi suddenly interrupted the conversation, "No, you should focus on doing your duties as a hashira. You must have no time for visiting.. It's okay, you can go. Just remember, when you need someone to patch you up, we're always here." She grinned and went back to the rice.

(Y/n), touched, bowed one again, and went to her way.

...

"I'm home," she said as she took off her shoes. Her mother rushed to her, wrapping her arms around her in a tight embrace. "I've heard everything, oh my baby.. I'm sorry I couldn't visit. I'm just glad you're okay." She tightened her arms even more.

(Y/n) patted her on her back, melting into her mother's embrace as she sighed with joy. "I'm sorry for worrying you. I'm staying home for a while, so tell me if you need help with anything." She pulled away from the hug. Her mother looked at her with affection, "you seem different," she said as she brushed (Y/n)'s scalp slightly.

She tilted her head, "Do I?" She giggled. "Why aren't you on a mission?" They both suddenly heard. (Y/n)'s father stood a few meters from them, crossing his arm as his face wore its usual sour expression. She backed off from her mother and bowed slightly, keeping her head down as she explained. "Although I have fully recovered, my master saw the right to request that I'll have some time off to rest since I've been overworking." She tried to speak clearly, but her voice trembled a bit.

He walked over to her, "Then why aren't you at least training? Are you going to spend all your time doing nothing?!" His raised his voice, visibly annoyed. (Y/n) lifted up her head to look him in the eye. He looked terrifying. Her father was a big man, tall, wide, and buff. Him looking scary is natural.

"..Father, i just arrived. You expect me to drop everything and-" she stopped mid sentence when he gave her an ear-ringing slap, making her stumble and put her hand on her now bruised cheek. "How dare you talk back to me, I made you reach that far!!" He raised his voice even more.

He then lifted his hand to hit her once more. She frowned, and something snapped inside of her. How dare he hit her? Who does he think he is? She caught his hand that was a few centimeters from her face, "Don't raise your hand on me ever again." She said, her voice low and intense.

She let go of his hand, and he opened his mouth to respond, but she immediately shut him up. "Don't even say anything. I was on the verge of DEATH, I barely survived, oh and dont even let me mention the amount of insufferable pain i have endured while recovering. And you dare to hit me? You dare to raise your voice at me? I am the one providing you and mother. I'm the one who's working nonstop, rarely resting. Just for you to frown and be disappointed in me. Do you think I wanted to be a demon slayer? Do you think I wanted to become a hashira?" She stopped to breathe as she placed an accusing finger on his chest. "I never had such desire, but I never had a choice. You didn't even let me choose." Tears started streaming down her face as she tried to wipe them unsuccessfully. "You just decided that I would be the person you couldn't."

She gave him one last look so he could see her pain, then walked off. Her mother calling her name as she tried to keep up with her.

She went to her room and closed the door shut. She finally said them..the words she so desperately longed for him to hear.

But it didn't feel good nor relieving. Her chest just felt so tight that she could hardly breathe. She hugged herself as she sat against the door and let silent weeps escape her mouth.

"Kyo.." she whispered in between her soft sobs, "Please return soon.."

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter ten

It's been two weeks since the Akaza battle. (Y/n) recovered quickly and now could stand and function on her own. She got a letter from the master, saying the period of no mission starts from today, and she couldn't help but frown at the letter. It's already been two weeks where she didn't do anything but rest!

'Ugh, so frustrating! How am I supposed to pass time?' She thought as she crossed her arms angrily. she sat on, you guessed right, her bed. 'Even Rengoku-san has only a few days left before he's leaving the mansion! Without him, it will be terribly boring!!'

She let out a long sigh. 'Well, the nurses say that in a day or two, I could at least do some training while I wait.' She tried to cheer herself up. A sudden idea popped into her mind, 'maybe looking for something to read will be a good way to pass the time.' She quickly got up and searched for someone to ask if there's a library in this huge mansion. As she wandered around the halls, she heard some noises from outside and looked out of the window.

"1678, 1679..!" Rengoku stood out there, swinging a wooden sword at a tree. The sun hit his bare upper body as his muscles moved under his skin. He then stopped for a second, placing his hands on his knees while breathing heavily.

(Y/n)'s eyes winded as her heartbeats began to race up. Suddenly, Rengoku looked behind him and saw her behind the window. He grinned and waved, then returned to his training. Her cheeks hit up as she ran away from the window, tapping her face aggressively with her palms. 'What's wrong with me? What's wrong with me? What's wrong with me???' She whimperd in embarrassment.

Without noticing, she accidentally bumped into someone. "H-hey, watch it!!" (Y/n) turned to apologize and saw Aoi picking up white sheets that probably fell from her grip on the floor, carefully folding them. "I'm so sorry, Let me help you..!" She bent down, but as soon as Aoi saw her face she asked: "Are you okay? Do you have a fever?" She then placed her hand on (Y/n)'s forehead and hummed. "Hmm.. seems fine to me.." she murmured and went back to folding. "What do you mean?" (Y/n) questioned, and Aoi turned to her once again, but this time with a little playful smirk on her face. "Well, your face is all red." She chuckled as (Y/n) quickly lowered her head, "Is that so.." she laughed nervously.

...

"What are you reading?" Rengoku asked (Y/n) as she sat under the nightsky. The full moon shined above them, giving them a gentle but comforting light. (Y/n) lifted up her chin, seeing the flame hashira standing behind her as he tried to read the book pages under the darkness. "Oh, just something I found. I thought I might read while I wait until I can go back to work." She returned her gaze to the novel but found it a little difficult focusing on the words now.

He hummed in response and sat beside her, smiling like usual. As she turned her head, she found him staring at her, but he didn't stop when she caught him. The confused girl returned to the book, then to him, then to the book, then to him. His gaze didn't stop, and only became more intense. "Why are you looking at me like that?" She asked nervously. "Like what?" He responded, still not stopping.

She pointed at his face, "Like that.." The wind started blowing and almost flipped (Y/n)'s book, so she tightened her grip while lowering her hand. "I'm bored, but I don't want to disturb you, so I'm just going to sit here!" He explained.

(Y/n) chuckled and closed the book, "Then why didn't you say anything, Rengoku-san? Here, let me help you with your boredom."

Rengoku beamed at her and said, "Call me kyojuro!" She sighed. Every time she said his name for the past couple of days, he always said that. To be honest, she really wanted to call him by his first name, but always felt uncomfortable.

"I'm trying.. but I got used to Rengoku. " she scratched the back of her head while looking away. "Then just do it little by little!" He gave an encouraging smile.

She sighed nervously as she nodded, "kyo.." she started to say, but the look of anticipation on his face made her flustered, and she barried her face in her hands. "I don't know why I'm struggling so much.." she whimperd into her palms.

He then gently grabbed her hands and moved them away from her face, "You can do this, I believe in you!!" He gave her a thumbs up. She nodded again as she smiled, now more determined. "Kyo..juro.." she whispered as she got lost into his gaze. It felt good, she beamed. "Kyojuro!!" She yelled full of joy as she laughed.

When she looked back to Rengoku, now kyojuro, his eyes radiated such a tender, recognizable vibe. That look.. it was the same one when they first met, she realized. It made her lose her breath. "I've never loved my name more than I do now!" He suddenly yelled into the night air as he placed his hands on the waist.

They both laughed as they called each other's name. "Well, you got what you've wanted the most now!" Her hair caressed her features as the wind celebrated their joy with them. Kyojuro shook his head softly, "Unfortunately, not yet!" He clenched his fist in front of her, "but worry not, I'll cross heaven and hell for it until it will be mind." He declared as his gaze was fixed on hers.

She stared at him for a few seconds and then clapped her hands softly, "Then I wish you much luck!" She opened her book again and got lost in another world.

A/n: I struggled SO MUCH with writing this chapter, and honestly, I don't like it at all because it doesn't make sense to me, but I tried my best so :,))).

[imtouchestarved]

Chapter nine

'It hurts. My whole body hurts..'

People yelled in the background, panicking and sending orders. "Too much...broken..blood loss..not going to make it."

She managed to partly hear dimly. "Doesn't matter.. she..do everything you can.."

That voice.. Is that Shinobu? Wait, where was she?

(Y/n) tried to open her eyes, but her muscles refused to listen. She was stuck in some kind of sleep paralysis.

Then she was too tired to remind conscious and drifted off to a shallow sleep..

...

The first thing she heard was the soft humming of the nurse beside her as she finished replacing (Y/n)'s bandages.

She opened her eyes partly, barley managing to keep them up. She tried to get the nurses attention, but when she tried to talk, nothing came out. Her throat was too dry to speak. She then moaned in frustration, and that's when the nurse's head turned to her.

Her jaw dropped a little as she stared at her in shock. "S-SHES AWAKE! THE ICE HASHIRA HAS AWAKENED!" She begins to scream as she runs out of the room, causing to (Y/n) ears to ring.

A few seconds later, she heard a few pairs of feet approaching the room in a hurry. She started to sit up, groaning from the piercing pain that stabbed her. "You mustn't do that!" She heard someone say. it was a girl with dark hair and a blue butterfly pin in it, standing at the door. "Let me help you," she got closer to (Y/n) and helped her sit up.

"It's a miracle you're still alive, really.. no one thought you would actually make it. With injuries like you had, a normal person would've died on the spot. Well, you ARE a hashira, though, so I'm not surprised."

The girl tried to make up a conversation, but (Y/n) shook her head and pointed at her throat. "Ah, right! Here, drink some water. Later on I'll give you some warm tea to make you feel better, but that will do for now."

She handed (Y/n) a small cup of water, and she drank them eagerly. "Is everyone okay?" She asked with a raspy voice.

The girl nodded, "Fortunately, yes. Inosuke, Tanjiro, and Zenitsu recovered pretty fast. They weren't seriously wounded. But you and the flame hashira on the other hand though.."

As she mentioned Rengoku, (Y/n)'s eyes quickly shut open. But before she could finish the sentence, they both heard some noises from the corridors outside.

"Sir, please! You mustn't come out of bed, you might collapse!" A young girl begged, but it seems that the one she was talking to was ignoring her because her pleadings didn't stop.

"Girls, help me here!" She called.

But then, a hand gripped the door frame as the owner used it to help their body move. And at the door stood Rengoku, panting and full of bandages.

His left arm covered his stomach as he stared at (Y/n) with shock and relief. "You're alive.. " he whispered as tears started to stream down his face. "Thank goodness you're alive!!" He then collapsed and fell to the floor.

Three little girls entered the room and tried to carry him back to his room, "Aoi-chan, help us!" They said. The girl that stood next to (Y/n) quickly rushed to their side and helped them carry him back.

(Y/n) stifled a chuckle, 'that man..' she thought playfully, 'so stubborn.'

...

"(Y/N)- CHAAAAAANNNNNN!!!!!" An ear ringing scream filled the air. (Y/n) sat in bed that had become her home for the past couple of days as Mitsuri came running into the room.

She sobbed uncontrollably, "(Y/N)-CHAN, I HEARED EVERYTHING! I THOUGHT YOU WERE GONNA DIE BUT I COULDN'T COME VISIT YOU UNTIL NOW IM SORRYYYYYYY!!!!!" She wrapped her arms around (Y/n)'s head as she continued to cry.

(Y/n) giggled and put her hand on Mitsuri's back, "it's okay, I understand." She then winced in pain, "I will appreciate it if you won't suffocate me to death, though." She managed to say, and Mitsuri immediately backed off. "I'm so sorryyyy I'll be more gentle-"

"Ahem.." a man's voice coughed. Mitsuri looked behind her and saw Rengoku sitting on a chair next to the bed, grinning awkwardly. "AHHH RENGOKU-SANNN I DIDN'T NOTICE YOUU!!" She flinched and wrapped her hands around him too. "I THOUGHT YOU WERE GOING TO DIE TOOO!!"

Rengoku laughed and patted her in the back, "You should thank (Y/n)! Without her, I wouldn't be here right now!" He nodded, and (Y/n) quickly protested, "Oh stop, you totally saved me back there. Without you covering for me, I wouldn't be here too." She corrected him.

"Stop being so stubborn and accept my praises, (Y/n)! I'm only stating the truth!" He insisted.

"Well, so am I." She replied. Mitsuri stood there awkwardly, "E-ehh.. let's just say you helped each other! That's what teammates do! Oh wait, Rengoku-san, Tengen-san asked me to deliver it to you that he's waiting for you outside." She released her arms around his neck and went to stand beside (Y/n).

"Ah! I didn't expect a visit from him. I should take my leave now!" He got up slowly and headed to the door, (Y/n)'s eyes following his every move without noticing it until he got out of sight. She sighed in disappointment. "Oh,don't worry, he will be back soon." Mitsuri now sat on the wooden chair.

"W-what?" (Y/n) asked as she turned to her. Mitsuri giggled as she tucked some hair behind her ear. "Don't forget who I am, (Y/n)-chan! If there's love anywhere, I can detect it right away!" She said cheerfully.

(Y/n) turned red from her words, shooking her head repeatedly. "L-love??? Oh no, I'm afraid you got it wrong! I mean, Rengoku-san is really important to me, but not romantically!" She explained herself, but the denial only made Mitsuri giggle more. "Even a blind person could see the way you look at him, (Y/n).. your eyes are filled with desire!" She laughed at the flustered girl as she desperately tried to hide her red face.

"Don't say such things, and stop teasing me! It's nothing, it's really nothing!" She shook her head again, her hair becoming ever messier. Mitsuri didn't even try to hide the joy she found in teasing her nonstop. "Ah, but don't get me wrong, Rengoku-san is also horrible at trying to hide it! It's like he's screaming at you that he likes you, but you keep denying it."

"You're mistaken, Rengoku and I are just friends! I know he feels the same way, too!" (Y/n) insisted.

It went on and on, Mitsuri teasing and (Y/n) denying, until Mitsuri had to leave. She cried once again and tore herself off (Y/n), then went to her way.

Now, it was lonely again. She sighed and leaned back. Rengoku was busy recovering as well. He could rarely get out of bed because the nurses wouldn't allow it. She looked out the window longingly, desperately wanting to get some fresh air. She barely got out of bed lately, and she was tired of just sitting in that room.

Suddenly she decided, she will get out no matter what! Just a small stroll in the garden won't hurt..

She carefully set up and moved her body to the side of the bed. The floor looked cold, and there wasn't really something she could lean on if she would fall. 'Maybe this is a bad idea..' Just thinking about the pain that the fall would cause gave her chills.

"What are you doing?" She suddenly heard and flinched. Rengoku stood at the door, leaning against the frame. "Rengoku-san? How are you out of bed? Did the girls let you?" She questioned as he put his finger on his lips, signaling her to be quiet. She quickly nodded.

He got closer to her and sat beside her on the bed. "Although I appreciate their concern about my health, I recover quickly, and I am not as frail as I was a few days ago. So I let myself bend the rules a little, but don't learn from me. You are at a much worse condition." He answered her questions.

She sighed and nodded, looking out of the window again. "I was thinking about taking a stroll in the garden, but as you can see, I was afraid I won't be as stable and fall. May I ask you to help me? My skin is craving the warmth of the sun.." she stared at him as she asked, trying to convince him. Just thinking about staying in bed a little longer made her annoyed.

He then grinned and got up to his feet, "Of course!" He said joyfully. "I would love to reach out a helping hand!" He wrapped his arm around her waist gently as he helped her carry her body weight. "Lean on me," he requested, and she did. She placed her hand on his hip as she rested her head on his chest.

"Okay, let's go!"

...

She hummed as she sat under the sun. Oh, how much she needed this. "Thank you, Rengoku-san." She said to the man sitting beside her. He then chuckled, "Back to Rengoku again? What about kyojuro?" He looked at her, and she seemed uncomfortable.

"Well.." she blurted as she became a little flustered from the mention of her behavior back then. "I thought I was going to die there, so i let myself call you that. If I'll try it now, though, it'll feel disrespectful." She admitted as she drew some doodles on the dirt with a stick. "Disrespectful? How would that be disrespectful? I called you by your first name when we barely knew each other!" He called and crossed his arms.

She shook her head slightly, "No, I didn't mind that at all. But you're older than me, and I know that we are both at the same rank, but your abilities are stronger than mine, so I should at least respect that." The sun began to hide behind the clouds, and (Y/n) looked at the sky, disappointed.

"Ah, that's just nonsense! I'm older by a few months! And don't disrespect yourself like that again. Should I remind you that you literally saved my life a few days ago?" He then noticed her body shivering slightly, "are you cold?" He asked.

"Yes, it is quite cold.. but that's okay. It usually happens when it's cloudy. Because of my breathing style, it's sometimes hard for me to keep my body heat." She hugged herself as she looked at the sky.

Rengoku hesitated, "You.. can use me if you'd like.." his cheeks were a little tinted, but that didn't made him run from her gaze. She turned to him with a puzzled expression, "Pardon?" She asked.

"M-my body heat is very high! So if you're feeling cold, you can use me..!" He now seemed a little regretful about the offer. He was afraid it would cause her discomfort. She then chuckled, "it's like we're really the opposite, aren't we?" She smiled, and he shifted closer to her.

They both looked at each other with hesitation, trying not to overstep their "friendship" boundaries, not knowing what was right and what was wrong. Rengoku swallowed thickly as he wrapped his arm on (Y/n)'s shoulders, trying to be as gentle as he could, considering her frail condition. She then rested her head on his chest, rubbing her cheek slightly.

'His heartbeats..' she thought and stifled a chuckle, 'they're so loud.'

They stayed like that for a while, enjoying each other's touch. "It's almost winter," Rengoku whispered. From the lack of response, he looked down at the girl, only to find her sleeping soundly on his chest. Her muscles relaxed, her breathing's deep.

His gaze softened as he caressed her face carefully so he won't wake her up, admiring her features and stroking her hair. "Mmnn.." she grabbed his hand slightly in her sleep.

"Sleep tight, (Y/n).."