#Alexis x Luna

[velting]

Blood Lock

CHAPTER 6

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

⚠️𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 ⚠️

!ᴠɪᴇᴡᴇʀꜱ ᴅɪꜱᴄʀᴇᴛɪᴏɴ ɪꜱ ᴀᴅᴠɪꜱᴇᴅ!

Heavy mention of drugs, mention of drugging,stalking and sexual assault + ect.

✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡

✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The business classroom was wrapped in a blanket of tense silence, broken only by the faint sound of pens scratching against paper and the steady ticking of the clock mounted on the wall. [Name] sat at her desk, carefully working through the exam in front of her. The questions were challenging but not impossible. She moved methodically, double-checking every answer, her brows furrowing as she filled in the blanks and scanned for errors.

After completing the last question, she let out a small sigh of relief and placed her pen down. Her eyes briefly wandered over her paper, ensuring she hadn’t skipped anything. Satisfied, she leaned forward, resting her head on the cool surface of the desk. The clock’s rhythmic ticking seemed louder now, each second dragging on as the room remained cloaked in stillness.

Glancing to her left, [Name] noticed Yo. His chin rested heavily on his hand, and his eyelids drooped as he struggled to stay awake. His pen occasionally faltered midair before lazily scrawling another answer. Next to him, Ranze had already finished his exam. A faint smile tugged at [Name’s] lips as she saw him sketching aimlessly in the corner of his notebook, likely trying to ward off boredom.

On her right, Hitomi sat with a book in her lap, her exam tucked neatly beneath it. She appeared completely absorbed in her reading, occasionally turning a page with a delicate touch. [Name] envied her friend’s foresight. ‘I should’ve brought a book too,’ she thought wistfully.

Her gaze drifted a few rows back, landing on Haru. He was hunched over his desk, his pen moving frantically as he raced against the clock. His expression was one of deep concentration, his brows knitted in determination. A few seats away from him sat Rensuke, his broad shoulders and upright posture making him easy to spot. [Name’s] stomach twisted uneasily, and she quickly averted her eyes. Just seeing him made her feel awkward, unsure of how to process the lingering emotions from their previous encounters.

At the front of the class, Kuon leaned back in his chair with an air of arrogance. His hands were laced behind his head, his exam resting completed on his desk. He smirked faintly, as if he was above the effort the rest of them were putting in. [Name’s] jaw tightened. The memory of Kuon stealing her phone. Chasing her, and sucking her blood. Souring her mood. ‘Of all people, why did he have to be here?’

The stern voice of Mr. Snuffy broke the silence, snapping [Name] out of her thoughts. “Eyes on your own papers,” he reminded the room, his sharp gaze scanning for any signs of cheating. “Fifteen minutes left.”

A ripple of unease passed through the students who weren’t finished. Haru shifted anxiously in his seat, his pen moving even faster. Meanwhile, Yo gave up on his fight with sleep and straightened in his chair, rubbing his eyes in a futile attempt to focus.

[Name] sat up, her fingers idly drumming against her desk. The ticking clock seemed louder now, and the tension in the room felt heavier as the remaining time slipped away. She glanced at her exam once more, resisting the urge to triple-check it. ‘I’ve done enough,’ she reassured herself, though a twinge of doubt lingered.

The quiet movements of her classmates and the subtle creaks of shifting chairs filled the air, blending into the monotonous rhythm of the clock. [Name’s] mind wandered as she waited for time to expire. She thought about the exams still ahead, the looming blood drive, and her encounter with Ikki last night. But no matter how hard she tried to distract herself, she couldn’t shake the restlessness crawling beneath her skin.

As the seconds ticked by, she stole another glance at her classmates. Ranze was now shading an elaborate doodle on his notebook, while Hitomi’s serene focus on her book remained unbroken. Even with the pressure of exams, their calm composure was enviable.

“Ten minutes,” Snuffy announced, his tone unyielding, and the collective anxiety in the room seemed to deepen. [Name] clenched her hands together, waiting for the clock to strike freedom.

The exam had ended, and the room filled with the rustling of papers and the scraping of chairs as students packed up and prepared to leave. [Name] placed her exam neatly on the pile at the front of the classroom, her thoughts already shifting toward her next destination. As she turned to leave, she was stopped by Hiori, who approached her with a small smile.

“Hey, [Name]-chan,” Yo said softly, his hands tucked into the pockets of his blazer. “It’s been a while since we hung out properly. Want to hangout tonight? Like old times?”

[Name’s] lips curved into a warm smile, her tension from the exam melting away. “That sounds perfect. What time?”

“Let’s meet at the gate around 7 p.m.,” Yo replied. “I’ll pick the place.”

“Alright, I’m looking forward to it.” [Name] gave him a playful thumbs-up before the two parted ways, each heading to their next destination.

As [Name] made her way to the elevator, she felt the lingering tension from the exam ebb away. Her thoughts drifted toward the evening plans with Hiori, a nostalgic sense of comfort welling up inside her. She pressed the elevator button and waited for the doors to slide open.

The hallway was quiet, save for the faint echo of footsteps. As the elevator arrived with a soft ding, [Name] stepped inside and pressed the button for her floor. Just as the doors began to close, a voice calling her name froze her in place.

“[Name]! Wait!”

Her eyes widened, and her heart skipped a beat. She turned her head to see Rensuke hurrying toward her, his expression earnest. Panic surged through her veins as memories of that night flashed in her mind. Without thinking, she began frantically pressing the close door button, willing the elevator to shut before he reached her.

But it was too late.

Rensuke slipped his arm into the narrowing gap, forcing the doors to open again. He stepped inside, his towering frame filling the space. [Name] immediately backed against the wall, her hands trembling as she hugged her bag to her chest.

“Wait, [Name],” Rensuke said, holding his hands up in a gesture of peace. “I just want to talk. Please.”

She shook her head, her voice low and shaky. “Don’t come near me!”

“[Name], I swear—” Rensuke’s voice softened, tinged with regret. “I didn’t mean for things to happen the way they did. I just—”

“Don’t!” [Name] interrupted, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and fear. She pressed herself harder against the wall as he stepped closer. “You attacked me! Do you even realize how terrifying that was?”

Rensuke winced, his jaw tightening. “I know. I know, and I’ve been trying to find the right time to—”

Before he could finish, [Name] attempted to push him back. Her palms pressed against his chest, but he barely budged. Rensuke gently grabbed her wrists, his strength evident but not overbearing.

“Please, just listen—”

The elevator doors suddenly opened with another ding. [Name’s] breath hitched as she saw a tall figure step inside. Mr. Blake, their strict and no-nonsense AP English professor, glanced between the two with a sharp, calculating gaze.

Rensuke immediately released [Name’s] wrists and took a step back, his expression hardening into neutrality. [Name] hugged her bag tighter, her heart pounding as she avoided eye contact with either of them.

Mr. Blake raised an eyebrow but said nothing, stepping to the side and pressing his floor button. The doors closed again, and the elevator resumed its descent.

The air inside was thick with awkward tension. Mr. Blake, as usual, seemed unimpressed by the situation but chose not to address it directly. Rensuke stood rigid, his gaze fixed on the floor, while [Name] silently prayed for the elevator to move faster.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Each passing second felt like an eternity as the elevator descended floor by floor with the elevator music singing in the background.

“Tall and tan and young and lovely, the girl from Ipanema goes walking”

‘What the fuck is this music choice….’

[Name] clenched her fists, her knuckles white as she stared at the glowing floor numbers above the door. Rensuke shifted slightly, glancing at her from the corner of his eye but saying nothing. Mr. Blake remained a stoic pillar of authority, his disapproving aura only adding to the suffocating atmosphere.

When the elevator finally reached the ground floor, the doors slid open with a soft chime. [Name] bolted out before either man could say a word, her heart racing as she hurried toward the next exam venue.

Rensuke stayed behind, his shoulders slumping slightly as he leaned against the elevator wall. Mr. Blake exited slowly, his cold gaze lingering on Kunigami for a moment before walking away.

The encounter left a sour taste in [Name’s] mouth, and as she tried to shake off the lingering unease, one thought echoed in her mind: I need to stay away from him.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The New Generation 11’s club room basked in the soft glow of the afternoon sun filtering through the tall windows. The space was lavish, with sleek furniture and shelves lined with trophies, photographs, and memorabilia from various games. Yet amidst the air of prestige, Ruka Sanzuku’s presence was anything but formal.

He lounged on the wide windowsill, his tall frame sprawled out with practiced ease. His black hair spilled lazily over his shoulders, and an open book rested on his face, shielding his crimson eyes from the sunlight. Hands tucked behind his head, he gave off an air of effortless coolness, though anyone who truly knew him would recognize his deliberate nonchalance.

On the nearby table, his phone buzzed faintly, the notifications stacking one after another. Missed calls. Text messages. All from the same contact: Dad.

Ruka ignored it, the faint vibration no more than background noise to him. His phone was perpetually set to silent mode for precisely this reason. The last thing he wanted was to be dragged into yet another interaction with the man he loathed most. His jaw tightened slightly beneath the book as the vibrations continued to roll in.

‘Why won’t he just leave me alone?’ Ruka thought bitterly.

The door to the club room creaked open, breaking the silence. Ruka didn’t move, though his sharp ears immediately recognized the click of high heels against the floor.

“Ruka,” came the familiar, accented voice of Ms. Bogdanova. Her tone was as cold as ever, carrying an edge of professionalism that left no room for nonsense.

Ruka didn’t respond.

Luiza approached him, her tall figure casting a shadow over the windowsill. Her maroon eyes flicked to the phone on the table, the screen lighting up with yet another incoming call. She crossed her arms over her chest, her black sweater and pencil skirt adding to her austere presence.

“Your father called the academy,” she said flatly. “He vwanted to know vwhy you aren’t answering his calls.”

Ruka exhaled sharply through his nose, a dry chuckle escaping him. Slowly, he lifted the book off his face and glanced at her with a lopsided smirk that didn’t reach his eyes.

“Did he, now?” he drawled, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Well, he can go fuck off for all I care.”

Luiza’s brow furrowed slightly, though her expression remained mostly neutral. She let out a soft sigh, a gesture that betrayed a mix of exasperation and resignation. “Ruka,” she began, her voice calm but firm, “this behavior vwill not help. Vwhatever issues you have vwith him, ignoring his calls is not—”

“Spare me the lecture, Bogdanova,” Ruka interrupted, swinging his legs off the windowsill and sitting up. His crimson eyes burned with simmering anger as he stared her down. “You think I give a damn what he wants? That man’s been dead to me for years. So he can take his calls, his texts, and his bullshit excuses and shove them up his ass.”

Luiza’s eyes narrowed slightly, though she didn’t flinch under his glare. She knew Ruka’s temper well enough to expect resistance, but his outright hostility was still grating. “You may hate him,” she said evenly, “but that doesn’t mean you can act like this vwith everyone. There are consequences—”

“Oh, save it,” Ruka snapped, his voice rising. He stood to his full height, towering over her, his frustration boiling over. “You, him, everyone else—you can all kiss my sorry ass and fuck off while you’re at it! I don’t owe anyone anything! Not him! Not you! Nor anyone in this hell hole of a place!”

Luiza’s jaw tightened, her maroon eyes flashing with a rare hint of anger. She met his glare head-on, her icy demeanor unshaken. For a long moment, the room was charged with tension, their defiant stares locked in a silent battle of wills.

Finally, Luiza broke the silence with a sharp exhale. She straightened her posture, her expression returning to its usual stoic mask. “Fine,” she said curtly. “If you vwant to self-destruct, that’s your choice. But don’t expect me to clean up your messes.”

Without another word, she turned on her heel and strode toward the door, her heels clicking sharply against the floor.

Ruka watched her leave, his fists clenched at his sides. The sound of the door closing behind her left him alone once more, the room now eerily quiet. He ran a hand through his hair, letting out a low growl of frustration before grabbing his phone from the table.

The screen was a mess of notifications. Calls. Messages. Voicemails. All from the same name. His grip tightened on the device, his teeth clenched as he swiped through them.

With a few swift taps, he cleared every single message and call log, erasing any trace of his father’s attempts to reach him.

“Tch,” he muttered under his breath, tossing the phone back onto the table. He returned to the windowsill, leaning back with his hands behind his head once more.

But this time, the sense of ease was gone, replaced by a gnawing irritation that lingered like a shadow over him.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The gym field buzzed with the chatter of students and the rhythmic sound of sneakers pounding against the track as [Name] Sanzuku stood at the finish line, panting lightly but with a triumphant gleam in her eyes. The brisk autumn air cooled her skin, and a gentle breeze played with the ends of her hair. She had just completed her midterm lap challenge, finishing ahead of most of her classmates—a feat she was quietly proud of, though she tried not to draw too much attention to herself.

Grabbing her water bottle from her bag near the bleachers, she took a long sip, savoring the refreshing coolness against her parched throat. Her glasses slipped slightly down her nose, and she pushed them back into place, scanning the field to see who else was wrapping up. The fast runners were now trickling in, some laughing, others doubled over to catch their breath.

As she capped her water bottle, [Name] noticed Hyoma approaching her. His striking red hair, tied back in its signature ponytail, swayed slightly as he walked with an air of casual confidence. His sharp, focused eyes were a blend of determination and something softer—curiosity, perhaps.

“Hey,” Hyoma said smoothly as he reached her, his voice carrying a natural charm that made her heart skip for a moment. “You’re really fast out there. Didn’t think you’d keep up with the likes of me.” His lips curved into a faint, teasing smile, but the compliment was genuine.

[Name] felt her cheeks warm slightly but quickly brushed it off, offering him a grin. “I’ll take that as a compliment coming from the fastest in the class. Guess I got lucky today.” She twisted the bottle in her hands nervously, though her playful tone masked it well.

Hyoma tilted his head slightly, studying her with an amused expression. “Lucky? Please. You’ve got some serious talent. No need to downplay it.”

[Name] let out a soft laugh, feeling a flicker of pride at his words. “Thanks, Chigiri. It’s been a while since I’ve felt this good running.” She paused, catching her breath. “How about you? You’ve been running circles around everyone as usual. How are you feeling?”

He shrugged, his usual confident air evident. “Same old. I’m feeling good. Better, actually, after watching you keep up out there. Most people fall way behind.” He smirked, but his gaze lingered on her longer than it should have, softening slightly. “So, uh…what about you? How’s everything? You holding up okay?”

[Name’s] smile grew at his concern. “Yeah, I’m fine. A little tired, but I guess that’s normal after sprinting like crazy. Thanks for asking.” She hesitated for a moment, fiddling with the strap of her gym bag. “Actually, I was wondering…would you want to hang out sometime? Like…outside of class? It’s been a while since I’ve just relaxed with someone, and you seem like you’d be fun to talk to.”

Hyoma blinked in surprise, his confident façade momentarily faltering. His heart raced slightly, though he kept his cool. “You want to hang out? With me?” His voice came out more casual than he felt.

[Name] laughed softly, nodding. “Yeah, why not? Unless you’re too busy or not interested…”

“Interested?” Hyoma interrupted, his tone a touch sharper than intended. He cleared his throat, his composure returning. “I mean, of course. I’d like that. When were you thinking?”

Her face lit up with joy, her eyed sparkling in the sunlight. “Really? That’s great! I’m not sure yet, but maybe after the midterms settle down? We can figure out a day that works for you.”

Hyoma nodded, his lips quirking into a genuine smile. “Sounds like a plan. Just let me know when and where.”

“Awesome!” [Name] said, her excitement bubbling over. She gave him a small wave as she started walking away. “I’ll see you later, Chigiri.”

As she left, her hair swaying behind her, Hyoma found himself watching her longer than he intended. His heart felt lighter, though he didn’t quite understand why. Shaking his head, he muttered to himself, “What are you doing, Hyoma? Get a grip.”

[Name] rejoined Nijiro and Meguru, who were engaged in a heated game of rock-paper-scissors under the shade of a tree. Meguru’s infectious laughter echoed as he threw out yet another “rock,” much to Nijiro visible frustration.

“There you are!” Meguru called out, his wide grin stretching from ear to ear. “Come on, [Name], help me out. This guy’s trying to cheat, I swear.”

Nijiro scoffed, crossing his arms. “I’m not cheating. You’re just predictable, Bachira.”

[Name] laughed, sitting down beside them. “What’s the score?”

“Let’s just say I’m winning,” Nijiro said smugly, though the mischievous twinkle in Meguru’s eyes suggested otherwise.

As they continued their playful banter, [Name] felt a rare sense of normalcy and contentment. For now, the stresses of exams and life faded into the background, replaced by laughter and the promise of new connections.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The evening was cool, the soft hues of dusk painting the sky in shades of pink and orange as [Name] Sanzuku stood before her closet. Her dorm room was small but cozy, lit only by the warm glow of a desk lamp. Clothes were strewn across her bed as she debated what to wear. She didn’t want to seem like she was trying too hard, but she also wanted to make a good impression on Yo.

Finally settling on a white sweater layered under a red cardigan, paired with jean shorts, black tights, and her favorite red Converse, she stood before the mirror. Her hair cascaded neatly down her shoulders, tied with red ribbons, and her glasses sat perfectly perched on her nose. Giving herself one final glance, she grabbed her small crossbody bag and stepped out into the crisp air of the evening.

The academy grounds were quiet, most students staying indoors to recover from the midterm exams. As she approached the gate, she spotted her best friend Hiori Yo waiting for her, leaning casually against the brick pillar. His light blue hair reflected the soft glow of the streetlights, and his hands were stuffed into the pockets of his navy jacket. He seemed lost in thought, gazing at the pavement until [Name] called out to him.

“Yo-kun!” she waved, her voice cheerful.

Yo’s head snapped up, and his soft, sapphire eyes lit up when he saw her. A small, shy smile tugged at his lips as he straightened up. “[Name]-chan,” he greeted, his voice gentle.

As she approached, she noticed his cheeks were slightly flushed. “You’ve been waiting long?” she asked, standing a bit closer to him than usual.

“Not really,” he replied quickly, shaking his head. “You look... great.”

[Name’s] own cheeks turned pink at the compliment. “Thanks! You’re not so bad yourself, you know.” She held out her hand. “Ready?”

Yo hesitated for a brief moment, but then he reached out and gently took her hand in his. His touch was warm and careful, as if he were afraid to hold her too tightly. Together, they stepped out into the evening, their footsteps echoing softly on the cobblestone path as they headed toward the nearby arcade.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The arcade was bustling, neon lights flashing and the sounds of game machines filling the air. [Name’s] eyes lit up at the sight of the basketball shooting game tucked into the corner.

“This one’s my favorite,” she said, tugging Yo's hand as she led him over.

“You’re that confident, huh?” Yo teased, his usual quiet demeanor giving way to a playful smirk.

“You bet I am,” [Name] replied, her competitive side surfacing. She pushed her glasses up her nose and grabbed a basketball from the rack. “Watch and learn, Yo-kun. This is where I shine.”

As the timer started, [Name’s] focus was unmatched. She sank shot after shot, the balls swishing cleanly through the hoop. Her movements were quick and precise, her hair swaying with each toss.

Yo watched in amazement, his cheeks tinged with admiration. “You’re really good at this,” he admitted, his voice almost drowned out by the game’s sound effects.

“Years of practice,” [Name] said with a grin as the buzzer went off, signaling the end of the round. She looked at the scoreboard and clapped her hands together in victory. “A new high score!”

The machine spat out a cascade of tickets, which [Name] gleefully collected. Yo chuckled at her enthusiasm, his usual reserved nature softening.

“You could probably own this arcade with all those tickets,” he joked.

[Name] rolled her eyes playfully. “Please, I’m just getting started.” She scanned the prize counter and her eyes lit up when she spotted the little Sanrio Little Twin Stars plushies. “Perfect,” she said, pointing to them.

After exchanging the tickets, [Name] handed Hiori the pink-haired Lala plushie while keeping the blue-haired Kiki for herself.

“For you,” she said, holding it out to him with a bright smile.

Yo stared at the plushie, his fingers brushing against hers as he took it. “Lala?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

“And I’m keeping Kiki,” she added, holding up her own plush. She tilted her head slightly, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Kiki’s blue hair kind of reminds me of you.”

Yo froze for a moment, his cheeks flushing a deep crimson. He looked down at the plushie in his hands, his lips parting as if to say something, but no words came out.

“What’s wrong?” [Name] asked, leaning slightly closer. “Don’t you like it?”

“N-no, I do,” Yo stammered, clutching the plushie tighter. “It’s… nice. Thank you.”

[Name] smiled, satisfied. “Good! I thought it suited you.”

They spent the rest of the evening trying out different games, from racing simulators to claw machines, where [Name] managed to snag a small keychain shaped like a basketball. Every so often, their hands would brush as they reached for coins or tickets, and each time, Hiori’s blush deepened.

As they stepped out of the arcade, the night air was cooler, and the streets were quieter. [Name] hugged her plushie close, a content smile on her face.

“Tonight was fun,” she said, glancing at Yo. “We should do this more often.”

Yo nodded, his expression softening. “Yeah, we should.”

For a moment, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them standing under the glow of the streetlights. Yo glanced at [Name’s] face, illuminated softly by the light, and felt a warmth in his chest he hadn’t felt before..

The streets were quieter now, illuminated by the gentle glow of streetlights and the soft radiance of the crescent moon overhead. [Name] and Yo strolled hand in hand, their fingers interlaced, a comfortable silence between them. The air carried a faint chill, but neither seemed to notice, lost in the warmth of each other's presence.

As they passed by a small food stall tucked into the corner of the street, [Name’s] eyes lit up at the sight of the glistening tanghulu—candied fruits on skewers, their glossy surfaces catching the light like tiny jewels.

“Oh! Tanghulu!” [Name] exclaimed, tugging gently on Hiori’s hand. “We have to try some!”

Yo followed her gaze and smiled softly. “Sure. Let’s get some,” he said, his voice warm and steady.

The vendor, an elderly man with a kind face, greeted them cheerfully. “Fresh tanghulu! Perfect for a sweet night like this!”

[Name] leaned forward, studying the vibrant assortment of fruits—strawberries, kiwis, grapes, and even pineapple chunks—all coated in a thin layer of hardened sugar. “I’ll take one with all the fruits, please,” she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Yo, always more reserved, glanced at the options before nodding. “Just strawberries for me, thanks.”

As the vendor prepared their skewers, [Name] turned to Yo, her expression playful. “Strawberries, huh? Keeping it classic?”

Yo chuckled softly, his blue hair catching the glow of the nearby lantern. “You can’t go wrong with the classics,” he replied.

When they received their tanghulu, [Name] immediately took a bite, the crunch of the sugary shell giving way to the sweet and tart flavors of the fruit inside. “Mmm!” she hummed in delight. “This is so good! Why don’t we have these more often?”

Yo took a more measured bite of his skewer, savoring the flavor. “I guess we’ll have to make this a tradition,” he said, glancing at her with a soft smile.

They wandered a little further before finding a bench beneath a large oak tree. The branches swayed gently in the breeze, and the moonlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. They sat down, the tanghulu skewers still in hand, as the sounds of distant laughter and the occasional hum of a passing car filled the air.

[Name] leaned back against the bench, letting out a contented sigh. “Thanks for inviting me out tonight, Yo-kun. I really needed this after all the stress from the exams.”

Yo turned to her, his expression softening. “I should be the one thanking you,” he said quietly. “It’s not every day I get to spend time like this… with someone so special.”

[Name] paused mid-bite, her eyes widening slightly before a blush spread across her cheeks. “Yo-kun…” she began, her voice barely above a whisper.

Yo hesitated, his grip tightening slightly on the now-empty skewer. The weight of his unspoken feelings pressed heavily on him, and for a moment, he felt his usual calm demeanor falter.

“I mean it,” he said, his voice steadier now. “You’re… more important to me than I think I can ever put into words. Being here with you tonight—it’s all I’ve wanted for a long time.”

[Name’s] heart skipped a beat, her gaze locking onto his. The tension between them was palpable, the world around them fading as the air seemed to thicken with unspoken emotions.

Yo took a deep breath, his free hand trembling slightly as he reached for hers. “[Name]-chan, I—”

Before he could finish, [Name] gently placed a finger on his lips, silencing him. Her touch was soft, yet it sent a jolt of electricity through him.

“I know,” she said, her voice calm yet laced with emotion. Her eyes,glimmered in the moonlight. “You're Quite easy to read Yo-kun.”

Yos's eyes widened, and his breath hitched as she slowly leaned closer. The world seemed to hold its breath, the only sound the rustling of the leaves above them. [Name] closed her eyes, her face inching toward his.

Yo swallowed hard, his heart pounding in his chest as he instinctively leaned in as well. Their breaths mingled, the tension between them finally snapping as their lips met in a tender, heartfelt kiss.

The moment was electric, yet achingly gentle, as if time itself had paused to bear witness. The sweetness of the tanghulu lingered faintly between them, but it was overshadowed by the overwhelming warmth of their connection.

When they finally parted, their faces remained close, their foreheads resting against each other Yo’s cheeks were flushed, his sapphire eyes shimmering with a mixture of joy and disbelief.

“[Name]-chan….” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

She smiled softly, her expression radiant. “You don’t have to say anything else,” she murmured. “I know.”

For a moment, they simply sat there, hand in hand, basking in the glow of the moonlight and the quiet intimacy they now shared. The night felt infinite, the bond between them stronger than ever as they gazed at each other with unspoken affection, knowing this was just the beginning of something beautiful.

The night had grown quieter, with the distant sounds of the city fading into a serene stillness. [Name] and Yo sat close on the bench, the tanghulu skewers discarded nearby, their hands still lightly entwined. The moonlight bathed the scene in a silver glow, their shared moment feeling like a fragile dream.

Yo turned to her, his sapphire eyes shining with determination. He tightened his hold on her hand, taking a deep breath. “[Name]-chan, I’ve been meaning to tell you…”

[Name’s] heart raced, her cheeks tinged pink as she waited for the words she longed to hear. She tilted her head, her voice soft and encouraging. “Yo-kun … I—”

The sound of a low, smooth voice cut through the tension like a blade.

“Shouldn’t you two be heading to your dorms?”

[Name] froze, her breath hitching as she turned to see a tall figure stepping out from behind a nearby tree. Ruka’s lean frame was cloaked in shadow, his hands casually stuffed into his pockets. His crimson eyes gleamed under the moonlight, a contrast to his nonchalant demeanor.

Yo immediately stood, his face flushing a deep crimson as he bowed slightly. “Ah, Ruka… I didn’t mean to— I mean, I apologize if this seemed… improper,” he stammered, his usual calm shaken by the sudden intrusion.

[Name’s] embarrassment quickly shifted to frustration. “Ruka! What are you even doing here? Were you following me?” she demanded, her voice a mix of anger and disbelief.

Ruka shrugged, his expression unreadable. “I wasn’t following you. I just happened to be nearby,” he said coolly, though the timing of his arrival suggested otherwise. “It’s late, and you should be back at your dorm.”

Yo glanced between the two, sensing the growing tension. He straightened, brushing off his jeans as he prepared to leave. “I should go,” he said softly, his gaze lingering on [Name]. “[Name]-chan, thank you for tonight. I… I’ll see you on campus.”

“Yo-kun, wait—!” [Name] reached out to him, her voice tinged with desperation.

Yo smiled gently, raising a hand to reassure her. “It’s okay. Goodnight, [Name]-chan.” He hesitated for a moment before offering a playful wink. Then, with a calm but deliberate pace, he turned and walked away, leaving [Name] standing there, her heart sinking.

The silence that followed was deafening. [Name] stood rooted to the spot, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. Slowly, she turned to face Ruka, her heterochromatic eyes blazing with fury.

“You… you ruined it,” she hissed, her voice trembling with a mix of anger and sorrow.

Ruka raised an eyebrow, unfazed. “Ruined what? You sitting here late at night alone with some guy?”

[Name’s] hands shook as she yanked the Kiki plush from her bag and hurled it at him with all her might. “You’re unbelievable! Always sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong!”

Ruka caught the plush effortlessly, glancing down at it with a sigh before looking back at her. “You’re overreacting.”

“Overreacting?!” [Name’s] voice cracked, tears welling in her eyes. “You’ve done nothing but meddle in my life! Do you enjoy making me miserable? Are you satisfied now, Ruka?!”

Ruka’s jaw tightened slightly, but he said nothing, his calm exterior betraying nothing of what he might have felt inside.

[Name] took a shaky step forward, her voice breaking as she continued. “I hate you! I hate you for this!!” she spat, her tears spilling over. “Stay away from me!”

Before he could respond, she slapped him hard across the face. The sound echoed in the quiet night, the sting of it sharp and immediate.

Ruka stood motionless, his cheek reddening from the impact, as [Name] turned on her heel and ran. Her sobs echoed faintly in the distance, each one stabbing at the silence like a dagger.

For a long moment, Ruka remained still, the only movement the soft breeze ruffling his hair. He looked down at the Kiki plush in his hands, his crimson eyes shadowed with an unreadable emotion.

“If only you knew…” he murmured under his breath, his voice low and tinged with a rare vulnerability.

He glanced up at the sky, the moon now partially obscured by drifting clouds. Letting out a quiet sigh, he slipped the plush into his jacket pocket and walked away, his figure disappearing into the darkness as the night carried on in its haunting stillness.

[Name] bolted through the quiet campus, her sobs echoing softly into the chilly night air. The moonlight cast pale beams onto the cobblestone paths, painting her surroundings in a somber glow. Tears streamed down her face, and no matter how many times she wiped them away with her sleeves, they continued to fall. Her chest heaved with the weight of frustration and heartbreak as her steps faltered.

From ahead, a familiar figure stepped out of the shadows, his auburn hair catching the faint glow of a streetlamp. Sae Itoshi stood in her path, his sharp, stoic gaze softening ever so slightly as he took in her tear-streaked face and trembling frame.

“[Name],” Sae called, his voice calm but firm. He took a step closer, his hands tucked casually into his coat pockets. “What happened?”

[Name] froze, her fists clenching at her sides. She sniffled, quickly turning her face away to avoid his piercing gaze. “Nothing,” she muttered, her voice cracking. “It’s none of your business, Sae. Just… move.”

Sae’s eyes narrowed slightly, but he didn’t move. Instead, he shifted his weight, blocking her path entirely. “You look like hell,” he said bluntly, crossing his arms. “Something clearly happened, and you’re not going anywhere until you tell me.”

“I said it’s none of your business!” [Name] snapped, her voice rising in frustration as fresh tears spilled over. She tried to push past him, but Sae’s reflexes were too sharp. He caught her wrist with a firm but gentle grip.

“[Name].” His tone was quieter now, a rare hint of softness breaking through his usual cold demeanor. He pulled her toward him, his gaze meeting hers directly. “Stop running.”

Her breath hitched as Sae’s free arm came up, resting lightly on her shoulder as he brought her closer to his chest. “Are you okay?” he asked, his voice steadier this time, tinged with genuine concern.

For a moment, [Name] stiffened in his hold, her pride screaming at her to shove him away. But the weight of the night overwhelmed her. Her knees buckled, and she fell to the ground, pulling Sae down with her. Her sobs broke free, unrestrained, as she clutched at her chest.

“I hate him!” she cried, her voice trembling as she buried her face in her hands. “Ruka ruins everything! Every single time… he always shows up and ruins everything!”

Sae knelt beside her, silent as he watched her crumble. Slowly, he leaned closer, his hands resting on her shoulders. His touch was steady, grounding.

“Go on,” he urged quietly. “Let it out.”

[Name’s] voice wavered as she poured her heart out. “I just… I don’t understand why he does it! Does he hate me that much? Is it a joke to him? Why can’t he just leave me alone?” Her sobs deepened, and she clutched at her sleeves, trembling. “And now… Yo-kun….I ruined everything with him, too…”

Sae shifted closer, wrapping an arm around her back to steady her. “You didn’t ruin anything,” he said, his voice low and even. “Don’t let some idiot like Ruka make you think otherwise.”

[Name] looked up at him, her tear-streaked face reflecting the hurt and anger in her eyes. “You don’t understand,” she whispered. “He’s always there, Sae. Always interfering, always controlling everything I do… I can’t take it anymore!”

Sae sighed, his free hand moving to gently pat her back. His touch was awkward but sincere, as though he wasn’t used to comforting others. “I get it,” he said after a moment. “Having someone like that breathing down your neck? Yeah, it’s suffocating.”

[Name] leaned into his shoulder, her sobs subsiding into quieter hiccups as his steady presence began to calm her. Sae didn’t move, letting her take what she needed from the moment.

“You’re better than that,” he continued, his voice a little firmer now. “Don’t let him dictate how you live your life. You’ve got more in you than that.”

[Name] clutched at his jacket, her voice muffled against his shoulder. “Why are you being so nice to me?”

Sae sighed faintly, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Don’t get used to it,” he said dryly. “But you looked like you were about to break in half. Figured someone had to step in.”

She managed a weak laugh through her sniffles, the sound fragile but genuine. “Thanks… I guess.”

Sae pulled back slightly, tilting her chin up with a careful hand so their eyes met. “Feel better?” he asked, his tone back to its usual bluntness.

[Name] nodded hesitantly, wiping at her eyes with the sleeve of her sweater. “A little.”

“Good.” Sae stood, offering her a hand to help her up. She hesitated for a moment before taking it, letting him pull her to her feet.

As they stood under the moonlight, the tension between them eased slightly. Sae’s usual arrogance was absent, replaced by a quiet understanding.

“Next time,” he said, glancing at her with a rare, almost imperceptible softness in his gaze, “don’t keep it bottled up. It’s pathetic to see you like this.”

[Name] rolled her eyes, a small smile tugging at her lips despite herself. “You really know how to ruin a moment, don’t you?”

Sae shrugged, his scroll returning. “What can I say? It’s a talent.”

For a brief moment, the night felt a little less heavy, and as they walked back toward the dorms, [Name] found herself silently grateful for the unlikely comfort Sae had given her.

The quiet night air hung heavy as [Name] sniffled, her tears now reduced to soft hiccups. Sae observed her, his sharp features unreadable under the moonlight. After a moment, he sighed and, without warning, bent down and swept her off her feet, lifting her effortlessly into his arms in a bridal carry.

“Wha—what are you doing?!” [Name] stammered, her face instantly turning scarlet. She instinctively clutched at the fabric of his jacket, her wide eyes darting to meet his.

“You’re exhausted, and the dorms are about to close,” Sae said flatly, his voice carrying its usual bluntness. He didn’t even glance at her as he adjusted his grip slightly to make her more comfortable. “If you don’t get back before curfew, they’ll lock the doors, and you’ll be stuck outside for the next seven hours.”

“I—I can walk on my own!” [Name] protested, squirming in his arms. Her heart was pounding so loudly she was sure he could hear it.

“Stop moving,” Sae commanded, his voice low and firm. He shot her a sharp look, his gaze piercing. “Unless you want me to leave you outside to freeze. Then again, maybe you’d enjoy sitting on the steps of the girls’ dormitory all night?”

That shut her up instantly. Her face burned with a mixture of embarrassment and indignation, and she turned her head away, muttering under her breath, “You’re so annoying…”

Sae shrugged faintly but said nothing, his pace steady as he carried her across the campus. The soft glow of the lamps illuminated the path, their faint hum filling the silence between them. [Name] tried her best to look anywhere but at Sae, her cheeks still flushed as she focused on the sound of his footsteps against the stone walkway.

Eventually, they reached a separate building, more modern and luxurious than the other dormitories. Sae carried her through the front doors, which opened with a swipe of his keycard, and into the elevator. The soft ding of the elevator and the sleek, minimalist interior were a stark contrast to the rustic charm of the main campus.

“This is…” [Name] began, her voice trailing off as she looked around.

“My dorm,” Sae replied simply as the elevator doors slid open. He stepped out and carried her down a quiet, carpeted hallway before stopping in front of a door. With one hand, he unlocked it, pushing it open to reveal an impressively sleek and modern interior.

The room was pristine, with minimalist furniture in shades of black, red, and white. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a stunning view of the city skyline, and a large sectional couch sat near a low glass coffee table. The faint scent of cologne lingered in the air, clean and sharp, much like its owner.

Sae carried her straight to his bedroom—his chambers, as he called it with a hint of mockery in his tone—and gently set her down on the edge of the massive king-sized bed. The room was as polished as the rest of the dorm, with a neatly made bed, a desk with an open laptop, and bookshelves lined with neatly organized items.

“You can use the bathroom,” Sae said, nodding toward a door on the far side of the room. “Take a shower if you want. I’ll order something to eat.”

[Name] blinked up at him, her face still flushed. “I—I can’t just—”

“You’re already here, aren’t you?” Sae interrupted, raising an eyebrow. “Unless you’d rather starve and wait outside for the morning.”

[Name] huffed, crossing her arms. “You really know how to make a girl feel welcome, don’t you?”

Sae again shrugged, ignoring her sarcasm as he pulled out his phone and started dialing. “Hurry up. You look like you could use a break.”

Her retort died in her throat as she sighed, muttering a quiet “Thank you” before heading to the bathroom.

The bathroom was just as immaculate as the rest of the dorm, with sleek black tiles, a glass-enclosed shower, and a large mirror that reflected the soft, ambient lighting. [Name] closed the door behind her and let out a long breath, leaning against it for a moment.

“This is insane…” she whispered to herself, her cheeks still warm.

She quickly undressed, folding her clothes neatly before stepping into the shower. The hot water cascaded over her, washing away the stress and tension of the night. She leaned her forehead against the cool tile, letting the steam envelop her as she replayed the events of the evening in her mind.

Ruka’s interruption. Yo’s retreat. Sae’s unexpected kindness.

Her hands clenched into fists at her sides as she thought of Ruka, anger bubbling up again. But it was quickly replaced by a strange sense of gratitude for Sae’s intervention. Despite his bluntness and arrogance, he had been there when she needed someone most.

After what felt like an eternity, [Name] stepped out of the shower, wrapping herself in a fluffy white towel. She glanced around the bathroom, realizing too late that she hadn’t brought a change of clothes.

“Oh no…” she muttered, her face heating up again.

She hesitated for a moment before cracking the door open slightly. “Um… Sae?” she called, her voice barely above a whisper.

“What now?” came his reply from the other side of the room.

“I—I didn’t bring any clothes…”

There was a pause, followed by the sound of footsteps approaching. Sae appeared in the doorway, his expression unreadable as he handed her a neatly folded set of clothes—a plain black T-shirt and a pair of his boxers.

“Here,” he said, his tone casual. “They’ll probably be huge on you, but it’s better than nothing.”

[Name] took them quickly, her face burning as she mumbled a quiet, “Thanks.”

“Don’t take all night,” he added, turning and walking away.

She shut the door again, exhaling sharply. “This is going to be a long night…” she muttered to herself as she changed into the borrowed clothes.

When she finally emerged, Sae was sitting on the couch, scrolling through his phone. A bag of takeout sat on the coffee table, the aroma making her stomach growl.

“Eat,” he said without looking up.

[Name] sat down hesitantly, her eyes darting to him before reaching for the food. “Thanks,” she said softly.

Sae glanced at her, his expression softening slightly. “Get some rest after. You’ve had enough drama for one night.”

She nodded, her heart still racing as she wondered what the rest of the night would bring.

The rich aroma of freshly prepared sushi filled the air as [Name] sat cross-legged on Sae’s luxurious couch, a neatly arranged takeout spread laid out before her. Each piece glistened under the soft glow of the overhead light: delicate nigiri, colorful uramaki, plump temaki, and perfectly rolled futomaki. The assortment looked like a feast meant for a royal banquet, and [Name’s] stomach growled audibly, betraying her initial hesitance.

She picked up a pair of wooden chopsticks, hands trembling slightly as she dipped a piece of salmon nigiri into the small dish of soy sauce mixed with a dab of wasabi. Her cheeks flushed as the flavor exploded on her tongue—a perfect blend of the fish’s buttery texture and the sharp kick of wasabi. She couldn’t help but let out a small hum of satisfaction, the warmth spreading through her.

“This is amazing,” she murmured to herself, her gaze darting to Sae, who sat on the opposite end of the couch. Unlike her, he wasn’t eating; instead, he reclined back casually, one arm draped over the armrest, his sharp features illuminated by the light. His expression was neutral, his focus somewhere distant as if he were lost in thought.

“Aren’t you going to eat anything?” she asked, her voice tentative, breaking the silence. She picked up another piece, a bright avocado roll, but paused mid-air as she looked at him.

Sae’s gaze flicked to hers, his icy green eyes meeting her own. “I already ate before,” he said simply, his tone as detached as ever. He shifted slightly, his posture relaxed yet commanding. “It’s all yours. Eat as much as you want.”

[Name] blinked, unsure how to respond. His bluntness always caught her off guard, but tonight there was something different about him. He seemed… calm. Almost uncharacteristically considerate. She nodded and continued to eat, savoring each bite. But as she ate, her eyes kept drifting back to him.

He really was handsome, she thought, begrudgingly admitting it to herself. His auburn hair fell just right over his forehead, framing his sharp jawline. The dim lighting highlighted the high planes of his cheekbones, and his calm demeanor added an air of mystery that only made him more alluring. Every ten seconds or so, she found herself stealing glances, hoping he wouldn’t notice.

“Are you going to keep staring, or do I have something on my face?” Sae’s voice broke through her thoughts like a crack of thunder. He turned his head slightly to look at her, one brow raised in that signature condescending way that made her stomach flip.

[Name’s] chopsticks froze midair, a piece of sushi precariously balanced between them. Her face turned beet red as she fumbled to respond. “I—I wasn’t staring!” she stammered, her voice a little too loud in the otherwise quiet room. “I was just… I mean, I—”

“It’s rude to stare,” Sae interrupted, his tone calm but pointed. There was no malice in his words, but the faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips told her he found her reaction amusing.

She lowered her chopsticks and looked away, her heart pounding in her chest. “Sorry,” she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper. The heat in her cheeks was unbearable, and she wished she could melt into the couch cushions and disappear.

For a moment, the room fell into silence again, save for the faint hum of the city outside and the occasional clink of her chopsticks against the plastic tray. [Name] tried to focus on the food, but her appetite was fading fast under the weight of her embarrassment. She couldn’t believe she’d been caught staring so blatantly.

Sae, meanwhile, seemed entirely unbothered. He leaned back further, his eyes half-lidded as he watched her with an unreadable expression. “You’re blushing,” he said suddenly, his voice devoid of the usual sharpness.

[Name] snapped her head up to look at him, her eyes wide. “I am not!” she protested, her hands instinctively flying to her cheeks as if to check.

Sae’s blinked just a fraction, a rare hint of amusement breaking through his usual stoicism. “Sure, you’re not,” he said, his voice tinged with serious demeanor. “Must be the wasabi, then.”

Her jaw dropped, and she scowled at him, though her face was still burning. “You’re such a jerk,” she muttered, shoving another piece of sushi into her mouth to avoid saying anything else.

Sae hums softly, the sound low and brief, almost as if he hadn’t meant to let it slip. “Just eat, [Name],” he said, his voice returning to its usual composed tone. “You’re the one who said it was amazing.”

Despite her embarrassment, she couldn’t help but feel a strange warmth in his words. There was something oddly comforting about the way he spoke to her, even if he was teasing. She continued eating, occasionally stealing glances at him when she thought he wasn’t looking.

But of course, Sae noticed every time. He didn’t say anything else, though. Instead, he watched her in silence, his sharp gaze softening ever so slightly as she finished her meal. For all his coldness and arrogance, there was a quiet tenderness in the way he stayed by her side that night, making sure she was safe, even if he’d never admit it outright.

The remnants of the sushi feast had been cleared, and the air between Sae and [Name] carried a faint tension. She sat on the edge of the couch, her fingers nervously fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. Sae stood by the dining table, as calm and composed as ever, though his sharp gaze flickered toward her now and then.

“Thank you for the meal,” [Name] said, breaking the silence. Her voice was soft, though her heart was still racing. “It was really delicious.”

Sae gave a small nod, leaning casually against the table. “It wasn’t any trouble,” he replied, his tone neutral but not unkind. He folded his arms across his chest, his expression unreadable as he observed her.

[Name] hesitated, chewing on her lip. The elephant in the room loomed larger with each passing second—where was she going to sleep? She glanced at the couch beneath her, noting how it wasn’t particularly wide or comfortable. But at the same time, asking to sleep in his bedroom felt impossible. She fidgeted some more, finally summoning the courage to speak.

“Um…” she began, her voice tentative. “I can just sleep on the couch. It’s fine, really.”

Sae’s brow arched slightly, his lips twitching into the faintest hint of a smirk. “The couch?” he repeated, his tone laced with incredulity. “You’re my guest. It’d be rude to let you sleep there.”

[Name] blinked, taken aback by his straightforwardness. “But it’s your place,” she argued, her cheeks heating up. “I can’t just take over your bed. That’s… way too much.”

Sae pushed off the table, his movements smooth and deliberate as he took a step closer to her. “It’s just a bed,” he said bluntly, shrugging as if the matter were trivial. “You’ll sleep in my room. I’m not going to let you stay out here like some stray cat.”

The comparison made her bristle, and she shot him a glare. “I’m not a stray cat!” she protested, her face now as red as a tomato. “I just don’t want to impose.”

Sae sighed, clearly unimpressed by her stubbornness. “You’re making this harder than it needs to be,” he said, his tone taking on a sharper edge. “Just take the bed, [Name]. End of story.”

But [Name] wasn’t ready to back down. “I don’t want to take your bed!” she snapped, her frustration bubbling over. “If anything, we could—” She stopped mid-sentence, her brain catching up to her mouth. Her face turned scarlet as the words spilled out before she could stop them. “We could… just… share the bed.”

The room fell deathly silent.

Her heart dropped to her stomach as the weight of what she’d said hit her like a freight train. She clapped a hand over her mouth, her wide eyes darting toward Sae. He stood there, utterly still, his sharp green gaze locked on her with a mixture of surprise and faint amusement.

“…Share?” Sae repeated slowly, as if testing the word on his tongue. His seriousness returned, this time with a teasing edge. “That’s a bold suggestion.”

[Name] buried her face in her hands, groaning in embarrassment. “I didn’t mean it like that!” she squeaked, her voice muffled. “I—I just thought—ugh, never mind!”

Sae hummed again, a rare sound that sent a shiver down her spine. “Relax,” he said, his tone unexpectedly light. “It’s not a bad idea. The bed’s big enough.”

[Name] sat frozen for a moment, her brain struggling to process what had just happened. She was going to share a bed with Itoshi Sae. The same Itoshi Sae who was practically a living legend. The thought made her head spin.

Her head snapped up, eyes wide with disbelief. “Wait, what?” she blurted, her voice cracking slightly. “You’re… okay with that?”

He shrugged again, his demeanor casual, as if they were discussing the weather. “I don’t see the problem,” he said, already turning toward the hallway that led to his bedroom. “Come on. It’s late.”

[Name] sat frozen for a moment, her brain struggling to process what had just happened. She was going to share a bed with Itoshi Sae—the same Itoshi Sae who was practically a living legend. The thought made her head spin, excitement and anxiety warring within her.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

In his private chambers—a sleek and modern bedroom adorned with muted red tones and minimalist décor—Sae was already getting changed. His back was to her as he pulled off his shirt, revealing his toned upper body in the soft light of the bedside lamp. [Name] immediately spun around, her face burning as she stared at the closed door behind her.

‘Don’t look. Don’t look. Don’t look!’ she chanted internally, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. Her entire body felt like it was on fire, and she couldn’t stop her thoughts from spiraling. ‘I’m going to sleep in the same bed as Sae. THE Sae. Oh my god, what if I snore? Or take up too much space? Or—’

“Are you just going to stand there?” Sae’s voice cut through her mental chaos, pulling her from her spiral. She flinched, glancing over her shoulder just enough to see that he was now dressed in a plain black T-shirt and sweatpants. His hair was slightly mussed from changing, and for a fleeting moment, he looked almost approachable, almost… human.

“I—I wasn’t looking!” she blurted defensively, her cheeks still aflame.

Sae gave her a bemused look, clearly unfazed by her flustered state. “I didn’t say you were,” he replied, walking over to the bed and sitting on the edge. “You’re overthinking this, [Name]. Just get comfortable and sleep.”

Her gaze darted to the bed—a massive expanse, with crisp dark sheets and a fluffy red comforter that looked far more luxurious than anything she’d ever slept on. The sight only heightened her nerves. “I’ll try,” she mumbled, inching toward the other side of the bed as though it were a dangerous animal.

But before she could settle, Sae strolled toward her, his intense gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that made her breath hitch. “What’s wrong?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her heart racing as she searched his eyes for an answer.

Sae’s expression softened, and he reached out, his fingers gently taking her chin and tilting it upwards. “Nothing’s wrong,” he murmured, his voice low and steady. He admired her with an intensity that made her pulse quicken, his gaze tracing the contours of her face, as if memorizing every detail. “You’re beautiful, you know that?”

[Name’s] heart began to race uncontrollably at his words, the warmth of his breath washing over her. She could hardly process what he was saying, lost in the depths of his teal eyes, which held a mixture of sincerity and something deeper—a connection that sent bolts of electricity through her.

And before she could formulate a response, before her mind could catch up to her racing heart, he leaned down, closing the distance between them. His lips found hers in a soft yet electrifying kiss, igniting a spark that sent her senses reeling. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them, wrapped in a moment that felt suspended in time.

[Name’s] mind blanked, her heart pounding wildly as she melted into the kiss, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within her—confusion, excitement, fear, and an undeniable spark of desire. She had stepped into uncharted territory, and as their lips moved together, she felt herself surrendering to the moment, caught in the intoxicating pull of Sae’s presence.

[Name] was still reeling from the kiss, her heart pounding like a drum in her chest as she gazed into Sae's intense green eyes. The air was thick with an electric tension, a mix of confusion and desire swirling around them like a tempest. She could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on her, the world outside fading into a distant memory. 

Sae pulled back slightly, his breath warm against her skin, and for a heartbeat, they remained suspended in that intimate space. He looked at her with a longing that sent shivers down her spine, a hunger in his gaze that made her pulse race even faster.

“[Name],” he whispered, his voice low and velvety, almost a growl. “Can I…no… may I drink your blood?”

The words hung in the air, heavy and charged, wrapping around them like a cocoon. Her mind spun as the implications of his request sank in. The romantic tension that had filled the room now twisted into something darker, more primal. She could feel her heart quicken, the thrill of fear dancing alongside the warmth of desire. 

“Is it… is it safe?” she stammered, uncertainty creeping into her voice. The thought of being so vulnerable with him sent tremors through her, yet there was something exhilarating about it as well.

Sae’s expression softened, and he nodded, his gaze unwavering. “I promise, I’ll be gentle.” His voice was like silk, soothing yet laced with an undeniable edge of urgency. “I need it, [Name]. I want to feel you, to connect with you in a way that only we can.”

As she met his gaze, something deep within her stirred—a yearning that felt both terrifying and irresistible. In that heated moment, she found herself nodding, a small, barely perceptible gesture that seemed to ignite a fire in his eyes. 

Without warning, Sae grasped her shoulders, his grip firm yet tender, and gently pushed her down onto the soft mattress of his bed. The comforter enveloped her, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside. The room was bathed in the silvery glow of the moonlight streaming through the glass windows, casting delicate shadows that danced across their forms.

“Just breathe,” Sae murmured, leaning closer, his breath ghosting over her neck, igniting every nerve ending in her body. She could feel his warmth, his presence—a magnetic pull that drew her into his world. 

As he hovered above her, she felt a mix of anticipation and trepidation. His lips brushed against her neck, sending shivers of sensation cascading down her spine. “You’re so beautiful,” he whispered, his voice husky with desire. “I promise, it will feel… good.”

With a mix of fear and exhilaration, [Name] surrendered to the moment, a soft whimper escaping her lips as he pressed his mouth against her skin. Sae’s fangs grazed her neck, a jolt of pain mingling with an unexpected rush of pleasure that coursed through her. 

And then, he bit down, the sensation sharp yet intoxicating. She gasped, the initial sting quickly fading into a warm wave of euphoria that enveloped her entire being. It was a strange dichotomy of pain and pleasure, a dance of sensations that left her breathless. 

Sae drank her blood with a reverence that sent her heart spiraling. His eyes fluttered closed, and a low growl of satisfaction rumbled in his chest as he savored the taste of her essence. In that moment, they were lost to the world—two souls intertwined in a darkly romantic embrace, the moonlight illuminating their connection.

[Name] felt herself slipping into a haze, the boundaries of her body blurring as the warmth spread through her veins. She whimpered softly, a mix of fear and the intoxicating pleasure that coursed through her as he continued to drink. It was a surreal experience, and every heartbeat echoed with the knowledge that she was giving him a part of herself—an act of trust that bound them together in a way she had never imagined.

As the moonlight bathed them in its ethereal glow, the tension between them shifted into something deeper, something primal. Sae’s eyes flickered open, filled with an intense hunger that spoke of a connection that transcended the physical. He pulled back slightly, his lips glistening with the evidence of their union, and for a moment, they simply stared at each other, breaths mingling in the space between them.

“Are you okay?” he asked, concern etched into his features as he brushed a thumb gently against her cheek, wiping away any trace of their encounter. 

[Name] nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. “Yes… I’m okay.” The warmth of his touch sent another wave of heat coursing through her, igniting the embers of desire that had been stoked by their shared moment.

Sae studied her for a moment longer, his expression unreadable, and then he leaned down, capturing her lips in another kiss—this one more tender, more passionate, as if sealing the bond they had just forged. The world outside ceased to exist, leaving only the two of them wrapped in the intoxicating glow of the moonlight, their fates intertwined in a night that would change them both forever. The air was thick with the promise of what was to come, and [Name] allowed herself to embrace the uncertainty, knowing that in Sae’s arms, she had found something truly extraordinary.

The moonlight poured into Sae's room, casting a silvery glow that wrapped around them like a soft blanket. After their heated encounter, the air felt different—charged with emotions that hung delicately between them. Sae, still reeling from the intimacy they had just shared, gently lay his head onto [Name’s], a subtle yet profound gesture of affection. His heart raced, a mix of hope and trepidation swirling within him as he breathed in the sweet scent of her hair.

[Name]'s thoughts were a whirlwind. She felt the warmth of his presence enveloping her, yet skepticism gnawed at her insides like a persistent shadow. Sae was popular—an enigmatic figure adored by many, a living legend revered by fans and admired by countless women. Doubts crept into her mind, whispering that perhaps this was just another fleeting moment for him, a thrill to be savored before moving on to the next conquest. How could someone like her ever hold his attention in a world filled with glamorous options?

“Is everything okay?” Sae’s voice broke through her spiraling thoughts, gentle and laced with concern. He lifted his head slightly to meet her gaze, his sharp green eyes searching hers for answers. 

[Name] hesitated, her heart pounding. “I—I just…” she stammered, struggling to articulate the turmoil within her. “You’re… you’re Sae. And I’m just… me. I don’t know if I can return your feelings.” The words felt heavy, a weight she had carried since the moment they had first connected. 

A soft sigh was brief across Sae’s face, one that warmed her more than the comforter draped over them. “You don’t have to return my feelings right away,” he reassured her, his voice steady and sincere. “I can wait for you, [Name]. As long as it takes.” His sincerity wrapped around her like a comforting embrace, and for a moment, the self-doubt that clung to her began to dissolve.

She looked into his eyes, searching for any hint of insincerity, but found only depth and warmth. “But what if you find someone else?” she asked, her voice trembling slightly. “Someone who can love you like you deserve?”

Sae’s expression softened, and he reached out, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. The simple touch sent shivers down her spine, igniting a rush of emotions she was still trying to comprehend. “I’m not looking for someone else,” he said, his voice unwavering. “What I feel for you is different. It’s real. And I’m willing to be patient, even if it means waiting a long time.” 

His words hung in the air, a promise wrapped in vulnerability. [Name] felt a warmth bloom in her chest, a flicker of hope amidst her skepticism. ‘Could it be true? Did he genuinely mean what he said?’ The thought sent a thrill through her, but the doubt still lingered—could she truly accept something so precious?

“Okay,” she finally whispered, her voice barely audible. “I’ll try to sort through my feelings.” 

Sae smiled wider, a look of genuine relief washing over his features. “That’s all I ask,” he replied, his voice softening. “Just take your time.”

With a shared understanding, they nestled into the covers, the weight of their earlier tension fading into a comfortable silence. As their bodies intertwined beneath the soft sheets, the world outside vanished, leaving only the two of them wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and intimacy. 

“Goodnight, Sae,” [Name] murmured, feeling secure in the embrace of the man who had opened his heart to her.

“Goodnight, [Name],” he replied, his voice a soothing balm to her racing heart. “I’ll be right here when you’re ready.” 

As sleep began to wash over them, the moon continued to cast its gentle light through the window, illuminating the room with a soft glow. The tension of the day melted away, replaced by a deep sense of comfort. In that moment, as they lay together, their arms intertwined, [Name] felt a flicker of hope—a fragile connection that held the potential for something beautiful. 

With each passing second, she allowed herself to drift into slumber, her heart still racing but now filled with the warmth of possibility. Sae’s steady presence beside her, the gentle rhythm of his breath, gave her the reassurance she needed, and for the first time in a long while, she felt safe. The night stretched on, wrapping them in a blanket of shared dreams and unspoken promises, as the moon kept watch over the two lovebirds, guarding the tender beginnings of a bond that was only just starting to take shape.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The first rays of morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden hue over the sleek room. [Name] stirred in the oversized bed, groaning as she slowly woke up. The comfort of the plush mattress made her reluctant to move, but she forced herself to open her eyes. Blinking a few times, she turned her head to the side, expecting to see Sae still sleeping—but his side of the bed was empty, the sheets smooth and untouched as though he’d left some time ago.

She rubbed her eyes and stretched, groaning softly. The faint sound of running water reached her ears, and she realized he was likely in the shower. A soft sigh escaped her lips. Of course, he’s already up and about. Figures.

Glancing at the bedside clock, she noted the time: 5:30 a.m. Two and a half hours before the dorms open again… and my exam later. [Name] pushed her glasses onto her face, shaking off the lingering drowsiness. The thought of the upcoming test filled her with a twinge of anxiety, but a bigger thought overshadowed it—she owed Sae a proper thank-you for his hospitality.

Determined to show her gratitude, [Name] slid out of bed, straightened her clothes, and padded softly to his kitchen. It wasn’t a grand kitchen, but it had all the essentials: a stovetop, an oven, and a modest fridge. She opened the refrigerator, scanning its contents before spotting a carton of eggs. A small smile tugged at her lips. Perfect. I’ll make him breakfast.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The faint sizzle of eggs frying in the pan filled the quiet room as [Name] focused on her task. The rich aroma of butter and eggs wafted through the air, and she felt a flicker of pride in her work. Cooking wasn’t her forte, but she could manage something simple like this. As she reached for the spatula, carefully flipping the eggs to ensure they didn’t break, the sound of a door opening behind her made her freeze.

A rush of warm, steamy air billowed into the room, and [Name] turned her head slowly, almost dreading what she’d see. Standing in the doorway to the bathroom, his body glistening with droplets of water, was Sae. A towel hung low around his hips, revealing his toned torso and lean muscles. His damp hair clung to his forehead, and he rubbed a smaller towel over his head to dry it, seemingly unaware of—or unbothered by—her presence.

[Name’s] face turned beet red in an instant. She spun back around, gripping the spatula tightly as if it were her lifeline. “W-why are you undressed?!” she stammered, her voice cracking with mortification.

Sae paused mid-step, glancing at her with an arched brow and an almost amused expression. “Why wouldn’t I be?” he replied coolly, his tone as casual as if they were discussing the weather. “This is my dorm. I can do whatever I need.”

His nonchalance only made her embarrassment worse. “B-but I’m here!” she exclaimed, still refusing to turn around. She waved the spatula in the air for emphasis, her hands trembling slightly. “You could at least—ugh, I don’t know—put some clothes on!”

Sae smirked faintly, clearly enjoying her flustered state. He crossed the room with unhurried steps, his bare feet padding softly against the tiled floor. “You’re the one who decided to cook in my kitchen at this hour,” he said, his voice laced with dry humor. “Should I have announced my every move?”

[Name] groaned, squeezing her eyes shut in a futile attempt to calm her racing heart. “That’s not the point!” she huffed, her voice muffled as she buried her face in her free hand. “Just—go get dressed, already!”

He let out a soft chuckle, the sound deep and teasing. “Fine, fine,” he said, brushing past her as he headed toward his bedroom. “But don’t burn the eggs while you’re busy freaking out.”

She shot him a glare over her shoulder, though her face was still bright red. “I’m not freaking out!” she snapped, but her voice wavered, betraying her nerves.

Sae didn’t respond, simply disappearing into his room with an air of calm that left her feeling even more flustered. She let out a long breath, trying to steady herself as she turned her attention back to the stove. The eggs were done now, perfectly cooked with golden edges. She plated them carefully, adding a slice of toast she’d prepared earlier.

[Name] placed the frying pan in the sink with a soft clatter, exhaling as she ran warm water over the soapy dish. The kitchen filled with the gentle hum of running water and the faint scent of breakfast still lingering in the air. She felt more composed now that Sae had disappeared into his room, giving her some much-needed space to collect herself.

Just as she began scrubbing the pan, a sudden, obnoxiously loud knock erupted from the door, echoing through the dorm like an impatient thunderclap. [Name] froze mid-motion, her grip tightening on the sponge.

‘Who the hell could that be at this hour?’

The knocking grew more insistent, the rhythm irregular and taunting, as if whoever was on the other side was trying to get a rise out of whoever was inside. She turned her head toward the door, wide-eyed and startled. Another knock came, followed by a voice—a voice that sent an uneasy chill crawling up her spine.

“Oi, Sae! You’re not gonna leave me standing out here all day, are ya?” The voice was loud, overly enthusiastic, and dripping with something uncomfortably zesty. “C’mon, don’t tell me you’re hiding some chick in there.” The voice let out a mocking laugh. “Wait, you totally are, aren’t you? Let me see her! Is she cute?”

[Name’s] stomach dropped. ‘No way.’ She knew that voice. She had heard of that voice. Shidou Ryusei.

This fucking wild zesty, unpredictable and eccentric man with no filter to speak of. And judging by the obnoxious knocking and the tone of his voice, he was every bit as chaotic as suggested.

Before she could decide what to do, the knocking abruptly stopped. The door creaked open—Sae must’ve left it unlocked—and in stepped Ryusei, his blonde with pink tips and hair catching the light, his wild grin instantly setting [Name] on edge. He glanced around the dorm, his sharp eyes darting from one detail to another until they landed squarely on her.

The grin widened, twisting into something unsettling. His hands slid into his pockets as he whistled low, dragging the sound out like he was savoring it. He took a slow, deliberate step forward. “Well, well, well. What do we have here?” His tone was syrupy, with an edge of mischief that made [Name’s] skin crawl. “Didn’t think I’d run into someone like you here. Must be fate to see you again, huh?”

[Name] turned back to the sink, determined not to engage. ‘Don’t respond. Don’t even look at him. Just clean the dishes and get out.’

Ryusei, however, was not the type to be ignored. He leaned against the counter, watching her with a predator’s gaze, his grin never faltering. “What’s wrong? Cat got your tongue? Or maybe you’re just playin’ hard to get.” He tilted his head, his voice dropping into something almost purring as he added, “I like that.”

She stiffened, her grip on the frying pan tightening. ‘Ignore him. Just ignore him.’

Ryusei chuckled, clearly amused by her lack of reaction. “Silent treatment, huh? Cute. Real cute.” He moved closer, his presence suffocating, until he was standing directly beside her. Without warning, he draped an arm around her shoulders, his fingers brushing against her sleeve. Leaning down, he whispered into her ear, his voice dripping with mock seduction.

“Y’know, girls like you are dangerous. All quiet and mysterious, pretending you’re not interested. But I see right through you.”

The words sent a shiver down her spine, but not in the way he probably intended. [Name] snapped, shrugging his arm off with a sharp movement. “Back off,” she said, her voice firm despite the anger bubbling beneath the surface.

Ryusei stepped back, throwing his hands up in mock surrender, but the grin on his face only grew. “Whoa! The kitten’s got claws!” he said, his tone dripping with exaggerated sarcasm. “Didn’t know you had it in you, sweetheart.”

She turned to face him fully now, her glare cutting through the air like a blade. “What are you even doing here, anyway? This is Sae’s dorm. Shouldn’t you be annoying someone else?”

He snickered, crossing his arms as he leaned against the counter, completely unbothered. “Annoying? Babe, I’m the life of the party. And you didn’t answer my question.” His eyes glinted with mischief. “Why are you here, huh? Unless...” He paused, his grin twisting into something far darker, his voice lowering to a mockingly conspiratorial whisper. “...you’re a hookup?”

[Name’s] face turned bright red. “What?! No! I’m not—”

“Oh, c’mon. It’s Sae we’re talking about,” Ryusei interrupted, making an obscene gesture with his hand that sent her into a full-body cringe. “Tall, rich, good-looking. Wouldn’t blame ya for trying to score.”

Her embarrassment turned to anger in an instant. “You’re disgusting!” she snapped, her fists clenching at her sides. “Get out before I—”

“Before you what?” Ryusei cut her off, stepping closer again, his grin never wavering. “Call Sae? Oh, please. He’s probably used to me crashing here by now.” He tilted his head, looking her up and down with a critical eye. “Though I gotta say, I didn’t think Sae’s type would be so... fiery. You’re full of surprises.”

She groaned, turning back to the sink to avoid giving him the satisfaction of a reaction. ‘Why did I have to deal with this first thing in the morning?’

Just then, footsteps approached from Sae’s room. Ryusei’s expression shifted, his grin softening into something more sly as Sae stepped into view. Dressed now, his hair still damp from the shower, Sae’s sharp gaze immediately landed on Ryusei, then flicked to [Name]. His expression darkened ever so slightly.

“What are you doing here, Shidou?” Sae asked, his voice calm but cold.

Ryusei shrugged, his grin widening. “What? Can’t a guy drop by to see his buddy? And hey, you didn’t tell me you had such interesting company.” He gestured toward [Name], who was doing her best to look unbothered.

Sae’s gaze lingered on her for a moment before returning to Ryusei. “Leave her alone,” he said simply, his tone leaving no room for argument.

The tension in the room thickened like smoke as the door clicked shut behind Sae. [Name] let herself relax for a fleeting moment, assuming Ryusei had left. But before she could completely compose herself, a hand clamped onto her shoulders from behind, firm yet casual, making her jump.

“What are you—?!” [Name] began, whipping her head around. Ryusei grinned down at her, his golden eyes brimming with mischief. He gave her shoulders a light squeeze, his touch teetering uncomfortably between playful and invasive.

“Hey, Sae,” Ryusei called out casually, his gaze still locked on [Name], who was glaring daggers at him. “So, how was she? Any fun last night?” His voice carried a deliberate edge of innuendo, laced with mock curiosity.

[Name’s] face turned crimson in an instant. “Excuse me?!” she snapped, twisting out of his grip, but Ryusei was quick to close the distance. He came up behind her, his lean frame crowding her space until she could feel the warmth radiating off of him.

“You’re a feisty one, aren’t you?” Ryusei murmured, leaning closer so his breath tickled her ear. “Bet Sae just loved that.”

“Get away from me!” she hissed, her voice shaking with a mix of anger and discomfort. She tried to step aside, but Ryusei’s arm darted out, blocking her escape as he leaned on the counter, caging her in.

“Shidou,” Sae’s voice came sharp and cold, cutting through the air like a blade. “Enough.”

Ryusei turned his head, his grin unfaltering. “What? I’m just getting to know your little guest. Isn’t that what roommates do?” His tone was light, almost teasing, but there was a dangerous glint in his eyes.

“She’s not my guest,” Sae said curtly, taking a step forward. His posture was relaxed, but the tension in his jaw and the intensity of his gaze told another story. “And you’re crossing the line.”

“Oh, come on,” Ryusei said with a laugh, ignoring the warning. He turned his attention back to [Name], who was practically vibrating with anger. “Don’t tell me you’re shy now. You didn’t seem so shy a minute ago.” His grin widened as he added, “I mean, you’re in his dorm, wearing that. What’s a guy supposed to think?”

[Name’s] hands balled into fists at her sides. “You’re disgusting,” she spat.

“Disgusting? Me?” Ryusei feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. “I’m just stating the obvious. Right, Sae?” He threw a glance over his shoulder at the other boy, who hadn’t moved but whose piercing stare was fixed on him like a predator sizing up its prey.

But Ryusei wasn’t done. He placed his hands lightly on [Name’s] waist, his fingers brushing the fabric of her shirt in a way that made her skin crawl. “Relax,” he said, his voice dropping into a mockingly soothing tone. “You’re so tense. No wonder Sae’s got you all wound up.”

[Name’s] breath hitched, her body going rigid as she felt the pressure of his hands through her shirt. “Stop it,” she said through gritted teeth, her voice low and furious.

Ryusei leaned closer again, his grin practically feral now. “Why? Afraid you’ll like it?”

That was it. [Name] shoved him hard, forcing him to stumble back a step, but his grin only widened as if he found her anger amusing.

“I said stop,” she snapped, her voice rising this time.

The atmosphere in the room was electric now, charged with tension so thick it was almost suffocating. Sae took another step forward, his movements deliberate and measured.

“Ryusei,” he said, his tone dangerously low. “Touch her again, and I’ll break your hand.”

Ryusei tilted his head, clearly unbothered by the threat. In fact, he seemed to revel in it. “Ooooh, scary,” he said, wiggling his fingers in mock fear. “You’ve got a real soft spot for this one, huh?”

“Get out,” Sae ordered, his voice steady but carrying an undeniable authority that made the air feel heavier.

Ryusei hesitated for a moment, his grin faltering ever so slightly as he glanced between Sae and [Name]. Then, with a dramatic sigh, he stepped back, throwing his hands up in surrender.

“Fine, fine. I’ll go,” he said, turning toward the door. But just before he left, he glanced back at [Name], his golden eyes gleaming with amusement. “Catch ya later, sweetheart. Don’t miss me too much.”

The door shut behind him with a loud click, leaving an uneasy silence in his wake.

[Name] exhaled shakily, her hands still trembling from the adrenaline coursing through her veins. Sae stepped closer, his gaze softening as he studied her.

“Are you okay?” he asked, his voice quieter now.

She nodded, though the tightness in her chest hadn’t fully subsided. “I’m fine,” she muttered. “He’s just... a freak.”

Sae’s eyes darkened. “I’ll deal with him.”

“You don’t have to,” she said quickly, though the thought of Ryusei pulling something like that again made her stomach churn.

“I will,” Sae said firmly, leaving no room for argument. “He doesn’t get to act like that.”

[Name] met his gaze, surprised by the intensity she found there. For a moment, she felt a flicker of something—gratitude, maybe, or relief. But it was fleeting, swallowed up by the lingering unease that Ryusei had left behind.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The crisp morning air bit at [Name’s] skin as she stepped out of Sae’s dorm, her heart still racing from the unsettling encounter with Ryusei. She exhaled a shaky breath, bowing slightly toward Sae, who leaned casually against the doorframe with his arms crossed.

“Thank you for letting me stay the night,” she said softly, clutching her bag strap tightly.

Sae nodded, his expression unreadable. “It was nothing,” he replied flatly, though there was a faint edge of warmth to his tone.

[Name] didn’t linger. She turned on her heel and took off at a brisk pace, her phone vibrating in her pocket as she reached the dormitory stairs. Fishing it out, her eyes widened in horror.

“Thirty minutes?!” she yelped, her voice echoing in the stairwell. “Crap, crap, crap!”

She bolted down the steps, nearly colliding with another student who gave her a bewildered look. “Morning!” she blurted in passing, too frazzled to notice their reply.

Her feet pounded against the pavement as she raced toward her own dorm. The early risers milling about campus barely registered to her—she shot off quick greetings and apologetic smiles to anyone she nearly bowled over. Her mind was singularly focused: get ready, get to class, and don’t be late.

Finally, she skidded to a stop in front of her dorm, breathless and disheveled. She fumbled with her keycard, muttering a stream of curses under her breath. “Come on, come on…” The lock beeped, and she burst inside.

Her roommate: Hitomi looked up from her desk with a startled expression. “[Name]? Are you okay?”

“No time!” [Name] called over her shoulder as she dashed to her room, flinging open the closet and yanking out her uniform. She hopped on one foot, trying to pull on her shoes while buttoning her blouse at the same time. “I’ve got an exam in—oh God, twenty-five minutes now!”

Throwing her bag over her shoulder, she shot out of the dorm as quickly as she’d come in, barely remembering to lock the door behind her.

The Classroom Hurdle

By the time [Name] reached the classroom building, her lungs were burning, and her legs felt like jelly. The halls were eerily quiet, the echo of her hurried footsteps the only sound as she sprinted toward Mr. Blake’s classroom.

“Why does his room have to be so far from everything?” she groaned, clutching a stitch in her side. “It’s like he planned this to kill us!”

Her heart sank as she heard the distant sound of the bell ringing. ‘I’m late. Again.’

Slowing to a defeated walk, she approached the classroom door, her hand hovering over the handle. She could already picture Mr. Blake’s icy stare, the disappointed furrow of his brow, the stern, clipped tone of his voice. Steeling herself, she pushed the door open as quietly as she could.

The classroom was dead silent except for the faint shuffle of papers as Mr. Blake distributed the exam sheets. Every head turned toward her as she slipped inside, her cheeks burning with embarrassment. She kept her gaze glued to the floor, praying she could make it to her seat without drawing too much attention.

“[Name],” came the unmistakable deep voice of Mr. Blake, stopping her in her tracks. She looked up hesitantly, and there he was—arms crossed, a clipboard in one hand, his sharp grey eyes narrowed down at her.

“You’re late,” he said, his tone clipped and icy. He raised his left wrist, tapping his watch with an air of exaggerated patience. “Again.”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Blake,” she mumbled, her head hanging low.

“Sorry doesn’t stop the clock,” he retorted. “Class started five minutes ago. That’s five minutes you’ve wasted—for yourself and your peers.” His gaze swept over the room, as if to emphasize her disruption to the entire class.

[Name’s] stomach twisted with shame as she shuffled to her seat. She could feel the weight of her classmates’ stares, some sympathetic, others annoyed. She sank into her chair and set her bag down as quietly as possible.

“Next time,” Mr. Blake continued as he placed the last exam on his desk, “try leaving your dorm earlier. I’m sure whatever excuse you have is fascinating, but I’d rather not hear it.”

[Name] swallowed hard, her cheeks still burning as he began pacing the room, exam papers in hand.

“Let’s hope you studied, Miss Sanzuku,” he said as he handed her a sheet, his cold gaze lingering on her for a beat too long. “Because being late won’t be the only thing hurting your grade today.”

She nodded mutely, gripping the paper so tightly her knuckles turned white.

“Alright,” Mr. Blake announced, his voice ringing out with authority. “You have one hour. No talking, no wandering eyes, and absolutely no excuses. Begin.”

The sound of pens scratching against paper filled the room as [Name] turned to the first question. But no matter how hard she tried to focus, her mind kept drifting back to Mr. Blake’s words, the weight of his disappointment settling heavily on her shoulders.

“I can’t screw this up,” she whispered to herself, her resolve hardening. “I won’t.”

Her pen hit the paper with determination, and for the next hour, the only thing she let herself think about was the exam in front of her.

The clock on the wall ticked relentlessly, the sound somehow louder in the tense silence of the classroom. [Name] put down her pencil, her exam finally complete. She let out a soft sigh of relief and leaned back in her chair, her fingers brushing over the edge of the paper she had labored over for what felt like an eternity.

The air was thick with anticipation as the other students scribbled furiously, desperate to finish before the timer went off. [Name’s] gaze wandered across the room, her eyes landing on Mr. Blake.

He was standing at the front of the class, arms crossed, his eyes fixed directly on her. The intensity of his glare was enough to send a shiver down her spine. Her heart sank as she quickly averted her gaze, staring down at her desk instead.

‘Why is he looking at me like that?’ she wondered, her cheeks burning. ‘Does he think I cheated? Did I do something wrong?’

She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, willing the timer to go off and end her misery.

Finally, the shrill ring of the timer echoed through the room.

“Time’s up,” Mr. Blake announced, his voice cutting through the air like a blade. “Put your pens down. I’ll collect your exams.”

The students obeyed, the sound of pencils dropping onto desks a small symphony of relief. [Name] let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding, slumping slightly in her chair.

“Hey,” whispered Ikki, her seatmate, as he gave her a light pat on the back. “You did good, don’t worry.”

She managed a small smile, though her nerves refused to settle. “Thanks,” she murmured, though she wasn’t so sure.

Mr. Blake began his methodical march around the classroom, collecting exams one by one. His polished shoes clicked against the tiled floor, each step a reminder of his cold, commanding presence.

When he reached [Name’s] desk, her breath hitched. He picked up her paper without a word, but his glare lingered on her, sharp and unrelenting.

Her stomach churned. ‘He hates me. He definitely hates me.’

As he turned away to collect the next paper, [Name] felt a rush of relief, only for her anxiety to spike again as the bell rang. The room erupted into movement as students hurriedly packed their bags and made for the door, eager to escape the oppressive atmosphere.

Just as [Name] was about to join them, Mr. Blake’s voice rang out, cutting through the chatter.

“[Name],” he called, his tone firm and brooking no argument.

She froze in place, her face heating up as every head in the room turned toward her.

“See me after class,” he added, his gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that made her throat tighten.

Ikki gave her a sympathetic look, slinging his bag over his shoulder. “Good luck,” he whispered, offering a small wave as he slipped out with the rest of the class.

Now alone with Mr. Blake, [Name] felt the weight of the silence pressing down on her. She clutched the strap of her bag tightly, her heart pounding in her chest.

“Close the door,” he instructed, not looking up as he organized the stack of exams on his desk.

She obeyed, the soft click of the door sounding unnaturally loud in the empty room.

“Sit,” he said, gesturing to the chair directly in front of his desk.

[Name] hesitated, then shuffled forward and sank into the seat, her hands clenched tightly in her lap. She couldn’t bring herself to look him in the eye, her gaze fixed on the desk in front of her.

There was a long, heavy pause before he finally spoke.

“Care to explain why you were late again?” he asked, his tone calm but laced with unmistakable disappointment.

“I…” She faltered, her voice barely above a whisper. “I lost track of time, sir. It won’t happen again.”

Mr. Blake raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. “You’ve said that before. Yet here we are.”

Her cheeks burned with humiliation. “I’m really sorry,” she murmured.

“Sorry doesn’t fix the disruption you caused,” he said bluntly. “And it certainly doesn’t excuse poor time management.”

[Name] bit her lip, struggling to keep her composure. She wanted to defend herself, to explain the chaos of her morning, but she knew it would only sound like an excuse.

“You’re a bright student, [Name],” he continued, his tone softening ever so slightly. “But intelligence means nothing if you can’t apply discipline. This is your education, your future. If you don’t take it seriously, why should I?”

His words hit like a punch to the gut. She nodded silently, her throat tight with unshed tears.

After a moment, Mr. Blake sighed, leaning back in his chair. “I’m not here to humiliate you,” he said, his voice gentler now. “I just want to see you succeed. But that won’t happen unless you start taking responsibility for yourself.”

“Yes, sir,” she managed, her voice trembling.

He studied her for a moment, then nodded. “You’re dismissed. Don’t let this happen again.”

[Name] stood quickly, bowing deeply. “Thank you, Mr. Blake. I won’t.”

As she hurried out of the classroom, she felt a mix of relief and shame swirling in her chest. One thing was certain—she couldn’t let herself be late again.

[Name] slung her bag over her shoulder, her face flushed with lingering shame as she quickly left the classroom. Each step away from Mr. Blake’s office-like presence felt like a release, but the weight of his words pressed heavily on her chest. She leaned against the nearest wall, exhaling shakily. Her fingers found her temple, pinching in an attempt to ease the throbbing headache that had started from all the stress.

“Why can’t anything go right today?” she muttered under her breath, squeezing her eyes shut.

But her fleeting moment of peace shattered when a familiar, mocking voice interrupted.

“Well, well, look who got herself another lecture,” Himizu drawled, his tone dripping with teasing amusement. He strolled toward her with his signature lazy smirk, his hands tucked casually into his pockets.

[Name] groaned, throwing her head back against the wall in exasperation. “Ugh, not now, Himizu. I’m not in the mood for your crap.”

But Himizu only grinned wider, tilting his head playfully as he came to a stop a few feet away from her. “Aw, come on, [Name]. You’re no fun. You’re practically the school’s poster girl for tardiness. Don’t tell me you’ve given up already?”

Her glare shot daggers at him. “Buzz off, Himizu. I mean it.”

He raised his hands in mock surrender, his tone suddenly shifting into something that almost sounded sincere. “Hey, hey, relax. I’m not here to poke fun at you… well, not entirely.”

[Name] crossed her arms, skepticism clear on her face. “Then what do you want?”

Himizu took a small step closer, the mischievous twinkle in his eye momentarily dimmed by something resembling genuine remorse. “I just wanted to apologize,” he said, shrugging nonchalantly. “You know, for butting in back at the café the other day. I didn’t mean to ruin your little study date with Ikki. I’ve been told I can be… intrusive.”

[Name] blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected apology. Himizu? Apologizing? That alone was enough to make her lower her guard slightly.

Before she could respond, Himizu pulled out a neatly wrapped piece of chocolate from his pocket, holding it out to her with a faint smile. “Here. Consider it a peace offering. And, you know, a little sugar boost before your next exam.”

She hesitated for a moment, her eyes flickering between his face and the chocolate in his hand. “You’re being suspiciously nice,” she muttered, though there was no malice in her tone.

“Suspicious? Me?” Himizu feigned hurt, clutching his chest dramatically. “[Name], I’m wounded. I’m just trying to make amends here.”

Against her better judgment, she reached out and took the chocolate. “Well… thanks, I guess,” she said, unwrapping it carefully. “This is… surprisingly thoughtful of you.”

Himizu’s smirk returned, his eyes glinting with something unreadable as he watched her pop the chocolate into her mouth.

[Name’s] expression lit up as the rich, velvety flavor melted on her tongue. “Wow, this is actually really good,” she said, smiling despite herself. “Did you make this or something?”

Himizu chuckled, his voice low and smooth. “Let’s just say I have my ways. Go on, have another. You deserve it after the day you’ve had.”

Her smile grew a little brighter as she reached for another piece, oblivious to the subtle shift in his expression. Behind his charming facade, there was a glint of calculated satisfaction in his eyes, the kind that hinted at ulterior motives.

[Name] finished the second piece with a grateful sigh. “Thanks, Himizu. I appreciate it. I needed this.”

“Anytime,” he said smoothly, his smirk deepening. “I hope it helps you feel… better during your next class.”

She didn’t notice the slight emphasis he placed on the word “better,” nor the way his gaze lingered on her as she turned to leave.

“I’ll see you around,” she called over her shoulder, waving lightly as she hurried off toward her next exam.

Himizu remained where he stood, watching her retreating figure with a knowing snicker. “Oh, you will, [Name],” he murmured under his breath, his voice dripping with amusement. “You definitely will.”

As he turned to walk away, the sound of his laughter echoed faintly through the hallway, leaving an unsettling tension in the air.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The classroom buzzed softly as students settled into their seats, preparing for the AP Government and Politics exam. The air was filled with the rustling of papers and the occasional cough, but [Name] could barely register any of it. Her body felt like it was on fire. She sat stiffly, her fingers trembling as she gripped the edges of her desk. Her face was flushed a deep crimson, and her breaths came shallow and erratic.

Something was terribly wrong.

Her skin tingled with an unbearable sensitivity, every movement of her clothes against her body making her shiver. Her mind raced, screaming at her to keep calm, to hold it together. But her body refused to obey. Her thighs pressed together beneath the desk as she shifted uncomfortably in her seat, biting her lip to stifle the soft whimpers threatening to escape.

“What… What did Himizu do to me?” she thought desperately, her heart pounding in her chest.

Just then, the chair next to her scraped against the floor. She flinched, her body jolting at the sudden sound. It was Tabito, her senpai, sliding into his seat. His sharp gaze scanned the room before landing on her.

“Yo, [Name],” he greeted casually, leaning back in his chair with his usual confident smirk. “How’s it going?”

[Name] didn’t respond. She sat frozen, her hands clenched tightly on the desk as she stared straight ahead, trying to ignore the heat radiating through her body.

Tabito raised an eyebrow, noticing her unusual silence. “[Name]?” he repeated, his voice tinged with curiosity. When she still didn’t reply, he leaned closer, his hand lightly brushing her shoulder.

Her reaction was immediate. She yelped, jerking away from his touch as if she’d been burned. Her wide, panicked eyes met his, and she clapped a hand over her mouth to suppress the sound.

Tabito frowned, his sharp eyes narrowing as he studied her. Her flushed face, her rapid breathing, the way she squirmed uncomfortably in her seat—something was definitely off.

“Hey… Are you okay?” he asked, his tone uncharacteristically serious.

“I—I’m fine,” she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. She couldn’t meet his gaze, instead staring down at her desk as her fingers fidgeted with the hem of her skirt.

Tabito didn’t buy it for a second. His keen nose picked up on something strange, something… intoxicating. It was faint but unmistakable—a sweet, musky scent that clung to her like a second skin. His eyes widened slightly as realization dawned on him.

“Aphrodisiac?” he muttered under his breath, barely loud enough for her to hear.

[Name’s] head shot up, her eyes filled with a mix of embarrassment and alarm. “W-What?” she whispered, her voice trembling.

Before he could respond, the professor began handing out the exam papers, and the room fell into an eerie silence.

[Name] forced herself to focus on the paper in front of her, but her hands trembled as she picked up her pen. The questions blurred before her eyes as she struggled to write, her body betraying her with every passing second. Her breaths came faster, her chest heaving as she fought to maintain her composure.

“Keep it together… Just get through the exam,” she thought desperately, her pen scratching against the paper.

But it was impossible. The heat was unbearable, and her body ached with a need she didn’t understand. She pressed her lips together tightly to stifle a whimper, her free hand gripping the edge of the desk so hard her knuckles turned white.

Tabito, seated beside her, watched her out of the corner of his eye. Her behavior was anything but normal, and the scent wafting off her was growing stronger. His mind raced as he tried to piece together what had happened.

He leaned slightly closer, keeping his voice low so as not to draw attention. “[Name],” he murmured, his tone unusually gentle. “Did you eat something before coming here?”

She hesitated, her eyes darting toward him. “Y-Yeah,” she admitted quietly, her voice strained. “Himizu… He gave me some chocolate… He said it was an apology…”

Tabito’s jaw tightened, his gaze darkening. “That bastard,” he muttered, his voice laced with anger.

[Name’s] eyes filled with panic. “W-What’s happening to me?” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Tabito’s expression softened slightly, though his sharp eyes remained focused. “Just breathe,” he instructed. “Whatever he gave you, it’s messing with your system. You need to stay calm and get through this exam. I’ll handle the rest later.”

[Name] nodded weakly, her hand clutching the pen so tightly it hurt. She kept her head down, focusing every ounce of her willpower on completing the exam.

Tabito, meanwhile, kept a watchful eye on her, his mind already plotting how he would deal with Himizu once this was over. No one messed with [Name] and got away with it—not on his watch.

The classroom was oppressively quiet, the only sounds being the faint scratching of pens against paper and the occasional creak of a chair. The tension in the room was suffocating, but for [Name], it was almost unbearable. Her body trembled as she rested her head on the desk, her breaths coming in short, ragged bursts. She had finally made it through the exam, but the aphrodisiac's effects seemed to be intensifying, her body betraying her in the worst way.

Her thighs clenched together tightly, trying to create some semblance of relief, but it only seemed to make the sensation worse. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she whimpered softly, muffling the sound with her hand. Tears began to well up in her eyes,blurring her vision as she struggled to maintain her composure.

Just when she thought she couldn't endure it any longer, she felt a hand on her lap. Her eyes widened, and a small yelp escaped her lips as she flinched.

"Relax," Tabito's voice murmured softly in her ear, low enough that no one else could hear. His hand rested lightly on her thigh, and he began rubbing slow, firm circles in an attempt to soothe her.

[Name]'s breath hitched, her body jolting at the unexpected touch. The heat flooding her system surged, and her sensitivity skyrocketed. Tears slipped silently down her cheeks as she clenched her fists, trying desperately not to make a sound.

Tabito smirked faintly, his sharp eyes flicking between his exam paper and her trembling form. "Shh, it's okay, [Name]," he whispered, his tone both soothing and commanding. "It's almost over. Just try to hold on a little longer."

But his efforts to calm her were having the opposite effect. The gentle pressure of his hand on her thigh sent shivers through her, the friction amplifying the unbearable sensitivity coursing through her body. Her mind was a chaotic blur, filled with both shame and desperation.

Meanwhile, two pairs of eyes had noticed the unfolding scene.Across the room, Alexis's gaze darkened as he peered over his paper.

His eyes locked onto Tabito's hand on [Name]'s thigh, his jaw tightening with barely concealed jealousy. His fingers gripped his pen so tightly it threatened to snap.

"Karasu," he thought bitterly, his lips curling into a subtle sneer. "Always so bold, aren't you? She doesn't belong to you."

At the same time, Seishiro, seated a few rows ahead, lazily turned his head. He had finished his exam early and was now bored out of his mind. He wasn't allowed to use his phone or nap, so his attention wandered-until he heard a faint yelp behind him.

Glancing over his shoulder, he caught sight of [Name]'s flushed, tear-streaked face and Tabito's smirking expression as his hand subtly moved beneath the desk. Nagi's gray eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of curiosity sparking in his otherwise apathetic demeanor.

"What's going on back there?" he mused silently, his gaze lingering on [Name]'s trembling form.

Meanwhile in the corner of the front two males were bored out of their minds as they continued their exam, Oliver rested his hand on his chin while Shuuto frustratingly flipped through the exams, it wasn’t until they both caught a whiff of what smells Like aphrodisiac. “Oi do you smell that” Oliver leans to his partner. 

Shuuto instantly nodded as he looked around, trying to find the scent from their person, it wasn’t until both of them spotted the distressed [Name] with a flushed face as Tabito continued to serve her thighs to calm her.

Oliver scuffed up a laugh while Shuuto licked his lips in hunger. “Heh, I bet she'll taste amazing right now.” Oliver let out a dry chuckle. 

Tabito, oblivious to their stares, leaned in closer to [Name], his breath warm against her ear. "You're doing great," he murmured, his voice soft but firm. "Just a little longer, okay? The exam's almost over, and then we'll figure this out.”

[Name] bit her lip, her tears falling faster as she fought to suppress the whimpers threatening to escape. Her entire body felt like it was on fire, every nerve ending alight with unbearable sensitivity. She clenched her fists so tightly her nails dug into her palms, the pain grounding her ever so slightly.

But her resolve was crumbling. The overwhelming sensations, combined with the shame of her situation, were too much to bear. She let out a soft, muffled sob, her shoulders shaking as she tried to keep herself quiet.

Tabito's smirk faltered for a moment as he noticed her tears. His hand stilled, his expression softening ever so slightly. "[Name],” he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I'm sorry... I Didn't mean to make it worse."

His words were meant to be comforting, but they only added to her humiliation. She shook her head weakly, unable to respond.

The exam timer finally rang, signaling the end of the session. The teacher began collecting papers, and the students started packing up their things. [Name] remained frozen, her head still resting on the desk as she tried to compose herself.

Tabito withdrew his hand, leaning back in his chair as if nothing had happened. But his sharp eyes flicked briefly to the four, noting their pointed stares. He smirked faintly, his expression unreadable as he leaned closer to [Name] one last time.

"Let's get you out of here," he murmured, his tone low and calm.

[Name] nodded weakly, her movements slow and shaky as she gathered her belongings. But as she stood to leave, she felt the weight of multiple gazes on her. Ness's glare was icy, his lips pressed into a thin line, while Nagi's lazy yet observant eyes tracked her every move. As Oliver continues to watch her like a prey and Shuuto staring at her hungrily.

The tension in the room was palpable, a storm brewing beneath the surface.

And [Name], caught in the center of it all, could do nothing but endure.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The hallways buzzed with the low hum of students talking and shuffling to their next classes. Tabito clenched his jaw, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd as he half-dragged, half-carried [Name] through the chaos. Her body trembled against his, her breaths shallow, her skin flushed a deep crimson. The effects of the aphrodisiac were intensifying, and her legs threatened to buckle beneath her.

"Damn it, [Name], hold on," Tabito muttered under his breath, his tone uncharacteristically concerned. He tightened his grip on her waist, his mind racing to find a secluded spot where he could help her ride this out without drawing attention.

But it was proving αιtticuit. Every few steps, students turned to glance at the odd pair, their curiosity barely masked. Whispers began to ripple through the crowd, and Tabito's patience thinned.

"Keep walking, mind your own damn business," he growled, glaring at a group of underclassmen who quickly averted their eyes.

[Name] let out a soft whimper, her head lolling against his shoulder. Her body felt like it was on fire, her nerves alight with unbearable sensitivity. Each step sent jolts of sensation through her, and her vision blurred with unshed tears.

"Karasu... I-I can't..." she choked out, her voice barely audible.

Tabito cursed under his breath, his frustration mounting. "Just a little further," he said, trying to sound reassuring despite the tension in his voice.

But fate had other plans. As they turned a corner, a sudden jostle from a passing student broke Tabito's grip on [Name]. She stumbled, her weakened legs giving out beneath her, and before Tabito could react, she disappeared into the sea of students.

"Shit!" Tabito spat, his eyes darting wildly as he shoved through the crowd. "[Name]!”

His heart raced as he pushed past students, ignoring their annoyed protests. He knew how vulnerable she was, how dangerous it was for her to be alone in this state. His mind reeled with possibilities, each one worse than the last.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name], meanwhile, found herself in a haze, her legs barely supporting her as she leaned against a wall for support. Her mind was a chaotic blur, her body betraying her with every pulse of unbearable heat. She barely registered the hand that suddenly clamped over her mouth, silencing her startled gasp as he was yanked into a dark, cramped storage closet.

The door slammed shut behind her, and she was pressed against the wall, her heart pounding in her chest. The air was thick and musty, filled with the scent of cleaning supplies and dust. But another scent overpowered it-a scent dark and intoxicating, like aged wine mixed with something predatory.

"Shh..." a low voice murmured near her ear, sending shivers down her spine.

[Name]'s breath hitched as she felt the weight of a body pressing against hers, trapping her in the confined space. Her hands instinctively pushed against the figure's chest, but her strength was no match for whoever held her captive.

"Don't struggle," the voice purred, its tone a chilling mix of amusement and hunger. "You're too delicate right now, Sanzuku."

She froze, her mind racing. The voice was unfamiliar, smooth yet laced with a dangerous edge. Her tears spilled over as she whimpered softly, her body trembling under the weight of her captor's proximity.

"P-please..." she managed to whisper, her voice shaky and weak. The figure chuckled darkly, their breath warm against her neck. "You smell so... intoxicating," they murmured, their nose brushing against her skin as they inhaled deeply. "Like a feast waiting to be devoured."

[Name]'s heart felt like it would burst from her chest. She squirmed, her movements only eliciting another low laugh from the mysterious figure.

"Ah, such a rare delicacy," they continued, their voice dripping with dark satisfaction. "So sensitive... so vulnerable.”

She bit her lip, desperately trying to stifle the noises threatening to escape her. The heat coursing through her veins made every touch unbearable, every breath a struggle.

"Let me go..." she pleaded, her voice barely above a whisper.

The figure leaned in closer, their lips brushing against her ear as they whispered, "Why would I do that when you're so... irresistible?"

[Name]'s tears flowed freely, a torrent of anguish and fear, her mind spiraling deeper into panic with each passing moment. The once familiar room seemed to close in around her, its walls shrinking as if the very space were suffocating her. The oppressive darkness clung to her skin, the silence pressing down like a weight too heavy to bear. Her chest tightened, making it nearly impossible to breathe. She could barely think through the haze of fear and the overwhelming, uncontrollable effects of the aphrodisiac coursing through her veins.

Her body felt foreign to her now, each tremor betraying the deep sense of helplessness that surged within her. Her captor's touch—his hands sliding lower—made her stomach churn with revulsion. A muffled sob escaped her lips as her trembling fingers desperately clawed at the cold wall behind her, anchoring herself to something solid in the midst of her unraveling. And yet, despite her fear, there was a flicker of hope, a distant sound that pierced the heavy silence—footsteps. Could it be? Was someone coming?

The cramped storage closet reeked of cleaning chemicals, the sharp scent of bleach mixing with something far more metallic—a thick, sickening smell that made her stomach roll. Blood. She could smell blood in the air, her own. A chill of dread passed through her as her back pressed harder against the cold, unyielding wall. Her body felt too weak to fight, her limbs sluggish, as though the aphrodisiac were draining the last of her strength. Every nerve in her body was hypersensitive, each pulse of her heart sending waves of heat and discomfort through her, making her skin burn. She gasped for air, her body twitching involuntarily, caught between terror and the drug's maddening effects.

"Karasu... please... help me..." The words barely left her lips, barely audible above her frantic breathing. Her tear-streaked face was flushed with both fear and something far more unsettling, a tremor in her voice as she whispered his name.

But it wasn't Tabito who stood before her—it was Himizu, his eyes gleaming with an unsettling hunger. His lips curled into a twisted smirk, a look of cruel satisfaction as he stepped closer. "You're even more exquisite like this," he murmured, his voice a low, velvety drawl that sent shivers down her spine. "So weak... so utterly vulnerable."

[Name] struggled, her body feeling like it was encased in lead. Her limbs refused to obey her frantic will to escape. "P-please... let me go..." she managed to choke out, her breath hitching with each desperate plea, tears flooding her cheeks.

Himizu tilted his head, the smirk on his lips growing darker, more sinister. "Let you go?" he scoffed. "Oh, [Name], you're far too precious for that." His fingers, cold and deliberate, brushed along her flushed skin, tracing a slow, agonizing path from her cheek to her exposed neck. The touch was electric, sparking a painful heat that surged through her, making her body shudder against her will. She bit her lip, desperately trying to suppress the reflexive moan that threatened to escape.

"Stop... please..." Her voice trembled, barely a whisper, drowned by her fear and shame.

But Himizu paid her pleas no mind. He leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear, his voice thick with dark satisfaction. "You smell divine," he whispered, inhaling deeply as if he could taste her in the air. "And your blood... I've craved it for so long."

Before she could even react, the sharp sting of pain pierced through her neck as Himizu sank his fangs deep into her tender flesh. The agony was immediate, excruciating. [Name]'s body jerked violently, a strangled cry tearing from her throat. Her hand flew instinctively to her mouth, silencing the noise, her sobs muffled as she pressed her palm over her trembling lips. The pain was unbearable, every beat of her heart seeming to amplify the sensation, and she could feel herself slipping, losing control.

Himizu groaned against her neck, his voice thick with satisfaction as he drank deeply, his grip tightening around her waist, anchoring her in place. "Such a perfect taste," he muttered between gulps, his words full of twisted pleasure. She felt the blood leaving her, felt her strength draining away, but the aphrodisiac kept her body alive with sensitivity, each brush of his fingers against her skin setting her nerves alight. Her body betrayed her, a shudder running through her, her face flushed with shame as she struggled to hold back the involuntary sounds that threatened to escape.

"Stop... I-I can't..." she sobbed, her voice a broken whisper.

Himizu pulled back, his lips stained with her blood. He licked them clean, his crimson eyes gleaming with wicked delight. "You're fighting it, but your body knows the truth," he taunted, his voice dripping with sadistic pleasure. "You're mine, [Name]. No one else can have you."

Her breaths were shallow, her vision swimming with tears, the world blurring in and out of focus. She shook her head weakly, her voice barely a whisper as she clung to the fading sliver of hope. "Karasu... help me..."

Meanwhile, Tabito was storming through the hallways, his jaw clenched and his eyes blazing with fury. His instincts screamed that something was wrong—he could feel it in the air, the faint but unmistakable scent of [Name]'s blood, pulling him like a magnet. His heart pounded in his chest, the thought of her in danger sending his mind into overdrive.

"Damn it, where is she?" he muttered under his breath, pushing past the students who seemed oblivious to the danger. His thoughts were a whirlwind, the image of [Name’s] tear-streaked face flashing in his mind.

He didn't stop until he reached the storage area. The muffled sound of a sob reached his ears from behind a closed door. His heart leaped into his throat, and without hesitation, he kicked the door open, his sharp gaze immediately locking onto the scene before him.

[Name] was slumped against the wall, her body trembling, her skin pale. The fresh bite marks on her neck sent a surge of rage through him. Himizu stood over her, his lips bloodstained, a twisted smirk curling on his face.

"Ah Karasu!," Himizu said calmly, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand as if he had done nothing wrong. "You came just in time."

Tabito's fury ignited. His voice was low and venomous, laced with pure threat as he stepped forward. "Get away from her."

Himizu chuckled darkly, his crimson eyes narrowing. "And if I don't?"

Without a second thought, Tabito moved like a blur. He grabbed Himizu by the collar, slamming him against the opposite wall with such force that the shelves rattled, a bottle of cleaning solution crashing to the floor. "Touch her again," Tabito growled, his voice dripping with menace, "and I'll end you."

Himizu smirked, unfazed, his voice mocking. "So what? Upset I got the first drink to your precious kohai? She doesn't belong to you y’know?"

Tabito's grip tightened, his knuckles whitening. His eyes narrowed with cold fury. "She doesn't belong to anyone, least of all a snake like you."

With a final, forceful shove, Tabito sent Himizu sprawling to the ground, his body crashing onto the floor with a sickening thud. Tabito turned his attention to [Name]. Her face was pale, her eyes glassy, exhaustion and fear evident in her every breath. Gently, Tabito knelt in front of her, his voice softening as he took her trembling hand. "Sanzuku, it's okay," he whispered, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I've got you now."

Her lips quivered, and new tears welled up in her eyes as she whispered his name. "K-Karasu..."

"I'm here," he said firmly, his expression softening despite the storm raging inside him. "You're safe."

Carefully, he lifted her into his arms, his jaw set with renewed determination. He shot one last glare at Himizu before walking out, his voice cold and unwavering. "If you ever come near her again, you'll regret it."

All Himizu did was stick out his tongue and roll his eyes “yeah right” he murmured. 

As Tabito carried [Name] down the hallway, his heart thudded in his chest, his resolve hardening. He silently vowed to protect her, no matter the cost. No one would harm her again. Not while he still drew breath.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The dimly lit nurse's office was an oasis of muted colors and gentle sounds, filled with the faint hum of a small ceiling fan that spun lazily overhead. The sterile scent of antiseptic mingled with the soft rustle of bedsheets, creating an atmosphere that felt both clinical and oddly comforting as [Name] lay on one of the examination beds. Her face was pale, a stark contrast to the vibrant decor of the room, beads of sweat still clinging to her skin as if they were reluctant to let go. She clutched the thin blanket covering her trembling form, her fingers white-knuckled as she fought to steady her breathing.

By her side sat Tabito, his expression a tumult of concern and barely contained fury. His usually composed demeanor was shattered, hands clenched into fists on his lap, knuckles turning white as he struggled against the urge to lash out at the circumstances that had brought them here. His eyes, sharp and intense, were fixed on [Name], willing her to recover, to feel safe again.

Pablo Cavasoz, the young and quirky nurse, moved gracefully around the room, a whirlwind of energy against the backdrop of stillness. Dressed in a slightly oversized white coat adorned with an eclectic assortment of pins featuring colorful cartoon characters, he hummed a cheerful tune that felt almost out of place in the somber setting. His round glasses reflected the faint glow of the nearby lamp, casting tiny rainbows on the walls, while his perfectly styled hair, with its playful spikes, added a dash of flair to his otherwise clinical appearance.

“All right, [Name]-chan,” Pablo said in his soft yet playful tone, placing a small vial of medicine and a glass of water on the bedside table, the clink of glass punctuating the quiet. “This will help neutralize the aphrodisiac in your system. It’s fast-acting, but you’ll still need to rest up for a while.” His voice was warm, wrapping around her like a gentle hug, soothing and reassuring.

[Name] nodded weakly, her voice barely audible as she murmured, “Thank you, Nurse Cavasoz…” The words felt heavy, laden with both gratitude and a deep sense of vulnerability.

Pablo waved a hand dismissively, a bright smile illuminating his face, the kind that could chase away shadows. “Please, I told you to call me Pablo! Nurse Cavasoz sounds so stuffy, don’t you think? Besides,” he added, striking a playful pose, “I’m the cutest in this entire building. Cute names only!” His lightheartedness was infectious, but it failed to reach Tabito, whose focus remained unwaveringly on [Name].

Despite her fragile state, [Name] managed a small, fleeting smile, the corners of her lips twitching up momentarily before the weight of her reality pulled them down again. Tabito's sharp eyes remained fixed on her, his jaw tightening as he noticed her wince with every slight movement, a silent promise brewing within him to protect her at all costs.

Pablo handed her the glass of water, his tone softening as he leaned closer. “Drink up, sweetheart. We need to flush that nasty stuff out of your system. And next time, be more careful, okay? You’re no use to us in this condition.” His gaze was earnest, a blend of concern and warmth as he encouraged her to take care of herself.

[Name] nodded again, taking small, tentative sips from the glass. The cool water felt soothing as it trickled down her throat, a gentle balm against the turmoil within her. Yet, her hands trembled slightly as she held the cup, and she couldn’t help but gaze down at the clear reflection of her face in the water. Her eyes, betrayed the storm of emotions swirling inside her, her lips trembling as memories of the incident flooded her mind.

Tabito noticed her growing stillness, the way her breath caught in her throat. “[Name],” he said gently, his voice laced with concern, the urgency of his feelings barely contained. “Are you okay? Is the medicine working?”

For a moment, [Name] didn’t respond. The silence stretched between them, heavy and charged. Then, without warning, tears welled up in her eyes and spilled over, streaming silently down her cheeks like a river of sorrow. She clutched the blanket tightly, her shoulders shaking as quiet sobs escaped her lips, each one a testament to the pain she had endured.

“I… I can’t believe this happened to me,” she whispered, her voice breaking like fragile glass. “It was horrible, Karasu… I felt so helpless…” The admission hung in the air, raw and vulnerable, exposing her innermost fears.

Tabito’s heart clenched at the sight of her pain, a fierce protectiveness igniting within him. Without hesitation, he leaned forward and enveloped her in a protective embrace, his arms wrapping around her trembling frame as if he could shield her from the world. “It’s over now,” he murmured, his voice low and soothing, a balm for her wounded spirit. “You’re safe, [Name]. I won’t let anyone hurt you again.” His words were a promise, a vow that resonated deep within her.

[Name] buried her face in his chest, her tears soaking into his shirt as she cried openly, the floodgates of her emotions finally releasing. The warmth of his embrace offered a fragile sense of security, but the weight of the experience lingered heavily in her heart, a shadow that refused to dissipate.

Pablo, who had been silently observing the exchange, cleared his throat softly, breaking the intimate moment with his gentle presence. “Karasu-kun, make sure she rests. The medicine will take care of the physical effects, but the emotional wounds… those will take time.” His usual playful demeanor was replaced with a rare seriousness, a reminder that healing was a journey that required patience.

Tabito nodded, his eyes never leaving [Name’s] tear-streaked face, determination etched in every line of his expression. “I’ll stay with her,” he said firmly, a promise wrapped in resolve.

Pablo smiled faintly, his gaze softening as he gave a small, reassuring pat on [Name’s] shoulder. “You’ve got a good friend here, [Name]-chan. Don’t hesitate to call if you need anything, okay? Now, get some rest.” With that, he retreated to his desk, leaving the two alone in their shared cocoon of emotions.

The room fell into a soft silence, broken only by [Name’s] quiet sniffles and Tabito’s steady, calming words, a steady heartbeat in the chaos of her mind. 

“You don’t have to face this alone,” Tabito whispered, his hand gently stroking her hair, a soothing gesture that spoke volumes. “I’m here for you, no matter what.” His presence was a lifeline, a promise that, despite the darkness, there was still light to be found.

[Name] clung to him tighter, her tears gradually subsiding as exhaustion began to take over, the weight of her emotions shifting as she felt the warmth of his unwavering support. Though her heart still ached, she found a glimmer of comfort in his steadfast presence, a fragile hope that, somehow, she would heal, one day at a time.

The nurse’s office lamps cast a warm yet eerie ambiance over the small space. The soft hum of an air purifier and the occasional rustling of paperwork from Pablo’s desk were the only sounds accompanying the shallow, rhythmic breaths of [Name], who lay nestled beneath the crisp white sheets. The tension in her muscles had finally begun to ease, thanks to the medicine coursing through her veins, dulling the lingering effects of the aphrodisiac.

Pablo stood beside the bed, arms crossed, his head tilting slightly as he observed the sleeping girl. “It’s best if she rests,” he mused, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. “Her immune system is still tense from all that stress. She needs time to recover.”

[Name], still half-conscious, managed a tired but grateful smile. “Thank you… for everything,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Pablo blinked in surprise before a light pink dusted his cheeks. He chuckled softly, placing a hand over his chest as if deeply moved. “Ah, what a precious compliment. You really do know how to make a man blush, [Name]-chan.”

A dark shadow loomed over Pablo before he could revel in his moment of flattery any longer. Tabito’s eyes burned with irritation as he shot Pablo a piercing glare, his body tensing in barely restrained jealousy. He did not like how [Name] was giving him attention—especially not Pablo of all people.

Ignoring Pablo entirely, Tabito shifted his focus back to [Name], his expression softening. With gentle fingers, he caressed her cheek, the warmth of his touch sending a shiver down her spine. “Rest, [Name],” he murmured, his voice deep and soothing. “I’ll be here when you wake up. I promise.”

[Name’s] eyes flickered up to meet his, her heart skipping a beat at the tenderness in his voice. A faint blush colored her cheeks, and she gave him a weak nod. “Karasu… thank you… for everything,” she murmured before her eyes fluttered shut.

Tabito took her delicate hand in his, lacing his fingers through hers as her breathing slowed into a steady rhythm. The medicine had finally taken full effect, guiding her into a peaceful slumber.

The room remained silent for a few moments, save for the sound of [Name’s] slow breaths. Then, Pablo let out a small whistle, crossing his arms as he observed her sleeping form.

“She really is beautiful, isn’t she?” he remarked nonchalantly, a smirk playing on his lips. “It’s no wonder she’s gained so much attention lately… so many guys circling around her, craving her blood.”

Tabito’s entire body went rigid. His grip on [Name’s] hand instinctively tightened as his gaze snapped toward Pablo, his eyes now glowing with a predatory sharpness.

“Shut the hell up,” Tabito growled through clenched teeth. “Don’t talk about her like that.”

Pablo chuckled, completely unfazed by Tabito’s hostility. He leaned back against the desk, crossing one leg over the other in a casual stance. “What? I’m just stating the obvious,” he mused, tilting his head. “Someone like you—so desperate to claim her—doesn’t stand a chance, not when you’re up against us.”

Tabito’s breath hitched. He knew exactly what Pablo meant. The others. The vampires. They were all watching, all waiting, all hungry.

Tabito’s hand itched to ball into a fist. He wanted nothing more than to drive it straight into Pablo’s smug face. But [Name’s] soft hand lay in his own, her warmth anchoring him. No matter how badly he wanted to rip that cocky expression off Pablo’s face, he wouldn’t leave her side.

Instead, he leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a deadly whisper. “You’re wrong about one thing,” he said, his glare sharp enough to cut through steel.

“Oh?” Pablo smirked, raising a brow. “And what’s that?”

Tabito’s grip on [Name’s] hand tightened ever so slightly. “Unlike the rest of you, I don’t need to sink my teeth into her to be close to her.” His voice was steady, unwavering, filled with unshakable conviction. “I don’t need blood to want to protect her.”

Pablo’s smirk faltered for just a fraction of a second before he let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. “Tch. How noble,” he mused, standing upright. “But that won’t change the fact that the others won’t be so… patient.”

Tabito didn’t flinch. His eyes burned with an intensity that sent a clear message: Let them come.

Pablo exhaled through his nose, amused but knowing better than to provoke Tabito any further—for now. With a small stretch, he turned toward his desk, waving a dismissive hand. “Well, I suppose we’ll see how long your little resolve lasts, won’t we?”

Tabito didn’t respond. He simply sat back down beside [Name], brushing a strand of hair from her face as she continued to sleep peacefully, oblivious to the storm of possessive hunger brewing outside these walls.

No matter what, he would be there when she woke up. And he would make damn sure that no one—no one—laid a single fang on her again.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

A dull ringing filled her ears. Her body felt heavy, weighed down as if she had been submerged in water. Slowly, she blinked, the blinding fluorescent light above making her squint as her vision wavered, struggling to focus.

Where was she?

Her fingers twitched against the sterile sheets beneath her, the faint scent of antiseptic lingering in the air. The nurse's office? The realization settled into her sluggish mind. But something felt... wrong.

As she shifted slightly, a deep groan left her lips. Her head ached, and when she instinctively reached up to adjust her glasses, she grasped at nothing. Her breath hitched. Her vision -already blurry without them-was reduced to a hazy mess of indistinct shapes. A sense of unease slithered down her spine.

Something wasn't right.

She turned her head to the right- blinking against the blur-until her gaze landed on a figure seated beside her bed.

Her stomach dropped.

Mr. Luna sat there, slouched ever so slightly, his usual composed demeanor nowhere to be found. His lips curled into an unsettling smile that stretched far too wide, his golden hair disheveled as if he had been running his fingers through it obsessively. His piercing predator eyes gleamed with something unreadable- something twisted.

And then she saw it.

The deep crimson splatters staining his white button-up shirt, dark streaks smeared across his jaw, dripping from his fingers like he had devoured something raw. The sharp contrast against his pale skin made her stomach churn violently.

[Name]'s entire body froze.

Her breath shallowed, her heart hammering so fiercely it felt as if it might burst from her ribcage. Her lips parted, a scream clawing up her throat

But before she could make a sound, a large, blood-streaked hand shot forward, slamming over her mouth with a force that sent her head snapping back against the pillow.

A thud.

Her eyes widened in horror as Mr. Luna leaned over her, his breath ghosting over her trembling skin. His smile never faltered.

"Shhh..." he whispered, pressing a single bloodied finger to his lips. His voice was calm, eerily gentle, yet laced with something inhuman.

[Name] whimpered beneath his palm, her vision swimming with unshed tears. She desperately tried to shake her head, tried to move, but her body felt sluggish, like she was sinking into the very mattress beneath her.

Her mind screamed run, but her limbs refused to obey.

Mr. Luna tilted his head, his grin widening at her distress. He traced his thumb along the corner of her lips, smearing something metallic onto her skin.

"Ah... such a delicate thing," he mused, his voice carrying that same mocking lilt he used in class when berating a student. "You always look so composed, so full of life." His fingers ghosted over her throat, feeling the erratic pulse pounding beneath her skin.

He let out a soft hum, as if delighted by it.

"But right now..." His grip on her chin tightened just enough to keep her from looking away. "...you're trembling."

[Name] squeezed her eyes shut, silent tears slipping past her lashes. This wasn't real. It couldn't be real.

Then, she felt something warm and wet press against the side of her throat-right where her pulse pounded furiously.

Her breath hitched violently as his tongue flicked out, tasting the sensitive flesh there.

A quiet, shuddering whimper escaped her lips.

Luna laughed.

"Oh, [Name]," he crooned, his voice dripping with sick amusement. "What a delicious reaction."

Her body jerked as she tried to push him away, but her strength was nonexistent, her limbs betraying her completely.

He chuckled, drawing back just enough to look her in the eyes. "Are you afraid?" he asked, though he already knew the answer.

[Name] barely managed to shake her head, but the attempt was feeble- pathetic, even.

Luna's expression darkened, his grip tightening as his nails lightly scraped her jaw.

"Lying doesn't suit you, darling."

Her breath stilled.

Then, without warning-he sank his teeth into her neck.A sharp, burning pain erupted through her skin as fangs pierced through like searing hot knives. [Name]'s body arched, a strangled cry muffled against his hand. The sensation was unbearable-both icy and scorching at once-making her nerves scream.

Her fingers clawed at his wrist, weakly trying to pry him off, but it was futile.

Her world was spinning.

Darkness crept at the edges of her vision as her heartbeat thundered in her ears, growing erratic, slower-

And then, everything faded to black.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

A desperate gasp tore from [Name’s] throat as she jolted upright, her chest heaving with ragged breaths. Her entire body was slick with sweat, her trembling hands clutching the bedsheets in a death grip. 

The remnants of the nightmare clung to her, suffocating, as if Luna’s presence was still lingering in the air. 

The phantom sensation of his fangs piercing her skin sent an involuntary shiver down her spine, and she instinctively reached up, her fingers ghosting over her neck.

‘It was just a dream… Just a dream…’

‘But it felt so real.’

She curled into herself, hugging her legs tightly against her chest, her breathing still erratic. Her vision, blurred without her glasses, only made the room feel more distorted—more unfamiliar. She felt utterly lost, trapped in the aftermath of a nightmare that refused to release its grip on her.

A chair scraped against the floor.

“[Name]?”

A voice, gentle yet concerned. Warm hands wrapped around her shoulders, pulling her into an embrace. Pablo.

She flinched at first, the lingering horror making her muscles tense, but when she registered the warmth of his body, she instinctively melted into his hold. He was solid, real, not a dream. Her fingers gripped onto the fabric of his coat, seeking something—anything—to ground herself.

"Shhh, it’s okay, I got you," Pablo murmured, his arms tightening around her protectively. He gently rocked her, one hand smoothing over her damp hair in slow, soothing strokes. "You’re safe. Whatever it was… it’s over now."

[Name] tried to suppress the sobs bubbling in her throat, but the moment she felt the comforting weight of his embrace, the dam broke. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she buried her face into his shoulder, muffling the sound of her cries.

“I-I had a nightmare…” she choked out, her voice barely above a whisper.

Pablo’s grip on her tightened just a little. "A nightmare?" he echoed, his voice laced with concern.

She nodded against him, unable to find the words to explain the horror she had just witnessed in her dream. She didn’t dare speak his name—the sheer thought of Luna’s wicked grin, the blood staining his lips, made her stomach churn violently.

Pablo didn’t press her for details. Instead, he hummed softly, his fingers idly twirling a strand of her hair. "Nightmares can be cruel, huh? They feel so real, like they’re clawing into your mind and refusing to let go." He let out a small sigh. "But you know what? They can’t hurt you. Not as long as I’m here."

[Name] sniffled, pulling away slightly to rub at her swollen eyes. "Thank you… I—" She swallowed thickly, still shaken. "I just… It scared me."

Pablo gave her a reassuring smile, his amber eyes glinting under the dimmed lights of the nurse’s office. "Of course it did, sweetheart. But you’re too pretty to cry over something as dumb as a nightmare." He wiped a stray tear from her cheek with his thumb, his touch lingering just a second too long. "And lucky for you, you’ve got me. I can chase all those bad dreams away."

[Name] let out a small, watery chuckle, despite the weight in her chest. "You make it sound like you’re some kind of dream guardian."

Pablo gasped dramatically, clutching his chest. "Oh, darling, I am!" He wiggled his eyebrows. "Aren’t I cute enough to be one?"

His theatrics earned a faint giggle from her, and the tension in her shoulders finally eased. Pablo, ever the charmer, always knew how to pull her out of dark moments.

But then, as her mind settled, she noticed something—or rather, someone was missing.

She glanced around, her heart sinking slightly. "Where’s Karasu?"

Pablo’s expression flickered, just for a fraction of a second, before his usual carefree demeanor returned. "Oh, that guy?" He shrugged. "Had to leave for practice. You know how he is, all serious about his sport and whatnot."

[Name’s] lips parted slightly, a small pang of disappointment blooming in her chest. "Oh…"

Pablo watched her closely, the way her gaze dropped slightly, the slight frown tugging at her lips. He resisted the urge to scoff. Tch. That bastard Karasu always gets her attention…

But he didn’t let his irritation show. Instead, he cupped her cheek, tilting her head so she had no choice but to look at him. "Hey, don’t make that face, sweetheart," he cooed, his voice dripping with honeyed sweetness. "You’ve still got me here, haven’t you?"

[Name] blinked, her expression softening as she smiled faintly. "Yeah… Thank you, Pablo. For everything."

Pablo grinned, resting his chin on her head. "That’s what I’m here for, my darling," he murmured, his voice velvety smooth. His arms wrapped around her once more, holding her just a bit closer.

She didn’t know it.

She didn’t realize it.

But the way he clung to her, the way his fingers traced patterns against her back, the way his gaze darkened ever so slightly as he breathed in her scent—

He wasn’t just comforting her.

He was claiming her.

The moment [Name] stepped out of the nurse’s office, she exhaled deeply, feeling as if she had just surfaced from drowning waters. The sterile scent of antiseptics still clung to her senses, but at least now she was free. After everything—the fever, the nightmare, Pablo’s strangely intense presence—she finally had a moment to herself.

Pulling out her phone, she checked the time.

6:47 PM.

Only two hours had passed since she had dozed off in the infirmary. Two hours of lost time. Two hours that she should have spent on the court, practicing, keeping herself sharp, keeping herself distracted.

Her lips pressed into a thin line. There was no point in going now—practice was long over. With a sigh, she decided to head back to her dorm, hoping a good night’s rest would clear her mind.

Walking through the dimly lit hallways, she reached the elevator and pressed the button. A soft ding echoed in the empty corridor, the metallic doors sliding open with a mechanical whir. [Name] stepped inside and hit the down button, watching the doors begin to close.

‘Finally… just a few minutes, and I’ll be in my room.’

But just as the doors were about to seal shut, a smooth voice cut through the quiet.

"Wait a moment, querida."

A hand—pale, slender, yet undeniably firm—stopped the doors from closing. The motion sensors detected it instantly, forcing them to slide back open.

[Name’s] heart stopped.

Her blood ran ice cold as her breath hitched in her throat.

There, standing before her, was him.

Mr. Luna.

Her psychology professor stepped inside with that ever-present, unnerving smile curling on his lips. His sharp jaded eyes locked onto her, gleaming like molten gold under the dim elevator lights. There was something off about them—too intense, too knowing, as if he could peer straight into her thoughts.

The doors slid shut behind him, sealing them inside.

[Name] forced herself to swallow the lump in her throat. Her hands curled into fists at her sides as she shifted awkwardly, willing herself to stay composed.

"Ah, qué suerte." Luna hummed, his deep Spanish accent making his words flow like honey—syrupy, rich, but far too thick. "What a delightful surprise to run into you at such a time."

[Name’s] fingers twitched as she gulped, forcing herself to nod.

"I-I guess so…" she murmured, barely managing to keep her voice steady.

But inside, panic was crawling up her spine.

She hadn’t forgotten.

The nightmare. The vision of him standing over her, his shirt stained red, his lips curled into that same off-putting smile. The way he had shushed her, his hand covering her mouth as if to silence her forever.

And now—now she was trapped with him in an elevator.

The enclosed space felt suffocating. The air suddenly seemed thicker, heavier, pressing down on her lungs.

Luna chuckled softly, a low and velvety sound that sent a chill down her spine.

"You seem tense, mi querida…" His voice was smooth, playful—yet there was a certain edge to it, something almost mocking. "Long day, hmm?"

[Name] forced out a shaky breath.

"Y-Yeah… Just… not feeling great."

Luna tilted his head slightly, watching her with far too much interest.

"Oh?" he mused. "Qué pena. And here I was, thinking you were simply avoiding me."

[Name] stiffened.

Her eyes darted toward the floor, anywhere but his piercing gaze. "O-Of course not," she lied, hoping he wouldn’t hear the slight tremble in her voice.

He let out a low hum, stepping closer.

Too close.

A mere breath away.

She flinched, her back pressing against the cold metal of the elevator wall.

His eyes gleamed with amusement, as if he enjoyed her reaction.

"You know," he drawled, lifting a hand lazily, trailing his fingers along the elevator’s sleek paneling, "it’s funny…" His gaze flickered back to her, that ever-present smirk widening.

"For someone so fearless on the basketball court… you seem rather skittish right now."

[Name]'s breath hitched.

Her fingers clenched the hem of her sleeve as she averted her gaze. "I just… had a bad dream, that’s all."

Luna’s smirk deepened.

"A dream?" he echoed, his voice dripping with intrigue.

[Name] nodded stiffly, not daring to elaborate.

Luna studied her, his eyes practically devouring every inch of her expression—the slight quiver of her lips, the stiffness in her shoulders, the way she refused to meet his gaze.

Then, as if something clicked in his mind, he let out a low chuckle.

"Ah… I see now," he murmured.

[Name] swallowed hard. "S-See what?"

Luna leaned in, his lips ghosting near her ear.

"You dreamt of me, didn’t you?"

[Name] froze.

Her breath caught in her throat as sheer terror shot through her veins like wildfire.

He knew.

He knew.

How? How?!

She snapped her head up to look at him, her eyes wide in shock.

Luna merely grinned, his sharp canines glinting under the dim elevator lights.

"Oh, querida…" He let out a mock sigh, feigning disappointment. "If you wanted to see me so badly, you could have simply asked."

The elevator dinged.

The doors slid open.

[Name] bolted.

Without a second thought, she shoved past him and darted out, her heart hammering against her ribs. She didn’t dare look back.

She didn’t need to.

She could feel his gaze burning into her back.

And in that moment, she knew—

This wasn’t the last time she would be alone with Mr. Luna.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The classroom was cold.

The harsh, sterile air carried the faint scent of ink, paper, and the distinct sharpness of Ms. Bogdanova’s ever-present perfume—a deep, musky blend that somehow made the room feel even heavier.

The overhead lights buzzed softly, casting an artificial glow onto the scattered desks, each occupied by weary students who, like [Name], were sentenced to this purgatory of unfinished exams. The air was thick with silence, only occasionally broken by the scratch of a pen against paper or the quiet shuffling of someone adjusting in their seat.

And yet, despite the eerie stillness, [Name] could barely keep her eyes open.

Her head was slumped onto her left arm, her right hand weakly gripping a pen as she desperately tried to finish her history exam. The text on the paper blurred together in a chaotic mess of black ink, her exhausted mind struggling to string together coherent thoughts.

Her eyelids grew heavier.

The pull of exhaustion was merciless.

Every blink lingered for a second too long.

Her grip on the pen weakened.

Her breathing slowed.

‘No, no, no, stay awake…’ she scolded herself internally, forcing her eyes back open.

But her body refused to cooperate.

She had spent the entire night haunted by him.

Mr. Luna’s voice still echoed in her ears, silky and teasing. His eyes, sharp and knowing, pierced through the darkness of her mind, as if he was still watching her—still toying with her.

She had tossed and turned in her bed, her heart pounding against her ribs long after she had escaped the elevator. Even in the safety of her dorm, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was still trapped—that she had never truly left that suffocating space with him.

And now, in the cold, suffocating silence of Ms. Bogdanova’s classroom, [Name] was fighting a battle against her own exhaustion.

What she didn’t realize, however—was that she wasn’t alone in her struggle.

From the corner of his eye, Alexis Ness watched her intently.

Seated right beside her, his magenta eyes flickered with amusement, tracing every little motion she made—the way her head bobbed slightly as she fought against sleep, the way her lips parted ever so slightly when she exhaled, her lashes fluttered like a butterfly’s wings whenever her eyes threatened to close completely.

To him—she looked adorable.

She was trying so hard to stay awake, yet failing so miserably.

Alexis found himself smiling—a small, amused curve of his lips.

His fingers drummed idly against his desk, but his gaze never wavered from [Name’s] face.

"You’re going to drool if you keep nodding off like that," he whispered, his voice light and teasing.

[Name] startled, her head snapping up as if she had just been electrocuted.

Her pen slipped from her grasp, clattering against the wooden surface of her desk.

She turned to face him, her eyes still glazed with sleep, her expression a mix of confusion and exhaustion.

"H-Huh…?" she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alexis chuckled softly, resting his chin on his palm as he leaned in just slightly.

"You look like you're about to pass out," he mused. His tone was gentle, almost playful—but there was something unreadable in his gaze.

[Name] blinked slowly, still trying to process his words.

She hadn't even realized he was sitting next to her.

Or rather—she had been too exhausted to care.

"I-I'm fine," she muttered, rubbing her eyes and straightening her posture in a poor attempt to look more alert. "I just need to finish this stupid exam…"

Alexis tilted his head slightly, his magenta eyes narrowing with interest.

"Hmm… but at what cost?"

[Name] frowned. "What do you mean?"

He smirked.

"I mean… if you keep pushing yourself like this, you're going to collapse before you even finish the last question."

She opened her mouth to argue, but before she could, Ms. Bogdanova’s sharp voice cut through the silence.

"Quiet."

The atmosphere in the room froze.

[Name] felt a chill run down her spine as she turned to see Ms. Bogdanova at her desk, her maroon eyes piercing through them like a hawk that had just spotted its prey.

She didn’t yell.

She didn’t even glare.

She simply stared—and that alone was enough to suffocate the entire room.

"Focus on your exams," she said coldly, tapping her nails against her desk in a slow, rhythmic pattern. "Or leave."

[Name] quickly grabbed her pen, her heart pounding.

Alexis, however, barely reacted.

Instead, he smiled…a small, knowing smirk as he turned back to his paper, twirling his pen between his fingers.

Still, his gaze lingered on [Name].

And she could feel it.

Even as she forced herself to concentrate, even as she tried to ignore the exhaustion creeping up on her again—she knew Alexis was watching her.

Observing her.

Admiring her.

But unlike Yoichi’s warmth or Ruka's overprotectiveness—Alexis’ attention felt… different.

Like he was enjoying something that she hadn’t quite figured out yet.

And that unsettled her more than she was willing to admit.

The classroom was eerily quiet.

The air was heavy with the scent of old books, the lingering traces of ink and paper that had been scrawled upon for the past hour. The harsh fluorescent lighting cast a pale glow over the room, giving the scene an almost sterile feeling, as if time had slowed to a crawl. The only sounds were the soft scratches of pens against paper, the occasional shuffle of a chair, and the steady, rhythmic ticking of the clock mounted on the wall.

But Alexis Ness wasn’t paying attention to any of that.

His magenta eyes were locked onto one thing—her.

[Name] had barely managed to finish her exam before slumping forward onto her desk, her arms folded beneath her head as she surrendered to exhaustion. Her long, lashes rested against her cheeks, her lips parted ever so slightly as she breathed in soft, even rhythms. Strands of her hair slipped free from her hair ties, framing her delicate face in a way that made Alexis' breath hitch in his throat.

She was utterly defenseless.

So vulnerable.

So perfect.

He swallowed hard, his fingers twitching at his side as he stared at her, utterly entranced.

"Meine Prinzessin"

His lips barely moved as he whispered her name under his breath, savoring the way it felt against his tongue.

His heart thudded heavily against his ribs, the dull pounding almost deafening in his ears.

She had no idea—no idea—just how much he adored her.

How much he had watched her.

How much he had wanted her.

Slowly, carefully, Alexis reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, tilting it slightly to capture her sleeping form. His fingers hovered over the screen for a moment, as if savoring the moment, before he pressed the button.

*Click.*

The soft shutter sound was barely audible, but it sent a thrill through him.

He took another.

And another.

Each snapshot was a treasure—each moment of her peaceful slumber a glimpse into something so precious, so intimate that it made his fingers tremble.

He wanted more.

His hand moved before he could stop himself, his fingers brushing against her forehead as he delicately pushed aside the stray strands of hair that had fallen over her face.

His breath hitched again.

She was so warm.

His fingertips lingered against her soft skin, tracing the curve of her temple, the gentle slope of her cheek.

She didn’t stir.

She didn’t even flinch.

A smirk curled at the edges of his lips.

"Tired little thing… you really push yourself too hard, don't you?" he murmured softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

His other hand twirled a strand of her strands of hair around his finger, feeling the silkiness of her hair between his fingertips.

He exhaled slowly, reveling in the simple act of touching her.

God—she was so soft.

So delicate.

So his.

If only she knew.

If only she understood how deep his admiration ran—how much he was willing to do to keep her safe… to keep her his.

"No one else deserves to see you like this." His voice was so quiet it was almost a breath, his smirk fading into something darker.

He hated that others got to stand so close to her.

That others could look at her, talk to her, breathe the same air as her without earning it.

She belonged to him.

Only he had the right to admire her this closely.

Only he had the right to touch her.

Alexis’ fingers brushed over her cheek once more before he reluctantly pulled away, letting out a shaky breath.

The bell would ring soon.

And she would wake up.

She would stretch, rub the sleep from her eyes, and walk away—completely unaware of the way he had worshiped her in these fleeting moments.

But that was okay.

Because Alexis was a patient man.

And soon enough…

She would understand.

Soon enough—she would be his.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The loud, shrill ring of the bell shattered the silence, jolting [Name] awake.

Her breath hitched, her body tense as if she had been yanked from the depths of an unpleasant dream. She blinked rapidly, her eyes darting around in momentary disorientation, trying to piece together where she was.

Then it hit her.

The exam was over.

A slow, relieved sigh escaped her lips as she stretched her arms above her head, exhaustion still weighing heavily in her limbs. Finally.

Yawning, she lazily ran a hand through her dark hair, attempting to smooth out the tangled strands. Around her, the other students groggily gathered their things, sluggishly heading toward the front to turn in their exams as Ms. Bogdanova, ever stern and imposing, stood by the desk collecting them.

"Once you turn in your exam, you are dismissed," her voice rang with a thick Russian accent, her sharp maroon eyes scanning the room with disinterest.

[Name] sluggishly stood up, gripping her exam paper in one hand while fumbling for her bag with the other. Every step toward the front felt heavier than the last, her body pleading for sleep, but she forced herself forward, handing over the paper before making her way back to her seat.

All she wanted was to get back to her dorm, collapse into bed, and sleep for hours.

But before she could even take another step, a voice—too close, too familiar—cut through the air.

"Meine Prinzessin, let me walk you to your dormitory."

She barely registered the voice before a figure stepped in front of her, blocking her way.

Alexis.

His usual cheerful, lopsided grin stretched across his face, magenta eyes glinting with something unreadable. His posture was relaxed, casual—but there was something about the way he stood, the way he tilted his head slightly, that sent a faint shiver down her spine.

[Name], still too drowsy to think properly, merely blinked up at him.

Did she really want company? Not really. But… did she care enough to say no?

Not at the moment.

Another yawn escaped her lips as she sluggishly nodded. "Yeah, sure… whatever."

She barely noticed the way Alexis’ smile widened at her agreement, or the way his grip on her wrist tightened just a little too much as he took her hand in his.

"Perfect," he murmured, his voice carrying an undertone of something dangerously satisfied.

Without waiting for her to adjust, he gently but firmly guided her forward, steering her through the corridors.

The hallway was dimly lit, the fluorescent lights above casting eerie, elongated shadows along the walls. Most students had already cleared out, leaving the space eerily quiet save for the distant echo of footsteps fading in the distance.

[Name] was barely paying attention, her body moving on autopilot as she let Alexis lead her. The cool evening air brushed against her skin the moment they stepped outside, a soft breeze rustling through the trees that lined the pathway toward the dormitories.

It was peaceful.

Almost too peaceful.

She didn’t notice the way Alexis’ eyes flickered downward toward her bag as she adjusted it on her shoulder.

She didn’t notice the way his fingers subtly brushed against the fabric as he ever so smoothly slipped a tiny object inside—so small, so undetectable, she would never know it was there.

And she certainly didn’t notice the way his lips twitched with hidden delight, his heart pounding in anticipation.

This was it.

His access to her.

His own private window into her world.

Now, he could watch her when she was alone.

Now, he could see every little thing she did.

Now, she was his—whether she realized it or not.

But of course, he couldn't let his excitement show.

Not yet.

Instead, he squeezed her hand gently, his thumb brushing over her skin in a comforting manner.

"You're really tired, huh?" he asked, his voice warm, caring—deceptive.

[Name], still half-asleep, merely nodded. "Yeah… I didn't sleep much last night."

"Poor thing," Alexis cooed, his tone dripping with fake sympathy. "You push yourself too hard, [Name]. You should really take better care of yourself."

She huffed a small, sleepy laugh. "I try."

"Hmm… not hard enough," he murmured, his fingers tightening around hers for just a second before loosening again.

The dormitory building loomed ahead, the golden glow of the entrance lights illuminating the pathway leading inside. As they reached the doors, [Name] finally pulled her hand away, rubbing her eyes with a tired sigh.

"Thanks for walking me," she mumbled, offering a small, genuine smile.

"Of course," Alexis beamed, his eyes never leaving hers. "Anything for you."

If she had been more awake—more aware—she might have noticed the way his voice dipped slightly at the end, the possessiveness lurking beneath the surface.

But she didn’t.

She simply turned toward the doors, yawning once more as she disappeared into the dormitory.

Alexis remained standing there, watching her until the doors closed behind her, sealing her away inside.

And then—finally—his smile dropped.

His magenta eyes darkened, his fingers twitching slightly as he clenched his hand into a fist.

He turned away, slowly walking back toward the campus, a soft chuckle escaping his lips.

His phone buzzed in his pocket, signaling that the camera was now live.

His smirk returned.

"Sweet dreams, Meine Prinzessin."

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

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𝙸𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝚝𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚜, 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝙸'𝚖 𝚜𝚘𝚛𝚛𝚢, 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚎𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝙲𝙾𝙻𝙻𝙴𝙶𝙴 𝙲𝙰𝙼𝙿𝚄𝚂!! 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝙰𝙱𝙾𝚅𝙴 𝟷𝟾 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚛!!!

Title Character Bios Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5

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[lunarlights08]

i will build the saeness fandom brick by brick

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Dates and other Catastrophes

Part 1

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Keiki Lahela (F!MC) x Koa Haulani (M!OC)

Words: +5,000k

TW: Mentions of Cancer, anxiety, drug abuse, alcohol abuse.

Summary: Keiki and Koa are struggling to find time to go on their first date. Will they succeed?

Note: I used the prompts Tidings, Lights and Joy from the @choicesdecember2024

A/N: Okay I know it’s a bit on the longer side, but trust me you won’t regret reading this story. This shaped up to be one of my favorite stories I’ve ever written. So enjoy 🌸🌸

A/N 2: If you want to know how Keiki and Koa met here’s their story Wildflower. Happy reading 🌸

Keiki

1.30 am

I paced around my room and hoped I wouldn’t wake my brother, Luna or the twins.

”Come on pick up. Pick up.“ I kept muttering.

A few seconds later I heard Alexis' sleep ridden voice.

”Keiks, do you know what time it is?“

”Yes. But I need your help.“

”Fine. Only because you’re my best friend otherwise I’d hang up. Okay spill girl. What’s so important that you had to wake me?“

”My date with Koa? Like how do I ask him?“

”That’s the emergency? Oh come on Keiks. Look, you can wait until he asks you out.“

”Yeah I’d wait until I was 80. No, I want to ask him out.“

”Okay then go to him, flick your eyelashes, smile and ask him.“

”I’m not Anne. What if I wrote him a letter?“

”Do you want to put it in morse code too?“

”What?“ I was confused for a second by what Alexis said.

Lexi‘s sigh was audible even from my end.

”Look, if you like him, ask him. There’s nothing wrong with a woman asking out a guy. With that being said Alexis is going back to sleep. Byeee.“

The beeping sound of Alexis who’d hung up on me echoed in my ear. Before I could think better of it I shot Koa a text.

»Are you still awake?«

Minutes passed by without a response. I waited and waited.

Worst anxious moment of my life. If you don’t count applying for colleges and waiting for a reply.

I sighed and dropped down on my bed with my phone on my stomach.

He was probably fast asleep by now. Tomorrow we both had morning classes, he was going to be at the lab a lot. And I knew he’s got his study for corals on his mind.

Damn it, I should have sent that text a long time ago, not waited half a century to hit send. A tiny piece of me was glad I did because I fucking wanted to get to know him. So what if I asked him out first? Alexis was right. Where does it say the guy has to make the first step?

I sighed again and looked at my screen only to see there’s no response.

Tired of waiting I quickly got dressed in my pink coral spaghetti dress and put on some sandals. It’s good that the dress is easy to manoeuvre in, otherwise I’d never make it outside. Or worse I’d have to use the front door. Sneaking out isn’t always as easy as it looks in movies, but thank god for the big tree sitting outside my window.

Slowly I waited for my foot to find stability on the branch and then I climbed down the thick tree branch. Once I was outside, I made sure that the window was wide open so I could sneak back in.

I always took a walk at the beach when I felt restless. Or anxious. Or both like right now. I started walking and I felt my phone vibrate in my hand. I saw it’s not only a text. No, he was actually calling me. Shit. I’m not prepared for that. What should I say?

Okay let’s take a deep breath and answer the phone like a normal person and not like a love struck weirdo.

Koa

My phone lit up on my nightstand and I fumbled for it in the dark, only to push it over the edge of the nightstand, making my phone land on the floor.

”Shit. Why does the universe hate me so much?“ I cursed and turned on the lamp on my nightstand to see where my phone went. I found it and saw it was still intact.

Once my phone was unlocked I saw I got a text from Keiki. Instantly making me smile. What is she doing awake? It’s 2:00 am.

I had the wild urge to hear her voice, not just see a text and respond to it.

Looking around in my contacts I found »Wildflower«, clicked the call button before I could change my mind. After a second I heard her voice clearly as if she was sitting right next to me.

”Ko?“ Hearing her voice soothed something deep within me. Like the ocean always does. She has the same effect on me as the ocean waves.

”Hey Wildflower. Missed me already?“

”Dream on. But now that you answered your phone already...“

”What now? You’ve got something important to tell me at 2 am?“ I can’t resist teasing her.

She scoffed.

”Smartass.“ She replied.

I laughed out loud and I‘m at ease as I sat up in my bed, talking to a girl I’m falling harder and harder for each day.

”Okay we’ve established I’m the smart one…“

”And one with a great ass.“ She said though it must’ve slipped out as I could hear her sigh on the other end.

”That‘s not what I wanted to say.“ I heard her mutter.

”Oh please tell me how you really feel. Have been checking me out, haven’t you?“

”So what if I have? Is that a crime? You’re very good-looking and you know it.“ She responded.

”I don’t actually give a damn if other people find me good-looking or not. There’s only one person’s opinion I care about.“ I said and couldn't help the smile that bloomed on my face.

”Who?“ Her voice sounded suspiciously jealous and I couldn’t help but chuckle.

”Glad you find this funny Haulani.“ She said and I grinned even though she couldn’t see it.

”Where are you right now? I can hear the waves crashing.“

It’s true I’ve been able to hear waves in the background and thought she opened her window. Her family lives close to the beach I think.

”I’m at the beach. I couldn’t sleep. So I went for a walk.“ Her voice sounded far away, as if she was somewhere else with her thoughts.

”Why don’t I come along? Only if you want?“ I asked tentatively.

There was a beat of silence before I heard her voice again.

”Sure I’d love some company.“

I smiled as I heard that she’d love my company. I just can’t help it, she makes me happy in a way no one else has gotten close to in a while. Not even Isabella. But that’s a story for another time.

”Text me where you are and I’ll be there in a sec.“

”Ok.“ We hung up and a second later I got a text with her location. I was faster out the door than you could yell pancakes.

Keiki

I slipped off my sandals and wandered around. I dipped my feet in the cool ocean water as I was waiting for Koa. It was almost 3 am now.

Damn we’re going to be so tired tomorrow, but who the fuck cared? As long as we had a good time, who‘s going to mind?

As soon as I thought that, I heard someone coming closer and when I turned my head I saw Koa‘s tall frame coming closer.

He really came. He honest to god came when I called.

Without any thought my feet kept moving, getting me closer to Koa. And when I stood in front of him I just wanted to hug him because he was here.

As if he could read my mind he opened his arms wide. Making me almost crush him, but he only chuckled and didn't say anything.

”So you missed me this much, huh?“

He said, half of my face still pressed against his chest, nodding. He smelled of fresh laundry and something like mint. I looked up at him.

”Yeah. I haven’t realized how much I’ve missed you.“ And then I hugged him tighter, if that’s even possible, as he kissed the top of my head.

”Welcome to the club. I’ve missed you too, Wildflower.“ He mumbled and we stayed like this for some time not able or willing to let go of the other. But eventually we released each other from our embrace and started walking down the deserted beach.

He pulled me closer and I leaned into him. The soft ocean breeze pulled at our hair.

”So what prompted the walk? You mentioned you couldn’t sleep.“ He asked and I didn't know what to say at first, so I shrugged my shoulders noncommittally.

”I had a lot on my mind. My studies, but I was also thinking about when we’d go out. You know? A date? We’ve said we would but we never seem to find the right time. And I kinda got sad when I thought about it.“ I said, realizing I shared more than I wanted to.

Koa stopped short, making me almost bite sand.

”That’s what kept you up at night? Come on Keiks. That‘s easily solved. I’ll pick you up tomorrow at eight.“

”It’s already tomorrow.“ I pointed out.

”Even better. Which means less time to waste.“ He said and I could feel the first rain drops on my skin.

We both looked up and tried to gauge what to do.

”Should we make a run for it?“ Koa asked as the rain began to hit harder.

”Race you to the car.“ I grinned and sprinted away, not giving him time to answer. I could feel his smile as I was running towards his car, Koa close on my feet.

Koa

I let her have fun. If it helped her distract her from whatever kept her awake at night I’ll let her have fun and be carefree.

As I reached my car Keiki was already waiting for me. We were both soaked to the bone, but we were both grinning like idiots.

A few seconds later I just wanted to feel her close and the next words that slipped out of my mouth weren’t the ones I wanted to say but I let them spill anyway.

”May I have this dance?“ I extended my hand, and Keiki put her hand in mine.

”It’s raining.“ She pointed out, as if that would stop me from dancing with her.

”So? Let’s have some fun. Come on, don't tell me you’re chicken?“

”Who are you calling chicken? Let’s dance Romeo.“

”Music to my ears.“

Keiki grinned as we danced in the rain.

We danced for a couple of minutes for sure, even though it felt as if we'd danced for hours. The heartbeat was the rhythm that was guiding us.

I spun her away from me and a second later lightning struck the sky and we both clung to each other of our own accord.

I’m honestly not sure who moved first, but in the end it didn’t really matter.

A second later I cupped her face into my hands. I needed her lips as if I was dying of thirst. Drinking from her lips like they were wine. She leaned into me, fitting into me like a glove. Her hands roamed over my wet shirt, and she clearly felt it wasn’t enough and went on her tiptoes to reach my hair only to drag her hand through it. Making me smile against her lips.

I didn’t know for how long we were standing there kissing each other, but I knew right then and there I was in trouble.

We’ve known each other for months now, but it seems all we have are stolen moments. I wanted to go out with her and get to know her better for some time now. To find out what she liked and didn‘t like. How she looked when she woke up in the morning. What face she made when she didn‘t like a certain dish or drink.

All the small details that made her, her. Unique. Beautiful. Absolutely amazing. My Wildflower.

I broke off the kiss and leaned my forehead against hers. As our breathing slowed down I took her face in my hands and just brushed a strand of chocolate hair out of her face, not able to resist touching her. Her whiskey brown eyes turned a shade darker from passion, which is a detail I stored away for later.

”Your place or mine?“ She said before I could mouth anything and I laughed softly.

”Well I can take you to mine. Just for sleeping. We both have morning classes. So we should get some shuteye.“ I said when I took out my phone to look at the time 3.55, I also checked if my phone was okay only to see it was intact and there was no water damage from the rain.

Keiki nodded.

”Let me at least write my brother a note saying I’m already at the university. So he’ll see it first thing in the morning.“

”Sounds good.“

We both got into the car making a pit stop at Keiki’s place so she could leave a note. I memorized where she lived so I could drop by for midnight dates like these.

After that I drove us to my place. Taking the girl I’m falling for each day more and more to my place.

It was kinda nerve wracking since I wanted to impress her just because she was becoming important to me.

I turned off the ignition and waited. I don’t know for what. A sign? Lightning? For pigs to grace the sky? Dragons?

”So are we going inside or are we going to sleep in the car?“ Keiki broke the silence and I turned to look at her, her hair still a little wet from the rain. I couldn’t imagine my hair looked any better.

I nodded to myself and exited the car as she did the same. The slamming of the car doors was somehow louder in the quiet evening air than expected.

Damn if the slamming of a car door didn’t make me almost jump out of my skin, then I’m really nervous.

And I swam with sharks, so nothing really fazed me except showing the girl I really liked my humble abode.

”Right. Yes. Sure come on.“

I looked at the beautiful planted flowers outside and the porch keeping the hot sun away, though the sun was still away for a couple of hours. I opened the front door and went inside.

”You’ve got a nice place.“

”Thanks. I’m renting it from my parents.“

”Really? That’s cool. So you guys live together?“

”No. I have my own place. Almost all five of my siblings have their own place. Since my oldest sister got married and had her baby she and her husband needed a bigger place.“

”Aww. That’s so cute.“

I grinned at Keiki and she smiled warmly back at me. Talking about my family always brought me the greatest joy.

”Yeah Dalia is the cutest. Though my other two siblings live with my parents, since one of my youngest two sisters is 2 and a half.”

”What? Please tell me you have pics.“

”Of course I do. She’s the sweetest. I think mom said she’d bring her around for me to babysit this weekend. You’re welcome to stay if you want.“ I smiled, put my car keys on the counter in the hallway and we continued walking towards the kitchen.

”Are you sure?“ Keiki‘s answer was hesitant as if she didn’t want to intrude but she couldn’t be further from the truth, she was always welcome at my place.

”Yeah. She’ll love you.“

Keiki smiled.

”Then I’d love to. It would be good practice for when I’m babysitting Kehlani and Alaia, my brother and his fiancée's twins.“

Koa gave me a thumbs-up.

”Why don’t I make us some grilled cheese sandwiches?“ I said and got out all the ingredients for some grilled sandwiches.

”Who knew you’re good in the kitchen too?“

”I’m good at many things. Cooking included.“ I winked at her.

”So the whole package?“ She made herself comfortable in one of the kitchen chairs.

”Let’s go with that.“

Keiki grinned and took off her shoes to get into a better seating position.

”I don’t suppose you have some Tabasco sauce?“

”As a matter of fact I do. Keanu loves that stuff so I always keep it on hand.“

I got out the small glass bottle. I don’t fancy it but Keanu loved it and so does Keiki apparently. I got the grilled sandwich done and served them on colorful plates chosen by my niece Dalia.

”Your bromance with Keanu is so sweet.“

”Yeah. Yeah. Eat your grilled cheese sandwich.“ I rolled my eyes.

Keiki stuck out her tongue at me. Before she could react I grabbed her chin and planted a kiss on her lips.

She dropped her sandwich on her plate to pull me closer to her.

A loud clearing of a throat interrupted our momentary bliss.

Keanu stood in the doorway, an exhausted gaze in his eyes. I offered him a piece of sandwich but he shook his head.

”Didn’t mean to interrupt your smooch fest…but…uhh…you said I could crash at your place for a while.“

I scratched my head.

”I suppose I did say that. The room upstairs is all yours.“ I sensed there was more Keanu wanted to say but he didn’t want to mention any of that in front of Keiki, which was totally understood. I nodded at him and he understood. We’d talk more later in the morning when we got up.

”Thanks man. Nice to see you again Keiki.“

Keiki who was blushing smiled.

”It’s nice to see you again too, Keanu.“

”If you guys don’t mind I’ll go crash for the night.“

”Yeah. You alright, Kee?“ I just couldn’t resist asking him.

I heard a chair scrape softly over the floor as Keiki got up.

”I’ll…uhh…go use the bathroom. It was nice to see you again, Keanu.“ She gave him a hug which he returned. She then went to the bathroom, which made me realize she has no idea where the bathroom is, but I appreciate that she wanted me and Keanu to have some time to talk.

Without saying anything I hand him a glass of apple juice and my grilled cheese sandwich.

”Talk to me, Kee. Who’s wrong?“ I asked him, giving him my full attention.

He sighed and took a sip of apple juice. His silver rings with a black gemstone glinted on his forefinger.

”I can’t stand those people at the frat anymore. I just can’t Ko.“ He said and he almost broke down.

”What did they do this time?“ I asked with a calmness I didn’t really feel. His frat mates are douchebags. But since he was a freshman he had to stay on campus and couldn’t live outside of campus but he’s almost finished with his degree. He’s in third year. He could live outside of campus if he wanted.

”You know who you remind me of right now? That guy from those books everyone on TikTok is raving about.“

”If you say Aaron Warner I’m going to kick you.“ I said with a warning. It’s true we looked similar but one is a fictional character and it felt fucking weird to be compared to a fictional character from a book.

Keanu grinned and took another a bite of grilled cheese.

”I don’t know, the energy shifted at the frat house. I saw Collin do drugs on the counter one morning. Like what the fuck dude? I know your dad is rich and pays for your college tuition but still! So I started looking for off campus living arrangements. Because honestly Ko I don’t want to live with those guys anymore.“ He said and I could tell all this was wearing him down.

I knew his father‘s history with alcohol abuse. His fathers path with sobriety was a hard one. That’s one of the reasons why Keanu doesn’t drink.

”You can stay with me. As long as you want. I’ve said so many times. Pack your stuff man and move in. I’ll even help you move your things. Even if we have to make the trip a couple of times. I’m here for you Kee. You’re not alone and you never were.“ I said and meant it.

He looked down and wiped at his eyes.

”I’ll fill out the paperwork tomorrow.“ He said, finished his grilled sandwich and when he’s about to put it in the sink I stop him.

”I’ve got it. Just go and get some rest.“

”You turned into a real housewife Ko.“ Keanu laughed.

”Bite me Hale.“

Keanu fully laughed and I knew things were getting better, they weren’t perfect but they were getting there.

After Keanu left, I let my head fall onto the granite countertop just taking a long and quiet breath of fresh air.

Keiki

I reentered the kitchen after I heard Keanu headed back upstairs. I found the bathroom after I looked around for a while.

Once I was out of the bathroom I headed towards the kitchen, where I saw Koa who hung his head. I wondered what happened? Trying to figure out how to help, I came to stand next to him, and moved my hand through his dark blond strands mixed in with lighter strands, from the exposure of sunlight.

”I offered him to stay at my place.“ Were his first words into the silence.

”That sounds like a good idea. He shouldn’t be alone if he’s going through a tough time, and besides I like Keanu. He seems like a good guy.“

He smiled at me and his eyes lit up.

”I don’t know about Ko, but I’m wiped out. Do you want to show me where I'll be sleeping?“

He smiled and after putting the dishware into the dishwasher he led me upstairs.

”Just fyi, I didn’t bring any sleep shirts or anything, not really thinking I’d end up at your place tonight…err…this morning.“ I said after entering the room.

”That’s alright I can lend you one of my shirts. You can also have my bed.“ He said and opened a drawer. While he rifled through the drawer until he found what he was looking for.

He handed me a bright orange shirt, with sea coral facts on it.

I gulped. Koa's bed? Where he sleeps every night? Surrounded by his scent lingering in the sheets? I won’t be able to sleep even if I tried.

Koa continued.

”And I‘ll take the couch.“

That made me feel even worse. Koa was tall and that tiny couch won’t fit him, he’ll be uncomfortable all night. That wouldn’t be fair.

”We could share your bed.“

Koa blinked at me.

”Are you sure that would be okay?“

”Yes I am sure. It’s not so bad, your bed is big enough to fit two, we'll be fine.“

Koa looked at me and when he saw I was serious he nodded.

”I’ll load the rest of the dishes into the dishwasher and then we can go to bed.“

”Okay. Need any help?“ I offered but he shook his head.

”Hey Koa?“ I called after he was almost out the door.

”Yeah?“ He looked back and I just went to him and kissed him quickly.

After I broke off the kiss I touched his bottom lip with the pad of my thumb.

”Thanks for tonight. Also for being an amazing friend to Keanu. He seems like he has a lot on his mind, it’s nice to know he’s got a friend like you.“

He left the room with a smile.

Keiki

I lied down and got comfortable when I heard Koa come in. I didn’t want to turn off his bedside lamp, because I don’t like the dark.

His bedroom overlooked the ocean from one side. He pulled down the blinds a bit but left the window wide open. Letting in a soft breeze.

”I hope you’re not a blanket hogger.“ I mumbled, eyes still closed.

”I’m a blanket sharer.“ He chuckled.

I heard fabric rustle and opened my eyes. He stood there in nothing but some turquoise satin boxers.

“Where’s the rest?“

He stared at my blandly.

”The rest of what? The house? I can give you a tour in the morning if you want.“

”I meant where’s the rest of your clothes! Or did they disappear?“ I pointed to his appearance.

”Well to be honest. I don’t wear anything when I sleep, but I put some clothes on for you.“

”Could you put on a shirt?“ I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. All that golden skin kissed by the sun was on full display.

”Why? Look, I get super hot during the night and if I wore a shirt I’d discard it during the night.“

”Fine.“ I muttered.

”Unless my body is distracting you from sleeping?“ He teased.

”Keep dreaming.“

He chuckled and it sounded hoarse. He turned off the light and I instantly moved closer to him, pulling the light covers closer to me. Not wanting to admit I’m scared of the dark.

When I laid my head on the pillow I was surrounded by Koa‘s scent of fresh ocean waves and citrus. Not just because he’s lying next to me, but because he’s sleeping in these sheets every night.

”This is stupid.“ I heard him say.

”What?“ I muttered.

He turned to me and pulled me close.

”It should be okay for us to sleep in the same bed without it being weird. It’s also okay to feel scared of the dark.“

”How did you…?“ I stuttered.

”I’m sometimes scared of the dark too. It’s okay Kei, you're safe with me.“

I smiled and leaned more into him, and instantly felt more comfortable.

”You’re right, it shouldn’t be weird.“ I said being close to him seemingly lulled me to sleep.

He laughed silently.

”Good night my little prince.“

”Good night Wildflower.“

We both fell asleep nestled together.

Keiki

It must have been pretty early in the morning when I woke up, because when I looked around I saw a digital alarm clock saying it’s 7 in the morning and noticed my pillow was moving.

When I blinked my eyes open, I realized I was sprawled all over Koa and he didn’t even care. When I tried to move, an arm held me firmly in place.

”Five more minutes. Please.“

I grinned as a devilish plan took hold. I placed soft kisses on top of his bare chest. Noticing some thin white scars. What the heck happened, was he in an accident? But before I could voice my question Koa peaked one sea green eye opened.

”Not the wake up call I imagined but I’ll take it. What are you up to Kei?“

”How about we just skip classes today? And stay here?“ I said as I placed another soft kiss on his chest.

”So what you’re suggesting is we should just what? Cut classes? Today is lab day. I have to be there.“

”Can’t you do it from home? Come on live a little Ko.“ I said before I lifted my head to steal a kiss.

I could feel him smile against my lips, before he broke it off.

”You’re playing a dangerous game Wildflower.“

I laughed as I got up, but not before he had me pinned beneath him. Making both of us laugh uncontrollably.

As he traced his fingertips across my face and then my lips, I got shivers all over my body. That such a small gesture could mean so much.

”What are you doing to me Kei-Kei?“

”Hopefully naughty things? And good things?“

”Hmm. Looks like we’re studying from home today.“ He said and wanted to get up but not before I stole another kiss.

”I wish we could wake up like this everyday.“ I said wistfully.

I love living with my brother because I get to see my nieces every day, but I’d want to live with Koa. It’s peaceful and a nice place to live. Also the view is nice. Who doesn’t like to wake up next to a hot guy? I sure do!

”You stole the words right out of my mouth, Wildflower. Come on, I’ll make us some breakfast.“

I nodded as Koa got up. I saw a bit of orange peeking out when his boxers rode up higher. Is that a tattoo I see?

”I can feel you staring.“

”Good. I wouldn’t want you to feel neglected.“ I said as I leaned back and enjoyed the show. He took a pillow and threw it at me, but I caught it before it could hit my face.

”Nice try. But let me at least help you make breakfast.“

”Nah it’s all good. You’re my guest so just lay back and relax. I’ll holler once it’s done.“

”Are you sure?“ I asked as I pulled my knees towards me and sat up in bed.

He smiled and nodded and then he went downstairs to make breakfast.

It felt strange to wake up in another bed. Not bad, just different. I couldn’t resist taking a look around his bedroom.

With his dark blue bed sheets, the pictures on the wall of dives he took. All sorts of corals were on his dresser and on his cupboard.

I got up and I knew I shouldn’t but I was too nosy. So I took a look around. As I walked by his cupboard I noticed a wooden frame adorned with seashells. It was family picture. With Koa, his parents and all of his five siblings.

They all smiled and looked so carefree. I liked seeing Koa smile. It looked good on him.

Then I saw a book and when I opened it, lots of drawings of all sorts of marine life but especially corals stared back at me. With all kinds of facts and descriptions lining the pages.

This must be his work for his studies. I carefully laid it back where I found it.

Too restless to stay in his bed any longer, I went into the adjoining bathroom with its white and light green tiles, a shower, and a small cabinet that I shamelessly opened and inspected.

Some black cologne that I opened and sniffed. It smelled like Koa. Mint and something fresh like citrus. Or like an orange blossom? Hard to tell.

Some medicine. Hair products. Condoms. Not going to look at that any closer.

I closed the cabinet and decided it’s been long enough for Koa to finish breakfast.

As I slowly got downstairs I heard two voices. One was Koa's and the other one belonged to his best friend Keanu.

I hugged the walls but they were too far into their conversation to notice me.

[yugiohsevense]

Fan Game for Yu-Gi-Oh Rush Duel

Name: Yu-Gi-Oh Rush Duel Beyond

Type: Card Game

Available Platforms:

PS4,PS5,Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo switch

Playable Characters

Sevens

Yuga Ohdo

Luke Kamijou

Romin Kirishima

Gakuto Sogetsu

Nail Saionji

Roa Kirishima

Asana Mutsuba

Haruka Kamijou

Mimi Atachi

Otes

Yuo Goha

Go Rush

Yudias Velgear

Yuhi Ohdo

Yuamu Ohdo

Manabu Sogetsu

Zuwijo Velgear

Manya Atachi

Rovian Kirishima

Yuna Goha

The Lugh

Zaion

RanRan

Phaser Ryugyu

Termolo Ryugyu

Nyandestar (True Form)

Sevens Eclipse

Yuko Takumi

Jin Azaki

Lia Masumi

Zane Oracle

Salima Merkali

Titus Nanjo

Zach Myrio/Aether

Mika Seto

Ishiza Isamu

Marissa Akami

Davies Isawa

Mel Mando

Shin Akya

Sequel to Sevens Eclipse

Jan Mandilo

Arlan

Zyro Yasuke

Esther Misuko

Tenko Shiba

Skye Vita

Previous Gen Duelist (DLC By Pack)

Duel Monsters

Yugi Muto/Yami Yugi

Seto Kaiba

Joey Wheeler

Tea Gardner

Yami Marik

Ishizu Ishtar

GX

Jaden Yuki

Chazz Princeton

Alexis Rhodes

Syrus Truesdale

Zane Truesdale

Johan Anderssen

Aster Phoenix

5DS

Yusei Fudo

Jack Atlas

Crow Hagan

Akiza Izinski

Leo

Luna

Kalin Kessler

Sherry LeBlanc

Bruno/Anitomony

Zexal

Yuma Tsukumo

Tori Meadows

Bronk Stone

Kite Tenjo

Reginald Kastle

Ryo Kastle

Arc V

Yuya Sakaki

???

???

???

Yuzu Hiiragi

Reiji Akaba

Gong Strong

Sylvio Sawatari

Shun Kurosaki

Vrains

Playmaker

Blue Angel/Maiden (Maiden is a Skin Inclusion)

Soulburner

Revolver

Ai

Ghost Girl

Akira Zaizen

What do you think

[pidgeonpeddler]

Welcome to basically my fandom and ships master list, the function of this is for anyone who shares any similarities to request art of a ship featured by either using one of the written prompts or photo references below

Please note you can combine multiple of the written prompts together, cross overs are also absolutely allowed

You can also bring up fandoms and ships not listed and I’ll either add it or let y’all know it’s not an interest of mine, I’m sure I’ve left plenty out

__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__

Fandoms And Ships

{Merlin}

Merlin x Arthur,

gwen x morgana,

Merlin x Arthur x gwen

{Harry Potter}

James x regulus,

James x Remus,

Snape x Remus,

Snape x Sirius,

Snape x Remus x Sirius,

James x lily,

James x lily x Sirius,

James x Sirius,

ginny x luna,

ginny x pansy

{the hobbit}

Bilbo x thorin,

Ori x Fili,

Ori x kili,

Kili x Ori x Fili

{Haikyuu}

Kiyoomi x atsumu,

Hinata x kenma,

Asahi x nishinoya

Nishinoya x hinata

{adventure time}

Marceline x bubblegum,

Marshal Lee x fiona

{Criminal minds}

Hotch x Reid

{ATLA}

Katara x Azula,

Katara x yue,

Katara x Azula x yue,

Ty Lee x mai,

Sokka x toph,

Sokka x zuko,

Aang x zuko,

mai x ty Lee,

mai x Zuko x Ty Lee,

Zuko x sokka x suki,

Zuko x sokka x mai,

sokka x toph x suki,

sokka x Zuko x toph,

Zuko x aang x katara

{Percy Jackson}

Percy x Apollo,

Annabeth x Rachel

{Miraculous ladybug}

Marinette x chat,

Marinette x felix (more pilot version leaning),

Marinette x Chloe,

Marinette x kagami,

Marinette x luka,

Marinette x chat blanc,

Marinette x {batfam member},

marinette x Luka x adrien,

marinette x Kagami x adrien,

marinette x Luka x kagami,

marinette x Felix x kagami,

adrien x marinette x Felix

{Spider-Man}

Peter x wade,

Peter x {batfam member}

Hobie x Gwen x miles

Hobie x miles

{Steven universe}

Pearl x Amethyst,

Pearl x lapis

{demon slayer}

Giyuu x uzui x wives,

Mitsuri x obani,

Tanjiro x rengoku,

Mitsuri x shinobu,

Rengoku x giyuu,

Rengoku x akuza

{BNHA}

Aizawa x shigaraki x dabi,

Shigaraki x izuku,

Ochako x toga,

Sero x todoroki,

Izuku x rody,

Bakugou x kirishima,

Momo x Bakugou,

Uraraka x momo,

Mina x tsu,

bakugou x kirishima x Izuku

Izuku x uraraka x toga

Izuku x toga x Dabi

Ayoyama x izuku

Kaminari x izuku x ayoyama

Kaminari x izuku x shinsou

{Voltron}

Keith x lance,

Matt x shiro,

Lance x Matt,

Allura x lotor,

shiro x Lance,

shiro x Lance x Keith

Keith x Lance x allura

{the apothecary diaries}

Maomao x jinshi

{Ancient magus bride}

Chise x Elias,

Chise x Ruth

{Kotoro lives alone}

Shin x mizuki

{OHHC}

Haruhi x kyouya

{Attack on titan}

Eren x Jean,

Jean x armin,

Eren x Levi,

Armin x Eren x Jean,

eren x mikasa x armin,

eren x mikasa x Jean

{Eleceed}

Jiwoo x jisuk,

Jiwoo x jisuk x wooin,

Jisuk x jiwoo x subin,

Kayden x jiwoo,

Kayden x kartein

{Sally face}

Sally x travis

{Sk8}

Langa x reki

{what we do in the shadows}

Nandor x Guillermo

{total drama island}

Gwen x Courtney,

Duncan x Courtney,

Noah x Cody,

Owen x Noah

{Frankenstein}

Adam x Elizabeth,

Adam x victor,

Adam x Elizabeth x Adam

{httyd}

hiccup x Astrid

Hiccup x Astrid x Snotlout

Hiccup x Snotlout

Hiccup x ruffnut x tuffnut

Hiccup x tuffnut

{kinos journey}

kino x nimya

{saving 80,000 gold for retirement}

Mitsuha x alexis

{the blood of Eden series (Julie kagawa)}

Allison x zeke,

Allison x jackal,

Allison x Kanin,

Kanin x jackal

__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__

Prompts And Scene ideas

•Finding excuses to touch each other in little ways

•immediately looking at the other after telling/ doing something funny in hope to see their smile

•One noticing the other looks sore and offering to work on their shoulders for them.

•hugs that last a little longer than they should

•Forced proximity “not that I’m not enjoying this but could you maybe move your hand”

•Wanting to borrow the same book, the only copy in the library

•Florist x tattoo artist

•Barista x customer

•Accidentally admitting the other is pretty causing them both to become flustered

•Lifting the others head up to face them while checking for injuries but becoming distracted by noticing how pretty they are

•Fake dating

•Wrong text

•Reading together

•Vampire x human

•Royalty x servant

•Kidnapper x victim

•One of them is sick

•Applying the others make up

•“could you play with my hair? "

•getting matching key rings

•knowing little things about them by observing

•2 am phone call when one of them can’t sleep so they just comment on whatever show is on the tv at that hour over the phone and suddenly it’s morning again

•Accidentally saying I love you

•Ripping the other away -“no we shouldn’t”- but when they kiss them again they moan and hold them close

•Accidentally admitting the other is really pretty, leading both of them getting very flustered

•continuously denying others who think they are together

•making playlists and mood boards for the other

•One noticing that the other has been having a bad day and giving them a hug to try comforting them.

•Apocalypse au

•Beauty and the beast au

•Snow White au

•Body swap au

•Hogwarts au

•arranged marriage au

•They meet in a Brothel au

•Accidental child acquisition

•Accidental pregnancy

•Practice kissing

•Texting/sexting

• ABO au

• YouTuber au

•“Nobody in the world has hands this soft”

•“Wash your hands then hug me”

•“I need a foot massage pronto”

•“Is that my shirt?”

•“You smell fantastic”

•“Is it weird that was a total turn on”

•“You could always go nude”

•“They’re coming. Kiss me!”

•“I want a baby”

•“If I kiss you right now I won’t be able to stop”

•“Do you want me to leave

•“I’m going to take care of you okay?

•“I might have had a few shots”

•“Just pretend to be my date”

•“Are you really going to leave without asking me the question you’ve been dying to ask?

•“You weren’t supposed to laugh!”

•“These stars are nothing compared to the ones I’ve seen in your eyes

•“I don’t know why I’m crying”

•“I see the way you look at me when you think I’m not looking”

•“If I didn’t know any better, id say you were trying to seduce me

•“Oh my god you’re in love with them!”

•“You weren’t supposed to hear that”

•“Looks like we’ll be stuck here for a while”

•“This is, by far, the stupidest thing you’ve ever done”

•“Why can’t you look at me”

•“Your problem isn’t with me it’s with____”

•“You make me feel so small”

•“The baby….its yours”

•“I’m keeping the baby…with or without you”

•“You’ll play this game with me won’t you?”

•“You want a bite?”

•“What should we name them”

•“Are you sure you’re not tired? Because you’ve been running through my mind all day”

•“Get back in bed you’re not healed yet!”

•“Where did all those bruises come from?”

•“I need you to forgive me”

•“Are you kidding me? We’re not ‘fine’!”

•“Well…this is where I live”

•“You got her pregnant! What were you thinking?”

•“I can’t leave you alone for one second without you hurting yourself, can I?” “I mean, I’m fine so it’s okay-“ “ no it’s not okay. Not when I feel like I’m going to go batshit crazy, thinking you’ve hurt yourself”

•“No. No, stop. Stop talking like that. You’re going to be fine”

•“Tell me how I’m supposed to un-love you, then. Tell me. Spare me”

•“Come here come hug me right now”

__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__•__

/For the more visual people\

Photo references

[openheartfanfics]

Newly Added Fics

Dec 23 - 29, 2023  

🎭 Angst  |  🦚 Angsty Fluff  |  🛸 AU  |  ☁ Fluff  |  ♥ NSFW  |  📚 Series  |  📷 Edit  |  📱 TextFic  |  Ⓜ Mature

Bryce x F!MC

Among presents - @ladylamrian ☁🎄

Bryce has Christmas presents for Luna.

Impossibly Perfect - @storyofmychoices ☁🎄

Bryce, Olivia, and Keiki are taking a walk through the park on their way to do some last minute Christmas shopping. [Domestic; Family]

The Greatest Gift - @storyofmychoices ☁🎄

There is just one last gift that needs to be wrapped.

Ethan x F!MC

A Tall Order - @jerzwriter ☁

It's a snowy lunch break at Edenbrook. Feat. Aurora Emery, Jackie Varma, Sienna Trinh, Tobias Carrick

Familia - @jamespotterthefirst ☁🎄

Ethan meets her family over a traditional meal of tamales. [Cook; Extended Family]

First Birthday As A Dad - @potionsprefect 📷

Ethan celebrates his first birthday since becoming a dad.

Oh, Christmas Tree! - @socalwriterbee ☁🎄

Ethan and Tessa's niece (Melody) are on the look out for a Christmas Tree, only to find out that the tree they are looking for his for his home.

Santa (or Not) - @trappedinfanfiction ☁🎄

It's Christmas in the hospital, but Santa is unable to visit. Celia and Alexis is on a mission to fix it. Feat. Tobias x F!OC

The Big Christmas Game - @potionsprefect ☁🎄

4 people, one job, can they do it? [Domestic; Family]

When life has other plans - @coffeeheartaddict2 📚🛸

[extended: wip] A competition has commenced for the interns at Edenbrook hospital. A horrid first day leads to an unexpected test of a new machine but what is Dr. Ethan Ramsey hiding?

CH 6: Shock and Realization

With and Without - @alwaysmychoices 📚

[extended: wip] Dr. Charlie Greene doesn’t have Ethan Ramsey. But when Charlie’s life feels like it’s out of control, she finds herself on Ethan’s doorstep. They promise each other that it’s just one night, but once they’ve broken all their rules, they can’t go back to normal…

CH 41: Making a Run For it

You’re All I Need - @liaromancewriter ♥🎄

Tinsel is the perfect accessory for a sexy new holiday tradition. [Getting Kinky]

Multiple Pairings

A Little Holiday Cheer - @jerzwriter ☁🎄

It all started at Ethan & Merida's place, so it's only fitting that we go back there again! Feat. Bryce x F!OC, Ethan x F!MC, Tobias x F!MC

Holiday Cheer - @storyofmychoices ☁🎄

Olivia, Merida, and Casey decide to decorate the Diagnostic Office. Feat. Bryce x F!OC, Ethan x F!MC, Tobias x F!MC

Open Heart MC

Finding a Path - @liaromancewriter 📱

Cassie is frustrated by the system and needs to vent. [1.8]

Rafael x F!MC

Moving In - @rafasgirl23415 📚​

[extended: wip] Follow up to We Belong Together. Set a few years into the future.

CH 1: Our Forever Home

CH 2: A New Family Member

CH 3: Somethings Aren’t Just Meant To Be

Tobias x F!MC

Santa (or Not) - @trappedinfanfiction ☁🎄

It's Christmas in the hospital, but Santa is unable to visit. Celia and Alexis is on a mission to fix it. Feat. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC

_

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

[soleilonthesun]

• More about me •

Spain • 19 years old • Animation and digital art student • INFP • Art history • Claude Monet • Vincent Van Gogh • Pre-Raphaelites • Blues, purples, golds, greens • The Sun • The Moon • Stars and the universe • Constellations • Mysticism, mythology and folklore • Witchcraft • History of fashion • 1950s fashion • Watching series and anime • Sailor Moon • Blue Lock • Violet Evergarden • Yamada-kun Lvl999 • Watching v-blogs on YouTube • Old movies • Studio Ghibli • Fantastic Beasts • Good music and soundtracks • Taylor Swift • Lana del Rey • Chapell Roan • Coldplay • Plave • Enhypen • Tomorrow x Together • Musicals • The Phantom of the Opera • Les Miserables • Traveling to other places • Chocolate • Cotton candy • Reading books and manhwas • Jane Austen • The classics • The Song of Achilles • Under The Oak • The good baths • Smell of the rain and the books • Sunflowers • The thé • Sleep •

• Video games I'm currently playing •

• Honkai Star Rail • Club Romance • Tears of Themis • Love and Deepspace •

• Animes I'm currently watching •

• The Apothecary's Diary Season 2 • My Happy Marriage • Wind Breaker Season 2 •

• Favorite characters •

Firefly • Mrs. Herta • Micha • Aventurine • Asta • Himeko • Anaxagoras • Boothill • Phainon • Castorice • Hycine • Robin •

Newt Scamander • Luna Lovegood •

Alexis Ness •

• Favorite artists •

Noah • Heesung • Jake • Sunghoon • Soobin •

[velting]

Blood Lock

CHAPTER 2

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡

✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+✧｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+*⁠.⁠✧⁠｡

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The morning sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of the dorm room, casting a warm glow over the modest space. [Name] stirred in her bed, the soft chirping of birds outside the window pulling her from a pleasant dream. She blinked her mismatched eyes open, the familiar sight of the ceiling coming into focus. The faint sound of movement caught her attention, and she turned her head to see her roommate, Hitomi Kurosawa, already awake and seated at her desk.

“Good morning, [Name],” Hitomi greeted softly, her voice calm but carrying its usual reserved tone. She had a cup of tea in hand, the light aroma of jasmine filling the room. Her dark violet eyes, framed by the dark circles beneath them, looked up from her notebook briefly as she acknowledged her friend.

“Morning, Hitomi,” [Name] replied with a sleepy smile, stretching her long limbs as she sat up. “You’re up early. Working on something?”

“Not really,” Hitomi said, glancing down at her notes. “Just reviewing some things for class. You should get ready; today might be a busy one.”

[Name] nodded, pushing herself out of bed and grabbing her towel and toiletries. “I’ll take a quick shower and be right back.”

The bathroom was warm, steam swirling around as [Name] turned on the water, letting it cascade over her tired body. It was a moment of peace, the soft rhythm of water against the tiles soothing her. As she rinsed the shampoo from her hair, she found her thoughts wandering. She couldn’t help but smile at how quickly she was adapting to this new life on campus. Despite Ruka’s overprotectiveness, she was determined to make the most of her time here.

When [Name] returned to the room, her damp hair wrapped in a towel, Hitomi was perched on her bed, her phone in hand. She looked up with a slight smile. “So, I was wondering—do you want to hang out today? My cousin Nagi and his friend Reo are free, and they wanted to grab coffee. Thought it’d be fun to introduce you.”

[Name] paused mid-step, her expression lighting up at the idea. “That sounds great! But…” She hesitated, glancing at her own phone. “You know how Ruka is. I’ll have to ask him first.”

Hitomi rolled her eyes playfully. “He’s not going to let you have any fun at this rate. Just call him and get it over with.”

[Name] laughed nervously and dialed her cousin’s number. It rang only once before Ruka picked up.

“What’s wrong?” Ruka’s voice came through, firm and alert.

“Nothing’s wrong, Ruka,” [Name] assured him quickly. “I just wanted to ask if I could go out today with Hitomi and her friends.”

There was a pause on the other end, followed by a flat, “No.”

[Name] groaned. “Come on, Ruka! It’s just coffee, and it’s on campus. I’ll be with Hitomi the whole time. You know her.”

“I don’t trust anyone else, especially not Hitomi’s friends,” Ruka replied, his tone unyielding. “I can’t take any chances.”

“Please, Ruka?” [Name] pleaded, softening her voice. “I’ll text you where we’re going, and I promise I’ll check in. You can’t keep me cooped up forever. I need to meet people, too.”

Ruka sighed heavily on the other end. “Fine. But only because I trust you. Not them. If anything feels off, you call me immediately. Got it?”

“Got it! Thanks, Ruka!” [Name] grinned and hung up before he could change his mind. She turned to Hitomi with a triumphant smile. “We’re good to go.”

Hitomi smirked. “About time. Now, let’s get ready.”

Dressed in casual yet stylish outfits, the girls made their way to the café. Hitomi led the way, her stride confident as she dragged [Name] along by the wrist. To [Name]’s surprise, their destination was the same café she had visited with Ruka the previous day.

Inside, the atmosphere was as lively as before, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the murmur of conversations. Hitomi scanned the room before spotting two familiar figures seated in a booth near the back.

“There they are,” she said, pulling [Name] along.

[Name]’s eyes widened as she approached. One of the boys, with messy white hair, was slouched in his seat, his attention glued to his phone. The other, a sharply dressed boy with vibrant purple hair, looked up and waved enthusiastically.

“Hey, Hitomi! You actually showed up,” Reo Mikage greeted with a wide smile, standing up briefly to give Hitomi a light hug.

“Of course I did. You’re lucky I even dragged [Name] here,” Hitomi replied, gesturing to her roommate.

Reo’s gaze shifted to [Name], and his smile widened. “Oh, so this is the famous roommate? Nice to meet you! I’m Reo Mikage.”

[Name] smiled politely. “Nice to meet you too. I’m [Name] Sanzuku.”

Reo gestured to the slouching figure beside him. “And this lazy guy over here is my best friend, Nagi Seishiro.”

“Hi,” Seishiro said without looking up, his voice monotone.

[Name] blinked, a little taken aback by his indifference, but she smiled regardless. “Nice to meet you, Nagi.”

The four of them settled into the booth, with Seishiro sitting next to [Name] and Reo beside Hitomi. Reo took the lead in the conversation, his energy infectious as he chatted with [Name] and Hitomi about everything from campus life to their favorite cafés. Seishiro, however, remained glued to his phone, only occasionally mumbling a response when prompted.

“So, [Name],” Reo asked, leaning forward with a curious glint in his eyes, “what’s your story? How do you like the campus so far?”

“It’s been great so far,” [Name] said with a smile. “Though it’s a lot bigger than I expected. Ruka’s been showing me around, but I’m still getting used to it.”

Reo chuckled. “Stick with us, and we’ll make sure you know all the good spots.”

As the conversation flowed, [Name] occasionally glanced at Seishiro, who sat beside her, his tall frame almost slouched into her personal space. She noticed him peek at her from the corner of his eye before quickly returning his attention to his game.

“You play games a lot?” she asked, attempting to include him in the conversation.

“Yeah,” Seishiro replied simply, finally turning his head slightly to look at her. “It’s easier than dealing with people.”

[Name] couldn’t help but laugh softly. “Fair enough. But you’re here with people now.”

“Yeah, because Reo made me,” Nagi said, though his tone wasn’t as sharp as it could have been. There was a faint hint of amusement in his expression.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The café buzzed with quiet activity, the low hum of conversations blending with the soft clinking of cups and plates. Warm light spilled over the polished wooden tables, illuminating the booth where [Name] sat with her new companions. The aroma of fresh coffee mingled with the faint sweetness of pastries, creating a soothing atmosphere.

[Name] took a small sip of her latte, her mismatched eyes crinkling in amusement as Reo animatedly explained one of his latest business ventures. Hitomi sat beside him, occasionally rolling her eyes at his enthusiasm but clearly enjoying his company. Across from them, Seishiro remained slouched in his seat, his phone still occupying his attention as his fingers lazily swiped across the screen.

The conversation flowed effortlessly, though [Name] couldn’t help but notice Seishiro’s detachment. She glanced at him briefly, curious about what game could hold his focus so intently. However, before she could say anything, Seishiro shifted in his seat, leaning slightly closer to her.

At first, [Name] thought nothing of it, assuming he was simply adjusting his posture. But when Seishiro’s shoulder brushed against hers, her body stiffened. Without a word, he leaned further, his head resting gently against her shoulder. The unexpected contact sent a jolt through her, her cheeks immediately flushing a deep pink.

“N-Nagi?” she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.

He didn’t respond right away, his pale lashes fluttering as he inhaled subtly. His expression, usually blank and indifferent, softened as his lips parted slightly. There was something about her scent—a mix of her natural sweetness and the faint floral notes of her shampoo—that stirred something wild within him. A primal instinct buried deep in his cold heart awakened, pounding against his chest like a caged beast.

“Why… are you leaning on her?” Hitomi’s voice broke through the moment, sharp with irritation. Her violet eyes narrowed as she glared at her cousin. “Seriously, Seishi!, stop being so immature.”

“Hmm?” Seishiro finally opened his eyes, glancing at Hitomi lazily before shifting his gaze to [Name]. He made no effort to move, instead tilting his head slightly so that a lock of her hair brushed against his cheek. “She smells nice.”

Hitomi’s eye twitched. “That’s not an excuse to invade her personal space! Get off her!”

Ignoring her, Seishiro reached up, his fingers curling around a strand of [Name]’s hair. He twirled it idly, his gaze distant yet focused. “Her hair feels soft. Smooth. Kinda nice to play with.”

[Name]’s blush deepened, her heart thudding wildly in her chest. She wasn’t used to this kind of attention, and the way Nagi’s cool, disinterested tone contrasted with his actions left her flustered and unsure of how to respond.

“Hey, Nagi,” Reo cut in, his voice firm but not unkind. “Cut it out. You’re making her uncomfortable.”

Seishiro groaned softly, as if Reo’s words were an enormous inconvenience. With a slow, reluctant movement, he pulled away, leaning back into his side of the booth. His phone was back in his hand within seconds, his expression unreadable once more. “Fine, what a hassle” he muttered, though his eyes flicked back to [Name] occasionally, the faintest glimmer of something lingering in his gaze.

Hitomi sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose in frustration. “Sorry about that, [Name]. He’s always like this—lazy and weird.”

“Yeah, my bad,” Reo added, scratching the back of his head. “He doesn’t really understand boundaries sometimes.”

[Name] shook her head quickly, waving her hands in a dismissive gesture. “It’s okay, really! I’m not upset or anything. It just… caught me off guard, that’s all.”

Hitomi didn’t look convinced, but she let it drop, turning the conversation back to lighter topics. They ordered a few pastries to share, their plates quickly filling with buttery croissants and delicate slices of cake. The group chatted comfortably as they ate, [Name] learning more about her new friends.

“So, where are you from?” Reo asked, his tone genuinely curious as he sipped his coffee.

“Kyoto,” [Name] replied, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “I grew up there with my family. It’s a beautiful place, but I wanted to explore somewhere new for college.”

“That’s cool,” Reo said with a nod. “Kyoto’s got some great architecture. I’ve been there a couple of times for family trips. What do you like to do in your free time?”

“Basketball, mostly,” she said, her smile brightening. “I’ve been playing since I was a kid. It’s kind of my passion.”

Reo grinned. “No way! I used to play basketball, too. Maybe we’ll have to hit the court sometime.”

“You’ll lose,” Seishiro mumbled from his side of the booth, not looking up from his phone.

Reo shot him a playful glare. “Says the guy who can’t even be bothered to get out of bed half the time.”

Hitomi snickered, and even [Name] couldn’t suppress a giggle. The lighthearted banter continued, filling the booth with laughter. Though Seishiro remained mostly silent, his presence felt heavier now, his occasional glances at [Name] carrying an intensity she couldn’t quite place.

As the afternoon wore on, the group eventually finished their drinks and desserts. They stood to leave, Hitomi stretching her arms above her head. [Name] couldn’t help but feel a strange mix of emotions as they walked out of the café. Despite Nagi’s aloof demeanor, there was something about his quiet attention that lingered in her mind.

For Seishiro, the pull toward [Name] only grew stronger with every stolen glance. The faint scent of her hair, the soft sound of her laughter—it all stirred something dangerous within him. He stuffed his hands into his pockets, his fingers twitching as he resisted the urge to reach out again. Deep down, he knew this wasn’t normal. This was something primal, instinctual.

As the group parted ways outside the café, Seishiro’s cold gaze lingered on [Name]’s retreating figure. His heart, usually so still, thundered in his chest. She was more than intriguing—she was irresistible. And the more he tried to push the feeling away, the stronger it became.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The shopping district buzzed with life, its vibrant streets bathed in the warm glow of golden hour. Neon signs flickered above boutique windows, and cheerful chatter filled the air as shoppers moved from one store to another. [Name] and Hitomi strolled through the bustling streets, their arms loaded with bags filled with clothes and accessories. They laughed and teased each other, stopping occasionally to peer at glittering jewelry or try on quirky hats at small pop-up stalls.

“This one would look so cute on you!” [Name] giggled, holding up a pair of cat-ear headbands toward Hitomi.

Hitomi rolled her eyes, though a faint smile tugged at her lips. “You’re relentless, aren’t you? We’re here for clothes, not cosplay accessories.”

“But it’s cute!” [Name] protested, placing the headband on her own head and striking a playful pose. “See? I could totally pull it off.”

Hitomi chuckled, shaking her head. “Alright, fine. You win this round. Let’s head over to the next store before you drag me into more trouble.”

They wandered into another boutique, admiring the racks of floral skirts, pastel cardigans, and sparkling necklaces. After making a few purchases, Hitomi suddenly shifted uneasily.

“Hey, I need to make a quick stop,” she said, glancing toward a nearby sign for the restrooms. “Can you hold onto these for me?”

[Name] nodded, adjusting the straps of her bags as Hitomi handed hers over. “Sure! I’ll guard them with my life.”

“Don’t let anyone steal my stuff,” Hitomi warned, her tone half-serious as she walked away.

Now alone, [Name] waited patiently near a decorative lamppost, the faint hum of street performers playing nearby filling the air. She adjusted her grip on the bags, glancing at the small crowd gathered to watch a juggler perform with flaming batons. But her peaceful moment was short-lived. As she turned to check her phone, she accidentally collided with someone walking past her.

The force knocked both of them to the ground, her bags spilling onto the pavement. Startled, [Name] scrambled to gather the scattered contents, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

“I’m so sorry!” she exclaimed, looking up to see the person she’d bumped into.

The boy she’d collided with rubbed the back of his head, sitting on the ground. He looked to be her age, maybe a little older, with short black hair and a striking tuft of red in the middle. His large, starry eyes blinked in surprise as he turned to her, a v-shaped smile spreading across his face. His tan skin seemed to glow under the warm sunlight, and his toned physique was hard to ignore even in casual clothes.

“Oh, no worries!” he said cheerfully, his voice light and warm. “That was my fault, too. I wasn’t looking where I was going.”

[Name] smiled sheepishly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear as she continued picking up the spilled bags. “Still, I’m really sorry. I can be pretty clumsy sometimes.”

The boy chuckled, kneeling to help her. “Don’t sweat it. Happens to the best of us.”

As their hands brushed while reaching for the same bag, [Name] glanced up, their eyes meeting. She noticed the faint red tint spreading across his cheeks, his smile faltering slightly as his gaze lingered on her. Something about her mismatched eyes and the soft kindness in her expression made his heart race.

“Y-you’re really pretty,” he blurted out, then immediately froze, his face turning a deeper shade of red. “I-I mean—uh, sorry, that was out of nowhere. I just—”

[Name] blinked, then laughed softly, her own cheeks turning pink. “Thank you, I guess?” she said, unsure of how to respond to such an unexpected compliment.

The boy scratched the back of his neck, averting his gaze in embarrassment. “I’m Akira. Akira Endoji,” he said quickly, as if hoping to change the subject.

“[Name] Sanzuku,” she replied, extending her hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Akira.”

He took her hand, his grip firm yet careful, and gave her a wide grin. “The pleasure’s mine, [Name].”

After they finished gathering the bags, Akira hesitated for a moment before clearing his throat. “Hey, um… I don’t mean to be weird or anything, but could I—uh—maybe get your number? You know, so I can pay you back for running into you or something.”

[Name] tilted her head, her smile widening. “You don’t owe me anything, but sure.” She handed him her phone, and he quickly entered his number, his hands slightly shaky.

“Thanks!” he said, his voice a little too loud in his excitement. Realizing this, he quickly toned it down. “I mean, uh, cool. Thanks.”

They parted ways after that, with Akira waving enthusiastically as he disappeared into the crowd. As soon as he was out of sight, he pulled out his phone and texted his friends.

Akira: “GUYS. I JUST MET THE MOST AMAZING GIRL. HER NAME’S [Name]. I GOT HER NUMBER. SHE’S PERFECT.”

Meanwhile, [Name] stood near the lamppost, shaking her head with a small smile. She wasn’t entirely sure why he seemed so flustered, but his earnestness was endearing.

“Sorry for the wait!” Hitomi’s voice called out as she returned. “Did anything happen?”

“Oh, nothing much,” [Name] said, her tone light as she handed over Hitomi’s bags. “Just bumped into someone.”

“Did they give you a hard time?” Hitomi asked, narrowing her eyes.

“No, no! He was really sweet,” [Name] reassured her, though she decided to leave out the part about exchanging numbers.

Hitomi raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. “Alright, then. Let’s keep shopping before the stores close.”

With that, the two girls resumed their spree, laughter and chatter following them as they explored more stores. Unbeknownst to [Name], however, she had already left a lasting impression on Akira—and her scent, smile, and warm voice were now deeply etched into his mind.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The sun was beginning to set as [Name] and Hitomi made their way back to campus, the vibrant hues of pink and orange painting the sky in a serene display. Their shopping bags swayed with each step as they strolled up the stone-paved path toward the towering wrought-iron entrance gates.

As they approached, [Name] spotted a familiar figure leaning casually against the gate. Ruka stood with one hand tucked into his pocket and the other holding his phone, his sharp gaze focused on the screen. The faint glow of the device illuminated his face, highlighting his cool, nonchalant demeanor. He exuded an air of effortless confidence, but the way his eyes flicked up the moment he saw [Name] betrayed his relief.

“There you are,” Ruka called, straightening his posture and slipping his phone into his pocket. His tone was calm, but there was an unmistakable edge of worry beneath his words. “You’re late.”

[Name] rolled her eyes playfully. “We’re only late by, what, ten minutes? It’s not like I was kidnapped.”

Hitomi smirked, clearly enjoying Ruka’s overprotectiveness. “Relax, Ruka. She’s fine. No scratches, no bruises. I made sure she stayed out of trouble.”

Ruka gave her a flat look, his lips curling into a sarcastic smile. “Oh, thanks so much for your concern, Hitomi. I’ll be sure to call you the next time I need a babysitter.”

Hitomi didn’t miss a beat, crossing her arms as she squared up to him. “I’m serious, Ruka. You need to loosen the leash on her. [Name] isn’t a kid. She can handle herself.”

Ruka’s brow twitched, his usual calm veneer slipping as he stepped closer. “You think I’m just being paranoid!? Maybe you don’t know this campus as well as I do. There are!…uh… Guys around here who’d love to take advantage of someone like her!”

[Name] raised a brow at the odd emphasis he put on the word guys, but Hitomi wasn’t backing down. “And you think coddling her is going to solve that? What’s she supposed to do when you’re not around, Ruka? Hide under a rock?”

The two stared each other down, the tension between them thickening as their voices rose.

“You don’t get it,” Ruka said, his tone sharp. “This isn’t your business, Hitomi.”

Hitomi narrowed her eyes. “It is my business when you act like she can’t make her own decisions. Newsflash, she’s eighteen, not eight!”

“Enough!” [Name]’s voice rang out, cutting through their argument like a blade. Both Ruka and Hitomi froze, turning to her with startled expressions. She let out an exasperated sigh, her hands clutching her shopping bags tightly.

“This is ridiculous,” [Name] said, her voice firm. “Ruka, I appreciate that you’re worried about me, but you can’t be by my side all the time. You’re part of New Gen 11. You have your own life, your own responsibilities. And as much as I love you for looking out for me, I’m not a damsel in distress!!”

Ruka’s expression softened, but she wasn’t done yet. “And Hitomi, I know you mean well, but pushing Ruka like that doesn’t help either. He’s just trying to protect me. I get that. But I need you both to trust me. I can handle myself.”

The air grew still for a moment as her words settled in. Ruka sighed deeply, rubbing the back of his neck. “Alright,” he muttered reluctantly. “You’re right. I’ve been hovering too much. Guess I can’t keep treating you like a kid forever.”

Hitomi glanced at [Name], then back at Ruka. Her stance relaxed, and she offered a small, sheepish smile. “Maybe I was a bit harsh. Sorry for jumping down your throat.”

Ruka gave a wry smile, holding out a hand. “Apology accepted. Guess I owe you one too. I might’ve overreacted.”

Hitomi smirked and took his hand, shaking it firmly. “You definitely overreacted.”

[Name] let out a relieved laugh, the tension finally melting away. “See? That wasn’t so hard. You two should argue less and bond more. You might actually get along.”

Ruka chuckled, his eyes softening as he looked at his cousin. “I’ll try, but no promises.”

Hitomi grinned. “I’ll hold you to that.”

As the three of them walked through the gates and into the campus, the night air carried a newfound sense of harmony. [Name] couldn’t help but feel a flicker of hope. Maybe, just maybe, they could all find a way to coexist peacefully. For now, though, she was content knowing they were finally on the same page—or at least close enough.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The canteen was alive with the chatter of students enjoying their meals, laughter occasionally punctuating the din. [Name], Ruka, and Hitomi sat at a cozy corner table, their trays laden with food. The inviting aroma of freshly baked bread and the sweet notes of coffee mingled in the air. The room’s large windows allowed the midday sunlight to stream in, casting a warm glow over the polished wooden tables and gleaming tiled floors.

[Name] leaned forward eagerly, her hands gesturing animatedly as she spoke, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “I can’t wait for my psychology class! It was my favorite subject back in high school. There’s something so fascinating about understanding how people think and behave. I already know a lot about basic concepts like cognitive development and behavioral theories, so I’m excited to dive deeper!”

Hitomi smiled, twirling a strand of her short hair. “Wow, [Name], that’s impressive! I don’t think I’d have the patience for that. It seems like so much to remember.”

[Name] chuckled, waving a hand dismissively. “It’s not as hard as it sounds! Once you start seeing patterns in behavior, it becomes like solving a puzzle. Plus, it’s really rewarding when you figure someone out.”

Ruka, who had been quietly eating his meal, frowned slightly. He set his fork down with a sigh, his sharp red eyes focused on his cousin. “Your psychology professor is Mr. Luna, isn’t it?”

[Name] blinked, her head tilting slightly. “Yeah, that’s his name. Do you know him?”

Ruka’s jaw tightened, and his gaze shifted to the table. “I know him. Leonardo Luna isn’t just any professor. He’s sharp and demanding, but he’s also got this… way of getting under your skin. He doesn’t tolerate mistakes, and he enjoys challenging his students in ways that aren’t always pleasant.”

Hitomi raised an eyebrow, her tone skeptical. “Sounds like you’ve had some experience with him.”

Ruka’s lips pressed into a thin line, his voice low. “Let’s just say we didn’t part on the best of terms. I’m not thrilled about him being your professor.”

[Name], sensing his unease, reached across the table and lightly touched his arm. “Don’t worry, Ruka. I’m sure I’ll be fine. I’m good at staying focused, and I can handle a tough teacher.”

Ruka’s expression softened slightly, but the tension in his posture remained. “Just promise me you’ll be careful. He’s not someone you want to underestimate.”

Before the conversation could turn heavier, Hitomi pulled out her schedule with a grin. “Hey, look at this! We’re in Business class together, [Name]. Finally, someone I know who won’t be glued to their phone or sleeping through lectures.”

[Name]’s eyes lit up. “That’s awesome! At least I’ll have someone to talk to in that class.”

Ruka leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms with a resigned sigh. “Lucky you two. I don’t share a single class with her. Just lunch, that's all.”

Hitomi smirked. “You sound like a parent dropping their kid off at school for the first time.”

Ruka shot her a glare, but [Name] laughed, patting his arm again. “It’s okay, Ruka. You don’t have to watch over me all the time. I’ll be fine.”

He gave her a small, reluctant smile, though his eyes betrayed lingering worry.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

After finishing most of her meal, [Name] excused herself to go to the restroom. The girls’ bathroom was pristine and elegant, with gleaming tiles and ornate mirrors framed in silver. She washed her hands, the cool water refreshing against her skin, and glanced at herself in the mirror. Her cheeks were still slightly flushed from all the excitement.

The bathrooms were as pristine as the rest of the campus. Marble countertops gleamed under bright lighting, and the faint scent of lavender hung in the air. After washing her hands, [Name] took a moment to adjust her glasses in the mirror, her reflection staring back with a mixture of excitement and nervous anticipation for the day ahead.

“Alright,” she said to herself, smoothing the ribbons on her twin-tails. “Back to the table.”

As she walked back, her thoughts drifted to the conversation about Mr. Luna. She was so lost in thought that she didn’t notice someone approaching from the other direction until they collided. Her bag slipped from her shoulder as she stumbled back.

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry!” [Name] exclaimed, bowing slightly in apology.

“It’s fine, really,” came a calm, lilting voice.

[Name] looked up, her eyes meeting a striking pair of magenta ones. The young man before her had pale skin and light brown hair that faded to magenta at the edges. His ever-present smile, warm and disarming, put her at ease despite the initial shock of their encounter.

“Are you alright?” he asked, his tone polite and measured.

“Yeah, I’m fine. I wasn’t looking where I was going. I’m really sorry,” she said again, blushing slightly.

The man chuckled softly, shaking his head. “No harm done. I’m Alexis Ness, by the way.”

[Name] smiled, her cheeks still warm. “I’m [Name]. It’s nice to meet you.”

Alexis’s magenta gaze lingered on her for a moment, his smile never faltering. “You’re new here, aren’t you?”

[Name] nodded. “Yeah, I’m starting tomorrow. It’s been a little overwhelming, but I’m managing.”

“That’s good to hear,” Alexis said, stepping closer. “Say, why don’t you join me? I know a place that’s a bit more… exclusive than the canteen.”

[Name] hesitated, her instincts warning her to decline. “Um, I should probably get back to my friends…”

But Alexis’s smile didn’t waver. Instead, he gently took her hand, his grip firm but not forceful. “Come on,” he said softly, his tone persuasive. “It’ll be worth it.”

“Wait, I—” [Name] started, but before she could protest further, Alexis was already leading her down the hallway.

They stopped in front of a pair of enormous black double doors adorned with crimson carvings. The air here felt colder, and [Name] couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling creeping up her spine. Alexis pushed the doors open with a dramatic flourish, revealing a room that looked like it belonged in a gothic castle.

The walls were painted deep shades of black and red, adorned with intricate gothic patterns. Black crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, casting an eerie glow over the room. Plush velvet furniture in crimson and ebony lined the space, and the faint scent of roses and aged wood filled the air. It was opulent and intimidating, a stark contrast to the lively campus outside.

“What is this place?” [Name] asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alexis turned to her, his magenta eyes glinting. “Welcome to the New Gen 11’s club room. This is where the elite gather, and you, [Name], are our special guest.”

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

Back in the canteen, Ruka tapped his fingers against the table, his sharp red eyes darting toward the door every few seconds. Hitomi raised an eyebrow at him. “You’re acting like a helicopter parent again.”

“She’s been gone too long,” Ruka muttered, standing abruptly.

Hitomi waved a hand dismissively. “Relax. She probably got lost or stopped to chat with someone.”

Ruka’s frown deepened. “No, something’s not right.”

He left the table and hurried toward the girls bathroom doors, but his heart sank when she didn’t respond back from his reply, indicating that the bathroom was empty. His voice was tight with worry as he returned to Hitomi. “She’s not there.”

Hitomi’s teasing demeanor vanished. “What do you mean? Maybe she went back to the dorms?”

“No,” Ruka said, his voice rising. “She wouldn’t leave without telling me.”

Without another word, he turned and sprinted out of the canteen, his heart pounding as he searched the campus. A growing sense of dread filled him as he realized his cousin might be in trouble.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name] sat in an opulent velvet chair, her fingers tracing the intricate patterns embroidered into its armrests. The gothic grandeur of the New Gen 11’s club room surrounded her, its eerie elegance both mesmerizing and unsettling. Alexis stood a few feet away, his magenta eyes glinting as he handed her a delicate porcelain cup filled with rosemary tea.

“Thank you,” [Name] said softly, her hands cradling the warm cup.

Alexis’s ever-present smile widened slightly, his tone smooth and reassuring. “It’s my pleasure. Consider it a welcoming gesture.”

She took a small sip, the fragrant tea calming her nerves somewhat. The silence that followed wasn’t entirely uncomfortable, but [Name] couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being studied. Alexis leaned casually against the back of a nearby chair, his gaze fixed on her, though he didn’t speak.

The heavy creak of the double doors opening broke the quiet. [Name] turned toward the sound, and her breath caught in her throat as a tall figure strode into the room.

There he was: Michael Kaiser in the flesh.

The man who entered had an undeniable presence, the kind that drew attention effortlessly. His blue eyes sparkled like sapphires, framed by red eyeliner that added a touch of drama to his gaze. His blonde hair fell into a striking mullet, accented by streaks of vivid blue that matched the two rat-tails cascading from the back of his head. The New Gen 11 uniform he wore was tailored perfectly to his form, the dark fabric contrasting with his pale skin and emphasizing the blue rose tattoos that crept up his neck, extending in intricate thorny vines down his left arm. At the crown of the tattoo on his hand was a keyhole, as if it hinted at secrets only he could unlock.

[Name] started, her heart racing as she tried to process his otherworldly beauty. She’d never seen anyone like him before—he seemed like he had stepped straight out of a painting.

Michael’s lips curled into a smile, a mix of charm and smugness. “Ah, I see Alexis has been entertaining our new guest,” he said, his voice rich with a German accent that only added to his allure.

[Name]’s cheeks flushed as he approached, every step deliberate and filled with confidence. “I don’t believe we’ve met,” he continued, placing a hand over his chest in a theatrical gesture. “I am Michael Kaiser, the brightest star of this world, and the Emperor of the gods”

[Name] blinked, unsure of how to respond. “Uh, I-I’m [Name] Sanzuku,” she stammered, feeling her face grow warmer under his intense gaze.

Michael’s smile didn’t waver as he took her hand lightly on his own and pressed a soft kiss to her knuckles, his eyes never leaving hers. “A pleasure, Miss Sanzuku.”

Behind her, Alexis moved to pour another cup of tea, his movements quiet and precise. “Would you like a cup, Kaiser?” he asked, his voice polite but lacking warmth.

“Of course,” Michael replied smoothly, settling into a chair across from [Name]. His piercing blue eyes remained locked on her as Alexis handed him the steaming tea.

“So,” Michael began, swirling the cup delicately in his hand, “how are you finding your second day here? Adjusting well, I hope?”

[Name] felt her words catch in her throat. She’d never been this flustered around someone before, but Michael’s presence was overwhelming in the best—and worst—ways. “It’s… been good so far,” she managed, her voice soft. “A little overwhelming, but everyone’s been kind.”

Michael tilted his head, his expression amused. “Kindness is overrated,” he said, his tone teasing. “But I’m glad to hear you’re not finding it too daunting. After all, college is meant to challenge you in ways you’d never expect.”

[Name] nodded, her fingers tightening slightly around her cup. “I guess… it’s all part of growing, right?”

“Indeed,” Michael said, his lips curling into a smirk. He leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing just enough to make her squirm in her seat. “But I imagine someone like you handles challenges with ease. You seem… different from most.”

Her blush deepened. She wasn’t sure if it was a compliment or something else entirely, but the way he spoke made her heart flutter. “Th-thank you,” she said quickly, glancing away in an attempt to compose herself.

Michael took a slow sip of his tea, savoring the moment. Outwardly, he maintained his poised demeanor, but deep down, he was struggling. Her blush, her soft voice, the innocence radiating from her—it was intoxicating. The scent of her blood, faint but undeniable, sent a primal hunger surging through him. He clenched his jaw subtly, forcing himself to remain in control.

So sweet. So fragile. So… delicious.

He exhaled quietly, setting the teacup down with a steady hand. Not now. Not here. Michael was no fool; giving in to his desires would ruin the game, and Michael Kaiser always played to win.

Clearing his throat, he shifted the conversation. “Tell me, [Name], what’s your major? Surely someone as intriguing as you has chosen something equally fascinating.”

[Name] hesitated, her voice shy but steady. “I’m studying psychology. It’s something I’ve always been interested in.”

“Psychology?” Michael repeated, leaning back in his chair. His smile widened, and though it remained charming, there was a glint of something darker in his eyes. “How fitting. Understanding the mind is a valuable skill… though, some minds are harder to unravel than others.”

Alexis, who had been observing silently, finally spoke up. “Kaiser, don’t overwhelm her on her first day. She’s already adjusting to so much.”

Michael waved a hand dismissively. “Nonsense, Alexis. I’m simply getting to know our guests. Isn’t that what a good host does?”

[Name] chuckled nervously, unsure of how to respond. She could feel the tension between the two men, though it wasn’t entirely clear what it stemmed from.

Michael’s gaze softened, and for a moment, he appeared genuinely interested. “You’re fascinating, [Name],” he said, his voice lower now. “I can already tell you’re going to bring something special to this place.”

[Name]’s heart skipped a beat. She wasn’t sure if it was the compliment or the way he said it, but something about his words made her feel seen—yet also vulnerable. She offered a small, shy smile. “Thank you. That’s… very kind of you to say.”

Michael’s smirk returned, but the way his blue eyes lingered on her made her wonder if she’d stepped into something far more complicated than she realized. The pleasant atmosphere in the New Gen 11 room shifted abruptly as the heavy doors slammed open, their echo reverberating through the gothic chamber like thunder. [Name] flinched at the sound, her teacup trembling slightly in her hands.

All eyes turned toward the entrance where Ruka Sanzuku stood, his tall frame rigid with fury. His crimson eyes burned like embers as they locked onto Michael, who sat leisurely in his chair, exuding unbothered confidence.

“[Name],” Ruka’s voice was low and sharp, though it quickly rose in intensity. “What are you doing here with him?!”

Before [Name] could respond, Ruka’s gaze darted to Michael. The vampire’s smirk grew wider, as if he had been expecting this exact reaction.

“You.” Ruka’s tone was venomous as he began to march forward, his boots clicking sharply against the stone floor. “Back. Off.”

Michael, entirely unfazed, leaned back in his chair and crossed one leg over the other, sipping his tea with maddening nonchalance. “Ah, Ruka, what an enthusiastic entrance. You always know how to make a scene.”

The smirk on Michael’s face only deepened, his blue eyes glinting with mischief. “Relax, I was just having a friendly chat with [Name]. Is that a crime?”

Ruka didn’t slow his pace, his shoulders taut with anger. “Don’t you dare talk about her like you know her,” he growled, his fists clenching at his sides. “Stay the hell away from my cousin!”

Before the distance could close further, [Name] shot up from her seat, quickly stepping between the two. Her wide, worried eyes met Ruka’s fiery gaze as she held up her hands to stop him.

“Ruka, please!” she pleaded, her voice trembling slightly. “Don’t do this. Calm down!”

Ruka’s jaw tightened as his eyes darted to [Name]. “Do you even know who this bastard is?” he barked, pointing accusingly at Michael. “He’s dangerous, [Name]!”

Behind her, Michael chuckled softly, the sound low and mocking. “Dangerous? You wound me, Ruka,” he said, feigning offense. “I’ve been nothing but a gentleman.”

Beside Michael, Alexis Ness stood with a taunting smirk on his face, his magenta eyes flickering with amusement as he watched the scene unfold. “Seems like someone’s a little overprotective,” Alexis teased, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Jealous, perhaps?”

Ruka snapped his glare to Alexis, his rage flaring even further. “You shut your damn mouth,” he snarled, his voice echoing in the chamber.

“Ruka, stop!” [Name]’s voice rose sharply, her hands gripping his arm to hold him back. She looked up at him, her face filled with desperation. “This isn’t the way. You’re only making things worse!”

Ruka’s chest heaved as he tried to reign in his anger, but the mocking smirk on Michael’s face only fueled the fire. “Listen to her, Ruka,” Michael said smoothly, his tone laced with amusement. “You’re embarrassing yourself.”

[Name] turned back to Michael, her voice firm but pleading. “Kaiser, please don’t make this worse. Just… stop.”

Michael raised his hands in mock surrender, his smirk never faltering. “Fine, fine. I’ll behave. For now.”

Ruka’s hands balled into fists, his knuckles white as he glared at Mixhael. “This isn’t over,” he hissed, his voice low and threatening. Then, without another word, he grabbed [Name]’s hand.

“Ruka, wait—!” [Name]’s protest was cut short as he began pulling her toward the door.

“Let go of me!” she cried, struggling against his grip. Her free hand tugged at his arm, but Ruka was relentless, his grip firm as he marched out of the room with her in tow.

Behind them, Michael’s soft laughter echoed, further stoking the tension in the air. “Do come again, [Name],” he called out, his voice smooth and taunting. “The conversation was delightful.”

Alexis chuckled, adding to the mockery. “Indeed. What an entertaining visit.”

Ruka’s shoulders stiffened, his pace quickening as he led [Name] away.

The clubroom doors slammed shut behind them, leaving the tense silence to settle once more.

In the corridor outside, [Name]’s voice broke the silence. “Ruka, stop! You’re hurting me!”

He finally slowed his pace, his grip loosening as he turned to face her. His expression was still stormy, but there was a flicker of guilt in his crimson eyes. “I’m sorry,” he muttered, letting her hand go.

[Name] rubbed her wrist, her own frustration bubbling to the surface. “What was that about? Why did you have to act like that in front of them?”

“They’re dangerous, [Name],” Ruka said firmly, his tone bordering on desperation. “You don’t understand what they’re capable of.”

She frowned, crossing her arms. “Maybe I don’t, but that doesn’t give you the right to act like you can control who I talk to.”

Ruka ran a hand through his dark hair, his frustration evident. “I’m just trying to protect you.”

[Name] softened slightly at his words but remained firm. “I know you care, but yelling and dragging me out like that isn’t the way to do it.”

Ruka exhaled heavily, his gaze dropping to the floor. “I just… I can’t stand the thought of them getting close to you.”

She placed a gentle hand on his arm, her voice softer now. “I can take care of myself, Ruka. You have to trust me.”

He looked at her, his crimson eyes filled with a mixture of worry and regret. After a long moment, he nodded reluctantly. “Fine. But promise me you’ll be careful.”

[Name] offered him a small smile. “I promise.”

Though the tension between them had eased slightly, the memory of Michael’s taunting smirk lingered in Ruka’s mind. One thing was certain: he wouldn’t let his guard down. Not for a second.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The club room, now quiet after Ruka’s dramatic exit with [Name], felt heavy with lingering tension. Michael lounged in his chair, one hand casually resting on the armrest while the other swirled the remnants of his tea in his cup. The smirk that had never left his face broadened slightly as his mind wandered.

The scene replayed in his thoughts: Ruka's fury, [Name]'s pleas, her soft voice trembling as she tried to calm the storm. He felt a thrill at how easily he could provoke such chaos. It was exhilarating, knowing he had gotten under Ruka’s skin with nothing more than a few words and a look.

“Interesting,” Michael murmured to himself, the German accent in his voice smooth and laced with amusement.

His blue eyes narrowed slightly, his mind honing in on [Name]. She was unlike anyone he had encountered—a curious mix of innocence and resilience. The way she had pleaded, her cheeks flushed, her scent lingering in the air like the sweetest nectar… it was intoxicating.

He closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the chair, letting the fantasy unfold in his mind. He imagined [Name] standing before him, her wide, eyes looking up at him with a mix of fear and intrigue. Her skin would be warm under his touch, and her pulse… oh, how he could already feel it thrumming beneath his lips.

The thought of sinking his fangs into her neck, tasting her, consuming her, sent a shiver down his spine. ‘Would she scream? Would she fight? Or would she surrender to me, trembling in my arms?’

Michael chuckled lowly, the sound echoing in the otherwise silent room. The mere idea of it was almost unbearable. “She’s going to be delicious,” he muttered, his voice thick with anticipation.

“Thinking about her, are we?”

The voice beside him snapped him out of his thoughts. Alexis Ness stood nearby, his magenta eyes gleaming with their own brand of obsession. He had been quiet up until now, observing Michael’s every move and word. But even he couldn’t deny it any longer—[Name] was captivating.

Michael turned his head slightly, one eyebrow raised. “And what if I am?” he asked, his tone teasing but guarded.

Alexis smirked, leaning against the table. “You’re not the only one, you know.” His voice was soft but carried an edge, as if challenging Michael’s unspoken claim. “She’s… enchanting, isn’t she? The way she looks, the way she speaks.” His gaze grew distant for a moment, lost in his own thoughts. “I bet her blood tastes as sweet as she looks.”

Michael’s smirk widened, but there was a flicker of irritation in his eyes. “Careful, Alexis. Are you forgetting your place?”

Alexis shrugged, unbothered by the warning. “I’m just saying what we’re both thinking. She’s special. And it’s only natural to want what’s special, isn’t it?”

The room seemed to grow heavier with the weight of their shared obsession. Michael sat up slightly, placing his teacup down with a deliberate clink. “She’s not like the others,” he said, his voice quieter now but no less intense. “There’s something… different about her.”

Alexis nodded, his smirk fading into something more serious. “She’s pure. Untouched. That’s what makes her irresistible.”

Michael leaned back again, crossing his arms as a dark chuckle escaped him. “And that’s what makes this so… entertaining. Did you see the way Ruka reacted? Just being near her sends him into a frenzy. Imagine what he’d do if I…” He trailed off, his blue eyes glittering with malice.

Alexis laughed softly, though there was a darker undertone to it. “You’re playing with fire, Kaiser. Not that I’m complaining. It’ll be fun to watch.”

“Oh, it’ll be more than fun,” Michael said, his voice dripping with confidence. “It’ll be art.”

Unbeknownst to Alexis, Michael’s thoughts were already spiraling further. He could see it so clearly: [Name] in his arms, her soft cries as he whispered sweet nothings into her ear before finally indulging in the ultimate pleasure. The taste of her blood, the way her body would go limp against him—it was a fantasy he intended to make reality.

But as Michael’s mind raced, he failed to notice the way Alexis’s gaze lingered on him.

‘You think you’re the only one who can have her,’ Alexis thought to himself, his smirk returning faintly. But she’ll be mine, too. ‘You just wait, Kaiser. I’ll prove that I’m the one who deserves her.’

The room, now quiet save for the crackle of the fireplace, seemed to hum with the dark energy of their shared desires. [Name] had unwittingly become the object of their twisted fantasies, their obsession threatening to spiral out of control.

As Michael and Alexis sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts, one thing became clear: neither would back down. And in the end, [Name] would belong to one of them—or perhaps, to both.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The dorm room was a cozy haven bathed in the soft glow of a bedside lamp. The faint hum of the heater filled the air, warding off the chill of the night. On one side of the room, [Name] Sanzuku sat cross-legged on her bed, brushing her hair with slow, rhythmic strokes. Her glasses rested neatly folded on her nightstand, a sign she was winding down for the evening. Her eyes seemed distant, lost in her thoughts as she hummed softly to herself.

On the other side of the room, Hitomi stood in front of her mirror, meticulously applying a cooling face mask. The white cream contrasted starkly against her warm skin, and she squinted slightly as she smoothed it out, making sure there wasn’t a single uneven patch. “You know, [Name], you’re like one of those classic heroines from a romance novel,” she teased, glancing over her shoulder. “The way you brush your hair like that, it’s almost poetic.”

[Name] chuckled softly, setting her brush down. “You think so? I’m just trying to keep it from getting tangled.” She tucked a loose strand behind her ear and reached for her phone, which buzzed with a notification.

Curious, she unlocked it and smiled when she saw the name: Akira. Her thumbs moved quickly as she read his message.

Akira: Hey hey! How’s dorm life treating you, superstar? You adjusting okay?

[Name] grinned at the nickname and began typing her response.

[Name]: It’s going pretty well! Hitomi’s fun to have around, and the campus is beautiful. What about you? Still making everyone laugh over there?

Hitomi noticed the soft smile on her roommate’s face and smirked knowingly. “Who’s that? Someone special?”

[Name]’s cheeks turned pink, and she waved her hand dismissively. “No, no! It’s just Akira. He’s a friend.”

Hitomi arched an eyebrow. “Uh-huh. A ‘friend.’ Sure.” She turned back to the mirror, but her teasing grin lingered.

Another buzz came through, and [Name] eagerly opened it.

Akira: Obviously! I’m the life of the party, remember? But, let’s be real, the day isn’t complete until I hear from you. How’s my favorite twin-tailed basketball queen?

[Name] giggled, her blush deepening. She typed back quickly.

[Name]: Flattery will get you everywhere, Akira. I’m doing great, just unwinding. You?

Akira: Me? Just counting down the days until we can hang out again. College is cool and all, but it’s missing something—you.

Her heart skipped a beat at his words. Akira had always been energetic and carefree, his messages filled with a contagious warmth that made her smile. She loved how he never failed to brighten her day, even from miles away.

[Name]: You’re such a charmer. But you know what? I miss hanging out with you too. Everything feels so… big here. It’s nice, but it’s also overwhelming sometimes.

Akira’s response came almost immediately.

Akira: Hey, don’t let it get to you. You’re amazing, [Name]. Everyone who meets you knows it. They’re probably just too intimidated by how cool you are. Give it time, and you’ll have everyone wrapped around your finger, just like me.

[Name] laughed softly, feeling a little more at ease.

Hitomi, now lying on her bed with her face mask drying, peeked over. “You’ve been smiling at your phone for the past ten minutes. Spill. What’s he saying?”

[Name] hesitated before showing her the screen. “It’s just Akira being Akira. He’s so… I don’t know. He’s always so positive and fun to talk to.”

Hitomi scanned the messages and raised an eyebrow. “Uh-huh. Sounds like someone’s got a little crush.”

[Name] shook her head vehemently, though her cheeks betrayed her. “It’s not like that! He’s just… easy to talk to, you know?”

Hitomi smirked. “Sure, if you say so. But let me just say, guys like that don’t come around every day. Don’t let this one slip away.”

[Name] rolled her eyes but couldn’t wipe the smile from her face.

Another buzz pulled her attention back to her phone.

Akira: Alright, superstar, get some rest. Dream big, okay? And don’t forget—if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m just a text away.

[Name]: Thanks, Akira. You’re the best. Goodnight!

Setting her phone down, [Name] leaned back against her pillows, her heart feeling lighter than it had all day. Hitomi’s soft teasing faded into the background as she replayed Akira’s words in her mind.

As the night deepened and the dorm room grew quieter, [Name] found herself smiling as she drifted off to sleep, the thought of Akira’s bright energy and kind words lingering in her dreams.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The crisp autumn air bit at Ruka’s skin as he stood under the dim glow of a lamppost. His black jacket was zipped up to his chin, warding off the chill of the late night. The world around him was silent, save for the occasional rustle of fallen leaves skittering across the pavement. His breath misted in the cold, visible in the stillness of the dark. He glanced at his watch, impatience creeping into his features.

“It’s unlike him to keep me waiting,” Ruka muttered under his breath, his crimson eyes scanning the surrounding shadows.

A minute passed, and then he felt it—a heavy presence emerging from the darkness. From the shadows of a nearby alley, Barou Shoei stepped into the faint light, his towering frame exuding an air of menace. His intense crimson gaze locked onto Ruka, and the faint glint of his sharp fangs became visible as he approached. The moonlight caught the red streak in Barou’s black hair, adding to his predatory aura.

Barou’s expression was cold and unamused, his eyes narrowing as he stopped a few paces away from Ruka. “You’re late,” Barou grunted, though his tone carried more disdain than genuine frustration.

Ruka sighed, his breath visible in the cold air. “Spare me the theatrics, Barou. You know why I’m here.” He crossed his arms, his posture tense but unwavering.

Barou’s lip curled into a faint sneer. “The deal, right? Making sure your precious little cousin doesn’t fall prey to the others.” He stepped closer, his heavy boots crunching against the gravel. “And you expect me to do this out of the kindness of my heart?”

Ruka’s crimson eyes hardened. “I’m not stupid. I know you want something in return. So, name your price.”

Barou chuckled darkly, the sound low and guttural. “You already know what I want.” His gaze flicked pointedly to Ruka’s neck. “Your blood.”

The demand hung in the air, heavy and suffocating. Ruka clenched his fists at his sides, his jaw tightening. He had hoped it wouldn’t come to this, but deep down, he knew Barou wouldn’t agree to anything without taking what he wanted.

“Fine,” Ruka said through gritted teeth. His voice was steady, though his eyes betrayed a flicker of unease. “If it ensures [Name]’s safety, you can have it.”

Barou’s sneer widened into a sinister grin. “Good. At least you’re not as pathetic as the others who’ve begged me for favors.” He stepped closer, towering over Ruka like a predator closing in on its prey.

Ruka unzipped his jacket slowly, exposing the pale skin of his neck. The cold air stung, but it was nothing compared to the anticipation of what was to come. He tilted his head slightly to the side, his crimson eyes meeting Barou’s.

“Just get it over with,” Ruka muttered.

Barou didn’t need further invitation. In a flash, he closed the gap between them, his hands gripping Ruka’s shoulders with iron strength. Without hesitation, he sank his fangs into Ruka’s neck.

The pain was immediate and sharp, like twin blades piercing his skin. Ruka’s breath hitched, and his body tensed as Barou began to drink. The sensation was unlike anything he’d felt before—a mix of searing pain and an unsettling pull as his blood was drained in powerful gulps.

Barou’s grip tightened, his hunger evident as he drank deeply. Each pull felt like fire coursing through Ruka’s veins, leaving him weaker with every passing second. Ruka clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms as he fought to stay upright. A groan of pain escaped his lips, but he refused to let it turn into a cry.

All for her, he reminded himself. All for [Name].

Barou finally pulled back, his lips stained with crimson. He licked the remaining blood from his fangs, his expression one of satisfaction. “You’re strong, I’ll give you that. Most wouldn’t last as long as you did.”

Ruka staggered slightly but caught himself before his knees could give out. His face was pale, and a cold sweat clung to his skin. He zipped his jacket back up, hiding the fresh wound.

“Are we done here?” Ruka asked, his voice hoarse but steady.

Barou smirked. “For now. A deal’s a deal. I’ll keep an eye on her. But don’t think this means I’m at your beck and call.” He stepped back into the shadows, his voice fading as he disappeared. “Try not to die before our next meeting, Sanzuku.”

Ruka watched him go, his body trembling slightly from blood loss. He turned and began the slow walk back to his dorm, each step feeling heavier than the last.

When he finally reached his room, he shrugged off his jacket and stepped into the bathroom. The fluorescent light buzzed faintly as he turned it on, revealing his pale reflection in the mirror. His shirt was stained with blood near the collar, and the bite marks on his neck were deep and angry. With a glare he took off his clothes and dumped them in the laundry basket. 

Without hesitation, Ruka turned on the shower, stepping under the icy spray. The cold water hit his skin like needles, but it helped to numb the ache in his neck. He leaned against the tiled wall, letting the water wash away the blood and the tension of the night.

After bandaging the wound with practiced precision, he collapsed onto his bed. His body ached, but his mind refused to rest.

The thought of her surrounded by vampires like Sae, Kaiser, and Ness gnawed at him. Their growing fondness for her wasn’t just troubling—it was dangerous. He clenched his fists, his crimson eyes staring at the ceiling.

“I won’t let them have her,” he muttered to himself. “No matter what it takes.”

With that vow lingering in his mind, Ruka finally drifted into a restless sleep, haunted by the faces of those who threatened his cousin’s safety and the lengths he would go to protect her.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The morning sun poured through the tall windows of the campus hallway, casting a warm glow on the bustling students. [Name] and Hitomi walked side by side, chatting about their plans for the day. The faint scent of coffee and autumn leaves wafted through the air, blending with the hum of conversations around them.

“Don’t forget we’re meeting for lunch later,” Hitomi reminded, adjusting her bag on her shoulder.

[Name] smiled, brushing a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. “Of course. Can’t wait to hear more about your skincare adventures.”

Hitomi laughed, playfully nudging her. “Hey, a girl’s gotta glow, right?”

As they approached a junction in the hallway, the girls parted ways, waving goodbye to one another. [Name] turned down a less crowded corridor, her thoughts already on her upcoming class. The sound of her shoes echoed softly against the polished floors.

But her peace didn’t last long. Distracted by her phone, she wasn’t paying attention to where she was going and collided with someone head-on. The impact jolted her, and her books slipped from her grasp, scattering across the floor.

“Ugh, not again!” [Name] muttered under her breath, quickly bending down to gather her things. “I’m so sorry! I wasn’t looking—”

Before she could finish her apology, a sharp, irritated voice cut her off. “Watch where you’re going, idiot!”

[Name]’s head snapped up, her eyes locking onto an unfamiliar face. The boy she had bumped into stood tall, his muscular frame looming over her. His pale blonde hair was flat and slightly messy, and his amber eyes narrowed with annoyance. Dark, thick lashes framed his intense gaze, and his shark-like teeth were bared in a scowl.

She blinked, momentarily taken aback by his intimidating presence. “I said I’m sorry,” she said, her tone firmer this time as she straightened up.

“Sorry doesn’t fix my shirt,” he shot back, brushing off an imaginary speck of dust from his sleeve. “Try paying attention next time.”

[Name] felt her annoyance bubbling to the surface. She had dealt with rude people before, but his attitude grated on her nerves. “Maybe if you weren’t stomping around like a bull, this wouldn’t have happened,” she snapped, crossing her arms.

The boy raised an eyebrow, his irritation briefly giving way to amusement. “What did you just say?”

“You heard me,” she replied, her voice steady as she picked up the last of her books. Without giving him a chance to respond, she turned on her heel and walked away, her long twin-tails swaying with each step.

The boy—Jingo Raichi—watched her retreating figure with a bemused smirk. His initial annoyance faded, replaced by a spark of interest. She wasn’t like the other students who cowered under his sharp tone or his intimidating presence. Instead, she had snapped right back at him, her fiery attitude catching him off guard.

“Spunky little thing,” he muttered to himself, his amber eyes following her until she disappeared into a classroom down the hall.

For a moment, he stood there, replaying the encounter in his mind. Her mismatched eyes, her sharp tongue, and the way she held her ground—it all intrigued him in a way he hadn’t expected.

Raichi crossed his arms, his smirk widening as a thought crossed his mind. “This might be fun,” he said under his breath, already planning how he could cross paths with her again.

As the hallway returned to its usual rhythm, Raichi finally turned and made his way to his own class, though his thoughts remained on the girl who had dared to stand up to him.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The atmosphere in the mathematics classroom was calm but charged with the usual morning energy. The windows let in soft rays of sunlight that illuminated the rows of desks and chairs, and the faint sound of shuffling papers filled the room. [Name] took her seat in the middle row, setting her notebook on the desk in front of her. The cool metal of her pen felt comforting in her hand as she prepared for the lesson.

She exhaled softly, grateful to have arrived on time despite her earlier hallway mishap. As she adjusted her red-rimmed glasses, she noticed movement beside her.

A young man with white hair and striking brown eyes took the seat to her left, offering her a warm, welcoming smile. His features were strikingly handsome, accentuated by the small mole under his left eye. His overall demeanor was calm and friendly, and he carried himself with a natural charm that instantly drew attention.

“Good morning,” he said in a kind tone. “I’m Ryosuke Kira. Looks like we’re seatmates today.”

[Name] blinked, momentarily stunned by his appearance. She quickly snapped herself out of it and returned his smile. “Good morning. I’m [Name] Sanzuku. Nice to meet you.”

Kira nodded, his smile deepening. “Nice to meet you too, [Name]. Let’s do our best today.”

Just as she was about to reply, [Name] felt another presence to her right. She turned her head to see a taller boy with white hair with dark roots tied into a bun and a sharp, wiry frame. His relaxed expression and faint, an approachable air despite his somewhat intimidating stature.

“Yo,” he greeted casually, his voice carrying an easygoing tone. “I’m Gin Gagamaru. Mind if I sit here?”

[Name] gave a small nod, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the sudden attention. “Not at all.”

As Gin settled into his seat, she found herself sandwiched between the two boys. Kira’s friendly demeanor on her left and Gin’s laid-back attitude on her right created an odd yet strangely comfortable balance.

However, as she glanced around the classroom, something struck her as odd. There were noticeably more boys than girls present. In front of her, she spotted a boy with swift black bangs that partially obscured his eyes, his posture composed as he set up his materials. Behind her, another student with silver locks of hair leaned lazily against his chair, his sharp gaze surveying the room.

Her brows furrowed slightly as she counted the ratio of male to female students. There’s definitely more guys than girls here... Is this normal? she thought to herself.

Despite her observation, she noted a handful of girls scattered across the room, each quietly preparing for the lesson. They seemed outnumbered, but at least she wasn’t completely alone in that regard.

Despite her efforts to concentrate, she couldn’t shake the strange sensation of being watched.

To her left, Kira glanced at her from the corner of his eye, his smile unwavering as he seemed genuinely interested in her presence. On her right, Gin leaned slightly forward, his deep eyes scanning her face curiously before returning to his desk.

‘Why do I feel like I’m being surrounded?’ [Name] thought, trying to suppress the growing unease in her chest. Nonetheless, she resolved to push it aside and focus on the lesson ahead.

The classroom door swung open with flair, and in walked a man who immediately commanded everyone’s attention. Lavinho, the mathematics professor, strode in with an energy that seemed to radiate through the room. His tan skin glistened faintly under the fluorescent lights, and his mullet—stylized with bold, checkered side cuts—bounced slightly with every step he took. His sleeveless attire revealed his tattooed arms, which bore intricate patterns that added to his larger-than-life presence. He wore a necklace that jingled softly as he moved, and though circular sunglasses perched on his nose, he casually removed them as he reached the front of the room, revealing sharp, expressive eyes that seemed to twinkle with mischief.

“Bom dia, meus alunos!” Lavinho greeted in a booming, cheerful tone, his Brazilian accent flavoring every word. “Good morning, my students! I hope you’re ready for a day of learning... and maybe a little fun, huh?”

The class murmured in response, some students smiling while others blinked at his eccentricity. Lavinho planted his hands on the edge of his desk, leaning forward slightly with a wide grin.

“Let me introduce myself,” he said, his voice full of dramatic flair. “I am Lavinho, the best mathematics professor you will ever meet. Why? Because I don’t just teach numbers, meus amigos. I teach you how to feel the numbers. To see the beauty, the rhythm, the passion in mathematics!”

[Name]’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. She hadn’t expected her math professor to be so... theatrical. To her left, Kira smirked in mild amusement, while Gin on her right leaned back slightly, clearly intrigued.

Lavinho straightened up, spreading his arms wide as if addressing a stadium rather than a classroom. “Now, before we dive into today’s lesson, let’s start with something simple—attendance! I need to know who’s here so I can put names to all these beautiful faces.”

He pulled out a clipboard from his desk, flipping through the pages with exaggerated enthusiasm. “When I call your name, just give me a little ‘Here!’ or ‘Present!’ Or, if you’re feeling bold, tell me your favorite number and why! Let’s spice it up!”

The room chuckled lightly at his suggestion, and one by one, students began responding as he read out the names.

“Saki Moragami,” Lavinho called, glancing toward the side of the room.

“Here,” a girl named Saki replied politely, offering a small wave.

“Kairu Samaradara?”

“Present,” the boy with the white locks said in his laid-back tone, raising a hand lazily.

As the roll call continued, [Name] felt herself relaxing slightly. Lavinho’s energy, while overwhelming at first, was oddly infectious. He made mathematics feel less intimidating, even if she wasn’t sure how his dramatic teaching style would translate into actual learning.

Finally, her name came up. “[Name] Sanzuku?”

“Here,” she replied, her voice clear but soft.

Lavinho’s head snapped toward her, his grin widening. “Ah, [Name]! A lovely name! I have a feeling you’re going to be one of my stars this semester. Am I right, or am I right?”

Caught off guard, [Name] felt her cheeks warm as the class chuckled lightly. “Um... I’ll try my best, Professor.”

“That’s the spirit!” Lavinho declared, clapping his hands together. “Now, let’s dive in. Today, we’re going to explore the elegance of quadratic equations. But don’t worry—I promise, by the end of this class, you’ll be dreaming about parabolas!”

Despite the skepticism that flickered across some students’ faces, Lavinho’s enthusiasm was undeniable. As he began the lesson, he paced the room energetically, weaving in metaphors and anecdotes that somehow connected math to football, life, and even love.

[Name] found herself unexpectedly engaged, her pen moving quickly to keep up with the professor’s rapid explanations. Beside her, both Kira and Gin seemed equally focused, though Kira occasionally glanced her way with a small, knowing smile.

The day was off to an unusual start, but [Name] couldn’t help but think that, with a professor like Lavinho, it would never be boring.

The lecture continued with Lavinho commanding the room like a maestro orchestrating a grand performance. He moved with animated gestures, pointing at equations on the board with the flourish of a conductor's baton. Each line of numbers he wrote seemed to come alive as he spoke.

“Now, who can tell me,” Lavinho said, his voice rising dramatically, “what happens when we solve this quadratic equation?” He underlined  on the whiteboard with a grand sweep of his marker.

A few students glanced nervously at one another, unsure whether to speak up. [Name] hesitated before raising her hand tentatively.

“Ah! [Name]! Minha estrela!” Lavinho exclaimed, pointing at her with a proud smile. “Tell us what you see, querida.”

[Name] cleared her throat, feeling the weight of everyone’s eyes on her. “Um... You can factor it into , and then solve for, so.”

Lavinho clapped his hands together with a booming laugh. “Perfecto! Brilliant work! And what does this mean, class? It means [Name] has just uncovered the secret of a repeated root!” He turned back to the board, drawing an exaggerated parabola that just touched the -axis at . “See? The curve only kisses the axis here. A moment of pure romance in mathematics!”

The class chuckled, and [Name] felt a mix of pride and secondhand embarrassment.

Lavinho continued, pacing as he scribbled down more problems. “Math, meus amigos, is not just numbers! It is a story. A tale of rise and fall. Of symmetry, balance, and beauty! Every equation is a journey!”

Gin leaned over slightly toward [Name], his black eyes glinting with humor. “This guy could make a soap opera out of a graph.”

[Name] suppressed a laugh, whispering back, “I think that’s exactly what he’s doing.”

On her other side, Kira appeared genuinely engrossed in the lecture, his pen moving fluidly across his notebook as he jotted down notes. Occasionally, he glanced at [Name], his warm brown eyes soft with quiet interest.

Meanwhile, Lavinho threw himself fully into teaching, occasionally tossing out challenges to the class. “Who wants to come up and solve this next one? Hmm?”

A few students ducked their heads, but one brave soul—a tall guy with teal bangs—rose from his seat and strode to the board confidently. Lavinho clapped him on the back and handed him the marker.

[Name] watched the student tackle the equation, admiring his ease with the material. She couldn’t help but notice how many guys in the room exude this strange combination of confidence and charm. It was... distracting.

As the class progressed, the rhythm of Lavinho’s teaching kept everyone engaged, even those who had initially seemed uninterested. By the time the bell rang to signal the end of the period, most of the students were buzzing with energy.

“Great work today, everyone!” Lavinho called out, holding his arms wide as if he were embracing the entire class. “Remember, mathematics is not a subject. It’s a lifestyle! Go live it!”

[Name] packed her things, her mind still processing the whirlwind of equations, metaphors, and theatrics. As she stood to leave, Kira turned to her with a polite smile.

“Nice job earlier,” he said. “That was a pretty tough problem to start with.”

“Oh, thanks,” [Name] replied, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “You seemed pretty focused on yourself.”

“Gotta keep up,” Kira said, slinging his bag over his shoulder. “Besides, Lavinho makes it hard to get bored.”

She then chuckled at the mere thought. “Hard to believe math could be entertaining, but I’ll give him credit.”

The three walked out of the room together, and for the first time, [Name] felt a little more at ease in this new environment—though the lingering feeling of being surrounded by enigmatic figures still kept her on edge.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name] adjusted her bag and settled into her seat in the first middle row, feeling a bit relieved that she made it on time without any incidents. As she pulled out her notebook and prepared for what promised to be a rigorous session in Economical Biology, the sound of a chair scraping behind her caught her attention.

Then, a rich, deep voice, smooth and dripping with charisma, spoke from directly behind her.

“Osha~ What a stylish choice of a seat.”

She turned around, startled, only to be greeted by a strikingly tall figure. He had long, flowing blackish-brown hair cascading to his waist, with perfectly polished black nails and a natural elegance that radiated from every fiber of his being. His black eyes seemed to gleam with an otherworldly charm, and his presence was both magnetic and theatrical.

“Oh! Uh, thank you?” [Name] stammered, caught off guard by his almost ethereal appearance.

He leaned slightly closer, examining her hair with great interest. “My, my, such stylish strands! What treatment do you use, darling? I simply must know!”

[Name] blinked, unsure how to respond. “Uh, just... regular shampoo and conditioner, I guess?”

Aryu placed a hand dramatically over his heart, as though her words had struck a chord. “Regular? Impossible! That shine, that bounce—it is far too elegant to be mundane. Truly, your hair is the epitome of what I call stylishness!”

She couldn’t help but chuckle, amused by his flamboyant demeanor. “Well, thank you. Your hair’s not too bad either. I mean, it’s pretty impressive, honestly.”

Aryu straightened, his long limbs and elegant posture making him seem even taller. “Impressive, she says!” He flipped a strand of his hair over his shoulder with a flourish. “Why, gorgeousness such as this takes dedication, [Name]-san. May I sit next to you? A seat beside someone with such a sense of style would be fitting.”

“Sure,” [Name] replied, gesturing to the open seat beside her. “Go ahead.”

Aryu sat down with a graceful motion, folding his long legs carefully under the desk. As he did, he struck a pose, leaning slightly to one side and resting his chin on his hand. “Such stylish kindness. Truly, you are a gem in this drab world of science.”

‘Is he Jojo posing?’ [Name] suppressed a grin. “You’re really into this whole stylish thing, aren’t you?”

He sighed dramatically, waving his hand as if to dismiss the question. “Into it? No, no, no, my dear. I embody it.” His tone turned slightly wistful. “Though, I do admit, my name... Aryu Jyubie. It is such a burden. So old-fashioned. So... unstylish.”

She tilted her head, genuinely confused. “I don’t think it’s a bad name. It’s unique.”

Aryu perked up immediately, his dark eyes lighting with delight. “You think so? Ah, what a stylish compliment! Perhaps I can overcome this complex with your encouragement, [Name]-san. You are a beacon of light, truly.”

As [Name] settled into her seat, a hush fell over the room as the doors swung open. Striding in was the professor, her commanding presence turning all heads in her direction.

Ms. Luiza Bogdanova was tall and elegant, with jet-black hair cascading down her back, her bangs casting a shadow over her intense maroon eyes. The sharp contrast of her pale ivory skin and the dark maroon lipstick she wore gave her an almost ethereal appearance. She was dressed in a tailored dark blouse and a sleek pencil skirt, her demeanor exuding authority. A small mole beneath her right eye added a touch of intrigue to her otherwise intimidating look.

“Good morning, class,” she said, her Russian accent heavy, each word deliberate. “I am Ms. Bogdanova, and I vill be your Economical Biology instructor. Before ve begin, I must make it clear—I expect discipline and attentiveness in my class.” Her tone was not harsh but carried a weight that demanded respect.

Her eyes swept across the room, lingering briefly on each student. Though her expression was neutral, the intensity of her gaze made several students sit up straighter.

“I vwill now take attendance. Answer promptly,” she stated, her voice cutting through the room like a blade.

As she read through the list of names, her accent became more pronounced, struggling with certain syllables but maintaining her composure. When she finished the roll call, she paused, scanning the room.

“One name is missing,” she said, her tone sharp yet faintly puzzled. “Isagi Yoichi? He is not here.”

At that moment, the doors creaked open, and a young man hurried inside, his face flushed with embarrassment. “I’m so sorry, Ms. Bogdanova!” he exclaimed, bowing apologetically. “I got lost on my way here. It won’t happen again.”

The class erupted into quiet snickers and whispers, some students exchanging amused glances. Ms. Bogdanova’s maroon eyes narrowed slightly as she regarded him, her expression unreadable.

“Excuses are for those who lack preparation, Mr. Isagi,” she said, her accent emphasizing every word. “But I vwill not punish you on your first day. Sit in the nearest seat—immediately.”

Yoichi nodded quickly, his face turning an even deeper shade of red as he scanned for an open seat. The closest one was next to [Name], who offered him a kind smile as he slid into the chair, clearly flustered.

As he sat down, Aryu leaned slightly toward [Name] and murmured, “Lateness, [Name]-san... so unstylish.”

[Name] stifled a giggle and turned her attention to Yoichi, who was trying to avoid the judgmental stares of his classmates. She leaned closer, her voice gentle. “Don’t let it get to you. Everyone gets lost or late on their first day. It’s no big deal.”

Yoichi glanced at her, surprised by her kind tone. “Thanks,” he whispered, offering a shy smile. “I’ll do better next time.”

Ms. Bogdanova tapped a long finger against the desk, drawing their attention back to her. “If ve are done vith distractions, ve shall begin,” she announced, her voice slicing through the lingering murmurs. “This is Economical Biology, one of the most difficult courses you vill take. But do not be afraid. Fear only makes you vweak.”

The room fell silent as she began the lesson, her demanding aura permeating the atmosphere. Despite her stern exterior, [Name] couldn’t help but feel a flicker of curiosity about the professor. There was something about Ms. Bogdanova’s presence—though intimidating, it hinted at a depth she couldn’t yet place.

Beside her, Yoichi seemed to relax slightly, stealing occasional glances at [Name], as if silently thanking her for her earlier words. On her other side, Aryu continued to sit elegantly, his long fingers drumming against the desk, already planning his next “stylish” comment for the professor’s intense teaching style.

As Ms. Bogdanova began the lesson, her authoritative voice filled the room, weaving complex definitions and intricate concepts into the air. Words like bio socioeconomic theory and adaptive resource cycles rolled off her tongue, her heavy accent making some of the terms sound even more daunting. She wrote dense formulas and diagrams on the board, her movements sharp and precise.

[Name] dutifully jotted down notes in her notebook, her handwriting neat and efficient. Around her, the sound of pens scratching paper filled the air. She could feel the intensity of Ms. Bogdanova’s presence pressing down on the class like an unspoken challenge.

To her left, however, Yoichi was struggling. His brow furrowed in concentration, and he kept glancing between the board and his notebook, his pen hovering uncertainty over the paper. He scribbled something down, paused, and then scratched it out, frustration etched on his face.

[Name] noticed his unease out of the corner of her eye. She hesitated for a moment, glancing toward the front of the room to ensure Ms. Bogdanova wasn’t looking their way. Then, she leaned slightly toward Yoichi, keeping her voice low.

“Need a hand?” she whispered softly, her tone kind.

Yoichi blinked, startled by her offer. “Uh, yeah,” he admitted, his voice equally quiet. “I’m having trouble figuring out what she means by this whole ‘resource cycles’ thing.” He gestured toward a particularly confusing diagram in his notebook.

[Name] smiled reassuringly and pointed to her own notes. “Here, it’s about how biological systems distribute resources based on environmental and social factors. See this part?” She tapped the section in her notebook that simplified the explanation. “It’s like a feedback loop—organisms adapt based on what’s available and how it affects their survival.”

Yoichi’s eyes lit up in recognition as he quickly copied down her explanation. “Oh, that makes so much more sense,” he whispered, his frustration melting into gratitude. “Thanks, [Name]. You’re a lifesaver.”

“Anytime,” she replied, a warm smile on her face. “Let me know if you get stuck again.”

As the lecture continued, [Name] subtly kept an eye on Yoichi, offering occasional clarifications when she saw him hesitate. Each time, he nodded appreciatively, clearly grateful for her quiet support.

Meanwhile, Aryu, sitting to her right, took notice of their interaction and leaned over slightly, his deep voice low and amused. “Helping the less stylish, [Name]-san? Truly, you are too kind.”

She shot him a playful look but didn’t reply, turning her attention back to her notes. Yoichi, on the other hand, looked both confused and mildly embarrassed at Aryu’s comment.

The lesson pressed on, and though the material remained challenging, Yoichi seemed more confident with [Name]’s help. When the class finally ended, he packed up his notebook and turned to her, a shy smile on his face.

“Thanks again,” he said earnestly. “I don’t think I would’ve made it through that without you.”

“It’s no big deal,” [Name] replied cheerfully. “You’ll get the hang of it in no time.”

As they filed out of the classroom, Yoichi couldn’t help but feel a little lighter, the stress of the lesson tempered by [Name]’s kindness. He decided then that he’d have to repay her somehow—and maybe even get to know her better.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

Ruka stood by the grand window of the club room, the evening's amber glow casting long shadows across the walls. His foot tapped impatiently against the polished floor as he checked his watch for the third time in five minutes. His usually composed expression was taut with irritation, his eyes flicking toward the sky as if it held the answer to his unrest.

Behind him, the air buzzed with tension and the contrasting personalities of his companions. Sae Itoshi sat in an armchair near the fireplace, a leather-bound book in his hands. His sharp features were calm, unreadable, as his piercing gaze scanned the pages. He radiated an air of indifference, purposefully detached from the antics around him.

On the other side of the room, Michael Kaiser lounged with an elegance only he could pull off, a wine glass in hand. He swirled the dark red liquid lazily before taking a sip, his sharp vampire fangs glinting faintly in the light. “Ah, exquisite,” he mused, his voice laced with arrogance. “A symphony of flavors on my tongue.” He smirked and cast a sidelong glance at Ruka. “Speaking of taste, Ruka, you seem particularly...tense today. Could it be because of a certain someone?”

Ruka didn’t bite. He didn’t even turn to face him, his jaw tightening as he continued to stare out the window. Michael’s smirk deepened.

Seated on the couch, Don Lorenzo was the complete opposite of the refined Michael. He lounged with his long limbs sprawled out, a bucket of caramel popcorn in his lap. Each bite was obnoxiously loud, the crunch echoing in the otherwise spacious room. Lorenzo’s purple-tipped hair fell messily over his face, but his sharp, gold teeth gleamed with every exaggerated chew. “Okay,” he said around a mouthful of popcorn, “what’s got you so worked up, Rukie? You're pacing like that’s making me dizzy, okay.”

Ruka didn’t respond, but his fingers curled tighter against the windowsill. Lorenzo glanced at Michael, who offered a knowing shrug, before leaning forward with a wicked grin commenting a certain relative to the Italian. This seemed to pick his interest at the thought and found a way to get under Ruka's skin.

“Hey,” Lorenzo said, drawing out the word. “You have someone that you hide from us, right? Let me guess, a girl!?” He popped another piece of popcorn into his mouth, the crunch deliberate and drawn out. “Bet she tastes amazing, huh? Sweet, maybe? Or is she spicy? Oh, I bet she’s got a tangy kick to her. What do you think, okay?”

The words hit Ruka like a hammer, and he spun around, his expression fierce. “Shut your mouth, Lorenzo!” His voice thundered through the room, echoing off the walls. His pale cheeks flushed with anger, and his piercing glare was locked onto Lorenzo.

Lorenzo, unfazed, threw his head back and laughed, the sound wild and grating. “Oh, come on, Rukie! Don’t tell me you’re this sensitive, okay. You’re no fun!” He leaned back on the couch, still laughing like a hyena, clearly enjoying the way he’d gotten under Ruka’s skin.

Michael chuckled quietly, his smirk growing even more devious. “Touchy, aren’t we?” he drawled, taking another slow sip from his glass. “I wonder if she’s as spirited as you are, Ruka. I imagine she’d be quiet... entertaining.”

Ruka took a sharp step forward, his fists clenched, but stopped himself. He exhaled deeply, reigning in his temper. “Say another word about her, and I’ll—”

“Relax, Ruka,” Michael interrupted smoothly, raising his glass as if in a toast. “We’re just curious, that’s all. No need to get so defensive.”

Meanwhile, Sae remained silent, his eyes never leaving the book in his hands. But his mind wasn’t on the words he was reading. ‘No,’ his thoughts were elsewhere—on [Name]. The mention of her name had stirred something deep within him, an unshakable allure. Her scent, faint yet intoxicating, lingered in his memory, consuming his thoughts. He imagined her soft neck, the pulse beneath her skin, the taste of her blood on his lips. His grip on the book tightened slightly, though his face betrayed nothing.

Ruka noticed Sae’s uncharacteristic stillness and narrowed his eyes. “Sae,” he barked, his tone sharp. “You’ve got something to say?”

Sae finally looked up, his calm gaze meeting Ruka’s. “No,” he said simply, his voice smooth and detached. “Just reading.” He returned to his book, though his mind remained far from the pages.

Ruka scowled but didn’t press further. He turned back to the window, his tension palpable as his thoughts swirled. Around him, Micahel smirked, Lorenzo laughed, and Sae schemed silently. The atmosphere was a dangerous mix of mockery, obsession, and restraint.

For [Name]’s sake, Ruka resolved to remain vigilant. They were circling her like wolves, and he knew the storm was only beginning.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name] entered the psychology classroom, the hum of conversation filling the space as students settled into their seats. Scanning the room, she noticed most of the seats were already taken. With little choice, she hurried toward an open spot in the middle row, sliding into the chair next to a towering, broad-shouldered figure who seemed to shrink in on himself despite his size.

The boy turned his head toward her cautiously, his round green eyes wide with surprise. His nervous posture and the slight flush creeping up his neck gave away his shyness. She offered him a friendly smile and said, “Hi, I’m [Name]. Mind if I sit here?”

He froze for a moment before stammering, “N-No, not at all! I-I mean, yes, please sit! I-I’m Tokimitsu Aoishi!” His voice cracked slightly, and he immediately looked down, his large hands fidgeting with the edges of his notebook.

[Name] chuckled lightly at his nervousness. “Nice to meet you, Tokimitsu. You look pretty strong! Are you on a sports team or something?”

Tokimitsu’s face turned bright red at her compliment, and he mumbled, “N-No, I’m not on any team… but I-I work out sometimes.” He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, clearly unused to receiving attention, especially from someone like her.

On her left side, [Name] noticed another boy sitting quietly, his head resting against his hand. He had a tired, almost haunted look, with dark bags under his eyes that stood out against his pale skin. His shoulder-length, blackish-green hair framed his face, and the freckles dotting his cheeks gave him a touch of charm despite his worn appearance.

He glanced at her briefly, his expression unreadable, before murmuring, “Itsuki Wakatsuki... That’s my name.” His voice was so low that [Name] had to lean in slightly to catch his words.

“Nice to meet you too, Itsuki,” she replied with a warm smile. “You seem a little tired—are you okay?”

Wakatsuki blinked, startled by her genuine concern. He nodded faintly but avoided her gaze. “Y-Yeah, I’m fine. Just didn’t sleep much last night.”

[Name] noticed the faint hint of effort he put into the conversation and appreciated it, deciding not to press further. “Well, I hope this class doesn’t put you to sleep,” she teased lightly, trying to put him at ease.

Wakatsuki gave a small, almost shy smile, his eyes softening ever so slightly. “I’ll… try to stay awake.”

As [Name] struck up lighthearted conversation with Tokimitsu and Wakatsuki, she couldn’t help but glance around the room, taking note of her other classmates. Psychology wasn’t a small class, but she realized with a twinge of unease that there were far more guys than girls—only about four or five other girls dotted the room.

Her gaze landed on someone particularly striking. Leaning back in his chair as if the world revolved around him was a tall, tanned young man with spiky blond hair that faded into pink at the tips. Two strands framed his face, emphasizing his sharp, angular features. What stood out most were his piercing pink irises, the slit pupils giving him a cat-like intensity. He had a devil-may-care attitude, resting with one arm lazily draped over the back of his chair, a grin stretching across his face like he knew a secret no one else did.

[Name] found herself staring a little too long, and when their eyes met, he smirked knowingly. Embarrassed, she quickly gave him a polite, nervous smile before turning her attention elsewhere.

This time, her eyes fell on another boy—tall, slim, and refined in appearance. His orange eyes gleamed behind round spectacles, and his neatly stylized brown hair gave him a sophisticated charm. [Name] thought he bore a passing resemblance to Harry Potter, albeit a much more handsome version. Something about his calm, intellectual demeanor intrigued her, and she wondered what he was like.

Further into the room, she spotted a familiar face—Reo Mikage, already seated and scanning through a notebook. He looked perfectly composed, as always, and she noticed a few others exchanging whispers about him, likely impressed by his wealthy, polished image.

Several other unfamiliar faces caught her attention too, but before she could take in more details, the sound of heavy footsteps snapped her focus forward.

A tall, commanding figure strode into the classroom, instantly demanding attention. The man had a striking presence, his blond hair styled with short sides and longer bangs swept to the left, framing his sharp, almost aristocratic features. His piercing blue eyes scanned the room with a mix of calculation and amusement, a subtle smirk playing at his lips.

“Good afternoon, everyone,” the professor said, his voice smooth yet laced with an unmistakable air of arrogance. “I am Mr. Luna, your psychology professor.” His Spanish accent rolled off his words, adding a certain flair to his introduction.

[Name] exchanged a glance with Tokimitsu, who looked intimidated, and Wakatsuki, who seemed indifferent but a little wary.

“Let’s begin with attendance,” Mr. Luna continued, his eyes narrowing slightly as he scanned his list. With every name he called, he made a sarcastic remark or sharp observation, his tone teetering between playful and cutting as he went down the list of names.

“Tokimitsu Aoishi,” he called, glancing up. “Ah, the gentle giant. Try not to crush your desk with those massive hands.”

Tokimitsu blushed deeply, his hands fumbling with his notebook. “Y-Yes, sir,” he mumbled. Taking many names along the way and landed on Itsuki’s.

“Wakatsuki Itsuki,” Mr. Luna said next, his gaze sharp. “You look like you’ve barely slept. Are we keeping you from your beauty rest?”

Wakatsuki muttered something incoherent, avoiding eye contact.

When Mr. Luna finally reached [Name]’s name, his smirk widened slightly. “[Name] Sanzuku,” he said, leaning back as if to assess her. “A name with weight. Let’s hope the mind is just as remarkable.”

[Name] felt a prickle of nerves under his scrutinizing gaze but nodded politely. “Yes, sir.”

With the attendance completed, Mr. Luna strode to the front of the class. “Let’s begin,” he announced, his tone shifting to a lecture style that was both engaging and unnervingly direct. “Psychology is not for the faint-hearted. If you think you can skate by, I assure you, you won’t. Now, open your textbooks. You’ll need them.”

As the lesson progressed, [Name] couldn’t shake the feeling of being observed. Glancing around, she caught the blond boy with the pink tips watching her again, his smirk still firmly in place. Then she noticed Reo glancing her way briefly before refocusing on his notes. Even the boy with the glasses looked over at her once or twice, adjusting his frames with a thoughtful expression.

[Name] shook her head, determined to focus on the lecture. It was going to be a long day.

As the lecture continued, Itsuki leaned over his textbook, visibly struggling to work through a particularly tricky question. [Name] noticed his furrowed brow and whispered softly, “Do you need help with that?”

Itsuki glanced at her, his dark-ringed eyes lighting up briefly with hope. “Uh, yeah… If you don’t mind—”

Before he could finish, Mr. Luna appeared beside their desks, his hand pressing firmly down on Itsuki’s textbook. “Figure it out yourself,” he said with a smile that didn’t quite reach his piercing eyes. “If you can’t, you won’t meet the requirements for this course.”

Itsuki froze, his hands tightening into fists under the desk as the professor’s words hung heavy in the air. [Name] frowned, her instinct to protest bubbling up, but Mr. Luna was already walking away, his smile unbroken as he moved back to the front of the room.

Leaning closer to Itsuki, she whispered, “Don’t worry about him. You’re doing fine. Just take your time, and if you still need help, I’ll find a way to explain later.”

Itsuki nodded slowly, his tense posture easing slightly as he muttered a quiet, “Thanks.”

The class carried on with lectures and notes, the scratching of pens and shuffling of papers filling the room. [Name] was fully engrossed in her notebook when she felt something soft hit her shoulder. Startled, she looked down and saw a crumpled paper ball sitting on her desk.

Turning her head, she caught sight of the blond guy with pink-tipped hair sitting a few rows behind her. He leaned back in his chair with a smug grin, snickering as he pointed at the paper ball, clearly proud of his childish attempt to get her attention.

Suppressing a sigh, [Name] picked up the paper and carefully uncrumpled it. The message inside made her roll her eyes:

"You’re really cute. What’s your number?"

Without missing a beat, [Name] crumpled the paper back into a ball and tossed it into the nearby trash can. The blond boy let out a soft “Tch” sound, but his smirk didn’t falter, as if he found her reaction amusing.

Unbothered, [Name] turned her attention back to her notes, resolutely focusing on the lecture. If he thought she’d be an easy target, he was in for a surprise.

As the lecture concluded and students began to gather their belongings, the usual bustle of chatter filled the room. [Name] neatly packed her notebook and pens into her bag, eager to move on to her next class without further distractions. Just as she zipped her bag, she felt an imposing presence behind her. Turning slowly, her gaze met with a mischievous smirk and striking pink-tipped blond hair.

It was the same guy who had thrown the paper ball earlier.

“Well, well, fancy seeing you here,” he drawled, his cat-like pink eyes glinting with amusement. His voice was smooth but carried a cocky undertone. “Name’s Ryusei Shidou. And you, princess, caught my eye.”

[Name] blinked, her brows furrowing. “Princess?” she echoed, her tone flat. “What do you want?”

Leaning against her desk, Ryusei folded his arms and grinned wider, clearly enjoying her reaction. “Just wanted to say hi. You know, I couldn’t help but notice how cute you looked ignoring me earlier. Thought I’d give you another chance to talk to me.”

[Name]’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Another chance? Wow, you really think highly of yourself, don’t you?” She stood, slinging her bag over her shoulder. “Look, I don’t have time for this, so if you’ll excuse me—”

Ryusei sidestepped, effectively blocking her path. His grin turned feral, and there was a wild energy in his eyes now, like he was enjoying some kind of game. “You’re feisty. I like that,” he said, tilting his head to examine her closely. “Bet you’re not used to a guy like me, huh?”

“Used to what?” [Name] snapped, folding her arms. “Guys who think they’re all that just because they can talk a big game? Please. I’ve seen it before, and it’s not impressive.”

That struck a nerve, but Ryusei masked it quickly with a low chuckle. “Ouch. Got some claws, don’t you? Makes me want to see what’s under all that sass.”

[Name] shot him a glare, her heterochromatic eyes narrowing. “What’s under it? A very annoyed person who’s two seconds away from walking right past you.”

Ryusei’s smirk twitched, his excitement bubbling up further. “See, that’s what I mean. You’re not like the others. They’d either run away or be all over me by now.” He stepped closer, invading her personal space, his grin widening to reveal his sharp teeth. “But you? You’ve got bite. I like a girl who makes me work for it.”

[Name] took a step back, her patience thinning. “I’m not some prize for you to win. And for the record, your ‘charming bad boy’ act? It’s not working.”

Ryusei laughed, the sound loud and unrestrained, drawing the attention of a few lingering students who quickly turned away when he shot them a sharp look. “You’re killing me, princess! God, you’ve got no idea how much fun this is.”

“Fun? I’m not here to entertain you,” [Name] retorted, her voice icy. She gestured to the exit. “Move.”

He didn’t budge, his playful demeanor shifting slightly into something more intense. His pink eyes bore into hers, the smirk on his lips softening but not fading entirely. “You’ve got this fire in you,” he said, his voice dropping to a lower, more serious tone. “It’s rare. Makes me wonder... what’s it gonna take to make you notice me?”

[Name] stared at him, her expression a mix of disbelief and irritation. “Notice you? You’re standing in front of me, making a scene. Congratulations, I’ve noticed. Now what?”

Ryusei leaned in just enough to make her flinch but not enough to touch her. “Now... I figured out how to keep you interested.”

[Name] took a steadying breath, clenching her fists to keep her composure. “Here’s a tip: Start by leaving me alone.”

Before he could respond, she sidestepped him and walked toward the door, her pace brisk.

“Feisty and smart,” Ryusei called after her, his grin returning. “You’ll come around, princess. They always do.”

[Name] didn’t look back, her steps echoing in the hallway as she muttered under her breath, “Not in this lifetime.”

As she disappeared around the corner, Ryusei stood in the now-empty classroom, his grin softening into something more thoughtful. His heart raced—not with frustration but with exhilaration.

“She’s different,” he murmured to himself, running a hand through his messy blond and pink hair. “Hard to get, huh? That just makes the game more fun.”

For [Name], the encounter left a sour taste in her mouth, but for Ryusei, it was only the beginning.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name] trudged toward the history classroom with a heavy sigh, her steps dragging as though the weight of her dread was physically pulling her down. History, of all things, she thought miserably. The one subject she couldn't wrap her head around, no matter how hard she tried. Dates, events, and figures—all of it blurred together in her mind like a dull, repetitive reel.

Sliding into a seat toward the middle of the back row, she dropped her bag onto the desk and slouched, letting out a groan. “Please let this be easy for once,” she muttered under her breath, staring at the clock ticking closer to the start of class.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a cheerful voice. “[Name]-san?”

Looking up, she spotted Akira walking into the room, his sharp outfit slightly disheveled but still exuding his signature charm. A small smile tugged at her lips. “Akira-kun! You’re in this class too?”

Akira took the seat next to hers, flashing her a warm grin. “Looks like it. Lucky for you, right? I can tell this isn’t your favorite subject.”

“You can say that again,” she replied, slumping further into her chair. “I’m terrible at history. It’s like my brain just refuses to hold onto any of it. Honestly, I don’t know how I’m going to survive this semester.”

Akira chuckled softly, adjusting his tie. “Good thing I’m here, then. History’s one of my better subjects. If you ever need help, just ask me.”

[Name] perked up slightly. “Really? You’d do that?”

“Of course,” he said, leaning back casually. “I mean, you’re already in my debt for your number earlier, so what’s a little more tutoring?”

She laughed, nudging his shoulder playfully. “Oh, please. You’re never going to let me forget that, are you?”

“Not a chance,” he teased, winking.

Their lighthearted banter was interrupted by the arrival of more students filing into the room. One of them, a tall boy with dark skin and long, intricately braided hair, caught [Name]’s attention. He walked to the front left row with a quiet confidence, his white, circular eyes scanning the room before settling into his seat.

Akira noticed her gaze. “That’s Agi,” he explained, leaning closer so his voice wouldn’t carry. “He’s kind of a history whiz. A little intense when it comes to analyzing things, but he’s a good guy.”

[Name] tilted her head, intrigued. “He seems... interesting.”

At that moment, Agi turned his head slightly and caught her looking. His eyes widened a fraction, and a faint blush dusted his cheeks. He gave her a small, awkward wave, which [Name] returned with a friendly smile and a wave of her own.

Akira smirked, noticing the exchange. “Looks like you’ve already made an impression.”

“Stop,” [Name] said, rolling her eyes but smiling despite herself. “I was just being polite.”

Agi quickly looked away, focusing on unpacking his notebook and pens with a slightly flustered expression. He muttered something under his breath, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

The room continued to fill, the hum of voices growing louder as students greeted each other and settled into their seats. [Name] felt a little more at ease knowing Akira was there and that Agi seemed approachable. For a moment, she even forgot about how much she disliked history.

Akira nudged her arm. “Don’t get too comfortable. If Agi starts answering every question, you’ll have to deal with his teacher’s-pet energy.”

[Name] stifled a laugh. “Well, at least someone’s enthusiastic about this stuff.”

As she glanced around the room, her eyes lingered on Agi once more. He seemed to be in his own world, focused and ready to tackle whatever the class threw at him. ‘Maybe history won’t be so bad with people like this around’ she thought, allowing herself a small glimmer of hope.

The sound of the classroom door shutting drew everyone’s attention as another student entered, and [Name] glanced at the clock again. Only a few minutes left before the lecture would begin. She braced herself, determined to make the most of it—no matter how much she despised the subject.

As [Name] and Akira continued chatting about their mutual disdain—or expertise, in Akira’s case—for history, a voice from behind them broke through their conversation.

“Forgot to save me a seat, Endoji?”

Akira turned in his chair, his face lighting up. “Reiji! I didn’t think you’d make it on time. You’re usually late.”

[Name] looked up, and for a moment, it felt like the air had been sucked out of the room. Standing behind Akira was the most breathtakingly handsome man she had ever seen. He was tall and elegant, his long black hair tied neatly into a bun that accentuated his sharp features. His all-white irises gave him an otherworldly aura, and beneath each eye were twin moles that added to his almost ethereal charm.

Reiji Hiiragi’s gaze swept the room briefly before landing on [Name], his lips curving into a smile that was equal parts welcoming and enigmatic. “And who might this be?” he asked, his voice smooth and deliberate as his eyes lingered on her.

[Name] quickly straightened in her seat, her heart skipping a beat. “Oh, I’m [Name] Sanzuku,” she said, her voice steady despite the warmth creeping up her neck. “Nice to meet you.”

Reiji chuckled softly, his gaze sharp and calculating as he seemed to inspect her every move. “A pleasure, [Name]. I’m Reiji Hiiragi.” He held her gaze for a moment longer before adding, “I see Akira has found himself an interesting seatmate.”

[Name] blinked at the comment, unsure whether it was meant to be a compliment or a casual observation. Either way, she felt a strange pull toward him, like his presence demanded attention.

“Reiji’s one of my roommates,” Akira said, breaking the tension with his usual lighthearted tone. “We’ve been stuck together since the semester started. He’s got some… interesting habits, let’s say.”

“Fortune-telling is hardly a ‘habit,’” Reiji corrected, taking the seat directly behind Akira and leaning forward so his elbows rested on the desk. “It’s a science—a skill honed through data, observation, and intuition. Not that you’d understand, Endoji.”

Akira rolled his eyes but grinned. “See what I mean? He’s always like this.”

“Fortune-telling?” [Name] asked, tilting her head. “That’s fascinating. Do you do predictions for people, or is it more of a personal thing?”

Reiji’s smile widened, and for a moment, there was a flicker of excitement in his otherwise composed demeanor. “I do both. People come to me seeking clarity, and most of the time, I deliver. My accuracy rate speaks for itself.” His gaze dropped to her hands briefly before returning to her eyes. “Though I get the feeling you don’t rely much on predictions, do you? You seem more… instinct-driven.”

[Name] blinked, caught off guard by his perceptiveness. “I guess you could say that,” she admitted.

“Interesting,” Reiji murmured, leaning back slightly as if filing the information away for later.

The three of them continued chatting, their conversation weaving between lighthearted banter and more serious topics. [Name] found herself warming up to Reiji, despite the unsettling intensity of his gaze. He was charming and articulate, but there was something about him that felt slightly off—a subtle undercurrent of unpredictability beneath his polished exterior.

Akira, ever the mediator, kept the tone friendly and casual, though he occasionally shot Reiji a warning glance whenever his roommate’s comments veered into overly analytical territory.

“So, [Name],” Reiji said after a while, his tone light but with an edge of curiosity. “What’s your take on history? Love it or hate it?”

She let out a dramatic groan, leaning back in her chair. “Absolutely hate it. If it weren’t a required class, I wouldn’t be here.”

Reiji chuckled, his laughter low and rich. “Ah, a reluctant scholar. Don’t worry—I’m sure Akira will be more than happy to help you muddle through it.”

“Hey! I told her already that I got this!” Akira protested, though he was smiling.

[Name] laughed softly, feeling more at ease despite her initial nerves. The atmosphere between the three of them was surprisingly comfortable, even with Reiji’s piercing gaze occasionally making her self-conscious.

As the classroom continued to fill with students, [Name] glanced at the clock. The professor still hadn’t arrived, but she could sense the anticipation building in the room. For now, though, she was content to focus on her two companions, grateful for the distraction from her looming dislike of the subject.

The classroom chatter was cut short as the door swung open with an authoritative thud, and a tall, imposing figure strode inside. Chris Prince, or as he insisted on being called, Mr. Prince, immediately commanded attention with his presence. His blonde hair, streaked with white, was unkempt but styled in a way that somehow worked for him, and his light blue eyes seemed to scan the room with both amusement and disdain.

“Alright, you lot,” he began in a booming voice, his British accent laced with an air of confidence that bordered on arrogance. “Hope you’ve got your brains switched on today, because I don’t plan on holding your hand through this subject. History,” he said, rolling his sleeves up to reveal his muscular forearms, “isn’t for the faint-hearted.”

[Name] slouched slightly in her seat, dreading every word.

“Attendance first, because I need to know who’s going to make my life a headache this semester.” He began calling out names, marking them on a clipboard with a dramatic flourish.

When he reached [Name]’s name, he looked up briefly, his piercing gaze locking onto hers. “[Name] Sanzuku.”

“Here,” she squeaked, immediately regretting how small her voice sounded.

Chris arched an eyebrow, muttering, “Hm. We’ll see how you hold up.” He continued down the list without further comment, but [Name] felt like she’d already been singled out.

Once attendance was over, Chris set the clipboard aside and turned to the board, picking up a piece of chalk with a theatrical air. “Right. Let’s dive in, shall we? Today’s lecture is about the Battle of Hastings. 1066. A date that should be etched into your memory, unless you’ve been living under a rock.”

He began writing “1066” in large, bold letters on the board, underlining it twice for emphasis. “This wasn’t just any battle, folks. This was the clash that shaped the course of English history. The Normans versus the Anglo-Saxons. William the Conqueror versus Harold Godwinson. A battle for the throne, power, and legacy. Sound dramatic? It bloody was.”

[Name] scribbled in her notebook, her pen moving faster than her brain could keep up. Chris’s lecture was like a freight train—fast, intense, and unforgiving.

“Now, who can tell me,” he said, spinning around to face the class, “why the Normans had an advantage over the Anglo-Saxons? Anyone?” His gaze swept the room.

Several students avoided eye contact, but a boy in the front raised his hand. It was Agi, the teacher’s pet.

“They had cavalry, sir,” Agi answered confidently.

Chris nodded approvingly. “Good man. Yes, the Normans had cavalry. They used it to devastating effect. Meanwhile, the Anglo-Saxons? They were stuck in their bloody shield wall, which—spoiler alert—didn’t end well for them.”

As Chris continued, [Name]’s head started to spin. He was throwing out terms like feudal levies, Housecarls, and flanking maneuvers at breakneck speed.

“Now, what about tactics? Why did Harold’s shield wall eventually break? Anyone?” Chris scanned the room again, his eyes narrowing. “Miss Sanzuku,” he said suddenly, his voice cutting through the air like a knife.

[Name] froze, her pen slipping from her hand.

“Yes, you. Enlighten us.”

She stammered, her mind a complete blank. “Uh… um… maybe… because they… uh… weren’t… strong enough?”

The room erupted in a few muffled snickers, and Chris raised an unimpressed eyebrow. “Not strong enough? Brilliant deduction. By that logic, they should’ve just hit the gym, eh?” He smirked, leaning against his desk. “The correct answer, for those of you who don’t want to embarrass yourselves like Miss Sanzuku, is that they broke formation to chase after the Norman forces, who were feigning a retreat. A classic bait-and-switch. Schoolboy error, really.”

[Name] wanted to melt into the floor. She buried her face in her hands before letting her forehead hit the desk with a quiet thud. Akira leaned over, whispering, “Don’t let him get to you. He’s just a jerk.”

Chris’s voice boomed again, pulling her back into the present. “Right, moving on! What was the significance of the Bayeux Tapestry in documenting the battle? And don’t you dare say it’s just a bloody rug!”

[Name] groaned internally, her brain already fried. Akira passed her a quick note with a scribbled answer, but she was too mortified to even consider raising her hand again.

For the rest of the lecture, she kept her head down, occasionally sneaking glances at Akira’s notes to make sense of Chris’s rapid-fire explanations. By the time the class ended, her notebook was filled with barely legible scribbles, and her confidence had taken a serious hit.

As Chris dismissed the class with a final, “Next time, come prepared, or don’t come at all,” [Name] sighed deeply, feeling like she’d barely survived a battlefield of her own.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The lunchroom buzzed with the usual chaos of students chattering, laughing, and clattering their trays. [Name], Hitomi, and Ruka sat together at a cozy table by the window, the sunlight streaming in to cast warm patterns on their trays. [Name] slouched in her seat, poking at her rice with her chopsticks, still reeling from her mortifying experience in Mr. Prince’s history class.

"I swear," she groaned, "if history class is a battlefield, then Mr. Prince is a dictator. I fumbled so hard he probably thinks I don’t have a brain in my head." She dramatically rested her forehead on the table, earning a sympathetic pat on the back from Hitomi.

"Don’t be too hard on yourself, [Name]," Hitomi said gently. “Everyone knows he’s a perfectionist and thrives on making people squirm. You’ll get used to his style.”

“Used to it?” [Name] said, sitting up and huffing. “I’d rather not be roasted alive every class.”

Ruka chuckled and gave her an encouraging smile as he leaned back in his chair. “Prince’s class is tough, yeah, but you’ve always been a fast learner. You’ll bounce back. Besides,” he added with a glint of mischief, “if he gives you too much trouble, just let me know. I’ll have a word.”

[Name] rolled her eyes. “No need for the knight-in-shining-armor act, Ruka. I’ve got this.”

“Alright, alright,” Ruka said with a smirk, holding up his hands in mock surrender. “But seriously, how were your other classes? Any better than the war zone?”

[Name] sighed but smiled faintly as she thought back to her day. “Lavinho’s class was actually fun—he’s so energetic it’s impossible to hate him. Plus, I met Kira and Gagamaru. They’re… interesting, to say the least.”

“Oh, Kira’s a good guy,” Ruka said. “And Gagamaru—well, he’s definitely one of a kind.”

“Economical Biology wasn’t bad either,” [Name] continued. “Aryu’s in there, and he’s really nice. Also, I helped Isagi a bit, so that was cool.”

“See? Not everything’s doom and gloom,” Hitomi said with a warm smile.

[Name] nodded, though her expression soured slightly as she moved on. “Psychology was okay, I guess. Luna’s a character, though—kind of a mix of strict and smug. But at least the lesson itself wasn’t too bad. I even made some new friends: Tokimitsu and Itsuki. They’re sweet, though Tokimitsu is so nervous he looks like he’s about to faint half the time.”

Hitomi laughed. “He’s like a puppy, isn’t he?”

“Totally,” [Name] said, grinning briefly before her face darkened. “But you know who isn’t sweet? Ryusei Shidou. I can’t stand him.”

The moment she said his name, Ruka spat out his drink so violently that it sprayed across the table, narrowly missing [Name]’s tray. He coughed and thumped his chest as Hitomi frantically handed him a napkin.

“What the hell, Ruka?!” [Name] exclaimed, leaning back to avoid the aftermath of his dramatic reaction.

Ruka wiped his mouth, his expression shifting from shock to outright alarm. “Ryusei Shidou?” he repeated, his voice laced with disbelief. “You have Shidou in your class?!”

“Yeah,” [Name] said slowly, frowning at his over-the-top response. “Why? What’s the big deal?”

Ruka’s jaw tightened, and he looked genuinely worried. “[Name], that guy is bad news. Like, flashing-red-neon-sign bad news. You need to stay far away from him.”

“Trust me, I’m already doing that,” [Name] replied, crossing her arms. “The guy’s a total creep. He threw a paper ball at me during class, asking for my number, and when I ignored him, he cornered me after class trying to impress me. It was pathetic.”

Ruka groaned, running a hand through his hair. “That’s exactly what I was afraid of. Shidou doesn’t take rejection well, and he’s got a reputation for being… unstable.”

“Unstable how?” Hitomi asked, her brow furrowing in concern.

“Let’s just say he’s not above using intimidation or worse to get what he wants,” Ruka said grimly. “He’s obsessive, unpredictable, and has zero boundaries. If he’s got his sights set on you, [Name], you need to be careful.”

[Name] blinked, taken aback by the seriousness in Ruka’s tone. “I mean, yeah, he’s annoying, but he doesn’t scare me. I can handle myself.”

“[Name],” Ruka said firmly, leaning forward, “this isn’t a joke. Shidou is not like the other guys you’ve dealt with. He’s... dangerous. Promise me you’ll avoid him as much as possible.”

Hitomi placed a reassuring hand on [Name]’s shoulder. “He’s right. It’s better to be cautious, especially if someone like Ruka is this worried.”

[Name] hesitated but eventually nodded. “Okay, fine. I’ll keep my distance. Not that I wanted to be near him anyway.”

Ruka relaxed slightly, though the concern in his eyes didn’t fade entirely. “Good. Just... don’t let your guard down, okay? And if he gives you any trouble, you come to me immediately.”

“Got it, Mom,” [Name] said with a teasing smirk, trying to lighten the mood.

Ruka sighed but smiled faintly, ruffling her hair. “Just looking out for you, kiddo. That’s what cousins are for.”

As the tension eased, the trio continued their lunch, though [Name] couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling creeping into the back of her mind. If Ryusei really was as dangerous as Ruka said, she might be in for more trouble than she’d anticipated.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name] and Hitomi walked into the business classroom, still buzzing with conversation from lunch. Ruka’s parting warning lingered in their minds, but [Name] brushed it off, eager to get through the day. As they entered the room, [Name]’s eyes scanned the rows of desks—and immediately froze when she spotted a familiar figure sitting near the window.

There, with his cyan hair catching the light and his soft features even more striking than she remembered, was Yo Hiori, her childhood best friend.

“Yo-kun?” [Name] called out, her voice laced with surprise and excitement.

Yo looked up, and the moment their eyes met, his face broke into a warm, delighted smile. “[Name]-chan!” he exclaimed, standing up to greet her. “It’s been forever!”

[Name] hurried over, pulling him into a quick, affectionate hug. “I can’t believe you’re here! Why didn’t you tell me you’d be in this class?”

“I wanted to surprise you,” Yo admitted, rubbing the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. “Looks like it worked.”

Hitomi, standing a little to the side, gave a small wave. “You must be Yo Hiori. I’ve heard so much about you.”

Yo nodded politely, offering her a friendly smile. “And you must be Hitomi. [Name]-chan’s mentioned you before too. Nice to finally meet you.”

The trio quickly found seats together near the middle of the room, [Name] insisting on sitting between Yo and Hitomi. As they settled in, Yo turned to [Name], his gaze softening.

“So, how’s your day been so far?” he asked, his tone gentle but filled with genuine curiosity.

[Name] groaned, slumping dramatically in her chair. “Don’t even get me started. History class was a train wreck. Mr. Prince is brutal, and I made a complete fool of myself in front of the entire class.”

Yo frowned, his brows knitting together in concern. “That doesn’t sound like you, [Name]-chan. What happened?”

“I blanked when he called on me,” [Name] admitted with a sigh. “Completely frozen. It was so embarrassing.”

Yo reached over, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Hey, don’t beat yourself up over it. Everyone has off days. Besides, you’re one of the smartest people I know. You’ll bounce back.”

[Name] smiled at him, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. “Thanks, Yo-kun. You always know what to say.”

Hitomi, watching the interaction, stifled a knowing smile but decided to steer the conversation. “So, Yo-kun, how have you been? It’s been a while since you two last saw each other, right?”

Yo nodded, leaning back in his chair. “Yeah, it’s been a few weeks. But I’ve been good—keeping busy, trying to balance classes and soccer.”

“Still with soccer, huh?” [Name] said, tilting her head. “I thought you’d given up on that.”

Yo hesitated for a moment, his smile faltering slightly. “Yeah, well… let’s just say I’m still figuring things out.”

[Name] noticed the shift in his expression but decided not to press further. Instead, she changed the subject, her tone light and teasing. “Anyway, you’re going to have to help me survive this class. Business isn’t exactly my forte.”

Yo chuckled, the warmth returning to his eyes. “Don’t worry, [Name]-chan. I’ve got your back. Besides, I’m pretty good at simplifying things. It’s like a game—just break it down into steps and focus on the strategy.”

“Leave it to Yo-kun to make business sound like a video game,” [Name] said with a laugh.

As the conversation flowed, Yo couldn’t help but steal glances at [Name], his heart racing every time she smiled or laughed. She looked so radiant, even when she was stressed or annoyed. He’d always admired her confidence, her drive, and her ability to light up a room without even trying.

In his mind, a small but persistent hope lingered: ‘One day, [Name]-chan. One day, I’ll tell you how I feel’

For now, he was content just being by her side, supporting her in any way he could. As the three of them continued talking, the classroom gradually filled with other students, the hum of voices growing louder.

[Name] felt a sense of comfort she hadn’t felt all day. With Yo and Hitomi by her side, maybe business class wouldn’t be so bad after all.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

[Name] and Hitomi continued chatting with Yo, the mood light and pleasant as students trickled into the classroom. The sound of shuffling bags and murmured conversations filled the room, creating a lively atmosphere. [Name] glanced up as the door creaked open, catching sight of a boy with bright pink hair and a single braid hanging by his face. His pink eyes flicked around nervously, and the faint glint of sharp teeth peeked through his slightly parted lips.

“Oh! Kurona!” Yo called out, waving to the boy.

Ranze Kurona hesitated for a moment before nodding shyly and making his way to the seat beside Yo.

“Hi, Kurona-kun,” [Name] greeted warmly, her smile genuine. Hitomi joined in with a polite wave.

Ranze blinked at them, his pale cheeks flushing pink. “Ah… hi, hi,” he mumbled, avoiding direct eye contact. “I-I’m Kurona. Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too!” [Name] chirped. “I’ve heard about you from Yo-kun.”

Ranze’s blush deepened, and he ducked his head, muttering a quiet, “Thank you, thank you,” before quickly focusing on arranging his materials. Yo gave him an encouraging pat on the back, clearly used to his friend’s bashful demeanor.

The door opened again, and this time, a tall figure with spiky orange hair entered. His confident stride and broad shoulders made him stand out immediately. [Name] couldn’t help but notice the contrast between his intense aura and the calm, almost serene expression he wore.

“That’s Rensuke Kunigami,” Yo whispered to the girls. “He’s… let’s just say he’s one of the good guys.”

Kunigami made his way down the rows of desks, his auburn eyes scanning the room before settling on an empty seat near the end of their row. He nodded politely at the others but didn’t engage in conversation, instead pulling out a pen and notebook with quiet focus.

“He seems serious,” Hitomi observed, tilting her head.

“He is,” Yo confirmed. “But he’s also one of the most dependable people you’ll ever meet.”

As they watched Kunigami settle in, the door opened yet again to reveal a towering figure with spiky white hair that seemed to defy gravity. The sheer height of the newcomer made heads turn, and even [Name] had to crane her neck slightly to take him in.

“Whoa,” she muttered under her breath.

“That’s Haru Hayate,” Yo explained softly. “Don’t let his size intimidate you—he’s actually pretty chill.”

Haru moved to the very back of the room, his long legs making the journey seem effortless. He quietly took the seat in the farthest corner, his calm expression never wavering as he observed the room with a relaxed gaze.

“Tall and quiet,” Hitomi said, raising an eyebrow. “Interesting combo.”

“Pretty much sums him up,” Yo agreed with a small chuckle.

The flow of students continued, and soon another figure caught [Name]’s attention—a boy with chin-length dark brown hair and a friendly smile that didn’t quite reach his sharp red eyes. He exuded a confident, almost calculating energy as he strolled in, scanning the room with a casual air.

“Kuon Wataru,” Yo muttered under his breath, his tone noticeably cooler.

“Friend of yours?” [Name] asked, catching the change in his demeanor.

“Not exactly,” Yo replied, his voice low. “Just… keep an eye on him. He’s not as friendly as he looks.”

Kuon took a seat in the front row, pulling out his materials with practiced ease. Despite his outward calm, there was a subtle edge to his movements, as if he were constantly strategizing.

The room continued to fill with familiar and unfamiliar faces, the buzz of conversation growing louder as the start of class approached. [Name] found herself glancing at each new arrival, wondering who they were and what kind of personalities they brought to the table.

As the chatter reached its peak, the door slammed open dramatically, causing several students to jump in their seats. A hush fell over the room as everyone turned to see who had arrived.

“Well, well, well,” a deep, confident voice drawled. “Looks like I’ve got myself quite the audience today.”

[Name]’s heart sank as she realized the professor had arrived.

As the last stragglers settled into their seats, the room hushed once more. The door opened with a calm, deliberate motion, and in walked a tall man who immediately commanded attention without trying. His light hair was tied back with a bandanna, his sharp, owl-like orange eyes scanning the class as though taking in every detail in an instant. He carried himself with a quiet confidence, his presence magnetic and undeniable.

“Good afternoon, class,” he greeted, his voice rich with a thick Italian accent. His tone was polite but firm, a clear indicator that he expected respect and focus. “I am Marc Snuffy, but please call me Mr. Snuffy, your professor for this business course. For some of you, this might be your first exposure to the complexities of business management, and for others, perhaps not. Either way, I assure you—by the end of this semester, you will understand not just how to build a business, but how to sustain it.”

He paused, letting his words sink in as he walked toward the desk at the front of the room. His movements were smooth and deliberate, his gaze steady.

“I believe in strategy,” he continued, folding his hands in front of him. “Not just in business, but in life. There is no point in rushing ahead if you do not know where you are going or why. So, today, we start with the foundations. Stock markets, investments, building a team… all critical components for success.”

Snuffy’s words carried weight, and even [Name] found herself leaning forward slightly, intrigued despite herself. She scribbled down notes as he began to elaborate on the stock market, explaining concepts like supply and demand, market trends, and the importance of understanding risk management.

To her surprise, the lesson wasn’t as overwhelming as she had feared. Snuffy’s calm and patient teaching style made even the most complex topics feel accessible, and his occasional anecdotes from his own career added a personal touch that kept the class engaged.

[Name] felt herself smiling faintly as she wrote down the details of his latest example, feeling confident that she could keep up with this class. For once, she didn’t feel like she was drowning in jargon.

But then, a strange sensation prickled at the back of her neck. The feeling of being watched.

She glanced up briefly, her eyes flicking around the room. To her left, Rensuke Kunigami sat with his notebook open, pen in hand, but his gaze wasn’t on the professor. It was on her.

[Name] blinked, caught off guard by his focused expression. The intensity in his auburn eyes was unsettling, yet there was no malice there—just something unreadable that made her quickly look back at her notes.

‘Maybe he’s zoning out’ she thought, brushing it off.

But the sensation didn’t go away. If anything, it felt stronger. Her heart skipped as she realized someone was also watching her from behind.

She subtly adjusted her posture and turned her head slightly, catching a glimpse of Haru Hayate out of the corner of her eye. Despite being seated at the very back, his wide eyes were trained on her, unblinking and calm.

‘What is up with these guys?’ [Name] thought, suppressing the urge to groan. She hastily redirected her attention to Snuffy, who had moved on to discussing business building and team management strategies.

“Remember,” Snuffy said, his voice breaking through her flustered thoughts, “a successful business is like a team. Each member must understand their role and their value. There is no room for selfishness, nor for weakness. A true leader strengthens the individuals around them while keeping the bigger picture in mind.”

[Name] scribbled down the words, her focus returning as Snuffy’s lecture drew her back in. The professor was captivating, his calm demeanor oddly inspiring.

Even so, the awareness of those watchful eyes didn’t fade entirely. She resolved to ignore it, refusing to let herself be distracted. Whatever Kunigami and Haru were thinking, it wasn’t her problem. Right now, all that mattered was understanding Snuffy’s lessons and making it through this class.

As the lecture continued, she found herself gradually relaxing, the flow of information drowning out the unease—at least for the time being.

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The break period offered a much-needed reprieve from the whirlwind of classes. After Hitomi excused herself to handle some obligations, [Name] and Yo decided to make their way to the library. The walk there was quiet yet comfortable, the kind of silence shared between old friends who didn’t need to fill the air with constant chatter.

Upon entering the library, the faint smell of old paper and polished wood filled [Name]’s senses. She glanced around, her eyes landing on familiar faces seated at one of the large communal tables near the back. Isagi Yoichi was hunched over a notebook, scribbling away with focused determination. Sitting beside him were two other students she recognized from passing glances—Nanase Nijiro, with his soft purple eyes and country charm, and Meguru Bachira, whose distinct bob-cut hair made him hard to miss.

“Yo-kun, look,” [Name] nudged Yo gently and gestured toward the trio.

“Let’s go say hi,” Yo said with a small smile.

The two approached the table, and as soon as they were in earshot, Yoichi looked up, his serious expression softening into a grin.

“Hey, Hiori, [Name],” Yoichi greeted, leaning back in his chair.

Nijiro turned to them, bowing his head slightly in greeting. “Oh, hello there. You must be [Name]-san. I’ve heard a lot about you from Hiori and Yoichi.”

[Name] returned the smile warmly, bowing back. “It’s nice to meet you, Nanase-san. And Bachira-san, right?”

Meguru grinned brightly, waving his hand dismissively. “Just call me Bachira! Everyone does.”

As introductions concluded, Yo and [Name] took seats at the table, settling into the lively atmosphere. While Yoichi seemed intent on continuing his work, Nijiro and [Name] exchanged pleasantries, discussing the challenges of adapting to college life. Meguru , meanwhile, had taken to doodling little monsters on the corner of his notebook, clearly uninterested in the tasks at hand.

“So,” [Name] began, glancing between them, “what are you all working on?”

“Business stuff,” Yoichi replied without looking up. “I swear, Snuffy-sensei makes everything sound simple, but when you try to apply it, it’s like solving a puzzle with missing pieces.”

Nijiro nodded in agreement, chuckling. “I’m from the countryside, so I didn’t grow up hearing much about things like stocks and management. It’s all new to me.”

“Meh,” Meguru interjected, flipping his pencil. “Who cares about boring stuff like that? Let’s do something fun instead.”

As if on cue, he reached into his bag and pulled out a brightly colored deck of Uno cards, fanning them out like a magician.

“Uno?” [Name] asked, tilting her head.

“Yep! Perfect for blowing off steam,” Meguru declared, already shuffling the deck. “C’mon, everyone, let’s play!”

Despite initial protests from Yoichi, everyone ultimately caved, rearranging themselves around the table for a game.

The game started off lighthearted enough, with everyone chuckling as they slapped down cards and exchanged playful jabs.

“Blue,” Nijiro declared, placing a 4 on the pile.

“Not anymore!” Yo smirked, slapping down a color change card. “Red.”

“Why, Yo-kun?!” [Name] groaned, staring at the red in frustration.

“Gotta keep you on your toes,” Yoichi replied with a shrug, putting down a card.

The game quickly escalated into chaos when Meguru gleefully dropped a +4 card onto [Name]’s pile.

“Why do you hate me, Bachira-san?!” she exclaimed, her stack of cards growing taller by the second.

“It’s not hate—it’s strategy,” Meguru teased, flashing his toothy grin.

Nijiro, meanwhile, was struggling with his hand, the deck in front of him resembling a small mountain. “I swear, there’s no red or a single number I can use!” he lamented, flipping through his cards.

The group burst into laughter, the volume earning a sharp glare and a “Shhh!” from the stern librarian across the room. They quieted down momentarily, exchanging sheepish glances before the game resumed.

“Skip!” Meguru announced, gleefully skipping [Name]’s turn for the second time.

She narrowed her eyes at him. “You’re making an enemy out of me.”

“Bring it on, [Name]-chan!”

Yo, meanwhile, played strategically, carefully placing his cards without drawing too much attention. His calm, methodical approach eventually paid off when he announced triumphantly, “Uno!”

The table erupted in chaos as Yoichi, Nijiro, and [Name] desperately tried to stop him, but it was too late. Yo placed his final card, earning him the victory.

“Winner, as always,” Yo said with a rare grin.

“I call a rematch!” Meguru shouted, shuffling the deck with renewed enthusiasm.

“Shhh!” The librarian’s sharp reprimand cut through the air again, her glare enough to silence even Meguru for a moment.

Despite the librarian’s repeated warnings, the break period turned out to be one of the most enjoyable parts of the day. The laughter, camaraderie, and lighthearted competitiveness made [Name] feel at ease, her earlier frustrations melting away.

As the group packed up to leave, [Name] found herself smiling. “Thanks for inviting us to play, Bachira. That was fun.”

“Anytime, [Name]-chan!” he replied with a wink.

Yo walked beside her as they left the library, his hands in his pockets. “It’s nice seeing you laugh like that. You’ve had a rough day.”

[Name] glanced at him, her smile softening. “Yeah… I needed that.”

Unbeknownst to her, Yo’s cheeks tinged slightly pink at her words, his heart skipping a beat. One day, he thought to himself. ‘One day, I’ll tell her how I feel.’

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

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𝙸𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚜𝚎 𝚝𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚜, 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝙸'𝚖 𝚜𝚘𝚛𝚛𝚢, 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚎𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝙲𝙾𝙻𝙻𝙴𝙶𝙴 𝙲𝙰𝙼𝙿𝚄𝚂!! 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝙰𝙱𝙾𝚅𝙴 𝟷𝟾 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚛!!!

Title Character Bios Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

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© 2024 Ｖｅｌｖｅｔｅｅｎ 平和な目覚め— do not repost, copy, translate, modify, etc my work on any platform without my permission!

[danilosamaph]

Pol, Luna in Pesci, 14 June 2024, La Marbrerie, 21 rue Alexis Lepère, 93100 Montreuil, France [50.80cm x 33.87cm] | www.danilosama.ph

[bogotamusicvideofestival]

// Bogotá Music Video Festival // Selección Oficial 2024 //

Panorama Nacional

Ali AKA Mind - La Ansiedad Y Yo (David Moreno)

Alpes De Blanco A Negativo - Memorabilia (Erik Alexander Orozco Gañán)

Ami Rodríguez, Luna Hernández - Travesía (Óscar Otero)

Animal Blanco - Carcaj De Flechas Blancas (Cintia Obando)

Anny - Flores Amarillas (Brayan Rubiano)

Asylenn - En el Umbral (Juan Meza)

Beatzarro Fernández - Pan De Dios (Joan Sebastian Gallo Hincapie)

Buendía & Guarachan Brothers - Si Nos Queremos Tanto (Álvaro D. Ruiz)

Cacao Munch - Tiempo (Carlos Toro Egas)

Carrera Séptima - Septimazo (Santiago Muñoz)

COBO - Ruleta (Daniela Duque)

Cosmology X Ft. Pepa Lopera - Gnomo Psicotrópico (Johanna Parra)

Dani Medias Rotas - Josefina (Ángel Jesús Hurtado)

David Oli - El Tiempo Nos Pesa (Sebastián Prada)

Deglorian - El Placer De Lo Oculto (Andrés C. Rivera)

Espíritus Afines - Antes Del Eclipse (Juliana Andrea Acevedo Ruiz)

Fatima Push - Amigo And Tempest (Mateo Chaves & Camilo Báez)

Fausto Rodríguez - Margarita (David Lozada)

Flor De Jamaica - Quisiera (Randazzo)

Flor De Lava - El Velo Se Cayó (Rodrigo Borda)

Garajes - Transgresión (Gabriel Toro)

Irepelusa - Los Domingos La Paso Solita (Nano Carulla)

Irepelusa x Esteman - Te Amé Temprano (Nano Carulla)

John Arango - Rojo Carmesí (John Arango)

Juan Diego Triviño & Anamaría Laroc - Cohete (El Juanpa)

Karonte - Fuego Por Bemba (Thomas Mejía)

Kevin Jurado X LEEB X Hidd Sage - Superposición Cuántica (David Moncayo)

Lacerta - Una Vuelta (Álvaro José Cogollos)

LaChiki Y Su Mala Reputación - Del Timbo Al Tambo (Vladimir Goraldo & Jorge Zárate)

Las Villa - Fanática Sensual (Diego Ante)

Laura Kalop, Andrea Echeverri - Ay, Mujer (Sergio Mantilla & Manuel Velásquez)

Laura Pérez - Dementes (Mariana Sánchez)

Lilo Lara - Rola Caliente (Amarilla Ávila)

Locotina - Salgo a Buscarte (Edward Gómez Granada)

Los Hermanos De Nadie - El Murmullo De Un Muerto (Los Hermanos De Nadie & CunturFfilms)

Malva - Raso en la Jungla (Stiven Pinzón)

Maria McCausland - Todo Pasa (Hugo Rubiano)

Mario Y Sus Modales - No Sé Soltar (Sebastián Prada)

Mauricio Meyes - TLTEM (Pablo Escallón Barrios)

Mc Ari & El Arkeólogo ft. Noé Castilla - Jazmín (Jeisson Gómez)

Nicolás Díaz Lucas - A Las 6 (Kim Arévalo)

Nucleonics - Drop The Bomb (Laura Mosquera)

Palto, El Elegido - Ser Semilla (Julián Andrés Gómez Reyes)

Proyecto Humo - Te voy a matar + El caso 003478 (Iska Emilio Lozano)

Residente & Wos - Problema Cabrón (Alejandro Pedroza)

Señor Ledesma - Tú (Alexis Ledesma)

También Conocidos Como - Plataformas (Carlos Prías)

Tu Rockcito y Paula Rios Ft. Christian Camilo Peña - Pato Vallenato (William Rivera y Andrea Peralta)

Una Espeletia - Firmecito (Justin Olivares)

Unidad Ideológica - Bloqueo Mental (Ana González)

UNIO - Capucha Y Poesía (Julián Baraya)

Victoria Sur - Ojalá Nos Crucemos Otra Vez (Leo Carreño)

[brookstonalmanac]

Birthdays 10.23

Beer Birthdays

William Anderton (1866)

Warren Marti (1920)

Adam Nason (1984)

Five Favorite Birthdays

Johnny Carson; television talk show host (1925)

Michael Crichton; writer (1942)

Pele; Brazilian footballer (1940)

Ryan Reynolds; actor (1976)

"Weird" Al Yankovic; singer, parody songwriter (1959)

Famous Birthdays

Alexis Adams; pornstar (1992)

Laurie Halse Anderson; author (1961)

Nicholas Appert; chef, chemist, inventor (1752)

John Russell Bartlett; linguist & historian (1805)

Vasily Belov; Russian novelist, poet & playwright (1932)

Sarah Bernhardt; French actress (1844)

Pauline Black; English singer, actress (1953)

Felix Bloch; Swiss physicist (1905)

Robert Bridges; English writer (1844)

Jim Bunning; Philadelphia Phillies P (1931)

Pieter Burman the Younger; Dutch philologist, poet (1713)

Augusten Burroughs; writer (1965)

Dolly Buster; Czech film director, actress & author (1969)

Trudi Canavan; Australian author & illustrator (1969)

Johnny Carroll; rockabilly musician (1937)

Emilia Clarke; English actress (1986)

Benjamin Constant; French writer (1767)

William David Coolidge; chemist, x-ray tube inventor (1873)

James Daly; actor (1918)

Cat Deeley; English model, actress (1976)

Diana Dors; actor (1931)

Douglas Dunn; Scottish poet (1942)

Doug Flutie; CFL and NFL QB (1962)

Ilya Frank; Russian physicist (1908)

Coleen Gray; actress (1922)

Maggi Hambling; English sculptor & painter (1945)

Mike Harding; English singer-songwriter & comedian (1944)

Lawren Harris; Canadian painter (1885)

John Heisman; football coach (1869)

Philip Kaufman; film director (1936)

JacSue Kehoe; neuroscientist (1935)

Pierre Larousse; French lexicographer, encyclopedist (1817)

Ang Lee; Chinese film director (1954)

Juan Luna; Filipino painter & sculptor (1857)

Masiela Lusha; Albanian-American actress, poet (1985)

Bob Montana; illustrator (1920)

Richard Mortensen; Danish painter (1910)

Una O'Connor; Irish-American actress & singer ​​(1880)

Simo Puupponen; Finnish writer (1915)

Sam Raimi; film director (1959)

Speckled Red; blues/boogie-woogie piano player (1892)

Dianne Reeves; jazz singer (1956)

Chi Chi Rodriguez; golfer (1936)

Adlai Stevenson; politician (1835)

Jessica Stroup; actress (1986)

Frank Sutton; actor (1922)

Brooke Theiss; actress (1969)

Ken Tipton; actor, director & screenwriter (1952)

Robert Trujillo; bass player & songwriter (1964)

Hugo Wast; Argentine writer (1883)

Naomi Watanabe; Japanese actress (1987)

Ernie Watts; saxophonist (1945)

Jimmy Wayne; singer-songwriter & guitarist (1972)

David Wills; country music singer-songwriter (1951)

Würzel; English singer and guitarist (1949)

Dwight Yoakam; country singer (1956)

[peonierose]

Wildflower

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Keiki Lahela (F!MC) x Koa Haulani (M!OC)

Words: 4,000+

Rating: Teen. A few curse words.

Summary: Keiki who still struggles with trusting guys and entering a new relationship after Dylan broke her heart, meets someone new. Will she give Koa a chance or will she let her fear of getting hurt win and therefore miss out on a great connection with Koa?

A/N: This is my submission for @springfeverpitch Thank you for giving us the chance to write amazing stories. So my base is 1st base. My word is lipgloss (it will be in color) and my sentence is "I thought you might like (blank), so I brought you some."

Sidenote: Thank you to these wonderful ladies without whom my story would’ve never be finished @annieruok94 💚 @txemrn 💚@socalwriterbee 💚 Thanks so much 💚

Two months ago…

Keiki

I was standing in front of a big oval mirror, putting on some lip gloss. The tube says coral crush. It’s my favorite.

My best friend Alexis, or Lexi for short, and I got ready at her place for a college party at the boy's fraternity house.

It’s the last party to ring in the semester finals.

Apparently there’s going to be plenty of hot guys and

»You should let go and get a groove on«

Lexis' words, not mine.

I chose a black satin halter-neck dress with a soft flaring skirt. It ended at the knees. I paired my dress with my favorite heeled ankle boots with pearl studs.

Making me a bit taller than my 5‘5 feet.

I can’t remember the last time I’ve felt this carefree and good. If my brother could see me now in my dress, I smiled.

Luna would just tell him to let me have fun, and he’d shake his head and yell ”Have fun, but please don’t get pregnant. I’m not ready to become an uncle yet.“

I love my brother, and now that we’ve repaired our relationship? He’s my rock. Any time I need advice, I can go to him.

I learned to trust him again and to forgave him, though we did come a long way to trusting each other once more.

It’s like Bryce said, ”Holding on to the past is painful. You should learn how to let go of the pain.“

I smiled at that. Because he’s right. Not that I’m going to tell him that. My brother's ego is already big enough, no need to inflate it even more.

I looked around Lexi's room for my little black and white striped purse. When I saw it, I took it and walked down the stairs, where Lexi was waiting for me.

”Looking good, Keiks.“ Lexi winks.

I rolled my eyes at her, and she laughed, snorted at the end.

She grinned at me and grabbed her car keys. When we’re inside the car, I wanted to put on a Britney Spears song.

But her next words stopped me.

”No Britney Spears songs. Last time we rode in the car together, you and Luna were singing Britney songs all the damn time. Please, no more Britney.“

I gasped.

”Really? I thought you liked her songs?“

”I lied. I didn’t want to say anything. Because you were having so much fun. But after listening to so many of her songs, I’ve gotta say it’s a no for me.“

I shook my head and grinned as I put on Shake it off by Taylor Swift.

Alexis laughed.

”That’s a song I approve of. This is why we’re best friends.“

I shook my head laughing.

The soft, salty breeze wafted through our hair and through the open sunroof of Lexi’s purple Jeep.

I lifted my hands up in the air as Alexis and I sang along to Taylor Swift's song – Shake it off.

A short drive later, we arrived at the party.

Alexis put the Jeep in park, turned off the ignition, and we got out.

Once outside, I stared at this huge beige painted house that sat on a freshly manicured lawn, surrounded by palm trees and hibiscus bushes. Making the night smell like a flower garden.

Several cars are already parked outside. People are milling on the lawn, drinking and laughing, when we arrived.

Looks like there wasn’t enough space to fit everyone.

Alexis and I exchanged a look and then just shrugged as we walked towards the entrance and almost got run over by a group of girls in neon bikinis.

Lexi and jumped out of the way.

So, this is what mayhem in the form of a college party looks like.

”Damn. Not what I expected.“ Lexi whistled.

I grinned as we got inside and saw people dancing everywhere on a makeshift dance floor.

One guy tried to grab my ass a mere second ago. I pushed his hand away. What a jerk.

If I wanted to be touched, I don’t want it to be some drunk person. Who won’t even remember tonight and is just trying to score.

”Lexi! Keiki!“ A redhead squealed. It’s Maren. She’s super nice. We've all hung out before. She’s followed by Trina, Malia and Ailani.

”So glad you guys came. It would’ve been a snooze fest without you.“

She gave me and Lexi a hug and then dragged us deeper into the crowd.

Lexi points to the stage where they’re setting up a karaoke station.

”Oh my god. A karaoke station! I’ll go and sign us up.“

I sighed and can’t even get a word out.

Maren and the others grin.

”Looks like it’s going to be karaoke night later,“ she grinned at all of us.

Lexi came back, grinning widely. Not revealing what song she chose. Making my nerves flutter in anticipation.

When it’s time for us to sing, my knees shook a little because I’m really not into big crowds. I never was.

A mic turned on and a tall guy with long black hair grinned at all of us. His blue eyes sparkled with joy.

”Alright. Alright. Looks like we’ve got our first round of beautiful ladies ready to sing a song. So, what are you going to serenade us with?“

He grinned at Lexi who winked at him.

”Shoutout to my Ex by Little Mix,“ she said.

”We’re singing what?“ I whispered loudly next to Lexi.

”Just relax. It’s a good song. Try to have a good time.“

”Lexi, I’m serious. Of all the songs you could’ve picked…“ I spluttered.

”Trust me Keiks, you need this cathartic moment.“ Lexi grinned softly at me.

My friends gave me an encouraging smile and nod. And some of my nerves settled a little.

As the first tunes came on I needed a second to get into the song, but once I did, all nerves just fell away, and I actually enjoyed myself together with my friends.

Koa

Frat parties aren’t really my scene. I prefer smaller gatherings to large ones.

I came because friends of mine tried to get me out of my funk.

Not only that, but I’ve been tired and restless lately, so they begged me to come to this party.

As my best friend Keanu pointed out earlier this morning

»Dude. Get out of your house. Stop studying. And just let loose, you need to get laid man.«

Subtle as always.

I chuckled to myself. I’m glad I have him by my side. He always knows when to kick my ass and get me out of my bubble.

So, here I am. At a party that’s already in full swing.

I squeezed all my 6‘2 feet through the crowd. As I tried to find some space where I can actually move around and not get elbowed in the ribs all the damn time.

As I get further into the crowd, I can see there’s a stage where some girls are singing karaoke.

About to walk away, I noticed one of the girls singing.

That dress! Flowing like a river and hugging all the right places.

Her brown hair flings back and forth as she’s singing a song by Little Mix?

My sister loves that band, that's how I even know the song.

I keep walking up to the front, so I’m closer to the stage. To have an unobstructed view of the girl who’s singing.

»I swear you'll never bring me down«

»Shout out to my ex, you're really« quite the man«

»You made my heart break and that made me who I am«

»Here's to my ex, hey, look at me now«

»Well, I'm I'm all the way up«

»I swear you'll never, you'll never bring me down«

The other girls are hugging each other as they sing what seem to be the last lines.

I don’t even notice the other girls. It’s as if they faded into the background.

Because I only have eyes for the brunette.

Who is she? And how come I haven’t seen her before on campus? Maybe because I live off-campus?

There’s something underneath that radiant smile of hers that is pulling me in.

Perhaps it’s the sadness with the last notes. It’s as if her brown eyes are saying, please don’t hurt my heart.

Because I can tell that this song means a lot more to her than to the other girls on stage.

I ask myself who hurt her like that? As if my heart pulls me closer to her only to say »You’re safe with me.«

Pulled out of my thoughts by my best friend's voice.

”So that was a good start. Thank you to Lexi, Keiki, Trina, Malia and Ailani for this wonderful performance. So, who’s up next?“ Keanu said, his brown eyes sparkled, and he pushed his black hair out of his face.

I grinned when I saw my best friend on stage.

He pointed to each girl on stage. Then he pointed to the girl I was looking at.

Keiki. The name rolled off my tongue. It’s a beautiful name and it fits her.

I smiles as I made my way through the crowd. I really needed to find an opportunity to ask her out. Even if it’s just to dance tonight. I know I’ll regret it if I don’t.

If life has taught me anything? It’s to take chances. Even if it doesn’t work out the way you wanted it to. At least you can say you gave it your all.

Keiki

I got off-stage, and I knew I look med like a sweaty mess. I'm so thirsty, I knew I would rather not touch the alcohol they had to offer. I’m in need of water.

”I’m going to get me some water. You want some?“

Lexi shook her head.

”I’m good.“

”Alright. I’ll be right back.“

I navigated myself through the crowd as I tried to locate the kitchen in this giant house. It’s more like a maze than a house.

Meanwhile, I moved around drunk people, which is a sport in and of itself.

When I got to the kitchen, I push med the white wooden door open. Thankfully, there’s no one in here.

When I shut the door to the kitchen, the noise of the party was a little muted. Which gave me time to catch my breath.

I’m about to grab a bottle of water out of the fridge, when I heard the door opened again.

I turned around and did a double take when I saw the guy who walked in.

Cold air from the fridge blasted onto my face, as I’m holding on to the fridge door.

The water bottle I grabbed almost slipped out of my hands.

Where the hell did this guy come from? I haven’t seen him around. I had to look up, since he’s at least 6‘2 feet tall.

I swear, he looks like a real version of Ken.

Blond hair, bright sea green eyes, chiseled jaw.

He wore ripped jeans and a stark white shirt that stood out on his tan skin.

While I still stood there like an idiot. Unmoving. Mouth wide open and stared at him, like I’ve never seen a guy before, I try to mentally slap myself and to get out of my funk.

”Hi.“ He said as he walked closer.

Up close, his eyes looked as colorful as the green Severum fish. The rich green hue of the fish reminded me of this guy's eyes.

We’ve had a whole chapter on fish close to the end of the semester, so that’s why it’s so fresh in my mind.

”Hey.“ I waved nervously. Trying to smile, but it probably looked more like a grimace.

Can you say first awkward conversation? Get it together, Keiki. You’ve seen guys before.

But holy shit, none of them are like him.

”Did you try to escape the crowd too?“

I grinned, licking my lips.

”That obvious?“ I played with a strand of my hair. A nervous habit of mine. I’m usually not like one of those giggly girls, but for some reason he brings that out in me.

He walked over and reached around me to grab a water bottle from the still open fridge, his arm slightly brushed against my shoulder.

I got goosebumps all over my body, not just because of the cold air but because of skin on skin contact.

His cologne wafted towards me. Reminding me of the fresh and clean ocean.

He took a water bottle for himself and closed the fridge with a snap, making me pay attention to his next words.

”It’s not that. I wondered why a gorgeous girl like you would hide in here.“

I scoffed.

”I’m not hiding. I was getting some water for myself.“

”Sure.“

He nodded slowly and took a sip of his water.

Damn. Why does everything he does look sexy? Why can’t he be unattractive? It’d be easier not to like him.

He grinned as if he caught me staring at him. I blushed and looked away.

”I’m Koa by the way.“

”I’m Keiki.“

”Yeah, I saw you on stage. Great voice.“

”Oh…thank you. I was so nervous, but eventually, I had a lot of fun.“

I grinned at him, and he grinned back, two dimples showing in his cheeks.

Oh my god! I love dimples. I can’t stop looking at him. Feeling a magical pull.

But I tried to be careful, I didn’t want to fall for a pretty face. Only to get hurt again.

My spine stiffened and I leaned on the kitchen counter next to the fridge.

Hopefully, he didn’t notice anything about my posture changing.

The water bottle, half drunk, dangled from his fingertips.

”Do we have some classes together?“

He asked me and I thought back to my schedule. But I can't think of any classes I shared with Koa. I shook my head.

”I don’t think so. What’s your major?“ I asked.

”Marine biology.“

”Ah got it. That’s why our paths haven’t crossed. I’m studying to become a vet.“

He raised his eyebrows and smiled.

”No way! Damn that’s cool. But it’s a lot right?“

I nodded and laughed.

”It’s okay. The first semester was tough. Although I’m actually ahead of my reading schedule. And its fun. My brother is a surgeon. Becoming a vet felt more like my calling.“

He smiled softly, and it transformed his whole face from a pretty boy to a gorgeous guy.

I’m left speechless for a few seconds.

I smiled slowly and Koa grinned back.

”Smart and beautiful. Dangerous combo.“

My smile faded.

”If you’re trying to score, try again.“

His grin fell.

Oh, shit. I shouldn’t have said that. As I’m trying to scramble for another reply, his next words hit me.

”I was serious. I don’t give out compliments if I don't mean them.“

I raised my eyebrows.

”I…wasn’t trying to insinuate anything. It’s just… I’ve…“

He moved closer, making me want to move away. But I’m not able to escape his eyes. Which are full of understanding.

”No need to explain. I get it. When you’re ready, you can tell me. I can wait.“

”When?“

”You didn’t think I’d not ask you out, did you?“

”I could’ve said no. I just met you.“

He grinned.

”Something tells me you’re far too curious not to at least see if you like me.“

”Hmm. You think you’ve got me all figured out, don’t you?“

”I don’t think I’ve got you figured out at all. I don’t judge or assume something about others. I let time be the judge. People sometimes need time before they’re ready to share certain things, and that’s okay.“

A slow smile spread on my face, but I tried to tone it down.

”Let that smile spread. I’d love to see it.“

I grinned.

”There it is. You shouldn’t be scared to let others see it.“

My stomach took this moment to grumble loudly.

Koa laughed.

”Looks like someone is hungry.“

I turned beet red.

”Yeah. I…uh…forgot to eat earlier…“

He shook his head.

”We can’t have that. Let’s see what this kitchen has to offer. Unless the guys have eaten everything. Which wouldn’t surprise me.“

”Do you live here?“

”Would you judge me if I said yes?“

He turned his head and grinned at me.

”I wouldn’t. I was just curious.“ I said defensively.

”Relax. I’m just messing with you, Keiki. My best friend Keanu lives here. I live off-campus. I visit him from time to time here. But he usually hangs out at my place.“

”What about you?“

”I live off-campus too. I live with my brother and his fiancé.“

I took off my heels and hopped on the counter. My feet dangled in the air.

”Sounds good. And you save money by not having to pay for your own place.“

He opened the cupboards and got out a couple of bags and put them on the counter.

”Looks like I found our dinner. We have a fine selection of chips. Sour cream and onion, bacon. And salt and vinegar. And my personal favorite, Hawaiian Hurricane popcorn.“

I looked at him and when I saw the colorful bag, I almost sighed. It’s my favorite snack.

”You’re kidding? I love Hawaiian Hurricane popcorn. I always add…“

”…spicy cheese dip.“

We said at the same time and then laughed.

”Oh my god, I thought I was the only one who eats it this way. Can we check if there’s any?“

”Way ahead of you,“ he said.

He stepped closer to me until his jeans grazed against my bare legs. Making me shiver.

He handed me a jar of spicy cheese dip.

”God, I haven’t eaten this in a while.“ I sighed in bliss.

”I used to eat this so much my parents had to hide it from me.“

”My brother who eats his gross oatmeal tells me how Hurricane popcorn and spicy cheese dip is gross?“

I grinned as I dipped my popcorn into the cheese.

He stopped eating for a second to stare at me.

”You’re mocking oatmeal? Oatmeal is actually good for you.“

When I just stared at him.

”To each their own.“ He winked at me.

”Good answer.“

We kept eating popcorn until the whole bag is empty.

”Damn that was good.“ He said and I nodded. Licking my lips.

My lip gloss is completely gone by the time we’re finished.

His eyes wandered to my lips. And I felt my heart racing in my chest. My breath caught in my throat.

He moved closer until he’s only inches away from my lips. I can feel his breath on mine.

”You’ve got something right here…“

He wiped away some cheese dip from the corner of my mouth and licked it away.

”Thanks,“ my voice came out breathless.

”You’re welcome.“ His voice is deeper than before.

He brushed a strand of my hair and put it behind my left ear.

I don’t know who leaned in first, but I gripped him by his shirt collar to pull him closer to me.

He put his hands on my legs, leaning towards me.

At first, it was a feather-light touch of our lips.

His lips are soft and warm against mine. He tasted faintly of salt and cheese from the Hurricane popcorn.

I pushed my hand through his soft hair, pulling him closer.

As he let his hand wander to my neck. Cradling it. Deepening the kiss in turn.

We were both reaching for each other. Wanting more. I’ve never felt this way before.

Needing him like my next gulp of water.

We both break apart for what seems like hours.

We both breathed heavier and just tried to gather our thoughts.

When the silence stretched on for too long, he put both of his hands on my cheek and gave me a soft kiss on my temple.

Feeling a warmth spread through my stomach. A sensation I haven’t encountered yet. It’s as if I’m coming home.

And that’s when the panic settled in.

As if he felt it, he put a finger on my still swollen lips.

”You don’t have to say anything.“

I kept staring at him.

”We’ll figure out what we feel when we’re ready.“

I nodded at him. Not able to utter a word about what just happened.

Suddenly, the door opened and both Koa and I jumped at the sound. Making me grip his bicep.

When I saw it’s Lexi, I breathed out.

I thought it might be a drunk person mistaking the kitchen for the bathroom.

I hopped off from the counter as Lexi came inside. She saw me and Koa still close together.

Me, still gripping his bicep, blushing furiously. I let my hand fall.

A big grin spread across Lexi’s face.

”Oops, looks like I’ve interrupted you guys.“

Koa and I stared everywhere, just not at each other. Too caught up in what happened mere seconds ago.

Alexis broke the silence.

”I’m Alexis. Keiki‘s best friend. We come as a package deal.“

Koa chuckled, totally caught off guard.

”Nice to meet you. I’m Koa.“

He winces. Lexi must’ve tightened her grip. I shook my head, not able to hide my grin.

”Just to tell you. If you hurt Keiki. I’ll hurt you where it really hurts,“ she smiled sweetly.

Koa coughed.

”Alright. But I think Keiki can take care of herself. She seems like a strong girl.“ He said with a strong sense of confidence.

Both Alexis and I raised our eyebrows. Alexis slowly grinned as she turns to me.

”I like him, Keiks. He’s not stupid. And he’s nice to look at. You’ve got that whole Ken vibe going.“

Koa turned to me, and I just shrugged, still not able to meet his gaze. So, I looked at a point over his shoulder.

”Hey, don’t look at me,“ I retorted. But then I gave in and looked at him.

He smiled and his aquamarine eyes danced with delight.

He’s about to leave, but then turned back and got out his phone.

”Mind if we swap phone numbers?“

Alexis put her arm around my shoulders.

”Of course she doesn’t mind.“ I elbowed her and she laughed.

”What she said. I don’t mind.“

I untangled myself from Alexis and Koa and I exchanged numbers.

He grinned and he’s out the door.

When he’s gone. I turned to Lexi and we both squealed and danced around.

When the door opens again, we turned around only to see Koa who grabbed his water bottle next to the fridge.

”Forgot this. Nice dance moves, by the way, Keiki.“ He winked at me.

Alexis and I pressed our lips together. When he’s gone again we sat down on the kitchen floor and I leaned my head on Lexi’s shoulder.

”Oh my god. See? I told you that you‘d meet a hot guy. You should listen to me more often.“

”Yeah. You were. I won’t make a habit out of telling you that you were right. Otherwise, your ego will get ginormous.“

Lexi laughed and pulled her knees closer together. I put my hand around her knees and she squeezed my hand.

”According to my sister and brother, my ego is already big enough. But thanks, I appreciate hearing I helped you out. And who knows, maybe you can thank me at your wedding for bringing you two together.“

I snorted.

”Let’s not jump ahead. Koa and I just met. I don’t want to plan so far ahead.“

She turned her head and looked at me as if she picked up on something in my voice.

”What’s wrong Kei? Are you scared?“

I put my hand against my stomach, leaned against the cupboard and hugged my knees.

Not wanting to admit that, the way Dylan ended our relationship over a text, still haunts me.

The pain lessened. But all the memories, kisses and hugs we shared? Yeah, it’s still there and sneaks up on me from time to time.

I try not to think too much about Dylan. I’ve moved on. Though, I’ve been hesitant to go out with anyone.

It’s been over two years since I moved to Honolulu with my brother and his fiancé, Luna.

I’ve gotten better, being surrounded by family. But every time I meet a guy I actually like? I get scared he’ll hurt me like Dylan did.

So, that’s why I’m so hesitant to let anyone in. However I want to try to be more open-minded to new relationships.

From what I’ve seen so far, Koa seems really nice. And his kisses are fantastic.

Alexis bumps my shoulder, making me come out of my thoughts.

”Look! Just try to get to know him. Koa is a nice guy. I’ve heard good things about him. And if there’s no connection, then you’ll find someone even better.“

”What would I do without you?“ I said.

Alexis winked at me as she got up and offered me her hand.

”You’d make bad fashion choices.“

I grabbed her hand and stood up.

”Excuse you? I have an excellent fashion sense. Thank you very much.“

She put her head to the side, and together we walked outside the kitchen and joined our friends.

Singing and dancing the night away.

Koa

I’m still in a daze over the kiss with Keiki. Damn, I’m screwed. It’s as if we were trying to brand each other with our kisses.

Not that I’m complaining. I will never forget the way she tasted. And I know I won’t be able to get her out of my mind.

Before walking out of the house, I looked around for my phone and then I cursed. I must’ve left it in the kitchen. As I entered the kitchen, a slow grin spread across my face.

I looked at the counter and saw my phone sitting next to the fridge. I rolled my eyes at my stupidity. Someone could’ve walked in and taken it.

Before I left the kitchen, a little coral orange tube caught my eye.

When I moved closer I could see it’s a tube of lip gloss. I turned the lip gloss around and the back said »Coral Crush«

I grinned and without having to guess, I know it belongs to Keiki. I put it into the back of my jeans pocket.

I’m going to give it back to her when we see each other next time.

Hoping against hope she’ll give me a chance to show her that whoever hurt her the way he did, I’m not him.

I walked out of the house with a lighter spring in my steps.

When I looked up I saw the stars glistened in the midnight sky, and the scent of the hibiscus bushes made me smile.

I’m damn happy to have met Keiki, I have this strange feeling that I’m in for a couple of surprises. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

A week later

Keiki

”Keiks? There’s a package for you,“ my brother said when he entered the kitchen.

I looked up from my phone.

”Thanks.“

I took it from him and when I opened it a small letter fluttered out, together with a tube of lip gloss.

I smiled as I saw my favorite lip gloss on the table.

I took the letter and read it, just to see who got me my favorite lip gloss.

Because I looked everywhere, but I must’ve lost it at the party.

Keiki,

you lost your lip gloss at the party. But since it was almost empty, I thought you might like a new tube of Coral Crush, so I brought you some.

Koa

I finish reading the letter and smile to myself. He spells trouble. But never did I want to be more in trouble than with Koa.

[luckyxcharm]

Stuck in a horror movie game match-up

Question, who would do the following? 1. Runs away. AA ~ Madilyn 2. Turns every light on. MM ~ Tallia 3. First to die. CC ~ Marialena 4. Hides in the dog house. KK ~ Reina 5. Last to die. NN ~ Vanessa 6. The one running in high heels. DD ~ Maverick 7. Splits up and goes alone. W ~ Jude 8. Sits in the corner rocking and sucking their thumb. GG ~ Peyton 9. Films everything on their cell phone. R ~ Frankie 10. Takes a selfie with the killer. X ~ Katerina 11. Helps the killer. O ~ Damien 12. Is the killer. J ~ Brooks 13. Always checking their makeup.  Y ~ Kennedy 14. Plays dead. D ~ Andrew 15. Jumps out of the 2nd story window. V ~ Jemma 16. The smart one. B ~ Alice 17. Virgin that doesn’t die. N ~ Daisie 18. Hides under the bed. C ~ Amelia 19. Turns into a werewolf. K ~ Cade 20. Sucks everyone’s blood. E ~ Ashley 21. Is chased by a doll. OO ~ Zachary 22. Is drunk the whole time. S ~ Grace 23. Doesn’t know what is going on. F ~ Aurora 24. The comic relief. G ~ Blaze 25. Gets stuck sneaking up the fireplace. T ~ Harlow 26. Loses a toe. A ~ Alexis 27. Dies having sex.  I ~ Briar Jo 28. Gets eaten by a Venus flytrap. H ~ Bowie 29. Yells grab my strong hand. L ~ Chase 30. Keeps asking where the weed is. Z ~ Luna 31. The skeptic. M~ Chelsea 32. Trips and falls into the well.  LL ~ Ryker 33. Streaks through the house. EE ~ Nova 34. Continues decorating for Halloween. II ~ Presley 35. Reading a smut book while ignoring the murders. JJ ~ Quinn 36. Runs like Forrest Gump. U ~ Hunter 37. Saves the animals, not the people. Q ~ Finn 38. Pretends to be a scarecrow. FF ~ October 39. Shows up with a machete. P ~ Ethan 40. Hands out candy to the killer.  BB ~ Magnolia 41. Prank calls everyone’s cell phones. HH ~ Phoenix

[kalista-emerald]

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=============================================== ● Others

BODY: [LEGACY] Meshbody (f) Special Edition (1.6) HEAD: LeLUTKA Lilly Head 3.1 SKIN: DeeTaleZ SKINS - SPECIALSPACK EVOX - Sady TSS - NORDIC SHAPE: [OTHER FACES] Kiss Shape (LeL EvoX Lilly 3.1) MUZZLE: [Pirocious] Nezuko Muzzle (Group Gift) wear me 1 LIPGLOSS: Ladybird. // Alexis Lipgloss HAIR: no.match_ ~ NO_HESITATION ~ all COLORS