#ProtectiveNikto

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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The sprawling, opulent mansion was nearly silent except for the faint tick of an ornate grandfather clock in the foyer. Nikto stood near the entrance, his imposing figure cutting a sharp contrast against the glittering chandeliers and polished marble floors. His expression, hidden beneath his signature mask, was unreadable. Cold, calculated, and precise—that’s what they hired him for.

“Mr. Nikto,” a clipped voice called. The family butler, an older man with a stiff posture, gestured toward the top of the grand staircase. “Miss [Y/N] is ready to meet you.”

Nikto inclined his head slightly, adjusting the strap of the rifle slung across his back. He wasn’t here to mingle; he was here to ensure this delicate heiress didn’t end up a headline.

Footsteps echoed as she descended the stairs. He expected a prim, perhaps icy, girl dripping in couture and disdain. Instead, a literal ray of sunshine entered the room.

She was a vision of sweetness, with a warm, inviting smile and eyes that sparkled with genuine kindness. Her wavy hair cascaded down her back like a flowing river of silk, and she practically skipped toward him with an energy that seemed alien in a world filled with grim-faced bodyguards and cold corporate sharks.

“Hi!” she chirped, clasping her hands in front of her. “You must be Mr. Nikto! Thank you so much for being here! I’m so sorry my parents hired you; it must be such a bother to look after someone like me.”

Nikto blinked behind his mask, thrown off by her exuberance. A bother? He’d been ambushed in war zones less disorienting than this.

“I’ve had worse assignments,” he muttered, his voice gruff.

“Oh, good! Then maybe this will be a vacation for you,” she beamed, tugging on his sleeve gently. “Come on, let me show you around. You’ll need to know where everything is if you’re going to keep me safe.”

Nikto didn’t know what to do with her hand on his arm. People didn’t touch him. They avoided him like a walking ghost story. Yet here she was, completely unafraid, chatting away like they were old friends.

“This is the dining room,” she said, opening a massive set of double doors. “The kitchen is through there, but don’t worry, I’ll make sure there’s always food ready if you’re hungry. Oh, and over here—”

“Miss,” Nikto interrupted, his tone firm. “You don’t need to—”

“Call me [Y/N]!” she insisted with a playful pout. “None of this ‘Miss’ stuff. We’re going to be spending a lot of time together, so we might as well be friends!”

Nikto froze for a fraction of a second. Friends? Was this girl for real? He’d been hired by generals, oil tycoons, and politicians, and not a single one had ever looked at him like… this. Like he was more than just a weapon.

“And this,” she continued, leading him to a cozy sitting room filled with plush sofas and fluffy blankets, “is where I like to read. You can sit here too if you get tired of standing. Oh, wait—do you need tea? Coffee? Oh! Cookies? I baked some this morning!”

“I don’t need—”

Before he could finish, she was already rushing off to grab a plate of cookies. He rubbed the back of his neck, glancing around the room. Cozy didn’t even begin to describe it. Pillows, candles, and soft pastel decor made the space feel more like a fairytale than a mansion.

She returned moments later, balancing a plate of cookies in one hand and a steaming mug in the other. “Here you go! I didn’t know if you liked sugar, so I left it on the side.”

Nikto stared at her, then the cookies. Then back at her. “You don’t need to do this.”

“I know,” she said simply, her smile unshaken. “But I want to. You’re looking out for me, so I’ll look out for you.”

He felt something tighten in his chest, unfamiliar and unwelcome. “You’re… strange.”

She giggled, unbothered. “Thanks! I think it’s better than being boring.”

Nikto didn’t respond, but for the first time in what felt like years, the corner of his lips twitched. Just a little.

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That night, as Nikto stood in the shadows outside her room, alert for any threats, he found himself thinking about her smile.

She wasn’t what he expected. Not even close. But maybe, just maybe, this assignment wouldn’t be the nightmare he thought it would be.

Maybe it would be something… sweeter.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Side-Story

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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Holiday Surprises:

Christmas at the office was something [Y/N] dreaded every year. The fancy decorations, the formal small talk, the endless chatter about profits and stock markets—it was a stark contrast to her gentle, down-to-earth nature. But as the daughter of such a powerful family, attendance was non-negotiable. Thankfully, she had Nikto by her side to make it bearable.

She clung to his arm most of the evening, her soft smile masking her discomfort. Nikto, ever vigilant, scanned the crowd for threats, his expression impassive behind his mask. Though he would never admit it, seeing her in her elegant dress—a deep red that complemented her glowing complexion—made it hard to keep his focus entirely on the room.

It was only when the champagne started flowing freely that things took a turn.

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“Do you want another, sweetheart?” one of the hosts asked, holding out a glass.

Nikto’s sharp eyes narrowed as [Y/N] cheerfully accepted, the bubbles in the drink going straight to her head. It was her fourth—or was it fifth?—glass of the night.

“I think you’ve had enough,” Nikto muttered under his breath as she giggled at something entirely mundane.

She looked up at him with those sweet, slightly hazy eyes, and he felt his resolve falter. “You’re no fun, Nikto,” she teased, her words slightly slurred. “It’s Christmas! You’re supposed to relax!”

“I don’t relax,” he replied flatly, though there was a flicker of amusement in his voice.

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By the time they finally made it home, [Y/N] was thoroughly tipsy, leaning heavily against Nikto as he guided her through the grand doors of her home. Lucky barked excitedly at their arrival, but she waved him off with a giggle, stumbling toward the stairs.

Nikto closed the door behind them, pulling off his mask with a sigh. He set it down on the table, turning just in time to see her stop in the middle of the staircase, swaying slightly.

“You okay?” he asked, concern flickering across his face as he moved toward her.

She turned to him with a dazed but mischievous smile. “More than okay,” she purred, reaching out to grab his wrist and pulling him up the stairs with surprising determination.

Nikto raised a brow, letting her lead him into her bedroom. “You need to sleep, [Y/N]. You’re drunk.”

She ignored his comment, wrapping her arms around his neck and looking up at him with a gaze so full of adoration it made his chest tighten. “Do you know,” she began, her voice soft and slightly breathless, “how much I love you?”

His throat tightened at her words, but before he could respond, she pulled him down into a deep, heated kiss.

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Nikto was used to her affection—her sweet kisses, her gentle touches—but this was... different. There was a fire in her movements, a boldness that caught him off guard. Her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer, and before he knew it, she was guiding him toward the bed.

“[Y/N],” he started, his voice a mix of warning and disbelief, but she silenced him with another kiss.

“Shh,” she whispered against his lips, her hands roaming his scarred face with the same tenderness she always showed him. “Let me love you tonight.”

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What followed was a night unlike any they’d shared before. Her usual sweetness was still there, but it was accompanied by a newfound intensity that left Nikto breathless. Every kiss, every touch was filled with passion, her love for him spilling over in ways she’d never expressed so boldly before.

When the night finally quieted, and they lay tangled together in the soft glow of the bedroom, Nikto couldn’t help but chuckle softly.

“What’s so funny?” she murmured sleepily, her head resting on his chest.

“You’re full of surprises,” he admitted, his voice warm and low.

She giggled, nuzzling closer. “That’s what Christmas is all about, isn’t it?”

He pressed a kiss to the top of her head, his heart full in a way he never thought possible. “Merry Christmas, sweetheart.”

And for the first time in years, Nikto allowed himself to truly relax, holding her close as the world outside faded away.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Side-Story

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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A Hidden Talent:

Over three years of guarding [Y/N], Nikto had come to know nearly everything about her—the way she smiled when Lucky wagged his tail, the comforting hum she let out while tending to flowers in the garden, and the radiant joy she exuded while reading to the children at the hospital.

She was his everything.

But every so often, she’d surprise him, reminding him there was still more to learn about her.

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The day had started like any other.

Nikto had woken up first, as usual, performing his morning security checks before preparing her breakfast. By the time [Y/N] came down the stairs, her hair still slightly mussed from sleep, Lucky trotting at her heels, her tea was already waiting. She greeted Nikto with a soft kiss to his cheek, a shy smile on her lips when her gaze met his.

Routine. Blissful, perfect routine.

It wasn’t until late afternoon, after their walk in the park, that Nikto noticed something unusual. She had excused herself to her cozy corner after their lunch, taking with her a stack of papers and her laptop.

He didn’t think much of it at first. She loved reading and writing, after all. But as the hours ticked by, curiosity began to gnaw at him. Occasionally, he’d hear the soft clicking of her keyboard or see her jotting down notes, her brows furrowed in concentration—a far cry from her usual relaxed demeanor.

Finally, he approached her.

“What are you working on?” he asked, his voice low and calm as always, though his curiosity was evident.

[Y/N] looked up from her laptop, startled. A faint blush crept across her cheeks. “Oh! Um... just some work,” she said, quickly minimizing the document on her screen.

Nikto’s brow furrowed slightly. “Work?”

Her blush deepened. “Yeah. I, uh... I have a job.”

He blinked, caught completely off guard. “A job?”

She nodded, fiddling with the edge of the blanket draped over her lap. “It’s nothing big. I do proofreading, editing, and translating. Mostly freelance stuff.”

Nikto stared at her, his expression unreadable. For a moment, [Y/N] worried she had upset him somehow. But then he spoke, his tone softer than she expected.

“You’ve been working this whole time?”

“Well, not the whole time,” she said with a sheepish smile. “Just... on and off over the past couple of years. I don’t really need the money, but I like keeping busy. And it’s nice having something that’s just... mine, you know?”

Nikto was silent, his sharp eyes studying her. She shifted nervously under his gaze.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” he asked finally.

“I didn’t think it was that important,” she admitted. “I mean, you already do so much for me. This is just... a little side thing. I didn’t want to bother you with it.”

Nikto frowned. “It’s not a bother,” he said firmly. “You should have told me. I’m supposed to know everything about you.”

Her lips curved into a teasing smile. “Oh? Is that part of your job description as my bodyguard?”

He didn’t reply, his expression remaining serious. She reached out, placing a gentle hand on his arm.

“I wasn’t trying to keep it a secret,” she said softly. “I just... I guess I liked having something I could do on my own. And honestly, it’s kind of fun. I get to work with all sorts of interesting stuff—books, research papers, even some scripts. And in so many languages, too! Spanish, French, Japanese... even Russian.”

Nikto’s eyes widened slightly at the mention of Russian. “You speak Russian?”

She nodded, grinning. “Surprise!”

For the first time that day, Nikto smiled—a small, rare smile that made her heart flutter.

“I never would have guessed,” he said, his voice tinged with admiration. “You’re full of surprises, aren’t you?”

She laughed, leaning into his side. “Well, I’ve got to keep you on your toes somehow.”

Nikto chuckled, wrapping an arm around her and pulling her close. “You already do.”

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That evening, as they sat together in the cozy corner, [Y/N] showed him some of her work. She explained her process, how she managed projects in different languages, and even read him an excerpt from a book she had translated.

As she spoke, Nikto couldn’t help but marvel at her. She was sweet, affectionate, and trusting—but she was also intelligent, capable, and full of hidden depths.

He had always thought of her as an angel. Now, he realized she was also a mystery—one he was more than happy to spend the rest of his life unraveling.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Side-Story

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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Secrets in the Pages:

Over three years had passed since Nikto had been assigned to guard [Y/N]. Now, they were no longer just the shadow and the sweetheart. They were a couple—an unlikely, yet perfect match.

Nikto’s stoic exterior had softened considerably around her, though his protective instincts hadn’t dulled in the slightest. He still rose early every morning to ensure the house was secure, making breakfast for her and Lucky while she remained blissfully curled up in bed. When she finally joined him, hair a little messy and smile as radiant as the sun, he always felt his heart skip a beat.

Their days followed the same gentle routine. It was their version of bliss.

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That night, after dinner and a stroll in the moonlit garden, they returned to their cozy corner. Lucky napped on his blanket as [Y/N] reached for one of her books from the shelf. Nikto leaned back on the couch, his arms casually draped around her as she settled in.

He watched her with quiet curiosity as she opened the book. For three years, he had noticed something peculiar. She would eagerly read aloud certain stories—sweet romances, adventures for the kids at the hospital—but there were books she never shared with him. Those books she read only in private, her cheeks often tinted pink when she closed them.

Tonight, his curiosity got the better of him.

“Why don’t you ever read those to me?” he asked, his voice low and even as he nodded toward the book in her lap.

Her hands stilled on the cover. She turned to him with wide eyes, her face already beginning to flush. “Oh! W-Well, those are just... not the kind of stories you’d like, I think,” she said, a nervous laugh escaping her lips.

Nikto tilted his head, the corner of his mouth twitching upward. “You think I wouldn’t like them, or you’re embarrassed to read them aloud?”

Her blush deepened. “I-I’m not embarrassed!” she protested, though her voice wavered.

He raised an eyebrow, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Then prove it. Read me one.”

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[Y/N] hesitated, glancing between him and the book as if weighing her options. Nikto could see the internal battle written all over her face. Finally, she sighed in defeat. “Fine... but don’t laugh!”

She flipped to a random page, her fingers trembling slightly. Clearing her throat, she began to read, her voice soft and hesitant.

The words were... vivid. The kind of prose that painted the air thick with heat and tension, brimming with longing and desire. As the story unfolded, her cheeks turned crimson, her voice growing quieter with each word.

Nikto sat there, unflinching, though his eyes widened slightly as he pieced together the tone and nature of the story.

She was reading smut.

Fantasy smut, to be precise—filled with forbidden love, magical bonds, and... a lot of very descriptive scenes.

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When she finally stopped, she buried her face in her hands, groaning. “I knew this was a bad idea! Now you’re going to think I’m weird.”

Nikto’s deep chuckle caught her off guard. She peeked at him through her fingers to see him smiling—a rare, genuine smile that softened his rugged features.

“You think this is what makes you weird?” he teased, his voice filled with amusement.

She pouted, crossing her arms. “Well, it’s not exactly something people expect from someone like me.”

He reached out, cupping her face gently and tilting it so she had no choice but to look at him. “I don’t think you’re weird. I think you’re full of surprises,” he murmured. His thumb brushed her cheek, his tone turning playful. “And now I understand why you always blushed when you put those books away.”

Her pout transformed into a sheepish smile. “You don’t think it’s silly?”

Nikto shook his head. “No. It’s... sweet. And bold.” His voice dropped, a hint of mischief creeping into it. “Though I can’t help but wonder... do I measure up to the heroes in those stories?”

Her blush returned in full force. “Nikto!”

He laughed again, pulling her into his arms. “Relax. I’m not teasing you—too much,” he added, earning a playful shove. “But maybe... you should read them to me more often. If you can handle it.”

Her lips quirked into a grin, her shyness melting under his warmth. “Maybe I will. If you can handle it.”

Nikto smirked, leaning down to brush his lips against hers. “I think I’ll survive.”

Lucky let out a sleepy huff from his blanket, oblivious to the laughter and stolen kisses that filled the cozy corner that night.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Part 9.

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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Nearly three years had passed since Nikto was first assigned to be [Y/N]’s bodyguard. In those years, his world had been turned upside down—not by the threats he’d warded off or the enemies he’d neutralized, but by her.

She was unlike anyone he had ever known. Sweet, innocent, and endlessly affectionate, [Y/N] was the kind of person who could brighten even the darkest corners of a life like his. Nikto had come to her world as a shield, prepared to be nothing more than a protector. Yet here he was now, her protector, her shadow, and utterly, irrevocably hers.

And she didn’t even know how deeply she had saved him.

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It had been an ordinary evening, filled with the familiar warmth of her home. Lucky had curled up at the foot of her chair as [Y/N] read her favorite book in the cozy corner. Nikto sat nearby, his mask set aside, his watchful gaze softening as he let himself enjoy the serenity she created around her.

The moments between them were quiet yet charged. Each stolen glance, each small touch—these had become their unspoken confessions. But the weight of his feelings had grown too heavy to keep silent.

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Later that evening, as she set her book down and stretched with a content sigh, [Y/N] noticed Nikto watching her. His expression was softer than usual, his scarred features bathed in the gentle glow of the dimmed lights.

“Nikto?” she asked, tilting her head, her voice laced with curiosity.

“Yes, [Y/N]?” he replied, his voice rough but laced with a tenderness only she could bring out of him.

She walked toward him, her bare feet quiet on the plush carpet. “Is something wrong? You seem... distant.”

He shook his head but didn’t look away. His blue eyes met hers, and for once, he didn’t hide. “Not distant,” he murmured. “Just... thinking.”

“About what?” she asked, stepping closer, her hands instinctively reaching out to cup his face.

Her touch was his undoing. The way her thumbs traced the scars on his cheek, the way her gaze held no pity—only affection. He exhaled shakily, his large hands gently covering hers.

“You,” he admitted, his voice low, almost reverent. “Always you.”

Her lips parted in surprise, her cheeks flushing as her heartbeat quickened. “Nikto…”

“I thought I could keep this... inside,” he continued, his words tumbling out like a dam breaking. “But I can’t. You’ve changed everything. You’ve made me... want more than this life, more than being a shadow.”

Tears welled in her eyes, but her smile was radiant. “Nikto, I—”

Before she could finish, he closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both passionate and tender. It was a kiss that spoke of years of longing and unspoken words, a kiss that sealed a truth they had both known but never said aloud.

When they pulled apart, she looked up at him, her hands still cradling his face. “I love you, Nikto,” she whispered, her voice steady despite the tears slipping down her cheeks. “I’ve loved you for so long.”

He rested his forehead against hers, his own eyes glistening with emotion. “You’re my everything, [Y/N]. I’ll protect you, love you, for as long as I live.”

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The passion that followed was inevitable, their love too powerful to contain any longer.

Nikto lifted her effortlessly into his arms, holding her close as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Their lips met again, deeper this time, as he carried her through the hallways toward her bedroom. The soft glow of the moonlight spilled through the windows, illuminating their path as if the universe itself approved of this moment.

Setting her gently on the bed, Nikto paused, his hands trembling slightly as he cupped her face. “Are you sure?” he asked, his voice thick with emotion.

She nodded, her smile soft and reassuring. “I’ve never been more sure of anything.”

And then, together, they unraveled in the most intimate way.

Their love was a language spoken through tender touches and whispered words. Nikto’s usually calloused hands moved with surprising gentleness, tracing her curves as if memorizing every part of her. In turn, she explored the strength beneath his scars, her touch worshipful as she showed him that he was seen, that he was loved exactly as he was.

Time seemed to stop as they became one, their hearts beating in unison. The world outside faded into nothingness; there was only them, tangled together in a perfect moment of love and trust.

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As dawn broke, Nikto lay awake, watching her sleep peacefully in his arms. Her hair spilled across the pillows like waves of silk, her lips curved into a soft smile even in slumber. Lucky snored quietly at the foot of the bed, oblivious to the new chapter that had just begun.

Nikto pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, his heart full in a way he had never thought possible. She was his light, his salvation. And he would spend the rest of his days ensuring she knew just how deeply she was loved.

He wasn’t just her shadow anymore. He was her everything—and she was his.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Part 8.

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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Over two years had passed since Nikto first stepped into [Y/N]'s world as her bodyguard. The quiet mansion was now filled with warmth, not just from the sunlight filtering through the windows, but from the bond they had built together. Nikto was no longer just the stoic, hardened soldier he had once been. Now, he was hers in ways he couldn’t explain—and every day, his heart swelled with the knowledge that he was loved by someone so pure, so kind.

But life wasn’t without its dangers, even for her. Though her family was powerful, so were their enemies. Nikto had sworn to protect her from harm, no matter the cost, and he would keep that promise with his very life.

It was a peaceful afternoon when everything changed.

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The park had been calm, Lucky running through the grass, chasing after a ball that [Y/N] had thrown. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over everything, and Nikto stood a few feet away, keeping watch. He had learned the routine by now—always aware of the surroundings, always vigilant.

But that day, something felt off.

A man, dressed in dark clothing, moved quickly through the park, his intentions clearly malicious. Nikto’s instincts kicked in, scanning the area in an instant. He saw the man approach [Y/N], saw the way his eyes narrowed at her, saw the glint of something dangerous hidden beneath his jacket.

Without thinking, Nikto moved into action, his feet carrying him swiftly toward her.

"Y/N!" he shouted, his voice sharp and commanding, his heart racing in his chest.

The man hesitated for a moment, then lunged forward, his hand reaching for [Y/N]. It was too close—too fast. But Nikto was already there. He grabbed the man’s wrist, twisting it with controlled force, and sent him sprawling to the ground. The attacker barely had time to react before Nikto’s foot pinned him down.

"[Y/N], get back!" Nikto barked, his eyes not leaving the threat as he scanned the area for more enemies.

[Y/N] froze for a split second, then took a step back, her heart racing. Lucky, sensing something was wrong, barked nervously at the scene unfolding before him.

Nikto’s eyes softened as he turned back toward her. "Are you hurt?" he asked, his voice a mixture of worry and authority.

She shook her head quickly, trying to calm her trembling hands. "I’m okay, Nikto, but—"

"Stay behind me," he ordered, his focus returning to the man beneath his boot. "This will end quickly."

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The police were called, and the threat was dealt with swiftly. The attacker was arrested, but the unsettling feeling lingered in the air, like the memory of danger still clung to them. Nikto, ever the protector, kept a close watch over [Y/N] as they made their way home, but it wasn’t just about the job anymore. He couldn’t shake the fear in his heart—the fear of losing her.

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When they reached the safety of her home, the weight of the afternoon’s events hung heavy. Nikto shut the door behind them, locking it securely, before turning to face her.

She stood in the hallway, her eyes wide and full of concern, but the moment their gazes met, her expression softened. Without saying a word, she crossed the room and wrapped her arms around him tightly.

Nikto stood frozen for a second, surprised by the sudden gesture, but then his arms instinctively circled her waist. She buried her face in his chest, her heart still racing from the fear of what had almost happened.

"I’m so glad you’re okay," he murmured into her hair, his voice rough, like the tension from the encounter was finally catching up to him.

She pulled back slightly, her fingers brushing the edge of his jaw before she gently took off his mask and set it on the table. Their faces were inches apart, their breath mingling in the space between them.

"I’m always okay when you’re around," she whispered softly, her hands coming to rest against his chest.

Nikto's heart skipped a beat. "I will always protect you. No one will hurt you," he vowed, his voice unwavering.

Her lips curved into a soft smile, and without thinking, she leaned up to kiss him. It was a slow, tender kiss—a moment of reassurance after the chaos. He kissed her back with equal tenderness, feeling the weight of the day lift from his shoulders as he pulled her closer.

For a few seconds, the world around them disappeared. The only thing that mattered was this moment—the two of them, wrapped up in the warmth of their love and safety.

When they broke apart, she rested her forehead against his, her fingers still lightly tracing the edges of his face. "Nikto, thank you… for always being there."

He pulled her into another embrace, his hands gently rubbing her back as his voice dropped to a whisper. "You don't have to thank me. You’re everything to me, [Y/N]."

And in that moment, it didn’t matter that the world was unpredictable, or that danger might lurk around the corner. As long as they had each other, everything would be okay.

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Nikto had promised to protect her. But somewhere along the way, she had done something he never expected—she had saved him, too.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

part 7.

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Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

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Two years. Two years of soft smiles, laughter echoing through the halls, and the kind of peace Nikto never thought he could have. He used to believe his life was a fortress of shadows—walls so high and thick that no light could ever break through. But she had shattered that illusion with nothing more than her kindness.

Now, his days were defined by her routine, every moment tethered to the rhythm of her life. He knew every detail of her world: the way her hair shimmered in the morning sunlight, the soft hum of her favorite song as she brewed her tea, the gentle way she cradled Lucky as if the little dog was the most precious thing in the world.

And at night, in the sanctuary of her room, she brought her affection to him.

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The evening was quiet, the warm glow of her reading lamp casting a golden light over her cozy corner. Lucky was curled up on her lap, snoring softly as she turned the pages of her book. Nikto stood nearby, his mask discarded on the side table. It was a small act of trust he allowed only her to witness.

“Alright,” she said, closing her book with a soft thud and looking up at him with a smile. “Your turn.”

He arched a brow, but his lips twitched into the smallest hint of a smile. “You make it sound like a chore.”

“It’s not,” she replied, gently lifting Lucky off her lap and setting him on the plush rug. “I love doing this, Nikto. You should know that by now.”

He sat down in the chair she’d pulled closer to the bed, his movements careful, deliberate. She grabbed the small bottle of lotion from her bedside table and took her usual spot in front of him, kneeling slightly so she could reach him easily.

“You had a long day today,” she murmured, squeezing a small amount of lotion onto her fingertips. “You deserve a little extra care.”

He didn’t argue, though his gaze softened as he looked at her. She always spoke as if his comfort mattered just as much as her own, as if his well-being was a responsibility she took to heart.

As her fingers moved over his scars, Nikto closed his eyes, letting the tension in his body ease. Her touch was light and careful, the coolness of the lotion soothing against his heated skin.

“You’re so good at this,” he said after a long moment, his voice low.

She giggled softly. “I’ve had plenty of practice.”

“You spoil me,” he murmured, his words almost drowned out by the quiet of the room.

Her hands stilled for a moment, and when he opened his eyes, she was looking up at him with an expression so tender it made his chest ache.

“You deserve to be spoiled,” she said simply, her fingers resuming their work.

He didn’t know what to say to that, so he stayed silent, letting her care for him in the way only she could.

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When she was done, she leaned back, her hands resting in her lap as she admired her work. “There,” she said with a satisfied smile. “Perfect.”

He let out a soft huff of laughter. “I doubt that.”

She shook her head, leaning forward until their faces were inches apart. “You’re perfect to me, Nikto,” she said, her voice unwavering.

Her words hit him like a blow to the chest, the kind of pain that came from too much love crammed into a heart that didn’t know how to hold it all. He reached out before he could stop himself, his gloved hand cupping her cheek.

“You don’t know what you do to me,” he murmured, his voice raw.

She smiled, leaning into his touch. “I hope it’s something good.”

“It is,” he admitted, his thumb brushing against her skin.

She placed her hand over his, her fingers warm against the cool leather of his glove. “Then let me keep doing it,” she whispered.

He didn’t reply, but the way he held her gaze, the way his touch lingered on her cheek, was answer enough.

Because in this moment, in her room with the scent of flowers in the air and Lucky snoring softly at their feet, Nikto felt something he hadn’t felt in years.

He felt home.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

part 6.

______________________________________________________________

Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

______________________________________________________________

The warmth of early summer was creeping into the air, the kind that made the mansion’s garden explode with color and filled the halls with the scent of blooming flowers. It was the season she loved most—long days in the sunshine, Lucky chasing butterflies, and iced tea on the veranda. But it was also when she noticed something different about Nikto.

He was still ever-vigilant, the same stoic shadow she’d come to depend on, but there was a new tension to him. A restlessness. His movements seemed sharper, more deliberate, and she often caught him adjusting the straps of his mask when he thought no one was looking.

It didn’t take long for her to piece it together. The heat.

He must be miserable under the mask in this weather, she realized, the thought sparking a pang of concern in her chest. The scars on his face couldn’t make things any easier; if anything, they probably made the summer heat even harder to bear.

She decided to do something about it.

______________________________________________________________

“Nikto?” she called out one afternoon, her voice light as she leaned around the corner of the kitchen.

He was where he always was, standing near the doorway with his arms crossed, his gaze sweeping the room. He turned his head toward her, his expression unreadable as always behind the mask.

“Yes?”

She smiled, gesturing for him to follow her. “Come with me. I need your help with something.”

He hesitated but obeyed, falling into step behind her as she led him up the stairs and into her room. Once inside, she closed the door behind them and gestured to the chair by her vanity.

“Sit,” she said softly.

He blinked, his brow furrowing slightly. “What is this about?”

“You’ll see,” she replied cryptically, rummaging through a small bag on the vanity. After a moment, she pulled out a small bottle of lotion and turned to him, her smile warm and reassuring. “I noticed you’ve been a little uncomfortable lately. With the heat, I mean.”

His eyes flicked to the bottle in her hand, then back to her face. “I’m fine.”

“You’re not,” she said gently, stepping closer. “And that’s okay. I thought this might help. It’s for sensitive skin—it’s soothing, cooling. I promise it’ll make you feel better.”

He stiffened, his hands curling into fists at his sides. “I don’t think—”

“It’s just me, Nikto,” she interrupted, her voice soft but firm. “You don’t have to hide from me, remember?”

Her words were a quiet reminder of the trust they’d built, the unspoken bond that had grown stronger with each passing day. He hesitated, his gaze searching hers, and after a long moment, he finally relented.

“Fine.”

She smiled, her heart swelling with affection as he sat down in the chair. Carefully, she reached for the straps of his mask, her fingers brushing against his skin as she unfastened them. The mask came away slowly, revealing the face she’d only seen once before—the scars, the sharp angles, the vulnerability he so rarely showed.

“There,” she murmured, setting the mask aside. Her eyes met his, her smile never wavering. “Much better.”

______________________________________________________________

She squeezed a small amount of lotion onto her fingertips and stepped closer, her movements deliberate and gentle.

“This might feel a little cold at first,” she warned, her voice barely above a whisper.

He nodded stiffly, his jaw tight as she brought her hands to his face. The first touch of her fingers against his skin made him tense, but she didn’t pull away. She moved slowly, her touch soft and deliberate as she began to massage the lotion into his skin.

The scars were rough beneath her fingertips, a testament to the pain he’d endured, but she treated them with the same care she’d give to the most delicate glass.

“You don’t have to do this,” he muttered, his voice low and gruff.

“I want to,” she replied simply, her eyes focused on her task.

Her hands moved with practiced care, tracing the lines of his face as if she were committing them to memory. She worked the lotion into his skin, the coolness of it soothing the heat that had been building beneath the mask.

Nikto closed his eyes, his shoulders relaxing slightly as he let himself lean into her touch. It was… comforting, in a way he hadn’t expected.

“There,” she said softly, her voice warm and filled with affection. “All done.”

He opened his eyes, meeting her gaze. The look on her face—soft, caring, and utterly unjudging—made his chest tighten.

“Thank you,” he said quietly, the words feeling inadequate for what she’d just given him.

She smiled, brushing a stray strand of hair from his forehead. “You don’t have to thank me. I just want you to be comfortable.”

He didn’t reply, but the look in his eyes said everything he couldn’t put into words.

As she stepped back, picking up his mask to hand it to him, she paused. “You know,” she said with a teasing smile, “you don’t always have to wear this around me. I like seeing you.”

His heart skipped a beat, but he didn’t argue. Instead, he took the mask from her and set it aside, letting it rest on the vanity.

For now, he thought, maybe it was okay to let the walls down. Just a little.

Because with her, he was starting to believe he didn’t need them anymore.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Part 5.

______________________________________________________________

Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

______________________________________________________________

The day had started like any other. Tea with milk, Lucky bounding at her heels, her usual routine of making the world a little brighter. Nikto followed closely, as he always did, watching her flit through her day with a grace he couldn’t understand but had grown to adore.

Her visit to the hospital had been particularly eventful, with the kids hanging onto her every word as she read aloud. Nikto, as always, stood in the background, a silent shadow keeping her safe. His eyes flicked between her and the surroundings, always alert. But when the children clung to her arms, asking questions, laughing, and stealing more hugs than strictly necessary, Nikto found himself unable to look away from her smile.

She shined so brightly, even in places where the shadows clung thick and heavy.

It wasn’t until they returned to the mansion and she retreated to her cozy corner with Lucky that the day took an unexpected turn.

______________________________________________________________

She’d been perched on her armchair, a book in hand, Lucky sprawled across her lap as she absently scratched his belly. Nikto stood at his usual post near the doorway, arms crossed, his eyes trained on her.

“Lucky’s getting fat,” he said gruffly, breaking the companionable silence.

She gasped, clutching the dog protectively. “He’s fluffy! Not fat!”

“He’s spoiled,” Nikto countered, the corner of his mouth twitching beneath his mask.

“Maybe,” she admitted with a cheeky grin, “but so are you. Don’t deny it.”

He opened his mouth to argue, but before he could reply, Lucky wriggled off her lap and bounded toward him, knocking into his leg with enough force to send him stumbling slightly. His hand shot out to steady himself against the doorframe—except something caught on his glove.

The strap of his mask.

It slipped loose, the familiar weight of the mask disappearing as it fell to the floor with a soft thud.

Time seemed to freeze.

Nikto’s hand flew to his face, his eyes wide with panic as he turned away, his mind racing. He could feel her gaze on him, could feel her surprise, her confusion.

She was silent for a long moment before she finally spoke.

“Oh,” she said softly, the sound more curious than anything else.

He gritted his teeth, every instinct screaming at him to leave, to get out before she saw too much. Before she saw the scars, the imperfections, the man he’d worked so hard to hide.

But before he could move, he heard the soft rustle of fabric as she stood.

“Nikto?”

Her voice was gentle, tentative. He heard her footsteps approach, slow and deliberate. He stiffened as she crouched down in front of him, her hand reaching out—not for his face, but for the mask on the floor.

She picked it up, turning it over in her hands.

“It’s not ripped,” she murmured, her tone matter-of-fact. She looked up, her eyes meeting his for the first time. “Here. You dropped this.”

She held it out to him, her expression soft, her lips curved in a small, reassuring smile.

Nikto blinked, his breath catching in his throat. He expected horror, disgust, pity—anything but this calm acceptance.

“You’re… not surprised?” he asked, his voice hoarse.

“Why would I be?” she asked, tilting her head. “You’re still you. Mask or no mask.”

He stared at her, his mind struggling to process her words.

“You’re not… scared?”

“Scared?” She frowned, as if the idea was ridiculous. “Of you? Never.”

Her gaze softened as she placed the mask gently in his hands. “I trust you, Nikto. I always have.”

The weight of her words hit him like a freight train. She didn’t flinch, didn’t look away, didn’t even hesitate. She simply smiled, her eyes warm and full of unwavering trust.

For the first time in years, Nikto felt something inside him shift. The walls he’d so carefully built around his heart—walls forged from pain, fear, and self-loathing—began to crumble.

“Thank you,” he said quietly, his voice thick with emotion.

She reached out, her fingers brushing against his hand. “You don’t have to thank me. Just… don’t hide from me, okay? You don’t have to.”

His chest tightened, his heart pounding as he looked into her eyes. There was no judgment there, no fear—only kindness, acceptance, and something else. Something that made his resolve shatter entirely.

He nodded, swallowing hard. “Okay.”

Her smile widened, and she gave his hand a gentle squeeze before stepping back, giving him space. Lucky trotted over, oblivious to the emotional weight of the moment, and plopped down at his feet with a satisfied huff.

Nikto took a deep breath, the mask still in his hands. For the first time in a long time, he felt like he could breathe.

And as he watched her settle back into her chair, her eyes sparkling as she returned to her book, he realized something else.

He wasn’t just falling for her anymore.

He was completely and utterly hers.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

Part 4.

______________________________________________________________

Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

______________________________________________________________

A year.

Twelve months of tea with milk, hospital visits, late-night reading sessions, and constant chaos that somehow felt like home. And now, Nikto found himself staring at her from the corner of the garden, his chest tight as he watched her giggle at the overgrown mutt rolling in the grass.

The dog—officially named Lucky but unofficially referred to as His Highness by the staff—had become as much a part of her routine as her tea and books. Spoiled rotten, of course, but the dog had a knack for matching her sunny personality. It barked, tail wagging furiously, as she crouched down to rub its belly.

“Who’s the best boy?” she cooed. “You are! Yes, you are!”

Nikto didn’t know whether to laugh or groan. How was he supposed to protect her from the world when she was too busy making it brighter?

And then there was the other problem. The real problem.

He was in love with her.

Not in the passing, fleeting way he’d scoffed at in old movies. This was deeper—messier. It was the way his heart jumped whenever she smiled at him. The way he found himself looking forward to her chatter, her laughter, her presence. The way he’d started to imagine what it might feel like to hold her, to let her see past the mask and into the shadows he kept hidden.

It was dangerous. Reckless. And utterly unavoidable.

______________________________________________________________

The realization had hit him a few weeks ago.

She’d fallen asleep on the couch in the sitting room, Lucky curled up at her feet. He’d gone to check on her and found her clutching a book to her chest, her hair spilling over the armrest like a waterfall. Her face was peaceful, her breathing soft, and for the first time in years, Nikto had felt his icy resolve crack.

She trusted him with everything, even in her most vulnerable moments. And he… he didn’t deserve it.

He’d stood there for longer than he should have, his heart warring with his instincts. Part of him wanted to kneel beside her, to brush a stray curl from her face and let himself believe, just for a moment, that he could have this. The other part screamed at him to leave, to run before he ruined her life the way he’d ruined so many others.

In the end, he’d covered her with a blanket and retreated to his post, cursing himself for letting his guard down.

But it was too late. The damage was done.

______________________________________________________________

Now, standing in the garden, he felt the full weight of his feelings pressing down on him. He’d always thought falling in love would be terrifying. But with her, it was… quiet. Natural. Like the sun rising after a long, dark night.

“Nikto!” Her voice broke through his thoughts, bright and cheerful as always. She waved at him from across the garden, Lucky bounding toward him with his tongue lolling out. “Come join us!”

He hesitated, his hands clenching at his sides. “I’m on duty.”

“You’re always on duty,” she said, crossing her arms with a mock pout. “Take five minutes. Please?”

Lucky barked, circling Nikto’s feet as if agreeing with her. With a resigned sigh, he stepped closer, keeping his face impassive despite the way his chest tightened when she smiled up at him.

“See? That wasn’t so hard,” she teased, patting the grass beside her. “Sit. Enjoy the sun. Lucky and I don’t bite, I promise.”

He didn’t sit, but he crouched down just enough to humor her. Lucky immediately flopped onto his side, pawing at Nikto’s leg until he reluctantly scratched behind the dog’s ears.

“You’re so good with him,” she said softly, resting her chin on her knees. “He loves you.”

“Dogs are simple,” Nikto replied. “They don’t judge.”

She tilted her head, her eyes searching his face—or at least the part of it visible beneath the mask. “Neither do I.”

He froze, his hand stilling against Lucky’s fur. “You should.”

“Why?” Her tone was light, but there was something deeper beneath it—something that made his walls tremble. “You’ve been nothing but kind to me. You take care of me, you protect me, and you put up with all my nonsense. If anything, I should be the one trying to earn your trust.”

“You already have it,” he said before he could stop himself.

Her eyes widened slightly, and for a moment, he thought he’d said too much. But then her face softened, her smile turning gentle. “Good. Because you have mine, too.”

______________________________________________________________

That night, as he stood outside her room, his heart felt heavier than ever. She didn’t know what she was doing to him—how her kindness was undoing years of carefully built defenses.

He wanted to tell her. To let her see the man behind the mask. But the thought of her knowing the truth—of seeing the scars and darkness that defined him—was enough to keep him silent.

For now, he’d stay in the shadows. Watching. Protecting. Loving her from a distance.

But someday… someday, he’d find the courage to tell her.

And maybe, just maybe, she’d love him back.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

part 3.

______________________________________________________________

Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

______________________________________________________________

Nikto had seen combat zones that would break most people. He’d stared death in the face more times than he could count. But nothing—nothing—had prepared him for the moment he stepped into her room that morning and found it empty.

The bed was unmade, the tea he’d left on her nightstand untouched, and her cozy corner eerily silent. His chest tightened as he scanned the room, already running through possibilities: a break-in, an abduction, an inside job.

He moved like a shadow through the mansion, his heart pounding despite his years of training. His earpiece buzzed as he checked in with the security team.

“She’s not with you?” he barked, his voice colder than frost.

“No sign of her, sir,” came the reply.

The words hit him like a gut punch. Every instinct told him to search outside. The garden. Something had rustled in the bushes earlier, and his gut had dismissed it as an animal. He cursed himself under his breath. He should have checked.

Nikto burst into the garden, his eyes scanning every corner, his rifle ready. And then, there she was.

Dirt streaked her face and pajamas, her hair a tangled mess, and in her arms was a scruffy, mud-covered stray dog wagging its tail. She looked up, saw him storming toward her, and froze.

“Oh, um… good morning?” she said sheepishly, holding up the dog as if that explained everything.

“What were you thinking?!” Nikto growled, his voice cutting through the peaceful morning air. “Do you have any idea—”

“I-I’m sorry!” she stammered, clutching the dog closer. “I just… I heard something, and I thought maybe it was hurt! I didn’t want to bother you…”

Nikto stopped short, glaring at her and the mutt in her arms. The dog barked once, its tail wagging furiously, completely oblivious to the tension. He ran a hand down his mask, his heart still hammering from the scare she’d given him.

“Inside. Now,” he ordered.

She obeyed, her shoulders drooping like a scolded child. The dog, apparently thrilled with its new home, licked her cheek as she carried it back toward the house. Nikto followed, his sharp eyes scanning the garden one last time before stepping inside.

______________________________________________________________

The rest of the morning was a whirlwind of chaos.

She insisted on cleaning the dog herself, despite the staff’s offers to help. By the time she was done, her clothes were even dirtier, and she was damp from head to toe. The dog, now resembling a proper canine instead of a muddy disaster, looked perfectly content curled up on one of her plush blankets.

Nikto, however, was anything but content. He loomed in the doorway of the sitting room, arms crossed, watching her fuss over the stray like it was royalty.

“I’m sorry I scared you,” she said for the tenth time that hour, looking up at him with those big, guilt-ridden eyes. “I didn’t mean to make you worry.”

“You shouldn’t have gone outside alone,” he replied gruffly. “You know better.”

“I know,” she murmured, her fingers twisting the edge of the blanket. “I just… I don’t like feeling like a burden. You already do so much for me.”

Nikto sighed, his resolve softening despite himself. “You’re not a burden.”

Her face lit up at his words, and before he could stop her, she was on her feet, throwing her arms around him in a hug.

“I promise I’ll be more careful,” she said, her voice muffled against his chest. “Thank you for always looking out for me.”

Nikto froze, his muscles locking up. The dog barked once, wagging its tail at the display of affection, but Nikto barely noticed. All he could focus on was the warmth of her arms around him and the way his chest tightened at the realization of how much she trusted him.

She pulled back slightly, tilting her head up to meet his eyes—or at least where his eyes would be behind the mask. “Are you mad at me?”

“No,” he said quietly, his voice softer than she’d ever heard it.

Her face broke into a relieved smile, and before he could stop her, she leaned up and pressed a kiss to the side of his mask.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her eyes sparkling with sincerity.

Nikto’s brain short-circuited. His hands twitched at his sides, unsure of what to do, and for the first time in years, he was grateful for the mask concealing his expression. She didn’t seem to notice his inner turmoil, instead giving him one last squeeze before stepping back.

“I’ll make it up to you,” she promised, holding up a finger like it was a solemn vow. “You can pick dinner tonight, and I’ll bake those chocolate chip cookies you like so much. Deal?”

He nodded wordlessly, still reeling from the kiss.

______________________________________________________________

The rest of the day, she stuck close to him. Closer than usual. She’d always been affectionate, but this was… different. Every time she passed him, she’d brush her hand against his arm or murmur another soft apology. During lunch, she made him sit at the table with her instead of his usual post near the door. And by the time she retreated to her cozy corner that evening, she patted the seat next to her with a teasing smile.

“You’ve earned it,” she said lightly. “For putting up with me today.”

Nikto sighed, knowing full well he couldn’t say no to her. He sat down, the stray dog curling up at his feet. She leaned against his side, her head resting on his shoulder, her presence warm and steady.

And for the first time in years, Nikto felt something he hadn’t allowed himself to feel in a long, long time: peace.

[mesu-senshi]

"Sweetheart and the Shadow"

part 2.

______________________________________________________________

Pairing: Nikto (COD) x Reader Theme: Comedy, Romance, Fluff Trope: Bodyguard for the Rich Softy

______________________________________________________________

Nikto wasn’t one to linger on thoughts. His job demanded precision, vigilance, and a heart made of stone. Yet, as the weeks turned to months, the lines between duty and… something else began to blur. It started small.

At first, he chalked it up to observation. Watching her float through her days like a butterfly with too much faith in the world wasn’t part of his job description, but it was hard not to notice. She was like clockwork: mornings started with baked goods she’d offer him with that radiant smile, afternoons were spent outside or with the kids in the hospital, and evenings belonged to her books, cozy blankets, and far too many candles.

And tea with milk.

“Coffee is way too bitter,” she’d say every morning as she fixed her drink, scrunching her nose at the idea of anything stronger. He always stayed silent, sipping his own bitter black coffee under the shield of his mask.

Yet, one morning, he’d made tea. Just to see if he preferred it. He didn’t. But he didn’t hate it, either.

______________________________________________________________

Nikto knew he shouldn’t care. It wasn’t his job to care. But when he stood guard at the hospital while she sat cross-legged on the floor, a group of children around her as she animatedly read The Velveteen Rabbit, he found himself listening to her soft, lilting voice instead of monitoring the exits.

It wasn’t the story that caught his attention—it was the way the kids adored her. They hung on every word, eyes wide, hands clutching their blankets. She didn’t notice when one little girl, bald and frail, reached out to touch her hair. She just laughed, gently pulled a ribbon from her pocket, and tied it into the child’s own sparse curls.

“You have princess hair,” the girl whispered.

“And you,” [Y/N] said with a smile so warm it could melt steel, “are the prettiest princess I’ve ever met.”

Nikto cleared his throat, loud enough to pull her back to reality. Her cheeks flushed as she glanced at him. “Sorry! Did I take too long? I know you probably have a schedule—”

“We’re fine,” he said, voice gruff, eyes darting to the floor. “Keep reading.”

______________________________________________________________

By the time spring rolled around, he was in deep. Not that he’d admit it, even to himself. His once-unshakable walls now had cracks, ones that grew wider with every smile she sent his way. He found himself making mental notes about her quirks, her likes, her habits.

She liked honey in her tea but never too much, because “too sweet takes away the flavor.” She hummed to herself when arranging flowers in the garden. She always carried snacks in her bag—“Just in case! You never know when you’ll get hungry!”—and she made a point to hand them to him every afternoon, even when he grumbled that he didn’t need them.

______________________________________________________________

One quiet evening, he stood at his usual post outside her cozy corner, where she was curled up in her usual spot, a fluffy blanket wrapped around her. She had a new book, something about a fairytale romance, judging by the cover.

“You know,” she said, looking up suddenly. “You don’t have to stand all the way over there.”

He tilted his head. “I’m on duty.”

“And I’m not going anywhere,” she said softly. “Just… sit down. Take a break?”

“I don’t—”

“Please?” Her eyes widened, an unspoken challenge glimmering in their depths. “I promise I won’t tell anyone.”

For reasons he couldn’t explain, he found himself moving. Sitting down felt unnatural, and he perched stiffly at the edge of the sofa. She beamed, victorious, and slid a plate of cookies toward him.

“You’re too nice,” he muttered, almost accusingly.

“Is that a bad thing?” she asked, genuinely curious.

“Sometimes.”

She hummed thoughtfully, breaking a cookie in half. “Well, it makes your job easier, doesn’t it?”

Nikto snorted, a sound that startled even him. “You’d think so.”

Her laugh was soft, and for the first time, he realized how much he liked the sound of it. It wasn’t just her sweetness that got to him—it was her belief that the world, despite everything, could be a good place. It was the way she smiled at him like he wasn’t the monster his enemies whispered about in hushed tones.

It was the way she looked at him now, head tilted slightly, like she saw something more.

“You should smile more,” she said suddenly.

“I don’t smile.”

Her lips quirked into a playful pout. “I’ll make it my mission.”

“You’ll fail.”

Her laughter filled the room again, and for the first time in a long while, Nikto felt… at home.

______________________________________________________________

That night, as he watched over her while she slept, he caught himself thinking, for the hundredth time, how utterly ridiculous this girl was. Naive, trusting, and far too kind for her own good.

And he knew, without a doubt, he’d lay down his life to keep her that way.