#i got TWO gifts from friends today and BOTH of them were drawings of SANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[cherry-shipping]

is . ummmm is this allowed?

HTHY9RE9YG5RGRERI! GREUHGO0+?? GHUHGEHRGSHGPHER!! WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HELLO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ANYONE ELESE SEEING THIS SHIT!!!!!!!!! HOLY FUCKING HELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1HEHERG´```????!!

[ultralovedeluxe]

Hey I love your work! Would you mind doing Rohan with prompts 41 and 43 whenever you can? And maybe nsfw if your comfortable? 👉🏼👈🏼

Have a good day/evening!

Oml I love YOU so much! I'm a big fan of your work so I was nervous when writing this (it's very rushed oml), I hope you enjoy though!

Yandere! Rohan Kishibe with prompts #41 and #43

'I'm all you have left now'

'They didn't know you belonged to me so I had to get rid of them!'

Warnings: yandere behaviors, cheating accusations, manipulation, slut-shaming, inappropriate use of stands, non/dub con, blow-jobs, nsfw

Dating the famous mangaka Kishibe Rohan would be an honor to most people. He's a man of power and fame, who wouldn't want to be with him? The moms who hang out at the park always tell you that you should feel like the luckiest person in the world. They'd tell you that a million girls would kill to be in your shoes.

Although you love Rohan with all your heart (and you should feel deserving of his love), you sometimes start to wonder if dating the great Kishibe Rohan is worth it.

You met Rohan at an art exhibit in France. You had been a model for several pieces in that said exhibit, so obviously you had to come along for the event. Meeting Rohan was a love at first sight. He had asked if you would want to model for him sometime, and you had agreed. Soon after one visit and project, came after another, and then another, until you were working mainly with the mangaka. You can't say you didn't like it though, you enjoyed being in Rohan's presence. He was chivalrous when he wanted to be, and you found his sarcastic nature be quite humorous in fact. You spent so much time with Rohan in fact, you would have considered him a friend. Your relationship with the mangaka was no longer just work related, the both of you had become good friends.

However, the real problem in your friendship with Rohan began to show when your parents were involved. Your parents tolerated Rohan (or at least you thought they did), but they were getting annoyed with the fact the mangaka kept hogging your time. You should be modeling with professional photographers, or modeling for famous designers. But instead you're being used as reference from some manga artist in Japan.

You understood your parent's point of view in the subject, but you enjoyed working with Rohan more than you did any other project you had worked on. You continued to visit Rohan, despite your parent's protests (and Rohan couldn't have been happier).

The more visits that happened, the closer you got to the mangaka. It wasn't long before Rohan had asked you on a date. Eventually multiple dates leaded to the both of you starting a relationship. You knew your parents would hate Rohan even more now, but he didn't seem to mind. He'd always tell you that he didn't care what your parents thought about him, he was content with having you as a partner. Even if your parents did find out about your secret relationship, you highly doubt they would react dramatically. Sure, they'd really, really dislike it, but they wouldn't disown you for it. After all you were a grown adult, you should be able to make your own decisions right?

At least that's what you thought. One day, Rohan made an unexpected visit on your front door step. You didn't expect for him to be there, nor did you know how he got your address (considering the fact you lived in a completely different continent), but you didn't think much of it since you thought this could be your chance to properly introduce Rohan to your parents.

The introduction went by smoothly, Rohan was getting along with your parents, and your parents seemed to accept that Rohan was your partner. However, it did seem a bit suspicious that your parent's dislike of Rohan turned into an approval almost in a span of a few minutes. They had even agreed to let you move out with Rohan. While you could admit that you and Rohan had been planning to live in Morioh-Cho together, you didn't think it'd happen instantly. And that your parents would agree nonetheless. Regardless, you and Rohan accepted your parent's blessing's and left France.

You vividly remembered on your plane flight to Morioh-Cho, Rohan had whispered in your ear while stroking your hair softly, "You must be lucky to have me right [first]? I'm all you have left now.."

-

Life in Morioh-Cho was sweet to say the least. It was a drastic change from living in a fashion capital of the world, to a small quiet place where there was much to do. Nevertheless, you truly enjoyed your new life, it was better than going to photoshoots every week. Speaking of which, you never do photoshoots anymore. Rohan convinced you to quit your job as a model (since he is wealthy enough to provide for the both of you anyway), and you had agreed. Though, every time you mentioned getting a job to Rohan, he'd simply call you an idiot for wanting to work. He'd ask you if he needed step up his game for you, and you'd only close your mouth in the conversation.

Your relationship with Rohan was a drastic change too. From what was sweet, humble dates every weekend, went to being locked in a home for what was everyday. Rohan would spend hours in his art studio, drawing multiple pages for his manga. He'd tell you to not go out while he was working. But even then, that's most of the time.

You'd be lying if you didn't find this type of behavior weird.

-

"I'm leaving to go visit Italy for a couple of days [first]. Do you remember the rules?"

You nodded and kissed Rohan's cheek before handing him his suitcase. "Don't go outside unless we run out of groceries, don't let people inside-" Rohan cut you off "Especially those idiots Josuke and Okuyasu" he said scoffing at his distaste for the boys. You only sighed in response, "Especially Josuke and Okuyasu. Hope you have a good trip love" you smiled holding his hands close to your chest. Rohan kissed your lips softly and mumbled a quick 'goodbye' before leaving your shared home. You sighed and walked into the kitchen, before sitting down on a chair. You respected his rules, and you didn't want to lie to him, but you were bored out of your mind. You wanted to go out and have fun. Not to mention, although you know that Rohan could buy you whatever you wanted; but you wanted to have some money of your own. You can't rely on Rohan forever. You had decided that tomorrow you'd start looking for a job (any job, part-time even, you just wanted some type of job to keep you entertained for a while). Rohan would get mad sure, but you promised you'd discuss when he'd come back. You were sure he'd support you

You were sure of it.

-

Looking for a job was harder than you thought. It seemed that nobody wanted to hire somebody who only had 'model' on their resume. Sometimes you'd wish you had taken on other jobs other than modeling, maybe then people would hire you. Regardless, you kept looking, desperate to find a job somewhere.

In the end, you ended up finding an Italian restaurant after hours of searching. You stepped in and was greeted a tall, blonde Italian man. "Hello good afternoon my name is Tonio, welcome to my restuarant" he greeted you while smiling at you sweetly. You smiled awkwardly and muttered a quick 'thank you', "Um Tonio san, I'm not here to eat..but I'd like to ask you if you are hiring. I can't cook, but I can be a waitress!-" you exclaimed, leaving Tonio in a small shock. He looked at you up and down before smiling at you once again, "Well I don't usually hire people since I'm doing good on my own, but I guess a little help wouldn't hurt.." he told you. You smiled back and hugged him, "Oh thank you so much! You don't know how much I struggled finding a job today-" you let him go, "Uhm, sorry.." you mumbled. He chuckled and led you to a table.

The two of you talked a bit for a while, you told hima bout your modeling career and your relationships, while he told you about his journey to Japan and Italian cuisine. You both shared laughs and stories together, you had a good time. Your time with Tonio became even better when he officially had hired you as a waitress! You were happy, and you couldn't wait to tell Rohan when he got home!

"Well I'll see you next week Tonio!" you shouted as you left the door, carrying the bouquet of daisies Tonio had gifted you. Tonio smiled, "I'll see you then bambina!".

-

You arrive a little later than planned (guess you spent too much time talking to Tonio), but you finally made it home safe and sound. You might as well start cleaning, since you weren't going to sleep any time soon. As you opened the door, you were met face to face with Rohan. You dropped your daises on the floor, and began to think of all the apologies and excuses you could think of. But it was no use, excuses would only make Rohan's anger boil even more.

Why was he even here in the first place? Wasn't he supposed to be in Italy by now?!

"Rohan I-"

"Save it, I don't want to hear a word from you" Rohan growled angrily before walking towards you. He had pulled out a pen and you felt as if you passed out.

Rohan had used Heaven's Door to read the pages of your life. He looked for the information of today, and when he did, he was fuming. He read his newly learned information out loud, gripping onto your hair in the process, "This man named Tonio is so handsome, and he cooks too.. I feel like this skirt is a bit risqué, but oh well.." with that last sentence Rohan had the last straw. He removed his stand's effect on you, but not before writing a few things.

Once the effects of Heaven's Door were gone, you began to feel a heat between your legs. Noticing you were on your knees, you crawled your way to Rohan, "Rohann, feel so hot need you.." you mewled out. Rohan was furious with your previous behavior, but maybe this would help you learn a few things. "So you were tempted to cheat on me right? I bet you would’ve enjoyed if that Tonio flipped your skirt right?" he said slapping your face in the process. You whimpered, "No no no no, that's not true..please need you. Need you so bad" you were starting to tear up just by him insinuating you were going to cheat on him. Rohan looked down at you, gods you looked so pathetic, just like he wanted you to look like.

"Such a fucking slut" he said unbuckling his pants, eager to have your warm and needy mouth all around his cock. Once he finished doing that he looked at you dead in the eye, "Suck. Suck like the whore you are. Aren't you ashamed [first]? I bet you also sucked Tonio’s cock in that job interview right?” He said watching you as you sloppily sucked his cock. You probably aren’t even thinking right now, your just hungry for his cock right? Such a little slut. “And to think your parents didn’t like me. They just didn’t know you belonged to me. But that’s fine I had to get rid of them regardless..” he chuckled before he bucked his hips into your mouth repeatedly.

Rohan grabs you by the hair and begins to push your head down his member, sinking your mouth down to his pubes; much to your displeasure. At the moment however he didn’t care what you felt, sluts like you don’t mind right? He continued to do so for a few more seconds before he came in your mouth, groaning loudly. He came inside your mouth, and there was so much of it you couldn’t help but to cough some out.

You laid your head on his lap and breathed out softly, before Rohan lifted your chin up and grinned,

“Who said we were done?”

-

Dating the great Kishibe Rohan would be an honor to most people. Who wouldn’t want to be by his side. Unfortunately for you, dating Kishibe Rohan was not a glitter and sparkles.

Being Kishibe Rohan’s personal cum dump isn’t much better either.

[hualianff]

More Than This

Modern AU where famous actor HC and landscaper XL meet through a dating app. HC had a reputation of being a massive flirt who bedded people left and right, which wasn’t completely wrong–just blown out of proportion. His partners were usually other celebrities who mutually swore to keep their mouths shut in the preservation of their own images.

When HC received a message on the dating app asking about the brand of the wristwatch he wore in his profile pic (which only showcased his hands), the other user hoping to purchase a cheaper, similar style for his friend’s birthday, HC responded for the first time since downloading the app.

What could he say? The other man was gorgeous and if he were simply asking just to slide into HC’s DMs, the actor wasn’t opposed.

Turns out XL asked out of genuine curiosity. FX’s birthday was still a month away. Why XL thought about gifting him a watch similar to the one the stranger wore when XL should’ve been paying attention to the sheer strength those large hands seemed to possess was beyond him.

The name in the bio read: San Lang. The few pictures that were displayed on his profile were minimalistic yet downright sexy. XL blinked in wonder as he typed out another message, hoping to continue the conversation.

Two weeks after chatting back and forth through the app, XL asked if he could meet HC in person. The actor pondered this for a grand total of thirty seconds before agreeing to meet. XL seemed like a sincere character, someone who put other peoples’ comfort above any task at hand–if his emoticon overkill and frequent check-ins with HC were anything to go by.

HC figured he’d cross the bridge once XL recognized him as a well-loved actor starring in the hottest films in the media.

Except when HC arrived in his expensive jeep that screamed wealth, dressed in appropriate clothes for a hike with a baseball cap concealing his features from far away, XL did not have an aha! moment.

“Hello, San Lang! It’s me, Xie Lian,” XL waved as he bounced his way over. “I hope the ride up the mountain wasn’t too scary. You get used to it once you begin visiting more often. Thank you for meeting with me today.”

“It’s no problem at all. Nice to meet you, Xie Lian,” HC greets, guiding them away from his car as soon as he locks the doors, not wanting to draw any onlookers’ attention.

XL gives him a kind smile, adjusting the clasp of his bamboo hat. He explains that there are three main trails and he was thinking they could take the medium-level route. Judging from his white work-out T, jean shorts, and hiking boots, HC deduces that XL spends much time outside, even when he’s not gardening for his clients.

“Lead the way, Gege,” HC says, the title naturally falling from his lips. In XL’s dating profile, his age read thirty-two, just under three years older than HC. (This was followed by a dozen tree, flower, and water emoticons.)

“Okay! Onwards.”

Following their initial meeting, HC met up with XL numerous times after, attracted to XL’s mellow and eccentric personality. Whenever it was XL’s turn to plan their time together, he brought HC to different places each time. National parks, plant nurseries, museums–places that could be considered unconventional compared to the standard meetups from dating apps.

HC’s fondness for XL only grew because of this.

Their chemistry flourished in the bedroom as well, both HC and XL eager for giving and receiving pleasure. In addition to being fuckbuddies, they quickly developed a wholesome friendship that HC never saw coming.

But then again, this was XL. Once HC got a taste, his infatuation with the landscaper shouldn’t be surprising. HC stopped seeing his other speed dials after he met XL.

One of their nights ended by watching a film, XL mentioning off-handedly how he doesn't keep up with pop culture–including popular films–but his friend SQX had begged XL to watch this one. Of course, this had to be a film HC was in, one of his most recent projects. There was no avoiding the impending reveal.

They sit side-by-side on XL’s lumpy couch, watching the movie when XL gasps as the antagonist comes into view.

That is his San Lang! On the screen!

When XL pokes HC on the bicep, asking why the actor hadn’t told him, HC simply says that “My fame isn’t important to who I am.”

To HC’s surprise, XL accepts the answer without protest, nodding.

“San Lang is San Lang, who happens to be a marvelous actor,” XL solemnly says, flashing HC a delighted smile. HC hums in content, subtly repositioning his arm so it rested on the back of the couch, curling around XL’s shoulders.

Except after the movie ended and a google search later, XL finds out that San Lang isn’t San Lang after all.

“Should I call you Hua Cheng from now on? Oh my gosh, I can’t believe I’ve been calling you the wrong name for three months now-” XL rushes out, guilt painted across his face.

“Gege, it’s fine. I used it as an alias for my profile to protect my identity,” HC explains. He reaches forward to tuck a long strand of XL’s hair behind his ear. “Besides, I quite like it when you call me San Lang.”

“Really?” XL sheepishly asks.

“Really.”

From that moment on, HC and XL clicked perfectly, learning more about each other when time permitted them to meet up. XL felt a little foolish for not knowing who HC was as a celebrity. But like HC said, his fame did not define him as a person, which XL clearly saw from the playful way he held himself when there were no cameras around.

HC matched XL’s enthusiasm in whatever activity they were doing, even if it was something XL’s previous partners couldn’t care less about. Eight months into their arrangement, XL finally admitted to himself that he had deep feelings for HC.

While they had great chemistry as friends, XL selfishly wanted more.

But how could XL ask for something more? They already agreed to keep things casual, to remain as friends who used each other to release their sexual urges. It didn’t matter how delicate HC cleaned XL up or always ran him a bath after their climaxes. It didn’t matter how HC always set out his clothes for XL to stay the night. And it didn’t matter how close HC held onto him as they slept.

XL was simply a landscaper with a passion for nature and helping others. He wasn’t built for the limelight. He was barely in the loop with societal trends, and only recently began watching the latest movies with HC–many of which HC himself acted in.

Frankly speaking, HC could have anyone he wanted. XL was the one who should be grateful HC even sought him out a second time.

XL is thirty-three now. He wanted to find someone to settle down with, to spend the rest of his life with, falling deeper in love with every single day. He was not sure HC, who was just entering his thirties and continuing to make a name for himself, would want something like that with someone like XL.

Even when every one of HC’s actions alluded that he truly cared for XL, XL had learned that hope was a dangerous thing to mindlessly cling to. XL has had past partners come into his life, then leave him like he was nothing, like none of him was worth staying for. XL didn’t think he could bear it if HC became just another name on that list.

Furthermore, XL didn’t want to put HC or his career on spot, nor put his heart in a position where it was bound to be broken.

As XL grappled with his perceived one-sided feelings, HC only allowed himself to yearn when laying on the bed in his penthouse. It was much larger than XL’s bed. It was also much lonelier.

HC was unable to grant XL the verbal confirmation of where they stood, held back by the weight of his status, which had always been his selling point alongside his hypersexualized image. Not only did HC not want to risk pressuring XL into pursuing a relationship with a celebrity, but somewhere deep inside, HC didn’t believe XL could want him for who he is–even after the year and a half they’ve known each other.

Much of HC’s self-worth had come from his accomplishments as an actor, untouchable yet fantasized by the public. Peeling back all the layers he hid behind, HC saw his true self as too ugly, damaged, and undesirable; phrases many people in his past have spat to his face, including his parents.

In HC’s mind, he had already tied XL down to their routine no-strings-attached meet-ups. While HC savored every moment he spent with XL, he didn’t want to further intrude on XL’s simple life and have the other man resent him in the end.

《II》

(Thanks to @no-one-says-hi for helping)

[katsukikitten]

Part one, no real warnings yet. Enjoy!

Bakugou's personal phone rings from the pocket of his hero costume for the umpteenth causing his skin to pop. All the while Kirishima allows his ruby gaze to fall over the hot head, having a good guess about just who is blowing up his phone. Worry snatches at Kirishima's heart for a moment forcing the question from his lips, even if it meant regretting it. 

"Are you sure your mom is okay?" Bakugou freezes in his step, inclining his head to fix a garnet glare at his so called friend. He sucks in a breath to yell, body tense and in a fighting stance before his phone blares again.

"FUCK!" He shouts into the night with only Kirishima and the moon to hear. The trees swallow his frustration as he rips his phone from his pocket, answering it so harshly the LCD beneath the screen ruptures. 

"What?! What the fuck do you want you God Damn hag?! I'm WORKING! Saving LIVES!" It had been a long time since he had called his mother hag, long enough there was silence on the other line for a moment. 

Then much like her son she takes a deep breath and now Kirishima, the moon and the trees know why Mitsuki was calling at such a late hour. Kirishima sighs with relief nothing is so dire as life and death, although for Mitsuki it is. 

"IF YOU DON'T BRING THIS GHOST OF A GIRLFRIEND OF YOURS I SWEAR TO KAMISAMI THERE WILL BE NO MORE NUMBER ONE HERO WHEN IM THROUGH WITH YOU. IM GETTING OLD I NEED FUCKING GRANDKIDS. THINK OF YOUR SWEET OLD FATHER HE AIN'T GETTING ANY FUCKING YOUNGER!" 

"That's what this was about?! Ma for the last fucking time I don't-" 

"You don't what? One of those hoes you sleep with has to like even your rude ass. Bring a decent one home." And with that Bakugou is left with the sound of three tones and a ringing in his ear. He grips the bridge of his nose, having no earthly idea of how to get his mother off of his back, let alone find a woman. The phone rings in his hand again, the screen filled with dead pixels and rainbow lines causing him hot to be able to see. Somehow it registers his touch as he goes from memory to answer. 

"What you fucking hag?!" He screams into the receiver. 

"Wow. Rude." You reply with a bite, "Just calling to tell you boss that I'm clocking out, dickhead." 

"I-I thought you were my mom." 

"Oh and that makes it better?" What an ass! 

"Fuck you." He growls, looking at Kirishima's watch, "You're clocking out way too early." 

"No, fuck you. I requested to be off by this time MONTHS ago. You can ask Eijirou-san, you approved it so he made the schedule accordingly." You quip, twirling one of your knives in your hands, "Besides I've been working waaay too long today. Oh and I found that perp hours ago." 

"What the fuck?! Why didn't you tell me hours ago?" 

"I fucking tried, you ignored my call. This was my third attempt." You slam the knife through the paperwork on your desk wishing it were the hot head's thigh. You rise as your eyes glance over the clock. If you didn't hurry this stupid phone call up, you were going to be late. You needed to sneak in before midnight. 

"Still too early for you. Normally you want the OT." He bites, causing you to roll your eyes. 

Gods you hated this guy. 

"Yea, well tonight is different." You'd pay in the long run for leaving so soon but tonight was special. She asked you to be there the last time you saw her and you promised. 

You never break a fucking promise. 

"Some subordinate you are bitch face." He growls then an idea pops into his head. 

Subordinate. 

As in you reported to him, as in Bakugou Katsuki was your boss. And well you had to listen to your boss to some extent and he knew you needed money, you tell him day in and day out it's the only  reason you would even dream to work with him. 

Although he has no idea why you are so hard out for cash. 

So he sets the bait, offering you a deal you can't refuse. 

"Tomorrow is your planned day off right?" 

"Yea what fucking of it?!" 

"I've got a special mission for you-" 

"No." You interrupt, already feeling the exhaustion of your seventy hour work week stacking up. 

"You didn't even let me finish you ungrateful brat. It will be three times your pay for half a day's work. Cold hard cash." The other side of the line goes silent. Licking your lips you think over his offer, fuck, that would actually help get your head above water. 

The light at the end of the tunnel. 

If only you knew how dark this tunnel was going to be. 

"Fine. I'll take your stupid fucking offer." 

"Promise?" His voice sounds a bit different, a little bit of a tease to it, as if he knows something you don't. 

"What are we in kindergarten. Yea I promise, fucking headass." With that you hang up, rushing down the steps of the agency building and into the cold air. 

Your phone buzzes with a text 

BakaBoss: Meet me at the agency, 11am sharp.

You roll your eyes, turning your phone to silent as you watch the nightly set of nurses do their normal routine. Barely making it in time for the security guard and head nurse to make their way outside by the one way back door for a smoke. Both too lazy to walk around to the front of the hospital, sticking a thin splintering wood block between the jam and the door, giving you easy access to the stairwell. When they were far enough away you slip into the door, sure to place the wood where they left it before climbing the stairs two at a time, racing the clock at the top half of the 11th hour. The janitor would have already mopped her floor and the only nurse on floor six was currently on the ground level half way through the small tobacco stick, she wouldn't be sticking her head into room 609 anytime soon. 

You draw in a deep breath, collecting yourself and forcing back the tears as you picked the lock, a skill set that not only were you amazing at but the very same skill that landed you here. 

And by here you mean stupid ass hero work all thanks to some "reforming" program by Izuku Miydoria. Still it was better than having to break out of jail in order to make cash, her bills weren't going to pay themself. 

You stick a stolen credit card in between the door jab and the door, right at the locking mechanism, although you could break out of just about anywhere, this would be the faster method of escape. 

"Hey, sis, I made it!" You say softly but with excitement, watching as she keeps her back to you. Her eyes wide from a mixed cocktail of chemicals and trauma, she stares out into the sky, counting the stars. 

It would be one of those nights where she was too warped to tell you were there. With a sigh you sink onto her mattress. If you could even fucking call it that. It was more like a box spring with a fitted sheet over top of it, you were still figuring out how you could sneak a mattress in. 

"I got you something." You say crawling to sit next to her cross legged, she turns to you and it's like looking in a mirror. Except one of you is covered in visible scars and the other is not. Hers are more than skin deep. Seeing her dull gaze never gets any easier, she stares through you for a long time before she does as she always does. 

Lifting her hand gently to cup your cheek so her thumb can slide over your scar. 

"How'd you get this?" Her voice is barely hers and it grabs a fist full of your guts pulling them downward. Everytime she asks that question you see the shine of a blade, a swipe of a strong hand and vision filled with blood.

Yours, there's but never hers. You like to tell yourself that's what counts but maybe you had a hand in breaking her. 

You clear your throat, pulling a bag onto your lap. 

"Nevermind that." You gently guide her hand away from your cheek and to her lap. When she makes no motion for the gift bag you force a smile as icy guilt collects in your chest. 

"It's for our birthday silly! Can you believe we are 26 today?" You place the pillow on her lap and her hands slowly go to the plush material. 

For a moment she has returned, flashing you a smile as she pushing into the soft material before she flickers out again. Like a light with just enough current to wink in and out of existence. 

Time passes and the clock strikes midnight, white clad shoes stomp against the polished floor signaling it was time to leave. 

"I'll try to see you soon okay?" You lean over kissing her hairline before grabbing at the old, flat pillow. Shoving it into the gift bag as you silently bound the room. Pushing the door open slightly as you slip the stolen card into the back pocket of your black jeans.  With that you are down the hall and through the backdoor without raising any sort of alarm as usual. 

Suddenly your phone weighs heavy in your pocket as you think of what kind of stupid errand that asshole was going to put you on. The stolen card sings in your pocket, begging to be used. So you slip into a bar to give it a good use. 

&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*&*

A blaring alarm yanks you from the bed in a sweating panic. Knife instinctively slashing the air before you send the blade into yet another digital alarm clock. Falling back into the mattress for just a moment's peace.

That peace doesn't last long once you show up at the agency. If anything is sours as you see Bakugou leaning against the bright white brick and in civilian clothes no less. 

"What's this?" You pick at his black dress shirt, his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, showcasing his banded forearms.  He's paired it with a pair of black jeans, one knee ripped. Oddly it looks good together. Not overly dressed nor too dressed down. His vermilion eyes glide over your figure in your black body con hero suit. He sucks his teeth, hating this next part. 

"Called clothes dumbass. Speaking of we need to get you something fitting."

"For what? What exactly is this 'mission'?" 

"I'll debrief you later. Right now we need to get you new clothes." You laugh in his face before your rich expression turns deadly 

"With what money?" 

"Calm down, it's my treat Princess." He says with satire, the name sits odd on his tongue and even more odd in your stomach. He snatches at your wrist, "Come on before the stores get crowded and we get noticed." 

You find yourself in a shop filled with dresses and fancy blouses. All of which you hate. Bakugou seems to hate them too, too guady for his taste. Still he shifts through the soft silks because he knows his mother will love it. 

"Oi, you can't find a single decent thing here? I thought women loved shopping." 

"Yea for shit we like asshole." You hiss to him, having only found a pair of dark blue jean's. 

"Heh." He scoffs, rolling his eyes until he finds the perfect top. It looks decent and it could be your style. The one thing he learned about being undercover was to not stray too far from what looked natural or from the truth. 

"Put this on. While I find a necklace." He shoves the silky top into your hands and you look at the price tag. Suddenly anxiety burns in the soles of your feet soaring up to close your throat. 

"Bakugou. This is too much." Katsuki stops to glance over his shoulder, this is the first time you've used his name since he hired you three years ago. He sees your hand gripping at your bicep and he watches the rare tell sign that you're nervous as you chew on one of the scars that creeps onto your lip. He comes up to you, closer than he ever has been before, your senses flood with spiced caramel. 

"Oi." His voice is smooth, almost soft as he touches a ringed index finger to your forearm. You fixate on the shining black ring and your old habits have you thinking of six different ways to get it off of his finger. The thought soothes you as much as his voice surprisingly does. 

"I said I'm buying, remember you brat?" The teasing returns back to his voice before it turns gruff, "Now go change to make sure I like it. I'll be back in a second." 

A woman unlocks a small dressing room for you and once inside you hold your breath. Counting as you remind yourself that you cannot and will not steal anything of value while your boss was here. 

If you were any other person you would tap this Prohero's account dry, really rack up that platinum card you know sat in his wallet and sell the clothes marked up for a profit later. 

But even as much as you hated Bakugou, you couldn't bring yourself to do it. 

Instead you slip into the the outfit adjusting yourself this way in that as the neckline says enough without saying too much. The jeans curving against your figure in such a way doing as good as a job as your hero suit. You keep your steel toed boots as you step into the small hall with the three mirrors. As you turn this way and that Bakugou appears behind you, almost earning a knife to his gut. He forces the silver blade away before pulling out a necklace from a bag he just bought.  The gold chain is dainty, going through the top of the garnet making it seen as if it were a suspended droplet of blood. 

It marches the eyes that roll over you as he takes a step back before his harsh mouth breathes out a word. 

"Fuck."

Instantly it kills your mood as your lip pulls back over sharp teeth.

"Tsk. It's not that bad, God how do you get any pussy." You grumble, smoothing down the black blouse. 

"No, dumbass. You look...you look perfect." He stares into your eyes through the mirror, his smile growing wider as they wander over your scars and finally land onto that minimalistic drop pendant necklace. 

Over something you've never been able to have, something you always had to swipe from an unsuspecting neck and then pawn. 

"Now. I'm going to tell you here, in this store of crowded people so you don't cause a scene." 

"What?!" Anger already begins to bubble in your blood. The blades that kiss your flesh start to scream for relief. 

"From now on you have to pretend to be my girlfriend. Paparazzi are starting to swarm outside of this fucking boutique and my mom follows this particular trash tabloid since they love to use me as click bait. You just have to make it through dinner tonight and if shit goes south I'll pay you even more." 

[nonstop-haikyuu]

The Ending He Deserved (JJK imagine)

I’ve recently been reading the manga and rewatching the anime with my roommates and because of this, I realize that I’m still not over them killing Junpei so this is the fic that remedies that awful decision!

Tagging @haikyuufairy and @concussed-to-pieces! I love you both, kisses

WC: 2.3k (ignore the shitty ending, I’m tired)

“Junpei run! Run and use my phone to call Nanamin! Please just get out of here!” Yuuji shouts, tossing his phone at the shorter boy. Junpei gives a frantic glance over his shoulder at Mahito, a brief moment of hesitation filling his head before the pink haired sorcerer shoves him down the hallway. He frantically races down the corridor and stumbles his way down the staircase as he scrolls through Yuuji’s contacts in search of the person named Nanamin.

He hits the dial button and seconds after pressing the phone to his ear, a gruff voice answers, “Itadori-kun, you better not be at the high school after I specifically told you to stay with Ijichi.” Junpei draws in a sharp breath and blurts out, “Please, you have to hurry, I think Mahito is going to try and kill Yuuji, please I don’t want him to die!” The man on the other end gives a sigh, as if he’s unsurprised by the young man’s defiance, then replies, “I’ll be there in two minutes. Please keep yourself hidden from the curse.”

The phone falls silent and Junpei hurries into a storage closet, holding his breath while the fighting on the floor above continues.

Minutes, maybe even hours pass and he’s tempted to peek out of the space to see if the battle between Yuuji, Mahito, and the stranger has come to an end when footsteps come closer to his hiding spot. He freezes against the wall as his shoulders shake with his panic. What if Mahito had killed the two sorcerers? Does he run? His Shikigami is weak after it’s small spat with Yuuji and truthfully, he’s not sure if he could even stand a chance against the curse.

A soft knock sounds at the door and he clenches his eyes closed. If he didn’t move or make a sound, perhaps Mahito would look elsewhere. But the person knocks again and it dawns on him that the long haired man wouldn’t bother with such niceties. He pushes the door open and sure enough, Yuuji and a stranger stand on the other side, both looking ragged.

He blows out a deep breath and crashes into the pink haired teen with a sob. Itadori returns the hug with a pat to his back, chiming, “I’m really glad you’re okay, Junpei.” The stranger glances around the hallway then states, “We should get going. There’s no telling whether that curse is going to come back or not. Gojo should also know what happened here.”

Junpei’s eyebrows furrow together at the unfamiliar name then the man turns to the teenagers, introducing himself as Nanami Kento, a grade one sorcerer. Itadori leans in close and mumbles, “He doesn’t let us call him Nanami-sensei, so Gojo-sensei and I call him Nanamin. You can too.” The two begin to walk down the staircase but Junpei stays still, tears trekking down his cheeks. They pause at the sudden sound of sobs then turn to face the young man, as Yuuji asks, “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“You- you’re just going to take me in? Just like that? I almost killed you! A-And I was working with a curse! Isn’t that against your rules or something like that? Taking in someone that was trying to kill one of your students?” Junpei cries out, stumbling to his knees.

The sorcerer gives a small sigh and places a gentle hand on his shoulder, before he explains, “From what I understand, Mahito compelled you to use your cursed technique to get revenge for your mother and punish the ones that tormented you. You’re just a scared, confused child who doesn’t understand the power that he’s been given. As a Jujutsu sorcerer, it is my job to help you gain a better understanding of your technique and how you can use it for good. But of course, the final say is up to the principal and he’s taken in a lot of children like yourself.”

Junpei sniffles at the explanation Nanami provides then Yuuji urges his friend to his feet, chirping, “Besides, I’m possessed by the King of Curses and you don’t see them turning me away! How can they say no to you?” Junpei leans into Itadori’s side and they continue to walk downstairs until they arrive in the parking lot where a dark haired man stands next to a car.

The man begins lecturing Itadori about the dangers of confronting Junpei after Nanami had specifically forbid him from doing so, only to pause when he noticed the older teenager standing behind the sorcerers. He glances at the grade one sorcerer with a questioning look, only for the blond man to give a small nod of approval.

The thin man slides into the driver’s seat then asks, “Are we going to see Gojo-san and the principal?” Nanami takes the passenger seat and confirms the driver’s thoughts.

-

“My my, another second year? How exciting!” Gojo chirps, leaning forward with a bright grin. The principal maintains an unreadable expression then turns to Nanami, asking, “What do you think? Will this boy turn on us to help the curses?”

The blond removes his glasses and rubs at his eyes as he answers, “Truthfully? I don’t believe he will, considering that it was a curse responsible for placing one of Sukuna’s fingers in his home and it killed his mother. Once he understands that, I truly think that he will never want to be near another curse without exorcising it.”

The principal glances at the two teenagers slumped on the couch, curled underneath a blanket, then sighs as he asks, “Well, Gojo, do you think you can take on another student?” The white haired man’s grin widens then he exclaims, “Of course I can! Yuuji is a quick learner and Megumi and Nobara are in the safe hands of our trusty second years for another month! By what Yuuji says, Junpei learned how to use his cursed energy to create a jellyfish shikigami powerful enough to poison an entire gymnasium of people in just a matter of a few days. I think he’ll make an excellent addition to the group!”

Masamichi pulls out the pile of paperwork for Junpei’s transfer into Jujutsu Tech and warns, “Fine. But you two are in charge of them. Make sure that they don’t see the other students until the Sister Event, do you understand me?” Gojo salutes at the order and chimes, “You got it, boss! I promise I’ll get them into tip-top shape by the event!”

-

“Um, Gojo-sensei, are you really sure this is the way we should announce Yuuji still being alive? After all, it’s almost been two months.” Junpei asks, fixing the collar of his uniform. The white haired sorcerer pouts at the teenager’s question then whines, “Awww, Junpei, do you really think that your sensei’s idea is a bad one?”

“Yes, and I’m pretty sure Nanamin advised you against this method too.” the second year reminds the man as Yuuji hurries around the room in search of his uniform shirt. Gojo shrugs and replies, “Ahh, come on, Junpei, have a little faith in me! It’s gonna be great!”

Junpei should have known better than to have trust in Gojo’s ridiculous plan. They approach the groups of teenagers with Gojo pushing the box containing an excited Yuuji and his sensei begins handing out gifts to the Kyoto sorcerers, before turning back to his students.

Megumi and Kugisaki tilt their heads at the appearance of Junpei but before they get the chance to ask who he was, Yuuji bursts from the white box with a shout, grinning at his friends. Judging by the look on their faces, Junpei could tell that this plan had indeed not gone the way Itadori and Gojo had been hoping for.

He settles beside the panda as Megumi and Nobara continue to grill Yuuji about his death and why he had been gone if he had been alive all this time. The brown haired girl smacks at her friend’s shoulders, shouting, “Stupid, stupid, I can’t believe you let us think you were dead! I’m never forgiving you for this!”

Fushiguro begins to fill Yuuji in on his own anger, but Maki, the second year with glasses, claps her hands together and snaps, “We don’t have time for this right now. You guys can yell at him later. We need to figure out our game plan now that we have Itadori and Yoshino. So, what can you two do?”

All eyes shift to Junpei and he glances to the floor as he murmurs, “I control poison shikigami. I’ve gotten really good at controlling the dosage so I can either slow a person down or exorcise a curse completely.” Surprise spreads throughout the room and Inumaki, the Cursed Speech user, says, “Bonito flakes.”

Panda nods in agreement (though Junpei wasn’t sure what he was agreeing to) then replies, “Yeah that’s true. Itadori, what exactly can you do?” The pink haired teen turns towards his upperclassman and replies, “Oh I do hand to hand mainly.”

The second years stare at him for a moment then seem to share a silent conversation among the three of them, before Maki gives a definitive nod, instructing, “All right, it’s settled then. Itadori, you and Yoshino will take on Todo. Since you can poison people, you can slow him down and Itadori will take him completely out of the game. Nobara, you're going to take out Nishimiya. Panda, handle Mechamaru. I’ll handle Miwa and Mai. Inumaki, find the curses and kill them. Megumi, I want you on Kamo. Understand?”

Nods of agreement go around the room and they begin to disperse, only for Fushiguro and Kugisaki to call Junpei back into the room. The second year turns on his heel and Yuuji gives an inquisitive look over his shoulder, only for the older teenager to wave him on, insisting, “It’s okay, I’ll catch up.” He settles back in a chair and waits for one of the first years to begin the conversation that he’s sure they’ve been brewing over since he and Yuuji arrived today.

“How did you join Jujutsu Tech?” Megumi asks, clearly cutting to the chase. Junpei sighs, realizing that Gojo had neglected to tell the first years (and likely the second years) about how he came to join the school. He fidgets with his fingers and explains, “I came in contact with a curse who taught me the basics of cursed energy and techniques. He tried to convince me to join his ranks but Yuuji found me and convinced me to come with him. The principal and Gojo decided that since the curses killed my mom, they could help me out.”

“Why didn’t you come to training with the other second years?” Nobara asks, crossing her arms over her chest. He scratches at the back of his neck and replies, “Truth be told, I’m not exactly sure but I’m guessing it’s because Gojo and Nanamin didn’t want to make it seem like I was replacing Yuuji.”

The two nod in understanding and she begins to ask another question, only for Maki to enter the room again, demanding, “Oi, it’s time to go, you can do Q and A later!” The two first years jump to their feet and exclaim, “Right, Maki-senpai!”

Junpei truthfully isn’t expecting much from this Todo guy. Megumi explains that he’s the one who’s hair is shaped as a pineapple and he snickers at the reminder before Panda suggests, “If you’re not scared of heights, you should hide in one of the trees where you’re somewhat close to the ground but not too high. Nishimiya flies on a broom and has a hell of an eye. The longer you can stay hidden, the better it works for Itadori and in turn, us.”

He nods in understanding and as the bell goes off, he hurries to the closest tree that’s full of branches and leaves aplenty. The plan he and Yuuji had devised was that the rest of the team would separate, drawing Todo to their position. He watches from above as Todo and Itadori begin to fight hand to hand and he waits for the signal of Megumi’s wolf before he releases the poison. A howl fills his ears and he summons his shikigami, one large enough to surprise Todo but small enough to prevent attention from Nishimiya.

As he prepares to have his shikigami strike at Todo, the scenery changes and soon, Yuuji is surrounded by the rest of the Kyoto students. Junpei tenses at the sudden change in the atmosphere and realizes that this was not a fun little competition for these country people, but they seem to have murderous intent. His phone buzzes in his pocket and he pulls it out quickly, realizing that it was Megumi on the line. He hits the answer button and rushes out in a whisper, “Targets sighted. I think they’re trying to kill Yuuji.”

The first year groans, clearly calling to deliver the same news, then Maki is on the phone, ordering, “Poison them all. We’ll be there in a minute.” Junpei allows his shikigami to grow larger until the plumpness of the jellyfish bursts through the trees, revealing itself. The students whip to face him and he shouts for the shikigami to strike now.

The blue haired girl slashes at the tentacle with her blade, only for another to plant in the meat of her thigh. She stumbles with the pain of the poison and the dark haired girl, Mai, draws a gun and begins to fire at the shikigami. Junpei clasps his fingers together and presses his thumb together tight, to make the jellyfish translucent. She curses at the sudden disappearance of the shikigami and the long haired teen, Kamo, if memory serves Junpei right,  hunches over at the sharp jab of the tentacle.

Chaos continues to ensue as Maki and Megumi appear in the opening, slamming into their targets with blunt forces and other shikigami.

With a grin, Junpei realizes that this school was like no other. And he couldn’t wait to see what else it had in store for him.

[emma-nation]

The Devil In I - Bela x OC (Resident Evil Village AU)

“Step inside, see the Devil in I”

Summary: Aleena Novak is a 19 years old orphan who desired more than living in a village in the middle of nowhere. A talented artist with a big future ahead, she gets the scholarship of her dreams in United States. But everything changes when her twin brother, Auryk, steals an important artifact from Castle Dimitrescu.

In this adventure, Aleena will find way more than she expected.

“You’ll realize I’m not your Devil anymore”

Pairing: Bela Dimitrescu x OC

Genre: Between T and M (Trigger warning for violence, blood, abuse and eventual smut)

Tag List: @nydeiri

Notes: This is my first RES fic, so I'm sorry if I mess it up a bit. English is also not my main language, so a mistake or two may happen. I hope you enjoy it :)

Trigger Warning: Language, abuse, blood and violence.

Eastern Europe - July, 2009

"If he could learn to love another and earn her love in return by the time the last petal fell, then the spell would be broken. If not, he would be doomed to remain a beast for all time. As the years passed he fell into despair and lost all hope. For who could ever learn to love a beast?"

Mother closed the book, placing it on the bedside table between Auryk's bed and mine. Then, she lowered herself and kissed my forehead like she did every night. Her long, blonde hair tickled my face and left a trace of her sweet lavender fragrance in the air. I giggled.

"Good night, sweetheart," she spoke.

"Good night, momma."

"Cherish your last night as a six years old. Tomorrow you will become a..."

"Princess?!"

"A seven years old girl. The prettiest girl in the village."

"Pffft," Auryk let out a displeased grunt from his bed, covering his head with the pillow to avoid listening another word from the conversation.

"And you too," mother sat by his side on the bed and repeated her nightly ritual of kissing his forehead to wish him a good night too. "You'll become the most handsome and brave warrior in this village. Do you understand?"

"I hope so. Good night, mom."

"Good night, buddy."

Mother left the room, leaving us both in the dark. However, we couldn't sleep. Not because we were thrilled about our incoming birthday party as any regular child, but because we knew our lives were about to change. Seven years old was the age every child from our village was introduced to the truth and started being trained to fight the evil that haunted our lands. Auryk and I spent minutes, or maybe hours, in silence, staring at the ceiling.

"Leena?" He was the first one to speak. "Do you believe a spell can broken? I mean, like a curse?"

"I don't know, Ryk," I answered, feeling my thoughts starting to drift away. "Maybe we're doomed after all. Or... we could learn how to love the beasts."

The birthday parties always happened during the daytime, rules of the village. We could no longer be outside after 6 PM. Mother got help from the other women to prepare the treats and organize the decorations. Auryk was disguised as a pirate and I... I was Belle, from the Beauty and the Beast.

"So, what do you think you will be getting this year?" My best friend Elena asked while we were playing with our dolls. She was about two years older than us.

"I don't know," I shrugged. Being a merchant, my father always returned home with the most unusual gifts: a magical music box, a voodoo doll that had a life on its own or a fragrance that chased away the monsters - and everybody else too. "A new book. I'm hoping for a new book."

It was only by the end of the party Adrian Novak made his entrance. That was the mystery about him. Nobody knew when he would show up, or if he would show up at all. He still had that same annoying smirk on his face. The corner of his mouth holding a cigarette. The months away made his beard grow longer, as well as his dark hair. In the sunlight, the scar above his eye was even more visible.

"Auryk," he shouted, "come here, son. I've got something for ya."

My twin brother, who had been climbing trees with his friends stop frozen in spot for a second. I couldn't tell if he hated or feared that man. Maybe both. He slowly followed father's command, approaching him cautiously.

"Hi, dad."

"Happy birthday, son," father ruffled his dark straight hair with his strong and calloused hand. "It's about time you grow up."

He handed my brother a large package. From our experience, we knew exactly what it was, a shotgun.

"T-Thank you, dad."

"I'll be spending some time at home. Tomorrow we'll start practicing."

Auryk consented. He shot me a quick glance. From our twin bond I could tell my brother was far from happy. When he blew his candles that afternoon, he didn't wish for a weapon. We wished to be a normal child.

"What did you get, Leena?" He asked once we were locked in the safety of our bedroom.

"Pencils and a drawing book. Dad thinks I'm talented."

Not really. Adrian Novak would never allow his daughter to hold a shotgun. That was, according to him, 'a man thing'.

"Good, at least one of us got what they wanted. Happy birthday, sister."

"Happy birthday, brother."

4 Years Later - October, 2013

It wasn't easy to be the weakest of the twins. Although he was born first, Auryk was the tinniest. The one who was always getting sick or getting injured. The one who couldn't hit a single fucking target when he had the alcoholic breath of his father on his neck.

He aimed for a crow, sitting still on a fence. How hard could it be? Even the eldest man from the village could do any better than that.

BANG! He shot again. And missed.

"Again?!" Adrian angered, shoving him hard on the shoulder. "What the hell is your problem, kid?"

"I don't know, okay? This gun... it's heavy!"

"Heavy? And why do you think we've been exercising for all these years, huh?! We do not live in Disneyland, Auryk. We need to fight monsters, abominations. Someday I won't be home and you need to be prepared to protect our people. Do you understand?"

Tears started forming in the corners of the boy's blue eyes. He couldn't cry. Not in front of him. Crying was a sign of weakness and he couldn't be weak. Not right now. Auryk started to think about all the things he could be doing. He thought about the ocean, as he had seen on TV and books. He could feel the warmness of the sun on his skin. The sand between his toes. His mom and sister were also there, of course - they'd carry them with him everywhere. And he would study Math and Physics. There would be no guns, no monsters, no blood, only numbers, only formulas, only theories. He smiled. He no longer felt like crying.

"I'm sorry, dad," kindness was always the answer, his mother said. "But this isn't for me, you know? I don't like it. I... Remember that boarding school my teacher mentioned? I thought maybe I..."

His words were interrupted by a hard slap on his face. Auryk could taste a small amount of blood coming out from his lower lip.

"So that's what you want? To become one of those little fancy fags? Maybe you're not my son after all."

Adrian started walking away, leaving his son alone, sitting on the floor.

"I AM!" Auryk yelled, enraged. "I am your son."

"Then prove it."

"You shouldn't take so hard on him," Savannah poured her husband a cup of tea. "He's just a boy."

"He's eleven years old, for god's sake," the husband punched the table strong enough to make it shake. "He needs to man up a bit. You should stop spoiling him."

As I left my bedroom I found my brother sitting on the stairs. He didn't have to be so close to listen to the conversation between our parents, father's voice was loud enough to echo through every wall of our small and cozy home.

I sat down by his side, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.

"Maybe you should do it, Leena. You'd do it better, I know."

"I'm not so sure. Remember when I tried to shoot a scarecrow and almost shot that old witch?"

"Come on, you aimed on purpose! I know."

Auryk finally let out a small laugh at the memory.

"You're good at everything, Leena," he spoke fondly. "You're an extrovert, you're everybody's friend, you can cook, you can draw and paint... you're a true artist. I'm a mistake."

"You're not a mistake, Ryk," I pulled my brother closer, resting my cheek against the side of his face. "We're only at the wrong place and you know it."

Going back to our bedroom, we pulled from the drawers the postcards our grandma Louise sent us from San Diego. Mom had been born in California and lived there her entire life, until she met father during one of his trips. God knows what made her fall in love with that man. Adventure? Danger? I expected better from myself when I turned eighteen. Otherwise, I'd never want to fall in love. Love could be my ruin, just like my mom's.

"Leena..." Auryk held the postcard tightly, "do you think... if he died... do you think mom would take us to nana's home?"

"I don't know, Ryk," I didn't want to think of my father's possible death. But I also dreamed of a better life. "Maybe."

"What the hell?" Father's voice in the kitchen made me jump in fear. I knew that tone. I grew up used to that. Something was wrong in the village. We had to hide.

"To the basement, now!" He emerged at the bedroom, holding a rifle. "Lycans were seen surrounding the area."

We barely had any time to react, mom came and dragged us both to the basement. Father left, carrying his arsenal of weapons as usual. There were other hunters in the village but we always knew how badly it could end. Somebody could always get seriously hurt. Or worse.

The basement had been carefully prepared for that kind of situation years before. It had a big bed, two armchairs, a heating source, some stored food and a shelf. Mom sighed and forced a smile.

"So," she walked to the shelf, "what is it going to be today?"

"Frankenstein," Auryk suggested. My brother loved mystery and horror. As if his life hadn't enough of it.

"Romeo and Juliet," I spoke. There was something about forbidden romance that always caught my interest.

"Okay. I... I'm gonna say a prayer and you two can read the books you picked by yourselves. What do you think?"

"Great!"

Mom kneeled down by the bed's side, holding a crucifix. I could join her if I wanted to, but I'd rather watch in silence. I grabbed my book, sitting on one of the armchairs and pretending to pay attention, while I tried to distract myself from the fact my father could be the Lycans' next prey. Or all of us, if they managed to break into our house.

"Leena?" I woke up hours later with my mom shaking me. "Leena?! Where's Auryk? Where's your brother, Leena?"

I had no idea. I had fallen asleep and apparently, so did mom. She checked for the basement's door, it had been locked from outside.

"No..." she tried to force it open. "No! I can't be..."

All Auryk had to do was to successfully kill and take a Lycan's carcass as a trophy to his father, right? That was what that old douchebag wanted him to do, to prove his courage, his manhood. We had his shotgun, a binoculars and a knife, that should be enough, but first, he needed a good plan.

Looking down to his hands, he had the most perfect idea. Without thinking twice, he sliced a cut through his palm, letting some blood pour on the ground. Then, he found a tall tree. He climbed it and observed. The smell of blood his trail left behind should be enough to attract a creature.

"Come on... come on..."

From a distance, Auryk could hear the sound of destruction and death. There was a battle going on somewhere nearby. Once again Lycans should have found a family or a group of hunters.

And then, he could hear it. The heavy footsteps, the screeching sounds, the sniffing. The mutant creature was only a few meters away from the tree. He aimed, but it was still too distant. He needed to move to a closer branch.

It all happened in one second. He was almost there, reaching for the spot he had picked, but his weight was too much for the tree's branch. In a blink of an eye, he was lying on the ground. His vision was blurred. His head hurt intensely, as well as his arm. It was broken for sure. He possibly had a concussion too. He tried to stand up and run but his legs wouldn't follow his commands. The Lycan was coming straight at him.

"AURYK!" His mother screamed behind him. "NO!"

Time seemed to freeze in that fraction of second. How did she manage to escape the basement? How could she have found him?

But without hesitation, Savannah threw herself on top of her son, protecting him from the jaws and claws of the monster. Auryk couldn't see much, but he could smell it. He could feel it. Blood. There was blood everywhere. He couldn't tell who it belonged to, he or his mom's.

BANG! BANG! BANG!

A fast sequence of shots suggested the hunters had found them. The creature stopped moving, stopped howling. It was finally dead.

"M-Mom... it's dead. We... We're safe."

She didn't answer. Instead, he heard another familiar voice.

"WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT?!" It was from his father. "Savannah! Savannah!"

"D-Dad..." Auryk tried to speak, but the words got lost along the way. "I... I..."

Adrian lifted him by his jacket, holding him inches above the ground.

"YOU KILLED HER! YOU KILLED YOUR MOM, YOUR STUPID BASTARD!"

"I..." tears streamed down the boy's face, his injured brain trying to process what had just happened. "I'm sorry.'

After he was thrown back to the ground, he was hit with a hard kick on his stomach. He turned his head around to notice a small figure hiding behind a tree, watching the whole scene in pure horror.

"L-Leena..." he muttered.

"This is all your fault, Auryk. You're a disgrace to this family."

And then, he passed out. Rumors said he was unconscious for days or maybe weeks. When he woke up, he wished everything had been a nightmare.

Present Days - July, 2021

Nobody mourned Adrian Novak when he died. Not his children. Not his village mates. No human being would ever feel any sympathy for a man who abused and blamed his eleven years old son for his mother's death. It had been two years since Adrian left this world and I couldn't feel any more free.

"Hey," I left another message on my brother's voicemail, "in case you've forgotten it's our birthday today. I'd like to have my twin home, you know? Call me when you get this message."

It was useless, I knew. Auryk would only pick up his phone when he wanted to. Or when he was too drunk. God knew where that guy would be at that time, probably waking up at some girl's bed or getting some rest from... working.

After grabbing myself a cup of coffee, I checked the door's mat. Bills, bills, newspaper and... California Institute Of Arts? I remember having an argument with Auryk about this matter at some point. He wanted me to fill the application and send them my portfolio. I insisted we had no money, not even to pay for the tuition. I won - I always win every argument by the way.

"Your damn son of a..." I placed the envelope on the kitchen's table. I was a coward, I confess. However, I didn't know which pain was worse - to be sure I wasn't good enough or to be sure I was, indeed, but I'd never have money to leave that hellhole. Anyways, I decided to leave it alone. I had more important things to do.

My morning routine: to go to the middle of the woods and do some training. My father used to say fighting wasn't a girl thing, but I was no regular girl. And never in this life I'd allow someone to tell me what to do.

After running, climbing and doing a set of push-ups, it was time for combat training. Travelers from abroad taught me some different set of moves, I'd like to think I created my own fighting style. I was also very good with knifes, daggers or any kinds of short blades, they were useful during a close distance combat. My shooting was a work in progress, once or twice I'd miss the center of my handmade targets.

Then, like everyday, I'd go back home, shower and follow to my shift at the village's pub.

"Hiya, Leena," Gustav greeted me when I arrived. "I heard today is a special day... the day a little girl..."

"NO!" I stopped him. Gustav was my best friend. We had known each other since we were children and somehow, he liked to make my birthday a special - and embarrassing - event.

He placed a handmade fairytale-like book on the table. There were some edited pictures, mixed with some messed up drawings about my birth and childhood. He called it 'The Princess Who Carried The Light'.

"God, you're soooo stupid..." I rolled my eyes and moaned, before wrapping him into a very tight hug. "I love you, you know that?"

"I know. You'd probably marry me, if you weren't into girls."

We laughed together, as Olga, our boss emerged from the kitchen, bringing a cake with nineteen candles.

"Here's to another year," the older woman opened a wrinkled smile, "make a wish, my darling."

I fell pensive for a moment, besides having my twin brother back home, safe and sound, what else could I wish for? California, that scholarship, a new life... that's for sure.

"I wish for... a new life, a new adventure," I pronounced aloud while blowing the candles.

"Careful," a male voice spoke behind me, "words have power, little sister. You may get what you want."

"Ryk!"

I jumped straight to my brother's arms. I could swear that in only a few weeks he had gotten a little bit taller, and stronger too.

"I wouldn't miss my own birthday, right?" He smirked. "So, where's the cake? Please, chocolate... tell me it's chocolate."

"Your silly boy," Olga spread some icing on his nose. "Of course it's chocolate, as you love. And with cherries too."

Auryk responded with a satisfied smile. Olga and her husband, Kristoff, were those responsible for taking care of him after the Lycan attack, years ago. They sort of adopted him like one of their biological children.

"Oh!" The woman exclaimed taking a closer look at Ryk's forearm. He had gotten a tattoo. I hadn't been informed of those news either. Apparently, my brother had more secrets than I could even start to imagine. "This is... new. It seems like my kids are really growing up."

"And only now you noticed that, Olga?" Gustav joked.

Olga shook her head, grinning at herself and returned to the kitchen. The customers were starting to fill the pub. I stared at Ryk again, wondering what other secrets my brother could be keeping.

"So, what does that mean?" I pointed to his newly gotten tattoo, a strange and ancient symbol it seemed.

"Protection from the evil. This is what we need the most in our lives, especially in a place like this. What reminds me -" we turned around, taking a small box from the pocket of his jacket. "Your gift."

I took the black velvet box from his hands, it contained a golden necklace with a magenta gemstone as pendant. My blue eyes drowned themselves in the stone. It had a mysterious glow. Something hypnotizing. Something magical.

"Whoa..." was everything my mouth could pronounce. "And I bought you an Astronomy book."

Auryk stood up from his chair and went behind me, taking the necklace from my hands to wear it around my neck himself.

"This is supposed to protect you from any supernatural and inhumane beings. I won't lose you to them, Aleena. Not like I lost mom."

"Ryk, I... I can't even thank you enough."

"You don't have to. Just... stay alive."

First, I was overflowing with happiness. It either had to do with the fact my brother was home, alcohol, or both. Also, Olga should thank me. Most of the costumers of the day only stopped by the bar because of me. They absolutely loved me and knowing it was my birthday, they had to come and see me. A few of them even gave me some extra tips or a small gift, which was even greater.

"Okay, party girl..." Auryk helped me to get inside of the house as I tripped over the door mat. "Time to go to bed now. Don't you think?"

"Come on, Ryk! Have some spirit! You're home, Olga gave me the day off tomorrow, I earned some money..."

"You told Mrs. Hansen you secretly had a crush on her daughter during Middle School, you danced on top of a table, you're gonna get a hangover..."

"Party pooper!"

I threw myself at the couch. Auryk stood in front of me with arms crossed, looking like a father about to give his child a lecture.

"What?!" I yelled. "It's not like you've never been drunk before. Remember when you stole Adrian's..." I started to laugh, remembering the episode.

"When you were going to tell me about this, Leena?" He showed me the envelope. The Art Institute envelope. The one I had been struggling to open.

"Oh! I forgot. My bad, I didn't open it myself yet. I probably didn't get in anyways."

"You did."

I did?

"It's not like we have money to pay for my tuition. Also, how are we supposed to move to California, Ryk? I work at a pub and you..."

"I've gotten more than enough for that. You know that getting out of this place has always been the plan, since we were children. Leena, I've done some big jobs those last few months. I have the money to grant us a comfortable life in California."

"Smuggling, Ryk!" I raised my voice, saying aloud the information that was supposed to be a secret or not. "You've been stealing to grant us this life."

My brother stared at me in silence. I couldn't tell if he felt offended or embarrassed about my words.

"I'm getting out of here, whatever it takes," he ran a hand through his dark hair. "And you are coming with me. In two weeks, we move to United States for your enrollment."

"But..."

What I was trying to protest against? Leaving the village and starting a new life with my brother was everything I always dreamed.

"Look, I promise you," Auryk placed both of his firm hands on my shoulders, "once we settle down, no more smuggling."

"Okay," I sighed. "We leave in two weeks then."

There was a loud knock on the door. Being drunk as I was, I figured out I should have forgotten my purse at the pub. Or it could be a neighbor with some very stupid emergency.

Auryk opened the door and there was a strange looking man standing there. We wore sunglasses and a hat, behind his back he was carrying a giant hammer. According to the rumors and stories I heard from my parents, that was one of the Lords of The Four Houses, Karl Heisenberg.

"Auryk Novak?" He asked.

"Yes, sir."

"Come with me, kid. You've gotten yourself in big trouble."

[kurinoot]

[day 2] two tempting bentos | ushijima wakatoshi

-> being the manager of a powerhouse school sure adds pressure, but you’re there to prove to them that you are the right person for the job, especially to a certain well-known ace

pairing: ushijima x reader

themes: fluff, manager!y/n, neither one of them has feelings for each other (yet!), continuation on white day special, slow burn (?)

word count: 2256 words

author’s note: sorry if I had to post this one late, as my dysmenorrhea was keeping me from working well (+ a bit of writer’s block) and I had to had this one proofread lol :( I hope you enjoy this one and drop any comments (and constructive ones) if you have one! also, thank you for a couple members of the hq discord server (I don’t know their un :() who willingly beta-ed (if that’s even a word lmao) this one.

Thankfully, it was already lunch time, as the grumbling of your empty stomach finally prompts you to walk to the school cafeteria. On the way, you unconsciously pat your stomach as you finally feel the reverberations and the consequence of the lack of breakfast for today. As soon as you arrive, you immediately take notice of two familiar figures on a nearby table. One of them is already waving at you like one of those wacky inflatable tubes that you closely associate him with, which brings a growing smile on your face.

“Ah L/N-chan! Wanna come sit with us?” Tendou giddily invites you and ushers you to the vacant space beside him, which you replied with an eager nod, sitting beside him.  With Ushijima sitting in front of both of you, you took notice of him who seems to be occupied with drawing something, which piques your interest.

“I never knew you could draw, Ushijima-san!”, you initiated, surprised.

“Yeah. I drew quite frequently as a child,” he replies with his usual deep voice, looking stoic with eyes and hands still occupied with the drawing. Somewhat mesmerized by the sight and view of the ace drawing, you kept watching as it slowly unraveled before your eyes, seemingly forgetting that you haven’t eaten even a single bite of food throughout the day.

Tendou sardonically interrupts, “Manager-chan, you better eat if you don’t want to keep your stomach from waiting!”, which cuts your train of thought (and apparently your daunting stare at Ushijima’s drawing). He ushers a tray of his remaining food to your direction, to which you thank him for, albeit the embarrassment of not being able to bring your own lunch for the day. You quickly fold your hands and utter an “Itadakimasu!” before you began ravishing the remaining food, much to the pair’s dismay.

“So L/N-chan!”

“Hmm?”, you hum in reply; your mouth still chewing on the food you’re eating.

Tendou then inclines himself onto the table, with his chin resting on the back of his hands and smirking with narrowed eyes at your direction, “Have you made preparations for today’s training?”.

You almost choke on your food, with eyes bulging the moment he reminds you of your managerial duties as Tendou knowingly cackles in response. Ushijima however, despite the playful banter happening in front of him, was still focused on finishing his artwork, much to your chagrin and much to Tendou’s entertainment (despite getting used to it). 

“If you are only playing around as a manager, then you do not deserve to be our manager”

Both you and Tendou stop, with both of your attention drawing to Ushijima, who has now stopped scribbling and is now looking at the both of you, particularly you.

You blankly stare at him in shock, somewhat speechless, “”E-Eh?”.

“You need to stop fooling around and do your duties as our manager.”

Tendou, who seems to feel a little bit of unnecessary tension between you and the captain, can only look consecutively between you and him. He tries his best to somewhat support you by putting both of his hands on your tired shoulders, to no avail. He tries to casually interject, “Wakatoshi-kun! L/N-chan probably just hasn’t rested well today!”

“Besides”, you start, prompting the two boys to look at your direction.

“Everybody makes mistakes, and it’s not like I haven’t done my job properly!”, you end as you seek to prove the ace wrong and to show that you have been doing well as the manager of a powerhouse school for the past two years. With that said, Ushijima scornfully looks at you as he resorts back, choosing not to retort back as to not attract unnecessary attention.

The entirety of the conversation has somehow left an air of slight tension between you two, as a pregnant pause engulfs your table afterwards. What started out as a casual lunch had ended in unnecessary tension and silence. Tendou can only do so much as he tries to break the ice to try and stop the tension from developing into something worse.

“Oi, oi! See you later! Good luck with that, Wakatoshi-kun”, he exclaims, gun pointing at his best friend whose only response was a deep, guttural hum. He then glances at you. Still dazed from the events earlier, you did not get what Tendou meant as he winked at you knowingly before he wiggled himself out of the cafeteria, leaving you alone with Ushijima.

“Look, if you’re not doing well, how are you supposed to do your duties?”, Ushijima reminds you as he starts cleaning up his things to prepare for the next class as well as for the training later on. Speechless and dazed, you can only nod in response as he calmly leaves the table, leaving you alone clenching your fist and thinking.

I’m going to do my job and I’m going to prove him wrong!

After a couple of days did you only realize that it’s already Valentines’ season and you know how much your friends are endlessly talking about making chocolates to give to their crushes as well as the girls in your class. You have been thinking for a while now of what to give the team as a gift just to celebrate the day in your own way as well as show your love to the boys. Then it got your mind reeling of numerous gift ideas.

“Y/N! Lunch is ready!”, you hear your mother call you from downstairs.

That’s it! I’ll prepare bento for them!, you thought out immediately, somehow thanking your mother in silence for giving you an idea in the right moment. You then blast out of your room with excitement, rushing downstairs to eat as well as ask for your mom’s guidance for your Valentines’ gift for the boys.

After a couple of attempts later, you were at least finally able to create a decent onigiri that brought you tears of joy, as you finally feel the worth of God-knows-how-many attempts. Your mother, who has been guiding you, clapped her hands in happiness as she shares the same sentiment.

A few days later, as it approaches Valentines’ Day, you decide to bring them each an onigiri as well as freshly-brewed tea to at least help them rejuvenate after training (and because you believed that it’s best to prove your worth as a manager).

Classes have just ended, so you gently pick up the onigiris that you’ve made as well as a big thermos of warm tea as well as the reusable cups and then make your way to the gym. To no surprise, you see Ushijima, who has already changed into his training uniform, already warming up while waiting for the others. He seems to notice your presence as he hears the shuffling sound of a plastic bag as well as the rattling of the cups. You continuously walk towards the nearby bench where Coach Washijo was already waiting, who then sees the food and drink you’re carrying.

“Ah, I’ve made some food and tea for them after!”, you say the moment you saw the coach’s eyes went to the food and thermos. Washijo only smiles at your outburst, somehow seeing your intent as the manager.

Meanwhile, you unknowingly feel Ushijima’s stare at you as you feel a sharp shiver in your spine and a sudden flutter and racing in your heart beat, which was somehow an entirely new feeling for you. Only then you turned around and saw the ace staring at you, with intentions somehow unclear to you.

I must be palpitating, I think, you thought to yourself, dismissing the fluttering feeling in your heart. You have already made sure that your main priority as the manager is to only do your duties to support the boys and nothing more beyond that. 

You dismiss everything and you just went back to your daily managerial routine, setting aside the food and tea you prepared as well as helping to mop the floor free from sweat and all.

After the training, you immediately bring up the bag of onigiri that you’ve made, which caught the attention of the other members, Goshiki in particular.

“”Woah! L/N-senpai brought us food!”, the budding ace exclaims as he quickly grabs his share of the food from your hands. You then distribute the other onigiris to the others, up until there are two pieces left. A smiling Tendou and a stoic Ushijima then walk towards you, with you already giving them the remaining food, to which they accept.

With that, you then start preparing the cups, pouring each with warm tea and giving it to each of the members. While pouring another one, you hear Tendou and Ushijima talking while they’re munching, somehow leaving you eavesdropping on the two.

“So how does it taste, Wakatoshi-kun?” Tendou asks his friend as he munches into his own food, to which his stoic friend bluntly replies with “It’s not good”, leaving you disappointed which made Tendou cackle in amusement.

The alarm of your phone rang early in the morning, prompting you to wake up, slightly scrubbing your eyes, and check your phone.

It’s already Valentines’ Day.

You already know that it might initially cause a stir within some of the boys, as Valentines is often seen as gift-giving only for intimate purposes, but you wanted to show how much you love them as your manager as well as be able to show your support for them, and you felt that preparing them bentos would be the best way to showcase it.

You were glad to wake up early, as you were able to prepare each bento just in time for you to prepare yourself for school. You smile in accomplishment as you comb your hair to finish organizing yourself before you go to school.

“Are you sure you can carry them?”, your mother asks with concern, especially after seeing your effort in making a bunch of them.

You sigh in assurance, “Mom, I’m the manager of a powerhouse school. I can do this!”.

After class has ended, you immediately went straight to the gym to prepare for today’s training as well as prepare the bentos for the boys. To your surprise, even the early bird Ushijima was not yet there, which gave you more time to prepare and even rest before they arrived.

A few minutes later, the team has scrambled together into the gym, only to find you napping on the bench. Everyone slowly steps closer to you except Ushijima, who only stood still, hoping to not disturb your nap. Up until the rest of the team noticed what seemed to be bento boxes stacked together did they stop for a while and took interest in it.

Semi somehow gets ahold of one of the boxes, “Eh? They’re bento boxes.”, he hushes. He then examined the one he’s holding when he noticed a sticky note attached on the top. He reads, “Happy Valentines’ Day, Semi-san! With love, L/N-san”.

Initially, the team took it as a sign of confession, as they have knowledge of the special day today. Only did they find something else when Goshiki sees another box with the same sticky note message attached to it, only this time it belonged to him.

“L/N-san’s giving us Valentines’ bento?!”, Goshiki finally realizes, as the other members of the team finally went to check and see theirs. Tendou, in particular, laughs at the thought, not before he finds his designated box with the same sticky note message, immediately taking interest in it. 

Ushijima, who notices the silent onslaught on the bento boxes, finally decides to step forward. Tendou, who has become immersed in his own box, sees his best friend approach and then decides to pick up his box and then gives it to him.

“Here’s yours, Wakatoshi-kun!”, Tendou stirred as he hands out Ushijima’s designated bento box, or boxes rather. Ushijima accepts it, and right off the bat he notices the yellow sticky note attached with his name on it along with a mandatory ‘Happy Valentines Day!’ as well as your name. He gently opens the warm box and goes to see tamagoyaki and sausage octopuses on the side, and much to his internal delight, was a bed of Hayashi rice sitting nicely on the large portion of the box. He then goes to check the other box underneath to see a mix of steamed vegetables and a couple of pieces of sushi beside it.

Everyone was so immersed in their own bento box that they did not notice you waking up from your light slumber, and much to your shock, you wake up to see them already eating with happy smiles on their faces. Only then did they notice you awake when they hear you move from the bench.

“So, do you guys like it?”, you shyly asked whilst rubbing your eyes from your light slumber, only to find the entire team facing you with serious faces after scrubbing. Goshiki, the ever enthusiastic budding ace, praises you, “We love it, L/N-san!”.

You look around to see everyone eating their own lunches, and much to your shock, you actually see Ushijima eating the food and immersing himself in the bento boxes that you made for him. Somehow, Tendou looks at the both of you in amusement, taking note of the prior events. He then internally smirks on the possible development that is happening before his eyes.

Happy ‘Valentines’ Day, indeed, he thinks as he continues munching on his bento.

back to valentines’ masterlist

[centerofreality]

Doya, BB-chan? remember your Kiryu with Kiryu-Fan after him? it's hilarious! I love it! Can you do a Majima version? This time have Nishitani and a Majima-fanatic after him? gotta have Majima get a taste of his own medicine [you don't need to prioritized this requests, take your time, please]🧡 thank you

You had a crush on Goro Majima for so long that you’ve become his one and only fan. You knew so much yet so little. Even with your infatuation, you didn’t know how to express your feelings to the mysterious eye-patched man working at the Grand Cabaret. Nishitani, being the kindhearted man he was, decided to lend a hand in one of the many ways he knew how. Being competitive. 

UHHHHHHH- 70+ FOLLOWERS???!! YOU ALL ARE WILD!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! I know I’m not active here as much but I’m grateful for all of your support!! Modules are really taking most of my time so I never got around to Tumblr. As a gift, I took the chance on what anon requested me and decided to make a oneshot! I’m not good at writing stories but hopefully, I can make it work!

Reader will be more feminine here but I will be writing they/them pronouns. Sorry about that!

Includes: Nishitani flirting with both Y/N and Majima because he has no shame, Suggestive Themes (because Nishitani), Cursing and Explicit Language, Fluff and semi-crack? Me not knowing how to write a story.

                                                  ============ 

“How old are ya again, Y/N-chan? Majima-chan is an old man, ya know.” “At least he looks like he’s actually in his 20′s, unlike you.” “I look younger than I look!”

You sigh and look at the man sitting across from you. Nishitani only had a smirk as he bounces his legs, a hostess sitting beside him and serving the both of you. “Are you here to annoy Majima-san again?” You ask him with your eyebrows raised.

“Of course!” Typical.

You, Y/N L/N, were friends with the horny criminal, Homare Nishitani. People didn’t know how or why you were friends with him, and truth be told, you didn’t know either. He had suddenly approached you one day and asked if you ‘had the hots for Majima-kun too.’, and that the both of you go to the Cabaret Grand to annoy him. He was wild and didn’t care if he was being loud. You thought he was going to throw you in the river when you had rejected his advances of ‘leaving Majima-kun and have fun at my place’ but surprisingly, you stayed alive and have been friends ever since.

One of the perks of being with Nishitani was-

“Heyyyy, Majima-kun!!!” Nishitani waves maniacally to the approaching man who looked less than pleased, even if he had a polite smile.

Yep, Nishitani’s perks were that you get basically free access to the Grand. You always spend your money on this place and even then, Majima doesn’t really show up much.

“Nishitani-san.” Majima’s face was stoic as ever but when he turned to you, his eyes got softer and he even let a small smile appear on his face as he bowed politely. “L/N-san. Thank you for coming to our establishment again today.” Had you not been anywhere but around Majima, you would have screamed at the top of your lungs. Instead, you internally squealed and bowed your head. “G-good work again, Majima-san!!”

“I’m the one paying ‘ere, ‘ya know!” Nishitani rolled his eyes before he looked at Majima, “How lucky are we though that we have the famous manager himself to attend to our table!”

“You are not harassing any of our hostesses here, I presume. I wanted to check if my guess was right.” Your eyes widened and you glare at Nishitani, “Harass?!?! Nishitani!!” The man immediately held his hands up and sat a few inches away from the hostess that he was so close with, “I ain’t doin’ nothin’!! My hands are clean!”

Majima watches the both of you interact, he was confused about why the two of you were friends to begin with. No, he wasn’t jealous that the two of you were always together, and even if you were a couple - which he could hardly believe - it wasn’t his business to know. 

“It’s all good, manager!” One of his girls said with a smile and he nodded, “I’ll be going then, please continue to enjoy your stay here.” You let out a dreamy sigh as he walked away.

“Majima-kun would ace being in a maid cafe. With the frilly dress and the cat ears and everything, that’d get me rock hard on the spot.” Nishitani randomly said, picking his ears with his pinkie as the hostess giggled at your red face, “L/N-san, do you perhaps...” “Have a mad infatuation with the guy? Hell yeah, they are.” You only looked away bashful. Were you really that obvious??

“I have a feeling Majima-san likes you back too! He treats you as his favorite customer as much as I know!” “Doesn’t he do that to all customers?” You meekly asked, watching her think and shrug. “I think he’s much more genuine to you than anyone else.”

“Not even me?” Nishitani pouted while you look at the large signs of Cabaret Grand with wide eyes. Really?? Majima...likes you back? You shake your head. No, you shouldn’t hope. There weren’t any chances that you and Majima would end up together anyway.

“Ahh, look how fucking in love they are. Why can’t I have that? I’m a handsome looking guy.” Nishitani asked, leaning back on the soft cushions of the seats as the hostess poured him another drink. “It isn’t just about looks, it’s like..it’s like, he may look intimidating but I know he has a good heart. He’s kind and respectful and I admire him a lot..” You ranted before you grab the glass of juice (because Nishitani took all the alcohol, as much as he wanted to see you drunk on broad daylight) and drank it in one go. Nishitani whistles.

“Why don’t you confess to him then? It’s worth a try, right?” The hostess suggested, pouring your glass. “What if he rejects me? I wouldn’t be able to go here again because of the embarrassment!” You cover your face and groan, dragging your hands down while Nishitani laughed at your pitiful state. “Stop laughing! It’s not funny!” “It’s a little funny!”

You look at your phone and seeing the time that’s passed, you curse under your breath and quickly finish your glass, standing up. “Eh? Going already, sweetcheeks?” Nishitani tilted his head. “Yeah, I still have work to do. I’ll be back again tomorrow!” You wave at him and the hostess who waved back as you left.

“Those two need to get a room, I’m getting blue balls just by watching them.” Nishitani groans before he pauses... then he smirks. He had just the idea.

The next day, you went to the VIP and paused, watching Nishitani flirt with a disinterested Majima. As soon as his eye had spotted you, it lit up as he bowed at you, jerking his hands away from a sulking Nishitani. “Hello again, L/N-san. VIP again?” He approached you as you played with your fingers, grinning. “A-ah, y-yeah! Here to support you and everyone else here as always!” You thanked the heavens that your voice didn’t crack as Majima smiled, “You have my utmost gratitude.”

You watched him walk past you, smelling a whiff of his cologne. You immediately sat next to Nishitani and squealed on his shoulder. “Watch the merchandise!” Even with Nishitani’s protest, he let you be.

“Even he smells good!” You shake him as he tried to balance his glass. “Guy’s stubborn as hell. Wouldn’t take my offer.” You stopped moving him around and looked up at him. “What offer?” “Just me and him on a date, no biggie.” He shrugged.

“A-a-a da-date?!?!” You exclaim and hide back when a few people in the VIP glanced at the both of you, only to look away, seeing Nishitani. “Are you serious?!” You whispered to the giggling man.

“Look, we didn’t make the fucking Majima Fanclub for nothing, aight?” The Majima Fanclub consisted of You, Nishitani, and his family who were just there because their boss told them to. 

“If you’re not going to ask him then I’m going to take my chance. Finders Keepers.” He stuck his tongue out at you as you looked almost betrayed. Somehow, that made you fired up and more confident. You were going to beat Nishitani and confess to him! 

“W-well, I’m going to ask him on a date too!” “Oho, you’re challenging me?” Nishitani leaned forward, a competitive glint in his eyes. “Exactly, Whoever gets accepted first is the winner.” You told him, head up and straight posture. He laughed, “I like your words, darling.”

It had taken you several hours to brainstorm. But you had finally thought of something..

--

“Out of all the things, you pick Letters?? Boooooring.” “Have any ideas, smart guy?” You rolled your eyes at Nishitani who was lazily drawing scribbles on a piece of paper, his glass of alcohol showing a mark on his paper. “Ah, shit- fuck-” He cursed, having broken yet another crayon.

“I told you, you should have picked the markers instead.” You shake your head, laughing a little. The two of you were at one of the most popular Cabarets in Sotenbori yet the two of you were writing and drawing love letters.

“Why did you pick letters anyway?” The man beside you asked, cutting a choppy heart with a piece of paper. “Letters are a lot more genuine than gifts, you know? It’s heartfelt and simple, but means a lot to both you and to the one you’re sending it to.” You smile and Nishitani stifled his laughter, “Are you still in high school? That sounds so fucking cheesy, I love it.” You tried your best to make yours look neat but due to how nervous you were, the handwriting ended up a little messy. “You send it to him!” You exclaim, shoving the folded note. “Like hell I am!” Nishitani moved back and called for a hostess who so happened to be the same hostess from before.

“Is your manager available right now, pretty lady?” “Yes, actually. He’s at the rooftop and taking a break. Is there anything you need from him?” The hostess answered and blinked when the both of you handed your letters to her. “Can you give us a favor and give ‘im these? You can throw Y/N’s in the trash.” “No, you throw his in the trash!” The hostess grinned and shakes her head before taking them. “I’ll give these to him then, I’ll be back.”

As you waited patiently, playing with your glass, you thought if your letter was good enough. Nishitani looked pretty confident and to be honest? You were starting to lose the fire in you. This was a bad idea. You would just make a fool out of yourself to the guy you like!

“Nishitani, I shouldn’t have given away that letter.” You only got a smack on the back of your head as Nishitani groaned, retreating his hand away, “You dumbass. This was your idea. You gotta suck it up and own up to it.” “That’s not a good thing to say to your friend.” You pout as you rub your head. 

“Still, I don’t think he’ll even look at mine.” The yakuza sighs and pours himself a glass. “If he does, I’ll beat him up. There, does that make you feel better?” “That would just make me feel worse!” You scold but you had a smile on your face, making Nishitani grin, showing his slightly sharp teeth.

A few minutes later, the hostess came back, and much to your surprise, Majima was with her. He looked almost bored as the hostess pulled him in front the both of you. “I wanted Majima-san to personally give them to you!” Majima sighs and watched you sheepishly apologize before he handed back your letters. “Thanks so much, Majima-san!” The hostess looked delighted as the man quickly walked away to another table, almost flustered.

“He’s gonna love my drawing! I’m gonna keep this forever!” Nishitani cackles before he opened his letter with a grin. You then took a deep breath and opened yours, seeing if he said something too.

To Majima-san,

I know that I’m just a customer but I want to say that I like you and I admire you a lot. I have been for a long time, and only now did I got the courage to express my feelings. At first, I thought it was a simple crush but as time passed by, that feeling never went away. In fact, I think I like you a lot more now. Would you mind going out with me at Osaka King sometime?  I completely understand if you don’t like me back and if you don’t want to go out, no matter what happens, I will continue to support you and the staff here in Cabaret Grand as your loyal customer!

“Ah man, he only gave a note about how I sucked at drawing him! That asshole!” Nishitani grumbled, “What about you?” He looked at you only to see that you were practically frozen in your position, staring at the letter with wide eyes. “What?” He blinked and went for a peek. “He said yes..” You gape and cover your mouth, letting him read it as you were too speechless to even do anything.

             -L/N Y/N

Sure, I would love to. What does 10 am tomorrow sound like? : )                                                   - Goro Majima

“The fucker actually did it,” Nishitani mumbled and you looked around for Majima, seeing that he was still in the VIP room. Like he had known you were looking for him, he turned around and the two of you made eye contact. You beamed at him and he smiled, chuckling a bit before he went on his way. You were breathless, holding your cheeks together with bright eyes and a lovestruck smile.

That was a date.

[kozutenshi]

"cheers!"

kenma smiled as he took the wine glass, taking in a small amount of the bittersweet red liquid that warmed his throat. looking sideways, he saw you, your smile as big as the other guests but brighter.

"is there something on my face, kozume?"

"yeah."

"wait what? where?"

"happiness. everywhere."

you rolled your eyes but you can't help but warm up on his claim. "you sound like you're in a trance." he only shrugged at your mocking statement and sipped again, only to shift uncomfortably when he realized how much people are in the venue, the music fading.

he felt a warm hand clasp his tenderly, drawing therapeutic circles on its back, and as the song slowly started seeping back to his ears, his eyes meeting yours.

"dance?"

SAGUT KEN PARABUR

— a wedding tradition where the newlyweds dance as the guests pin money on their clothes. then, the couple goes around each table with one plate or container in hand to collect money.

— gift giving is a different part from this tradition.

— envelopes has more money than the direct cluster of money usually so the envelopes are mostly what is hoped for by couples.

— this tradition symbolizes the guests' well wishes and prosperity for the couple for many years, somehow telling them to use what they gave as a foundation for their life.

— in our family, we do the dance and the plate thing in two different parts of the program: one for the tables upfront, one for the ones at the back. the tables upfront are usually the family and the closest branches + closest friends, while the ones at the back are mostly neighbors, far relatives, and the nakikikain (people who just went to the ceremony to eat).

— the closest friends/relatives of each side will count the money with the couple at the end of the ceremony.

your legs felt like lead but the shake of kenma's hands made his nerves known more. as you slowly swayed to the waltz, friends and relatives started to rummage through their bags, earning a sigh from kenma.

"why did we have to do this anyway? we have enough."

"don't say that. it's their own way of wishing us well materialistically."

"but.. it's uncomfortable.."

footsteps approached and lev towered in front of you with two envelopes in his hand. your blood ran cold as he took out the pins, making kenma chuckle. "lev, I think, since you know, you're tall.. and towering.. maybe you should find someone smaller?" your voice made him nervously chuckle, also knowing himself that he might accidentally stab you.

"i'll do it!" kuroo's bed head comes to view. "you're still tall-" pushing and cutting off lev, kuroo stood beside kenma. "so how many kids do you want?" kenma reflexively kicked him, making all the guests laugh at kuroo's panicked expression.

once calmed down, he carefully pinned lev's and his envelopes on the two of you, a fond smile on his face. "you two grow up so fast."

"but you're just a year older than them, kuroo-senpai."

"shut up lev."

the two of you laughed at the two as they walked back to their table. kenma drew you closer, reminiscing that one time kuroo said the same thing and got hit by yaku for getting too sentimental for someone a year older.

"what's on your mind?" he looked at you for a moment before answering. "just thinking of how fast time really flies." he looked at yaku and his other teammates drawing closer to both of you, each having their own envelopes to attach, fukunaga being the only one different having two sashes of paper bills attached together; one for you and one for him. he detached himself from you for a bit, signalling you to be aware of his highschool friends.

"you really.. got them.." teary-eyed, yamamoto pinned his envelopes, almost stabbing his own finger as kenma rolled his eyes at him. yaku wished the two of you well animatedly along with hinata. kissing your cheek, hinata also wished you well, making kenma swat his hand on his friend's shoulder. "sorry! it was a dare! 500¥ was at stake!" before placing paper bill crowns on the top of your heads.

the two of you looked at kuroo who tried to hide behind yaku and sighed.

you were glad to see them behaving normally even though the ceremony can be described as formal. and though their energy might seem unnecessary, the familiar warmth made kenma ease into a more carefree feeling.

you watched him slowly become more comfortable and you only smiled warmly at him, making him wonder what you were thinking but not questioning it.

the other guests went by on a blur, a good cluster of volleyball players, college friends, and company workers. then, with your parents, the two of you went to each table, nishinoya huffing proudly as he drops three envelopes and deflating when bokuto drops his own five. kenma narrowed his eyes at the collection, thinking of how much taxes did the ace forget to pay just to give the amount.

"if you're wondering if he ran from his taxes, he didn't. well, at least not intentionally. we paid for it." akaashi nodded at the two of you as he drops six envelopes, making everyone on the table stare at him with mouths open.

"akaashi where did you get that?"

"akaashi-san please tell me how much is at the envelope!"

"akaashi, I didn't know you were that rich!"

the said guy only sighed, congratulated the two of you and tapped kenma by the shoulder while he smiled respectfully at you, urging you to move out of the chaos of his table.

once again it reminded you of when akaashi helped the two of you tell the truth to the others, that you and kenma had started dating that Christmas night, the bustle of the crowd long forgotten as you kissed in a park bench secluded from people. hiding from the public wasn't really necessary now that you think of it, as the people still spotted the two of you, but the memory was something you held close to your heart.

soon after, everything was settled and the two of you were back at your own table. the envelopes and money collected are stacked on each of your side, and the best man, kuroo, stood at the podium for his closing words.

"you know, I feel like a father standing here." both of your parents laughed at his statement, along with the former nekoma volleyball team and coach nekomata.

"as someone who watched them get together, I can't believe kenma really landed himself with them. it's not that he doesn't deserve them. he was just.. not that outgoing, if you get what I mean." his eyes looked at the two of you happily, his eyes glowing under the light proudly. "but, I'm glad that it's the two of them that ended up together."

"through all the trouble you caused me back in high school, how the two of you always had alibis when kenma is late for practice, how y/n hides him from me for fun, and how they bully me just because I'm an old man, I'm grateful to see the two of you still happy even until today."

kuroo remembered your gleeful expression when you had told him you're moving in with kenma. boxes in tow, he assisted you and his childhood friend voluntarily, welcoming a new part of your life.

kuroo remembered how you tackled kenma chanting "yes" loudly when he decided to give you a ring to finally call you his fiance.

and now, another memory to remember is added.

raising his glass, he smiled charmingly at everyone. "thank you so much for attending the wedding. may you all rest well after this beautiful evening."

like a hungry cat, kuroo smiled at the money on the table as the guests emptied the venue like the cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland. yaku held kuroo back as both pairs of parents said goodbye with suggestive smiles. hinata joyfully started counting the money on your side while kuroo was still struggling on getting away from yaku, a handful of bills on his hand.

a beautiful evening indeed.

FARERS: @akasuns @doodleniella @kenmakodzu @lyzzklm @mfcassandra @oikaw-ugh @seijohlogy @thesecondapplepienation (merry christmas to all of u)

[ryqoshay]

Tri-Arame: Betting For Play

Primary Pairing Trio: YuuAyuSetsu Words: ~3.1k Rating: T Time Frame: First year of college? Maybe second? Dunno yet Story Arc: Stand Alone

----------

Author’s Note: Welp, this ended up a heck of a lot longer than originally intended. Not complaining mind, but there were only two original bits I wanted to include and it just kept growing from there.

----------

Ayumu startled as an anguished cry sounded from within as she opened the door to her dormroom.

“Y-Yuu-chan?” She inquired, quickly trying to assess the situation. “Are you alr…” Oh.

“Ayumu!” Yuu tossed the controller she was holding into the air as she bounced up to her feet.

“Ayumu-san!” Setsuna greeted as well, deftly deflecting the discarded device to land softly on the bed as she also jumped up.

The two raced across the room toward Ayumu who couldn’t hold back a smile at their antics even if she had wanted to. In the short few weeks the trio had been dating, Yuu and Setsuna had begun a friendly, though no less serious competition to be the first to greet her when she was the last to arrive home. It was one of many ways the two challenged each other but it was probably the one that amused Ayumu the most.

And even if she did feel a little strange being the subject of such a contest, she’d be lying if she said she disliked it. After all, just the way the two lit up merely upon seeing her was enough to warm her heart and drive away any dreariness of the day. As such, she almost preferred coming home last because of this new routine.

“Welcome home!” Setsuna launched herself the last meter or so into a tackling hug.

“I’m back.” Ayumu giggled, wrapping her arms around her girlfriend, and tilting her head down for a kiss.

A sigh sounded from her other girlfriend. “You’re too fast, Setsuna-chan…” Yuu lamented.

Both Ayumu and Setsuna laughed as they parted.

“Well, I do maintain a regular exercise routine, which includes running outside or spending some time on the elliptical.” Setsuna explained as Yuu took her turn to greet Ayumu. “And you know you’re always welcome to join me for my morning routine, Yuu-san.”

“But I do, though… sometimes…” Yuu reminded as she stepped away to allow Ayumu to remove her shoes. “And don’t you also do a bunch of more stuff at the studio?”

“Well, yes,” Setsuna conceded, “but that is more focused on dancing and singing. What I do on my own here is more general fitness.”

“Hrm…” Yuu seemed to consider the idea for a moment before her expression changed. “Anyway, you’re only one win up.” She jutted her chin back toward where they had been playing a moment ago. “You gotta win by two.”

“Right.” Setsuna nodded before turning.

“Eh?” Ayumu uttered as Yuu suddenly slid in close to peck a kiss on her cheek.

Setsuna either caught the movement with her peripheral vision or responded to Ayumu’s voice, or both, as she spun around and strode back. With a sly glance toward Yuu, she mimicked the gesture from Ayumu’s other side. Yuu responded by sticking out her tongue, at which they both giggled.

For her part, Ayumu couldn’t help joining in with the laughter. “Are you two going to carry over your little contest through making dinner tonight as well?” Though the concept was amusing, part of her feared how such a competition might affect Setsuna’s already adventurous attitude in the kitchen.

“Don’t need to.” Yuu said with a grin as she pulled something out of her pocket before presenting it proudly. “I won this at the store on the way home today.”

“Yuu-san and I already picked out what we want and have a pending order up on your laptop.” Setsuna explained.

“Alright, I’ll add my order in a moment.” Ayumu said with a smile.

Though neither girl said as such aloud, Ayumu couldn’t help wondering if the two had made their own side contest with the convenience store promotion. The fact that Yuu had emphasized that she had been the one to win the gift certificate felt like a strong indicator, along with a notable increase in competitiveness between them recently. At least they were having fun.

“Ne, Setsuna-chan,” Yuu spoke up as the two made their way back to the kotatsu “wanna add a little extra incentive to the game tonight?”

“What do you have in mind?” Setsuna tilted her head with curiosity as they retrieved their controllers and took their places.

“Something like the winner gets to make a request of the loser?”

“What kind of request?”

Yuu shrugged. “I dunno, maybe like drawing on their face like when we play Hanetsuki during the New Year celebration?”

“I don’t believe we have any ink…”

“Then maybe make them do pushups, get the winner a snack, clean their ears or something? I’m sure we can figure out something.”

Setsuna considered the suggestion for a moment before smiling strangely. “Alright.”

Ayumu wondered what kind of request Setsuna had chosen that would cause such an expression. Unlike their friend Kasumi, Setsuna was not typically the scheming type, and was not particularly good at it when she did. Rather, she was usually far too earnest and straightforward, to the point that Ayumu occasionally wondered how she had managed to hide her anime obsession from her parents and her dual identity from her fellow high school students.

“Hehe, now I’m getting fired up!” Yuu proclaimed. “I’m so going to win the next three rounds.”

“You seem pretty confident.” Setsuna observed.

“Well yeah, now that I get to make a request of Setsuna-chan, there’s no way I’m passing that up.”

“Hrm, we’ll see about that.”

With her meal chosen and their order submitted, Ayumu moved to sit on her bed. This gave her a good vantage point to observe her girlfriends’ match.

“Ha! Ring out!” Yuu pumped a fist in the air a moment later. “That’s one! Two more to go.”

“Two for me as well.” Setsuna reminded.

“Yeah, but that’s up from one.”

“…” Setsuna pursed her lips into an adorable pout, earning a cheeky grin from Yuu. “Alright, next round.”

The next two rounds were intense. Ayumu watched with bated breath while the two girls participating leaned forward and gripped their controllers harder.

“Victory!” Yuu cried, tossing her controller in the air.

Ayumu reached out to catch the falling device so it didn’t land on either girl in front of her.

Setsuna’s shoulder slumped in defeat.

“Alright, go braid your hair.” Yuu pointed to her rival. “You’re gonna be Nana tonight.”

“Eh?” Setsuna tilted her head with curiosity. “You want me as your prize?”

“Why not?” Yuu grinned. “It’s either you or Ayumu and I didn’t make a wager with her. Besides, I think this prize is one she will enjoy as well.”

Ayumu couldn’t deny that last point.

“While I’m happy to oblige, you really just want me to change my hairstyle to one you see all the time?”

“But we don’t see it all the time.” Yuu insisted. “At least not since we started college. You only wear it to class, and we don’t have any together.”

“You’re…” Setsuna blinked in realization. “You’re right. I hadn’t realized that you two might miss seeing me like that…” She hung her head apologetically. “I’m sorry.”

“No need to apologize, Setsuna-chan!” Yuu laughed, placing a reassuring hand on the other girl’s shoulder. “If you go too long again, I’ll just be sure to win against you again at something.”

“Or try to win.” Setsuna smirked.

“Well, yeah, of course.” Yuu chuckled. “It wouldn’t be as much fun if you just let me win. Anyway, for the record, when I said you’ll be Nana tonight, I meant all night.” She waggled her eyebrows suggestively.

“All night?”

“I suppose you can take out your braids before you fall asleep, but for sure during certain activities.” Yuu emphasized the last two words.

“Yeah, I got that part.” Setsuna rolled her eyes at the less-than-subtle hinting. “But I don’t usually like sleeping with them, so you can’t go overboard and exhaust me again.”

Yuu held her hands up in mock defense. “Hey, I can’t help it if Ayumu gives in too much to her lust.”

“Yuu-chan…” Ayumu interjected, feeling heat rise in her cheeks. She wasn’t wrong, per se, but as was far too often the case, Yuu knew exactly how to embarrass her. Sure, she was looking forward to seeing Setsuna in braids but… wait… What if…? “Ne, Yuu-chan…”

“Mmm?”

“Would you mind if I played a round?”

“Challenger Ayumu wishes to enter the ring?” Yuu dropped her tone to mimic an announcer. “I thought you preferred more RPG or collection style games?”

“There’s some fighting in them.”

“Turn-based, sure, but…” Yuu shrugged and held out her controller.

“Uhm, I was hoping to challenge you, Yuu-chan.” Ayumu clarified.

“I know. I just wanted to be Player 1.” She reached over for the controller in Setsuna’s hand. “Alright, let’s pick our fighters.” She began scrolling through the selection on the screen.

“You can probably see better from here, Ayumu-san.” Setsuna spoke up as she scooted over a bit before patting the area between her and Yuu.

“Mm.” Ayumu nodded and slipped down off the bed before moving the joystick a couple times to search the roster.

“Oh ho, interesting choice.” Yuu commented as final selections were made and the countdown to start the match began. “But no matter, victory will be mine.”

Yuu proved her skill immediately by landing a devastating first blow before Ayumu could react.

“Nice.” Setsuna complimented. “But remember, Yuu-san, first blood isn’t nearly as important as last.”

“Mmh… huh? Wha?” Yuu reacted as her character was tossed into the air. “Wait…”

Ayumu tapped more buttons on her controller, scoring additional hits.

“Ayumu… when…” Yuu sputtered.

Setsuna snickered as the round ended. “That’s one for Ayumu-san.”

“Eh, uhm, beginner’s luck?” Yuu questioned. “Anyway, Round 2.”

The second round went almost exactly the same as the first. Yuu struck the first blow, but eventually succumbed to a flurry of hits from Ayumu.

“Ayumu!” Yuu cried as she was defeated for a second time. “That was amazing! Where did you learn to play like that?” Her eyes sparkled with excitement.

“Do I get the play the winner now?” Setsuna added her energy to the mix.

“Yeah, we should totally get round robin tournament going.” Yuu agreed, handing her controller over to Setsuna. “But really, Ayumu, when did you get so good at fighting games?”

“I, uhm… asked Ai-chan and Rina-chan for a suggestion on which character to try…” Ayumu admitted.

“Oh?”

“You two have been having a lot of fun with this game for the last few nights, so I thought I could maybe join you…”

“You’re always welcome to play with us, Ayumu-san.” Setsuna pointed out.

“I know, I just, thought I might have a fighting chance if I did a little research first, you know, for combos and such.”

“Yeah, that sounds like something you would do.” Yuu laughed. “Well, now that I know you’re secret, I’ll be better prepared for our next match.”

“Speaking of, you get to make a request of Yuu-san, since you won.” Setsuna reminded.

That’s right, that was also part of why Ayumu had wanted to play against Yuu, to maybe get an unexpected victory and get back at her a little for the teasing.

“Right.” Ayumu cleared her throat and turned to the green-tipped girl beside her. “Well, since Yuu-chan likes braids so much, I think she would look quite cute wearing a matching style to Nana-chan.”

“Eh?” Yuu blinked.

Now there was a reaction Ayumu hadn’t anticipated. Yuu wasn’t the type to fluster easily, but there was no hiding the pink blossoming across her cheeks. And it was adorable.

From the other side of her, Ayumu could hear Setsuna’s sharp intake of breath. “I’ve… I don’t think I’ve ever seen Yuu-san with braids before…”

“A… are you sure that’s what you want as your prize?” Yuu seemed at a loss for words.

How had she put it earlier? “Why not?” Ayumu returned. “It’s either you or Setsuna-chan, and you already made the request of her, and I think she’ll like it as well.”

“A-alright…”

“So, if I win against Ayumu-san,” Setsuna pondered “does that mean I can make her wear twin braids as well?”

Still riding the wave of confidence from her victory as well as successful teasing of Yuu, Ayumu couldn’t help smirking a little. “Maybe, if you win.” She winked at the raven-haired girl. “But if I win, I get to be the one to braid your hair.”

“That was what I was about to request when I won our rematch…” Yuu admitted.

“Hmm…” Ayumu thought for a moment. “How about as a consolation prize for both of you, I do both of your braids.”

Yuu chuckled. “Is that really a consolation prize or just an excuse to play with our hair?” Was she trying to turn back the teasing tables?

“Can’t it be both?” Ayumu asked. “I mean both of the other prizes requested so far were ones that will be enjoyed by the others and not just the winner, right?”

“Fair point.” Yuu nodded. “Alright, it’s a deal for me. Setsuna-chan?”

“Deal.” Setsuna agreed as well. “But, who’s going to do Ayumu’s braids when I win?”

Yuu and Ayumu laughed for a moment before the next round of the tournament began.

----------

“Nana-chan?”

“…”

“Setsuna-chan?”

“…”

“I think we wore her out…” Yuu observed the girl between them.

“Again…” Ayumu added before sighing.

Yuu giggled quietly.

“Mm?”

“I won…” Yuu murmured.

“Won what?”

“I outlasted her.”

Oh, for heaven’s sake, they competed over that as well? Although, Ayumu had to admit the idea was a bit amusing. However…

“Is it really fair when you had me to help?”

Yuu seemed to ponder the question for a moment before grinning. “We really do team up on her a lot, don’t we?”

“Yeah… but it’s hard not to…”

“I know, right? She’s so cute when she makes that expression.” Yuu did a decidedly poor, though likely purposefully so, impression.

“Well, perhaps to keep things fair, maybe next time she and I can team up against you.”

“Now that I’d like to see.”

“You don’t think we can?”

“I didn’t say that. I think Ayumu is certainly up to the task, but…”

Though left unspoken, Yuu’s implication was clear. And if Ayumu was being honest, she had to agree. Setsuna was definitely a passionate participant, but, perhaps as a reflection of other aspects of her personality, she seemed reluctant to, for lack of better words, take the lead. Part of Ayumu wondered if things were fine that way of if it was something they should address and work on at some point.

The sound of Yuu’s yawn pulled Ayumu’s thoughts back to reality.

“Ne, Yuu-chan, do you know if Setsuna-chan took out her contacts?”

“Yeah, before she put on her glasses.”

Oh, right. That made sense. “Also, you promised you’d let her take out her braids before she fell asleep.”

“I think I can take care of that.”

“How?”

“Scoot up a little.”

“Huh?”

“And slide your arm under her.”

“Like this?”

“Perfect.” Yuu lifted Setsuna’s shoulder gently.

Setsuna murmured something before turning with Yuu’s guidance. Once on her side, she wrapped her arms around Ayumu’s waist and buried her face in her chest.

“There we go.” Yuu hummed her approval and started undoing the braids that were now much easier for her to reach.

“Where did you lear…?” Ayumu realized the answer before she finished the question.

“From you of course.” Yuu responded anyway.

Which meant… “You’ve been awake?”

“Not every time.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?”

“Because I couldn’t help being caught up in the cuteness of the gesture.” Yuu admitted. “Ayumu’s thoughtfulness is one of her most adorable traits, and one of my favorites.”

Ayumu felt her cheeks puff in a pout as she reached across Setsuna to gently punch Yuu’s arm who only grinned more in response.

“Anyway, perhaps I’ll challenge you two again and get Setsuna-chan to team up with me that way.” Ayumu pondered.

“Challenger Ayumu wants to enter the ring again?” Yuu did a quieter version of her announcer voice from before. “Winning against us felt pretty good, huh?”

“A little…”

“Though to be honest, I’d’ve brought you in on our little contests earlier, but I’ve just never really seen you as the competitive type.”

“I went up against my rival school idols a lot back in high school.” Ayumu pointed out.

“True,” Yuu conceded “but even then, you weren’t really all that competitive. You worked hard, that’s for sure, and you were incredibly supportive of your fellow school idols, but… hrm…”

“What is it?”

“Oh, hey, idea.” Yuu grinned. “You should totally surprise Setsuna-chan in the morning. Something like seeing who can get the most steps in on the elliptical or whatever.”

“Setsuna-chan would probably win something like that.”

“Possibly. But it really isn’t really about winning or losing, you know.”

“Hmm?”

“I mean yeah, sure, it’s feels good to win, but it’s also fun to see Setsuna-chan’s smile when she wins.”

“Ah.”

“But you already know that, don’t you?”

“Huh?”

“That was why you were so supportive of your rival school idols, or at least part of it, right? Because watching them do well was also fun.”

Ah, so that’s what it was all about. It all made sense now. Ayumu had fun surprising her girlfriends with a couple early wins, but even as they adjusted and started winning matches again, it hadn’t diminished Ayumu’s enjoyment at all.

And the silly little requests had really just been a fun bonus. She hadn’t minded at all that the request made of her after her first loss was that she would join in on the twin braids brigade, in fact, she had expected it.

Sure, Ayumu wasn’t nearly as competitive as either Yuu or Setsuna. And sure, she was quite content watching her girlfriends compete over the most random things. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t join in on the fun every so often, right?

“Ayumu?”

“Mm, sorry, I was just thinking.”

“About?”

“What hairstyles I’ll have you try next time I win against you.”

“Tha… I… if I let you win…”

For the second time that night, Ayumu got to witness Yuu’s flustered expression and she couldn’t help smiling.

“Good night, Yuu-chan.” She said quietly before closing her eyes.

“Good night, Ayumu.” Yuu replied, shifting just enough to plant a kiss on Ayumu’s forehead without waking the sleeping girl between them. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“…ve… y… wo…” Setsuna murmured into Ayumu’s chest before nuzzling in more.

Did Yuu-chan actually wake her up or is she just sleep talking, again? Ayumu wondered. Either way, she tilted her chin down just enough to press her lips atop the other girl’s head before whispering a similar sentiment to her. Finally, Yuu’s affirmations to Setsuna were the last sounds Ayumu heard before sleep took over.

----------

Author’s Note Coninued in Followup Post

[purplesurveys]

1195

survey by n0b0dysp3rf3ct

—:: Who ::—

... was the last person you saw face to face? I passed by my brother last night when I had to go to the kitchen to fill up my tumbler.

... was the last person you texted or messaged online? Angela; I was just asking her for the difference among A4/A5/A6 since I’m now planning to buy a binder and sleeves for my rapidly increasing collection of photocards and postcards. It really frustrates me that A4 is the biggest one and A6 the smallest :((((

... was the last person who asked you for a favour? Kata, my manager. She filed a half-day leave last Friday to get herself and her family vaccinated in her town, so she had sent me over a very long to-do list of deliverables that she asked me to fulfill while she was out. Eventually she ended up filing a whole-day leave since she felt feverish after being under the sun all day, and also possibly from side effects of the vaccine, so I ended up carrying the entire workload for the day. I like Kata and she’s a very easy person and superior to work with, so I honestly couldn’t complain about it.

... was the last person you lent something to? Ooh, I don’t remember. I don’t really lend people things.

... was the last person who told you a secret/confided in you? Andi was just sharing to me their worries about taking the LAE (scheduled for today) and how they’ll be okay if they don’t pass.

... is the tallest person you know? Jo is like 5′7″ and we all look like beans when standing next to her. One of my uncles is also very tall; around 5′10″ or 5′11″ if I’m not mistaken.

... the shortest person you know? I think Aya? That’s just a smart guess, though; I haven’t seen most of my friends in more than a year.

... your oldest (in years) friend? Mik is turning 28 this year. Sometimes I forget just how much older he is than me since we vibe really well together during the rare times we did get to hang out. I’m still bummed we never got that smoke break we wanted to have.

... is the oldest (in length of time) friend? Angela.

... is your youngest friend? Hannah was born in 2000. Peter was born in 2001 but we aren’t that close yet.

... is your newest friend? I haven’t made any new friends recently. Stan Twitter is lonelier than I thought it would be; everyone is already friends with everyone so it’s hard to break that space. Not to mention everyone is also grossly younger than I am – I keep seeing profiles with ‘2004′ on their bio :/ I should start making an effort to look for older ARMYs lol, I definitely feel like I’d have more fun that way.

... is your closest relative? My eldest cousin on my mom’s side, my Kuya.

... was your favourite teacher? My music teacher from high school. I neeeeeever liked music as a subject and it was never a priority of mine, but she always kept our classes something for me to look forward with her advice and the way she was always able to make lessons interesting.

... was your least favourite teacher? Those who made it clear they didn’t like me, even though I didn’t do anything to deserve such hostility.

... did you spend the most time with when growing up? My siblings and cousins since we all lived together at one point.

... knows you the best? My two best friends.

... always beats you in games or sports? Andi would probably be able to beat me in any game. They just let me win because they know I can be a sore loser.

... who is the most creative of the people you know? My family is pretty artistic and I have a lot of talented relatives - my sister and my cousin Maggie paint and draw; my mom can make any kind of craft she wants, with her hnds; and one of my grand-aunts regularly does paintings. I think all of them are amazingly creative in their own way.

... is the funniest person you know? Probably Andi. Hans makes me crack up too.

... is the most organised that you know? My mom.

... that you know has travelled the most? My dad. Both our fridge doors are filled from top to bottom with magnets from places he’s travelled in due to his line of work. He’s toned down quite a bit in the last few years and has taken to staying within Asia, but back then his traveling history was super expansive – Germany, Jamaica, Italy, Belize, Aruba, Italy, France, Monaco, Denmark, Norway, the UK, US, Estonia, Portugal, etc.

... has always been there for you? Angela never left my side.

... has given you the most personal gift? I can’t possibly pick, my friends are pretty good at giving me gifts...like Andi getting me a Petals For Armor CD and a Punk shirt that hasn’t been produced in a while, and Angela giving me a personalized Friends mug because she knows I like my coffee and she knows I like Friends.

... has an annoying laugh? I don’t think anyone I know has an annoying laugh.

... never forgets a birthday? That would be me.

... do you live with? My parents, my two siblings, and our two dogs.

...,do you have the most in common with? I’m not so sure about this one, actually. I share bits of my personality with a lot of people - like me and Jo liking BTS, me and Andi liking wrestling, Blanch and I having similar personalities, me and Laurice being super meticulous when it comes to our work, etc. - but I haven’t met anyone who’s virtually a duplicate of mine when it comes to my traits and interests.

...is the sportiest person you know? I’m also not sure. Most people I know are into watching a bunch of sports, but none of them actually play.

...was your last missed call? It was an unknown number that I kept ignoring because THEY WOULDN’T TEXT WHO THEY WERE. If you have enough load credits to call me multiple times, then surely you can text me and introduce yourself first, and maybe then I can pick up the phone.

...did you last open your door for? My sister knocked last Friday because someone wanted to talk to me via landline. It was weird since no one calls via the phone anymore, but I have a gut feeling it was that ^ same person who had been trying to call me through my phone but never texted me. Eventually I learned it was one of the bloggers I’m talking to for work who just wanted to ask a few questions about our ongoing engagement.

... has your heart? Kim Taehyung. Expect the same answer for this type of question moving forward.

... has your respect? I gotta hand it to Tina for consistently doing well in her studies and excelling in every subject while doing photo and video editing for two orgs, working on her thesis, and being a board member in our mutual org, all while living alone. She does so well I wish I can tell her to give herself the occasional break to avoid burnout.

...do you share a special song with? I don’t think I have that with anyone.

...do you miss right now? Literally allllllll my friends.

...last made you angry? It’s been a while since I’ve directed my anger towards another person. When I get pissed off these days it’s usually over a situation that goes awry or out of my control.

...did you last buy a gift for? So this was not technically meant to be a gift, but what happened was I accidentally secured two orders of the same poster set, which was a part of this new BTS photobook coming out later this month, from two different shops. One of the shops merely posted an ‘interest check’ for the poster set so I signed up for it thinking it was harmless, but when they got back to me they already attached an invoice :/ I ended up having to pay for it just so things won’t get complicated between myself and the shop anymore; and I told Angela she can just keep the extra set I bought and that she can consider it a gift.

...did you celebrate your last birthday with? My family and technically my workmates since I didn’t file a leave that day. I also had food delivered to their house so I guess that can count as my ‘celebration’ with them.

...have you gone to a concert with? I went with Angela for my first Paramore show.

...can make you laugh? Anyone can tbh. It’s not very hard to make me laugh.

...has taught you how to do something? Nina taught me how to embroider and do basic needle/thread skills back when I was still getting into the hobby.

...has lost something of yours? I am almost certain my ex never kept the handwritten letters I used to write her. She never seemed to remember or bring up the things I wrote.

...has broke your heart? Gabie but I’m over it.

...has stood you up? Hasn’t happened to me before.

:: What ::

Is your favourite colour? Pastel pink.

Can you do that most your friends can’t? Type fast, apparently.

Is your birthday? April 21.

Colour eyes do you have? Dark brown/black.

Form of transport do you take to work/school? I work from home. But under normal circumstances I would drive my car.

Music do you like to listen to in the car? I connect my Spotify to the car’s Bluetooth and listen to whatever artist or playlist I’m into at the moment. The music I put on could also depend on my current mood for the day.

Languages can you speak? Filipino and English. I’ve also been able to pick up looooots of Korean phrases and expressions because of the amount of content I watch. I’m nowhere near fluent, of course, but I’m increasingly able to pick up what people say based off a few Korean words I’ll hear in a sentence.

Was the last thing you drank? Continued from idk. I finished off my glass of water from dinner.

Was the last thing you ate? My mom made pasta.

Time did you wake up this morning? Depends on how late I slept the night before and how tired I was, but it usually ranges between 5:45–7:30 AM.

Colour are your bedroom walls? They’re white.

Drink do you usually order when eating out? I never order drinks unless I’m at La Creperie, in which case I always get their San Gines hot chocolate; for everywhere else that isn’t a bar, I just get water.

Food can you cook well? ...I can’t cook.

Animals have you had for a pet? Dogs, rabbit, lovebirds, goldfish, and technically a cat but she was mostly Nina’s.

Are your initials? RC.

Kind of activities do you like to do on the weekends? I’m still kind of stuck at home during the weekends :/ so I can’t do much, but I’m not complaining since I actually prefer staying in these days. Anyway, most recently I’ve taken to catching up on BTS content I’ve missed over the last 8 years, so I like watching shows they’ve done like Bon Voyage, Run BTS, etc.

Movie do you know line by line? Two for the Road, TITANIC, and probably most of White Chicks.

Band(s) have you seen in concert? Paramore, One Direction, a bunch of local bands.

Do you buy/get to treat yourself? It’s usually food - I like giving myself a feast every Friday night - but I’m putting that in the backseat for now as I’ve realigned my money to be spent on BTS merch. My big purchases are saved for the albums for now, but every now and then I’ll see a postcard or photocard I like and buy them. Once I complete the albums I’ll be moving on to the concert DVDs, then the special packages, then probably BT21 plushies. Needless to say I have a longggggg way to go haha.

Colours your phone cover? I have a clear case.

Part of the world would you love to visit? Another continent would be nice.

Question do you dislike being asked? Even though I know people mean well, I don’t like being asked “How are you?” but tbh it’s more of a me thing because I just never really know what to say.

Subject were you good at in school? History.

Careers do your parents have? They both work in the hospitality industry.

Brand of clothing do you buy most often? For clothes clothes I’m not really loyal to a particular brand; I buy from different brands and shops all the time. But for shoes, I like sticking to Nikes.

Chocolate bar is your favourite? Not a big fan of chocolate bars. I love Reese’s Cups, though.

TV show have you watched every series of? Friends, Perfect Strangers, Breaking Bad.

Radio station do you listen to the most? It’s a little hard to tell at this point considering I haven’t driven regularly in over a year. But back when I used to do it, I usually flipped among 93.1, 99.5, and 87.5.

Podcasts are you subscribed to? I’m not the biggest fan of podcasts. Find them a tad bit boring.

Is your favourite dessert? Macarons or cheesecake.

Can’t you do that most around you seem to? Ride a bike.

Are 5 qualities you value in a friend? Loyalty, thoughtfulness, honest, sensitive to my needs and those of others, and intelligent.

Are 5 qualities you value in a partner? ^ Pretty much the same thing.

Size pizza do you usually order? Family size usually.

Cuisine do you like to order or cook? I’ve been getting Japanese so many times recently. I rarely go outside sushi.

Colour(s) dominate your wardrobe? Black and white, and colors that were in at one point like mustard yellow and pastel pink.

Toothpaste brand do you use? Colgate.

Sounds can you hear right now? My insanely loud aircon.

Is the weather like today? Like hell. I believe we’re reaching a heat index of over 50ºC every day now, so...that’s fun. It gets absolutely difficult to work in the afternoon when the temperature is at its most brutal, and its times like this I wish I got to work in the office so that there’s aircon and I could at least work comfortably :/

Are your plans for tomorrow? Just work and have tons of meetings, the usual.

:: Where ::

Do you keep your phone when not using it? I keep my phone near me even when I’m not using it since I could always get an important notification.

Were you born? Manila.

Do you go to unwind? Most days it would be the rooftop, but under normal circumstances I like staying at a coffee shop somewhere to escape life and my responsibilities for a short while.

Is your best friend right now? I believe they’re both at home since they have no reason to be out anyway.

Can you go nearby to have a good time? Personally, I would just go to the Starbucks near our village lol. If I’m feeling a bit more adventurous I’d head to Katip, which is prrrretty close by but not quite.

Is the nearest restaurant? We have a McDonald’s literally right beside the village. Then besides that is a Shakey’s, and right across that is a Burger King, then the aforementioned neaby Starbucks. Just makes me realize how urbanized my town has gotten in the last few years.

Is the nearest beach? If I had to guess, the nearest beaches would be in Batangas which is 2-3 hours away, but it really depends on how fast you can drive lol. I’m not too good with long car rides so in both times I’ve driven there I had always taken 4 hours.

Did you meet your closest friend? I met Angela in grade school, and I met Andi at a local rally in my university.

Did you go for your last vacation? Tagaytay, though it was a staycation more than anything else.

Is the nearest mall or superstore? It’s like a 3-minute drive away from the village.

Did you last get an injury? I have loadsssssss of new scratches and gashes all around my wrists from playing with Cooper.

Is the most extravagant place you’ve stayed at? It’s a toss-up between Aids’ or Gian’s house. Gian would probably win since I never actually got to go inside Aids’ place, and his was the first house I’ve been to that was able to literally take my breath away. OH and Shaun’s house was pretty fucking swanky as well.

Do most the local kids play? I would have no idea since I’m neither a kid nor a parent.

Have you been with your family? This is a very vague question lol...what do you mean where have we been? We’ve been to different towns around the country and several countries together, if that’s what you’ve been asking.

Did you spend Christmas last year? We visited a couple of relatives, and we also spent it at home.

Did your parents grow up? My mom grew up within Metro Manila; my dad in a city a little outside of it.

Did you buy the shoes you’re wearing? I’m barefoot at the moment and always am at home.

Would you like to go right now if you could? If life had still been normal I would probably be having after-work drinks at a bar near the office.

Do you miss the most from your childhood? I’m not sure how to answer this with where.

Is the best restaurant you know? I’m still searching for it.

Will you never go again as it was so bad? It’s not that it was bad, but I’d probably never dine at 8Cuts again because their burgers are not worth the hype and are very overpriced for their size.

:: When ::

...was your last vacation? My family’s last legit vacation was in August 2019; but we did have a quick escape to Tagaytay in January of this year.

...did you graduate? I officially ‘graduated’ from college in August, if you could even call it that.

...did you decide what career you wanted? Somewhere between my 2nd and 3rd year of college. That was when I decided I hated journalism and preferred PR, but since PR is under journalism’s umbrella there was no need for me to shift courses.

...did you have your first kiss? Continued. Like WHEN when or how old was I when? In any case, it was in January 2015 and I ws 16.

...did you learn how to swim? Idk, pretty early on. My parents liked taking us to water parks when we were younger, so we had a lot of exposure. I’m not sure if there was ever a time where something just clicked and I learned how to swim; I believe it had just come naturally.

...did you have your first relationship? By the end of 2014.

...did you meet your best friend? I met both of them in school, but at different points.

...do you feel the most at peace? Probably when I’m able to stay at the rooftop all alone.

...do you usually fall asleep? I’ve readjusted my body clock now (I used to want to be in bed by 9 or 10 PM, lmao) and I stay up until anywhere between 12-2 AM on weekdays.

...do you usually wake up? Ranges between 6-7:30 AM.

...did you last watch a movie? September.

...did you last go to a party? Around Februaryish, 2020.

...did you last cry? I can’t really recall. The last moment I can remember was crying over Life Goes On sometime last month, when I heard it for the first time. I’m just not sure if that’s accurate or when exactly in April that happened.

...did you laugh really hard? I always have a good laugh at least once a day.

...did you buy something pricey last? Idk what you would count as pricey but I bought the new BTS photobook set when it dropped back in April. Cost me around ₱3750. I wasn’t able to buy from the first press (it sold out in like 7 minutes lol) which included an exclusive poster set, so I had to look for a local shop that was already offering the poster set separately, and ended up shelling out another ₱2200 for it...which means all in all I spent around ₱5950 for it or roughly $125.

...did you have an argument last? Earlier this evening but I don’t want to get into it as it made me cry from sadness and frustration for the first time in months.

...did you last have a sick day? May last year.

...did you last recieve a hug? I have no idea. February, I think? when I hung out with my friends.

...when is your best friend’s birthday? July 22 or September 15, depends on which best friend.

...did you learn how to drive? I started getting lessons when I was 17, but I didn’t start feeling comfortable with it until I turned 18.

...did you last receive a surprise? Around a couple of weeks ago when my dad came home with Jollibee for us.

:: How ::

Many pets do you have? Two.

Many houses have you lived in? Three that I can remember, but I know my parents moved around a bit when I was a newborn.

Often do you shower? Every morning before my shift. I hate feeling sweaty and icky when I report for work.

Well can you cook? I can’t at all.

Many close friends do you have? I have two people I count as my absolute best friends, but I have a handful of close friends as well.

Many Brothers or sisters do you have? One of each.

Often do you go swimming? I don’t swim much at all, really...I haven’t done it since 2019, so that should say enough. As relaxing as it is, I feel like the clean-up afterwards can be such a challenge lol. Like if you swim in a pool you have to rigorously wash the chlorine off of you; and if you swim in the sea you have to also be thorough about making sure you’ve removed all the sand from your body.

Many times have you texted today? I don’t think I texted today but I did spend my whole day on chat platforms.

Do you like your toast (colour, topping)? I don’t have super particular preferences; I just like mine on the burnt side.

Do you like your tea and/or coffee? My coffee has to be sweet for me to enjoy it. I can take black coffee/Americano; I’ll just wince a lot with every sip. No tea for me thanks.

Do you like to celebrate your birthdays? With a lot of food.

Are you feeling today? A little frustrated because of an argument incident this evening. But I’m shaking it off and just focusing on the release of Butter tomorrow. My first BTS comeback!!!

Serious are you about your career goals? Very.

Many rooms are in your house? In total, 9.

Many bedrooms in your house? 4.

Did you do in your school exams? I was never consistent. I slacked off a looooooot in grade school; couldn’t give less of a shit about my classes then. I got a bit more hardworking in high school, but I still was a bit lax and I allowed myself to not put a lot of effort in subjects I didn’t care a lot for and that I know I would never have to use in real life, like chemistry or accounting, so there were exams I really excelled in and others that I would fail. It was only in college I started taking my studies incredibly seriously and I believe that showed in the grades I eventually got.

Close do you live to your parents? They’re like, five steps away.

Close do you live to your siblings? My sister’s literally in the room next to mine.

Sensitive to criticism are you? I know it’s something that can never be avoided, so I’m always open to hearing them, especially if it’s meant to help me. It doesn’t mean I enjoy it as it is being given.

Motivated to make changes are you? Depends on my mood and mindset. 

Creative are you (1-10): -0.5.

Hard working are you (1-10): Probably a 22 if I really put my head into a task.

Sporty are you (1-10): I dunno, maybe a 6? I do like playing table tennis, but I’m pretty meh at any other sport.

Musical are you (1-10): 0.

Do you prefer your eggs? Runny yolk; scrambled; or a really packed omelette.

Often do you go out to eat? Before the pandemic, I liked eating out 2-3 times a week.

Would your best friend describe you? Not sure, I never tried asking them this. I hope it’s all nice things, though.

Can someone cheer you up if you’re sad? Send me photos of V. Hahahaha

Often do you meet up with your friends? ...What do you think? D:

Important is religion to you? It is not a part of my life whatsoever.

Old were you when you first stayed overnight from home? 15 or 16, I can’t really remember.

Old were you when you got your first pet? I was maybe 6.

Tech savvy are you? I know enough to survive my own, but I obviously can’t hack into other computers or things like that.

Do you show you appreciate those you care for? Buying them food.

Often do you cut your hair? I only take a trip to the salon once a year.

Often do you paint your nails? Never.

Many countries have you visited? Six.

Boyfriends/girlfriends have you had? Just one.

:: Why ::

... did you choose your username? Because it was straightforward.

... did you take this survey? I like surveys made in categories, and this seemed interesting and varied enough.

... did you choose the career you did? I found that I enjoyed it MILES more than journalism.

...did you last leave the house? I had to go to a local LBC for a work errand.

...did you last give up on something? She wasn’t worth the effort anymore. She hadn’t been for a while, but it took me forever to realize.

...did you search the last thing you searched? I wanted to sing along to the song but it was in Japanese, so I had to look up its lyrics.

...would you give up on someone completely? Oof, I guess you can refer to one of the previous questions. ^

:: If...::

You could live in any country which would you choose? Canada.

You could choose any animal as a pet which one? I’m perfectly content with dogs.

You could be famous for something what would you like? Being known for a funny tweet would probably be enough lol. I have no desire to be famous.

You are sad, how do you combat it? I don’t really get sad anymore these days, so I can’t super remember the go-to tactics I depend on...I guess I like listening to sad songs and allowing myself to wallow in the sadness, because I know I have to accept and process my feelings first before I can be able to calm down.  

You can drive when did you learn? I learned shortly before I started college, when I was 18, because no one was going to be able to take me to university when the school year started.

You could have any job what would it be? Idk, I like the one I have now.

You could go anywhere for a vacation where would you go? Somewhere with a completely different feel and atmosphere, like Norway, Sweden, Finland...that part of Europe, basically.

You could eat anything right now what would it be? Samgak gimbap :/

You wrote a book what genre/topic would it be? It would be a book of essays or maybe a memoir.

You had a theme song what would it be? Idk I don’t really think about this.

You could meet any band/singer in person which one? Billie Eilish seems awesome and easy and fun to talk to.

You could act in any movie which would it be? No thanks.

You get married what venue would you like? Hotel.

If you have kids do you have names picked out? I have one name picked out for a girl but that’s it.

Could describe your dream home what would it be like? Brutalist and minimalist, with large windows, cove lights, and a lot of white space.

You could go back in time what would you change? Break up with Gab earlier.

Could use 3 words to describe your childhood which ones? Could’ve been better.

Could get the answer to any question which question would you choose? When I would die and how, just so I can have peace of mind.

You could have an endless supply of something what would it be? Money, because of course.

Meet anyone who no longer lives who’d you choose? My great-grandfather, mom’s side.

:: Can ::

... you ride a bike? No, never learned.

... you ski? I’ve never even seen snow, so no.

... you bake a cake? I can try but it will probably be very clumsily made as I don’t bake.

... you sing well? I wouldn’t say that. I like singing when I’m alone, but it doesn’t mean I’m any good.

... you do your own taxes? I’ve never tried haha so I guess not.

... you remain calm in a crisis? Depends on how serious it is.

... you do first aid? Let’s just say I wouldn’t volunteer if it comes down to it because I feel like I’d commit one fatal mistake that would make the situation graver. 

... remember your best friend’s family members’ names? Both of their families, yes.

... you fire a gun? I’ve never tried so I doubt it.

... your parents drive? Yep.

...your best friend dance well? They’re not ‘dancers’ per se but sure, they can bust out a move or two.

...you make people laugh easily? Not everyone, but sure.

...stand up for yourself? That’s what I’m trying to learn these days.

...you do a martial art? No.

:: Would ::

You like to learn a new language? That’s always a welcome opportunity.

Save the life of a stray animal? Absolutely.

Know what to do if there was a hurricane? We have several ones come in the country every year so yeah, I can definitely say we’ve long been well-prepared for them.

Try a new cuisine? I do this as often as I can.

Risk your life for anyone? Yes.

You like to get back in touch with someone? No, I’m good now.

You drive in the middle of the night to get a stuck friend? Ina heartbeat.

You Know how to perform CPR? In relation to the first aid question, I wouldn’t volunteer myself in case I make a wrong move.

You likely win in a game of chess? I don’t even know how it works, so no.

You stop talking for a day for $100? Easily.

[curiousconch]

Two Old Friends

Chapter 3 of Ricochet (An Open Heart AU).

Catch up here: Prologue | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2

Chapter Synopsis: As Bryce takes Heather in, a facade that he has blocked out for several months begins to disintegrate.

Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x MC (Dr. Heather Song) | Bryce Lahela x MC (Dr. Heather Song)

Words: 2.3k+ | Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller, Romance

Rating/Warnings: None for this chapter, it's pure fluff! (Yay!)

Author’s Notes: Majority of the characters are owned by Pixelberry, except the main character Heather Song. I was listening to Maybe this Time on repeat when I wrote this chapter, I think that song encapsulates it perfectly.

8 months ago

Bryce Lahela was stoked to have been assigned the Ed Farrugia case. He dreamt up of an opportunity like this ever since he graduated top of class from Stanford Law School. It wasn't out of self-ambition, it was part of his grand plan - to go opposite the direction of his white-collar criminal parents.

At first, Bryce's parents was overjoyed when he told them he's pursuing a law degree. It never occurred to them that it was all part of his scheme.

He soldiered on through law school, bagging an internship in the San Francisco DA. When his efforts to build his network provided an opportunity in Boston, he didn't hesitate to pack up his bags and fly across the country, farther away from Hawaii than ever. It was a big risk, but it eventually paid off given how his career imploded once he got the job.

But perhaps the most memorable experience was when he told his parents that he was to become Boston's newest ADA. They were nothing but furious, there were no counting the amount of expletives he heard that day.

No turning back, mom and dad.

The timing to tell them couldn't be more perfect, because it was only a week after they turned over his trust fund, a "graduation gift". He knew it was just a bribe for him to do the dirty legal work to keep them away from prison for free.

After toiling for so many years, he was more than ready to abandon his past behind and start his life over. More than it was revenge, it was Bryce's sweet and merciful justice. No more crosses behind his back, marking him as his parents' criminal son.

That wasn't his reality anymore. So he focused on work and did his best to shine. And shine he did. For the first time in a long time, he felt like he was no longer a criminal. In an ironic twist of fate, he was the one putting people behind bars. And he relished in every win.

However, being the Chief DA's golden boy wasn't providing him the opportunity to build new friendships. Although he tried to make friends with his colleagues, he began to be seen as a threat. So for the first year in the big city, he spent his free time partying hard. With his quick rise to fame, everyone wanted a taste of the majestic Bryce Lahela. He didn't hesitate to throw himself into the throng.

And in that fateful sunny morning, he felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. He built the foundations of the State versus Perry case over the weekend, not even taking a single drop of alcohol. With the help of Agent Aveiro, he collected mountains of evidence for his breakthrough day at court. He knew his case was airtight. Today, he plans to put the cherry on top.

Pulling off his sunglasses and tightening his slick striped blue tie, he grabbed his suitcase from the passenger seat and got out of his car.

He strode into Edenbrook Hospital with confidence, getting glances from several attendings and nurses as he walked the hallways. He smirked at each of them back, wondering which one he should make of a mission after he wraps up this case. God, these doctors are hot, he thought, as he slid into one of the elevators. He punched 7, and the button lighted up.

Once he arrived at the right floor, he followed the directions pasted on the walls and eventually found the diagnostics team's office. As he neared the sliding glass doors, he heard an exchange of voices in rapid succession, as if they were discussing something important. As he raised his gaze through the glass, he saw two female doctors and two males. His eyes automatically landed to the young brunette, whose hand is on her waist as she listened intently as the others debated.

His brow quirked a little, a fit of curiosity fleeted through him. She was prettier in personal. Television didn't do her justice.

Immediately shaking off the unnerving attraction, he tapped gently on the glass door. All doctors turned to him. One of the male doctors with piercing blue eyes let him in, he later found out that he was the world-renowned diagnostician, Dr. Ethan Ramsey, the head of the team.

"ADA Bryce Lahela, I'm here for Dr. Heather Song?" he walked into the room exuding confidence, burying the distracted innuendos he was currently having.

In response, she moved forward and offered her hand, smiling brightly at him. "Dr. Heather Song, at your service. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

Oh, I bet you do.

He answered mentally, stepping closer to look at her soft features. He took her hand and shook it, returning the warm welcome with a smug look in his face. He couldn't stop thinking about her ever since.

He spent almost the whole day with her, going through her testimony in detail. She spoke in a very confident manner, ascertaining every small observation she made about Travis Perry, and how he raised her suspicions. She also walked him through how she confirmed her theories, and how she decided to report this to the hospital's chief. He was amazed with the way how she mapped out every step, and acknowledged how her actions made the case straightforward and uncomplicated. Certainly controversial and sensational, given that it was involving one of Massachusetts' senators. But getting up close and personal with her that day made him realize that like him, she was at the top of her game.

She was professional and insightful. Bryce was also impressed with how she carried herself. Graceful and poised, yet fierce and tenacious. There were a lot of times that he thought he was hearing himself in the way she talked. And for that reason, he like spending time with her.

Over the course of the next few months, he spent more time with her. It was the perfect opportunity to keep in touch, as she was the star witness after all.

Beyond work, it was easy for him to befriend her. She was warm and open, sensitive and caring. Eventually, she introduced him to her exclusive group of doctors, who readily welcome him.

But he admired her more when she made it her mission to help him with his runaway sister. She went out of her way to spend time with her, bridging the gap between the siblings.

That was when he irreversibly opened up to her, telling her about his past. Making her see through him, who he really was.

And the way that she embraced it without inhibitions was a breathe of fresh air. He never knew he needed someone like her in his life, the one thing to complete his do-over.

It didn't take much for him to he admit to himself that he adored Heather. He felt a deep connection to her, something he never felt for someone else.

But in a sudden turn of events, the hopefulness he had turned out to be just a mere figment of his imagination.

He learned about her relationship with Rafael. Once he saw the way she looked at him, he knew it was time to draw the line.

Ever since, that was all he thought it would be between them - an unexplored and faraway frontier.

Gradually, his presence in her life became nothing more but group hangouts in the form of brunches or night outs in Donahues. He learned to withdraw whenever she and Rafael was around, cautious to not let others know about the way he felt. He himself went back to his string of one night stands.

He kept her at arm's length, repeating to himself that he was contented with the friendship that they had. Yet when he was finally learning to ease her out of his mind, she came crashing back in.

***

Present Day

With warm bowls of noodles in front of them, they caught up with each other's life. Bryce poured them both a glass of white wine to chase down the saltiness off of their taste buds.

"Hm, this certainly is an upgrade from that cheap bottle you had the last time," her mocking voice freed him from his thoughts. He grinned at her, leaning towards her.

"Oooh, I'm not liking your arrogance. Being junior fellow got in your head already?" he teased her, sipping from his own glass. "Has all of your student loans been paid off so you have spare money to buy your own fancy wine?"

"Certainly not. I think you're the one getting ahead of yourself, hotshot. That plaque hit you in the head and made you forgot that you're a just a noob?" Heather quipped back, her index finger pointing to the square-shaped glass on one of the living room shelves.

"Psh. It's not like my colleagues skip a day to remind me of 'my place'," his one hand mimicked air quotes, feigning a look of disgust, invoking a genuine laughter from her, her skin illuminated by the late afternoon sun as she glowed in delight.

They went at it as they ate, exchanging insulting banters, trying to one up each other as they went. It was just the way they were, at ease. Two old friends who loved their careers first, always putting their self in second place.

It was the first time in months that they were together alone, Bryce realized now how much he missed spending time with her.

He didn't want to spoil the mood, but he couldn't shake off his interest on what went down between Rafael and her. He waited a few more moments as they settled into a comfortable silence, running out of casual jokes to throw at the other. He drew a deep breathe, taking up the courage he needed to raise the sore subject.

"So, you and Raf huh?"

He saw her flinch and his heart irked a little. Her hand shivered as she set down the empty glass and grabbed the bottle of wine to refill it.

"He wasn't what I thought he was," she swirled the contents of her glass once it was full, looking distracted. "Apparently, it only took him less than a month to reveal his true self." Bryce nodded opposite her, as she shrugged casually. He saw her bite her lower lip, and instantly felt the hurt she was going through.

Without second thoughts, he approached her and opened his arms, inviting her in.

After a few excruciating seconds of hesitation, she finally leaned in and received his embrace, tears falling. She didn't think there was any left, but Bryce's offer of solace was a comfort she didn't think she needed. Her dams of pain overflowed once again, and with the horrible scare that happened this morning, her resolve to put up a brave face in front of everyone crumbled.

"You know I'll always be here for you, Heath," he whispered to her, his senses being flooded by the familiar jasmine scent of her perfume.

"I know, thank you for that," she replied in a hushed voice. "I'm just... just tired of it all, Bryce, I'm sorry."

"Hey, don't be. I got you."

He just held her, wishing so hard that one embrace can take all of her fears away. He closed his eyes, letting his beating heart speak for the rest of his unspoken emotions.

He tried to soothe her as he brushed her hair, rubbing the palm of his hand on her shuddering back. His grip tightened with her every sigh, pulling her ever closer.

For the first time in months of keeping his distance, the feelings he had for her, those he tried to bury deep within his heart, started to resurface. He was feeling the way he felt way back then.

In between her deep sighs and sobs, a flood of regrets raced through his mind. His chest constricted, as his thoughts lingered on what could have been.

If I hadn't left her alone. If I just fought for her the first time. If I just have been brave enough to let her know...

But he knew he couldn't what already happened define what should be and what it will be. Just like he dealt with his past, Bryce knew that with enough willpower, he can turn it all around.

He focused forward. A rush of possibilities, a promise of a future, it overwhelmed him.

Maybe this time, it'll be more. She's free now. Maybe now is a better time than before. Maybe now, it won't have to end. Maybe this time, he wouldn't need to let her go.

His heart burned with a fiery resolve and determination.

That late afternoon, when the setting sun's light began to shine upon his face, he decided.

Even the smallest of maybes was more than enough for him. Bryce was willing to risk it for her.

TAGS: @choicesficwriterscreations @ramsey-lahela

@eleanorbloom - I hope I'm doing Bryce justice 😬

[darkdevasofdestruction]

Fluffy Kittens ~ Jumin Han x Katrina, Elizabeth the 3rd x Delilah

(( This is a birthday gift for my bestie who got me into JoJo and Obey Me, and even fangirled with me over Mystic Messenger, and since Jumin was her fave, more or less because of how cute Elizabeth the 3rd was, while I was all over Saeyoung and Zen...This goes without saying...

Buuuuut, since I wanted to make this extra cute and fluffy, and also make it more intriguing, while also adding Delilah playing and cuddling with Elly...This is gonna be pretty personal for the both of us.

Happy Birthday, Deli, even though you hate it, I’m wishing you all the best, and I’m super happy that we’ve been friends for...5 years? Or so? And even though we don’t talk regularly, I’m always happy to spend time with you IRL and sing silly things, watch Osomatsu-san, do JoJo poses and voice act again <3

As well as that, I’m sure you’ll ace the Graduation exams, because you’re a smart bby, even though you undervalue yourself so much, and you’ll DEFINITELY get yourself into Vet Uni and we will see each other more often <3

Also, thank goodness, you literally look like the MC from MysMes, this makes it so much easier since I didn’t get the time to draw the You x Levi thingy I’ve had in mind for half a year ^^” ))

---

Katrina and Delilah, two Veterinary Medicine students, were walking towards the park, as they found it very relaxing to study together, outside, on a nice bench, while also looking at the dogs playing around.

However, today was much different, for they found a phone on the ground, and the chestnut haired girl picked it up, examining it, then turned to the older girl with a confused expression.

“What should we do about it?” she asked, handing her the phone. “This looks rather new, almost brand new. Let’s see what contacts it has, maybe we can call someone and tell them about the missed phone. If not...Let’s just leave it here or something, it’s not really my problem.” she shrugged, rushing to sit on the nearest bench, as she unlocked the phone. “It has no password?!” Delilah sat down next to her, hugging her arm and leaning on her side as she peered into the phone’s screen. “Well, I don’t have either, but I’m not a careless airhead...This looks brand new, it has no contacts...” the red haired girl muttered in confusions, frowning slightly. “Look, there’s this app installed, RFA. Maybe it’s like a Messenger or something?” she proposed, as her friend nodded. “Okay, let’s see...Ah, look, there are some people here. Jumin Han, Zen, Jaehee Kang, Yoosung and 707. I guess it’s worth a shot.” Katrina said, opening the chatroom option, only for the the screen to start looking glitchy, and a man called Unknown to message them instead.  “What’s going on...?” Deli asked with uncertainty, getting creeped out. “I say we throw this away, this is getting sketchy as hell.” Katrina frowned, leaning back on the bench, as the third party was giving them an address to give the phone to. “We shouldn’t. Who knows what could happen.” the red head shook her head. “But the person’s phone...This address is a pretty nice residential area, lots of young people live here. I even have University colleagues living there. What could go wrong?” Delilah convinced her friend, as she could only sigh, nod, and start walking in that direction. “If we live through this mess, I’m getting drunk.” Katrina chuckled, as she input the code and got inside the apartment.

The place was a little dusty, but it seemed pretty cozy, despite being a bit small. Even so, as soon as they stepped in, the glitchy background disappeared, and a long chat conversation that revealed all the chat members mentioned above...Until they realised we were there too.

Everyone was suspicious of us, and rightfully so, I’d say, but we were just as confused as they were.

Katrina: Look, so, uh...We don’t know who this ‘Rika’ person is, and frankly, we don’t care either. We found this phone on the ground and this RFA app was the only one installed. We wanted to call someone so we could return the device to the rightful owner, and my friend didn’t want to go to the police unless necessary. Well, I would’ve left it on the ground...But she’s an angel, anyway. To put it lightly, we’re as confused, if not, more confused than you are. Anyhow, we got messages to return this phone to this address, so there is that.

Somehow, Yoosung and Zen started talking besides the point, while Jumin tried to get them back on track and 707 was trying to hack and find out our identity.

Katrina: If it helps, we can send a selfie to show you that we are real people or something. On the other hand, if I guessed correctly, the pictures next to your names are your actual selfies.

Katrina: Ah, my friend wants to speak as well. I will write in Italics, while she’ll write in bold, to make things easier to differentiate.

Zen: Are you a woman?!

Yoosung: OMG! I guess only the picture will tell!

707: Zen. Be more serious, plz?

707: And wait a sec on the woman thing.

707: Looking it up.

Katrina: Wait no more. Lo’ and behold, the beauty and grace of a Devil and an Angel.

Urging Delilah to get closer, Katrina extended her arm out to take a selfie. She smirked mischievously, as her friend smiled softly, offering a peace sign.

Katrina: Satisfied your curiosities?

Then, they started introducing each other one by one, more or less forced by the other, and it was clear that this party was rather...Unique.

When Yoosung introduced himself, Delilah gasped and took the phone from her friend’s hand.

Katrina: Omg, Yoosung, I know you! You are in the same University as me! You are 2 years younger than me, but I saw you around! My name is Delilah, but I understand if you haven’t seen me, I’m not the most flashy around. Katrina also finished Vet Uni just last year, and she has been working at this super high tech clinic for a few years now!

Katrina: Woaw, Deli, fate sure fools around in mysterious ways. Oh well, Yoosung is still young, but you must be very hard-working and diligent if you got yourself in such a difficult University. I wish you luck for the years to come. 

Yoosung: O M G ! ! ! That’s SO cool! Maybe we can hang around some time! Or eat together at the cafeteria, if our schedules have some common breaks!

Zen: LOLOL Yoosung, you lucky guy.

707: I can confirm, they’re real cuties!

Katrina: Haha, thanks.

Seeing that this conversation eased the others a bit, Seven posted a picture of Jumin with his cat, and...

Katrina: OHMYGOD THAT CAT IS GORGEOUS OMG!!!!!

Jumin Han: Finally, someone who can appreciate beauty around this place.

Katrina: You should see Delilah, she’s gushing and squealing over how adorable Elizabeth is.

Katrina: Well, I have to agree anyway, she is very pretty.

Katrina: CAN I PLEASE PLAY WITH HER ONE DAY?!

Jumin Han: I wouldn’t let a stranger get anywhere close to my precious Elizabeth the 3rd.

Katrina: :C Okay...

Jumin Han: If you prove yourself to be a person of trust, and respect Elizabeth, unlike these guys here, then I may consider it.

Katrina: !!! Thanks, Jumin, you’re the best!

Katrina: Graciously spoken.

Katrina: Anyway, I’d appreciate it if you’d tell us what to do from now on, since we sincerely have no idea what to do. We would like to go back to the park and continue studying, but, uh...You don’t sound like bad people, so we wouldn’t want to inconvenience you either. We can’t remain to this place for too long, obviously.

As soon as Katrina wrote that, they started talking about this ‘V’ person, or the person in control of this RFA organisation, and while at it, Seven hacked into their social medias and said they were cute, while the others seemed shocked they were girls.

Then, V convinced the girls to help them host this charity party, and thinking it wouldn’t be too bad, at least for their CV, they agreed. What was rather sketchy for them was the address reveal...So they decided to stray away from that part, and not talk about it again.

Jumin Han: So, Katrina, Delilah, I will follow V’s decision. Will you join RFA?

Katrina: Sure. We don’t have anything to lose. We just have to respond and convince some guests to attend, and one the day of the party, be free the whole time and attend. You can count on us.

Katrina: It sounds like it would be fun!

It was all nice and dandy, unless they started talking about relationships, which made the red haired girl groan, roll her eyes and throw the phone on the desk, while slumping in the chair and leaning way back.

Katrina: I don’t get why you’re so upset over relationships. It’s no big deal, after all. It’s much better to cuddle cats anyway ^^

Katrina: I second that. Relationships are a drag, and humans are even worse. And selfish. I’m married to my work. Dating life ain’t for me, it seems. *shrug*

Zen: That...Sounds so sad ;;;

Jumin Han: I believe that’s rather sensible.

Zen: Shut up, you’re always fawned over by women!

Jumin Han: Women who only want me for my money.

Katrina: LOLOL, you’re sugar daddy material or what?

Zen: Lolololol Katrina you’re funny.

Yoosung: Jumin is the CEO of one of the wealthiest companies in Korea.

Katrina: Oh, great. Good for you.

707: Lololol this is funny. It’s like we’re talking to a female version of Jumin lololol.

Zen: Oh, God, no.

Katrina: I...Don’t know how I should react. Should I take it as a compliment?

Jumin Han: Yes.

Katrina: Very well then.

Katrina: Oh my God, imagine how happy Elizabeth is! Jumin has so much money to pamper and spoil her! What a happy baby!

707: Lololol yes, Elly is defo a happy cat!

Karina: I wish I could pamper Tsuki like you pamper Elizabeth too, Jumin ;;

Katrina: ...Same with I and Fifi, to be fair.

707: OMG YOU HAVE CATS TOO?!

Katrina: Yes, I do! Her name is Tsuki, she’s a British Shorthair, and she’s soooo cuteeee!!

Katrina:

Katrina: I agree. She’s adorable. And her meows are so high pitched and cute...

Katrina: Omg, Katrina made such a cute cat smile just now-

Katrina: DELILAH!!! >:C

Katrina: Hahaha so cute ^^

Katrina: Ahem. Well, as for my Fifi, she’s a dog. Bichon Havanese. Spoiled little baby. But, uh...I don’t think it matters much, seeing that you seem more interested in cats, which I can understand. Elizabeth and Tsuki are gorgeous.

Zen: I want to see something other than cats, please.

Katrina: Consider it done.

Katrina:

Katrina: She’s more photogenic than I’ll ever be lolol.

Katrina: Mood.

707: Omg I wanna play with both of them, at the same time!!

Jumin Han: Great, new animals for the abuser.

Zen: Fifi is so cute! Just like her owner~. *wink sticker*

Katrina: Haha, thanks, Zen. Likewise.

Yoosung: Zen is allergic to cats, and Jumin keeps talking about Elizabeth, so...It’s a mess.

Katrina: Lolol poor Zen. Better not get close to the clinic I work at, then.

Katrina: Awww, that’s so sad, Zen! Look!

Katrina:

Katrina: LOLOL DELILAH THAT’S EVIL HAHA-

Katrina : Hihi ^^ Everyone loves kitty toe beans!

Zen: I can already feel a sneeze-spree happening again.

Katrina: C’est la vie. Not everyone can enjoy the beauty of the world, unfortunately.

Jumin Han: 

Katrina: LOLOLOL Jumin, you’re so savage!

Jumin Han: Glad I could amuse you, Katrina.

Zen: Why are you all so evil...

Katrina: Yo, I’ve a question. 

Katrina: I know we don’t really know each other, but y’all seem like really nice people, so uhh...

Katrina: Even though you don’t trust us, I would like to go out to a pub with all of you.

Katrina: Maybe after the party, so you won’t be suspicious of us, or something.

Katrina: With so many unique personalities, it’s bound to be quite a successful hangout.

Katrina: That, and we don’t really have too many friends to hang out with lolol.

Katrina: ...That too. *shrug*

Yoosung: That’d be so cool! I’m in!

Zen: Omg, Katrina, so cute! I agree, it should be fun.

707: An opportunity to leave the house! Yes!

Jumin Han: Assistant Kang, make sure you keep that in our schedule.

Jaehee Kang: Very well...I agree it would be interesting, but...

Jaehee Kang: Can we really trust them so easily?

Jumin Han: Only time will tell.

Katrina: Well, it was nice talking/getting to know you all, but we have to go now. I’ve work tomorrow and Delilah has upcoming exams. Tschüss.

Katrina: Talk to you later! 

---

A few days after the whole chaos with the new phone, during one chill evening when the girls were watching a movie together, they saw Seven, Yoosung and Jumin chatting, so they decided to see what the talk was all about.

Jumin Han: Elizabeth the 3rd hasn’t been eating anything since she came back from Assistan Kang’s place.

Jumin Han: I have to call her.

Yoosung: Why don’t you call her rather than going online?

707: Since he can take care of things without hearing her voice?

Katrina: Jumin, if I may, perhaps Jaehee fed her too much. If you want, however, I have a few years of experience working in the clinic, I could check on her briefly, if you film her for me, or something.

Katrina: Although I would understand your skepticism if you don’t agree. It may be akin to home privacy invasion, since bits of the home may get captured in the video.

Jumin Han: You are very thorough in thinking of different possibilities.

707: Omg I’m jealous, I want a private video chat session with Elly too!

Jumin Han: Her name is Elizabeth the 3rd.

Jumin Han: Very well, Katrina, I will trust V’s judgement that you are safe. 

Katrina: Thank you for trusting me enough to allow such a thing.

Katrina: And omg, your chat bubble is a cat, that’s so cute! Can Seven do that for us too?!

707: I’ll see what I can do!

Katrina: Sweet, thanks. Jumin, call me when you’re free.

Jumin Han: Very well.

It wasn’t long after the chat that Katrina received a call from Jumin, and they both activated the video option, and from one end, a huge, beautiful, modern bedroom, and on huge bed, Jumin was holding Elizabeth in his lap.

On the other end of the video, a cozy little bedroom was shown, as Delilah was holding the phone, while Katrina was nowhere to be seen, which confused the man.

“Where is Katrina?” he asked, his eyebrow raised. “She went to get the laptop and cable, so we would see the video better. I hope you don’t mind that I’m here, but Katrina thought it would be educational to see her ask about the anamnesis and checking up parts, as I’m going to start volunteering at the clinic at the end of this University year too.” Delilah explained, a smile on her face as she saw the fluffy cat. “It’s fine, I don’t mind. Educating yourself is never bad.” Jumin nodded, as Katrina came in the picture and propped the phone on the laptop, so Jumin would see them, while they were looking at the laptop screen.

“Can you see us well, Jumin? We can see you perfectly.” Katrina asked, almost too professionally, as she fumbled with the laptop video settings. “Yes, it’s well enough.” he nodded simply. “Okay, all good. I will begin the anamnesis, which is asking the pet owner what they saw unusual, if they saw anything. That includes eating habits, dejections, unusual fur shedding, odd behaviours, unusual bad breath, odd eye movements, whining, crying, tail movements, if they seem exhausted or depressed, if their abdomen is flexed and so on.” Katrina explained, leaning closer to the screen to look at the cat. “Nothing unusual, except she hasn’t eaten since she came home from Assistant Kang. I even counted the hairs she shed, and it’s not unusual” Jumin explained, which made the red haired girl widen her eyes. “Damn, you’re the most diligent and attentive pet owner I’ve ever met in my life, including myself. You’re a wonder to work with. Well, the fur seems luscious, the claws look fine, so the keratin levels are good, her eyes are wide and nice, she seems to be following the toy perfectly, she has great reflexes, seems pretty playful, her nose is wet, her ears are up, her abdomen isn’t flexed...That only means one thing. Deli, can you guess?” Katrina looked at her friend with a warm smile. “She...Ate too much? That’s the only thing that I can think of.” she asked shyly, which earned a bright grin from her friend. “That’s exactly it! Jumin, as far as I understood from you, you’re treating Elizabeth with extremely strict measures, which means strict food portions, and only food that specialists deem is the best for her. Jaehee doesn’t have all that, so she gives her, for example, 2 cans of food, instead of 1 and a half, which means her stomach is fuller than usual, so her satiety levels are above the usual levels. Basically, she’s so full she can’t eat until everything is properly digested and she’s had her sport done.” Katrina explained everything thoroughly, as if it was one of Hercule Poirot’s detective novels. “Ohhh, that makes sense! That was pretty exciting!” Delilah clapped her hands excitedly. “I see, so it is as I suspected. Thank you for confirming my theory. Sorry for taking your time with this.” Jumin said, making the girl raise her eyebrows in surprise. “I always have time for friends.” Katrina blurted without realising. “Friends...Huh? I thought people called their peers ‘Friends’ when they realised they can fully trust them.” Jumin asked, almost as if he was interrogating. “...I, uh...I see everyone from the RFA as friends. That’s just that, don’t think too much about it.” Katrina dismissed it quickly. “Very well, I won’t. The party is in 4 days, are you ready for it?” he asked, making both of them widen their eyes in shock. “...I think we are. Just...We need to look for an outfit.” Delilah scratched the back of her neck awkwardly. “We’ve been so busy with work and exams, and the party was announced so suddenly...Well, we were kinda put on the spot. We’ll go look around tomorrow. Hope we find something nice and cheap enough to afford.” Katrina shrugged, looking away from the phone, as if there was something much more interesting she was seeing. “It’s good to be prepared in advance, but I can see why you’d have difficulty with things like this, considering your positions.” he nodded, understandingly. “We appreciate that. Well...Even if we haven’t been around for long, we truly hope we can help make this party great. We are aware that it won’t be as successful or grandiose as the ones with Rika were, but...We will try our best to get close to that.” Katrina spoke again. “Were you trained in diplomatic speech? Because I can sense that. Not many people can do that.” Jumin asked again, as Elizabeth jumped off from his lap, to roll around on the bed. “Awwww, she’s so cute!” Delilah gushed over the adorable creature. “I can’t say I was trained, I just picked it up. Add that to the fact that I have to be polite with everyone, and there you have it. Is this what you call a professional defect?” Kat snorted in mock amusement. “Perhaps it is. Some tend to call me snobby for always being formal.” Jumin said as a matter of fact. “What a coincidence...People hate me for being cold and formal too. Que drôle.”  she smirked, speaking in a softer, almost self-deprecating tone. “That’s how people can be. They must always hate on something. I suppose that’s why Zen hates me.” Jumin spoke in a low voice. “Sorry, Jumin, but not everyone can be a patrician like you. Most of us are plebeians working our way up.” Katrina laughed softly at her stupid joke. “Every vassal can become a Lord.” Jumin pointed out, making the red head snap her head to him, with a challenging smirk. “Said the monarch.” she shot back with ease. “I wouldn’t say I’m a Monarch, that would be the president. I would, however, be a Lord, I believe.” Jumin retorted just as well. “And I would be nothing more than an unfree slave, working her way to buy her freedom.” she spoke with a smug expression. “And what would that imply?” he asked, almost with piqued curiosity. “Building our own clinic. It’s been our dream for a long time. To be in the same University, to work together, to own a clinic together and just...Live our life and be happy. If we achieve that, we will be free.” she explained, a much softer expression on her face. “I see. It’s always refreshing hearing other people speak about their ambitions and dreams of the future. Much better than the usual lies business people throw at you. Thank you for today Katrina, Delilah, I must go for now. Have a nice evening.” Jumin thanked them with a small smile, as he hung up. “...Thanks for today too, Jumin. Take care.” Katrina murmured, despite the call already having ended. “He likes you. At least, more than some others. And you’re kinda alike in some ways, I mean...I think he and you are constantly facepalming whenever you’re talking to idiots, and now both of you finally managed to run into a person with the same kind of maturity and intelligence as the other.” Delilah explained, making her friend become slightly flustered and confused. “You think so? Well, I wouldn’t mind. Jumin seems smart and level-headed enough...But I don’t know. I don’t think...Uh...We’ll see at the party, I guess. It should be fun. If anything happens, you get custody of Elly the 3rd.” Kat chuckled nervously at her friend’s teasing, before winking at her. “Oh, yes!” she cheered in glee.

---

Two days later, however, the girls couldn’t go dress-shopping, as an emergency that nobody could ever even think to expect happened, which made the red haired girl’s whole life collapse on her, crushing her.

As she was ready to go to work for the morning shift, Fifi, her dog, was in a corner, barely moving, looking terrible and there were bits of blood on the ground around her.

Panicking, Katrina ordered the first Uber and rushed to the clinic, as they have amazing equipment, so she could examine her dog, only to find that she has a lymphoma and a tumour on her spleen, which made the girl curse herself for not realising sooner.

She ran to the clinic’s owner, begging her to let her operate on her dog and have someone assist and help her...

Only for her to refuse, unless she gets a tremendous amount of money to compensate, the same amount of money that any customer is forced to pay...

Why couldn’t they just let her do it?!

She was pissed off.

She was desperate.

She went back to the operation room, hugging her dog, and taking out her phone, she took a deep breath and called the only person who could be able to help her.

“Hello? Katrina, what is it, did you need anything?” Jumin asked in the same passive voice as usual. “Jumin, I...I...I need your help. I know, it’s going to sound horrible, and I don’t want you to think that I want to use you or anything, but...But I need some money to perform surgery on Fifi. I begged the clinic’s head to let me do it, that I would pay for it over time...I-I even told her that she could give me no salary for as long as I pay my debt, but she wouldn’t agree. I...I don’t know what to do, Jumin. I have some money that I managed to save, but this...This is more than I could dream of sparing. And if I somehow manage to scrape the money from God knows where, I won’t be able to pay the rent or help Delilah with University pays and...And I...I don’t know what to do...” Katrina slid down one of the cabinets in the surgery room, looking at her dog on the surgery table, that looked back at her, crying. “...I understand this is a difficult situation to be in, but you have to understand that, even though V trusts you, I can’t just throw around so much money to a total stranger that I have never met, especially if it’s the company’s money and it will have to be justified.” Jumin sighed, speaking in a low, almost business-like voice. “JUMIN, I’M BEGGING YOU, I WILL DO ANYTHING FOR THIS! If you want to see me in person, I will give you the clinic’s address, if you want me to pay you back, I’ll resign from the clinic and work for you 24/7 until I pay my debt, I-I-I...I don’t know, I will do anything you want, ANYTHING, just PLEASE, help me out, fast, because she has cancer and a spleen tumour and if I don’t operate today, and start chemotherapy. I don’t know how long she’ll have.” Katrina started crying on the phone, and her dog started whining softly in front of her. “Don’t cry on the phone, it’s hard to understand what you’re saying. Text me the address and I’ll come examine the situation, and only then I will debate whether to give you the money or not, is that fair?” he asked, making the girl grin and clutch her blouse. “Yes, Gods, yes, it’s perfect! More than perfect! Thank you so much, Jumin, I owe you my life forever. I just texted you the address, I will be waiting for you. Please, please, PLEASE come as soon as you can.” she begged him once again. “Don’t thank me yet, I haven’t given you the money yet.” Jumin spoke, a bit unsure of his words. “Doesn’t matter. You’re willing to go out of your way to help, and that’s more than enough. I truly appreciate it, Jumin. I’ll go try to beg the chief again. See you.” she hung up, standing up and kissing Fifi on her head softly. “I’ll save you today, baby. I promise.”

The girl jolted on her feet, going to the head of the clinic to try to beg her again, hoping to persuade her, at least until Jumin arrives, but she wasn’t able to stop the river of tears going down her face.

“Why can’t you just let me do it?! I’m not going to disappear without paying you, but it’s an enormous sum of money, I can’t just come up with it by snapping my fingers, and she’ll die if I don’t start acting soon! Do you really care so little for an animal’s life?!” she tried her best not scream her frustrations away, but the chief had none of it. “This is a business, not a charity party, Katrina! We need money to continue this place, every little coin matters!” the boss tried to defend herself. “But I’ve been your employee for years and I said I’ll give you back all the money! Hell, I told you to stop paying me until I’ve repaid the debt! What more can I do to let me save my dog?!” she cried out, feeling her heart drop, not hearing the door opening. “That’s exactly why! You’re just a mere employee, not THE boss! I AM the boss, I AM the rule here, and I’m telling you that if you still wish to have a place to work at, then shut your mouth and use the little money you have to put down your dog. Just a piece of advice.” the woman in front of her talked so harshly, that it made the girl’s jaw hit the floor in disbelief. “I don’t believe that’s how a proper employer should speak to her employees.” a low, judging voice came from the door of the clinic, revealing the brunet man walking inside, like a guardian angel. “J-Jumin...!” Katrina could only stare at him, wide-eyed from shock and emotions, as her emerald green eyes were swimming in a pool of mixed feelings and frustration. “By how the situation unfolded in front of me, I can see that your emotions were genuine on the phone, Katrina. I’m glad I put money on this card, it’s obvious that your employer is subpar to you in every way possible, and it’s a pity that you have to downgrade your skills to somehow like this...” Jumin shook his head, taking out a blue card, making the girl’s bottom lip quiver and throwing herself at him, hugging him with all the strength she had in her little body. “Thank you so much, Jumin. I owe you everything. I owe you my life. You’re a literal angel, Thank you so much for saving Fifi’s life.” her fingers were clutching the back of his blazer, which made the man get stunned for a few seconds from the unexpected action. “If you’re going to perform surgery right away, I’d like to watch. I want to see what happens with my money.” he cleared his throat, trying to make the girl stop being overly emotional. “If he gets in the operation room with you, I’m not giving you another assistant.” the boss snatched the credit card, snapping her head to the side. “Oh, screw you, you heartless bitch!” Katrina growled, shoving aside the woman in front of her and dragging Jumin tot he operation room. “It’s fine...I can do it. I can do it on my own. It’s not that hard. I can do it.” she muttered to herself, taking a few deep breaths before prepping for the surgery. “You’ve never done it before, have you?” Jumin took off his blazer, rolling up the sleeves of his white shirt and leaning on the wall to get a good look at the whining dog. “...I’ve only ever assisted a few times, but at least I know what has to be done.” she ruffled her hair a bit, before putting it in a high ponytail and putting the dog hooked to anaesthesis. “She’s going to fire you when you’re done here.” Jumin said as a matter of fact as the girl started the surgery. “...I’d have resigned anyway, as soon as I found another place that would hire me. There’s one thing to compromise and stomp on your pride to maintain a job or gain a benefit...But there’s another to go completely against your principles and convictions and let someone humiliate you like that. I’m a human, not a martyr and I have no reason to accept being treated that way. No amount of money or benefits can buy me.” she ranted a bit irritated from the previous encounter, as she focused on removing the tumour. “That’s admirable, if true. Not many people can say that. Trust me, if you work in the same field as me, you’d be more aware of that.” Jumin replied after a few minutes. “If you came here, I think you know I’m speaking the truth, and you just needed confirmation. Rational people are like that. They need proof to back up their reasoning.” she shot back, carefully putting the tumour on a plate and beginning to sew the incision, only for the anaesthesia levels to go down, and the breathing and pulse rates were going down, which freaked out the girl, who dropped the utensils to start fumbling with the tech and getting some medicine to keep up the rates to a normal level. “Should I call for-...” Jumin got up, trying to help, but the girl was much faster. “Yes, you can help. Get here and make sure the numbers here are between parameters. I will finish this up so no more damage will take place.” she dragged the man, instructing him quickly, but well explained, as she worked around the incision, getting rid of the additional bleeding and finally successfully sewing up the wound. “Are you sure you don’t wanna be a doctor or something? You have great reactions and don’t panic under pressure. You were amazing, Jumin.” she took off her mask, throwing away the gloves and slid down the cabinet, looking exhausted after the long procedure. “You explained well what I should do. A great leader makes the followers perform well. You will be great when you open your clinic, and I’m sure Delilah is going to learn a lot from you.” he said, sitting down next to her. “Thank you, Jumin. Your words mean the world for me. Thank you for saving Fifi...I owe you the world...Because she is my world.” Kat rested her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes. “If you want to owe me, how about you become Elizabeth’s private doctor. I’m sure Delilah would be happy to have an excuse to stay around her more often.” Jumin chuckled, as the girl raised her head, cocking an eyebrow up in shock. “I’ve already wasted enough of your money, I couldn’t possibly impose so much on you and have you pay me or something. Besides, I...Uh...I don’t want to end up for you the same as Jaehee. I enjoy your company and our interactions...I wouldn’t want that to change in a more professional way or something, so bad that you can’t listen to my voice or try to avoid or run away from me.” the girl sighed, hanging her head. “You said you don’t want to be an unfree slave anymore and that you’re going to work your way up. If you want to get rid of the title of Vassal, then you could become a Lord’s Lady and-” Jumin started talking, but he was quickly cut off again. “No. If you want me to be your girlfriend, I won’t refuse, but that means that I will never take money from you. It’s either romantic or professional, you choose. But if you’re that confident in my skills as a doctor, then you should know that both I and Delilah are going to treat her anyway, so you won’t really need a private doctor or anything.” she spoke a bit colder than usual, not even realising. “I see. You said you won’t be bought, and you stay true to your words...Maybe a bit too much. It’s rather unusual for me to meet a woman like you, who’s not, as Luciel would call, a...Gold digger. But I’m glad I met you. You are a strong and sensible woman with a gentle heart and a fire passion to do what’s right and save as many lives as humanely possible, and I admire that about you.” he turned his head to her, who could only look in surprise at him. “...Nobody I’ve dated...Or met...Ever said such nice things about me. Katrina, you’re so cold, Katrina, you’re so heartless, Katrina, why do you act like a hedgehog around me, Katrina, why do you never have time for me, Katrina, why do you love those animals more than me. Katrina, Katrina, Katrina, you’re such a goddamn failure as a girlfriend. You say this is unusual for you, but this is equally unusual for me as well.” she scratched the back of her neck awkwardly, looking away. “Then I suppose we can figure this out together, if you want. I believe we have quite a few misconceptions to clear out for each other.” he smiled softly, putting his arm around her, bringing her closer to his side. “Wanna go for a quick coffee or something? There’s this pretty nice cafe close to my home. Nothing extravagant or expensive...Just a small, little vintage cafe with a nice and calming atmosphere.” leaning in, she cuddled to him, having a tranquil smile as well. “Doesn’t sound too bad.” Jumin nodded softly. “Oh, and...I’m paying. No arguing here.” she said firmly, making the man chuckle, agreeing nonethless.

---

A year passed, they had other RFA charity parties, they hung out a lot of times, all of them, together, Delilah became Elizabeth’s private doctor, which obviously meant that her and Tsuki would hang around Jumin’s place for play dates with Elly under ‘professional’ pretextes, much to Katrina’s annoyance, Jumin made sure to gather fund for her dream clinic so both girls could pursue their dreams, and made sure to include animal charities and animal-saving related guests to all the RFA parties, and things overall seemed so much simpler and balanced than ever before.

One beautiful Saturday, Jumin and Kat were cuddled together in bed, both of them doing some light reading, as the door was opened and Delilah’s gentle smile greeted them.

“Hello, Doctor Delilah.” Jumin greeted the girl playfully, as she blushed lightly from happiness. “Hello, Jumin!...Awww, Elly, you’re cuddled with your toy, you’re so cute!!” the girl cooed at the adorable white feline. “I’m really happy that her love for cats got her to pursue her dreams and get to this point where she’s surrounded by cats everywhere she looks.” Kat looked over to her friend with a side smile. 

  “I and Katrina are going to leave next week on a business trip. I think it will be no problem if Elizabeth was to stay over at yours, am I right?” he asked, and seeing as the girl’s eyes started sparkling with glee. “Any time! She’s a wonder to have over, and Tsuki is always happy to play with her!” she replied, hugging the cat, as Elly put her paw on her nose softly, melting the girl’s heart. “Great to hear. And you, Doctor Kat? What are meow going to do with Fifi?” Jumin nudged her with his usual subtle playfulness. “I’d do anything to hear you meow more often, it’s adorable. Maybe purr a bit too...I’ll leave Fifi to Jaehee. She doesn’t shed hair like Elizabeth does, and Jaehee needs some leisure walks too.” the red haired girl teased as she started softly scratched him under the chin. “Meow.” Jumin did a cute cat and small cat smile, burying his face in the crook of her neck, purring softly. “I was right...Meow are adorable.” the girl giggled in amusement, cuddling closer to him, “As are you.”

[nad-zeta]

Heya Author-san, Can I get an ikesen match-up? I never loses a temper, I am very quiet and shy, & have a hard time trusting new people. I look intimidating at first glance because of my height, & I don't smile that much. Once I warmed up, I get along well with anyone. I'm a bit disaster prone, & tend to hit my head on lower branches, & arches, I prefer male clothes. I love drawing, painting, crafting, reading, cooking, cats, & dogs. I literally dislike slimy and bitter vegetables.

Hi, there love! <3 thanx so so much for the request! I hope you have a good day and enjoy!❤🔥

So I match you with.................... Ieyasu 

The first time Ieyasu sees you, his eyes go wide, you certainly look like a strange woman. You look up from where you are sitting, and your eyes lock with his bright green emerald eyes. Both of you being the shy reserved sweethearts that you are, blush profusely and look away. There is no denying the two of you cuties are clearly attracted to each other. You can help but give a small, shy smile when you look away, and when Ieyasu looks at you once more to see the small smile his breath catches in his throat, you are absolutely breathtaking. That smile of yours is enough to brighten up not only the room, but absolutely melt his soft boi heart. The second Masamune catches wind of Ieyasu small crush he instantly calls him out, completely ruining the moment between the two of you “Pppffffst like I would ever find such a weak, silly girl attractive, now if you excuse me I have work to do”. He promptly stands up and storms away, not before giving Masamune one of his signature eye-roll.

You are now left in the room back to feeling incredibly shy, and awkward. All eyes were now on you as Masamune and Mitsuhide were teasing the shit out of you for also having a small crush on the resident hedgehog. Even Mitsunari chimed in “Isn’t it great that you are making so many, friends.” You smiled a little at that, you were low key thankful that they were all big personalities cause it helped coax you out your shell a bit. You were honestly surprised that they weren’t intimidated by your height. TBH if anything they would call you a cute giant. 

Especially after you had walked into the council room the next day still wearing your normal clothes. Hideyoshi threw a fit “Why are you wearing such revealing clothes, go change right this moment young lady.” You just rolled your eyes “I tried, they don’t fit, its as if they were made for a midget, as you can see I am somewhat of a giant.” Masamune was howling in laugher at your statement. That shut Hideyoshi up real quick. He made sure to have kimonos tailor-made to fit your length

You slowly but surely started adapting to the castle live, and soon you were friends with all the warlords. You were particularly fond of Ieyasu and Mitsunari and couldn’t help but smile every time you ran into one of them in the castle’s archives. You especially liked running into Ieyasu, he would always make two cups of tea and then place one next to you as he came to sit down across from you, to immerse himself in his studies. You couldn’t help but laugh at the way he groaned and rolled his eyes when Mitsunari would join the two of you. 

There was definitely loads of chemistry between the two of you as ever so often one of you would glance up from the book you were reading, just to lock eyes with one another, smile and look back down at your books. This little exchanged happened almost everytime the two of you were together. It was clear you liked each other, but was simply just too shy to make the first move and break the ice

You were an incredibly clumsy, accident-prone person. Ieyasu often teased you calling you giraffe girl at they way you would suddenly lose balance or hit your head on low tree branches or arches. You were in his room 24/7 cause of your clumsy ways. Today you had come to his manor as you had accidentally hit your head on a tree branch a little too hard, you had a slight cut on the top of your head. To make matters worse after you had hit your head, you lost footing, causing you to tumble into the nearby stream. When you got up, a sharp pain shot through your ankle. Ieyasu found you sitting beside the stream soaked, with blood streaming down your face. His heart stopped at the sight of the blood. He carefully picked you up and carried you back to his manor. “Silly girl, is it possible for you to go a single day without injuring yourself, you really are a tiresome creature.” 

Although his words were harsh, his eyes held a gentle concern and the way he treated your head injury was careful and gentle. You also didn’t miss his fond smile as he was treating you. The two of you chatted while he patched you up. When he was done he signalled to one of the maids to lead you to a warm bath that he had drawn for you, he didn’t forget that you were soaking wet and probably chilled to the bone. Once you were done bathing, you entered his room wearing one of his old kimonos, he couldn’t help but blush and feel a sense of pride seeing you in his clothes. And you absolutely loved it, it was so warm and cosy, you considered stealing it to comfortably wear on your off days. Plus you loved how it smelled like Ieyasu, there was just something warm, comforting and soothing about his scent. 

He sat down and made the two of you some tea. You had gotten to know him quite well over the course of a few months, and you couldn’t deny that your love for him had only grown. He piggybacked you back to the palace cause no way could he allow you to walk on that sprained ankle of yours. When he left he simply smiled and said: “I have half a mind about covering you in bubble wrap before I go, cause who knows what kind of random injury you will get if left alone.” The two of you just laughed as he said his goodbyes.

He came by to visit you every day to check on your injuries. He used your sprained ankle as a convenient excuse to pop in and see you, even though in truth, he loved spending time with you. Once your ankle was all healed up, you decided to thank Ieyasu with a delish home-cooked meal. You honestly loved cooking, and the fact that you could use your talents to payback Ieyasu for his kindness made your heart bubble with happiness. Ieyasu was super surprised when you walked into his room and place a tray down in front of him. He couldn’t help but smile as he took a bite of your food. He absolutely melted into a puddle of happiness, it tasted sooo good, it made him even happier when you had remembered that he liked his food spicy.  

Unfortunately for both of you at that exact moment, Mitsunari had arrived with the same idea and intention as you, bringing his own box filled with cooked vegetables. Mitsunari had made the two of you a thank you gift for being such good friends to him. He opened the box, and both of your hearts sank. It was your worst fear come true. Slimy, bitter, vegetables came into sight as he opened the box. He beamed up at the two of you expectingly. Both of you took a bite at the same time. You tried your best to give him a bright smile saying it was super delicious. You even elbowed Yasu to compliment the angel’s cooking. He chocked out a complement and Mitsunari beamed up at both of you. You gave Ieyasu a knowing look when the two of you locked eyes. You distracted Mitsunari by asking him to help you make tea while Ieyasu disposed of the bitter vegetables discretely. 

When Mitsunari left, the two of you burst into laughter “OMW that was horrible,” Ieyasu literally gave you the sweetest of kisses in the midst of your laughter. Your eyes went wide, but you couldn’t help but give him the biggest brightest smile, you had been in love with him for a while now, and you were so happy he felt the same. You decided to pull him in for another long sweet kiss. As Yasu pulled away from him, your breath caught at the sight of his bright, beautiful smile, he rested his forehead against your “I think I might need another one of your sweet kisses to get that bitter taste out my mouth”. You couldn’t help but shake your head and lightly smack him on the chest.

Ieyasu love that air of purity and innocence you have about you. The way your smile brightens every room you enter and the way you just bring so much light into his life. He even low key loves how cute and clumsy you are. He will definitely insist on holding your hand whenever the two of you are together, “can’t have you tripping and falling”. You love to steal Ieyasu’s clothes and were them all the freaken time, not that he minds. 

He loves it when you sit in his room while he is working, wearing his clothes and doing your arts and crafts. When he gets tired, he will come up behind you and rest his chin on your shoulder to catch a sneak peek at what you are up to. You love it when his eyes widen and glow in awe at your newest art piece. HE will 100% proudly display your paintings and drawings all over his room.

He loves that you like him also love animals, especially cats and dogs. It is definitely not uncommon for the two of you to care for and play with Mitsunaris pet cat. Especially during times of war when the angel is too busy to even properly care for himself nevermind his pets.

Ieyasu is not big on PDA, but you can be sure that he will always give you a quick kiss on the cheek or forehead whenever the two of you bump into each other in the castle hallway. Ieyasu is such a softi boi and absolutely loves to give you little Eskimo and butterfly kisses whenever the two of you are together. His all-time favourite, however, is having you sit in his lap while the two of you each read your books. He will have his chin propped up on your shoulder, one hand holding up his book while the other is wrapped around your waist. He loves it when you occasionally nuzzle your nose into his cheek and sweetly kiss his cheek and lips. And he will definitely occasionally drop a small kiss on your neck or cheek while reading with you in his arms.

Other potential matches…………………Masamune

Hope you enjoyed it dear!❤❤🔥

[roses-and-lightnings]

Surprise

Summary:  After the events on his special day, Nishikage had wished to surprise his beloved emperor on no other day than the strategist's birthday. The best way to do so was confessing his feelings the same, and nothing would stop him from making that day as special as he made his.

Pairing: NishiYuu (Nishikage x Nosaka)

Word Count: 1637

A/N: Today (April 2nd) is Nosaka Yuuma’s birthday! As promised, here is my gift for him and all of you. This story is also availabe in brazilian portuguese.  Rated G for general audiences.

Warnings: Fluffy, romance

P.S: This story is a continuation of Cake. It’s highly recommended to be read before you proceed.

“Everything must come out perfectly, everything must come out perfectly, EVERYTHING MUST COME OUT PERFECTLY!" – Longed the Inazuma Japan’s goalkeeper, Nishikage Seiya, making endless circles around in room of his teammate, Nosaka Yuuma, impatiently waiting for the emperor to return at any moment. There were days behind him when he’s carefully and lovingly planning that moment. Everything should definitely be perfect! He could afford no margin for error!

Suddenly, the rustle of the doorknob alarmed him, finally indicating that person’s presence. Nishikage immediately stopped walking, and in a leap, he positioned himself. Upon entering the room, Nosaka was taken by a loud pop.

- Surprise!! H-happy birthday, Nosaka-san!!

Confetti and colorful streamers fell before wide eyes and got tangled in pinkish hair, provoking a smile. His knight was standing in front of him, holding a confetti cannon.

- Why, thank you, Nishikage! - He gave him a laugh, remembering what day’s today.

There it’s a smile. After the events on his special day, Nishikage had wished to surprise his beloved emperor on no other day than the strategist's birthday. He had dreamed of this for several nights, of the moment when he would make Nosaka feel special when he saw that his friend had remembered his day, returning the same gesture of affection in the same way that he’d done to him months ago. The happiness on his face was his greatest reward.

The redhead one entered the room, heading towards the desk to fetch his tablet. Since they were there, they could at least discuss the new challenges ahead, as they always liked to do. Furthermore, if Nishikage would like to celebrate, they could go down to the cafeteria. Nosaka felt amused by the idea, trying to guess what his knight would like to do to seize the day. Spending time together was always pleasant like that, wasn't it?

However, the goalkeeper prevented him from moving forward, holding him by his shoulder, making the strategist a bit confused.

- Nosaka-san... – He started. - I would like to tell you something.

- What is it? - Asked the emperor.

The older boy's body shuddered a little, nervously. There was something very important to be said besides "congratulations", after all.

- Nosaka-san... I must say... if you still remember your words, from back then... N-Nosaka-san ... I LOVE YOU! TOO!

He had waited almost two months to answer to what his emperor had said. Over time, Nishikage came to understand the feeling that caused him to say those words so urgently. Thinking about everything that had happened since that time, perhaps the reason he needed to be by Nosaka’s side had always been something more than the appreciation for his altruism and potential, something that had grown strong and intense throughout the odds. Nishikage could understand it now, that his feelings were not mere admiration, and he could not hold back this inside his chest any longer.

- I beg your pardon for earlier! That day, I was unable to react properly to any of your words... You must have endeavored your sincerity and I truly appreciate your feelings! On this special day, I wanted to correspond you, so I...

Nishikage was suddenly cut off in his explanations when he felt the lips of the now new Nosaka being pressed against his. The emperor wrapped his arms around his knight's neck and held them close together, in slow movements, alternately touching his lower and upper lips, not giving him a single chance to break free from him.

Ah... Nishikage... - Nishikage was always the only one who could cause him that yearning to do silly things without any hesitation. Nosaka had been no longer hiding his feelings so well, ever since he stopped being part of the Ares program, and this time, he wanted to be sure to let him know every single thing he felt. The person who taught him that it’s okay to be himself, just by being on his side and not letting him give up. Why did that statement make him feel like butterflies in his stomach? And why was it so good?

It wasn't like he had never thought about it, but the answer was always attributed to a single word. Nosaka felt his chest warm and cozy. “Love” was a fun and somewhat unsettling feeling, and very similar to what how felt about soccer. The strategist clearly remembered it at the day he claimed to love soccer, and it was as if he felt that hot, passionate feeling for the first time. However, it was a little different this time, it was something exclusive, which could only be expressed by those words, in a kind single desire for that person alone. He let out a smile during the kiss, moving one of his hands to the taller boy face, tenderly stroking his cheek with his thumb, drawing a sigh from him.

As for Nishikage, if that was the taste of love, then he wanted to feel it forever. Hesitant and a little confused by the unprecedented sensation, the knight did not know how to answer the delicious malice that the minor was imposing. His emperor was always so steady and impassive, but now he was feeling so smooth and affable on him that he might slip from his fingers, even if he was so sure and thorough at the same time. Trying to get used to the tenderness and delicacy of the redhead boy, he soon gave himself up when he felt the other's tongue touching his, with undeniable boldness. A slight hint of strawberry got accentuated. Getting the feeling of it wasn’t difficult. Pleasant touches between his lips highlighted it, what they most wanted the other to know.

Gradually, the caresses slowed down, until they stopped completely, closed with a lasting peck given by the shorter boy. Heart racing, the Nishikage sighed, feeling still in the clouds.

- N-N-Nosaka-san...

The aforementioned had some difficulties returning to reality after so many mixed sensations consuming him. Upon returning, the first thing he noticed was the Nishikage's face colored in red.

- So this is how it feels... I must confess I was looking forward to doing it.

The other's perplexed expression left no doubt that he’s clueless about what had just happened.

- When two people confess themselves to each other, isn't that what they’re supposed do? - Asked the redhead.

The goalkeeper got his fingers over his lips for an instant, recalling the sensation of having his loved one's mouth pressing against his, playing casually and with all the kindness and sweetness that could have come from the emperor, letting out a silly smile. Until something popped up in his mind.

- Oh, that's right, I forgot! - The bigger one took two movie vouchers wrapped in thin red paper out of his jacket pocket, the kind you can present to watch any movie for free, handing it to Nosaka.

Nishikage felt a little embarrassed about not getting something more appropriate for his companion. Even though he spent years with Yuuma, the goalkeeper realized that he had never learned any of the emperor's personal tastes, except for food, but it didn't seem right or too original to repeat it with a cake, for example, so he had no idea what to give him as a gift. However, he still wanted it to be something very special. In this case, the older one had remembered the day they went to the cinema together for the first time, and the younger one really seemed to like the place so much, it might have been a good idea. In addition, there would be treats for both of you to enjoy, so the occasion would be perfect to show that the knight really knew his emperor, choosing what he liked best and even offering to pay it for him. At least, that was the advice he received when he reluctantly asked Asuto and Ichihoshi for help, even though he didn't get the part of Inamori's happily hoping saying "oh, oh, like a date!"

- I... I was wondering if we could go together the next Saturday...

The not so younger took the vouchers in his hands with twinkling eyes. The blonde stared at the floor, a little nervous.

- Well thought out, Nishikage! There were actually a few movies playing this week that I would like to watch!

- Really?! In that case, it's my gift to you! - A mingle of relief and satisfaction reached out him knowing finally that he liked the gift.

Nosaka beamed.

- Thank you very much for the surprise, Nishikage. I am very grateful to have you by my side.

That being said, the emperor pulled his knight by the hand and whispered into his ear, recalling the words he wanted to say one time ago:

- I love you, Nishikage. You didn't let me say that last time. A little unfair, don't you think? - A mischievous smile appeared on his face.

Nosaka slowly released the other, dazed by the words. Keeping his gaze on his grayish eyes, he moved away, but not too far. The faces, especially the lips, perfectly close, almost touching again.

- So, next Saturday, then?

- Y-yes... Happy birthday, Nosaka-san.

In this case, neither of them noticed they had left the bedroom door open, allowing Inamori Asuto and Ichihoshi Hikaru to see and hear everything from the first moment that Nosaka had entered. The two of them were exchanging triumphant high-fives.

- I told you it would be a good idea! - Ichihoshi boasted, referring to the wonderful idea that started everything from writing "I love you" on the chocolate cake. A little push in cases like these was always functional. In the best-case scenario, it could end up in a pleasant surprise. A/N: Here we are! And you thought I would leave you without a NishiYuu kiss? 💞💕🎉✨🎂  Happy Birthday Nosaka Yuuma! Thank you all for reading this. To be honest, I wrote this double-shot for their first birthdays since the beggining of the series, and I had to wait for another year to come by to bring it translated 🤧 Some of you have been waiting for this, so I’m tagging you all, and thanking you once again for being my inspiration. Even if some of you don’t even know Inazuma, you have helped me just by liking my writing or doing writing requests for me, and I appreciate it sm!! 🌺🌺 @krimkl @peachesandglitter @my-one-true-l @shawn-and-aiden-frost-9  💗💗 Stay safe

[yuwrites]

ramen [Kuroo]

Pairing: Kuroo Testurou x f!reader

Genre: sfw, angst(?), fluff(?)

A/N: AHHHHH! This is my first time writing period. I have never written anything close to this this so pardon me for any typos or inconsistencies. I rushed to put this idea to paper before it left my small brain. There are a few flashbacks, hopefully they won’t be too confusing. Thank you!

wc: 2,739

“I learned to make soft-boiled eggs for you”

His smile was tinted with pain. Eyes soft and blurred as he felt them well with the beginnings of tears. His voice sounded parched, almost half strangled. Your own stomach lurched as the rest of your body just froze in place. Of all the things to bring up in a time like this-

“You know they are really annoying to make?”

Kuroo brought a hand to cover his face as he poorly attempted to chuckle through the lump in his throat that still refused to move. His usual teasing demeanor was completely washed away and now the tall tower of a man stood before you trying his best to look at the ground. Somehow despite his stature he look smaller. It was unnerving. It wasn’t Kuroo.

“Kuroo-”

“6 minutes in boiling water. That’s what the old man said. And then you have to dunk them in cold water before you peel them. The amount of dishes I go through just to make some soft-boiled eggs...”

“I get that, but what does this have anything to do with...anything? What the hell is going on?”

The winter wind whipped between the two of you, but neither of you felt a thing. Kuroo, in spite of himself, would bet that your gaze would be piercing through him right about now. Your eyes were like cold water after a game: shockingly refreshing to the point where it would almost hurt. Constantly searching for the truth under all his jabs and trolling. Much like ice, they would melt every time you laughed. And boy, did he love it when you laughed. Especially when he would be the one to make your sides hurt so much that your eyes would crinkled in the corners. He could do that. Your laughing eyes would radiate on him like sunshine on a cool, spring afternoon back when the two of you were running around Nekoma High together. Everyone and their mother knew of course, but the two of you were thick as thieves and just as dense to whatever was blooming between the two of you.

Sure, High-school Kuroo would not have been anywhere close to being able to untangle the complicated feelings within himself. He was already in a whirlwind of classes and volleyball. The cool-headed, constantly antagonizing, captain of the volleyball team had to steer his ship straight through hell or high water. Kuroo didn’t have anymore room in his heart for anything else.

He knew that.

You knew that.

Or so both of you thought. And yet, standing before you today, 2 years into college, Kuroo had every compulsion to go back in time and shake his younger-self senseless. No room left? How wrong he was.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 FLASHBACK 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

It wasn’t as if you haven’t seen each other since high school. No, Kuroo made sure that you were going to be within a reasonable distance from him so he could keep bothering you hangouts could still be possible. Thanks to Kuroo’s military-like study schedule, you were actually able get into the same university (your parents thanked him a little too excessively to your liking). Kuroo was heading for Chemical Engineering. To everyone’s surprise, you were going to try Biology. You realized in high school that when Kuroo made you you actually applied yourself, you found biology to be a little interesting. It felt like nothing was going to change. But things did, as life always does.

Your friend groups expanded independently from each other. Kuroo started playing for the University Volleyball Club and when Kenma entered the same university, Kuroo roped him along. Both of you were taking on intense majors that ate up your schedules. When Kenma (bless him) started sharing an apartment with him, he became the only real excuse for you both of you to meet each other, but somehow the two of you seemed more like awkward acquaintances than best friends. As the time between meet-ups grew longer, you both began to notice how different you became.

I don’t remember him being this tall...did he grow?

Ah, she grew out her hair...she looks...

Sometimes you had to dip from a movie night early because you had to cover for someone on a group project last minute. Late game nights would end when Kuroo’s phone buzzed with a few too many messages from a girlfriend indicating he had to go. Maybe back then you would have had the courage to tell him about his current choice in women, but all you could so was feel the dull pang in your chest and wave goodbye as he sheepishly left the apartment. These were the nights where Kenma, your ever patient and trusting friend, would turn to you and ask if you were okay.

“Of course! Why wouldn’t I be?” You had a feeling he knew you weren’t okay at all, but you were thankful that he chose not to pry further.

You only didn’t know that Kenma, in his best effort to try and keep his two best friends from self-imploding, was asking the same questions to Kuroo. Despite the few girlfriends that have come and gone or even the good, great, or bad games he’d play...

“Of course! Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Why do I have a very good feeling that is a bold-face lie?”

“ohohoh, since when were you able to read me so well?”

“Because that is literally my job.” Kenma whipped his gaze from his game to Kuroo. Kenma’s eyes were just as piercing as yours, but at this time, they were needle-like, pricking Kuroo rather than analyzing him. Almost as if to try and tease out whatever he was trying to hide. “Are you going to admit you are actively avoiding Y/N-san, or are you going to continue on like this?”

“What do you mean? I am not trying to avoid anyone,” he said half-playfully from his desk.

“Are too”

“Are not”

A pause.

“Are too. I can only guess because it’s going to be Y/N-san’s birthday soon and you are debating on being a no-show...again.”

The last word hit like a dull thud in his chest. He wasn’t wrong. He missed it last year. He had every reason to go. He would have been able to see his old Nekoma buddies and despite how busy the two of you were, he was supposed to be your best friend. And yet, he couldn’t bring himself over to your place. Not after what seemed like a year full of insurmountable awkwardness that built up between the two of you. You both changed and grew up so much he wouldn’t know how to think straight if he were to see you again. It scared him.

Because ever since you both graduated high school and slowly started being pulled your separate ways, he realized how much your very presence was like water in the midst of a desert. Why was it that the cheers from his past girlfriends seem so muted compared to yours when you were hollering from Nekoma’s stands? Others would borrow his hoodies, but yet he can still remember the smell of your detergent after you borrowed and washed it for him. He has held so many hands, but none could really draw warmth into him like the times you have split a hot meat bun in front of the convenience store after practice. He couldn’t help but see you everywhere, regardless of whether he was dating or single. In the sounds, the sights, the smells, he thought of you and would imagine how you look if you were with him in those moments. Would you intensely stare at it, trying to drink it all in? Would your eyes melt like they used to in laughter?

What would they look like if they were looking at him?  

If he could go back to high school, he’d have asked if he could have held your gaze just a little longer. Forever, in fact.

But now? He couldn’t bearing looking straight at you, about to cry over soft-boiled eggs.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 FLASHBACK OVER　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

You both were still standing in front of your apartment. The sun was about to set and a few streetlights were beginning to turn on.

You didn’t expect him to show up...at all. You already prepared yourself when Kenma arrived alone yesterday to your birthday party.  He handed you a small gift bag full of stationary (which you adored) with a small card signed “From Kenma & Kuroo”. It was definitely in Kenma’s handwriting, but you didn’t want to bother asking what you knew was going to be a disappointing answer. You went to sleep happy seeing old friends and turning another year older, but it still felt somewhat incomplete. An unfulfilled birthday wish that may never be fulfilled in the future. But by dinner time the next day and one rushed doorbell press later, here he was.

He ran. You could tell from the sheen across his face, but he was trying to measure his breaths as best he could.

He had gotten so tall. His figure almost seemed to block out the doorway as he was leaning on your door frame. His bed head was still very much the same and just what you remembered (although Kenma was telling you it has gotten worse). His eyes...didn’t meet yours.

“Kuroo...is everything okay? It’s freezing...” Your heart was pounding in your chest.

“Do you remember that time you were sick in high school? Really sick that you couldn’t come to class so I had to bring you two days worth of notes?”

“Yeah, but what does this have to do w—”

“You had the worst stomach bug and yet as soon as you got better the first thing you wanted to eat was ramen from the shop down the street,” his hand still hadn’t left his face. “Of all the things a sick person chooses to eat, you wouldn’t stop whining about ramen and how amazing their soft-boiled egg was.”

It was true. That day you felt horrible inside and out, but you were desperately craving something warm and fatty. Weeks prior, you were hounding Kuroo to come try the ramen with you and how ooey-gooey the egg was.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 FLASHBACK 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“It’s perfection. I still see it in my dreams.”

“uh huh, well I have a tournament this weekend so nothing fatty for me this week. So for now, keep it in your dreams,” he laughed and flicked your forehead. You jokingly pouted as the two of you headed out of your classroom.

However, as soon as the team came back from their tournament, you were sick for two days. Kuroo made it his mission to stay by your side. You didn’t have the strength to leave the house, but one night, when your appetite was coming back, Kuroo knocked on your bedroom door and brought in a hot bowl of instant ramen and the best looking soft-boiled egg you have ever seen.

“Your mom let me borrow the kitchen. It’s nothing fancy, but I’d figure this will get you to shut up about ramen and eggs for now,” he smirked as he proudly showed his work.

“I’m just astounded you are able to create something edible”

“Alright if that’s the case, I can just take this back-”

“Wait! I still want it!” His smirk grew bigger as he readied his chopsticks.

“Say ‘ah”

“What no!”

“My patient, my rules. Ahhh.”

“You aren’t even a doctor!”

“Out of the two of us, I think my grades show that I have the better chance of becoming a doctor. Now open up or so help me I am going to call up Yamamoto-”

“Ugh. Fine.”

It was delicious to say the least and the egg? Perfection.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 FLASHBACK OVER　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“Yeah...I still remember that. It was...I-it was good.” Kuroo took a deep breath.

“I asked the old man from the shop about how to make a soft-boiled egg.” A small smile cracked beneath his pained face. “He almost laughed me out the door for coming to a ramen shop to ask about eggs. But when I told him it was for a sick friend who was madly in love with his ramen and eggs, he showed me.”

Kuroo dropped his hand and raised his gaze. When his eyes met yours, you felt like the ground was taken from underneath you and the air sucked away from your lungs. The sheer intensity in his eyes was unlike what you have ever encountered. It was like embers burning through you. It was colored in a mixture of pain warped with sorrow and...longing?  This was both a familiar and new face all at once. You’d never though you would be able to see Kuroo make this kind of face, much less towards you. Tears were starting to brim in your eyes as well, but you couldn’t look away. You didn’t mean to, but your hand went to hold his cheek, trying to catch any stray tears that might fall. When you realized what you did, you tried to pull it back.

But he held it there. He held it there as if he needed it there. And he did.

He needed you like a drowned man needed air. He needed to hear your voice pierce the noise of the crowd at his games again. He needed the way your eyes shined whenever you learned something new. When he looked at you now, he could see those eyes he missed so much. This time, they looked so soft and warm. Is this how you always looked at him? Why didn’t he say something sooner? He’s missed so much in a few years, but he didn’t want to miss anymore.

He pulled your hand down from his face, but he still held it in his. He eyes never moving from yours.

“It took me quite a decent amount of eggs to get it right. But what I didn’t realize was that, if I was doing this for a friend who was madly in love with some ramen and eggs...I must also be madly in love with that person.”

You couldn’t have stopped the tears even if you tried, but Kuroo pushed onward while trying to also simultaneously use his sleeves as a tissue. The tension broke and the two of you were half giggling as you both acknowledged what a hot mess you were.

“I am so sorry for being so late...and so dumb...and, I really do need to apologize to Kenma...and wow, you have so much snot”

“You have absolutely have no right to say anything about snot right now.” You lightly punch his shoulder as you feel your face flush. Kuroo chuckled and he brought you into his arms. If you weren’t already an emotional mess, you might fallen over from sheer shock. Face buried in his chest, you could hear how fast his heart was beating. It was also incredibly warm despite the winter cold surrounding the two of you. You wrapped you arms around him and he placed his chin on your head, thoroughly tucking you in. For all intents and purposes, this was what “right” felt like. He squeezed you a little bit, to make sure that this was real. It was.

“What I am trying to say is: (Y/N), I am sorry I am late, in more ways than one. I’m sorry for missing your birthday, but also for not realizing that after all these years...I missed you and I love you. I always have and a lot more than I thought I could bear.”

His heartbeat was now rocketing off into space and you felt your blush grow deeper as you tried to hide your face.

“You don’t have to like me back, but I can only assume from the way we are standing...” His voice was slowly reverting to a familiar teasing tone.

“Of course, you idiot. I-I missed you too. And I love you,” you mumbled, internally dying from the reality of saying it out loud.

“Oh? What was that?”

“Shut up.”

You couldn’t see his face from the way you were burying yourself in the hug, but Kuroo’s face washed with both relief and elation. He was giddy and his heart felt so full, it felt like it could burst. He squeezed you even harder as he pressed his lips to the top of your head.

“I love you.”