heocrisy

[heocrisy]

♱ You've caught yourself an angel.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

(♡) 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: simeon is in love.

(♡) 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀: gender-neutral reader, second-person pov, tooth-rotting fluff, i really want him to tell me he’s proud of me

(you can find mammon’s version here!)

━━━━━━━━━━━━ ◃:✮.❃⭒❁

Simeon loves to see you with Luke. 𐐪♡𐑂

He's partial to watching you two bake. His heart always melts, seeing the pair of you laugh as flour powders your matching aprons, or Luke pout in annoyance as you bend down to swipe frosting onto his tiny nose, or when you give the little angel a batter-covered spoon, and tease him when he gets some on his chin. He has an entire gallery in his phone, filled to the brim with pictures of the two of you (“but don’t tell Luke that, or he might be embarrassed”).

Simeon loves when you tell him his food is good. 𐐪♡𐑂

The minute you say it, the minute those words leave your lips, the minute you tell him something he made for you is that delicious... oh, he's on cloud nine. His stomach rouses with butterflies as he gives you a shy laugh and an angelic (heh) grin and a "Thank you", and basks in the sweet feeling of your smile. He'll be sure to cook for you more often.

Simeon loves to listen to you ramble. 𐐪♡𐑂

It's the highlight of any time he spends with you. He can listen for hours, his soft heart growing that much softer as he watches your eyes sparkle, your eyebrows crinkle, your grin grow bigger by the second. He doesn't care what the topic is - if it can make you that happy, it means he has more of an excuse to look at you.

Simeon loves when you read to him. 𐐪♡𐑂

Simeon adores your voice. When you read, he notices, your tone levels out to something so sweet, it puts him to sleep most of the time. You tell him he has the same effect on you. He's a little embarrassed to admit it, but he - like Belphie - loves when you let him lay his head in your lap, and he can watch you from below as you recite the words of whatever book you brought with you to Purgatory Hall. In return, he'll happily open his own lap and shoulders up for you when he reads.

Simeon loves to embrace you. 𐐪♡𐑂

The setting doesn't matter too much, but he loves to hold you when you sleep. You talk amongst the tawny light of the lamp in his room, in the form of hushed whispers and giggles. “How was your day?” and “How have you been lately?” are the two questions you can always bet he’ll ask you. After some idle-but-quiet conversation, he’ll hold you to his chest, maybe stroke your cheek, and kiss your forehead softly - you can feel the smile on his lips as he does so. Reciprocate, and you earn yourself a smile comparable to the sun. Then the angel will wish you goodnight and sweet dreams, and hug you close in his arms until morning.

Simeon loves when you give him things. 𐐪♡𐑂

At first, he’s too humble, just a bit too shy, to take anything you’ve worked hard so on. He’ll happily accept it once convinced, though. Simeon doesn’t care what you’ve made or bought for him - if it’s coming from you, it’s a piece of treasure. While it’s said that angels are, by nature, humble creatures, he won’t pass up the chance to show off what you gave him. Subtly, of course. An angel is still an angel.

Simeon loves you. 𐐪♡𐑂

And he wouldn't trade you for the world.

[heocrisy]

Promise To You

Warning (I think): Toxic family

Jade knew you since you were a guppy. Your parents brought you along to the Leech estate for a formal visit. Your parents were there for business, and you to be a playmate. No parent wanted to force their child to play with the Leech brothers after someone went missing in the kelp forest nearby, except for yours.

It wasn’t Jade and Floyd’s fault that some kid went missing if the child was stupid enough to get lost. You were so scared when your parents ushered you to go play, despiste Mrs. Leech being so welcoming and telling you to come back inside if you needed anything. Jade and Floyd led you to their backyard. You were still so scared. Even when you played tag with them, it felt like you were prey to be eaten alive. 

You weren’t caught until the end of the game, when you were breathing in heavy exhaustion. Jade tagged you, because you were an easy target. It was the only time he had terrorized you that day.

.

.

.

The twins didn’t notice you the following year at elementary school. Instead, you stayed behind the crowd with an octo-mer. You never talked to him much except when you needed to partner with someone for some stupid activity.

Azul was his name, and he told you about the middle school he would be going to. It was far away, a boarding school. An academy. 

You told your parents about it in hopes you’d be able to go. Maybe Azul wasn’t exactly your friend, but he was the only connection you had outside of your house. Surprisingly, they let you go. 

The Leech brothers were at the same academy. This time, they noticed you. Sure, they recognized you from the summer when your families were doing business, but this time, they weren’t forced to acknowledge your presence.

It was the first time Jade actually noticed you, along with Azul. You all became friends. Actual friends, not forced. You hung out after school, and played tag around small kelp forests you could find your way out of. You also had a sleepover during the break over at Azul’s house. Only the leech twins had ever been to your house, and that was for business between families.

.

.

.

Only once did Jade go over to your house alone. He said it was because Floyd had forgotten something from the last time they were over, and only just noticed. None of it was true. Jade lied deliberately.

You weren’t coming to school, and Jade wanted to know if something happened. He knew that you dreaded going home over the holidays, and dreaded the weekends when your parents called you back. But you never missed a school day. 

You’ve never said anything, but Jade could see the sadness of going home was real in your eyes. Jade wanted to know why you were missing school, but he couldn’t say you were the reason. Maybe you would get in trouble, and he would be the reason his friend got hurt. 

Your skin was pale, and cruelly cold. Circles under your eyes were dark and vicious. To the left of you on your simple dresser, there was a tray of uneaten food. It took all your energy to just barely get up and move the shell where your head had been resting away. Jade helped you sit up, and looked at you with an expression you’ve never seen on him before. 

Worry. 

Intrusive worry locked in his vexed eyes.

You weren’t taking proper care of yourself, and nobody bothered to tell you to do so. Jade didn’t like it. It was unfair that you became his friend and now you tried to leave. He wouldn’t let you. 

Despite your dead state, Jade coming over gave you the most inspiration of life you’ve had all week.

“Take care of yourself, or you will always be stuck here.”

That day, Jade left you a gift. It was a delicate blue shell strung on a thin, black velvet cord as a necklace for you to wear. To always remember him when you were away, and needed someone. Even if it was only a memory to look back on. 

.

.

.

After middle school, you spent the summer in the Sunshine Lands with the twins and Azul. All of you got accepted into Night Raven College. Together, you went to work with volunteers and learn how to survive on land. Turns out, a fork wasn’t called a dinglehopper.

The times you stumbled into Jade were uncountable. Sometimes he’d fall down with you, and other times he’d manage to save himself. You laughed even though it hurt, and Jade remembered all of it. That was the first time he heard you laugh. Really laugh, not just dare to smile at a funny joke. Even if the times were uncountable, Jade didn’t need to count to remember. 

Jade memorized the magical sound. He memorized the feeling of your skin when you gripped onto him for support, and he’d always let you. 

.

.

.

During your first year at NRC, it was the best Jade had ever seen you. The happiest. You laughed without the weight of it being a crime on your shoulders, you smiled truthfully without deceit pulling your mask up, and worried only about school. Even when you were placed in the dormitory deemed the most shady, you weren’t worried about primitive emotions being a murderer. 

All your classes were with Jade, which he enjoyed more than he should have. Your room was across the hall from his, which was very convenient. 

Even when his mother sent him letters and asked about everything happening on land, he never said a word about you. Despite his mothers honest heart, Jade wouldn’t say a word. Even if he was asked directly about you, he wouldn’t say. The answers were vague if at all. Jade knew whatever he said about you would be reported back to your parents. 

Jade refused to make you afraid in a place where you had no shadows. 

.

.

.

Jade visited you almost every night to share new information about plants and fungi. You were the only one that didn’t mind his ramblings, and even helped him in his research. Jade liked you more than he should have. He knew that. 

It was a relieving miracle that your parents couldn’t reach the surface. They would never allow you to date. Especially Jade.

.

.

But he didn’t care. Jade still spent more time in your dorm room than he did in his own, and was quick to fill up your schedule with hikes and library ‘dates’. Over all these years, Jade grew attached to you. Floyd and Azul noticed it more than anyone else. 

Jade would wait for you in the mirror chamber to walk to class together, and had a habit of carrying too many extra pencils in case you lost yours, or misplaced your sharpener. He got irked when you had assigned partners for a history project rather than picking your own. 

.

.

.

Around winter break, Jade noticed your mental state and how you tanked. The sadness in your heart spiked. It wasn’t until he told you that the waters were too icy to swim through, that you calmed down.

“Why are you so afraid of going back?” 

And you told Jade all of it. 

Your parents never cared, and you were more an item to them than anything else. Mistakes were costly in your house, and you were taught to never make them twice. By any means. You were so afraid to go back to that desolate place, where the people who were supposed to love you were colder than the algid ocean depths. It was so lonely at the home that was a house. 

Jade pulled you to him and promised 

“I’ll do everything I can. You’re too dear to me to let you be hurt”

.

.

.

In the white winter cold, there was a warm crackling fire that warmed you from the inside. 

During that first year away from the Coral Sea, Jade found it easy to go on hikes alone with you, helping you up steep hills by giving you his hand to hold. It was easy to close the newly developed Mostro Lounge with just you, and sneak out for a walk afterwards. It was easy, and quick, to weasel an arm around you and hold you close while he read to you from a book on plants. He would point out the pictures to you and ask what you thought about it. For you, it was easy to be distracted by the contact, and flush red in embarrassment when Jade teased you. Asking what you’re thinking of instead of your comments on the book.

.

.

.

Walking after hours was Jade’s favorite. In the night where only the inky blanket of uncharted stars could gaze down on you, did Jade find it extremely easy to finally place his lips on yours. Kissing you where no one could see. 

.

.

.

Obviously Floyd and Azul found out. 

You looked at one another like all the secrets of the world were in each other's eyes. Floyd caught you holding hands under the desk in Alchemy, and would have called you out if he didn’t want to be chewed out by Crewel. 

Azul found out in practical magic class. You were sparring with Jade, and Azul could tell he was holding back on you. The first time he and Jade sparred, Jade had no mercy for Azul. But with you, Jade was quick to help you up.

Jade was never nice. 

And it was the way you held onto Jade before continuing to spar that gave it away.

.

.

.

Azul and Floyd messed with the two of you. Making little quips and remarks about the two of you being a couple.

Before long, summer came. You didn’t want to leave. 

Jade sat by you and held you to him while you wept in his embrace

“I don't want to go, Jade. I don’t want to go back to being a doll. I don’t want to leave you…”

“I’ll take you away as much as I can.”

.

.

.

It didn’t happen. 

You were away in different regions of the Sea, and were never home. Jade couldn’t visit when you came back, because the housekeeper would send him away. You were placed in a different treasury before he could steal you away like a thief in the night. Even if he managed to see you, your parents took you away before he could really check up on you. 

Mrs. Leech set up a date to meet with your family, partners in business that they were. Jade was ecstatic and relieved, but while conversation was friendly and business talk was business, you weren’t there for it. 

“Why isn’t (Y/n) present?” Jade asked

“Oh, you’re sweet for giving thought to the dear thing, but (Y/n) is at home resting. Too tired from traveling and all that.” your mother waved it off like it was nothing. 

“I see...” Jade said, and smiled politely.

.

.

After a while, Jade excused himself. 

He stayed long enough to avoid suspicion, and it was clear that your parents would be staying longer.

Jade went to your house, and creeped up to the windows. He didn’t know if the housekeeper was there, and he couldn’t take any risks. Eventually, he found your window. It felt like his heart lurched out of him. You weren’t resting at all, like your parents said. You were packing. The cheerful warmth of his heart turned to fragile ice, and then shattered in protective rage.

Jade tapped on your window. You rushed over, and opened it with blurry eyes that couldn’t see. He held you tightly.

“You can’t be leaving again.”

“I refused to go to some stupid academy in the sea. I said I didn’t want to. That I wouldn’t. And now they’re sending me away for the summer too.” 

“I can see.”

“..They only want me to go for their benefit.”

“I know..”

Jade took a closer look at you. Your eyes were bloodshot, you were ghostly pale, and everything about you was in disarray. Your hair that he wanted to smooth and touch, your chapped lips that he wanted to kiss and feel, your skin, so cold, that Jade wanted to throw a blanket over and wrap you in. 

You were still wearing that necklace. The delicate blue seashell strung on a black velvet cord. To remember him when you needed someone.

To remember Jade as a happy memory.

.

.

.

Jade left knowing that was the last time he’d ever see you. 

He embraced you goodbye and kissed you goodbye. He kissed you because it was the last time he would have the chance with his first and only love. The last time he could see you before any fragment left of your smile disappeared like it was never there. Like he never saw you happy. Happy with him, away from this nightmare that haunted your heart, mind, and soul.

Love was fickle, Jade knew, but goodbyes shouldn’t hurt this bad. Goodbyes were unforgiving arrows doused in poison that never missed its target. The unsuspecting heart that learned love, now only knew loss. 

You were gone forever, only living in his shattered heart and the memories that were too painful. The memories that stabbed him and wrenched out everything still good in him, and made his eyes blurry and bloodshot.

Goodbyes were never good. 

.

.

.

Second year. 

Jade was cruel and cold. He did his assigned tasks, had no problems using people, screwing them over because life isn’t fair, and he didn’t care who it affected. 

They didn’t matter to him. 

Only you did, and you were gone. Away in the sea, whereabouts unknown. He couldn’t find you. The sea was endless, and you could be anywhere. It was ironic, how Jade was stranded on an island. It was somewhere you could swim to, but of course you were somewhere in the Coral Sea with merfolk that weren’t good enough for you, and didn’t deserve you. Jade couldn’t stop thinking about you. 

You were either alone and suffering, your heart as broken as his, or you moved on. Someone else was with you. Your parents probably picked someone for you.

The thought made Jade curl his fist and dig his nails into his skin. 

.

.

.

Winter came by, and Jade was still miserable. He was better, but he couldn’t forget. Never would he. 

Jade was locking up the lounge. Azul had left an hour before and he told Floyd to go on ahead. He walked silently through the elegant halls of Octavinelle.

And then someone, a person who was wearing plain clothing, came into view.

.

.

Your eyes lit with hope when you saw his teal hair with the streak of black on the right. It was him, Jade Leech. Your love. 

You ran towards him and wrapped your arms around him. 

“Jade!”

“I don’t understand. How are you here? The water is unmanageable to swim through…You’re so cold..” Jade said, taking off his blazer to put around your shoulders. 

“I pulled through. I missed you.” He hugged you back to him. Holding you so tight like if he doesn’t you’ll freeze right where you stood.

Jade kissed you hello. Multiple times because this couldn’t be the last. Never would a goodbye come again.

You wiped the tears fallen from both your eyes, and smiled.

“Jade…I don’t want to stay in that school. I want to stay here. With you. Don’t let them take me back…”

“I will never let them.”

.

.

.

You slept in your old dorm room for the night, the first peaceful night's rest that you ever got. There was a pillow for your head instead of a shell. And a warm blanket that you could snuggle in from the tedious swim up to land. After draining yourself with magic to make it through the ice, you had to climb onto the frozen water closer to the beach to take the changing potion. Even Jade said you were cold. 

.

.

 Sun trickled through the light gray curtains of your room. The rays whispered to everything it could reach, rippling gentle warmth through the room. The haze layed over you, making you shield your eyes and sink deeper into the feathery pillow. A pair of arms tugged you, lulling you to warmth and comfort. A kiss was placed on the crown of your head as a cool hand drew unidentifiable shapes on your back. The other land played with the velvet cord of your necklace. You lifted your heavy eyelids to see the morning light. Jade had messy hair and love-struck eyes. He was gazing softly at you, still half-asleep.

“Good morning, my love.”

“‘Morning.” you snuggled into Jade further, and hid into the blankets that kept you warm. 

“Would you like to do anything today?”

“Mm, Stay here. I don’t want to get up.”

“Speaking of staying, I made arrangements for you to be enrolled back to Night Raven College,”

“In one night? How..?”

“What matters is that you’re here, and staying for good. In your bed or otherwise. I won't let anyone take you away. As I said, I love you too much to allow you to be hurt.”

“I love you too. So much.”

[heocrisy]

Garfleona and Leonfeld art

[heocrisy]

A Pro"poe"sal

inspired by the many yandere bsd fics ive read. one of the notable poe fic i read is @/spacexseven's "what's a friend for?"

[heocrisy]

𓆩ꨄ︎𓆪 immortality is an abundant curse

pairing : blade x reader

tags : angst, hurt no comfort, reincarnation, canon divergence

word count : 5.3k

crossposted to : AO3

Summary : Like most good things involving his past, Blade keeps them buried deep within, only allowing himself to reminisce in the privacy of his own mind.

or

Blade recalls the events that caused him to curse his immortality.

Blade smirks at the way the Cloud Knights beside him tremble as they escort him to face the General. His footsteps echo throughout the hall— the only thing he could hear in the silence of the Shackling Prison.

He can hear the General address his underling before he feels a gaze settle on him. Glancing up, he wears a fierce expression as he meets Jing Yuan’s eyes.

The General speaks, “Do you remember me?”

“I remember,” he states, the following words grained into his mind as if they were coded into his very being.

“Of five people, three must pay a price,” Blade starts, smirking at the way the two visibly tense.

“You are not one of them, Jing Yuan.”

Before the General’s young protégé has a chance to react, Blade breaks free from his shackles, the metal flying off his wrists with ease. The Cloud Knights react a moment too late, allowing him the window of opportunity he needs to act first and throw them back.

A watery sword flies past his face, but he merely leans to the side out of the way.

Despite the young swordsman’s skills, his lack of experience and the gap between them is apparent.

With a triumphant expression, he looks to Jing Yuan, anger filling his gaze.

“Goodbye, General. I have more important matters to attend to,” Blade states before disappearing within the shadows of the prison. He can hear Jing Yuan hurriedly command his men to chase after him, but he knows nothing will come of it.

As Destiny’s Slave predicted, they were woefully unprepared, he thinks to himself.

The moment he’s out of their vicinity, that once smug expression falls, returning to its usual stoic, empty state. In his times of solitude, he seems to wear this blank expression often. Without the fires of vengeance fueling his emotions, he becomes a husk of who he used to be.

For a moment, he glances back at the prison he fled from.

Jing Yuan.

While he’s certain he’d be able to pin some sort of blame on the man for his suffering, he refuses to do so. There’s various reasons, but one stands out in his mind as the most prominent.

After all, there was once a time that he trusted his most precious treasure to the man. And that treasure of his was rather fond of the General.

Blade feels a small sliver of warmth at the memory.

Of course, you’d never forgive him if he brought his wrath upon Jing Yuan. You easily angered when he bickered with the man, insisting that the two had to talk it out and make amends. With your peacemaking, he could never stay mad at the other for long.

Besides, he thinks, there are others more directly responsible.

Staring blankly ahead, he pushes the thought aside as he arrives at the designated rendezvous point, eyes gazing off into the distance as Kafka approaches him.

“It took you long enough, Bladie. Thought I’d have to go ahead and get myself arrested without you here,” Kafka chides lightheartedly, “Did the General start monologuing or did you keep me waiting on purpose?”

“I waited for the opportunity to escape, as the slave instructed me to do,” he responds curtly. Kafka looks at him with a small smile.

“Still with that? Elio prefers being called by name, Blade,” she teases. Blade ignores her comment, focusing instead on the way his “name” sounds as she speaks.

“Blade” is but another thing borrowed from others to keep himself afloat. From the clothes on his back to this new name of his, it seems like everything holding him up is borrowed. Even long before he acquired said name, everything he owned was not his.

At least, almost everything. Though, it fills him with bitterness as ghosts of the past enter his head, lingering and meddling in his conscious mind.

Aside from his true name, you were his, were you not? Of course, he’d given you his heart and received yours in return, but that relationship was something that unequivocally belonged to him. It was not something gifted to him, nor was it something lent to him by a bosom friend.

What he had with you was something only the pair of you could understand or claim ownership over. A connection unlike any other— had he been more of an optimist, he’d have called you his soulmate.

Or, rather, if you were still around, perhaps the word “soulmate” wouldn’t drip off his tongue like venom.

Alas, aside from his past relationship, he, too, has his true name. Ren, a name that also belonged to him. Despite that, he prefers to continue on as “Blade” or “the unnamed.”

The name only served as a constant reminder of what is absent, however, so he no longer uses it. Just as he’s grown to no longer recognize the reflection staring back at him in the mirror, the name “Ren” seems less like his own and instead that of a stranger.

Without you there to say his name in the voice he’d once adored, his name became nothing but an untouched fragment of his past.

Alongside his memories of you, he refuses to allow his real name to be tainted by the vengeance, anger, and bitterness that fuels him today.

Like most good things involving his past, Blade keeps them buried deep within, only allowing himself to reminisce in the privacy of his own mind.

“…en! Ren!” a familiar voice calls out to him. Blade cracks open his eyes, finding that he is no longer his Stellaron Hunter self, but Ren.

He remembers this, unable to stop himself from smiling as he sees you fast approaching, a wide, loving smile on your face as your eyes meet. Ren doesn’t need to look around to know that he’s in a memory of his past— much preferring to enjoy this moment.

“You’re back early! Jing Yuan said you’d be out until sundown,” you chime, stopping in front of him. Glancing behind you, Ren spots the General, who offers a casual wave. Chuckling, he looks down at you.

“I finished my duties earlier than expected, so I returned early. What have you been up to? Causing the General trouble?” he asks teasingly, You hit him gently on the arm— a touch not meant to hurt— one that he misses dearly— before smiling.

“He’s causing me trouble, Ren. I’ve been trying to gather herbs and work, but he’s been bothering me incessantly! He seems to only live up to the title of ‘Dozing General’ when it suits him!” you outwardly complain. Ren has to hold back laughter lest he further provoke your ire, so he distracts himself by looking back at Jing Yuan with a quizzical expression.

“I was only telling this one that they work too hard... they could afford to learn a thing or two from my reputation. Ren, why do you allow them to continue overworking like this?” Jing Yuan questions, a docile smile on his face as he approaches, placing a hand on your shoulder.

“It’s because Ren gets injured all the time! He lets me work hard because he likes being pampered,” you retort, glancing over at him with a teasing smile. Ren narrows his eyes.

“I do not enjoy being pampered, as you so claim. You’re merely skilled at healing, so naturally, I’ll come to you for aid,” Ren responds simply. You raise a brow at him before your eyes wander to his arm, gasping.

“Hey! Why didn’t you say you were injured? Come on— I’m patching this up now! See, General? This is precisely why I had to find those medicinal herbs today!” You insist, dragging him off so you can properly tend to his wounds.

While you gather your needed supplies, Ren engages in a game of chess with the other man, using his good arm as you take hold of his injured one with a careful gentleness.

“Ren. Are you that unskilled of a swordsman, or are you doing this on purpose?” Jing Yuan inquires as he observes the board. Ren clicks his tongue.

“Neither. Even our enemies are able to strike me from time to time. I’m not immune to getting injured,” he says, wincing a bit as you disinfect his wound. The other man laughs.

“You also aren’t immortal, Ren. You and this restless lover of yours have short lives. You shouldn’t be so careless,” Jing Yuan scolds, overtaking him and winning their match with ease as if to punctuate his point. You laugh.

“Please, I keep forgetting you’re an old man. You know, I’m not exactly young either. Besides, there’s no such thing as true immortality. There never will be, so don’t be so silly, General. None of us are immortal, and I’m certain none of us take our lives for granted,” you speak gently. Ren glances at you, smiling.

“If we’re truly talking about someone considerably old, then shouldn’t we be talking about—” Ren is cut off by another voice.

“How many times must I mention this? I am not that old.” Imbibitor Lunae approaches with a terse expression. Ren opens his mouth to offer a greeting, but is interrupted once more.

“Injured again? You are lucky your lover is an adept healer, though you should be more careful,” the dragon says before seating himself at the table.

“That’s what I keep saying, but he never listens!” you insist, wrapping bandages around his injury before sighing, “Ren, you’re lucky I love you enough to do this for you.”

“Oh? Does that mean you’re allowing me to make a habit of this?” Ren asks.

“Absolutely not!” you retaliate.

The group bursts into laughter, even Lunae happens to be holding back a faint smile at your annoyance towards Ren’s carelessness.

Ren can’t hold back his own fond expression as he looks around the table— happy to be surrounded by those he cherished, by the people he loved.

Then, his smile falls as his eyes settle on you once more, and he has to remind himself that this is but a memory.

A phantom of what used to be.

No longer is he surrounded by the warmth of close friends. No longer is he familiar with the gentle touch of his lover— all of this is a distant part of his now extended life.

During these times, he was happy.

Despite being surrounded by Vidyadharas, Xianzhou natives, and Foxians, he adored the life he once had. Unlike many others, he did not lament over the span of his life in comparison to those around him. Even if his existence was short-lived, he would be allowed to spend it in its entirety with you.

You were both destined to have a short lifespan, but how lucky he was to be able to spend the entirety of his ephemeral existence with you. The Aeons had truly smiled upon him, allowing him the opportunity to live a fulfilling life alongside someone who had the same outlook.

You both saw the direct effects of chasing after immortality— witnessing the havoc brought by the Denizens of Abundance. Aside from that, having each other was enough to keep you both content.

You’d live together, then you’d eventually die together.

You were supposed to live and die together.

Ren was never supposed to be alive without you by his side.

With that bitterness, the memory quickly fades back into black, another voice bringing him back to the reality he wishes never was.

“Blade? Bladie! Have you always been this unresponsive?” Kafka murmurs. Blade huffs.

“I was thinking,” he mutters.

“I didn’t know you could do that, but could it wait? We still have work to do. First things first, you’re covered in blood, and I have no interest in knowing whose it is, but you should clean it,” Kafka mentions. Blade doesn’t need to look to know it’s his own.

His expression becomes grim at the glaring reminder of what he is: immortal with a monstrous healing ability. More importantly, he’s unable to die.

Blade has become considerably inhuman. Healing salves and medicine are things of the past to him. No longer does he need careful hands to clean his wounds— he just allows them to scar over these days.

Distantly, he can hear your voice echoing in his mind, scolding him for not taking care of himself— insisting that he had to clean his injuries lest they scar over.

But he sees no point. If it isn’t the familiar warmth of his lover, he doesn’t want any sort of first aid or assistance.

Perhaps, each scar is a manifestation of the monster he’s become. Maybe it’s merely his way of punishing himself. Either way, he cares little about it. He thinks it’s counterproductive to ponder about these sorts of things. Thoughts seldom bring back the dead.

“There you go again, lost in your head,” Kafka complains, crossing her arms. “At least enlighten me. You remember parts of your past, don’t you? Care to share with the class?”

Blade remains silent, causing Kafka to laugh a bit.

“Come on. There must be a reason that you’re gloomy and pissed all the time in private. You only have that aggressive ferocity when it has to do with your revenge. Otherwise, you’re practically a husk. So? What’s your story?” she asks with a smirk. He looks away, expression remaining a blank slate.

Such things aren’t her business. Those memories would remain untouched.

“Beyond my need and targets for vengeance, I don’t remember anything,” he claims in a monotonous tone. Clearly, it’s convincing enough for Kafka because she quickly continues with her own train of thought.

“Well, I’ve heard through the grapevine that you used to be less… bland. You used to be cheerful, apparently. I can’t imagine it, personally, much less what could’ve happened to change you into the polar opposite. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if it was just a rumor,” Kafka muses.

“I can hardly believe it. It’s likely just a baseless rumor,” Blade expresses, though deep down his chest tightens. Reminded of your expression, he knows that there indeed exists a time where he could truly consider himself happy.

All of it is so far in the past that he hardly remembers how it feels— true joy. He’s familiar with the burning sensation rage brought, and the slight satisfaction of getting the upper hand— but happiness?

Much like his former self, it’s a concept that’s become foreign to him.

Despite how he may feel about that, it’s unimportant. The joy of his past is insignificant in the face of the tragedy of your passing and his “prosperity.”

Nothing can change the fact that you’re gone and he, by some curse, isn’t.

Above all else, revenge on your behalf is Blade’s top priority.

He still needs to pay for taking everything away from him.

For cursing him with his current disposition.

Initially, Blade— Ren is naive to just how awful a curse immortality is.

On the brink of a premature death, he lies near motionless in Imbibitor Lunae’s arms, vision blurring in and out of focus. Breathing is painful, yet his body is numb.

He rasps out your name, wishing only to see your face in his final moments— wishing that he had more time with you.

It’s too soon— I need more time, he thinks to himself.

I don’t want to die.

Perhaps, Imbibitor Lunae can hear these thoughts of his, or perhaps, driven by his own desires, refuses to allow Ren to die.

Before he knows it, it feels as if a new life is being breathed into him, his body rapidly healing, taking in a sharp inhale as his vision clears and his body repairs itself.

With wide eyes, he looks to the Vidyadhara, communicating all of his thoughts through a single expression.

Fear.

“I’m… healed..? I feel different… you…” Ren trails off. The other does not speak, and the silence is the answer he needs.

He says nothing. Because that day, he is allowed to return home to you and your loving warmth. Ren fools himself into believing that, perhaps, immortality is a blessing in certain circumstances.

Wrapped up in your arms once more, he actually believes himself to be lucky to have immortality bestowed upon him.

However, just as quick as Lunae made the decision to breathe immortality into him, he’s reminded of why immortality is nothing but a curse of abundance.

Ren finds himself coming to believe that he would’ve been better off dying and awaiting your arrival in the afterlife. Though he would’ve broken his promise to live and die by your side, you both would’ve been better off.

You both would’ve been happier.

Instead, he’s forced to watch you slowly crumble with age. Strangely, you never visually grow any older, but he can see the way your body slows— the pain you’re in.

Jing Yuan, Lunae, and himself are forced to watch as your cheery disposition mellows out as you grow older, unable to run around and gather herbs as you once did, hardly able to keep fighting alongside everyone else anymore.

Despite that, you still dutifully mend his wounds. You make no comment on his immortality or the pace at which he healed— you never did since finding out about it. Whether it’s for his sake or yours, he doesn’t know.

He doesn’t know if you detest him for it.

With time, your mellowness becomes weakness until you can only be out for a couple of hours at a time— bedbound when your body no longer allows for activity.

Your outlook is grim. Ren knows this just as well as his close confidants do, but he never leaves your side. His love for you never wavers.

Just as you did for him in your younger years, he cares for you dutifully. The man makes your meals, mixes your medicine, entertains you— anything you need.

Though you both remain the perfect picture of your younger selves, your body is breaking down while Ren remains as he did the day he was granted immortality.

Desperately, Ren attempts to ignore your incoming demise— trying to push down his pain when he sees you become more and more tired, the color of your eyes dulling with each passing day— the only physical sign that you’re nearing your end.

Before he knows it, before he’s ready, that fateful day arrives.

Ren is forced to leave your side to tend to his duties. As much as he doesn’t want to, he has to go, hardly able to bring himself to walk away, let alone bid farewell, even if it’s temporary.

“Leaving…? When will you be back?” you ask in a gentle voice, the warmth never leaving your tone no matter how weak you’ve become. Ren smiles softly, trying to save face as he runs his fingers through your hair.

“By nightfall. I’ll be back by your side before you know it,” he promises. There’s an expression in your eyes that he can’t quite place, but you speak before he can acknowledge it.

“Ah… but it always feels so long for me,” you mention with a light laugh. The sentence holds an unspoken weight, acknowledging the vast differences in your lifespans. Ren has to hold back tears as he leans down and kisses your forehead.

“Either way, I’ll be back today. I won’t keep you waiting,” he says, pulling away. Ren glances over at the door where Imbibitor Lunae and Jing Yuan stand, soon forcing himself from your side and walking over.

“They’ll be okay,” Jing Yuan states, a silent oath to watch over you visible in his determined expression. Ren nods, preparing to leave before you call out.

“Ren?”

He looks back at you.

“Yes? What is it? Is something wrong?” he asks. You pause, searching his expression.

“If something happens… Promise you’ll find your way back to me,” you say. Ren’s heart tightens at the fragility in your gaze— the worry in your tone. Forcing another smile, he hopes to reassure you.

“Nothing will happen to me. I promise. I’ll return to you,” he swears. For a moment, you seem like you have something else to say, but bite your tongue. Instead, you nod, regarding him with a saddened yet adoring expression.

“If you insist. Goodbye, Ren. I love you,” you say.

“See you again, my love. I love you too,” he responds and walks out the door.

The day passes and upon his return, he wishes that he’d never left in the first place.

“They’re gone, Ren. I walked away for just a moment and they left,” Jing Yuan insists.

“It can’t be that simple! They have to be around here somewhere— we have to find them!” Ren insists in a panic, about to dash out the door.

This time, Lunae stops him with a firm grip of his shoulder.

“They’re no longer with us. It’s been hours since their disappearance. Jing Yuan already searched tirelessly and fruitlessly,” the Vidyadhara reminds him. Ren wants to retaliate— he desperately wants to insist that you must be out there, but Jing Yuan interrupts him before he can start.

“I had a feeling. They said goodbye to you, Ren. They knew. I don’t think they wanted us to see them like that. They didn’t want us to remember them in… this state,” Jing Yuan explains, a grim expression on his face as he glances over at the empty bed. Ren feels his heart shatter, tearing himself away from the two.

“No! I have to see it for myself!” he insists angrily, running off in hopes that you’d be out collecting herbs like you always did— hoping that you’d return to him with a loving smile.

Ren never found you.

Years passed, and aside from tales written in stories and memories, it was as if you never existed.

No matter how hard he looked, he never found you, dead or alive.

As time continued on without you, his resentment grew as grief shattered his mind. Ren learned the true pain of being immortal— living knowing that all he’d ever loved had departed from this world.

Ren will never meet you in the afterlife. And you will never return.

This fact causes him to bury his memories beneath vengeance and fury— his mind set on delivering karmic debt to those who caused this predicament. Cutting himself off from who he used to be, he wanders— an unnamed whose existence becomes bathed in blood.

He’s desperate to die— to meet you once more, but he'll be unable to face you if he doesn’t drag those who caused this down with him. Immortality is a sin, but more so is the centuries he’s been keeping you waiting in the netherworld.

It is then that he meets Kafka and Destiny’s Slave, Elio.

While unable to return you to him, they provide the promise of death in return for his cooperation.

Thus, “Blade” was born, now enacting his plans for vengeance in hopes that at the end of it all,

He’ll be freed from this curse, finally able to reunite with you in death.

Firm in his resolve, he turns towards Kafka once more, having become clearly disinterested given the way he continuously ignored her.

“We shouldn’t idle around. Let’s go,” Blade states, eyes alight with passionate fury once more.

Aboard another section of the Xianzhou Luofu, a lone Vidyadhara stares curiously at a pair of wanted posters newly plastered on the bulletin.

Eyes trained on the male, you feel your heart tighten, a strange feeling of longing filling your chest.

“Blade… Blade…?” The name feels foreign on your tongue, but the face of this man is anything but. A single tear rolls down your face, causing you to reach up, wiping it away with slight confusion.

“Why am I…?” your voice trails off as you look back at the photo. It all feels so familiar, but you’re unable to place it. It’s disheartening.

“Hey! There you are!” a young voice calls out. You turn around, smiling as a young swordsman prances up to you.

“My apologies, I didn’t know you were looking for me,” you say softly. Yanqing hums.

“Not me, the General. The Healer Lady finished your medicine and she wants to see you aga— are you okay? Were you crying?” he asks worriedly, concern etched into his features. You laugh lightly and glance back at the poster. Yanqing’s eyes follow your gaze and he has to hold back a gasp upon realizing what you were looking at.

“It’s nothing. This man just seems… familiar to me. It’s been so long and everything is still so foggy to me… I wonder if he’s from my previous incarnation, but I cannot be certain,” you explain, clearly distressed. Yanqing gently grabs your hand, leading you forward.

“W-Well! Lady Bailu always says you shouldn’t force it, so let’s get going. You can talk with her about it. I’m sure she’ll give you much more insight than I could,” he chimes. You smile, nodding in agreement.

“That’s true. Bailu is far more familiar with this than I am despite reincarnating much more recently than I. I’m grateful to have been in her care. Oh, and of course, I’m plenty grateful that the General has been caring for me now, as well,” you hum, allowing the boy to drag you off to the Seat of Divine Foresight.

Upon your arrival, the General glances over with a fond smile. This man also seems very familiar to you, but as Yanqing mentioned, forcing memories of your past is unwise. Without having anyone who knew your last incarnate, you just had to wait. If they return, they would do so naturally.

“General! I found them,” the boy called out. Jing Yuan nods.

“Welcome back. How was your stroll?” he asks kindly. You walk over, offering a warm expression.

“It was lovely. Though I can’t journey out behind the Exalting Sanctum, I still enjoy the scenery,” you express. Jing Yuan chuckles.

“I'm glad you don’t mind the restriction. It’s for safety purposes. Of course, I’m sure your work with Bailu will allow you more freedom. It’d just be better if you didn’t venture out without an escort,” Jing Yuan explains, watching as you acknowledge his statement with a smile.

“I know, and I understand why. Ah, Lady Bailu is waiting for me, right? She’s checking up on me, then I have to tend to my duties with her,” you mention. The General nods.

“She’ll be here shortly. While I still have you here, have any new memories come through?” he asks curiously, a slight glimmer of hope in his eyes. You look away, that painful feeling returning once more.

“Yes, but… it’s… that man in the wanted posters. He looks so familiar to me, but the name doesn’t feel right,” you murmur before offering a wry smile. “Perhaps he just reminds me of someone I once knew? I’m not certain, but it’s something.”

Jing Yuan remains silent for a moment before brushing it off quickly before you notice. With a sympathetic smile, he walks over and places a gentle hand on your shoulder.

“Even so, it’s a step closer towards remembering. Now, why don’t you await Bailu’s arrival outside? I have a few matters I need to discuss with Yanqing,” the General says. You glance between the two before bowing politely.

“Of course. I’ll see you two later. Yanqing. Stop by later so I can replace the bandage on your face. If you don’t keep it clean, it’ll scar,” you chide lightly. Yanqing pouts a bit at your insistence but agrees nonetheless.

“I will! See you later!” he chimes. You wave at the pair before exiting the hall. Soon after you leave, the young boy’s expression falls, looking over at the General.

“I know Blade is evil, but… is this really right, General? Keeping their memories from them and hiding their existence from him seems…” Yanqing trails off. Jing Yuan releases a deep exhale.

Truthfully, your return had come as a shock to him as well. Just as Ren did, he firmly believed you were a human.

Imagine his shock when you returned, not as a human, but a Vidyadhara. It was then that he learned that, like Imbibitor Lunae, your horns and tail would appear at your will, and your ears were far less pointy than your draconic counterparts.

When you had disappeared that day, you had done so to properly reincarnate once more. However, he only managed to find you now in your young adult years after seeing you work alongside Bailu.

Since that day, he’d been keeping his promise from ages ago to watch over you and keep you safe. All of it was an easy feat given that you trusted him rather quickly, likely due to an inherent familiarity you had toward him.

You couldn’t remember who he was, those memories buried deep within your consciousness, given that you’d spent years on your own, mind foggy and memories shattered.

While he’s certain that it’s but a matter of time until your memories return, he sincerely hopes it won’t be anytime soon.

Keeping you hidden away from the public eye is difficult enough as is. If you remember, he’ll have no choice but to respect your wishes, no matter what they may be.

Turning towards Yanqing, Jing Yuan gives him a stern gaze.

“Yangqing. It goes beyond the comfort of knowing. If I told Re— Blade, he’d want to remain by their side,” he starts and his expression becomes grim. “Tell me. As he is now, an IPC fugitive and a Stellaron Hunter, do you think Blade could provide them with the life they deserve, or the stability they need?”

Yanqing quiets momentarily before speaking up again, “But..! Back then, you always told me they were so close— that Blade is this way because he lost them. Maybe if he at least knew…”

Jing Yuan sighs. He cannot fault the naivety of a child, let alone the pure hopefulness in his expression, but he has to explain it properly lest the boy do something rash.

“If he knew, he’d stop at nothing to be with them. Right now, he longs for death solely to be reunited with them. Blade has long since abandoned the righteous path. While I cannot fault him for it, I also don’t doubt that he’d burn down the entire Luofu if it meant returning with them,” the General explained. Quickly noticing Yanqing’s saddened expression, he ruffles his hair playfully.

“It’s better this way. I promise you that,” he assures. The young swordsman sighs.

“I know but it’s all so sad! They saw his picture and started crying. I didn’t know what to do…”

“Well, they’ll learn the truth someday. All we can do is keep them safe until then. When the time comes, they’ll make their own decision of what to do with the burden of their past.”

Yanqing frowns. “It seems cruel to have to make that choice. I wish they didn’t have to…”

Jing Yuan hums in agreement, but allows the conversation to taper off, leaving them in silence.

Perhaps, there exists a timeline where neither of you were cursed with immortality— a world where, back in those lighter days, the two of you lived and died together.

However, it seems that the Aeons had other plans for you two. The General considers himself lucky to have been saved from such a tragedy.

After all, Jing Yuan is certain that you and Blade are soulmates. No amount of pain or suffering will change that.

What he’s clueless about is if, or rather, when your memories return to you and you recall the way your soul was once intertwined with Ren’s,

Would you allow it to remain but a distant memory, something to be left to the times of your past? Or…

Would you stray away from the proper path to return to Blade’s side?

Only time can tell, and that time, he knows, is fast approaching.

[heocrisy]

texting them "i want a bf"

pairings gn reader ft. rin, sae, isagi

tags established relationships in all, just fluff, sae + his dry texting🤩

notes wanted to try making these and... yeah <3 enjoy <3

[heocrisy]

like real people do: barbatos

they've seen the world shift and change throughout their long, long lives, but if they could they would have given it all up just to be with you.

~~~~~

I will not ask you where you came from I will not ask and neither will you. Honey, just put your sweet lips on my lips We should just kiss like real people do.

~~~~~

Barbatos’s hands take the intricately decorated teapot resting on the table in front of the Young Master’s guest and pours them a cup of tea. He’s done this a thousand—no, trillions of times before for people and faces he no longer remembers, and he knows this time will be no different. His existence is a tedious one, an existence brought from the concept of time itself. He was formed by nothing and yet shaped by everything, and at the end of it all he will be the last one standing (though he knows that won’t come for a while.)

They’re staring up at him. He knows this, but he chooses to ignore it. Him feigning ignorance isn’t out of malice, and Barbatos is well aware that they don’t get that impression. He ignores them because they’re a mortal being, someone that, no matter how special they are to him, will perish. Time may heal wounds, but it will also consume you whole, as it is an all powerful force that nobody can hope to escape.

And so he pours the tea.

Steam rises from the cup as the white lace tablecloth brushes against his legs. They’re still staring at him, so he offers them a closed eyes smile as he steps away. This does not placate them, and they keep staring. Barbatos sets the teapot down and finally, finally opens his eyes.

“The Young Master will be arriving shortly.” he says, voice as soft as the chiffon formal wear they’re wearing. It’s red, he notes with a stab of jealousy he dares not analyze, and shoves the thought of them in a teal outfit away.

(After all, it is not his place to yearn for them. His thoughts as he drifts to sleep every night may be full of them and the ways in which he wants to serve them, but that is not where he is supposed to be. His forbidden desires of kissing down their neck and mapping out all the beauty marks and scars on their legs and Demon Lord forbid actually pressing his lips into theirs and holding them close until no space was left in between his body and theirs as they slept. It is not his place, it is not his place. It is also not his fault that his mind swarms with scattered memories of your short moments together, stabbing at his perfected facade of devotion like shards of glass in a whirling tornado. He can only hope that the tornado won’t destroy the very castle he calls a home, and that if it so much as grazes its towering walls the Young Master would be gracious enough to forgive him for his misconduct.)

They sigh, fidgeting in their seat. Barbatos knows them well, he knows they hate the stuffy atmosphere and the gorgeous formal clothing they’re made to wear. He knows they’d be much happier in clothes like his, comfortable and easy to move around in. He knows they wish to be in his position, a background figure in everyone’s lives that is barely ever noticed. He doesn’t bother sharing the burden of such a role, knowing they would be competent enough to handle the weight of the universe if it was someday placed on their shoulders.

Though just because they could handle it doesn’t mean they should. That’s why it’s Barbatos’s job to handle that universe. It always has been, and it always will be.

Despite the fact that they look so uncomfortable in their outfit, Barbatos can’t deny how breathtaking they look. He can’t deny it and that's the problem, because even if they were wearing clothes like his (servant’s clothes, clothes that would make them a nobody in the eyes of everyone they cared about, a silent foundation that would never break because if it did, the world would crumble) he would still find them stunning. He can’t say the same for most of the demonic aristocracy as those demons do not know them like he does, and that makes a burst of smugness erupt in his chest. Though he has a better handle of his greed than, say, Mammon, he is still a demon, and they are still just as tempting. The small patches of skin displayed by their formal wear makes him yearn to know them wholly and entirely, but then his mind reminds him that this time, spent with them, is time spent waiting for his Young Lord. It is not time that belongs to them.

“When is Lord Diavolo showing up...?” they ask, hesitating as if afraid to step out of line.

“I am unsure.” he smiles politely, gesturing pointedly towards the teacup in front of them, “In the meantime, would you try some of the tea I brewed? It’s a very high quality blend that the Young Master prefers. I’ve sweetened it with two sugar cubes, so if it’s too sweet please let me know. I will adjust it accordingly.”

“Is...that's how Lord Diavolo likes his tea?” they ask, carefully lifting the teacup.

His eyes roam down their fingers to their wrists to the length of their forearm, and he snaps his gaze back to them before chuckling softly.

“Indeed. He claims I craft the finest sweetened tea in the entire Devildom. I hope it lives up to your expectations.” he hums, watching them like a hawk as they take a small sip of the tea. They sigh, happily, he thinks, and Barbatos feels victorious.

“It’s good.” they say, eyes avoiding him as they set the teacup back on the small matching saucer, the clink echoing through the almost empty room.

Anyone else would mistake their avoidance for disdain or even discomfort, but Barbatos knows what their real reason is. It’s affection, as blatant as it comes, with pure intentions and sweet whispers and an almost unbearable warming of skin. They’re attracted to him, and yet cannot act on it, and he’s in much the same situation. It would be amusing if it wasn’t so saddening, but Barbatos knows his place and he isn’t the type of demon to step out of line.

“I’m glad.” he murmurs, tempted to lean in and watch them squirm under his scrutiny. He doesn’t. Barbatos has more self control than that.

The two of them fall into an easy silence again, and a few more minutes pass before they slump over in their chair. It’s like their perfect facade of patience crumbles before him, and they look up at him, completely exhausted.

“Barbatos, I’m sorry but I don’t know how much longer I can wait for Lord Diavolo. I have schoolwork to do and Beel wanted to eat dinner with me tonight...” they sigh, meeting his gaze as they gnaw at their lower lip, clearly hoping not to offend him.

“No worries. You are not obligated to stay.” he smiles his closed eyed smile, bowing to you with flourish, “I will escort you to the House of Lamentation. It is only fair that as My Lord’s guest, you are taken care of properly.”

He sees the way their shoulders relax at his words, a soft smile blooming across their face. That smile is for him, all for him, and Barbatos feels a sinister glee bubble up in his soul. They don’t notice, because how could they—he’s been around for far longer than them and knows how to control his emotions well.

He extends a hand to them, and they take it without a second thought. So trusting, so naive. It’s one of their good traits, one of the many things he loves about them, but it is also their greatest weakness.

Not that they need to be on their guard around him. While his life’s purpose is to serve the Young Master, he would gladly put his well-being on the line for them as well.

And so he leads them. They follow dutifully, and he cannot begin to describe how delighted that makes him. Barbatos doesn’t normally get to spend time alone with them like this, even though their gaze follows him whenever he goes and their voice sounds so sweet when they call his name. Though a servant he may be, he is also a demon, and they may as well be the greatest temptation he has ever faced before.

Demons are notoriously weak to these temptations.

Their eyes find their way to him again, and he can feel their burning stare. It seems he is not the only one being tempted, and as amusing as that is he reminds himself that he has duties to fulfill. The Young Master’s guest should make it home safe, after all.

“Barbatos?” they call out, stopping in their tracks, “May I ask what Lord Diavolo was doing today? He usually doesn’t miss our meetings.”

Barbatos chuckles at the question, turning to face them with a placating smile. Of course they would be curious.

“The Young Master is on business in the human world. There was a conflict between one of the Devildom businesses and a human one that he believed would be resolved shortly. I have faith that the Young Master will be returning soon, and when he does I will extend another invitation to you.” he hums, eyes raking over their form, “If you’d like, you may select a different outfit for next time. I only say this because demon aristocracy tends to have new outfits tailored for them every formal event. If nothing suits your fancy, please consult me, and I will have it made for you immediately.”

He sees them brighten up a bit at the prospect of another invitation, and Barbatos knows their true motive. They’ve made that plenty clear.

“I...would like something new, actually. I’ve already made up my mind.” they say, stumbling over their words as if nervous to request something of him.

“By all means, tell me. I am at your service.” he replies, giving the hand that he is still holding a gentle squeeze. It’s so fleeting that they may not have noticed it, but the way they suck in a breath and shudder tells otherwise.

“This color...” they step closer, fingers reaching out to brush against the teal part of his hair, tucking it behind his ear like it's something so casual, like it’s an action that didn’t make it that much harder for him not to give into his temptation, “It’s beautiful. I would like something with that color, if you don’t mind.”

Barbatos flushes pink, the color shooting from his cheeks to his ears to his neck. They’re getting bolder now that they know the Young Master won’t be back for a while, as if the threat of being caught was what held them back from making a move. He can’t help but laugh, the sound light and melodic, and he doesn’t miss the way they smile when he does, either.

“Of course, MC.” he bows, the hair they tucked behind his ear falling in front of his face, “I can’t say I’m not flattered that you would select that color in particular. We would almost be matching.”

It’s bait. He knows they will take it, as lovely and predictable as they are. (But predictable is not necessarily a bad thing, not when it’s looking at him like he’s the most gorgeous demon in the Devildom.)

“That’s the idea.” they say airly, stepping even closer to him, “I want...to be close to you. You’re always watching, always so far away...I never get to spend time with you.”

They say he is always watching, but he’d have to disagree. It is them that follow him with their eyes, but maybe, he realizes, maybe he does that too.

“I have duties, MC. I do apologize if you’re feeling neglected. I can remedy that as soon as possible.” he tilts his head with a smile, the flaring emotions welling up within him screaming danger.

“Oh yeah? And how will you do that?” they ask, stepping even closer, and Barbatos damns himself when he doesn’t step away.

He removes his hands from their hold, and they let him go. They don’t back away, however, still staring at him like they have him right where they want him. Barbatos almost laughs again, but settles for a soft smile instead. They’re waiting for him, he knows this. They’re waiting and he doesn’t want to make them wait any longer.

“MC...” he whispers, a gloved hand pressing against the small of their back, “Come here.”

And they do.

His other hand finds itself cradling the back of their head as they kiss him, lips warm and tasting like the tea he brewed for them. His heart flares in his chest and for a moment, his grip tightens. It doesn’t alarm them, they don’t pull away, they just grab him by the lapels and hold him there. Barbatos lives to serve, and if that is where they want him, that is where he will be.

Their nice formal wear becomes bunched up and wrinkled under his hand, but he doesn’t feel sorry. He will in a moment, when they’re done kissing him and he pulls away and has to return to tending to them in other ways than this, ways that aren’t nearly as electric. He briefly registers them tucking his hair behind his ear again so they can cup his face, and the gesture brings yet another smile to his lips.

A final hard press of his mouth to theirs and he pulls away, lips redder and plumper than they were previously. They’re still holding onto him, a wobbly smile on their face and eyebrows furrowed affectionately. They’re looking at him like that, he realizes, and a giddy feeling bubbles in his chest that he pops immediately.

He already gave into the temptation. It would be best not to test it anymore.

“Thank you.” they say, voice trailing off into a lighthearted giggle. They look so happy, rolling back and forth on the balls of their feet as if they just got something they really, really wanted.

Barbatos supposes he did, too.

“It’s only my duty, MC.” he says, voice steady and soft as if he didn’t just kiss them like he wanted to suck the soul out of their body, “Please, allow me to escort you home now.”

“Oh, by all means, lead the way.” they beam, slotting their hand against his again.

He knows that they know what he is. He knows that after this walk is over, they will go back to being monopolized by the seven brothers. He knows that, by kissing them tonight, he opened a door that will torture him forever. He knows that time will take this moment away from him, and eventually this human themselves, but they say nothing. They do not ask what he's thinking. He’s so grateful for the space they give him. He’s grateful that they’re willing to give him a chance, a shot at winning their heart, even though his hold on it will never be enough to protect it from time.

It will rot and decay, just like everything else he has seen.

But maybe, just maybe, their smiling face will endure.

[heocrisy]

SIR?? SIR??? HOW DARE HE LOOK THIS BEAUTIFUL LIKE ACTUALLY HOW IS IT EVEN POSSIBLE?? Like look. At. Him. Do you see that face? YES THATS THE FACE OF THE LOVE OF MY LIFE

[heocrisy]

(???)Yuu: Not many wish to entangle themselves with forces beyond their competition.

Malleus: I comprehend very well. You are the most magnificent being I've ever seen.

(???)Yuu: Thank you.

[heocrisy]

I CANT PUT THE OTHER IMAGES😭😭

Look at the reblogs to see the kalim, azul, deuce, and jade version<3

[heocrisy]

─A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM

You meet itoshi rin on a lonesome midsummer's night, just how the seasons change, so do your feelings.

Ft.: Itoshi rin

2.7k words (give it a chance pls), mutual pining, slow burn, friends to lovers, rin is kind of an idiot in the last bit, reader is sad in the first bit wrote this while being highly sleep deprived, repost because i am dumb and deleted the og one by mistake, forgive the title pls I couldn't think of anything.

A cool gentle breeze and a mildly chilly weather was not very common in the midsummer. But it had rained earlier. The atmosphere still had the lingering smell of wet soil brought about by the winds and the temperature drop was pleasant. You liked it. This felt good. It also distracted you from the lump that you felt in your throat and the tears that were threatening to fall down your now very glossy eyes. How long have you been sitting under a stray lamp post near the children's park now? You had absolutely no clue and neither did you want to know. It was late at night and you knew the sane thing to do was go home, wash your face and get to bed. Call it a night. But the body sometimes refuses to follow the mind. It just doesn't move when your much saner part asks it too. It stays rooted at the spot. Maybe it was one of those moments for you. You think at some point a stray calico cat came by and rubbed herself against your legs. That made you smile. Cats were good, they were sweet, they made you feel nice about yourself when they decided they liked you. But your sole companion of the night had also gone away and you were alone yet again.

That's when he came by.

You did not notice him at first. A stranger holding his bicycle, looking at you in a way that screamed confusion. Rin was just passing by when he saw you, sitting on the bench in all your sadness and melancholy, tears almost spilling out of your eyes, lips quivering. He could vaguely make out your hands clenching and unclenching inside your jacket pocket. He didn't know what to do. Should he ignore and just let you be or ask you if you were fine. He decided on the latter..

"Uhm, the weather forecast says it might rain tonight," he awkwardly let out the words to your idle figure.

You only turned your head at him slowly in return. You were kind of pretty he'd give you that.

You were absolutely confused about why a random boy was suddenly telling you about the weather forecast, "huh?"

"The weather forecast. It might rain tonight. You better get to your home," he didn't understand what your deal was. Sitting all lonesome on a stray bench with no people around. It was unsafe too. Unless you were some sort of serial killer which was highly unlikely because what sort of serial killer looks like they're about to lose it all beside a random park late at night.

"Oh," you turned away and went back to your thinking or whatever it is that you were doing. Rin started regretting his decision of even bothering you in the first place. He should've just been on his way.

"Do you have an umbrella with you," you looked at him again before silently shaking your head.

He started to look for something inside his bag before pulling out an umbrella, "you can take this. My house isn't far from here, I'll reach in some but you can just keep it in case it rains."

He waited for your reply but it never came. You just looked at him with the same wide eyes and quivering lips. So he nervously kept the umbrella beside you and walked away with his bicycle.

That was his mother's favorite umbrella that he gave away. He was gonna get it from her.

You stared at his disappearing figure. You saw as he turned the corner and finally went out of sight.

"What a kind soul," you thought to yourself and the tears finally fell.

It had been about a week since you last met the kind boy who gave you an umbrella. It indeed did rain and you ended up using it on your way home. It had been a week since you kept waiting at night to return him his umbrella but he never came. You were about to give up and just keep the umbrella till you decided to wait after school and see if he shows up.

And much to your luck, he did. He was on his bicycle, riding it as the wind ruffled his dark hair. He looked focussed on the road and he had a deadpan look on his face. You smiled wide at seeing him.

"Hey! Guy on the bicycle!" You screamed and waved your hands so he could notice you. He slowed down his bicycle until it came to a complete stop in front of you. It was the same location except now, the park was filled with little children's laughter from running about and playing and the buzzing of people's voices. There were birds chirping on the trees as the summer sun shone at a distance. You looked very different from the first time he saw you. A wide smile on your face with eyes almost in the shape of crescents as a result of your smile. Your hair was more put together and you were in a school uniform. He gathered you too, were a high school student.

"I'm y/n, hi, nice to meet you," you finally introduced yourself. Rin wasn't the kind of boy to think much about people's looks or about people at all. But something about you was so mesmerizing to his eyes. He found you to be absolutely gorgeous, something he didn't really think much about the first time he saw you.

"Yea uh I'm Itoshi Rin," he looked at your outstretched hand before slowly accepting your handshake. He took his hand away from yours as soon as he finished giving it a polite shake.

"I am the person you gave your umbrella to last week, if you don't remember me. I just wanted to return it to you and thank you for helping me," your wide smile now turned into a polite one as you took out the umbrella from your backpack and handed it to him.

Rin blinked at it twice because he never did think he'd get his mother's favorite umbrella back or see you again for that matter. But he did and you seemed better than before and he was glad you looked good.

"Well then. Thanks again. I'll get going. Have a great day," you waved at him as you turned around.

To be honest, Rin didn't know what exactly came over him. He just felt this sudden boost of confidence as he saw you walk away. Something told him to shoot his shot, or else he would actually never see you again. Rin did not want friends but he wanted you to be his friend. So with his heart almost jumping out of his ribcage, he uttered the words that he almost stumbled over, "let me walk you to your home."

And even though your eyes were as big as saucers the moment he said those words, you couldn't be happier that Itoshi Rin decided to walk you home because something in you too, said that having him as a friend would be good.

Rin and your friendship started with awkward hellos and hi's and silent walks to the school. Turns out you lived close by and your school too, fell on the way to his. So each day he would walk you to your school and back home.

Eventually, what started as an awkward interaction turned into excited rants from you about books that you've read and movies that you had seen. Rin listened. Rin always listened. Sometimes he'd talk about the horror movies he'd liked and the mangas stored in his bookshelf.

Walks to school and back home turned into weekly hangouts after school. Sometimes at your house and sometimes at his. You learnt Rin loved soccer and he learnt you were not much into sports. He had gasped in disbelief because, truly, how can someone not be into sports? He was forced to watch the notebook with you and you were forced to watch Insidious with him. By now both of your parents had come to know of your new friendship. Rin's mother loved you and your mother always saved extra cookies for Rin when she baked.   Summer slowly faded into autumn and the leaves outside turned crisp and brown and Rin would never let you see the faint smile that adorned his face when you so joyfully stepped on the crunchy leaves. With autumn came the realization that you had fallen for Rin. And unbeknownst to you Rin had slowly fallen for you too. If he thought you were pretty when you cried, he thought you looked absolutely stunning when you were laughing. Yes, even when the laughs were followed by snorts.

Rin realized he might have fallen in love with you and that terrified him because Rin did not do love. Rin did not know how to love. He never got into a serious, full blown, committed relationship and he wanted all that with you. He was too scared to tell you.

"Mama bear asked me to deliver some of this homemade, special chocolate cake to you," was the first thing Rin heard from you as he opened his door and you let yourself in.

"Mama bear? Seriously?" Rin narrowed his eyes at you as he shut the door and followed your figure towards the kitchen.

"You want the cake or not Mr. Itoshi?" You took out a knife from his kitchen drawer and pointed it at him.

"Can't say no to that," he opened the package to find 8 slices of beautifully decorated chocolate cake.

"I'll take one!" You were about to pick a slice when he swatted your hand away.

"Your mom has already fed you with them. These are mine. Back off," he took a slice and closed the package.

"Rinnie-" you whined.

"Do not call me that. Ever," he pointed at you before taking a bite from his cake. Your mother baked heavenly delights, he thought. The cake was oh so delicious. He felt like he just entered the realms of God for a moment when it almost melted in his mouth.

"But rinnie-" you saw him eat the cake, savoring each bite.

"Shush,"

"Why are you so mean? Just let me have a piece please. She did not let me eat much of the cake and there's not much left at home either. Just one bite please I-" you found yourself shutting up as Rin shoved the last bite of the cake into your mouth.

"That will shut you up," and it did. Your mother was the best baker in town. Anyone who had a problem with that fact, could personally come and talk to you and you'd prove them wrong.

You spent the rest of the day at Rin's house with him forcefully making you watch midsommar this time. You loved spending time with Rin. While Rin was so immersed in movies, you were immersed in his face. He looked so pretty focussed.

"What?" He turned around to look at you.

"What?" You asked confused.

"You said I look pretty when I'm focussed?"

"Oh I said that out loud?" You giggle to yourself. "But yes. You do look pretty when you're focussed."

"You're pretty too I guess," and nothing could stop the red tint that slowly took over Rin's face. You laughed at that because Itoshi Rin was blushing and that was a first. And yet again, he was swept off his feet by your laughter.

"Some girl confessed to me today," Rin scoffed when he picked you up from your school gate.

You could almost hear the little crack of your heart the moment Rin had said those words. You were too big of an idiot to not confess and now, someone else was doing it in your place.

""Oh? What did you say," you gulped as you feared his answer.

"No, obviously. What makes you think I'll say yes?" He shook his head as you both walked down the hill.

"Well, why not?"

"I...kind of already like someone," Rin blushed and the crack in your heart increased. How much more till he completely breaks your heart?

"Oh."

"Yea."

The rest of the walk back home was excruciatingly quiet and awkward. You did not know how to act around Rin, you wanted to be far away from him. As far as possible.

"Who..who is this person you like?" Something in your voice seemed sad and bitter. There was a tint of jealousy which didn't go unnoticed by Rin. He was observant, he was oh so observant.

"Uhm a very close friend," you nodded your head silently at his words. You had so many questions. When had he met them? How long had they been 'friends?' Was he closer to them than he is to you?

"They're sweet and really nice. Kind too. Always there for me when I need them and I think I just really like this person you know," You looked at Rin to see him smiling so fondly. You internally begged him to stop as he went on about how genuinely good this person was. He did it. He broke your heart unknowingly.

You were glad as you saw your house in the distance. Quickly waving Rin a goodbye, you ran off towards your house. You'd distance yourself from him, you thought. Just stop talking to him for some time till these silly feelings go away.

Rin could only stand there under the orange sky of the evening as he saw you go nearer to your house and then it hit him. You thought he was talking about an entirely different person. You definitely did not get that he was talking about you. And with how weird you were acting there might have been a slight chance that you liked him back. Rin sucked at love and he sucked at declarations of love too, but for you he was willing to give it a shot.

"Shit!" He ran after you as you entered your main gate and within some seconds he was there, grabbing your wrist, panting slightly. You turned around to look at him and then at the place where his hand held yours.

"Rin...." You started, confused as to what was happening.

"It's you," he stated. God he sucked at confessions.

"What?" Your voice was lost. What was he speaking about? You genuinely didn't know if he was okay.

"God damn it, it's you I like!" Your eyes were going to pop out of your socket because did you even hear that right? Itoshi Rin liked you? You were the person he was so fondly talking about?

"You like me?" You asked.

"I do,"

"You're not joking?"

"Absolutely not,"

"Rin, I swear to god if this is some kind of sick joke I will-" and he cut you off.

He cut you off by pulling you in and crashing his lips against your. You reciprocated immediately because this is exactly what you dream about. You felt his hands on your waist trailing there as you held his face. It was no way a gentle kiss, in fact it was rough, clearly a kiss between two very inexperienced teenagers. But it was one of love, one with passion, one that showed that you both cared for each other even if there was some roughness to it.

"Fuck," you pulled away as you were out of breath. This felt like a fever dream.

"Fuck indeed," and all he could do was smile after that kiss. It was his first with you. It was all he hoped for.

You both started giggling which turned into a full blown laughter and Rin was holding his knees and you were holding your tummy. You turned to look at him, he was beautiful, you thought. He loved you. Your laughter ceased into a smile.

"What?" He looked at you with pure love in his eyes.

"Nothing."

Meeting Itoshi Rin was like a midsummer night's dream. Except this was reality. He fell for you, you fell for him. He was in love with you and your heart was his. This was Itoshi Rin. This was love.

[heocrisy]

♡ 🐰 wait, you’re a girl?! ✩ೃ°

synopsis ───◌  where the twst guys find out the ramshackle perfects secret

characters ┈┈◌ jack howl ♡ leona kingscholar ♡ ruggie bucchi

cw ──♡⃝ cursing, leona’s overblot, ruggie basically black mailing reader 😭, questionable bonus,

𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐨𝐰𝐥

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ first impression ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

You smelt sweet. Yeah, that’s a weird thing to say but it’s true. When you walked past him in the hallways, he noticed this… sweet, almost refreshing scent that softly entered his nose.  

Now he isn’t saying he doesn't like it, but he is saying that it’s odd for a guy to have such a dainty smell, and Jack's a smart guy. So he has 2 possible hypotheses of why you smell like that.  

You're from another world and things might be different there

You're a weirdo and he should avoid you at all costs

So if you see Jack eyeing you, or just tensing up around you, just know you made his radar. 

Whoops🤷🏻

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ how he found out ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

He reluctantly became your friend, let's get that clear. After the spell-drive incident, he couldn't seem to shake you, tweedle dee, and tweedle dum off his back. So there you three stayed like leeches. 

It was only when Ace and Deuce got those anemone things on their heads that Jack truly joined your band of misfits. But that's not the point. 

The moment when he found out about your little secret was when you were both hiding under Azul’s desk after trying to get to the contracts. You were squished up against either side of the dark oak deck when Jack couldn’t stop thinking about how unnaturally short you were. I mean, hey he doesn't judge, Heartslabyul’s dorm leader is short and Jack respects him. But he never noticed it until now, with his thigh completely overwhelming yours in both size and mass.

Or maybe he’s never noticed how small your hands are? Must come with the size he guessed. But the one thing that truly bothered him was your face, it was soft and delicate, so much chubbier and fuller than any guy he’s seen… and your smell… it almost reminds him of…

His eyes shot open as the door to Azul’s office opened. 

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ the confrontation ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

It’s been weird lately. Besides the fact that Ace and Deuce are busy working slaving away at the Monstro, Jack has also started to act more… like Jack around you. Always hovering, carrying things, and nagging. Nag nag nag nag! ‘Y/n don't do this, y/n don't do that, y/n you'll get hurt, don't go in there it's dangerous!’ He was treating you like a damsel in distress when Ace and Deuce were the real ones. 

Yet here he is babying you while treating them like normal! It’s gotten so bad that those two plus Grim started raising eyebrows whenever Jack did something for you. 

So you decided to do what all smart people do; confront him. 

So you do. 

You pull him from his track practice and bring him under one of the trees that acts as shade for the runners whenever they're about to pass out from heat exhaustion. 

Of course, you were trying to think about the correct way to go about this, because being in a school full of boys, especially teenage boys in mid-puberty, you had to learn to pick your words carefully. 

“Why have you been acting weird lately?”

Great start. 

Jack denies it, claiming this is how he treats all his friends, yet when you peek behind him to his low swinging tail, and back up to his cherry-sprinkled face, you know you’ve caught him in the act. 

You sighed, running a hand through your hair to try and claim even a little of your nerves. “You know, don't you?”

He was silent before he spoke. “I do”

You bit your lip, the two of you unable to keep eye contact any longer due to the embarrassment of the whole situation. There was a pause, yet none of you said something. You both just let the cool autumn breeze cool your nerves before you spoke. Yet Jack beat you to it. 

“I know you're wondering when I found out…” You nodded hesitantly. “Well, I’ve had my suspicions the first time I met you-“

“Was it my height?” You asked, but Jack quickly dismissed your guess which sidetracked him to commemorate Riddle and a kid named Epel. 

“They’re both short but respectable, hard-working guys. So I thought the same about you. Being a magicless human in a school full of aspiring magicians can be hard, especially with no family or friends to back you up. Though I'll admit, at first I pegged you as a fool looking for trouble more than respectable- until the spell-drive tournament that is.” He added on quickly, not wanting to increase the raise in your brow. 

“But I found out when we were in Azul’s office… I never noticed how soft you were. How… squishy you were”

You snorted “Squishy?” You repeated, causing the light flush on his cheeks to worsen. “Hey, this is embarrassing enough as it is! Just- let me finish talking alright!” He growled. Though that didn’t scare you as you kept silently laughing at his unusual choice of wording. 

“Only then did it click for me that you were a girl.”

You nodded thoughtfully, looking up at the half-naked tree, a leaf fell and fluttered to the ground, before another leaf followed, and another, and another. 

Yet kept your eyes on the tree, on the leaves as you kept thinking about everything he just told you. 

“I’ll keep your secret you would like me to, and I apologize for how I’ve been treating you…”

Your eyes were still on the tree “But?”

“But.” He completed staring at you despite the far-away look you had. “I won't change how I’ve been treating you these past couple of weeks.”

Your eyes waivered to his as a cautious tone of curiosity laced your tone. “And why is that?”

“Because” He breathed in, searching for the right words to say, searching for the proper way to say the undeniable fact in a way that won't drive you away, or make you laugh. 

“You’re not from here, you have no family or background, no nothing. You're not a beastman, let alone have magic. So there’s no way for you to protect yourself in an all-boys school. It isn't safe for you. If I know you're a girl the others will figure it out too, and where will that leave you? What will happen if the wrong people; Azul, find out? If we weren't friends” He made a face while saying it, like the word was foreign to him “I wouldn’t be doing this. But you are, so you can't stop me.”

“Jack for crying out loud! I’ve dealt with two house warden’s overblots! I can handle a few horny guys!”

He sighed, and his ears twitched. “You can’t change my mind.” That was all he said before he walked away. 

Achievement unlocked! You just gained a wolf bodyguard!

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ what happened after? ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

You’ve gained a shadow is what happens next. Jack is practically all over you to the point where Grim and the Aduece combo felt a wee bit threatened. Claiming that he better not be trying to steal you away. But it’s fine, you’re actually kind of grateful (though you’d never admit it out loud)

People aren’t giving you scrutinizing looks or curious gazes anymore, instead, they're trying to avoid your gaze in fear of the brooding cc 6-foot buff freshman that follows you. 

He has calmed down a bit, having someone consider your opinion was nice for a change. You carry your own stuff and take care of your own problems, unless it’s on a top shelf he can easily reach. 

Sometimes you both brainstorm ways to mask your scent so you don't attract any eyes and noses. And the solution was scent blockers, usually reserved for female beastmen's heat. You were deemed the acceptance  (Those things are like fucking horse tranquilizers)

                         

𝐋𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐚 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫 

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ first impression ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

Who? All he knew was that you were probably gonna mess up his peaceful school life. If being from another world didn't make that evident, then you and your pussycat almost burning down the joint did. 

He was already getting a headache from all the new scents and loud chatter, so he just wanted to go back to his dorm where his Egypt cotton-laced mistress was waiting. 

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ how he found out  ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

He would make it seem like he found out all on his own, but in reality, he overheard you say it yourself. Well, not outright yourself, but it was in an awkward- oh sevens that doesn't even cover the severity of how embarrassing the conversation was. 

Jack’s mom somehow found out about your little secret (looks at Jack) 

note, he slipped up when going on break, how might you ask? He forgot to shower and wash his clothes so when his mom confronted him about the new smell 👀 all he could do was curse silently under his breath.

yes there are scent blockers but c'mon, how effective can those things be all the time  

Anyways! His mother created a feminine hygiene care package for you! Packed full of feminine hygienic products, deodorants, and razors, albeit a bit cheap but you couldn't complain. 

Back to Leona, Ruggie had begged (bribed) him to at least do some of his house warden duties, like for example; making sure everyone got back safely from break, and that they were situated in their dorms. And after a hard day's work, he was on his way back to his dorm for some shut-eye when he heard a high-pitched squeal, one that made his ears twitch angrily.

Jack. 

He had already checked in with the freshman and assumed he just had a girlish scream despite his masculine appearance. 

“Oh my god Jack I love you so much!”

Leona’s head snapped towards the freshman’s door because what the fuck was that??

Girls weren’t allowed on campus, let alone in dorm rooms. 

Leona groaned, a gloved hand sliding down his face as he groaned again, deeper. Great. More work for him. It was too much work to get Crowley involved so he’ll just warn Jack, sternly. 

He did have to give kudos to the young freshman, because the last time someone tried bringing their girlfriend in, they were caught at the magic mirror and given detention. Of course, Jack could be given the same treatment, but he was feeling oddly generous… He stopped thinking as a slimy feeling crept up his back. 

As previously stated, Leona has amazing hearing, if not the best hearing in the school- and he takes pride in that, he really, truly does. 

Another thing Leona took pride in; he was hard to surprise. His aloof personality cracks for no one. Sure, there may be a quick eye raise, or maybe even a slight pause if he's talking. Other than that, nothing. Zip, zilch, nada, nothing. 

So when Leona was surprised to the point where he whipped his head back towards the freshman’s door again, he was glad no one was there. Especially Ruggie.  

“Y/N please be a little quieter, someone could be outside!”

All else was unimportant as Leona stood outside the door, frozen, hand just about to land on the door before it fell limply to his side. 

There was a few seconds' pause before he backed away and slowly slinked back to his room to process what he just found out. 

(He was conflicted because a girl helped stop 3 overblots. 

But then again, Faerina’s wife could get him out of his room…)

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ the confrontation ⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

You were in the botanical gardens helping Crewel pick rare plants for next class. It was a nice arrangement if you do say so yourself; help Crewel prepare for class, grade papers and get alone time to study for your worst subject. 

So the chance to explore the gardens after staying in stuffy classrooms all day was a Hail Mary for you. 

Until you stepped on a snake. 

Shrieking like a banshee, you heard the snake protest as it darted into the bush. Scrambling a few feet away, you kept your eyes locked onto the bush, waiting for the snake to fly out and exact its revenge. 

That would have been the better scenario anyways. Instead, you were met with a towering lion beastman, tail in hand and his ears in flight mode. 

Shit. It was Jack’s house warden. Leona. 

After hearing horror stories, you knew no matter how low you bowed or how profusely you apologized, you were royally screwed. 

“Oi, I’d watch where you're going if I were you” He stepped closer. “Cause you don't know what someone could do to a herbivore like you” He stepped closer as you took a step backward. 

“So small and soft… not an ounce of muscle on ya. Makes one think if you're even a guy at all” He forced you to look up like he was challenging you not to. 

“I’m not a girl!” your eyes widened in horror as his smirk deepened. 

Uh oh. Voice crack. 

Yeah puberty, and all, but you were well past the age of voice cracks. 

“You should really keep your voice down” he whispered, leaning in on you. His breath rustled your hair which tickled your ear sending a sharp shiver up your spine and to your brain, sending it into a red alert. It was a whole chain reaction just from his breath. You haven't felt this pathetic in a while. 

“As you never know who could be listening”

And with that, he walked away. 

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ what happened after? ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

Nothing. Literally nothing. 

You were skittish around him, anxious about the thought of him spilling your secret to the whole school. But little did you know, Leona did not care. Not in the slightest. At most, he's probably impressed. 

I mean with 3 overblots under your belt, you were fine. So there’s no need for him to keep an eye out on you. Nope, none at all. 

It’s all the same, as you and Leona barely interacted before so why would that change now? You already got a bodyguard, and who was he to impose his morals on you? 

…yet that doesn't stop his sharp gaze from following you whenever you crossed paths. 

Where he was from, girls were fierce, dominant, and controlling, a perfect example of that was his sister-in-law. And of course, he knew not every girl was like that, as not everywhere has the same traditions as the sunset savanna. But you were a magicless girl in an all-boys school. And that didn't sit right with him. (No matter how much he tried to ignore it)

He’s basically your convenient savior, popping up if Jack isn't around and claiming he was napping there and you were disturbing him. 

Don’t be surprised when there's an unmarked package on your steps filled with a few months supply of premium scent blockers. And don't bother confronting Leona cause he’ll deny it. 

𝐑𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐢𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐡𝐢

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ first impression ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

Yawn, just another extra. 

He met you during the spell drive arc when you stopped him from pushing Trey down the stairs. You smelt nice, was all he remembered before scampering away. But as nice as you smelt you made him nervous and he couldn’t understand why. 

I mean, he injured heartsbyul's vice house warden, he’s stolen from men thrice his size, and he’s friends with Leona for crying out loud! All of this would make one think he had balls of steel and answered to no one.

Except for Leona.... and his grandma of course… Well I mean, sometimes his sisters too but that's it! Really!

Women in the Savannah scare the shit out of him, all strong, dominant and all that junk made him shiver.

Ruggie is observant. So the fact that you could inflict the same kind of caution women give him... Strange. He’ll have to keep an eye on you. 

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ how he found out ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹

Hehehhehehehehhe

Unfortunately for Ruggie, he's going to be a victim to a trope, sorry not sorry.  During Leona’s overblot your legs were shackled in the sand, unable to move, and unable to flee from the stalking lion. 

It was just the 3 of you, the rest of your friends outside the swirling sand tornado, standing there helplessly. 

Foolish herbivore was all Ruggie could think as you clawed up your ankles, feverishly looking between the house warden and your trapped feet. 

Your eyes were wide with fear. 

Oh. 

An epiphany. 

You reminded him of him, that's why he felt uncomfortable with you. You reminded him of a younger, scrawnier self. One that did anything and everything to survive, one that had to conserve food and the little money he had so he could've able to live. One that had nobody but his grandma and a few siblings.

Just a boy from the slums living off of stolen leftovers. Covered in rags, dirt, and bruises. A boy who hoped, dreamed, and prayed for a way out. 

A boy whom you shared those same hopeless shimmering eyes with.  

Fuck.

Ruggie didn’t know what he should do. Well, he lied, he did but he didn't know if he should do it. But as Leona hit the 10-meter mark Ruggie made a break for it 

His legs carried him as fast as the sand would let him, and endless curses spilled from his lips as he saw Leona’s head turn in his direction. Shouting something, he threw a scalding hot gust of sand his way. Gritting his teeth as the searing grains of sand were pelted at him He kept repeating to himself: It was better than someone dying. 

He didn't know why he chose to voluntarily go back into the jaws of death; he barely escaped thanks to Riddle.

Maybe it was those damned eyes of yours. 

Tackling you onto the sand dome, you both just missed death's door as you both grunted at the sagging impact. 

As much as you're both grateful for skating by the sandstorm, that couldn't bring attention away from the uh… obvious cushion. 

“ Y-you're a girl!?”

“Not the time Ruggie!”

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ the confrontation ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

Basically a cat and mouse game. You spot Ruggie in the cafeteria, and Ruggie creates a clever way to lose you, may it be a crowd of people, laugh with me, or a ‘happy little accident’. He wants nothing to do with you so if you would just leave him alone that’d be great. 

But of course you keep persisting, and eventually you catch up with him and corner him in the hallway. 

“Why are you avoiding me?”

“Good morning to you, too perfect. If you would excuse me, I have to get Leona's homework from Trein, then do my own. So I really don't have a lot of time-“

“Then I’ll join you “ You smiled, grabbing his jacket sleeve before walking towards Trein’s room. It was foolish of you to assume it would be that easy, he’s a sneaky hyena after all. 

Retracting his arms from his jacket, he expertly shimmied out of it like an octopus from a jar. He smiled as you turned around glaring at him, his jacket dangling from your clenched fist. 

“Sorry, perfect, but I’d rather not have this talk” He shrugged before walking away. He was free, the sunlight spilled through the dirtied glass windows and onto the walkway of the hallway, highlighting his path to freedom. 

“Not so fast Ruggie Bucchi! You get back here!” 

And just like that the gates to heaven closed and he was dragged back down to earth. “Shit” He whispered, already starting into a sprint as he heard you thundering footsteps behind him. He felt like Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk, only he was Jack running away from the giant (you) who's ready to eat him alive for stealing his golden goose. (Over exaggeration, you just wanted to talk)

With lingering people in the hallways, he was able to disappear a few times, or purposely put them in your way. Yet each and every time you found him. No matter how hard he tried to lose you, you caught up. What was this a horror movie?

Finally, the hallway ended and he was trapped with no escape. You were stalking towards him, like a predator who had just found its prey. 

“Ruggie I just want to talk” You put your hands up in surrender. “That’s it. I want to talk about what happened during Leona’s over blot”

Ruggie wanted to smack himself. God was he stupid. Not even once had he considered using ‘laugh with me on you’. Why? He wasnt sure himself. There were a few theories that popped through his head, but he had no time to entertain them as you were less than 2 meters away. 

“Oh, real mature ruggie”

He let out the breath he was holding, the clatter of the lockers was heard as he straightened himself up. Rubbing the ‘dust’ from his knees he just looked at you. As he started to make his way towards you. 

You couldn't read him. Did he have a face of relief, conflict, worry? You weren't sure. But when he passed you in your frozen state, all he said was:

“You really think I’d tell people? Really think that low of me huh” It was rhetorical.

By the time he was far away into the hallway, you were unfrozen. Stumbling a bit as you turned to him still walking. “Though my silence comes with a price!”

Ugh great. At this point you’d rather have him tell people

⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨ what happens next? ୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ 

I wanna say he’d tease you but I mean… woman…  No, he isn’t afraid of you! He knows you’re not going to be as rough or intense as the ladies back home, as you’re no beast-man, especially not a hyena beastman. 

So there’s going to be a bit of distance between you 2. I mean, there already was to begin with, cause he never met you or talked to you before the spell drive tournament situation.

But after that, he’ll probably mess with you a bit. Not a lot like how he would with others, but a good enough amount to where you interact weekly. Like he’ll cut you in line with a cheeky smile, or he’ll pluck a particular sandwich out of your hand and hide among the masses as you (grim) yell out curses. 

He will use your situation against you ngl. He would shamelessly dangle it over your face in exchange for something, mainly food. 

But I know he wouldn't do anything too callous or too mean.

Though he does keep the promise of ‘silence coming with a price’ and usually that price is an extra pair of hands or food. So now you've got 3 mouths to feed. Great. 

𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒖𝒔! I originally wrote this for Jack but I thought it was too ooc. Then I thought about Leona but then realized he would only do this in fanon.

Your back was slammed against a tree, Jack hovering over you as you struggled in his grip. His hand encased both of yours while his other gripped your hip, keeping you flat against the tree. His leg was bent awkwardly, pinning you against the tree at an angle that should make him fall, but he didn't. No matter how hard you tried, the leg that kept him braced didn’t budge. Not even an inch. 

“Try to escape” Was all he said through your struggling and wiggling. Yet no matter how hard you tried pushing, shoving, kicking, or flailing away from him- nothing worked. You were stuck. Never once did he stop looking at you; through you as you grew more and more desperate to prove yourself. 

But he was a wolf beastman, and you were a teenage girl. 

And soon, as expected, your struggling slowly stopped, eyes downcast as you laid there, still, in his arms before he set you down. 

Your hands rushed up over your chest as you struggled to understand the situation, to understand why he did that. 

“I’m only a freshman” he spoke quietly “I don’t even have control of my magic yet, just think about what other guys would do if they found out. So please” You looked up at him, lashes heavy with locked in tears. His face was soft, gentle even which only confused your heart more.

[heocrisy]

LOVE ME HARDER!

you swear your favorite color has nothing to do with kaiser. but unluckily for you, the boy’s fallen madly in love with you and has somehow convinced himself that he can connect the dots to make you fall madly in love with him. when you meet his flirting with a tough front though, kaiser has a secret weapon up his sleeve (or under his uniform collar).

gender neutral reader

content warning(s): reader’s favorite color is blue, kaiser’s tattoo isn’t super visible with his uniform in this fic

You loved blue.

You still do. And for the foreseeable future, you weren’t going to ever stop loving the color. It was a color so dear and special to you, and as much as you loved all the other colors, there was something indescribable about the blue hue.

It was everywhere. The color of the sky. The ocean. The small Google Docs icon while you scribbled down notes on your computer. A stray car in the distance while you crossed the road. It was the color of loyalty and knowledge, the cool tones even embodying the mystifying feeling of melancholy. And, if you allowed yourself to get a little pretentious and philosophical, probably the color of the universe. 

What a dignified color. You would never stop loving blue. Not ever. Certainly not now. And you would never extinguish your love of the color because of a man.

But boy, was someone making it difficult.

Keep reading

[heocrisy]

"The Rooster's Little Chick" (+Art)

You are Pulcinella's precious grandchild. The Rooster brings you-the little chick- out of the coop to his field, and of course, he regrets it. A continue from this

GN! Reader, all Harbinger except Signora and Scaramouche, timeline after signora's funeral and before Sumeru event, mention of Signora's death and Scara's betrayal, reader is called using 'Mater' by Pulcinella's underlings, age-gap , bit of comedic/crack, hints of yandere, borderline possessive, implied stalking and obsessive behaviour.

Note : Pulcinella able to control cryo in this hc.

_________

Hatching

Pulcinella thought you both can bond together as grandpa-grandchild after this meeting. So he just asked you to pick him up while making sure you got his fatui emblem and his feather so you can get past the soldiers.

Pulcinella thought since you are so normal and regular, he can let the other Harbingers see you eye-to-eye.

Boy, for years working with them...he should've known.

You caught their eyes at first glance, but not because they are smitten, their dirty side of sick curiosity and pure dominance is what drove them to you.

What? you think because you are Pulcinella's precious grandchild they gonna treat you better? No no no, you are merely a blood child from their co-worker. They are going to treat you nicely only in front of your grandpa. Behind him? You are a little plaything, little baby chicken away from its protective rooster.

But Pulcinella knows. He knows his co-workers are psychos.

So as a good grandpa, he didn't hesitate to THREATEN the others if they hurt you in any way possible. Showed off his cryo power, he will make sure being frozen to death is the kindest mercy they will ever get if you got hurt.

First Chirp

It "tamed" the others, but not enough to make them back off. They are all curious and truth-seeker at heart.

Pulcinella never gave them your name, Keeping his mouth shut and only calling you "child" or "kid" whenever the others were with him. He makes sure the only information they know about you is you are his grandchild.

Once they eavesdrop and heard how you are "an adult and can take care of yourselves around his co-workers". You can bet those who eavesdrop just giggle and smirk hearing your statement.

But one day a mistake happened, after a meeting, when Childe is the first one to leave the room, his eyes widened in excitement to see you waiting outside the meeting room.

Gloved hands fidgeting with the bag with a Pyro Agent sharing his warmth with you using his pyro delusion. Your head is tucked under the cover of a fluffy hat with Pulcinella's feather, your mouth is hidden behind a scarf, and your red nose and cheek caused by the harsh cold of Snezhaya make you more eye-catching and interesting to him.

The Agent has spilt your name accidentally whilst Childe approaches you. "Master {Name}, would you like me to bring you a spare coat instead?". Both of you didn't realise Childe coming closer, Childe's heart jumped out of his chest after learning your name.

"So your name is {Name}!!!" Childe's loud voice booms around the hall into the meeting room where everyone's still packing their stuff. He smirked towards the meeting room door aaaanddd- "Childe..." there you go. He can't see it but he felt the disappointment in Pulcinella's eyes, hidden by his glasses.

Pulcinella who still standing by the door frame can feel the excitement from the meeting room. His sharp eyes stared at Childe who still smirking and slowly approaching you who froze at the loud call of your name. Now they know your name.

First Flap

Their behaviours are like a paradox. Whatever their doing is always the opposite of their reason. Are you... supposed to feel afraid because they are your grandpa's co-workers...or you supposed to feel frightened because they are THE HARBINGERS.

Huh? What do you mean they are invading your personal time? They just want to make sure there is no betrayal -like one from their own- from Pulcinella's side you know? Just to be safe.

They are not being pushy, they just want their co-worker's sweet grandchild to be safe. They just recently lost someone too not that they care ofc.

Hiding you away is unnecessary and telling you to not pick him up again has shown to be a futile attempt. When your grandpa told you to not go to the Palace, he found you being pampered in the palace hall by Childe who casually just said he invited you to the Palace. He didn't invite you, he stole you. Pulcinella tried to put one or three agents to cover you, but knowing his co-worker, they will not hesitate to deck Pulcinella's soldier just to get to you.

Sometimes you are just a toy. Finding where you are hiding is now a favourite game of theirs, where are you after meeting? Will you be outside the door waiting for your grandpa? Will you be in his office instead all tucked up warming yourself? Will you be in the garden hidden by the white bushes? Or you are in the library busy with books?.

A little chicken hid away in this harsh cold field. The Rooster? Of course, wouldn't hesitate to claw the "eagles" who trying to scoop you up.

Childe felt like he is the most worthy of you. You are not far off from his age and he feels like he has the responsibility of taking care of you as a payment to Pulcinella for taking care of his family. He is the only Harbingers who can interact with you outside the Palace but not for long. Considering he is a debt collector which forces him to travel, of course, he made sure to bring you a souvenir from any nation he visited.

Dottore is one of Harbingers who actively seeking you out. But not directly, he will order his underlings to check if you are in the Palace by yourself. If yes, he will tell them to whisk you away to his lab keeping you to himself. Often ended with Pulcinella having to directly pick you up from Dottore and checked your body for any injuries. Considering he is more hands-on in his experiment.

Pantalone and Sandrone have different approaches. You often found presents sent to your home. From a very fancy scarf and pieces of jewellery to some toys and plushies to really high-quality gadgets. Your grandpa often told you to just throw it away in fear they put some kind of tracking or camera to spy on you.

Columbina is also one of the hands-on when it comes to you. She often whisks you away after meeting, knowing you will be waiting for your grandpa. Of course, she has to race with Childe, seeing Childe just shot up from his seat whenever Pierro ended the meeting. Funny how instead of your own grandpa, it's his co-workers who are more excited to play with you.

Huh, Arlecchino just passed by you, completely ignoring you besides a simple glance. Is she not interested in you? Well, that is good, you heard from Childe she dislikes the businessmen Pulcinella and Pantalone. Either way, you can relax around- Huh...is it you or it seem like you see Fatuis agents a lot in your area now?

Speaking of Pierro and Capitano, they both are so conflicted with themselves. They know that compared to you, they are ANCIENT. The age gap and the generation gap are vast. They will have a crisis because it is their workmate's grandchild. Aren't they supposed to be your second grandpa instead? No no no, that won't do at all. They need to make sure they will be the second in command to take care of you if Pulcinella is away.

PULCINELLA DOES NOT TRUST ANYONE AT ALL.

[heocrisy]

nrc zoo field trip -> 3

y/n : that must be really awkward right?

leona : ?

y/n: like, you’re out here, and they’re in there…

leona : … what is wrong with you

[heocrisy]

I hate it when you’re reading smut and you can’t figure out what position they’re in.

[heocrisy]

corazón de melón.

tldr; the one time you have a proper conversation with itoshi sae ends up unleashing a series of events you never imagined could’ve happened.

wc. 10.2k

¿?: roommates to lovers, college!au, idiots in love, this is pure domesticity tbh, fluff, lowk word vomit, ooc-ish sae (he’s a silly lil guy sometimes this is the hill i’ll die on), slow burn ig ??, swearing, someone’s mean to you (not sae), not proofread (no surprise)

a/n: i have so many emotions in my heart for sae, SOMEONE SEDATE ME PLEASE FREE ME FROM HIM I CANT LIVE NORMALLY ANYMORE, turned rue into a sae liker for this so real of me, @rintosei, enjoy ur meal my children this is probably the longest thing i’ll write in a hot minute

when others think of itoshi sae, many words come to mind: genius, talented, jerk, asshole, rude, mean, scary, lashes, pretty—the list goes on. 

you have no particular thoughts about sae. all he is to you is your roommate. you’d like to have an opinion of him, but that seems impossible with the way you can count the number of times you’ve spoken to him with one hand.

though, if you had to be honest, the only common thread in the few interactions you’ve had is that he very clearly does not care for your company—or anyone’s company, for that matter. 

not that you blame him. if you had to deal with having to go to practice after a day of classes, you wouldn’t want to interact with anyone else, either. (you’d also not have the energy to do anything.)

it’s why you’re used to hearing him get back to the apartment while you’re eating dinner; why you started leaving some leftovers for him to eat whenever he wants to.

it’s also why you’re surprised when he comes back from practice earlier than usual. you jump when you hear the front door open, placing your hand over your heart.

your turn to the door, eyes widening slightly when you see sae walk in. you don’t greet him—you never do—you don’t think he’d appreciate it. (he never greets you either, so you assumed it was fine.)

so, you turn your attention back to the tv, reaching out to grab the broom. you quickly start sweeping, humming a tune while the noise of whatever drama is playing in the background fills the apartment. 

you barely register that sae’s door doesn’t open, but the thought quickly leaves your mind when something dramatic happens to one of the leads. 

you take a step back, an unceremonious yelp leaving your lips when your back bumps into something. a second passes by before you slowly tilt your head back.  

your eyes are met with a pair of teal ones. a sheepish smile tugs at your lips, “hi?” 

he raises a brow, “what are you doing?”

“cleaning.” you move the broom from side to side in hopes to draw his attention to it. (he barely glances at it before his eyes snap back to yours.)

you take a step forward, moving to face him. he just stares at you. an awkward silence settles between the two of you.

“you’re back early.” you hope he didn’t hear your voice crack.

he blinks, clearly uninterested. “practice ended early.” 

you hum, nervously bouncing on the balls of your feet. you huff, tapping your fingers against the broom. “i see.”

it’s clear both of you feel uncomfortable. still, neither of you makes a move to leave. you’re more surprised sae’s still standing in front of you. (sae’s mildly intrigued you’re attempting to talk to him.)

you open your mouth to speak, but promptly shut it close. you repeat the action two more times before sae interrupts you, “what?”

your eyes drift away from his. you gnaw on your bottom lip. “it’s nothing.”

he glares at you. “just spit it out.”

your eyes widen, snapping back to look at him as you dismissively wave your hand. “it’s really nothing, you can just leave!”

“you clearly have something you want to say to me,” he deadpans, “so i suggest you get it over with so we can put an end to this lukewarm conversation.”

you take a deep breath, wiping one hand against your shirt, gently swaying the broom with the other. “i was just wondering, y’know since you’re back early–”

“hurry up.”

“do you wanna eat together?” you look at the ground, feet shuffling uncomfortably. the silence feels unbearable. 

“that’s it?” the confusion in his voice confuses you. you lift your eyes to stare at him, confusion etched in your face.

your head tilts to the side in confusion, “what do you mean ‘that’s it’?” 

“you wanna eat with me?” he points at himself. his brows knit when you nod. sae owlishly blinks, 

“okay.”

his eyes widen in confusion when he sees an elated smile bloom on your lips. 

“i won’t start cooking yet, since i at least have to finish sweeping,” you hum, “but if you’re hungry you could get started on something and i’ll join you when i’m done.”

“i can’t cook.” sae awkwardly coughs. he shoves his hands into his pockets, looking away from you, a soft flush spreading through his cheeks.

“oh,” you blink, smiling at him. “that’s fine! i can cook something while you clean instead.”

the blush on his cheeks deepens as his brows furrow.  “i don’t know how to clean.”

your smile tightens, eyes squinting as you inch closer to him.

there’s a beat of silence. “what can you do then?”

“play football.” you wait a few seconds for him to say something else. 

“that’s it?”

“yeah.” he says it as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world. (as if it was the only thing that mattered.)

you rub your forehead, a dry laugh escaping your lips. 

if you were to tell others of this discovery you’re sure they wouldn’t believe you. you’re not even sure you believe him, yourself.

at least you didn’t, until he took the broom from your grasp. you have to bite back your laughter when he can’t even hold it properly. you wonder how he’d manage to survive alone.

itoshi sae is basically useless outside of football, you conclude. (and you’re not sure if this is the opinion you want to have about your roommate.)

it’s been a week since you learned about sae’s lack of ability to do seemingly anything other than kick a ball around.

it’s also been a week since he started coming back from practice earlier. you have mixed feelings about it. on one hand, you find it strangely comforting knowing you’re not alone in the apartment. on the other, sae just stares at you while you clean.

you’re sick of feeling his eyes follow you around. it feels like a predator watching its prey. having his eyes trail you makes you feel judged, and you’ve had enough.

so, you tighten your grip around the mop in your hands, turning around to look at sae. you take a deep breath, “why are you staring at me?”

he blinks, propping an arm on a couch cushion and leaning his head into his palm. “i’m trying to learn.”

confusion paints itself all over your face, “learn what?” 

“learn to clean.” you hate when he says things like they’re the most obvious thing ever. it makes you feel as if he expects you to know what goes on in his head.

“by staring at me?” you raise a brow. 

he simply shrugs, “i’m a visual learner.”

you don’t know if you believe him. 

so, you place one of your hands on your hips, tilting the mop back and forth with the other one. “in that case, you should try cleaning today.”

his eyes widen, mouth curling into a fine line. “i don’t think i’m ready for that.”

you take a step closer to him, holding the mop out to him. “well, i think that after a week of watching me you should start practicing what you’ve learned.”

“don’t ever think again.” he frowns.

“oh, please,” you roll your eyes, “don’t tell me the itoshi sae is afraid of a little mopping.”

that makes him get up. you bite back the satisfied smile threatening to creep up your face when he snatches the mop from your hands.

“i’m just supposed to move this side to side, right?” he stiffly holds the mop, looking at you with a raised brow.

“‘m not gonna help you out,” you make your way to the couch, mimicking his earlier position. “if you’ve been learning from staring at me for a week then you should know what to do.”

“i know what to do.” he rolls his eyes, “i just don’t know how to do it.”

“figure it out, then.” you lean forward against the palm of your hand, trying to hide your smile behind your fingers.

he glares at you and scoffs, redirecting his attention to the object in his hands. you fail to stifle your laughter when he moves the mop in a sweeping motion.

“don’t laugh!” his grip tightens around the mop, heat rushing to his ears. 

you bite your tongue, the ghost of a smile still lingering on your lips, “i’m not.”

he tsks, slightly pouting. he walks towards you, dragging the mop behind him. you look up at him, you eyes flutter closed when he flicks your forehead. 

“teach me.” your eyes snap open, flickering to meet his. a confused noise leaves your lips as your brows furrow. 

“teach you what?” your eyes flutter when he flicks your forehead again.

sae’s eye twitches in annoyance, “are you stupid or something?”

you glare at him, “not everyone thinks the same things you do!”

he clicks his tongue, rolling his eyes. he points at the mop and then at himself. “teach me to clean.”

“i thought you said you were a visual learner.” you deadpan. 

“consider this your punishment for laughing at me.” he huffs, a condescending smile blooming on his lips when he sees your pained expression.

his face leans closer to yours, “i look forward to learning from you, teach.”

you dumbly stare at him as he places the mop in your hands. he flashes you a shit-eating grin before retreating to his room. you blink twice before coming to your senses, punching the couch cushions in anger. 

you wish you hadn’t found out itoshi sae was a little shit. you much preferred when you only thought of him as your useless roommate. 

itoshi sae is the most infuriating student you’ve ever met. 

you thought someone described as a genius would be a much better student than he actually is. he doesn’t pay attention to anything you say at all. you wonder if his teachers just let him pass the class because they don’t want him around anymore. 

you have a newfound respect for his actual teachers. you don’t know how they manage to stand him for a whole semester when you don’t think you can even last two weeks. (it’s still longer than you expected.)

“sae,” you loudly sigh, pinching the bridge of your nose, “you’re doing it wrong. again.” 

his grip around the broom tightens, his knuckles turning white, “i’m doing what you told me to do!”

“you’re not!” you groan, running a hand down your face, “gosh, how do you manage to do everything i tell you the wrong way?”

“what, so i’m the problem?” his eyes narrow, he takes a step closer to you, “have you ever thought that maybe you’re a bad teacher?”

an angry gasp leaves your lips, “excuse me?!”

“you heard me.” he grits his teeth, “you’re clearly the most lukewarm teacher ever. how do you expect me to learn when you don’t care about teaching me properly?”

“have you ever considered that maybe i don’t want to teach you because you forced me to?” you rub your temples in a poor attempt to prevent the coming headache.

he scoffs, brows knitting in annoyance, “you could at least put more effort into making sure i’m learning.”

“you think i’m not?” you point him square in the chest, glaring at him. “i’m doing my best here, okay? it’s not my fault you’re a shit student.”

“you–”

“you listen while your teacher is speaking.” you seethe, grabbing a fistful of his shirt, “i’m trying to do the best i can. i’m not qualified to teach you anything, especially not with how you don’t even pay attention to what i say!”

he frowns, “well, i–”

you shake him as hard as you can, angry tears pooling in your eyes, “you’re the most ungrateful, useless piece of fucking shit i’ve ever met in my life!”

sae grabs your wrists, letting the broom fall with a clang to the floor. he stares at you with wide eyes. you blink, heat creeping up your face in embarrassment.

there’s a beat of silence. sae’s eyes scan your face. “you good?” 

he lets out a soft sigh of relief when you nod. “are you going to punch me if i let go?”

he relaxes a little when you shake your head. he looks at you as he slowly lets go of your hands. you stare at him, wide eyed as he gently walks you over to the couch and sits you down.

sae plops down on the other end of the couch, glancing at you. he opens his mouth to speak, but promptly closes it. you stop yourself from laughing at his awkwardness. (it reminds you of how you must’ve acted when you talked to him a couple of weeks ago.)

you twist the hem of your shirt in your hands, looking away from sae, gnawing on your bottom lip. “’m sorry about that.”

“don’t apologize.” he coughs awkwardly, crossing his arms, “i probably stressed you out too much.”

“yeah, but, still,” you turn to face him, “i shouldn’t have said something so rude.”

“it’s fine. i really did deserve that, after all.” an amused laugh escapes his lips, “i’ve never heard you so mad before, though.”

you tilt your head to the side, “what do you mean?” 

“i mean,” a hint of amused smile tugs at the corners of his lips, “you tend to get really loud when you complain about your classes. i can hear you all the way to my room.”

your face heats up in embarrassment. you slump against the couch, hiding your face behind your hands. “sorry.”

“stop apologizing,” you slightly relax when you hear a sliver of empathy in his voice. “it’s better to let your emotions out instead of holding them in.”

you lower your hands from your face, staring at him. “do you do that?”

“it depends,” he hums, “feelings are lukewarm most of the time, so when i get angry or whatever i’ll let it out so i can get it over with.”

you narrow your eyes at him, scanning his face. “how does that even work?”

he shrugs nonchalantly, “if i get mad at someone i’ll say it to their face while i’m still mad so i can stop being angry.”

you mull over his words, “so instead of having pent up feelings and reaching your limit, you just act on your emotions as soon as possible so you go back to feeling nothing?”

“pretty much.”

a small hum leaves your lips. silence settles between the two of you before a loud growl echoes through the apartment. laughter bubbles in your chest, spilling out of your mouth when sae’s face flushes.

“shut up!” he hides behind his hands, “i haven’t eaten all day!”

you stand up, walking over and extending a hand out to sae, “wanna help out with dinner?”

he lowers his hands from his face, glancing between your eyes and your hand. he blinks, “i can’t cook.”

“i know,” a smile blooms on your lips, “you can consider it your first lesson.”

sae’s eyes light up, the corners of his lips tilting up ever so slightly. “you’re still gonna teach me?”

“i can’t let you stay useless forever.” you stick your tongue out at him, smiling when he grabs your hand.

a huff of laughter escapes his lips when you fail to tug him up. you flip him off before leaving him behind on the couch. a smile lingers on his face when he follows you to the kitchen. 

he’s not a good assistant. (and he’s an even worse cook). in fact, if you’d known that letting him into the kitchen would’ve resulted in having to evacuate the building due to the fire alarm, you wouldn’t have asked for his help at all.

however, you do appreciate that he invited you out for dinner later as an apology for stressing you out. 

(it makes you think he’s more considerate than he pretends to be.)

you’ve lost track of the times you’ve had to apologize to your neighbors over sae activating the fire alarm. 

it’s embarrassing enough that seemingly everyone in the complex goes to your college, but sae seems to make it worse by glaring at anyone who so much as looks in your direction with a judgemental stare.

“i can’t keep going on like this,” you cover your face with your hands. you shrink into yourself when you feel multiple eyes staring at the back of your head.

“stop overreacting.” sae clicks his tongue. still, he discreetly grabs the hem of your shirt and gently pulls you closer to his side. 

you lower your hands from your face, frowning at him as tears of shame pool in your eyes. “everyone’s judging us!”

“just ignore them.” he awkwardly pats your head, “they’ll forget about it soon enough.”

“sae, this happens almost every week!” you cry, gnawing your lower lip, “some guy yelled at me last time because we interrupted his studying! do you have any idea how long i had to apologize for?”

his jaw clenches as anger flashes through his face for a split second before his uninterested expression returns. “what’d he look like?”

“i don’t know,” you blink, “he was tall. he also had brown-ish hair, i think?”

he shoves his hands in his pockets, tilting his head in the direction of the building, “do you know his apartment number?” 

“no,” you sigh. “why?”

the corners of his lips quirk up into a mischievous smile. “i was thinking of baking him some apology cookies.”

you cover your mouth in a feeble attempt to stifle your laughter. (if everyone was staring at you in judgment for triggering the fire alarm, now they’re judging you for laughing in this situation.)

sae tugs you into the building when you’re all cleared to enter, glaring at a few neighbors who shoot dirty looks at both of you.

you smack his arm, “stop doing that, you’re embarrassing us!”

he scoffs, flipping off anyone who’s still staring, “does it look like i care? they’re all too scared to say anything to my face, anyway.”

“yeah, but they always say shit to me when you’re gone,” you click your tongue, frowning. sae drags you up the stairs to your apartment.

both of you stand in front of your door when sae puts his hands on your shoulders, staring at you in the eyes. his eyes are a pretty shade of teal, you note.

“if anyone gives you shit when you’re alone, just remember what they look like, ‘kay?” he flicks your forehead, a malicious gleam in his eyes, “i’ll make sure to personally apologize for the trouble.”

a smile blooms on your lips, “you’re so mean.”

“shut up,” he rolls his eyes, pinching your cheek, “as your roommate, i’m the only one allowed to give you a hard time.”

“whatever you say, freak,” you rub your cheek, smile widening, swatting his hand away when he reaches out to pinch your other cheek. 

sae bites back a smile as he nods his head toward the door. “did you bring your key?”

you reach into your pockets, feeling around for the key. your head tilts down, eyes widening in panic when you don’t find anything. 

an embarrassed chuckle slips past your lips when you lift your head back up to look at sae. he pinches the bridge of his nose.

“gosh, you’re so useless.” 

you kick his shin, sticking your tongue out at him, “you don’t get to say that to me.”

he sticks his tongue out at you in return, crossing his arms. “whatever. just go and ask the landlord for a key.”

“me?” you raise your brows at him, haughtily tilting your head to the side, “you’re the reason we had to evacuate the building in the first place! i think it’s only fair that you get the key.”

sae opens his mouth to tell you off, but seemingly decides to sigh loudly in annoyed defeat instead, “fine.”

you smile triumphantly, turning to face him, your eyes closing as your chest puffs out in pride. sae rests his index finger on your forehead. your eyes flutter open in confusion at the contact, smile dropping into a curious pout. 

“tell me if anyone bothers you while i’m gone.” he flicks your forehead one last time before turning around and walking away. a content smile blooms on your lips as you stare at his back, sliding down to sit next to the door.

you don’t tell him the tall guy from last time dropped by to yell at you again. sae didn’t even have to ask to tell something was wrong with the way your smile seemed dimmer when you told him you’d take over making lunch.

he doesn’t tell you he’s going to give that asshole the ‘apology’ cookies he’d mentioned before. (and he definitely doesn’t mention that he got his apartment number from the landlord when he got the key to your apartment.) but you had an inkling of what he was going to do when you saw him take out some bowls and a whisk from the cabinets. (you didn’t stop him.)

you bake him some actual ‘thank you’ cookies and place them by his door before heading to your room for the night. the next morning you find a post-it with an ‘anytime’ messily scribbled on it and a ‘thanks for the cookies :)’ on the other side.

you smile fondly at the teal-colored square. you think it resembles the color of his eyes. (it makes you feel warm and fuzzy.)

sae’s gotten slightly better at cooking. he’s able to make at least one meal without triggering the fire alarms.

you feel proud. you suppose that’s what teachers feel when their most lazy, unmotivated student finally manages to put effort into something. 

it makes you feel proud enough that you take a detour to the convenience store on your way home. a fond smile lights up your face when you walk out of the store, plastic bag in hand with a chocolate bar and a pack of star stickers.

there’s a skip to your step as you head home, swinging the bag back and forth. 

you’ve barely even opened the door to your apartment when it swings open. your eyes widen in surprise when they meet sae’s. 

his eyes narrow, “what took you so long?”

a slightly burnt scent wafts the apartment. your nose scrunches, “is something burning?”

“answer my question first,” he points the spatula in his hand at you. 

“i got you a reward,” you smile, lifting the bag in your hands. 

his eyes light up, “what’d you get me?”

you quickly hide the bag behind your back when he reaches out for it. “answer my question first.”

a small smile tugs at his lips. he rolls his eyes, “nothing is burning. i turned off the stove before opening the door just to be sure.”

you reach out to pat his head, a teasing smile on your lips, “good job, sae!”

he scoffs, a soft blush dusts his ears. “you make it sound like you’re praising a dog.”

you huff, “stop complaining when you’re getting praised.”

“whatever.” sae pouts, brows knitting, “when are you giving me my gift?”

“so impatient ,” you tsk, shaking your head, “let me in first, i don’t wanna stand in the hallway any longer.”

he grabs your arm and pulls you close to him, kicking the door closed. you bump into his chest, eyes widening as heat rushes to your ears.

the first thing that pops into your mind is that he smells nice. there’s a hint of a burnt scent that clings to him, but he still smells nice. (you note that he feels warm too. it makes you feel warm.)

you feel a slight pressure against your brows. it makes you blink as you slowly snap out of your stupor. 

“you good?” your eyes meet sae’s worried ones. he leans in closer to you, scanning your face. you awkwardly nod. 

his brows furrow. “are you sure? you zoned out for a bit. are your classes stressing you out too much?”

you shake your head, slightly leaning away from him. your lips press into a fine line. sae’s eyes narrow as he scans your face. he steps back, his hands resting on your shoulders. the spatula lightly digs into your skin.

“is it that guy again?” he tightens his grip, making you wince when the spatula presses harder against your skin, “is he still bothering you?”

“i think you scared him away,” you quickly swat his arms away. “i’m fine, though.”

“are you sure?” he sighs when you nod, “why’d you zone out then?”

“i got distracted,” you gnaw on your bottom lip. 

his expression morphs to confusion, “with what?”

your eyes widen slightly. you don’t want to tell him he’s the reason you zoned out. so, you settle for the only thing that comes to mind, “the smell of something burning. are you sure you turned off the stove?”

“yes.” he groans in annoyance. there’s a small pause. sae turns around, tugging you into the kitchen with him. 

“look!” he points at the stove, “it’s off. stop making me second-guess myself.”

an amused smile blooms on your face, “i can’t believe you had to come check if you actually turned it off.”

“i can’t believe you actually haven’t given me my gift yet,” he scoffs, pouting. 

you laugh, reaching out to flick his forehead. “patience is a virtue, sae. it’d do you well to have it.”

“whatever.” he tries to grab the bag from your hands. “just give it to me already.”

you smile, pulling out the chocolate bar from the bag. laughter bubbles in your chest when you see his stunned expression.

“chocolate?” he glares at the bar in your hand, “do you know how unhealthy that is for me?”

“if you don’t want it i’ll just keep it, then.” you nonchalantly shrug.

he snatches it out of your grasp. “i never said i didn’t want it.”

his eyes twinkle when he unwraps it. he glances up at you, “do you want a bite?”

“just a small one,” you reach out to grab the bar. 

sae moves the chocolate out of your reach, “open your mouth.”

you blink, tilting your head in confusion. he sighs, “i’ll feed it to you. i need to make sure you don’t bite off half of the bar.”

“do you trust me so little?” you scoff, crossing your arms. still, you open your mouth, heat rushing to your ears when sae tells you to take a bite. 

“is it good?” he stares at you, taking a bite of the chocolate when you nod. 

you both swallow at the same time, a smile lighting up your face. “i think you deserve another reward for sharing.”

his brows raise in intrigue, “another? gosh, you’re really spoiling me today, aren’t you?”

you take the pack of stickers out of the back, waving it in front of him. he gives you an unamused look. 

“i bought these for whenever you do something nice,” you place a sticker on his cheek.

“that’s stupid,” he frowns. 

“shut up, you look cute.” you pinch his other cheek.

he clicks his tongue, “whatever. now get out of my kitchen i need to continue making dinner.”

laughter spills out of your mouth when he pushes you into the living room. “do you want me to help?”

“no.” he huffs, “i can do it myself. now go relax or something, i’ll come get you when dinner’s ready.”

“are you sure you’ll be fine on your own?” you snicker, “i’d hate to have to evacuate the building.”

he lightly smacks your shoulder, “i can cook by myself!”

“sae–”

“just let me cook something for you this once,” he mutters. 

a soft, defeated sigh leaves your lips, “okay.”

“i’ll let you cook alone,” you smile, “just this once, though. i can’t leave you unsupervised for too long.”

he hums, patting your head before heading back to the kitchen. a small smile lingers on your lips as you make your way to the couch, turning on the tv.

it doesn’t take long for sae to walk over, two plates in his hands, and a self-satisfied smile on his lips.

you’d be lying if you said the meal was good. it was slightly charred, and a little too salty. you’re sure you would’ve managed to turn it into something decent if he’d let you help. 

still, as bad as the food was, you can’t help but eat it with a smile on your face, a warm, fuzzy feeling tugging at your heart. 

sae groans in annoyance when you place another sticker on his forehead. (your heart leaps when you notice the soft flush to his cheeks.)

he lets you help him wash the dishes, complaining when you flick soapy water in his direction. laughter fills the apartment when he flicks water back at you. time seemingly slowing down to let you savor the moment just a little longer before you head back to your room.

you drift off to sleep with a smile on your face. your heart drums against your chest when you recall the smile on sae’s face. 

(you wish he’d smile at you more often.)

you’ve discovered sae is much better at cleaning than he is at cooking. you’ve also discovered that he’s more thoughtful than he lets on. 

he tends to clean the apartment while you’re in class. he claims it’s because he absolutely must practice cleaning in order to get better. (you don’t believe him.) he swears he ensures the apartment’s clean by the time you get home because he can’t stand your nagging. (you still don’t believe him.)

it’s why you’ve had to go out and buy more stickers to reward him with. it’s also why you’re a little surprised to see him still mopping the apartment when you get back.

you take your shoes off, quickly putting on your slippers. “you’re still cleaning?”

“i’m almost done,” he hums, “practice ended a little later today.”

you make your way to the couch, careful not to slip on the floor, “why? is there a match soon?”

“there’s one tomorrow,” he turns to look at you, frowning when he sees you pull out a pack of stickers with a teasing smile on your face. (he still makes his way over to you when you tell him to come closer despite knowing your intention.) he watches you place the sticker on his shirt, a concentrated look in your eyes.

he sticks his tongue out at you when you look up at him with a satisfied grin. sae rests his hand on top of your head. “wanna come watch?”

you tilt your head to the side, “i’m not a big football fan.”

he playfully shakes your head, brows knitting, “have you ever even been to a football match?”

“no,” you pry his hand off your head, “but i don’t really see the point of going when i know i’ll get bored.”

he rolls his eyes, “you won’t.”

“how do you know?” you lean closer to him, raising a brow, a playful grin on your lips.

he leans closer to you, nose playfully scrunching, “because i’m going to be playing.”

your face scrunches up in mock disgust, “you’re making me not want to go even more.”

he teasingly clutches his heart in faux pain, a smile on his lips as he tries to hold back his laughter, “you’re so mean. you’re hurting me right now.”

“are you trying to make me feel bad?” you bite back a smile, fondly rolling your eyes. “because it’s totally working.”

“your sarcasm wounds me,” he frowns, shaking his head. “i can’t believe my roommate won’t support me at my match.”

you punch his arm, “keep this up and you won’t be eating any dinner.”

“fuck,” a hearty laugh escapes his lips, “when’d you get so mean?”

“i learned from the best,” you stick your tongue out at him. a soft laugh leaves your lips when sae scoffs, looking away. 

“are you really not going to go see the match?” he turns to you, pouting. you hate when he uses that little pout to guilt you. (you hate that you fall for it even more.)

you sigh, slumping against the couch, “i’ll think about it.”

“just give me an actual answer, damn.” he taps your forehead, “are you going, yes or no?”

a teasing smile creeps up your lips, “maybe.”

you laugh when he calls out your name in annoyance. he groans, glaring at you, “i hate you.”

“no you don’t,” you smile at him, “if you did you wouldn’t have asked me to go see you play tomorrow.”

his face flushes in embarrassment. “you’re not even going anyway!”

you rest your head on your hand, “i am, though.”

he stares at you, unimpressed. there’s a beat of silence before he huffs, the corners of his lips quirking up, “i really can’t stand you sometimes.”

“it’s not my fault you’re fun to tease!” you laugh. he flips you off before turning around to continue mopping. you sigh, stretching your arms up. a couple of seconds go by before you get up to make your way to the kitchen.

“where are you going?” 

“the kitchen,” you hum, turning around to look at sae. your ears burn when your eyes meet his. you wish you knew what goes on in his head when he stares at you so intensely. you wish you knew if he even knows he’s staring at you so intently. a small, awkward cough leaves your lips, “i wanted to get started on dinner.”

“you’re not even going to wait for me?” you fiddle with the hem of your shirt at his teasing tone. 

sometimes you wonder if he knows how domestic your dynamic has become. if he’s aware that people have started associating him with you, and vice versa. if he’s aware of the effect his words have on you. (you really wish you could take a peek inside his mind.)

“you’d just get in my way,” you tsk, “besides i wanna finish quickly, my head hurts a little.”

he quickly walks over to you, dragging the mop behind him, “have you taken any medicine?”

“i’m fine,” you wave off the hand he placed on your forehead, “it’s probably because i’m hungry.”

“are you sure?” your heart pounds against your chest at his concern. 

you give him a reassuring smile, “i’m sure. if it still hurts before i go to bed i’ll take some medicine.”

“fine.” he huffs, lips pursing, “but if you still feel bad tomorrow, promise you’ll let me know.”

you feel your heart squeeze. you gnaw on your bottom lip, twisting the hem of your shirt with your hands. 

“i promise.” your voice is barely above a whisper, it’s just loud enough for him to hear.

he smiles, patting your head, “don’t push yourself too hard, ok?”

sae turns around. you stare at his back, his name tumbling out of your lips before you can stop yourself. he turns around with a curious hum.

you feel like your heart rests on your throat. he patiently waits for you to continue. heat rushes to your ears and you wipe your hands against your shirt. “i also promise i’ll go see your match.”

the smile that lights up his face makes you wish it was tomorrow already. you want to go. (because you like seeing him smile.) you want to go see his match. (because it’ll make him happy.)

you want to see him do his favorite thing in the world. you want to share that happiness with him, despite not caring much for the sport. (because you think it’ll make him happy to see you there, even if he doesn’t say it. you want to be the reason he feels genuine happiness.)

you’re not there.

it’s the first thing sae notices when he looks at the stands. it’s what he keeps noticing whenever he turns to look at the stands throughout the match. when they reach halftime and you’re still not there, so he texts you. the second half starts and you’re still not there. 

the game ends and you never showed up. his brows knit when he checks his phone only to find out you never even read his messages. concern carves itself into him. 

he makes his way back to the apartment as quickly as he can, secretly hoping that nothing bad happened to you.

his heart beats faster, anxiety seeping into him when he opens the door and he doesn’t see your figure on the couch. 

sae hastily kicks his shoes off, dropping his duffel bag somewhere on the floor. he lets out a deep breath when he stands in front of your door, quickly knocking.

a couple of seconds go by before he knocks again, frowning when there’s no reply. he quietly opens the door, mentally apologizing. his eyes quickly scan the room for you. there’s a lump in his throat when he sees something stir under your bed sheets. 

he quietly walks over to your bed, slowly lowering your comforter. his chest tightens, brows knitting with worry when he sees your face twisted in pain, a slight sheen of sweat on your forehead. he grabs a tissue from your nightstand, gingerly wiping the sweat away. 

he sharply inhales when you stir under his touch. sae stares at you as you slowly open your eyes. his eyes fill with concern when he notices how heavy, and unfocused yours look.

he presses the back of his hand against your forehead, brows furrowing even more, “gosh, you’re burning up.”

“sae?” he can barely hear your voice. “why’re you here?” 

he clicks his tongue, wiping more sweat off your forehead.

“what about the match?” you blearily look at him, voice laced with soft concern. you try to keep your eyes open when he heads out, grogginess catching up to you when he returns with a bowl in his hands, a hand towel over his shoulder. 

he dampens the towel, wringing out the excess onto the bowl. sae gently presses it against your forehead, “have you had a fever all day long?”

“did i miss it?” his heart aches at how choked up your voice sounds. 

“i thought i told you to tell me if you weren’t feeling alright, dumbass,” he nags, carefully lifting your head up to prop another pillow under it. 

“‘m sorry.” your eyes fill with tears, a pout tugging at your lips. he gently adjusts the towel against your skin. 

“don’t apologize,” he softly tsks, “worry about getting better, not about missing the game, idiot.”

he panics when a tear rolls down your cheek, hastily brushing it away. his heart squeezes in pain when more tears freely roll down your cheeks. 

“i didn’t,” you sniffle, “didn’t wanna miss the game.”

he shushes you, grabbing another tissue to wipe your tears away. “it’s fine.”

“‘s not,” your breath quickens, brows knitting in sadness, “i promised.”

he firmly calls out your name, “it’s not your fault.”

“i promised,” you hiccup. sae frowns, reaching out to remove the towel from your forehead, pouting when he notices you’re still burning up. he quickly dampens it again before resting it against your skin once more.

“i’ll go get you some medicine,” he whispers, turning around to exit your room.

sae stops in his tracks when he feels something weakly tug at his fingers. he turns to look at you, sucking in a shaky breath when he sees you holding on to him.

“don’t leave.” you weakly try to pull him closer. 

there’s a slight flicker of hope in him that tells him you’re aware of what you’re doing despite your raging fever. but he quickly extinguishes it by reminding himself that you probably think you’re dreaming. (because there’s no way you’d tell him to stay with you otherwise, he’s sure of it.)

“i have to get you some medicine,” he mutters. still, he makes no attempt to free his hand from yours.

“stay.” he wants to. he wants to stay with you more than anything. but he needs to get you something to relieve your fever.

he sits on your bed, readjusting your grip on his hand, “i need to go get your medicine.” 

he gingerly readjusts the towel on your forehead, slightly smiling at you. his heart pangs with worry when he notices how clammy your hands are. 

sae’s eyes widen when you lift yourself up, wrapping your arms around his neck. the towel on your forehead drops into his lap. he feels you rest your head on his shoulders, frowning at the heat emanating from you. (still, he wraps his arms around you so you don’t fall.)

his worried eyes meet your hazy ones when you slowly lift your head to look at him, a sleepy smile on your lips. 

“so stubborn,” your hands cup his cheeks. 

sae freezes when he feels your lips press against his. his heart beats faster, blush spreading through his face like wildfire. 

a sharp inhale leaves his lips when he feels your hands drop from his cheeks, your body tilting back. he cups the back of your head before it hits the pillow.

his eyes scan your face. he lowers his head when he feels your feeble grip on his jacket. his eyes flicker to yours when you weakly tug him closer in an attempt to press his lips against yours again. 

he slowly lifts your head up, a soft huff of laughter slipping past his lips when a glimmer of anticipation flashes through your eyes. he presses his lips against yours in a short peck, a startled noise leaving his mouth when you pull him back in. 

his face heats up more and more every time you chase after his lips when he pulls away for air. he pants when you pull away, trying to catch your breath. he rests his forehead against yours, his breath fanning against your lips. 

you softly call out his name. butterflies erupt in his stomach. he really hopes you know you’re not dreaming. 

his arm tightens against you, the hand resting on the back of your head gently tilting it to the side. he doesn’t think twice before pressing his lips against yours again, a content sigh escaping him when you melt under his touch. 

he presses his lips against yours over and over again, gently lowering you back onto the bed. your kisses feel like they’re the very air he breathes. like he’ll suffocate if he’s apart from you for more than a second.

sae kisses you silly until he feels your grip against his jacket soften. he pulls away, panting, face ablaze, eyes looking at your sleeping face with a softness that is so unlike him.

he carefully removes your hands from him, lifting your comforter to tuck you into bed. a smile lingers on his lips as he places the towel on your forehead again. 

he quietly makes his way out of your room, pressing the pads of his fingers against his lips. his heart feels like it wants to jump out of his chest. a deep sigh leaves his lips. he makes his way to the front door, quickly putting on his shoes to go buy your medicine.

sae really hopes you get better soon. (he wants to kiss you again, and he wants to be sure you’ll remember it properly.)

if you thought sae was a bad student, he’s an even worse patient. he is the most uncooperative sick person you’ve ever met in your life. 

you suppose it’s only fair to put up with him since he took care of you while you were sick. (even if it makes you want to knock him unconscious.)

still, it never fails to make your blood boil when you find him wobbling around the living room with a broom in his hands.

“would it kill you to stay in bed?” you stomp over to him, prying the broom off his hands before propping it against the wall.

he blearily looks at you, pouting. he sniffles, “yes.”

you frown, grabbing his hand and dragging him to his room. he glares at you when you force him to lay down on his bed. 

“stay here while i get your medicine,” you point at him, glaring back. “or i’ll suffocate you with a pillow until you fall asleep.”

“you can’t be rude to me while i’m sick!” he angrily crosses his arms, scoffing.

it’s still surprising that he’s still in bed when you get back. it’s even more surprising that he’s staring at the door, his face lighting up when you enter. 

his nose scrunches up in disgust when he sees the cough syrup in your hands. he burrows himself in his comforter, turning his head away from you. 

“sae.” you gently call out, sitting next to him. a small smile blooms on your lips when he slowly turns to look at you. “you know you have to take your medicine to get better, right?”

“if i take my medicine,” he sneezes, “will you give me a reward?”

“yeah, sure, i’ll give you a sticker.” you absentmindedly hum, uncapping the syrup. 

“no,” he shakes his head,  “i want another reward.” 

your brows raise in confusion, your turn your attention to him. “what kind of reward?”

he smiles, lifting a hand to tap his lips and then tapping yours. your face heats up, jaw dropping. you gently swat his hand away, pouting. “you shouldn’t tease like that.”

“‘m not,” he sticks his tongue out at you, “i want another kiss.”

“another?” you blink in surprise. your eyes widen slightly when a cheeky smile creeps up his lips. 

“you kissed me when you were sick,” he snickers, nose scrunching up when you force the syrup into his mouth. 

“no i didn’t,” you frown. he forces himself to swallow the cough syrup, a choked gasp leaving his lips.

“you don’t remember?” he whines, sniffling when you shake your head. 

you feel a pang in your heart when sae looks at you, eyes swimming with sadness. “‘m sorry, sae.”

“‘s fine,” he playfully smiles, “i’ll just have to make up for it later.”

heat spreads through your face. a pout tugs at your lips, “don’t say stuff like that. i might take you seriously.”

“i’m being serious,” he sniffles, “wanna kiss you again.”

you shyly stare at him, shrinking into yourself. you suppose being sick must’ve made him bolder. or maybe he just wants to get back at you. but you have to admit it gives you the perfect excuse to make him stop being so difficult.

“i’ll kiss you if you stop complaining about taking your medicine,” you quietly huff, fingers playing with your shirt. 

your ears feel like they’re on fire when his face lights up. “but only when you get better! i don’t wanna get sick again.”

he nods, a satisfied grin blooming on his lips. “sounds good to me.”

there’s a beat of silence before you stand up. sae’s eyes widen, “where are you going?”

“i’m gonna go make you some soup,” you hum, “you should sleep while i’m gone.”

sae pouts, “‘m not tired.”

“that’s too bad, then,” you stick your tongue out at him. he clicks his tongue. 

“i’ll be back soon,” you pat his head. he huffs, pouting.

you barely take a step forward, yelping when you feel something yank you back. your brows knit in annoyance when you feel sae wrapping his arms around you. 

“sae.”

“‘m only going to sleep if you stay with me.” he mutters.

an amused smile tugs at your lips. you’re starting to think he’s cute when he’s sick. a little clingy, but cute. (you also think you might indulge him just this once.)

“fine,” you sigh. “but i’m leaving as soon as you fall asleep.”

you don’t. 

you’re not sure exactly when you fell asleep, but you’re sure it wasn’t dark outside when sae pulled you towards him. part of you wants to stay with him, just to let him sleep longer. but you also know you need to make him some soup. 

so, you gently try to pry yourself off of him. a soft groan leaves your lips when his arms tighten around you. 

his name tumbles out of your mouth. “i have to go make your soup.”

“‘m coming with you.” his voice sounds hoarse. (his nose sounds stuffy, too.)

“sae,” you try to pry his arms off, “you need to rest.”

“‘m going with you.” he huffs, “there’s nothing you can say to make me not join you.”

you begrudgingly decide to indulge him again. which is why he’s slumped over your shoulder as you make your way to the kitchen. it’s why he’s holding onto your waist, burrowing his face in your neck as you move around the kitchen. 

(it’s why your face feels like it’s on fire when he nuzzles closer to you, smiling.)

and you think that maybe him being a little too clingy isn’t that bad.

when a girl in your class asks you what sae is to you, you’re not sure what to say. 

you could say he’s your roommate, like you used to. but you don’t think he’d make himself extremely comfortable in your personal space if he was just your roommate. you could also say he’s your friend (much to everyone’s surprise.) but you’re not sure if he’d be so obsessed with kissing you whenever you’re both home if he was just your friend. 

(still, he’s not exactly your boyfriend, either. you’re not sure what he is. neither of you have brought it up before.)

either way, she wouldn’t be satisfied with the answer you give her. at least, that’s what you think with the way she glowers at you.

so, you just say he’s nothing. (which is a lie. but she doesn’t need to know that.) 

the result is what you expected, some angry huffing and empty warnings to stay away from sae. (not that it’d work seeing how you live with him.) except, things take a turn for the worse when your phone screen lights up, displaying sae’s name on it while it rings on the table. 

a pained expression flashes through your face when she clears her throat. you tilt your head up to look at her, an awkward, tense smile on your lips.

“i thought you said he was nothing to you?” she scoffs. 

“he is.” you internally curse how fast you replied. you hope she didn’t notice. 

she rolls her eyes, “then why do you have his contact saved with a star on your phone?”

you blink, your lips pressing into a fine line. “because he’s a star?” 

she doesn’t look convinced. (neither are you.) a loud, annoyed groan leaves her lips as she looks you up and down, crossing her arms.

“listen here, idiot,” she glares at you. anger flashes in her eyes when your phone rings again. “i don’t know who you think you are–” 

(you don’t know who she thinks she is, but with the way she seems to be unaware that you literally live with sae, you assume she must be some clueless freshman who happened to go to one of the football matches, saw sae, and became one of his many fans.)

“–but if you even consider the idea that sae might be into you–”

(you don’t even have to consider the idea, it pretty much solidified itself as a fact given with the way he kisses you until both of you are struggling to catch your breath whenever you two are alone.)

“–then you’ve got another thing coming,” she grabs your wrist, digging her nails into your skin. “i don’t know how someone like you got his number, but he doesn’t need freaks like you bothering him.”

she looks at you with contempt, “so stay away from him, or else–”

“or else what?” 

you both turn your heads to the door. her grip on your wrist loosens. you bite back a laugh when she removes her hand, shyly tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. 

“sae,” she takes a step closer to him. you hide your smile behind your hand when you see his clearly annoyed and disgusted expression. (you note he looks disheveled. you also notice his duffel bag slung over his shoulders.)

“or else what?” you snort at the clear anger in his voice. he glares at her, crossing his arms. she shrinks into herself, clearly nervous. 

“i was just trying to keep this freak away from you,” she plays with her hair. you feel embarrassed for her when she continues, “you shouldn’t have to deal with–”

“who the fuck even are you anyway?” he cuts her off, scowling. 

her eyes light up, “i’m–”

“leaving? i sure fucking hope so.” he scoffs, walking over to you. his face softens when he looks at you. 

sae extends his hand out to you, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips when you slip your hand into his. he reaches out for your backpack, quickly shrugging it on his shoulder before you can protest. 

“i thought you were one of the first people out of class,” he hums, lacing his fingers with yours.

your eyes flicker to the girl, who is still standing next to the table, face flushed in embarrassment. “i got held up.”

sae glances in her direction, scoffing in annoyance. “you’re still here?”

you can’t help but feel a little bad for her when her eyes well up with tears of embarrassment, her hands bunching up her skirt. “i thought–”

“you thought wrong,” he clicks his tongue, “now get lost.”

her eyes snap to yours, anger replacing the embarrassment, “i thought you said he was nothing to you!”

sae gasps, looking at you, hurt written all over his face. you look away, biting the inside of your cheek. he calls out your name, “why’d you say that?”

“i didn’t know what else to say,” you mumble. 

“say i’m your boyfriend!,” he huffs. “or do you not want to say that?”

heat floods your face. you hide your face in sae’s back when you hear choked sobs. you tug at his jacket, “can we just go home already?”

you take a peek at the girl from behind sae’s shoulder. “i don’t want to talk about this here.”

“fine,” he mutters, “but this conversation is not over.”

he drags you out of the classroom. you don’t look back, but you gnaw your bottom lip when you hear muffled sobs coming from behind you. 

you both walk in silence for a bit. a small smile blooms on your lips when sae slows down his pace to match yours. 

“i’m surprised you didn’t tell her off.” he hums. 

“you got there before i could,” you fondly shake your head, “i would’ve loved giving her a piece of my mind.”

a soft laugh leaves his lips, “i’m sure you’ll find another occasion to do so.”

the walk home feels quicker than usual. you suppose it’s because sae’s actually with you instead of over the phone.

you’re barely past the door to your apartment when sae wraps his arms around you, pulling you close. he relaxes when you wrap your arms around him. 

“if someone asks you what i am to you,” he nuzzles his face into your neck, “just tell them i’m your boyfriend.”

“are you sure?” your hands clench around his jacket. 

he pulls back slightly to look at you, confusion written all over his face. “yeah? am i not your boyfriend already?”

“i don’t know?” your brows knit in confusion. 

“i thought it was clear?” he blinks. “it wasn’t clear to you?”

“i don’t think i would’ve been threatened by one of your fangirls if it was clear,” you deadpan. 

“oh.” he presses his lips into a fine line. “well, now you know.”

your jaw drops, “you’re not even going to ask if i want you to be my boyfriend?”

“i think it’s safe to say we’re well past asking,” he stares at you. 

“still,” you pout, “it’d be nice if you did.”

“what, are you going to give me a sticker if i do?” he scoffs. 

“i was gonna give you a kiss, but if you don’t wanna ask, then–”

“would you let me be your boyfriend?”

laughter spills out of your lips, “you didn’t even let me finish!” 

“just answer my question.” he smiles. “and hurry it up too, i have to clean.”

you playfully shake your head, “so demanding. but, i suppose you can be my boyfriend.”

sae’s lips are on yours as soon as the words leave your mouth. you gasp in surprise when he nips at your lower lip. 

you’re not sure how long he kisses you for, but you feel dizzy when you pull away. you angle your head away from his when he chases after your lips again. 

“i thought,” you pant, “thought you said you had to clean.” 

“it can wait.” he breathes out. 

“i have to cook.” 

he angles your head back to face him, “it can wait.”

“but–”

he calls out your name with a smile, “it can all wait. just let me kiss you again.”

“okay.” you smile when he tilts your head towards his. 

you think you’re starting to understand sae’s obsession with kissing you.

when you think of itoshi sae, the first thing that comes to mind is: boyfriend. you’re not sure if you’re ever going to get used to calling him that. you’ve told him it still sounds weird, he simply says it sounds perfect. 

you’re also not sure you’ll ever get used to the many pairs of eyes staring holes into the back of your head. (you blame sae for insisting you wear his spare jersey to his games.)

still, you suppose you could put up with all the staring if it means you get to see sae play.

(even if it means you have to endure his showing off for the next hour.)

“did you see how great i was out there?” he puffs out his chest. 

“you were the best!” you smile when he laces his fingers with yours. “i think you deserve a reward.”

you bite back a laugh when his head turns to look at you, eyes twinkling with anticipation. “close your eyes.”

you can practically feel the excitement rolling off of him as he closes his eyes. you let go of his hand, snickering when his brows furrow. you quickly reach into your bag, pulling out the sticker sheet you stashed in there. 

a laugh leaves your lips when you gingerly place a star sticker on sae’s cheek. “you can open your eyes now.”

you heartily laugh when sae touches his cheek, glaring at you when he feels the outline of a star. he huffs, “you’re the worst.”

“shut up, you love them.” you flick his forehead. 

he tsks, poking your nose. “when you said i deserved a reward, i thought you meant a kiss.”

“i can kiss you if you want.” you cheekily smile at him. he huffs, crossing his arms.

he turns his head away from you, “you ruined the moment with those stupid, lukewarm stickers.”

“you say that as if you don’t stick them against your mirror.” you stick your tongue out at him, the corners of your lips lifting into a smile when his cheeks flush. 

“i hate you,” he frowns, looking at you.

“no you don’t,” you peck his cheek.

“whatever,” he grumbles, “let’s just go home already.”

you laugh when he grabs your hand, tugging you in the direction of your apartment. (you don’t mention the smile on his lips.)

“i’m going to cook today,” he laughs when you groan in disgust. “i’ve gotten better!”

“yeah, right.” you quip. “i think it’d be better if you clean while i cook.”

“what if we cook together?” he hums.

“you’ll just get in my way.” you smile, laughing when he shakes your arm. 

“what if we go out to eat?” he shrugs nonchalantly. (you still notice the flush on his ears.)

“itoshi sae!” you gasp dramatically, “are you asking me out on a date?”

he scoffs, cheeks turning bright red. “don’t make a big deal out of it.”

“i’d be honored to go out with the itoshi sae,” your voice drips with mischief. a soft gasp leaves your lips when he tugs you to him, wrapping his arms around you.

“i think it’s me who’s honored to go out with you,” he mumbles. you hug him back, nuzzling into him. 

“we still need to head home, though,” he pulls away, “i want to take a shower.”

“want me to join you?” you laugh when you see his scandalized expression.

“you’re so shameless!” he bites back a laugh, hiding his face behind his hands.

“oh, please, like we haven’t showered together before.” you playfully scrunch your nose. 

he clicks his tongue, “as tempting as it sounds, i really would like to go eat early today.”

you fondly roll your eyes, tugging him towards your apartment. “fine.”

“but i’m not opposed to taking a shower with you when we get back.” he bites back a smile when you smack his shoulder.

the walk home is filled with laughter, teasing smiles on both of your faces. and, for once, you’re glad to have an opinion of sae.

(especially because it’s based on the version of your sae, and not the one everyone else thinks he is.)