nightylantern

Latest Posts by nightylantern

Someone give this person a medal for the most jaw dropping beautiful angst to happy ending fic ever. Reader is honestly so real, like I felt their mental state through the screen. If that were me I dunno, my mental state at the end would have been worse, reader is crashing so much and rightfully so

Wherever you go, that's where I'll follow — Gojo Satoru

pairing: Gojo Satoru x fem!reader

synopsis: crushed by the pressure of his work, Satoru and the reader's relationship begins to spiral. You do everything you can to make him happy, but you fear it's not enough. Maybe it never was. After a miscalculation that could have resulted in innocent lives being lost, the situation takes a turn for the worse.

Word count: 17k+ (I'm sorry in advance)

genre: heavy angst with happy ending

warnings: heavy angst, swearing, reader is a motherly figure to Megumi but their relationship is a bit strained, mentions of depression and self-doubt, reader is a sorcerer, fighting, insecurity, arguments, and breakups (?), descriptions of gore, mentions of sexual intercourse (mdni), depictions of a complicated and untraditional relationship, reader gets hurt, hardly edited/proofread (oops), gojo is fed up and mean :(

a/n: this is the first and longest thing I've ever posted on here lol. I felt like there was a lack of sorcerer!reader, so I played around with that concept a little bit. other than potentially shitty writing (sorry for any typos or grammatical errors), I truly hope you enjoy <3

sequel & blurbs

“Get out.”

The hash sentiment lingers, hanging heavily in the air. 

“Well, hello to you too.”

He hears your feet shuffle across the floor as you stumble to take your shoes and coat off. “I just came to check on you.”

“And I’m fine,” he responds without moving, one arm up, draping over his aching eyes. He lies on the living room couch, one lanky leg propped up at an angle.

“You’re clearly not fine,” you respond, seeming unphased. “Have you eaten anything?” You ask, waiting for a response that never comes. “Okay, I’ll make your favorite ramen.” 

He feels the side of the couch dip, your hand settling on his chest. Your fingers were greedy like you couldn’t stop yourself from playing with the fabric or caressing his taut muscles. Your voice is gentler when you speak this time. “Do you want an ice pack? Some tea?”

You two have done this dance before. You come home to find him exhausted, overworked with a migraine that could tranquilize an elephant. And just like always, you carefully slip his shoes off and unbutton the sleek black jacket to his uniform. It’s hard for him to stay mad about anything when you’re this kind, this caring. 

“Satoru, please say something.”

“There’s nothing to say.”

Your voice was so gentle. So sweet, saccharine, and so fucking patient. A voice you only ever reserved for him and for his ears only. A gentle whisper carried in a gentle breeze. It was his favorite sound. 

But not tonight. 

So you try something else. Sweet kisses along the corner of his lips. You’re even bold enough to move his arm, the arm he was using to desperately block out any light or simulation. You kiss his eyelids, his forehead, and cheeks—feather-light. Your hand slides up his chest before reaching his face. You caress your thumb under his closed eyes, and your other hand finds his hair, gently massaging his temple. He has all of you. Every bit. 

“Let me take care of you.” If it were any other night, your breath fanning his neck would have shattered him; goosebumps would have wrecked his body, he’d shiver, and everything in him would ease, and all of his stress would slip away into nothingness. He never had to be the strongest with you. You would render him down to nothing but a simple man with just a few words. “You don’t look too good, honey. I’m sorry you’re not feeling well.” For a woman so strong in your own right, a woman of unyielding dignity and poise and unwavering determination to succeed, this is his favorite side of you. 

But not tonight. 

When his hand clasps your wrist, he feels your whole body freeze against his. Maybe you were surprised. Maybe you predicted this and were preparing yourself but-

The tongue-lashing dies in his throat when he opens his eyes. Just a peak to your face makes him falter. You were pouting. Worried. “I’m fine.” it’s harsher than you deserve but kinder than the thoughts swirling through his head a second ago. 

He’s agitated. Stuck in the same old system that continues to fuck him over—his students over. 

And yet, you just looked too beautiful. 

You pull away, finally taking the hint. Then, you stand, fully removing yourself from him and stepping away. Your body heat quickly disappears from where you once sat, and he quivers. The room was quiet once again. 

The room remained quiet even as you placed a hot bowl of ramen on the table beside him, a glass of water, and two pills. 

You slept alone that night. 

-

You remember when you first met Megumi. 

“Who the hell are you?” 

You never would have expected that to be the the words from a child you had just met. You raised a brow. “Well, aren’t you a fucking, brat?” 

You were different back then—colder, angrier. You were similar in that sense.

Oddly enough, maybe that’s what gravitated him to you.  

You’re not sure when it happened, but gradually, the harsh edges of you began to… change. Not entirely softened, as thorns remained, but you bloomed, red petals and all. You grew softer, kinder, more patient—and finally—your heart had made space for others. The fear of loss remained, but you had never cared for someone so fragile. No one had ever cried for you, reached for you with small chubby fingers, or depended on you as he once had. You never had someone in your life that needed to be nurtured, protected, and guided. 

He was just a boy. 

Over time, you realized that if you remained unchanged, perhaps he would never grow into the man he needed to be. You’re not sure why he picked you, why he looked up to you of all people, but he did. He found comfort in you and followed you like a little duckling with a little waddle and permanent scowl. 

There wasn't a rhyme or reason. He chose you, and you chose him. 

Soon enough, you were waking him up for school, running your hands through his messy, dark locks. You were making him bento boxes, running to parent-teacher conferences, and having hard but meaningful conversations with him in his room about his troubling behavior. 

Then you were hugging him as he cried, as he revealed the same dark thoughts you once had about yourself. 

You wished this world wasn’t so cruel, so dark. You hope that in a different life, he would have grown into a normal kid, with hopes and dreams and a list of things he wanted to do and go out and experience. You didn’t want him to be shackled to a world that’s left you so scarred.

You fought for any sense of normality you could give him. If that meant confronting the higher-ups, so be it. At times, you even confronted Satoru. 

He was just a boy. 

Fire never harmed you;  it never dared to scorch your skin. You commanded and held domination over nearly every flicker of heat. He was so small when you met him; you remember the first time you saw his small form shiver in the cold. It made you anxious. Despite buying him the heaviest winter coat you could find, you were beside yourself, always wondering—is he warm enough? 

But, long were the days of you bundling him up in his jacket, tying his shoes, and tugging beanies over his dark hair and red ears. Long were the days of you clasping his little hands in yours to bring them warmth when the air grew too bitter. He grew older, smarter, wiser, and stronger. The boy that used to cling to your skirt after a hard day at school now stood inches taller than you. 

You knew that one day he’d leave you, and you were okay with that. Seeing him so ready for the world made you happy. You worried—of course you still worried—but you were so proud. He was hesitant, unsure at times, and sometimes even looked back to you for assurance. 

You were always there, smiling, ushering him along. 

You can do it. I believe in you. 

You grew up together, you think. Sometimes, you wondered if he ever paid for your shortcomings, or if he remembered your failures as a caregiver, but just like you did him, he’d assure you with a soft nudge and a gentle smile. 

He knows you did the best you could with what you had.  

He was just a boy. 

Your boy. 

He wasn’t yours, but you loved him like he was. Only as he grew did you realize the lines you had crossed. 

He doesn’t remember his mother, but you’re sure he remembered her smile, perhaps her touch, or the sound of her laughter. You never meant to impose on her memory.

When it happened, he had just gotten into Tokyo Jujutsu High, and Satoru took him on his first official mission. You no longer had the means of pushing this off; you couldn’t beg Satoru or the higher-ups for another month, another week, another day. Megumi wasn’t a normal kid. He was a sorcerer and needed to start fulfilling his duties and mastering his technique.

“You can’t avoid the inevitable. You can’t protect him forever,” Satoru had once told you. 

You knew he was right. 

You stayed home that day, anxious and worried, but you knew Megumi would be alright. Satoru was with him. Even if the tall man was a bit harder on Megumi than you, you knew he’d keep him safe. 

However, your worst fears came to fruition. Megumi wasn’t the same after that mission. 

You remember. Satoru’s eyes were stern that night while Megumi's eyes never left the floor as he made his way to his room. 

You remember thinking—what could I do to make my boys happy again? 

After all, they were your everything, the reason you stood here now with a full heart. Things were newer for you and Satoru then, but he kissed you that night, warm, large hands gently holding your cheeks. He missed you a little bit extra that day. You were nervous, hesitant to fall into the sanctuary of his embrace, but it was only a matter of time until you were fully, devotedly his.

 “Are you okay?” You had asked, only for him to nod his head. 

“Yeah. Of course, I am, angel. Megumi is shaken up, but he’ll be alright too.” 

You made Megumi’s favorite dinner that night—the same beefsteak he’s raved about since he was only six. Well, he never raved, but you perfectly remember the first time you made it, which happened to be the first time he tried it. He could barely get his chin over the table to scope his food into his mouth. He wasn’t good with chopsticks yet, so he used a little fork, which he held in his tiny fist. His little eyebrows raised before dipping down, creasing at the inner corners as he concentrated on the flavor. He murmured it’s good, and you remember being so proud of yourself. That was one of the first times you felt that you were doing something right by him. You made the same dish on occasion, and time only helped you perfect the recipe. 

Megumi never came out of his room that night. The lights were off when you knocked. Even after hearing no response, you had cracked open the door, poking your head inside. 

“Gumiii,” you stepped into his room. He was on his bed, groaning as you flicked the light on. He turned his back to you. “I made your favoriteee.”  

You had sat on the edge of his bed, a hot plate of food in your hands. “C’mon, it’s the beefsteak you like. Nice and warm.”

“‘m not hungry,” he had grumbled. 

You sighed. “The mission must have been unpleasant.” He remained still. “I’m sorry, Gumi. Satoru said you did well! I’m proud of you—” he flinched from your touch, snapping his arm away from your reach. You froze, having felt the coldness of his rejection. “If you don’t want to talk about the mission, how was your first day at your new school?” You asked. “Do you have any classmates you like?”

“Just quit it already…” he had murmured. “I’m not in the mood.”

Your shoulders slumped. “I’m sorry. I just want to make sure you’re okay. My first mission was tough too, and you already know I wasn’t great at making friends either–” you winced, biting your tongue.  This was coming out all wrong. “… are you okay, Megumi?” 

“I’m fine!” He clipped, pushing himself upright in bed. “Just leave me alone and stop acting like you’re my mom already!”  

You remembered—and just the memory of that night shambled your heart. You could never forget the hurt those words caused and how you couldn’t show it. 

You had smiled wearily. Then, you placed his dinner on his desk. “…you’re right,” you echoed. “I’m not her, never could be. I’m sorry if I imposed. I never meant to.”

You never spoke of the incident, but you remembered that things were tense between Satoru and Megumi for a short while after that. You told Satoru to drop it, but you had a feeling the poor boy received a tongue-lashing from Satoru. You were never sure, though, and you could never prove it. 

You just remembered feeling cracks in the foundation of the home you never knew you had so carefully crafted, brick by brick. Some of the warmth was gone—a warmth you never knew was quite there until it wasn’t. 

Little by little, you pulled back. Megumi moved into the student dorms shortly after, and he needed you less and less. You no longer made him bento boxes or his favorite beefsteak. You bit your tongue with the lectures: Megumi, that’s not nice, or Megumi, you need to have more faith in yourself. You can do it.  

Though the bitter bite of cold never entirely touched you, heated by an unquenchable fame, you pulled back your hand when you reached for him. He left you seared—burned. 

You still worried. You never knew if you were giving him too much or not enough. So, you left most of the mentoring to Satoru now.  It’s been a few months since the incident, and now you only ever speak to him if he approached you first. 

That's why you were happy when you spotted him in town. You offered him a small, shy wave. He unexpectedly approached you and asked how you were and what you’d been up to. However, the most unexpected part was when he asked if you were busy. You shook your head, and it was impossible to hide you beam when he offered to get you hot chocolate from the same coffee shop you used to take him to after school in the colder months.

However, it seemed you weren’t the only one confused by Satoru’s recent behavior. 

“Huh?”

“Gojo didn’t want me going on my mission,” Megumi reiterated. 

You blink a few times, tapping your fingers against the styrofoam cup in your hands. “Huh. He’s never done that before.”

“He doesn’t think I’m ready. He took the mission himself.”

“He said that? That he doesn’t think you’re ready?”

“Well… not exactly.” He scowls slightly, looking down at the cup of hot chocolate. “But he damn well implied it.”

“Gumi,” you frown at the boy. He doesn’t make eye contact with you; he looks forward now, gazing out the window and watching the fresh snow coat the ground. 

He was upset. 

“He could’ve at least taken me with him.”

For a moment, you see that same little boy you met over ten years ago and that same dejected look on his face after being let down one too many times. It breaks your heart. 

“If Satoru took the mission and went alone, I’m sure it’s for a good reason.”

He wants to say more but opts for something quick and sweet. “Yeah. Maybe.”

You have to do something. Quick. Anything to make him a bit happier. “I have a mission later in Osaka. I’ll be catching the 2 pm train. Wanna come? I could use the extra help.” 

He’s quiet for a moment, thinking, you presume, but he nods. “Yeah, sure. I don’t have anything else to do.” 

“Great! And just so you know, we’ll probably be dealing with a grade one or two.” 

He pauses momentarily before calmly asking, “And you need help with that?”

“Uh, yeah. Any help is much appreciated. Plus, I haven’t seen you much recently.” You smile brightly, and he turns his head, eyes finding the ground, looking a little bashful. 

“About that…” 

“Don’t worry about it,” you wave him off. “You’ve been busy with school, and I know that.”

“But that’s not–”

“It’s okay, Megumi,” you smile again, resisting the urge to reach across the table and gently squeeze his hand. “I get it.”

He gives you a look, a small disgruntled scowl. He wanted to say more.

“Alrighty then.” You stand, stretching from sitting in the chair. “I’ll buy you another hot chocolate for the road. We should probably start getting ready to leave.”

-

The mission goes well. An abandoned warehouse in Osaka conjured up a nasty looking grade three, but Megumi held his own just fine—like you expected. He’s grown much stronger and more sure of himself. You’re proud. Seeing how far he’s come certainly puts a smile on your face. He’s not a little boy anymore, you realized. He’s growing into a fine young man. 

Urg. Stop getting emotional. 

However, after stopping for a later dinner, you both arrived home late, around nine or so. 

“You did good tonight, Megumi,” you tell him for the nth time. 

He rolls his eyes, tucking his hands deep into his pockets. “You’ve told me that already.”

“I know, I know. It doesn’t change the fact that I’m proud of you. You’re getting so much stronger.”

Instead of brushing you off like all the other times, he sighs before offering a forced “thanks.” 

“Alrighty then. Try and get some sleep, okay? I’ll see you and the others sometime tomorrow, yeah?”

“Sounds good. Get back home safe.”

You nod, smiling. You make sure to watch him as he goes, making sure he gets inside before turning around. He’s capable of taking care of himself, but some habits never grow old. Making sure he gets inside anywhere safely has always been something you’ve prioritized, whether he was going to a friend's house, school, or boarding the train. 

You loved him like your own, but you knew he wasn't. After all, it was only a few months ago now that he reminded you that he wasn't yours.

You’re not my mom. 

It hurt—it still does—but you never held it against him. You still loved him nevertheless. Your relationship might have shifted but it doesn’t negate the fact that you care for him and would gladly give your life if it meant keeping him safe. 

Then, there was Kugisaki and Itadori—two others slowly weaseling their way into your heart. They’ve helped Megumi so much; he might be too proud to admit it, but they’ve helped him come out of his shell; they were his friends, and you knew they had each other backs. 

You sigh, a translucent cloud of white floating up and above your head. Just like always, your thoughts shift to blue eyes. Satoru. You’ve missed him today. No calls or obnoxious spam texts. It’s not unusual per se, especially when he gets busy. Regardless, you missed him.

But, something is bothering you. He wasn't communicating with you and he usually tells you these things. Even if he didn't have the time to tell you something right away, he'd eventually find a moment to talk to you. This time around, he didn’t. He didn't tell you he was leaving or about the whole ordeal with Megumi.

He just got up and left. You woke to a cold bed and an empty house. No text message, no note with a silly doodle. When you called him in the morning, it went right to voicemail. Eventually, when you pull up your shared text messages to check for anything new, you only saw the message you sent him from the day before. At a loss, you type out a quick message. You didn't think it would make things better, but at least it was something.

I hope you have a good day today :) 

It was all you could really muster up after last night. He seemed so agitated, and so fed up. You blamed it on stress; he isn’t usually like that. Usually, his touch was careful, calculated as if you were fixed of glass. You missed his lame jokes and mischievous grins when he was up to no good. You weren't offered any of that last night. Or the night before. Even the night before that. 

You’re starting to worry. 

He always bounces back so quickly. The only thing that typically gets him this mad are the higher-ups. Which, in Megumi's case, makes sense. You can see why Gojo would intervene if they gave him a dangerous mission. 

But why didn’t he take Megumi with him, at least?

Hm.. maybe it was beyond Megumi's skill set. Would the elders be stupid enough to set him up? They did it to you long ago, but they wouldn’t be bold enough to do it to the boy with the ten shadows technique, would they?

Or maybe Satoru… just doesn’t want to be near you?

Urg. You roll your eyes at your own selfish thoughts. Satoru wouldn’t do something like that. He’s already overworked as it is. Maybe you should make him something. A nice dinner? Or maybe he needed a pick-me-up? Kikufuku? You’re sure you could find the recipe online. 

You're torn, so you decide to make both. Maybe you'll even put on a nice dress. 

You decide to call him, and after a few rings, he answers. “Hey, honey,” you say sweetly, happy he even bothered to answer your call. "I was wondering when you’d be home tonight. I want to make you a nice dinner.”

He’s quiet again—too quiet. “Dinner? Tonight?” 

“Yeah, you’ve been so busy lately. I figured you’d like that.” 

He hums into the phone, sounding a bit lighter. “Dinner does sound nice…” 

Your smile widens. You could hear the underlying stress in his tone; it was flatter than usual, but at least he was trying. “... I’ll even put on your favorite dress?” 

He chuckles a bit. “Tempting, but I’ll probably have to leave after dinner.”

“Oh,” you murmur, wincing slightly at the rejection. Maybe you’ve gotten too spoiled—too accustomed to him pushing off his responsibilities all for the sake of spending a few more moments with you. Were you being too greedy?  “Are you okay? They’re not stretching you too thin, are they?”

He sighs in a carefree tone. “I'm doing fine. Same old thing, just a different day,” is all he offers, but you can tell he’s withholding. 

“I can help, y’know,” you offer gently. “If you have too many missions, I can take a few off your plate.”

“Nah,” he tells you a bit arrogantly. “It’s better if I handle it.”

Now you’re really starting to feel the distance. He usually reserves the softer parts of him for you. You suppose he just didn’t have the patience to do so right now. “You, uh, got into it with the higher-ups I heard,” you mention, trying to keep the conversation going but approaching from a different angle. “Megumi was telling me you even took his mission. I think he was a bit upset you didn’t take him with you. How come you never told me?”

“How come you never told me you were going to Osaka? Or the fact that you took him with you?”

Your stomach twists, unease bubbling in your chest. You didn’t like where this was heading. “I– it’s never bothered you before,” you manage, though your voice falters, dying down into nothing but a whisper. “And it’s not like you’ve been… wanting to speak to me recently. I haven't had the time to tell you much of anything," your trail off, your voice slowly fading before you begin again. "Did I do something to make you mad?”

The silence that follows is unbearable—longer than you ever imagined it could be. “Satoru… Please just talk to me.”

“I gotta go,” his tone is cold, clipped, and final. 

There’s a click as he hangs up, and the silence becomes deafening and threateningly absolute.

-

You realize you miss the way he used to look at you. Not the way he'd gaze at you, but in the way he would gaze into you, as though you were ever the only thing that ever really mattered.

After your last conversation with him, you were unsteady. You hated how you stayed in bed for hours, analyzing everything he's said to you recently, dissecting his every action. You hated how needy you suddenly felt, even while laying there, in his bed, in his clothes. He paused just a second too long before answering you now, as if he had to must up the courage and energy to do so. His laugh no longer came out easily. Others might miss it, but you never could. It was still rambunctious, taking up a whole room, but to you, it felt forced, brittle even. You've known Satoru at his best, and you've also known him at his worst.

When he looks at you now, you wonder if he's really seeing you. Painfully, you realize you haven't seen him; not without his eyeband on at least. Last night you did, for the first time in a while, but he seemed agitated.

The worst part was that you didn't know how to bring yourself to confront him. You struggled, unsure which pretty words and cadence would unluck the distance between you two.

Did something happen on one of his missions? Was he stressed? Had the higher-ups pushed him too far, testing his patience?

Or was it you? Was this somehow your fault?

Did you scare him away? Have you said too much, cared too deeply, loved too loudly?

You weren't sure, but you had to try something.

You were grateful you were cooking him dinner tonight on your day off. It was the least you could do, and you adored taking care of him. You choose hot pot, something you and Satoru have tried at home before. It took over a few hours to prepare, but it was worth it. You made two broths, you sliced up shabu-shabu and wagyu beef and even went to the extent of watching a video to make a dipping sauce. Unfortunately, you forgot one of the ingredients for the kikufuku mochi and didn’t want to risk making something he didn’t entirely like. Luckily, you had spare time to run down to the kikufuku store right before it closed. Of course, you grabbed all his favorite, two boxfuls, in fact. He was a big guy, so you hoped you had more than enough food for him to indulge.

You and Satoru were together. Though he never outright asked you to be his, you knew. It was an unspoken thing, and you were content with that. For as goofy and eccentric as that man could be, it was rather surprising how he was never outright with what he was actually feeling. 

He was damn good at showing it, though. In more ways than one. 

You feel it in the way he’d always reach for you after a nightmare. Shaking, needy hands tightly clasping at your waste, fearful of you disappearing and slipping to a place where he could not reach you. Don’t ever go where I can’t follow. Please. His face would nuzzle into your neck, sharply inhaling your scent. You’d hold him, whispering endless promises. I’m here. I’ll always be here. Or it's okay. Breathe, my love. I’m with you. 

You feel it on the nights he’d pin you beneath him, his grunts and moans echoing in your ears as he fills you so completely. He’d beg, no demand you—tell me you’re mine. Only mine. 

And, of course, you’d eagerly nod, overwhelmed with the pleasure only he could strum out of you so perfectly. ‘m yours. All of me—yours. 

You feel it in his protective gaze, his eagerness to hold you in the life vest of his arms. You felt it late into the night, damp bodies pressed against one another; low lighting, quiet laughter, and secrets revealed. His dreams, his wishes, his what ifs—the parts of him that no one knew or considered. Or when he handed you a silver key with a handsome and cheshire grin. What do you say? He was lovely, every bit of him, especially his gentle and selfless heart that you would never take for granted like the rest of the world seemed to. 

You feel it when he comes home from overseas and how his strong arms hold onto you just a bit longer, a bit tighter. You feel it with how he smiles into your neck or that one time at the airport when he lifted you up and spun you around, uncaring who saw. 

You feel it in the way that it was unspoken. You feel it in his cursed energy and how it perfectly intertwined with yours, reaching for you, comforting you when his hands could not. You especially feel it in the necklace he gifted you—the one your fingers were playing with now: a silver chain with cerulean sapphires, the same breathtaking shade of his eyes. His cursed energy, carefully imbued into the stones, was like carrying a piece of him with you—always, wherever you may go, and it rests directly above your beating heart. 

He might not voice it, but you feel it. He loved you. And you certainly loved him. 

So when had it become so hard to reach him? Why does he seem so intangible all of a sudden? Something deep and unsettling blooms in your stomach. 

And now that you think about it…

When was the last time you two did any of that? When was the last time his careful hands caressed you?

Only Satoru could make you this worried or make you feel this displaced. A sense of panic strikes you, and you pull out your phone to text him when you realize he’s thirty minutes late. Usually, that wouldn’t bother you, but–

After only three rings, you're sent to voicemail. When you check his location, he’s at the high school. Should you check on him? Or would that make him… mad?

He toru! Dinners ready. When do you think you’ll be home? Miss you. 

You bite your lip. He quickly read your message, but those three little bubbles never show up. 

Nothing. Just nothing. 

Maybe he’s staying up late writing the report for his latest mission? 

“eek!” Your phone pings, and after a round of hot potato, you see he’s texted you back. 

Only to be met with more disappointment. 

Dealing with something urgent. Don’t wait up. 

You frown, knowing you should drop it, but you can’t. 

Satoru…

He’s typing faster now. What?

You pause, thumbs hovering over letters you hesitate to type. What’s going on? You’ve been off lately. 

I’m fine. Just busy. 

Do you want me to bring you dinner to the High School?

Those three bubbles appear and disappear more times than you can count. No. I said don’t wait up. 

You know I don't sleep well without you.

He responds in a heartbeat. It wouldn’t be the first time. 

Your patience is wearing thin for the first time since this ordeal started. Are you saying you won’t be coming home tonight? 

You’re offered no response. He doesn’t even open your message. For the second night, you lay in a cold bed. Except, Satoru doesn’t come home. 

Only he could fracture you so completely. 

-

During your next mission, you brought the whole trio along. According to the report you were handed, you were only dealing with a grade three, but there was also an Infestation in the area. You could use the backup.

You had initially asked Megumi, but once Yuji caught wind, he was adamant that he tagged along, and, according to Nobara she had nothing else better to do. 

“Are you guys sure? It’s your day off.”

Yuji shrugs, both arms up, hands up and behind his head. “Yeah, I’m game.”

“Me too,” Nobara voices with a small glint in her eyes. “I got something new I want to try out anyway. We didn’t get to go on a mission last week as it is.”

You paused. "Huh? Gojo didn’t take you on any?”

“Nah,” Yuji shakes his head. “I think he’s been busy or something.” He looks at Kugisaki. “Hasn’t Gojo-Sensei seemed a little… off?”

Nobara nods. “Uh yeah. He hasn’t been himself at all. We figured you’d know something,” Nobara says, curious eyes scanning you. 

“Huh… I’m not sure. We haven’t gotten around to talking lately.”

Megumi hums, though it sounds more suspicious than his usual passive tone. 

Though they weren’t necessarily your students, you figured there was no harm in taking them. You've done it before and having them around was always like a breath of fresh air—reminding you of why Satoru dedicates himself so fully to his cause and being a teacher. They give you a reason to get stronger and keep fighting. You loved these kids and all their bickering. 

Except, this mission doesn’t go anything like you had expected. The report was wrong—a grade two was ambling through the abandoned schoolhouse. That was fine; the four of you were more than enough to kill it. The infestation was a bit overwhelming, but you had their backs, and they were nothing but pesky small curses lower than a grade four. 

Everything went well when the ambush happens. You all saw it: right in front of your eyes, a grade one emerging from the shadows, born into something nasty. It's skin oozed a sickly black slime that clung to its misshapen body. Its face—or lack there of—was dark and amorphous, split by a jagged maw that stretched impossibly wide, revealing rows of sharp serrated teeth, ready to cut and slash through flesh like a meat grinder. Other that is daunting appearance, the only other notable thing about it was its speed.

You told the kids to back down, but it was already too late. They were already involved, stuck in the heat of battle and fighting as a seamless unite. They were more than capable of standing on their own. 

But you needed them out of here. Your obligation was to protect them no matter how eager they were to help. However, before you could think of your next move, the curse made one last self-preserving attack. It opened in wide jaws, releasing several red beamed energy blast aimed directly at stone pillars. 

You had no time to think, only react. In an instant, you surged forward towards the trio, faster than their eyes could react. Grunting, you knocked them back, glass shattering as you kicked them through a window. You felt the impact ripple through your body, fully knowing you knocked the wind out of Megumi and Yuji. However, they recovered quickly, their instincts sharp enough to catch Nobara–

Right in time before the building collapsed. 

The building groaned like a wounded beast, its entire frame buckling from lack of support. Stone walls crumbled into clouds of dust and debris, windows shattered in explosive bursts, steel beams twisted and snaped with sickening shrieks. The ground trembled violently as the structure gave way, collapsing into a chaotic heap of concrete, rubble, and smoke, swallowing everything beneath. Including you.

You survived. Reinforcing your body with cursed energy made you strong enough to withstand the impact, and your heavenly restriction certainly helped. Nevertheless, you still took on quite a bit of damage from the tons of metal and concrete.

You woke up under the rubble with a startling gasp, choking on the dust. Were you out for a few seconds? Minutes? You were unsure, but the only thing pushing you to stand was the panic coated in Megumi’s voice. He was calling for you, and so were the others. You could hear the strain in their voices, the utter distraught. You healed your broken leg and the gash on the corner of your forehead, ceasing your gushing blood. You gathered yourself and your strength before pushing. They found you quickly after that, noticing a heap of rubble moving. They ran, rushing to help you push back concrete that threatened to suffocate you. You never did like tight spaces. 

Thankfully, you were alright. The kids were safe as well.

However, the curse had escaped. Megumi was visibly shaken, his fingernail cracked, bruised, and bleeding from digging urgently through the rubble to find you. 

Everyone was on edge. It wasn't their fault you didn't react quickly enough. You were more than capable; maybe that's why the failure stung so much.

You let yourself down. You let them down.

You were spiraling into a dark place quickly. The guilt threatened to swallow you whole. Gojo was still nowhere to be seen. You didn't have the strength to call him. You’re not sure what you could even say. You’ve fucked up before, but never to this extent. Not to where a whole building collapsed. 

“Good morning. A tragic incident occurred last night when an abandoned school collapsed around 7 pm. Authorities are currently investigating the cause, and preliminary reports suggest that the collapse could have been due to a structural weakness—one of the many reasons why the school was abandoned in the first place. We will continue to monitor the situation as more information becomes available–"

Megumi gently grabs your phone and locks your screen. Wordlessly, he shakes his head before pocketing your device. You’re too exhausted to ask for it back. 

“Are you sure you’re okay, Sensei?” Yuji's voice was soft, the first voice to break the ice. You look up from your hands, unsure how long you’ve been lost in thought. You force a small smile as you gaze at the three kids. You were sitting across from them in the waiting area outside the council room. 

“I’m alright. Are you guys?"

“We’re all fine,” Megumi cuts in quickly. “We’re– we’re more than okay.”

“That's good,” you trail off. “That's really good.”

Uncertainty hung dangerously in the air. What happened now? You were okay, but for how long? 

You knew you were in for a lashing with all the collateral damage you caused. It was supposed to be a simple mission. This wasn't supposed to happen. You four were fine, but did anyone else get hurt? 

You flinch at your own thought. You don't think you could live with yourself if innocent lives were lost.

“Sensei?” Yuji's soft, unsure voice cuts in once more. When your eyes make contact, he smiles brightly. You can tell it’s forced. “After this, wanna go get something to eat? There’s this great sandwich shop down the street!”

“Y–yeah!” Nobara sits up straight after being less than conspicuously nudged by Yuji. “It’s pretty good. We went the other day–”

The council room door creaked open. The higher-ups were waiting, shrouded in shadows and faces hidden. Even if you couldn't see them, the tension was palpable. Even without seeing them directly, you could sense their anger, smell it as it rolled off of them in a quiet, unspoken fury. You glance at the kids once more, this time with a gentle, reassuring smile curling at your lips. 

Everything would be okay.  

-

Everything was, in fact, not okay. 

The air was heavy as you entered your office. Your limbs ached, your head throbbed, and every breath felt like dragging glass through your lungs. You had thought the worst of it was over, and slowly, you felt your body begin to shut down, but only when there were no prying eyes to see how you compensated for your injuries. Even after using RCT, you had a limp—your bones were mended but not quite right. Your head was no longer bleeding—but still, you weren't quite right. 

You dismiss it as exhaustion; after all, you had just learned RCT not too long ago. Maybe you missed something. However, this wasn’t anything you couldn't handle on your own. You could see Shoko, but why bother her? You’ve endured far worse. Dealing with a sore body and a headache for the next few days wasn’t out of your jurisdiction. 

When you open the door, a flickering lamplight reveals a tall frame standing by your desk. Even before your eyes dance upon his sharp and still silhouette, the air shifts—your soul already knows he is there. Satoru.

But, his eyes never meet yours; you weren’t blessed enough to see them, a bright blue illuminating in the absence of light. His eyes were covered with a familiar dark cloth. However, you didn’t need to see them to know that the usual warmth they held as he gazed upon you was gone. In its place was a coldness that turned your stomach.

“Satoru–”

“I know,” he says, voice clipped as he turns to face you. “I read the reports.” Your heart sinks as he haphazardly tosses the report down to your desk. 

You’re exhausted, unsure of where to even begin. So many questions floated in your weary mind. Where were you? When did you get here? Please, don’t be mad at me. 

It’s funny how all your dignity, poise, and strength to endure are gone with him. You already took one berating from the elders, and you’re not sure you could handle another. 

Not from him. 

“But, I want to hear it from you.” He stepped closer, his height making him all the more domineering. “What happened out there? And how the hell are my students caught up in all of this?”

“The report was wrong. It was a grade two, not three, but we handled that just fine. We cleared out the area and completed the mission, but we were ambushed. A grade one appeared, destroyed the pillars, and–” You hesitate, unable to form the words. “Well, you know what happened.” He’s quiet, too quiet for your liking. “I–I did everything I could, Satoru. The students were fine, but the curse got away.”

“Everything you could?" His voice echoes. "I don’t need excuses. Certainly not from you. You endangered them—all of them. They’re not even your students!” He snapped, his voice rising in a way you’ve never heard before.

You bite back the lump forming in your throat. “I thought you, out of anyone, would understand the circumstances.”

“...Understand?” He utters back, a quiet fury rolling off him in waves. 

 “I made sure that–”

“You failed,” he snaps, voice laced with malice. “Enough. Just stop it. You were reckless and went behind my back, and you let a pathetic grade one get the best of you.”

Your chest tightened, crumbling at the weight of his tone. “Went behind your back? I did no such thing.”

“They could have been hurt because of you!” You visibly flinch, his words carrying more weight than the debris that had buried you—broken bones and all. 

“I’m recommending you be demoted to grade two.” 

What?

“You can’t do that. Satoru, you can’t–”

“I can,” he said coldly. “and I will. You failed, and not only did you fail, you went behind my back and involved my students. Your recklessness caused this,” disdain coats his voice, and he sucks his teeth. “I was gone for two fucking seconds, and you damn near ruined everything. People could have died. My students could have been injured. So stop being a nuisance and just do as you're told from here on out.”

No. 

No, no, no, no. 

You fought for years to get to grade one. A woman with a name of no renown—this society was never in favor of you; the system was set up for you only to fail time and time again. For years, you were held at grade three, then grade two, all because of your name’s sake—all because you were a woman. You didn’t have the luxury of being as good as other sorcerers; you had the burden to be better. 

Even now, at grade one, they continue to undermine you and undervalue you. You knew you didn’t have room to make mistakes, for they would tarnish every bit of good you have done. You thought Satoru understood that. You thought he viewed you as an equal, someone strong enough to stand by him. You thought he valued you, respected you. 

You never thought a mistake, a stupid mistake, would lead to this. 

It’s not fair. It’s not fucking fair. 

“This has nothing to do with my rank. You don’t believe me. You don't trust me. After everything–”

Hearing his scornful laugh, your vision begins to blur. “Don’t make this personal. You fucked up, and now I have to clean up your mess.”

Your ears begin ringing. The pounding in your head becomes too much and threatens to crack your skull open once more.

“But it is, isn’t it?” You whisper. How could it not be personal with how he's been treating you for days? “You haven't been able to look at me in weeks. You speak to me as if I’ve become nothing but a burden to you—a nuisance. What did I do to deserve this?”

He remains silent, the muscles in his jaw ticking as he grits his teeth. Point proven.

Your heart painfully twists with each beat. “Do you even… care about me anymore?” You’re not sure why you say it, why the words slip past your lips, but they do.

He read the report and he hadn't even asked if you were okay. Maybe it was a selfish thought, but it makes your chest ache. You just wanted to go home, crawl in bed and hold him. However, you knew that wasn't in the cards right now.

“Don’t twist this into something it’s not.”

Your voice finally wavers before him, cracking as you press on, desperate for him to understand—desperate to have him by your side as he has been for so many years.

“You’re casting me aside like I’m... worthless."

It was cruelty, a quiet and deafening insult for him to demote you of your status—but more specifically, your place beside him. That hurt runs deep, to the point that feelings of betrayal start seeping into your veins, poisoning you, antagonizing you. Belittling you. It was a sharp dagger you never expected—searing with a hatred that threatened to cripple you. This wasn’t just about your position. He was a man of unchallenged stature, of the highest status and regard, lowering you, demeaning you with his every word, every action. 

When did things go so wrong?

Yet, even now, you question yourself. Were you being dramatic? Were you taking this too personally? Were you being selfish?

Because he was right. Every word he's said so far was right. You failed. You put them in danger.

You stand there, a hollow feeling growing in your chest. The sting of Satoru’s words cut deeper than any blade you’ve faced. His jaw tightened, his gaze hard as steel and cold as ice. “You gave me what I never asked for.”

“Don't you dare!” You snap, finger trembling as you point his way with an accusatory jab. “Don’t you dare pretend this is nothing.  You know me better than anyone. How could I not take this personally? I’ve done nothing but stand by you, love you, trust you–”

“Like I said, I never asked for any of that,” he utters sharply, his carefully composed exterior shattering. “Whatever we were was nothing more than fucking convenience.” 

Suddenly, he stops, freezing at the onslaught of his own lethal words. His next words seemed to die in his throat. The damage was done. 

Exhausted, defeated, numb. His words hit you like a death blow. “... Convenience?” Echoing the very word that came from his lips—a sound you hardly recognize comes from your mouth, a small slip of the anguish tormenting and swelling in your body escapes. 

The necklace around your neck, the very one he had given you, seemed to pulse against your skin, warm and alive. It carried a piece of him, a piece of you, a guiding hand in the absence of light: a thread, an anchor—a way home. 

Suddenly, you hated it. Hated the way it sat so close to your heart, hated the warmth, his energy; you hated that, even now, his words cutting so deep, unraveling the fabric of your being, it comforted you, reaching for you. 

You yanked it off, the chain snapping in two as you held it in your trembling hands. 

He falters, his whole being frozen. “What are you doing?” he asked, quiet and tense, blanketed in uncertainty. 

“I don’t want it,” you say, voice quivering, threatening to fail you at any moment. His energy—the only energy that blended so perfectly with yours—reached for you, and so did his trembling hands. Reflexively, you flinched away, retreating further into the room and further from him. “Don’t,” you shake your head. “Don’t touch me. Not with your hands, not with your energy. Don’t.”

Silent tears stream down your face. You are unable to look at him, and your breathing is shallow and unsteady. You open your hand, letting the necklace drop to the floor. The faint sound of metal hitting wood echoes in the suffocating silence of the room. 

There’s a soft knock on the door. It creaks, slightly opening. “... Y/n sensei?” came an unsure voice.

You stiffen, and suddenly, you can sense them, three nervous students standing outside your door. Too caught up with Satoru, you had entirely missed them. You clear your throat and dry your cheeks with the back of your hand before turning to the door. You walk over, opening the door wide enough to see them. 

“Sorry if we’re interrupting, but we just wanted to know if you still wanted to come out for dinner with us...” 

Fuck. How much did they hear?

You take a breath, and it’s shakier than you anticipated. “Yeah, sure. That sounds nice. Let me grab my jacket, okay.”

Yuji only offers an unsure smile. Norbora has a hard time even looking at you, while Megumis's eyes are solid and unyielding, glaring right past you. His hands were in his pockets, balled into tight fists.

You don’t know what to do other than quickly turning. Within a few ushered strides, you were at your desk, grabbing your coat off your desk chair; you’re careful to avoid Gojo, who manages to plaster on that big fucking grin. 

“Heard you guys were up to no good while I was away.”

“We were fine,” Megumi interjects before Yuji could open his mouth. “More than fine.” 

“Y–yeah, everything ended up being just fine. Y/n-sensei made sure of that,” Nobara awkwardly adds, shifting her weight on her feet. 

“Ah,” Gojo nods. “Well, make sure you get some rest tonight. We’ve got a long day tomorrow! You guys will be training with the second years!” 

You hated how he could act as if everything was alright while you were fighting back tears. It was another jab, a suckerpunch to the gut. 

You just needed to get out of there. 

-

After dinner with the kids, you headed out on your own the following day. You went home, stuffing some clothes in a bag before spending the night at a cheap motel. Before getting with Satoru, you always floated from place to place, never truly settling. Those days, all you carried on you was your backpack. You didn’t have a home or many possessions you could call your own. You just had yourself.  

I guess old habits die hard. 

Megumi was the first to text you: I went to Gojo's house today and didn’t see you. 

All good! I’ve been busy running errands.

Nobara text you sometime after.

Hey Sensei!! Let me know if you’re available today! Let’s go shopping!

You responded rather quickly. Sorry, I’m not around today. Maybe ask Maki? Or maybe Yuji and Megumi would like to tag along.

But guys suck :(

Then, there was Yuji: Hey, Sensei! Let me know if you want ramen! The gang and I got you since you covered for us the other night! I even got coupons! 

You weren’t sure what to say. You always covered for their meals (no exceptions), but you knew they were just trying to be kind. You double-tapped and hearted the message. 

You appreciated them more than anything, but frankly, it was a bit embarrassing. You never meant for them to overhear you and Satrou that night in your office, and you were never one for pity. If it were anyone else, you would have called them out and told them off. However, you wouldn’t dream of doing that to the kids. They were trying to support you in the only way they knew how, but it wasn’t their responsibility to worry about you. 

Surprisingly, Shoko was the next person to contact you. You never stopped by my office. I’m assuming you’re alright?  

Smiling gently, you responded. Yeah, no injuries to report. 

A building collapsed on you.

You scoff, imagining her deadpan expression. Heavenly restriction, remember?

That doesn’t mean you can’t get hurt. 

Your thumbs hover over the keyboard. Yeesh. Just meet me at the bar you like downtown. 

That’s where you are now, Shoko’s favorite bar, tossing back your third shot. ”Take it easy. I don’t feel like dragging you home tonight.”

“Ah. I’m alright, Shoko.”

“You don’t look it.” 

“Neither do you with those bags under your eyes.”

She brings her drink to her lips, mumbling “touché” before taking a swig. “Do you want to talk about it?”

Vivid memories pressed to the front of your mind of the building collapsing. “Satoru is demoting me. After the elders ripped into me, I found him waiting for me in my office.”

“He– what? Jeez,” she took another sip of sake. “Out of everything, I didn’t expect that.” 

“I– we haven’t been doing too good. I’m not sure if there even is an us after last night.”

“Huh. He did seem a little out of it today.”

“Somehow, I kinda doubt that.” There’s a beat of silence, and you swirl the liquid in your cup. 

“If it means anything, he asked me about you. Asked if you were alright.” 

You smile a bit sardonically.  If Satoru really wanted to find you, you knew he could, as he had the means to do so. From here, you were only about five miles away from his estate. It’s not like you were too for his eyes to see.  Suddenly, that thought bothers you, and you find yourself almost subconsciously concealing your cursed energy.  

“Is that why you texted me?”

She gives you a weird look. “Partially. I had my own concerns.” 

“Like what?”

“If I’m being honest with you, you’re not great at RCT. I wanted to check and make sure everything was alright. It eventually catches up with you if you don’t do it correctly. I’ve seen it cause irreparable damage before.”  

“Ah. I guess that makes sense.”

“You should come to my office tomorrow so I can check–”

“I think I’m gonna quit.”

“…what?”

“I mean, that’s what they really want, right?”

“If you do that, they’ll find the easiest excuse to label you as a traitor. A cursed user.”

“Don’t you think I know that? Since day one, they’ve been trying to paint me as a villain.” 

“So don’t give them what they want,” Shoko bites back. She pinches the bridge of her nose with her thumb and index finger. “Listen, I can’t stop you. You are going to do what you want to do at the end of the day, but you don’t need to do this. You made a mistake.”

“I’m just tired,” you tell her truthfully. “For months, I’ve been pretending, going through the motions. I've been miserable. Megumi hasn’t wanted me around much. He’s older now, and he doesn’t need me anymore–”

“Of course he does,” Shoko cuts you off. “He’s still a kid.”

“And I’m not his mother,” you retort bitterly. “Then, there’s Satoru. He’s been so distant.  He used to always be in my corner and make everything better, but I don’t even have that now. Now, all of the jujutsu society thinks I’m a liability. He thinks I’m a liability. Maybe it’s why he’s grown to resent me so much.”

“Please. Just stop talking,” Shoko remarks, overwhelmed with how quickly you were talking. She wasn’t necessarily a fan of conversations like these, but at least she listened. “I’m here if you ever need anyone. And please, don’t let this fester. I would rather not lose another friend.” She takes a large gulp this time, finishing her drink before gesturing for a refill. “Tsk. Satoru is complicated—I get it—but he wouldn’t want you to leave. Neither would Megumi. That kid loves you. Maybe you and Gojo just need a break.”

A break? Ha. That was one way of putting it. However, it already felt much more like a breakup, and its permanence frightened you. Like many other things in your relationship, it was never voiced but certainly felt. 

“Yeah,” you say softly, body buzzing as you down your fourth shot. “Maybe you’re right.”

-

You start walking home after having drinks with Shoko. It was a long walk, and you took your time. You weren’t in a rush to head home to potential chaos. The thought of staying at a hotel crossed your mind, but you had nothing to change into. Frankly, it didn’t matter where you went either. It’s not like you’d be able to sleep any better. 

Though, it’s not like you were going back home to anything good. You were suspended without pay; you couldn’t go near the school grounds or exercise any curses—a stipulation you rolled your eyes at. If they thought just a few measly words would stop you from exercising a curse, they would be more idiotic than you thought. 

Still, maybe it’s good to take some time off. Maybe you should stay at the hotel. If you were lucky, they’d have a washer and dryer. 

Then, your phone starts to ring—a unique ringtone that a white-haired idiot assigned to his contact one day after you let him “borrow” your phone. He even changed his contact photo; years later, you never had the heart to change it. 

Your heart aches when you see the contact photo of him, his goofy smile and gorgeous eyes peeking over his black shades. You answered hesitantly after a few rings. 

“Hello?”

“Heyyy,” you hear, his voice light and cheery yet, lacking its usual spark. “Where are you? I know I missed dinner the other night so I picked up your favorite on my way home!” 

Back to normal? Just like that?

You take a breath, reeling in your emotions. It wasn’t normal, per se, but you could tell he was trying, stepping cautiously over the ice he knew could shatter at any moment. 

“I’m not home, right now.”

“Huuuh?” You can hear the slight whine in his voice, and you can imagine him pouting like a small child. You expect him to carry on with his theatrics, but he hesitates. “When do you think you’ll be home then?”

“Uh, I don’t really know,” you trail off, unable to keep up his faux mirth and bravado. 

 “Well, if you don’t want to sleep next to me tonight, I can just take the guest bedroom!” For a moment, he sounds hopeful.

Honestly, he’s just making your head spin. 

“Honestly, I think it’s best if I stay out of the house for a little while, Gojo.”

There’s a beat of silence before you hear his nervous laughter. “Gojo?” he remarks dejectedly. “Can’t remember the last time you called me that.”

You were unsure what to say; you hadn’t even realized you initially referred to him by his last name until he pointed it out. You want to tell him sorry—for everything, but your tongue tenses in your mouth, and your throat threatens to close up. You hated it when he got like this, and typically, you’d do anything to make him smile again. 

But you’re hurt, and he caused that hurt. 

“I wanted to talk to you about the other day,” he adds quickly, unable to withstand your silence. 

“What’s there to talk about?” You ask softly. “What done is done. I messed up.”

He’s quiet for a moment. “You’re right. It can’t be undone now. But that’s not what I wanted to talk to you about.”

Your stomach drops your heart twists and aches. Was he going to officially end things with you? A bitter, more cruel half of you whispers—you weren’t even officially together to begin with. However, none of that even matters; he has too much of you, too many pieces of your frail heart in the palm of his hands. You were irrevocably his, but was he ever yours? 

Just a few weeks ago, you thought you would have an entirely different answer than the one you have now. You're too afraid to face him or the truth. You were guilt-ridden, your pride and dignity torn to shreds. Hearing that he no longer wishes to be with you would be too much. 

Honestly? 

You’re not sure how you’d react. If you’d sob, if you’d remain stoic, or if you’d flip a table and trash every one of your possessions. You’re at wit's end, and the level of fallout threatening to break free from you was immeasurable. 

So, you finalize what you had been contemplating just five minutes ago. “I think I’m going to stay at a hotel, Gojo. I need space. Time to think.” 

“I don’t want us to go to bed mad at each other,” he says lowly, his voice reverberating through the phone. You shiver. “It doesn’t feel right.”

You hated this. You fucking hated this. 

Your chest tightens, and your knees weaken. You wanted to give in. He always had that power over you. He ruled your heart so effortlessly. You yearned for him, your heart singing a million love songs, beckoning him back to you. 

But you couldn’t. You were too mad. You felt cast aside as if you were nothing but an afterthought—after all these years. Yet again, you feel the foundation of your home cracking, and your knees go weak yet again. You take a shuddering breath right before repeating the exact words he threw at you just a few nights prior—words that so effortlessly dismantled your spirit. “It wouldn’t be the first time.”

-   

You’ve always had a habit of running. It was easier for you than most. You figured you’d go back to that cheap motel in Tokyo, but you were too restless. Too angry. Feelings of betrayal ran deep, and the guilt nipped away at you until there was only a void. 

Before you could leave, though, you call a number you knew by heart. Stepping onto the train and holding your phone to your ear, it rings. For a moment, you assume he’s asleep. It was getting late, but after the fifth ring, the line clicked. A groggy voice peaks through. 

“Sensei? What’s going on?”

“Megumi,” you breathe out. “Hi. Sorry to wake you.”

“It’s fine.”

“Nozomi 1, departing from Tokyo and heading to Kyoto, will depart shortly. Please be careful of your footing while boarding. Please refrain from using mobile phone inside the train–“

“You’re leaving?” The tiredness in his voice is replaced by something else you can’t quite place. 

“Only for a short while. It’s not like I’ll be working anytime soon,” you chuckled nervously. “But I just wanted to let you know. It didn’t feel right leaving without speaking to you first.” 

“Oh,” is all he can muster up at first. “I– when will you be back?”

“I’m not sure,” you answer him honestly. “A few days, maybe.” 

“Well… Can we visit you? I’d go alone, but I think Yuji and Nobara would kill me if I did.” 

Oh. You hadn’t expected that. You close your eyes, taking a deep breath. “Um, yeah. When I figure out where I’m staying, I’ll let you know.”

He sounds worried. “You don’t know where you’re staying yet?”

You snicker. “Ha, this is, uh, kinda an impromptu thing.” 

“… and you’re sure alright?”

“Yes, yes, I’m alright. I just wanted to tell you.”

You can tell he’s not exactly satisfied, but he isn’t one to stop you. “Well, text me where you’ll be staying in a few hours. You should probably hang up now, though, and figure it out.”

You smile softly to yourself. He always was a kind boy—kinder than he’d ever reveal. “Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Goodnight, Megumi.”

“Night.. I’ll call you later. Be safe.”

When you hang up, you feel a bit better. 

- 

The first night was hard—really hard. Sleeping away from Satoru was incredibly difficult, but so were his sharp words that relentlessly bounced around in your mind.  You found no peace by your window, watching the last of that day's sunlight slipping away behind the horizon, casting long shadows over the dead trees covered in snow.

You could almost feel his presence, like the cast of your shadow on a wall—following you, mirroring your every move. Your phone never rang with his ringtone, your phone never buzzed with a new text. Yet you stared at the shadows for a bit longer, a bit more intensely, waiting for two blue eyes to illuminate the space. They never did. 

Kyoto's stillness seemed to reflect your own, waiting for something to change, waiting for something dead and wilted to bloom once more. 

However, even all the way over in Kyoto, bad luck seems to follow you like the plague. You were walking to a small corner market to grab something to eat when you felt the disturbance in the air—tasted it on your tongue. You hoped that surge of cursed energy wasn’t what you thought it was. You would have loved to be proven wrong, but your instincts were keen like a hound trained to hunt. 

A curse womb opened right above a Kyoto High school. 

You were definitely getting fired after this. 

You knew a cursed object was most likely responsible for this. Considering it happened at a school, you were more than willing to bet a strong cursed object was placed there, most likely intended to ward off any other strong curses that might otherwise appear in the area. You assumed the seal broke, probably after hundreds of years of suppressing the power of the object. You’ve dealt with a case like that before.

You couldn’t have been more wrong. 

Three stupid students—ghost hunting of all things—removed the seal. The decorated white cloth tightly wrapped around a black skull was torn, and its viscous cursed energy soared, tinting the sky black. 

“Oh, you’ve gotta be fucking kidding me,” you hissed under your breath when you slammed open the classroom door. “This way, c’mon!” You didn’t have to tell them twice. Book it, and you stay by their side for as long as you can. You had to put up your veil, but only after they were far enough. 

You got impatient, however, especially towards the kid who had been recording everything up until now, where you crushed his phone in your hand. 

“Wha– hey! You're gonna pay for that!”

“What the hell is more important? Recording or your fucking lives? Shut up and run!” 

The air suddenly cracks with a tension that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. It’s here. You could feel it—the dark, oppressive presence creeping across the courtyard, lurking. You yourself could see it with your eyes, but you felt it. 

Your senses were better than most. It was partially why you and Yuji got along and trained together so well. You were just like him when you were younger. Granted, he wasn’t born with cursed energy like you were, but your heavenly restrictions were nearly identical. 

You stop running when you reach the edge of the courtyard, but those three kids carry on in a scram. Holding the cursed object in your hands, you raise the skull in the air. It takes a considerable amount of force, but you crush the skull, black dust coating your hand. There’s a hollow screech, and you hope that’s the end of it. 

Of course, your bad luck persists. 

Typically, destroying the cursed object that’s created a cursed womb kills it or at least nullifies it. The exception is when the curse is an S-grade; those wombs are damn near impenetrable. 

Destroying the object seemed only to irritate the curse as it began crawling out of a bloody sac. 

You hold up your fist, index, and pointer finger together, pointing to the sky along with your thumb. A crimson veil pours down, covering the entirety of the school. However, you sense three others within your veil just as you seal off the area. 

“Yo, Y/n sensei!! What the hell are you doing here, loca!” A deep laugh echoes across the courtyard. 

Christ. You knew that voice from anywhere. 

You glance over your shoulder and see a few unexpected faces. Utahime and two other students—Miwa and Todo who looks way happier than he should be, considering the circumstances. 

The newly born curse loomed menacingly overhead, its red eyes gleaming like coals in a dying fire. It was tall, with protruding joints that snapped into place. Its black and sleek hair extended beyond its long, contorted body. Its face was painted white and cracked as if crafted of aged porcelain. Its kimono was white, stained with splashes of red and black goo. You stood firmly in place, fire crackling at your fingertips, your breath steady but sharp in the cold night air. Todo and Miwa joined your side quickly, and Utahime offered you a firm nod from the sidelines. She was entrusting you with her students.  

Quickly, the courtyard became a battlefield, filled with the crackle of burning energy and the hum of raw power. 

The curse lunged, zipping through the air. You were faster, your body twisting and moving with fluid grace. You raised your hand to strike, a jet of flame bursting forward, crackling against the air. The curse shrieked as the fire seared its back, black smoke rising from its melted skin. 

It recovered too quickly for your liking. It rolled through the flames like water through a sieve, reforming and lunging again, its claws gleaming.

Your senses were on fire—every shift in the air, every sound, every movement was magnified. You could hear the heartbeat of the curse, the faintest tremor of its form as it coiled to strike. You could smell the thick, sour scent of decay that clung to it like an ancient smog. And you could feel it—the deep, heavy weight of power pressing down on you, making your muscles tighten and strain against the oncoming attack.

The curse moved to strike again, but you were already there, rolling beneath it, body twisting in a perfect arc, and feet hitting the ground in a spring-loaded motion that sent you leaping upward. Your fist, wreathed in fire, crashed into the creature’s chest.

The explosion of heat sent the curse reeling, but it was only a momentary distraction. It retaliated, slashing the air with a massive, clawed hand. Three energized strikes were headed your way. You reacted with seconds to spare, but Miwa stood directly in the line of fire. You knew her simple domain wouldn’t be summoned fast enough, but she didn’t. It would be a miscalculation that ended her life. 

The claws tore through your side, then whipped down in a sickening arc, ripping clean through your arm. The pain came in an instant—a blinding, searing agony that burned through your body. You didn't even have time to scream.

You staggered back, a cry escaping Miwa’s lips as she looked at the bloody stump where your arm used to be. Blood poured and squirted from the wound, but there was no time for that. 

"Get back!" you shouted to the blue-haired girl, voice raw. She wasn’t nearly ready for this; Utahime gravity overestimated her abilities or underestimated the cursed strength. Regardless, the girl was too distraught to do anything at this moment. 

There’s a rush, and you suddenly realize you are outside the heat of battle. Todo went in, guns blazing, but you could only waste so much time. Todo was strong, way above his current ranking, in your opinion, but it was only a matter of time before that curse cut him down, too. 

Without a second thought, you dropped to your knees. The pain was overwhelming, but you focused, drawing from the reserves settled deep within your core. Your energy surged, and tendrils of fire spiraled around the wound, filling the air with intense heat. 

“Sensei! Are you alri–" Miwa gasped, her feet coming to a haunt as she watched in awe and terror as your arm began to regenerate—pulsing with energy. The flesh knitted itself together, bone and sinew reforming in a frenzy. 

But the process wasn't easy and certainly didn’t come without a price to pay. Your body screamed, the regeneration draining your reserves. You were already weakened, and the battle had just begun. Tsk. 

Todo found his way back over to you two, panting heavily. “How are you doing over there, Sensei?”

"Clap," you say, voice strained. "Now." He looked at you, bug-eyed, but he nodded. He didn't hesitate. 

He brought his hands together in a sharp clap, and everything shifted. “Alright! Let’s dance!”

In an instant, you found yourself on the other side of the curse. You inhaled deeply, heart pounding, immediately launching yourself back into the fight.

The curse roared in confusion, disoriented, but it was too late. You were already in motion. Your feet hit the ground in a fluid motion, and with a vicious snap of your wrist, fire erupted once again. This time, it formed into a massive whip of flame that lashed through the air.

The curse hissed as the whip wrapped around its neck, and you pulled with your whole body. Never losing your grip, muscles straining, you move forward, wrapping the flames over your arm again and again, pulling tighter and tighter until you smelt the pungent odor of the burning flesh around its neck. You wrapped the whip around your arm one last time before turning your body and pulling the whip from over your shoulder, viscously yanking and slamming the curse to the ground and into submission. 

The curse struggled, its body writhing, but it was weakened. Miwa went for the opening, summoning her New Shadow Style: Simple domain. She’s gotten better since the tournament, and you acknowledge with a grave chuckle as she instantly draws her blade, slicing the curse directly across its chest cavity. She cost you an arm, but deep down, you knew she had the conviction to win and succeed. 

Todo doesn’t wait. Another clap. Another shift. You and Todo swapped places with the curse itself this time, and the curse had no time to react. He goes for a punch, cracking the curse with a quick jab, followed by a right hook. He claps again. The moment the curse materialized in front of you, disoriented, you surged forward, throwing everything you had left into one final strike.

It twisted in anguish, its body crumbling to the ground before its remains turned into ash.

Then, there was nothing.

The air grew still. The ground beneath you is scorched but calm. You sucked your teeth, silently berating yourself. 

You hated using your technique. Frankly, you opted not to unless you absolutely needed to, which was the main reason why people hardly knew about it. It wreaked havoc, leaving nothing but indomitable infernos that refused to be quenched like normal flames. They left nothing destruction in their wake—hungry to consume and spread. However, you’ve gotten better at controlling it—you’ll give yourself that. The only thing burned here today was the grass in the courtyard. 

You stood there for a moment, panting, your body trembling with exhaustion as you collapsed to the ground, panting heavily. “Y–you did it!” Miwa cheered. “I had no idea you knew RCT. Thank you for helping me back there.”

“What the– Miwa, we won! Show some conviction!” Todo cut in, flexing his biceps. 

“He’s right,” you managed a weak smile as you worked on catching your breath and easing your fast-beating heart. You collapse to the ground, still gaining your breath. "We did it."

You hear footsteps approaching from behind. Tilting your head, you see Utahime standing directly above you. 

“Oh. Hi ‘hime.” 

She smiles a bit, but her face remains hardened. You straighten up a bit, catching on to her attitude. Something wasn’t right. 

“You guys did a good job. However, another problem has arisen across the city.” 

“Huh? Another one?” Miwa asked, brows tugging inward. She shifts her weight from one hip to the other. “That's like the fifth one today...”

They continue on in their conversation as you drop your veil, sniff the air, and concentrate on your surroundings. A sense of foreboding strikes you under the dark ambiance of the sky. Even after killing that S-grade, things don’t feel right. 

“Thanks for joining us,” Utahime says, drawing back your attention. “I nearly had to call for backup.”

You scoff, glancing up at her from the ground. “Something doesn't feel right, Utahime.” She nods, agreeing with your observation. “When did the reports come flooding in?”

“About an hour ago now.”

“Hm,” you wonder, thinking back to when you first found the cursed womb. “That’s about the same time I first sensed the presence of the cursed womb. They’re most likely connected.”

“That's what I thought. The presence of the cursed womb must have irritated some of the curses in the city, most likely because they were drawn to the energy fluctuations the cursed womb caused. It's good you were here. We're stretched thin right now. If you don’t mind staying, we could use your help. The other students are out on missions across the city, and things just keep getting worse.” 

You smile up at her before pushing yourself back up on your two feet, brushing the dirt from your pants. “Sure, let’s get going–” but as you stand, it feels as if a bolt of lightning strikes you down or as if your chest has been cracked open by a sledgehammer. The agony was too great to even scream as you fell to your knees and crashed back into the ground. 

It was lights out. 

-

It was quiet. Dark—a vast, unending expanse of nothingness that swallowed you whole. An endless drift. It would have almost been peaceful if not for the faint pull at the edges of your awareness, like an anchor trying to tether to something you couldn’t see. 

But then came the first sound. 

You heard voices—muffled cries. Please wake up, said one voice. Please stay with me, came another. 

Pain began to throb somewhere in the background, dull and distant. Disembodied as if it belonged to someone else. 

Don’t you dare leave me. The voice was sharp, demanding, cracking under the weight of fear. You knew that voice and remembered all the sweet things it used to whisper to you. Your heart takes a painful lurch. You can hear its occasional beat in your ears. We need you. I need you. 

Oddly, you were cold.

You were drifting again, further and further. The anchor was slipping. You were sinking, your head hardly above water, when another muffled voice broke through—whimpering, sobbing. Your heart lurches painfully.

Mom, please don’t go.

The words pierce through the nothingness, shattering it all to bits and pieces. The words pull at you, a lifeline you hadn’t known you clung to and needed. Images begin to flash, and suddenly, the voices are no longer just voices. Your heart suddenly burns as though the memory of life itself is fighting its way back into you. 

Your eyelids were heavy, limbs weak, unresponsive—cold. You were so cold, but it wasn’t enough to stop you from crawling out of a black pit that threatened to swallow you whole. There’s a faint sensation of pressure, a hand tightly gripping yours. 

Light begins bleeding into the edges of your awareness. You sucked in a deep breath, lungs empty and greedy. 

Then, your eyes fluttered open.  

You blinked a few times, realizing how hard it was to breathe. Breathing was supposed to be an automatic response, but you had to force it, each breath dragging along the back of your throat like sandpaper. You’re weak and shivering as you use most of your energy to sit up. You were in an empty room, you realized—the sharp smell of sanitizer permeating your nose. 

You push yourself out of bed, knees buckling under your weight. You catch yourself, gathering whatever bits of strength you have left. Your teeth clattered. You were freezing. Shaking, you wrapped the white blanket over your shoulders, gripping it tight before you trudged towards the door.

The hall was mostly empty, all except for a sleeping boy slouched over in a chair beside your door. Your heart squeezes. 

“Megumi,” you whispered his name. You stare at him for a moment, unable to bite back the tears that nip at your dry eyes. 

You wrapped the blanket around him, tucking it gently around him. However, he flinches, jumping straight up in his chair. “S-Sorry,” you tell him quickly with a watery smile. “You looked cold.” 

“You…” the word was a raw and weak whisper. His eyes widened. It took a moment for recognition to settle in, but once it did, he spoke again. “You’re awake.” He stood up from his chair, and you stepped back, offering him space. “You’re awake,” he repeated again. 

Then, you start to wonder just how long you’ve been out of it. Days? Weeks? The thought of months terrifies you, but before you can even go down that loophole, he’s hugging you tightly. “You’re awake,” he says once more, his voice breaking. 

However long it was, he’s right. You’re awake. You’re here, living and breathing. You wrap your arms around his torso, patting and rubbing his back soothingly. “Yup… I’m here. I’m awake.” 

You let him be the one to pull away, letting him take however long he needs. You enjoyed it regardless. You couldn’t remember the last time you hugged him. 

When he pulls away, his eyes are red. He sniffs a bit, backing up and taking the blanket off his shoulders. This time, he’s the one wrapping the fabric around you. He’s frowning a bit as he does. “... you’re the one that’s cold,” he notes quietly. 

“What happened?”

“You don’t remember?” He asks softly, brows furrowing. 

You shook your head. No. Frankly, you didn’t remember much of anything right now. “I was on my way with Yuji and Nobara. We got on the train after you let me know where you were staying.” That’s right. You texted Megumi when you figured out where you’d be staying. You thought they’d come over sometime in the following days. You had no idea they were rushing to see you on the next available train. 

He places his hands awkwardly on your shoulder before gently guiding you to the chair he was sitting in moments ago. As you go to sit, your body seems to forget how to move for a moment, and you lose your balance. He catches you quickly, carefully helping you down into the chair. “When we got to Kyoto, we realized quickly how bad things were over there.   We started helping out at the Kyoto school, dealing with the curses that had been lingering in the area where the cursed womb opened up. Eventually, we ran into Todo and Miwa. They told us what happened.” He grunts, kneeling down so he’s at eye level with you. 

You’re silent for a moment. “How long was I out for?”

“Pushing four days now.” 

The memories strike you like a fright train. “Are you okay? Is everyone alright?” You hadn’t realized you had reached for his cheek. 

He grabs your wrist, thumb gently caressing the back of your hand before pulling your hand away, guiding it back to your lap. He moves the blanket until it's covering you again.  “We’re all fine. Everything’s been dealt with. Yuji and Nobara went down to the cafe to grab some lunch. They’ll be thrilled when they come back.”

You tilt your head. “Why didn’t you go with them?”

He smiles a bit. “I didn’t want to leave you unattended.”

You don’t know what to think. You’re just happy you’re back. Happy because he was happy. You always hated it when he worried about you. You never believed it was his job to do so. However, he stayed by your side and protected you when you couldn’t protect yourself. 

You wiggle your toes and roll your shoulders before standing again. “You shouldn’t be standing–”

“I’m alright, I promise,” you tell him, dismissing his concern. “I just want to walk around, okay?”

He stares at you intently, unsure, but he seems to have no energy to argue with you. “... alright,” he relents. 

He follows you closely as you drag your feet across the floor. You don’t know where you are walking, but you want to stretch your legs and regain a sense of your body. You are weak, but you need to move. 

You ask the question you were too hesitant to ask: “What about Gojo?”

He huffs. “He left a little while ago. Said he’d be back shortly,” he scoffs. “Bullshit if you ask me.”

“Megumi,” you sigh his name with a soft reprimand. 

“He should be here,” he responds disgruntledly. “He should be by your side, and he’s not."

You stay quiet. You’re not exactly sure what to say to him when you agree. Maybe Gojo was done. Whatever this was, whatever relationship you had—maybe he didn’t want you anymore. You look ahead, fighting your own body that threatened to collapse at any moment. You could feel Megumi’s eyes on you, but you didn’t have the heart to look at him right now.

You were afraid you would sob if you did. 

Though you had never walked these halls before, the hospital's layout was quite easy to catch on to. After taking a fourth right turn, you see your room in the distance. A stubborn part of you says to keep going and keep walking, but the exhaustion is catching up to you quickly. If Megumi hadn’t been by your side, cautious eyes scanning you, you might have kept going until you passed out. You realize that the strength you had was nearly depleted. Only trickles of your cursed energy remained, and it would be a long while before you gained it back. 

You hear footsteps behind you. Quick and ushered. Megumi turns before you, his whole frame tensing.  He sucks his teeth and clicks his tongue. “So he finally shows up.” He speaks in a sardonic tone, loud enough for anyone in the hallways to hear.

Satoru comes running from around the corner then, taking deep breaths. Your brows slightly pinch together in confusion. “S–Satoru,” you stutter, walking closer. “When did you get here?”  He looks disheveled. Alarmed. Was he just running? 

It was hard trying to figure out what he was feeling or experiencing when that black eyeband covered his eyes. However, you noticed the bouquet in his hands, a delicate combination of soft and tender hues: pale pink and roses, white peonies, deep pink lilies, and baby’s breath delicately wrapped along sprigs of greenery. 

You place a hand on Megumi’s shoulder. “Why don’t you go eat with the others?”

“But–”

“I’ll be alright,” you explain to him in a soft tone.

He hesitates, torn between staying and leaving.  He was unsure if he should leave you to handle this alone, but after a moment, he backed down, probably realizing he shouldn’t stand between the two of you and what needed to happen. With an irate glance shot at Gojo, he turns, pocketing his hands as he makes his way to the stairs. 

Only when the door shuts do you look at Satoru again. 

He stays unusually quiet, his face unreadable. Frankly, it was rather unsettling. You had no idea what was going through his mind. “I–I’m sorry!” you blurt out the first words that crash to the surface of your mind the moment you see him in his entirety. There was no hope of holding back. After days spent away from him, lost in his absence, and days dancing on the edge of death, the words tumble out of you before you can stop them—unbidden, unstoppable. “For everything. Y–You must have been stressed with work and other things. My fuck up only added to your plate. I get it, ya know? It's selfish of me, even now, to rely on you so much when there’s a whole world that needs you. They are not my students, and I put them in danger.” Quickly, the tears gather in your waterline again, but you blink them away. “I–I’ll be leaving soon. I’ll… I’ll go. I’ll get out of your way, and you won’t have to deal with me bothering you any longer–”

“Can I touch you?” The question comes suddenly, softly, and almost hesitantly. 

You blink a few times, puzzled, but then, you unravel, folding inward under the weight of his voice. Your breath hitches in your throat. Was he still holding onto what you had said that night? Was he haunted by the barriers broken and the others so carelessly assembled? 

He still wanted you? 

You didn’t want him to let you go. Not yet. Not ever.

Like a dam breaking, you surged forward, closing the space between you two. Seconds later, you feel his resolve crumble. He crushes you to his chest, flowers falling to the floor. His arms enveloped you with a force that robbed you of breath, your feet nearly coming off the ground as you both stumble backward. Trembling, he clung to you as if you were an anchor in a world that threatened to tear him apart. There were no words—the unspoken agony and grief were far too overwhelming to put into words—if there even were words for it. 

I’m sorry. I love you. I’m glad you’re okay.  You felt it all with him. You could feel the pounding of his heart against your chest, hear its frantic rhythm match your own.

His hands were shaking, one tangling in your hair, the other wrapping entirely around your frame and squeezing your hip. He buries his face into your neck, and his hot breath is ragged and uneven as he inhales your scent. “I thought–” he swallows, shaking his head. “I didn’t know where you were—for a second time.”

Your cursed energy was low, more depleted than it had ever been. It explains why you were so weak, so frail. When he saw your empty bed, he must’ve panicked. He ran to you, anxiously following the weak traces of your presence. 

Your fingers tangle in his hair, and the familiar silk of his eyeband rubs against your skin. You gently tug at the fabric with the tips of your fingers. His breath hitches, but he doesn't pull away. Instead, he stills as you slip the black band from his face. He lifts his head just enough to rest it against yours. They were that same stunning shade of azure—bright and impossibly vivid, glowing softly as if they carried the remnants of a forgotten star. Captivating, otherworldly, yet achingly human—something he’d often forget from time to time. 

“You promised,” he murmurs, voice broken. “You promised.”  

“What are you talking about?” you ask just as brokenly. 

Suddenly, one of his hands grasps your neck, and you choke on your words. He doesn’t squeeze tight, but the look on his face is enough to make you gasp. “I couldn’t feel you. I couldn’t feel you anymore,” he says achingly. 

Your chest tightens, nails slightly digging into his forearm. You open your mouth to speak, failing more times than succeeding. You wanted to speak, but the words lodged in your mouth. 

“I–I don’t understand.”

“You’re not wearing it anymore,” he murmurs, his nose brushing softly against your cheek. The necklace you always wore—his gift to you, the one that held a part of him, a part of the two of you—was gone. He could feel it in the pit of his stomach, an absence that gnawed at him like hunger, an emptiness he could never satisfy. 

His voice wasn’t angry, far from it. It wasn’t even harsh, but something in it—a quiet desperation—made the air between the two of you quiver. 

“You promised you’d never go where I couldn’t follow,” he whispers again. “Remember?” 

You nod in his hold, tightly pursing your lips together when a few tears escape, dripping from your eyes.  He leans in, pressing his forehead against yours again, gazing deep and unwavering into your eyes. I remember. His grip on your neck loosens until he removes his hand from your throat completely, gentle fingers pushing down your shirt's fabric. His fingers trace your skin, the empty spot where your necklace once laid. 

Then, it suddenly hits you. “Oh.”  

He could feel you as much as you felt him. If you were ever too far from him—out of the range of his sight, out from where his hands could reach for you, that necklace was a beacon, a beckoning, a lighthouse in the storm that guided you home—guided him home. 

You squeeze him tighter. You missed him. You really missed him. 

“How did you find me?” 

He takes a moment to breathe, trying to settle the rapid beat of his heart. “Utahime.” He wheezes out a pained laugh. “She called me panicking once you collapsed. I got there as quickly as I could.”  

You copy his laugh, albeit coughing a bit from the pain blooming in your ribs. You hated to admit it, but the longer you stood, the more your body began to hurt. “I should just heal myself and get this over with.”

“Don’t,” his grip tightens on you again. “you’re using it wrong. There’s damage, lots of it,” he tells you, wiping at the blood that had stained your skin at the corner of your mouth with his thumb. “Any more and–” his eyebrows furrowed deeply, the weight of grief and guilt tugging his features. The corner of his lips tightened. “Shoko operated on you for hours. You nearly died.”

He sees what others cannot, his gaze piercing the surface to something deeper, something raw. He sees the world through an entirely different lens, and right now, the sight of you seems to pain him dearly. 

For a moment, you wonder just how much damage is hidden within you and how much it must weigh on him to see it. “Shoko might have gotten you out of the woods, but she told me you’d need a few more rounds to get you back to normal.”

“That makes sense,” you murmur, allowing your entire body weight to ease into him. He accepts you with open arms. “I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck. Or twenty.”

“I missed it,” he utters, voice thick with regret. “If I had just looked a bit closer, we wouldn’t be in this mess. I fucked up. I could’ve prevented this.” His careful grip on you tightens as if you’d slip away from him once more.  “But,” his tone softens. “You did so well. You took care of that cursed womb before I could even get to the scene.” Even through his pain and wallowing, his heart swells. He was proud of you. 

He bends down, grabbing the flowers he dropped before moving towards you again. “Oh gosh,” you hide your face into his neck as he reaches down, one arm hooking under your legs as he lifts you. You don’t hesitate, wrapping your arms around his neck. “I’m definitely fired, aren’t I?” 

He carefully guides you back into your room. He manages to toss your flowers on the counter by the window. “Don’t worry about any of that. I’ll handle it. ‘Kay?” He places you down on your bed, but he hesitates, not wanting to fully pull away. 

Your eyes flicker, recalling the night of your augment. You knew this was the reason behind his haunted expression. You recognized the torment because you, too, had felt it. “You’re mad,” he observes relatively quickly.

You didn’t want to bring it up. You weren't necessarily mad, not anymore, but even near death couldn’t make you forget the pain he had caused with words he so carelessly struck you down with. 

“What you said… Hurt me, Gojo,” you look down at your hands, feeling selfish for even bringing this up after nearly dying. However, you knew this conversation was inevitable.  “Even if you were right I felt cast aside. Useless. Why didn't you tell me you felt that way before?”

“No… don’t say that. I was being stupid. I over reacted. I know you'd always protect those kids and that's exactly what you did. You’re not weak or a nuisance, or... convenient.” you flinch at the word. “You’re far from that. I need you to know that.”

“...Then what am I?”

“Everything,” he shudders. “You’re everything.” His lips brush over your forehead, your cheeks, and eyelids, each kiss tender and lingering. But then he pauses, his smooth lips hovering just above yours. He’s always been so confident, so self-assured. You’re unsure how to react.

You were sitting on your bed, feet dangling just above the floor. He is leaning over you, one large and warm hand on your thigh, the other cupping your face gently. He was close, but not close enough. Even bent at the waist, his height keeps him just out of your reach unless he leans back down just a bit more…

You wrap your arms around his neck and pull him down to you, giving him all the assurance you have to offer.

You were hurt, but you still wanted him.

You still loved him. 

His mouth was warm and soft—testing the waters and treading carefully. His grip on your thigh tightens until– 

He lets go. You feel the tension in his body dissipate, and finally, he allows himself to fully enjoy you—taste you. The kiss deepens, and you swear it brought life back into your frail body. He overwhelms you now in the most delicious way possible. Your toes curl, and your tight embrace eases. Your arms go weak, your hands moving to run down his chest, his taut muscles quivering in the wake of your touch.  Every moment was a promise, every brush of skin a new vow. No words were spoken, but you both heard everything that had been held back, everything that had been left unsaid. 

I’m sorry.

I love you. 

I love you.

I love you. 

He smiles against your lips, but you don’t stop or pull away, catching and nipping at his bottom lip. Then, you kiss him again, slotting his top lip between yours. “You really love me, huh? Hehe.”

Oh. You hadn’t realized you said it—whimpered murmurs against his lips. No wonder why he looked all dopey and smiley. 

“You’re not going to make me grovel for forgiveness?” He pecks your lips again. “This seems too easy. I know you’re still mad.”

You chase after his lips. “Of course, I’m still mad,” you mutter against him. “But I thought I would never see you again.” Even as he frowns, you pepper his lips with kisses. “Plus, it's not like you to grovel.”

“I would for. Only for you, of course.”

You giggle, nipping his lip a little harder. “Yeah,” you rolled your eyes. “I’d like to see that.”

Oh no. You’ve made a grave mistake. You knew you messed up again the second the words fell from your lips. There’s a glint in his eyes now. 

“Oh, my beautiful, angelic Queen! I know I have displeased you. Please accept my humble apologies!” You squeak at the suddenness of his actions. He sinks to his knees dramatically, and his palms meet the dirty floor, and so does his forehead. “I am at your mercy! I have failed you greatly, and I wish to make amends.”

You swat him on the back of his head, but it's not nearly enough to hurt him or deter him from whatever this is. “Gojo! Don’t bow like that! Get up!”

“But I can’t!” He whines. “You must forgive me! I will spend eternity on my knees if it means I can regain your favor, my perfect, beautiful, divine Queen. You alone rule this sinners heart!”  He inches forward on his knees, squeezing himself between your legs. His hands find homage on your waist as he nudges his face into your stomach.

Your eyes roll skyward. “Only you could apologize and insult me at the same time, Satoru,” you grumble, looking down at him before running your fingers through white stands. 

Suddenly, he looks up from this position, resting his chin right beneath your ribs, grinning ear to ear. “You called me Satoru~”

You feel your face flush, heat gushing to your cheeks and ears. “Shut up. You’re such an idiot. Can you get up now?”

“Nah,” he says lazily, burying his head into your stomach again. His voice comes out muffled. “I’m trying to make amends with my Queen. Let me, will ya?”

You ease, realizing you won't be able to stop him from doing what he wants. Even if it was a bit theatrical, he was doing his best—you know that because you know him. You let your nails gently graze his scalp as you continued to pat him. He hums, almost purrs, as your other hand finds his shoulder, squeezing him gently before running your fingers under his shirt, caressing his skull and the taut muscles in his back. A beat of silence passes, but you find yourself uncaring.

You had him back in your arms. That’s all that really mattered to you right now.

“Look, I know… I know I messed up,” he begins, voice so low, you nearly miss it. “I’m not great at this—saying the right things. I didn’t mean to hurt you. I was stressed. I was fed up with the higher-ups and fed up with my missions, but that’s no excuse. If I could take it all back, I would in a heartbeat. You deserve better than what I was giving you. I’m gonna try to be better… for you. For us.”  His words hang in the air a bit awkwardly, but you can see the sincerity in his eyes and hear it in his voice. It couldn’t be missed. He shifts a bit, moving to kiss your belly. Then, his large hand wrap around yours, guiding your hand closer to his lips. He kisses the back of your knuckles tenderly as if the act of his apology could never be enough.

“You want me to stay?”

He squeezes you tighter. “Of course I do. What would I be without you?”

“Hm. You’d still be Gojo Satoru. Even without me.” 

“I don’t want to imagine a life without you,” he mutters. “Wherever you go, that’s where I’ll follow. I've already told you that…”

“Don’t say that,” you whisper sweetly, patting his head. He nudges his head further into you. “The world will always need you.”

“I will always need you. So please… stop talking like this.” He pinches your side, making you squeak. Finally he looks up, an unimpressed expression gracing his features. “And don’t ever leave the city to get away from me. When you told me you were going to a hotel, I thought you meant in Tokyo.”

You chuckle nervously, looking elsewhere. “Yeah… Sorry about that.” 

“Next time, take a walk or something. I dunno, go touch some grass if you get tired of me.”

A small smile escaped you, followed by a quiet laugh that shook your shoulders. You pat his back three times before kneading him softly. “Okay, humble peasant. You've groveled for long enough. Now lay with me,” you demand him. “I want you to lay with me. I’m so tired.”

“Psh. I’d hardly fit on this bed.”

“Whatever,” you tell him, scooting over. “I’ll make room. Get in, string bean.”

He grins. “Yes, ma’am.”

 It’s a bit awkward at first with his lanky form, but he makes it work. It was a tight fit, and his feet slightly dangled off the bed, but he made no objections. With your back to his chest, he held you against him securely.

“You’re cold,” he observes out loud when you start playing with his fingers. It’s a bitter realization, a deafening one on his part. You know it bothers him, especially as he wraps the blanket around you tighter.

He tries not to let it show. However, he quickly becomes restless and you know he isn’t sated. He begins to move. “Let me go get you another blanket.”

“Nooo. Stay here.”

“Huh? But you’re freezing! And you’re never cold!”

“I’m already warming up!” You intervene with a small giggle, tugging him by his jacket. “Just shut up and lay with me, already.” He hesitates before unbuttoning his black jacket. When he was determined, there wasn’t any stopping a man like him, and right now, he was determined to get you warm.

He lays his jacket over you, spreading the fabric out, smoothing away all the wrinkles, and making sure you're covered. It might as well be a blanket with how long it was over you. Bonus points because it still carried him warmth and smelled like his cologne. A blend of earth and wood with a hint of something darker—smokey and smooth. You always loved the scent. Whenever he walked by, it brushed past you like a gentle breeze over still water, warm and inviting, with subtle notes of leather, musk, and vanilla. 

He grunts a bit before easing into the bed again. “My little icicle- ow,” you shot your elbow back, getting him right in the ribs. “Okay, okay, I’ll stop.” He chuckles, before wrapping his arms over you one more. He brushes your hair from your neck, his breath fanning against your skin. He kisses you there once, twice, three times before saying something familiar. 

“I could sense when you left Tokyo. I didn’t know what to do. Even with my eyes, I couldn’t find you. You were just gone. Don’t ever go where I can’t follow." He kisses your neck. "Please.”

You turn around, searching for his lips. He melts into you once again, squeezing your side sweetly. “I promise,” you murmur. “Wherever you go, that’s where I’ll follow,” you say, voicing back the same promise he made you. He smiles faintly against your lips.  

When you woke up the next morning, your necklace was there. It was back where it belonged, sapphires resting gently over your steady beating heart—carrying Satoru’s silent promise.

Wherever you go, that’s where I follow. 

-

a/n: I honestly don't know how I feel about this but if you made it to the end I hope the nearly 18k was worth reading. If you couldn't tell its based off the song Die With A Smile. Honestly, I think I might have been happier by making this a bit longer and flushing out some of the scenes more, but I was trying new things and I was excited to post my first jjk post :) however its getting late now but if there's any typos or errors I notice later I'll edit as needed.

anyways, if you'd like to see more gojo x sorcerer!reader let me know! also I really hoped you liked the bits I added with Megumi (he's just a smol bean).

likes and reblogs are always appreciated! :p

Especially since we learn the truth about the deaths and why there were so many in the novel later on, I really wanted to know how it would have played out if he bore witness to it all, the fact that her behavior isn’t solely because of his behavior in this life but because he mainly killed her aside from EVERYONE and mainly at the smallest of things

Personally, I feel that one of the mistakes in the manhwa's script was not going into details about OG Penelope's death in Callisto's route in the normal mode of the game. I've mentioned this before, but seeing Callisto take back his words at the thought of Penelope being upset with him is character development. Yeah, character development for the man who will eventually become her husband, because we are reading a romance novel. This is a redemption of him to be her partner, not to be a good person.

I mention this because some have the belief that character development is entirely for the good, when it can also be to worsen the character or make them a soul yearning and adoring their beloved partner: just like Callisto and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

Why does this fit so well

Take my hand, Mademoiselle. I like holding my treasure close.

ch1 spoilers

she threw him over her shoulder absolutely

Guilt

opla!Zoro x gn!reader

Summary: Under the control of a hypnotist, Zoro is forced to hurt you. How are you going to heal?

WC: 4.4k

Warnings/tags: blood, injuries, torture, getting stabbed, a shit ton of angst, fluff at the end

The forest stretches endlessly out around you, giving you the impression of complete isolation, despite the danger lurking all around.

You aren't completely alone, thankfully. Zoro stands with you as you traverse the forest, pushing through the bushes to hopefully find some way out of this hellish situation.

Hypnotists hide in the forest with you, prepared to take control of you with a single look. You need to escape, but that seems impossible this deep in the forest.

The sun has been completely blocked out with a blanket of branches and leaves held above your head. It must still been day since you can see, but there is no direct sunlight and there hasn't been since you entered.

You hold onto Zoro's arm like a child, eyes darting back an forth across your surroundings in case anything or anyone jumps out.

Zoro allows you to hold his arm, his hand holding yours. "It's okay." He says, still looking ahead. "We're gonna be okay." It's for him to hear as much as you.

You know it would be unwise to stop. You need to escape, but your legs ache and you are exhausted.

"I need to stop." You mumble, keeping your pace nonetheless. "We can't stop." You resist the urge to whine. That certainly wouldn't help. "I know."

"We'll walk for a few more minutes and then stop, okay?" He suggests quietly, trying to compromise. You hum a yes and nod, trying to keep up before you hear something, stopping dead in your tracks.

"Just a few more minutes." He tries to spur you into motion, but you look up at him, fear in your eyes.

"Something's there." You press your back to his, your natural place when preparing for a fight.

You hear footsteps from behind you and instinctively close your eyes. That way you can't be hypnotized.

You feel Zoro reach for his swords, drawing them from their sheaths, at the ready.

Then something happens. He freezes against your back and you know something is wrong. You take a step away as he spins around, swinging where you had been standing.

Hypnotized.

Your blood runs cold as you see his face, completely void of emotion. No soft smile or mild frown. It's a blank slate, there is emptiness behind his eyes. He's a puppet for the man standing behind him.

His posture is rigid. It's like someone turned him into a mannequin. There is no protectiveness about him. No kindness. He is not there. He's just a vessel. His swords are already drawn.

You run back into the forest, drawing your own sword to defend yourself, moving as fast as your legs will allow you.

The men follow you as you run, but as long as you don't look the hypnotist in the eyes you're safe.

Zoro follows close behind you, eventually tackling you to the ground, knocking the wind out of you.

As you gasp for air, he breaks out of the hold the hypnotist has on him, loosening his grip on your arms.

He looks confused and for a second you want to kiss him for coming back to you, but you know as soon as the hypnotist reaches the two of you the control will take over again.

You break away from him, taking off into the bushes, getting air in staggered breaths.

You look back to see Zoro go rigid again, the simple action causing you to stumble over a root, hitting the ground hard.

Zoro takes his time now, the hypnotist doesn't want to let him go. You stand, trying to regulate your breathing before holding your sword out, preparing to duel.

He lunges a you, but you're lucky. The hypnotist doesn't know how to use his swords. The movements are sloppy and leave plenty of space for you to attack.

You don't attack, though. That's still Zoro. Not right now, but inside he is, and you can't shake that. You can't hurt him.

You dodge his attacks easily, he gives you more than enough time to block. The fight would have a clear winner if you were to actually attack him.

He continues to slash at you wildly as you begin to scream for help. If any of the others can hear you they'll come to help. Hopefully.

You manage to knock him off balance, immediately taking off into the woods again, calling out for anyone.

You run fast and Zoro follows behind you, staying in the trance from the hypnotist, swords at the ready.

You don't look back. You just keep screaming, your legs burning under you. You keep running until your legs physically give out under you.

This time, when you hit the forest floor, you don't get up. You just lay there, heart pounding in your ears, your voice cut short by the fall.

You feel hands grabbing you, turning you over on your back so you can see what's about to happen to you.

Zoro sits above you, his weight holding you to the ground. Your elbows are pinned to your sides. You can't move. You can't escape.

Your sword fell out of your hand when you hit the ground and it now sits out of your reach.

His swords are discarded as well, the hypnotist likely knowing how to use fists far better than blades.

Instead of calling for your friends, you try to get through to Zoro. He lands the first blow against your face and you resist the urge to crack.

It isn't him. It isn't.

Zoro would never hurt you.

He's being controlled.

It's not him.

You hope that by some miracle he'll be able to break through the hypnosis with the power of love, but you can tell it's a silly idea.

Still, you try.

"Zoro! Zoro please! Try to come back please!"

Your begs are cut short by him forcing a forearm against your windpipe. Your voice struggles as he slowly suffocates you.

He adjusts himself at some point and your arms free themselves, reaching up to force his forearm away from his throat, your legs kicking under him.

You are struck by the blankness of his face. So much so that you force your eyes shut. You think it would be easier to handle if he looked angry. His appearance is uncanny. There's no exertion on his features. He's just staring at you, blinking occasionally. There's nothing.

It would be easier if he looked like he had a reason to hurt you. Any emotion. Even joy. You'd prefer seeing joy over this void.

You can't tell if it's worse that he's hurting you or that it looks like he doesn't even care. You know, you know that it's because of the hypnosis that he looks like this, but it's killing you.

You know deep down that he isn't even conscious. He is asleep in his brain while being controlled. He doesn't even know his body is doing this.

It's a small mercy to think at least he won't be tortured with these memories. He won't be able to see his forearm pressed against your neck as you beg him to stop.

He eventually removes his arm from your neck, allowing you to breathe. You can scream for help again. He wrangles your arms back to your sides and leans forward to grab your sword.

His knee digs into your side as he examens the blade. You begin pleading like your life depends on it. In a way, it does.

Maybe you'll be able to contact the sleeping consciousness in his head and wake it up. Have him take over again. You can only hope.

"Zoro, let me go. Zoro, please, please stop this." You start to cry. It's pathetic but it's your only defense at the moment. You can't hurt him.

He moves the sword against your arm, dragging the blade across your skin, watching the red line appear and begin to bleed.

You can feel the blood trickle down your arm as he moves to your opposite shoulder, drawing a line across it, 'accidentally' scratching the skin of your cheek with the pointed tip of the sword.

You continue to scream and cry and beg. You need your crewmates. You need backup.

You watch as Zoro lines up the blade perpendicular to the ground, the tip sitting on your bleeding shoulder.

"No." You say the word as if it will stop him. Nothing else has. He's still emotionless. Still being controlled.

You feel the blade plunge through your shoulder one second before Zoro's body relaxes.

His eyes go wide and his brow furrows as he tries to understand what just happened. When he sees his hands wrapped around the hilt of your sword, buried in your shoulder, his hands drop it. He's terrified.

He gets pulled off of you and he just sits there, watching as Nami approaches you.

You've never seen Zoro so scared. And yet it's a miracle to see anything on his face.

You're more focused on the pain radiating from your shoulder, trying to pull away from it. You hold back the urge to scream, groaning instead

Nami lifts you up, supporting you against a tree. You can see her mouth moving, asking questions, but your vision drifts to Zoro, who sits confined within the hold of the rest of the crew.

His eyes are haunted. They're talking to him but he isn't listening.

Your eyes meet and you're glad they finally do. He's there. He's back in there. He's him.

The sword juts out of your shoulder, standing up, supported by your body. Nami removes it, launching you into another pained yell before trying to silence yourself.

Nami is quick to work with a field dressing, patching up the bloody wound and covering up the cut on your arm. You'll need more help when you get out of the forest, but it does the job for now.

Nami doesn't try to get any answers from you. She just wipes the the blood and dirt off your arm and hastily wraps it up.

You read her lips and listen hard to understand her. She says you're so close to the edge of the forest. You're thankful, but fear eats away at you. It consumes your mind, squirming through your guts.

You want to throw up, or sob, or both. You end up crying, every other breath interrupted by gagging, but since you haven't eaten all day, nothing comes out.

You can see Zoro and the boys watching this and as much as it hurts to see him scared, you're still glad you can see his emotions.

He's horrified. Fear and grief rush across his face. He knows he did this to you. His eyes briefly dart to the man lying on the ground. Unconscious. He can't take control anymore. He doesn't have to. He's done enough damage.

Your hearing slowly returns and you look at Nami. "What happened?" You know what happened. You remember every grimy detail. You just want the slim chance of being told that it was a dream. A hallucination. That it hadn't actually happened.

"One of those hypnotists found you. He took control of Zoro. He was forced to attack you."

You nod, numb. You want to talk about how scary it was, but Zoro is sitting right there, eyes full of concern, staring right at you. His focus never wavers.

You let your head fall against the tree. You just want to go back to the ship. "I wanna go." You mumble at the ground, feeling hollow.

"Let's get you back to the ship." She helps you up and after some silent discussion, an arrangement is made.

Zoro walks at the very front of the group, next to Luffy and you walk at the back, supported by Nami. This way you have the feeling of security and confirmation that he won't attack you.

You know he won't. Since the hypnotist is out of the picture, everything should be alright. And yet, your brain replays the pain. The fear itches at you and there's a sinking feeling in your stomach.

Zoro wouldn't hurt you of his own accord, but he could be forced into doing it.

You try not to think about how any of the people around you could be manipulated into doing the same.

Sanji and Usopp stand as a buffer between Zoro an you, like some sort of extra protection. You feel like it's excessive, but you don't say anything. Neither does Zoro.

You can tell Zoro wants to look back at you. You see muscles in his neck twitch as he debates looking at you, making sure you're okay.

He turns around once, and you flinch. It's not intentional and it drives shards of ice through your stomach. You're scared of him.

As you walk, you realize the strange fact that Zoro shouldn't apologize. Nothing about this situation was his fault. The actions done against you aren't his. He has no reason to apologize. It's not his fault, but you know the hypnotist isn't going to feel the guilt.

This is the kind of experience that would bring you to his side, snuggling deep into his arms, trying to escape the feeling of your attacker. But when it was him who had attacked you, you didn't know what to do. You craved his touch, but it was his touch that had hurt you in the first place. The arms that kept you warm and protected had suffocated you. The hands that usually wiped away your tears had driven the blade into your shoulder.

You can't stop thinking about it. It replays over and over again in your head. You see Zoro's face hovering over yours. You feel him hurting you. It makes your heart break.

You have to stop for a second when you realize that you don't think you can be left alone with him. Not after that horrific encounter.

Out of the forest finally, you see the sun. It isn't a good sign. It's a dawn on this new trauma.

A doctor fixes you up properly, telling you to rest and what to do and what to eat and drink. You barely listen. Everything is wrong.

There's a celebration for your acts of heroism. For freeing the town from those hypnotists who have been controlling them for years. You don't enjoy it. You pretend like nothing happened in the forest. That your injuries were accidents, and earned in a direct altercation with a hypnotist. A lie, and a terrible one. You and Zoro stand far apart whenever necessary.

You don't know how to feel. You aren't angry at him. You don't blame him. He did nothing wrong. The hypnotist is to blame. But every time you tell yourself that, you flash back to the forest floor, watching Zoro position your sword over your shoulder.

That night, you sleep alone in the room you usually share with Zoro. He bunks with the boys.

The room is empty, but you can't sleep next to him. Every inch of you is simultaneously asking to run into his arms and force yourself as far away from him as possible.

You leave in the morning, without much discussion. The boat just floats away from the harbour, leaving a horrific scene behind you.

For the first few days, you handle things without much trouble. You do your best to avoid thinking about the situation and risk getting riled up. You are forced to stay in bed, which makes the task of not thinking about it much harder, but there's usually someone there to accompany you.

Zoro doesn't visit. You suspect he doesn't want to hurt you further by appearing like a memory of what you've just experienced, but I doesn't feel right to not have him there. The others don't ask if you want to see him for fear of agitating you and you don't say anything about it because your mouth zips up of its own accord any time you ask about him coming to see you.

"How is Zoro?" You finally force out one day, during Nami's visit. You trust her to give it to you straight. "He's not doing good. He blames himself." You shake your head. "It's not his fault."

Nami sighs. "We know. He's the one having trouble. He misses you, but he doesn't want to visit and scare you." She looks over, an unspoken question finally coming to light.

"Do you want him to visit?" She watches the way your mouth closes and your body freezes, stopping you from answering. "You can say no. I won't tell him that you did."

You don't answer, the ever present conflict in your head raging on. You sit on the bed, feeling emotionally exhausted as your silence answers for you.

"That's okay. Take your time. Sanji will bring you dinner later, okay?" You just nod, mouth wired shut. It's too much.

For the first few nights, you sleep out of exhaustion, but once you're caught up on sleep, it wears off.

You suddenly can't sleep at night. You'll wake up at random times for no reason and it takes incredible amounts of willpower to get back to sleep.

It's midnight, and you don't even feel tired. Your thoughts return to him, defending him while your brain tries to fight you off with images of him hurting you.

The bruise on your neck has almost disappeared, and your arm is much better. You suspect the stab wound will have a scar, but the cut managed to heal quite well, only a slight line remaining on your skin.

In the morning, you are expected to make your grand return, allowed out of bed, but as of right now, you need to get out. The world is sour and you can't stay in the room you are supposed to share with Zoro any longer.

You step outside, hoping whoever's on watch duty understands that you need this.

Initially, you want to find Zoro and just see him. Know that he's safe. That he's still there, even if your mind can only conjure images from that fateful day.

You pass by the boys' room without stopping. You don't want to rouse them from their sleep anyways, so you just walk around outside.

The cool night air wraps around you, making you shiver. Your skin comes alive with small bumps in reaction to the chill.

The sky is clear and the water is calm. It's a perfect night. There's no wind, at best it's a breeze, and only the sounds of water lapping at the hull of the ship to help lull people to sleep.

You sit on the deck, staring out at the water, vast, blue, and unforgiving. You feel something bubble up in you, but it's as if the bubbles are made of tar, floating lazily upwards, popping and coating your insides with a sticky, black ichor.

You feel sick, but not like you're about to throw up. You just feel wrong.

You forgot the night watch schedule, who wouldn't after what you'd been through, but it means that Zoro is the first to see you out of your room. He shirks his duties slightly, focusing his attention on you.

He faces your back, watching uneven breaths take your body. He isn't sure if he should go inside and wake someone else up to deal with this. He isn't sure of anything. He can't stop envisioning you after he was freed from the control. Eyes wide, bleeding profusely from a wound brought on by his hand. He feels completely unable to do anything to help you.

He hasn't seen you since the celebration back on the island. Even then he had kept his distance.

You seem to have healed well, you've regained some movement in your shoulder, limited as it is. He's grateful that you haven't been hurt permanently. That would be awful.

He takes a step towards the rooms, planning to fetch Nami, he thinks she'll be the best help you can get, but his foot drags and you pick up on the noise, whipping around to face him.

You look up at the elevated deck he stands on, both of you are frozen in place. He looks blank again. But not in the way the hypnotist had done it. Instead of a lack of emotion, there's too much. He has so much to feel, and only a limited space to express it.

Concern and worry are visible on his face and you remind yourself that this is Zoro. He doesn't want to hurt you. He would never intentionally hurt you. He loves you and he wants you to be safe.

You mind counters this with reminders of how it felt to struggle beneath him, unable to get through to him, to bring him back.

After a while, he takes a cautious step forwards. You don't move away.

"Can we talk?" The question is one you've heard him ask once, when he first confessed his feelings to you.

He doesn't typically engage in conversation, but times are difficult. Changes need to be made. You take him up on his offer.

"Yes. Come down here." Your words are stilted and sound forced. Your heart pounds in your chest as he comes down to you, every movement careful and precise.

When he reaches the same level as you, he keeps his distance, backed up against the railing, allowing you to make the boundary.

He's never been good with this kind of thing. Vulnerability. It isn't easy for him. Which surprises you even more when he begins the conversation.

"Is there anything I can do? To help?" You stare blankly for a second before shrugging. "I don't know." You want everything to stop. You can't stand it.

"I'll keep my distance, if that's what you want." "I don't." The words slip out without warning. For once, your body doesn't stop you from trying to reach out to him. It's the truth. If it's going to hurt with or without him, you want him anyways.

"I want," you search for the words, forcing your head down, staring at the deck. "You. With me." You say it to the wooden boards of the deck, trying to keep yourself balanced as the pent up emotions threaten to overtake you.

"But I need to go back to the start. With the touching." You're surprised at how well the words come out.

Zoro hadn't been overly touchy before you were together, but after a while, the two of you were nearly always touching in some way. He already misses it, but he knows he'll do whatever it takes. You're worth it.

"Yes. Of course." He bows his head to you, nervously.

You think back to the beginning. The first days with him. Small touches. Nothing too strong. Brushing hands, gently pressing against each other when there was no room for personal space.

He used to kiss your hand.

It had made you laugh when he first did it, mocking some romantic man the two of you had been watching. It grew into a joke, and then it was serious. Any time he wanted to make you smile, he would kiss your hand.

And so, as an offering of new beginnings, you slowly walk across the deck towards him, pushing away the memories from that day.

He stays still, trying not to scare you. You take his hand and he lets you guide it up towards your face. His hand is warm in yours.

"Start small." You whisper to yourself, reminding him of the way you spoke to him in the beginning.

"Let's start small." He had said, knowing neither of you were ready to dive in, to have the full experience off the bat.

"Okay." He said quietly, barely a breath in the wind. You lift his hand up, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of it.

He's glad it's dark and nobody else can see him because his face is as red as they come.

You can tell though. The slightly flustered look is all you need to see to know he's the exact same shade as a tomato.

You smile and his heart flutters.

"I love you Zoro." The words start to flow easier and for a brief moment things feel normal again. "It's nobody's fault, but I'm sorry we have to do this."

He resists the urge to lean over and kiss your forehead. "I tried to attack him. It's my fault we're in this mess."

You let go of his hand and turn your face serious, watching him carefully. "It was nobody's fault. Not mine, not yours, not Luffy or Usopp or Nami's either. The blame lies on that damned man and his hypnotic eyes. And it's over now. Nothing can be done about it." Zoro nods and reaches out a hand, an offering for you to take, if you should want it.

"To new beginnings?" He says gently and you can tell he doesn't expect you to take his hand. Maybe to surprise him, you do.

Your injured arm raises up, the fingers slide between his, lightly holding him. His fingers wrap around your hand, light enough to let you pull away without resistance should you have to. He's strangely good at helping you.

The two of you sit in silence, your hands sitting between you.

Carefully, you try something risky. You lower your hands and move closer. You just want to try. To know if it feels awful.

You press your body to his and he is deathly still. His breath hitches and you wonder if he knows you can tell he's about to cry.

You wrap your free arm around his body, giving him a gentle squeeze. "Your turn." You mumble into his chest. You feel his arm move. Your heart jumps, but you can't tell if it's out of fear or love. You decide to let it happen anyways.

His arm carefully wraps around your back, holding you to him.

You look up to see a single tear dripping down his face, a sight that makes you want to cry yourself.

You decide that you need this. You cry in his embrace as well. It feels like normalcy. It feels like home.

You separate after a while. It's a bittersweet parting, but your hands stay together.

"Tomorrow, please come back to our room." You say quietly. You don't know how this will work, but you know it will, and that's enough.

To new beginnings indeed.

Literally the cutest thing ever

Babysitting

(Bakugou Katsuki x reader)

You offered to babysit triplets for a friend, but Katsuki wants your attention, and he wants it now. So it turns out you have to babysit four demons who are filled with attitude and chaos.

Warnings: Bakugou. Cursing, slightly suggestive?

Contains: Crack, fluff, mentions of marriage and having kids, Third year! Bakugou, reader is silly, and Bakugou is a ridiculous boyfriend. Mild making out, chaotic triplets, Bakugou is petty but clingy with reader.

"C'mon, handsome. It's time to let go."

Currently, your boyfriend, Katsuki, is clinging to you like a koala. Literally.

He has his legs wrapped around your waist, and his arms circled around your shoulders. His face is stuffed into your neck, while his fluffy spiky hair is shoved into your face. You would find him cute if you didn't have to leave in ten minutes.

A deep sigh leaves you, not being able to walk with your 5'11 boyfriend wrapped around you like a baby. Not to mention that he has stupidly big muscles everywhere, making him kinda heavy to carry.

Your hand playfully reaches to poke his cheek, to which he huffs in response and nuzzles his face into your neck. The action makes you flinch, as you're ticklish, so your boyfriend is basically torturing you.

"B-Babe! Stop!-"

The blonde scoffs, squeezing his arms and legs around you while pressing wet kisses onto the exposed skin on your shoulder. The sensation is ticklish, making you shiver as you feel your face heat up. Yeah, he's not getting off any time soon.

With a sigh, you place your hands under his thighs, hoisting him up as a surprised grunt leaves his lips. You hold him securely, rolling your eyes when his grip tightens and his head peeks at you with a 'you better not drop me or I'll kill you' look. Nonetheless, you carry him like a baby! He is a baby. Your stupidly ridiculous, heavy, grumpy, handsome baby.

Taking the first few steps is difficult, but you manage to waddle to your desk while carrying Katsuki with you. What does his mother feed him?! You extend your hand to grab your bag, struggling to do so as little grunts leave your lips. Katsuki rolls his eyes, unwrapping one of his legs around you to kick your bag farther away from you. Your eyes twitches in irritation, shooting him a glare as the blonde snickers and buries his face in your chest.

"I should abandon you in an alleyway."

"I'll fucking duct tape myself to your hip."

You sigh disappointingly, shaking your head to which your boyfriend hates. So the bastard licks your face like a dog instead.

You yelp, face scrunching as you drop your boyfriend onto the cold, harsh floor. Katsuki grunts loudly, rubbing his lower back while shooting you a lazy glare. "The fuck was that for?!" He grumbles.

You stare down blankly at your boyfriend, grabbing your bag forcefully as you lightly kick his rib while walking over him as if he's a rug. The blonde scowls, turning onto his stomach while grabbing your ankle with both hands, making you drag him across the floor.

Katsuki whines dramatically, his face sliding against the floor as you try to shake the heavy and bulky man off of you. "Quit trying to abandon me! Where the hell do you have to go anyway?!" He shouts, wrapping his arm around your leg so it makes you harder for you to leave him.

With a struggle and a few kicks towards him, you manage to grab the doorknob, a determined smile on your face as you glance down at your angry gremlin smugly.

"I'm going to babysit. And if you don't let me go, I'm taking you with me!"

Yeah, he's starting to regret acting like a fucking toddler.

Currently, you're handling three little children who are the reincarnation of tiny demons. But no, their just sweet little angels in your eyes.

Katsuki is worried that you're blind.

He's slumped onto the aqua colored sofa, arms crossed with a scowl on his face when one of the kids keeps clinging onto your hips while whining like a toddler. That's his fucking job.

One of the triplets, a girl named Aimi, is standing in front of Katsuki shyly. The blonde glances down at the small child from the corner of his eye. The young girl flinches, blush creeping up her cheeks as she tilts her head away with her hands behind her back.

Katsuki raises his eyebrow, huffing with a roll of his eyes before grumbling loudly. "What do ya want?" The girl smiles cutely in response, twirling side to side as she reveals the plastic princess tiara from behind.

No. Absolutely, no.

Katsuki's eyes widen, a scowl leaving his lips as he sits up straight on the couch. "There is no way in hell!-" You send a glare at him, having the other two children clinging onto you as you open their bags of veggies. Katsuki shuts up. He somewhat fears your wrath. That, he will admit.

With an exaggerated groan, Katsuki rubs his face with his hands, having a deadpanned expression while sending a glare to the little girl in front of him. "Fine! But don't you dare to that makeup crap with me!" Aimi gasps happily, having a wide smile as she grabs the blondes' hand and drags him to the small table.

The other two boys, Haruto and Dai, are clinging onto you like Koalas. One of them is wrapped around you like a backpack, while the other is sticking onto your legs. The two boys snicker seeing Katsuki having to participate in a tea party with the most dreaded look on his face.

You glance at the scene, unable to hide your laughter at the sights of your boyfriend wearing a pink tiara while barely being able to fit on the small plastic seat. The blonde snaps his head towards you, having an angry pout on his lips as his face turns a shade of bubblegum pink of embarrassment.

"Quit laughing at me!"

You snicker, giving a cheeky smile to your boyfriend as you place the veggie snacks onto the plastic table. "It's time to eat your veggies, Aimi." You smile, patting the girls head as she giggles in response. You glance at Katsuki slyly, a smug look in your eyes as you pass the plate of chopped up carrots and green beans to him. "You too, Kats."

The blonde glares at you, muttering under his breath as he takes the plate harshly and chomps onto the snack. The triplets giggle at the aggressive boys' misery, as Haruto sticks his tongue out at Katsuki while Dai clings onto you tighter.

Katsuki sends a glare to the boys, making them flinch as they hide behind you. Haruto, who has grown attached to you since you've arrived, hid his face into your neck as you carried him. This ticks your boyfriend off. Because he's the one who should be clinging onto you. His face should be stuffed into your neck! And he's supposed to be the one who's getting your God damn attention!

And you know this, because you send him a knowing smile while rubbing Harutos' hair. And Katsuki's jaw drops while his eye twitches.

That's the last fucking straw.

Katsuki huffs, and puffs, his lips pouty and his eyes filled with pettiness anger. The triplets look at him in concern, thinking he's about to explode when he- drops onto the floor.

You snort, rolling your eyes at his pettiness as he curls into a ball with his back facing you.

The triplets merely blink and shrug their shoulders.

Aimi walks over to the spiky haired blonde, poking his shoulder as she sighs and shakes her head. "Well, he's dead." She says, taking off her plastic tiara to put on her doctor coat. The boys grin, knowing what their sister is about to do as they hop down and grab the toy shovel and the fake surgical tools.

Your eyes widen in amusement, hiding your laughter with your hand as you sit down on the couch and watch them play with torture your boyfriend. Aimi kicks his leg with her foot, as the blonde doesn't respond at all and plays dead.

Haruto sneaks up from behind, peering down on your boyfriend as he scrunches his face in disapproval. He grabs the plastic shovel, thinking that he's going to pretend digging up the dirt, but instead, he smacks it onto Katsuki's head. Repeatedly. Just to make sure he's dead!

You laugh, watching the boy beat up your 'dead' boyfriend while Dai fake sniffles and Aimi throws flower toys onto Katsuki. You decide to play along, grabbing a kid-sized blanket and getting up from your spot. You make your way towards the triplets, tossing the blanket onto Katsuki as the blonde harshly grabs it and wraps it around himself.

"So dramatic." You sigh, rolling your eyes while chuckling when you hear a quiet growl leave your buried boyfriend.

You crouch down next to Haruto, whispering in the little boys' ear as a big smile grows on his face and nods happily. Haruto goes to tell his other siblings, whispering to each other as they snicker in agreement. Your eyes wander to Katsuki, poking your finger to his back to which he tenses up, yet doesn't respond. You huff, cheeks puffed out as you slowly make motions with your finger on his back. This soothes your boyfriend, watching him relax as he scoots closer to your touch.

Suddenly, he rolls towards your direction, hooking his arms under your knees as you yelp in surprise when he flips you both over. The blonde bastard sighs in content, snuggling his face into the plush of your thighs while wrapping his legs around your calfs. You deadpan, propped up on your elbows as you watch your boyfriend curl into your body. So immature.

The triplets stare at you both, Aimi giggling and fawning over your romance while Dai rubs his head in confusion. Haruto has his cheeks puffed out adorably angrily, crossing his arms with a huff as he glares at the blonde laying on your lap. Katsuki opens his eye, giving a smug smirk towards the younger boy while grabbing your hand and kissing it repeatedly.

You roll your eyes, hearing a dramatic gasp leave Haruto as the little boys' jaw drops in betrayal. "Y/n! Why is he kissing your hand? You said I was the one who could marry you!" The boy whines. Katsuki freezes, looking at you with wide eyes as you tense and gulp. You laugh awkwardly, rubbing the back of your neck while trying to create a distance between you and your boyfriend. "I can explain-"

"YOU SAID WHAT?!"

Katsuki sits up, eye twitching as he has his hands on either side of you. You blink, accidentally making eye contact with him as you can see the jealousy in his fiery gaze.

And at this moment, you realized it's time to leave.

You shove your boyfriend off, enough to get out of his grasp as you scramble onto your feet and start to run away. Katsuki scowls, pouting angrily as the thought of you agreeing to marry someone else infuriates him. Even if it was just to make sure a kid wasn't crying!

You race towards the couch, leaping onto the other side in order to escape your feral pomeranian haired lover. It doesn't work.

Katsuki chases after you, the triplets squealing and laughing as they watch his jump to the other side and land in front of you. You squeal, trying to get away, but the blonde scowls and scoops you up in his beefy arms. He sits criss crossed, making you sit on his lap while his arms are wrapped around your shins in order to keep you still. Your arms are pinned to your sides, making you unable to move as he huffs and presses kisses to your head.

Whining, you squirm in his grasp, wanting to get away, to which he grunts in disapproval. "Quit doin' that shit." He grumbles, squeezing you three times as a silent signal for 'I love you.'

Your heart softens at the gesture, starting to relax in his embrace as he sighs in content.

In his mind, this is where you should be. In his arms, showing each other affection and certainly not agreeing to marry anyone else.

But the triplets have other plans in mind.

The three look towards the couch curiously, knowing you both are sitting behind it as Haruto pouts and curls into a ball on the floor. Dai shakes his head disappointingly at his brother, patting Haruto's head as the other boy fake sobs.

Aimi looks towards her Haruto, getting an idea as she grins and runs over to shake her brothers shoulders. The little girl starts to whisper her plan, the other two listening in as they quickly nod in agreement.

Small feet pat against the floorboards, and the three of them scramble to where you two are sitting, all of them having eager smiles on their faces as they go behind the couch to tell you their great idea.

But they stop when they see Katsuki making out with you. On purpose. With the kissing noises and everything.

You're pressed against the wall, arm draped over his shoulder as your hand is pressed firmly against his chest, face red and too flustered to notice the triplets staring at you both in horror.

Katsuki opens his eye, having a smug glint as he smirks into the kiss while looking at the three, especially Haruto. He thinks he's so funny when he makes the kissy noises and roams his hands around your back.

Yeah, the triplets have seen enough.

Aimi squeals dramatically, covering her face with her hands in order to keep some of her purity. Dai gags, bending over as he scrunches his face in disgust when he sees Katsuki lick your mouth. Haruto, on the other hand, has had enough. As he stomps his way towards you both but Katsuki is quicker to react, placing his big hand on Haruto's face as the younger boy scowls and complains.

You're kinda getting embarrassed, so you attempt to pull away from Katsuki's lip lock, but he doesn't want to let you. He's having too much fun traumatizing the kids!

Whining, you place one of your hands on his neck, the other on his chest as you pull him away from you and try to squirm away. "My job is to babysit! Not to traumatize little kids!" You yell, slapping your boyfriends' head while he snickers.

"Oh really? Because that sounds like my job, peach-"

"NOT THE NICKNAME!!"

With a hard smack to the head, Katsuki releases you, groaning in pain as he holds his head in his hands and falls back onto the floor. The blonde scowls, trying to trap you with his legs, but you're quicker to escape his leg lock.

Haruto snickers at the blondes' pain, rushing towards you as he clings onto your side. The younger boy wraps his arms around your neck, whispering in your ear as you listen attentively. You grin, patting the childs' head as you turn and deadpan to your boyfriend.

"Time out, Katsuki. Go to the corner."

His jaw drops in offense, making a silly scrunched up face as Aimi and Dai giggle. "What do you mean 'time out'?! I'm your boyfriend!-" He gasps dramatically when you scoff and cross your arms. You stand on your feet, picking up Aimi as you both point to a corner behind the play room area. Right behind the toy kitchen.

Katsuki scoffs, rolling his eyes as he stands and stomps to the corner dramatically, making the kids giggle of how dramatic and funny he is. You snicker, a smile on your face as you wonder if he's doing this on purpose. Could it be he wants to entertain the triplets?...

With a dramatic groan, Katsuki slumps onto the floor, facing the corner while hugging his knees. The triplets snicker, as Katsuki whines exaggerated and starts to complain. "This is so boring. Can't I do something else?" You grin, shaking your head while crossing your arms. "Nope." You reply, making sure to pop the 'p' as your blonde groans out loud.

You huff out a laugh, holding onto your stomach when Katsuki starts to whine and complain that he's so hungry. The triplets laugh along with you, and little do you know that Katsuki has a small smile on his face when he sees a glimpse of your precious, beautiful smile. Mission accomplished.

"Geez, I'm hungry. I could sure as hell go for some..." Katsuki pauses, turning his head to the side as he gives you a mischievous grin while wiggling his eyebrows. "... Peaches."

Your smile slowly falls, the wires going on on your brain as your eyes widen in horror at the realization. Katsuki chuckles darkly, taking a knee as he presses his fingertips onto the wooden floor. Gulping, you take a few steps back, as Katsuki sits up. "Katsuki, no." Your boyfriend smirks, taking a step closer while staying low to the ground. "Katsuki, yes."

You try to run away, but it's too late.

Katsuki leaps towards you, making you squeal dramatically as he scoops you up in his arms and carries you like a baby. You burst out in laughter, feeling your boyfriend slightly lift up your shirt as he blows raspberries onto your stomach. The triplets squeal and laugh, finding you both entertaining as Katsuki pretends to 'eat' you.

"Dang, who knew you were so delicious, peach?" Katsuki teases, lifting you up bridal style while burying his face in the plush of your stomach. You cackle, kicking your feet as you try to avoid his endless torture. "Hah!- Wait!- I c-can't-" You're unable to speak, giggling and laughing as your boyfriend twirls you around in his arms.

He snickers, peering towards you as his cherry red eyes hold a certain emotion in them, adoration. It's hard to miss with how much his pupils are dilated.

Dai laughs, wanting to help you as he tackles Katsuki's leg and clings to it. The blonde yelps in surprise, a smirk growing on his face as Aimi soon joins after. "Hey! Knock it off, yoy little brats!" The kids giggle, Dai sticks his tongue out while Aimi laughs and shakes her head. "We're not brats!" She retorts, stomping her foot while clinging onto Katsuki's other leg.

Your pomeranian haired lover raises his eyebrow, a playful smile on his face as he squeezes you in his arms, making you giggle. "Oh really? You sure about that? Could've sworn there were some little monsters bothering me earlier."

Aimi squeals, smiling and giggling while Dai puffs his cheeks out and pouts. Haruto huffs, standing on the top of the couch unknown to Katsuki. The boy smirks mischievously, extending his arms out as he jumps onto Katsuki's back.

The blonde grunts, playfully glaring at the younger boy as Haruto snickers and clings onto Katsuki's back like a koala.

Right now, Katsuki has his hands full. Yet it doesn't seem so bad. The kids are having a fun time, and you're happily in his arms while smiling. And although Katsuki would never admit it, it starts to make him wonder. Is this what having a family with you would be like? If it is, he isn't entirely against the idea of having a billion brats running around the house.

"I want ice cream!"

"Hey, me too!"

"Y/n! Y/ns' boyfriend! Can we get ice cream!?"

Yeah, maybe he should think about it first.

Years later, you and your husband Katsuki are sitting on a bench at the park.

It's a warm, sunny day, filled with laughter and joy as your children are having fun on the playground. You both are the top pro heroes, having saved many lives and living in a big house for your growing family.

Katsuki has his arm wrapped around you, wearing casual clothes as he places his warm hand on your baby bump. You're pregnant for the sixth time. Like I said, you've been busy.

You smile at him, playing with his fluffy hair as it has grown longer, similar to his mother's. He sighs in content, nuzzling his head against yours while practically having you pressed up against him. He would prefer having you on his lap, but then your kids would want to go on a dogpile. And he doesn't want that since you're pregnant, and he's always way more clingy and protective when you are. He basically suffocates you way more than usual.

You gaze at the scenery, and the bright blue sky is beautifully paired with the vibrant flowers and grass. The sun makes everything seem brighter, and he thinks it makes you look radiant under its golden rays.

"So, do you think that babysitting all of those years ago prepared you for this?" You tease, a smile on your lips while you point to your many kids playing on the park. Your husband huffs out a laugh, a toothy grin showing as he presses kisses to your forehead. "Probably. If it wasn't for my clingy ass, I might not have thought that kids could be fun little monsters." He responds, his voice deeper and more husky as the years had gone by.

You nod in agreement, laying your head on his shoulder while tracing circles on his thigh, another one of the many gestures of affection you both share. "Aimi says she can babysit for the twins on Friday and that Dai has some free time to hang out with the triplets for the weekend." You smile, finding it amusing how the kids you used to help babysit for are now babysitting your own children.

Katsuki hums, bumping his nose against your cheek while rubbing your baby bump affectionately. "Ya know, they might need to make more time to babysit if we keep having kids." He smirks, giving you a mischievous look as you snort and shake your head.

"We only keep having kids because you lack self-control."

"It's not my fault, mamas. You're too irresistible-"

You blush, snickering at your husbands' flirting as Katsuki smirks in victory. He laughs a bit, pulling you closer so you're practically sitting on his lap. Placing your hand on top of his, you play with his fingers, turning your head to kiss his cheek to which he blushes in response. Even after all of these years, you both manage to fluster one another.

"You know, Haruto could help me take care of our younger kids while you take our teens to UA." Your husband scoffs, raising his eyebrow as you snort at his pettiness. "Yeah, right. We both know how the little bastard kept trying to steal ya from me all those years ago." He pouts, making you coo and caress his cheek lovingly.

"Oh, don't be such a grump. Haruto's grown up, and I'm sure it was just an admiration or something." You reply, finding it amusing how protective your husband can be. Even if it's been about 15 years.

Katsuki rolls his eyes, about to complain more, but stops when you scratch his stubble with his fingers. His eyes flutter, drowning in the sensation as he leans his cheek into your palm, urging you to continue while placing your hand into his hair to play with. You giggle, smiling while playing with the fluffiness of his spiky hair as he imitates a cat purring with a lazy grin on his face.

"You're adorable when you're grumpy." You say, letting out a squeal when he blows raspberries at your face. You burst into laughter, shoving his face away much to his disapproval, making him bring you closer so you're now chest to chest. You giggle, feeling him rub his cheek against your face while having his arms wrapped around you.

Katsuki huffs, rubbing your baby bump as the baby kicks against his hand, making him smile as you gasp in delight.

"She loves you!"

"Of course she does. Why wouldn't she?"

You shrug your shoulders, looking down at your baby bump as you whisper to him loudly. "She says that you sweat too much when we cuddle." He scrunches his nose, jabbing his fingers into your hips which makes you giggle and squeal.

"Hah? Is that so? Are you sure this is our baby talking and not you?" He deadpans. You nod proudly, pinching his cheeks so his teeth bare at you. "Yeah, she told me that. She also says that you're bad at flirting-"

Katsuki gasps dramatically, putting a hand on his heart as you laugh at his fake betrayal. You roll your eyes, a happy smile on your face as you kiss him all over his face as an apology. Your blonde hums in satisfaction, holding you tightly in his arms as his cherry red eyes gaze right into yours.

He leans closer, his lips brushing against your ear while his cherry red eyes stare intensely into yours. Your heart skips a beat, feeling his warm breath against your face as his hand squeezes your hips three times.

"I love you." He whispers, peppering kisses onto the side of your face as you smile and blush. A giggle escapes you. The fact that your husband is just Bakugou Katsuki makes you feel like a schoolgirl again. "I love you more, baby."

The blonde scrunches his face, getting up in your personal space as his face is pressed up right in front of yours.

"Nuh uh."

"Yuh huh."

"Nuh uh."

"Yuh huh!"

"Nuh, uh!"

In order to shut him up, you cup his face, to which he responds by smashing his lips onto yours.

You may have one this round, but he'll definitely win the next one. Do you know why?

Because he's Bakugou Katsuki. And he loves you. But he's definitely not babysitting some of his kids. They're too crazy and feral. Even for him.

I am currently working on a request for @real-hot-grl-shi, so this is a little treat for the meantime! I'm always happy to write fics for you guys if you have any requests! Sorry if it's bad, btw.

"the fuck?" was the first thing that came out of katsuki bakugou's mouth as he stared at his phone in his hands.

dress to impress.

you snicker, mentally patting yourself on the back as he walks his avatar around, the bewildered look on his face turning into a comical look of disgust.

"this is a fuckin' dress up game." he scoffed, about to turn off his phone, only pausing as you grab his wrist. "c'mon kat, play with me!"

he stares at you.

you stare at him, pleading with your eyes.

"...fine. i'm only doing this shit once." you giggle, pulling out your phone and opening roblox, making a mental note to change katsuki's roblox avatar and joined him in the game, walking around his avatar.

The theme popped up and you groan, frowning at the screen.

"....acubi? what the fuck is an acubi? is that some sort of fuckin cheese?"

you snicker, deciding not to help him out. he would learn on his own. his avatar followed you around like a lost puppy, several grumbles of complaint sounding beside you.

"...ew. why are all the faces so trashy."

"they're not trashy, it's just how it i-" your eyes widened as you finally took a glance of his rather... atrocious avatar. (that was the only way to make it sound nice)

"W-Why is your skin orange? Why are you an ora- KATSUKI ARE YOU A CHEESE?!"

"WASN'T THAT THE FUCKING THEME?!"

you cackled, the timer ticking to its last second. katsuki glared at you, before turning his attention back to the screen. "all of them are shit." he mutters, his eyes widening as he saw your avatar.

"...eh. its decent." you smugly grin at the compliment, resisting the urge to laugh again as katsuki finally entered the stage.

in his orange, cheesy, glory.

he didn't even bothering posing, instead typing out a simple " I thought the theme was about cheese."

you gave him three stars (because you were competitive and wanted to win) much to the fury of katsuki (who gave you a four stars because he loved you)

and the podium was revealed.

you were in second place (which wasn't bad) but the avatar who was in first was....

"kATSUKI?!"

katsuki and his cheese avatar, won first place.

a slow smirk formed across his face and he turned towards you, a insufferable look of triumph on his insufferably proud face.

"...maybe this game isn't so fuckin' bad after all."

🧡 dress up challenge third outfit unlocked! 🧡 share and heart this post to unlock the last outfit! 🧡🧡🧡

I can’t believe MHA just leaked its final chapter AGHH IM NOT READY TO SAY BYE 😭 I’ve been crying all day because of it

🧡 dress up challenge with my muse 🧡

share and heart this post to unlock the outfits! 🧡🧡🧡

Spoilers for the orv novel: The way YOOHANKIM and how they correlate in terms of kids always makes me emotional

Warnings: violence, spoilers, su1c1d3. Read at your own risk

Thinking about how Kim Dokja is soft towards children. How he saved Lee Gilyoung when he could have simply taken the bugs, even if it’s hypocrisy in his eyes. How he didn’t leave him behind even when Gilyoung told him he could. How he acknowledged his he child who survived in Guemo station. How he knew Yoosoung would be a catastrophe and still didn’t want her to die, making her his incarnation and forgiving the 41st round Shin Yoosoung

and making THAT Yoosoung his daughter. Aswell as when he announced to the world before the final scenario that he wouldn’t be saving the people, only decided to provide them comfort that Yoo Joonghyuk would save them when he noticed a child who seemed afraid.

Thinking about how Han Sooyoung never hesitated to kill anyone, like with Shin Yoosoung, despite it being a child. Especially if it meant saving the world, she was no hero, but if she saw a way to prevent a calamity she wouldn’t hesitate.

How 1863 Han Sooyoung also didn’t hesitate for the deaths of children, how she told YJH of 1863 to let Mia die. How she was willing to destroy that world line solely to get home, taking the lives of many children with it.

Thinking about Yoo Joonghyuk who was already a “parent” raising his little sister. How noticeable it was for him to be soft with her, but also him in the 1863 who allowed her to die. That’s not saying he stopped loving her, it was her death in that round that made him go more mad, but he was at a breaking point, and perhaps Mia could be at peace and no longer had to die. Also him willing to kill Shin Yoosoung, another child who was once an ally, be it her future or past. Him who also was thinking about killing Lee Gilyoung at the beginning upon learning about his sponsor. He never hesitated putting those kids in danger he knew they could handle, and wouldn’t hesitate to kill children for the greater good.

Thinking about SP who also was at his limit but never once stopped loving Mia, how he longed to be with her again in that ball he was stuck in, but never could truly meet her. How he had compassion for that boy in his train car and how he tried to save him, knowing that he would still die, and thus he would kill everyone in that car, regardless of it being a child or an adult.

Thinking how all of those patterns go out of the window when they meet Yoo Joonghyuks sponsor, who was also a child…a pitiful one at that.

Thinking how Kim Dokja would have done everything to save that child, how he would have found any loophole, and making sure that child would be cherished and loved.

Thinking how none of that happens and he tries to kill the child, how the child called him a monster. How he has nothing but hatred for that child to the point where upon using the disconnected film theory he tried to slice his own neck. How he solely was thinking about a blade either to end his own life or that child’s life. How he was yelling for the child to be killed as he was being held back. Why?

because that child was him, and his future was being a monster.

How Yoo Joonghyuk who never hesitated to kill children for the greater good, refused to kill the oldest dream despite it resulting in the end of the scenarios. He held hatred for constellations, especially his sponsor who granted his stigma, and yet stopped Dokja from killing himself. Grabbing the broken blade so hard as he calls for the rest of the company to help him.

How SP wanted nothing more than FOR CENTURIES to kill his sponsor, the sole reason for his suffering, and so that he could finally die. How he forgave his sponsor so quickly upon seeing that it wasn’t the evil sadistic puppeteer he believed he was for centuries, but a child who loved his story with all his heart, a child who needed his story to survive. How he called him a pitiful child and rather then wanting the death he dreamed of, he chose to live, and would be willing to regress if it meant to make his sponsor happy.

How Han Sooyoung who never hesitated to kill children for the greater good, or for herself and yet, she punches Dokja just as he was about to strike the child with the blade, how she was crying while punching his body not out of hatred for him being partially the reason for the scenarios, but because he wanted to kill his past self. How she was grabbing him with Yoo Joonghyuk to stop him, trying to tell the oldest dream that they just wanted to talk and not hurt him, and how she was crying, trying to stop the plotter when they assumed he wanted to kill the child. How she reprimanded Yoo Joonghyuk from strangling Kim Dokja who was in a child form, with saying that it’s still a child.

1863 Han Sooyoung who wanted to stop TWSA from being published to prevent the scenarios, only to become the author of the book when she saw Kim Dokjas 15 year old self in a hospital bed after trying to end it all. How she recalled from a memory, regardless of it being hers or the original bodies, how Dokja said that the story saves his life. How she knew that millions of people would die, yet wanted to save him. How she didn’t care and only thought about that small child on the bed, how she knew her mental state would be rid of, and thus she forgot, as it all faded into the subconscious of the real body.

Thinking about how regardless of which of the three it is, their moralities and goals will bend solely when it comes to Kim Dokja, because while YooHan had the ability to stop the scenarios and their own suffering they chose to continue suffering for the sake of Kim Dokja and that little child who unintentionally doomed the world. Their correlation with children vs. The most ancient dream is the biggest proof one has. This isn’t me saying that they are child killers (YooHan), though if one had no context then they would assume so, but I just can’t get over the parallels with them and the children that are significant towards them.

I'M NOT READY FOR NEXT WEEK GUYS

spoilers for jjk 261;

Yall im actually gonna sob if Yuta dies after this, first Megumi(?), Gojo, Choso, and now Yuta 😭😭😭

it may sound like cope but I don’t think this is the end of Gojo, it just wouldn’t be good if it is, like even if he dies maybe, just maybe he appears one more time (hugest copium). If that doesn’t happen they better not take Yuta away 😫

also I wanna hug Itadori, my man has suffered way to

much and lost way to much , someone needs to come back otherwise he won’t be okay at all

AAA I CANT WAIT

its starting :D

Gojo x reader; A nightmare that couldn’t hope to exist again

So I uh saw the newest leaks on jjk, and I wanted to be heavily comforted as I don’t know how to feel about it. Don’t worry this doesn’t contain the leaks, this is a what if scenario (info down below)

Here’s just some comfort as a what if, what if maybe after everything they somehow revive Gojo? I mean this Gojo right? He’s not a regular sorcerer…right? This is honestly to comfort me, don’t come at me if he’s truly truly gone.

Tw: Nightmares, fluff, Au of post canon where everything is saved and all, because I don’t know how the ending will go yet, ptsd, SPOILERS LIKE HUUUGE-

Poke poke

…

poke poke poke

…

poke poke poke po-

“ALRIGHT, I’m up I’m yawn, up, wha- OW!” His waist was still sensitive as heck, no wonder, he was slash- no, SPLIT, literally. Gojo groans as he blears out from his sleepiness due to the insistent poking, the poking who he assumes is coming from you, “listen I know you want me up but could you turn on the lamp? It would be easier to se- yelp agh…shoulda warned me, gosh my eyes… rub rub I hope it’s not to early, otherwise I won’t be able to sleep” he continues to ramble out of sleep for a bit and turns to you, or more surprisingly, your back.

Now that he thinks about it you haven’t done or said anything, minus the poking of course. “Hello…? Uh your awakened husband is here, seriously you can’t just poke me awake as I’m recovering from, well I dunno…MY BODY SPLITTING IN HALF and just remain in the edge all quiet and everything.” He tried to sound playful but you didn’t move, it was almost like you didn’t hear him, and suddenly he felt chills.

What if maybe…he was still out there, rotting in half? What if he left you behind..? What if what if what if-

He didn’t realise he reached out for you unconsciously until he felt the warmth of your skin and you turned your head slowly, not enough for him to see your face but well…enough for him to know you acknowledged his presence, he runs his fingers up and down your back “hey, uh, you okay? You woke me up and yet you seem so…distant and odd, love you know I’m here right?” He hesitated before holding your shoulder, where he felt the trembling and realised why you weren’t facing him, why you were so quiet. You turned around facing him which confirmed it, you were crying. With this knowledge he wasted no time in sitting up at the headboard despite his waist screaming otherwise and trying to situate you in his lap, which came along with your protests;

“Satorou! No I can’t…it’s still healing!”

“It’s fine, it’s fine, I’m alive and it’s not like it’s gonna fall off.”

“It’s still healing, what if it gets infected due to a blood clot or something! Satorou I can’t, even if you claim it’s okay I won’t be okay…so please..”

The fear and helplessness is your voice is what got him to stop, so, rather than you sitting on his lap he had you both lie down and cuddle up to each other, making sure you were comfy while also proving he was comfortable aswell. He kept kissing your face, wherever his lips could touch as a gesture of comfort, he wanted you to feel, to know he was here, and he also wanted to know that he was here. He kept you against him while running his fingers up and down like earlier in a comforting manner, hoping to soothe you.

“…so, my scrumptious little dollop of happiness, love a-“ “Satorou don't you dare,” you interrupted with a giggle, both cringing and giggling at the super long phrase he tried to give you “haha! Just wanted to make you laugh, or atleast a it happier darling. Seeing that you giggled I had done an amazing job, right sweetheart?” He said as he kissed your cheeks, to which you giggled.

“Seeing that my first job is done, we are moving to the second job!” He said as his voice toned down slightly, “and that is finding out why you were crying when I woke up, my lovely spouse here shouldn’t be crying as I was sleeping, oh do tell me if it was the snoring, wait that explains as to why you were poking me aggressively!” He said dramatically to which you chuckled “no no Satorou, I’m sorry I woke you up, I just…I had a horrible nightmare about…about you and I thought you were…let’s just say I needed you, I needed you talking to me, touching me, I mean the warmth is enough but you sleeping, considering how your body has been…I just needed to see you alive” You mumbled the last part out quieter but he caught it. He didn’t know that his sleeping was THAT bad, he was told by Shoko that he slept like a dead man, but to make his one and only think that too? It broke his heart seeing you crying because of him, because he looked dead, and while you trailed off he had a good idea as to what you might have dreamed about, sure you weren’t out there but you knew the contents of his…death. Hmm…

”Is that so darling? Hm…what to do, this is rather a pickle isn’t it? Well as much as I would love to say that everything will be okay…I can’t confirm it considering the situation is still unknown,” he murmured while stroking your hair, you tensed against him as you knew this, but didn’t want to hear it. “However, Yuji and Shoko both are on my case, they refuse to leave me alone, and are basically forcing me into temporary leave, heck maybe considering my condition they will force me to retire all together,” he said with a joking tone which made you smirk. “I don’t know what will happen, for despite my amazing capabilities I cannot tell the future, if I could I wouldn’t have been split in half now would I? Hey…no I meant is as a joke, no I’m sorry I didn’t mean to dampen the mood..” he said upon realising you were tensing, fretting over his words,”damn it…I really suck with comforting don-“ “yes,”you deadpanned.

“…haha, did you really need to call me out?” He said awkwardly, when he got no reply he just continued running his hand up and down your back, the atmosphere eventually got comforting. The night was quiet, minus the ticking of the clock, and the wind outside, it was cozy and warm, safety was guaranteed, yet your trembling had yet to cease, he was about to speak up again when you interrupted him,

“I always hated your cockiness you know?” He looked down at you, “I hated how you always assumed you would win due to your abilities, it was because of that, that you became reckless and lazy, and even when fighting against a formidable enemy you still remained confident no? How do you think I felt in regards to that?” Gojo wasn’t stupid or deaf, you would always complain about his recklessness and how he could die, to which he would always brush off, one day it even lead in a fully fledged argument between you both, which lasted for days on end until you both broke the silence, realising that it wasn’t healthy for either of you to continue with this silence since you both had issues taking care of yourselves. That’s not to say your worries ceased, nor his cockiness, but he promised to be more careful, and well…he was cut in half. “I knew you know? I knew that the jobs were dnagerous and I knew you weren’t guaranteed a happy ending or anything, especially with your cockiness and all,” happy ending? Damn you had unique phrases didn’t you.

“I hate you so much, I hate you for making me worry! I hate you for dying! I hate you for making me grieve and mourn!” You kept crying over and over and letting your resentment be known until “I hate myself for being weak, for being unable to protect you…” Gojo froze at that, while he was aware of your worries, he wasn’t aware of how it affected the image you projected onto yourself, the fact that you couldn’t help him on the field, the fact that he surpassed you miles ahead, and the fact that he basically died. He thought about it for a moment before finally speaking up:

“I won’t lie to you, I haven’t necessarily been thinking about your needs on the field, or in general despite the fact that I love you. Getting stronger, teaching my students and defeating curses were mainly on my mind. For that, I am really sorry…but that doesn’t mean I loved you any less. If anything I’m at fault for not taking you into consideration, because the last thing I want to do is break my dearest spouses heart. Now that everything has changed, if there are curses they are most likely not strong, something I could take out within minutes, seconds even…hey dont give me that look, I’m not being cocky.” He trembled under your glare..

“Okay, maybe I’m being a little cocky, but that isn’t my point. The point is, the curses are weakened drastically and if that’s not the case then they are gone for good. Regardless of the outcome we don’t have to worry about danger, for we both are capable enough to defend ourselves, you with your self defence and me with my abilities. Don’t you see what this means?” He wiped the stains off your cheeks. “Just because everything is over doesn’t mean the pain and suffering will go away immediately, heck maybe never, I know Yuji will be unstable for a while, but that isn’t all there is. I’m not young, but I’m not old either, same with you. We still have a life to lead you know?” He pulled you against his chest while smiling, a soft smile reserved for his closest ones, like you. “So let’s live with happiness moving forward. Whenever you suffer I’ll be there to support you, just as I expect you to do the same. Let us live our lives to the fullest, like a normal married couple, it is my job as your husband to make you the happiest person alive no?” He murmured softly. You listened intently while resting against his chest, and then you spoke up:

“Can you at least promise me that you will remain safe moving forward? That you will take care of yourself?” You asked, looking at him expectantly, to which he hesitated a bit, to which you spoke up once again, “you said it yourself, there are no more major threats with the curses, so you shouldn’t be out there fighting and returning home all banged up, so it’s impossible for you to be able to break said promise…unless you plan to pull something?” You eyed him suspiciously to which he spoke up quickly,” NO! I uh…I mean no, I wouldn’t dare, and your right about the curses…so yes, I promise that I won’t ever put myself in danger recklessly ever again, and that I will make sure I return to you, in one piece, not two- OW!” He winced at your smack, however you were satisfied, and with that you snuggled up to him. A comfortable silence ensued again, until you asked one last question:

“Satorou…you said we would have a future of happiness earlier…what future do you envision when thinking of that? I mean I can’t expect life to be simple for you after everything that’s occurred…” He was silent for a long time, until he replied, “honestly I don’t know, I just tend to dream about your happy face, and me being by your side, touching you, kissing you, loving you, and living a happy life with each other, heck maybe even with a child,” he smiled at the thought.

“…then let’s make it come true.” You finalised, to which he looked down raising an eyebrow. “Let’s make your dream come true, for that is now my dream as-well! A dream like that…is a thousand times better than the nightmares.” You said with sparkling eyes, the first genuine emotion of happiness you showed that night.

He smiled, but didn’t say anything, he didn’t need to, for all his words could be felt with his eyes, hands and body. He wanted nothing more then to secure that future, and so he squeezed you a bit tighter, to which you reciprocated, and just like that, both you and him dreamed.

He dreamed of you, your smiling face, your laughter, your iconic glaring face, you scolding him, and just living a happy life.

You dreamed of him, his smiling, his laughter, his face when he is trying to hide from your scolding. A happy life with a happy man, and even a glimpse of a child, a child you desired to have with him.

You both didn’t know if the world would even be safe, and knew that a “happily ever after” was near impossible for sorcerers or those within the circle, especially with someone like Gojo who had been different from the other sorcerers. However the world had changed for the better, you both knew that, so maybe, just maybe, his ending that intertwined with yours, and continues intertwining, could change too. However all you could do was dream in the meantime.

Nightmares became less common after that night.

*Credits to the amazing manga of JJK, also GOJO PLEASE COMEBACK ALIVE* *I hope you enjoyed! Mind you I’m not into JJK as a whole so I don’t understand the lore, please correct me if I do get things wrong!Also IM ALMOST DONE WITH SCHOOL AND FINALS AAAAA*

IM SQUEALING AAAAAAAA!!!

I present to you, baby kim dokja

LOOK AT HIM DONT YOU WANT TO PINCH THOSE TINY CHEEKW AHSKDHSFK OMG OMG HIS WIDDLE EYES AND HANDS AWW

Bakugo x reader. Established relationships, roast/goofy with each other. Fluff? Idk

Note: Please pardon if I misspelled something, english is not my first language ♡ Enjoy whatever this is :)

It was your favorite time of the day, finally bedtime. The best part of it was that Bakugo finished early at work-like he never does- so it'll be the two of you instead of only you in bed.

After a good meal that he made himself, the two of you went straight to the bathroom of your shared bedroom and started to prepare for bed.

"The floor is cold" You tip toed from the cold tile of the bathroom to your side of the bed.

He only hums in response.

Once you were under the sheets of the bed and curled up against you boyfriend is when started.

"Please, don't put your hand above my belly" you asked shutting your eyes, ready to catch sleep.

"Why's that?" He responded, his voice clearly off because of your comment.

"I'm about to piss myself"

He grunted. Same thing all nights.

"No fucking way we're doing this again, go back"

"I don't want to, its cold outside"

"I'm not waking up in the middle of the night soaking wet for your childish manners"

"Fine"

You ran to the bathroom. Winter in Japan was the worst, he could back you up in that but not this time when his comfort was part of the game.

In your way back to your bed you saw him sit up straight leaned against  the bed frame with the biggest scold you've ever seen.

"What?" You asked completely quiet in your place. Being cold is a mental state after all.

"What are you wearing?" He even turned the light on to see clearly who's face was on your t-shirt.

"Oh, this?" You pointed straight to Midoriya's face. "It came to my office today in the mail, the fabric felt nice in my fingers so I concluded that it must feel nice to sleep on it...you like it? do you want one? I could definitely do that for you" You teased. His face showed exactly the otherwise.

"I hate it, take it off" He turned off the light and put himself back on the bed.

"You wish" you snorted. His commands were nothing to you. "Besides, you love having us, me and Deku, in your bed"

"Tch, I don't know which one of you I hate more"

When you were done and once again in the bed he started to move his body against your back.

"Put your feet between my legs if you're cold" He mumbled out.

"Nope. You rubbed your feet against mine last time and it felt weird.

"Jesus fucking christ, you're terrible" He grunted obviously annoyed, it made you giggle.

After a while when you started to believe that he was asleep, he started to rub his nose against your hair.

"Did you use my hair products?" He asked.

"No" It was a weird question but you were practically usted to it, 5 years into the relationship took out the best of Katsuki even the bad parts.

"Good"

"You're such an only child" you removed yourself from his arms. "Selfish bastard" You joked.

"I'm smelling myself all day so when I come home I expect to smell you and smell something different than myself...I like your smell"

"You're right" You let him win because you were tired. He envolved his arms around your body and you started to draw imaginary patterns in his hands. "Why am I dating such a loser?" You mumble loud enough so he can hear you hoping that you could get under his skin.

"Why did I marry you in the first place?"

You furrowed your brows knitting them together over your nose.

"We are not married" Not that you care.

He hummed in positive.

"And I'm not a loser".

You can't help but laugh. You made it. You got under his skin.

REASONS NOT TO END IT ALL:

1) all the unreleased songs from your favourite artist

2) all the dogs and cats waiting to be loved by you

3) GOTTA OUTLIVE THE HATERS

4) THE HATERS GONNA BE HAPPY IF YOU DIE

5) potatoes. boil them, mash them, fry them up till golden and crispy

6) we got 2 more fnaf movies to go

7) dr. pepper

8) you have so many hugs left to give and get

9) you might eat your favourite meal tomorrow

10) keep telling yourself “not today.” one day you won’t have to.

please, REBLOG + ADD MORE REASONS!

A/N ::: Uh, don't read if you don't like sappy ass lovey dovey stories

C/W ::: "Let's play a game", it's Kats' idea. Put a finger down for every time you ...

WC ::: Just over 1,350

"Oi! Get yer ass out here, dumbass! Gonna play a game. C'mon." Katsuki called to you from the living room. You were taken aback by his words. The man never wants to play into any of your shenanigans or stupid little games. But you weren't going to miss out on this, oh no.

You came from the bedroom after just getting out of the shower. The hair on your head was still wet and tied up in a horribly messy bun. You hadn't put any makeup on and your clothes were ... well, just not cute. A baggy and very worn Dynamight shirt hung from you and you may as well not have bothered with shorts because they were not visible from how long the t-shirt was on you. It was your favorite piece of comfort clothing though and you were ready to fight anyone who told you it was gross.

"Ok, what're we gonna do? I'm really surp-" you started to say.

"Okay, y'know that put a finger down thing? Where someone says stuff and you have to put a finger down for everything you've done or want or whatever? We're gonna do that. But we gotta close our eyes so we can't see how many fingers we're puttin' down. K? Y'understand?" He smirked.

"Yeah, I get it, I get it. N-now? We're doing this now? Can I dry my hair f-"

"NO! Goddamn it, you can't dry your hair first. 'Sides, we're off today. The hell does it matter what yer fuckin' hair looks like, anyway? Now sit on the couch. Go go go." He herded you to the couch and pushed you back onto the cushion when you had nowhere else to go.

You plopped down with an "Oh! Ok, geez, Kats. Don't gotta be so rough." You giggled.

"You love it 'n you know it. Anyway, so 'm gonna ask you a bunch of questions and yer gonna put a finger down for everything you've done, yeah? My eyes'll be closed, too. So we won't know what the other person has done until we open our eyes and see. Got it?"

"Yes! I got it!" You closed your eyes and put your hands up in the air in front of you, palms facing your direction.

"Ok, put a finger down if ya been in a shitty relationship." You put a thumb down and pursed your lips thinking back to the complete asshat you were with before you got the courage to break up with him and open yourself up to better things. Like Katsuki.

"Put a finger down if ya ever been so tired someone had to carry you to bed." Folding your other thumb down, you smiled at the memory of waking up in Katsuki's arms as he whispered to you that he's got you, he's just taking you to the bedroom. He tucked you in, kissed your cheek and told you he'd be in 'soon as he showered the day off of him'.

"Have you ever been carried to bed?" You laughed.

"Yes, dummy. When I was a kid. Duh, now shut up and listen. I got more things t'ask you. Put a finger down if you've ever been so mad at someone you wanted to punch them in the dick."

You laughed out loud and asked if you could put more than one finger down but he told you to shut up and just do 1 if that were the case. "I'm about to punch you in the dick if you keep talking to me like that, you know. Jesus." The smile clung to your lips after you managed to stop chuckling and he went on.

"Put a finger down if you have ever been so in love you thought you were going to die without the person next to you every night and every morning."

The smile faded a little and you put another finger down. "This is gettin' kinda deep, Kats."

"Jus' shut up 'n listen, k? God. Gotta comment on everything, don'cha. Damn chatterbox. Now, put a finger down if you've ever loved how someone you're with smelled so much that you almost got high from it."

Your smile was gone now, you weren't frowning, but you just got a little choked up thinking about how much you love him. All of these questions are hitting so close to your heart and you want to open your eyes so badly to see how many fingers he has left, but you force yourself to wait a little longer. There are only a few more questions left, you told yourself.

"Ok, so, put a finger down if you're the happiest you can remember being," he said.

Oh how you wanted to just peek. Just a little peek to see --- "'F you open your goddamn eyes, I'll never play anything with you again, y'hear?"

"Yes! I hear you. I won't peek. But how many more are there?" You whined.

"There's 10. 10 for 10 fingers? Tch. I swear, you're lucky you're so pretty, princess." He laughed a little through his nose and continued. "Put a finger down if you don't ever want to be without me, ever 'gain. Like, y'know." He started to mumble a little. "D'you wanna be my girl ‘til the end, I mean."

"Can I put the rest of my fingers down because of how strongly I feel that in my bones?" You reached out and tried to touch him but he swatted you away.

"No! I still have more questions, god. Breakin' rules 'n shit. Look at you! Y'know, we don't hafta finish this 'f you can't play right. Damn brat." You could hear the smile in his voice. You always knew when he was smiling when he spoke to you. After 3 years together, you knew so many wonderful things about this man. It was borderline insane how much you love him. But you wouldn't change a single thing about it.

He continued, "Put a finger down if you have the rest of your life planned out. 'N don't ask questions. Jus' put yer damn finger down or not. Simple 's that. Ok?"

"The rest of my li---?" He interrupted you before you could finish the thought.

"Last few questions, babe. Can you behave?"

"Put a finger down if you like jewelry. Y'know, necklaces 'n shit like that."

"Ohhh I do! I do like jewelry!" You squealed.

"Then PUT ... A ... GODDAMN ... FINGER ... DOWN, BABE!!"

"You know, you're kinda not that fun to play this game with!" You doubled over laughing. And you continued to laugh until you felt his warm, rough hand on your thigh.

"P-put a ... uh, put a f- ah fuck!" His voice was low and cracking. Almost straining as he spoke. "Put a finger down ... 'f y'll marry me?"

You stopped breathing and opened your eyes to look at the man of your dreams. He was on his knee with a little black box sitting open in the palm of his left hand.

There wasn't any single thought in your head. But rather the last 3 years of your lives together. The happy times. The sad times. All of the times that you two have shared. They played out in slow-motion as everything outside of you and Katsuki ceased to exist in that moment.

"W-wha-what? Are ... are you ..." You couldn't speak.

"Will you marry me? Y'gotta put a finger out for this part though." He smiled softly and you could see a tear roll down his cheek. You got down onto the floor with him and kissed the wet line on his face and then his lips.

"You played a game to ask me to marry you? Katsuki Bakugou, I have never loved you more. And you bet your blasty ass that I'll marry you and be faithful to you until the day one of us kills the other."

He furrowed his brows, "Y'know I'll take you out first, right? Now c'mere. Gimme your finger."

Sliding the ring onto your finger, he looked you in the eye, and both of you realized you'd never felt more at home, more at ease, than you do right now.

Taglist ::: @arlerts-angel @viburnt @darkstarlight82

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who woke up in the hospital after a tough battle, only to realize he had lost his hearing. Fueled by overwhelming anger, he went on a rampage, demolishing his hospital room. The doctors had to step in, applying calming drugs to try and bring down his intense emotions.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who, upon being discharged, adamantly declined any assistance offered to him by you at home.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who fell silent and staunchly refused to communicate with you or others in any way.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who struggled immensely to come to terms with the significant change in his life, frequently shedding tears during the silent depths of the night while you slept.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who quickly learned sign language with remarkable speed

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who found warmth in his heart upon discovering you had learned sign language to communicate with him. He deeply appreciated this gesture.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who realized that despite losing his ability to hear you and the world around him, he continued to fall more and more in love with you and all the little things.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who regrets the most that he won't hear your child calling him "daddy" ever again.

Deaf prohero!Bakugo, who melted on the spot when your child ran to him one day, climbed onto his lap, and signed, "I love you, dad." Before he could control himself, a few tears rolled down his cheek — the first tears in his life he wasn't ashamed of.

so many writers go on a hiatus when their fics don’t get interaction & then people will complain that the [character] x reader tag isn’t as active as it used to be.

you need to start supporting people by reblogging & commenting on their fics — especially NON-CREATORS because whenever i see comments, it’s by other content creators 99% of the time.

non-creators like the fics they enjoy at most & that’s it. obviously, you’re not obligated to interact but don’t be surprised that the tag is dry af or when people stop writing for characters & move onto something that will get them better interaction.

obviously, creators do this too but they’re much more likely to interact with your content.

Yall I need more of THIS

Not My Princess

Summary: Bakugo’s loves his little daddy’s girl and doesn’t like that she’s growing up.

Wordcount: 5153

“It’s been so long since we had lunch together. Work has been hell without you there.” Your friend from work had come to visit you for lunch today. Since you had taken leave to become a temporary stay at home mom, you didn’t get to see much of her anymore. The two of you made idle small talk as you sipped on your drinks in the kitchen. You hummed in agreement as you glanced at your daughter, Hanabi, sitting on the floor in the living room, quietly coloring as the heroes’ news showed on the TV.

“She’s gotten so big. She’s definitely her father’s daughter; looks just like him. Except she has your eyes.” You chuckled at your friend’s statement; she has no idea how true that really was. 

From the very moment your daughter was placed into Katsuki’s arms, she had become his princess and he was her favorite. You don’t mind; it is quite fun watching the intimidating explosive hero turn into to goo for his princess. She had him wrapped around her fingers so tight; he wouldn’t hesitate to give her anything if she asked. It’s a good thing that the only thing she really wants is her Daddy.

Keep reading

Yoo Joonghyuk x Reader; A story of two regressors

Haha didn’t think I would do ORV? Y’all I need more orv fics, HUGE novel spoilers so beware, but no explicit spoilers so if you are only WEBTOON reader and have no context of the novel you may end up confused, I will write novel free version, and it will be available later this week or next week so stay tuned!

You both were the same, yet different

The both of you had been given the skill “regression,” and thus you both had agreed to be companions, before Kim Dokja appeared followed by a noticeable Han Sooyoung. Beforehand it was just the two of you, the both of you bled together and teamed up in the previous regressions, the two of you wholly relied on each other and swore to always to keep the other in check, regardless of how far along you would be.

When you both met, it was your 0th turn and his first turn. You both were in different cabs and came out of the train, along with Kim Namwoom and Lee Hyunsung. Eventually meeting Lee Jihye and recruiting her aswell saving Lee Seolhwa from Anitus. You barely recall what had happened in that regression aside from bonding with the crew and having a playful relationship with Yoo Joonghuk, you teased him a lot, trained with him, and the two of you became each others support, each others weight. Was that to say the two of you were romantically involved? No, both of you were prioritizing your survival and plus, Yoo Joonghyuk had his little sister to protect. Regardless, you bonded over your power aswell as the fact that you would see each other again in the next life, until your quick end came within a few scenarios.

When you woke in your 1st regression, you recall Joonghyuk calling for you, clearly a bit disheveled, you were happy to see he also was sent back, but sad when you realised your old companions weren’t. It was hard, you couldn’t reminisce with Jihye about the early scenarios, couldn’t bring up the funny moments with Namwoon, or even small talks with Hyunsung unless they happened again…but even if it did they…felt so different. You recalled how Joonghyuk was a bit colder in that round, but still a bit hopeful nonetheless, and then the both of you were approached by Anna Croft, where you found suspicion, he took the offer she gave, an offer to save the world.

Once again Lee Seolhwa was in your group except her relationship with Joonghyuk was much more…comfortable I suppose. You thought you had seen his eyes linger on her on the previous round, and now you were sure because it was clear he had feelings for her. You often told him not to let his feelings take over, for they were in the middle of survival and loving someone would just be tragic, yet he continued to love, and while you warned him for his own good you couldn’t help but feel…petty.

You watched as they would eventually get married, and eventually they even were going to have a child, and while you supported them every step of the way your heart continued to ache, and then Anna Croft betrayed you all. You recall how Joonghyuk cried when his sister died, he looked to desperate at that time, but when Seolhwa and his unborn child died he went mad, so mad that he accidentally killed you, but even as you were dying you held on him tight, hugging him, apologising for being weak and promising you will be there in the next round. By the time he was able to snap out of it he cradled your body, and for the last time he cried, and then it all went black.

When you met in the next regression, his third one, everything that you had gone through felt so…distorted, it was as if after all of that time you went through hundreds if not thousands of regressions ahead rather than just one… but when you met Joonghyuk who looked rather shaken but closed off completely you confirmed it was the 3rd round, after all if it wasn’t the third round what round would it be, a secret unknown round hundreds of rounds ahead?

This round was much different, he considered you his companion but he was so cold, he monopolised what he could and was different from before, but it was understandable considering what he had went through. On top of that not only was Kim Namwoon dead and other people had survived, a suspicious man named Kim Dokja also appeared and had known the future. It was interesting, he knew of Yoo Joonghyuk but when he looked at you he seemed confused, and he was pale when Joonghyuk said you were his companion of his last two rounds despite Dokjas offer, but it wasn’t as if it was because you had taken the offer, it was if you were an anomaly, a glitch in the system, something that wasn’t supposed to exist, or maybe he didn’t know you existed as he seemed confused about your presence. It was different for you as you seemed to have recognized him, you never seemed to have met him but he looked so…familar. He wanted to help, but the last time Joonghyuk trusted someone both of you died horribly, so he tested him by throwing him off the bridge and sure enough, he proved himself through the scenarios.

It was the three of you until Han Sooyoung came along, another woman along with Sangah, Heewon, and Gilyoung who looked familar…it made you think every time you were stumped, but you guys remained close nonetheless. You would train, laugh when Kim Dokja did something to irritate him, and Joonghyuk would try his best to comfort you when you felt like you were gonna go into the regression depression just as you would with him(Though Kim Dokja was the one who would help the most.) There were times where he would even doze off near you, times where he would cook for you and times he would leave you with Yoo Mia, and if either of you “rested your eyes” on each others shoulder, nobody would say a word.

“Do you think this time we will make it to the end?” He asked you surprisingly, you thought his optimism was gone but it seemed that he still had hope left. “I don’t want to get our hopes up but…we have Kim Dokja so I’m sure we will be fine…” You trailed off, but he knew you were worried, he patted your head as he took his leave out of the base. Strange, he didn’t do that ever in this round…

Kim Dokja always took the lead rather than Joonghyuk this time around, and you were grateful as he always protected every one (at the expense of his safety unfortunately, which you would bonk him over the head for.) But even so, the way he always looked at you was so…off, it wasn’t jealousy, in fact Han Sooyoung who often was with Dokja in terms of plans even looked at you confused and suspiciously, it was as if you had never existed beside Yoo Joonghyuk, which couldn’t be true, you were in Joonghyuk previous regressions right? They knew Jihye, Hyunsung, Seolhwa, aswell as others and knew how things worked, and yet when it came to you… perhaps it was some prank as the two were always together, it had to be right? After all you were in the last [redacted] regressions-

“Wait, what did I just say..?” You thought as you blacked out

you were in a dark abyss, but you could hear voices around you, some were panicked and others were calm, and a huge amount of memories flooded through you, yet you couldn’t pick through any of them, they were all distorted, and suddenly you heard a deep but clear voice.

“A shame really,” the deep voice said as you felt a gloved hand stroke your cheek, “after all of those rounds of suffering, I’m left to see him reap the rewards? A companion who could regress despite the presence being non existent before hand.” What? “And a companion who knows the future, and yet that person remains as arrogant and ungrateful as ever.” He wasn’t referring to you, he was referring to that person. You wanted to see who was infront of you, or seemed to be in front of you, but the hands moved from you cheek to your eyes and covered it as your body, “relax,” the voice said somewhat gently, “you will be back with HIM soon.” As you felt your body becoming more relaxed and heavy, you heard him mention that person again, aswell as some mumbling, but there was one sentence you could hear from him clearly, and from the direction of his voice you knew it wasn’t towards you, but towards that person again, and his voice carried both resentment, and sadness;

“Why is it not me but you?”

Credits go to the ORV Novel and its amazing authors, I hope you enjoyed this story! I won’t deny that I actually tried to dig a bit into lore with this fic! I have no plans to write any sort of series in regards to my lore, but I do have an idea of the lore. If I ever do put it out there someone, as long as they credit me can do it in my stead! Farewell!

Gallagher x Reader; The Devil in Disguise

Pairings; Reader x Gallagher

Warnings; HUGE SPOILERS FOR THE 2.1 QUEST, also this isn’t canon, in other words the way they implied stuff at the end may be there to throw us off, this is a “what if”, if what was implied is true. Death mention, secrets, suspicions, already established relationship between the two

Creek

You glanced up to see a slightly tired Gallagher enter the room, noticing he looked slightly disheveled, on top of that he was a bit late.

“Gallagher? Are you okay, why are you so messy, didn’t you say you were having a meeting in regards to your job?” You headed over to him to help remove his vest and accessories, suddenly he grabbed your hand a bit frantically but nonetheless gave you a smile,

“I’m fine hon, just a bit of trouble on the way here, some hooligans on the streets were a bit to drunk,” he chuckled, and once again smiled, except it didn’t reach his eyes.

You knew something was up for a few days now, despite the fact that he kept his calm demeanour and relaxed behaviour, you knew something was up, and well it made sense. He explained to you that “Death” was among the dreamers and that a stowaway and the famous singer Robin, had been killed, thus he asked if you could simply stay inside. You knew he was working off the clock to figure out who could be behind it, but even so there was something…off…

You have known him for years now. How he approached you on the streets complementing you and serving you a drink, he wasn’t a bartender then, but he was exceptionally good. You eventually figured out his ties to the bloodhound family, which you didn’t mind but you found it odd how many of his coworkers never recognised him, to which he told you he simply did most of the work in the shadows.

Even with your suspicions you chalked it up to him being exhausted and him trying to prevent “Death” from taking any more people, so you simply kissed his cheek and told him you would prepare dinner, as well as the fact that he should go shower, to which he said he would as he headed for the bathroom.

Once he was in he closed the door and sighed. “Almost got caught,” he thought as he looked down at the inside of his vest and gloves, covered in the goo. He used them to cover up the remains of Sunday but he was also careful you wouldn’t find any of it on him and question him. He sighed again upon thinking of the events that had occurred before.

So what if he killed two prominent members of the family? The family, the supposed family that was open to peace and harmony, the family that had took away so much from many, the family that outed Mikhail as a traitor…Mikhail.

He would be lying to say he was doing all of this solely for Mikhail, but that didn’t mean that wasn’t one of his motives. Guilt eventually came at him for betraying his old companion, and then anger seeped in when figuring out that the family wasn’t all so innocent either. Naturally before he could strike he needed a good alias, and that’s where you came in.

He knew once a killer was a front, people would be less likely to suspect someone who not only was high in terms of security but also someone who had a lover, after all why risk their lover’s security when he planned to kill right? He knew you were the right one when meeting you, he complimented your looks to start small talk, not that he didn’t think you weren’t pretty, you were gorgeous. Then he kept meeting up with you and eventually you agreed to be his lover. At first everything was going according to plan, at least that’s what he thought.

He was using you from the beginning and yet, he grew fond of you, he truly cared about you and knew what he was doing could put you at risk, yet he was to far in deep to turn around and prioritised his plan above all. He wanted to break things off to protect you but at the same time, he couldn’t do it, and he didn’t know why.

He knew he wasn’t a good person, and knew you would be better off if you both were not together, but still. He didn’t know if it was love or simply respect, or anything in between but he truly did want to stay with you.

But it’s fine, all he has to do is to carry out the remaining tasks and finish his plan while also protecting you, and continue being a “minion”, of the enigmata without you knowing. All he has to do was continue to keep up his facade without any suspicion, all he ha-

“Gallagher, honey?” Your voice interrupted his inner monologue, wow he was actually getting into this anti hero role wasn’t he? “Are you okay? Do you need me to come in? You’ve been in there for a while and I didn’t hear any shower, just some mumbling…”

“Don’t worry! I was just zoning out, I’ll be out in a moment love, just give me some time,” he replied almost immediately. After hearing your footsteps leave he cleaned what he could of his clothing and took a nice shower before changing and coming outside to you setting the food on the table. “It’s fine, it will be over soon,” he thought as he headed to the table. Even if it ends with deception, he just needs to be secretive just a tad bit longer and everything will be okay…

“A complete Gallagher,” he recalled Sundays words, yes, he would just have to continue on and be nothing but a Gallagher to his “beloved,” if not for your sake, then for his own.

Once again nothing is canon, just my personal interpretation of him and his lover at the end of the quests, I hope you enjoyed this fic!

Bakugou X reader; The world after the war

Pairings Bakugou X Reader. Warnings; HUGE manga spoilers, Angst to comfort, describing death and war and all of that stuff

Summary: Sitting by his bedside as he recovers from the final war, worrying if he would never wake up, your emotions spill and unknowingly you tell him how you truly feel

A distinguished beeping noise is heard within the room as your head becomes less fuzzy and you come too. A hospital room…wait a hospital room? You then look to your left at the blonde man who looked dead but wasn’t dead and was asleep. You reached out and squeezed his hand that was limp by his side and recalled the events. “Ah that’s right,” you were no patient, well you were but not the one who was in the most critical condition nor was this your room. Heck you played a big role in the war as he, but this person, Bakugou Katsuki was one of the huge players who died and returned, whose heart was replaced in its entirety. Bakugou Katsuki, the one who prioritized being a hero above almost anything, with the exception of the safety of those he cares about, yet while he prioritized his dream, he was also the one you loved.

You remembered how you weren’t fond of him at first, how he seemed cruel and sadistic and how he simply was selfish, and then you recall how he seemed to mature and change, especially after his kidnapping by the league of villains. Around that time you decided to try to make small talk with him when you get the chance. The first few times he blew up on you yet you kept persisting, after that he asked why you wanted to annoy him so much, which you cheekily replied that you enjoyed seeing him angry, then he shrugged it off, and finally you were able to be on the same grounds as Kirishima in his eyes; a respectable person, an equal, because while you were annoying you kept your ground and knew what to say to blow him up while knowing what to say to comfort him (though his pride got the best of him and he never admitted how you made him feel SLIGHTLY better). And eventually your relationship grew, you studied with him, ever so rarely he would make food for you (only with the courtesy of it being spicy than one could handle so he would get a good laugh while you would cry and pout while yelling at him), or how he would always acknowledge your presence whenever you are within range, and even you even learned he liked to read romance novels aswell, by accident ofcourse, he never would let his pride be damaged like that. So obviously the both of you bonded over it, regardless of how stupid the misunderstandings were or how amazing the love was portrayed. You both grew so close, until you both drifted apart during the training with Class 1B when he seemed more infatuated with whatever was happening with Midoriya’s quirk and didn’t leave much time nor talk for anyone, not even you, at the time you didn’t understand but now knowing about OFA, you knew. Even so as sad as you were back then you weren’t upset, you knew you still had 2 years after this year and the two of you would still greet each other. It seemed like whatever was happening with Midoriyas quirk was serious as other student also were called to help, so you didn’t mind, hoping that you would get the chance to talk with him soon.

You remember how you always admired him from a far, how he was always confident regardless of his injuries, how he eventually learned how to work with his teammates and win quickly and efficiently like during the training with Class 1B. How he always seemed to push through and rarely showed fear, and how he became more empathetic regardless of his anger, how in the end he truly cares about others. And how regardless of what his state was, he always seemed to look beautiful.

Now that you recall, his beauty was the last thing you appreciated about him. It’s not that you didn’t think he was beautiful, you thought he was SO ethereal and stunning, but you adored the way he matured, the way he always puts up a fight, and how he cares first. If it was beauty that had caught your eye to begin with then you wouldn’t have disliked him as much as you did at the beginning of the year. But speaking of beauty you noted how he had a huge scar in his chest, how half of his face wasn’t as scared or blinded as the other side, and how he seemed so frail despite his strong physique. How he looked like he could die, and all before he could even graduate, all before he could become a pro, all before he could challenge Deku for the number one spot, all before he can see his parents again, all before he sees his childhood friend and call him by his first name again…

All before you could tell him the words you desperately wanted to say, the words that were in your chest for months on end…

The words “I love you”.

By then you were heaving in sobs and just realized that everything had spilled out, that your supposed thoughts tumbled and you said everything you wanted to say, everything you had thought when you woke by his bedside, tumbled out. Soon you felt the hand you were holding squeeze ever so slightly and snapped your head to stare at the crimson eyes of Bakugou. He didn’t say anything, simply because he was so weak, he looked like he could pass out any moment so you called for a nurse, but still, even without any words, the way he looked at you was enough to say exactly what he wanted to say;

“I love you too.”

Hello everybody! This is my very first fic so I truly apologize if it seems off or if there are any errors or mistakes. Also for those who are wondering why there is no word count it is because I’m still trying to set everything up, but I promise that I will have word counts up soon! There will be many fics coming up hopefully, and I plan to potentially make a part 2 to this soon, so stay tuned and enjoy!