Curate, connect, and discover
incl. Umemiya, Tsubakino, Kaji, Sakura, Suo, & Nirei
Umemiya Hajime: Dog
No surprise: you two are adopting a dog together. I'm talking: a Japanese spitz. They're smart, loyal, playful, affectionate, and white, fluffy things.
Both Umemiya and your newest family addition are the cuddliest things ever. you wake up with Umemiya wrapped around you and your fluffy baby curled up against your chest-- you're literally never moving from the bed.
Both follow behind you like shadows. You're going to the kitchen? They're coming too! Bathroom? They'll wait outside for you (not patiently). You're going outside? Family walk! You don't truly get alone time anymore.
Umemiya would have trained any pet to protect you, regardless of size or temperament. Which works, cause despite this breed's size, they are so loyal they're natural guard dogs. You have scary dog privilege with your boyfriend, and (attempted) scary dog privilege with your son.
They make the same facial expressions sometimes. You're in a bad mood, storming around the apartment? Both are silently watching you, eyes wide as they wait for a lull to come to you. They're confused? Matching little head tilts. You stand no chance against their duo puppy eyes.
During holidays, he's buying matching couples and dog sweaters to take pictures. He sends them to all his aunts and uncles around town, as well as to his brothers and Kotoha. (she pins the pictures on her fridge, but no one is allowed to ask her about them)
Having a furry child with this man makes you start thinking about what it would be like seeing him as an actual father... O.o
Tasuku Tsubakino: Bunny
First: y'all can't adopt a white rabbit because Tsubaki will be placing little kisses on its head, and the lipstick will stain.
Anyways, y'all would get a little lionhead rabbit, they rarely get to even a foot long and weigh maybe up to three pounds? Y'all have a little carrying companion for a while!
These types of bunnies can be timid when you first meet them, but once you gain their trust, they're playful, friendly, and very social little creatures. No offense to you, but I have a feeling Tsubaki is the one gaining her trust first.
Imagine the most spoiled, pampered pet you'd ever seen. Now triple that. That's the life your bunny lives with the two of you as parents. A bed in every room. Snacks and treats at her leisure. There are puzzles and toys, stairs so she can climb onto things (like your sofa), it's basically her apartment, you two just live there.
Tsubaki would get little accessories for her, and is the only one who can put them on her. Little bows on her fur near her ears, a little dress for Easter pictures, a harness and leash to take her outside on nice days.
Imagine coming home from work or school or shopping and Tsubaki is curled up on the couch, sleeping face mask on while taking a nap in the sun, the little fluff ball curled up on his chest, also fast asleep. New lock screen!
Tsubaki has a folder dedicated to pictures of you and the bunny, too, separate from the folders dedicated to just you and just the bunny. There are pictures of you cuddling her, of you brushing her fur, napping with her, just being in the same vicinity as her. Safe to say Tsubaki is (healthily) obsessed with his little family.
Kaji Ren: Betta Fish
He would be against having a pet at first; he would worry about hurting it on accident, worried it would just hate him, worried neither of you would be home enough, be able to afford all the things it needed (but he would also NOT tell you these things, you have to thank Hiragi for this information)
You do your research and drag him to a pet shop and look at the wall of fish. Nothing catches his eye until he sees the betta fish, you know the thing I mean, how they're all in little cups by themselves. That sight would definitely catch his attention. Some worker would come over, talking about the fish, and he'd be half listening.
He'd hear them talk about how people adopt these poor guys and leave them in crappy tanks, how their fins would tear if they weren't properly cared for, how they're smart fish and can even recognize their owners and he is just sold.
You two leave with a beautiful betta fish, a 6.5-gallon tank, and all the accessories needed, as well as food and even treats. Kaji would take it as a personal mission to have the best cared-for betta fish. He sets it up by himself, insisting on it, headphones on as he works.
Once the setup and initial stuff are taken care of, Kaji finds himself near the tank more often than not when he's home. It's near one end of the couch, so whenever you two are having a relaxing night in, you're always curled up near it.
Sometimes you'll find him silently watching him, eyes tracing his path as he swims around, sometimes he'll swim to the glass, and the two will just stare at each other. Silent communication. You've sent many videos and pictures to Enomoto and Kusumi.
You set the fish up on a well-planned feeding schedule, and Kaji just comes in with little fish treats behind your back. He wants the fish to be happy, even if it means pushing your food schedule a little bit.
It's a pet that you both love, but it's good for him in a way. He won't say it, nor can he explain why, but just watching him swim or float about is calming. Even better if you're curled up next to him. In those moments Kaji feels like any violence he has in his past is nothing more than a bad dream he's started to forget.
Suo Hayato: Cat
You have to stop him from adopting a tuxedo cat and naming it “Sakura”. Even if the idea was tempting.
You end up adopting a maine coon, and it’s the most pampered pet you’ve ever seen. Maine coons are great family cats; they’re friendly and gentle, sociable and playful.
Suo somehow manages to never once get scratched by this cat. Not on purpose, not on accident. Even when he’s riling the cat up or just playing with him, the cat has never once left a mark on Suo. He says he’s a cat whisperer, “Afterall— I managed to befriend Sakura-kun!”
Doesn’t matter how big your cat gets, Suo has trained him to believe he is and always will be a lap cat. You swear he also trained the cat to be the most annoying, cutest menace ever.
Doing work on your laptop? He’s laying on your keyboard, purring up a storm, eyes closed and content. You finally move him off? Suo’s hugging you from behind, somehow pulling you away to the couch to watch something and cuddle.
Your cat and him look so smug about it you know the planned it.
We’ve seen how Suo sleeps, so I can very much imagine waking up, turning and seeing the cat laid out on his chest, both fast asleep. The bigger your cat gets the more you wonder how he hasn’t suffocated your boyfriend.
He has pictures of your cat that look professionally taken, like the lighting and angles are absolutely insane. He has similar ones of you too, but he more often shows you the pictures of you that are… unflattering.
He enjoys calling your cat “your son” when you two are out and anyone asks how you two are doing. The older aunts and uncles gush over how cute your baby must be, and by this point you’re too embarrassed to correct them or Suo, whose just smiling.
Akihiko Nirei: Ferret
At first I was going to give Nirei a hamster, but then I saw a tiktok of ferrets when they get excited and knew he’d adopt one.
He’s so excited when you bring the ferret home, vibrating the whole way. You can literally see stars in his eyes.
He does so much research you’re not surprised when you get shipment after shipment of things. Long sweaters, plastic balls, noodles, boxes, food, treats, etc.
The ferret follows him around, trotting happily behind him. Once Nirei trips and nearly steps on him, and he decides to start carrying him on his shoulders all day.
The ferret loves to burrow into Nirei’s curls, and you always have to be the one to detangle his hair at night. He always says he’ll stop it, but he never does.
He starts buying shirts with pockets on his chest, large enough that your ferret can rest in them. It’s adorable to be talking to Nirei and then the little face pops up from his pocket. Scares the crap out of Sakura the first time it happens. And every time after that.
You’ve gotten used to the ferret trying to climb your pants whenever he sees you— both Nirei and the ferret get so excited when you come home. With Nirei’s thousand watt smile and the ferrets excited wiggles, how can you not look forward to going home every day?
You buy little glasses for the ferret that match Nirei’s. They last only but so long, but it was your favorite purchase for him ever.
Sakura Haruka: Hamster
First! And! Foremost! Don't let this boy read any posts about how people's hamsters have died. He will lose his sanity.
He's already so terrified cause of how tiny the hamster is, terrified someone will step on it or sneeze while holding it and it'll fly out of your hands, so any horror stories revolving around hamsters' deaths can not be seen.
Sometimes you find him just crouching down near his enclosure, watching him move, watching him eat and drink. You have to approach the scene slowly, or your boyfriend will run away and flee. There was once where the hamster was eating and you saw Sakura mimic the way his cheeks were puffed out— it’s a memory you hold close to your heart.
Sakura holds the hamster so gingerly every time he holds it. Palms cupping the little thing, eyes wide, breath is being held, hands trembling. He doesn’t blink, too scared if he looks away for even a second the hamster will fall or disappear.
As he gets more comfortable with the tiny pet, he’s so soft around it. We all know Sakura’s soft inside, but you get to see it in person. Whenever he runs up to the sides of his enclosure when Sakura’s there, he bends down and so gently scratches the hamster’s head. You’re sure if hamsters could purr, yours would be.
Once when Sakura is on the couch, watching something he lets the hamster sit on his shoulder. He burrows into his shirt and sleeps, and you’ve never seen Sakura sit so still for so long.
You don’t have to fear a horror death story for this little guy, Sakura is so paranoid and anxious about those he loves getting hurt your hamster lives for so long you start to think it’s immortal.
A/N: some are longer than others, my brain kept sparking out.
Umemiya Hajime x Reader
You often heard the saying ‘time flies’ as a child, and you rarely found yourself believing it. Adulthood and the freedom you sought appeared so far away, and now, you realized how true that statement was.
It felt as if once you grew old enough to learn to balance freedom with responsibility, your aging never stopped. One moment you were a child, listening to fairy tales from your mother, and the next you were betrothed.
Your husband was a sweet man, he was kind and he made you happy. He was strong and fierce, and you, along with your country, saw and knew this. You had met at a party, hosted by some nobleman your family knew. There had been nothing romantic about it, the stories you fell asleep to spoke nothing of a man falling out of a tree mere inches in front of you.
You hadn’t even been able to feel anything other than panic— but luckily the worst he had was a sore back, and a bruised ego. Once your adrenaline had died down, the first thing you noticed was how blue his eyes were. The next was that his hair, as tangled with leaves as it was, was as white as the sugar cubes your older brother snuck for you.
That night of conversation led to more, and it felt like one day you woke up as the wife of Umemiya Hajime, the crowned ruler of Furin. Your meeting may not have been magical, but your wedding night had put stories to shame.
“Your Highness?”
You hummed, not tearing your eyes from where you were watching your daughter run around the garden, chasing a butterfly as the creature fluttered from flower to flower.
“Some of the suitors are requesting an audience with you, madame.”
Hajime had built this garden for you, every fruit grown was one of your favorites, every flower he had planted had meaning. Baby’s breath, red camellias, pink carnations, chamomile, white clovers, forget-me-nots. You had refused to ever plant anything else, the garden remained unchanged for years.
“Shall I turn them away?”
How you wished to say yes, to demand her to tell them to just leave. To take their sorry-hides and leave your kingdom, your land, your country, to never return. How you wished even more to tell them to gouge out their leering eyes, throw themselves into the sea they claimed took your husband.
Instead you stood, brushing your dress to lay flat, turning to your hear lady-in-waiting, sending her a small smile. “No, I shall see them.”
“Are you certain?”
For years men had come to your kingdom, your home, to request your hand. They acted as if the empty space in your bed was an opportunity for them, that the ring you still held onto was merely decorative. For years you turned them down, for years you held onto hope that your husband would return to you.
But men grew impatient, and your people became weary. You had to begin to entertain them, all the while your heart screamed for your husband, begged you to give him more time to return to you.
Your daughter, seeing you stand, left her butterfly hunt to rush over to you, the smile that matched her father’s painting her face. “We’re going inside now?”
You brushed her hair out of her face, the wavy curls that reminded you so much of Hajime, but the color that matched yours. Her smile was contagious, and you sent her one back, “Yes my dear. I believe you need a bath.”
At this, she made a face, cheeks puffed in an exaggerated pout. She hated bath time, she hated all the pampering she faced during and after. She was a free spirit, opting to play in the gardens. Hajime had left for war while you were pregnant, and the pair had never been able to meet, but every night since she was born you told her stories of her father. Of the man he was, the man he is.
You often woke in tears, dreams of your husband and daughter laughing in the gardens ringing in your ears. You only hoped one day they may come true.
“Now,” You turned back to your lady, “Have them gather in the foyer, refuse them any wine or ale they ask of, however. I don’t wish for any of them to be drunk when hearing what I have to offer.”
“Of course, my lady,” She bowed, heading inside, the worry in her eyes apparent.
Your daughter tugged your hand, “When can I have wine and ale?”
At this, you laughed, reaching to bring her to your chest, “Not for a long time my dear, I highly doubt you would enjoy them.”
She grumbled as the pair of your made your way inside, unknowing of the pair of eyes that tracked the two of you moving.
You had a small group of women working for you that you trusted with your life, of women you knew were faithful to you, and you alone. Years ago that number had been larger. You handed your daughter off to them, cited to have her bathed and ready for her afternoon nap, as unhappy as she was about this plan.
You took a moment for yourself, steeling the courage you needed. You held power, you could command armies worth of men should you need it, but you so often felt afraid without the comfort of your husband with you. But you refused to show this to these men. Once your main lady returned to you, you made your way where the entourage was awaiting you.
The doors opened, and whatever conversations that had been had paused. All eyes were on you, and you felt your skin crawl at the disgusting thoughts you could feel pouring towards you. But you kept your head high as you walked, making your way to the front.
You said nothing as you took your seat, refusing to stand when speaking to anyone. They didn’t deserve that, half of them hadn’t even waited for you to give birth to your daughter before showing up, seeking your hand, claiming your husband had no doubt perished at war.
“I suppose you all have waited long enough,” Was how you began speaking, pausing to allow the sneers and jeers to echo the room.
“I propose a challenge for all those still wishing for the throne, all those aiming for my hand.” Your left hand brushed your hair from your face, aiming to show how you still adorned your wedding ring, a challenge in itself.
“My husband had made many allies for us, and these allies are tough, formidable men. I have reached out to many, and have since then received my answers.” With a nod of yours, the side doors were opened, and more men filled in. For them, you stood, walking towards your husbands allies— his friends— to greet them.
“Shishitorin has been Furin’s closest allies for years, and have been a reason we have been able to hold our own against opponents who came to steal power. The only man who has ever held his own against their own leader, was my husband. No man had ever come close.”
It was a rare sight to see Togame serious, but it was even more rare to see Choji without his smile. Their letters in response had read serious, and you knew they wished to do what they could to ensure these suitors were unable to get their hands on you— or the throne.
They looked ready to kill, as did the rest of their men that arrived with them. They would play nice, as Choji stated in a letter, for you and your daughter.
“If any man can defeat their five strongest fighters, including Sir Togame and Sir Tomiyama, then they have proven themselves worthy for the throne, for the crown, and my hand.”
It appeared simple in writing, but you had been there when Furin and Shishitorin had begun their companionship. You had witnessed the blood shed, the tears, and the pain that came, and had been privileged to witness the relationship that came after. Had it not been for their strength for you to fall back on, you worry grief would have had you years ago.
“May the most worthy man win,” You nodded at the group of men, turning to nod at the guests, before taking your leave.
Murmurs broke out behind you, and for once, you heard the worry in the voices of the suitors. It filled you with a level of vindication you hadn’t known one could feel.
You knew there were very few men able to win five consecutive fights against Shishitorin’s strongest fighters, even if there was nothing on the line. But now your friends were armed with the determination to ensure your husbands place remained untouched, you felt strongly that no one would even come close to winning.
Despite the confidence you had in your friends, your heart still hammered, and you couldn’t fight the tears that filled your eyes. Silently sobbing was something you had long since mastered, you refused to appear weak in front of the men who had taken residence in your home, show fear to your daughter who looked up to you so.
You took a moment to collect yourself, eyes screwed tight as you willed the inevitable headache to leave you be. Knowing it was unavoidable, you continued down the hall, making your way to your daughter’s room. To no surprise, she wasn’t asleep.
“My dear,” You sighed dramatically, making your way to her bed, “I told you a growing girl needs ample rest.”
“I’m not tired!” The same old song and dance, truly.
“No? You woke so early this morning,” An exaggerated yawn left your mouth, “Even I find myself in need of an afternoon nap today.”
She narrowed her eyes at you, “You can nap with me, then. I guess that’s fine.”
“How gracious of you, my little princess,” You shifted to lay beside her, allowing her to move to lay so her head was on your chest, ear against your heart.
It was quiet for a bit, your fingers carding through her hair. At one point, you had thought she’d fallen asleep.
“Mama?”
You hummed, “Yes, my dear?”
“Am I ever going to meet daddy?”
It may have been less painful had she plunged a dagger into your chest, but you schooled that pain, your hand continued to brush through her hair, “You will, little princess, one day.”
“But when?”
“I don’t know,” Admitting that felt the same as admitting defeat, but you couldn’t lie to her.
She was quiet for another moment, “Do you think he’ll like me?”
That was enough to give you pause, and you moved her to look at you, noting the tears in her eyes.
“He loved you the moment I told him I was pregnant with you,” You brushed the first tear that fell away, “He often spoke to you in my belly when you moved around in the morning, he sang you lullabies every night, even before your ears had begun to form.”
You tickled the tips of her ears, her little giggles easing the ache in your chest, “He cried more than I did when he had to leave before you were born. He promised you, the day he left, he was fighting for me, and for you. He promised nothing would stop him from returning to us, that he’d destroy anything nature sent his way— every storm, every whirlpool. He’d even fight the gods should he have had to.”
“Is that where he is? Fighting gods?”
“Perhaps, or perhaps he’s commanding the storms to bring him home to us, and clouds aren’t the greatest with directions.”
She smiled, but it dimmed after a second, chewing her lip before speaking, her voice quiet, “Some of the men here said he was dead… said you were in- in denying that he was dead. They said I need a dad, that you need a King.”
The hatred you had in your heart originally swelled, and you felt anger eat at your heart, and she continued, “But I knew they were liars! I have a dad, and when he’s back they’ll have to leave!”
“That’s right,” You smiled at her, a forced feeling, “Now, my dear, a nap will do us both well.”
She laid down, her eyes fluttering shut soon after. You felt yourself drift off with her, the feeling of anger still fresh in your chest. You hadn’t realized how tired you were, until you were woken hours later. The sun had begun setting, the sky a bleeding red. Your heart was hammering, and you were holding your daughter close to your chest. Blinking blearily, you stared at the bedroom door. Why had you woken so afraid?
A muffled scream echoed throughout the building, and that gave you enough answer. Your daughter was half-awake, and you held her tight to your chest. The door was flung open, and your ladies rushed in, panicked looks on their faces.
“What is—”
“One of the men has gone mad,” One of them whispered to you, tone frantic, “The others were conspiring, ma’am, they were— they planned to—” Her eyes flickered to your daughter, but her message to you was clear as day.
The man had grown tired of waiting it seemed, perhaps some had gone to fight and lost, and they decided to act on their own accord.
“Shishitorin—”
“They took up arms against many of the suitors, but we came to find you, you two must hide,” Her eyes were frantic as she tugged at the two of you.
Your heart was hammering, your palms sweaty as you held your daughter to your chest. She had no idea what was happening, but her grip on your dress was tight.
You left your daughter’s room, taking up in a small room, one you recalled your husband saying was to only be used when necessary. Unfortunately, that necessary was here. You were all huddled close, your daughter, naturally, the most protected. You’d kill any man who entered that room before they touched her, and you would ensure if you died trying you wouldn’t be the only one.
Your dedication ladies were around you, ready to sacrifice themselves for you. But you prayed to whoever may be listening that shouldn’t happen. Hours crept by, slow as the sap that dripped in the garden during the springtime. There were screams and yells, the sound of gurgling and people choking on, what you assumed, was their own blood.
The silence that followed it all was deafening. None of you moved, no one shifted. You heard it then, a muffled call of your name. You felt the women around you tense, but you sat straight, “That’s Choji.”
Still weary, you ensured your daughter was safe in their arms before you stepped outside, clutching tight to a dagger you had grabbed on your way out the door.
“Choji?”
The shorter man looked frenzy, hair disheveled, blood on his clothes. But he was smiling— his eyes looked watery.
“Choji— are you—”
“He’s back,” He rushed to you, hands gripping your forearms, “Umemiya’s back.”
It was a blur, really, after Choji uttered those words. The night had shifted, darkness surrounding the walls of your home. Your daughter was whisked away, exhausted but placated by whatever you had said to her in a daze. You found yourself alone in your bedroom, as you had found yourself so many times before. It felt different now, and your wrapped your arms around you, an attempt of soothing yourself.
The door opened, and you couldn’t stop the wild beating of your heart. You turned only partly, looking at the man who entered. He wore your husband’s face, at least what you had assumed your husband would look like after eight years. This time of seasons, it was almost nine years.
He was taller than you recall, or perhaps it was how he held himself. His hair was longer, the ends curling almost identically to your daughter’s. His eyes, the same shade of blue as the ocean, were far sadder than you could ever remember.
“Is it really you?” Your voice was a whisper, but it echoed loud in your chambers, “I’ve often dreamt of you coming home to us, and I must admit each waking moment is more painful than the last.”
He stepped forward, and you couldn’t stop the step back, mirroring his closeness. The pain in his eyes intensified, and your resolve cracked some.
“Every time you reach to touch me I wake up, if this is another dream I’d wish to stay in it as long as I’m able.” He nodded slowly at your explanation, eyes staring at you, as if he was as afraid to look away as you were, “You look far different than you have when you’ve visited me in my dreams. You’d always great me with a smile.” Your voice cracked as you spoke.
He looked pained at this, and his shoulders tensed, looking as if he were hunching in on himself, “I’m not the same man I was when I left you.” His voice was quiet, deeper, but the same voice you wished to hear for years.
“I’m… different now, I’m afraid. War was not kind, and the journey home, my journey to you was unforgiving.” He swallowed hard, eyes pleading as he looked at you, “I’m not the man you took as your husband, and I’m afraid you won’t be able to love me as you did before.”
“Your journey took six years longer than you promised,” You all but whispered towards him, hands trembling as you fidgeted with your ring, “There was talk that you had died.”
He shook his head, “I had to come back to you, to— to our child. Nothing would have stopped me, not even death herself. She tried though,” His voice was thick, “I watched many men die, I took… so many lives. Their blood stains my hands, no matter how much I bathe.”
He looked at his palms, as if searching for the stainage.
“When I returned there were so many men here. They spoke vilely of you,” The words left his lips like poison being spat, “They spoke of your body as if it were a prize they sought after, one they would’ve taken if it were not given. Their fight with Shishitorin was a genius move on your end, my love.”
He smiled at you at that, and the tears that had been building spilled over. That smile had haunted your dreams and nightmares alike for years. And now it was here, mere feet in front of you.
“But they grew angrier. I wished to plot my arrival to be less dramatic, but the threats they spoke of. I’m only a man,” He closed his eyes, holding his breath for a moment before looking back at you, “They cannot, and will not, ever harm you. Look at you. Or speak of you again. Years ago, the blood staining our home would have had me feeling guilty, but now I see it as a means to an end. I fear my hearts turned cold, it’s closed in my time away. I fear your husband doesn’t exist anymore.”
“Doesn’t exist?” He nodded at your whispered question, a shameful look on his face.
You turned away from him, the tears still steadily falling down your cheeks. The garden, your garden, stood as pristine as it had earlier, the cherry blossom tree standing in the middle, her branches swaying peacefully in the night wind.
“If you wish to prove you’re still my husband, or worthy of being so,” Your voice was thick as you spoke, your nose stuffed, head throbbing, “Then I shall give you a task as I have the others.”
“Anything for you.” The sincerity in his voice was borderline painful.
“I wish for you to uproot the garden outside,” You didn’t turn as you spoke, “My husband planted all types of flowers years ago, said there was meaning behind them. I have never met another man who understands the language flowers hide as he, and I have done my own research.”
Truth of the matter was you had found the notes your husband scribbled years ago, lists of flowers and their meanings, which ones he felt for you and which one he swore he’d never even look at.
“Indifference. Refusal. Disappointment. Resignation. Stupidity.” You forced a mirthful chuckle, “All things I fear my husband felt for me. Towards me.”
There was silence, not even the sound of breath other than yours. For a moment, you were terrified he had left the room, and you turned.
He was crying, silent tears falling down his face as he stared at you. Anger was written in his eyes, but he didn’t move, wasn’t even looking at you anymore. His gaze had matched yours, looking at to the garden and all her loving plants.
“For you to even suggest that—” He took a breath, his cheeks red.
“Everlasting love, the flame of my heart, an oath to never forget you, promised twice, patience, a wish for you to think of me, and only of me.” His voice grew louder as he spoke, “I had wished to plant hibiscus bushes under our window, but the scent made you sick while you were pregnant, and you told me on our wedding night that roses were too simple to express our relationship.”
He turned to you, the bright fury behind his eyes unleashing a storm of emotion. “I’d have burnt any flower, any tree, any bush that even suggested I thought such awful things about you.”
You stepped towards him, your chest bubbling with anger, with sorrow, love, pain— everything you had kept in for eight years.
“And the only man who knew all this was the man I married,” You were in front of him now, his faces inches from yours, “So I suppose that means you’re still him.”
The anger wavered for a moment, before you watched his face crumble. The silent tears turned into ragged breaths, and you stood tall, the pain in your chest aching to join him.
“I fell in love with you, and I have never stopped loving you. Time, distance— nothing will ever stop those feelings. Do not come into our bedroom and state I won’t love you as much as I did all those years ago, as much as I do now.”
“I have waited eight long years, alone and worried, but as in love with you as I was when we were first married. I was waiting for my husband, for you,” You poked at his chest, the first contact you had with him for eight years, “You absolute idiot.”
You weren’t sure who broke first, but the sobs causing your breath to hiccup broke free. His arms were around you, and you were weeping into his shoulder, as he was in yours. He was as warm as you recalled all those years ago, as solid as ever. He held you, as if he was terrified you’d move too far from his reach if he gave you the space to do so. You held him back equally as tight, if not more.
“My dear, how I have missed you.” He whispered against your hair, and the warmth of his lips against your forehead brought forth a fresh wave of tears.
“I knew you’d return,” You pulled back, cupping his cheeks, staring at the man you had loved for nearly a decade and a half.
He pulled you forward, crushing you into a kiss. His lips were rough, you could almost feel every crack in his skin against your own. But you melted into his embrace like it was your first kiss all over again. It was messy, both your cheeks still wet from your tears. You held each other, lips molded into one until you both had to pull back to breath, panting in each others space.
“We have a daughter?”
You laughed, broken and whole all at once, “Yes. She acts so much like you, I nearly named her Hajimia.”
He made a face, “Please tell me she isn’t named that.”
You shook your head, “No, Fumiko.”
Hajime echoed your laughter, just as wet and unbridled as yours, “Hibiscus.”
“I told her stories of you every night,” You traced a scar on his forehead, cutting straight through his eyebrow, “She already adores you so much.”
He grabbed your hand in his, the palms rougher and more calloused, but as warm and protecting as ever. He brought your knuckles to his lips, a kiss pressed against them, “And I already adore her, I did the moment she was conceived.”
“You fought nature and men’s deadliest armies to return to her, to me,” You pressed forward, your face in his chest, the sound of his heartbeat was music to your ears, “I love you. I never stopped.”
He took a shuddering breath, “I love you.”
a/n: so I whipped this out in one sitting, sat here and wrote for like 2 hours straight. if you can’t tell I’m a little Epic obsessed. I don’t even know if this is good or not!
⋆˚。⋆୨✧୧˚ 𝑼𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒚𝒂 𝒙 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓 ˚୨✧୧⋆。˚⋆
"Do you think this is enough?"
You glanced up from the plates you were setting down, all paper, you didn't want to have another incident of Sakura and Sugishita bickering and breaking anymore. Umemiya was frowning at the table littered with plates of food, almost every dish including some of the late fall and winter veggies he had been growing.
You hummed, "It's more than enough Haji," Walking over to him, you placed your arms on his shoulders, turning him to look at you, "I think we'll even be able to send everyone home with leftovers."
He smiled at that, but you could still see the underlying worry in his eyes. "I know how important this is for you, I promise you, it'll go perfectly fine."
A nagging feeling in your mind told you those were famous last words, but you brushed it off. Umemiya and Kotoha had spent countless hours cooking and planning all the food, and you and Tsubakino had gone out shopping for plates, cups, napkins, and utensils that matched the 'winter theme', and also wouldn't shatter if dropped.
Or thrown.
He sighed, arms crossed over his chest as he continued to stare at everything, as if they'd just up and disappear if he looked away, "I know some people might think it's silly but... this is more than just a meal for everyone."
You felt yourself soften as he spoke, "It's a way of seeing how far everyone here has come. How far this town has come."
You turned him to face you, cupping his jaw gently, and his eyes instantly moved to look at you, the adoration so crystal clear it still made you feel all types of vulnerable.
"And that's exactly what you're doing," You smiled at him, "Everyone can see that, feel that."
He smiled, and the look finally reached his eyes. He leaned further into your hand, eyes closing for a moment as he basked in the quiet that had settled on the roof after his fretting had calmed down. The door creaked open, not loud enough to be disturbing, but the small bubble of the two of you was put to pause.
Sugishita wandered over to the two of you, carrying a few brown bags in his arms. No doubt extra snacks and sweets from some of the townsfolks. Judging by the slight red tint to his face, he got caught being thanked in the cold far longer than he anticipated.
"Ah, man!" Hajime peered into the bags, gaze eager, "Oh! Granny Kimura sent some of her anmitsu! We'll have to hide that or else everyone's going to tear into that first."
Sugishita nodded, already looking for places to hide the bags. Entering now was Sakura, Suo next to him, looking as pleased as he always did. Judging by the pink on Sakura's face, the poor boy had been teased the entire walk here.
Unlucky for him, you thought it was downright adorable.
"Hello boys," You called out to the two, Sugishita momentarily glowering at Sakura, before wandering off to hide the sweets.
"You two are early!" Hajime called out, beaming as the two first years walked closer, Sakura looking like he'd rather be anywhere else.
"Wanted to be early enough to help if you needed us to," Suo spoke cheerfully, "Plus Sakura here was just too excited to wait."
"I was not!" The other boy yelled, voice higher pitched as he denied the accusation of being excited, and you couldn't help but laugh a bit at the dynamic of the two.
The pink on his face turned red quickly, and it didn't take a genius to figure out he was responding to the way Hajime had turned to look at you. You knew the look like the back of your hand, eyes soft, small smile on his face. Most people said Hajime wore his heart on his sleeve, and only you truly knew how true that statement could be.
"I - you - we - "
You took pity on him, feeling Hajime's arm wrap around your waist, "Why don't you two start to unwrap the plates and such? Get them set out so people can grab them as they get here."
Happy to have a task, or just happy to walk away from you two, Sakura nodded, high tailing it over to the table with all the plates and napkins and utensils. Suo smiled at the two of you.
"Nirei is on his way," He informed you two, "Kotoha cornered him to help her carry some more dishes over."
He walked over to help Sakura, the poor boy struggling with some of the plastic wrapped around the items. The door was pushed open, the blonde boy rushing in, arms carefully carrying some dishes.
He looked panicked, as if he was running late and not one of the first people to have arrived. When he saw how few people were here thus far, he let out a sigh, smiling brightly when he caught your eye.
"Kotoha says she'll be here soon! I brought the dishes that don't need to stay warm!" You could see the moment his anxiety caught back up with him, and he bowed towards Hajime, before scurrying off to his friends.
"You've got some good first years this batch," You hummed, leaning back into Hajime's hold.
You felt him chuckle, the vibrations against your back, "I couldn't have asked for better little brothers."
"Careful, if Sakura hears you say that he might blow a gasket."
He laughed loudly at that, and you couldn't help but join, hearing soft bickering stem from the now four first years, and you were glad you had invested in paper and plastic items.
No shattered dishes today.
Slowly, more people trickled in. Various extra sweets and snacks being brought from townsfolks, Kotoha finally arriving. She and Tsubakino were carrying more trays of food. The aroma of the rooftop smelled amazing, and once everyone had settled in with warm drinks, the food was uncovered.
It didn't take long for a lot of it to go, people taking piles of food and wandering to sit and talk. You finally had a free moment from helping to wander off to your boyfriend, and he moved, instantly making room for you to sit on his lap.
"So," You leaned back against his chest, accepting the warm cup of cider from him, "You still worried there isn't enough food?"
He let out a small laugh, "I'm more worried everyone's going to enter a food coma at this rate."
"It's a good thing Shishitoren agreed to keep watch for you all to do this," You muttered, mostly to yourself, "I saved them some plates of food as a thank you."
Hajime sighed, leaning so his chin was rested against your head, "What did I do to end up with someone as perfect as you?"
You were glad, for this moment, that he was behind you, cause you were sure you were blushing as much as Sakura with his words.
You shook your head in response, "You were just you," You reached up, albit a bit awkwardly, but managed to poke at his nose, "And I decided I wanted to spend my life with you."
"And I am thankful for that everyday."
Before you could respond, there was a panicked yelp, and it took you a moment to realize it came from Nirei. Looking over, you saw a spilled drink on the ground, and Sakura and Sugishita facing each other, both annoyed.
"I'm really glad we went with plastic," Was all you said, shaking your head at the two first years as they started arguing, knowing full well Higari was seconds away from pulling his trouble makers apart.
𝕻𝖆𝖗𝖙 𝕺𝖓𝖊
𝕻𝖆𝖗𝖙 𝕿𝖜𝖔
𝓐/𝓝: again, I go into writing these as blind as y'all reading them so I'm so sorry if this is rushed! >.< Also! It's been a hot second! So sorry! I had a bit of... a mental health crisis, got myself put under a bit of a 72-hour hold... but I'm here! And back! Kind of. I'm not super proud of this chapter, I'm so sorry!
It had been a few days since your arrival, since your official first meeting with the man who was to be your husband. Yet, though you assured him and Kotoha you were well rested now, that's all he remained. The man who would be your husband.
It was almost... frustrating to deal with. Your first meeting with your oldest brother's wife was at their wedding; she was beautiful, quiet in her white, lacey, dress. It was quick, you were scolded when you fidgeted in your dress, and your brother and his wife took off not long into the reception. The same thing happened when your second and third brother got married, and it wasn't until you turned thirteen you had learned what happened after a wedding such as those.
Your sister's wedding had been different, the man she had married was kind with both his words and his actions. He allowed your sister to mingle with her family, mainly you and your mother, before he introduced her to people he knew; those he did business with, his own family that had managed to show up and, looking back on it you realized now, a handful of his concubines.
Though she hadn't been taken to bed right then, the wedding was still a quick affair, and you were beginning to question why Umemiya was prolonging yours.
"You seem upset by something."
You thanked the years of etiquette practice that you didn't jump and drop your spoon, merely turning your gaze towards Kotoha who was sending an almost pitying look your way. You placed the spoon down, hands falling to your lap.
"I'm just thinking, I suppose."
Cherry meowed quietly, upset that Kotoha had stopped petting her. Your future sister-in-law continued to pamper her, studying your figure, "Is something the matter?"
"I'm just..." You bit your tongue.
You were allowed to speak freely here, so far. But you were worried that there was a line you'd accidently cross.
"Go on," Her voice was kind, reminding you, in a way, of your own mother.
"It's been about a week since I arrived here, and well," You twisted the fabric of your outfit in your hands, the clothe more comfortable to move around than the ones you grew up in, "There's been no discussion of when I shall be married to Umemiya officially. Have I... done something to offend him since arriving?"
You can only imagine how angry your father's letters will be once they begin arriving. At this rate, you had been gone for months, and he hadn't received one word of your wedding. You wouldn't be surprised if he appeared on one of his ships, demanding answers.
“No, you haven’t done anything,” Kotoha leaned towards you, gently placing her hand atop of yours, the warmth comforting, “I promise you. He’s just… working on finishing a few things.”
“And those things happen to be completed!” Umemiya’s voice was loud and boisterous, having the two of your startle where you were, turning to see him walking towards you, a large smile on his face.
“Kotoha, if I can borrow my fiancé for a moment?”
You felt your cheeks warm at the title given to you. Yes, you knew logically since you two were to be married you were his fiancé, but he said the word with so much warmth.
She looked from him to you, before nodding, telling you she’d find you later, and leaving you two alone. You weren't entirely sure what to say; he must have known you were growing rather antsy to wait, not that you would have disclosed that to his face.
If he was anything like the men you grew up with he would have exploded at you by now, reminding you that your opinions and your annoyance was of no importance to him, to know your place. Instead he smiled at you, and it was as warm and welcoming as it was the first time you ever saw him.
"I know you must hate waiting as long as you have been," He began, gently taking your hand in his and tugging you to follow him down the hall, leading you towards the entrance to the estate, "But I promise you, I think it will have been worth it."
You merely nodded, unsure of what it was he was planning. Maybe he had more business to attend to before becoming a married man? Granted, there was really only one type of business you could think of that would be affected direly due to his marital status, and though you may not know him all too well, you felt as if that wasn't within his character.
Outside the estate was an older woman, much shorter than you, accompanied by a man a few years older than you both. He was holding some type of clothe cover, allowing the older lady to gently fuss over whatever it held.
"Granny!" Umemiya paused, and you followed suit, nodding your head politely while he bowed towards her.
She turned, a serine smile on her face when she saw the pair of you, "Oh goodness! Umemiya-kun wasn't lying, you're quite beautiful young lady."
"Oh," You felt your heart skip a beat in your chest, cheeks ablaze as you thanked her, glancing towards your fiancé who didn't look ashamed at the statement.
"I know our traditions regarding weddings are rather different," He turned towards you quickly, and you felt a bit confused as to what the point he was going to make was, "So I had Kotoha and Tsubaki find different styles and ideas that were closest to Western wear that they could, and we commissioned this for you."
The lady began gently unwrapping the cloth her son, or grandson, was holding. Your knowledge of Japanese wedding kimonos was rather limited, but you knew immediately that the dress before you was not one. It was beautiful, to say the least.
It was far less showy than the dresses you had seen at all your siblings' weddings, but that was fine with you. The fabric appeared rather light, swaying in the gentle breezes that danced past. It wasn't too thick, no extra padding or extra fabric that would make your skin itch and crawl.
"It's beautiful," Was all you could muster to say, eyes wide as you stared at the dress-- at your wedding dress.
"I'm glad you like it, my dear," She quickly wrapped it back up, ushering her son to take it inside, "It was quite fun to make, I made sure the fabric was softer than the poor examples Tsubaki-chan brought me. The dresses your father sent with you were rather uncomfortable, I do hope you'll let me make more clothes for you in the future. Your children, too."
"C-Children?"
"Alright, granny!" Umemiya cut in, pointedly, but not unkindly, all while the older lady giggled rather mischievously, "We've got one more place to go to, thank you for the gown."
She waved you two off as he led you two out, hand on the small of your back as he ushered you out. The estate wasn't quite as large as the one you grew up in, but it was large none-the-less, and you two were quickly eloped in a comfortable silence. He had yet to move his hand from your back, and the touch was burning, in an unfamiliar way.
It was rather... nice.
"Thank you. For the gown. It really is beautiful."
He smiled, eyes crinkling as he chuckled, "It's your wedding as well, I wanted to incorporate some things from your culture as well."
"You didn't have to."
He shrugged in response, "But I wanted to."
He wanted to. For you. Your heart fluttered once more, your chest squeezing uncomfortably, and you quickly looked away from him, studying the cherry petals that danced in the afternoon breeze.
"I know that this marriage isn't something you had asked for," It was startling how quiet he had become, his voice lacking the boy like charm or the energy it had contained before.
"But I promise you I will do everything I can to be the best husband for you, I'll make sure your needs are always met, that you're never left unhappy or wanting." He had stopped walking at this point, and, in turn, you had stopped as well, facing him with wide eyes.
"You will have freedom here, to study and learn whatever your heart desires. You'll be able to help with decisions for the town if you so choose, your opinions and voice matter her," Your hands were in his, and you dropped your gaze to them.
They were much larger than yours, and you could feel the callouses on the palms of his hands. He worked hard, he held power over his town, but he worked with them as well as for them. You'd seen first hand these past few days how many people felt comfortable and safe coming to him with problems, requesting aid or help, and how quickly he was to ensure they received that help.
"I- I don't doubt it," Despite how certain he always seemed, you could hear the vulnerability in his voice, the desire to make sure you believed the words he was saying to you, "You... have been far kinder than most men in my life before now."
He nodded, and you glanced up, noting that, while that seemed to assure him, the sentence seemed to make him deflate a tiny bit. The melancholy look was quickly replaced, movement seeming to catch his attention. He nodded over to where he was looking, and after a moment of confusion, you looked over, curious as to what he was trying to show you.
"It's rather beautiful here," You felt your mouth open, a gasp much louder than intended falling from your lips, "Seems a rather nice place to settle down."
You were taking off down the pavement before you realized it, warm tears budding in your eyes as you ran. For how quickly you made your way to your destination, your sister had managed to drop the bag she had been holding, uncaring as it fell into the grass. You all but fell into her arms, sobs of-- what? Happiness? Sadness?
Whatever you were feeling, you were sobbing in your big sister's arms, her holding you as close as she had when you were a mere child. Her hands were combing through your hair, and you felt a few warm tears of her own fall onto your head.
"You look beautiful in your kimono, darling," You laughed, squeezing her tighter.
Some part of you was vaguely aware of Umemiya walking to join you all, greeting her husband, the pair of them allowing you two your moment as they directed where the bags should be sent to.
Finally, you pulled back, sure your face was blotchy and red in all the wrong places, "What are you doing here?"
Her hands cupped your cheeks, thumbing under your eyes as she rid you of the few tears still falling. She smiled, looking as radiant and beautiful as she always did to you.
"I'm here for your wedding, silly goose," She placed a gentle kiss on your forehead, "Your fiancé sent us letters as soon as you departed from father's, we would have been here sooner but we ran into a minor storm on the way here."
Before you could panic over that idea she shushed you, "It's all fine now. We just may have to stay a bit longer now," She winked, "Just to ensure our ship is in top shape."
"You all are welcome to stay as long as you please," Umemiya spoke, and you turned to him; he was smiling, a true smile, large and happy and warm and everything you were feeling in that moment, "We have enough room."
Your sister stepped back, thanking him, her husband moving to pick up her bag, smiling softly at you, "It's nice to see you again."
You nodded, rubbing at your nose, "You as well."
Umemiya shifted to stand a bit closer, "I hope the waiting seems worth it, I was hoping things could have worked out perfectly, but I'm not one who can control the weather. Nor do I understand making clothes, Tsubaki scolded me every time I went to check on your dress--"
You threw yourself towards him, wrapping your arms around his shoulders, having to stand on your tiptoes as you pulled him into a tight hug.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you so much." You felt as if you sounded borderline hysteric, but you couldn't bring yourself to care.
He wrapped his arms back around you, the weight on your waist oddly comforting, grounding.
"Anything for you," You pulled back after a moment, flat on your feet as you looked up to him, "I mean it."
A/N: part four will (should be) the wedding! and maybe more!
Various WBK boys x AFAB!reader (incl. Kiryuu, Kaji, Umemiya, Nirei, Sakura, Hiragi, Choji)
CW: cat-calling and objectification (none by the WBK boys), threats of violence (obvious)
𝒦𝒾𝓇𝓎𝓊𝓊 𝑀𝒾𝓈𝓉𝓊𝓀𝒾
Your suits were matching— the same shade of blue, your bikini top accompanied by a little, pink blow between your breasts. Your boyfriend had taken you out shopping before the group summer trip, pulling out his wallet to buy several matching outfits before you could protest. You’d learned rather quickly that protesting was useless.
You were accustomed to some stares— Sakura turned a shade of red only he could turn when you took off your bathing suit cover, and Suo had teased the poor kid relentlessly. Some other stares, Kiryuu was realizing, you were oblivious to. The Furin boys were respectful, teenage boys, sure, but respectful.
The random teenagers and men staring at your body, not so much. Kiryuu, however, wasn’t the least bit worried.
“Darling,” You looked up questioningly at your boyfriend, pausing where you were rubbing sunscreen onto your arms, “Let me get your back.”
You smiled at him, and despite how long you two had been together felt your own cheeks warm slightly. You finished your arms, turning to lay on your front on your towel. He was gentle, warming up the sunscreen before applying it to your back, all but massaging it into your skin.
“How did I get so lucky?” His voice was teasing, fingertips dancing under the bikini string.
“Mitsuki,” You scolded, and he laughed.
Relaxing in your towel, you didn’t see that Kiryuu’s gaze wasn’t on you. One of the groups near you were growing rowdy, one of them louder than the rest. He had heard their conversation, lewd remarks about your body. He was quick to move, staking his claim subtly as he massaged the sunscreen onto your back.
The one that had moved, most likely to ask for your number or give you a stupid pick up line, had made the mistake of making eye contact with Kiryuu. He wasn’t Suo, but he knew he was intimidating.
One palm was flat against your lower back, dancing dangerously close to being too low. You hummed quietly, unaware of the silent stare down happening behind you. Kiryuu raised an eyebrow, waiting for the stranger to make his decision.
He seemed to think, before breaking eye contact, face curling into a scowl, before he turned back to his group.
“Mitsuki?” He was quick to smile, the soft look he reserved just for you returned, “Can we go in the water now?”
“Whatever you want, darling.”
𝒦𝒶𝒿𝒾 𝑅𝑒𝓃
Kaji was starting to wish he had brought a whole pack of suckers, and based on the worried side eyes that were sent his way, he wasn’t alone on this. The only person who seemed oblivious to this, or just entirely too trusting, was you.
You, who was wearing one of the newest bikini sets you ordered from over states. You, who was hitting around an inflatable ball with some of his first years, laughing in the waves. You, who was drawing attention from way too many random guys around, loitering on their beach towels or wading in the water far too close.
He felt the familiar crunch of his current sucker, he was so zoned staring— glaring— that he didn’t realize until now it was a grape flavored one.
Gross.
He felt a tap on his shoulder, turning slightly to see Kusumi holding his screen towards him. It took a few seconds to see through the glare of the sun, but he finally saw the message.
you okay?
He could nod, could lie and say he’s fine— but this was Kusumi, bastard reads him almost as well as Hiragi. So instead he shrugged, rolling the candy stick in his mouth, already itching to grab another one.
His music was low, loud enough that the random chit chat didn’t make its way to him, but low enough that he could hear you or the others if he focused enough.
He was up on his feet in a flash, though, watching as a random volleyball splashed the water near you, far too close to have been a coincidence. Some random guy was waving, smile too big as he made his way over. He was all teeth, all but leering over you as you handed him his ball. You were being polite, but you were clearly trying to get him to leave.
Kusumi shot him a worried look, one that read somewhere between don’t make a scene and we’ll back you up if need be. In all honesty he was between those too.
But this was a trip, something fun for everyone, and if he swung first and started a beach brawl then the day would end early. So he instead made his way to the waters edge, the cool waves lapping at his feet as he watched.
You were trying to get back to whatever game you, Nirei and Kiryuu had been playing, and the man wasn’t taking the hint. Taking his headphones off, the loudness of the wind and waves crashed over him for a moment, before he regained his focus.
“Hey,” His voice was sharp, cutting through the one sided conversation easily.
You both turned, your face lighting up when you saw him, sweet voice calling out his name in excitement. You made your way out of the water towards him, and he briefly made eye contact with the two first years, sending a curt nod their way. They understood, backing off to their other friends.
“Can we go get ice cream?” You wrapped your arms around his bicep, pressing close to him.
In any other circumstance he’d have been rather flustered, you were pressed so close, he could feel the softness of your breasts, but he could also feel how fast your heart was hammering. He didn’t look down, eyes maintaining where they were staring down the unnamed man.
“Sure.”
The guy scoffed, arms crossing as if he were unimpressed by the display before him. Kaji cocked a brow, “Something the matter?”
He put his hands up, mock surrender, “No, nothing.” His tone was amused, as if goading Kaji to start something.
His fists were clenched at his side, jaw uncomfortably tense, and if the sucker had lasted any longer it definitely would have shattered.
The man seemed to grow uncomfortable, “Look dude, we were just chatting, alright? Nothing wrong with that.”
He just hummed in response, the noise low and unamused. You squeezed his arm gently, voice low, “Ren, it’s okay, I’m fine,” It took a second for him to look away, but when he glanced down at you, you smiled, small but genuine.
He stared for a moment, before sighing, “Yeah, whatever.”
You stepped away, gently tugging at his arm to follow you, and he moved, allowing you to maneuver him however you wanted. He didn’t spare another glance behind him, knowing full well that coward was going to go back to his group, spouting nonsense he could have easily knocked out of him.
You leaned your head against his shoulder, and as the rage died down in him, he felt the tips of his ears warm up, no doubt red now, “What?”
“Nothing,” You laughed quietly, “Just thankful I have my knight in shinning armor.”
He tisked, feigning annoyance at your statement. He’d never call himself a knight, that seemed too noble, too good.
“I’d kick his ass if he kept talking…”
You laughed louder this time, “I know. But I didn’t wanna let an asshole like that ruin our day.”
Not him, not Kaji ruin it by throwing a punch. He felt a bit of tension bleed out of him, your words simple but holding so much weight. The little ice cream parlor was near, and with you leaning against him, comfortable knowing that he’d protect you from unwanted advances, he felt more confident in his actions.
You trusted him to take care of not only himself, but you as well. To protect you should it come to that. And if you let him, gave him a sign, he’d beat anyone who even looked at you funny.
“Oh— should we get ice cream for the others?”
“Not unless they’re paying.”
𝒰𝓂𝑒𝓂𝒾𝓎𝒶 𝐻𝒶𝒿𝒾𝓂𝑒
The beach weekend getaway had been in the works for months at this rate, and Umemiya was rather proud of himself for how well it had gone so far. The beach wasn't too far from town, wasn't too crowded or boring, the weather was perfect.
Later in the evening, he, you, and a few others had ventured out, having found an arcade nearby, colorful neon lights pulling them all in. Everyone had grown rather excited, running around with coins and tickets, little prizes in hands.
He had won you a few trinkets, proudly handing you the stuffed animals, watching with delight as you held them delicately, naming them each, one by one.
Umemiya had offered to go get you a drink, watching from the counter as you moved over to skeeball, bringing Sakura with you as you attempted to teach him how to play. Though it looked more like you were working on preventing him from climbing the machine and just throwing the balls in at this rate.
“C’mon man, just wait for her to walk off.”
The conversation happening to his right caught his attention, they were loud, demanding of observation. He glanced them over, men near his age if not a bit older, laughing and talking. He brushed them off, gaze turning back to where you were laughing, Sakura’s face bright red as the ball rolled back down the slope.
“Wearing shorts like that, she’s asking for attention.”
His thoughts paused, processing what was said. One quick glance made him painfully aware that those men were staring in your direction.
“At this rate I say we just go over, that pipsqueak does look like he’d be able to do much.”
He set your drink down on the counter, not wanting to spill the liquid and make some poor worker clean up his mess. Walking over, he set a smile on his face, taught and forced. Leaning between the two of them, he wrapped his arms around their shoulders, “Yeah, she looks pretty great doesn’t she?”
The men jumped, clearly unaware that they had garnered an audience.
“What the hell man?”
He grinned, grip tightening slightly, “I got really lucky honestly, someone as beautiful as her being my girlfriend.”
One of the guys seemed to understand what was happening, face dropping, “Hey man— we were just joking.”
“Oh?” He raised an eyebrow, “So you don’t think my girlfriend’s beautiful?”
The guy laughed nervously, glancing towards his buddy, who seemed to be opting to stay silent, “Look man, no need to get worked up, okay?”
He smiled, eyes narrowing as he forced a laugh, “Oh don’t worry, I’m not worked up,” He pulled the two closer, “But I would advise you to leave, and keep your mouths shut as you go, yeah?”
Sakura was adding coin after coin, determined to get more points each time, and you wondered if you maybe created a monster, watching as he rolled the ball with too much force.
A loud slam from near the front of the arcade startled you, and you jumped, curiosity making you turn to look, but as you did you bumped into a chest, looking up to see Umemeiya, smiling down at you.
“Got you your drink!” You smiled back, thanking him for the soda, Sakura too caught up in his own competition to notice the new comer.
“What took you so long?” You looked towards the counter, “Oh! What happened?”
There was a wet floor sign, a small pile of damp paper towels on the counter and floor. Ume smiled at you, “Just some guys got startled by something and spilled their drinks. I was helping the worker clean up, and the two ran off.”
That must have been the loud noise, no doubt they were about to get into some type of trouble for their mishap and fled. You nodded, leaning back into his chest, happily sipping your drink.
༺═────────────═༻
𝒩𝒾𝓇𝑒𝒾 𝒜𝓀𝒾𝒽𝒾𝓀𝑜
Nirei made sure to pack a bathing suit cover-up for you. He didn't entirely think you needed one, but in case it got breezy or you got sleepy he wanted to make sure he had one handy.
He didn’t have the heart to say he brought it, also, in case someone made you uncomfortable. He trusted his friends and his classmates, but he also knew how strangers could act.
Especially towards a pretty girl at the beach!
He doubts that if a random passer-byer started hitting on you his pill bug technique would come in handy, and he can’t justify allowing any of his classmates throw punches on behalf of his girlfriend.
Well, unless you asked or needed of course. He’d do anything in his realm of possibilities if you asked, and even a few out of it.
“Hiko?” He turned, almost jumping as you drew him from his own thoughts, a gentle smile on your face.
You held out a bottle of water to him, “Umemiya’s handing them out, says to stay hydrated.”
He took it happily, feeling content as you moved to sit next to him, sipping your own water, body relaxed.
“Oh! Kiryuu brought some kites,” He loved watching your eyes light up when you got excited, and he felt himself turn warm, both in his cheeks and his chest, “I thought we could snag one and go fly it later?”
He nodded enthusiastically, “Yeah! The wind seems perfect for that.”
You grinned, agreeing, turning the conversation to chat about other things. As the two of you talked, watching your friends run around and swim, and he took out of his notebooks, jotting down notes and doodles as he observed his classmates.
You glanced over occasionally, curious as to what he was deeming important enough to write in this moment, but kept talking.
“Hey!”
The two of you kept talking, unaware that the yelling being directed at you before, “Hey!”
You jumped, a light dust of sand hitting your legs, both of you looking up to see another random group, a guy and two girls standing near you all. You raised an eyebrow, and Nirei swallowed nervously.
“Can we help you?”
The guy grinned, though it looked more like a leer, while the girls seemed to roll their eyes, hanging behind him, “I was just wondering if you wanted to join us, cutie. Have a fun time instead of sitting here like a loser.”
You felt annoyance flare up in your chest, face dropping as you rolled your eyes, “No.”
The guy laughed, clearly caught off by your response, “C’mon, I promise you I can show you a better time.”
“And I said no, now please, go away.”
His grin faded, looking more annoyed than he had before, though he seemed like he wanted to play it off, “Look, I’m being nice here, there’s no need to be a bitch.”
Nirei glared at him, hot anger licking at his chest, ready to stand up and yell at him, defend you against this asshole.
“You haven’t seen me be a bitch yet,” You replied, sounding bored of the conversation, relaxing back, leaning on your palms, “Like I said. Leave.”
The girls looked torn between laughing at the man’s plight and sneering down at you, and the guy’s face was turning red.
He clicked his tongue, “You can stay here then, enjoying your time with your loser boyfriend. But remember—”
He was cut off, you standing up like a flash, fist flying towards the guys nose, a satisfying crack sounding as he reared back, shouting in pain.
Your punch wasn’t enough to break his nose, and Nirei hated that he was disappointed by that, but there was a steady, thin stream of blood trickling from one nostril.
“What the fuck?”
“I was being nice before,” You snapped, “Now I’m telling you to fuck off.”
The guy sneered at you, though it looked rather pathetic as he cupped his nose, swears and curses falling from his lips, tripping over the sand and his own feet as he walked back to where ever he wandered from, the two girls sending you a shocked look before going after him.
You sat back down, rubbing your knuckles and smiling at Nirei sweetly, as if you hadn’t just punched someone in the face.
“Do you wanna go see about the kite now?”
𝒮𝒶𝓀𝓊𝓇𝒶 𝐻𝒶𝓇𝓊𝓀𝒶
Your boyfriend had yet to look at you for more than two seconds. At this rate, it was rather adorable how his face burned red, eyes flittering everywhere but you. You knew your bathing suit would illicit this reaction, one reason you had told him you'd rather meet up at the beach than walk with him and his friends.
Suo had teased your blushing boyfriend a bit before bidding you both a gentle wave, and wandering off with Nirei, leaving the two of you under an umbrella on the sand.
You were applying sunscreen to your arms, debating whether or not you should forcefully apply some to your boyfriend, knowing full well that he didn’t apply nearly enough, or teasing him.
You studied his profile for a moment, the blush hadn’t died down yet. Though, that could be because of the sun, you mused. He seemed to notice your staring, however, and the red intensified.
Ah, still blushing. Cute.
“Haruka,” Your voice was light, singing his name softly, and he tensed, sending you a quick side eye, “You should apply more sunscreen.”
“Huh? I already applied some!” He grew defensive, turning to glare at the bottle in your hand.
You sighed, though a small smile grew on your face, “Not nearly enough.”
“You saying I’m weak?”
You blinked at him, trying to reel in a laugh, lest he think you’re laughing at him, “Love,” He stammered at the pet name, “No one’s tougher than the sun. Or UV rays. Put more on.”
You squeezed some more into your palm, before handing the bottle over to him. You moved, applying more to your arms, as he stared at the bottle, looking between it and you.
“Now.”
He swore quietly, but uncapped the bottle, applying it with the same ferocity as a grumpy toddler. The comparison made you giggle, and you moved to apply the leftover sunscreen on your legs.
He paused in his actions, unbeknownst to you, watching you with intense rapt. You were humming quietly to yourself, some kitschy pop song. He glanced over you, noticing one guy having turned, staring at your legs, unblinking.
He felt himself grow rather… angry? Frustrated, maybe. Why was that guy staring? His silence and stillness drew your attention, and you looked at him, trying to follow his gaze. You made eye contact with the stranger, and he winked, shamelessly.
Rolling your eyes, your lips curled into a disgusted sneer, “Pervert.”
“I’ll kick his ass.”
You hummed again, amused at your boyfriend’s automatic protective nature, “No, you won’t.”
“Wha,” He turned to look at you, incredulously, “He’s— he’s just staring at you! And he winked at you!”
“And I have absolutely no interest in him, or his stupid wink,” You mimicked the way came out of his mouth like it was a swear.
“It’s cause of your bathing suit!”
You blinked at him, voice dropping rather dangerously, “Pardon?”
He seemed to realize he said something wrong, though you doubt he knew exactly what it was he said that was wrong. You couldn’t blame him entirely, his knowledge of relationships was still very limited, and you knew this.
“I just—” He stammered, mouth fluttering open and shut, trying to find what to say, “You look— and he’s staring because— it’s,” He motioned to your body, and you raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to come to his own conclusion, “You look too good!”
You couldn’t cover the snort that escaped, trying not to laugh at your boyfriend’s worries. He glared at you, offended by the noise.
“They can stare all they want because I,” You took his hand into yours, enjoying how his frustration faded at the drop of a hat, face immediately reddening once more, “Am at the beach with my adorable boyfriend. Besides, if he tries anything I don’t need you to kick his ass for me, I can do that myself.”
Face still red, he turned away, facing the waves, voice a bit quieter as he spoke, “You’re not a fighter.”
“I don’t have to be a fighter to crack a bottle of ramune over his head,” To prove your point you reached over him, hiding your amusement as he yelped, grabbing a bottle and working it open, “Not many people can bounce back from that.”
You took a sip, maintaining eye contact with Sakura, his cheeks still red, but his eyes widened. It was silent between you two for a moment before—
“Jesus, okay. You can defend yourself.” You smiled, shifting to cuddle closer to him, allowing him a moment to gather his bearings as he wrapped an arm around your shoulders in response, muttering something that vaguely sounded like scary under his breath.
𝐻𝒾𝓇𝒶𝑔𝒾 𝒯𝑜𝓂𝒶
There were times when Hiragi wondered if you were an angel sent to him, or another demon sent his way. This was one of the times where he thought that you may be a demon, though you were as pretty as an angel. He wishes he had packed more of his gaskun10.
"Hiragi," Your voice was light as you called out to him, a small pout on your lips as you held your hand out, "You promised me a board-walk trip."
Despite the previous feeling, he smiled, standing up and brushing sand off of his shorts, wandering your way, "I did, didn't I?"
You grinned up at him, squeezing his hand once he placed it in yours, all but leading him away from the group, prattling on about the different pop-up shops that had appeared this summer you wanted to check out.
Your excitement had you distracted, torn between talking to Hiragi and looking at your shirtless boyfriend, admiring him in the summer light. He understood, not teasing you on your staring for once, listening with half an ear as he, too, was distracted by your beach outfit. You had gone out shopping with Kotoha and Tsubaki, and elected on surprising you with your pick.
He wasn't, however, too distracted to note the looks being sent your way. You were a pretty girl; beautiful, perfect, in his eyes, and he knew he wasn't the only one who shared this sentiment. Several guys were staring as you two walked, eyes trailing up from top to bottom, before flickering over to him. He was glad none were stupid enough to step forward, he'd rather not cause a scene at the beach.
There were also, surprising to him, a few girls staring, well he should say glaring your way. He could see the judgment stemming off of them from miles away, looking between the both of you with disdain. It made him click his tongue, annoyed with the vastly different responses being sent your way.
You sensed the small shift in his mood, eyebrows furrowing as you paused your rambling to study him, "Everything okay?"
He looked down at you, "You just look stunning."
Giggling, you turned your attention forward once more, "I'm well aware of that."
His eye roll was nothing short of affectionate, no snark or annoyance in his expression as you two continued walking.
“You’re also ridiculous,” He added, and you threw your head back and laughed.
“That I am also well aware of,” You grinned, and he was once again reminded of the demon analogy, “But you love me.”
He sighed, “I do,” Probably too much to be healthy, but that was neither here nor there.
In all honesty, he was rather used to onlookers, well, looking. You were always loud in your own way, drawing attention and awe where ever you went. It was one reason you and Tsubakino got along as well as you did.
It didn’t help the level of stress he felt, wanting nothing more than to shield your body or fight those looking at you, but he knew you wouldn’t want that. Unless absolutely necessary, but more often than not his presence kept those situations away.
“Come on,” You stood on your tip toes, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek, “Let’s go get some snacks!”
𝒞𝒽𝑜𝒿𝒾 𝒯𝑜𝓂𝒾𝓎𝒶𝓂𝒶
"Hey! Hey! You put sunscreen on right? Kame-chan kept bugging me about it so I thought to make sure you put some on!"
You blinked your eyes open, peering up at your boyfriend, hair soaked and plastered against his head from where he had been all but running through the waves. Smiling, you sat up, moving your sunglasses on top of your head.
"Yes Choji, I've got sunscreen on," You saw Togame floating in the water a few yards away, relaxing in the waves, "I'm glad Togame made sure you re-applied yours."
He pouted at your words, "He got sand stuck on my face because of it."
His childlike annoyance had you laughing, and he brightened at the sound, moving to grab your hand, working to drag you up onto your feet.
"C'mon! Let's get in the water!"
You allowed yourself to be pulled up, his energy contagious, "You were just in the water," Your argument held no real bite, letting your overzealous boyfriend drag you to the waves.
"But not with you!"
Your feet hit the water, and you shrieked at the sudden coldness lapping against you. He laughed at your response, turning to run full speed towards Togame, splashing his relaxing friend with a face full of water.
You rolled your eyes, slowly going further into the water, getting used to the coolness against your skin. Choji swam around you and Togame, going back and forth between splashing you lightly and seeming like he was trying to drown his friend. Togame was fighting back, laughing while dunking your boyfriend under the water.
There were some fish swimming around, little things flitting between the people, and you watched, relaxing in the water as Choji swam after them. Togame wadded over, and the two of you started talking, light conversation as Choji swam a bit away, closer to another group that was hanging out nearby.
The fish had all gotten away, and he decided to float for a bit, facing the sun with a relaxed smile on his face. That was until he heard the conversation from the people near.
"Seriously, I'd never let my girl in public like that. She should be covered up."
"Doesn't she know all she's gonna do is draw attention to herself?"
There was some mumbling, a few choice words being passed around, and the once relaxing float was less so now. He moved, eyes narrowing at the group, ready to open his mouth or throw a fist, when he heard you calling his name, you and Kame waving him back over.
He debated for a moment, what would be more important, before deciding that these guys were just idiots. And you all were having such a good time, he could fight them later. So he swam back over, launching himself at you once he was close enough. You caught him, as you always did.
He began peppering your face with kisses, ignoring the joking eye-roll Kame sent their way.
"You look amazing, you know this right?"
You giggled at his antics, pushing his face away softly, "Yes, you've told me a hundred times in the past few hours."
He huffed, "You're the prettiest girl at this beach! In this whole town! You always look so amazing!"
His fluttering kisses tickled lightly, and you were giggling uncontrollably, trying to stop him like you would an over excited puppy. He finally moved back, still floating close to you, smiling wide.
“What was that about?”
His head tilted, looking like a confused puppy to you, when in reality he was debating whether or not to tell you what he overheard.
If you were upset or hurt or offended he’d turn around in a heart beat, fists at the ready. He’d finish them all off quickly, wash their blood from his fists in the water, the salt may sting, but it’d be worth it.
But he thought on it, something Ume-chan told him he should practice, and came to the conclusion that you’d more than likely roll your eyes and laugh. You often did whenever snide comments made their way to you, even way before you two were dating.
You dressed how you liked, and no one’s comments seemed to affect you. You were happy with your outfits, and often said, “That’s all that matters,” with that sweet smile of yours.
So he just smiled, eyes closing as he grinned, “I just love you!”
A/N: I am not a fan! Of how I wrote some of these! >.< So sorry! I have never written for some of these characters and I worry it shows! ᵃⁿᵈ ˢᵒᵐᵉ ᵃʳᵉ ˡᵒⁿᵍᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳˢ ᴵ'ᵐ ˢᵒ ˢᵒʳʳʸ ALSO I CUT SOME CHARACTERS OUT! I RAN OUT OF IDEAS AND DIDN’T KNOW HOW TO WRITE SOME OF THEM! I’M SO SORRY!
Incl. Umemiya, Hiragi, Tsubakino, Choji, Togame
Having grown up in a group home, Umemiya knows how to be the best care giver ever
That being said: he’s also insanely clingy and affectionate on his worst days
He’s attentive to a T
With Kotoha’s help he’s bringing you homemade soup, full of fresh veggies from his garden
He’s making you tea and keeping water bottles near by whenever you even mention wanting a drink
Sends his four kings out to watch over while he’s with you because he refuses to leave your side until your healthy— doesn’t matter if it’s a cold or the flu
Still cuddles with you, despite you telling him he’ll get sick— he tells you his love and affection will make you feel better
Whenever your fever spikes he’s quickly getting a wet cloth, laying it on your forehead and humming a wordless tune or telling you stories softly
He’s there to wake you up whenever you have fever induced nightmares, and holds your hair back if you rush to the bathroom to be sick
If you even feel the tiniest bit insecure because you feel gross and greasy he shuts that down: by telling you:
“In sickness and in health!” “That’s— those are wedding vows?” “Ha, yeah! But think of them as…pre-engagement, pre-wedding vows now! Hey— your face is all red, did your fever spike again?”
If you’re far enough into your relationship he’ll help you bathe: his hands are gentle as he washes your hair, no wandering touches as he helps you clean your body
He’s so soft you nearly fall asleep in the water, lulled into a serene peace by his soft voice and gentle touches
He combs your hair once it’s dry enough, braiding it to keep it out of your face and wrapping you your freshly washed sheets you have no idea when he had time to clean
Overall; 11/10 to take care of you when you’re sick
Even if he does end up getting sick himself after
You probably got sick after he warned you to bring your coat with you or not to stay up too late let’s be real
Dad sighs and twitching eyes
But he’s buying all the best meds and electrolyte drinks
I personally believe this man knows how to cook so he’s making you homemade soup, congee and other things his mom used to make him when he was sick
Brings a type of lemon “candy” that helps with your throat, knows they work because he keeps them on him in case Kaji needs them
He stays with you, but he gives you space
1. Because he needs to make sure he doesn’t get sick— he has to take care of you firstly, and secondly he cannot let Umemeiya free of him for too long
2. Because he knows you’ll want space occasionally; to sleep, to rest, to regenerate your social battery
While you nap he’s cleaning around; washing and folding clothes, doing dishes, organizing your mail— he’s completely husband material
When you want him near he’ll have you lay your head on his lap, and he’ll run his fingers through your hair and read to you— literally any book you choose he’ll read without hesitation
He’ll be so attentive and supportive when you’re sick, and he makes sure to continue to give you vitamins even after to help you avoid being sick again
But even when you are he’ll be there again
15/10 he’s just so HUSBAND MATERIAL
Tsubakino
LOOK
if there’s one thing anyone knows about me it’s I am a Tsubaki stan first and a human second
that being said
I imagine him taking care of you being sick is, while sweet, also a bit panicky
I imagine he has this weirdly insane immune system so he’s hardly ever gotten sick, and he’s also an only child so this isn’t super familiar territory
but he tries
does so much research he might go a bit overboard
“My darling! I got cough medicine, fever reducers, cooling masks, some cough drops Hiragi suggested! I got some water bottles and Suo-chan suggested different teas— I wasn’t sure which one would be best so I got all six! Nirei-chan said to get electrolytes so I got different flavors of those! And Kotoha-chan made soup! And congee! And I can order more, in fact I have a few different soups on the way!”
he just hates seeing you feel so bad
he’s a ball of nerves around you, always checking in on you and asking what you want, what you need, what you’d like
you can’t even be annoyed he’s so sweet
he helps you bathe, much like Umemiya, he’s sweet and attentive
he brings over his own stuff too; bathbombs, shower steamers, hair masks, face masks
he can’t make the illness disappear but you’ll at least feel clean and good on the outside
he takes his time with your hair and face, and he’s basically your personal masseuse in the bath
you’re never felt so relaxed despite being as sick as a dog
even though you’re sick he’s still quick to press kisses to your cheeks and forehead, face red from fever, embarrassment, and lipstick stains now
paints your nails while you rest with a cold press on your head, tells you about the latest debacle between Umemeiya and Hiragi and Sugishita and Sakura
by a miracle he doesn’t get sick
and he stores all the leftover meds and electrolytes (there’s a lot) between your place and his so he’s prepared next time
overall: 1000000/10
realistically: 10/10 (but always 100000/10 in my eyes)
Choji
oh boy
o h b o y
let it be known you try to hide the fact you’re sick from him for as long as possible
read: you fail
he’s showing up at like 7am, waking you up and charging in
did he bring anything?
of course
he’s brought snacks
not healthy ones
you’re not hungry because you’re nauseous, so he just stores them in your fridge and comes to cuddle you
he’ll wait on your every command don’t get me wrong
want water? he’s grabbing you a glass
need to go to the bathroom? he’s helping you up and walking you there, waiting outside the door and helping you back
bored? he’ll tell you all the thoughts in his head! and there’s a lot!
hungry? he’s grabbing those snacks for you!
he’s attentive and sweet, but he definitely is spoiled by Togame so much he’s not entirely sure how to take care of a sick person
but he’s strong so he’ll just beat your illness for you!
he’ll hold you while you rest, turn your fan on when you say you’re hot, turn it off when you’re cold
he tries to braid your hair while you rest, it’s messy but he tried
he ends up getting sick before you’re even better yourself
now Togame is tasked with coming to your place and taking care of both of you
overall: 7/10
he tries he really does
but he charges in with no instructions and just love
which is great but doesn’t treat the flu
Togame
he probably has taken care of an ill choji (^) so he knows what he’s doing
the patience of a saint holy—
he comes to see you when you’re asleep, and he’s silent as he unpacks stuff from the nearby convention store
you wake up startled at him just chilling, probably drinking a ramune and reading something
he keeps his voice soft as he asks if you’re hungry or thirsty
helps you sit up as he hands you a water bottle, and if your hands are too shaky he’d holding it for you to drink out of
he won’t even let you open your mouth to apologize before he’s giving you that stupidly soft smile and telling you he’s happy to take care of you
he keeps the curtains shut so the light in your room is dim, and he brings in candles with your favorite scent so the lights don’t hurt your eyes and the scent helps you feel calmer
not much of a cook himself when it comes to specific food to help you, but he grabbed take out on the way and heats up the perfect portions whenever you’re hungry
not too much so you leave food on the plate but not too little so you’re still hungry after
the man that he is
can definitely see him massaging your hands, your arms and your shoulders cause you’re tense from feeling ill
keeps a bucket or a bag nearby in case you get sick and can’t make it to the toilet
does a little braid to keep your hair out of your face, jokes about how he learned how to braid his hair so he’d he perfect at it for you
tries to brew you tea, and either burns it or under-steeps it
you both opt for just water for the time being
doesn’t get sick, but definitely sleeps for an entire day after you’re healthy
you both do actually— a long sleep cuddled up together
overall; 13/15 i think i made myself fall more in love with him
𝒯𝓈𝓊𝒷𝒶𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑜 𝓍 𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹𝑒𝓇 𝓍 𝒰𝓂𝑒𝓂𝒾𝓎𝒶
𝒜/𝒩: Completely inspired by the "After Midnight" prompt that @stunie wrote for Tsubakino x Reader. I was re-listening to the song and the "I wanna kiss your boyfriend if you don't mind" had me thinking... Umemiya.
The club lights were low, the music blaring. At this rate you couldn’t even make out the lyrics, and your once fruity drink was watered down to a sad state.
There were a decent amount of people around; dancing, laughing, drinking. Yet you never felt as alone as you did now.
Your boyfriend— your friend? Your date.
Your date had ditched you a bit ago, a rushed apology that’d he be back, an aggressive kiss to the cheek, and you smiled, unable to respond before he was gone.
Five minutes turned into ten.
Ten into twenty.
Twenty into thirty.
At this rate you’d been sitting here alone longer than you’d been there with him. You shouldn’t be surprised, he had a knack for ghosting you in the middle of a week or ditching you on a scheduled date— hang out?
“Don’t tell me he’s done it again?”
It took you a moment to process that those words were directed to you, and you looked up from where you had been counting water droplets on the cup to see Tsubaki, a pout on his lipstick covered lips.
“Tsubaki?”
He sat down next to you, throwing his hair back over his shoulder, leaning so he was pressed against you, “Did he ditch you?”
You nodded sadly, pointing to where he was stood: a group of his friends surrounding him. There were some guys you had met briefly, having the displeasure of hearing their comments about you, and some new pretty faces. Girls that were leaning on him, leaning to be closer to him. The sight didn’t even break your heart anymore, so used to this same old song.
Tsubaki clicked his tongue, eyes narrowed at the group, before he turned his gaze back to you, “I’m sorry pretty girl,” He reached forward, tucking a stray hair behind your ear, the tips of his fingers brushing the underside of your jaw with a feather like pressure, “You deserve better than him.”
You took in a shaky breath, smiling weakly at him with a shrug, “It’s… not like we’re official yet,” He frowned at the word ‘yet’ but let you continue, “So he’s just…”
He was just what? Dragging you places outside of your comfort zone just to ditch you? Flirting with other girls in front of you before telling you behind closed doors they meant nothing to him?
Tsubaki seemed to think for a second, before grinning, a sly look on his face. The music grew louder, and he leaned forward, lips so close to your ear.
“I have an idea,” He sang the sentence quietly, his warm breath tickling your skin, and you couldn’t fight the shiver that ran up your spine.
Before you could ask he was moving, standing up and grabbing your hand. He pulled you forward, helping you stumble out of your seat.
“Ah— Tsubaki! What are we—”
You glanced back at your table, not missing the watery drink you left behind, glancing further to see your movement had caught the attention of your not-so-date.
You stopped abruptly, almost tripping over yourself as Tsubaki came to a stop, giggling to himself as he helped steady you.
“Ume-chan!” You glanced around him, see Umemiya nursing a drink.
He glanced up, setting the drink down with a smile, soft eyes glancing your way. You saw a flicker of surprise before it went away.
Tsubaki moved you to stand in front of him, leaning against your back, arms wrapped around your waist, chin on your shoulder as he spoke.
“Her date ditched her,” You winced at how bluntly it was put but, it was the truth.
Umemiya frowned at that, head tilting, “The same guy?”
“The same one,” You could hear the pout in Tsubaki’s voice, and you opened your mouth, to argue or defend him, you weren’t sure, but he continued.
“He left our poor girl sitting all alone.”
“He— he didn’t— he said he’d be coming back.” Even to yourself your argument sounded weak.
Unemiya frowned, making eye contact with Tsubaki. There was a moment of silence, before the frown on his face morphed into one of a small smile.
“Ume-chan,” Tsubaki moved the two of you, pushing you closer to where Umemiya was sat, “I had a brilliant idea.”
“Oh?” He sounded amused, leaning against his palm, looking up at the two of you, “Go on.”
“Well,” He shifted, moving so he could easily make eye contact with you, “How about you accompany us instead? I promise you, you’ll have a much better time with us than you would with him.”
Your cheeks burned at the meaning behind his words, and you glanced from him to Umemiya, whose smile hadn’t faded once. His eyes were bright, despite being half-lidded as he watched the two of you silently.
“I,” You swallowed, “I don’t know…”
Truth is you did know, the moment Tsubaki had taken your hand to lead you away from the table. The moment his attention was unwaveringly on you, you were ready to leave with him, follow him anywhere. Your heart felt like it was trying to beat out of your chest.
“We won’t do anything you won’t like,” Coming from Umemiya it sounded like a promise, his voice deep and sincere, “Just say the word and we’ll stop.”
You squeaked in surprise, Tsubaki giggling from where he had blown cool air against your neck, lips hovering mere centimeters from your skin.
“You can say no, and we’ll walk you home right now,” He said, pressing a quick kiss below your ear, chast and sweet, “But if you say yes,” His voice was sweet, practically dripping with honey.
You licked your lips, anticipation and nerves bubbling in your stomach. You risked a glance back, your date, not having moved from his group, but his eyes were trained on you. He looked upset, he looked angry.
A part of you liked that; that he was angry by your attention being taken by others. But the bigger part of you didn’t care. He had abandoned you time and time again, played with your heart by avoiding placing a label on whatever it was you two were.
You turned back, feeling your heart jump when you realized Umemiya hadn’t stopped looking at you. You know your voice would leave you, so you nodded, a firm look on your face.
Tsubaki squealed in your ear, his arms tightening around you. His lips pressed against your cheek, and he peppered you with quick, little kisses, his lipstick staining your cheek as he moved closer to the edge of your lips.
In a whirlwind of movements, you found yourself sandwiched between Umemiya and Tsubaki in the booth they had been seated in. You were practically leaned back onto Ume, one of his arms resting on the back of the booth, caging you in. Tsubaki was angled to be in front of you, hand cupping your jaw, thumb brushing against your cheek bone.
“You’re so beautiful,” His little compliment came out like a sigh, “Too beautiful to be treated like that.”
You felt more than heard Umemiya chuckle, voice closer to your ear than you thought, “We’d never abandon you like that,” Tsubaki hummed in agreement, “A guy like him doesn’t deserve you.”
You swallowed, heart hammering in your chest. You didn’t respond— you don’t even know what you would have said in response.
Tsubaki leaned forward, and your eyes shut automatically, his lips pressing against yours firmly. He tasted like a mixture of cherries and vodka, his lipstick sticky and sweet. You sighed into the kiss, and he giggled, deepening it slowly.
He was warm against you, and your insides felt like they were on fire. It felt good, better than any quick kiss or fast make out session your old-date subjected you to.
By the time Tsubaki pulled back you were out of breath. Cheeks flushed and lips lightly swollen, holding the same shade of lipstick that Tsubaki wore. He smiled, thumb swiping against your bottom lip, lingering for a beat.
“Such a pretty girl…”
You couldn’t fight the whimper that left your lips, pupils blown as you stared at him. He smiled, “Better not let Ume-chan feel left out.”
You were shifted, man-handled as if you weighed almost nothing, turning to face Umemiya. His gaze was dark, eyes trained on your lips. Tsubaki was behind you, a warm and solid force, grounding you.
Umemiya hummed, “Red’s a good look on you,” Before he leaned in.
Kissing Umemiya was different. Tsubaki tasted as sweet as he kissed, lips soft and smooth. Umemiya tasted like alcohol, a deep and warm flavor that took over your senses. Kissing Tsubaki was fun and breathtaking, kissing Umemiya stole your breath.
It was no question whether he was in control of the kiss, deepening it slowly, invading all your senses slowly. Kissing him felt like an eternity, but he pulled back only a minute later, a thin line of spit connecting between your lips.
If you were any more in your senses you would have been embarrassed.
Your face felt like it was on fire, panting quietly between them. Tsubaki giggled in your ear, “Better than your ex-date, huh?”
You nodded, voice cracking as you quietly agreed, “So much better.”
A/N: i began! panicking about my writing at the end! and my brain stopped working! so i’m so sorry if it sucked! >.<