Rin🥥

Rin! || 17 she/her || CurlyHairFemale Readers || multifandom ( The Vampire Dairies , MCU, Teen Wolf,Superman ,Supernatural ,Bridgerton, Anime and more)

Pairing : Katsuki x fem!reader

-

There were no explosions, no sharp words, or snapping in the air like it usually did whenever Katsuki walked into a room. Not with her, with her, it was quieter like a warmth glazing into your skin without you noticing when it began.

She noticed him first.Not in a way because he was the loudest in the room all though he was but in the moments in between. Such as the way he stayed after training longer than everyone else. The way tight frustration lived in his shoulders like something he refused to put down. The way he never asked for help although sometimes he needed it.

She had liked him before she realized she liked him but she never spoke out since she wasn’t the type to chase something that didn’t turn toward her.

He noticed her later and harder.It wasn’t one simple moment but a ray of collection. Her laugh cutting through a room like sun, the way she carried herself in a soft, effortless manner but still showing she could put up a fight.The way she communicated with people like she knew her worth without having to prove it.

And the worst part of it all was she didn’t look at him the way others did.Not in fear or awe which got under his skin.

It changed after training one evening. The sky was turning into that deep rust orange signifying that night was moving slower, quieter. Most of the class had already gone inside, voices fading into the dorms, leaving behind the hum of wind.

She had stayed behind, sitting on the rough steps, sipping from her water bottle as if it was the only thing that mattered.

He was pacing unaware he looked so crazy.

“You gonna keep walking in circles,” she said lightly, not even looking up, “or are you gonna say what’s on your mind? This is getting overstimulating, Suki!”

He stopped and scoffed.

“Tch, like I got anything to say to you brat.”

She smiled a little, finally glancing at him. “You’ve been staring at me for the past ten minutes. It’s either that or you’ve suddenly developed a deep appreciation for my beauty”

He clicked his tongue, irritated because she wasn’t wrong.

Deep silence stretched between them. Then bluntly.

“I like you.”

He was annoyed he even had to say it.

Her hand stilled around her bottle. This was once in a time where she didn’t have something ready to say.

He stepped closer, eyes sharp, but there was something underneath it something unsteady softening.

“I’ve been trying to ignore it,” he muttered. “It’s stupid and keeps distracting me.”

She stood slowly, brushing her hands against her pink yoga pants, meeting his gaze fully now.

“And???” she asked softly.

His jaw tightened.

“And I don’t like to ignore things.”

She tilted her head slightly, a small smile showing on her lips.

“Took you long enough, dummy.”

That caught him off guard.

“Yo I ain’t no dumbass-”

She stepped closer now, closing the space between them, her voice softening.

“I’ve liked you for a while, Katsuki,” she admitted. “I just wasn’t going to say it first.”

Then something in his expression shifted, a huge wash of relief rain over him.

After becoming his girlfriend officially. He couldn’t keep his distance at all. He wanted her and wasn’t afraid to show it.

This was shown in many ways like his hand at her waist when he passed by, sitting too close, always finding her in a room without trying or his tone softer when he said her name and she matched him in her own way.

Studying together, even if he complained the whole time, late night walks when neither of them could sleep or her teasing him just enough to make him roll his eyes but never pull away

This is what made the end hurt.

It was right after graduation.The environment felt very strange that day a feeling too heavy, like something was about to explode them .

She found him, standing slightly apart from the others, hands in his pockets, eyes distant.

“Katsuki,” she called.

He looked at her, this time in a different way he had ever. There was no warmth or softness. Just pure soulless eyes.

Her chest tightened.

“What’s wrong?”

He exhaled sharply, like he was already irritated.

“I’ve been thinking,” he started.

She stayed quiet, letting him speak.

“I’m going to be a top hero,” he said. “I can’t afford distractions.”

The words didn’t hit all at once.

They rested slowly.

“Okay,” she said carefully. “And what about it?”

“And a relationship, I mean this” he gestured between them, “It’s going to get in my way.”

Pure silence in between.

Her heart cracked but she kept her expression calm.

“Is that what I am?” she asked, voice steady. “A so call distraction?”

He didn’t answer right away. His hesitation said all. She nodded once, swallowing the feeling rising in her throat.

“Alright,” she said calmly which caught him off guard.

“You’re just okay with that?” he frowned.

She forced a small shrug, stepping back slightly.

“If that’s how you see it and want it,” she said, matching his tone, “then yeah. It’s fine.”

It actually wasn’t but she wasn’t going to beg to for someone who made her feel like something temporary.

He watched her as she turned away.

And for the first time in a while this felt wrong which he felt his ache deep in his heart which he tried pushing away.

She didn’t look back even when she walked away.

That night she removed him from everything.

And he told himself it didn’t matter, it’s okay that it was the right decision, he be fine.

Years later will go and standing across from her again he will feel how wrong he had been.

But no, NY didn’t try to swallow her, this is a thing she loved about it. It didn’t care about U.A., about rankings, about who dated who or who broke whose heart well that part was a white lie but still. It didn’t yank her past back to her in familiar locations or shared memories. It kept moving fast,alive,and with progress. As she moved right along.

Her apartment at Suho had been waiting for her like a fresh page.

Soft cream couches, gold accents, big windows that let in the kind of light that made everything feel warm. It was so cozy in a way that felt intentional, warm, soft. The kind of space that made you want to wake up early just to enjoy it.

The first night, she had sat on the edge of her bed, suitcase still half unpacked, her phone in her hand.

The group chat had been blowing up with memes, lans, and chaos.Her eyes lingered on one name longer than the others.

Katsuki.

A message from him filled sharp, sarcastic, something directed at Eijiro, acting as if he hadn’t just ended their relationship like nothing had changed.

Then someone sent it.

“Hold on, why did you stop following her? Is this like a social experiment??”

And just like that the chat froze. The messages stopped coming in, like everyone at the same time held their breath. She stared at the screen, her reflection faintly visible against it.

The weight of it, the curiosity tension.

She could ignore it or rather she should ignore it.

But instead, her thumbs moved.

#HotGirlSummer😚

She hit send.

And just like that, the chat exploded again rapidly with messages flooding in, questions, reactions, chaos but she didn’t read them. She set her phone down, turned on music, to let the sound fill the room instead of her thoughts.

She promised herself that this was the last time she let herself sit in that moment.

She built something after that. It started small. Days filled with exploring the city,getting lost on purpose,finding little cafes she liked, walking through streets that smelled like food and memories,and late night strolls with music flowing in her ears, pretending the world was hers for a moment.

She found comfort in her routine but she also let herself be spontaneous.

Acting wasn’t part of the original plan, she just decided to try out. A little opportunity at first but the more she leaned into it the way she did everything else and people noticed were living for it.

Directors,producers, audiences.

There was something about her something captivating. A presence that didn’t feel forced she didn’t have to.

She became someone people talked about. It didn’t happen overnight but it paced slowly overtime.Until her name started showing up in places she never imagined.

Magazines,interviews, red carpets.

And through it all, she carried herself the same way she always had.She was able to laugh easily, flirt if she wanted to, walk into a room like she belonged there.

She dated but nothing really ever stayed it wasn’t because she didn’t love them but because nothing ever felt the same.

Some nights, when the city slowed just enough, she’d find herself staring out of her window, wrapped in something soft, her reflection staring back at her through the glass and she would wonder for a second.What would’ve happened… if he hadn’t let her go?

She never stayed in that thought for long, she didn’t want to let him have that power over her.

Katsuki Bakugo became exactly what he said he would, a top hero named Dynamight, his name was everywhere.

All over news stations,headlines,interviews he barely tolerated. His victories were loud, explosive. He climbed rankings like it was easy.He got everything he worked for and everything he chose over her.

So why did it feel like something was missing?

He didn’t think about her at first. Well not really a lot.He didn’t have time to since he had to train, do missions, build his reputation, and push himself harder than anyone else.

That was the plan but then he saw her not in person but on a screen.

It was fast a passing motion. A face he used to drain with kisses, he recognized instantly. He tried brushing it off but something in his chest tightened before he could look away.

He paused and watched it again and there she was.Her name on the screen,her voice, softer but still confident,her smile brighter ,and her presence almost like glowing. He told himself it didn’t matter to him at all.

Of course she was doing something with herself. She was never the type to sit still. He turned the tv off and tried moving on which he couldn’t. She started showing up more. On insta reels,interviews,photos on insta then full features like movies,her face on billboards he couldn’t ignore even if he speeded up.

It got under his skin not because she was successful but because she looked happy,living.This wasn’t supposed to bother him. He acted on it from that day and didn’t try to change it.He tried to move on like really did for example the girl he was spotted by paparazzi with ; she was pretty,nice, liked him, and praised him but that wasn’t enough it should’ve been but it didn’t feel right.

Every time she laughed, it didn’t sound right, every time she touched him, it didn’t feel the same, every time he looked at her he wasn’t thinking or seeing her. He was comparing her and that didn’t sit right by him so he ended it. After that he stopped trying.

No matter who stood in front of him they were simply not her. When the rumors came, exploding in that same group chat that never really died, messages would pop up here and there. Filled with updates, jokes or random check ins.

And about her.

“Is she dating that boxer??”

“Yo, did you SEE those pics?”

“I know you see our texts, spill it”

He’d read them silent at night jaw tight as he scrolled as if it didn’t matter which it did, the thought of someone else having her,knowing her even touching her. Twisted a different type of pain into his chest. He never reached out but every time her name came up he paid attention.

Somewhere along the way, the truth settled into him like a slap.He didn’t lose her because of timing, distance or anything out of his control.He lost her because he let her go. And now? She has a whole life that didn’t include him.

And for the first time in a long time he didn’t know how to fix something.

Fate or whatever the hell he believed it was wasn’t done with them yet. Soon he wouldn’t have to watch her from a screen anymore. He’d be standing right in front of her.

NY in December felt like a movie she had stepped into and decided to stay in.

The air was chilly enough to kiss her cheeks pink, streets glowing with lights that never really turned off, laughter spilling out of restaurants and cars like heat fighting against the winter. It was packed with loud, alive and in a sort of romantic way.

“Okay, but this is actually insane,” Ochaco laughed, spinning slowly in the middle of her living room, taking everything in. “You live like this?”

Tsuyu nodded, eyes scanning the space. “It’s very much you.”

Momo smiled softly, already settled on the couch like she’d expected nothing less. “So warm!”

She leaned against the kitchen island, sipping from her glass, a small smile playing on her lips.

“I told you guys,” she said lightly. “NY has an effect on people.”

“Girl,” Mina cut in over the phone on speaker, “NY didn’t change you more like it opened you.”

She laughed, shaking her head maybe she was saying the true. New Year’s was her idea, a rented house just outside the city, big enough for everyone, filled with music, drinks, laughter that echoed off the walls. The kind of night people remembered.She moved through the space like she belonged at the center of it.

Greeting everyone with warmth, pulling people into hugs, laughing easily, dragging them out onto the dance floor. Her curls bounced with every movement, her outfit effortlessly perfect soft but eye catching, something that made people look twice without trying too hard.

She was glowing not just physically but in a that came from building something for herself.

“Okay, I need details,” Mina said, appearing in front of her with a drink in hand, eyes narrowed playfully. “Are you dating that boxer or not?”

She rolled her eyes, laughing softly. “I’m totally not.”

“Then why were you two looking real close in those pictures?”

“Simply because,” she said, taking a sip of her drink, “people can be around each other without it meaning something.”

Mina gasped dramatically. “That’s real grown mindset.”

And speaking of men.

“Hold on,” Denki’s voice cut through the room, looking around. “Bakugo didn’t make it ?”

A brief pause.

“Oh, about that,” Kirishima shrugged. “Dude said he had work or something.”

“Of course he did,he’s like a workaholic” Denki scoffed.

She took another sip of her drink, gaze steady, expression unchanged.

“Not surprised,” she said lightly. “He’s always been one to go for his goals.”

The moment passed, conversation picked back up as music filled the space again.

But later that night, standing outside on the balcony, wrapped in a coat, city lights stretching endlessly in front of her she let herself feel it.

He didn’t come.

She exhaled slowly, breath visible in the warning air.

Then straightened.

Rolled her shoulders back and she stepped back inside.

He could’ve gone. Katsuki sat in his apartment, the city outside quieter than usual, phone in his hand, screen lighting up every few seconds with notifications.

He saw pictures, videos from his friends stories. Laughter frozen in frames he wasn’t part of.Someone had posted a clip short, shaky, but enough.

She was laughing.

Head thrown back slightly, curls framing her face, glass in her hand, surrounded by people.

His didn’t known why after all this time he’s facing those feelings.

“She looks good,” someone had typed.

“Good?” another replied. “She looks stunning, what’s her @.”

He told himself he didn’t go because he was to busy, real important things to do but sitting there, alone, watching her live a life that no longer included him, he knew the truth that he didn’t go because he didn’t trust himself around her. Didn’t trust what he’d say. What he’d feel. What he might want to fix… when he had no right to anymore.

His thumb hovered over the screen, over her name remaining there still in his contact list, messages not deleted.He didn’t press it.Instead, he locked his phone, leaned back, and stared at the ceiling.

“I’m such a dumbass.”

No matter how far she went or time has passed she was still there.

Tokyo felt familiar in a way NY didn’t. Quieter in maybe some places and louder in others. Full of memories she hadn’t visited in years.Dinner with her mom had been very warm, grounding.Soft conversations, laughter, catching up.

Until.

“So,dear ” her mom said gently, setting her wine down, “have you talked to Katsuki?”

The question didn’t hit as hard as it once would’ve. She shook her head lightly.

“Nope,” she said. “It’s been some years.”

Her mom studied her for a moment not wanting to push and willing to understand it.

The group chat came alive again with making plans of going out. Everyone in one place like old times.She knew he’d be there.

She stood in front of the mirror for a moment longer than necessary out of intention. The black top hugged her perfectly.A black mini skirt , pulling everything in just enough to make out her shape without trying too hard. The neckline dipped softly, just enough to draw attention without feeling over much.

Over it, she layered a loose black jacket, slightly oversized, her legs were bare, smooth against the dim lighting, paired with open toe heels that clicked softly against the floor with every step she took. The sound was quite noticeable. Her curls were defined, falling effortlessly around her shoulders. Makeup soft but striking, enhancing what was already there.

The drive with Momo, Ochaco, and Mina was filled with laughter, overlapping conversations, the kind of easy comfort that never really goes away.

“Are you nervous?” Mina asked suddenly, glancing at her.

She adjusted her bracelet, expression calm.

“Nopee.”

Momo’s eyes flicked toward her, knowing.

The club was alive before they even stepped inside.

Music blasting through the walls, lights spilling out onto the street, a line of people waiting to get in.Inside it was much louder. Momo led the way.

“We have a table,” she said, glancing back briefly. “Follow me.”

She felt it before she saw him.

That shift in the air she can’t lie to herself that she was kinda nervous. Then their eyes met. Time didn’t stop but it felt like it slowed down for them. For the first time that night he forgot how to breathe.

He looked older somehow more attractive than she remembered.His gaze didn’t leave hers not even for a second.

She looked away first.

“Yo!” Denki’s voice broke the moment as he rushed over, pulling her into a hug. “Look who finally decided to show up!Super star”

She laughed, hugging him back easily.

“I’ve been busy, I’ve missed y’all” she teased.

Even as she smiled she felt his eyes on her.

The night had only just begun. The table was loud. Glasses clinking, music vibrating through the surface, voices overlapping as everyone tried to talk at once after years of distance. It should’ve felt easy almost familiar.

She slid into her seat, smoothing her outfit instinctively, crossing one leg over the other. Conversations wrapped around her immediately filled with questions, compliments, laughter.

“How’s NY?”

“Are you really filming that new movie?”

“Yo, you got famous on us—”

She handled it all the way she always did smiling, teasing, answering just enough.

“I didn’t get famous on you,” she laughed lightly. “You just finally started paying attention.”

That earned a chorus of reactions.Even as she spoke she could feel him. Across the table stealing glances looking at her with those eyes she once fell in love with.

Katsuki leaned back in his seat, one arm resting lazily against the back of the booth, drink in hand but he wasn’t really engaging in the conversation nor really since his attention kept drifting back to her.

She looked unreal not just pretty but different in a way that made it hard to look away. Untouchable in a way. He looked away,taking a sip of his drink like it would ground him.It didn’t.

“Shots!” Denki suddenly announced, appearing with a tray like it was his life’s mission, setting them down messily across the table.

“Careful!” Momo laughed.

“Relax, I got it, oh, star”Denki paused when his eyes landed on her, lighting up even more. “You didn’t get one yet!”

Before she could respond, he leaned in, pulling her into a quick hug, crazy to say Denki had to many drinks in.She hugged him back just as easily.

Katsuki’s gaze swapped to them instantly.

It was small enough. She noticed every bit of it.Her brows knit together slightly as she pulled away, glancing toward him.A flicker of irritation sparked in her chest.

He ended things with her.So why did it feel like he still thought he had some kind of claim?

She looked away first, reaching for her shot, tossing it back with ease.

“Alright,” she exhaled, setting the glass down. “Now I’m caught up.”

“Let’s go!” Denki cheered.

The night picked up again after that.People moving in and out of the booth, some heading to the dance floor, others getting drinks. Eventually without anyone announcing it,it was just them.She leaned back slightly in her seat, one arm resting against the table, her fingers lazily tracing the rim of her glass.

Katsuki sat kinda across from her now closer than before. For a moment neither of them spoke. Then.

“You’ve been busy.”

His voice was lower than before. To sharp or rough but quite tear.She glanced at him, expression composed.

“I could say the same about you.”

A heartbeat.

“You look…”He started, then stopped like he didn’t know how to finish that sentence, gosh he was acting like such a dork why did she have to have a effect on him even after all those years.

Her lips curved slightly.

“ Like different?”

“Exactly.”

She tilted her head, studying him now.

“You don’t.”

That made his brow twitch.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means,” she said smoothly, “you still talk like you’re arguing with everyone even when you’re not.”

A pause then a small huff of a laugh escaped him.God he forgot she could do that. They fell into conversation after that.

Pace slow as if they were stepping onto fragile glass.

“How’s acting?”

“It’s good,” she said. “I like it.”

“That all?”

She said lightly. “It makes me want to live.”

That lingered.

Before he could respond.

“Hey,” a voice cut in.

They both looked up. A attractive guy looking directly at her.

“ I’ve been eyeing you for a while can we dance”

She smiled.

“Sure.”

She stood and followed the guy. Katsuki watched her the entire time.Told himself she could do whatever she wanted.But his eyes didn’t listen as he watched the way she laughed at something the guy said and the way his hand rested a little too comfortably at her waist.Katsuki’s grip tightened around his glass.

“Prick.”

He looked away no matter how much he tried but couldn’t ignore it.By the time she made her way back to the table, she was tipsy,warmer, a bit less guarded.Most of the group had left by now.Momo had come by earlier, offering to drive her car and take the others.She had waved her off easily.

“I’ll stay a little longer.”

Now it was just them again.She dropped into her seat, exhaling softly.

“Okay,” she laughed lightly. “I forgot how exhausting dancing is.”

Katsuki watched her.

“You’ve changed.”

She looked at him, brows slightly raised.

“Is that a bad thing?”

“Nah.”

A pause then.

“You dating that boxer?”

She blinked and laughed softly, shaking her head.

“Wow straight to it, huh?”

He didn’t answer.She leaned back slightly, studying him now, a playful edge slipping into her tone.

“What about you?” she countered. “How’s your relationship going?”

His jaw relaxed.

“You saw it.”

“Hard not to,” she said, taking a sip of her drink. “You were all over the news.”

“It’s over.”

That made her pause for a sec and then she nodded.

“Oh.”

Silence stretched between them.He watched her carefully.

“What about you?” he asked. “That boxer—”

She waved it off instantly.

“Not a thing.”

Another pause something unspoken lingered there.The club started to empty,lights shifting slightly, music lowering just enough to signal the end of the night.

“Closing soon,” someone called out.

She sighed softly, pushing herself up, grabbing her purse.

“Guess that’s my cue for tonight.”

She turned started to walk.The cool crisp night air hit her immediately.She stepped onto the sidewalk, adjusting her bag on her shoulder, glancing around briefly.

Of course, her car was taken by Momo.

“…Shit.”

She exhaled, looking down the street. Facing her options in calling a cab or walk.

She knew her way around so she started walking. Behind her Katsuki stood still for a moment. Watching the way her hair moved with each step, the way her figure disappeared further into the night and

something in his chest twisted.He moved.

“Hey”

He grabbed her wrist a little too rough.She reacted instantly turning, fist connecting with his face.

“Take your hands off..” she shouted then froze.

“Katsuki?”

He turned his head back slowly, hand coming up to his jaw.Then he laughed. She stared at him, confused.

“What’s funny?”

He looked at her, really taking her in.

“I forgot,” he said, voice rough with amusement, “how strong you are.”

Her expression softened slightly, a small laugh slipping out.

“Well,” she said, adjusting her bag, “you shouldn’t grab people like that.”

“I know sorry.”

A pause.

“I’ll drive you.”

“I’m fine,” she waved him off. “I can get a”

He didn’t let her finish.

Instead he stepped forward picking her up and threw her over his shoulder like it was nothing.

“Katsuki—!” she yelled, hitting his back lightly. “Put me down!”

“No, plus your stumbling you could probably fall.”

“I seriously dislike you.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

He was smiling,blushing slightly where she couldn’t see. After a few steps.

“Okay, you can put me down now.”

And just like he listened to her.She fixed herself, smoothing her outfit then looked up and he was already staring at her softer in his eyes unguarded.

“I missed you, I know you probably don’t want to know this but I have-”

The words barely had time to settle before

Flash.

Clic.

Flash.

They both turned facing cameras and voices shouting.

“Is that Dynamight—?!”

“Are you two together?!”

“Does this mean you are cheating on boxer Hen ?!”

Her eyes widened.

“Run come on.” she said quickly, grabbing his hand and they did.Running through the streets, laughter breaking through the chaos, footsteps echoing as cameras chased after them until they reached his car.

Doors opened they got in as he locked the doors quickly since the people caught up to them cameras still flashing outside voices muffled now.

P4-listings

NeighborToji x Reader

A knock kissing her front door. Soft but loud enough to pull her out her sleep.

She groaned, turning onto her side, burying her face into the pillow as if she just ignored it, it will go away. Candy lifted his head from the end of the bed, ears twitching, then let out a small huff. Another knock.

“Who??” her voice came out rough, barely above a whisper as she reached blindly for her phone.

6:18 a.m.

“Seriously at this time.”

She sat up slowly, wincing as a dull ache settled behind her eyes. A reminder of last night, her hair was a mess,sleep shorts, oversized top. Another knock was placed at her door.

“Okay,alright.” she muttered, dragging herself out of bed.

Candy beat her to the door, tail wagging like he already knew who it was.She frowned slightly at that.

“Don’t tell me it’s…”

She unlocked the door, pulling it open just enough and there he was.

Standing there like it wasn’t barely sunrise, dressed for the day already. Put together, hair slightly damp seemed like he’d just showered. One hand held a small container. The other had flowers. Not a huge bouquet but it was put together nicely.

She blinked at him.

“…you’re joking.”

His eyes flicked over her.

“Morning.”

Her brows pulled together slightly, still processing.

“It’s six in the morning.”

“Six eighteen,” he corrected casually, holding the bag up a little. “You looked like you needed this.”

She stared at him another second before stepping back, opening the door wider.

“If I pass out, it’s on you.”

He huffed a quiet laugh as he stepped inside.

Candy was already circling his legs.

“Yeah, I can tell he missed me.”

“He is just to friendly” she muttered, closing the door behind him.

Her apartment still with that soft and put together. She walked past him slowly, rubbing her temple.

“You woke up this early… for this? It’s nice” she asked, glancing back at him.

He shrugged, setting the container down on the kitchen island.

“I wake up early anyway.”

Her eyes dropped to the flowers.

“…And those?”

A small pause.

“Thought you’d like them.”

She didn’t say it out loud, but the way her expression softened just slightly gave it away.She walked over, taking them from his hand more carefully than she meant to.

“They’re… pretty.”

“Yeah?”

“Yes really.”

She turned, moving toward the sink, pulling out a glass vase from underneath. Filling it with water, adjusting the stems, placing it right in the center of the island. She stared at it for a second too long before catching herself.

“…Okay, what did you actually bring,” she said, turning back.

“Soup,” he replied. “A recovering cure.”

Her stomach reacted immediately.

“You might be my favorite person right now.”

“Damn,” he said lightly. “Didn’t think it’d be that easy.”

She rolled her eyes, but there was no annoyance more like playful. She moved closer, opening the container, the warmth hitting her instantly.

“Okay yeah, you did something right.”

He leaned slightly against the counter, arms relaxed as he watched her.

“You feel like shit?”

“Not fully,” she said honestly. “Just a headache.”

“Drink water or some tea.”

“Yup, noted.”

“You don’t act like it.”

She gave him a look.

“Alright mom, I’ll take care of myself better.”

He smirked faintly.She ignored that, grabbing a spoon, taking a small bite. Surprisingly it was quite good.

“Okay,” she admitted quietly. “This is good.”

“Told you.”

A small silence settled.

“So,” he said, glancing around slightly. “You always this busy, first day you moved in always heard you rehearsing your notes.?”

Her brows lifted slightly.

“That’s kinda creepy but do you mean my life?”

“Yeah.”

She leaned back against the counter, crossing her arms loosely.

“I’m in school,” she said. “Biology. I’m working toward becoming a physician assistant.”

He nodded slowly, actually listening.

“That why you’re always in scrubs?”

“Yeah. I work and volunteer at the hospital, to get my volunteering hours.”

“That sounds like a lot.”

“It is.”

A small shrug.

“But I like it.”

He watched her for a second longer than necessary.

“I figured.”

She tilted her head slightly.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“You don’t seem like the type to do something you don’t care about.”

That caught her off guard a little. She didn’t respond right away, just took another bite.

“What about you?” she asked after a second. “What do you do?”

He exhaled lightly, straightening a bit.

“Architect.”

Her eyes flicked up.

“Seriously?”

“Yeah.”

“That explains the papers I saw that one time,” she said without thinking.

His brow lifted.

“You were looking?”

“Candy ran into your apartment,” she corrected quickly. “I had to get him.”

He huffed a quiet laugh.

“Right.”

She pointed her spoon at him.

“Don’t twist it.”

“I’m not.”

Another small pause.

“You got a number?” he asked.

She blinked.

“What?”

“So I don’t have to knock at six in the morning next time.”

There was something about the way he said it trying to apply no pressure behind it.She studied him for a second.

“You planning on bringing soup every time?”

“If needed.”

A small smile tugged at her lips before she could stop it.

“Fine.”

She set her spoon down, reaching for her phone. He pulled his out too, stepping a little closer. They exchanged phones briefly.When she handed it back, she added.

“And just so you know…”

He glanced up.

“If you start acting weird, I’m blocking you.”

He smirked.

“Really?”

“So serious.”

“Noted.”

A pause came then.

“Names Toji, I haven’t introduced myself since I moved in.”

She looked at him properly this time. Telling him her name.

He glanced down at her contact name and saved it to his contacts.When he looked back up, she was already picking up her spoon again like it was nothing.Even after he got a call as Toji stepping aside, answering it briefly, voice shifting into work tone.He ended it quickly.

“Gotta go.”

She nodded.

“Yeah, architect things.”

He grabbed his bag, heading toward the door before pausing.

“We should go out sometime.”

She didn’t answer right away, just took another bite.

“We’ll see.”

A small smirk pulling at his mouth.

“Absolutely,” he said. “We will.”

And then he left. The door closed softly behind him as silence filled the apartment again.She stood there for a second, spoon in hand, staring at nothing in particular.

Then her eyes shifted to the flowers looking fresh.

“Right,” she murmured to herself.

“This might be a problem.”

From that day everything changed not completely but slowly. A text later that afternoon as they talked casual then another which somehow it was only the beginning.

There wasn’t a single clear moment where things shifted between them,it was quieter than that. The type of change you don’t notice until you’re already deep in it.It started with small things. Her phone lighting up with his name more often than not. At first, it had been random, almost inconvenient. Now it slipped into her day without effort.

You eat yet?

You still alive after that shift?

Run later?

She used to take her time replying, letting minutes stretch just to keep some kind of distance. Now, her responses came quicker than she’d admit with sometimes instinctive, thumbs moving before her mind caught up. And that alone should’ve told her something.

One afternoon, she was sprawled across her couch, snacks in front of her but long abandoned. Candy was curled against her leg, rising and falling with slow, steady breaths. The soft hum of the TV filled the room without her watching it. Her phone buzzed against the cushion.

You busy?

Her eyes lingered on the message longer than necessary.

Depends

The reply came almost instantly.

Come outside

By the time she stepped outside, the air felt warmer, the city alive in that lazy, mid afternoon way. And there he was leaning against his car like he’d been there long enough to get comfortable. Sunglasses on, keys spinning lazily around his finger, posture relaxed like he wasn’t doing anything out of the ordinary.

“What?” she asked, stopping a few feet away.

He pushed off the car, straightening slightly. “You said you weren’t busy.”

“I said depends.”

“Yeah,” he opened the passenger door without hesitation, “get in.”

She crossed her arms, unimpressed. “Have gotten comfortable to be this bossy?”

“Only when people take too long.”

She stared at him for a second,then at the open door. Then back at him.

“If I get kidnapped, I’m blaming you.”

“You talk too much to get kidnapped.”

She got in anyway. The drive was easy. Quiet, but not awkward. The kind of silence that wasn’t awkward.

“Where are we going?” she asked, glancing at him.

“You’ll see.”

She exhaled through her nose, leaning her head lightly against the window. “You love doing that.”

“Doing what?”

“Being vague.”

He glanced at her briefly, one corner of his mouth lifting. “You still get in the car.”

She rolled her eyes, but there was no bite behind it this time. “Don’t make me regret it.”

“I won’t.”

When they stopped, it wasn’t anything extravagant. Just a quiet spot near the water, far enough from the noise that the city felt softer. A breeze moved through, light and steady, carrying the faint scent of salt and concrete.

She stepped out, taking it in slowly.He leaned back against the hood of his car, watching her instead of the view. “What do you think?”

“This is nice,” she admitted, softer than before.

“Thought you’d like it.”

She glanced at him briefly, something unreadable flickering across her expression. “You were right.”

They stayed longer than planned. Sitting side by side, talking about nothing and everything at the same time. Stories slipped out easier out there about childhood memories, stupid arguments.

“You got into a fight over that?” she asked at one point, laughter slipping out freely.

“I was right.”

“You threw a punch over a game.”

“It was a foul .”

“You’re insane.”

“You would’ve done worse.”

She shook her head, still smiling. “I would’ve just won.”

That made him laugh a quieter but genuine.

And somewhere between that moment and the next, something settled between them.

Days blurred into each other after that. Then weeks, somewhere along the way, being around him stopped feeling like something she had to think about.

It became quite easy.

Running together turned into some form of competition without either of them saying it out loud. What started as coincidence became expectation.

“Last one to the corner buys breakfast,” she said one morning, already picking up her pace.

“That’s not fair,” he called after her.

“How?”

“You started running already.”

“Then catch up Toji.”

He did but he let her reach first just enough to keep her satisfied and to see her beautiful smile that reached her pretty eyes.

Grocery trips became something else entirely. What should’ve been quick turned into long, unnecessary arguments in the middle of aisles.

“You don’t need three different face masks,” he said, watching her toss another into the basket.

“I do though. ”

“For what?”

“For options.”

“That’s not a reason.”

She grabbed another one just to prove a point. “Can you quit touching my stuff.”

“I’m saving you money.”

“I didn’t ask.”

“You need it.”

“You need to mind your business.”

There were smaller moments too. Ones that didn’t seem like much but lingered in their mind longer than they should.For example when he reached over her for something on a high shelf, his arm brushing slightly against her shoulder or when she leaned in to grab it from his hand instead of the shelf, her fingers grazing his wrist just long enough for him to notice.

“Stop playing,” she said lightly.

Their cooking “friend” nights got louder, messier and more comfortable.

“You’re cutting it wrong again, it looks so uneven.”

“It’s literally fine.”

“It’s not.”

“Then why does it taste good?”

“Because I fixed it.”

“You’re doing to much .”

“Yet you still come over.”

He paused at that, just for a second too long. “Yea, free food right.”

And then there were the quiet nights, that felt different. They weren’t doing anything special but just sitting in her living room, the TV playing something neither of them was fully paying attention to. Candy stretched out between them relaxed.

Her legs were pulled up slightly, angled toward him. His arm rested along the back of the couch behind her not touching her but near enough that she could feel the space and the air weight of his arm.

“You good?” he said after a while.

“Just thinking.”

“About?”

She turned her head slightly, meeting his eyes. “How you’re not as annoying or creepy as I thought.”

He raised a brow. “That’s the nicest thing you’ve said to me.”

A pause stretched between them.

“You’re different too.”

She blinked. “In what way?”

He held her gaze for a second longer than usual. “Thought you’d be harder to deal with.”

“I am.”

He shook his head, almost to himself. “Nah.”

And then came the moments that made her pause, to rethink about.Like when she laughed too hard and leaned into him without thinking much and neither of them moved away or when his hand found her waist to guide her through a crowded space, lingering just a enough before letting go, or perhaps the way he looked at her like he was trying to figure something out he didn’t have words for.

After spending some night together , night as came for the city. They were ready to apart, he stood at her door that night, like he always did, neither of them rushed it.

“You staying up later?” he asked.

“Probably.”

“Text me if you can’t sleep.”

She tilted her head slightly, teasing him. “Now why would I do that, Toji?”

“I’ll keep you company.”

Something in her chest tightened at that but she kept her expression steady.

“I’ll try to remember.”

He didn’t leave right away nor did she close her door neither of them wanting the night to end.

“Goodnight.”

“Night.”

Finally he turned, walking toward his door. Both of them diving into their own place. That’s when it really settled in.This wasn’t just convenience anymore, they have gotten closer, the closer they got was going to be harder to pretend it didn’t mean anything, that they were just friendly neighbors/friends.

Something happened it was subtle that if you weren’t paying attention, you’d miss it entirely but they both felt it. The quick exts throughout the day, there were now pauses. His messages came a little later than usual. In person, it was worse. Since they didn’t stop seeing each other. That would’ve made the distancing too obvious

Instead, they missed each other.

She’d step out into the hallway just as his door clicked shut. He’d come back late on nights she’d usually be awake. Morning runs turned into “maybe tomorrow,” then “I’ve got an early shift,” then nothing at all.

It was hesitation.

Somewhere between grocery runs, late night movies, shared laughter, and long conversations that lingered too long, something had changed but neither of them said it.

Well, she noticed it first, the way he was pulling away. In fact to him, he wasn’t pulling away completely but he wasn’t leaning in either.It seemed like he was waiting for a line.

He noticed her behavior too.The way she still smiled at him, still let him in, still let him stay longer than necessary but she never crossed the line.For once in his life, Toji didn’t push. Didnt chase his recklessly ideas, because with her he didn’t want to mess it up.

So they existed in that space, something that felt like it was building toward something bigger but neither were sure if the that was what the other wanted.

Which is exactly how she ended up saying yes.

“Just go on the date,” Mai had told her over the phone. “You’ve been lowkey weird lately.”

“Haven’t...”

“You’re thinking too much.”

She paused at that plus she wasn’t about to sit around waiting for something that hadn’t been said out loud. She definitely wasn’t the type to revolve around a man who hadn’t made a move.

So she agreed to keep him out her mind.

The night of the date, her apartment felt calm.Music played softly from her phone as she moved around, wrapped in a satin robe, hair pinned up as she worked through a careful blowout. Each section smooth, intentional, falling perfectly into place.

Her makeup followed soft and defying her features. Skin glowing, lashes lifted, lips glossy.

When she stepped into her outfit, it fit like it was made for her. The black classy top hugged clean against her frame. The skirt asoft cream color with delicate detailing of flowers fell elegant. Her heels clicked softly against the floor as she moved, adjusting her bag.

The restaurant was exactly what Mai described. Filled with warm soft lighting, low conversations, glasses clinking softly, the kind of place where everything felt just a little more intimate.

When she approached the table, she saw him.

Hiromi Higuruma like Mai told her.He wasn’t what she expected not in a disappointing way.

He stood out in the dim, golden lighting of the restaurant, dressed in a sharp tailored black suit that fit him with perfectly.

His face was composed, almost severe at first glance, but softened by details that became clearer the longer she looked. His eyes were deepset and framed by a steady gaze that didn’t wander

When she reached the table, he stood immediately, smoothly and unhurried, as he pulled her chair out without hesitation.

“Hi.”

His voice was calm.

She smiled slightly. “Hey.”

They introduced themselves and conversation came easy. He listened in a way that felt present, patient, letting her finish without interruption. And when he spoke, it was thoughtful, like he weighed his words before offering them, but never so long that silence became uncomfortable.Wine was poured and food came.

Time passed without either of them needing to fill every gap. By the end of it, she found herself smiling without thinking.

Outside, the night air was cooler, brushing softly against her skin as she stepped toward the curb and pulled out her phone to call a cab.

“Hey.”

She turned.

Higuruma was there again, a few steps behind her now, holding out a small folded piece of paper.

“I had a good time,” he said simply.

She took it, her fingers brushing the paper as she glanced down for just a second before meeting his eyes again. “Me too, it was nice.”

A small nod passed between them. Then he stepped back, giving her space without making it feel like distance.

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”

From behind her a voice rose.

“So that was a date?”

Her head turned and there he was, the man she was trying to figure out.For a second, everything else blurred. Dressed sharp, dark navy shirt fitted just enough, his presence heavy without effort.His eyes were already set on her. She slipped the paper into her bag effortlessly.

“Yeah,” she said simply. “It was.”

His jaw shifted slightly.

“Blind date?”

She nodded once.

“Friend set it up.”

A beat hit him. He kept looking at her, taking in everything ; the outfit, the hair, the way she carried herself.

“You look gorgeous.”

She held his gaze.

“Thank you.”

Something about the whole thing made his chest tighten.

“I was nearby,” he said after a second. “Saw you.”

She tilted her head slightly.

“Small world for us.”

He exhaled quietly.

“Walk with me.”

It didn’t feel a command. She considered him for a second then nodded. The city stretched around them as they walked. Lights sparkling off buildings, distant laughter, the hum of cars still alive. Their conversation started casual.He mentioned he’d been out with friends, trying to hint that he wasn’t with a women.She listened, adding small comments here and there.

Then.

“Toji!! Is that you?!”

A high pitched bright voice cut through. They both turned a woman approached quickly, heels clicking, dress tight, big smile. She didn’t even acknowledge her as her attention went straight to him.

“It’s been forever.”

Toji’s expression flatten at her presence.

She didn’t interrupt instead, she checked the time on her phone.Then spoke up in a calm tone.

“I’m heading out.”

Which got his attention immediately.

“You don’t have to”

She looked at him, small smile.

“You’ve got someone waiting on you. Don’t let me interrupt.” She said not wanting to sound bitter and then she walked off.

“Hey, wait.”

Footsteps behind her, quick, she turned.

“Don’t go like that.”

Her brow lifted slightly.

“Like what?”

He exhaled, running a hand through his hair.

“That’s not, she’s not—”

“Look it’s none of my concern,it’s your business ” she cut in smoothly.

It hit him harder than anything else she could’ve said.

“I’m not like that,” he said, jaw tightening.

“I’m not involved, so I should get going.” she replied.

Her gaze held his.

“Toji, you think whatever this is between us means I’m just gonna hook up with you or whatever—-.”

His expression shifted instantly.

“That’s not what this is.”

“Then what is it?”

Silence filled the space a second to long.

“Exactly.”

Turning again, he caught her wrist not trying to be rough or hurt her.

“Stop.”

She stilled.

“I want you.”

The words came out rough.

“I’ve been trying not to screw this up,” he continued. “Trying not to push you into something you don’t want.”

Eyes searching his.

“I don’t want something easy,” he said. “I want you, my heart calls out for you.”

Her expression shifted.

“You think I don’t see it?” He added. “The way you are keeping your distance? The way you make me work for every inch?”

A breath.

“I don’t mind that, as long as I’m spending time with you.”

His grip got gently, not letting her go.

“I’m not trying to sleep with you and leave.”

His voice dropped.

“I want to fill my days with you.”

She stepped closer, closing the distance this time.

“You should’ve said that sooner.”

Before he could respond, she pulled him down into a kiss.His hand came to her waist instantly, pulling her closer.Not wanting to let her go.They pulled back as he placed his hand over her jaw gently caressing her cheek.

“Don’t mess this up.” She told him.

“Wasn’t planning to.”

This time walking side by side again there was no distance between them.

Mornings turned into shared routines.Running together, side by side, competitive as ever but now with touches, teasing that was more. Her things started appearing at his apartment.

A hair clip on his nightstand ,lip gloss in his car, jacket thrown over her couch, shirts left behind and his watch on her nightstand.

“Stay.”

Was a routine thing to say. Nights blurred into mornings.Her curled into his side, his strong arm wrapped tightly around her.

“Comfortable?” he murmured once, half asleep.

She shifted closer instead of answering him.

Planned trips turned into plans.

“Hella overpacking.”

“I like options.”

Hiking trips where she complained halfway through.

“You said this was easy! My back is hurting from this bag”

“It is easy.”

“ It’s not!”

He just laughed, pulling her along anyway.

p3- listings

NeighborToji x Reader

The first run in after that night in the elevator. She had just finished a shift, still in her now wrinkly scrubs, hair pulled back but slightly undone from the long day. Her bag hung on her shoulder as she stepped inside, pressing her floor without much thought. The doors started to close then reopened.

“Good Evening .”

She adjusted her grip on her bag slightly. “Evening.”

That was it there was no attitude or snarky comment. He stood a few feet away, hands relaxed at inside his pockets with his eyes forward. He didn’t try to make conversation.The elevator ride passed quietly, the hum of air. When it stopped, they both stepped out without looking at each other.

After it happened more and it wasn’t intentional but just enough to notice how they were in places together. A passing glance in the hallway or a quiet “hey” or “night” exchanged in between unlocking doors. One time, she caught him coming in late with a backpack slung over his shoulder, sleeves slightly rolled, keys already in hand. He barely spared her a glance before stepping inside his place, door shutting with a loud thud behind him. Another time, she was coming back from her run with Candy when she saw his door open. The puppy moved up instantly,before letting out a short bark.

“Candy—” she started.

It was too late since he slipped past her legs and ran straight toward his open.

“Candy!” she called again, chasing after him. The door was only half open and she hesitated then pushed it open just enough to step inside.“I’m so sorry, he just—”

She looked around, it was not what she expected, it looked clean, quite organized and a couch that looked barely used with a low table in the center with a few items stacked on top and papers.

Large sheets are spread across the table marked with neat lines,structured drawings, measurements and angles. He must be an architecture.

Candy went further in like he owned the place, nails clicking softly against the floor.

“Hey” she called after Candy which stopped herself as she saw her neighbor.

“…hey sorry, he just ran in.”

He seemed not annoyed nor surprised. He leaned slightly against the wall, arms crossed loosely as he watched her try to grab up the dog.

“He seems to like my place,” he said.

She finally managed to pick Candy up, holding him against her chest as he wiggled slightly.

“I don’t think so” she muttered. “He just doesn’t listen.”

His gaze flicked from the dog that looked bigger than last time.

“Right,” she added quickly, stepping back toward the door. “Sorry again didn’t mean to be rude or anything .”

“It’s fine.”

She nodded and stepped out, closing the door behind her a little too quickly.Back in her place, she set Candy down gently.

The next passing days went with short interactions, small hints of acknowledgments nothing dramatic but there was a shift in how they acted.

She started to notice things about him like how he wasn’t actually home as often as he was before.Most nights, she’d hear his door sometime after hers much later, heavier footsteps, keys dropping somewhere inside, followed by phone calls about work or the low hum of a television.

Some nights, there’d be nothing at all just quietness on the other side of the wall.

One afternoon, she ran into him outside the building. Since she had just come back from a quick grocery run, a reusable bag hanging off her shoulder, keys already in hand. She was halfway near the entrance when the door opened from the inside.He stepped out. They almost bumped into each other again .

“Damn”

She caught herself just in time, shifting to the side.

“Sorry,” she said quickly, adjusting the bag on her shoulder.

He gazed down at her, one brow lifting slightly.

“You always running into people or just me?”

Her eyes narrowed just a little.

“On accident.”

A corner of his mouth twitched.

“Yeah?”

“Yes.”

She stepped past him before the conversation could linger any longer, pulling the door open and slipping inside.

She felt his eyes on her as she walked away and she didn’t like how aware she was of it because why did it catch her attention if he was looking at her.

Another time, it was at a shop.One she had been going to more often lately,far enough from her building. She had placed her ordered in and was waiting off to the side, scrolling through her phone when.

“Didn’t take you for a mango person.”

Her head lifted.

He stood some feet away her as he aswell was waiting in the wait section.

“Didn’t take you for… being so observant.” she replied, eyeing him briefly before looking away again, wanting her order to hurry up.

“Ehh, I’m not really ” he said. “You just stand out.” Her mind paused just for a second,her order being called out snapped her back as she took her drink from the counter.

“Don’t read too much into it,” she said, turning slightly toward him. “For some reason we just end up in the same places, coincidence”

He hummed softly, like he didn’t fully believe that.

“Right.”

She walked past him before he could add anything else.By the end of the following weeks, it had become like a routine as if the universe was pushing them to be more than neighbors. They passed each other in the hallway,shared the elevator, said short comments and short glances. It couldn’t mean anything but also it felt like nothing was wrong, that was the problem.

This friday, something felt different. She noticed it the moment she woke up while stretching slowly, rolling onto her back, staring up at the ceiling for a second longer than usual. Then moved some hair off her face.

“Today is for going out …” she murmured softly. Candy’s ears perked up instantly from his spot near the door.

“Not you,” she added, laughing lightly as she sat up. “You’re staying right here to watch the place.”

By 7 p.m. her apartment felt awake in a different way. Music played from her TV, the tunes filling every corner of the space as she moved around her room. The kind of playlist that made it impossible not to sway a little. Her blow dryer hummed loudly as she worked through sections of her hair, smoothing it out, fingers running through the strands to make sure everything fell just right. The mirror reflecting her movements.

Her makeup came next going with nothing too heavy, just enough to enhance her features . She prepped her skin and blended in foundation then moving on to blending a warmtoned shadow over her lids,deepening it slightly at the outer corners before adding a sharp, clean wing. A few coats of mascara lifted her lashes, making her eyes stand out. Her skin looked smooth and glowing, finished with a soft contour and a touch of blush that warmed her cheeks. Last was her lips she lined them carefully, then filled with a glossy shade that caught the light every time she moved.

Standing up, she reached for her outfit a black set.The cropped top hugged her perfectly, the lace sleeves adding a subtle contrast of texture while the fabric shaped around her. The matching mini skirt sat snug on her hips, simple but flattering,

She slipped into her heels, adjusting them quickly.

She grabbed her purse, checking through it for her phone, lip gloss, keys before slinging it over her shoulder.She walked toward her front door, reaching for the handle and opened it at the same time as next door opened too. Toji stepped out dressed in all black, the short sleeve button up sat loose against his frame, slightly open at the collar, giving just a glimpse of his neck where a gold chain caught the fading light. His trousers fell clean and straight, The dark tones made everything about him sharper with the way the gold chain rested against his collarbone, catching the light, the subtle glint of a watch at his wrist.

And for a second, neither of them said anything.He looked up first from the locked door and lowered his gaze on her.His eyes moved slowly, taking her in slowly. She lifted her gaze slightly, holding his gaze just enough to not make it obvious she was checking him out.

“Hey,” he said finally, voice lower than usual.

“You look good.”

She adjusted her bag slightly on her shoulder.

“Thanks.”

A pause.

“Night out?”

She nodded once. “Yeah, with friends.”

Then, because she wasn’t about to make this one sided again.

“What about you?”

He slipped his keys into his pocket.

“Got a double date.”

No wonder he was all dressed up.Her expression didn’t change but something in her chest shifted just slightly. Not jealousy nor disappointment just realization

“Good luck, hope it goes well!” she said smoothly.

His gaze stayed on her a second longer.

“…yeah.”

She stepped past him, heels clicking softly against the floor as she headed toward the elevator.Halfway there, she glanced back and caught him still looking. She lifted her hand in a small, casual wave.Then turned back heading towards the elevator. The elevator ride down felt longer than usual not because it actually was but because her mind wouldn’t stop thinking.

She leaned lightly against the wall, arms relaxed at her sides, her thoughts kept circling back to the same thing.

Double date.

Of course he had one.She exhaled quietly, adjusting the strap of her purse.

“Shouldn’t even matter to me.” she muttered under her breath. The doors slid open.

Outside, NY was alive in a way that only fridays could bring.

Music spilled out of passing cars, bass vibrating faintly through the pavement. Groups of people clustered on sidewalks, laughter overlapping, voices loud and careless. Girls in heels walked arm in arm, fixing each other’s hair, their outfits catching the glow of streetlights. Couples lingered too close on corners. Someone shouted across the street. Someone else answered.

“Finally!” Nobara’s voice called from the car.

She smiled instantly, slipping into the passenger seat. “I had to do something real quick, sorry guys .”The car pulled off, music rising again, the city blurring past in streaks of light.

“The others are already there,” Suguru said, glancing at her through the rearview mirror.

“Good,” she leaned back into her seat. “I need a drink.”

“That sounds concerning,” Maki muttered.

“I mean is it really if we going to the club”

From the moment they stepped inside, the air shifted to thicker, warmer, filled with music that pulsed through her chest instead of just her ears. Lights flashed across the room in quick bursts, catching on faces, bodies, movement. It was loud,crowded and overall just what she needed to have fun.

“Stay together!” someone shouted which she didn’t even know who since the music was way to loud. The comment went over their heads since they were already splitting off.

She moved around, letting herself get pulled toward the center, the music taking over before she could think too much about anything else. Time went by fast as songs changed,bodies moved, drinks were offered to her from random guys who hovered just asking to dance. She danced with strangers and her friends.

She stepped away for a break.The bar was slightly less crowded, the noise dipping just enough for her to breathe as she leaned against the counter.

“Water,” she told the bartender, brushing her hair away from her face.Her skin felt warm, a light sheen of sweat at her collarbone, her chest rising and falling just a little faster than normal. The bottle pressed cold against her palm when it was handed to her. She took a sip then another refreshing herself. Her scanned across the room, taking in movement, light until it stopped at the entrance, her brows pulled together slightly.

“…no fucking way.”

For a second, she thought the alcohol was messing with her vision but no, it was Toji. He stepped inside calm with a blonde clinging to his arm, leaning in to say something near his ear, her hand resting just a little too comfortably against him. Behind them, another man followed; blonde, fit, equally put together. Her grip loosened slightly around the bottle.

She looked away because there was no reason to keep hawking at him when all they were are neighbors, they don’t even know each other’s name.

She slipped into the bathroom, letting go of the door behind her as the bass cleared up a bit. Inside the bathroom the lighting was softer with colder air. The hum of girls talking over one another, heels clicking against the floor, the faint snap of makeup closing.

A long stretch of mirrors lined the wall, crowded with girls touching up ; fingers combing through curls, gloss wands, phones angled just right for pictures. It felt like a different world from outside.

She found an open space between them, setting her purse on the counter as she pulled out her lip gloss. Her movements were calmer since she had a better place to breathe in, she slightly tilted her chin as she traced the shine across her lips. A quick press together. A subtle check from one angle, then the other.

That’s when she caught voices drifting from the far end of the counter.

“…I don’t know, he just feels… off,” one girl said, her tone low but edged with frustration. In the mirror, she adjusted the bra from her top, pushing it up slightly, like she needed everything to sit just right.

Glossy blonde hair falling straight down her back.Her friend stood beside her, leaning a hip against the counter, arms loosely crossed as she watched. Brunette with a confident posture.

“He’s hot, I’ll give you that,” the blonde said with a small, amused smile. “But it’s like… he’s not even trying.”

The brunette huffed a quiet laugh, shaking her head. “Exactly like, you look good tonight,” she glanced at the mirror, smoothing a hand over her dress, “and he’s just… there.”

“Maybe he’s just like that,” the brunette offered, though she didn’t sound fully convinced.

“Either way I’m not leaving without getting some tonight,” the blonde insisted, lowering her voice just slightly, like it made it more valid. “I’ll make his mind be all about me.”

Her hand stilled for a second not being obvious, her gaze stayed on her reflection, expression unreadable. If anything, she kept looking better. She adjusted a strand of her hair, smoothing it back into place. Then she turned and stepped out of the bathroom, the music hit her again instantly.

She stepped back onto the floor, the music hitting her with full max this time as the bass was louder, heavier. Her gaze scanned the room trying to find them until she spotted her group tucked around one of the tables. Drinks crowded the surface with half finished glasses, fresh ones being passed around as voices overlapped, laughter already filling the space like they owned it.

“There you are!” Suguru called, lifting his glass in her direction, a lazy grin pulling at his lips.

She slipped into the open seat beside him, setting her purse down as she exhaled lightly. “Had me lost for a second.”

“I tried but everyone ran like they had a sugar rush” he told her back.

“Yea that was crazy,” she hummed, reaching for one of the drinks on the table. Right on time, Satoru appeared, weaving through the crowd with a handful of shot glasses balanced easily in his hands.

“Don’t say I never do anything for y’all,” he announced, setting them down one by one.

“Money must’ve hit your account, knowing you own me” Suguru said.

She let out a small laugh, already picking hers up. The group following, glasses raised loosely before the moment passed just as quickly as it came as the liquid burned her throat, quick but strong enough to make her scrunch her nose slightly as she set the glass back on the table.

Beside them, Choso leaned back in his chair, already pulling out a blunt, lighting it with practiced ease before passing it over to Mai. The atmosphere shifted looser, hazier, the night settling darker. A large presence leaning in just enough to be noticed. He tilted slightly toward her, voice rough just brushing her ear over the music. “Let’s dance.”

His eyes caught hers, red irises pulling her attention, not bright enough but striking enough that once you noticed, it was hard to look anywhere else. A small smile tugged at her lips.

“Let’s go.”

She didn’t wait for him to move first just reached for his hand and pulled him up with her, already heading toward the crowd.This was who she was she didn’t hesitated, if she wanted something even as simple as a dancing she went for it and for the guy? He always followed without thinking twice.

The crowd swallowed them, bodies closing in, movement constant as the music shifted to heavier now, slower, bass dragging through every beat.She turned into him naturally,Sukuna adjusted just as easily, one hand settling at her waist,etting her decide the pace. Her movements came easy, hips swaying in time with the music, shoulders loose, her body flowing instead of forcing anything. Sukuna caught onto her rhythm quickly, matching her without stepping over it. There was confidence in the way he moved.

“You always this bold,” he murmured, leaning in just enough for her to hear him, “or is it just with me?”

She let out a soft laugh, not breaking their rhythm as she glanced at him over her shoulder. “Come on, don’t get cocky right now.”

“Mm,” he hummed, a hint of amusement there. “So I’m not special?”

She turned slightly then, just enough to face him more directly, one brow lifting.

“You’re here, aren’t you? Be glad I’m dancing even.”

She got that feeling where you can feel someone watching you,her eyes shifted looking past shoulders, glowy lights, faces that blurred together under the lights and just across the room was those green eyes holding hers with a focus of personal as if the distance between them didn’t matter as it should.

He wasn’t even pretending to listen to whatever was being said around him. The girl beside him telling him midsentence but he barely reacted. Because his attention was very much clearly on her. She held his gaze a second too long then she turned away, not knowing what that sharp unexpected feeling on her chest was.

She stepped back from Sukuna with a small laughter, brushing her hair over her shoulder.

“I need a drink,” she said, already half turning away.

“Running already?” he teased, voice low.

She glanced back,giving him a that look you give to a guy when he is just being overly cocky. Walking away through the crowd, heading towards the bar which she didn’t make all way since a hand caught her wrist firm enough to stop her. Her steps slowed down as she turned and looking up meeting those eyes again.

Since there was a lot of people she was closer to him enough to notice the details she hadn’t earlier from the distance, the faint crease between his brows, the way his grip loosened slightly the second she turned, like he wasn’t trying to hold her rough but get her attention.

“Didn’t expect to see you here,” He said,

his voice was lower than before very much less neighborly. She tilted her head before answering.

“Same to you.”

A small pause as her gaze flicked briefly past him toward the table he came from then back to him.

“Double date going well?” she added, light wanting o let him know she remembered.

His jaw shifted.

“It’s alright.”

She hummed softly, folding her arms for a second like she was considering him.

“Just saying it doesn’t seem like it.”

That got a reaction, a faint exhale through his nose, a laugh.

“Really, how?”

She shrugged. “She’s announcing it to the entire bathroom.”

That earned a small, quiet smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

“Damn,” he muttered. “That bad, huh?”

“Mm,” she nodded lightly. “You’re apparently not trying.”

His eyes flicked over her slower.

“Do I look like I’m trying right now?”

Her lips curved slightly.

“No.”

Then.

“But you seem interested.”

That hung between them, he didn’t answer right away. The way he was looking at her said enough.

“I found something worth paying attention to,” he said finally. It sounded like a matter of fact and that made it somehow worse or better depending how you looked at it.

She shakes her head slightly like she wasn’t impressed which her eyes gave her away just a little bit.

“Watch out,” she said. “Your date might hear you.”

“All she wants is to get dicked down,” he replied easily. “Might as well be honest, isn’t going anywhere.”

That ease they had as the same one from passing each other outside, from those short conversations that never meant anything but kinda did.

The music shifted again something slower, heavier rolling in.She glanced toward the dance floor then back at him. She made a quick decision.

“Come on,” she said, reaching for his hand.

This time she didn’t hesitate.The crowd closed around them almost, the music wrapping low and steady around their bodies. She turned toward him, stepping in but not all at once, just enough to test the space between them. Toji followed showing no hesitation.

Her hands moved first light against his arm, then settling just enough to guide where she wanted him.His came a second later lower at her waist.

Her body reacted before she could think about it, hips moving slower now, more deliberate, each shift drawing them closer instead of just keeping time.

“You always drag guys onto the floor like this?” he murmured, voice low near her ear.

“Only the ones who look like they need it.”

A quiet huff of amusement left him, his grip adjusting slightly kinda tight but enough to feel her.

“Yeah?” he said. “And what did I look like?”

She leaned in just enough, her voice brushing his ear now.

“Let’s say .”

A pause then.

“Distracted.”

His hand shifted at her waist. He matched her without missing a beat.

She shifted, turning just enough for his hand to settle more firmly at her waist as her hips moved.In a slow,smooth, controlled way.Every step closing whatever space was left.

There was something about him that didn’t give itself up easily.Something she couldn’t read as quickly as she usually could.She didn’t know if she liked that or too much. As the music dipped lower. Their bodies moved closer without either of them calling it out.

Her hand slid slightly higher along his arm, fingers brushing fabric, grounding herself without meaning to.His gaze dropped quick, then back up to her eyes.

His grip shifted again, just slightly, pulling her a fraction closer.

Hours later, the music blurred into background noise.Her feet hurt and her head felt light. She grabbed her purse from the table since her last return and said bye to what was the remaining from the crew Without thinking, fingers tangling into his hand.

“Let’s go.” He didn’t argue just followed behind her as he waved bye to her friends.

Outside, the air was cooler and much quieter as reality started settling back in. She turned toward him, stepping back slightly.

“I’m heading home.”

He looked at her.

“You’re not walking alone. It’s 3 something in the morning ”

She exhaled softly, already shaking her head. “I’m fine.”

“You’re not.”

“I said I am—”

Her step faltered slightly enough for his hand to move instantly to steady her.

“Yeah,” he said flatly. “You’re not.”

She opened her mouth to argue then stopped.

“…My feet hurt,” she admitted instead, quieter.

He looked down at her heels then back at her.

“Come here.”

She stepped closer without thinking.

And the next second she was off the ground and in the air.

“Woww —”

His arm supported her easily, like she weighed nothing.

“Better?” he asked.

She rolled her eyes, but her grip tightened slightly against him.

“Shut up.”

The walk back felt quieter than it should’ve,it didn’t feel awkward.

The city was still awakearound them like cars passing, distant laughter, music echoing from somewhere blocks away but right now between them, it felt contained.

She adjusted lightly in his arms, one hand resting against his shoulder now, fingers brushing the fabric of his shirt.His grip shifted settling her a little more closer against him. He glanced down once checking on her which she tried not to notice.

By the time they reached the building, the lobby lights were felt like the brightest.The front desk lady glanced up looking at them.

“…don’t say anything,” she muttered under her breath, just loud enough for him to hear.

Toji exhaled through his nose, the corner of his mouth twitching.

“Wasn’t gonna,” he said which he still didn’t put her down.

As they waited for the elevator, her heel brushed lightly against him. She shifted a little.

“You can put me down if you want,” she said,he didn’t hesitate to say.

“I’m good, I got you.”

The elevator ride up was quiet.Her reflection stared back at her ; slightly flushed cheeks, gloss still catching the light, hair a little undone as she tried smoothing it. She looked like she had a good night. Her eyes flicked toward him which he was already looking at her.

Not in his usual teasing way or cocky but admiring her as if he didn’t care how messy her hair looked.

When they reached their floor number, he walked her all the way to her door before setting her down carefully and slower.

Her heels touched the ground and she let out a quiet breath, getting her balance, one hand brushing his huge arm as she steadied herself.

“See?” he said lightly. “Better than walking.”

She rolled her eyes, smoothing down her outfit.

“I could’ve survived.”

He tilted his head slightly, looking down at her, with a faint almost smirk.

“Yeah?”

“Would’ve been ugly, though.”

She let out a soft scoff.

“You’re annoying.”

“Mm.”

He didn’t deny it.

She opened her mouth to argue back but stopped realizing how close they were again.How much taller he was, how easily he took up space, how she had to tilt her head just to meet his eyes and how he didn’t step back. Didn’t care to create distance. The hallway felt smaller, warmer and still.

Her fingers tightened slightly around her purse strap.

“Thanks.” she said, softer this time.

His expression shifted just a little to less teasing.

“Yeah,” he said.

Neither of them moved. She should’ve gone inside and have the night be over with, that would’ve been the normal thing.

But instead she stepped closer.Just enough to close the space between them and before she could think, she lifted onto her tiptoes. His eyes dropped just slightly

tracking her movements and then her lips brushed his cheek.

Soft,quick and close right near the corner of his mouth, near his scar. Then she pulled back.

“Goodnight,” she said, too smooth, already turning and quickly with her keys getting the door open.Stepping inside, shutting it.

Toji didn’t move. As his head tilted slightly, like his mind was catching up a second too late.Then his hand came up, brushing over the spot she kissed,slower this time. His jaw shifted.

A quiet exhale left him.

“Crazy woman, thought she hated my guts.”

Inside, she leaned back against the door the second it closed. Her heart wouldn’t slow down, it felt like it could jump out her chest.

She whispered her name and then immediately.

“What have I done.”

She covered her face briefly, dragging her hands down.

Candy lifted his head from the couch.

She pointed at him.

“Don’t.”

A beat.

“…don’t even.”

But truth be told. Her lips pressed together slightly as a small smile threatening. She didn’t regret it not even a little.

P2- listings

NeighborToji x Reader

It wasn’t like things stopped completely. The building still carried its usual sounds like the hum of pipes, footsteps in the hallway, the occasional elevator ding echoing through the walls. And him which he was there but less which was a plus since the nights weren’t as loud anymore. That meant no more laughter bleeding through the walls at night time, no more thumping that made her press her pillow over her ears. Instead all you could hear was door shutting,footsteps and the low tune of TV as what it sounded like a Football game. Her dog wasn’t barking like before.

She didn’t think too much about it. Maybe other people filed complains and he was given a warning either way she was happy of the change. Since last week, her nights contained of being a place where she put herself to focus.

A bunch of books stacked across the table. Notes spread out in neat sections color coded order and labeled like a system where only she understood. Flashcards scattered in small piles she’d go through over and over again until the answers came to her without thinking.

A soft vanilla with hint of cinnamon candle burned on the kitchen island as the scent soothe her just to keep her from spiraling when things got overwhelming.Candy stayed close as he curled up near her feet most of the time, from time shifting or letting out a quiet sigh before settling again.

Final exams before summer were on the way and she was ready to get it over with. She couldn’t stop thinking about how the next few months would go, how things she would be doing . She had a checklist, determined to enjoy herself. The days blurred together in quickness.Sometimes she’d hear his door late at night.

A door shutting followed by the sound of cooking or man voices as they chatted and joked around. She wondered if he even had a job or what was his job. By the time exam day came, she was ready and when it was over, she stepped off campus with her bag resting on her shoulder having no rush in walking.

She didn’t head straight home,instead, she turned down a familiar street, already walking before her brain decided to process it. The matcha shop was quiet when she walked in.

Cool air wrapped around her instantly, a relief from the warmth outside. The low music playing somewhere in the background.

“Hi, what can I get for you?” the barista asked.

“May I have a iced strawberry matcha.”

Drink in hand, she stepped back outside, heading towards her apartment as she sipped on her drink. The walk wasn’t close but it wasn’t that far for her so she walked. Her earbuds slipped in, music filling her thinking as she walked.

Cars moved, people talked, the whole city alive with its each stories being told. By the time her building came into her view, she walked in.

“Hey, sweetheart.” Spoke the old front desk woman.She smiled instantly at the familiar voice.“Hi,”. The lobby was the same as always, quiet enough that her sneakers echoed faintly against the floor. She made her way to the elevator, pressing the button and scrolled through her messages as she waited.

The door dinged as it opened.She stepped inside, pressing her floor without thinking before leaning back slightly against the wall. Her music was still playing, low enough that she could hear it but not completely tuned out from everything else. She mouthed a few lyrics under her breath, her fingers tapping lightly against her cup.

The doors started to close which a hand stopped it. She looked up, for a second, she didn’t fully register it her brain needed a moment to catch up since he looks so different , meaning the vibe. He stepped inside like it was nothing. Like as both of them hadn’t argued, like he hadn’t been the reason she lost sleep more than once.

“Evening.”

His voice was casual.

She pulled one earbud out, meeting his eyes briefly.

“Evening.”

Silence between them thick and just blank.

She glanced forward again, taking a sip of her drink like she wasn’t aware of him standing a few feet away. It was hard not to notice him. From the corner of her eyes he looked different, different from their first interaction.

Everything about him was put together in a way that didn’t feel forced. Like he actually had somewhere to be, something to do.His hair sat just right not to messy in a rushed way, but styled without looking like he tried too hard and the glasses which caught her off guard.

She blinked once, then looked away like she hadn’t noticed anything at all.

“Long day?” he asked.

Her grip tightened slightly around her cup.

She turned her head just enough to look at him again. His eyes flicked over her to take a look at her.

“You look like it,” he added.

Her brows lifted slightly not offended nor hurt just caught off guard.

“Great thing I don’t dress for your approval.” Her words came out of nowhere.He let out a quiet breath through his nose, like he almost found that funny.

“Didn’t mean it like that.” It didn’t sound convincing, it always like he enjoyed seeing her railed up.

She didn’t respond and simply turned her attention back forward, slipping her earbud fully back in. The elevator slowed, soft ding ringing as doors open.They both stepped forward at the same time causing them to collided.

Her drink tilted slightly, her balance shifting just enough plus her bag not helping at all from the weight. A hand caught her resting in a firm, steady touch.

His hand pressed against her waist, keeping her from stumbling forward.

What felt like hours, everything paused;the music in her ears,movement and the space between them. She froze which he didn’t. His grip lingered just long enough to make sure she was steady then letting go like it meant nothing as if he has done that a lot of times.

He stepped past her without another word.

She stood there for half a second longer than necessary. Blinking.

“…umm okay,” she muttered under her breath, adjusting her grip on her drink before heading down the hall. Her steps were quicker this time. She reached her door, unlocking it and stepping inside without looking back. The second it closed behind her-Candy came running. His tail wagging while barking happily.

“Hii,you won’t believe how my day was” she smiled, crouching slightly to pet her.

Morning arrived gently, sunlight glowing through her curtains, warm and soft against her skin. No alarm rushed her and no pressure to pull her out of bed. She stretched slowly, a small smile tugging at her lips. By the time she stepped out, water bottle in hand, headphones resting around her neck. She decided to check out the gym since she always walked pass it.

The building gym was quiet with only a few people inside.She started her workout without hesitation. Music blasting as time passed with repa, sets, steady breathing. She was locked in her own world.She paused for a break, reaching for her water and glanced up. Noticing that is only her and 2 people with someone across the room.

Bench pressing he seems so focused.At first, she didn’t think anything of it. Just another resident.Then he sat up knowing that face,her expression didn’t change while her eyes lingered for just a second.

He had no glasses on,hair slightly messy. arms flexing with every movement like it was nothing. He didn’t look bad for his age. He looked up catching her staring as a smirk pulled at his lips instantly.She rolled her eyes and looked away.Being done she grabbed her things and left without another glance.

Returning back to her place, she begun to get ready. She stood in front of the mirror, slipping into a soft, pastel toned top that blended gentle colors tones together, the fabric stretching smoothly over her frame and contouring her shape in all the right places. It felt light against her skin.

After a quick glance, she reached for her white mini skirt, stepping into it and adjusting it over her hips until it sat perfectly.She slid on a pair of pink strappy heels, the slight lift making her stand a little taller.

The hallway was quiet when she stepped out again. She locked her door, turning and walked straight into something solid.

“Oh sorry”

She looked up seeing how close she was this time, too close. His eyes were greener up close, a faint scar near his lip catching her attention for just a second too long. He smelled clean,warm and a mix of something subtle but expensive like Versace cologne.

She stepped back quickly. “Sorry.”

He didn’t move right away. Just looked at her.His gaze dropped slowly, taking her in.

She felt it and it irritated her instantly but weirdly flattered her which she tried sinking that feeling.

She walked past him without another word. She could feel his eyes on her. The elevator doors open and closed.

“…why him every time, creep,” she muttered.

Hours later from walking around the mall her arms were full, the limit way too full. Shopping bags dug into her wrists as she pushed into the building. “Why did I buy this much…” she groaned softly. The elevator finally opened. She stepped inside, setting the bags down slightly to catch her breath and looking and rubbing her wrist trying to release pain .

The doors started closing then stopped which she didn’t even have the slightest energy to look who.

“Thanks,” she said softly as she looked at the nameless neighbor of hers. He nodded.

“I got it.”

She looked up. He was already reaching for the bags.She hesitated since he had a bag which looked heavy around him but decided to accept his offer if it meant she didn’t have to carry all that.

“Okay… thank you.”

He carried them easily, like they weighed nothing. She unlocked her door. He stepped in just enough to place them down.

“Thanks,” she said again, more genuine this time.

“Look, I don’t want problems with people on the floor,hopefully we can restart” he replied simply.

She held his gaze for a second. “I feel the same way with not wanting any sort of distraction and yes that would be nice.”

Then he left while giving her a smile, it seems genuine this time. The door closed. She looked at the bags, then back at the door.

“…that still didn’t fix the first impression,” she murmured. “…but it helped.”

Later that night, her apartment filled with noise again, not the kind she hated.

“SHOW ME EVERYTHING!”

She laughed, propping her phone up. “Okay, wait!”

Outfits held up one after another, voices overlapping, laughter spilling freely.

“That one? Keep.”

“No wait that’s cute, keep that too.”

“You bought all of this today?”

Candy barked in the background.

“YOU HAVE A DOG WHAT—”

She laughed harder, shaking her head.Filling her tummy with warmth.

P1- Listing

NeighborToji x Reader

The heat had already settled into the streets of NYC. She has decided she couldn’t live in the dorm for another semester, she was sure it would have driven her insane. The sink in the tiny shared kitchen was flooding with dishes that weren’t hers, the groceries she bought with her hardworking hours- paycheck were being eaten, and her roommate’s boyfriend had developed a rude habit of walking into the apartment like he paid rent. This morning had been the final straw for her since he had opened her bedroom door without knocking while she was getting dressed, he just laughed while saying “my bad shorty.” She rushed to shove the door shut, heart pounding, which you could probably hear and her patience lost, she reached for her phone ,opening her notes filled with a list of apartment listings open, super determined to find a place that was quiet, clean, and most importantly, be by herself not having to put up with anyone's shit. She just had to wait one more day to tour them because now she had classes to attend and a job to go.

By night fully exhausted, lying on her stomach with her phone in her hands, reviewing the lists of possible apartment choices. If she was going to move out of the dorms, it had to be somewhere that was worth the payment; Natrual sunlight, decent kitchen was required and pets had to be allowed since she really wanted to get a dog one day.

Her phone buzzed on her hands. The contact name popping up.

Shoko!!

She answered immediately, already sighing.“You’re not going to believe what happened this morning.” On the other end, you could hear Shoko inhaling the cigarette. “Let me guess,” Shoko said. “That rommy of yours still being dirty?”

“Yes, leaving so much stuff on the sink,” she corrected, dragging a hand through her curls. “Pans, bowls and a nasty mug that I’m pretty sure has been there for three days.”

“And the ponk?”

She groaned.

“Worse.”

Shoko chuckled softly. “Alright love. Tell me.”

“He walked into my room for the third time without knocking...I’m pretty sure he saw my titties, this is so humiliating ”

There was a pause.

“Yupp ,” Shoko said flatly. “You have to move out,asap .”

“I know.”

“I told you, you could move into my place.”

She smiled a little, glancing around the cramped dorm room she tried making it more cozy, the one spent the last two years in.

“I want my own place,” she said. “I want to experience living alone.” Shoko exhaled through the phone knowing that was the response she was going to get.

“Fine. But I’m coming to apartment tours since them agents be trying to be sneaky, next thing you know you have a roach invasion and the sink is leaking.”  Both of them laughing as they talked till they drifted to sleep.

Morning light glowed through the curtains as she stood in front of her closet, towel wrapped around her, one hand on her hip while she scanned the sections of her closet. She wanted something simple but cute enough that makes her look presentable plus the hot weather so she took time scanning her clothes. After a some time, her eyes spotted a white mini skirt hanging neatly between a pair of jeans and summer dresses. She slid it off the hanger, holding it up in front of her while looking at the mirror imaging it on herself before nodding to herself, deciding this will do.

She unwrapped the towel, throwing it on the bed as she put white panties and white bra on, then she stepped into the skirt, pulling it up over her hips until it sat comfortably at her waist. The fabric hugged her body just right.From the dresser she grabbed a slim light chocolate belt, moving it through the loops and fastening the small gold buckle at the front. Next she moved to her dresser grabbing a fitted white cropped tank she had folded previously in the drawer.

She sledded it onto her body, the fabric snuggling her figure and leaving just a hint of her waist exposed above the skirt.

She glanced at herself in the mirror, tilting her head slightly. Moving to her vanity, she began her makeup routine. She moisturized her face then put sunscreen tint and a little bit of foundation while blending it into her skin, soft raspberry color blush brushed across her cheeks, and a warm brown shadow lightly swept across her eyelids. She curled her lashes and added mascara, watching as her eyeslashes instantly looked bigger. She spread glossy pink lip gloss, leaving her lips shiny and full.

She leaned closer to the mirror, fluffing her brows slightly. Thank God, they grew back since she accidentally plucked too much last time.

Her dark curls were still damp from her shower, so she put cream, spreading it and moving her fingers through her curls, letting their natural volume take shape. Instead of leaving it all down, she gathered the top section of her hair and twisted it into a loose/tightish halfup bun, securing it around with bobby pins. The rest of her curls falling down her back in soft, defined, bouncing slightly every time she moved.

At her jewelry tray, she picked up a pair of medium gold hoop earrings and slid them through her ears,framing her face perfectly. Finally, she stepped into her brown flipflops by the door, something simple since she just had gotten her toes down. She grabbed her bag and gave herself one last look in the mirror. A cheeky smile spreading across her lips since she just knew she ate with this outfit and just everything, ugh how she loved being a woman.

Surprisng, apartment hunting quickly became an adventure. The first place looked beautiful online until they walked inside and realized the supposedly sunlit glowing living room was actually a window facing a brick wall two feet away. “No,” she said immediately.The second apartment smelled like something damp. The third had a closet so small Nobara had to stepped inside it just to prove her point.

“You can’t even fit your winter coats in here,absolutely not” Nobara announced, pushing the door open. “Let alone your shoes. ”

“She does have a lot of shoes.” Shoko added helpfully.

“Yes and Yes, I might have to stop shopping so much” which Nobara looked her dead in the eyes, “ Girl no, you just have to find a place with enough space like me and make it work plus there’s no such thing as too much shopping.”

Another place banned pets entirely.

“Nope,” she said before the tour even finished.

Her friends had opinions about everything.

Maki checked the door locks since she kept saying how you have to be safe in your own place as her sister Mai judged the building’s investment potential.

And Suguru who had somehow gotten dragged along out of nowhere just mostly leaned against the wall and laughed at their commentary.

“You’re all treating this like a reality show,just pick an apartment, seriously making me rethink why I’m hanging around with a bunch of girls ” he said.

“Dude, you can’t just pick whatever plus if we was a reality show we could’ve been making so much money that this situation won’t even be happening ” Nobara replied. “Just go down the street and buy us some food, we gotta eat.”

Then they walked the last option with her crossing her fingers that this one will be the one. As the group stepped into the space, the living room windows filled the space with afternoon light,hardwood floors across the apartment, and the kitchen was perfect where she could cook without bumping elbows against the counter. Finally the balcony overlooked the city, you could see people rushing home, friends laughing and hear music from cars.

The summer breeze brushing against her face.

“This is it,” she said. Shoko leaned beside her on the railing. “You haven’t even seen the bathroom.”

“I don’t care.”

“You should care.”

“Come on, look at this view.” Just like that, two weeks later she was signing the paperwork.

Moving day was a drag with so much boxes. Boxes stacked around the apartment while sunlight poured through the windows she’d already fallen in love with. Her decor wasn’t overly pink ,it leaned toward soft warm creams and beige tones. Candles lined the kitchen counter and the coffee table in the living room.Fresh sheets covered her bed. Her skincare products were already organized neatly on near the sink shelf. By the end of the evening the apartment smelled faintly like vanilla and clean laundry.

She stood in the middle of the living room, hands on her hips.

“Gosh,” she said to no one, “I think I’m in love.” As she threw her self back into the soft couch and turned on the tv to watch a movie.

Her routine formed quickly. Summer mornings started with early runs through the city streets while the air was still cool.

Classes at NYU filled most days as she worked toward becoming a physician assistant, followed by volunteering hospital hours that left her exhausted but satisfied with seeing something new each day. Even the evenings were quieter. Sometimes she treated herself to solo dates. Other nights Pilates classes with Nobara or late dinners with Shoko.

When she stayed home, she curled up on her couch with snacks and an episode of SATC or Criminal Minds playing in the background while she reviewed her notes. Loving everything about it. The puppy happened two weeks later. Nobara showed up at her door holding a squirming little puppy of gray fur with oversized paws.

“I got you something.”

She blinked.

“You didn’t—”

“It’s a Cane Corso, guy told me, he makes hell of a guard” Nobara said proudly.

“A what?”

“A guard dog.”

The puppy yawned.

She melted immediately. “Oh my god, such a cutie”

“His name is still undecided,” Nobara added.The puppy waddled across the floor like he already owned the place.

The first time she noticed the new neighbor was late at night. At first it was just footsteps through the wall. Then voices,then laughter, then unmistakable sounds that made her pause midstudy session.She slowly lowered her pen.“Ain’t no way.” The headboard on the other side of the wall bumped rhythmically. She stared at the wall. “Eww..”

By the third night she was venting about it to Shoko over the phone.“I swear he has a different woman every night.” Shoko sounded entertained.

“Maybe he’s a sex worker or addict to it? ”

“Either way it’s annoying.”

From the couch, her puppy barked like he agreed. She sighed and turned her notes back toward her. Thin apartment walls, apparently, were part of the NY experience. Unfortunately for her so was the neighbor next door, she just can imagine how the annoying prick probably looks like, about 5 something in height with a huge ego.

The same nosies kept happening. This night particular she decided to stay up later than usual. The living room was dim except for the soft light of the table lamp and the three candles she’d lit earlier. The warm vanilla scent mixed with the faint clean laundry smell that always lingered in her apartment.

Her notes were spread across the coffee table.Highlighters,flashcards and a half finished iced matcha sweating away. She sat crosslegged on the couch, pencil tucked between her fingers as she reread her pharmacology notes for the fifth time.

“Okay… antihypertensives…” she murmured under her breath.

Candy, that’s what she decided to name him, he padded across the rug with clumsy puppy steps before flopping dramatically beside the couch. His oversized paws twitched while he chewed lazily on a toy.

From the TV, an episode of OTH quietly.

Then a loud women’s moan echoed through the wall. Then the unmistakable creak of a bed. Her pencil stopped moving.

“…this can’t keep happening again, seriously at this time?”

The headboard thudded against the wall.

Once, twice and harder each time that she felt like the wall would break, all she heard was moaning and the banging. She slowly lowered her notes. Candy lifted his head.

Another thud. Candy barked, once,then again.

“Candy,” she sighed, rubbing her temple.

The barking continued because obviously to a dog it sounds like something dangerous is happening perhaps a life in danger. The noises keeps going next door then 30ish mins after, it stops and all you hear is the woman telling him goodbye and the door shutting. Which Candy eventually stopped too with silence returning to the apartment.

She shook her head and went back to studying.Not even five minutes later, a hard knock then to banging causing Candy to barking again.Her brows knitted together.

“Who is it?”

Another loud knock which she slid off the couch, smoothing a hand over her tiny pale pink sleep shorts as she walked toward the door. When she opened it, she had to tilt her head up cuz the man standing there was massive. About 6ft with broad shoulders stretching the white wifebeater across his chest and black sweatpants hanging low on his hips.Dark hair messy like he’d just run a hand through it, looking down at her are sharp green eyes.

She blinked so this was the annoying neighbor and unfortunately for her, he was so fine. Her eyes moved to his muscles definition in his arms, those large biceps, what was this dude on, steroids? she forced her gaze back up to his face. Wanting to keep eye contact because boosting his ego was not what she wanted.

His eyes, however had no shame as they scanned her slowly, taking every detail of her in, plus her outfit didn’t help.

She had changed into something comfy hours ago while studying.A pale pink tiny henley bralette, soft cotton stretching gently across her breast with tiny buttons running down the front. The fabric hugged her just right, showing her waist while wearing the matching sleep shorts. The shorts were loose but still clung to the curve of her hips and thighs when she moved. Her curls had dried into soft volume. Her skin still smelled faintly like vanilla body lotion.

Toji noticed all of it. Her jaw tightened because she could feel this prick was looking, the audacity but this kinda made her ego bloom since body is tea, but not right now she can’t smirk or smile , she must be serious. His voice finally broke the silence with a deep tone.

“Your dog keeps barking and I have work in about some hours .”

Her brows lifted.

“That’s what you knocked on my door at 2 in the morning for?”

He didn’t look impressed.

“Yes.”

She pushed the door open wider and gestured behind her. Candy was sprawled on the rug, curled up completely asleep. She looked back at him sweetly.

“He’s literally unconscious.”

Toji glanced past her.

Then back down at her.

“He wasn’t earlier.”

Her hand went to her hip.

“Oh I’m sorry,” she said dryly, “did my dog interrupt your nightly activities?”

His eyebrow twitched slightly. She continued since she was fed up.

“You know. The ones where your bed slams against the wall like you’re filming a video.”

Toji exhaled slowly.

“You’re exaggerating.”

“Oh I’m exaggerating?”

She leaned against the doorframe.

“I can hear your entire love life through the wall.”

His gaze flicked down again as her eyes rolled filled with annoyance,unbelievable he kept looking at her body.

“You done?” he asked.

She crossed her arms.

“Maybe if you didn’t bring a different woman home every night, this unit can be—”

“Not every night.”

She stared at him.

“You just admitted it!”

He sighed,already regretting knocking.

“Control your dog.”

Her mouth dropped open.

“Oh absolutely not.”

He turned to walk away.

She called after him.

“And maybe control your hormones, you whore!”

He paused and gave her a look over his shoulder.

A slow smirk tugged at his mouth.

“Maybe buy earplugs.”

Her jaw clenched as she slammed the door.The apartment went quiet again and s he stood there for a moment staring at the door.

“Prick, prostitute, I curse you ” she muttered.Candy lifted his head sleepily,she sighed and scooped him up, feeling bad for the dog, his throat must hurt from all that barking.His little paws dangled as she carried him toward her bedroom.

“You’re innocent in all this,” she told him as she set him on his dog bed that is near her bed. “Goodnight, Candy, stay strong we will survive this nightmare, together we’re strong.” Was she going crazy for speaking to her dog as if he was human.

She moved to the bathroom, her reflection stared back at her in the mirror, curls slightly messy and cheeks faintly flushed.

She groaned. “Why did he have to be hot?”

She brushed her teeth and washed her face. Then carefully applied her skincare routine because at the end of the day, the day is going to end. Her curls were loosely braided into two soft braids before bed and when she finally climbed into bed she grabbed her phone.

Opening TikTok automatically as she scrolled. Fyp filled with fashion videos,study tips, dog videos and the latest drama. Eventually her eyes grew heavy as her phone slipped onto the mattress beside her as she drifted to sleep.

Next door, Toji lay on his bed staring at the ceiling. The unit was at last quiet but his mind wasn’t since he just kept replaying the moment the door opened.Her curls,her attitude and the way she looked up at him without backing down. That outfit, gosh his face got hot again, that pink bralette and those shorts hugging her hips.

He rubbed a hand over his face clearly annoyed now but not at her but at himself since it had been a long time since someone caught his attention like that which she did it in about thirty seconds simply with an argument and that annoying dog.

NeighborToji x Reader

Reader is 22 & Toji in his 30s

Rundown: A brand new cozy apartment in NYC was meant to be a perfect start filled with summer-get readys in her snug warm pjs, morning runs, night study’s, binge watch episodes of SATC, delicious iced coffee and most importantly finally living alone after the crazy roommate she was paired with in NYU. The thing that didn’t cross her mind is having a neighbor like Toji; He’s loud, has a different women each night having them scream which she was sick of it but the part that was annoying was that he is attractive so at least she had eye candy next door but still it pissed her off how he had no care of the loudness he made. She has a puppy given as a gift which won’t stop barking, schedule that never lines up with his and no patience with the disturbance. Unfortunately for both of them, being neighbors makes the noise hard to ignore.

P1-https://www.tumblr.com/cozyrin/811301704795619328/maneater-toji-fushiguro

P2- https://www.tumblr.com/cozyrin/811461302479454208/maneater-toji-fushiguro

P3- https://www.tumblr.com/cozyrin/811805389855260672/maneater-toji-fushiguro

Clark Kent x (fem) Nora Morales

p:6

Clark and Nora had a rhythm now .

A gentle, easy pulse that felt like the world finally stopped demanding so much from them.

Even with chaos beyond Metropolis and deadlines breathing down their necks, their little universe existed quietly between morning texts, sleepy calls, and the sound of soft laughter through the phone.

It was late evening when Nora’s phone buzzed, Clark’s name lighting the screen. She smiled immediately, sinking into her couch, still in her cozy outfit . On screen, Clark appeared in his black sweater and jeans, his hair slightly mussed, glasses sliding down his nose. God, he looked unfairly good.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he greeted, voice low and warm. “Missed you today.”

Nora’s grin deepened. “You saw me this morning, love.”

“Not enough,” Clark teased, leaning closer to the screen. “You have a way of making the newsroom a more interesting, you know that?”

She giggled, shaking her head. “You just get distracted.”

“By you? Always.”

The easy teasing carried them through stories of their day . Nora showing him the candles she’d just bought at the mall, Clark flexing his arm with a grin when she teased him about skipping the gym.

“Look at those muscles, darling,” she said, feigning shock. “You trying to make me blush?”

“Maybe I am,” Clark said, smirking. “Do you like it?”

“Like? I love it,” she replied, cheeks tinted pink.

He laughed softly, the kind of sound that made her heart flutter. “You know you’re trouble, right?”

“Only for you.”

Their calls always went like this . A soft, playful, the kind of intimacy that came from two people who truly knew each other. And it wasn’t always words. Sometimes, it was just silence, both of them doing their own thing while staying on the line, breathing together in a shared calm.

Two months ago. The night he asked her to be his girlfriend.

The city had just begun to cool into autumn, and Clark had planned it carefully dinner on the balcony of his apartment, lights strung overhead, the faint scent of roasted chestnuts from the street below. He’d cooked for her, of course. Pasta her favorite!!

When she arrived, she was glowing. “You’ve really outdone yourself, Kent.”

He smiled, stepping closer, straightening his tie just to distract himself from how breathtaking she looked. “You deserve it.”

They ate, talked, laughed. Then, when the plates were empty and soft music played in the background, Clark reached for her hand.

“I don’t think I can pretend you’re just my coworker anymore,” he confessed, his thumb brushing her palm. “You’re… you’re the part of my day I look forward to most, Nora.”

She blinked, stunned but smiling. “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

He chuckled nervously. “That depends on what you think I’m saying.”

“That you want to be my boyfriend.”

Clark nodded, cheeks pink. “If you’ll have me.”

Nora didn’t answer with words. She leaned forward, closing the gap between them, kissing him slow and soft. When she pulled back, she whispered, “I thought you’d never ask.”

Now, months later, they’d fallen into that sweet domestic rhythm. Their dates were quieter , bookstore afternoons, grocery runs that turned into hand holding, nights spent watching old romcoms.

And then came their fall date that both of them planned a pumpkin patch.

Clark looked unfairly good in his brown leather jacket layered with a grey sweater and jeans paired with brown shoes , glasses catching the sunlight. Nora, wrapped in her cozy white top layered on top dark brown leather jacket over a denim mini-skirt with a classic pair of brown boots laughed as she tried (and failed) to pick the biggest pumpkin.

“Showoff,” she teased as he lifted it easily with one hand.

“What? It’s light,” he said with a grin, flexing just to make her roll her eyes.

They took photos, carved pumpkins later that night, and ended up in the kitchen . Clark cooking while Nora watched him with a look that could melt steel. He noticed.

“You’re staring,” he murmured without turning, his tone playful.

“You’re cooking shirtless,” she shot back. “It’s hard not to stare.”

He turned then, smirk tugging at his lips. “Like what you see, sweetheart?”

She bit her lip. “Maybe I do.”

That earned her a kiss , one hand at her waist, the other tracing up her back as he whispered against her lips, “You drive me crazy.”

They ended the night tangled up on the couch, the glow of the TV soft over them. Nora’s head rested against Clark’s chest, his heartbeat slow and steady beneath her ear. He pressed a kiss to the top of her head.

“Love you,” he murmured.

“Love you more,” she whispered back.

Clark Kent x (fem) Nora Morales

p:5

The next few months at The Daily Planet rolled by smoothly. Nora and Clark’s teamwork had become second nature with her creative spark balanced by his calm precision. Between shared coffee breaks, late editing nights, and the soft rhythm of conversation, something unspoken lingered in the air.

Clark had tried to ignore it, the way his chest felt lighter whenever Nora laughed, or how his eyes found her even in a crowded room. But eventually, he couldn’t anymore.

After weeks of overthinking, he finally asked her out. He caught her just as she was packing up her things, tucking a loose curl behind her ear and smiling politely as she looked up.

“Hey, Nora?” he began, scratching the back of his neck in that nervous, endearing way. “I was wondering… would you like to have dinner with me tomorrow night?”

Her lips curved into a soft, surprised smile. “Like… dinner dinner?” she teased, her tone playful but her heartbeat quickening.

Clark chuckled, cheeks flushed. “Yeah. Dinner dinner.”

She grinned, nodding.

Saturday evening, Nora stood in front of her mirror, applying her lipstick with careful precision. Her hair had been blown out perfectly, soft curls brushing her shoulders. The black dress she wore was elegant hugging her figure before flowing loosely at the hem. Her heels matched, delicate and sleek!

When the doorbell rang, she opened it to find Clark standing there looking good in a black suit and red tie. The faintest smile tugged at his lips as his eyes swept over her.

“You look… stunning,” he said softly, holding out a bouquet wrapped in pale gold paper. Roses, lilies, yarrow, and tulips.

Her face warmed as she accepted them. “You really didn’t have to, Clark.”

“I wanted to.”

The Italian place was cozy but elegant, the low lights and soft music creating a dreamlike warmth. They sat near the window, the city lights shimmering outside as they clinked glasses of red wine.

Nora leaned forward with a teasing smile. “Okay, I need to know what’s your goto comfort movie? This says a lot about a person.”

Clark thought for a moment. “Hmm… "It’s a Wonderful Life." Kind of an old soul pick, I know.”

“Classic,” Nora said approvingly. “A man of taste, I see.”

Clark laughed. “Though I do like a good romcom once in a while.”

“Romcoms? You?” Nora raised a brow. “I didn’t take you for the cheesy love story type.”

“Maybe I’m a sucker for happy endings.”

Nora chuckled softly, resting her chin on her hand. “Aren’t we all?”

Their food arrived, and Clark couldn’t help but notice the joy in her expression at the sight of her plate.

“You look happier about this pasta than when our project got published,” he teased.

“That’s because pasta never stresses me out.”

They both laughed, and the sound felt so natural like it belonged to them.

“So,” he asked after a while, “what would your dream day look like? No work, no deadlines.”

“Hmm…” Nora smiled softly. “Probably sleeping in. Then making pancakes, watching a movie, and maybe going for a walk before sunset.”

“Sounds perfect,” Clark said, his voice gentler now. “Simple but warm. Just like you.”

She froze slightly, that flutter in her chest returning. “You’re smoother than I expected, Kent.”

“I’ve been told I have my moments.”

The night stretched beautifully full of laughter, conversation, and that quiet sense that something was shifting. By the time they left, both of them felt lighter.

As they walked back to the car, their hands brushed once, then again and neither pulled away. Nora glanced up, her cheeks warm, and Clark’s smile mirrored her own.

The drive home was filled with soft conversation and shared glances. When they arrived at her building, Clark walked her to her door.

“I had a great time tonight,” Nora said softly.

“Me too,” he replied, his gaze tender. “Maybe… we could do this again sometime?”

She smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “I’d like that.”

Clark Kent x (fem) Nora Morales

p:4

Nora sat at her desk, tapping her pen lightly on her notebook. “We’ve got every quote, every fact checked detail. The only thing missing is Superman’s part,” she said, glancing up at Clark.

He gave her a small smile, the kind that reached his eyes. “I’m still waiting for him to get back to me. He’s…busy lately.”

“Busy saving the world?” she teased, rolling her eyes playfully. “Guess I can’t complain about that.”

Clark chuckled softly, leaning back in his chair. “Something like that.”

Days passed. Still, no word from Superman. Nora didn’t say it out loud, but it started to frustrate her. She wanted to hand in this project already, it was one of her best pieces yet, and she knew it. Clark could see her impatience growing, and though part of him wanted to tell her the truth, he also couldn’t resist the idea of making their eventual meeting memorable.

By Friday afternoon, Nora sighed, shutting her laptop. “Clark, if Superman can’t do the interview, that’s okay. What we have is still solid. You did an amazing job with the structure.”

“You too,” he replied sincerely. “But I have a feeling he’ll come around soon. Be patient.”

“Fine, fine,” she said with a smile, standing up and gathering her things. “See you Monday, Kent.”

Clark nodded, watching her go, a small smile tugging at his lips. He already had a plan forming in his mind

By the time Nora got home, the city sky had turned into a deep orange as the fluffy clouds spread, the glow of distant traffic filtering through her curtains. She slipped into her cozy burgundy sweats and a soft black shirt, tying her curls into a messy bun. After washing off her makeup and applying her moisturizer, she was ready to chill maybe a movie, maybe just some quiet music and tea.

But then came a noise. A thump from outside.

Her heart jumped. “Seriously?” she muttered, grabbing the bat she kept tucked in her closet. She crept toward the back door, every step light and cautious. When she peeked through the glass, she froze.

There, standing in her yard under the soft light of the moon was Superman!

Her jaw dropped. The bat clattered to the floor. “Superman?” she blurted, eyes wide.

He turned slightly, his cape swaying in the night breeze. “Miss Morales,” he said with that calm, confident voice. “Clark mentioned you wanted an interview.”

“Wait, what? Where’s Clark?” she asked, stepping closer. “He’s supposed to be part of this project too.”

Superman smiled lightly. “He was…busy tonight. He asked me to come”

“Oh.” Nora blinked, her mind racing. “Well, that’s…wow. Okay. Give me one second.” She darted off to grab her notepad and pen, her heart hammering. When she returned, she gestured toward the patio chairs. “Do you…want to sit?”

He let out a quiet laugh a sound she didn’t expect. “I can sit.”

What started as an awkward few questions soon turned into an honest, heartfelt conversation. Nora asked about his sense of responsibility, how he dealt with being a symbol rather than just a person. His answers were thoughtful, careful, and sometimes tinged with sadness. She found herself listening more than writing.

Hours passed unnoticed. The night had deepened, and the city lights glittered like distant stars! When Nora finally glanced at the clock, it was nearly two in the morning.

“I can’t believe it’s this late,” she said, rubbing her eyes. “You must be exhausted.”

“I don’t really sleep much,” he admitted with a faint smile. “But you should.”

She nodded, trying to contain her grin. “Thank you, Superman. For this. You have no idea how much it means.”

He gave her one last kind smile before lifting off the ground, the wind from his movement brushing gently against her face. “Goodnight, Miss Morales.”

“Goodnight,” she whispered, still dazed as she watched him disappear into the night sky.

Clark Kent x (fem) Nora Morales

p:3

The newsroom buzzed with the usual weekday chaos keyboards clacking, phones ringing, the smell of coffee weaving through conversations. Nora Morales stepped into the Daily Planet, her soft curls half-pinned back, swaying with her movement. Her outfit was polished yet simple a black blouse tucked into a charcoal grey skirt, heels clicking neatly against the marble floor.

Jimmy’s grin appeared the moment he saw her. “Look who made it in our very own superhero damsel.”

Nora groaned, hanging her Coach bag on the side of her desk. “Don’t start.”

“Come on, Nora,” he said, handing her the usual her caramel latte and cinnamon roll. “You got saved by Superman. That’s not a normal Wednesday !”

Nora laughed softly, shaking her head as she sat down. “It was chaos, Jimmy. I’m just lucky he was there. Everything happened so fast… I barely realized what was going on until we were already in the air.” Her tone dropped to something between awe and disbelief. “It didn’t even feel real.”

Jimmy leaned against her desk, clearly enjoying her retelling. “And the flying part? I mean, come on—”

Before she could answer, Cat Grant’s voice joined in. “Wait, ‘you’ were the girl Superman rescued?”

Nora gave a reluctant nod. That was all it took for Cat’s eyes to widen. “Oh my God, that’s like, front-page-level lucky. Tell me everything. What was he like? Did you feel his muscles? Was he as charming as he looks?”

“Cat!” Nora said, laughing but clearly flustered.

Jimmy snorted into his coffee. “You should’ve seen her face when he landed her on the roof total fangirl moment.”

“I was not fangirling,” Nora said quickly, though her cheeks betrayed her. “He was just… kind. Gentle, actually. I expected him to be intense, but he wasn’t. He made sure I was safe before flying off again.”

“Sexy and a gentleman ,” Cat teased.

The teasing continued as Clark Kent walked in, the usual warmth in his tone as he greeted coworkers. “Morning, everyone.” His tie was slightly crooked, hair still damp from his shower his lateness, as always, masked by his calm charm. When his gaze landed on Nora, it lingered a second too long.

“Morning, Clark,” Jimmy said, smirking like he knew something.

Clark gave a polite nod, then caught a piece of the conversation. “Superman, huh?”

“Oh, you heard,” Jimmy said. “Our Nora here got the VIP treatment.”

Clark turned his attention to her. “You all right?” he asked softly. There was something genuine in the question not fakeness concern, but real worry. He already knew she was fine, of course, but hearing it mattered.

“I’m okay,” Nora said, smiling. “Just… still wrapping my head around it.”

Clark nodded, his eyes dipping briefly toward her notes neat stacks of highlighted pages, tabs in pastel colors. Her organization, her quiet focus, always stood out to him. “Glad to hear it,” he murmured before sitting down at his desk nearby.

Cat, however, wasn’t done. “Come on, Nora. Tell him what you said earlier about Superman’s arms.”

Nora blinked, mortified. “Cat, no—”

“She said,” Jimmy cut in, grinning, “that he was “fit”. That’s the word she used. Fit.”

The corner of Clark’s mouth twitched. Lois, sitting at her desk, caught the reaction instantly. “Fit, huh?” she said, leaning back with an amused look. “Guess the Man of Steel’s been hitting the gym.”

Clark shot her a look, one she returned with a knowing smirk. “Just saying,” she teased quietly. “Compliments go a long way.”

He shook his head with a low chuckle, trying to hide the faint color in his cheeks. Across from him, Nora tried to compose herself, but she couldn’t stop smiling either.

Eventually, she stood and gathered a folder. “Clark,” she called, crossing over to his desk, “we should go over what we have so far.”

“Right,” he said, standing. “The project.”

They sat together in the small meeting room, notes spread out, their laptops open. For the first time since the rescue, the energy between them felt different not unfamiliar, just quieter, more aware.

“I was thinking,” Nora began, tracing a line in her notes, “what if we did a part on Superman’s impact but not just from a news angle, but from a human one? Everyone hears what the citizens think of him, but we never hear what “he”feels about helping people.”

Clark looked up, caught off guard. “That’s… actually a great idea.”

She smiled, energized. “You’re the one who interviews him, right? Maybe you could ask him if he’s willing to do a interview?.”

He hesitated for a moment, torn between truth and the comfort of secrecy. “I’ll… see what I can do.”

“Really?” Her excitement was genuine, and it stirred something in him something warm and dangerous. She looked at him with that kind of brightness that could pull someone in without even trying.

They spent the next few hours working side by side. Clark found himself distracted more than once by the way she tapped her pen when she thought, the way her perfume lingered faintly like jasmine and vanilla. He tried to focus on the project, but his thoughts wandered. She didn’t notice or maybe she did, and simply pretended not to.

By the time they wrapped up, the newsroom had mostly emptied. Nora packed her things, sliding her laptop into her purse. Clark noticed the clock. “It’s late,” he said, glancing out the window. “You walking home?”

“Yeah, it’s not far.”

“I’ll walk with you,” he offered before he could think twice. “Just to make sure you get home safe.”

Nora hesitated, then smiled. “All right. Thanks, Clark.”

They walked together under the soft glow of Metropolis streetlights. The air was cool, the streets quieter than usual. Their conversation came easily — small things, shared observations, moments of laughter. There was a calm comfort between them that neither expected.

When they reached her building, Clark waited as she fished for her keys. “You didn’t have to walk me all the way,” she said, smiling softly.

“I wanted to,” he said, his voice low but steady.

She looked at him for a moment — really looked — and for the first time, she saw something in his eyes she couldn’t quite name. Familiar, maybe. Or safe.

“Goodnight, Clark.”

“Goodnight, Nora.”

Clark Kent x (fem)Nora Morales

p:2

The familiar hum of the city drifted through Nora’s cracked window as sunlight spilled across her desk. The morning rush always came easy to her a quick shower, a touch of concealer and blush, her favorite gloss, and her hair blow-dried into soft waves that framed her face perfectly.

She buttoned her blue top, smoothing the fabric against her waist before slipping into a pair of white trousers that made her feel put together but comfortable. A few gold jewelry jingled as she fastened her watch. She checked her reflection one last time, added her Coach slides, and grabbed her shoulder bag.

As soon as she pushed through the revolving doors, the smell of coffee and printer paper wrapped around her. She smiled instantly and right on cue, there he was.

“Morning, superstar.”

Jimmy Olsen stood by her desk, holding her usual: an carmel latte and a small box with her favorite pastry.

“You really are my guardian angel,” she grinned, taking the coffee and pastry with gratitude.

“Don’t I know it,” he smirked. “You’re early.”

“I’m trying to be better,” she teased. “Don’t ruin the moment.”

Their laughter faded as Nora sat down and powered up her computer. Across the bullpen, Clark was already at his desk, sleeves rolled up, hair slightly tousled from the morning breeze. He looked up briefly and gave her a polite smile one she returned with equal ease. They weren’t close, but they were far from strangers. Just… coworkers who shared polite small talk, the kind that lingered a little longer than necessary.

Midmorning, Perry called Clark and Nora into his office and laid out the next project: a feature called "Superman: Beyond the Cape." He wanted the paper to explore what Superman meant to the people of Metropolis the voices left behind after the headlines.

They settled into a conference room with notes, clippings, and a camera spread across the table.

“So testimonies first?” Nora asked, tapping a pen against her notebook. “We need people who felt the change after he intervened. Not just fear, but the way someone’s life looked different afterwards.”

Clark nodded. “I can dig into rescue reports, the city's official response.”

Their collaboration fell into an easy rhythm: Nora chasing down volunteers and families, Clark pulling police reports and city statements. Conversation was practical, occasionally warmy; a shared laugh over a poorly labeled folder, a quiet compliment about a photo layout. It was work, and it was good work.

When lunch came around, Nora decided to step out for something quick a solo break to clear her head and grab the new Philly cheesesteak she'd been meaning to try. She packed her laptop, phone, and pastel pencil case into her Coach bag meaning to get more work done and slipped out into the bright, brisk air.

The restaurant inside smelled of grilled onions and melting cheese. Nora ordered, found a small table by the window, and opened her laptop, scanning notes. The city hummed outside, routine and ordinary until it wasn't.

A violent boom sound split the street. Glass shook. People screamed. Nora's first instinct was to crouch under the table; her second was to run for the door. Smoke and dust filled the air; a section of building facade groaned and then gave way. She bolted, bag slung over her shoulder.

Out on the sidewalk, the scene was chaos: cars abandoned, sirens wailing, and a falling chunk of metal from a nearby sign heading straight for her. There was no time to leap clear.

The world tilted.

A rush of air, a force so sudden and strong she could barely process it, then she was being lifted, securely cradled in strong arms. Wind bit at her face. For a moment she couldn't open her eyes.

When she did, the city fell away beneath them and she saw red and blue above her. Superman.

His voice was calm. "You're alright. I've got you."

He flew, and the city spun into a dizzy blur of streets and buildings. He set them down on the Daily Planet rooftop as if placing her on a stage. Nora's legs trembled when they touched real ground; she gripped her bag like an anchor.

"You okay?" he asked, scanning her quickly.

"Yeah," Nora breathed, heart pounding. "I think so. Thank you."

He gave a small, steady nod. "Emergency crews are on their way."

O the roof, the shock ebbed into disbelief. She checked her bag; phone, laptop, miraculously intact. Hands that were still shaking opened her phone and she dialed Jimmy.

“Jimmy,” she said when he picked up, breathless.

“Where are you? We saw—” he interrupted, voice high with concern.

“Roof of the Planet. Can you open the roof door?” she asked.

“On it. Gosh—Nora, are you okay?”

“I think so,” she answered, a laugh catching between breaths. “He saved me.”

“Superman saved you?” Jimmy's voice was a mix of awe and the kind of teasing mischief that always lived there. “Girl, you’re famous now!”

She let the image sink in again: strong arms, steady voice, the warm feeling of safety. It left her weirdly speechless and sprawling with feeling at once. Jimmy reached the roof in a few minutes, worry written across his face. He pulled her into a one-armed hug that made them both laugh.

“You okay to head down?” he asked, glancing at the street, now cordoned off with emergency crews.

“Yeah. Let’s get off this roof,” she said.

That evening, dinner tasted faintly metallic to her even as she tried to eat. She replayed the rescue like a film, each detail folding into the next. Later, while she was rinsing off her makeup and climbing into pajamas, her phone buzzed. It was Jimmy, FaceTime popping up with a bowl of cereal in hand.

“How'd it go with Kent?” he asked between mouthfuls.

Nora blinked. “It was… normal. He was polite, helpful. We worked. He’s you know Clark.” She shrugged a little in the bathroom sink's mirror, wiping mascara from her lashes.

“Right, but the whole office is confused,” Jimmy said. “Everyone thinks he’s got a thing for Lois, but I’ve heard from him he insists they’re just friends.”

Nora paused with a towel to her face. If Clark wasn't in love with Lois, that meant something else was possible and she couldn't tell if that made her curious or protective of a feeling she hadn't named.

They moved to other topics Christmas plans, Nora's idea to host an party for the holidays, menus she wanted to try, a tentative plan to perfect a martini. Mid-routine, Jimmy's expression shifted into something conspiratorial.

“Nora,” he said, crunching his cereal, “he texted me.”

“Who?” she asked, turning the faucet off.

“Clark. Asking for your number says it's for coordinating the project.”

A flutter rose in Nora's chest. “Oh,” she said, trying to keep the disappointment light. "Work logistics, fine."

Jimmy smirked. “I’ll tell him you’re selective. Also, he stares at you, in case you were wondering.”

“Jimmy,” she said with a mock glare, brushing her teeth slowly. “Stop.”

He laughed. “Night, Nora. Call me if you have questions about martinis!!”

They hung up, and Nora lingered in the bathroom a long moment, staring at her reflection. Her cheeks were still pink from adrenaline. The idea that Clark had asked for her number however practical landed in a corner of her chest that made her look forward and wary all at once.

Across town, Clark stood at his apartment window pulling on a pair of gray sweatpants. The day had been long; the rescue footage and city response ran on a loop across the news channels. His body moved with a quiet, natural ease broad shoulders, a runner's build that translated into toned arms and an upright, capable posture. He wasn't showy, but there was an understated strength to him: large hands, a steady jaw, the kind of presence you noticed even when he tried not to.

He caught himself thinking of Nora.

He moved through the evening routine shower, a simple dinner, then sitting on his couch and staring at the city lights while the thought of Nora drifted at the edges of his mind. He couldn't put his finger on it.

He turned the light off, laying back on the couch. The ceiling watched him. The name Nora Morales repeated like a soft echo and he let it be there, quiet and new.

-

Pairing : Fezco x fem!reader

-

The night was supposed to be perfect. Chinese take-out boxes stacked on the counter, the smell of cookies in the oven, her playlist playing in the background while she danced barefoot across the kitchen tile.

She was laughing until she noticed Fez had gone quiet, the glow of her phone lighting his face.

“ Who’s Isaiah?” he asked, voice low.

She turned, wiping her hands on a towel. “Fez, please don’t start…”

“He’s sendin you heart eyes, talkin about you lookin fine. What’s that about?”

She stepped closer, the hurt already rising. “You can check the messages, I never even answered him.”

“Still looks like you lettin’ him.”

“I’m not lettin’ anything, Fez. He’s just some guy from the team. You really think I’d play you like that?”

The air between them went tight, music still playing from her phone, the cookies burning just a little behind her. He dropped the phone on the counter, the sound sharp in the soft kitchen. “Then why he feel like he can talk to you like that, huh?”

Her voice cracked. “Because some guys don’t care if a girl’s taken, Fez! You think that’s on me?”

The heat in the room wasn’t just from the oven anymore. They stood inches apart, words tumbling faster than either of them could take back.

He muttered, “You been sayin you were busy. I thought maybe—”

“Busy? You mean when I went to that early college open house? Because I’m tryin’ to get ahead, Fez! I told you that!”

He stared at her, jaw tight. The playlist skipped to another song, something soft and slow that made the silence heavier. “I don’t know what to think right now,” he said finally.

That line cut deeper than shouting ever could. She swallowed hard, blinking fast. “Then don’t. Just go.”

He hesitated only a second, eyes flicking from her face to the cookies still waiting on the tray. Then he grabbed his keys and left.

The door clicked shut, leaving her in the dim light and the smell of something sweet going bitter.

She still baked the cookies. Still ate one, warm and falling apart, while tears blurred her vision. The couch setup, the blankets, the movies they’d planned all of it looked staged for a version of them that doesn’t exist anymore.

She cleaned up the crumbs, turned off the lights, and crawled into bed where the quiet felt like punishment. The next morning she looked almost put together.

Wearing an off the shoulder camouflage sweatshirt in a light neutral pale grey, The neckline is wide, worn pulled down on one side to expose a shoulder. For the bottoms she's wearing a pair of high waisted shorts in a soft pastel pink.

She has on white socks paired with sandals, hair pulled back in a slick back high ponytail. Her purse hanging on her shoulder as she has her phone on her hand. The kind of effortless look that fooled everyone except the people who knew her.

Elias noticed first, tall enough to spot her across the hallway crowd. He caught up to her near the vending machines. “Yo. You good? You been ghostin’ the team.”

She shrugged, eyes on the keypad. “Just needed space.”

He didn’t buy it. “This about Fez?”

That broke the wall she’d been holding up. She told him about the messages, the argument, the way Fez didn’t believe her. Elias listened quietly, jaw clenching more with every word. When she finished, he said,

“You ain’t gotta defend yourself to nobody who don’t trust you, well I hope it works it over your end”

She gave a weak laugh. “Yeah, well. Guess that’s done now.”

By the next passing period, he’d had enough of seeing Isaiah grin like nothing happened. He cornered him by the lockers. “You knew she was taken,” he said, voice low. Isaiah just smirked. “She ain’t now, is she?”

That was it. Voices rose, a shove, and then the hallway exploded in noise. Elias having Isaiah on the ground as he punched his face leaving him with a bruised lip and black eye. Security rushed in before it could go too far, but phones were already recording, whispers already flying.

She didn’t hear about it right away. She was in class, trying to focus on equations that didn’t make sense anymore, when people started murmuring and passing around a video. She didn’t even have to look to know. Her stomach dropped anyway.

After dismissal , she just wanted quiet. But she remembered she is the football manger which means being there during practice , games, that sucks right now. Feeling a vibration her phone send she opened the football group chat.

The coach asking for some stuff to restock, giving the message a thumbs up emoji. Placing her book bag next to the empty seat beside her. Beginning to drive to the store. Her white Highlander still smelled faintly of vanilla. The radio played low, a song that used to remind her of Fez.

Inside the bright aisles, she moved fast. Powder, snacks, checkout. Then she froze halfway through a glance at the next register.

Fez with Ashtray.

Her heart jumped. She didn’t move closer, didn’t speak. Just finished paying, eyes on the counter. Fez didn’t say anything either, but he looked really looked taking in the outfit, the soft sweater, the sandals, the way she still managed to look like sunlight even when she was hurting.

When she walked out, he stayed where he was, jaw set, something heavy in his chest. She never turned around, never saw the way his hand tightened on the strap of the bag he was carrying.

Outside, the air was cool. She loaded the Gatorade into the car, sat behind the wheel, and took one long, shaky breath before starting the engine.

The song on the radio changed again something slow, something that felt like an ending and she pulled out of the lot without looking back.

Fez watched the taillights fade, the ache settling deeper than before.

Neither of them said a word, but both felt the same thing: maybe this wasn’t the end, not yet, but for now it hurt like it was:(