Just Your Everyday Fluff-Monster

Basic Rules

-SFW

- I WILL NOT write explicit NSFW, Bondage/restraints, Non-Con/Dub-Con, Torture, Fetish-centric

- I DO NOT take requests from DMs. Special exceptions are made with friends, but generally speaking I’ll only take requests through my ask box when they are open! This is mainly because DM requests tend to get lost in the void at some point compared to inbox asks/submissions.

-I will write for the fandoms mentioned below. (I have more fandoms! Check the fandom page link for those! :3)

- I DO write Non-tickle focused content! Feel free to request some if desired! :D

-I am willing to write for all ships as long as they’re legal. (Will Not write incest, adult x minor, etc.) I also write both platonic and romantic pairings. (Some ships might be strictly platonic. Check 'Will Not Write For' List for those!)

- I do write for character x reader! All reader characters are gender neutral for inclusivity!

- I have the right to decline requests and prompts at any given time. I try not to do so but if I do end up turning a prompt down I’ll try to let you know.

Topics and Genres

- I do and will write for a variety of genres and topics! Here are my wills and wont’s:

WILL Write for: Tickling, Fluff, Angst, AUs*, Hurt/Comfort, Anxiety and Panic Attacks, Grief, Body insecurity and various other topics similar to those. Feel free to ask and I’ll let you know what I can and can’t do.

WILL NOT Write for: Heavy triggering topics (Murder, Rape, Abuse of any form, Suicide, Self-Harm, etc.). That’s the big one but feel free to send in a ask about a topic; I’ll tell you if I’m able to write it.

*AUs: I am willing to try my hand at them, but if it’s a topic I’m not familiar with or the idea is too vague, I won’t be able to do it.

Free Request:

Free requests are like they are here on my blog! I write for fics, dabbles, head canons, and sentence starters/headcanons to dabbles when they are OPEN! Please check the pinned post before sending in a request!

Headcanon Requests: 

I am more than willing to write headcanons for various characters in the fandoms I write for when they are OPEN. These include tickles, non tickles, ships, platonic bonds, etc. etc.

Cloud 9 (Taglist Peeps)***

I have a taglist for anyone interested! There's no limit to how many times you can take it- feel free to fill it out again if you wish to update your preferences/fandoms/etc. etc. I try to check it every now and again, so please have patience with me as I schedule things out. Thank you!

Also! If you ever decide you don’t want to be on the taglist or you wish to remove yourself from any tagged fandoms, I created a form for you to fill out!

~Fandoms I Write For~

Anime

Big Windup//Black Clover//Blue Lock//Bungo Stray Dogs//Buddy Daddies//Chainsaw Man//Dr. Stone//Death Note//Demon Slayer// The Duke and His Maid//Fire Force//Fruits Basket//Hell's Paradise//Hunter x Hunter// Gachiakuta// Jojo's Bizarre Adventure//Jujutsu Kaisen//Mononoke (Medicine Seller)//Moriarty The Patriot//My Hero Academia//Sk8 The Infinity//Spy x Family//Vinland Saga//Windbreaker//Yu Yu Hakushou

Video Games

100th Line Last Defense Academy//Cafe Enchante//Code Realize//Collar x Malice//Court Of Darkness//Cupid Parasite//Danganronpa//Olympia Soiree//Piofiore: Faded Memories//Pokemon//Rain Code: Master Detectives//Tengoku Struggle//Virche Evermore//9 RIP //Shuten Order//Homichiper//Radiant Tale //

Test Run Fandoms  (Series I’m considering adding to my writing list but need to write more of them before I commit.)

-Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney (First game)

-Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney

Characters I will NOT write for:

**Italics: Might change my mind in the future

-Mineta (My Hero Academia)

-Overhaul (My Hero Academia)

-Junko (Danganronpa)

-Monokuma (Danganronpa)

- Gou (Pokemon) (This one’s more for a lacking of knowledge regarding the character)

-Akito (Fruits Basket)

- Most Pokemon Villain leaders (Exceptions being Hardenshipping and their respective teams, Guzma and his respective team, Volo)**

- Hisoka (Hunter x Hunter)

- Illumi (Hunter x Hunter)

-Ketta Kisaki (Tokyo Revengers)

- Muzan (Demon Slayer)

- Most Lower Moons (Exceptions being Rui, Enmu, and Kyogai) (Don’t really know much of any of them so...yeah.) (Demon Slayer)

-Arrow Demon/Temari Demon (Literally can't think of a scenario for them- sorry!) (Demon Slayer)

- Rein and their Tao forms (Hell’s Paradise)

- Adam (Sk8) (No hate- I just don’t know how to put him in a tickle scenario)

- Dio + Most of his minions (Jjba P.3) **Debatable depending on the stand user**

- Kira Yoshikage (JJBA)

- Tamami Kobayashi (JJBA)

- Diavolo (JJBA)

- Father Pucchi (JJBA)

- Solid Silva (Black Clover)

- Nebra Silva (Black Clover)

-Yomi Hellsmile (Rain:Code)

-Martina Electro (Rain:Code)

-Sirei (100th Line)

Nigou (100th Line)

Strictly Platonic Ships List

Whether I can't see them romantically, I'm uncomfortable with anything beyond platonic, or I just really prefer them as friends. (No hate to any of these ships or to those who like them romantically! These are just personal preferences!) If I think of anymore, I'll add them to the list!

-L and Light (Death Note)

- L and Misa (Death Note)

-Yuno and Asta (Black Clover)

-Kageyama and Hinata (Haikyuu!!)

-Sae and Isagi (Blue Lock)

-Anya and Damien (Spy x Family) (Listen- they are cute! Hints of crushes are fine but I just don't feel comfy writing full blown romantic fics with characters this young)

-Draken and Mikey (Tokyo Revengers)

-Mista and Giorno (JJBA)

-Abe and Mihashi (Big Windup)

-Bakugou and Deku (My Hero Academia)

-Umemiya and Sakura (Really Umemiya with all the First years + Kotoha)

“Zo-Ehehe?” Mira jerked forward at the sudden touch. She twisted around to stare, finding Rumi leaning back cozily in her seat. “Rumi, what was that?”

“What was what? I didn’t do anything.” Smooth.

“Uh huh…sure.” Mira narrowed her eyes a little while Zoey struggled not to laugh. Clearly she saw the prank. It only motivated Rumi to try again.

Mira had her hair up in a messy bun. Like the rest of the girls, she was wearing a more casual fit, choosing a comfortable tank top and pajama shorts over her jeans and band tees. The tank was a racerback, giving Rumi more skin to trace with her hair. She pretended to stretch as she ran her hair over Mira’s bare shoulders, earning a shiver from the other girl. “Don’t move- you have a bug on you.”

“Gross. Squash it.” Mira twitched forward a little when Rumi ran her hair closer to her armpit, ducking some when it moved to her neck. “Persistant bug, isn’t it?”

“Sorry- it’s fast.” Rumi struggled not to laugh as Zoey covered her face with a pillow, nearly busting a gut from the whole ordeal. Feeling a sudden change of pace, she reached out and grabbed at air against Mira’s back. “Got it! Oh, it’s fuzz.”

“Huh, you don’t say?” The pink haired idol clearly didn’t believe her. How could she- with Zoey all but crying across from them. Rumi smiled angelic as Mira raised a brow, waiting until she turned back around.

She reached the tip of her braid towards Mira’s tucked foot-

A hand shot out, grabbing her wrist. Rumi squealed as she was pulled forward across Mira’s lap, her head in Zoey’s and her legs half-hanging off the couch. “Caught the bug.”

“M-Mira? Wait, hohohld on!” Rumi giggled helplessly as Mira pushed her arms up within Zoey’s reach. The other girl quickly gathered her wrists with a teasing smile. “Come on, Zohohey, I didn’t eheheven tickle you!”

“So you admit to being a little imp, do you?” Mira growled, and Rumi blushed at her accidental confession. “Good, now I don’t have to pry it out of you.”

“So will you let me go?” She asked, trying to smile. Mira just smirked.

“We can watch Sold Out On You- We can watch My Demon- MIRA PLEAHAHHASE!” Rumi shrieked with laughter as her waist and ribs were attacked, Mira’s fingers flying across her torso with ease. Why of all days she chose to wear her cropped hoodie? It was like she was begging to be tickled!

Come to think of it- all her hoodies were some variation of cropped. Maybe this was an ingrained thing.

Huh.

“Oh my god, she’s so CUTE! Cutie pie, yes you are! Yes you are!” Zoey teased, making ridiculous kissy noises at Rumi while Mira scratched at her sides. Her nails traced her patterns like they were magnetic- making it even more ticklish than usual! It was a complicated feeling- feeling scene for her demonic side, yet tormented by how much more ticklish they were! “Our cute whittle Rumi! Yes you are- the cutest! Ahhh!”

“Ehehahahahhhahahah! Zohohohooey, huhuhuhuhush!” Rumi begged, tears flooding her eyes and blinding her vision. Mira was the first to catch on, her hands stopping and cradling her face.

“Rumi? Hey, hey- why are you crying?” Her softened voice was enough to get Zoey to release her, the hands holding her wrists coming down to gently loop around her neck. “What’s going on? Are you okay?”

“Hehehe..hehehe..I’m fihihine, I’m fine! I’m juhuhust laughing tohohoh much.” Rumi reassured them, blinking to clear her vision. It only made her tears fall, worsening their concerned looks. “Guhuuhys, guys- I’m fine! Prohohomise!”

“Promise?” Mira asked again, and Rumi nodded. It should have made her feel bad, seeing them so concerned, but instead it just made her giggles worse- like her body was trying to prove she was fine. That finally seemed to do it, for Mira’s lips twitched, and Zoey was biting her lip to keep from laughing.

It all finally broke down when Rumi pig-snorted. Mira fell into her neck with a wheezy chortle, and Zoey let out the peals of laughter she was fighting back for minutes. Rumi couldn’t make sound, her laugh reaching mute status as she clung to the girls around her, chest light and happy.

When they finally calmed down, Mira sat back up, her hair coming loose from its bun and falling in her face. She looked so pretty like this- no makeup to cover up the light dusting of freckles on her nose, her eyes soft without her signature eyeliner. She looked every bit like an older sister.

Which was funny to her given Rumi was the oldest, but whatever.

“Are you okay? She asked, and Rumi nodded. Zoey leaned down and kissed her brow, making Rumi melt. “Good. So-” Mira scooped the remote up, bringing their attention back to the TV. “What are we watching?”

“Forecast…No, Rumi, you pick.” Zoey passed the choice to her, and said girl internally panicked. She hadn’t thought that far ahead in what to watch. “What would you like to watch?”

“Erm…I’m fine with anything.” She offered, which meant nothing in the lineup of shows. Mira and Zoey affectionately groaned.

“Come on, you know exactly what you want when it comes to work, but K-Dramas? You never pick unless it’s Business Proposal.”

“Which we have already watched five times these past three months.” Zoey interjected before Rumi could pick the easy answer. “So pick something different!”

“Oh okay…erm, Crash Landing On You?” She offered, seeing the first title on screen. Instantly, the others paused, looking at it. There was a collective thought that crossed all their minds then.

“I’m getting the blankets!” Zoey squealed, rushing out to find some.

“Bring tissues- this is gonna hurt!” Mira called after her. “I’ll get snacks. You want your Kkobuk chips, yeah?”

“Yes please.” Rumi nodded, getting up to help. “Let me find pillows- don’t tell me no.” She gave Mira a stubborn look. “Let me help too. That’s half the fun.”

“Heh, alright.” She teased, patting Rumi’s cheek. Soon the three were cuddled up on the couch all over- Rumi in the middle with her girls on each side. Bowls of snacks sat around them as the opening credits rolled of their selected show.

“Are we binging it all of it in one night again?” Mira asked, half as a joke. When neither answered, she sighed and got snuggled in. “You better lend me some eye masks when we’re done- I’m gonna look so puffy by the end of this.”

“We’ll do facials after it’s over.” Zoey decided, making Rumi smile. She listened to their banter as she got cozy, leaning into them as they watched on. At some point she felt Mira tug her braid free, undoing it’s tight bound so she could play with Rumi’s hair. Zoey had begun to do the same, and she felt her eyes glisten for an entirely new reason.

She loved her braid, but this was far, far better.

“Did you get more blood?” The blonde couldn’t help but inquire as he looked at them. Demons were forever stuck at the age they turned- their beings nothing more than fleshy time-capsules as the eras rolled by. Eternally beautiful, but that didn’t mean a demon’s skin couldn’t grow dull over the years; especially if they hadn’t had a good feed in awhile.

Muzan’s blood though- it was like liquid stardust in its own right. It seemed to make whomever received it especially dewy; their lifeless skin glassy, their eyes shinier. There was a rejuvenated feel to it, like you’d just turned. It showed on Emnu now- even their hair looked shinier!

“Oh, you noticed? Yes! Lord Muzan was so kind to give me a taste of his blood!” Their cheeks pinkened, making them look even more radiant. Douma felt something brush the surface of his repressed emotions at the sight. “I feel brand new- powerful! It’s like he put his faith in me- a humble lower moon! Oh!” Enmu blushed more, covering their mouth delicately as they looked up at Douma. “Forgive me- I spoke out of term. I shouldn’t boast before someone of such a higher rank than me.” They dropped to the ground, bowing so low their voice muffled. “I humble myself before you, Lord Douma.”

“Now now, no need for all that.” Another strange feeling brushed by. It made his skin crawl and his stomach churn, and he dropped to the ground before Enmu could notice. “Rise up. Lord Muzan wouldn’t have given you so much had he not recogized…”

His eyes lingered on Enmu’s neck. What a strange mark- it must have been where Muzan injected them. The veins around it pulsed and bulged, fighting to smooth out against their skin. Before he could stop himself, Douma reached out and trailed his nails along the skin. “How curious..”

“Ehheeheh?” Enmu squeaked and ducked, shoulders shooting up to protect their neck. There was a pause. They slowly looked up, eyes wide as they stared at Douma. “L-Lord Douma…?”

“Oh?” The blonde grinned. “What do we have here?”

Enmu blushed scarlet, frozen before their superior. Douma didn’t break eye contact as he swept his fingers upward, trailing Enmu’s neck and ears with the precision of a surgeon. The highest ranked lower moon squeaked again as they ducked, balling their fists up in their lap as they giggled. “L-Lord Doohohohuma!”

“Tch, would you drop the Lord part? It really is only us here.” He pouted as he continued trailing fingers along Enmu’s neck and shoulders, wondering if this is what Akaza felt whenever he played with Rui. He couldn’t deny it was rather fun, teasing the Lower Moons. Though while the spider was clearly enjoying himself, Enmu…

“Do you like this?” Douma stopped briefly, watching Enmu’s laughter die down. “Be honest with me.”

“Lord Douma I…” The Lower Moon began, then trailed off at the intense look Douma gave them. Squirming beneath his gaze, they pulled on their sleeves. “With your permission to be honest…do. I rather enjoy the attention all of you give me.” All of them? Who else was teasing Enmu? That earlier twinge was back. Envy must be a persistent thing.

“Of course, I don’t mean to make you feel like you have to!” Enmu mistook Douma’s silence as disapproval, shooting forward with teary eyes, hands to their chest. “I enjoy it, but please don’t feel like you have to spare any of your eternal life on me! It’s an honor to be noticed, but that’s all I-”

“Shush.” Something finally broke in Douma, and he pushed Enmu on their back. His fingers worked up their sides quickly, making the Lower Moon shriek with mirth. “I’m not Lord Muzan. You don’t need to gravel at my feet. I’m tired of people groveling at my feet- just take the tickling!”

“Eheheheheheehe! Lohohohord Doohohohouma!” Enmu’s laugh was like a tea kettle, high pitched and wheezy and pleasant on the ears. They seemed even more ticklish than usual- perhaps the blood makes them extra sensitive? Douma would have to investigate that more later. “Ehahahhahhaha, fohoohohorgihihive meheheehe! I dihihihidn’t mehahhahan to grhohhhoovel!”

“Oh enough of that. I’m not mad at you, just relax into it. Enjoy the tickling you love so much!” He kept his touch light, seeing that Enmu reacted better to that. “And drop the ‘Lord’ part- I just want to be Douma to you. You’re Enmu, and I’m Douma. No Moons, just demons.”

“Eheheheheheh! Ehehehahhahahah! Buhuhuhut thahahat’s so hahahahhard, thohohohguh! I cahhhhaan’t droohohohp thehhehehe hohohohonohohoriihihic-EHEHHE!” Enmu squeaked and curled up when Douma tickled along their chest. Oo, a good spot it seemed. Just above the heart. Noted.

“Fine, fine- I suppose you can’t undo everything in a single tickle fight. But really- don’t stress this so much. Just…let me have this.” What was this, he didn’t know. He just knew the sound of Enmu’s giggles and squeals did…healing things to his mind. The sound was so clear, like it was chasing away shadows of a memory. Was this what happiness felt like?

Even though they didn’t need to, Douma eventually pulled back so Enmu could breathe. The smaller demon rolled on their side as they coughed on giggles, shoulders twitching with mirth as they wheezed and snorted. Their cheeks were so red, and their eyes were lined with mirthful tears. Oh to be able to blush and cry like that…

Douma reached out, patting Enmu on the shoulder in what he figured was a comforting touch. The other demon startled, but didn’t pull away. Instead, they looked back with a happy smile, rolling until they were facing Douma properly. “Hehe..hehehe…thahat was rather nice. Thank you, Lord Douma- oh!” They squeaked, covering their mouth. “I mean-”

“It’s fine.” The blonde reassured, and Enmu visibly relaxed. “We’ll work on it.”

“Oh? You mean…?” They sat up, eyes widening. “Lord Douma…are you offering to take me under your wing?”

“Oh? You view me as a bird now?” Douma teased, grinning at Enmu’s flustered face. Screw it! If Akaza could have Rui as his little buddy, why couldn’t he have Enmu? Of course, Enmu wasn’t really a child- not like Rui. They must have turned in their early twenties at the oldest- maybe even eighteen. 

It didn’t matter. “As of today, you’re officially my Tsuguko!”

“Lord Douma!” Enmu’s eyes filled with tears, smiling brightly. Then they looked lost. “What’s that?”

“Hm..you know- I don’t actually know.” Douma blinked. “But whatever! You’re with me going forward! I’m gonna teach you all the ways to drive Akaza crazy! We’ll be the menaces of the Moons!”

“Oooo!” Enmu clapped, delighted. “Thank you for choosing me! I am honored-” They winced when Douma narrowed his eyes. “I mean…simply, thank you.” That got a proper smile, and Enmu’s face warmed with joy. “So..now what do we do?”

“We hunt down our first targets, that’s what.” Douma stood up, taking Enmu’s hand. “Lesson one in becoming my Tsuguko. I’m going to show you how to take down Akaza!”

One minute Umemiya had the first years in his arms, their giggles and laughter drowning out Hiragi’s voice. The next- they were safely let go, and Umemiya was behind him. A few unfair moves later and Tamon’s captain was trapped, his back to Umemiya’s chest and his arms pinned between. He squirmed some, trying to wiggle free. “Hajime what the hell?”

“Hehehe, I gotcha now!” Bofurin’s captain snickered with glee, adjusting his grip so one arm locked across Hiragi’s chest, the other’s hand resting against his stomach. “Hey, boys- wanna see something funny?”

“Hajime..” He growled as the first years perked up, ever curious. Their survival skills were clearly lacking. They’d never make it in a slasher film. “Don’t you dare.”

“Tell me to stop, then.” Umemiya purred in his ear, low enough for only him to hear it. “You know you just have to say the word, and I’ll let you go.”

His breath tickled, but that’s not what made Hiragi shiver. It was the fact he was right. Umemiya only needed a single command to stop and he’d back off instantly. The ball was in Hiragi’s court on whether this game goes on.

And shit…a part of him wanted it to. A small yet insistent part that screamed at him to let it happen, cause it was fun. Umemiya’s shenanigans were infectious, tempting like a siren’s call. He knew he was falling into a rather embarrassing trap, but it felt worse to back down now. Now with all these young eyes on him.

Fuck it. He could last way longer than these kids could, anyway. “Screw you- the only thing funny you got going on is your face.”

Childish “oooooo’s” rang out from the first years, making his lips twitch. Umemiya’s eyes danced with acceptance, something happy coloring the irises. He waited just a second longer in case Hiragi backed out, then he attacked. “Don’t say I didn’t warn you!”

For as nice as he was towards the lead up, Umemiya was mean when it came to the actual tickling! Going right for his worst spot, he had Hiragi closing his throat to prevent the giggles from spilling over immediately. He forced his twitch down, trying for stoicism. “Is this all you got? I can last a-all day!”

“Oo, was that a stammer? I think I heard you crack a little~” Umemiya cooed, pressing in just a little more. It worsened the tickling tenfold, and Hiragi had to bite the inside of his cheek to keep from yelping. “You know your belly’s your worst spot! It’s always been so sensitive- inside and out! Too bad they don’t make pills to remedy ticklishness! Hehehehe!”

“F-Fuck off!” Hiragi growled, his stance crumbling more with each pressured poke at his abs. Umemiya had spread his hand wide now, digging all five fingers into various spots across his stomach. It was awful- and yet he refused to break! He couldn’t! Not with- well shit was that freaking Kaji over there? When did he get here???

The sight of the second year fueled his determination to not shatter, but that in return only made Umemiya more eager to make him laugh. He switched from pressing to rubbing, kneading at Hiragi’s shirt like a cat making biscuits. A small pathetic noise escaped from Hiragi’s throat, and he stomped a foot in hopes of crushing Umemiya’s toes.

“Hehe, puppy~” The other boy cooed, and ooooo, Hiragi was gonna kill him!

“So Hiragi-san’s worst spot is his stomach? Do you think it’s a by-product of all those stomach medicines he takes?” Nirei mused as he wrote, cataloging the entire scene. Sakura had turned away, cheeks bright red while Suo struggled not to laugh. Sugishita hummed briefly before pulling his straw hat down lower, pretending he wasn’t watching.

“Oi, Umemiya-san! Stop holding back and break him!” Kaji called out from his newly claimed spot on the bench. Hiragi tried to glare, but it came out more strained than angry. It only made Kaji’s smile grow. “Go for his off switch!”

“Oh?” Nirei perked up, as did Suo and Sakura. Even Sugishita peeked, unable to hide his curiosity.

“Kaji, shut u-hup!” A small laugh escaped, much to Hiragi’s embarrassment. He clamped down the rest quickly as Umemiya hummed.

“Right away? You’re a mean one, Kaji! Still…the kids should know how to calm you down..” Umemiya grinned, and again- those small pauses. The ball was in Hiragi’s court.

And again, he slammed it right back. “That’s just a dumb myth. There’s no such thing.”

“Want to try that again?” Umemiya’s hand slipped up and under his shirt, fingers creeping along his warm skin. Goosebumps followed with each tap, and Hiragi’s heart raced a mile a minute. “Last chance~”

“Bring it. I can take it.” Famous last words, anyone?

“Hmm~” Umemiya hummed, amused. “Make some room, boys.”

“What are you- GAHA!” The dam broke. Umemiya barely poked at his belly button before he spasmed so hard his legs gave out. Dropping like a rag doll, he just barely heard the peals of laughter Kaji let out before his own came full force, Umemiya sitting on his legs as he scribbled fingers all over his belly and sides. “NAHAHHAHAH! HAHAJIME YOHOHOOHU SON OF A-”

“Now, now- don’t go around swearing like that.” Umemiya chided like he was talking to a child, giggling with him while Hiragi writhed like a worm. “Tickle tickle tickle, Toma~ Hehehehe!”

“Oh my god, oh my god oh my god he has one! He has an off button!” Nirei was on cloud nine- scribbling notes like nobody’s business. Suo had forgone repressing his own laughter, holding his own belly as he wheezed. Sakura turned away completely with a hand on his mouth, shoulders twitching at the ridiculous noises around him. It was unclear who he was laughing more at- them or Suo.

Even Sugishita was grinning now- that little shit! Hiragi was going to hunt all of them down! Each and every one! They will pay for letting him suffer!

But first- he had to survive Umemiya.

“HAHAHJIME!” He cried, trying to roll on his back and catch his hands. Naturally it only opened up more spots to tickle, leaving him weakened and silly as he played impromptu patty cake with Bofurin’s number one. “Hahahhajime pleahhahahahse! Ehahahhha, ohohoohkay, ohohohokay! I giihihiive! I gihihihive- Stahhahahaap!”

And with that- Umemiya released him. His hands immediately came up and away as the blonde gasped for air. He smiled kindly down at him, lips twitching with restrained giggles as the others laughed on. “Did you have fun, Toma?”

“Uuhuhgh..shuhuhuhut up, Hahhajime.” He fumed, and the other laughed. Eventually he recovered enough to think, letting Umemiya pull him up and back on his feet. “Nehext time it’ll be you on the floor with me on top.”

Suo whistled. Sakura blushed. Sugishita pulled a face. Hiragi wanted the ground to swallow him whole.

“That’s not- you know what I mean- KAJI!” He twisted toward the headphoned boy, who nearly choked on his lollipop at the shout of his name. “Come here!”

“Shit-” He flew from his spot on the bench, running for the hills. Hiragi followed, vaulting over the picnic bench with impressive agility. The sounds of the other’s laughter faded behind a closed door as he cornered Kaji in the stairwell. “Wait! Spare me-”

“Too late for that!” Hiragi gathered him up with ease, scribbling his fingers into every spot he could reach and leaving Kaji squealing to the floor. He pulled out his sucker before he could bite down on it, spinning it between his fingers as he used the other to drive the second year nuts. “Going on, telling everyone about my weaknesses like that. Have you no respect for your elders?”

“Screhehehw yohohohou ooohhld mahahan- Ehahhahahhaha, nohohohohoho! Pleahahhashe wahahhahait!” Kaji cackled, cheeks bright pink as Hajime went for his own “off button”- a terrible spot along the center of his ribs. “I’m sahhahahhahrry!”

“Oh you will be.” Hiragi grinned, relishing his adorable laughter. “You will be in due time.”

“Me. Find. You.” He grinned at her, then faltered when he saw her face. “You. Sad?”

“Oh I….yes.” She nodded, suddenly too tired to lie. “I. Sad. Yes.” The truth made her vision blur again, and she doubled over with a hand on her mouth to mute her sob. She pressed the other into her stomach, as if that alone would keep the threads of her being together.

Mr. Gap stared at her while she cried, a confused look on his face as his lips curved downward. After a moment, he suddenly disappeared, falling back into shadow.

His sudden exit cast another wave of pain over Adami. She squeezed her eyes shut as more tears leaked out, feeling terribly alone. Her sobs echoed off the stone walls around her, taunting her with her weakness. She bit her lip so hard it began to bleed, trying desperately to stifle her misery.

A hand came up and brushed her hair.

She flinched away, wide eyed as she turned towards the source. Mr. Gap blinked back at her, looking even more confused. “Me. Help. Not?” He looked at his hand, then back at her. “You. Not. Like?”

He was…comforting her? The shock of the interaction put a pause on her tears. She looked at Mr. Gap’s hand, then his face. Then back again.

Finally, she creeped back towards him, resting her forehead against his hand. “I…You. Help. Yes.” She closed her eyes, feeling his stiff hand against her hair. For a moment, she thought he’d change his mind.

Then he began patting her head, the same way Mr. Crawling would do. “There. There. You. Me. Safe.” He spoke with a rare gentleness. It felt like a soothing balm over a burn, a needle closing up her ripped open soul.

She let out a shaky sob as she looked up at him, smiling the best she could. “Me. Thank. You.”

Mr. Gap grinned, delighted. He pet her head more, so excited he messed up her bangs. The gesture was so much like a child she laughed despite herself. The sound made Mr. Gap pause, eyes lighting up.

“Laugh. You. Laugh!” He giggled before fading out again. Adami blinked at his second disappearance, tilting her head at the crack in the wall.

“Oh? Where did you- EHHEE?” She squeaked and shot up when two hands suddenly grabbed her sides from behind. His ability to travel from gap to gap was kinda scary. She couldn’t turn around to see him, suddenly caught up in a fit of laughter. “Mihihihister Gahahhahap!”

“Ha! You. Laugh! Laugh! Laugh!” He cheered, delighted by her reaction. His fingers worked quickly over her torso, scribbling up her ribs and back down to her hips, repeating the process over and over. Adami tried squirming away, but no matter how far to the left or right she went, he found her. “Me. Got. You!”

“Mihiihiihster Gahahhaap! Ehahahhha, wahahhhait pleahahhahse! It tihihihihickles!” She cried, shrieking when he wiggled his fingers into her neck. She bent over when his other hand scribbled into her belly. Then both grabbed her waist again and made her shoot back up, starting all over. “Cohohoohme ohohoohn! Ehahahhahahhaa!”

He dragged it out a little longer, tickling her until her tears were from mirth and her smile was near permanent. Finally when she began to cough was when he stopped, his hands retreating. She fell forward, laying on her side as she gasped for air. The world was spinning, and she could barely catch her breath, but her chest felt lighter. Her head didn’t ache nearly as bad, and everything seemed a little less…helpless.

When she looked up, Mr. Gap had moved to the gap closest to her. “You. Happy?”

“Yes.” She nodded, and he beamed. His hand reached out and petted her head again with the same energy as before, ruffling her bangs and making her laugh again. She reached up, squeezing his hand within her own and making him pause. “Thank. You.” She leaned up and kissed his knuckles.

Her lips barely brushed against his skin before he shot his hand back, making her blink in surprise. She just barely saw him before he disappeared, his face noticeably red.

Huh. So they could blush. She grinned, her heart softening at his adorable reaction.

Maybe things will be okay, afterall.

Being a hero’s sidekick was a draining task- both physically and socially. Especially when the hero you’re working with was as popular as Fat Gum. Every time he went out to do hero work, the fans found him- as did TV reporters. Seeing videos of your beloved waving nervously back at fans, blushing at compliments as he scratched his cheek made your heart swell significantly. All these years later and he was still so endearingly shy.

“Hey, love.” You felt him kiss your neck sweetly before nuzzling closer, exhaustion softening his voice to a near whisper. “How was your day?”

You kept the details short, knowing how tired he was, hitting all the important events. He responded just as you expected; smiling at your excitement over your latest quirk development, gasping at the audacity of your fellow hero’s passive comments, humming in agreement to your clever comebacks. At some point during the conversation, you two traded places- him resting halfway in your lap and you leaning against the nearby sofa as you talked with one hand, your other stroking his bangs.

“Can you believe some people? They just can’t accept other’s wins…” You trailed off when he yawned- then snapped his mouth shut with an embarrassed look. “Long day, huh?”

“Sorry. I’m not bored- just…drained.” He struggled past a low sigh, cheeks painted a soft hue as you smiled at him. “But yes, your coworker sounds jealous.”

“She probably is, but yeah, that was my day.” You smiled down at Amajiki, feeling a pang in your chest as your fingers traced along the dark circles halo-ing his eyes. “How was yours?”

No surprise to you, he made a disgruntled face and shook his head. “Long, and far too busy. Too much social interaction.” He took a deep breath, blinking quickly. “Geez, I want to sleep so bad.”

“Go ahead.” You encouraged, but he shook his head again.

“If I sleep now, I won't sleep tonight. The joys of getting older.” You laughed at this, and he smiled. “I’m at a crossroad. I want to lay here with you forever, but if I do, I’ll fall asleep. And yet- I don’t want to get up, either.”

“Hmm. Sounds like you need something to keep you stimulated.” You grinned as an idea came to mind. “I can help with that.”

Amajiki looked up at you, too tired to process what you meant. “What are you..Ehehehe?” He giggled when you clawed at his belly, curling your fingers only once. His hand latched onto your wrist, and the two of you stared at one another for a beat.

“....(Y/N).”

“‘Maki.”

“You better not.”

“If you want me to stop, just say the word.” You shrugged, lips twitching as you watched his mind work. To stay or go, what will he do? “Best of both worlds- you stay awake until bedtime AND you get to spend time with me.”

“The trade off is you tickle me until I die.” He mused, not sounding particularly put off. He gnawed on his lip in thought before making a decision. “Okay.”

“Okay?”

“Okay. You get two minutes.” He nodded, squirming against your lap until he was comfortable. “Have at me.” You could see the brief look of regret on his face when you lunged, quickly swallowed up with laughter as you danced your fingers over his torso. His hands fluttered between- halfheartedly swatting at your own before coming up to hide his flushed face. “Ehehahahahah! D-dahahharling! Swehehehheheetie! Eheahhahaha, wahhahait I wahahhasn’t reahhahhahdy!”

“‘Come at me” sounds like you’re ready, Maki~” You cooed, relishing his tea-kettle laughter. You kept your touch gentle, pressing in only enough to make him squirm, not thrash. You didn’t want to push him; just sort of…wake him up. Energize him.

Given how ticklish he was, however, you didn’t have to push that hard to get a good response.

“I wahahahhas trhihihihying to sohohoohund tohohohough! Ehahhahaa, dihihihd it wohoohohrk-ehehehehehea!” He squeaked when you moved to his ribs, his elbows shooting down to block you out. It didn’t work- his “protection” was half-assed. He didn’t even press his arms in, but rather hovered inches away. You had no issue wiggling your fingers between to keep up the attack. “Hehehhey nohohohow, hhehehhehey nohohohohohw!”

“This is what dreams are made of!” You sang off-key, laughing with him as he twitched against you. “Why are you laughing at me? Am I that bad of a singer?”

“Noohohohot ahahat ahahahll! Ohoohkay, maahhahy-EHEHEHE!” His teasing remark sent your hand “slipping”, tickling his lower belly. He curled up like a june beetle, kicking little circles in the air as his hands came down to catch yours. “Ehahahhhaha! Nohoohohohoho! Nohohoht thehehhre, I tahhahake it baahahack! I take it bahahack, (Y/N)!”

“Watch what you say when your worst spots are within reach.” You growled playfully, leaning down to kiss his red face. At the last second, he turned his head towards you, catching your lips with his.

It was awkward at first- neither of you expected the kiss. Your teeth banged into his and you nearly pulled back from the brief shock and pain. Then you found your rhythm, your fingers stilling as you held his waist. His own came up to hold your face, pulling you closer and deepening the kiss. He tasted like coffee and peppermints and…Tamaki. He tasted like home.

You pulled back for air, face warm and a little breathless. Amajiki was just as affected, face flushed and lips a little swollen. His eyes held yours, softening into a warm smile as he ran his thumb along your cheek. “Hey.”

“Hey.” You smiled back, melting. Once again you two adjusted positions, moving around until he was sitting back against the couch, tucking you into his chest. You could feel his heartbeat against your ear- racing at first, then slowing to a cozy rhythm. “Still feel like falling asleep?”

He didn’t respond, and you looked up at him to see his eyes closed and mouth slightly hanging open. “‘Maki?”

His lips twitched, and you laughed as you shoved at him. “Wake up!” He laughed with you after another shove, cracking an eye open. “You’re so silly!”

“You make me silly. You make me a lot of things. A better man. A better hero.” The sincerity in his voice made you falter slightly, your heart racing as you looked up at him. His face was an endearing mixture of nerves and honesty. He watched you- waiting for you to react.

You leaned up and kissed him in return, feeling him ease. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Another thing she had to get used to- their language barrier. Mr. Silvair helped her with the basics, as did Mr. Crawling through their various adventures together. She even taught them some words from her own world- or the meanings of them anyway.

Adami paused, suddenly at a loss. Surely there was a word for tickling here? “Tickle? You know…” She raised her hands and wiggled her fingers, watching him tilt his head the other way. “When you..erm..”

His confused pout was far too flustering. She felt herself blush as she struggled to describe the feeling. “Like- when you touch someone. Me, Touch, You?” She switched to words she knew as she tried describing it. Mr. Crawling seemed to perk up, nodding with a smile. “Okay- so..I do this..” 

She scooted closer so she was knee to knee with him. This close- he was so much bigger than her. It was easy to forget their size difference when he always crawled. She struggled to swallow as she looked up at him, trying not to stare at his broad chest or the way the muscles on his neck peeked out from his tattered clothes. “Ready?”

He giggled, nodding encouragingly. She took a small breath before placing her hands on his sides. “Okay. Me…tickle.” She pressed in, watching his face for a reaction.

And she didn’t get one. Mr. Crawling continued to smile at her, anticipation on his face. When she pressed again, he still didn’t react. His expression faltered slightly. “You, Touch. Touch, no?”

“Maybe you’re not ticklish here?” She moved her hands up to his ribs, switching from pressing to curling her fingers. She kept her touch feather light, thinking something softer might work. Again, Mr. Crawling didn’t react. His frown deepened some at the lack of reaction, clearly disappointed. “That didn’t work, either. Don’t give up yet- there’s plenty of spots to try!”

He perked up, and she quickly moved to his armpits to see if that’d work. Still nothing! She bit down a groan of her own as she moved back to his sides, tapping her fingers in thought. Light feathery touches didn’t do the trick- maybe she had to press in harder.

A small part of her wondered if she’d hurt him doing that. If he even so much as flinched she’d stop immediately. With that new mindset, she pressed in just a little harder.

“Eheheheheh!” The sudden shrill giggle that ripped from his throat nearly had her falling over. She looked up in amazement, finding him just as surprised. It didn’t sound like his usual laughter either; this one was new. She found his tickle spot!

“Oh, what do we have here?” She teased, grinning as she pressed in again. More shrill giggles rolled out of his throat, and he threw his head back in response to her touch. Her heart skipped with joy at his laughter; encouraging her to find more. “I found your tickle spot! Tickle! Tickle tickle tickle!”

“Ehehhehehheh! Ehehehehhehea! T-Tiihihihckle!” He managed out a word she wasn’t familiar with. That must have been what “tickle” meant in their language. “Tihihickle! Tihihihickle! Ehehehhahahhaha!” “Yes! Tickle!” She tried the word herself. It was a little hard to figure out with his titters mixed in, but she got it. “Tickle! Tickle you! Hehehe!”

She tried all the spots from before, eager to see how he’d react. His ribs were decently sensitive compared to his sides- especially towards the backs. His armpits required a little more pressure to get him going, and his back wasn’t much of a tickle spot. It did however have him practically melting into her arms.

His stomach though? She barely touched it before he squealed and fell backwards. Quickly she climbed on top of him, scribbling into it with all her might. His laughter reached new peaks- the sound haunting and eerie. She never heard a sweeter melody. “TIIHIHICKLE! EHEHHAHHA! TIHIIHIHICKLE!”

“Yes! Tickle!” She pulled back eventually, resting her hands on his chest while he gasped for air beneath her. He was…well, he wasn’t human, but that didn’t mean he didn’t feel discomfort or pain. She didn’t want his first experience with tickling to be a bad one. “Tickle, no? Tickle, yes?”

“Ehehehehheh…hehehehe..t-tihiihckle, yehehehs.” He gasped, nodding and making her smile. Seems like he really enjoyed that. “Ehehehe..yohohou…goohohood, tihihickle. Gohohood tihihckle.”

“Well, thank you.” Her grin grew, and his trademark giggles mixed in with his residue ones. “I was quite known for my tickling skills back home.”

Home. The reminder of her end game goal struck her in the core, sombering her good mood. The game they played had made her completely forget about her mission. She had to return soon.

And when that happened…she’d have to say goodbye.

Mr. Crawling seemed to pick up on her sudden mood change, for his giggles faded, and his smile dropped to a sad frown. He reached up, poking a single finger into her cheek. “You, sad?”

“Hm?” She snapped out of her reverie, trying to smile. “A little. Don’t worry about it.” His frown deepened, and he poked her cheek again. “You, sad, no. Happy, yes.”

No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t make her lips work. Her smile felt out of place on her face, even with Mr. Crawling’s silly pokes. “Sorry, Mr. Crawling. I didn’t mean to get sad.”

He pouted, then his smile returned. “Me, tickle, you?”

She blushed scarlet. “Oh, I…”

Well…it wasn’t like she had anything to lose. Plus, she did just tickle him alot; how was he to learn tickling if he didn’t try it himself? “Okay.” She nodded, and he beamed. “Gentle, though. Gentle.”

“Me, gentle. Me, soft.” He nodded, sitting up. She felt her breath catch in her chest when he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. “You, Tickle, Yes?”

“Yes..” She nodded, bracing. She expected this to hurt a little- she had to use so much pressure to tickle him- was his definition of gentle different from hers?

Then his fingers danced over her sides and she realized two things at the same time.

One- his definition of gentle was in fact- gentle.

Two- he might not have known the word, but he sure as hell knew how to tickle.

“AHEHEHE!” She shrieked at his shockingly expert touch, flailing backwards and against the ground as he prodded at her sides. A hand at the back of her head prevented her from cracking her skull open, a move so shocking to her system she nearly forgot to laugh.

The other hand drilled into her ribs once more and she remembered tenfold. “EHEHAHHAHAHAHHA! CRAHAHHHWLING”

“Hehehe!” He laughed with her, his signature giggle mixing with her own as he carried on scribbling all over her torso. “Tickle! Tickle you! Ehehehehehe!”

It couldn’t have been more than a minute or two, but the tickles felt like forever! No matter where she squirmed or wiggled, his hands found all her worst tickle spots with ease. His technique was simple, but it did the trick regardless. Just when she thought she had an opening to escape, he’d grab her leg and pull her right back- the devious thing he was! She was sure her face was bright red, and her lungs began to hurt from how hard she was laughing.

When he finally did let up, she gasped as she looked up at him. He loomed over her- a sight that should have been terrifying had it not been him. His smile was full of childish glee, and his long hair fell like a curtain around them. She couldn’t stay mad at such a sweet face before her. “Ehehehee…hehehe..yohohoh..you tihihickle gohoohd. Behehetter than I thought. Yohohohu alahhhrheady knehehew whahhat tickling whahas, didn’t yohohou?”

“Ehehehehe!” He giggled, tilting his head in what she now knew was admission. “Me tickle. Me good? Me good?”

“You’re very good at it! I haven’t laughed like that in a while.” She sat up as he leaned back, pulling her knees to her chest. Then she reconsidered and scooted into his arms again, using him as a chair. “I think I needed that. So…thank you.”

“You…thank. You.” Another new word. She smiled. He was learning so well. “Thank…you. You, thank! Thank! Thank!”

“Hehe, you’re welcome.” She grinned at his giddy energy, snuggling into him. Reminders of her return home lingered in the back of her mind, ever present. She acknowledged them, but chose to focus on the man before her instead. She’d go home eventually.

Right now, though- she just wanted to stay here. Stay with Mr. Crawling and his silly giggles and happy smiles.

Until I find my way out, you’re my home.

“Sure, sure- that’s why you’re arguing with the main character right now.” Joe’s laugh followed him around the counter as he came to stand at Cherry’s side, boxing him in with his arms as he rested his chin against his neck. “Come on- tell me. Are you finally reading those books I got you for your birthday?”

“Nonsense. I’d never reach for those. They’re distasteful.”

“Uh huh. Sure.” Joe’s grin grew, and his warm breath tickled Cherry’s ear. The pink haired skater nudged him back some, frustrated he barely moved. “So how is our favorite heroine? Is she- as you put it- blowing this whole thing into oblivion?”

“I already told you…no, it’s him actually.” For as much as he wanted to deny it, Joe had him figured out. “He’s being difficult and pushing her away. Typical of him, really.”

“Hmm. Sounds like someone I know.” Joe teased, and Cherry glared at him from the corner of his eye. “If my intuition is right, however- he’ll come around.”

“I certainly hope so. This hot and cold act is getting exhausting. Especially for someone his age.” He turned his e-reader back on, looking for the words he left off of. “He should be lucky she’s so forgiving-”

A finger poked his side, making him jump. “Kojiro..”

“What? I’m just picking some lint off your clothes.” Yeah right- Cherry’s yukata was spotless. He didn’t pay as much as he did for it to be anything less. “And this stray thread here…”

“Off, you beast!” He squirmed at a few more pokes, trying to elbow him in the solar plexus. “You’re going to make me lose my page!” “Nah, those kinds of readers save the page, don’t they? I should know- I was the one who bought it for you.” Joe’s other hand came into play, tapping along his sides and ribs and worsening the ticklish feeling spreading over Cherry’s nerves. “Consider it, aren’t I?”

“Ohoohoh, suhuhuhre, sohohooho cohohonsiderate! Thahaht’s why yoohohohu’re prehehevenehehnting me frohohohm rehehahahding my bohohohok! Ehahhha, Johohoe, knohohock it ohohohoff!” Cherry tried standing up, but his husband simply grabbed his hips, forcing him right back into his seat. “Thihihihihs is rihihihidihihiculohohohus!”

“Nah, this is normal! You can’t tell me you don’t love it.” The green haired chef leaned down to blow a loud kiss into Cherry’s neck, making him scrunch up with a weak sounding groan. “I’m doing you a favor too- if I don’t distract you now, you’ll completely forget about dinner and read all night. You’ll forget about me!” He pouted as he looped his arms around Cherry, scratching into his ribs and sides and relishing his giggles and swears. “Your head should be full of memories of me! Not one of those silly characters on the page!”

“Yohoohohohu’re alahahahahhways ohohohon my mihihihihind! Ehahhhaa, I chahhahahn’t stohohohp thihihihnking oohohohof you- eheheheheven ihihihif I trihihihied!” The confession slipped out easily- perhaps far too easily, but Cherry wasn’t very good at subtly when tickled. You could get just about anything out of him with a few fingers in his ribs.

He’d be a terrible torture victim.

“Aww, you mean that?” Joe tried for teasingly sweet, but the breathy hitch in his voice was hard to miss. He slowed his tickles some as he hugged his husband from behind properly, kissing his red cheek and nuzzling his ear. “You can’t stop thinking about me?”

“Ehheh..ehhehehe..ohohof cohohourse not.” Cherry groaned, debating. He probably should play it off, but that hitch had him reconsidering. “Youhohohur mine. Even whehen you drive me nuhuhts..I, eherm.” He felt himself blush for another reason altogether. “I adore you. Ever since we met- I’ve adored you. You’re a loud, thirsty, obnoxious gorihihlla,” He twitched when Joe tickled him in response. He turned so he could kiss him, making him pause altogether. “But you’re mine. My love, my soul. You’re my whole heart, Kojiro.”

“Kaoru..” He breathed, all amusement falling away from his face as something deep and loving replaced it. He smiled as he leaned in, kissing his husband deeply. Cherry let his eyes flutter shut, bringing his hands up to pull Joe closer-

“Erm.” A soft, awkward cough interrupted them. They looked over to find a blushing Reki and Langa standing at the door. Miya was also there- and he had his entire body turned so his back was to them. “We came for dinner…are we interrupting?”

“Not at all.” Cherry cleared his throat several times as Joe pulled back, laughing. “The gorilla was just, erm…”

“Cherry here choked. I was performing the heimlich.” The chef winked, and Cherry felt his face burn brighter. Damn him.

“That’s one way to do that, I suppose.” Langa mused, and Reki’s efforts not to start laughing crumbled. “Sorry Joe- as much as I wanted pasta tonight, I think we’re gonna get ramen instead. Yeah?”

“Yeah! Absolutely!” Miya added, pulling their hands towards the door. “Come on, Reki!”

“Bye, kids!” Joe was cackling as he walked up to the door, locking it and flipping the closed sign. Cherry raised a brow.

“Choking, Kojiro? And why are you locking up? I assume you’re okay with letting your prep work spoil?”

“Oh no- we’ll be up and running in an hour or so.” Joe crossed the room, boxing Cherry in again with a devilish smile. “But for now- I think I want dessert before dinner. How does Cherry pie sound?”

“Ew.” He wrinkled his nose at him. “That was cringe.”

“Fair. You don’t want to know my other line.” The muscular chef winced, and finally Cherry smiled. He smiled back, regaining his bravo. “So?”

Instead of responding, Cherry stood up and pressed a quick kiss to Joe’s lips, a teasing smirk on his own before he leisurely made his way towards the steps leading to Joe’s apartment. “Don’t wait until your meal gets cold, Gorilla. I might get bored and start reading again-”

Footsteps chased. Arms came around and lifted him off the floor, and Cherry laughed a second time that night as Joe all but ran them up the stairs.

“No I’m not!” Okay, maybe she was a little. It was hard to resist when he was so endearing! His laughter was like liquor to her system, making her feel lightheaded and drunk, and oh, that smile…”I’m trying to hold you! Calm down!”

“I’m completely ca-ahahalm!” He twitched like he was electrocuted when she snuggled into him, his titters growing in frequency and volume. “Lynehehehette! Cohoohme on, dohoohn’t do thahahaht!”

“Hmm?” She pressed her face into his chest, nosing past his yukata and pressing sweet little pecks against his ribs. That got him laughing, his hands coming up to paw at her shoulders as he arched beneath her. “I’m just showing you love. Are you laughing at me? That’s so mean- you’ll break my heart, Ryuki.”

“Ehehehahaha! Nohohohow I know yoohohohu’re doing this on puhuuhuhrpose! Ahahaha, dohohon’t tiihihckle mehehee!” He cried, fully laughing as he wiggled about. He squeaked when her fingers joined in, curling against his lower ribs in a slow feathery touch. “Lehhehehehenehehehehhette!”

“Hehe, tickle tickle. My, you really can’t handle this, can you? I thought you were giggly when we visited that Shiba cafe, but this?” She grinned against his skin, recalling their earlier adventure. “This is even better! Hmm..where else are you ticklish?”

“Nohoohho where! Nohoohwhere else!” He quickly claimed, cheeks getting redder. His smile was nervous but excited- he was clearly enjoying this, even if he’d deny it later. “I’m nohohot ticklish anywhere but my rihihibs!”

“Hmmm..are you sure about that?” She smiled, watching him blush more. “I think I recall you being ticklish here too..” She skittered her fingers along his belly, making him squeak and try to curl up. “Oh? Did you lie to me, Ryuki?”

“Ehehehehahaha! Coohohohome ohohohon, dohoohohn’t do thahaha-AHHAhahahha!” He tried to cover his face with his hands, but they immediately dropped down when she pressed in with all ten fingers, kneading the soft spots like dough. “Ehehehehehek! Dohohohon’t do thahahahaht! Eheahha, it tihiihihckles toohoohohohoo muhuhuuch!”

“Ah! So you did lie to me!” She gasped, pretending to be shocked. “That’s a penalty for you, Ryuki! It’s punishment time!”

“Whahat? Whahait, what puhunis-EHEHEHEHEK!” He shrieked when she pushed his robe open, blowing a huge raspberry against his ribs. Her position made it hard to reach his stomach, but the result was still satisfying. “NOHOHO PLEAHHAHSE!”

“Shall I do it again?” She playfully threatened, grinning at his smiling face. “Or do you want to be honest with me?”

“Ehehehe..ehhehehe..do-doohohn’t loohohk at me like thahahat!” He covered his face with his hands, turning away. “Oohoohkay, ohohokay, I’m tiihihcklish thehehere…hahahahppy?”

“Very.” She nodded, giving him a much needed breather. Once he calmed down, she let her fingers walk down his sides, resting at his hips. “How about here?”

“Ehehe..a lihihittle, but not reahhally?” He offered, and she pinched them just to check. He giggled some, but the reaction was definitely minor compared to the rest of his torso. “Sheheheee?”

“I believe you. Now…what about here?” She reached for his armpits, and he immediately shot his arms down tight to block her from them. “Oo, bad spot?”

“Tehheehherrible!” He whined, laughing even though she didn’t touch them. “Nohoohoht my woohohorst though.”

“Oh?” Her curiosity spiked, and he flinched at his accidental reveal. “So you have an even more ticklish spot than your belly and ribs? Even more than your armpits?”

“Y-yheehhes?” He nodded, hiding from her mischievous gaze. “I wohhohon’t tell you though!”

“Oo, gonna make me work for it?” She swept a finger to his neck, wiggling against the back. She knew it wasn’t much of a tickle spot, but he scrunched up anyway with a titter, swatting at her hand. “Okay, not your neck- maybe your…back?” She squirreled her hand under him, scratching the entire way. He arched some at the touch, his giggles growing, but again- not the reaction she was looking for. “Hmmm…I bet it’s your legs.”

“Wait! Whahahit, waihahahit, hohohohld on!” He grabbed her sleeve, preventing her from turning. “Giihihve me a sehehehcond, pleahhase!”

She did, tucking her hands politely beneath her chin as he gasped for air. An arm was tossed over his face, hiding his furious blush, and it took all her willpower not to poke him in his exposed armpit. She was a woman of her word, after all.

Eventually, he lowered his arm, his other hand releasing her sleeve and smoothing it out some. “Okay…okay, fine. You can try. I’m not sorry if I kick you, though.”

“You won’t.” She blew him a kiss, turning around so she was facing his legs. Her hands immediately latched onto his thighs, earning a funny noise from him. “Is it here?”

“Geheheehhehe! Nohohohot rehahaha-AHAHAHLLY!” Ryuki bucked beneath her when she began squeezing, focusing on the spot just above where his knees connected. A good reaction- a great one even! Still, she suspected this wasn’t his most ticklish spot. Call it intuition, but she knew there had to be an even bigger reaction here.

“Thighs are a good spot- noted.” She giggled, going for his knees next. In response, his laughter increased, as did his squirms. His feet kicked against the futon while she skittered her fingers along the joint, relishing his adorable cackles. “These are also a good spot it seems, and yet…I bet I can get an even better reaction from you…here!”

“Yeaahhahah rihhihihght! Goohohod luck with tha-AHHHAHH!” He positively shrieked when she grabbed his foot, scribbling into the soft skin. Then she got a series of unexpected pig snorts and squeals, contrasting greatly with his glamorous appearance. “LYNEHEEHEHHEHETTE! EHEHAHHAHAHAHA! AHHHEAHHAHAHA!”

“How do you stand pedicures when you’re this ticklish?” She delighted in his reaction, expertly avoiding his other foot as it tried to kick her away. She repositioned herself so she sat on both legs, getting both of his feet at the same time. Occasionally, she poked at his toes, making his laugh go silent. “I bet you do your own pedi’s and tell the salon not to touch them when you go. I know- I do the same.”

If he had a response, Ryuki couldn’t give it to her, too lost in his mirth. Feeling merciful- she stopped tickling him, massaging his calves as he struggled to calm. Then she realized they were just as ticklish as his thighs and decided to move away from his legs altogether, turning back to face him and laying across his heaving belly like a weighted blanket. “Sorry- was that too much?”

He couldn’t speak- couldn’t really do anything at the moment. She got cozy as he collected himself, head against his chest and arms around his torso. His body vibrated with residue snickers, voice a little raspy when he could finally speak. “Tahhahat..was intense!”

“Was it?” She asked, genuine with her concern. Seeing that, he averted his gaze, ears bright red. “I’m sorry.”

“No, it’s fiihihne.” He cleared his throat, running a hand through his bangs. “I haven’t been tickled like that since…well, I’ve never been tickled like that. My mom and sister as you know are touchy- they tickled me a lot when I was a kid. Sometimes dad joined in, but never to that extreme though. This was…honestly kinda fun.” He finally met her gaze, looking a bit sheepish but determined to speak his mind. “I trusted you during it, and I trust you now. It was…refreshing, to let go like that.”

“Really? Huh. I never thought of tickle fights like that.” She mused, resting her chin against him as he played with her loose hair. “I don’t recall having many growing up. My parents and aunt would tickle me occasionally, but the older I got, the rarer that became. Even when I moved in with my roommates, we didn’t really have tickle fights.” She couldn’t recall ever having one with Claris or Gill. “To let yourself go and just give in…it sounds both scary and exciting. Hey.” She leaned forward to kiss him gently. “Thanks for trusting me enough to do so.”

“Yeah well- don’t get too excited about doing this again. I’m gonna find out where you’re ticklish.” He huffed, but she could see her words touched him. “You said something about pedicures earlier- your feet are ticklish?”

“Yeah- not as much as yours though.” She giggled at his pout. “But that’s all I’m gonna say! If you want to find all my tickle spots, you’re just gonna have to come at me.”

“Is that an invitation?” His confidence was returning. She knew she was tiptoing around a landmine being so bold, but this side of him was just as endearing as the other one. She let him flip their positions, hovering over her with a devious smirk. “Are you…asking me to tickle you?”

“What if I am?” She bravely declared, raising her chin. “Are you gonna follow through or not?”

“I want you to say it.” He growled, and finally- a tiny prick of uneasiness curled in her chest. It wasn’t unpleasant- if anything, it made her even more excited. “Say you want me to tickle you.”

She grinned, leaning up until she was close to his ear. “Make me.”

His eyes flashed with challenge, and she knew in an instant she let that landmine blow up sky high. 

Good.

This is kinda spontaneous and mushy on 2am (Can't sleep- night shift life <3 Even on my off days I'm up at ungodly hours) but I was working on fics (as one does) and as I'm looking for prompts to fill, I found all these incredibly sweet messages from y'all. People who've been around forever, who're brand new- those who've been requesting since day one and those who lurk and peeked in just to say hi. Kind, wonderful messages that- admittedly- made me tear up a bit reading now.

I just wanted to say thank you so, so very much from the bottom of my heart to all of you for your support and kindness these past few years. It's been a bumpy ride- both here and IRL. Lots of life events have happened ever since I joined, lots good, lots bad. Nothing I'll get into detail here about, but if you know, you know.

And yet- despite all the changes, the unknown fates, the tears and fears and new things I do in my everyday life- y'all have been so wonderful to me. To everyone who reads my work, to all the friends I've made here on Tumblr, to those I message currently and those in passing- I thank all of you. You guys help me keep a healthy balance in my life, and I will forever be blessed by you all for giving me the chance to share my humble writings and be my most authentic self. Thank you, thank you, thank you all.

(This isn't me leaving BTW- I know my gratitude messages always feel like grand send offs. The only place I'm going is to bed lols)

So yeah! Pardon my early morning mush; I just needed to get it out there. I know I don't respond to every message like I used to, but know if you've sent me one, I see you, and I treasure your words like a dragon treasuring her precious stones- tucked away in her den so they'll stay close to my heart forever more.

Okay now I'm going to bed! Thank you all again!

“Damn. You look like shit.” Yami greeted around his cigarette, earning a tight smile in return. “Having fun with the brats?”

“What do you think?” Nacht sank into the chair across from his old friend, the first time he’s truly sat down in what felt like ages. A lot has happened since their great battle with the self-proclaimed “Wizard Emperor”.

For starters- Asta was the wizard king. Their famous- or infamous depending on who you ask- anti magic user reached his all time goal. Yami himself chose to retire as Captain of the Black Bulls, leaving the space for Nacht to fill. At the time it felt like an honor- his oldest friend entrusting the team to him as he walked away.

Now he realized it was a trap. An imprisonment. Cosmic-sized karma for every jab he threw the bigger man’s way. “They’re a disaster to lead, but that’s not new. You’d think with time, they’d mature. Alas, Magna and Luck are destroying everything in their wake, Vanessa sleeps with her wine bottles, and I can’t take two steps in that place without nearly tripping on one of Charmy’s million children.”

“Did you hear from Rill? They’re going for number eight.” At Nacht’s wide eyed stare, Yami laughed like a kid. “I know! They really want that big of a family.”

“Yay- more screaming mouths to add to the insanity.” Nacht held his head in his hands, taking a long sigh. He felt the table shake with the former captain’s laughter, and he peeked up to glare. “You’re enjoying this far too much.”

“Only because I know you.” Yami snorted, taking a long drag from his cigarette. “You moan and groan so much, but you love it there. And you adore those kids.”

“They can be rather endearing when they’re sleeping.” Nacht confessed, and Yami nodded sagely. “Speaking of- when are you and Charlotte gonna start a family? You’ve been married for some time now, yes?”

“Two years, yeah. We’re still enjoying ourselves right now. Though seeing all of Charm’s little rugrats is starting to get to me.” Yami looked thoughtful as he crushed his smoke, leaning back in his chair. “I’d like a little girl.”

“Pfft- she’ll have you wrapped around her little finger instantly.” Nacht smirked, and Yami grinned. “You two would butt heads constantly. She’d be Charlotte’s little mini-me.”

“Are you kidding? She’d be a daddy’s girl all the way. I’ll teach her all the tricks of the trade- sword play, fist fighting, poker- what?” Nacht raised a deadpanned brow at him. “Those are good trades to know.”

“You’re raising a child, not a gambling partner.”

“Hey now- I won’t be gambling. I haven’t gambled since I popped the question to Lottie.”

“Lottie? You’ve softened over the years, Captain.” Nacht teasingly looked him up and down. “In more ways than one.”

“And your tongue is as sharp as ever. I was going to share how to handle the bulls better, but clearly you don’t need it.” Yami huffed, trying to look irritated. It failed as Nacht’s lips twitched, clearly pleased. “You do seem better, though. Lighter. It’s good to see you laughing more.”

“I’m not.” His face went flat, and Yami sputtered on a wheeze. “You’re seeing things.”

“Come on- I can read you like a book. Always could have.” Yami rolled his neck as he leaned forward, folding his arms on the table. “You’re happy. Deny it all you want- but you are.”

“I’m…content.” The brunette looked away, anywhere but that irritating smirk. “Things are getting better. The kingdom is changing, as are their mindsets.” He wished Morgan was here. He’d probably be thrilled to see what the Kingdom had become.

Sensing the start of a mood shift, Yami’s hand reached out, weaseling into his neck out of nowhere. Nacht spasmed and shot back in his seat, staring at Yami incredulously. “Yami…”

“Kgggh!” Yami ducked his head, a snort ripping from his throat as he chortled. “Oh my god- all this time later and you’re still so sensitive!”

“Bite your tongue before I cut it out for you.” The new captain hissed, leaning away when Yami tried tickling him again. “Watch your hands, you damn beast. Did you even wash them after you wiped? Do you even wipe?”

“Oh my god, this is the best!” Yami was dying across from him, wheezing and choking on his mirth. “Yohoohu always get so twihihitchy when tihiihckled! Ehahhahahaa!”

“That’s completely absurd. I simply wish not to be to-YAMI!” He scrambled back when a hand squeezed his hip, banging his other hip on the table as his chair fell backwards. Now he was sore and embarrassed. “Would you knock that off?”

Yami slapped the table with a guffaw, clearly amused. Nacht felt a vein twitch as he glared, hating how warm his face felt. He hated how amused at the whole ordeal left him more.

All these years later and Yami still had a way of making it feel like they were two dumb kids causing mayhem across the kingdom.

Such a child. Well, if Yami wanted to act like one so bad…

He let his smirk sharpen as he summoned his devils.

“Ehheehehe! Hehe..heeh, whoo! That was- that was great.” Yami sighed as he rubbed his jaw, grinning at Nacht’s distance. “Scared I’m gonna getcha again? Come on- sit down. Have a dri-ihihihnk?”

Nacht’s eyes lit up with glee as Yami arched, shock mixing with his laughing face as his devils got to work. “What’s wrong? Surely my reaction isn’t that funny, Captain.”

“Yoohohohu son of a bihihihitch! Ehahhahaha, gehhhet thehehehem ohohohohoff!” Yami twisted in his seat, reaching behind him in an effort to catch the little devils scribbling at his back. Gimodelo, Slotos, Plumede, and Walgner- all in their tiny forms- floated around the retired Captain. They latched onto various parts of his body, some worming their claws into Yami’s armpits while others clung to ribs. One scratched at the center of Yami’s back- a particularly bad spot Nacht always went for in retaliation. “Thihihihihis is buhuuhuhll!”

“Well, I am a Black Bull. Captain as of the last few years.” Nacht kicked up his fallen chair before leaning against the back, smiling in his palm. “We’re notorious for impromptu tickle attacks. Of course- you’re all too aware of that, aren’t you?”

“Yohoohohohu sliihihihiy bahahhastahahhard! Whooo! Eheahhahhahahaha! Whahahait, wahahhait, wahhahait a mihihihihnute! Thihihihis is cheheahhahhating!” Yami tried standing up to avoid the devils’ scratches, but one of them slipped up and under his tank top, sending him falling to his knees. The other three devils hovered like flies, jabbing at him with pointed tails and precise talons while he rolled about like a child having a fit. “Cohoohohme ohohohohon, Nahhahhahhacht!”

Said man ducked his head to hide his grin, laughing softly against the crook of his arm while Yami squawked and swore. He had to give credit to their Wizard King- the idea of using devils to tickle someone was a new concept to him. Perhaps he’d send Asta and Liebe a gift basket at some point.

Maybe fruit? Soap? They could use some soap-

His devils came soaring at him with panicked expressions. It was his only warning before a hand latched onto his ankle. Nacht swore as he was pulled to the ground, Yami’s disheveled glare hovering over him. Had it been anyone else, they wouldn’t have gotten close to entrapping him. Hell, they wouldn’t even be alive right now.

His soft spot was truly being targeted, today.

“Devils are a dirty trick.” Yami growled, pinning Nacht to the ground with a hand against his shoulder. “Let me show you how a real tickle monster wins.”

“Scary. You have me shaking in my bo-Gah!” The brunette shouted when Yami grabbed his hip, ruthlessly squeezing and scrambling Nacht’s brain.

It would have been so easy to escape. To turn to shadow and fade out, to use his demon armor and really send Yami flying. Shoot, all he really had to say was “Stop.”

Instead, he let himself feel something he hadn’t felt since Morgan died. Nostalgia. Ease. How long has it been since he actually played with someone? Goofed off with Yami, took a moment to forget they were two grown men in their thirties with responsibilities?

So he didn’t run away. He instead struggled to fight off Yami’s teasing hands organically- well, okay. Maybe he did release his devils on the bigger man again. A wrestling match evolved between them alongside it, fingers and claws jabbing at sensitive spots, the occasional hair pull and wet willy was tossed in for added juvenile antics. All the while, Nacht’s lungs began to hurt from how hard he was laughing. Not even due to the occasional tickle Yami landed, but just from how ridiculous the entire thing was.

It was stupid. It was childish. It was the most fun he had in years.

Eventually, Yami collapsed beside him, shirt pulled halfway over his head while Nacht choked on wheezy coughs. His hair came undone from its usual neat ponytail, and he was sure his ribs had small bruises forming from how hard Yami dug in. His chest was incredibly light, and when he caught Yami’s eye, he sputtered with laughter as he shoved his friend away. “Doohohn’t look at me liihhike that!”

“Whahat? Feeling shy, Nacht?” Yami snorted, just as giggly. He pulled his tanktop down as he rolled on his back, looking up at the ceiling overhead. “Hehe..heh…fuck, I missed you.”

“And here I thought I was the sentimental type.” Nacht turned to look at him, his mirth fading some at the look in Yami’s eyes. “Yami..”

“You missed it too, yeah?” The other shrugged a shoulder. “I haven’t heard you laugh that hard since…well, since Morgan.” They both winced at the mention of his name. Yami pushed forward anyway. “I know we’ve both changed. We’re older now. New walks of life and all that. Still- that doesn’t mean we can’t be like we used to.” An invitation lingered in the air, unspoken but impactful.

“We’re not kids anymore, Yami. We can’t ever get back what is lost.” He spoke softly, trying not to wilt at Yami’s shadowed expression. “But…I suppose I do need advice on how to run this team better…”

“And I could use a drinking buddy for when Lottie’s out with the girls…” Yami added, cutting his eyes to Nacht’s. “Those high and tight royals- they don’t do it like we do.”

“They can barely hold their liquor at social events, let alone a bar.” Nacht smiled, and Yami grinned. “I suppose I could join you. Just to make sure you don’t get too drunk.”

“And I guess I can make sure you’re not running my kids into the ground.”

“Says the man who buries them neck deep when you’re pissed.”

“One more remark from you and I’ll show Vanessa your blonde-punk self.”

“You wouldn’t dare.” Nacht gaped, and Yami guffawed, earning a smile from his friend. So this was what it was like to rekindle with a friend. To truly be happy again.

He could get used to this.

“L-Listen! I’m sorry, I forgot to pack lunch and was starving!” She scrambled away from his desk, holding her hands up as he approached. Oh, her scared face was even cuter- her cheeks got even pinker, and those olive green eyes shimmered with anticipation of what’s to come. “It was a desperate situation- and you don’t even like that flavor of doughnut!”

“How are you so sure? Maybe I was craving it today- hence why I saved it for last?” Absolute bullshit, but he could see his bluff had her thinking. He took advantage of her distraction as he closed in, pinning her against the wall. A small squeak escaped her lips as she stared up at him, her knees bending slightly as she shrank back. “Maybe I’ll eat you instead to make up for it.”

“Taku-Mihihiihhi!” Before she could respond, he grabbed her torso, pressing his fingers in gently and making her squeal. She squirmed against the wall, pushing at his arms while his fingers tapped a devious rhythm against her ribs. “Whahahhait, wahhhahait I’ll buhuhuhuhuy yohoohohou mohohoohohre!”

“Not possible. The doughnut shop is closed.” Another lie. He was going to get his tongue cut out someday. “Accept the consequences, dumb cat.”

“Eheheheheheheheh-EHEHEHEHE!” The beginnings of her pout faded into a squeal when he dropped a hand to her hip, kneading it gently with his thumb. Ichika’s legs gave out soon after, and she slid down the wall in an attempt to escape. He intercepted with a knee between her legs, keeping her upright. “Nohohohot fahhahahahair! Nohohohohot fahhahahair! Iihihih’ll mahahahake yohohohohou mohohohohohre! I prohohohohomise!”

“Oh?” The offer nearly had him pausing. Homemade treats by his beloved poochie- temptation was high. Still, the squeals and giggles she rang out were far too delicious to pass over. At least not right now. “I’ll consider it.”

“Cohohohome ohohohn!” She ducked her pink face into his chest as he dragged his fingers back up her sides, tapping at the spot just where her ribs connected with her armpits. It wasn’t a bad spot, but it still had her giggling up a storm. “Tahahhahakeeheheru! Ehahhahahahaa! Giihihihive me a brehahahahk! Eheheheeee! Ehehehhehaha! Thihihihis is tohohohortuhuhuhre!”

“Come now- you love a little torture, poochie.” He purred in her ear, watching the skin get redder. “That’s why you’re with me.”

She pinched his arm in response, so he dropped his hand back to her hip and made her scream again. His body shook with laughter as she finally pushed off of him, falling back into the wall and holding her hands up protectively. “Nohohoho more!” She gasped, tears lining her eyes and cheeks rosy. Her smile was breathtaking. Takeru felt the world fall away as he took in the women before him.

He reached out and lifted her chin, pressing his lips into hers. She tasted like sugar and tea and strawberry lip balm. She tasted like Ichika.

“Mm?” She made a small sound of surprise before melting into him, her arms coming up and around his neck as he pulled her into his chest. “Mmm…what was that for?” She asked, voice hushed.

“Can a man kiss his soulmate?” He asked, and her face flushed. He only just realized what he said seconds later.

Whoops, that slipped.

He refused to take it back. It was true- she was his soulmate. And Ichika didn’t look put off in the slightest. If anything, her eyes lit up with a new light, something soft and genuine that warmed his core and face at the same time. He cleared his throat as he held her gaze, reaching up and brushing a thumb over her cheek. “You still owe me homemade doughnuts.”

“Hmm. I’ll think about it.” She stuck her tongue at him, pulling back with a squeal when he tried to bite it. “You’re gonna help, right? Cooking together would be fun.”

“Do you like having a home to return to? I can’t guarantee I won’t burn your kitchen down in the process.”

“I’m willing to take my chances.” She grinned, leaning in and kissing him once more. “Besides, we can bake them. Safer that way.”

“Do I have to wear that frilly apron again?” He gave her a fake glare that had her throwing her head back in laughter. “I still haven’t fully forgiven you for that one.”

“Oh no, did I hurt your whittle ego?” She teased, giggling when his eyes narrowed more. “No, I’ll be wearing that one. I got you something real special.” Something cheeky was in her gaze, but before he could ti-interrogate her further, the door opened from behind.

"Yanagi-san! Just in time- I have to go over this case with you." She had slipped from his grasp and joined their boss at the couch faster than Takeru anticipated. He leaned against the desk with his arms folded as he watched her present files to the brunette, discussing the case.

He had the faintest idea what apron she bought him. Knowing her- it was probably extra frilly and goofy, or maybe even something with a pun. He groaned internally at the thought.

And yet- a part of him perked up greatly at the idea of cooking with her again. Homemade doughnuts were a bonus to that sweet smile of hers as they worked together.

Okay- maybe he was excited for tonight, afterall.