m3l0nfl0at

“No matter what happens, you’ll always be the diamond in my eyes.” you smile softly at that statement. Relieved that at least one person feels that you had potential to be the season’s shining diamond. Even though you are certain this day will be just like the others because nothing about you certainly exuded “sparkling diamond” behavior. Nora followed you down the hall holding your train, stopping as you catch a short glimpse of your parents' portrait. Bowing your head before it, choosing not to linger.

It seemed as if you’re the only one in this family who didn’t ooze diamond behavior. When the famous Viscount Geto is your brother, how could you even compete? It didn’t help that your brother associated himself with the most famous entity, the Duke Gojo. Wherever Suguru went, Satoru followed. It became increasingly familiar for you to hang around the pair, not wanting to bother Satoru and Suguru. Your relationship with the pair changed when your parents died, you had no one else but your brother. 

Making it increasingly complicated to not be apart from him when he was all you had. Satoru was different, his eyes swam with empathy for you and your brother the day you found out. Every time he came over he’d help cheer up Suguru but Satoru couldn’t ignore the pain in his chest knowing you were suffering in your room alone. Days and Nights had passed not going out to balls, keeping to yourself watching the seasons in your room, until it had hit winter watching snow softly hit the ground. Remembering the times your mother allowed you to play in the snow not caring if it were ladylike, wanting to see you carelessly smile as a child should. 

Picking yourself up that day, finally choosing to get ready asking Nora for her help so you could watch the snowfall. What you hadn’t expected was for everyone to be outside. Everyone suddenly glaring at you as if they had seen a ghost. Bypassers commenting on how you gained weight while some saying you looked like a skeleton, shortly cursing Suguru in your head for leaving sweet treats at your door. You tried to block out the remarks, not wanting to turn such a jovial memory into one that was sour. Yet, some comments cannot be blocked out such as ones comparing you and Suguru’s complexion. 

Exclaiming that if Suguru looked kept and proper then what godly creature possessed you to come out looking so unkept and deathly. The ton never thought about what trials Suguru went through before opening their mouths. The same “kept and proper” Suguru was also struggling managing Viscountly duties at the ripe age of sixteen. Comments about how your mothers genes must have not hit you yet, snickering saying how an ugly duckling could always turn into a swan one day. Eyes followed you wherever you lingered, chatter persisted all around you and before you knew it you started feeling heavy chested. 

Succumbed to frustration, your feet took you home before your mind could think. Lacking all direction as you bump into another, “My goodness, watch-...” you look up, noticing Satoru’s blue eyes before anything else, eyes that widened in surprise. That day it seems as if the universe had it out for you, out of all the people to bump into, you unknowingly chose the golden boy of the ton. Satoru picked you up making sure not to tug your arm too hard before dusting any dirt off of you, “Are you okay?”. Nodding, keeping your eyes lowered on purpose not wanting him to see you in such a vulnerable state, one that was only reserved for you. 

That day Satoru walked you home not a single word was uttered but he didn’t have to say anything, his energy lingered with worry. He noticed you shivering, heavy breaths being taken as your eyes slowly watered, knowing that the dam you had built was slowly about to break. As soon as the front doors to your home shut he turned to you, lifting your chin with his finger. “Are you sure you’re okay?” He muttered so softly that no echo bounced off your home's vacant walls, holding you closer than he ever has before. Quickly you broke away from his hold, your gaze lowered as you bowed “Thank you my lord.”

“Satoru, it’s, you may call me Satoru. No need for the honorifics.” Nodding as you quickly headed up to your room without looking back. The day after he came over and you couldn’t look him in the eyes, scared that you showed him a side of you that no one has ever seen. That day you were so scared of Satoru seeing you differently, that it went unnoticed how differently you viewed him now. Satoru had never been the same to you since that day, the silence that lingered between you two in the past soon turned into jests that made you roll your eyes from sheer stupidity. However knowing Satoru for as long as you did surely came with negative attributes such as him pinching your cheek, petting your head as if you were some barn animal, and hurling ridiculous one off jests. 

People of the ton hated knowing how close you were to the Duke, some even jealous. If anything you found their jealousy ridiculous, if someone took the other seriously they would never dare convey such sickly juvenile emotions towards the other. “Finally she’s ready, had me thinking that you’d never make it to your own debut.”, you scoff at your brother’s words. “As if there was any way I could ever miss it.”, making sure to lace your tone with heavy sarcasm. “You look…” you stare into Satoru’s soul knowing that little lilt in his tone came with a catch.

  “You look like you’re being swallowed by all those feathers atop your head.” He reaches out to touch the headpiece, quickly slapping his hand away. Rolling your eyes, “Don’t you have anywhere else to be Satoru?”. The gentleman gives you no time to breathe as he instantly pinches your cheek in retort, sticking your tongue out in response. Suguru huffs in annoyance knowing there’s no stopping you two once you get going. Choosing to leave you both in the dust as he heads toward the carriage.

“I’m going to be late if you keep pestering me.”, Satoru smirks hearing you gasp heading towards the carriage. “As if Satoru, you’re pestering me! Now if you don’t mind me I have a ball to attend.” Your coach helps you into the carriage as Nora assists your train, “See you there Miss Diamond!”. Offering him a wave before resorting into your carriage, sitting upright but still fiddling with your gloves out of nervousness. Frankly you didn’t mind getting dressed up, you weren’t one to deny the act of looking presentable and prim, what you hated was having the inevitable attention of the ton.

✧₊⁺🕯⋆.˚୨ৎ

Arriving at the Queen’s palace made you dizzy, this was one of the moments you wished your mother was still here to guide you. Certain that she would compliment you just to ease your tension identical to the time she once did when you took your first ballroom lessons. Too caught up in your own world to notice Suguru eyeing you “My bet is on Ms. Iori”, you lean in suddenly caught off guard. “Bets on what exactly?”, “Bets on who will be the diamond, of course.” your face scrunches in offence. “Why wouldn’t you bet on me to be the diamond?” Suguru smiles as if it’s the most obvious answer in the whole world. 

“It wouldn't be very fair of me to bet on my own sister, would seem a bit undeserved, no?” You nudge him playfully. “You’re right. To be fair I wouldn’t bet on myself either, seems conceited.” Looking out the window to see the palace was in eyesight, thinking of who to place your bets on until your carriage abruptly halted, traffic. Just as you were going to check outside the window a certain tuft of white caught your eye. “My bets are on Ms. Mei Mei.”. You jump up in shock from Satoru’s sudden jump scare. “What is with you boys and your bets? My lord, you cannot be here!” Satoru smirks at you, surprised by the sudden honorifics. 

“My lord? You know no one is here to hear the honorifics, right? People are more likely to think Suguru and I are to be betrothed than us.” Satoru shrugs his shoulders in dismissal as Suguru looks at the boy in disgust. Smacking his shoulder at his ludicrous implication “I’m not saying that! You cannot be here because..” Stumbling over your words before huffing in defeat, moving over so Satoru can sit beside you. “No need for all the arguing, all you had to do was invite me in princess.” Satoru crosses his legs while you bump his leg in retort for getting into your personal space. 

“Sister, do you care to place a wager?” Suguru offers suddenly, probably not wanting you to feel left out. “What about Shoko being the diamond?” Silence fell upon the carriage, the boys responded with laughter as if it were the most absurd question they have ever heard. “Well, even though you both find it absurd, I choose to believe Shoko could be the perfect diamond! That is my bet.” Satoru’s taken aback by your sudden brazenness. “Not very ladylike of you to be placing wagers princess.” You cross your arms not caring of your posture at this very moment, more bothered by the nickname “Stop calling me that Satoru!”.

✧₊⁺🕯⋆.˚୨ৎ

The weight of being in the waiting room alone hadn’t hit you until you entered the room, Mama’s looking at you with sorrow knowing there would be no one to help you prepare. No one to touch up your hair or fix your gown, feeling defeated as you slowly back yourself into the corner wishing that Suguru was still around. Missing Mei Mei being in your field view accidentally bumping into her, she scoffed in annoyance as her expression turned pinched. Watching her expression slowly turn lax as she took in your appearance, “I didn’t know this was a masquerade ball duckling, watch where you’re going next time.”. High chinned, turning on her heels as she leaves satisfied with her tasteless insult. 

Mei Mei was undeniably gorgeous yet her looks could never quite cover up the green-eyed monster of envy that travelled with her. You never let anything she did get to you knowing that she does these things out of insecurity, most girls in the ton operated that way due to high stakes. Yet the girl always found ways to torture you, a step that caused your dress to rip, a foot that caused you to trip, or a false rumor about your “faltering” status. Truth be told, she was envious of your ties to Satoru believing she was more deserving of a relationship with the handsomely wealthy Duke. Whereas the size of Satoru’s pockets never mattered to you when the amount he annoys you is triple the size of whatever he has stored away. 

You waited anxiously, eager to hear your name being called, fidgeting with your pearls every now and then. All doubt vanished when the doors opened, spotting Satoru each time being impossible to miss with his tall frame. What you didn’t expect was for him to catch your glimpse every now and then, lifting his eyebrows when you were caught gazing back. Thrown off between your staring contest with Satoru realizing your name was being called behind the doors. Chest puffed out as you started to slowly walk down the aisle.

Bowing steadily making sure your head was still held at an appropriate angle while your back remained perfectly straight. Returning to your normal stance you realize the Queen’s gaze never faltered from the window, more interested in anything else than what you had to show. Thanking your grace you left swiftly to the courtyard, relishing in the breezy outside air relaxing your heavy shoulders. “The queen does love a show does she not?” Shoko says behind you, shoulders jump in surprise at her sudden comment. “When you have everything in the world, others turn into your true source of entertainment.” Nodding in agreement, she drags you further into the courtyard.

“I knew I wasn’t going to be picked as the diamond but I would have appreciated a glance or two.” Pouting remembering the Queen's face. Shoko squeezes your arm as she’s filled with cuteness aggression, plucking the feather from your head and handing it to you. “Well… here’s to not being the diamond.” Shoko lifts up her feather headpiece as if it were a fencing sword, you join her as well, cheering for an obvious expectation. “Would now be a bad time to mention that I wager you to be the diamond?” Shoko smirks at your statement. “Me? Well aren’t you sweet. However, I could tell you right now, you’re losing that bet.”, you shrug. “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder Ms. Leiri.”

“Shoko, are you holding my sister captive again?” Shoko tightens her grip around your arm at your brother's question. “She was just telling me about a bet you two blockheads had, what was it about again?”, both boys look away acting clueless at any mention of a bet. Shoko rolls her eyes only to be interrupted by her mother, saying a quick bye to your group before parting. Deciding it was time to head to your carriage, you linked arms with your brother. Noticing Mei Mei chatting with Satoru, fake laughing at something he said, feeling your eyes rolling back in disgust. 

Suguru softly chuckles before leaning down to whisper, “Satoru cannot tell the difference between a needle or a knife in a haystack.”. Your eyebrow raises in confusion at your brother’s statement, “To be fair Suguru, I don’t think anyone could tell the difference.”. Suguru gently nods, “One who knew there was a knife in the haystack wouldn’t dare touch it, right? However, knowing Satoru he would be the only one who’s brazen enough to take on the challenge of looking through the haystack.”. Feeling joy nip at your cheeks finally understanding what your brother is trying to say “Well, consider him lucky because that challenge dangles after him desperately.” Suguru rubs his forehead in distress, knowing only his friend is foolish enough to entangle himself with the likes of Mei Mei. 

“Is it naive of me to think that maybe they were simply discussing gossip?” Suguru stills, “Do not jest.”. Hopping into the carriage waiting for your brother's full attention, “I’m not jesting, is it so bad to simply have a little bit of faith in Satoru’s character? Especially when he’s talking to someone as arrogant as Mei Mei.” Baffled at your response, your brother seems to have a look of shock on his face. ”Yes, having faith in anyone who is not yours is a dangerous entanglement. Especially when the person you put your faith into is as arrogant as the person you dislike.” You scoffed at his comparison. Sure Satoru was full of himself but the confidence the boy had was completely different from the narcissism Mei Mei displayed. 

“I’d like to believe that I know Satoru better than anyone else so please try not to argue. I don’t want an argument. I want you to be aware that the Satoru in your dreams is not the Satoru in reality.” Your breath halts, confused at what your brother could be implying. “Excuse me? What do you mean by the Satoru in my dreams?”, shoulders tensing with fury. Suguru tilts his head, eyes zeroing in on you, “Don’t be foolish, you can lie to everyone in the ton but not me sister.” Head swimming in confusion feeling completely dense at what he is implying. 

“You’re so called annoyance for the boy teeters on the edge of admiration.” No question mark at the end, a statement as if he didn’t need to hear your opinion to assume he was correct. Suguru was waiting for the gears to turn in your head, waiting for you to finally acknowledge the frequent jests, nicknames, and gamesome routine you two shared was not out of displeasure but out of affection. Suguru watched both of you and knew that Satoru wasn’t comfortable with just anyone like he was with you. He often wondered if the boy was being nice because you are his sister or if Satoru’s lighthearted nature came from being interested in you.

Suguru never got the verbal confirmation he wanted from you but your appearance was too heavy to deny it. Your brows furrowed in irritation, looking back on all the instances you’ve ever interacted with Satoru. The bickering slowly turned somewhat saccharine after you realized how much he was smiling during all of it. Evading your personal space not out of displeasure but out of routine. “Whatever you think brother is simply not true, I could never display such feelings for Satoru because he would never have such feelings for me. You have it wrong.” 

“Would you like him to have such feelings for you?” Coughing so hard out of shock that you're afraid the corset might bust. “That is not, this” As suddenly as you open your mouth the carriage door opens “We have arrived.”. Your coach notices the tension immediately grabbing your hand as you squabble to leave. “Don’t forget about the ball later at dusk!” Suguru yells. “I cannot forget it! Even if I wanted to.” Whispering the last part under your breath. 

✧₊⁺🕯⋆.˚୨ৎ

“Suguru!” Calling for your brother only to be met with a heavy silence. “Suguru! Where are you?” Resorting to your wits end, checking for him in his office. Opening the doors to see him still working while you were fully dressed for the first ball of the season. Crossing your arms, dissatisfied that he reminded you about the ball only to forget it himself. “I know what you’re thinking but I figured we would head to the ball separately, I have to catch up on some of my duties.”, sighing out of pity for how hard your brother worked while you mingled around. 

“Fine, I’ll allow it. At least now I get to leave earlier while you get stuck by yourself with debutaunts.” Suguru chuckles, noting the time. “If anyone asks I’ll tell them you’re showing up fashionably late. I’m off now, I’ll be expecting you later.” Suguru nods in agreement watching you leave, Nora trailing not too far behind you. Unsuspecting of your brother's suspicious behavior, just as he suspected. Maybe if you had spared a single glance behind you, you would’ve spotted a particular gentleman getting out of his carriage. 

Satoru watches as you leave, suspicious as to why Suguru called on him so unexpectedly. “Suguru, what’s the deal? I spotted your sister leaving, are you playing some sort of game with me?” Satoru notices Suguru shaking his head, “You know there’s a ball to attend right Suguru?” Suguru looks up sternly “Satoru, I have a request for you. One that is quite serious to me.” Satoru glances back and forth between Suguru and the empty spaces in his office, genuinely confused if he’s talking to him this seriously. 

Satoru leans on Suguru’s desk following him as he stands, “I request you not to entangle yourself with my sister.” Satoru starts scratching at his chin, “Entangle? What exactly do you mean by that?”. Suguru stands up straight looking down on the giant man leaning on his desk. “If you have no intentions of eloping with my sister, do not give her false hope.” Satoru starts fumbling on his words knowing that Suguru’s request is out of protection but is also incredibly shallow. “Let me get this straight, I cannot be around your sister unless I have clear intentions?” Suguru nods.

“Did she make this request or are you trying to shield her?” Suguru exhales very dramatically. “Satoru, I will always protect my family. We both know about your rakeish tendencies, is it so wrong to be protective over her?” Satoru’s fists clench “Does this rule go for every man in the ton? Or is this a special rule?” Suguru’s wide stance takes over Satoru’s tense stature, leaning in. “Let me ask you this Satoru, what are your intentions with my sister?” Satoru slaps his hands down on the desk “Why don’t I talk to your sister and you’ll find out.”

“Want to duel before we go to the ball, Satoru? Rules are rules and you will never have my blessing unless I know your head is clear.” Suguru leaves the gentleman behind not caring anymore for the conversation. He knew he only had so much time to chat until he had to get ready. His point was crystal clear and now, the both of you knew exactly what it would take for you to come together. Whether you both will like the outcome was not up to him but down the line, you’ll thank him for it.

✧₊⁺🕯⋆.˚୨ৎ

Sweet melodies filled the beautiful manor as people all throughout the ton scattered around the ballroom. Dance cards had started to be filled out, drinks were passed around, and social groups had been formed. An hour had passed noting the time so you could pester your brother about how rude it was to be late. The Tsukumo's greeted you shortly asking about your brother before leaving to greet other guests. Observing who was around that you could find some interest in chatting to.

Falling short choosing to instead look around the art the Tsukumo’s had displayed. Encapsulated by how vibrant the colors were, failing to notice another girl was around you. “The skyline on this one is particularly gorgeous is it not?” Glancing over to see Utahime. “Yes, it is but I am quite interested in this one’s skyline. The cerulean blue is too beautiful to not catch one's eye.” Utahime winces while you giggle at her silly expression.

“I take it you're not a fan of cerulean blue?” she grimaces at the mention. “I don’t have a particular fondness of blue overall. It reminds me of a certain gentleman I do not take a liking to.” Filling in the blanks as to what gentleman she is regarding, your brows furrow. Never really noticing how you associated the color to Satoru. “To be fair Mr. Gojo can be a bit polarizing to some, I understand your displeasure of the association.” 

“I’m Utahime Iori and you’re (y/n) Geto, correct?” nodding, surprised that she knew who you were. “All of the other debutaunts only ever really talk about suitors but you Ms. Geto are quite refreshing." Cheery at Utahime’s praise you continue to talk about the interest you shared in art. Realizing that another hour has gone by, you excuse yourself from the conversation with the girl. Insisting that you will be calling Utahime as soon as you can tomorrow to fetch you both some painting supplies, shocked that you finally made a friend not associated with your brother.

It had already been a couple of hours when you noticed Satoru and Suguru had not shown up or made their presence known. Eyes scouting around the ballroom, only to halt when you come to notice Satoru once again chatting with Mei Mei. She leans particularly close as if to whisper something into the gentleman's ear before she leaves swiftly. Your eyes were too busy to follow Mei Mei instead desperately looking around to see if anyone noticed the scandalous behavior she was exuding. Shocked that you saw Satoru’s eyes unexpectedly on you, he looks away hastily, turning around to walk the opposite way Mei Mei took. 

Assessing the situation your brain told you to not follow him scared to walk in on something you’re not ready to face. Whereas your heart told you to follow him, wanting to believe he had the best intentions. Taking a glimpse around, noticing that no one was observing as you speedily ushered the route Satoru took. Catching up enough to see his silhouette but not close enough to grab his attention. 

Soon he opened the door to a room, closing it discreetly. Your heart raced, never being this cunning before in your life but deciding the risk was worth the charge. Opening the door to only find an empty library, no scandalous noises, or clothing disarray. “You followed me?” hearing his voice you crumble in guilt. “You’d actually believe I’d follow her?” Having no chance to answer as Satoru’s hardened gaze took in the sight of you.

Satoru’s eyes never once left you, not bearing to look directly at him but feeling his aura exuding disappointment. Your hands were shaking, not knowing whether to feel relief or shame by what your true intentions in following him were about. “I could not live with myself knowing that, that you” Stumbling over your shaky words as your throat began to dry up. “That I would scandalize myself to Mei Mei?” Satoru finishes your sentence assuming the worst.

Brows furrowing as you completely shake your head in disagreement at the barbaric accusation. Astonished at what Satoru said, “No! That thought never crossed my mind, what makes you say that?” Satoru freezes realizing what he said in the heat of the moment “You think I don’t know about the gossip that gets spread around about me?” Rebuttiling instantly “You think that I out of everyone listen to gossip? What are you hiding, Satoru?” Satoru should’ve told you right there what Suguru had told him about making his intentions clear but his friends' words lingered in his mind. 

Knowing his past, knowing that the Satoru you knew in your mind was flawed would make you seem him entirely different. Satoru took a deep breath, “You are aggravating!” The gentleman took steps toward you. “You pry, you lurk in the shadows, pretend not to care but I notice and it is maddening!” your lips tremble fearing that the person you never wanted to bother finds you abrasive. Satoru finds himself peeling back as your fragrance hits his senses taking over every ounce of sanity he had. Needing to breathe fresh air he heads towards the terrace until you intervened pulling his wrist back.

“Satoru, I could not live with myself knowing that Mei Mei took advantage of you knowing she does not have your best interest, I think it would be senseless of you to associate with her.” Satoru’s shoulders stiffen at your rapid breaths, “Personally, I think that you shouldn’t entangle yourself in my business.” Satoru thought you would let go of his wrist but was shocked when you grabbed it tighter. “What are you talking about Satoru?”, clenching your jaw in anger at his sudden withdrawal. “The interest you have in me is not one that I can give back to you, can’t you see that.” 

Your heart aches in your chest finally realizing what he is verbalizing. “Satoru,” “My lord, you may not address me as Satoru any further." Finally letting go of his hand as if he hit the last nail on the coffin. “I think the decision is best if you were to find new suitors. They would not like you calling me by my first name.” Satoru noticed the sudden sadness that was hiding beneath your eyes. “You should be on your way now.” He pats the top of your head before feeling a sharp palm hit his left cheek. When he looks back at you all he can see is fury, “You think that after everything you can suddenly erase yourself from my life? After you're the one who irritatingly worked your way into it.” 

Satoru can’t find the words currently stuck in his throat, shocked that you slapped him. “If you truly believe that Mei Mei is the one for you then so be it but don’t punish me because you’re too cowardly to communicate.” You leave the room, allowing him to ruminate on your last statement, upset at yourself for letting him see you in such immodesty. Misery surrounds you, fully aware that the person you thought you knew found your existence aggravating. Not an ounce of hurt that you were feeling translated on your face as you were walking to your carriage, not wanting to give the ton the satisfaction of gossip they were feeding for.

Your body freezes from the chill hitting you, watching as your coach pulls up offering to help you in. Not caring to say goodbye to anyone, just wanting to get home to your room as soon as possible. Staring out the window picturing Mei Mei laughing with Satoru, not knowing if he even cared about your presence not being present. Nauseous knowing that Mei Mei, the green eyed monster of the ton would get to see the loving gentler side of Satoru, when all her desires were sinful. Suguru was right, the feelings you had for the gentleman were out of affection.

You were obtuse to have not realized it sooner. Maybe if you had, this predicament would’ve been less likely. Now all you're left with was a broken heart, a heart that severed a connection that was never truly yours in the first place.

reblogs and comments are greatly appreciated! ( ˘ ³˘)♥︎

Waking up Tsukishima stared at the glow-in-the-dark stars placed above his bed, watching as they faded with the oncoming sun peeking through the blinds. He dreaded mornings, he hated the way his mouth felt dry, how hot he felt under the sheets, and most of all, waking up meant he'd have to deal with a new day of idiots doing things he hated.

Tsukishima hated a lot of things, he hated his old rowdy neighbor, he hated overly cheery people, the feeling of cold coffee in the morning, how polyester felt against his skin, and he especially hated when his neighbors tried to get to know him.

Putting his headphones on he stepped out into the hallway, only to be greeted by the sight of you trying to lift a box into your new apartment.

You decided to save money youd only ask the movers to move your furniture and not your boxes, you were deeply regretting that decision right now. You only had three more boxes to go but the soreness was already catching up to you from the other ten.

The sight was enough to annoy Tsukishima, why didn't you just ask for help instead of trying to do everything yourself, movers are a thing. Did you not have friends that could help you do this? He tried his best to ignore you while locking his door but a part of him felt bad for you, that you couldn't even complete a simple task.

With a sigh, he made his way over and took the box from your hands which startled you.

"Oh, you don't have to-"

"Where do I put it," He cut you off flatly before he could change his mind about helping you.

You were thrown off by his tone, its not like you asked him to help you so why was he so angry?

"In the living room is fine, thank you, sorry," You weren't sure whether you should be apologizing or thanking so you settled on doing both, which just earned another sigh from Tsukishima.

You were surprised by how easily he lifted the rest of the boxes, despite how skinny he looked he was really strong, or maybe you were just really weak, but to save your ego you decided he was just strong.

"Thank you again for helping," You looked up at him as he sat the last box down on the floor. You noticed this guy sighed a lot, it made you feel like you were somehow wasting his time.

Looking down at his watch he realized how much time had passed and he mumbled something under his breath before leaving your apartment.

He didn't even acknowledge your gratitude. The entire encounter had you stunned, was he really going to be your next-door neighbor?

With a content sigh, you plopped down on your couch and instantly relaxed, you had finally finished unpacking every box and arranging your furniture the way you liked it, and it only took you six hours. Despite how tired your body was you wanted to do something to show your grumpy neighbor how thankful you were, and you were gonna do it in the only way you knew how to show thanks.

Baking. But first, you would have to go grocery shopping.

Heading toward the elevator at the end of the hall the door opened to reveal your tall, grumpy neighbor, still wearing the same frown he left in. Only it seemed to deepen at the sight of you.

You smiled at him as he exited the elevator. Tsukishima prayed you wouldn't try to talk to him, but of course, like every other time, his prayer wasn't heard.

"Hey, neighbor! I never got your name," You beamed up at him, looking at him now he was freakishly tall, his hair was disheveled, and he looked sweaty, it was almost enough to intimidate you.

"If you know it, you'll say it," He flatly said, walking past you to his apartment door.

You didn't know what you did to possibly receive this kind of treatment, it wasn't even your first day living here and this guy acted like he hated you.

"What did I do to you?" You asked, slightly irritated by his ego.

He simply ignored your question and entered his apartment, promptly closing the door.

It's not like Tsukishima intended to be rude to you, well, he partially did. But there was truth to his words. If you knew his name then you'd assume he was your friend and you'd try and talk to him, and he just didn't want that. His apartment was a place where he didn't have to talk to anyone and he intended to keep it that way. He couldn't understand why you didn't get the hint.

You weren't gonna let his rude attitude stop you from baking him something, it only made you more motivated to bring a smile to his frowny face.

You weren't sure what you'd bake him so you decided to go with your own favorite dish, strawberry shortcake.

Walking down the aisles you stared at everything in your cart, you had gotten some regular food items you'd need for the next few week's meals, as well as some snacks and drinks you enjoyed. Now all that's left is to get the ingredients for the desert you'd be making your neighbor.

Looking up at the signs above the aisles you searched for where the flower would be. Once you found it you walked over, only to see the one and only standing there in front of the vanilla bottles staring intently at them. You wondered what he could be doing there.

"Hey, you," You greeted, resting your arms on the cart handle as you walked over.

Tsukishima didn't need to look to see who the voice belonged to, why were you everywhere he went?

You noticed he looked much cleaner now, and his blond hair was much more neat.

"What're you doing? Did the vanilla bottles look at you the wrong way?" You joked, stopping right in front of him. Your eyes shifted between him and the bottles, trying to figure out what he was doing.

He didn't answer you, in hopes you'd get the hint this time but that never worked out in the past. Your joke only further annoyed him.

You came to the only reasonable explanation hed be standing here staring for so long at the bottles, he didn't know the difference.

"What flavor were you looking for?" You asked, trying to sound as nonjudgemental as you could, not wanting to annoy him any further.

"What?" He asked confused.

"Well, Bourbon, or Madagascar, vanilla has a much stronger taste," You explained, pointing to the bottle you were speaking about. "While Mexican vanilla has more of a spice and smokey tone to its flavoring, and Tahitian vanilla is the opposite, its fruity and floral, almost cherry-like." You spoke softly as he nodded along.

"It's all based on your preference and what you're going to be cooking." You finished off, looking up at him.

He only nodded as he reached for the Bourbon vanilla bottle and placed it in his shopping basket.

"Thanks," He muttered out. He wondered how you knew so much about vanilla flavors, they all tasted the same to him.

"Youre welcome, can I get your name now?"

He paused for a moment before turning to you. "No,"

You let out a breath of defeat as you grabbed your own bottle, but you knew it's fine, you'd get his name one way or another, you're sure of it.

Placing your shopping bags on your counter you sighed, thankful they had an elevator or else you would've passed out walking the heavy bags up five flights of stairs.

Putting away the groceries you left out the required ingredients needed to make the strawberry shortcake.

Placing the strawberries in a bowl you layered them with sugar and gave it a light mix, only wanting to coat the strawberries in the sugar. Once that was done you began on the small cake and placed it into the oven.

An hour passed and if was finally done, it was the most beautiful thing you'd laid eyes on, it almost brought a tear to your eye. And to think the frowny, grumpy, rude, annoyed neighbor would have the chance to eat it brought a smile to your face.

Placing the treat into a small box you picked up at the store you carefully made your way to your neighbor's door and gave it a knock.

You stood there for a few moments before you heard muffled voices and the unlock of a door.

Tsukishima peeked his head out and saw you before fully opening the door.

He didn't say anything and instead raised his eyebrow, waiting for you to say what you needed.

"Sorry if I disturbed you, but I baked you a shortcake! I wasn't sure what you liked so I made you something I liked, as a thanks," You explained as well as telling him your name and handing over the box which he took and peeked into. If you were looking close enough you could see a glimmer of happiness in his eyes.

"Hm," He let out.

"Do you not-"

"Tsukishima Kei," He cut you off, something he seemed to enjoy doing.

You were stunned, "Tsukishima?" You tested the way it rolled off your tongue.

"Dont wear it out, is that all?"

"So does this mean we are friends?" You asked cheerfully, earning a sigh from him.

"No, now goodbye," He said before closing the door.

It wasn't a smile, but you learned his name so you counted that as a win.

Tsukishima walked into his kitchen and grabbed a fork, immediately ready to try his favorite dessert.

"Who was that?" Tsukishimas girlfriend, Etsuko, asked from the living room.

"My neighbor brought me some strawberry shortcake," He said, hoping she wouldn't make an argument over this like she always did, it was something he disliked, and didn't see the point in meaningless arguments but it was a habit she had recently picked up on, the latest one being about his volleyball teams manager.

"Oh? The new girl?" Her voice was laced with jealousy, something he could easily pick up on with how often she spoke in a tone like that.

"Yeah, I helped her move her boxes," He explained while biting into the shortcake, his tastebuds almost exploding with how flavorful it was, and in the privacy of his own kitchen, he cracked a small smile at your dish.

"Why'd you do that?" She asked, now moving to the kitchen to get a better view of Tsukishima, his smile quickly fading.

"Why does it matter?" He asked, annoyance visible on his face and voice.

She shrugged, "Just doesn't seem like something you'd do,"

He let out a sigh while picking up another bite with his fork, "Yeah well I did it Etsuko,"

"Jeez, what's your problem?"

It was as if she knew just how to push Tsukishimas buttons like she was destined to be here and get on his nerves, and she wasn't always like this but lately, it was like her sole purpose was to interrogate and bother him.

Instead of giving in to her, Tsukishima decided to remain quiet and enjoy the shortcake, hoping she'd give up and go back to her original spot on the couch.

The entire night you couldn't wipe the smile off your face, despite what Tsukishima said, you considered him your friend.

Waking up the sunbeams shone across your face, welcoming you to another day filled with new possibilities, you loved mornings, it was like a second chance, any mistakes you made yesterday were, well, yesterday's news. You loved how the sun looked as it rose above the buildings, it was a beautiful sight to wake up to.

Looking at the clock it read six o'clock, you needed to be at work in an hour, it would be your first day back in a week do to moving and you were extremely excited to be back and baking, maybe you'd bring your new friend a sweet treat home.

Opening your door you were met with the sight of Tsukishima locking his door, he had a plain white shirt on and a pair of blue jeans while he carried a plain hoodie on his side, as well as his usual headphones around his neck.

"Tsukishima!" You cheerfully greeted him as you walked up to him, you couldn't hear it but you knew he sighed, he always did that to you, so much so you've gotten used to it.

"Why're you up so early," He asked, though it sounded more like a statement than a question in his voice while you walked to the elevator together.

"Well, today I start work again at the bakery two blocks from here! I'm super excited about it, I've been missing work lately." You explained.

Tsukishima found your enthusiasm for things quite annoying, he couldn't understand how you could be so excited and cheerful this early in the morning.

"What do you have planned today, tsuki?" You beamed, pressing the floor button on the elevator.

Tsukishima would never admit it but he did like the way you said his nickname, it was different from how everyone else said it, and it was innocent in a way.

"College classes, and practice," He dully said, watching the doors close while he shoved his hands in his pockets.

"Practice?"

"Volleyball practice,"

You made a sound of excitement and admiration, "Youre a volleyball player? Thats so cool!" You said, looking up at him.

"It's not that cool," He sneered.

"Well, it makes sense! Youre like crazy tall and strong,"

Your compliments were almost enough to bring a blush to his cheeks, and he was thankful the elevator doors opened before you could get any more innocent compliments in.

"You know it's gonna be cold today, right?" He asked, looking your outfit up and down.

"It is?" You asked worriedly, in your rush to get ready you completely forgot to check the weather, and you still had to walk to work in the cold.

"Couldn't even check the weather," He sighed, shoving his hoodie into your hands.

"Tsuki.." You nervously said.

"Dont thank me, just dont let it happen again," He sternly said.

"No, it's just," You paused, looking down embarrassed.

"What?" He asked, raising his brow at your form. It was unlike you to be shy and nervous.

You took a deep breath, "What if it doesn't fit," You meekly said.

That thought hadn't crossed Tsukishimas mind, mostly because he didn't care about that sort of thing.

"It will," He simply stated, motioning for you to put it on.

This was a side of Tsukishima you weren't used to, you had expected him to laugh at your embarrassment, or just ignore you, but it gave you enough will to pull the hoodie over your head and he was right, it did in fact fit. His scent invaded your being, and a small blush rose to your cheeks.

Tsukishima hoped you didn't see his own blush at the sight of you in his hoodie. He didn't know why he was being so nice to you right now, but hearing you say it wouldn't fit irked something inside of him.

"Thanks, Tsuki," You looked up at him with a soft smile.

"Whatever," He turned away from you and walked out of the entrance to the complex, placing his headphones on his ears and taking out his phone.

You smiled the entire way to the bakery, with a warm feeling in your stomach with every inhale of Tsukishimas scent.

You felt disappointment for the first time when you approached your work because entering meant you'd have to take off the hoodie since you didn't want to get it covered in batter and flour.

Walking to the back towards the employee lockers you greeted the familiar faces of your employees with a cheery smile, disappointment soon being washed over with glee as you carefully hanged the hoodie in your locker and tied your apron around your waist ready to begin the day.

You always loved this job since the moment you got it, it truly was a blessing to you, you get paid for doing things you love and you get to meet all different kinds of people.

You noticed a girl standing by the counter and rushed over.

"Hello!" You greeted her with a bright smile, excited to meet a new person, you hadn't seen her here before.

"So, youre Tsukishimas new neighbor?"

The question had caught you off guard and a confused look appeared on your face, "Yeah?" You replied though it sounded more like a question than an answer.

"Well, he's my boyfriend," She stated.

You raised your eyebrow at her, what kind of reaction was she trying to get out of you?

"Good for you?"

"You should hear the things he's been saying about you," She sneered.

You didn't like where this conversation was going, and it angered you that you could tell where it'd go.

You didn't like feeling angry, in fact, it was one of the few things you hated, because when you felt angry you also felt sad, and sadness usually led to slumps where you didn't feel like doing anything and where life feels meaningless.

"If you aren't gonna get anything then please leave," You tried to hang onto the last string of cheerfulness you had, the last string of patience with her. You didn't want to be angry at her since she was clearly someone special to Tsukishima and you'd hate to genuinely upset him.

"Just know he isn't who you may think he is," She said before turning and taking her leave.

You weren't sure what to make of the encounter, you didn't know if you should be mad or upset, and you knew Tsukishima could be rude but would he really talk bad about you behind your back? Is it even worth asking? Maybe you'd just take the hint and leave him alone like he always wanted you to, and looking back now you should've seen it sooner, all his one-worded replies and the way he addressed you with such coldness. You'd just give him what he wanted.

The day came and went and it was time for you to head back home, only this time Tsukishima's hoodie was clenched in your fist, and the emotions you'd been repressing all day bubbled back up like soda, you understood you hadn't known him for long but you considered him a friend and you thought he did the same in his own antisocial rude way.

You were so lost in thought you didn't even care how harsh the cold was nipping at your skin and you only realized when you entered the warm lobby of your apartment, that the warmth instantly engulfed you as you shuddered away the cold. You silently prayed that you wouldn't cross paths with Tsukishima, but your prayers were cut short when you heard a voice from behind you, and it didn't take much to guess who it was.

You were surprised that he was the one greeting you, but you wouldn't give in, this is what he wanted. As soon as you entered the elevator you started spamming the close door button but in two strides he was already in, damn him and those long legs.

Tsukishima instantly caught on to the attitude change towards himself. Usually, you'd be chatting his ear off, talking about everything and anything and he'd be there, listening to every word of it while acting like he wasn't. Like how two days ago while walking to the elevator you were talking about the nature documentaries you watched and how they always made you cry but you could never turn them off. But now you were quiet, and looking everywhere but him, he didn't like it one bit. In fact, he hated it.

"Did you burn a bread roll or something?" He sneered, trying to gauge any sort of reaction out of you, a smile, a laugh, a look, anything.

Well he did get a reaction, you shoved his hoodie into his chest and sped off to your door, slamming it shut before he could even get a word in.

He sighed and headed for his, disappointment spreading through his body when his eyes met his girlfriends.

Tsukishima softly closed the door and kicked off his shoes, his mind still on you and the way you completely ignored him earlier. He tried racking his brain on what he could've possibly done to upset you other than ignore you, be rude, give you the cold shoulder, be dry. But he thought you understood and didn't care about all that stuff, though he could admit maybe he took the whole act a bit too far at times. He started to feel like a jerk, and for the first time in a long while, he felt like he should apologize to you. The only thing is he wasn't sure how to or where to start.

It had been a week since you last spoke to Tsukishima, and it had been five days since you last stood in the same elevator, he was partially okay with you not speaking to him but purposefully avoiding him? He decided today was the day he'd try and make things right with you. Even he couldn't believe his thoughts right now, never in a million years did he think he'd be going out of his way to try and get someone's forgiveness. But the days spent without you were quiet and dull, he no longer liked waking up, and he no longer liked the way the sun glared in his glasses, in fact, he found it once again absurd.

Tsukishima missed having you as a friend.

He missed your rambles, he missed being able to talk about his day in short sentences, and he missed you and the feelings you erupted in him.

And as soon as he awoke he found himself walking to your apartment, he wasn't sure what he was gonna say or how hed say it, or even how you replied but he knew he needed to do something if he was gonna keep you in his life.

He knocked twice, and after a few moments, you appeared, dressed in black pajama shorts that rode up a bit too high and a crop top. He could tell he had woken you up by the way you rubbed your eyes and how your hair was going in all directions. But even now, the sight of you made his heart rate increase.

You were stunned to see Tsukishima in your doorway, he looked like he hadnt had a good nights sleep.

"Yeah?" You asked, looking up at him.

"Why are you avoiding me?" He asked outright. You were surprised he even noticed you were intentionally avoiding him.

"Isn't that what you want?" Your voice cracked, you were trying your hardest to remain standing strong in front of him, not wanting to reveal that you genuinely miss talking to him.

"No, it's not," He spoke softly, looking you in your eyes to scan your reactions, to see if you showed any signs of wanting him to leave.

"Well, that's not what your actions say,"

"I know, and I apologize for giving you the wrong impression"

You stayed silent for a while, taking in the moment and trying to find the words to say to him.

"Then why did your girlfriend come to my job and tell me you've been saying all kinds of stuff?" You felt tears prick in the corners of your eyes and you internally cursed yourself for letting your facade slip.

Tsukishima felt anger bubble inside of him, of course, Etsuko had something to do with this, his days could've been filled with you, but they weren't, and of course, it was her fault.

"Listen, Tsuki, I appreciate you apologizing but,"

"She is lying, i haven't said anything bad about you, and I couldn't even if I wanted to,"

You didn't understand what he meant by even if he wanted to, the whole situation was confusing to you, why would she lie about something like that? What could she possibly gain by saying that to you? All sorts of questions were floating around your head and Tsukishima seemed to notice that.

"I want us to be friends again," He said, letting a small smile onto his face as he watched your eyes brighten. He was glad, the sight of you on the brink of tears brought a sort of sadness to his core.

"Tsuki," You paused, "Did you just say what I think you just said?"

He let out his usual sigh, "I'm not gonna say it again,"

"Just one more time?" You beamed, "I'll never ask again," You stepped closer to him, looking up with a pleading look, how could he ever say no? Well, he could and he did.

"No,"

You let out a sound of defeat. You both stood there for a few silent moments, just staring at each other with small smiles. Tsukishima was glad to be back on good terms with you, he knew he'd enjoy the mornings again, and he'd enjoy seeing the sun peek through the blinds because that meant hed get to talk to you for another day, hed get to see and hear you talk about the most random things, you'd once again be the highlight of his day.

"Wanna do something?"

"Like what?" You asked, raising a brow.

"Show me that show you were talking about a week ago, Euphoria? If you aren't too busy,"

You let out a shriek of happiness and pulled him inside by his shirt and dragged him to your dimly lit living room.

You plopped down on the couch and motioned for him to do the same as you turned on the TV. You were happy he apologized despite it taking him a week to do so, but you were glad to have your friend back, you had missed your mostly one-sided conversations, but you knew he was listening to you despite his actions saying otherwise.

You had gotten ten minutes into the first episode and there was already an intimate scene, and even though you both were already silent, the silence seemed to thicken as you both refused to look anywhere but the screen, if you moved would it show that you were uncomfortable? You probably should've warned him about how many intimate scenes were in this show. The closeness of Tsukishima did nothing to calm the awkwardness.

You reached for the remote to try and skip ahead but your hand was stopped by his, and you quickly turned to look at him, a bright blush adorning your cheeks at the contact.

Tsukishima wasnt one to like things, in fact, he hated most things, but you were certainly not one of them.

"I can't stay away from you," He said softly.

Your heart was racing, you didn't know what he meant by that or what way he meant it.

"Then dont,"

navi. tags. rules. © 𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐖𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 ─ please don't copy, translate, or post any of my work without my permission !