#jackhanmaxblackreader

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

A distorted image of a creme ceiling meets my eyes as I gaze into consciousness. Silk navy sheets graze my skin as I turn to the center of the bed. Expecting to see a muscular pale back in front of me,I find empty space instead. Slowly rolling down the bed, my sore legs touch the wooden floor. My arms fill the space above and I stretch my sore limbs from laying in one position prior. I shuffle down the room and feel my toe knuckles pop while walking towards the kitchen. The hallway has a different feeling than it had last night but the thought of what might be lurking in every corner still gives my arms goose bumps. To have a nightmare like that was almost a prediction. The elderly woman's face was clear, and concerned. It all felt so real, that I went looking for Jack; a stranger that I just met to console me. Hopefully it was just a nightmare from being in an unfamiliar environment. Waddling towards the kitchen I can't help but wonder where's jack. It's his house he can come and go whenever he pleases but is he truly comfortable leaving a stranger he hasn't even known for 24 hours alone in his house? Deep in thought I suddenly hear light grunting coming from the living room. Shit is that an intruder? I frantically look for something to protect myself with, searching corners for a golf club, a bat, something-anything.

Peeking through the corner of the wall my eyes meet with the pale back I was looking for. Deep grooves of shoulder and back muscle are moving from his exertion. Tiny dips of sweat are rolling down his spine to his hips. His grunts are a bit louder now that I'm in the hallway looking at him. I can't help but stare as his large arms pull him up and down, the tips of his short blonde hair spiky from the sweat of his movements. His pace hasn't changed, he grunts the same lethargic tone from when I woke up a couple of minutes ago. I can't help but wonder if he's going to do this forever. Can he?

"I can." Jack randomly rumbles.

Can he read my mind?! He can do pull ups forever?!

"I can feel your eyes on me for the last five minutes." The lilt to his voice annoyed.

Oh-

Rounding the corner of the hallway, I talk to his back.

"Good morning!" I beamed. He simply kept pulling up and down.

"Morning sunshine." His pet name for me makes me smile. I guess his bad mood from last night is gone thank goodness.

"So what's on our agenda for today?"

"Shopping." Jack says matter of factly.

Shopping? As in buying clothes? I don't have much of anything left. I literally didn't even pack, I just kept running until I saw someone. I thought grimly.

His back still turned, Jack rumbles," What's the matter?"

Does he have eyes at the back of his head?

Wringing my hands I mumbled,"Well I don't have any money for shopping..."

Jack suddenly stops and lets his feet touch the ground. His spine lengthens in the process.

"Hence, we are going shopping." Jack almost taunts, facing me. "Oh...right." I mumbled awkwardly. I can vividly hear my mothers voice saying 'Never let a man buy you anything! It's never a kind gesture, he will want something in return'

"N-no that's alright! I-i'll figure out something else later." The burly man brows furrowed. "Figure out what exactly? He questions walking towards me.

"I-I could sell water or canned goods or something—"

"You need money to buy that." Jack interrupts

His hard tawny eyes were locked in on mine and I couldn't look away. Panicking, I take quick steps backwards but he follows unfazed.

"Well I could wash cars or something-"

"You would still need to buy soap."

Taking more quick steps I feel my back graze the hard wood of the counter edge.

"I-I could sing or dance to-"

Before I knew it Jack was in front of me. His heavy forearms graze mine as he blocks my path, his legs stance wide with mine in the middle. Nowhere to run.

"This isn't the french quarter. We're in Japan." Jack rumbles. Pinned between him and the counter Jack gently pulls my chin up with his two fingers.

My armpits start to sting from the anxiety, my heart in my throat. It feels like minutes have gone by merely staring at each other in silence.

Is this not a red flag Mia?! You just met this guy last night, gave you a place to stay, fed and washed and now he wants to buy you clothes?! Absolutely not! How am I supposed to pay him back without a job?! I don't want to do the things I've seen people warn me about!

"What's the matter?" Jack rumbles it's almost a whisper. Closing my eyes,I shake my head. "Hm?" He questions. Tears burning my tear ducts, my lips start to quiver. "Look at me Mia." Jack says softly. Feeling my eyes betray me, tears start to roll down the corner of my eyes to my hairline. My shoulders start to shake with sobs, my entire body vibrates sobs. I feel Jack hands under my arms and lifts me on the counter. Before I knew it my sobs echoed across the large space of the living room/ kitchen. Yet Jack still has his fingers on my chin staring up at him, but I couldn't help but cry. I can't really make out his face but his brows seem to be furrowed. I just really don't want to be taken advantage of.

"What's these crocodile tears for,hm?" Jack lilts, smirking. From his tone he seems to be going for the humor approach but I'm in no mood to laugh. "I don't have any money." I grasp my voice hoarse and watery. Jack places his other large warm hand on my head. His thumb rubbing the front of my scalp. "I know sweetheart that's why we're going shopping." Jack almost coos. His voice is so rough and deep, it's almost funny hearing him go for a sweet approach. If this were a different situation i'd laugh but unfortunately it's not. I can tell he's trying though. I should try too. "But I can't pay you back." I whimper, defeated. Jack simply tilts his head. "Pay me?"

"Y-yeah?" Suddenly Jack stopped hovering above the counter. "Mia." Jack starts. "I never said anything about paying me back. Is that why you're crying?"

"K-kinda" I hiccuped looking up at the burly man walking toward the kitchen island. Jack rips a paper towel from its rack and fold its ridges. Heaving a heavy sigh Jack hands me the towel staring into my eyes. "I'm not that kind of guy." Silence stretches for a moment before taking it, I dab the corner of my eyes and nod my head. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to say. Thank you seems a bit out of place. I shouldn't have to thank someone for not being a jerk right?

"Alright. Now stop crying." Jack's already back to his old moody familiar self. Lifting me once again I grasp his shoulders as my feet meet the wooden floor. Yet my eyes linger on his chest and waist. The burly man simply raises a brow and my cheeks burn. "If you have guests, why not wear a shirt?!" I squawk. The man simply hums before turning towards the fridge for a cold bottle of water. Slinging his towel over his shoulder. "You're not complaining." Keeping my head down to not stare at his defined body, I protest. "I most certainly am!"

"Mhm." He chides.

I couldn't help but feel my reddened cheeks rise into a smile on my face. "You can help yourself to breakfast. I'm sure you're hungry." I hum and walk underneath his arm opening the fridge. I gasp. Illuminated from the light bulb is just meat. Literally. Pork, lamb, ham, and turkey. "Ummm." I waver. Opening the freezer the chilly air meets my warm face. there's nothing but fish. From salmon to cat fish. I hear a deep rumble in the man's chest that's behind me. Looking up at him I press. "There's only meat in here." The large man stares down at me inquisitively. "Protein." I have to stop myself from rolling my eyes and say,"How about pancakes or maybe cereal." Closing the freezer Jack simply frowns. "I don't waste my time with junk food."

"That's breakfast!" I protest.

"For little people." Jack rumbles

Little people?

Like elves?

Huffing, I look at the looming figure above me.

"How about we eat at the mall instead?" I say sheepishly

"Get dressed, I washed your socks."

"Kay!"

Running up the stairs Jack calls out,"Kozue bought clothes earlier for you." The word clothes stops me in my tracks. Clothes for me? Aren't Japanese women really small? Seeing my apprehension Jack mildly drawls out,"Kozue was positive you would like them" Looking over the railing Jack almost looks embarrassed. Hm it can't be that bad. Some leggings and a large tee right?

Timeskip

WRONG.

A polyester thin layer of fabric with white flowers in every nook and cranny. Holding it in front me, I'm met with a woman with large eyes and her mouth agape in the bathroom mirror. There's even a pack of underwear and a bra. How did he know my size? Either way it's really cute. I've never worn anything like this before. There's even a travel size hygiene package! Seeing the tub drained I take a quick bath and meet Jack downstairs.

*Jack's Pov*

Hearing a light patter down the wooden stairs, I assume she's finally done. Does it usually take that long for women to get dressed? Rounding the staircase I see Mia bouncing down the last step, her hair out of its twist and curly and soft.

"Sorry! I really needed that shower!" She smiles sheepishly. I couldn't help but look at her. Kozue was right. The dark dress made her skin almost look velvet and plush. Her thick thighs are on display but not too high exactly at the knees. The top of her dress outlines her breast but doesn't define it. She's really pretty. That's the only thought I have.

"I've never worn anything like this before but I really like it." She looks down at her feet smiling. "Thank you Jack. Oh! And Kozue too!" Her ample cheeks rounded even more, smiling.

Cute.

Grabbing my keys out of the bowl, I nudged her sandals too. "C'mon it's already noon, let's not waste anymore daylight."

"Kay!" She almost squeals.

We're just getting her a wardrobe. What's so fun about that? Skipping behind me, trying to keep my pace, Mia smiles in delight. Well I'd rather she be really happy than cry, that was the worst. No amount of training could prepare for that agony. She looked so defeated. I hate that feeling in my gut. I just wanted to figure out what was the matter so she stopped. I couldn't take it anymore.

Couldn't take it?

When did I ca-

"I need your help getting in." Mia's words interrupted my own. Looking down at the crown of her head. Mia stands almost awkwardly by the truck door, her chubby bronze hand on the handle. "This truck is huge. How did anyone even make this." Mia whined. Her chubby cheeks pouted, mouth settling into a small frown.

Damn.

Scooping her chubby body in my arms, Mia huffs and lightly kicks her legs out. "Not this again." The tiny woman groans. Placing her in the soft seat gently I grumbled, "Don't be dramatic." I lean over the hood of the car starting into her sweet cocoa eyes. "Do you like picking me up or something? I'm not a small dog." Mia complains softly. Do I like it? Thinking of all the times I've held her. Her soft skin, her voice squeaks in surprise, her eyes widen, her somewhat becoming familiar weight in my hands. Mia stares into my eyes expectantly. Closing the door shut. I hear Mia's surprised "Ah!" As I rounded the truck there was only one thought on my mind.

'Fuckin right I do.

Timeskip

Living in a rural area outside of Japan has its advantages. Isolation and fresh air, more game I can hunt and fish. In the corner of my peripheral vision, Mia's body curls under the blanket, her light snores escape her small nose. Damn. Living forty five minutes away from anything is a disadvantage, if paying for gas is a luxury.

The a/c must have knocked her out. Ten minutes prior she was wiggling in her seat excitedly. I turned on the damn stereo I never use after she nearly begged to listen to Babymetal. After nearly screaming her head off to 'Gimme Chocolate.' I almost had the mind to say nap time, but she beat me to it. The sun beaming down on the windows causing her to sweat the a/c dried it up, causing her to shiver. Whining about being cold, I gave her the blanket in the back and she rolled in it like a little bug and was fast asleep.

Damn it.

My heart keeps doing that. That sinking motion into the pit of my stomach. Everytime she pouts or whines or talks. Her mannerisms. I can't help it. That sinking motion.

*35min Timeskip*

*Thunk* Closing my truck door shut, the truck shakes slightly as I round the passenger side to wake up Mia. Opening the passenger side door her chubby face slanted into the seat, curled into a ball. Time to wake up sleeping beauty.

Gently rubbing her shoulder I wake her. "Mia."

The tiny woman only whines and snuggles into her blanket. "Mia." I shake her shoulder again. "Wake up sleepy beauty." Mia only stirs more.

"No... me alone..." Her soft voice groans.

Fuck it.

Slipping her legs on my forearm, I hold her back to my chest bridal style. Slipping on her sandals I lock the truck as I walk towards the mall entrance, with a sleeping Mia in hand.

This will be fun, I grimly thought.

Walking into the busy mall, immediately people stare at me holding her. Some women look concerned while some men look almost envious. I'd thought the loud noise would wake her but she merely drools over my shirt. I'm not even sure what I'm doing. Where do women shop anyway? What do women want? Designer? Fashion? I just wear whatever fits me.

"Excuse me, sir."

A middle aged man approaches me. "Is that woman alright? She's not drugged is she?" The man hesitated,pointed at Mia uncomfortably.

The fuck?

"Mind your damn business. Get loss" I ignored him walking near the escalators. The women's section is on the second and third floors. So there's something here that Mia will like. The woman behind me thinks I can't hear her but I can. "This man is holding this black girl up the escalator. Why waste your time with trash like that." She all but complains. Glaring down at her she finally shuts up. "Tourist." She spits out.

The hell is wrong with people?

Stepping off the escalator, all the women's clothing stores are here. "Mia." I lightly bounce her in my grasp. She stirs yet her eyes open trying to focus on my face. Finally.

"Jack?" Mia brows furrowed. "Is nap time over?" I smirk at her confused expression. "W-wait we're here?!" Mia all but springs up from my chest looking at the department stores in different languages. "We just got here so there's still plenty to see." I hummed, detecting excitement from her voice and expression.

"Let's try to get as many things as we can so we don't have to come back." Mia brows furrow but she nods her head anyway.

Walking into one of the stores Mia in my arms asks. "Is there a plus size second here?" "I'm not positive yet but we can ask the sales associate." I replied. She just whines and hides in my chest again. What's the matter now? The way she goes through emotions almost gives me whiplash.

"Is it okay to just go to a plus size store instead?" The small woman insisted.Looking down at her afflicted features, I find it best that I don't persist. "Fine with me." I reasoned. Walking the long corridor of the mall. I see the colorful lights and the brand names. 'Bebe Fat, Fat Girls and Fat Cat.' My eyes scanned the obscene brands before looking down at Mia. Her expression stays neutrally intact, instead of disgruntled. Hm.

"Let's go somewhere else." I grunted.

"Hm?" Mia perked. Looking up at me.

"We should shop somewhere more…" I paused.

"Accepting." Mia trailed off, before laughing at my grim expression.

"The words japan and acceptance aren't usually in the same sentence." She added.

"C'mon! Let's go inside this one!" Mia exclaimed! Pointing at the store brand,'Fat Girls.'

Cute.

*Mia's Pov*

"This is really cute!" I squeal, holding the blue dress to my chest,looking up at Jack. "Does it have your size?" Jack questioned. Skimming the light fabric tags, I found a 1XL.

"Yeps!" Showing the tag to Jack he gently takes the dress and puts it in the cart.

"See, this isn't so bad." I preen up at Jack who looks away from me before muttering. "Let's get what we need."

Seeing more dresses on the wall and hanger, I grab one in my size. I asked him about our budget and he just turned my head around and said "Pick whatever you fancy."

Taking off racks of dresses and summer clothes. I've never felt this way. So free. That's the only word that comes close to this feeling in my chest.

So many people are staring at us, yet I could care less. "Having fun?" The large man asks above.

"What gave it away?" I smile up at him sheepishly.

Jack eyes leave mine before eyeing the loaded cart in front of him with a deadpan expression.

"Nothing really" He stated, the humor yet leaving his eyes.

"You got me." I grin.

"That's everything I would really need. We did it in only one store!" I exclaimed. Pumping my fist in the air. "Finally." Jack grumbled.

Rolling my eyes I reasoned, "Let's get some food in our tummies. We deserve it!"

"Then let's get out of here." Jack nearly complains.

"I need accessories!" I gasp.

Jack chest rumbles in and I quickly exclaim,"I know where they are! I'll be quick, I just need something." I scamper off to the isle of necklaces and earrings etc. Remember my father's words 'You look like a boy by the ear, aren't you a girl?'

Shaking my head gently I smile.

I don't have to worry about people like him anymore. My life is finally beginning. I remind myself. Skimming over the necklaces and jewelry my finger grazes someone's hand absentmindedly.

"S-sorry!" I mutter, yanking my hand back quickly.

"You're fine." The man replies smoothly.

Looking up at him I realize he stand out too but for a different reason. Dawn in a white suit fitted to his muscular physique. He has a black mask cover the lower proportion of his face but his eyes, deep and brown with thin glasses. He looks rich. Definitely not some black girl like me shopping at a store called 'Fat Girls.'

"Sorry for bothering you, I've gotta run." I quickly grab whatever charm or bracelet in front of me and run to the checkout line.

"They're cheap. Obviously not real." The man calls out with my back turned.

"I'm sorry?" I questioned.

I know I shouldn't bother myself with the locals but this guy.

"It's a department store." My smile did not reach my eyes, "Obviously not designer." The man simply hums before pulling out his card. "How about I give you a taste of that."

Excuse me?

My gaze hardens at the card in the man's hand.

"No thank you, I'll be alright." I snapped.

"Just in case you reconsidered," The man steps forward and places the card in my hand. With that he turns and leaves the aisle muttering, "I need a new secretary."

I stand in the aisle for a minute brows furrowed with the card in my opened palm. The locals giving me weird stares.

What's wrong with the locals these days?

Oh right! Jack!

I scurry to the checkout line to see Jack next. Thank goodness he wasn't just sitting there or worse trying to find me.

"Sorry, I'm back." I trailed off.

"That was quick." Jack rumbles, sarcasm dripping from his tone.

"I-I know I got kinda lost. " I replied absentmindedly. Looking over my shoulder to see if the man was still in the store.

Rough fingers gently press against my chin. Jack tawny eyes peirce mine. "You good?" He said softly. Biting my lip I nod my head.

"Y-yeah I'm okay, just hungry."

The cashier spoke in Japanese but I know we're up next so I push the cart to her register feeling Jack stare a hole into the top of my head.

A/N

Chapter 7

You'll Never See It Coming

"First and foremost thank you for letting the University of Toronto interview you today, Dr. Caines." I greet her formally. The elderly amber skin woman smiles and replies.''It's my pleasure! I'm actually excited to have this interview about the x mutation gene that so many people have come across. Also please call me Debra." I feel my tense shoulders relax. Placing my phone on the table for no disturbances, I hit play on the voice memo app. Clearing my throat, I look at my written questions on my clipboard. "Is it true that humans have always had the x gene since the mesotopian period?" I inquired. Debra nods at my question.

"Human or homosapiens to be exact are always evolving, yet homosapiens are our most primitive species. Humans are very adaptable, from living in the arctic to the Sonoran Desert we'll always find a way to survive even if it isn't in our best interest." Quickly skimming the words 'homosapiens adapt to everything,' on my clipboard I reply." Like lactose intolerance. Humans are the only mammals that purposely drink other mammals' milk. There's a study that shows we evolved into digesting the enzymes but in reality we really should have stopped drinking milk once we were weaning off breast milk." Debra smiles brightly at my comment. "Yes exactly Ms. Butler!" I can't help but make my lips into a downward grin under her praise. "It goes to show you just how resilient humans can be."

"Speaking of resilience, it brings me to my next question." I nod. "What makes the x gene resurface itself? Is it from great mental and emotional distress or something more physical like the body wanting to protect itself." Ms. Debra lifts her olive green mug to her lips and drinks her earl gray tea and hums. "That's a great question. But there's no solid answer as of yet. No one body is the same and no one lives the same life. As for the body wanting to protect itself. Yes there's been evidence of people using adrenaline to save their skins so it is more common for the x gene to surface if the brain feels like it's in danger. Nodding in agreement I scribble,'most common is the physical alteration of the x gene surfacing.' "I have one more question." I murmured. "It's ending already? We're having so much fun." Ms. Debra complains. I laugh softly. Looking up for my clipboard, I press the red stop button on my phone. "You're one of the most successful paleoanthropologists in this era." Staring into her cocoa brown eyes I press," Has your x gene ever surfaced? You know so much about the x gene, I figured you'd have some personal experience yourself."

Ms. Debra lifts her mug to her lips again and takes a long sip. Oh shit. I shouldn't have asked. I should've stayed curious. Brows furrowed. I wait for her to kick me out of her office. Yet she only gives me a cheeky grins and chuckles,"You're extremely nosy Ms. Butler." Feeling hot blood flush my face I place my sweaty palms under my thighs to refrain from messaging them. A horrible habit of mine. "We'll find out, won't we?" She gives me a knowing grin. Does she know? Is that why she specifically chose me to interview her? If that's so then she accepts me for who I am. "I guess so." I grin softly, grateful.

"Well." I stand to my feet. "Thank you so much for talking to me again. You're amazing." Her grin deepens. "Likewise it was a pleasure." Extending her hand, I grasp hers firmly with my right. I'm so glad I found the courage to talk to her today.  as if I burnt her, she yanks her hand from mine. Brows furrowed, I saw her eyes widen in shock and almost disdain. "The thing that will kill you is shedding its skin." I felt my heart latching to my stomach. "Excuse me?" I laughed uncontrollably. "The thing that will kill you is sharpening its teeth." Where is this coming from? Why would she say something like this? Remembering the gleaming elderly woman, this is completely out of her character from five minutes ago. "The thing that will kill you is washing the blood off of its claws." The more she elaborates the more dread I feel.

Shoving my phone in my pocket, my clipboard in my tote bag, I quickly say,"Thank you for everything but I must be going." As fast as my legs take me, I briskly leave her office. "The thing that will kill you..." She trails off. Looking at her once more, I'm surprised to see her frown deeply almost comically. "You won't see it coming."

*Mia Pov*

My eyes snap wide open, only to find that I'm still in the warm lit guest room. Placing a shaky hand on Jacks' drenched shirt, I feverishly scan the room almost expecting to find the elderly woman or worse the monster. Panting, I sit up to at least try to gather my thoughts. Out of all the dreams I've had, they were memories of my relationship with my father and mother. They were nightmares because of the trauma I faced. But that... "You won't see it coming." The words keep resurfacing in my head.

I've never felt that dread before in my subconscious. Slipping out of the damp silky sheets, I make my way out of the once comforting room. Padding through the polished hallway, I enter the guest bathroom. Not bothering to turn on the lights, I simply squat and urinate. "You'll never see it coming..." Her grim frown appears in my head once again. I've already gone through hell so why would the devil visit me again? He had me in his clutches but I've decided to break free from his stone clad grasp.

Abstinently, the sound of water flushing meets my ears. "The thing that will kill you is washing the blood off of its claw." Scrubbing lavender soap in my palms I ponder. She said 'the thing that will kill you...' Drying my hands of my bath towel I pad into the dark hallway. She said the 'thing' that will kill me. Maybe it's not human. Maybe it's an animal. If it's washing the blood off its claws that would mean it's killed before. Goosebumps sprout on the back of my neck. Treading the dark hallway I start to slowly panic. Am I going to get mauled by an animal? That's unfortunately common, if I were in Ontario at home. Bear sightings and attacks happen quite frequently. But Japan? There's plenty of stray cats here but that's about it.

What if whatever wants to kill me isn't an animal but... I halt near a large door that I can hardly make out in the dark. What if whatever wants to kill me is compared to an animal? My heart sinks into the pit of my stomach. The inner part of my back starts to tingle. As if I'm being watched. Impossible, Jack said he doesn't have any family living with him. Hot fresh paranoia sinks into my bones. I quickly open the door to see a large figure back towards me, sitting on the edge of a large bed.

Jack?

The large figure turns to me and I'm met with familiar tawny eyes. Heaving a sigh of relief, I pad my way across the master bedroom. "Jack." I tentatively whisper. He doesn't respond but merely stares at me. Standing in front of the bed beside him, I gently mutter."Hey." Now upclose I'm not sure if i'm envisioning but the vein in his eyes stands out. Dark circles under their sockets. He looks exhausted. We simply say nothing to each other but observe each other's features. "Why are you up?" He suddenly drawls. I can't tell him, 'I had a nightmare and started to look for you.' He probably already sees me as a child, a burden. "I got thirsty." I mumbled looking at my feet.

The blonde man simply hums and utters,"C'mere." His tawny eyes bore into mine. I've never been in a bed with a man before. I don't think Jack has that intent, but I can't deny from looking at his muscular pale chest and intense eyes. He's undoubtedly attractive. Brows furrowed, squeezing the bridge of his nose Jack heaved a heavy,"Please come here Mia." I start to climb the bed but the post is too high. I'd usually run and hop into the bed, but I can't do that. I don't want to appear more inferior than I already am. Staring at the navy sheets I mutter, I was just going to get some water-""You and I both know this is the opposite direction of the kitchen." Jack huffs. Mouth suddenly dry, I look down and  mumble,"It's too high..."

The burly man stares at my figure for a moment. His brows furrowed with a slight frown. He's deep in thought again, having his intense eyes on me I shift my footing. Does he think I snuck into his room to hurt him? That's fair since he doesn't trust me but I would never hurt someone, especially the one that helped me. "Lift your arms." He finally mutters. I stare at him inquisitively, brows furrowed. Why would I lift my arms?

Oh no. Absolutely not. "Why would I need to do that?" I cross my arms defensive. "It's almost as if your–" Jack places his hands under my arms. Shocked, I uncross my arms and quickly place them on his forearms. "Mocking me." I trail off. "Jack, why do you feel the need to carry me?" I mumble exasperated. "Less conversation." He utters, smirking. Still suspended in the air, I can't help but mumble."Is this easy for you?" Boring into his hazel eyes I press,"Am I not heavy to you?" I feel my brows furrowed, afraid of his answer. Jack places me on the navy silk bed and pulls the blanket over my bronze skin. My body skinks into the memory foam, the feeling of comfort running through my veins. Jack hasn't said a word as he looks outside the window. The pale moonlight fills the dark space. Would he rather not say? I know I'm heavy, so why does he keep carrying me?

"Go to sleep, Mia." Jack rumbles suddenly. His broad back towards me. Rising in the bed, I squeak," Why? You can't answer a simple question?!" I'm met with silence once again and I feel my chubby fist grasp the silk sheets tightly. "I get it, you don't want to hurt my feelings. But I'd prefer it if you were honest." I mumbled. Jack turns to me and frowns. "You desire honesty yet it looks like you're trying not to cry. Nose burning, I sniff. "Mia." Jack calls out. "I don't even know why I asked that. I already know the answer." I laugh humorlessly, rubbing the heel of my hands on my eyes, trying to stop the inevitable tears. I don't even have the courage to look at Jack. It's as if I want my feelings hurt. You're 216 lbs Mia of course you're heavy. Get over yourself. "I could lift you with three of my fingers. Thumb not included." He rumbles. Eyes widening in shock, I peer at his face to see if he's joking. Yet his eyes are already on mine with no humor on his face. Jack turns to me and utters,''You're not small. Definitely not by Japanese standards.'' I stare into his tawny eyes, searching for hate or disgust yet none are to be found. Only honesty can be found in his eyes. "Yet these people kill themselves because the expectations are unworldly and some break at the pressure. I carried you to and fro this entire house and before we even got here." The stoic man suddenly frowns. "So when your little ass comes crying in my bed about her insecurities when I've been carrying you around all day, I get a little pissed." He huffs.

Dried streaks of tears on my face I give him a watery smile and lay back in bed. "You know, that's the first time I ever heard you talk for so long." I mutter staring at the ceiling. "Go to sleep Mia." Jack rumbles, pressing his thumb and pointer finger to the bridge of his nose. A red light in my peripheral vision catches my attention. The numbers read 3:44 am and I huff. When did so much time pass? The room is filled with silence. I think about his words. He said I wasn't skinny but he also mentioned he could carry me. Not necessarily a compliment or an insult. Hm. "Thanks." I mutter out loud. "I'm going to smother you unconscious." Jack threatens. I break out an airy giggle. "I'm serious! I think that's exactly what I needed to hear." I peer at him smiling. "Anything to stop you from whining." Jack rumbles.

My laughter bounced off the walls and windows. "Hey Jack?" "Hm" He grumbled. "When I came in here, you were already awake. Why?" I sit up and peer at him curiously. Jack simply grumbles and pushes a firm finger to my forehead. "You're asking me why I wasn't asleep in my own house?" The weight of his finger pushes me to lay down once again. "I wasn't trying to be rude. You look exhausted." I whimper, forehead sore. Jack slowly rises, his long legs making way to him in front of the best post. The dark shadow makes the shape into a dresser. He leans against the dark furniture, the wood creaking slightly in protest. Jack stares at the floor for some time before I understand. Upon having a near panic attack and it being the middle of the night, I never paid attention to the interior of Jacks' room. Squinting my eyes, I hardly make out a dozen of orange transparent bottles filled with assortments of pills. "Insomnia?" I mutter inquisitively. He merely chuckles and mutters humorlessly, "The side effect is insomnia, I sleep perfectly fine." His hazel eyes stare pointedly at me. The alarm clock reads 4:15 and I feel my face flush.

I turn away from him, laying on my stomach and curl to my side. Wrapping the silk covers across my bronze skin I stare at the wall, my mind clouded with questions. Why does he have so much medicine? Is he sick? What medicine gives you a side effect of insomnia? Does he have cancer? No, he has hair. But there's like 15 bottles on his dresser. What illness could he have for him to take intense medicine? Should he have helped me tonight if he had his own problems?

𝐻𝑖𝑠 𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝐹𝑜𝑥

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

Chapter 6- Ramen

*Mia Pov*

Once filled with conversation, I'm met with the silence of the bathroom. I grasp the cold steel into my palm, admiring its buttoned colors. Pressing the green button, sure enough, warm water pours out of the small jets in the tub. "Wow." I mumbled in awe. Setting the water half filled with lukewarm/ hot water, I grasp the dove men soap. Pouring the strong yet earthy fragrance in the tub I finally feel somewhat comfortable. Lifting the gray sweater dress over my head, I'm met with my reflection. So many imperfections, it'd be hard to miss. Bronze waist littered in scars and minor cuts. Inner thighs laced with hyperpigmentation. Knees dark from kneeling on them too long. Nonetheless, I see myself smiling sheepishly. "I'm still here." I mumbled inwardly. "For that i'll always keep smiling."

*Jack Pov*

"Thanks!" The woman chirps cheerfully. Gently closing the door, I make my way towards the kitchen. Judging from her appearance you never would've thought she enjoyed that genre of music. From her small voice and demeanor, you'd think she'd listen to old jazz. She probably does. I'd figure she would have a diverse taste in music. Seeing her dimpled smile, her eyes widened in awe of my work. I feel this weird feeling in my chest.

Acceptance.

Another foreign word, a sense of comfort I never thought I'd feel.

Entering the furnished kitchen, I grab a from its cabinet pot and place it in the sink. Hearing the water fill from the motion sensor, I grab a cartoon of eggs absentmindedly. My body moves on muscle memory alone and moves the filled pot on the automated stove. The steady flow of water being filled upstairs is like the precipitation is being poured down my head itself. A stranger is having a bath in my house. And plans to sleep here at that, with given permission. How did this situation even occur? One moment I was with my brother in the gym. Now I'm here giving her one of my favorite band shirts. I usually don't help people who are in need. Unless it's for a nice price. Remembering the look on her face.

*FLASHBACK*

"Please Sir." She pants and inhales a large gist of air. "MA ELIZABETH BUTLER!! COME BACK HERE!" A man yells, running in our direction. She looks behind her in fright. Her puffy eyes meet mine. Small nimble fingers firmly grasped my sweater. "They'll kill me." Her plump lips tremble. I couldn't decide if it was from the rain or the sense of dread I suddenly felt that made me act. That got me here.

*END OF FLASHBACK*

Reluctant yet desperate, as if she knew this was a pitiful attempt for help. It would've been for someone else but her... I had to help her.

Impulsive

Finally a word I'm familiar with. All my life there have been impulsive choices to achieve my final goal. Too finally kill that bastard. No matter the consequences. Yet I've always been impulsive to hurt others, not to assist. She doesn't have anywhere to stay. Renting a place to stay wouldn't be the problem but financial stability will be concerning considering how unforgiving Japan can be. She can't go home either. Just thinking about his face makes me grasp the wooden counter. I oughta look for him and make sure he won't ever hurt her again.

Heaving a heavy sigh, I sit on the black metal stool and watch the water boil. I only have ramen for tonight, I hope she's not allergic to anythi—

My right pocket starts to vibrate. Interrupted from my obsessive rumination, I fish my phone out of my pocket, seeing Baki name I decide to answer. "Hey Jack! Sorry about leaving so quickly!" Baki chirps with a sense of remorse in his voice. He always does this. Thinks of others even when he has his own agenda. "Baki it's fine. You know that." I scoff inwardly. "Yeah I just wanted to make sure." He chuckles sheepishly. "Did kozue get caught in the rain?" "No, I caught her just in time, thank goodness." I chuckle at his outburst. "Try not to be dramatic." "Dramatic?! Imagine she got sick out there because I didn't walk her home." Baki all but sputters. Just hearing his voice makes my tense shoulders rest at ease. "I'm glad you called actually." I muttered. "Oh? And why's that?" Baki inquires. "I'm cooking ramen-"REALLY YOU WANT ME TO COME OVER AND FIX IT?!" Interrupted once again I can only grin. "It's a school night and you can give me the recipe on the phone."

There's a pause on the other end of the phone before Baki begrudges mumbles," I knew you'd say that." "Fiiiiiine, I'll help. I've told you this recipe so many times. How do you keep forgetting?" I lie and say" It's been a while since I made ramen." In reality hearing his annoyed tone is pleasing enough. "Bullshit! You literally came over a month ago and we made it together." He complains. "Hm. I don't recall." "Jaaaaack." Baki whines. "Alright I do recall something with brown sugar and soy sauce."

"Yes, add butter to the saucepan and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with garlic cloves and two tablespoons of brown sugar." I hum, my body moving on muscle memory. Absentmindedly pulling spices from the cabinets. The water bubbles and simmers as I break the wheat noodles in half. "Oh and don't forget about the sesame oil!" Baki chirps. " I know I know and 2 boiled eggs." I deadpanned. Stirring the sauces the kitchen fills with a savory aroma. "Wait a second! You told me you didn't remember!" Turning the stove off I chucked,"My memory is resurfacing." Hearing the top stairs creak softly, she doesn't move. She must be shy. I know the food smells pleasant.

"You knew the recipe the whole time didn't you?" Baki whines. I simply hummed and muttered,"Listen Baki, I'll be busy for a couple of days. Take care of yourself and see Karou if you run into trouble." There's another slight pause on the receiving end. "Are you training?" He suddenly inquires. Seeing the small woman still standing on the staircase, looking at her bare feet. "I wish." I muttered grimly. I wouldn't be going in blind. The stove clock reads past 11:30 and I bid Baki goodnight. I figured she didn't meet me in the kitchen to not interrupt my conversation with Baki. Yet she stills stands there, her small fingers gliding on the smooth polished wood of the railing. "You can come down now." I sighed.

*30 Mins Prior*

*Mia Pov*

Soft suds of soap floats around my frame, smoke rises to the surface. Sitting in the corner of the large tub I exhale. Like laying in fresh grass that has the morning dew upon it, I slowly sink nearly to the bottom. This is exactly what I need. I never knew a bath could be so comforting. I always took showers to save money and time. But this... no wonder they sell bath bombs in stores. Grazing my finger in its warm depths I begin to wonder. What am I doing? Letting a man take me home. He even shot down involving the police. He has a large beautiful furnished home and no pictures of himself or others he surrounds himself with. Ive been abused and sheltered, but I know red flags and when to point them out, do not ignore them. But he doesn't seem like a serial killer or anything. His dark eyes and deep voice suddenly come to my mind. He is undoubtedly gorgeous though. I've read that serial killers are attractive. I groaned inwardly. I didn't actually expect he'd help me though.

Slowly rising to my knees in the warm water, I let my long ears and fluffy tail emerge from my head and backside. I hate to suppress this part of me but it's for the best. Gathering the soapy towel, I gently begin to scrub my ears and tail. Long enough to wrap around my waist, I wondered if it's gotten longer. I pondered. It's been five years since this x gene sprouted and my life has been hell living through it because of it. I need to research more, talk to more people who have to repress this gene like me. Hot pain flashes in my temple, leaving me rubbing the side of my head. Hopefully removing the internal pain. I can't tell if it's from the hot water or my stomach growling, but I need to head downstairs nonetheless.

Taking a big step out of the tub, I suddenly realized something. Grabbing the wet white remote I stare at its colorful buttons once again. I don't know how to drain the water. There's plenty of buttons but I'm not sure which one would work without making a mess. Placing the remote on the marble counter, I quickly run the fluffy towel across my skin, gently drying my ears and tail. Shifting back to my familiar form I wonder is there any lotion? Does he use lotion? I don't want to intrude but I hate the feeling of my dry skin cracking. Opening the bottom cabinet and searching for a moisturizer, I found nothing. Dammit. Maybe he has some in his room. Fantastic, now I have to ask him if he has any.

Seeing my reflection once again, I decide to ignore the image and go towards the clean clothes folded. Unfolding the large shirt I smile at the blotchy pattern. I still can't believe he listens to baby metal. You'd think he listens to old jazz, someone as composed as him. Black fabric falls off the shirt. Holding it up above me the large black fabric holds to be boxers. There's no way these will fit me. Folding the waistband I place my feet through the holes and throw on the large metal shirt. Now barefoot, I slowly prepare myself to go downstairs. Placing my dirty clothes in the hamper I turn off the dim light.

Walking down the dim hallway, a savory smell greets my nose. His deep voice vibrates off the walls, chuckling. He seems to be in a good mood, I grin. Pacing the staircase to not interrupt him, I absentmindedly stare at the polished railing and hear another guy's voice. "Jaaaaaack." The voice draws out. That's his name. Jack. Repeating the name in my mind, I realized I never knew his name until now. Rubbing my temple once again, another headache seems to form. That's definitely a red flag. "Are you training?" The man suddenly questions. Training for what? I know it's rude to eavesdrop but I'm interested. He's a big guy. Is he in the military? What man did I run into?

"You can come down now." He suddenly voiced, his back still to me. I didn't know he was able to see me. Feeling my face burn, I slowly walked down, the stairs creaking softly underneath me. "I didn't know you could see me." I chuckled sheepishly. Descending the stairs, the floor layout has no doors but an open vicinity of the kitchen, living room, dining room, and outside patio. Following the delicious smell, I walk through the living room to the kitchen seeing his large back. "Take a seat." He rumbles. Seeing the large stool, I make my way towards the polished table. The stool legs meet my waist, also there's no ledge I could step on. There's no way I can sit on this without making a fool of myself. "Are you going to eat standing?" The man. Jack inquires.

Exhaling through my nose, I drum my short nails on the wooden table . "No, I would like to sit ." I mutter. Turning off the stove he simply utters," Then take a seat." He turns to me. His eyes slowly ranking on my form. Under his intense gaze I stare at the mountain of noodles on the stove. Another delicious distraction. "I would. But..." He simply crosses his arms over his chest, seemingly interested. Not used to the attention, hot liquid floods my face. Wringing my hands I mutter,"Don't take offense to this, your home is beautiful but everything is really large." Looking at his triceps and chest it dawns on me why everything is bigger than normal. "I guess that makes sense, considering you're..." I trail off.

"Large?" The man states, grinning softly placing the wheat noodles and chicken broth on the table. He pours sparkling water from the pitcher into two glasses.. "Yeah." I chuckle softly . "You know I can help." Jack utters. Help? Is he referring to manhandling me again? Absolutely not. "Are there no other chairs?" "Not any that you can sit on without my help." He rumbles. Exhaling through once again, I gaze through his tawny eyes. " Alright but don't just —my feet leave the cold surface of the floor. My breath leaves my throat as my backside meets the cool wooden surface. "Just toss me." I gasped. Jack gently places me on the stool. "You could've at least let me say when." I grumbled, face burning "You're welcome." He hums. Jack places a large pot of noodles and broth on the table.

"Are you having any other guests?" I inquired. Jack sits on the stool opposite of me across the table. "Hopefully not," Jack rumbles. Scooping a large amount of noodles and placing them in his large bowl, I simply watched in awe. Everything about him is gigantic, the way how he eats, lives, and the way he smirks at me. Maybe his ego as well. "It's not going to bite you." He stares into my brown eyes and passes me a big plastic bowl."Thanks." I mumbled. I don't know much about Jack, hardly anything but it seems like he keeps a cocky attitude to hide his kindness. Placing noodles and the brown oiled broth in my bowl, my mouth waters anticipating its delicious guests.

Ramen bowl made, I bowl my head to say grace. Breaking the hard chopsticks, I open my mouth only to feel eyes on me. Looking at Jack he seems to have that intense stare again. "What?" I ask. Do I have something on my face? Jack places his chopsticks down near his spoon. His eyes never leaving mine he draws out," After everything you've been through...Everything they put you through." I feel my throat tightened. "You still believe in God." He states. Placing my hands in front of me, I merely smile. "I have to...Well so more of I want to." Jack studies my face. "He's kept me here, so I can meet you. That is enough to say thanks too."

Jack's tawny eyes narrow slightly, as if he needs to see clearly. I'm starting to figure that's the face he makes when he's deep in thought. Not everyone believes in God, whether that's religion trauma or they just don't. It's all a valid reason. Growing up in a C.OG.I.C church, one of the things I'm growing to understand is that God is love and not just condemnation. But after finally leaving that hell I know there's more to life than what they showed me. Jack's small smug smile returns, letting out a humorless chuckle. "Your optimism is going to get you hurt." Slurping the sweet broth in the renge spoon, I grin. "Well, being a pessimist is rather boring." He hums. I'm not sure if he's agreeing or not though. "It's Mia by the way."I mumbled, slurping the ramen noodles and sweet broth. He simply hums again while eating his mountain full of noodles. "You already know mine ." He rumbles.

"I didn't want to be rude." I laugh airily. Seaweed chips wrapped around the noodles, I squirmed in my seat, elated with its delicious taste. "I've eaten ramen a lot since I am a college student. But this is delicious!" he merely grunts. I simply chow down on the delicious meal and eat quicker than expected. While he goes for thirds and fourths. I can't believe someone can eat so much without any pain. It's impressive yet disturbing.

Sitting in uncomfortable silence I try," Do you have any family that lives considering your home is so—" "It doesn't matter." He clips. "We don't have to force conversation." He rumbles grimly. Slightly startled I slowly sip my glasses. Letting the bubbles glide down my throat. He's right. We don't have to talk to each other. But the awkward silence is killing me! "I think i'll be heading for bed." I murmur. "Upstairs guest room, you know where it is." He utters. Sliding down the stool my bare feet meet the wooden surface, I thank him for the food. Slightly hesitant, I ask him, "I wash my plate?" "It's fine, you're the guest after all." He insists.

Exiting the kitchen I can feel his eyes bore holes into my back. Crossing the furnished living room I can't help but murmur,"I'll get out of your hair then." Stomach full I take my time walking up the wooden stairs. He's the one that agreed to help me, why would you purposely make it awkward? Walking towards the end of the hallway, I enter the second to last room. Sure enough it's the room I was trying to escape earlier. A warm glow surrounds the room from its lamp. I should keep it on. Not wanting to wake up in the dark again, I climb into bed and wrap the once damp navy sheets around me. Heaving a heavy sigh into the pillow. Closing my eyes I pray," Dear heavenly father. I only trust you. Guide my spirit into the right path and give me

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

Chapter 4- Smooth Passage

*Mia Pov*

His deep brown eyes bore into mine. "I've got you." His voice rumble's softly, the timbre of his voice sends shivers down my spine. The man slides my lower body inside the colossus vehicle. He's going to feed me to the monster! My backside meets the mat like material of the seats. Quickly, I swing my legs across the side of the seat ready to jump to the cement when I'm met with my legs dangling. Gasping, I met his eyes again. The burly man's shoulders shake as he simply chuckles. "Your memory is not exceptional it seems." Hanging my head in shame, his previous words rang in my head. " I'll have to carry you in, considering your short stature."   A large,callous hand grasped my chin tilting my head to gaze into his tawny eyes once more. "You're too small." His canadian accent drawled.

Too small.

I don't think I've ever been referred to as small my entire life. I could count on both of my hands fingers and toes, of the times that my mother has given me displeased looks. Judgmental stares. With direct insult of my weight and how I look. Teachers treated me differently based on my skin color and size. Having little to no friends and the ones you have either pity you or are just using you to feel better about themselves. In reality you're left with no friends at all. I've gotten used to the feeling of being alone.

The grip on my chin tightens and I realize I'm still in the vehicle shaking. "Your nose is red. I'd be astonished if you didn't have a minor cold." I'm trapped in his gaze once again and I'm overwhelmed with a sense of uncertainty. This man wants to help me but wants nothing in return? Everyone wants something, and eye for an eye to be exact. He grunts and rumbles,"Turn your thighs into the truck." I don't have time to respond before he closes the heavy door swiftly.

Twisting my body to the left, my thighs nearly squashed. I huff a deep breath I didn't know I was holding. The driver door opens as the left side of the truck dips significantly. The monster grumbles alive, my finger instinctively clenching the sides of the mat like material. "You can let go. It won't eat you." I look straight ahead into the drenched street, hoping to hide my embarrassment. "It's a 45 minute drive, so we're not moving anytime soon." His muscular arm swerves smoothly into the oncoming traffic. We drive in silence beside the heavy pitty patter on the roof. I stare absentmindedly into the colorful blur of cars and street lights. What's going to happen to me now? I don't have any relatives that live in Japan. Once my father threatened my family from saving me from his harsh discipline, I never saw them again. It's been years since I've seen my aunt.

"Do you have any relatives?" His voice rumbles in the silence. Turning my head towards him, I'm met with his chiseled jaw. "No, not anyone that can help me." I look down at my soiled socks. The man hums a deep guttural sound in his chest. "I'm an Uni student from Toronto but I'm taking a course to learn about Japan and its culture." The man hums again but his tone somehow seems like I caught his interest . "It's not cute and shit is it?" The blonde man chuckles grimly. Eyes widened I turned towards the man again but his eyes were on the road. "No, not really." I huff sheepishly. "Not at all." My brows furrowed.

I grew up reading manga since it was the only way to disassociate from my family. I truly thought when I was younger that life in japan was easier and practical. But I've learned through history that anime and the 'kawaii' lifestyle was only a sliver of what Japan truly is. "The stares," the man starts,"some genuinely curious others blatantly disrespectful." The truck slows into a stop at the red traffic light. My eyes lock with his. "Yeah, there were these uni guys I talked to at the beginning of the program and they asked if I was open minded..." I trailed off. "Did you leave with them?" His tawny eyes hardened into slits. Squirming in my seat I look out my window. "No.'' I mumbled. "But I knew what they wanted." I'm met once again with the heavy pitty patter on the roof. The man grumbles something unintelligible but before I can question it, a horn can be heard behind us. Flinching, I look behind me in the back window to see a line has formed. "Damn bastards." The man grumbles.

We smoothly accelerate to our destination. Gathering up some courage I ask," Are you taking me to the police station?" "No" He answers automatically. "They won't do anything." So the police are the same everywhere? I nod and lean back into my seat. Stuffing a yawn, I look back at the man once again. He looks to be in his early 20's. Yawning, I feel my body become lethargic. "We've got a 30 min drive ahead of us, I can lay the seat down so you can rest." Yawning I mumble,"It's alright it's the least I owe you." My body slowly slides back until I'm staring at the roof. "You won't pay me back by nodding off, I've got a blanket in the back if you need it." I gaze into his hazel eyes in the rear view mirror."He won't come back." I'll never have to see him again. With that in mind, I grab the wool navy blanket. I never have to see that bastard again. Never have to deal with them anymore. Eyes burning I squeeze them tight to stop the tears before they release.

"How could you do this to our family! Have you got no shame!?"My father bellowed. My sore  knees on raw rice, my hands stretched horizontally. "I wanted to tell you because I thought you'd help me.." I whimpered. "You're an abomination! Disgusting creature!" My father seeth above me. "You want me and your mother to truly believe that this is biological?! LOOK AT YOU!" My head hangs in shame, arms quivering. "It's called an x gene some humans have, it can skip a generation but it's real I swear!" "Who you yellin' at lil girl?" My father bellows. "N-no one, I just want you to understand." I plead, staring into his angry eyes. "I'm your father! You can't teach me anything." "Until you tell me the truth you'll stay here all night." My father turns off the lights.Showering me in darkness. Walking up the old creaky stairs to his room. "W-wait father please! You have to believe me! I'm not lying! I did all my research and found out it's hereditary. Please father! Don't leave me.'' I beg, tears streaming down my swollen cheeks.

𝙿𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜: 𝙹𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙷𝚊𝚗𝚖𝚊 𝚡 𝙵𝚎𝚖 𝚂𝚑𝚘𝚛𝚝! 𝙱𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙿𝚕𝚞𝚜 𝚂𝚒𝚣𝚎!!𝙵𝚘𝚡 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝙹𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙷𝚊𝚗𝚖𝚊 𝚡 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

A/N: Hey babes happy thanksgiving! I’ve had some time and decided to disassociate💕

I love you guys <3

His Little Fox

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

*Mia's Pov*

Looking at the huge man getting on his knees, his green cargo joggers soaked in the sidewalk concrete. I can't help but stare up at him in shock. The rain patters harshly, not giving any sign of letting up either. How does he still have 8 inches of height above me on his knees?! My eyes gaze across his thick thighs and his biceps that have the potency to crush me in a heartbeat. Peering up at his stature makes me realize the dire decision I've made. The hard rain hardly makes out anything but I see reluctance in his features. Not wanting to be a hindrance, I guard my face and turn back around. "I'll walk up if I have to." Walking faster I hear the brooding man huffs a big sigh. Making a hesitant left, I waddle towards a near pole light  .

My shoddy socks squish and squash on the hard concrete. Ignoring the small jabs of pain on the pebbled surface, I avert my eyes from the large man and keep my gaze under me. Suddenly, the man next to me rumbles," You don't know where you're going." Keeping my heady pace I try to look out for poles that I could accidentally run into. I just need the rain to slack up a bit and I'll be fine.

We continue to walk for another 5 minutes in silence. How far is his car from here?!" Huffing out of slight exhaustion, I waddle my way through the cracks of the concrete. " You're adrenaline's wearing off." The man says suddenly." I halt near a stop sign and place my hands on my drenched dress, my sore feet pulsing.

Huffing an"I'm fine." Leaves my lips before I can even take another breath. The man gets on his knees again and rumbles."Get on my back." It was a simple statement, but left no room to argue. Gingerly stepping behind him, I'm met with the wide expansion of his back and come with the conclusion. I've never gotten on anyone's back before. Timidly, I lean my body across him. Wrapping my arms around his neck from behind, I exhale a hesitant breath. "Okay... Here I go." I say more to myself than him. He grunts in response. Leaning my full weight across his back, I wrap my legs around his waist firmly. He seems to stay planted kneeling on the ground. Am I too heavy?! Maybe he can't get on- I should let go-"Are you ready?" The brooding man suddenly asks.

"Y-yeah." I squeak. The yellow street lights flicker above us."You haven't gotten on yet, is there something wrong?." Staring at the back of his neck. My heart sinks. "I-i'm already on." I exclaim. The tall man turns his head at a 45 degree angle and stares at my perplexed face. His brown eyes bore into mine for a prolonged moment. Furrowing my brow, I sigh and say,"We should get going." The brooding man huffs a big gust of air. "Alright." He starts again but turns his neck to look at me again. "Hold tight." He uttered. "I'm already-" The burly man rises slowly, ascending  his way to his full height." The heavy stream pours harder the more he straightens his back. I gasp a deep breath, my ample arms tighten around his neck. The man doesn't move but stays completely still, brown eyes narrowed into slits. "I wont drop you," He clips, having seemed offended.

Holding my breath, I sputtered," I don't mean to be rude." I give the robust man a sheepish smile. "Let's go." He uttered.

Swaying left and right, my body rocked to the man's rhythm. The downpour didn't let up at all. Looking down at his steel boots, I begin to think about my mother. Her cruel words and warm hugs. Her imposing but familiar figure. Her words crumbled me, belittled me, and I welcome it with an open heart because I have no one else. No one to love me, to hate me. She was the only one.

My eyes burn from the brim of tears. Am I truly alone? No one can love me or hate me now. Squeezing his neck tighter, I try to compress my sadness to numbness. "Hey." The man suddenly grumbles. "I said I wasn't going to drop you." His dark eyes find mine. "N-No." I try to conceal the croak in my throat. "No," I repeat. "It's not that." I mumbled. "Hm?" The blonde man inquired, interested. "It's well..." I carried on. This man saved me from a life of pain and suffering. He doesn't deserve to hear my burdens. "Just cold, really." I trail off nonchalantly. "We're almost there, just down the road." Sure enough, just along the road, hardly visible from the rain there's a large truck. Squinting my eyes, I try to focus on the truck that'll lead me to warmth–

He's let go. My breath caught in my throat, my stomach sunken in. His large hands,digging into his pockets. My thick legs dangling along his back. It feels like I'm defying gravity. As if I'm flying. I gasped, wrapping my thighs around his waist like a cobra squeezing its prey.

Suddenly, I feel out of breath. Resting my head on his shoulder, I close my eyes and hear two chirps. "Here we are." He grumbled. I hesitantly open my eyes and feel dizzy again. I know why I couldn't see the truck clearly. Its slick inky base, larger than two bears standing. Its 45 inch  polished aluminum wheels were still yet deadly. I could easily hide behind it and not get detected. This was no ordinary truck. More primal. Like a large animal of sorts. Like a beast. It looks like it can swallow me whole. Another two chirps and the doors opened by themselves. "Alright, ladies first." The burly man uttered, " I'll have to carry you in, considering your short stature." I couldn't move, couldn't speak."Please sir." I mumbled. "I-I don't want to get in." The man stands still for a moment as if choosing his words wisely. "How come?" He griped. How can I make him understand that he's giving me to the monster like a compromising snack?

His Little Fox

Pairings: Jack Hanma x Fem! Short! Black! Plus Size Fox reader!

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

*Jack’s Pov*

The small plump woman grips my sweater with desperation. “P-please sir.” She looks into my blue eyes with her own brown teary orbs. “They’ll kill me.” Her plump lips mouth what she’s too afraid to say. “MIA!” A dark skinned man runs towards us and yells in the distance. “He’s too close! ” The woman shrieks. She starts to run away when I realize her appearance. Her smooth apricot skin wet and battered in small cuts over her arms and neck. Her double strand twist frizzed and she wore a loose sweater dress that was torn in her legs. Her chubby legs ran down splinters and no shoes, only bruised toes. Her frightened eyes look in my direction. “Hey.” Reaching out to grab her wrist gently, she flinched and crossed her arms. “Hm.” I slowly dropped my hand in a non threatening manner.

“I won’t hurt you, sweetheart.” I can hear her heartbeat against her chest. She grasped onto my wrist and hid her plump figure behind me. “MIA!” The dark skinned man runs up to me and yells,”Get out of my way! She’s my daughter!”

The way he says “my daughter” makes me feel anger boil in my chest. Why is he so entitled to his daughter? “You’re daughter, huh?” I step towards the man. The man gasped and looked up towards my eyes, his face looking into the sky. Trying to remain not threatening he yells,”Yes! She needs to come home and face her consequences.” Mia gasped and leaned into my lower back. She’s so frightened, from this lowlife type of man. Looking back at her, I see her drenched shaking body curled into my back. “It doesn’t look like the little lady wants to come with you.”

*Mia Pov*

“It doesn’t look like the little lady wants to come with you.” The broad man says nonchalantly. I whimper and press my figure into his broad back. I don’t want to go with my father, I made it this far out of that house. Shaking my head into his expansive back, the broad man grunts and hums,”Seems like the little lady agrees.” My father smacks his lips and grunts,”She doesn’t have a choice!” My protector doesn’t seem to like that statement. Wait! Protector?! He’s not my… Why is he protecting me? Usually strangers mind their business and stay out of trouble. The broad man stands in my fathers face and says,”Well I choose for you to leave, and please,” the stranger in front of me back tenses.``Try to take her from me.” I peer from his back to look at my father. His eyes widen and his mouth is agape, my father becomes the impossible: he’s afraid. Peering at my father long enough, I realize that I don’t feel anything. An inkling numbness washes over me, I don't want him to suffer or feel joy.

I want nothing. Nothing to do with him.

*Jack’s Pov*

Glaring at this dumbass makes me even more angry. The small woman grasping my sweater gives me the knowledge that he has no room for any mercy. Hearing her desperate pleas. She doesn’t deserve this. No one does. “Excuse me sir.” A gentle voice fills my ears. “Hm?” I turn towards her. She looked at the ground in shame. “I just…” Her voice wavers. “I just want to get away from him, please sir.” She tilts her head up to lock eyes with mine. Her brown orbs glistened in the street lights.``Arguing is pointless, he won’t listen.” Her grip on my sweater tightens, “N-nothing will change!” Hearing her gentle voice crack, I stare at the fragile woman. Defeated. I’ve seen that look before…It’s vaguely familiar. The plump woman sniffles in the merciless rain, she’ll get sick. Dead or alive won’t take away her trauma. Exhaling a deep breath, I turn away from the ugly excuse for a man. “ Let’s go.” Making sure she’s in front of me, we make our way to my car, her father yelling in the distance. If he tries to stop me I'll kill him.

Quickly walking in the heavy downpour, I’ve come to a realization. She's incredibly slow. Watching her chubby stature trudge through the heavy rain slowly made me irk or irritate. Does she want to suffer and make me upset? But I can’t leave her behind, I have to make sure she’s safe at least for the night. Hearing tiny gasps from beside me, I turn to see her panting and grasping her drenched sweater dress, making her dress rise on her wet thick thighs. Jesus Christ, we need to hurry before she gets even more sick than she probably is. We won't get there if we trudge along at her dainty pace.

“Hey.” Stopping in my tracks I stare at the top of the small woman’s head. She walks a few steps ahead of me and stops. The rain shrinking her passion twist but thickens the curls. Her body slightly turned towards me. “We won't get to my car in time before you get sick.” Guarding a deep breath, I slowly get on my knees. “Get on my back if you don’t mind, my car’s a few blocks away.” Turning fully towards me, the small woman looks at me in shock. “Huh?!”

His Little Fox

𝙿𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜: 𝙹𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙷𝚊𝚗𝚖𝚊 𝚡 𝙵𝚎𝚖 𝚂𝚑𝚘𝚛𝚝! 𝙱𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙿𝚕𝚞𝚜 𝚂𝚒𝚣𝚎!!𝙵𝚘𝚡 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝙹𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙷𝚊𝚗𝚖𝚊 𝚡 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛

‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𐦍༘⋆ ‧₊˚❀༉ ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.

*Mia Pov*

“Hah.” “Hah.” “Hah.” I feel my legs growing tired with each stride a run. I know I won't last much longer. “Mia, please come back to me and your father!” My mother yells. I turn back to see my mother in tears on our front porch and my father running down the stairs. This increases my adrenaline and my tired chubby legs increase it’s speed and I'm not even sure how when I feel like I might give out at any moment. Lightning strikes in the sky in front of me. I squeeze my eyes waiting for the thunderous impact.

“Mia!” I hear my father's deep voice bellow. “You can’t leave us! You have nowhere to go! How dare you do this to your father and mother?! The people who gave you life!!!” He screams. I yelp and almost slip on the concrete as I turn the corner to run into a wall. At least that’s what I thought.

*Jacks Pov*

I grunt as I lift the two 300 pounds dumbbells on my reps. “Ya know,” My little brother Baki drawls. “What is it?” I ask focusing on my reps. “Don’t you think you would be happier if you’d… ya know…” My brother drawls again. I sigh and put the dumbbell down. “What Baki? I was just getting started.” I grunt. “I’m just wondering if you would be happier if you had a lover, man. I mean.” Baki gets quiet. “I know I have.” Baki says with his head down. “Baki.” I say with a sigh. “Love isn’t for someone like me and I’m not trying to be an asshole about it either. That’s just not the life I was picked for.” I pick up the dumbbells with a grunt ready to workout. One of the only hobbies I live for.

“Whatever man! Stop being such a downer—shit it’s raining. I didn’t watch the forecast today.” I humm in agreement. “Shit! I have to check up on Kozue, I'll see you later Jack.” I nod as Baki runs off to his Kozue. As I walk down the hard pavement I ponder on Baki’s question. Can I really find love? I questioned. Instantly I'm reminded of my mother and all the pain she had to endure and I can’t help but feel it was my curse on her. That she fell in love with my bastard of a father. “Hm.” I humm. I don’t think the question of me searching for my lover is the right statement, rather. Do I deserve love?

That’s what I question as I turn the corner then feel this soft weight press into my abdomen. The person falls onto the wet ground. Irritated, I growl,”Watch where you’re—“”Please…” The small figure pleads. “Please.” The small woman grasps my purple sweater. With a shaky breath the woman begs with her head down. “H-help me.” Instinctively I gently grasp her chin with my finger and immediately I’m met with brown doe eyes. “MIA ELIZABETH BUTLER!!!” I here a man yell. “COME BACK HERE!!!” The woman flinches and tugs on my sweater bringing her to my attention. “Please help me!”