[At the barracks â Unohana had called Y/N personally, which already makes him nervous yet makes her hearth race]
M!Reader : C-Captain Unohana, you called me personally?
[Unohana greets Y/N with her ever gentle smile, hands behind her back]
Unohana : I have something for you... A gift, if you will...
[Y/N immediately stepped closer towards herâShe pulled out A folded card, her eyes intently staring directly into his eyesâY/N noticed and starts blushing]
[Unohana hands him the cardâY/N of course takes it gently]
M!Reader : Oh... Wow... This is... For me? it-I Uhh... Thank you, captain...
M!Reader : I must say I'm... A bit surprisedâDidnât take you for the handwritten love note type
[Unohana still smiling calmly at Y/N]
Unohana : Only for someone special, Go on, open it...
[Y/N open the card, smiling gently as the blush on his face deepens]
M!Reader : This is really swââŚ.
[The letter saying : "I think about you even in the middle of battle, Your name slips into my thoughtsâright between the urge to kill and the longing to kiss".... With a splash of blood on the paperâ
[Y/N's mouth agape, staring at the card and then stares at unohana who still has that sweet and calm smile with her eyes closed]
M!Reader : âŚIs⌠is this real blood
Unohana : Only a little. Itâs symbolic, You stir feelings in me I once thought long buried ^v^
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Christmas Traditions with Baki, Retsu, Katsumi, Hanayama, Biscuit, Jack, Doppo, Yujiro, and Motobe <3
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!! I hope you are all having a fun, nice, peaceful holiday! I wanted to write a little something for the day (I actually started a full on Christmas fic but very quickly realized I would run out of time oops) so hereâs a little blurb I whipped out during down time at work. Itâs nothing huge, and itâs basically unedited, but I wanted to give you all a little present of sorts if I could. I know I take forever to update and post things, so thank you all for your patience and being wonderful superb humans. I love you all~
So HAPPY HOLIDAYS! If you donât celebrate-I hope you have a bitching weekend regardless. B)
(Also this is my first attempt at writing something slightly romantic for Yujiro where he isnât horrible, so thereâs that loooool)
Warnings: None really, itâs very fluffy. Maybe the tiniest hints of sexy stuff?
Your tradition with Baki is opening presents early. He never really had much of a holiday growing up, so the prospect of having a traditional Christmas with the person he loves gets him amped. Though you told him countless times you donât really need material possessions from him, he approaches the task of gift giving with a sense of childlike enthusiasm. Heâs thrilled to act as âSantaâ for you, feverishly going over in his head all the things you have ever mentioned wanting or liking in the course of your relationship. You in turn also have fun shopping for him, happy that you get to create pleasant memories for him during the holiday season to replace all the lackluster ones. The dayâs leading up to Christmas mount his anticipation-he is as pumped to see and spend time with you as he is to exchange gifts. Youâll be lucky if you can get him to hold out tearing into presents by Christmas Eve, let alone the day of.
Your tradition with Retsu is preparing a big meal. Christmas isnât something that Retsu ever really celebrated previously, but he knows itâs an important and fun time for you so he wants to make it special for the both of you. Heâs delighted to spend the day with you, and takes great pleasure in cooking a holiday meal the two of you can enjoy. So though he may not go all out on decorations or other holiday activities, you are sure to have a delicious feast in preparation for you at home-a mix of your favorite holiday foods and some of his own favorite recipes. He pours his heart and soul into it, and is sure to shower you in love and affection throughout the day. Seeing your face light up in joy as you take in the food spread before you is the only assurance he needs that heâll have the honor of being your personal holiday chef many years to come.
Your tradition with Katsumi is sightseeing. Christmas Eve each year is spent out on the town as you take in all the sights and activities the holiday season has to offer. You look at lights, listen to carolers, go ice skating, grab some hot cocoa/coffee. The whole day you stay linked arm in arm, smiling so hard your cheeks start to hurt. And when itâs time to wind down in the evening you both return home together to spend the remainder of the night wrapped up in each otherâs arms, falling asleep to the favorite holiday movie or show of your choosing. He always seems to last longer than you do and considers those moments when you are nestled safely in his arms, right before he drifts off after you, some of the happiest moments of his entire life.
Your tradition with Hanayama is traveling. It doesnât matter if you want to go someplace warm and tropical, or cold and frozen. It can be the same place each year or someplace new. As long as heâs able to whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of your daily lives and spend the season in your presence, he really doesnât give a damn where the two of you end up. He wants to be around you and only you, the best present he can provide and receive being your happiness and love. Â Just understand that as soon as your reach your destination, thatâs when the real holiday magic begins ~
Your tradition with Biscuit is story reading. Biscuitâs life is chaotic, and the holiday season does little to lessen this burden. Sometimes it can feel like you barely have time or access to each other at all. Thatâs why on Christmas he makes sure to dedicate the entire day just for you. Nothing fills him with warmth and peace like Christmas night does, snuggled up together in front of the fire place, taking turns reading each other Christmas stories from an old, well-loved book youâve had since childhood. When you first suggested it you were afraid he would find it silly or childish, but he was delighted by the idea. He loves listening to you speak, finds peace in the stories your voice weaves for him. He can think of no better way to spend the holiday.
Your tradition with Jack is a movie marathon. Like his brother, he doesnât have too many fond memories of Christmas time to reflect on, so when you enter the picture you made it your mission to change this. Appalled that he hadnât even seen the classics, you suggest a movie night, complete with homemade cocoa and all the Christmas cookies you can eat. Â You were concerned he may not like the idea at first, Jack wasnât one to sit around for long periods of time and you were worried the movies may just bore him. But as he held you firmly in his laps, basking in homemade treats and your silly commentary, you knew this was the right move. Even as he poked fun at some of the films, calling them âkiddie moviesâ you were âforcing him to watchâ, you knew the small smile on his lips and the way he held you close relayed what he was truly feeling. This was cemented when he finished the marathon with the question âSame time and place next year?â
Your tradition with Doppo is decorating. He humored you when you told him you wanted to do up your home for the holidays, and he let you go all out when it came to picking out and purchasing decorations. Unfortunately for him, all those decorations meant you needed help putting them up-and he was your prime target for assistance. Though originally he agreed begrudgingly, he ended up having a lot of fun decorating with you. It warmed his heart to see the smile that graced your lips as you dressed the tree, and he took great joy in the playful banter you shared over what decoration looked best in this corner of the room, or if the star atop the tree was crooked or not. Â It was also nice showing off for you whenever heavier decorations needed to be assembled, he lived for the little blush the fell over your face as you laughed, telling him his flexing and posturing was âtoo muchâ. Next year heâd have to remember to purchase some mistletoe to add to the arrangement, he already knew the perfect place to hang it ~
Your tradition with Yujiro is skiing. You had never done it previously and were concerned how good you would be at it. It also didnât help your anxiety that the one who invited you was Yujiro, and he had gone out of the way to clear out the entire slopes for just the two of you. But even with all your nerves the trip ended up being surprisingly peaceful and enjoyable. Yes, Yujiro picked at you and was obviously disappointed with your lack of immediate skiing skill, but he was also shockingly patient and helpful, giving you tips and guidance that made navigating the slopes much easier. Hours flew by without you realizing, and by the end of the day you were exhausted, but had successfully navigated a hill all on your own (albeit it was a beginner one, which Yujiro made sure to make fun of you for, but a slope is a slope in your humble opinion). Thinking this was a onetime deal you thanked Yujiro for the experience, letting him know it was the most fun Christmas you had had in a while. You were taken aback when he busted out laughing at you, explaining you werenât anywhere near done-heâd repeat this every year necessary with you until you could get on his level.
Your tradition with Motobe is to build a fire. Itâs a simple thing, and not necessarily a strictly Christmas event, but you both find happiness huddled up together on Christmas night by the fire. You relish in each otherâs company, sipping a warm beverage, sharing a blanket, and talking about anything and everything under the sun. Â The only time any banter occurs is when you argue over who needs to leave the comforting warmth to go get more firewood. This goes on late into the night until the two of you are too tired to keep your eyes open. The final words to leave both of your lips are affirmations of love and the promise to make the New Year great.
I finally got around and writing a fic for my two fav Baki boys!!! Woo!
Thereâs some angsty, pining, one-sided affection, love triangle bullshit in this one, so if that isnât your thing I apologize. Sometimes I just gotta get the slightly dramatic, weeb wubby stuff out of my system. :) I am a major slut for jealousy stories so thatâs a reason for this whole story as well looool. I changed the name to Threeâs A Company which is like, the least original name for this kind of story, but I liked it better than what I picked previously so it is what it is. :P
And Katsumi darling, I am so sorry I made you the third wheel in this. :( I promise there is a story for you where you are the star coming soonish, ILU, mwah <3
This took me forever to read over and post for whatever reason (it has been written for weeks at this point YIKES), and I still feel like parts of it are pretty wonky. Sorry if it reads kinda weird. :< Nevertheless, I hope you all enjoy, and thank you so much for reading! <3
This is NSFW so 18+ only please!!!!
WARNINGS: Â one sided pining, some angst, jealousy, possessiveness, sex, eavesdropping on said sex, and one clueless/dense reader :)
âYou are not going out in this.â
The soundless night was disrupted by your voice, a hint of worry betraying its otherwise stern tone. Staring out into the icy abyss it was no mystery as to why you were concerned, heading out right now was just asking for trouble. He could barely see two feet in front of him, let alone down the street. The news liked to over exaggerate every winter storm as if it were the white death coming to blanket the earth, trapping people for long periods of time under thick blankets of snow and slush. Who knew the weather forecasters would actually be right this time around?
âKatsu are you listening to me?â You spoke again, this time sounding more on edge. He could tell your patience with him was growing thin. You had always hated it when he took too long to respond to you, seeing through his silence to the churning gears of his brain that were working hard to come up with an excuse you would not be fond of.
Katsumi sighed in response.
âItâs just a little snow, (name). You think thatâs enough to stop me?â
He heard you huff, âCan the tough guy act, I mean it! I am NOT letting you go out in this. How lame would it be if the great Katsumi Orochi got taken out by a snow storm, of all things?â
Katsumi laughed, âYou have a point there, but still I think Iâll manage. The train may still be running, as long as I can make it to the station I will be fine.â
He took a step forward, his foot crunching into the densely packed snow. He frowned as it engulfed his shoe, the bitter wet stinging his freezing ankle. This definitely wouldnât be a fun trek, but it was one he needed to try and make for his own sanityâs sake.
He went for another step, but before his foot could meet the snow your hand latched itself to his arm, effectively halting him. Though your grip was firm and unyielding, your voice came out achingly gentle.
âKatsumi please,â you gave his arm a small squeeze, âI really donât want you going out in weather like this and I doubt the trains are still running with how bad its coming down. You donât live close enough to walk and Iâd be really upset if you got stranded out there in the artic abyss, so would you please come back inside?â
The chill in the air was biting, ice and snow raining down on and around him, clinging to his coat and hair. His arm vibrated from your shivers as he remained in your grasp, a sense of guilt creeping over him for being the reason you were still outside to begin with. The freeze didnât seem to affect him the same as it did you, but then again, being in your presence made him full of such warmth that he barely noticed its icy grip at all.
He turned to you, his gaze falling on your clear (color) eyes. The thick lashes that framed them were dotted with tiny snowflakes which sparkled like gems in the streetlights, reminding him of a heroine in a shoujo manga. Your brows were cinched together in concern, slightly chapped lips downturned in a pout to match. Your cheeks had turned rosy from the cold, the snowflakes that hit them melting instantly, causing the droplets that ran down your face to give the illusion you were crying.
Seeing you this way gave him the strong urge to embrace you. The desperate desire of wanting your body nestled close to his gripped his heart and wouldnât let go. Heâd shield you from the elements as you clung to him, basking in the comfort of his hold, snuggling your way closer to suck up his body heat. He could think of no better way to fight off this freeze.
If he tried it, would you let him?
He felt somewhat silly over losing himself in the mundane fantasy of giving you a hug, but what could he do? You just had that sort of effect on him, that even the smallest gestures would grant him the greatest happiness.
â(Name) is right. You really should just stay the night Katsumi.â
Katsumiâs pleasant daydream collapsed around him, getting lost in the the steadily falling snow when Retsu appeared in the doorway.
The manâs deep voice forcibly pulled Katsumi back to reality, and he internally winced as he watched your face light up at his appearance. The fierce cold finally became known to him as you drifted away, parking yourself beside Retsu. You wasted no time linking your fingers with the Kaioh, smashing your body against him to mock the dreams Katsumi had seconds prior.
âSee, we both want you to stay,â You were addressing Katsumi, but all your attentions were focused on Retsu, âso can you stop being so stubborn for just tonight, please?â
His eyes honed in on your entwined hands a moment longer before he forced a smile on his lips.
âAlright, for you Iâll give.â
~
You had been in Katsumiâs life one way or another for a long time.
You had met when you were just kids, shortly after Doppo had taken him in as his son. At the time the Shinshinkai dojo offered a karate course for kids, and you just happened to be enrolled in the same class that Katsumi was a part of. Varying levels of talent were in the childrenâs class, with Katsumi unequivocally sitting at the top. And while he was quickly climbing the ranks, dominating kids much older than himself with ease, you were stuck dwelling in the bottom tier. You were uncoordinated, clumsy, and just generally had a hard time keeping up with the rest of the class. While everyone was moving on, you were still stuck struggling with the basics, doing them over and over with very little success.
Though you werenât very good at it, the gusto with which you approached learning martial arts was second to none. No matter how many times you got knocked down or scolded for doing something incorrectly, you bounced right back up to try it again. Even when it was recommended by a few of the instructors that maybe martial arts just werenât for you, you wouldnât hear it, and pushed yourself even harder in hopes of getting even the tiniest bit better. It was like you had something to prove, that even a tiny little girl could transform into a beast.
Katsumi found it endearing.
It had been so long ago that Katsumi forgot how you two even began talking, whether he was assigned to you for some extra practice or you approached him first for some pointers. What he does remember vividly is the look of absolute wonder you gave him when he mentioned he used to work for the circus, eyes becoming the size of saucers as you vibrated with excitement, shooting him questions at break neck speeds.
âHow high in the air were you when you did shows? Was it scary? Did you ever throw up on stage? Did you get to ride the elephants? What do clowns look like without makeup?â
Before long, Katsumi had grown quite fond of the energetic little girl who hung on every word he said. He found himself looking forward to the days you would train with him, having fun teaching you and playing around afterwards while you waited for your parents to pick you up. He missed you when you were gone, feeling a sort of emptiness when you were absent from class. Once you were even gone for an entire week after you had gotten sick, and though you werenât there physically, your father would stop by each day on his way home from work to deliver hand written notes from you giving Katsumi updates and saying you missed him. It had embarrassed him at the time, but to this day he has held on to each one.
After you came back from your absences, you would always seem a little more rambunctious than usual. It was as if you were trying to make up for the lost time that had occurred between the two of you, upset that you fell a day or two behind and missed any sage advice the older boy had to offer you. Seeing you barrel into the Dojo, bee lining to Katsumi, grilling him on any new stuff he may have to teach you, all before even getting prepared for class⌠it never ceased to make him laugh and get him pumped up. There truly was never a dull moment with you around.
You only stayed with the dojo for about a year before your attentions switched focus, your child mind latching on to other interests and hobbies of more importance. Your mother was the one who came in to say you wouldnât be coming back. He could still remember clear as day when she had asked to speak to him directly, thanking him for taking such good care of you. He blushed a bit when your mom said that you talked about him constantly, always eager to come home from practice and tell them what cool stuff you had learned from Katsumi. She even relayed the reason you had not come yourself was that you keep crying so hard over âleaving Katsu-chanâ that she decided to come alone, as to not upset her daughter further.
Katsumi missed you more than he thought he would. He had grown so used to having you tag along behind him, wide eyes taking in everything he did as if it were the coolest thing you had ever seen. Without you near things didnât seem right. You lingered in his brain for years, a distant yet pleasant memory heâd think back to time and again when heâd be overcome with bouts of nostalgia. What was that little girl up to these days, he wondered?
Turns out he didnât have to muse on that thought for too long.
On a certain day many months ago, upon exiting the dojo Katsumi noticed two young women loitering near the entryway. This in and of itself was not surprising, many peoples friends and significant others usually waited outside or in the dojo lobby for their respective partner to show up. But there was something different about you that made him take special notice, a certain familiar aura you exuded that grabbed his attention.
From the moment his eyes landed on you he found himself drawn in. He couldnât help but stare, the lure of your beauty too strong to not let his eyes linger. He scanned you, trying to commit every curve of your shapely form to visual memory. If you were one of his boyâs girlfriends, they sure were one lucky bastard to have you.
A huge smile engulfed your face as you animatedly explained something to the person beside you, pointing at the dojo. The sun beamed down around you, and as it shone through your hair it gave you an angelic like quality. Your eyes sparkled, crinkling at the corners as you laughed. Your voice was just as lovely as you were, albeit a little loud in your excitement over what you were explaining to your companion.
âI donât know, seems a little farfetched to me.â
Now that he was getting closer, he listened in as your friend spoke to you. Her face was scrunched as she looked at you with an air of incredulity, âI mean⌠you? Taking lessons in a world renowned karate dojo?â
You didnât let her skepticism damper your mood, âShocking as it may be, these were my old stomping grounds.â
Katsumiâs interest was piqued. Old stomping grounds? This particular branch of the ShinshinKai didnât offer any classes for women that he could ever recall, and any classes for youth had long since discontinued. The only time they were ever offered was when Katsumi himself was a child.
You took a deep breath, stretching a bit as you closed your eyes.
âI loved coming here to train,â your voice sounded dreamy as you immersed yourself in memories, âI was never very good at it, but I always had loads of fun.â You opened your eyes, once again focusing them on the dojo, âI had a really good friend here, too. I had to have been annoying as hell, always pestering him with all kinds of questions. But he was always so nice, never once treating me like the bother I know I was.â
He stopped dead in his tracks.
It couldnât beâŚ
âI hope Katsu-chan is doing well. He was so talented at such a young age. I wouldnât be surprised if he ran this place now.â
It was you. His little shadow from the dojo was now an adult, and a stunning one at that. Not only that, but in all those years apart it seems like he could never quite escape your thoughts, just as you had always inhabited his.
He stepped towards you, wanting to make himself known.
âI more or less do.â He couldnât help but smile as you turned his way, your attention completely captured by his intrusion. âIâd like to say it was from all the hard work, but being the son of Doppo Orochi sure didnât hurt my chances, either.â
You face shifted through a myriad of emotions, from hesitant and confused, to growing realization, before finally gasping in elation.
âKatsumi?!â
He beamed, âThe one and only.â
You skipped over to him, and with no hesitation, flung your arms around his neck. After the initial shock of feeling you pressed up to him, Katsumi melted into the embrace. He pulled you in closer, lifting your feet off the ground to playfully sway you side to side. You laughed as he buried his face in the crook of your neck, a sense of glee overcoming him as he breathed you in. You felt so good in his arms. The softness of your curves dipped into him, becoming the perfect offset to his hard body.
He set you down, your arms detaching as soon as your feet hit the ground. You looked up at him with shimmering eyes and he wondered if their shine could have been brought on by tears, a byproduct of seeing him after all this time, or if that was just his ego talking.
Conversation came quickly and freely. It turned out you had moved back to the neighborhood recently, and decided to bring the friend who helped you with the move around with you to revisit all your old haunts. You had made it a point to come back to Shinshinkai, as even after all these years it still had a special place in your heart.
And apparently, so did Katsumi.
You ended up not being able to stay too long, but you jotted down your phone number for Katsumi if he ever âfelt likeâ shooting you a message to catch up. You had barely left the premises before your phone beeped with the arrival of a message, Katsumiâs number illuminating your phoneâs screen.
In no time your bond was back to what it once was, your friendship deepening with every message sent, phone call made, and hang-out had. Not long after you had started talking again, Katsumi invited you back into the dojo to show you around and see what had changed. He explained he was the one officially leading the place now (and tried not to let your delighted gasp and showers of praise go to his head in the process), and as acting head of the Shinshinkai he invited you to swing by whenever, assuring you their doors would always be open to you.
He was thrilled when you actually took him up on the offer, showing up every few days on your downtime to come watch him in action. Youâd often stop in with a homemade lunch in tow to share, this small gesture never failing to push Katsumiâs domestic fantasies over the edge. Seeing you shoot him a little wave from the back door, holding up two expertly wrapped lunch parcels, your lips turned up at the corners in a demure grin⌠it made his stomach somersault. You looked so sweet waiting for him patiently in the back, and if no one knew any better you could have easily have been mistaken for his wife.
And that, he decided, was what he was ultimately aiming for.
You were making yourself such a staple that eventually Doppo offered you a job opportunity, laying it on thick by telling you everyone would be more motivated to have a pretty secretary greeting them each morning at the front desk, particularly Katsumi himself. His father wasnât a dumb man. Doppo could tell Katsumiâs feelings for you as soon as he told him about your reemergence into his life. And who was he to step in the way of young, blossoming love? When Doppo got around to meeting you, he wasnât shy in making innuendos that you would make a great addition to not just the dojo, but the Orochi family itself. Your face had blossomed into a vibrant red at his words, but nonetheless, you happily accepted the job offer.
To no oneâs surprise, you excelled at your job, and everyone who stepped foot through the Dojo seemed more upbeat after speaking with you. You fit in so naturally it was as if you had always belonged with them in the first place, and it soon came to be that patrons couldnât imagine the Shinshinkai lobby without you, their charming young secretary, greeting and assisting them in it.
Katsumi was a respected and well liked man already, considering himself lucky to have more than his share of close friends and companions to journey through life with. But you were something different, something new. Being around you was like a breath of fresh air, the burdens of leading a dojo of thousands melting away with every word you spoke, every smile you gave. Katsumi loved spending time with you, talking with you, going out with you. He just loved YOU period, and he knew you loved him back.
He just wished the love you felt mirrored his own.
At the time, introducing Retsu to you put up no red flags. You knew most of the people close to Katsumi at this point, they in turn becoming close to you as well. He never felt concern or jealousy over the relationships that were fostered through these meetings, in fact he was quite happy you got on so great with his family and friends. In the future, it would make officially bringing you into the family even easier.
Retsu was the last close friend of his you had to meet, as you had begun your employment around a time Retsu was otherwise occupied. Katsumi was eager for his friend to make your acquaintance, being quite interested in what the man would think of his (hopeful) future bride.
When that day finally arrived however, he could tell he was in trouble. From the moment the two of you first laid eyes on each other, there was palpable electricity in the air that was hard to ignore. A barely noticeable blush had bloomed on your cheeks when your name left Retsuâs lips for the first time, and your replies to his questions were stuttered, even though you normally spoke so confidently. Â You nibbled incessantly at your bottom lip, constantly shifting your weight under his heady stare, and Katsumi was quick to realize these abnormal mannerisms were all indicative of a fast forming crush. Based on how keen an interest Retsu took in you at that initial meeting as well (Katsumi felt like he was intruding just by standing next to you), it was safe to say that crush was being reciprocated.
It would take a fool not to see where this was headed.
So now here he sat, sunken deep into your worn, yet comfortable couch in the living room of the town house you shared with Retsu. Katsumi knew it was technically just your home, after all it was him and his father who did the majority of the heavy lifting when you first moved in. At the time only your furniture was being hauled from moving van to new abode, but more recently quite a few new pieces had sprung up to overcrowd your space and remind Katsumi that the place he once considered a sanctuary was now a living quarterâs for two.
When you had first made the move from your smaller apartment a few blocks away to your current location, Katsumi was overjoyed that you picked a place so close to the dojo, thinking the choice had to have been influenced by him. You were within walking distance to visit on breaks, right around the corner if he just wanted to stop by and chat on your day off. It was definitely a nice perk, one that he often cashed in on when he could spare the time.
Eventually however, Retsu caught on to where Katsumi snuck off to during breaks. He asked if he himself could tag along to visit their mutual friend, seeming just a bit too pleased to discover you lived so close by. Katsumi tried not to let it hurt him too bad when you appeared more excited to see Retsu at your door than you ever had when it was just him.
Weeks passed in this fashion, until eventually Katsumi no longer had to make the walk with Retsu to your place, knowing he would already be with you once he arrived.
The man was becoming unavoidable, traces of his presence scattered through your home and on your person. His clothes hung next to yours in the closet (when they werenât draped on your body). His dishes were stacked with yours in the kitchen (when they werenât in your hands, a fresh meal he had whipped up piled on top, awaiting your consumption). The key copy you had made for him nestled in with yours in a knick-knack bowl by the door (when you were both home together, doing things Katsumi didnât want to think about). He had successfully moved in, even going so far as to split the rent and utilities.
Katsumiâs only consolation in all this was how often he knew Retsu moved around and trained, which meant you werenât ALWAYS with him. He hated that he had to think of the two if you in this manner, knowing that if anything he should be happy such a great man ended up with you. Retsu would never hurt you and would protect you with all that he is, with a man like him by your side you would never be left wanting for anything. Everyone else seemed thrilled by the matchup, constantly talking about what a good pair you and Retsu were, how nicely you complimented each other.
But he just couldnât be happy about it, no matter how hard he tried. Every time he saw the two of you laugh or embrace, tendrils of jealously would coil themselves around him, constricting him in a horrid death grip. You were supposed to be his. It didnât matter that it was Retsu who stole you away, theft was still theft, and the fact that the thief in question was like a brother to him only made it that much worse.
Needless to say, anytime Retsu wasnât hogging your company and attention was the only time Katsumi felt like he could breathe.
âIâm glad you decided to stick around,â your voice called out behind him, a gentle hand placing a steaming mug of fresh tea on the table before him, âI would have been a complete wreck worrying if you made it home or not.â
You slipped past him to take the seat opposite his, placing yourself directly next to Retsu. Your hand slid easily into his as you snuggled up beside him, and Retsu reciprocated by pulling you in closer.
Katsumi took a sip of the piping tea to hide his frown.
âDonât have much faith in me I see,â Katsumi teased as he put his mug down, âBut I guess there are worse places I could be stuck right now, other than with you two troublemakers.â Katsumi bowed his head slightly towards you, âThank you for letting me stay the night, the warm bed and nice company is much appreciated.â
You smiled at him pleasantly, âPlease Katsu, you know you are always welcome here. Our home is your home.â
He did his best not to cringe at the âourâ.
âGot it, when Iâm too bushed to make it home Iâll just come crash here,â he shot you a mischievous look, âbut if I canât make it past the door make sure to catch me in your arms before I hit the ground, OK?â
You snorted, waiving your hand dismissively. âIâll have Retsu do that, if it came down to it.â
Retsu chuckled, âI think that would defeat the purpose. You would be a much warmer embrace to fall into, I would imagine.â
Katsumi couldnât tell if his friend was taking a dig at him or merely joking around. It was hard to ascertain from Retsu the exact extent that he knew of Katsumiâs feelings for you. Of course he was aware you were close, Katsumi talked about you often with the man by your side before the two of you had met. Katsumi always figured it was fairly obvious he had feelings for you that went deeper than friendship, hoping that that assumed bond would keep anyone from trying to stake their claim on you.
But he ended up being too slow, and whether you were dense, avoiding it, or just saw him as too good of a friend to potentially mess it up with a romance, you never once reciprocated his heavy-handed flirting with anything more than polite banter. He cursed himself daily for never straight up confessing. Even if you didnât reciprocate, at least his feelings would have been known.
But regardless of how you felt about Katsumi, it didnât change the rampant, amorous emotions that coursed through him at the mere thought of you. His intense love for you had become like an unruly caged animal, burying its claws deep into his heart, burrowing in so far that at this point removal would be sure to leave a gaping, unhealable wound. It was unrelenting, becoming nearly unbearable when Retsu came to him to explain his feelings and intentions towards you, asking if it would be OK with Katsumi for him to make a move. How could he say no? Just because his friend had the balls to strike while the iron was hot while he sat back and watched didnât mean he had to be shitty about it. No matter how much it upset him, Retsu was a good friend and you were the apple of his eye. Retsu made you happy, and you made Retsu happy. Katsumi just needed some time to get over it and move on.
âŚAt least if he told himself that over and over maybe it would make the overbearing bitterness he felt less of a bitch.
The three of you stayed up to talk a few hours longer, joking and reminiscing about life and happenings around the dojo. It was easy to get lost in the steady flow of your voice, the sweet cadence of your giggles whenever he made a stupid joke. What a sappy fool he resorted to being around you, hanging on every word you said, living to hear your laugh.
And with each witty remark that left your lips, every funny anecdote or suspenseful story, Retsu listened just as intently with his arm draped around your waist, holding you protectively. Heâd gently sweep loose hairs out of your eyes that came free when you got too animated, leave a lingering kiss on your temple when youâd mention something involving the two of you. It was bad enough watching it being done to you, but when he witnessed you try to stand only to have Retsu tug you back into his lap, the playful look you shot him before planting a kiss on his lips was enough to send Katsumi over the edge.
âItâs getting late,â Katsumi interjected, standing up with a stretch, âAm I taking the couch orâŚ?â
You peeled yourself from Retsu, resuming the task you set out to do previously, âOf course not! You know we have a guest room. And you, sir, are a most esteemed guest.â You bumped your hip against his as you carried the empty mugs to the kitchen.
âFollow Retsu, heâll show you.â
~
Katsumi had just finished getting into some borrowed nightwear when he was interrupted by a soft knock on the door behind him.
âHey Katsu,â your muffled voice called out, âYou decent?â
âDepends on who you ask,â he responded, smiling at your snort that followed.
âHa ha, very funny,â he could hear the smile in your voice, âIs it OK if I come in? These extra blankets and pillow are deceptively heavy.â
After giving his consent, you whisked your way into the guest room. Katsumi had to briefly turn away when he saw what you had entered in, embarrassed that witnessing you in such a casual state had such an intense effect on him.
Your hair clung to your flushed cheeks and neck, still damp from the shower you had taken moments prior. For nightclothes you had donned an old shirt that hung loosely off your body, swaying teasingly against your bare thighs with each step you took. It was so large it doubled as a nightgown, and he couldnât help but grin when he saw the faded Shinshinkai dojo logo across your chest. If he wasnât mistaken, that was an old shirt of his he had given to you the day you had spilled coffee all over yourself at work. He had encountered you in the hall on his way to a training session, a small puddle of dark liquid pooled at your feet, the rest splattered across your chest. You were flustered as all hell as you adamantly dabbed away at the huge stain there was no hope in removing, and you looked so endearingly abashed he couldnât help but supply you with the shirt off his back right then and there as a form of assistance.
With a grunt, you placed an extra blanket and pillow beside the futon of the guest room. For a moment Katsumi mused on how this used to be Retsuâs room before he had relocated himself into your room. He withheld a grimace at the memory of overhearing you talking with Natsue at the dojo, practically gushing over how comfortable your large new bed was. You explained that it was a bed Retsu had purchased for your home, the most recent in a string of home appliance gifts that further cemented his long-term presence within your living quarters. Katsumi realized how asinine it was to be angry at an inanimate object, but the large, plush eyesoreâs existence incensed him knowing it was probably utilized for plenty of things other than just sleep.
âIf you need anything at all, please donât hesitate to let me know OK?â Your voice broke his previous thoughts. âYou should have enough bedding, but if you get cold at all there are some more blankets and things in the closet in the hall. Retsu and I will be right next door, so you can knock if you need help with anything else.â
âAlright mom geez,â Katsumi teased, shooting you a devious look, âIf I wet the bed or something and need help cleaning up, youâll be the first to know.â
A pillow was lobbed at his face. He could easily knock it aside, but enjoyed the little smirk of victory youâd get when you landed a hit on him. âYou donât have to be gross, Katsu.â
âCome on now, if I didnât tease you wouldnât you be worried something was horribly wrong with me?â
You hummed in contemplation, âHmm, maybe. But I think I would appreciate a break from it, too.â
âOh yeah, you want a break from my antics, huh?â
He grinned, stalking his way towards you. All too familiar with his rough housing, you took a defensive stance, eyes darting to the exit in an attempt to plot your escape route. He wasnât going to have it. In a blink he darted towards you, scooping you up in his arms as soon as he was close enough, locking them in place around you. You giggled as he whirled you around a few times, reveling in the feeling of your skin pressed against his own. He chuckled too after a few twirls, eventually flinging the two of you on top of the firm futon. Your laughter bounced off the walls as you landed on his chest, your whole body rocking against his in your merriment, both of you savoring the moment.
Comforting and soft, the gentle reassurance of your weight pressing into him felt so perfect, so right. He took a deep breath, the scent of your florally shampoo heavy with your closeness. Placing his rough palm on your head, he mussed your hair affectionately, to which you smiled up at him lazily. Briefly concerned you would feel the increase in his heart rate as you pushed into him further, he took a deep breath to try and to quell his excitement, his hand stroking your head when your check rested against his heaving chest. A shiver ran through him his as you nuzzled into his touch.
The affection he had for you was eating him alive.
It took everything he had not to give in. The urge to flip you beneath him and crash his lips against yours while he peeled the clothing from your body, taking you as his and only his, was consuming his better judgement. The more he focused on you the more he became aware of every inch of your body that was in contact with him. The feel of your plush chest smothered against his, the way your legs were tangled around his so securely, keeping him in constant contact. It was all too much. He suppressed a groan when you repositioned yourself, your thigh grazing him just close enough that it caused his body to stir.
Wiggling from his hold, you plopped your body beside him. After the laughing died down, you both took a moment to catch your breath, staring up at the ceiling in a comfortable silence. You eventually pulled yourself up to a seated position, smacking his arm lightly with the back of your hand.
âWell even if you are gross and mean, I still want you to have a good nightâs sleep in my home.â Your smile was so brilliant it almost hurt to look at it. âAgain, weâre right next door if you need anything.â
âGotcha,â Katsumi returned your smile, âSleep well.â
âLikewise.â
With that, you were out the door, closing it with your departure.
Katsumi glanced at the clock, noting that it had grown quite late. With a sigh, he gathered the miscellaneous bedding around the futon to prepare for sleep, hoping his mind would calm enough to give him some reprieve.
He didnât end up being so lucky.
He tossed and turned for the better part of an hour, doing his best to get you and the way you felt out of his head. He tried counting sheep, doing some stretches, even pulling up a white noise video on his phone in hopes it would help him drift away. But with his perpetually half hard cock and the knowledge that you were on the other side of the wall, half clothed and vulnerable, all his efforts were fruitless.
âHey you...â
Your sleepy voice startled him, sounding surprisingly close through the dividing wall. As he recalled, the headboard of your bed rested against the wall his futon was scooted next to, so it made sense that he would hear you, but so clearly? Maybe he was just hyper aware of the sound of your voice, especially when it called out so innocently.
âIâm sorry, did I wake you tiĂĄn xÄŤn?â Retsuâs whispered voice followed. His was harder to hear, whether it was from him trying to be mindful, or how far away he was, Katsumi was uncertain.
âItâs ok,â you sleepily mumbled in reply, âI was just dozing off, not quite asleep yet.â
There was a soft padding of footprints, followed by the slight creak of Retsu getting into bed. It went quiet after that, and Katsumi decided it was time to take another stab at sleeping. He stared out the window opposite the futon, watching the fat snowflakes continually cascading to the earth. A decent pile up of snow had gathered on the edge of the outside windowsill, and he wondered how much longer it would fall and how it would end up impeding his travel back home. As much as he appreciated you both opening your home to him, hearing Retsu crawl into bed beside you solidified just how uncomfortable he felt knowing his best friend and the woman he loved were so smitten with each other. He was ready to leave as soon as possible.
Katsumi was beginning to feel his eyes grow heavy, sleep finally presenting itself as an option to him. As his eyes fluttered, he heard motion on the other side of the wall. He thought nothing of it at first, thinking it was just you or Retsu repositioning to get comfortable.
However, the noise didnât stop. In fact, it grew in intensity as sheets were moved around and bodies were shifted. After several minutes of this, the unmistakable sound of kissing entered the mix.
Katsumi froze, his sleepy eyes shooting open at the realization. A heavy frown settled on his face as the smacking of lips grew louder, more feverish. Every so often it was accentuated by either a small whimper from you, or a muffled moan from Retsu.
âRetsu,â Katsumi heard you speak in between pants, âThe walls are thin, Katsumiâll hear us.â
âHeâs asleep.â Retsu responded hurriedly, the statement said as something to appease you over actual fact. It pissed Katsumi off, but he couldnât blame his friend. Heâd be just as eager if he were in Retsuâs shoes.
His heart leapt when he heard you giggle, a breathy sigh following immediately after. âRetsu, I really donât thinkâŚâ your voice trailed off, lost between sounds of kisses and the rustle of fabric. Another sharp intake of breath shuddered through you, and with it Katsumi felt a jolt within himself.
He shouldnât be hearing this. He knew there was something terribly fucked up about listening in on your friends making love. The two of you werenât even being overly loud, but with the mix of your close proximity, the shitty thin apartment walls, and his hypersensitivity to every pleasurable sound that was withdrawn from your lips⌠he may as well have been front in center at a live show with how encompassing it all sounded.
It would be so easy to scoot the futon to the other side of the room, put in some earbuds and drown it all out. And Katsumi planned to move, truly he did. He wasnât a creep. He would award you your privacy and do his best to forget what was happening next door, eventually falling asleep.
However the more he listened, the more he was pulled into his fantasies. What if it wasnât Retsu in there with you, but himself? What if he were the one indulging in your body, basking in your love, coaxing those sweet little noises out of you?
When he closed his eyes, it was far too easy to imagine it.
Your face flushed, expression contorted in pleasure as he kissed and caressed you. Though he could never understand it, you were always a bit shy when it came to showing off your body. Would you try and hide yourself from him? There was a thrill he couldnât deny in seeing you so vulnerable and embarrassed, doing your best to hold tight to your last remaining bits of composure and dignity as he grew more desperate in his assault.
At this point, the tent that had formed in Katsumiâs boxers made him abandon the thought of sleep entirely, everything transpiring beside him far too enticing to focus on anything else. He struggled to reel himself in, the decent side of him knowing this was wrong. He should be disgusted with himself, eavesdropping on you during such an intimate moment, getting worked up over it as if he were some pervert off the street watching couples in their homes through the bushes.
A moan fell from your lips, this one louder than the others. âP-please,â he heard you whimper, the desperation in your voice palpable, ân-need you!â
Katsumiâs hand was on his cock in an instant, your wanton pleas overpowering his other impulses. His heart beat furiously as his hand languidly traveled his length, eyes falling closed as he envisioned you beneath him in his bed. He clawed at his sweat soaked shirt with his free hand, the once chilly room feeling now more like a sauna.
âTell me what you need,â he heard Retsu throatily respond, âIâll give you everything you want BÇobèi** you just need to tell me.â
Hearing him toy with you, Katsumi had never been so resentful of the man in his life. You were no doubt looking up at him through thick lashes, tears threatening to spill over your ruddy cheeks, soft lips parted slightly, red and plump from the previous kissing that took place. Where you hanging on to him, or clutching the blankets for dear life? How much longer until you succumbed completely? If it were Katsumi, heâd drag this moment out as long as he possibly could.
âI w-want you,â your voice strained through labored breathing. Katsumi picked up his pace, fantasizing that your words were meant for him alone. âI need you⌠Please, I need you to fuck me!â
No further words were spoken, the lewd sound of flesh hitting flesh becoming the only conversation. Katsumi pictured his thighs snapping against you, his girth penetrating you deeper than you had ever been before. He envisioned his hands roving your body, stopping to focus on the bud between your legs, eliciting new moans of pleasure, lustful coos of his name. His lips would be on your mouth, neck, tits, anywhere he could reach, sucking and biting marks onto you that wouldnât fade for days. You would lose yourself in him just as much as he lost himself in you, your mind completely enthralled by how good he was making you feel, how perfect he was for you.
Katsumiâs control was quickly waning, his hips jerking faster as his obscene dreams ran rampant. His dick twitched in his grasp, alerting him of the impending final high. He snatched the pillow from behind his head, biting down on it to quiet any noises he may make.
Your voice cried out from the other room shamelessly as you peaked, so lost in ecstasy you no longer cared if Katsumi could hear you next door. It served as the perfect soundtrack for Katsumiâs release, and he took extra pleasure in the fact that you both came at the same time.
Katsumi panted, basking in the pleasant afterglow in the moments that followed. He had never felt so satisfied from masturbation, the soundtrack you provided taking him to new heights. It left him trembling in pleasure, his body pulsating in the afterglow.
Unfortunately, his high ended up being criminally short lived. He continued listening in as the clamor next door carried on. He knew you had come, but it turned out Retsu wasnât quite finished, the manâs labored grunts and murmurs of praise intermingling with your overstimulated cries and heavy panting.
And through it all what he could hear most clearly was your voice, heavy with lust as it reverently chanted a name.
âRetsu⌠Retsu⌠RETSU!â
Katsumiâs inevitable plummet back to earth followed your desperate call, the reality of the situation ready and waiting to bite him on the ass on his way down.
He stared up at the ceiling, disgusted by it all. His actions, the unescapable racket of your love making, the sticky feeling that coated his hand and borrowed sleepwear⌠the weight it posed on him was stifling. Even as the sound next door eventually gave way to silence, all he was left feeling was a hollow pit that had settled in his stomach, brought on by the unavoidable truth that your heart would never be his.
His fantasies would remain just that.
Where everything seemed too loud before, now it was all eerily quiet, the darkness and solitude of the night becoming suffocating as he remained unmoving. Â He pushed himself off the futon, using what little light crept in from outside to navigate his way to a desk that sat in the corner. A tissue box laid upon its surface, nestled in an elaborate, doily covered holder. Â Katsumi used to chuckle all the time over you choosing such a âgrandma decorationâ to spruce up your desk, but things didnât seem so funny now that he had yanked out a majority of its insides, dosing the tissues with water from a bottle you had stashed for him by the bed. He did his best to clean himself, holding back curses each time the flimsy material dissipated in his hands.
He had never felt like more of a loser.
~
In a rare turn of events, you were the first in the house to awaken.
You had never been much of an early riser, the siren song of your bed far more appealing than whatever the world had waiting to throw at you for the day. At least, that was how you used to feel, but ever since Retsu moved in you ended up having a change of heart. It turned out with a little coaxing, deliveries of breakfast in bed, and some gently placed good morning kisses, you quickly found that you no longer hated waking up, but instead quite looked forward it.
Though, try as you might to adjust your internal clock, Retsu always managed to beat you to the punch when it came to getting up in the morning. Whether it was early training or he was just ready to start his day, heâd always be the first out of bed and waste no time in getting things prepared not only for him, but you as well. The gesture was greatly appreciated, but left you feeling guilty. It was nice being pampered by the man you love, but sometimes you wanted to be the one doing the pampering.
So when you arose this morning, the sun having yet to begin its slow crawl into the blackened sky, and Retsu was still heavily asleep beside you, you knew you had to move fast. You slithered your way out of bed, tip-toeing into the hall like a cat on the prowl, praying he didnât realize the shift in the mattress or the lack of your warmth beside him. It was lucky that he hadnât scooped you up in his arms, snuggling you firmly against his chest in his slumber. It was an endearing habit of his, but one that would have effectively trapped you, ruining the mission.
Retsu must have been tired from all the work he put in yesterday. You figured his body needed all the extra rest it could get otherwise you didnât think your escape would have gone so smoothly. He gave it his all at the dojo during the day and still managed to come at you with such unbridled intensity last night. It was no wonder his body would require a bit more sleep than usual.
You felt heat radiate from your cheeks as your mind wandered to last night, your body still throbbing with pleasant aches as the memory of Retsu claiming you invaded your thoughts. He was usually one to take his time in the bedroom, savoring you like you were a delicate treasure to cherish. But something came over him last night that turned him borderline bestial, the calm and sweet demeanor he usually sported turning wicked. He took you like a man possessed, his pacing, thrusts, and strokes far more potent than what he normally ravished you with.
Not that you didnât like it, he was just aware of how overwhelming it could all be when he really let loose. Retsu was always mindful of how he handled you, and he was well versed in what your body could and could not handle. No matter the amount of reassurance you provided, he always felt bad after these rougher sessions, worried that one day heâll go too far and cause you real damage.
Youâd do your best to not limp in front of him today, or flinch if he touched a bruise or mark he had created. You could already see the hurt reflecting in his eyes over causing you any pain, causing you to frown. You hated having him feel guilty over this, especially when what he had done made you feel so satisfied.
You patted yourself on the back when you made it to the kitchen without being detected, feeling even more accomplished when you managed to get out all the cooking supplies and ingredients without causing a cacophony of noise. Humming slightly while starting to work, you took a moment to enjoy the peace of the morning. The slight sizzle of the pan and tiny chops of your knife were nice accompaniment to the birds chirping outside. It was still too early for cars to be rushing by or people to be out mingling and conversing, so at this time of day all you were surrounded by was a comforting solitude, left to your own devices to take all the time you needed to commence the day.
And though preparing a meal on random day of the week was nothing special or out of the ordinary, you always felt a sense of satisfaction over accomplishing the little things. Besides, today was more important than any other run of the mill morning. With Katsumi as your special guest you felt more energized than normal, a pep in your step as you floated through the kitchen prepping for both menâs imminent awakening.
Happiness settled in your chest as Katsumi flooded your thoughts. You were an only child, and having Katsumi in your life felt like the closest thing you would ever get to an actual sibling. Even his parents accepted you with open arms, inviting you to any and all family events, leaving a space for you at their dinner table. It warmed your heart knowing that someone outside of you own flesh and blood could care for you so much and was one of the many reasons you treasured the Orochi family. Now that you were no longer living near your own family, you held them that much closer.
Since the moment you had met Katsumi he had treated you with nothing but kindness and unending patience. It was known fact that he could be a show off, you had experienced his cocky and brusque side more times than you could count. But none of that negated the multifaceted and compassionate person he truly was. In your time as his friend you had seen all sides of Katsumi, and loved each one just the same.
The kind boy who took you under his wing when you were kids, even when to everyone else you were a lost cause, had become the man who welcomed you into his life without batting an eye, even after years had passed.Yes he was a stubborn, headstrong, individual, but he was always working so hard to better not just himself, but the people around him. A fierce warrior and a dear companion, those were all the true colors of Katsumi Orochi.
A man doesnât earn the respect and love of a dojo of thousands by being nothing but a pig headed, show-off asshole, and you didnât care what any naysayers had to say about him. You loved Katsumi, and were honored that he even acknowledged you, let alone cared for you.
You scoffed, shaking your head. You werenât sure what you did in life to arrive at this point. Surrounded by the love of your life on one side, and the best friend anyone could ask for on the other⌠as cheesy as it sounded, you honestly felt like sometimes  you had stumbled into a dream.
âIt smells good in here.â
You were nearly done cooking when you heard a voice behind you. Thrown off guard by the sudden interjection, you whipped around to see Katsumi leaning against the kitchen doorway.
He stood fully clothed in the work out gear he had come over in yesterday. He must have fished it out of your dryer sometime this morning, and you tutted over not being more on the ball and making him go through the hassle. You noted that his face was reddened and slightly glossy from sweat, and mixed with the unsteady rhythm of his breathing you realized that he had just finished some manner of physical activity.
âYouâre up early!â You responded blithely, cocking your head to invite him further into the kitchen.
He gave you a half smile, stepping fully into the room. The sun had finally begun to shine itâs brilliant rays, and as the light filter in it splayed across Katsumiâs face, giving you a clear view of just how worn out he appeared. Heavy, dark bags hung beneath his dull eyes, his skin looking slightly sunken and pallid in the vivid light. He tried to conceal a yawn behind his hand, his body stretching before reverting back to the slumped, sleepy state it started in.
You frowned, âYou alright Katsu? You look beat.â The concern was heavy in your voice as you hovered near him. You didnât want to seem overbearing, but at the same time couldnât help but fret. Did the cold get to him last night and he was getting sick because of it? You knew you should have left another blanket, that guest room is far too drafty.
âIâm fine,â he assured, waving a hand your way, âJust had a hard time sleeping, is all.â
You paused at his comment, the events of late last night springing to your mind. A horrible feeling clenched your stomach at the realization that Katsumi very well may have heard you. The walls of your home were ungodly thin, and the futon he slept on was pressed right against where your bed met the wall. You TRIED to be quiet, but Retsu had been so relentless in working your body that at some moments you werenât able to hold yourself back.
Had Katsumi become an unwilling third party to the chorus of noises Retsu and yourself had made in the heat of passion? Picturing Katsumi in bed, irritated beyond belief to be stuck in your home and subjugated to that while he struggled to sleep made you feel horribly ashamed.
Your body began to grow hot and you found it increasingly hard to keep eye contact with Katsumi. How incredibly embarrassing, to invite someone to spend the night and then keep them awake all night with the loud fucking you were partaking in with their best friend. Rude didnât begin to cover it.
âAh, um⌠Well, Iâm sorry if there was uh⌠A noise issueâŚâ You could barely get the words out, the hand you were using to beat eggs flicking the whisk with a little too much vigor.
He studied you a moment, a serious look flashing through his eyes before he shook his head.
âA noise issue, you guys have loud neighbors or something?â
Your body instantly eased at Katsumiâs words, spoken so earnestly you knew he was speaking them seriously.
Katsumi shrugged apathetically. âI just have a hard time trying to get comfortable in a bed that isnât my own sometimes. Â After tossing and turning all night I finally just decided to drag myself outside for a jog. I mean, mine as well do something if I canât get shut eye, right? â
You laughed nervously, relieved to have dodged that awkward bullet. âOh yeah? Well that stinks, but itâs a relief to hear my rowdy neighbors werenât the cause of this,â your expression turned thoughtful, âBut you should get some more rest, you donât have to be at the dojo until later, right? I can come bring you breakfast when itâs done.â
His eyes wavered with deep emotion, the crooked smile on his lips driving home just how exhausted he was.
âI really appreciate that, but honestly I should get out of your hair soon. The snow is a lot better now, and I have some other stuff I need to get done before I head in for the day.â
You nodded, turning your full attention back to the food you were preparing with a sigh. âI guess if you insist, but please take a seat at the table and at least try to relax for me, alright?
He did as he was told, parking himself at the small table that sat along the back wall. Time seemed to slow as he watched you carry on in silence, only the sound of simmers and clinks of kitchenware to disrupt the calm. Every few minutes you would subconsciously hum and he found the sound of it so soothing that if he listened to it long enough, he was sure it would lull him to sleep. The rising sun fell in around you, making you appear to glow. As his eyes stayed glued to your form, he was enchanted by placidity of the scene before him. As he took you in radiant was the first word that came to his mind to describe you, gorgeous following closely in suit.
When you swept the hair from your neck, the spell your visage had cast on him instantly shattered. The dark purple and blue marks littering your skin glared mockingly back at him, remnants of last nightâs rendezvous. Any moment now the man who left those marks would wake up and join you. Heâd meander into the kitchen, greet Katsumi with a smile, and then make his way over to you. Heâd hold you from behind, lean down to gently kiss the bruises he created, sheepishly apologizing when youâd flinch at the sensation.
Katsumi wasnât typically a jealous person, his own life and successes enough to keep those feelings at bay. But when you were involved everything was different, and he had to make peace with the fact that it would always be that way.
You broke away from cooking to pour him a cup of coffee, grinning at him affectionately as you placed the steaming mug before him. When you bent over you placed your free hand on his arm, giving a gentle rub before getting back to work. His eyes stayed trained on you as he took a sip of the freshly brewed beverage, warmth spreading through him as it hit his tongue.
You had prepared it just the way he liked.
For now, in the serenity of this early morning, he could make do with pretending that it was just the two of you here. He could be content with imagining that the two of you were a happy couple starting the day together with a home cooked meal, and would be ending the day the same way.
At least in his dreams, you could be his.
  *I know next to nothing  about the Chinese language and I apologize for this if you do and are like wtf this is all wrong. This allegedly means âsweetheartâ. The thought of Retsu using him native language to call you cute pet names destroys me, hence why this was added.