#sae itoshi

you open your eyes, blinking in the golden daylight of spain’s unforgiving sun. the door opens and sae walks in, dark pants low on his waist, fingers holding the paper cup.

“too early.”

you don’t acknowledge it. even as you smell the floral notes and recognize the luxury logo. turn and bury your face against the pillow, keeping one eye slitted open to watch as he studies you.

framed against the villa wall-sized window, he looks nearly angelic, you think. flushed from his run, as rosy as his hair, eyes as green as the rolling seas he loved so much.

“it’s late, actually,” sae says, tugging at your duvet.

“what time is it?”

“long past time to get up.”

he’s funny, in a way that’s monotonous. you refuse to smile. hiding it against the pillow, but he sees anyway, and traces the shoulder he’s bared, the shape of your collarbone, the line of your jaw, the purse of your stifled smile.

“that tickles.”

“does it?”

⤷ sae , reo , nagi , rin stamp graphics .

NG11 x fem!reader

Synopsis

After meeting and getting to know the New Generation World XI, you spend December with them attempting to convince you to go to Europe with them!

Contains

Kaiser centered (the other parts will revolve around the others), mentions of death, abuse, toxic relationship, fighting, racism, Bunny's a D1 hater, slight mention of a rough childhood (y/n), the ng11 love fighting, OCs are there (not by a large margin), [Y/N] is into engineering (is actually a civil engineer), possibly (purposely) occ, 7.3k wc (lmk if i missed anything!)

A/n: Just wanted to apologize for the wait!! Right after posting Magnetic, i lost motivation to write. But thanks to my friends and the tons of support I got, I finished this up! Sorry for the high ahh wc, I physically couldn't shorten it without making the story sloppy. Also I feel like it's important to mention due to [Y/N]'s work, she's only off Sundays. But anywho, enjoy!!!

Part 1 ʚɞ Part 3

“I wish your grandparents were in the Chicago Fire.”

Kaiser glared at you from the couch while you simply smiled, pretending like you did nothing wrong. Meanwhile Bunny looked confused. “What's that? And why say his grandparents instead of him? I think it'd be much more fun having him burn than preventing him at all!”

Sae scoffed, rolling his eyes, “Of course you don't know what it is, your knowledge is nothing but lukewarm.” Bunny smiled at him, then suddenly grabbed a pillow and threw it. Sae dodged and chucked it right back. You were quick to confiscate it, swiftly hitting Bunny before hugging it to your torso. 

Bunny, once realizing he couldn't be physically violent, became verbally violent. “Why don't you tell me what it is? Oh wait, you can't!”

“The Chicago Fire is an event that happened years ago. 1871 to be specific. That's probably why [Y/N] said grandparents instead of him,” Loki helpfully provided. Despite personally knowing him for about a day, he was for sure one of your favorites. He's been playing peacemaker all-night, you couldn't fathom how he keeps sane.

You lightly tossed the pillow at him, to which he caught with ease. “I'm so glad at least one of you guys are competent.” That earned a whistle from Lorenzo.

Hugo raised a brow glancing up from his book. “Taken a liking to Julian, hm?” You snatched the pillow from Loki and threw it square at Hugo's face.

“Him? Really? You could do so much better, liebling.” Kaiser offhandly added. Loki raised a brow, deciding not to do anything. He took pride in the positive picture you had in him.  

Lorenzo let out a laugh, munching on yet another bag of caramel popcorn. Where did he even get so much? “You're gonna love it in France then!”

Michael snapped at him for making a mess. You laughed a little, mentioning you wouldn't go because you've already been there. Then Lorenzo paused, looking utterly confused. “Nobody asked you yet?”

A tense silence fell over the room. Then, slowly, Sae looked at Bunny. “¿Qué pasó con preguntarles sobre TU idea?” [What happened to telling them about YOUR idea?]

“Well it slipped my mind. You guys are always stealing her attention anyways!” Bunny complained. 

That…wasn't too far off. You'd been chatting with Kaiser, then discussing soccer tactics you noticed with Sae. After that, you got hungry and shared some popcorn with Lorenzo. Hugo and Loki eventually snagged your attention with the talk of some drama going on back in France. It really wasn't all that, but it was hilarious when you were lacking sleep. 

You sighed, turning to Bunny as weary as you could. “What exactly did you want to ask..?” Judging by the mood in the room, it wasn't good. 

“What's your opinion on Europe?”

“... It's nice. I've visited popular places. What makes you ask?”

“What's your opinion on coming to Europe with us?”

That made you pause. This prankster couldn't be serious, right? But when you looked around, everyone seemed dead serious. Especially Bunny. 

“Listen… you guys are nice and all but we barely know each other. It’s been at most two days since I met some of you guys,” you softly rejected. Putting their profession aside, they really were nice people. “Maybe another time—assuming we become closer as friends.”

Hugo furrowed his brows like your reasoning genuinely didn’t make sense. Then, it was almost like a lightbulb flickered in his head. “We’re here until Spring. How about we spend this winter bonding, then you decide again?”

That…didn’t seem like a bad idea. It was still relatively early in the season. You weren’t too sure about a little less than 3 months with these guys. “Isn’t 3 months a little short for bonding?”

Sae let out a sigh. “The European Leagues technically don’t start until mid-August, but we still need to get there beforehand for extra training. Usually we’re already there by spring,” he paused, glancing around the room to make sure everyone was on board. “We’re willing to postpone the flight until June. Does that sound alright to you?”

They were postponing professional training. For you.

The thought made your heart race. You had just met these athletes within the week–how the hell did you already have them wrapped around your finger?!

“Oh no, I wouldn’t want to be a burden! Truely, I can go another ti–”

“Your work provides up to 2 months of vacation leave and you can do your work remotely,” Hugo quietly cut in.

…what?

He continued once your stunned silence stretched uncomfortably, “It’s on your company’s website. Lorenzo mentioned the building you told him about yesterday. I took the liberty of researching a little bit. It’s truly destiny that intertwined our fates. You wouldn’t be foolish enough to go against your providence, right?”

That alone could’ve sent you into a coma. But if he wanted to play like that, then so be it. “While we’re all being brutally honest, I got some things to say. For starters, I genuinely cannot tell if I find that jackshit crazy or…romantic in some twisted way. And don’t go stalking me…or anyone for that matter. That was technically my second point. More so common sense than opinion, but who am I to say anything?”

A silence fell over the room. You seemed weirded out and the atmosphere was just odd. Despite Hugo being the one who essentially stalked you, you felt bad. Being raised in a rather “loud” household had conditioned you to be extra uncomfortable in environments like this—tense and distressed. 

In a weary attempt to soothe things over, you took the offer. “I… If you guys are really willing to stay in Chicago a little longer…then I’ll reconsider my choice.”

Like a coin, the general mood had flipped. Hugo let out a sigh that seemed to take the tension with it. Lorenzo had that golden grin plastered on like a second skin. Loki was talking about plans, but you weren’t fully listening.

If someone were to ask you why you said that beyond playing peacemaker, you wouldn’t be able to answer. As much as you told yourself half a year was more than enough time, you still felt uneasy about the situation. But what were you if not smart?

The first idea you were planning was an emergency contact that knew everything. Sure you had tons of friends, but how many of them could you really trust without judgment? Two friends. Two friends who you’d trust with your life. And now, you would.

You already had it mapped out in your mind. The moment you’d get home, you wanted to call your friends and tell them everything. It was a 50/50 if they’d be awake, but you’d take your chances.

Except…there appeared a problem. It was snowing. Hard. 

Noticing your gaze, Kaiser followed it. “Something wrong?”

“Snowstorm. I-I can’t get home with weather like this. I walked here. That’s impossible now!” Your voice quivered a little bit. 

Hugo glanced out, then a glint appeared in his eyes. “I say you should stay. My bed could hold two. It really just is destiny, chéri.”

“First you stalk them, then you try getting them in your bed? How creepy can you be? This shit can’t just be your self-proclaimed destiny,” Sae cut in before you were able to reply.

Hugo rolled his eyes, a scowl appearing on his face. “I didn’t mean it like that. They could simply sleep there. Why must you make it sound like I’m trying to take advantage of them?!”

The tension from earlier was back, and quite frankly, stronger than before. Sae was just too blunt with his words and Hugo was too focused on what he thought was right. You looked around the room, trying to see if anyone would maybe stop them.

Noticing your distress, Loki spoke up, “All this talk about [Y/N] and yet nobody is asking her directly.” He then looked at you and smiled. “Would you like to stay the night? I’m sure we can work something out if not.”

You fidgeted with your hands a bit. On one hand, you didn’t want to be a bother. But on the other hand, you were still weary about trusting these strangers. It didn’t matter that they were world-renowned soccer players. You had only got to personally know them just this week.

“If…if I do end up staying, where would I sleep..?” You honestly wouldn’t mind taking a couch or whatever. Safety was just your biggest concern.

The room all fell into thought, but luckily for you, it was Loki who spoke up. “You could sleep in Hugo and I’s room. I could take the couch and you sleep on my bed if you want.”

“I wanted to offer her that!” Lorenzo complained. He then turned his attention to you, that golden grin shining at you. “Whatdaya think, tesoro? I’ll make sure you're comfortable, okay?”

Everyone began discussing whose room you’d stay in. As that happened, Hugo left for a bit then came back. A crease in his brows was visible. “Loki, qu'allons-nous faire des bagages? C'est sur le canapé.” [Loki, what are we gonna do with the luggage? It’s on the couch.]

You were too tired to ask for a translation. The last thing you remember was leaning against someone. Not Bunny, he was still on the bed. 

Who was it you were next to again..? 

Oh right. Lorenzo. 

—

December 1st, Sunday

You woke up somewhere warm and comfy. 

As if on instinct, you curled into what felt warmest. The faint scent of something… sweet filled your nose. 

“Enzo, wake up. Tu ‘principessa’ seems quite clingy.”

You stirred at the noise but you didn't care. If anything, it just bothered you. 

You felt the warm presence envelop you. Without thinking, you nuzzled into it.

“Hah. Is this what Loki and Hugo mentioned?”

You knew that voice. It was groggy with sleep, but still undeniably familiar. That Italian accent. Now the scent made sense. It was the cologne he always had on. Well you were more convinced it was his body wash. Not once had you ever seen this man reapply cologne. You never even saw a bottle!

“Hey, wake up, okay?” Lorenzo gently tried nudging you awake. But you merely whined and stayed put.

After losing that battle, he just sighed and kept holding you. You heard someone brushing their teeth, the water running, then nothing. Well, that was until footsteps emerged from the bathroom towards your bed. You felt the mattress dip and a hand carefully shake your shoulder.

Nothing.

Bunny chuckled before changing his attention to Lorenzo. “It’s like her body wakes up before her. Wonder what it’ll take for her mind to wake up.”

There was a knock on the door. Bunny hummed before going over there and unlocking it. You could only catch snippets of the conversation though.

“Kaiser, what a nice surprise.”

“It’s too early for your bullshit.”

“Hey—! inaudible —Still with Lorenzo over there.”

“inaudible—Still asleep?”

“You know them. Always so—inaudible. It’s adorable!”

Then footsteps. You weren’t scared, just sleepily annoyed. The moment you sensed Kaiser’s presence, you shifted closer to Lorenzo.

“So dramatisch... Was ist so gut an dem verdammten Lorenzo??” [So dramatic… What’s so good about damn Lorenzo?] Kaiser complained. Then he sighed and sat on the other bed. “Wake up. Do you want breakfast or not?”

Very slowly, your eyes fluttered open. The first thing you saw was Lorenzo, obviously. You made out some faded band t-shirt before turning to Kaiser. “...Good morning.”

Lorenzo let out an exaggerated gasp. “So you’ll wake up when he says something but not us? How rude!” His arms tightened around you. Oh right, you were still next to him.

“I’ve been awake?” You sleepily mumbled, looking over your shoulder.

His eyes lit up, grinning. “So you chose to cuddle up to me?”

Kaiser let out a heavy sigh. He was the complete opposite of a morning person. Seeing Lorenzo so energetic gave him a headache. It really didn’t. He was dramatic.

You attempted to wriggle out of Lorenzo’s embrace before just giving up. How did such a lanky person be so strong, you didn’t know. “This is practically assault. Touching me against my will,” you muttered.

Lorenzo let go, but looked like a confused puppy. “You snuggled into me?” You merely sat up on the edge of the bed and stretched.

Kaiser was already dressed. Blue plaid button-up—probabaly some expensive and overpriced brand—with a white long-sleeved shirt underneath. Then he had baggy jeans and a beige messenger bag strung across his torso. Without missing a beat, you raised a brow, “Y’know you look performative.”

You were met with a scowl, then a sigh. “How exactly is this performative?”

“I dunno. You just need matcha then you'll really sell the bit.”

“Haha, very funny.”

You rubbed your eyes before checking your phone. “It’s 6 AM…?”

Kaiser stood up and stretched his arms above his head. “Mhm. And the sky’s blue. Do you wanna get back to your place or not?”

“I mean yeah but what’s the point of waking up so early?” You were exhausted. You’re not too sure when you fell asleep, but you knew it was probably way later than it should’ve been.  Kaiser wasn’t even quite the morning person himself!

Bunny walked over, smiling at you with the sinister aura of the Cheshire Cat. “We wanted to take you out.” He approached you and sat next to you on the bed. Lorenzo slipped into the bathroom to change himself.

“So you guys planned a whole…thing without consulting me?” Don’t get it wrong, you loved hanging out with friends—if that’s what this was. You’d just rather plan. Like what if you had work, or something with other people?!

Bunny shook his head, feigning…something. Worry? Sincerity? “No, we talked about it last night. Do you not remember?”

Remember? Your last memory was leaning against someone. Maybe Lorenzo? People were talking of course. You caught Loki and Hugo talking about something in French. Bunny was annoying Kaiser—wait no, Sae. Or was it really Kaiser? Then… Then…did they really talk about breakfast? Did you even agree?

“Take it easy, muñeca. All that thinking’ll give you an aneurysm. You were half-asleep, so maybe that’s why you don’t remember.” Bunny carefully used his index finger to tilt your face towards him. He put on a careful smile before threading his fingers through your hair.

Calming…but not enough to make you forget the fact Kaiser looked guilty as he stood across from you.

— 

“You really trust us?”

Kaiser walked with you towards your apartment complex. The chill from the winter air flowed through your throat and scratched it like a cat. It had been quiet. Well, as quiet as it could get around the Gold Coast. It really was no shock the New Generation decided to stay around here, being quite the prestigious neighborhood.

You took a moment to think about that question. “Honestly not sure. I more so trust the fact I could ruin your careers if anything happens to me.”

You internally flinched at your bluntness, but Kaiser just snorted. “Smart girl. But I will say we’re not evil. Completely anyways. Let me earn your trust, I’m sure I’ll treat you right.” Kaiser reached up and rubbed your back.

The walk continued in silence. It was comfortable now. After traveling for quite some time, you saw the familiar tall building entering your sight. You happily pointed it out. Kaiser nodded and picked up the pace.

Once you entered through the revolving doors, warm air hit you like a blanket of familiarity. That strong perfume from the receptionist, smoky air of incense flowing through your senses. It smelt like cookies too. Maybe that sweet old lady was baking again! You made a mental note to stop by later.

5th floor, room 514. The trip there was more so muscle memory than anything. Inside, it screamed you. Pictures of you and your best friend lined the foyer. A cute little plate for keys laid on the side table, themed on your favorite show. You took off your coat and hung it on a hook above the shoe rack. Then you changed into slippers and walked into the house. 

Kaiser put his jacket on a different hook and took off his shoes. He followed you into the spacious apartment. It was decorated with soft tones of your favorite color, heater keeping it at a cozy temperature.

You slipped into your bedroom, telling Kaiser there was food in the kitchen before closing the door. You looked around your closet before deciding on a turtle neck long-sleeved shirt. Then you got some jeans. You added one last detail—your glasses—and left your room.

Kaiser was munching on an apple when you saw him. He glanced at your outfit once before getting off the wall. You put on sneakers, he put on his shoes, before both of you left the apartment.

“Oh, wait. I wanna stop by a neighbor’s place. She’s a really sweet lady.” Before Kaiser could refuse, you excitedly grabbed his wrist and dragged him towards the end of the hall. You stopped in front of room 502, then knocked three times.

It took a minute, but it was eventually answered. A young lady answered, middle-aged and certainly not the grandma you knew. “Oh, is Mrs.Yukiyu here?”

The lady bit her lip. She looked nervous. Nervous enough to hesitate and give you time to analyze her. She looked tired with eyebags noticeable from sleepless nights. Speaking of which, her eyes looked bloodshot—or maybe just redrimmed from crying. But why would she–

“My grandmother is dead.”

You instantly met her eyes, yours widening in shock. What? You knew she was old but she couldn’t have been that old, right? … Right?

“What? Y–you’re joking right..?” You felt Kaiser shift behind you, gently placing a hand on your lower back.

The lady shook her head, taking a moment to dab at her eyes with a handkerchief. “She passed away from a brain tumor. We didn’t realize she had one because she never told us the symptoms.”

You felt your heart shatter. That lady was like your own grandma. She’d always give you baked goods or money randomly. So much so you worried how she was getting by with the outrageous rent and prices around here.

The lady continued, a tear falling. “You’re here because of the smell, right? Mama said you’d be able to smell it from anywhere in the building… She had one last request, y’know.”

You tilted your head, fighting tears of your own.

“She wanted me to use her recipe and bake you something one last time.”

A sob escaped your lips before you turned and hid your face in Kaiser’s chest. He was more than confused. How was he of all people supposed to comfort you? But luckily, the woman gently pried you away from him to hug you.

The hall was filled with sad sobs before she let you two inside. The sweet smell of cinnamon was even stronger here. You went to the dining room on autopilot, Kaiser just following you silently. 

The lady went to the kitchen and returned with a tote bag. She placed it on the table and removed the contents. A paper plate of cookies, wrapped in tinfoil. Then another plate of eclairs along with a jar of kombucha.

“Ah, this isn’t her recipe,” she said, pointing to the jar. “I make it and give it to her. Accidentally made too much and just thought you might like it.”

Kombucha wasn’t your thing, but you could recall Sae saying something about talking it in an interview. Hopefully he’d like this. Then she placed everything back in the bag and gave it to you.

“I–I don’t need the bag, it’s fine!” You quickly attempted to refuse.

She shook her head, a look of determination flickering on. “I insist. She loved this bag, she would’ve wanted you to have this.”

After a moment of hesitation, you took it with shaky hands. “Thank you so much. You have her kindness.”

The lady froze before tearily nodding. You both exchanged info and promised to talk another time.

Once outside and walking towards the hotel, Kaiser gently took your hand in his. “You okay? That seemed like…a lot.”

You merely squeezed his hand and tightened your grip on the tote bag.

…

The warm chatter was a nice change when you entered the hotel room.

“Oh what’s up with you two?”

You snapped out of your haze when Bunny spoke to you. Well rather, both of you. His tone didn’t make sense until you followed his gaze to yours and Kaiser’s intertwined hands. You two were quick to let go, but everyone already saw. 

“Damn Kaiser, movin’ fast.” Lorenzo teased.

You knew how it looked. Your face was flushed—from crying—and walked in holding Kaiser’s hand. But after learning what you did, there really wasn’t enough energy left to care.

You mumbled something and almost left, but Kaiser grabbed your wrist and stopped you. “Leave her alone. Her grandma just died y’know.”

You froze, whipping your head to look at him. He knew damn well it wasn’t your grandmother. Knew it was something different. But, it wasn’t entirely wrong.

The entire mood in the room changed. Lorenzo and Bunny’s smiles dropped. Fast. You hid behind Kaiser and watched as everyone reacted differently.

“I, uh, I have some things. Cookies, eclairs, and kombucha. O-or shouldn’t we get breakfast first?” Your mind was racing with too much right now. You did want to share Mrs.Yukiyu’s delicious recipe, but breakfast was probably more important to them.

Loki slowly made his way towards you like you were a frightened animal. Then gently, so gently, he took both your hands in his. “What do you want, [Y/N]?”

You shook your head. What did you want..?

“I…I don’t mind eating first. Kaiser told me where you guys were planning to eat… I went there before. Good food.” You quietly mumbled.

Loki nodded before carefully dropping your hands. Then he turned to address the room, “Everyone ready to go?” They were quick to nod and get up.

At first, you walked with Loki in the back. You didn’t notice the way Kaiser whispered something to Lorenzo. Didn’t notice the way Lorenzo purposely fell back and caught your full attention to let Loki go up with the others.

“I misspoke. It wasn't technically her grandmother,” Kaiser started. “Her neighbor or whatever. We stopped by because she smelled something good and it was her granddaughter who answered. I’m not sure what makes her so emotional, but she was. Just—be careful around her. Someone tell Lore later too.”

Meanwhile, you were blissfully unaware. Lorenzo was cracking some stupid jokes about “horrible American pasta”. Kaiser glanced back and saw you giggling at another lighthearted tease. He was glad you were okay and the fact Lorenzo wasn’t good for nothing.

The bakery was warm and quite slow. It was around 7 AM to be fair. The group found a table for 8—there wasn’t exactly one for exactly 7—and set their coats down. 

“[Y/N], it’s been a while! The usual?” the barista beamed at you.

You nodded and smiled. She turned and told the staff you were back. One of them, a middle-aged man, immediately offered to cover. Despite you saying it wasn’t necessary, he insisted.

As you chatted with the cashier, Sae came up behind you and glared at her like she was a threat. Or that was just the signature Itoshi glare. It was basically the same.

“That…that a friend of yours..?” She sheepishly asked.

You turned and realized how intently Sae was scowling. You gently swatted his arm before turning back to her. “Yeah, friend of mine.” You looked at the others and sighed. “All of them too.”

After a minute of conversation, you pulled out your wallet and held out your card. “Just use this when they order.”

Before she could take the card, Sae’s hand shot out and pulled your hand back. “Excuse me?”

You turned and looked at Sae, knowing damn well he had a salary way over yours. “What’s up?” you asked, already knowing he was pissed.

“...You did not just try that.”

“Try what?”

“You’re lucky I was the one who caught you.”

Then he handed his card to the barista, who very hesitantly took it. Sae then forcefully grabbed your wrist and sat you in a chair.

Lorenzo waltzed over and let out a low whistle. “Damn, Genius. What’s got you so riled up?” He sat down across from you.

Sae let out a tired sigh, dragging a hand down his face before sitting next to you. “She tried paying for us like we’re charity cases.”

Bunny made an exaggerated gasp while he found his seat next to you, casually draping an arm on the back of your chair. “How could you!”

“She’s not some helpless little girl. [Y/N] obviously can do what she wants.” Loki pulled out a chair next to Lorenzo. Hugo found a place next to him.

Sae glared at him. “So you’d want her to pay for your things?”

Loki quickly shook his head, an easy smile appearing. “Well of course not. But don’t be so hard on her. She’s just trying to be nice, us being tourists and all. Probably doesn’t even know who we are.”

You paused. Didn’t know who they were? As if you were some…what? Uncultured idiot?

Of course Loki didn’t think like that though, right? Wouldn’t have given you a chance otherwise, right?

“Tell me, schatz. Do you recognize us?”

You looked up and turned your head to see Kaiser. You’d been so lost in thought, you didn’t realize when he sat next to Sae.

You fumbled for words before spitting out something half-baked. “A-ah what? Sorry, I don’t think so?”

Kaiser lightly shook his head with a smirk playing on his lips. “Don’t worry about that.”

For the couple of minutes it took to wait for everyone’s food, you were lost in thought. Why did you say that?! Of course you knew these people. It was hard not to, them being world class players and whatnot. 

When one of the baristas called out your order, you got up. It was one of your old college friends who just loved working here. He was always so kind. You two chatted for a bit before you sat down.

“How is it your drink finished first? Pretty sure I put in my order first,” Bunny lightheartedly whined.

You chuckled a bit. “Probably put priority on my order without charge. They know me around here.”

Once you finished speaking, you noticed Hugo staring at you. Well, not at you directly. More so your receipt…where the barista’s number was written.

Oh no.

“Why’d he give you his number? Are you two talking?” Hugo sounded…upset. Mad, almost. It was so odd considering his usual calm demeanor.

His words caused everyone to look at the piece of paper. You watched as they processed it, then looks of displeasure filled the table.

“I-it’s not like that..! We were friends in college.” You glanced down at it and read it for the first time. “He said he changed his number–! That’s why!”

Despite it being true, they still didn’t seem too happy. One by one, they got up when their orders were called. 

Once they got everything, you excitedly got an idea. “Hey, can I take a picture for my story?” Upon noticing their uncomfortability, you changed your request. “Uh, just the items, if you guys want.

They visibly relaxed. You took that as confirmation and pulled out your phone to take a quick picture or two for your instagram story. Normally you would’ve tagged whoever was in the story, but knowing their status, that probably wasn’t the smartest idea right now.

“So..what’s the plan for today?” you sheepishly asked. The table had yet to recover from the distress that receipt caused.

Lorenzo was the first to bounce back. “We usually split up after breakfast. We do have dinner plans though, okay? Pretty sure we could fit one person in.” You caught the invite.

“I wouldn’t mind joining.” Then you paused, thinking a bit. “I don’t have work today.” That was your best attempt at soft launching the idea of hanging out. 

Loki jumped at that chance, finishing a sip of his latte. “I was planning to check out Navy Pier. It’d be nice to have a local show me around.”

“I’d li–”

“But Loki, didn’t she almost pass out with you around? You couldn’t take care of her properly?” Bunny cut in with a snarky smile.

Loki shot a glare his way. “That wasn’t my fault? She was the one who chose to go out like that.”

“Oh but you were the one who failed to give her proper instructions, were you not?” Bunny was clearly rage-baiting, but Loki didn’t let up.

“Hugo double checked the note, I literally sent it to the groupchat!”

“Did you? You barely say anything important in there, I just muted you.”

“Oh really? I bet you keep Sae unmuted you–”

“Don’t even start with me and Sae, we all know you have something going on with Hugo–!”

Lorenzo suddenly cut in, “I was thinking Navy Pier would be funner with all of us—including Teddy.”

‘You could tag along with me, schatz. I wanted to walk around downtown some more.” Kaiser spoke up, glancing at you. 

You glanced around the table before slowly nodding. It was now even more tense, but Kaiser seemed the most relaxed right now.

The table ate in silence before everyone got up and went their separate ways. Kaiser waited for you, helping with your stuff before walking outside with you.

It was silent for a while before you spoke up. “Any place in particular? I, uhm, know some places.”

Kaiser glanced at you but kept walking. “Mhm, I know where I want to go.”

Back to silence.

“...They’re not usually like that, y’know. Sure Bunny says things, but it doesn’t escalate like that,” Kaiser mumbled.

Your brows knitted in thought before you matched his tone. “What Bunny and Loki said, is that true? Like…y’know?”

Kaiser thought about it a bit. “The whole group is pretty sure there’s a past between Bunny and Sae, but they won’t tell us anything. Though Loki and Hugo, they’re just…close. They’ve been friends for a couple of years though, so I don’t necessarily blame them.”

That’s what it was about? Well, guess that made sense. Something about that last part made you think a bit. Reminded you of something…

Eventually you guys arrived at a mall, 900 North Michigan. It was quite the…expensive place. You didn’t live too far from it but you rarely visited here. The prices was more than your rent—which was already saying something.

“Ever been here, schatz?” Kaiser turned to you, raising a brow.

You slowly nodded your head, taking in the interior. Your friends have dragged you here countless times—but that was during the peak of summer. Being here during winter, it almost felt quiet. Well, as quiet as it can get for people scampering for Christmas gifts.

That reminded you…”Hey Kaiser, what’d you want for Christmas?”

After not getting an answer, you turned to him. He was tense, avoiding your gaze like it was the plague.

“Nothing,” he said after a brief moment. “I already have everything I could possibly need.”

That was odd, but you didn’t mind too much. You two just spend the afternoon strolling around the mall, eventually getting lunch someplace else. 

Time flew by. You and Kaiser parted ways, promising to meet at the restaurant Hugo booked. All you knew was to dress nice.

—

You put on a pretty, light colored dress. Then some stockings and a shawl. Of course you’d bring a jacket, but that wasn’t necessarily part of the outfit itself. 

When you got there, Hugo was there outside. Leaning against the wall, book in hand. You called out his name and he looked up.

Silently, he put the book away and walked towards you. He offered you an arm, and obviously, you took it. 

Once inside, you realized the interior was quite nice. Hugo led you to your seat, took your jacket to hang on the back of your chair, before sitting next to you. 

Bunny let out a low whistle, looking you up and down. “You clean up well, carinõ.”

“Thanks, dunno if I can say the same about you though,” you teased. 

Bunny was wearing a green sweater with a white shirt underneath. He had jeans and sneakers too. Underdressed for a restaurant like this in your opinion. 

It was quite a nice dinner. The appetizers were delicious–your favorite was the garlic bread you stole from Sae. You ordered carbonara pasta, and didn’t order dessert because you were too full by then.

“So how was it like growing up in a city like this?” Sae’s quiet voice asked. Everyone turned to you.

You had to think a little. You were born around the suburbs, moved closer to the city around middle school, then downtown for college. “Uh, it was honestly such a culture shock. I was originally from the suburbs. Moving to the city and seeing how everyone acts…it’s definitely weird.”

Sae nodded, taking a sip of his drink. “Kamakura wasn’t like this. Moving to Madrid at my young age was certainly…diffferent.”

“How was it like moving? I honestly considered going to college in Germany because it’s known for engineering, but I just couldn’t fathom learning a new language!” You were quite excited to talk about different experiences. It was interesting to you how people experience such different things.

Though Sae didn’t return the enthusiasm. “...It wasn’t easy.”

Well of course you knew that, but how bad could it possibly have been? You honestly admired Sae when you first heard about his backstory in an interview. Thought it made him strong.

“Sae’s just shy. Too scared to admit he didn’t fit in at first,” Bunny teased. He nudged Sae’s shoulder, but the latter glared at him. He’d usually at least make a snarky remark of some sort.

“I didn’t fit in at all,” you eventually heard.

Lorenzo cut in before you could ask any more questions. “So who’s excited about Teddy coming next week?!”

Teddy? 

It took you a minute to process that name. They were probably referring to Teddy Knight, that other New Generation. 

Loki hummed, finishing up the small scoop of chocolate ice cream he got for dessert. “Ah, I don’t mind him too much. What’s the rooming situation with him though?”

Lorenzo’s smile dropped for a second in thought, then came back twice as fast. “He got himself a single room at the hotel we’re staying at! Floor below us, but at least it’s the same location.

The table fell back into silence. Not awkward, just quiet. That was until Kaiser turned to Hugo. “Would the Airbnb be able to fit him?”

Hugo nodded, taking a second to finish up his drink. “Yeah, it should. Big place. I’ll send the details to the group chat once we get home.”

That piqued your curiosity. “Airbnb? What’s the need for that?”

“Well if we’re staying longer, then we decided to get a better living arrangement. Though the best place we could find only had availability in Feburary.” Hugo’s explanation made sense, but also made you a little guilty.

“Sorry about keeping you guys here longer…wasn’t my intention.”

Bunny looked up from his food, munching on a bite of strawberry cake. “Mh, don’t worry about it princessa. We chose to stay, just relax.”

His words did bring a slight feeling of comfort. It didn’t put you entirely at ease, but it was better than nothing.

—

Once you got home, you immediately called your friends. You toed off your shoes before walking over to your room.

“Hey girl! How was it?” Keith’s voice rang though. You smiled and sat down at your vanity, angling the camera to face you.

“It was nice. Fancy ass restaurant though. They are hella rich on the bright side! Saw that bill bro, way too overpriced,” you joked.

Clove gasped, turning on her camera. She was in bed, but clearly not tired. “Well they’re world class athletes! You yourself told me their sal–wait who paid though??”

You grabbed makeup wipes before replying. “Hugo. He was the one who reserved the restaurant anyway.” You took off your makeup, throwing away the wipes before leaning back in your chair.

“Did they bring you home though??” Clove was always so nosey. Not in a bad way, she was just worried.

“Sae drove me home.”

“Ugh you’re so lucky! How did you manage to pull like half of the New Gens!”

You merely laughed before going to the bathroom to wash your face and brush your teeth. It was honestly surprising how you managed to later sleep with all their nagging questions and the excitement you felt about next Sunday.

—

December 8th, Sunday

You walked into the same cafe as before, looking around for your table. It wasn’t hard to find them when you spotted the crowd of people. 

You rushed over and squeezed your way through the horde. People had their phones out, you heard staff yelling above the commotion.

“What’s happening here?!” You immediately made your way to where you spotted Kaiser. He averted his gaze to you, expression softening.

Before he could answer, you felt a hand on your shoulder. “Long time no see, bebé.”

You froze. That couldn’t have been him, right..?

But when you turned, your worst fears were confirmed. 

“Callar. ¡No tienes derecho a llamarme así!” [Shut up. You have no right to call me that!] As much as you tried to seem brave, you just couldn’t. You backed up until you pressed against someone. “I have a restraining order against you. Y-you can’t be here!”

Your ex smiled, moving closer. “It expired this week, don’t you remember? The judge said you couldn’t renew it because I’ve been on my best behavior!"

Bunny stepped forward, gently pushing you behind him. “¿Hablas español? Eso hará que esto sea mucho más fácil.” [You speak Spanish? That’ll make this much easier.]

Your ex—Luis—stepped even closer. But he didn’t look at Bunny, he was staring dead at you. “What? You got with another latino, you just missed me that much?”

“Shut up! You don’t know anything!” You tried to step back. When you couldn’t, you turned to see who was there. It was Loki.

He ripped his gaze off of Luis and smiled down at you. Then he carefully directed you towards Hugo.

Loki moved next to Bunny, effectively blocking Luis’ view of you. “If she filed a restraining order in the past, I really don’t think she likes you.”

“Oh please, I don’t care what a n****r like you has to say.” 

That caught pretty much everyone off guard. Well, except you. You knew what a racist narcissist he was.

Luckily, you didn’t have to say anything because your college friend stepped in. “Hey! We don’t say that here. Either you apologize and leave or we call the cops!”

“I’m not leaving without her!” Luis tried to physically push past Bunny and Loki, but they were obviously able to push him back. You felt Hugo’s arm wrap around your waist firmly.

 Loki was already pissed by the slur, but getting physically pushed? “I don’t care what you want, none of us do. Leave before this gets worse for you.” He shoved him back. Not enough to hurt, but to set boundaries.

“Where’s that accent from? Africa?” That was stupid, but arguably not the stupidest thing you heard from Luis. The latter pushed Loki again, then tried to swing. 

But Loki was faster. You barely blinked before his right hand connected with Luis’ jaw.

Bunny joined the fight. You tried to step forward, tried to yell their names. But Hugo didn’t let you go and everyone was too loud.

Finally, you heard sirens. Cops rushed in and separated everyone. The crowd dispersed and Hugo finally let you go.

It felt like hours—though it was just a couple of minutes–before the cops pulled you outside. “Morning, ma’am. We just need your statement and then we’ll let you go.”

“L-Luis swung first! I-I mean…” You had to take deep breaths. Tears pricked your eyes and you weren’t sure why. Fear? Anger?

It took a minute, but you eventually calmed down. “I had a restraining order against Luis. I’m his ex, [Y/N]. He was abusive and stalked me after the break up. But despite that, the judge wouldn’t let me renew the order this year because Luis kept out of trouble. Loki only hit him because Luis swung first.”

The male cop wrote down your statement before the female cop walked you inside.

There, the cashier from last week was already standing by an empty seat. A cup of hot chocolate was there. You stepped closer and caught a fragment of the conversation.

“What are we gonna do?” Kaiser huffed. “That’s sure to circulate by tonight. How’s any of our PR teams gonna cover that!”

Loki clenched his fists, staring at his cup of coffee. “I don’t know! That wasn’t my fucking fault.”

Lorenzo almost said something, but paused when he saw you. “Hey principessa.” He said it loud enough for everyone to hear. They all perked up and looked at you. You could tell they tried to seem…okay. But it wasn’t convincing.

You sat down, then noticed someone new was across from you. “...Teddy, right?”

He nodded. “You’re [Y/N]. They told me so much about you.”

You could do much except nod. The cashier rubbed your back a bit, told you everything was on the house, then left.

“He got arrested, by the way. Loki and I aren’t facing charges.” Bunny tried to comfort you. He reached out and ruffled your hair.

“But that’s the least of your concerns, isn’t it.” You looked up. Looked at Bunny’s bruised knuckles, looked at Loki’s split lip. “I’m not stupid. I know who you guys are. I heard what you all were talking about before.”

Everyone exchanged glances. You sighed and stared down at the hot chocolate. 

Then a hand came to rest over yours. Teddy’s.

“I don’t know what’s so great about you.” You looked up at that, not too sure how to feel. “But I do know them. They didn’t have to do any of that, but they did. Don’t blame yourself.”

You swallowed hard. “What about PR? How are they gonna explain Loki and Bunny fighting someone over a random girl? How are they gonna explain the way Hugo was touching me? How are they going to explain anything!”

Everyone was quiet. You felt bad about everything. “...I’m sorry. Uhm, my apartment isn’t far. We could go there..? I don’t feel comfortable right now.”

They jumped at the chance. Everyone put on their coats, grabbed whatever they had, and went outside.

Lorenzo tried to brighten the mood. “So! Uh…what’s the plan for today?”

“How about we let [Y/N] decide?” Teddy asked. 

Kaiser piped in, slowing his pace to match yours. “She doesn’t like pressure.” He glanced down at you, making sure he got that right. You had mentioned it when texting him that week.

You thought for a bit, then nodded. “If it’s fine, I don’t feel like doing much today.” After that incident, you were just too scared and shaken.

“What about a movie night? Wait no, uhh day! Then [Y/N] can choose what we watch!” Lorezno was trying so hard to make everything better. It was sweet, sweet enough to make you smile.

“That’s be nice. I think I have enough snacks for that. If not, there’s a store nearby.” You liked movies. And it'd be simple enough to pull off!

Kaiser glanced down, making sure you were okay. Once he saw the way you smiled, he felt at ease. 

Maybe this trip won't be so bad afterall.

A/n: guys plot holes are either intentional or I'm just lacking. Anywho! this is only part one because, again, I couldn't cut it down. December will revolve around Kaiser (which includes next part).

kk: все норм, рин просто сутулится как псина, а сае на цыпочках! kk: а татухи реально ниче такие, рукава🤤🤤🤤 kk: нет сае на табуретке вообще! onix7l: У Шидо на спине. kk: точняк kk: а у рина никого нет вот и сутулится😢 onix7l: Точно. kk: бедняга, мой бедный, ну ниче, скоро с сае помиритесь (в этой арке надеюсь) и он его тоже на спине покатает