doodleydoo

The bar smelled like citrus and cheap tequila, the sharp tang of lime mixing with the sugary scent of spilled cocktails that had soaked into the wood over the years. Music pulsed from the speakers above the dance floor–loud enough to make the walls vibrate, but not quite loud enough to drown out the laughter and shouting from the crowded tables. It was the kind of place that felt alive in a messy, electric way, full of people who were trying very hard not to think about tomorrow. It was just the perfect place to celebrate the start of your 4th year in university. 

You sat squeezed around a small, sticky round table near the edge of the dance floor, your elbows brushing against the arms of the people who had somehow become your entire college life. The five of you had claimed this bar as your unofficial territory over the past few years, showing up after exams, after breakups, after victories that felt huge at the time and disappointments that felt even bigger. You went to this bar more often than you did your therapy sessions.

Rina raised her glass suddenly, her bracelets clinking together as she lifted her arm high above the table. “Alright!” She announced dramatically, as if the entire bar had gathered just to hear her speak. Everyone turned our gaze towards her, also raising our glasses. “To our last first day of college!”

Luca groaned immediately, slumping deeper into his chair. He dragged a hand down his face like the very thought had exhausted him. “God, that sounds depressing.” Deep down, he was sad that he was nearing his graduation, he loves his university life.

You snorted, bumping your glass lightly against his before taking a sip. The drink burned a little going down, but you barely noticed anymore. You’d been drinking since 9 PM and it was now 2 AM. You laced an arm around his shoulder, trying to cheer him up. “It’s only depressing if you make it depressing.”

Maya, sitting beside you, shook her head at the two of you. She had that familiar look on her face–the one she wore whenever the rest of you started drifting toward chaos. She knew what kind of drunk everyone was. She had it listed down her notes app, including how many drinks it would take before passing out. Right now, Luca was at his “nostalgic” phase of being drunk and was 4 drinks away from passing out.

Across the table, Jun simply watched the exchange quietly, his fingers loosely wrapped around his glass. He had always been the observer of the group, the one who spoke less but noticed everything. It was strange, sometimes, how five completely different people had managed to stay so tightly connected through four years of college.

Rina was loud and fearless and somehow always in the middle of everything. Luca had sarcasm built into his bloodstream. Maya was the responsible one–at least until alcohol started lowering her standards. Jun preferred to watch the world unfold before deciding what to say about it.

And then there was you, sitting there with the beginnings of an idea forming in your head.

You leaned forward suddenly, resting your elbows on the table. “Wait…” you grinned. The tone alone was enough to make Maya narrow her eyes immediately. Signalling to everyone that another one of your ingenious ideas was making an arrival.

“Oh no.” She muttered under her breath. You waved a hand quickly, gesturing to your friends to huddle up and listen close to what you were going to say. “No, listen.”

That did absolutely nothing to reassure her. But nonetheless, you shared the enlightenment that dawned on you like an angel pressed a kiss on your forehead making you destined for greater things.

“Tomorrow’s our last first day of college,” You continued, glancing between them. “after this year, we’re all going to scatter. Jobs, cities, responsibilities…” You made a vague gesture in the air. “We’ll become miserable adults.” There was a reason why everyone looked down their drinks, quickly clinking their glasses before taking a huge swig. No one wanted to grow up and become adults.

“To misery.” They said in unison when clinking their drinks, except you.

“Exactly!” You exclaimed, pointing at him like he had just proven your entire argument. The others leaned in a little now, curiosity slowly replacing suspicion. “So what if…” you said slowly, feeling the idea take shape as you spoke. “we make an agreement?”

Luca tilted his head. The sole business student became more intrigued after hearing a familiar term. “What kind of agreement?”

You grinned. Asking the golden question that would soon award you with applauses from your friends. “Every Friday night until we graduate…” You let the sentence hang there for a moment, building suspense. Luckily, everyone was drunk unless they would’ve already been annoyed at you. “…we go to a bar together.”

For a split second, the table went quiet. Then Rina’s eyes lit up like someone had just flipped a switch. “Oh my god.” As expected of her, Rina was the one you could count on with your extravagant ideas. She had the same vigor as you.

“Rain or shine.” You continued.

“Midterms?” Jun asked, a sign that he was on-board with your idea already if he was deeply considering it.

“We drink through them.” You wink at him. Wasn’t it already a given that everyone goes for a drink after midterms?

“Breakups?” Maya added cautiously. Quickly glancing at Luca, who immediately turned away to escape her glance.

You laughed, nodding. “Especially those.” Luca slowly lifted his glass, his mouth curving into a grin. “Weekly emotional damage, I’m in.”

Rina shot up from her seat so fast her chair screeched across the floor. Her drink sloshed dangerously close to the rim of the glass as she lifted it high. “I love this!”

A few people at nearby tables glanced over, but none of you cared. Glasses began lifting around the table. Everyone had come to an agreement, soon enough, this would be the last agreement you all would have.

“To Friday nights!” Rina declared.

“To surviving college,” Jun added calmly.

“To making bad decisions,” Luca finished.

You laughed, raising your drink with the rest of them.

Five glasses collided in the middle of the table with a bright, ringing clink. None of you realized it yet, but that simple, slightly drunken promise was about to shape the entire final year of your lives.

The argument continued all the way up the stairs. Not long after the agreement had been made, the entire group were making their way out of the bar. You were the one who decided to leave when you saw your friends scattering around the bar, it was easier for you to get drinks from strangers than get your friends back to the table. Even Maya was drunk.

The only company you had among your four wasted friends was Jun who was a talkative drunk. Despite the alcohol swimming in his system, you could still talk to him and he’d respond accurately.

“You’re lying.” He kept pressing on and on. He could believe that you weren’t drunk even when he had served you more than 10 drinks. Your handling your 4 friends was enough proof that you weren’t drunk.

“I’m literally not.” You rolled your eyes when he still wouldn’t believe you.

“You have to be.” He stammered. Letting go of your arm when you finally arrived at the apartment. He sits down on the steps and waits for you to open the door.

You fumbled with the apartment key while three still very drunk people leaned against you in various states of imbalance, like furniture that had suddenly decided gravity was optional. Rina had her arm draped over your shoulder, Luca was half hanging onto your backpack strap, and Maya kept swaying dangerously close to the wall.

“Hold still.” You groaned, trying to line the key up with the lock. After a moment of struggle, it finally clicked. The door swung open. A long sigh of relief erupted from your lips.

Then, chaos immediately spilled into the apartment. Luca stumbled inside first and collapsed onto the couch with a dramatic groan, stretching out like he had just run a marathon instead of walking three blocks. Rina followed, dropping face-first onto the rug in the living room and announcing something unintelligible into the carpet. Jun quietly peeled away from the group and disappeared into the kitchen, already opening cabinets in search of water. Maya stayed by the door, leaning heavily against the wall as she squinted at you like you were some kind of unsolved mystery.

“How are you… fine?”

You kicked your shoes off near the door and rubbed your eyes. “I’m not fine,” you said. “I’m tired.” You stretched your limbs, taking off your heels and placing them on your shoe cabinet. 

“You had twelve drinks.” Maya pointed out. You thought the same thing but here you are, still in the right mind. You shrugged, heading toward the kitchen. “Maybe I’m just built differently.”

“Bullshit.” You heard Maya’s voice, hearing her ascend the stairs probably to her room.

You grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and tossed it toward Jun. He barely caught it, fumbling it against her chest before twisting the cap open.

“Drink that before you die.” You said. Jun took a long sip, still watching you suspiciously.

“Are you secretly immune to alcohol?” He tosses the empty water bottle in the trash. They were never going to let this down, you’ve always been drinking with them and they never saw you get plastered. You laughed under your breath. “If I was, do you think I’d be paying bar prices?”

He stared at you for another moment, clearly unconvinced. Then he shook his head and pushed himself off the wall, stumbling toward the hallway. “You’re weird.”

“Goodnight to you too.” You replied in a sing-song voice.

One by one, the apartment slowly quieted. Jun retreated to his room with a final glass of water. Rina eventually rolled off the rug and disappeared down the hall. Luca remained motionless on the couch, already asleep.

You moved through the living room, switching off the lights and stepping carefully over Luca’s legs. The night had been loud, chaotic, and perfect.

And it was only the first Friday.

Campus always seemed to fall into a strange quiet during the early afternoon. The rush of morning classes had faded, and most students were either tucked away in lectures or scattered across the lawns pretending to study. The courtyard café was half full, sunlight spilling across the tables and warming the pavement beneath your feet.

You sat across from Megumi with your textbooks spread open between the two of you. Half-finished lunch plates sat forgotten near the edge of the table, pushed aside to make room for notes, highlighters, and the slow creeping frustration of college assignments.

Megumi stared down at a page of calculations like it had personally offended him. “You’ve been glaring at that equation for ten minutes.” You pointed out, tapping your pen against your notebook.

“It’s wrong.” He replied flatly, not looking up. 

“Or…” You offered casually, “you’re wrong.”

Megumi finally leaned back in his chair with a tired sigh. He had been working on his homework for 3 days now and he wasn’t making much progress. He thought that asking you to study with him would help him or motivate him. You did the opposite. 

“You’re not helping.” He pinches the bridge of his nose. Resting his pen down on the table, shutting his notebook. Grabbing your plate of pasta and taking a handful of bites from it, you didn’t protest. You had already ate a sandwich, you bought the pasta for him. 

You shrugged, glancing down at your own notes. “Psychology is easier.” Compared to Megumi studying engineering, you had the better end of the stick. The original plan was that both of you would study engineering, but you chickened out last minute. 

“You say that now.”

“Hey,” you said defensively, “understanding people is hard.”

Megumi lifted one eyebrow in disbelief. “You think people make sense?” Fair enough.

You leaned back in your chair and considered that for a moment. Years of studying psychology, you’d think you’d be able to understand Megumi more, but you still couldn’t. “Absolutely not.”

The corner of his mouth twitched slightly, the closest he ever got to openly laughing ever since the semester started.

You’d known him since high school, which meant silence between you wasn’t awkward. It was normal–comfortable, even. The two of you had spent years studying together, surviving group projects, and exchanging the occasional sarcastic remark while everyone else stressed themselves into exhaustion. Your friendship with him was never dull. 

"I'm sorry for you, but I'm not sorry that I chickened out last minute." You commented, only earning another death glare from the guy in front of you. You could tell he was close to reaching over and flicking your forehead.

"One more word from you, and I'm ruining your birthday." That was where you draw the line. Instantly, your lips were shut. Megumi nodded in satisfaction that he won the banter today.

You were just about to go back to your notes when a shadow fell across the table.

“Megumi.”

Both of you looked up at the voice, not expecting anyone to join the two of you.

Fushiguro Toji stood beside the table.

You froze at the sight of him.

It wasn’t often you saw him during the day. Most of your memories of Toji, Megumi’s dad, were from years ago–late night pickups after school events, leaning against his car in dim parking lots with that same permanently unimpressed expression. Though you did see him around campus from time to time, he’d been taking care of business. Business that he’s keeping a secret from everyone, even his own family. You were just hoping that it had nothing to do with gambling.

He looked almost exactly the same now.

Dark shirt. Messy hair. Hands tucked into his pockets like the entire world bored him. It was still a wonder what he was doing here, specifically in the cafe inside the campus. Megumi blinked slowly, thinking the same thing as you. He didn’t remember asking his dad to come, nor did he tell him where he was

“…What are you doing here?” Megumi broke the silence that had been marinating between the three of us. I cleared my throat, flashing a quick smile to greet him before focusing back on whatever was in front of me.

“Eating.” Toji replied succinctly. He put the small in small talk.

Without waiting for an invitation, Toji pulled out the empty chair beside you and sat down. You silently curse at Megumi for not vacating the chair beside him from his backpacks. You were now stuck sitting beside Toji. 

The conversation died instantly. No one dared to speak. Megumi was back on studying, Toji who started scanning the menu, and you were busy hoping that an emergency comes up so you can excuse yourself.

Megumi’s eyes moved between you and Toji, narrowing slightly. “Why are you acting as if you don’t know each other?” It was also a wonder why you were never a stranger to them. You spent the holidays with him, but as you grew up things started to change. You stopped seeing Toji as another father figure. The first time Rina pointed out–upon meeting Toji for the first time–that Toji was someone she’d spread her legs for. You realize that Toji was actually a decent looking man. Decent enough that you slowly fantasized about him.

Toji’s gaze flicked toward you for a brief second. He shrugged it off, but did give your shoulder a light pat. “Nothing to talk about, she’s busy.”

Your heart did something strange in your chest. It wasn’t like this was new. You’d known him since freshman year of high school. He’d always been around in the background of Megumi’s life.

But sitting beside him now felt… different somehow. Older.

“So,” Toji said lazily, resting one arm on the back of his chair. He was now facing you and Megumi. “college treating you alright?”

Megumi shrugged, he was the first to react. “It’s engineering.” Enough was said. Toji even understood it without needing any further context. His son was in hell. There was no way he could save him from it.

“Sounds terrible.” Toji snorts. He did his part before Megumi submitted his college application, he asked him if he was sure about engineering. Megumi said yes; now, he wished he said no. Toji only laughed whenever Megumi complained about his degree.

“It is.” Megumi asserts, adjusting in his seat. A ghost of a smile had appeared when he managed to figure out how to solve the equation the entire class was struggling to solve. He was the only person to solve it, except his professor.

You laughed quietly before you could stop yourself. Toji then glanced at you again. Your laugh died down slowly. His intense gaze pierced through the wall you brought up–the wall that you promised you’d keep seeing him as just Megumi’s dad, and not think about what Rina said about him.

“What about you?” He asks, somehow he did seem interested rather than his usual relaxed but tired expression he would display. Admittedly, you did miss those days where you were able to treat Megumi’s dad with indifference. But now? You’ve been restraining yourself. 

“Psychology,” You answered, “better than Megumi, that’s all I can say.” I laughed making Megumi look at you, annoyed by the statement. He grabs a fry and throws it at you, Toji catches it with ease and pops it in between his lips. Your heart doing numerous somersaults.

He hummed thoughtfully. “Planning to analyze people for a living?” You just nodded in a daze, still stunned at how his hand flexed in front of you after catching the fry.

“Someone has to.”

A faint twitch pulled at the corner of his mouth. Megumi looked between the two of you again, something vaguely suspicious forming in his expression. Thankfully, his phone buzzed before a coherent thought formed in his mind.

He checked the screen and sighed. “I have class.” He began packing his bag quickly, stuffing his notebook inside. Toji nodded once. “Go.”

Megumi stood, slinging his backpack over one shoulder. “I’ll see you later.” That sentence was directed at you, his father just snorted at how his son just ignored him.

Megumi paused before leaving. Then he pointed directly at you, catching you off guard at the sudden change in his stance. He was leaving the table stressed and now his gaze was laced with overprotectiveness. “Don’t let him corrupt you.” He points at Toji.

You laughed loudly, gaining attention from the people in the cafe. “I think I’m the safer one here.” Megumi didn’t look convinced, but he left anyway. And just like that, you were alone with his father.

You take a quick glance at him before turning back to the paper in front of you. Didn’t he say he was going to eat? Why hasn’t he ordered anything? Then again, you begin to think nefarious reasons why he’d come around without any particular reason. 

The silence stretched across the table, it was definitely uncomfortable for you. Especially when he was just laidback in his seat. Occasional glances at what you were doing. It somehow irritated you that he kept peering over like a creep. 

You poked absentmindedly at the remaining fries on your plate. “…So.”

Toji leaned back slightly in his chair. Reaching over the back of your chair to grab your bag that was hanging before he stands up, “You live far from here, right?”

You blinked, stunned at how he took your bag. You didn’t plan on leaving yet but your words betrayed you. “Uh, yeah.” You said, standing from your seat.

“I can drive you.” Toji replied casually, spinning the keys to his car around his finger. You were trying to grab your bag from his grasp but he kept deflecting your attempts. “You don’t have to, I’ll just take the bus.” You cursed how tall and muscular he was that it was a struggle to stand your ground with him.

With your persistence on leaving on your own accord, Toji grabs ahold of both of your wrist, restraining you. “I’m driving you, I’m going the same way. End of conversation.” You breathed out, shaking off his grasp around your wrist. Something about the way he said it made you suspect that probably wasn’t true. Probably the demon sitting on your shoulder. 

He nods in satisfaction when you finally give in. From under his breath, you hear Toji mumble, “Brat.” You stopped in your tracks with a loud gasp. Bunch up the scarf you were wearing and chuck it towards him. The scarf falling on top of his head, “Ass.” You rolled your eyes at him.

“That's the worst you can do?” Toji stares at you tauntingly. He laces the scarf around your neck as he matches your pace instead of walking in front of you. His shadow casting over your figure as you walk side by side.

“Fucker.” You whispered loud enough for him to hear. He just chuckles, nodding at your choice of insult. That was the only good thing he taught you. Standing your ground to get what you want.  

The inside of Toji’s car smelled faintly like leather and coffee. It was better than usual. On bad days, it would smell like alcohol. Just plain distinct smell of alcohol. But you weren’t going to lie, you loved riding his car. You once begged him back then to give you his car. But he laughed it off and kicked you out of his house. 

You pulled the seatbelt across your chest as he started the engine, the quiet hum of the car filling the space between you. Outside, the campus buildings slowly slipped past as he pulled onto the street.

For a while, neither of you said anything.

You watched the scenery move through the window–students crossing sidewalks, bicycles passing on the road, trees swaying gently in the afternoon breeze. Eventually you cleared your throat.

“So…” No response.

You tried again.

“Megumi’s crushing on someone.” You said out of the blue. Megumi was the only right answer to strike a conversation. The topic mattered to you both. Toji glanced at you briefly before returning his attention to the road. “She good looking?”

You gave yourself a second to think about it. Not that she wasn’t, you just thought that her personality was a bit too… crass. It’s a total mystery how Megumi is crushing on her. “Called me a bitch then hid behind Megs’ back.” You looked out the window, recalling that day. The first and final day you met her. 

Silence settled inside the car again, thick but not uncomfortable. The low hum of the engine filled the space as the city lights blurred past the windows. You shifted slightly in the passenger seat, adjusting the seatbelt across your chest.

Toji noticed.

He always did.

His hand rested loosely on the steering wheel, but his driving was noticeably smoother than usual. Slower turns. Gentler braking. The kind of careful driving that didn’t quite match the rough, careless way he carried himself.

It took you a moment to realize why.

Every time the car turned too sharply, your fingers instinctively tightened around the seatbelt. The first time it happened, he’d glanced over. The second time, he’d slowed down. Now he drove like he was aware of every small movement you made.

“Next time that girl gives you trouble,” Toji said casually, eyes still on the road. “stay behind me.”

You blinked at his words.

“We’ll deal with her.” His tone was flat, almost bored, like he was talking about something completely ordinary. But there was something underneath it. Something quiet and serious. Toji had strange ways of showing he cared. He wasn’t the type for comforting words or long conversations. To him, words were cheap. Anyone could say things. If it didn’t show through actions, it didn’t mean anything.

Still, hearing him say it made warmth creep into your chest.

“Sure.” You snorted softly. You didn’t entirely believe him, but for his sake you went along with it.

Turning toward the window, you watched the familiar streets slide past. Neon lights, dim storefronts, people drifting along the sidewalks. Then you spotted a place you recognized immediately. The bar you and your friends always went to.

A thought crossed your mind. “How’s your alcohol tolerance?” You asked, glancing back toward him.

Toji didn’t hesitate with his answer. “Better than yours.”

You let out a small laugh. “Bullshit.” Leaning back in the seat, you crossed your arms with a faint smirk. There was no way that was true. Your friends had joked plenty of times about how hard it was to get you drunk. Through the reflection in the window, you caught him glancing at you. Watching you more than the road for a second too long.

“I’ve never gotten drunk.” You said, turning slightly so he could see your smile. You boasted your alcohol tolerance which is something he would be jealous of. There was a bit of pride in your voice.

Toji clicked his tongue quietly. His index finger tapped once against the steering wheel. “You shouldn’t.” He muttered, completely turning the smile on your lips upside down. His words completely caught you off-guard.

Your brows lifted slightly. “What?”

He didn’t look at you when he answered. “Nothing good comes out of being drunk.”

The words sounded casual, but the way his jaw tightened said otherwise. A small silence followed. Then he added, quieter this time, “Especially not for you.”

Your heart skipped in a way you hoped he didn’t notice. Outside, the bar disappeared behind the car as Toji drove past it without even slowing down. For a moment, neither of you said anything. But through the dark window reflection, you still caught him looking at you again.

Just for a second.

Before he focused back on the road.

A few minutes later, he pulled up outside your apartment building. The car idled quietly at the curb as you unbuckled your seatbelt. “Thanks for the ride.” You thanked him, gathering your things and opening the door. He nodded once.

“Be careful walking at night.”

You paused halfway out the door. “…You too.”

Then you stepped out and closed the door. The car pulled away a moment later, disappearing down the street. You stood on the sidewalk for a second longer than necessary before shaking your head and heading inside.

“This is the place?” Rina tilted her head up at the glowing sign above the door, her voice tinged with both excitement and skepticism. When you told the group you wanted to try coming to another bar after the last one kept serving the same drinks. They were skeptical, talking about being loyal to your bartender. It was difficult convincing them, but everyone was here.

The bar sat tucked on a quieter street downtown, brick walls weathered by time, warm amber light spilling through tall windows. Music hummed softly every time someone entered, a pulse that felt almost alive.

“Looks expensive.” Luca muttered, scanning the exterior. Despite it, he dressed to the occasion, he looked more than prepared to drink and dance.

“It’s not.” You said quickly, defensive. One second longer and they’d be pulling you back to another bar. They all turned to look at you, skepticism written on their faces.

“…You sound very confident.” Maya remarked, crossing her arms as if she was questioning your intentions. You cleared your throat. “I passed it before. I know the place.” It was the truth, but somehow, their presence towered over you and suddenly you felt belittled. 

In the midst of it all, Jun pushed the door open smoothly. Tired of spending time outside the bar when we could have been spending time inside and getting drunk. “Well,” He said, calm as ever, “let’s ruin it.” You smiled, sending him a smile to say thanks.

Stepping inside, the space felt alive without being chaotic. Deep wood counters gleamed under soft gold lamps, low lighting giving everything a mellow, almost secretive glow. The music was just loud enough to feel, not enough to drown conversation. Your group immediately claimed a booth near the center. Rina sank into the seat, letting out a satisfied sigh. “Oh yeah! This is a vibe.”

Luca was already scanning the drink menu. “They have smoked bourbon.”

Jun’s eyes narrowed slightly, nodding. “Dangerous.”

Everything was going well, your friends were enjoying what they saw. Sinking on the seat beside Rina, a moan of satisfaction leaving your mouth after your mission came to a success. Jun hands you a menu to pick out what you wanted. 

A few minutes later, a tall figure approached the table–a bartender with golden hair tied back loosely, calm confidence radiating in every movement. He moved with a deliberate ease, the kind that made you notice before you even knew you were noticing. He seemed to be fine even to just be a bartender here. 

“Evening,” he said smoothly. You and Rina straightened in your seat, completely captivated by his presence. “first time here?” 

You stared at him, studying his features. His gaze met yours first, sharp, assessing, then flicked over the rest of the group as if cataloging everyone. For some reason, he seemed to be interested in you. You made the assumption that he was only a few years older than you. “Five people.” he noted, voice low, careful. “Bold.”

Rina leaned forward, playful. “Are you judging us?”

“Just impressed,” He replied, tilting his head slightly, as if reading you all like a book. “So, orders?” He asked, a notepad on his hand prepared to take note of everyone’s pick of the poison.

Orders flew around the table–whiskey sour, old fashioned, margarita, beer. Then his attention landed on you. The only one who hadn’t ordered, everyone curious on what you’d be ordering. “And for you, pretty lady?”

You allowed a small smile at his words, cheeks flushing red. “Surprise me.”

One eyebrow quirked. “Dangerous answer.”

“I trust professionals.” You said, casually. It was the new atmosphere that contributed to your boldness, there wasn’t a face here that you were familiar with–other than your friends–and it allowed you to embrace who you truly are. There were no expectations to meet and image for you to keep here. 

He chuckled, scribbling on his notepad with deliberate care. “Alright then.” 

Kise, the bartender, returned to the booth balancing a round tray of drinks in one hand, moving with an easy confidence that suggested he’d done this a thousand times before. The bar lights reflected off the glasses as he approached, the liquids inside catching warm amber and gold hues.

“Alright, let’s see.” He said, setting the tray down in the center of the table. One by one, he began placing the drinks down with deliberate care, sliding each glass toward its owner.

Then he reached for the last glass on the tray. It was noticeably different from the others. Delicate. Bright. The drink was a soft pink color, filled with crushed ice that sparkled beneath the hanging lights. Thin slices of citrus rested along the rim, and a small twist of peel curled neatly over the edge like a finishing touch.

Kise placed it carefully in front of you.

Rina leaned forward immediately, eyes narrowing as she studied the drink. “Wait,” She said, pointing. “why does hers look the best?”

Kise straightened, brushing a strand of golden hair back with an amused smile. “Because she trusted me.” He replied smoothly, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

You laughed quietly at that, lifting the glass slightly between your fingers. “I appreciate the effort.” You said with a small smile.

Kise winked, flashing that easy charm he seemed to carry everywhere. “Tell me what you think.”

The five of you lifted your drinks at the same time, the glasses meeting in the middle with a light, bright clink that cut through the hum of conversation around you.

“To Friday nights!” Rina declared loudly, grinning.

“To Friday nights!” Everyone echoed.

You brought the glass to your lips and took a careful sip.

The flavor was immediate–sweet and tangy with a light fizz that danced across your tongue. It was refreshing in a way that made your shoulders relax almost instantly, the coolness cutting through the warmth of the crowded bar.

“Good?” Maya asked, watching you closely.

You nodded, lowering the glass with a satisfied smile. “Really good.”

Your friends seemed pleased with that answer, returning to their drinks and conversation almost immediately.

But across the room, someone else had been watching the entire exchange.

Fushiguro Toji stood near the bar, leaning lightly against the counter with one elbow resting on the polished surface. The dim lights cast shadows across his sharp features as his gaze followed you from a distance.

You laughing with your friends.

Your fingers wrapped around the pink glass.

The way you tilted your head slightly when you smiled.

He noticed everything.

Beside him, Kise had drifted back toward the bar after dropping off the drinks. He leaned against the counter next to Toji, glancing toward the booth with casual curiosity.

“She liked it.” He said under his breath, informing Toji of how you reacted to the drink. Toji gave a quiet grunt in response, his expression as unreadable as ever. “She always does.” He replied simply.

Kise hummed thoughtfully, folding his arms over the counter as he studied the scene from afar. You were still laughing with your friends, the pink drink glowing faintly in your hand under the warm lighting. His gaze shifted briefly toward Toji. “You’ve been doing this long?” he asked, voice low.

Toji didn’t look at him.

“Kise.”

The way he said the name was enough of a warning.

For a brief moment, neither of them spoke. The music from the bar filled the silence between them, slow and rhythmic. Then Kise smiled to himself. A slow, knowing grin.

“Well,” He said lightly, eyes drifting back toward your table, “this… is going to be fun.”

Toji’s jaw tightened just slightly. Almost imperceptibly. His gaze flicked back to you again, watching as you raised the glass for another sip, the soft pink drink catching the glow of the bar lights.

And he didn’t look away.

As usual, you found yourself at the bar on another Friday night.

The bar was loud tonight–music pulsing through the walls, glasses clinking, laughter spilling from every corner. Time passed and the bar was nearing its capacity, everything seemed louder and flashier. You felt calm amidst this chaos, you preferred this over the quiet library, you wanted chaos to make up for the complete chaos you experience during classes.

“Here.” Luca said, handing you a drink that he brought straight from the bar. The bartender–Kise–had his hands full, orders kept coming in and he had no time to even rest the mixer from his hands.

You reached out for it with a thankful smile, but before your fingers could curl around the glass, Luca suddenly stumbled. The drink slipped from his hand. Ice and liquid splashed across the floor, thankfully none of the liquid got on both of your clothes. 

You blinked in surprise–and that’s when you saw him.

Fushiguro Toji stood there, looking equally caught off guard. He had clearly bumped into your friend on the way past. His sharp eyes flicked from the mess on the floor to you. 

“Didn’t see you there.” He muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. The one gesture of his, you knew he was lying. You watched him carefully as he stared at Luca. “That one’s on me. I’ll get you another.”

He didn’t wait for you to respond before turning toward the bar. You hear Luca scoff under his breath, he didn’t even apologize, you heard him say. On the other hand, Rina was on her feet making her way towards you. 

You knew he was lying but what you didn’t know was the real reason he’d interfered.

Before Rina could reach you, you were already following behind Toji. “Hey.” Jun catches your wrist, he was making his way back from the restroom. “Where are you going?” 

You looked at him, shaking your head. A lie calculating between your lips, “Waiting for you.” He nods, guiding both of you back to your table. Where everyone was still drinking and arguing with each other about random things. Most of it was who was going to cook breakfast tomorrow. It was rich assuming that they’d wake up at breakfast time.

The thought of Toji haunted the back of your mind.

Being surprised at his presence was one thing but seeing him bump so casually into your group was another thing. More importantly, he didn’t bat an eye at you, it was as if he didn’t know you were there but was aware of your presence.

The drink your friend had been handing you was alcoholic–and Toji had noticed immediately. The thought of you drinking something strong didn’t sit right with him. So when he returned a moment later, the glass he handed you looked convincing enough… but it was just a mocktail.

“Your drink.” He said simply, placing it in your hand. Everyone was too tipsy to make sense of what was happening in front of them. They were more focused on their argument.

You smiled softly, admiring the drink. It was bright and colorful. The mere thought of Toji walking around the bar carrying the drink made you laugh. “Thanks.”

But honestly, the drink wasn’t what shocked you. Seeing him here was.

You’d always thought bars were the last place Toji would spend his time. He didn’t seem like the type to hang around loud crowds or sticky counters. You assumed that he preferred to drink in his home.

Yet here he was.

Tonight really was your lucky night.

You took a sip of the cocktail–and then, deciding to be bold for once, you tilted your head back and finished it in one go. You figured that this might be the last time you see him around here before he goes into hiding, might as well make the most of it. Megumi wasn’t here to babysit you anyway.

The glass hit the counter with a soft clink. Then you turned and hurried after him. He was already on his way back to the bar when you took the drink from him.

“Toji, wait!” Your hand caught his arm.

He stopped instantly, turning toward you with clear surprise in his eyes. For a moment he just looked at you, as if trying to figure out why you’d chased him down. “Yes?”

You lifted the empty glass, trying to look a little unsteady. Hinting that you needed another round, possibly from him and with him.

“Another drink?” He studied your words for a second before giving a small nod. Toji was deciding whether or not to encourage your drinking knowing that it would raise certain issues if you, a person he’s dear to, were drunk with him. But after careful consideration, he gave in. “Yeah. Come on.”

His hand hovered just behind your back as he guided you through the crowded bar. The place was packed–people brushing shoulders, laughter and music blending into a constant hum. Despite the chaos around you, Toji moved through it with quiet confidence, his presence creating a small pocket of space as he steered you toward the counter.

When you finally reached the bar, he pulled out one of the stools with his foot and steadied it with a hand.

“Sit.” His voice was low, firm in a way that left little room for argument.

You climbed onto the barstool, adjusting yourself as he made sure it was stable before letting go. The moment you were settled, a small, almost uncontrollable smile spread across your lips. You tried to hide it by turning slightly toward the counter, but the warmth in your chest refused to fade.

Toji leaned forward to order another drink for you, speaking briefly to the bartender. You watched him from the corner of your eye while pretending to examine the bottles lined up behind the bar. The lighting cast faint shadows along his jaw, and the casual way he rested one arm against the counter made him look completely at ease in a place you never expected him to be.

Once the drink was ordered, he didn’t leave.

Instead, he stayed right where he was–standing beside you, leaning against the bar with his arms folded loosely across his chest. His posture was relaxed, but there was still something attentive about the way he remained near you.

Perfect.

You let your shoulders slump slightly, leaning forward against the counter as if the drink had already begun to affect you. Your fingers curled loosely around the edge of the bar, your gaze dropping to the polished wood beneath the dim lighting.

“So…” You mumbled, your voice quieter now, a little unsteady on purpose. “Can I tell you something?”

Beside you, Fushiguro Toji glanced in your direction from the corner of his eye. He hadn’t moved from his spot beside you, still leaning against the counter with that same relaxed posture. One arm rested against the bar while the other hung loosely at his side.

“Depends.” He replied flatly, seemingly uninterested in the conversation you were striking. You let out a dramatic sigh, as if you had been carrying the weight of this confession all night.

“I have a crush on someone.”

The words hung in the air between you. Toji didn’t react immediately. No teasing comment. No visible curiosity. Just silence. You resisted the urge to look at him right away, keeping your gaze lowered like someone trying to gather their thoughts.

“…That so?” He said after a moment. His tone was neutral, but there was a faint edge of interest underneath it. 

You nodded slowly, exaggerating the movement just enough to sell the act. “Yeah,” You said softly. “but I can’t have him.” Another sigh slipped from your lips, heavier this time as you rested your chin against your palm. “It’s tragic, really.”

From the corner of your eye, you saw his eyebrow lift slightly. “Why not?”

You shrugged lazily, tracing small circles on the surface of the bar with your fingertip. The condensation from someone’s abandoned glass left faint, cold trails beneath your touch. “I don’t know if he’d ever like me back.” You admitted, letting your voice drop a little quieter.

For a brief moment, you glanced up at him. Just a quick look. Then you quickly looked away again, as if the eye contact had been accidental.

“He’s… kinda hard to read.” You added. The words were vague enough to sound harmless, but the meaning behind them sat heavy in your chest.

Toji didn’t answer right away. You could feel his attention now–stronger than before. Not casual anymore. Just watching. Then he let out a quiet huff of amusement through his nose. “Sounds like a pain.”

The comment made you smile faintly. You peeked up at him again, this time letting your gaze linger just a little longer. “So… what about you?”

“What about me?”

You tilted your head slightly, pretending to study him as if the answer were written somewhere on his face. “Do you like anyone?” You asked, trying to keep your tone light, casual–like it was just drunken curiosity. But inside, your heart had started racing.

“Or are you, like… on the market?”

The moment the question left your mouth, something shifted. The question was never appropriate to ask, especially from you, but you figured that being intoxicated while asking him wouldn’t do much harm. Toji straightened slightly beside you.

His gaze moved fully toward you now, no longer watching from the corner of his eye. His attention locked onto your face, sharp and focused in a way that made your pulse skip.

For a long moment, he didn’t say anything. He just looked at you. Not a quick glance. Not the casual attention he’d been giving you before.

He was studying you now.

His eyes moved slowly across your expression–your slightly slumped posture, the way your fingers still traced lazy circles against the bar, the faint smile you were trying to hide. Like he was putting something together.

Your stomach tightened. Had you been too obvious? For a second–just a brief, terrifying second–you wondered if he had already figured it out.

If he knew the “someone” you were talking about was him.

Weeks slipped by almost unnoticed.

Friday nights had settled into a rhythm–predictable, comforting, slightly chaotic. Same booth. Same laughter bouncing off the dark wood. Same drinks lined up like soldiers in front of your group.

“How are you still sober?” Rina demanded, flinging her hands dramatically in your direction.

You shrugged, leaning back with a casual smirk. “Gift from the universe.”

“Or,” Luca said slowly, squinting as if he was onto some grand secret, “you’re secretly switching drinks with someone.”

Jun lifted his glass, eyes narrowed. “I would notice.”

Maya squinted, cocking her head. “You had six cocktails.”

“And?” you asked, feigning innocence.

“And you’re completely fine,” she said, voice tinged with disbelief.

You tipped your head back, grinning. “Maybe you’re all just weak.”

Rina groaned, tossing another fry in your direction. You rolled your eyes, remember the time when Megumi threw a fry at you and Toji captured it in a split second. You smiled, taking another sip of your drink.

Across the room, Kise’s laugh bubbled up quietly, almost hidden by the music and chatter. Toji stood behind the bar, wiping down the counter, eyes dark and steady. He didn’t laugh. He didn’t need to. His presence alone carried weight, an unspoken warning that kept the chaos at a careful edge.

“You’re encouraging them.” Toji muttered without looking up. With the amount of people inside the bar, Toji was forced to help Kise with handling the orders. “I’m observing.” Kise countered, leaning casually against the bar.

“You’re annoying.” Toji replied, tone flat but edged with something unreadable.

Kise’s gaze flicked to your table, catching the sparkle in your eyes as you argued with Luca, gesturing wildly with your drink. “You know what the funniest part is?” He murmured.

Toji didn’t answer. Kise rolls his eyes, “She thinks she’s winning.”

Toji’s gaze returned to you, steady and sharp. Watching. Calculating.

You laughed, oblivious to the subtle war unfolding across the room, completely immersed in your little bubble of triumph.

Kise leaned in, voice low and teasing. He was the only person who could tolerate Toji’s antics of being cold and expressionless. “So… you gonna tell her eventually?”

Toji’s expression hardened, jaw tightening. “Tell her what?”

“That she’s been drinking fruit juice for two months.”

For a heartbeat, Toji’s gaze lingered on the table. Then he exhaled slowly, silent, letting Kise’s grin hang in the air like a challenge. Yet again, he was reminded of what you told him while pretending to be drunk. Was he hard to read? Were you, a psychology student, struggling to read into Fushiguro Toji's mind?

Friday night arrived faster than you expected.

Your birthday.

Your friends had been talking about it all week, insisting that you had to celebrate properly this year. No quiet dinner, no small gathering–nothing subtle. They wanted loud music, bright lights, drinks, and a night you’d never forget.

So that’s how you found yourself standing outside the familiar bar doors, dressed up far more than usual.

The cold night air brushed against your skin as you checked your reflection in your phone one last time. Your outfit was bold–something your friends had practically forced you into for the occasion. It hugged your figure perfectly, just the right mix of confident and playful.

“Birthday girl!” Rina shouted the moment you stepped inside. Half of the bar had erupted into cheers and whistles.

Cheers, whistles, clapping–your friends made enough noise to turn a few heads from the surrounding tables. Maya practically dragged you into the booth while someone shoved a drink into your hand before you could even properly sit down. “To the birthday girl!” Someone called, you just accepted the drink, everyone they invited were your mutual friends.

Glasses clinked together around you. 

The night started loud and full of energy. At first, it was just one drink. Then another. And another.

You weren’t usually the type to drink much, which was exactly why your friends kept laughing every time you finished a glass. Each time someone ordered another round, one mysteriously appeared in front of you too. There was no room for you to decline the drink when it was your birthday and all eyes were on you.

“Come on!” Rina teased, nudging your shoulder. “It’s your birthday. You have to drink.”

“I am drinking!” You protested, lifting your glass defensively. You had more glasses than the amount of glasses that were currently sitting on the table. At one point, Maya was keeping count but until it hit the 17-mark, she stopped counting.

But the alcohol hit you harder than you expected.

Your cheeks warmed first, a pleasant heat spreading through your chest. Soon your laughter came easier, louder. The music felt brighter somehow, the lights softer and more colorful as the hours passed. You finally felt yourself letting loose. 

Your friends watched with growing amusement. “You’re actually drinking.” Maya said, staring at you in disbelief.

“I always drink.” You insisted, though your words slurred slightly at the edges.

“You absolutely do not.”

By the time a few hours had passed, the table was scattered with empty glasses. And you were completely, undeniably drunk. A sight that no one prepared for, but expected.

Your head rested against Rina’s shoulder as you laughed uncontrollably at something that probably wasn’t funny. At some point you had kicked your heels off under the table, your posture loose and completely unguarded. They observed that you were the kind of drunk that found everything funny, acted as if you weren’t completely drunk, and worst of all… a horny drunk.

“Wow,” Maya said, staring at you with wide eyes. “she’s gone.”

“Completely.” Rina agreed.

You lifted your head suddenly, pointing dramatically at them.

“I am not gone!" You declared with absolute confidence, protesting everyone’s argument that you are drunk. Then you missed the table completely while trying to grab your drink.

The entire booth burst into laughter. You glared at everyone who laughed before grabbing their drinks and emptying them. 

Meanwhile, across the bar, the front door opened quietly.

Fushiguro Toji stepped inside.

He hadn’t originally planned on staying long. Just checking in. He knew it was your birthday and he knew you’d be spending it in his bar. Kise had been sending him hourly updates to him regarding your booth. However, the moment he missed one update, Toji was already in his car driving to the bar.

The bar was busy as usual, music humming through the space while conversations blended into a low background noise. His sharp eyes scanned the room automatically.

Then he saw you.

At first, it didn’t seem unusual. You were sitting in the booth with your friends, laughing, leaning forward as someone said something that made you burst out again.

Then he noticed the empty glasses. Several of them. Mountains of them…

His expression darkened slightly.

Toji moved closer through the crowd, his gaze never leaving your table. And the closer he got, the clearer it became. You weren’t just tipsy.

You were completely shitfaced.

You leaned too far sideways in your seat, barely catching yourself on the table before sliding off the bench. Your friends quickly grabbed your arm, pulling you upright again while laughing.

“Careful!” Maya said.

“I’m careful!” You protested loudly. Falling into Jun’s lap, who kept you steady with an arm around your waist. He waves his hand in front of you, “Is this being careful?” 

Toji stopped a few steps away. His jaw tightened.

“What the hell…” He grumbled under his breath.

You were never like this.

Never.

Another burst of laughter escaped you as someone pushed another drink toward you. Without hesitation, you grabbed it.

That was enough.

Toji moved forward, his presence cutting through the group’s laughter like a sudden shift in the air. Your friends noticed him first.

“Oh–”

Their laughter faded quickly at the sight of him, Rina had told the group about Toji. Not missing the detail about you having a total crush on him, even exaggerating some of the details.

Toji reached the table, towering beside the booth as his dark gaze locked onto you. You looked up slowly, blinking at him. Your face lit up immediately. Like a birthday girl who finally received her most awaited present.

“Toji!” You slurred happily, like spotting an old friend across the room. Standing from Jun’s lap, you lifted your arms slightly in greeting, nearly knocking over the glass in the process. Skipping across the table towards him, you jump towards him and place your arms around his neck. His arms immediately clasped around your body, steadying you.

His eyes flicked to the drink. Then back to you. The anger that flashed across his face was immediate.

Without saying a word, Toji turned toward the bar.

“Everyone out.” He said flatly, but it was enough for the entire crowd to hear.

The music stopped. Conversations halted. For a moment, the entire bar went quiet. The staff didn’t question him. No one dared to question Toji’s command, after all, he is the owner of the establishment. Within minutes, people began gathering their things, confused murmurs spreading through the room as they were ushered toward the exit. 

Your friends watched in stunned silence.

“Did he just–” Rina whispered in disbelief.

“–shut down the bar?” Maya finished.

Within ten minutes, the once crowded space had emptied. The lights dimmed slightly, leaving only your table occupied.

You blinked slowly around the room, processing the sudden quiet. You frowned thinking your birthday party was a complete bust. Toji spots the frown in your lips, he sighs.

“…Where’d everyone go?” You asked. Toji turned back toward the booth. His eyes landed on you again. Despite it, you were still smiling, swaying slightly in your seat.

The sight made something twist in his chest. “Megumi isn’t here?” He asked sharply.

Rina shook her head quickly. “He doesn’t like parties.”

Of course he didn’t.

Toji exhaled slowly through his nose, clearly trying to control his irritation. Then he looked back at you. You were watching him now, head tilted, completely unaware of the storm brewing behind his expression.

“Toji,” You said softly, your voice thick with alcohol. “you came to my birthday.”

The smile you gave him was wide, bright, completely genuine. And for a moment, his anger faltered.

Just a little.

The bar had gone quiet.

Tables that had been filled with laughing strangers only minutes ago now sat empty, glasses abandoned where people had left them in confusion. The music was off, leaving only the low hum of the refrigerator units and the faint buzz of overhead lights. He had a cab called to pick up your friends, making sure the bar was empty before he locked it behind him. 

And in the middle of it all–you.

Or more accurately, you clinging to Fushiguro Toji like your life depended on it.

You had wrapped both arms around him and refused to let go. Your cheek rested against his chest, your arms looped tightly around his waist like he might disappear if you loosened your grip.

Toji stood stiffly in the middle of the bar floor, one hand hovering awkwardly in the air like he didn’t know where to put it. “You’re drunk.” He said flatly, he was still furious that you got yourself drunk when all this time, he made sure that you wouldn’t get drunk in his bar.

You hummed happily against him. “Yes.”

“That wasn’t a question.”

You squeezed him tighter. Normally you weren’t this bold–if anything, you were careful around him. Measured. Nervous. But alcohol had stripped every bit of restraint away. Now all you could think about was the warmth of him under your arms.

The solid way his body felt beneath your cheek. The way he smelled faintly like smoke and clean cologne. Toji exhaled slowly, already annoyed. “I told you not to drink like this.”

“I didn’t.” You insisted lazily, nuzzling your face in his chest. Feeling more nauseous at the sound of his voice. You struggled to stay put while clinging onto him.

“You’re barely standing.” 

“I’m standing because of you.”

“That’s not the point.”

He tried to pull your arms away gently, but you immediately tightened your grip like a stubborn child.

“No.”

“You’re going home.”

“No.”

“You can’t even walk straight.”

“I can if you carry me.”

Toji stared down at you, unimpressed at how stubborn you were acting. Declining everything he was saying.

You blinked up at him with glassy eyes and a soft smile that made it very clear you had absolutely no intention of cooperating.

“You’re unbelievable.” He muttered.

You tilted your head slightly, studying his face like it was the most fascinating thing in the room. “You came to my birthday.” You said again softly. 

He was quick to answer, he had no idea why he saw the need to quickly defend himself against something completely oblivious. “To make sure you didn’t do something stupid.”

“I did something stupid.”

“That’s obvious.”

“But you still came.”

Toji didn’t answer. His gaze drifted away for a moment, jaw tight. He knew what you meant.

Meanwhile, your mind had completely stopped processing anything except one thing.

Him.

You leaned closer, your forehead nearly bumping his chest again. “You know…” You murmured.

“What.”

Your fingers lazily traced along the front of his shirt, completely unaware of how dangerous that was. “I have a crush on someone.”

Toji went very still, his posture stiffened at your touch. “You’ve mentioned that.”

Your head tilted again as you looked up at him through heavy eyelids. “Do you wanna know who?”

He didn’t respond. You continued anyway. 

“It’s you.”

The words came out softly. Simply. Like the answer had always been obvious. For a moment, the silence in the bar thickened. Toji stared down at you. “You’re drunk.”

“I know.”

“You don’t know what you’re saying.”

“I do.” Your grip on his shirt tightened slightly. “I’ve liked you for a long time.” You admitted quietly. “Like… a really long time.”

Toji’s jaw flexed. You were treading dangerous waters, a few more steps deeper, you would be falling deep into the demise you willingly put yourself in. “You shouldn’t.”

“Too late.”

“You don’t even know what you’re asking for.”

You shook your head stubbornly. “I know exactly what I’m asking for.”

Then you did something that finally broke his composure.

You climbed onto his lap.

The movement was clumsy, your balance already questionable, but you managed to swing yourself onto the barstool he had been sitting on and settle directly onto him.

Toji snapped instantly. “What the hell are you doing?”

But you just looked at him with that same soft, drunk smile. Your hands rested on his shoulders to steady yourself. “It’s my birthday.” You breathed out, leaning in closer to him. You watched as his gaze focused on your lips, never meeting your eyes. 

“That doesn’t–” He started, you covered his lips with his mouth to stop him. Smiling at him, you tilt his head to fix his gaze onto your eyes.

“I made a wish.” Your voice softened. “And I wished for you.”

You leaned closer, your forehead almost touching his. “So… make it come true?”

For a second, neither of you moved. The tension between you tightened like a pulled wire.

Something dark flickered behind Toji’s eyes.

And the air between you suddenly felt much hotter than it had a moment ago.

Without a warning, Toji crashed his lips into you. Tasting the bitterness of the alcohol that resided in your tongue. At that moment, he was craving you. Fully aware that he’d gotten drunk in you. A moan escapes your lips feeling how much he craves your taste, how his hand extends to cup your ass and gives it a tight squeeze. He was nothing but gentle with you, and you didn’t hate it. You enjoyed the intensity that came along with Fushiguro Toji.

“You planned all of this, didn’t you?” Toji whispered against your neck, he was nothing but gentle with his actions. You were writhing in pleasure when his tongue had shown exactly how he was pissed off with tonight’s event. “I’ll be fucking the alcohol out of you until you’re sober, screaming my name.” He bit on your ear before standing up and setting you on top of the counter. Toji didn’t waste any second nor did you ever restrict him from taking control of your body. 

The sound of your dress ripping filled your ears, you gasped knowing that the dress you were wearing was one of your favorites. Toji spotted the look in your eyes, knowing the upcoming earful he was going to get from you.

Instead of an earful, you got a mouthful of Toji. His lips crashed into you, almost making you stumble back into the counter if only it wasn’t for his hand pressed against your back.

“Do you think naughty girls like you deserve to wear dresses like that?” His voice was laced with malice. His hot breath hits your neck, sending shivers down your spine. You absolutely hated how he was acting towards you. Nevertheless, it led you to do many heinous things with the father of your best friend.

Without any warning, you felt Toji massage circles around your sensitive core. Placing a hand behind your neck and tilting it to make you look down at how his finger traced your slit. “Spit.” Spitting directly onto his fingers, still restrained from the hand on your neck. His fingers now coated in your saliva, he pushes a finger inside. Sending jolts through your body, your legs trembled at how his fingers were perfectly molded inside you. “Hngh…” Your hand covering your mouth to repress every desire at how vulnerable he was making you. 

“Stay silent for me.” Toji pulls you forward, planting a kiss on your lips. Feeling his fingers retract from your core. “Toji.” You began to whine after a second of emptiness. He raises an eyebrow at you, you finally noticed how his eyes darkened at you and how his body was less tense.

Before you could tell him to fuck you with his fingers, you felt his two fingers stretch out your walls. With constant scissoring motions to stretch you further, your eyes widened wanting to let out a moan. “One more sound from you, and you’re coming untouched.” 

With each thrust, you kept getting yourself fuller and fuller. Glancing back down at how his fingers kept thrusting in you, reaching uncharted waters with your body. Your eyes glistened with tears when he kept edging you. “You’re doing great, sweet girl.” He’d reach over, planting a kiss on your inner thigh whenever you’d hold back your moans. 

“One more, baby.” Toji’s thumb brushes against your clit. He’d been considering letting you come around his fingers at how easily you’d cave in to him. Your hands cup his face, pulling him in. Crashing your lips violently, tugging onto his lips. Until you could feel his groans vibrating through your mouth. “Please, I want to come.” 

There was a visible break in Toji’s eyes, seeing your puppy eyes at him. You had already reached multiple orgasms until Toji pulled back his fingers leaving you frustrated at the emptiness, unable to come completely. Still, you remained silent. Hushed moans left your lips earning a chuckle from Toji. “When I tell you to shut it, you shut it.” 

You were on your last strand. The moment you felt your orgasm reaching again, you wouldn’t hold back. Toji’s three fingers curled at rubbing your spongy walls, your core was aching from the numerous denied orgasms. “Fuck, your fingers feel so great!” You finally let out the moans you have been holding back the entire night. Unable to withstand the piles of orgasms he denied you, you took charge of your own pleasure. “Didn’t I tell you to keep quiet?” Toji glared at you.

Before he could pull his hand back from your dripping pussy, you held onto his wrist and kept it in place. Curling your legs around his arm and starting to ride his arm into your orgasm. “Just like that, fuck, Toji! I’m coming!” He watched as you intoxicatingly grinded yourself on his arm, your back arching as you finally rode out a long orgasm. His fingers coated in your liquid. 

Feeling your grasp around him loosen. Your head falls onto his shoulder, panting heavily. “We’re not done, birthday girl.” His voice sent shivers down your spine, the kind that made your blood run cold. 

In a blink of an eye, Toji had spread your legs and bent down to meet your dripping cunt. Licking a stripe off your slick, he hums against your clit. Legs shaking at the warmth of his tongue lapping up your wetness. Holding tight onto the bar, you squeeze your eyes shut. “Too much, Toji.” Your voice trembling at every contact his tongue made with you. He glances up at you, seeing your knuckles turning white as you gripped the counter. 

“Your tongue feels so fucking good.” You mewled at the sensation. He takes both of your hands, one intertwining it with his and the other he guides onto his hair. It was a perfect epitome of who he is.

You massaged your breast at the sight of him bent down and willfully eating you on the counter of his bar. “Just like that. I’m always yours, baby.” You hummed in satisfaction, pinching your nipple feeling the familiar tangle in your stomach. 

Your fingers tousling around his dark hair, pulling his face deeper into your core. You wanted to feel him more while you came. “I…” You bit down hard on your lip, “Toji, I’m going to…” 

Unlike before, Toji thrusted two fingers inside you while he sucked on your clit. He wasn’t holding back anymore. “Toji!” You gasped in total euphoria, you were feeling too much. Hands leaving his hair, arching your body back, your hands supporting you. “Baby, too much… I’m going to…” 

“Come for me, darling.” You heard Toji underneath the sound of your moans. His voice brings you to heaven as you let yourself come undone. “Toji...” Your voice trails off while you came, blankly reaching out for his hand. He spots you and intertwines your hand with his free hand. 

Toji stands back up, meeting your eyes. You feel his hand moving away from your pussy, your voice stops him. “Leave it in” Nonetheless, he keeps it in while you pulls him in for a kiss. “Do I finally look sober to you?” You kid, leaning your forehead against his. 

“You look overfucked.” He states, pulling his hand out. You’d protest but you see him bending back down. “Toji...” You stammered through your words, you couldn’t handle him again. You’ve reached your limit. 

“You haven’t even felt my dick inside you yet.” You choked on your saliva. He looks at you, pinching your side. “Relax, sweet girl.” Toji fully restrained himself, this was the furthest he would go with you.

Tonight was the only day he’d succumb to your charms, you weren’t trying to hide your advancements at him since that night you hinted to him that you liked him. 

He pressed soft kisses on your inner thighs, cleaning the mess both of you had made. Even when he was done, he kept going. He didn’t want to stop all because of your sweet smell. He was entranced by you. 

By the time he was done, you still weren’t. You jumped into his arms, arms around his neck and lips on his. He embraced you, carrying you off the counter. You still didn’t loosen your arms around him and he took that as a sign to keep you in his arms. Feeling the slightest tug from him, you grumbled. “Wait,” You pulled away from the kiss. “we’re not done yet. I want more.”

Toji sets you down on your feet, making sure you’re able to hold yourself up. “Not tonight.” He remarked. You grab his hand, pulling him closer. Looking up at him with pleading eyes, your hand creeping up to his clothed dick. “Please, baby.” You started palming his length, feeling his bulge tightening against his jeans. Discreetly, your hands start to unzip his pants. 

He grabs you from your chin, looking down at you. He slowly begins to lean in, you shut your eyes welcoming the kiss. Though, the absence of his lips on yours annoyed you; until you felt him sucking on your neck. Toji made sure to plant a mark on your skin, completely branding you from anyone who stared at you for longer than he wanted. 

Feeling his hot breath on your skin and the lingering pain on your neck. “I don’t come in drunk girls.” You heard him. Stunned at his words, he took the chance and carried you over to the couch.  The quiet of the bar settled around you two, soft and almost surreal after the chaos of the night. Your head rested lightly against Toji’s chest, your fingers still lazily tracing the fabric of his shirt. The earlier tension, the heat, the shouting–it had all faded into something calmer now, more intimate, more real.

“You didn’t say no.” You murmured, your voice soft, almost sleepy. The questions you asked him earlier are coming back to your now-sober mind. 

“To what?” He asked, tone flat, though his hand subconsciously tightened slightly around your waist. He knew what you were pertaining to however he wanted to hear it again from you in order to confirm if you were actually serious with your bold confession. 

“You know,” You whispered, letting your forehead rest lightly against him. Feeling your cheeks flushing a brighter shade of red with every word you uttered. “to giving me a chance.” You buried your face in his chest, giving his arm a pinch when you felt him poke your waist. He was trying to lighten the moment seeing how you were getting more flustered. 

Toji stayed silent for a long moment, studying you. Your hair was messy from the night, your makeup slightly smudged, your cheeks flushed with the alcohol and the thrill of boldness. He could feel your breath warm against him, the weight of your body light yet tethered firmly to his.

“You’re drunk.” He said finally, but it was gentler this time.

“I know.” You admitted, the edge of stubborn pride in your words fading into something softer. You were absolutely drunk. “ But I mean it.”

His gaze softened imperceptibly, though he didn’t look away.

“You don’t make this easy.” He muttered.

“I wouldn’t expect anything less.” You teased softly, though your words were slower now, heavier, more sincere. Locking eyes with him, he wanted to look away seeing how much you were trying to decipher him to get your answer. But it was hard for him when you were reaching up to him, pressing a quick kiss on the corner of his lips.

The night stretched quietly around the two of you. The empty bar, the faint hum of the lights, the lingering scent of spilled drinks and faint citrus–it all felt suspended in time. You finally let yourself relax fully, sinking closer into him, your small, tired sighs mixing with the quiet beat of his steady presence.

Hours later, the bar had long since closed. The music was gone, the lights dimmed further, leaving only the soft glow from the outside streetlights through the windows.

Toji was silent, carrying you carefully through the empty space. Your head lolled slightly against his shoulder, your weight heavy but not burdensome. He moved with practiced precision, almost as if he were afraid of letting you slip–not that he would ever admit it aloud.

You barely registered the journey to his office. One moment, you were still dozing lightly in his arms; the next, you were gently set down on his couch. You nestled into the soft cushions, curling slightly as sleep overtook you completely.

Toji sat down beside you, keeping a quiet watch. He let his hand rest lightly against your back, tracing small, absent-minded circles with his thumb. His sharp features softened in the dim glow of the lamp beside the couch, a faint tension finally leaving his shoulders. He didn’t move, didn’t speak, simply let you rest.

“You’re impossible.” He muttered quietly, almost to himself. But the corner of his mouth twitched upward slightly, betraying the warmth he didn’t say aloud.

You murmured something unintelligible in your sleep and shifted closer to him instinctively. Toji leaned in just slightly, careful not to disturb you, but enough to press a gentle kiss against the top of your head. He gave in to it completely–your boldness, your persistence, the way you had claimed your chance–and for the first time that night, he let himself be soft.

The room was quiet again, but this time, it wasn’t empty. There was warmth, and closeness, and the unspoken promise of more to come. You slept peacefully, finally safe in the knowledge that he was there. Toji, watching you carefully, allowed himself to relax completely for the first time in a long while, holding you in the quiet of the night.

As the first hints of dawn crept through the blinds, you murmured in your sleep again, and Toji pressed a faint, reluctant smile to your temple. “Happy birthday, sweet girl.” He whispered, his voice low but full of affection. And for that quiet moment, the world felt perfect–the chaos, the alcohol, the confessions–it had all led here. You were finally where you belonged, and he was finally letting himself stay.

It was a birthday to remember, the kind you’d never forget–the night of laughter, bold confessions, and soft, unspoken promises. And as you slept on his couch, safe and warm, Toji realized, perhaps for the first time, that sometimes giving in… was exactly the right choice.

The first hints of sunlight slipped through the blinds, painting the quiet apartment in soft gold. You were curled up on the couch, half-buried in the cushions, utterly asleep, your breaths slow and steady. Toji sat beside you, leaning back against the armrest, one hand resting lightly on your shoulder, the other idly tracing circles on your arm as if he could memorize every inch of you in that quiet moment. 

The night replayed in his mind–the chaos of the bar, the clumsy drinks, your bold, drunken confessions, and the way you had dared him to give in. He let out a low, almost amused sigh. “You really do have a way of mocking me,” He whispered softly, the corner of his mouth twitching upward. “but… I wouldn’t have it any other way.” 

And for the first time that night, Toji allowed himself to relax completely, letting the warmth of you pressed against him sink in. The teasing, the chaos, the drunken insistence–it had all led to this quiet, perfect moment. And as he watched you sleep, a faint smile tugged at his lips, knowing that if tonight had taught him anything, it was that some battles were impossible to resist–especially when they were about you. Mocking you had started as a playful trick, but now, in the soft glow of morning, it felt like something much more: a promise, a beginning, and a quiet confession of his own heart.