Determined Wild Piglet

“You look terrible.” “I don’t care if I’m sick, I will throw shit at you.”

carrying them back to bed and tucking them in

“You try to get up again and I swear by everything that is holy, I will tie you down.” “Kinky.” “Sleep!”

holding them through a coughing fit, wiping sweat and hair out of their face

“How am I supposed to say no to that cute face?” “… Can you bring me my laptop—” “No. Now sleep.”

head scratches, curled into their lap

“I’m making you my mom’s home remedy. I remember about 80% of the recipe, the rest is a freestyle, but it’s the thought that counts, no?” “Give me the number for posion control.”

testing their temperature not with a thermometer or their hand, but with kisses

“I’m sick, I’m allowed to be whiny.” “Hm. Fine, just this once.”

feeding soup even when the other protests that they can eat by themselves

“Why are you here?” “I heard you’re sick. Didn’t want our petty grievances getting in the way of keeping your ass alive.”

gently feeding them broth, soup and tea

“This is humiliating.” “Nothing humiliating about asking for help every once in a while.”

bringing medication to their bedside and trying to decipher the doctor’s scribbles instructions

“You’re hot.” “Thank you, love, but I don’t think right now is the time to—“ “You’re burning up. You have a fever.” “Oh.”

the bedroom slowly getting more cluttered as medication, bowls, books, games, tissues, and other stuff piles up

“Did you manage to sleep a bit?” “Mhm. Weird dreams though.”

staying up at night with with worry, holding their sick lover to their chest and watching over them

“We’re having movie night and I get to pick the movie, because I’m sick and require pampering.” “You’re pushing it.” “You know you love it.”

“Study and work.” She’s soo much like her it’s soo uncanny. “Though here’s a question for curiousity’s sake. If ya did have time for dating? Would you though??” He couldn’t help but ask the question.

A sweethearts love... Despite its sad ending, Haruko couldn't help but think Yusuke was lucky. That was such a rare kind of romance, the one she saw in dramas and read in books. She was wondering what the promise was... And despite Yusuke saying he had no qualms being asked further, she didn't have the heart to. It was too cruel.

Hah, looks like he’s got her hooked on the prospect of tasting his own pizza. It’s something he learned during his days within the Yakuza after befriending the owner of an authentic Italian restaurant within Tokyo. But that was definitely an adventure for another day as he continues to eat. Still, the pizza they got was pleasant and definitely something he’d order again if the opportunity arises.

And then- “Owowow…” He spoke in a soft nasally tone after she’d gotten a hold of his nose once more. “It was js’ a joke..” He spoke in slight distress after she had finally shown mercy and releases his poor little nose from her vice. “Might need a new sniffer now.” His words were soft as he began sniffing and miraculously enough..he still has his sense of smell.

She felt horrible for insinuating what she did earlier. So there was a heartbreak in his past... Part of her couldn't picture it -- he was always so positive and confident, after all. But then again... It didn't come as a total surprise. Yusuke was a thoughtful guy. It was equally baffling to picture him without anyone by his side.

"I don't flirt with anyone," she retorted with a huff, picking her slice of pizza back. "All I do is studying and work part time. I don't have time for dating."

Not that she'd dislike it... In fact, quite the opposite. She had always been a romantic one. But the anxieties over her scholarship always won her mind over her heart, and she ended up pouring all her energies in what she had to do in order to carry on without being a weight for her family: graduating on time, and earn as much as she could on her own to sustain herself.

“You kiddin’?? Look at me and then look at you. I look like yer run-of-the-mill bad boy, while you’re there all ya know, hot n’ beautiful.” He took another slice and took a bite out of it, leaving the conversation hanging in the air for the moment as he continued to chew before finally swallowing. “Anyone who has a crush on you, but saw that I’m with ya would wait. I mean for a nice ass like yers and yer smart?? Yeah, he’d wait.” Yusuke smiles and affectionately taps the top of her head with his clean hand.

"I mean for a nice ass like yers and yer smart??" He was concluding. "Yeah, he’d wait."

She forced herself to chew on her mouthful and swallowed with struggle. How could anyone say such stuff so easily? She even blushed at the mere thought of them, but Yusuke spoke them so nonchalantly, and they had only known each other for such a short time.

Maybe he's just like that with everyone, she thought with a hesitant look in his direction. Someone who compliments people and is nice.

She was glad the conversation shifted to the food area. She managed to finish her slice with ease and smiled, taking another slice as she giggled at Yusuke's detailed comment on the dough.

"You sound like an expert," she said. "Now I gotta try this pizza of yours too--"

But upon hearing his last suggestion, she went red as a tomato and the slice slipped from her hand, back on the box.

"You-- NO!?" Her hand instinctively reached for his nose with a lethal pinch. "What has gotten in your mind?! Perv!"

Yeah, she thought bitterly, he's definitely like that with everyone. It couldn't be different, for someone who suggested to kiss so casually...

“That’s cause I was probably hopin’ I’d just skip all of that t’gether.” Hmmm he’s definitely not going to get that kiss now. “Remember when I said that underground fight joint was a place demons and humans go t’ duke it out..and there’s also a lot of dangerous gimmicks etc?? Well..keep that bit of info in your head.” He spoke as he stepped into her flat as he began the story. “Okay soo the kid’s good..his old man..he’s great too. He’s not 100% Let’s just say I got about 95% of him back t’ his kid. So, apparently he’s kinda in a tight spot now, owed a family some money, they’re not patient and that’s when they took him. Hence the kid’s phone call.” 

Until she realised something.

"Wait... What do you mean you got only 95% of him back to his son??" She shivered. "I mean... You're not saying..."

“He’ll probably be back before me.” He said softly as he then gives her another gentle kiss, leaning into her, increasing its passion before pulling away. Thats when Puu flops onto his head and he’d proceed to leave from the window. Radio silent without any of them to bother her until a familiar chirp was heard. “Puu.” It said happily as Puu flaps his floppy ears until he manages to fly into her apartment. Happily looking at her and not a single part of him ruffled or dirty, however Puu seemed to be in high spirits.

"Ah," she stammered. "That's... Nice."

At Yusuke's eagerness to resume their previous conversation, however, she was quick to pause him but pushing a finger on his lips, making sure to keep some distance between them and hers.

Considering the stuff her flat’s already been through..and there’s a part of him that would prefer he stay with the victim in the first place as he could provide better protection, he fears that his mere presence might bring forth bigger threats now that her scent had already been garnered by one demon. So having the two girls together with Puu on the way should be the best course of defense.

The girl actually had a weak smile on her face, extremely happy but exhaustion from sleepless nights kept her from showing how visibly joyous she felt. A night where she’s not alone and there were finally people who took her seriously and did not mock her for being overly paranoid over nothing, blaming it on nothing more than anxiety. “Thank you, thank you soo much..” She managed to speak out, there were signs of tears beginning to form from the corner of her eyes out of sheer gratitude.

"Okay, I'll..." She sighed. "I'll do my best."

But still, she had a feeling Yusuke was severely overestimating her. What use could she have for someone who just udnerwent a serious case of haunting? Sure, she knew some stuff after having been around Yusuke for a good time now, but still, she felt totally useless whenever it came to these situations... Yusuke was the expert. All she did was always follow his lead and try to add some of her own reasoning on it.

He smiles, winding a single arm after hearing the new plan, make the beverage with her guiding him? Oh that can work easily, after all this was her tradition and the last thing he needed to do was give her rotten memories because the hot chocolate doesn’t taste as good as her grandmother makes it. 

“Still think I’m not tall enough. At least not the height he wished he was that made him soo small, he’d probably look like an angry munchkin because of his height in comparison to taller victims, but it makes their inevitable defeat all the more enjoyable for him. Now he’s helping her set the lights above the window, and without the use of a stepstool either.

"Well, you can learn to think like me," she suggested with a grin. "You may not be a giant, but you're doing a great job at helping me out here."

And with those words, as soon as the lights were up, she took a quick step back to admire the result. She nodded, satisfied.

"yep, definitely a great job. They look so pretty!" She clapped her hands enthusiastically. "Alright, I say it's a great time for chocolate. I'll finish putting up the rest of the decorations while I give you instructions on how to make it. We need to chop the chocolate first, though."

With that, she headed back to the kitchen corner, bending to open the small fridge and picking all the ingredients she needed from them. But as soon as she put them on the counter, a light Pu! caught her attention; Haruko glanced up to see Puu perched on one of the cupboards, right over her head.

"Silly! What are you doing there?" She laughed, "Why don't you come help us...?"

Only then she realised what he was holding in his beak. The small branch of mistletoe she had taken away from Yusuke a few moments ago.

Uh-oh...

“Well, not much we can do now…”

Even if the guy in line before them had been a shamelessly rude asshole, Ryuji wasn’t about to stoop to his level. No, he would grit his teeth and remain as quiet as he possibly could - a difficult feat for him but one far more preferable than causing a public fuss.

By the time the guy finally slink off - Ryuji’s mood perked up immediately as he stepped into line!

“Yeah a chestnut latte! Maybe something with lemon if they have it…!” He pipes up immediately - Haruko could tell him how the pumpkin loaf tasted, yet as his gaze scanned the baked goods on display in brief distraction - content to just let Haruko take control of the order…something seemed be very, very wrong here. He looked up just in time to hear the woman’s words.

“No more pumpkin loaf…?” His voice comes almost hoarse and disbelieving.

He didn’t care about having a bit of pumpkin loaf for himself but seeing how torn up Haruko was over it…he couldn’t help but feel awful for her - especially knowing it was that rude prick with the cellphone who had taken it. Feeling the need to act, he moved forward before he could stop himself.

"Ah-- Well," the barista gave Haruko an awkward smile, "We have dorayakis... We could spread some chestnut paste on one of them, if she likes," she offered with a tentative nod. "But we never tried it before, so we cannot guarantee how it would taste..."

"That's okay!" Haruko perked up at the offer. "It'll go well with the latte at least! In fact," she said, nodding at her friend, "make it two!"

The barista gave them a hesitant nod and typed in the full amount on the cashier. Haruko was quick to fish her card and gave Ryuji a light smile.

For a moment, Yoichi took a few sips of his tea and thought upon the subject for a moment further. While he would have preferred to be training himself, he knew that it simply wasn't possible and he had slowly learned to accept that as a fact - - helping others to train, be it to lofty heights or simple better fitness. There was much variety, many possibilities.

His dear company's suggestion truly caught him by surprise and he offered such an expression while his mug was part-way to his lips; wide eyed and partially slack-jawed.

"If you're sure you wanna do it - I can make it as fun as I can." Running could be laborious and exhausting - but if done right, with the right mind and the right company... it could be an enjoyable way to clear ones mind, to find a little freedom in an otherwise busy life. "The company will be nice and you'll definitely be feeling better in a few weeks, I can promise you that."

Having more energy while studying was useful, or so he found. It could always be different for someone else and it was important to remember that, but Yoichi liked to remain positive. Besides, if Haruko ended up just not liking running, there were other things they could try. Like swimming - - or long walks.

Speaking of, as she glanced at the clock hung on the wall, Haruko nodded her lunch break was almost over. She gave a pondering hum, took a napkin from the table and fished the pen she kept in the pocket of her apron, scribbling down her name and phone number.

As he’s eating his share of the food he’d noticed a shift, then his eyes turned to her. He knows that sign all too well. The ‘i bummed myself out’ sign’. He’s seen it far too often within his run-ins around town and maybe sometimes in the arcade. It’s usually when something’s said dropped the mood..but he couldn’t quite capture whatever it was he said that might have done this to her. Maybe it was the fact that he gave her the idea of him being her househusband..but then she went and excluded herself from that hypothetical scenario. OOOH right, she must not see him as marriage material, and the thought of being tied with him was just not something she liked picturing. Hmmm..he really was just her friend with the benefits of being in a relationship. No he shouldn’t think like that..because she’s still always incredibly nice to him.

So he pretty much figure that he’s just a friend who she finds comfort in exploring the aspects of physical pleasure. Yeah that’s it..something deeper than just friends with benefits as they had a foundation. Still, he couldn’t exactly leave this place with her being in this kind of funk. Hmm, there was the object of tossing a piece of food at her..but that’s wasteful, Oh-

“Next time, pace yourself.” He spoke softly. “It’s because ya ate too quick.” That’s when he stretches a hand out, leaning towards her, and gently pats the top of her head. “But I like it when ya enjoy my cookin’ soo much that ya just can’t help yourself.” Just get away from the subject of dating and marriage completely and focus on the food. ‘C’mon little buddy help me out here.’ Yusuke said within his mind, and just then Puu kept a large piece of bacon within those tiny fingerless stumps of his and waddled his way towards Haruko and found himself comfortable in her lap and began munching, while giving her what Yusuke’s heart desperately wants to..and that’s affection. 

Enjoying it so much she couldn't help herself. Haruko mutely reflected on those words as she distractedly caressed Puu's head as he ate. It didn't just apply to Yusuke's cooking, didn't it? The more she found herself around the guy, the more she realised how, despite all the troubles he came with, hanging out with him was fun. Cosy, even, like when he made himself at home cooking for her. And she was quickly getting used to it. Too quickly.

I shouldn't, she decided with a slight frown. I shouldn't give it for granted.

Yusuke told himself he wasn’t going to think about the night , in fact, he forbade himself from even dwelling on it too much but he just couldn’t help himself. It was nice lying with her, to enjoy her company and let the sound of her own snoozing guide him into dream world. It’s been a while since he’s gotten a good night’s sleep like that…well, more hours would have been preferable; however, he’ll take what he can get with her. “Hat’s happenin’ t’ me?” He asked himself with a sigh escaping him. “Right..let’s jus’ get through breakfast..” Yusuke tried coaching himself and once his sleeves were rolled up and his hands washed, he began the preparation process.

From here he’d crack eggs, chop herbs, season meat all in quick succession because of his own supernatural abilities and reflexes, by the time she’d remove herself from the bathroom he has a plate set with a mountain of scrambled eggs with strips of bacon laying upon it to provide a little extra flavor while they’re being cooled, there was also a bowl of rice for the two of them and a large steamed fish to share. He had also made soup and had prepared three bentos of rice curry, all for her. Then last but not least he had his way with the fruit in her fridge, cutting them into pieces to make her a nutritional fruit salad. 

"How did you cook all of this in such a short time?" She asked baffled as she sat at the table, putting Puu on the chair next to her. "This could last me a week! ... Well, maybe half a week," she grinned, serving herself a large portion of eggs and bacon along with some rice and soup. "I'm really starving today. Wanna share the fish?"

She dug in with a quick 'itadakimasu', chomping on big mouthfuls with an eager smile, alternating each mouthful with a hum of appreciation. Everything was delicious, as expected.

"So good," she exclaimed, going for seconds. "You certainly would make a great husband...!"

The words came to her lips without she really realised it. Once she did, her cheeks warmed up in a blink, and she almost chucked on her mouthful of rice.

"... F-For a lucky girl, someday!" She recovered with a little cough and an awkward smile.

And then she thought... Whoever the lucky girl might be, she would get to sleep next to Yusuke every night. And Puu would also be with her, likely...

... Suddenly, her appetite was mostly gone.

“Oh come on you’ve seen me naked a couple of times already, you’ll be fine.” He spoke so casually while wearing an enthusiastic smile upon hearing that he’s going to be preparing breakfast for her too. At the very least they get to eat together before he departs. Puu was seemingly even more cheerful by Yusuke’s silent confirmation regarding the plans for the day.

“See?? Knew you’d be hungry, your body’s a lot more honest than you are.” There’s that giddy grin on his face before he shuts the door behind him and in mere seconds Yusuke exits the room completely dressed. Begs the question of why he didn’t just do that instead of giving her a little show for the eyes? “H’alright it’s time t’ get the fire started. He spoke with a smile on his face.

The news of more delicacies coming up definitely put her in a good mood -- Yusuke's cooking was another thing she had a weak spot for, as his food was never short of delicious. She stoo up with an eager smile and gave him a nod as she headed back to her bedroom.

"Thank you," she said, facing from the door before closing it. "You can use anything you need that's in the fridge. I went groceries shopping two days ago, there should still be enough stuff."

With that, she shut the door and put Puu on the bed before taking off her pajama. She hesitated for a moment before removing her underwear, giving Puu a hesitant look -- would it have ruined his innocence?

"I'll finish changing in the bathroom," she decided with an embarrassed smile as she bent over to kiss Puu's head. "I'm not gonna bring you in the shower with me today, after all," she added taking in a breath of his scent and smiling at its familiar smell. "You do still smell very good. Like your owner." Then she winked at him and put a finger before her lips. "Don't tell him I said so."

With that, she went into the bathroom, took off the rest of her clothes and jumped in the bath tup for a quick shower. While washing up, she thought if she, too, smelled like Yusuke after having slept next to him for the whole night. Or maybe not... What would she smell like to him? Was it as nice and pleasant? Oh no, what if she smelled some bad morning breath from her...?

Who cares, she thought with a frown as she closed the tap. You are the creep going around smelling people, stop being weird! Then you say Yusuke is the perv...!

She wrapped herself in a tower with a sigh and went back to the bedroom, greeting Puu once again with a smile. She took some clean clothes and put them on before taking Puu in her arms, ready to head back to the kitchen. Her hair was still damp, but her stomach had started growling impatiently, and the smell coming through the door was so inviting...

It never stoppedbeing cute when she does that. Holding on to Puu’s innocence everystep of the way. Frankly he doubts that’d change when she finds out about Puu’s true nature of practically being Yusuke’s heart and soul. “Owe ya one.” There’s a smile on his face as he took hold of the towel and left the clothes upon the bed as he left to go and take his bath.

Puu remained around her, happily in her arms..especially once she had come closer to take in his scent. Content he’s able to put a smile on her face and even more so he’s able to spend what little time he has of the day until they have to leave.

"And I have to spend it studyin," she groaned, putting the cup down to hold Puu with both her hands and give him a sad pout. "I'm sorry Puu. I would have much preferred spending the day with you, I swear. I'll miss you!"

Finally, the click of the door opening announced Yusuke was done. Haruko glanced up, ready for her turn, but stiffened on her place upon witnessing Yusuke in his underwear... And much less on. The few second her eyes took to wander on his figure were enough to make her cheeks fry for the heat -- suddenly, she was both aware of wearing a silly pajama and of how tight Yusuke's underwear was.

"I-- Why don't you put on some clothes first, perv?!" She exclaimed, throwing him one of the cushions. She was quick to bring her eyes back on Puu, the only thing in the room able to keep her gaze on it instead of letting it wander back to Yusuke.

"You don't have to cook," she muttered, stubbornly playing with Puu's ears. "Unless you're hungry. Then, help yourself to whatever is in the fridge. I..."

She hesitated, her stiff shoulders dropping down suddenly. She realised how, for the first time in a week, she felt peckish for breakfast. Clearly, a good sleep can restore hunger too.

“Study time huh..well, we wouldn’t disturb a great student from her studies.” He spoke softly shifting his eyes at the top to try and get a gander at Puu. “Looks like it’s just the two us…I’ll make sure ya get a good seat so ya can get the best view of the fights.” Yusuke spoke up as puu hops once in utter glee at the prospect.

“D’aw you’d have me bathe here?? That’s nice of ya. Since yer home all day don’t worry about lunch and dinner.” That’s something he’ll handle for her himself quite personally. “That’s nice of ya, but you’d never have t’ owe me for keepin’ ya company. But I’ll happily take that towel thanks.” Yusuke then took Puu in both his hands and brought his form close to his nose and took a whiff. 

Haruko was quick to take Puu from Yusuke's hands and hold it tightly against her chest, hands over his ears to keep his pure mind safe from Yusuke's dirty comment...

... Although, really, there wasn't anything dirty to comment about. They only slept. Why did she feel so worked up about it...?

I was just embarrassed for having asked him to stay while I was half-asleep, she decided as she opened her wardrobe with a sigh and took a large clean towel from one of the shelves. That's it. Just some sleep talking.

"The shower gel, shampoo and everything else are all in the bathtub," she said, handing the towel to Yusuke as she nodded at the bathroom door. "I'll leave your change of clean clothes here on the bed and wait for you in the next room, so you can change in here."

She then sank her nose in Puu's fur and took in a deep breath. Yusuke was right, he smelled so nice...

... Kinda how Yusuke smelled last night, when she rested her forehead against his side, she realised, her cheeks suddenly bright red.