Yusaling

Ghouls Reactions: The ghouls react to you crying / The ghouls react to you crying pt. 2

Taking care of sick ghouls pt. 1 / Taking care of sick ghouls pt. 2 / Taking care of sick ghouls pt. 3

The ghouls taking care of a sick MC pt. 1

The ghouls' love language pt. 1 / The ghouls' love language pt. 2 / The ghouls' love language pt. 3

When you come back from a long trip pt. 1 / Part 2

Ghouls walk in on you dancing

Ghouls experience cuteness aggression pt. 1/ Ghouls experience cuteness aggression pt. 2

Kissing the ghouls to shut them up pt. 1

MC defending the ghouls

Ghouls react to a surprise back-hug pt. 1 / pt. 2

Story Fanfiction:

Taiga- "Caged" pt. 1 / "Caged" pt. 2

Jin- If you love me just say it / I'm sorry I'm late

Dionysia's Betrayal "Captivity" / Dionysia's Betrayal "The Escape" The Search (Day 3 & 4) / The Barrier (Day 5 & 6) / The War (Day 7)

Jealous MC x Ghouls Series: Jin Tohma Kaito Luca Alan Leo Sho Jiro Romeo Ritsu Towa Ed Haku Elias

The First Kiss Series: Jin Tohma Luca Alan Leo Sho Haru Towa Ren Haku Subaru Taiga Romeo Jiro Rui

The Love Triangle Series:

Leo & Sho Jiro & Yuri

Vampire MC x Ghoul Series: Jin Tohma Haku Taiga

What Remains (first encounter after memory loss):

Jin Sho

Everyday Life Headcanon and Voicelines: Getting Jin to stop smoking - 20 Missed Messages

Feeding Jin

Jin's Redemption Attempt

Tohma's Suppressed Feelings

Alan on Your Period

A Night Drive With Alan

Phone Snatching- Leo

Bike Ride with Sho

Haru's Sad Eyes

Sleepover with Ren

Overprotective Ritsu

Ed Drinking Your Tears

Head lap- Ed

Picnic Date with Rui

Petting Lyca

Jealous Yuri

Intellectual Flirting with Elias

Fight with Elias

JIN

Oof, the Jin hate hurts me a little (even though I get where it’s coming from). I might get hate for saying this, but I think he’s one of the most misunderstood??? But that’s also the whole point of his character. He’s the cold, isolated king who’s built walls around himself betrayal after betrayal because, deep down he’s a sensitive man who’s terrified of getting hurt again. Can I relate to the fact that he treats and calls the person he likes a servant? Absolutely not 💀 But it makes sense for him. That's how he grew up. He doesn’t know how to be vulnerable, so he uses his position to keep the people precious to him close. He is that good mix of anxious attachment and avoidant attachment all at the same time.  Maybe that’s why I enjoy writing him too. In almost every scenario, I can see so clearly how he’ll react. Cold words ➡️ Warm action. He’s definitely for the fans that love a bit of spice (and disrespect) but is also constantly reminded that you’re a special person to him. AND don’t get me started on the angst potential of this man. He just seems like the type to always end up regretting doing too much…or… not doing enough. Not saying the right thing…or…Saying anything at all. Letting you into his heart…but also…never opening up to you. 

TOHMA

OOOH MY LORD. I love writing for this man if you couldn’t tell already. He’s the character that’s always wearing a smiley-faced mask to hide the darkness underneath. (I want to believe that the monocle is symbolic of that. Sir…I know you can see just fine.🧐) His character just makes so much sense to me. Like the fact that he used to be in Vagastrom??? That explained SO much. Like how he’s kind of sharp and spiky underneath the perfect Frostheim vice-captain act. On top of that, he's constantly living with that dissonance and it seeps out when he talks. He’s speaking politely with fancy lingo and pretty flowers…but there’s something cutting about it. I just imagine he’s probably judging the Frostheim students so hard 24/7. Also, the fact that he seemingly struggles with anxiety and sleep so much that he needs medication, yet buries himself under piles of work every day?!?! It’s actually heartbreaking. I can’t help but hope that he fulfills whatever he’s working so freaking hard for.  Writing-wise, he’s easily one of the character that I create the most tension with. Like his words can feel like a dagger or a warm hug. Some days he’s the gentlest, sweetest partner, at other times he’s a...😈 Depends on the day…and how thirsty I’m feeling lol. 

KAITO

In the beginning, Kaito was one of those characters that I didn't expect would have many fans/supporters??? He’s basically Zenitsu ⚡from Demon Slayer in every possible way. But the more I progressed through the game, the more he grew on me. He’s incredibly caring…but can be pretty selfish sometimes. Can be superficial…but is also trying to grow to become a better person. The nuance of his character makes him relatable because usually, people aren’t just one side of a coin. Also, he’s one of the easiest to write for because he’s an open book. He tries so hard to hide all his weaknesses, but that's part of his charm too.

LUCA

Lucas is actually the character I picked at the start of the game because he seemed like the kindest one. But honestly, in the beginning, I was pretty disappointed at how rigid he was. (That’s on me though, I should’ve known from the character description.) But I know now, that this personality makes sense considering his past. A strict upbringing. The constant pressure of upholding the family name. And above all, the guilt of failing to protect the most precious person to him–his twin brother. That’s why he’s so uncompromising. Honestly, I think it’s part of his character arc, to really learn what protecting others means. Sometimes it’s standing your ground. Sometimes it’s adapting. And he learns especially being with the chaotic duo.  One of my favorite Luca scenes is when Jin slaps him after fighting in the pit with Sho. Not because he gets slapped 😅 But because Lucas learns very quickly that although a sense of justice is important, it’s not enough on its own. His clouded judgement, may end up hurting the people he vowed to protect. I think his journey is to learn how to be more flexible and nuanced without losing his moral compass.  Writing him is really hard sometimes, but basically I ask, “What would a gentleman do?” And that’s Lucas. (BTW I still don’t know if it’s luca or lucas. The game uses both.) 

ALAN

Ugh. This. Man. Is my ideal type 😭 They really captured the himbo-ness of him. Which according to wikipedia means, “Attractive, well-meaning, but unintelligent or naive man.” Though, I disagree with the unintelligent part. Alan is not dumb at all. He just has his own ways of doing things that might be considered “old school” or the “long way.” That’s why I love the dynamic between Alan and Leo because they fill for what the other lacks. Almost like a perfect puzzle piece...Almost. One of my favorite things about Alan is that he never tries to be cool…it just kinda happens. That’s why everyone in Vagastrom, even the gangs from “The Vanishing Homeroom,” respects him. He lives by his absolute principles. For example, he’s determined not to use his fist to hurt others unless it’s to protect another person. Re-reading Deadly in Love, I noticed how Alan is the first to think about everyone’s safety. Not just MC but the ghouls and the staff too. Like he was always thinking/asking about the staff.  Writing for him, I always have the least amount of dialogue 😁 It’s all in the action (or lack of it). His awkwardness, bluntness, his warm heart, head-pats, silent acts, everything jumbled together creates a giant loveable bear. I especially love throwing him in random scenarios because outside of working out, fixing cars, or going on missions, this man does not know what’s going on. 

LEO 

Oh boy. Where do I start with this one? Leo’s character progression is one of the best parts of the story (imo). But for that progression to HIT…he's absolutely awful in the beginning. The nickname Demon 👹 is literally perfect for him because the amount of times my jaw dropped at the things he said. And the English translation doesn’t do him justice because in Japanese, his words sting much more. I think mean characters are hard to write because their dialogue can come off as cheesy, but Leo’s words are like arrows that never miss 🎯 He knows exactly what to say to annoy, irk, or hurt someone. But as the story progresses, you see Leo use this same skill of ‘understanding people’ to uplift MC or teach something meaningful to Alan. He’s the type of character you can absolutely dislike…but really hard to argue against, because he’s usually right. (He just says it in an unnecessarily blunt/mean way.)  I don’t think I’ve ever been able to make his comebacks as creative as the ZigZa writers. But whenever inspiration strikes, his fics come out so…crispy??? I credit all that to how interesting of a character he naturally is. Also…the tension!!!

SHO

Shohei Haizono. Hmmm. What can I say? He’s perfect!!! JKJK. I mean, sort of? Because of the Sho we know now (flirty, sexy cook, easy-going personality), we tend to forget where he started. This man was RUDE, on-edge, and intimidating too. He hated rules and authority which is pretty Vagastrom of him. And as his senpai, inspector, and someone connected deeply with higher-ups, the contempt was pretty clear. Only after seeing MC’s sincerity, did he start to put his guard down. In this sense, I actually feel like MC played an important role in Sho’s school-life because he’s mellowed so much since then. Maybe that’s why he’s pretty direct when it comes to his interest toward MC??? (...Or maybe I’m just over-analyzing and need to re-read the beginning.) Anyways, he’s still kind of a mystery to me. In the sense that I know there’s more going on (because Hyde exists), but it feels like there isn’t because he isn’t as suspicious as Haku or Elias. He feels…normal??? I don’t know how to explain it. Writing for Sho is like writing spicy fluff. He’s the perfect boyfriend/husband, but his personality and teasing keeps the relationship exciting. He’s sweet. He’s cocky. He’s smooth. AND OMG don’t get me started with the way he says senpai 😤 I swear I include that in every fic I write for him.

You’re in Tohma’s room, correcting some mistakes in the case files. You finish and start packing your bag. 

Tohma notices the shuffling, but doesn't look up.

“Done already?” 

“Yeah. There wasn’t much there.” 

“Oh.” His pen continues scribbling on paperwork. “I see.” 

You sling your bag over your shoulder. 

“You seem to be in quite a rush. Why not stay for tea? I bought a new brew recently.” 

“I’d love to, but I have to meet up with someone soon.” 

His hands pause. 

“Oh?” Suddenly, the room feels much colder. “With who?” 

“Tomoya.” 

A small smile appears. Too quickly.

“The new transfer student.” 

You nod. 

“How kind of you. You’ve been spending a lot of time taking care of him lately.” 

You blink. “...Have I?” 

The way he smiles makes your stomach flip.

“Yes."

He sets his pen down with deliberate care and rises from his seat.

"So much so that we haven’t played chess in a while.”

He walks around the table.

“Haven’t even had a cup of tea together.” 

Your feet step back instinctively.  

“Should I just assign you more work?”

You blink. 

“...What?” 

“You seem to find time for everyone else."

Every step you take, he closes the distance slowly.

"Perhaps I haven't given you enough reasons to stay."  

You laugh nervously. 

“H-Have mercy. I’m already busy as it is.” 

He covers his mouth with a quiet chuckle.

“You're right that would be very mean of me.” 

Your back brushes the cabinet. You don't remember walking this far.

Tohma tilts his head.

“Why are you moving away?” 

“Because...you keep getting closer.” 

He chuckles. 

“Only because you keep stepping back.” 

His hand rests against the cabinet beside you. He isn't blocking your way. But somehow, leaving still feels impossible.

He leans in close enough to whisper, “I’m starting to wonder if you’re avoiding me.” 

Your cheeks warm as he gazes at you silently. Waiting for an answer.

“I-I would never–” 

“Pfft.” He looks away briefly as a quiet laugh escapes him. “There’s no need to look at me like that. I’m only teasing.” 

You let out a breath you'd been holding. “Tohma, please stop teasing me like this. When you say it, it doesn’t seem like a joke.” 

Another soft laugh.

He pushes away from the cabinet and returns to his desk.

“You can spend time with others. I have no right to stop you.”

He adjusts his monocle.

“But don’t forget about your obligations to me...Understood?”

“Y-Yes.” 

“Good.” He starts working again like nothing happened. “You’re excused. Have fun...with your little friend.” 

Hotarubi

Subaru

“Meow!” “Whoa! You scared me.”  He looks around. “A-Are you lost?”  In response, you rub your head against his hand. His anxious expression turns into a smile.  “If you don’t mind…would you like to join me for some tea?”  Subaru searches a few things up on his phone. "Apparently, you can’t have sweets or tea…” He pours water into a matching tea cup and elegantly places it in front of you. “I’m sorry, this is all I can give you. I'll have something prepared for your next visit. ” 

Haku

You find Haku laying down on the ground, taking a nap under the sun.  “Meow.”  He peeks with one eye.  “...Hm?”  He smiles sleepily.  “You're looking for a place to nap too?”  He lazily lifts an arm, inviting you in.  “C’mere.”  You curl up against him. “Heh. Good choice.” 

Zenji

Zenji’s playing out in the rain again.  “Meow.”  He turns and immediately beams. “Oh my! Have your little ears led you here, to my Biwa playing?” A sudden gasp. “Oh, but look at you. You’re soaked.”  Zenji springs to his feet. “Saburo! Protect the cat with your body while I’m gone. I shall have Haku bring an umbrella for you.” He starts drifting off into the distance. “Just wait, I’ll be back soon!”

Obscuary

Ed

The 400-year old vampire knows it’s you immediately.  “My. Hello there, Little Lady. You look quite lovely in cat-form as well.”  He gently scratches your ears.  “This won’t do. A lady shouldn’t sit on the floor.”  So he picks you up and puts you on his bed.  You'll be his company as he watches youtube videos for the rest of the day.

Rui

“Meow.”  “Whoa!” Rui jumps several feet back. “You gotta be careful. I almost disintegrated you.”  But his surprise quickly turns to curiosity. He studies you from a distance.  “You look mega cute. Like cutie cute!” He grimaces. “Ugh. I wish I could touch you.” Suddenly, his eyes light up. “Just a sec!”  Rui comes back with a back scratcher. He extends it as far as it will go, and scratches your chin.  He looks like he’s in heaven.  “OMG. You’re so cute~”

Lyca

Lyca walks around campus with a puzzled expression.  “I swear I can smell her…”  “Meow.”  Lyca whirls around, ears perked and claws ready.  He growls. Cats are his natural enemy. “What do you want–”  He pauses. Sniff. Sniff. “Why do you smell like…” His eyes widen. “D-Did you…eat her?!”

Mortkranken

Yuri

(For some reason, I feel like he’d be allergic to cats. He just seems like the type) You hear a shriek.  You find Yuri looking at you in horror. A hand over his mouth.  “What is a creature like you doing here?!”  When you step closer, he jumps onto an operating table.  “S-Somebody! Get that thing out!”  …Later, he’s sneezing nonstop. 

Jiro

Jiro finds you in the lab. “I don’t know how you got in here, but you’ll comprise the lab’s sanitation. I’ll have to ask you to leave.”  He picks you up, carries you outside, and sets you down. You expect him to go straight back inside. Instead, he crouches down in front of you, quietly watching.  Suddenly… “Pfft.” You tilt your head. “No…It’s just. You look like a certain someone."

Dionysia

Elias

“Meow.”  He looks down at his feet. You’re curled around his legs.  “To what do I owe this pleasure?”  He gives exceptionally good head pats. You can’t help but purr.  He chuckles.  “You’re a lovely little thing. You remind me of a certain someone.”  After a while, he lifts you onto his desk.  Elias picks up a broom. So random.  “I’ll sweep up these paper sticks. I can’t have you choking on them.” He smiles. “Right…inspector?” 

Jo

“Meow.” You hop onto his desk.  “Hey, sweetheart. What are you doing here?”  He scratches your chin and strokes your back.  “Oh~Just a sec.”  He rummages through his closet before returning with some fabric.  A few minutes later, you’re dressed in ribbons.  He grins.  "I love making clothes for cuties like you. Next time you come, I'll have an outfit ready."

Mio

Mio’s working away…as usual.  You bite the hem of his jeans.  “Huh? What are you doing?”  You tug him to the nearest bench. “...You want me to sit?”  “Meow.”  “Hahaha. Fine.”  He relaxes into the seat.  You lay on his lap.  “Forcing me to rest, huh?” He smiles softly. “You’re just like her…” 

Shion

Frostheim

Jin

“Meow.”  Jin glares down at you.  “What are you doing here?”  You squeak a tiny noise, fur puffing up instantly. He shakes his head.  “You react just like her too.” He picks you up, bringing your face close to his. “...Do I really look that scary?” 

Tohma

Tohma’s on the phone.  “Yes. And I’ll take those documents–” He notices you. “I’ll call you back later.”  He steps toward you. “Looks like we have an intruder. I can't have you spilling secrets so I'll have to exterminate you immediately.” You freeze.  He laughs. “Pfft. I'm just kidding.” He crouches down, scratching your ear. “That reaction…you remind me of a particular someone.”

Kaito

You pop out of the bushes. Kaito shrieks.  “Y-you scared me.”  But when he realizes it's just a cat AND it happens to look exactly like you, he steps closer.  Cautiously, he scoops you into his arms. “Wow…you smell like her too.” He pauses. “Wait. That's so creepy!”

Luca

You find Lucas training.  "Meow." He gives you a gentle smile. “It's dangerous here, you know.” Lucas pats his forehead with a towel before crouching down.  He gently checks around your neck for a collar. “Someone must be worried about you.”  He picks you up.  “Let’s go find your owner.”

Vagastrom

Alan

“Meow.”  He looks down. From this angle, he looks like a giant.  Alan glances around, as if to make sure no one’s watching, then drops to his knees.  He searches through his pockets, then takes something out.  A cat treat. Does he always keep those in his pocket?  He watches you sniff it unappetizingly and frowns. “Wait a second. I'll get something else.”  He comes back with a strip of chicken.  …Not much better. 

Leo

“Meow.” “Huh? You've got a problem, cat–”  He stares for a while before a smirk spreads across his face. He opens his camera and snaps a picture. And another. And another. “I've gotta post this. You look just like her. Right down to that dumb expression~”  When you try to leave... "Hey. Where are you going? I need more photos."

Sho

Sho looks out the food truck and spots you. He ducks down, grabs something, then comes out. “Here. It’s mashed pumpkin. You can eat this, can't you?”  You refuse it.  “C'mon, you can't be picky with your veggies too.” Eventually, you take one bite…then another.  Damn. It’s good.  He chuckles as he pets your head.  “Good kitty.” 

Jabberwock

Haru

You’re roaming around Jabberwock when– “Watch out!”  You look behind to see a big boar charging right at you.  Just before it can run you over, Haru scoops you up. He takes you somewhere safe before scolding you. “I don’t know where you came from, but you gotta be more careful.”  But he gets distracted, staring at you face. He pets you with a wide smile. “You sure got a cute face, don’t ya.” 

Towa

You don’t even know where he came from.  “Kitty Dandelion~” He scoops you up and hugs you tight against his chest. “You’re so cute.”  You purr at the affection.  His voice drops. “You’re so weak and pitiful…it makes me want to protect you.”  HUH?

Ren

You enter his room while he’s gaming. You sit on top of his keyboard.  “Huh? What is a cat doing here? Move.” He pushes you off his desk. “And get out.”  He tries to resume but you climb right back on like a menace. “I said–”  He stops. His eyes narrow.  “...Senpai?” He shakes his head. “What am I saying? There’s no way.”  But this time, he simply scoots you to the side instead of pushing you off the desk.  “Fine. You can stay here. Just don’t bother me.”  In between matches, he may or may not run his fingers through your fur. 

Sinostra

Taiga

He crouches down, picks you up by the scruff of your neck, and brings your face close to his.  You can see his jagged teeth so well from here.  “You look a bit tasty. Are you an anomaly?”  You shake your head aggressively. “Gyahaha! No way you really responded.”  He sets you down before giving you a rough pat(?) on your head. “Don’t worry, eating kitty-cats aren't my thing.” 

Romeo

“Huh? What is a cat doing in the casino?!”  Romeo storms down the stairs and stops in front of you.  “Which of you WTWUT let it in…”  His voice trails off as he gets a good look at your face. “Sorry Romeo.” His underling immediately grabs you.  You yowl. “Hey! Don’t be so rough with it!” He shakes his head with a sigh.  “Bring it to my room. It might be useful later.” 

Ritsu

To avoid unwanted guests from crashing the party, the three of you decide to do the sleepover at your dorm. You spend the afternoon tidying up and making the room as cozy as possible. 

Fairly lights stringing from the ceiling.

Scented candles lit all around the room.

Extra blankets and pillows.

Matching PJs

Jo of course, brings matching pjs that he made himself. 

Jo sets his bag on the floor with a grin.  “Can't have a sleepover without these.”  He pulls out three silk pajamas with vertical stripes. Each in a different color.  “So this is why you asked about our favorite color?”  “Yup!”  You run your fingers over the fabric.  “They're beautiful.” Jo gives a small curtsy. “I’m glad you like them.”   Romeo takes one and immediately inspects it. “Hmm. The fabric’s good quality. The colors are nice. The seams are sewn well.”  Jo smiles.  “High praise from Romeo. I'm grateful.”  .... A few minutes later, all three of you are changed into your matching pajamas.  “We look adorable, don’t we?” 

Snacks & Movie

You volunteer to bring the snacks. This was an errand you actually enjoyed. 

You put together a simple charcuterie board with salami, cheese, crackers, sliced bread, tomatoes, and jam. 

Jo gasps at the presentation. “Wow! This is beautiful.”  “Thanks! I got a few tips from Sho.” Romeo huffs.  “Not bad for a BB.”  You roll your eyes with a smile. “I’m glad you like it, Romeo.” 

Of course you prepared all the other sleepover essentials too. Chips, popcorn, ice-cream for desert, and a few (mature) drink. 

Using a projector you borrowed from Mio, the three of you end up watching a cheesy romance film. 

Jo: “Awww. That’s so cute.”  Romeo: “They’ve only known each other for 48 hours.”  Jo: "Love works in mysterious ways.”  Romeo: “Love? That’s Delusion.” Jo: “Wait…MC, are you crying?”  You: “N-No. Popcorn just went in my eye.” 

Skincare

Now it’s time for skincare. Naturally, Romeo takes charge. 

He has a full suitcase dedicated to skincare. Cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizeers, eye cream. All neatly organized for different skin types and concerns.  

He even brought 3 led face masks for each person. He may or may not have bought it just for this occasion. 

Fun fact: Jo prefers doing his skincare in his male form because it keeps his hair out of his face.

Romeo watches you wash your face in disgust.  “BB…Are you trying to rip your skin off?”  So he reteaches you how to watch your face properly.  Then Romeo watches Jo wash his face. He simply nods.  “...Acceptable.”  ... You’re about to put on some lotion. “Come here,” Romeo motions you to him.  You obediently sit in front of him.  “I’m not trusting you with these serums.”  He pats each product into your skin with skillful hands. It feels like a nice massage.

Once everyone's' routine is finished, the three of you lie down wearing matching LED masks. 

You look like a bunch of villains.

Girls Talk

“There’s one thing we absolutely have to do.”  “What?” “Girls talk!”  The three of you lie on your stomachs in a circle, chins resting on your hands.  “I’ll go first.”  Jo flashes you with a mischievous smile.   “So…do you like any of the ghouls?”  Your eyes widen. Mouth agape.  “N-No way. I'm too busy for that.”  Romeo butts in.  “Good BB. Romance, especially with these GFNFs, is a complete waste of time.”  “GFNF?”  “Good-for-nothing fools, obviously.”  “Oh, right.”  Jo lets out a relieved sigh.  “I’m glad. For a while, I thought you might’ve liked Elias.”  You laugh at the thought.  “Glad we cleared it up because it couldn't be farther from the truth.”  Romeo scoffs, folding his arms. “That man is colored with red flags.”  Jo nods slowly. “I know he’s our member. But I’d have to agree.”  You all laugh at that. 

End of the Night

Romeo and Jo both value quality sleep, so the sleepover ends quite early. 

“It’s a queen-sized bed. I’m sure we can all fit,” Jo says, switching back to her girl form.  Romeo sighs as he slips under the blanket. “If this affects my quality of sleep, I'm leaving.”  And somehow, you end up squished in the middle.  The room falls quiet.  For the first time in days…your mind isn't racing.  You let out a small breath.  “Thanks, you guys.”  Jo turns toward you.  “Hm?”  “I…really needed this.”  Jo smiles warmly.  “Of course. We can do it again anytime. Right, Romeo?”  He lets out a quiet huff.  “Maybe...If I can fit it in my schedule.” 

______

Ghouls Reactions

Leo definitely wants to make content out of it.

Rui pouts all day after that.

Bonus Shion:  You’re at Dionysia. Swish. A card cuts through your sleeve, barely missing your skin. 

“Heard you had a sleepover without me.”  Steps closer.  “Without your husband.” Steps closer.  “You’re a bad wife.”  Steps closer.  “We’re having a sleepover at the heebie-jeebie house. Now. And we'll have so much more fun.” 

___

You expected Jabberwock. Not something that reminds you of Ultio. 

Subaru stands unusually still. His fists clenched white. 

You know what he’s seeing.

Lyca. In a dark cell. Cold walls. Two years. 

Two years of being treated like something dangerous before anyone ever gave him a chance. 

Your chest tightens as you rub his back to soothe him. 

Ultimately, you decide to carry the search alone to give Subaru some time. The quicker you leave, the better for him.

You check each room and cage carefully. 

Empty. Empty. Empty. Until–

You open another door.  

A putrid smell hits you immediately.  The heavy scent of blood.  Yet there’s not a single bit of red in sight.

In fact, the room is spotless. It’s clean. Too clean for an abandoned building. Too clean for this putrid smell.  

A tiny squeak interrupts your thoughts. You head toward the sound cautiously. Behind a fallen cabinet sits something small. A plant anomaly. 

It looks familiar so you pull out the file and flip through some pages. 

The image matches. 

“Exterminate immediately” Is stamped on the left corner.

Strange. You’ve never seen this before. Usually Darkwick prefers containment. 

But when you lowered the papers, the anomaly stared back at you. Calmly.

It doesn’t have any claws or visible teeth. It’s even small enough to fit in your hands. Anyone would argue that it’s harmless. That it couldn’t hurt a fly. 

And yet, even after multiple raids, it has survived. Out in the open. 

Its eyes move down slowly. Studying you. It only stops at the scrape on your knee. At the little blood that seeps out. 

Your stomach twists.  You’ve been in enough missions to know.  Something feels wrong. 

You step forward. 

“I’m sorry,” you whisper.  

You draw your blade. 

You raise your hand–

Shling. 

Subaru stands before you. Holding your arm. 

“...Suba?” 

His hand trembles against yours. 

“What are you doing?” 

You blink. 

“What?” 

“Has it attacked you?” HIs voice comes out thin. “Has it threatened you?”

“No, but look.” You hold up the file. “It says exterminate immediately.” 

He glances at the paper once, then drops his gaze.

“So just because it says that, you were going to do it?” 

“Subaru–” 

“We don’t know anything about it yet.”

"Yeah, but don't you smell the blood too?"

Subaru doesn't answer, he simply kneels down.

“You need proof? I’ll show you.” 

The moment Subaru’s eyes land on the anomaly, it starts shaking. As if the temperature dropped suddenly. Like it’s scared all of a sudden. 

He reaches for it. 

“Subaru, wait.” 

But he doesn’t stop. 

“Talnandio.” 

After a few seconds, Subaru’s eyes snap open. His face goes pale. 

You immediately crouch to steady him. 

His fingers curl. His voice cracks. “...They hurt it.” 

Your stomach sinks. Because you know that look. 

He isn’t seeing the anomaly anymore. He’s seeing Lyca. 

“It’s just…scared.” 

You know where he’s coming from. You've seen it all with your own eyes. But that icky feeling…it won’t go away. 

You speak as carefully as possible. “Subaru.” He looks up. “...Your stigma only shows fragments.” 

His glare hardens. At you now. 

“...What are you saying?” 

You swallow. 

“I’m saying neither of us know enough.” You see it in the corner of your eyes. His hands shaking into fists. 

“For now, we should take it back to the Darkwick and–”

“No.” His voice shakes. “They always do the same thing. They decide something is dangerous.” His shoulders tense. “They lock it up. They don’t listen.”  

He’s looking at you. But his eyes don’t feel focused. 

“The institute never listens.” 

Your chest tightens. 

“But I’m not them.” His gaze wavers. You continue. “I trust you…But I want to trust my instincts too.” 

His jaw tightens. 

For a second, you think he understands. 

Then– his eyes drop. 

“...You think I’m wrong.” 

“No.” 

“You think I’m being emotional.” 

“That’s not what I said!” 

He stands up abruptly. 

“Then why won’t you believe me?!” 

You freeze. Not once has Subaru ever yelled at you like this. 

He opens his mouth, lips trembling. As if he knows he’ll regret what he’s about to say.

“You’re just like them.” 

This time, his words are only a whisper. And yet, they pierce right through you. 

Realizing what he’s said, his face drains. His eyes widen. He looks at you. At the hurt he’s caused. 

“How...How could you say that?” 

You stand to your feet, tears in your eyes. 

He opens his mouth. But nothing comes out. 

You sigh bitterly. 

“You know what? Fine.” You turn. “Do what you want.” 

Subaru watches silently as you make your way to the exit. 

Then he takes out his scarf. The one he usually puts around your shoulders. 

And wraps the anomaly before carefully placing it into his bag. 

____

In the Galaxy Express. 

You sit a few seats apart from him. Arms crossed. 

The argument replays in your head. The yelling. The hurt. 

But you hate seeing that look on his face. Like he might burst into tears at any moment. 

You knew this wasn’t either of your fault. You were given a mission with little explanation. 

You wanted to protect Subaru. Subaru wanted to protect the anomaly. 

He’s still holding the bag tightly against his chest.

“...MC.” 

You stare out the window. 

“MC, I–” 

Squeak. 

Your eyes snap open. The bag starts to tremble until it shakes violently. 

“Subaru! Let go!” 

You rip the bag out of his hands and throw it. But it’s too late. 

Vines explode outward. Fabric tears into smithereans. 

Subaru jumps back. But you were closer and not fast enough. 

Squelch. 

Sharp pain flashes through your body. 

A choked gasp escapes you as you look down. A vine has torn across your side. Warm blood drips onto the floor. 

Subaru stares at you with eyes full of terror. His face goes white. 

It got you. Bad. 

“MC!” 

Subaru tries to run to you but the anomaly attacks again. 

He brings out his artifact, spreading the parasol open as a shield. 

The stems slam against it. Again and again. 

“Just–” He yells through the barrage of attacks. “Just stay there!” 

You’ve never seen him move so fast. 

He dodges. Redirects every attack while making sure none reach you. 

Slash. 

He rips through the anomaly.  It drops to the ground. 

Slash. He slices through it again. And again. Until he’s certain it’s no longer alive.  

Subaru pants, staring at the limp creature for a second before turning to you. 

You’re sitting against the wall. One hand pressed against your side. A pool of blood spilling out under you. 

“MC!” Subaru is immediately at your side. His hands hover over you, like he’s afraid his touch will make it worse. 

His breathing is more uneven than yours. 

“We’re almost there.” His voice cracks. “Just hold on.” 

You nod weakly. 

His shoulders start shaking. 

“This is all my fault…”

“Subaru…”

“I’m sorry.” His head lowers. “I’m so sorry.” 

His apology disappears beneath the sound of the tracks. 

“I thought I was protecting it.” Tears spill down his cheeks. A drop lands on your cheek. “But I was just protecting myself. I wanted to be right. I wanted so badly to believe it was innocent.”

He presses into the wound harder. “I kept saying nobody listened to me.” His shoulders droop even further. “But then, I didn’t listen to you. And I said such hurtful things.”  

You look at him. At the tears. And how hard he’s looking at your wound. 

You lift your hand and cup his face. He flinches at your touch. 

“Subaru. Look at me.” 

“I-I can’t.” 

“Not the wound. Me.”

Slowly, he does. 

You brush your thumb under his eyes. 

“Subaru. It’s true. You made the wrong call.” His face crumples. “But wanting to protect someone isn’t wrong. If anything…that kindness is why I fell for you.” More tears spill down his face. “But next time…can you trust that I’m doing my best to protect you too?” 

His expression softens at that. 

Finally, he leans into your palm. And nods. 

“...Okay.” 

“And.” He looks at you attentively. “Don’t give your scarf out like that. That’s only for me.”

He lets out a tiny laugh.  You do too. Then wince. 

“Ow.” 

“Meow. Meow. Meow. Our next stop is Darkwick Academy.” 

Subaru finally lets out a breath and presses his forehead against yours. 

His eyes shut. 

“You’ll be ok.”

____

Frostheim

During team dinner...

Jin seems to be in a particularly foul mood. Is it your imagination, or has he been glaring at you? 

Kaito and Luca have also been acting weird. Even on the way to Frostheim, they’d been exchanging nervous glances. 

Tohma sighs and sets his fork down. 

“No one has touched their food…Is something the matter?”  

Finally, and as usual, Lucas speaks up first. 

“Well, that may be because–”

Kaito covers his friend’s mouth.

“Shhh. This is one of those moments where you keep your mouth shut!” 

But Jin raises a hand.

“Let him speak. Say what everyone’s thinking.” 

Kaito fidgets in his seat.  

“Well...Isn’t that kind of like…her privacy?” 

You look around the table in confusion. 

“Uhh. What’s going on?” 

After a few moments of silence, Jin finally speaks. 

“Which house were you with last?” 

You blink.

“...Hotarubi?” 

Jin stands. 

Vagastrom

“Tch. I’ve lost my appetite.” 

____

5 minutes before the meeting…

The moment Leo sees you, a smirk spreads across his face.

“Well, somebody had fun last night.”

Alan looks around the room. “Who?” 

Leo sighs. “Nevermind. Our himbo captain wouldn’t get it.” 

Leo takes a seat next to you. Leaning in, ready for the tea. 

“So…who is it?” 

You tilt your head. “Who is who?” 

“Playing innocent, now?” 

“Hey,” Alan interrupts. “Quit bothering her.” 

Just then, Sho who had been listening walks in. 

“Senpai,” He points at the side of his own neck with a knowing grin.  “You might want to cover that up. Or we’re gonna have another Clash.” 

Jabberwock

You’re confused. Alan’s confused. 

____

“...Senpai.” 

You look at Ren. He looks at the ground. 

“...Nevermind.” 

He lays his head down on the table and buries his face into his arms. 

You’ve felt Haru’s gaze on you since you’ve sat down. 

“...Where were you last night?” Haru asks suddenly. 

“Huh?” 

“N-N-Nevermind. Let’s just start our meeting.” 

Towa barges in. 

“Dandelion!” 

He does his usual hug, rubbing his cheek all over yours. Then notices the mark. 

“Bug bite?” 

Ren flinches.

“Oooo~” Haru exclaims. “Gahaha! For a second, I thought you–”

Ren sits up immediately.

Sinostra

“Shut up, you clown!”

____

“Do you fools not understand what ASAP means–”

Romeo’s eyes widen. He’s looking at you, just not your eyes, that’s for sure. 

“Tch. How dare you come here looking like that.” 

“Huh? Looking like what?” 

Ritsu cuts in. 

“Although it may be unprofessional, it does not violate any school regulations.” 

You look down at your uniform, wondering if you’ve gotten a button wrong.

The door swings open.

Taiga as usual, saunters in late. 

He drops into his seat, takes one look at you and laughs. 

“Gyahaha!” 

“W-What?” 

He lazily points at his neck. 

“Come to my room later. I’ll give you another one.” 

Hotarubi

“ANOTHER WHAT?!” 

____

Everyone’s been acting weird this whole meeting. 

Zenji keeps fidgeting in his seat. Subaru has been avoiding eye contact with you. Meanwhile, Haku has been looking at you a bit too intently.

Finally, Haku reaches over and touches your neck. 

You flinch. 

“What are you doing, you lout?!” Zenji blurts.  

Haku smiles. 

“Just checking.” 

You take out your phone and look at your neck. 

A red mark. It resembles…something. 

“Ack.” You cover it. “It’s not what it looks like.”

“W-We weren’t thinking anything of it.” Subaru says quickly. But he’s terrible at lying.

You laugh nervously. 

“It’s probably just a bug bite. It doesn’t even look like a hickey.”

“Yeah, those usually have a different color.” 

You squint your eyes. 

“And how would you know that?” 

Haku scratches his neck. “Should we continue our meeting now?”  

Obscuary

“Don’t change the subject!” Zenji protests.

____

You were invited to dinner at Obscuary.

“Welcome cutie! Take a seat. Today’s your favorite!”

“Thanks Rui.” 

You sit next to Lyca. 

Lyca squints at your neck. 

“What’s that red thing?” 

“What red thing?” 

Rui leans over the counter to get a look. 

“...Wait.” His eyes widen. “Wait! Wait! Wait!” 

Lyca covers his ears. “You’re too loud, you blond gigolo." 

“What’s going on?” you ask. 

Ed appears out of nowhere, as he usually does. 

His cold finger touches the spot on your neck. 

“A naughty bug has bit you.” 

“...Oh.” 

“...Oh.” 

“...Oh.” 

A moment of silence passes as everybody feels relief for different reasons. 

The vampire smirks. 

“Though Rui, must’ve thought it was a–”

Rui coughs loudly. 

Mortkranken

“Let’s eat now. The soup's gonna get cold. ” 

____

Yuri pulls on a new pair of gloves. 

“I will be starting your inspection–”

He freezes. Then scurries a few steps back. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“J-J-J-J-Jiro!” 

Jiro enters the room.

“What is it, Yuri?” 

Yuri points at you with a trembling finger. 

“L-Look at that.” 

“What?” You instinctively touch your neck. “Has my lily mark spread?” 

But Yuri doesn’t answer, instead, he whispers into Jiro’s ear. “I-I-Is it what I think it is? Is it a…a.” 

He can’t even finish his sentence. 

Jiro steps toward you, takes a good look and asks, “Have you been sexually active recently?” 

“What?!” 

“If you have, that's important information. It may affect what treatment we give you.” 

Dionysia

“N-No, I’m not…active.” 

____

You enter the meeting room. Immediately, Shion’s up and close in your personal space. 

“We’ve been waiting for–”

His eyes trail to your neck. A blaring red mark. 

“Hmmm. Is that a–” 

Mio clamps his hand over Shions mouth before smiling at you.

“Welcome MC. Take a seat.” 

“T-Thank you?” 

You’re used to Shion being weird but everyone else is also… 

“Is something wrong?” you finally ask a few minutes in.

Elias smiles gently, resting his chin in his palm.

“Perhaps we should clear up the misunderstanding before we begin.” 

“And you don’t have to answer if it makes you uncomfortable,” Jo adds quickly.

You tilt your head. 

Elias chuckles. 

“It seems that everyone is curious about the red mark on your neck.

You take a look at the mirror across the room.

Heat rushes to your face.

“Oh...It’s just a bug bite.”

Everyone lets out a collective sigh.

“A mosquito bite?” Shion pouts. “How boring.” 

“Not that there would’ve been anything wrong otherwise,” Jo tries to backtrack. 

“Yeah, we wouldn’t have judged you.” Mio adds. 

“Yes. No matter what you do, you’re still our inspector.” Elias says.

You bury your face in your hands. 

“...Can we get back to the meeting now?”

____

Hi everyone! Sorry for not posting for a while, life hit me like a truck all of a sudden. You know how it be 😔

He still remembers the first encounter. Your eyes were glued to the ground so hard, you almost bumped into him in the train. 

Then, you looked up at him with tearful eyes. It looked like you were ready to run at any moment. So he tried to calm your nerves.

When he thinks back on it now, it still makes him laugh. Every flirting technique and smile he threw at you, it was like you had a shield to block all of it out. It was impressive, really. 

Who knew you would become an existence he couldn’t live without.

You came from a mission with Hotarubi, bringing a new member of Obscuary with you. Rui could tell, having someone to take care of was good for you. You looked at Lyca with eyes of adoration but also respect. He was giving you hope. That one day, you might be able to fulfill your deepest desire. To break the curse and become 'normal' again.

You threw yourself into everything. Whether you were reading case files, studying anomalous biology, working at the bar, or talking to the professors and ghouls, you were earnest. Hands always open to help. Mind always open to learn. It was amazing to watch.

Then he started seeing himself in you. His past self. Working too hard. Smiling with trembling lips. Desperately holding onto the hope that that one day your life won't be determined for you. 

It made you reckless at times. He still remembers the first mission. You had ran toward the anomaly to save that girl. Rui couldn’t help but think you were foolish. What could you possibly do?

But he knows now...those words were for himself. Because when you ran– he reached for you. Then, his hand stopped halfway. Because what could he possibly do? 

Touch you? Save you? No. 

He could do nothing but watch.

But that night had awoken something deep within him. It reminded him of the helplessness of his curse. It broke the illusion he told himself over and over. That this life was enough. That wanting more was pointless.

Every visit you made to that dark, depressing house. Every smile, every laugh at his jokes. Every time, you made him feel human again, he felt something growing in his chest. Hope. He thought he had buried that feeling long ago. He thought he no longer craved another person’s touch.

But when you stood beside him, he wanted to brush shoulders. When you looked at him with those eyes, he wanted to cup your face. And when you came to him on the verge of tears, he wanted to hold you and never let go. 

That terrified him. Because hope hurts the most. 

So he tried to distance himself from you. But it was impossible. You were like a single flower in the middle of a wasteland. And he was the bee, pathetic enough to keep coming back. 

This is dangerous. That night you fell asleep at the bar, there was no-one else around. He watched your peaceful state longer than he'd like to admit. He knew he shouldn’t. And yet, he couldn’t resist. He carefully took a strand of your hair, brought the ends to his lips. And pressed a kiss on it. This is dangerous. 

Then, it started happening. That light in your eyes, it was dwindling. Mission after mission. Disappointment after disappointment. You seemed to be carrying the burdens of the world. It broke him. Maybe even more than when he experienced the same thing himself. Because he wanted you to live. The thought of you disappearing scared him more than anything else in the world. 

If it’s to help you live…I'll do anything. That’s what he told himself. 

So when you were scouting for members, he was desperate to go on that mission with you. “Don’t take Jin. Take me.” He should’ve known…that decision would be his biggest regret.  

That night at Lockburn Castle is a nightmare he still wakes up to. Ed had told him "to prepare himself." Killing Kyklos was the only way to save you. He knew that and yet… 

When the moment came. He hesitated to take another life. He hates these hands. He hates that disgusting sensation of taking another’s breath to continue his own. For one selfish second, he wanted there to be another way. 

That single second cost you everything. 

Kyklos laughed in his face. That laugh stayed in his memories...Long after yours disappeared. 

The day you became Kyklos, Rui didn’t just lose a friend. He lost his soulmate. He lost his one true love, before he ever got to call it that.

And now Rui finds himself back at Lockburn castle. He looks up at the bell. The bell that supposedly brings happiness when rung together. If he brought you here. If the two of you had rung it together, would you still be here, right by his side? 

No. He knows better. Two curses don’t cancel each other out. They only prove that fate can be cruel twice over.

It would’ve never worked out. Not now. Not in a different lifetime. 

He dips his head into his hands. You two had made a pinky promise to “come back here again.” But now he sits beneath the bell alone. He doesn’t ring it. Because without you, happiness is impossible.

Unbothered Kings

Tohma: 

You open the door without knocking. Big mistake. “I see,” Tohma says calmly. “I still have much to teach you.”  “I-I’m sorry.” You leave immediately.  For a while there’s only silence.  Then, a quiet laugh escapes from the other side.  “Pfft...What an expression.”   

Alan:

You open the door.  And immediately freeze.  Alan looks up.  For a few seconds, the two of you just stare at each other??? Being half-dressed around Vagastrom is nothing new to him.  But the way you’re looking at him (or more like his abs), is making him feel a little flustered too.  “...You gonna keep staring?”  “No! I wasn’t— or I didn’t mean to—”  You cover your face.  “Sorry!” And escape as quickly as possible. 

Ritsu: 

You open the door. “Oh, MC.” Ritsu glances up at you, then down at himself, evaluating the situation.  “It’s common courtesy to knock.”  You turn quickly.  “Y-you’re right. I’m sorry.”  You grab the handle. “Where are you going? I’m not finished.” HUH??? “I must educate you on the laws regarding trespassing.”  OH. Fabric shuffles as he dresses.  “Entering private spaces without warning can lead to many misunderstandings but there’s also legal implications to consider—”  He pauses. "MC." "Y-Yes?" "Please look at me when I'm talking to you." He waits for you to turn around to continue. "As I was saying..." He doesn’t let you leave till he’s finished. 

Haru:

You open the door. He flinches in surprise. But immediately smiles. “You’re here early.” “S-Sorry.” ... “Gahaha! What’s that look on your face? You gonna watch me change too?”

Visible Blush Damage

Kaito: 

You open the door. “KYAAA!” Before you could process what's happened, Kaito put on his clothes with lightning speed.   “D-Did you see anything? “N-No?”  “Good." He scratches his neck. "J-Just so you know, my bodyisn’t in the best shape right now.”  "...I didn't see anything."

Lucas:

You open the door. “M-MC.”  "Sorry!" You turn around quickly. He also turns away, covering himself.   The tips of his ears are red. “W-What can I help you with?” 

Rui: 

You open the door. He’s genuinely flustered.  “Wait! Wait! Wait! You can’t see me right now! I haven’t worked on my beach body yet!”  "Sorry?" Afterwards... He keeps casually bringing up old surfing photos. "That one was last year." "Don't I look so cool in this one!" "This angle's bad but you get the idea."

Zenji:

You open the door. “Ah— Girl.” He covers himself shyly. Blushing a deep red. “I see you’ve come to see art. But I am not a gallery.”  lol.

Lyca:

You open the door and enter without looking.  “What are you doing here?”  When you see him, you gasp.  “S-Sorry!”  “Whatever. It’s not a big deal." Thankfully, it seems he didn’t take it too seriously.  But afterwards, when he walks out, he’s bright red. His ears tucked back.  “...Let’s go.” 

Mio:

You swing the door open. “Oh.” “Oh.”  Silence.  “I can tell you’re a craftsman.”  Wait. Did you just say that out loud? Mio’s eyes widen. His cheeks blush.  “Thanks?”  You leave immediately.

Reverse Uno

Haku: 

The door opens. You take one step in and you hear a soft awkward laugh. “Haha. Just wait outside. I'll be done soon." Your eyes widen.  “Oh! Sorry!”  You shut the door fast.  Silence. “So...did you enjoy the view?”  “I didn’t see anything.”  You can’t see it, but you know he’s smirking. “Mm. Sure you didn’t”  “Haku…” 

Leo: 

You don’t even have a chance to react.  “Wow.” You freeze.  “I didn’t know the honor roll was such a perv.”  Your soul leaves your body.  “I–I didn’t mean to!”  Leo smirks, completely unbothered.  “You just walked right in. Didn’t even hesitate.” “I thought no one was in here.”  “Mmhm.”  “I swear!”  “Are you dragging this conversation out just to get a few more peeps in?”  You turn and leave with a grunt.  He doesn’t let it go for the rest of the day.  “You knew I was changing in there, didn’t you?” 

Sho:

You swing the door open without thinking. Half-naked Sho blinks at you. Frozen. “Oh– Sorry!”  You flip around and exit immediately.  For a moment there’s only silence.  Then the door opens.  “Senpai.”  You freeze.  Sho leans against the doorframe casually, a few of his buttons left undone. “If you wanted to see me naked, you could’ve just asked.” 

Since You're Here...

Jin: 

You open the door. It’s a mistake you realize immediately. “Don’t you know how to knock?”  “S-Sorry.”  You turn to leave when— “Stop.” You slowly glance back.  Jin takes a seat on his couch, half-dressed, looking amused.  “What are you doing servant? Come here.”  “I—no, I really should–”  “Help me change.”  Your brain stalls.  His lips curl into a smirk.   “That’s why you’re here, isn’t it?” 

Jiro:

You open the door.  “Hello.”  You gasp.  “S-Sorry. I didn't see you there.” He glances down at himself. "...I don't really mind." He looks at his shirt.  He walks over to you. “Could you help me with these buttons?” 

Ed:

You open the door.  He looks at you like he expected you to be there. “S-Sorry.”  You turn to leave but– “Now, now. Don’t be in such a rush.” He purposefully slips the shirt off his shoulders, showing off his pale skin.  “Help this old man with his clothes, will you?"

Elias: 

You open the door.  You freeze. “Inspector...Are you here for a performance?”  “S-Sorry.” “Oh, I really don’t mind if you stay.”  “N-No thank you.”  He chuckles. “Well…that’s a shame.” 

Jo:

You walk in.  You see what you see.  And immediately cover your eyes.  “I’m sorry! I didn’t know you were changing in here.”  Jo simply chuckles.  “Don’t worry. Come. You can change here too.”  "What? I couldn't possibly..." They transform into the women form.  “Does this help?”  You blush even harder.  “...No. It doesn’t.”

No Escape

Taiga:

You open the door.  “Brave of you,” Taiga says lazily, “to come in without warning.” Your brain blanks.  “I’m sorry. I’ll leave.”  You turn. Open the door.  But he shuts it just as quickly.  You look back to find he's already behind you.  “...Taiga.”  With his hands pressed against the door, he leans in closer.  “You can’t just come in and leave whenever you want. This is my territory.”  Instinctively you step back but there’s nowhere left to go.  “Come on,” his voice drags, “Entertain me, kitty-cat.”  

Towa:

You open the door. His face lights up.  “Towa?!”  “Dandelion~”  “S-Sorry. I didn’t mean to walk in.”  You turn to leave.  “Dandelion!”  You look back to see he’s already lunging at you. You escape out of the room just in time, but you hear rapid footsteps from behind.  He laughs, chasing you with no shirt on and just underwear.  “Why are you running?”  “BECAUSE YOU’RE CHASING ME!” Despite the head-start, he catches up easily.  He hugs you from behind, twirling you around.  “Got you!”  “TOWA!”  

Shion:

You open the door. Shion stands menacingly in the middle of the room.  “S-Sorry.”  You try to leave but– “Vepar.”  You switch places with the cardboard box right next to him.  “Shion–” “You barged in and try to leave? How irresponsible..”  He pulls you closer by the wrist. “I like that look on your face. Show me more of it.” 

Permanent Memory

Subaru: 

The moment the door opens, something moves.  Fast.  You blink.  Was it a mouse? A cockroach? “Subaru? Are you in here?”   You scan the room for the source of the sound.  Finally you look down at the corner. Beneath a desk. Subaru crouching. He covers his chest with the shirt.  "I'm sorry!" he blurts. "I should've put a sign! Or locked the doors! Or-" “Don’t apologize, I’m the one who barged in!" ... And for the rest of the day, Subaru doesn’t stop apologizing. "I'm sorry you had to see that." “I hope your eyes are ok.” 

Yuri:

You open the door. He freezes. Reddens. And nearly collapses.   When you try to help him, he gets even redder.  “You insolent, indecent worm. Leave at once!”  ... Every time your eyes meet after that, he looks away quickly, immediately red. 

Ren: 

“S-S-S-Senpai???”  “S-Sorry. Haru said that–” Before you can utter another word— “GET OUT!”  He pushes you out himself and slams the door.  … He’s in a terrible mood for the rest of the day.

Romeo:

Subaru

Hug.  “I-Is something wrong?”  “Do you not like it?”  “N-No of course not.”  Slowly, cautiously, he puts his hand over yours.   “Quite the opposite actually.” 

Haku 

Hug.  “Oh.” He flips around and hugs you back. “I must’ve done something right today.”  After a few moments of swaying… “Princess.”  “Hm?” “Is this all we’re gonna do?”  You smack his arm.  

Zenji

Hug. “D-D-Doll! What is the matter?”  “Nothing. Just wanted to.”  He hugs you back even more enthusiastically.  “To receive your embrace." He starts swinging you around. "What an honor!” 

_____

Ed

Hug. “Oh, and what do I owe for this surprise?”  “Nothing. Just hold me.”  Ed chuckles.  “So greedy.”  But he does as he’s told and wraps his arms around you.  For a while he actually behaved... Then, his hands start wandering. 

Rui

You sneak up behind him while he’s gardening. Hug.  “Whoa! You scared me.”  He glances at his gloves.  “I-I’m messy right now.” “I don’t care. Just hug me.” He flips around and squeezes you tight.  “Oh, Cutie. What did I do to get so lucky?”

Lyca

Hug.  “The hell? What are you doing?”  “Hugging.”  “I know that but…”  You look up to see him covering his blushing face.  “Just…give me a warning first.” 

_____

Yuri

Hug.  “W-W-What is the meaning of this?!”  “A hug.”  “What if I dropped these vials! This is dangerous! Irresponsible! Unprofessional!”  “Then put them down and hug me.” His face turns even redder. “How dare you give me orders…”  But after some dramatic huffing, he sets the vials down and wraps his arms around you. “...Only for thirty seconds.” 

Jiro

Hug.  He pauses.  “...What is the purpose of this?”  “Maintaining homeostasis or whatever.”  “Physical contact can reduce stress responses, but there are more efficient methods–” “I wanted a hug. Just a hug.”  “Oh, ok.”  He turns around and hugs you back. 

Elias

Hug.  He laughs softly.  “You’re making me a very happy man right now.”  Eventually, he turns around and kisses the top of your head.  “...This is dangerous.”  “Why?”  He pulls you in even closer.  “...You’re making me get used to this.”  Why does he look so…sad?

Jo 

Hug.  He doesn’t even question it. He just relaxes into your arms and gets comfortable.  After a few seconds… “Wanna go get some coffee.” You nod.  “Buy a few snacks.” You nod.  “And snuggle in bed for the rest of the day?”  “...Yeah.” 

Mio

He’s been working on something for a while now.   Hug.  “Careful. It’s dangerous here.” But you don’t move.  “Go sit over there.”  You pout. “Make me.”  He sighs. Puts his tools down.  Then turns around and hugs you. He waddles you to a spot a few feet away. “There.” He gives a quick head pat. “I’m almost done. Wait just a little longer, ok?” 

Shion

Jin

He’s back out on the patio again.  His back always looks so lonely. You wrap your arms around his waist. “Oi. What are you doing?”  “I’m cold.”  “Then why’d you come out?”  You sigh. “Fine.”  You start to let go, but he grabs your hand and wraps your arms back around him. He takes a long drag before exhaling.  “Whatever. Do what you want.” 

Tohma

Hug.  He keeps brewing his tea. Unfazed.  “Do you not want tea?”  “I want you.”  That makes his hands stop. “It seems that somebody is craving for my attention.”  “Well, are you gonna give it to me, or not?”  He chuckles.  “Now, that’s no way to ask.”  But he turns in your arms and pulls you closer. 

Luca

Hug.  “M-MC? What’s wrong?” “Nothing.”  “Are you hurt?” “No.”  “Are you feeling unwell?” “No.”   “Has something–” “Luca. Do I need a reason to hug you?”  He actually ponders it for a second.  Then carefully wraps his arms around you.  “...No. I guess not.” 

Kaito

Hug. “Kyaaa. Wh–What is happening?” “Just felt like it.” He grips the counter in front of him to keep from passing out.  His thoughts are rampant: OMG! OMG! OMG! OMG! She’s soooo cute. She smells so nice. But I can’t say that. She’ll think I’m a creep and she’ll never hug me again!! Act normal! Act normal! So just the words, “Umm. ok,” come out.

____

Alan

Hug.  He becomes as stiff as a board. His hands up in the air like he’s been caught by the police.  “What are you doing?”  “Ever heard of a hug?”  “Yeah but–” “You’re doing it wrong.”  You flip him around and guide his arms to wrap around you.  “There.”  It takes him a few more seconds to relax.  “...Isn’t this nice?”  “...Yeah.”

Leo

Hug.  “Huh? What are you doing?”  “Hugging.”  He tries to push you away but you hold on.  “Did you lose a bet? Is there a camera here?”  “Don’t worry. I’m not you.”  He gives up (not that he was trying his best anyway). “Can we at least do this on the couch? My legs are tired.” (sure Leo) 

Sho

Hug.  “Senpai, I can’t work like this.”  But you don’t let go.  “Or maybe that’s what you want?”  He takes your silence as a yes.  “If you wanted my attention, you could’ve just asked.”  “Just…hug me.”  He laughs a little before turning around and holding you tight. 

____

Haru

In the midst of feeding peekaboo... You hug him from behind.  “What is this?”  “A hug.”  “Gahaha! Let me finish and I’ll give you a proper one.” After a few minutes, he sets the bottle down and gives you a nice bear hug.

Towa

Usually, he's the one to hug you first. But you catch him off guard and... Hug. That gets him excited. “Dandelion!” He immediately turns the back-hug into a piggy-back ride.  He takes you to his favorite tree and snuggles with you there. 

Ren

Hug.  He immediately panics. “S-S-Senpai, what are you doing?!”  “Hugging.”  He tries to rip you off. But you’re just too strong.  “Ever heard of personal space?”  “Your space is my space.”  “Ugh. Gross.”  But slowly, he turns and wraps his arms around you.

____

Taiga

Hug.  He smirks. “You wanna play again, Kitty-cat?”  You sigh.  “No. Just a hug.”  Surprisingly, he becomes obedient.  And just lets you hold him wherever he goes, whatever he's doing.

Romeo

Hug.  “BB, what do you want this time?”  “A hug.”  “Can’t you see I’m working? I don’t have time for this.” “And yet, you’re not pulling away,” you mumble. “HUH? What did you say?”  “Nothing.” “Tch...I should charge you for every second.”

Ritsu

You’d mention details he’d never told you; his favorite piano piece, the brand of cigarettes he liked, the little habits nobody should’ve noticed.

And then there were things he couldn't explain. You always knew when to leave him alone. But you also knew when to stay.

And above all else–

You understood him better than anyone ever had.

Somehow, you always heard the meaning hidden beneath his cold words. You looked past the walls he’d built around himself. And whenever his temper rose, you always seemed to know exactly what to say. 

Of course Jin noticed. He investigated you thoroughly. Had Tohma watch you. Dug through every record he could find. 

Nothing.  No connections. No explanations. 

Then came the missions. You were supposedly new to all of this. Anomalies. Stigmas. Magic. Yet nothing ever surprised you. 

If anything, sometimes you looked tired. Like this was a game you’d cleared a thousand times. 

And whenever he asked you directly, you only smiled and changed the subject. 

___

The mission starts off wrong. Not obviously wrong. Just…off.  Maybe it’s because you, who always stepped forward without hesitation, seemed more nervous than usual. 

The hallway ahead forks left and right. 

Before Jin can utter a word,

“Not left,” you say, a bit too fast. 

Lucas frowns. “Why?” 

You freeze for half a second before forcing a smile. 

“Just a bad feeling.” 

Something unpleasant curls down Jin’s spine. It’s almost like he’s heard those exact words before. 

____

As the mission continues, it gets worse: You know exactly where the traps are, which doors are locked, when enemies attack.

At some point, even Jin reaches for his weapon before an enemy appears.

Instinct. A certainty he can’t explain. 

The enemy steps out exactly as he expected. Everyone else looks surprised. 

Jin isn’t. His eyes drift to you. You don’t look surprised either. 

____

Then the fragments start. 

Tiny flashes.  Blood everywhere.  Vines. Rubble. Fire. Your hands shaking.  Holding him.  Your voice echoing in his mind, “This time, please live.” 

“Captain?” Tohma’s voice cuts him back into reality. “Are you alright?” 

Jin nods in response. But he’s lying. 

There’s something seriously wrong. That memory belonged to someone else. 

___

The turning point happens when Jin ends up all alone. 

The dungeon is unstable. The walls tremble faintly. Dust falls from the ceiling in soft clouds. 

He looks around, trying to find the others.  

And then–

You appear. Running toward him. Panicked. Desperate. 

You crash into him so hard, he falls backward. 

“What the hell are you—”

An explosion tears through the hallway. 

The blast roars overhead. Debris crashes down into the ground, right where Jin had been standing seconds ago. 

For a moment, there’s only ringing.

Jin slowly looks down. You’re still clutching his clothes. Head buried in his chest. Breathing erratically. 

You didn’t react to the explosion.  No. you reacted before it even happened. 

Neither of you move a muscle. 

A distant roar echoes through the dungeon. At the sound, Jin pulls himself upright. 

“We need to pursue the anomaly.” 

He turns toward its direction. But your hand catches his wrist. 

“No.” 

Jin looks back at you sharply. 

“Why are you stopping me?”

Your grip doesn’t loosen. 

“Jin, we have to leave. Now.” 

“If we let it escape–”

“Please!” The word breaks out of you. 

Jin goes still. His eyes drop. He watches your hands tremble violently around his wrist. 

Then at your wet eyes.

Terrified. Not for yourself.  For him. 

“Tell me clearly,” Jin says quietly. “Why can’t we go?” 

You look away, biting your lips.  

“You just…can’t.” 

___

After the mission, Jin corners you beneath an empty stairwell, making sure you can’t run away this time. 

He’s calmer than usual.  Which somehow makes him scarier. 

“How did you know?” 

You smile faintly and try to move past him. 

“Lucky guess.” 

Jin grabs your wrist. 

And suddenly– He flinches.

Another fragment infiltrates his mind.  Your body collapsing in his arms.  Blood soaking through his gloves.  A broken scream. Your scream. 

Jin pulls you back in front of him. 

“Don’t lie to me.” 

For the first time, genuine fear flashes across your face. Not because he’s angry. But because you don’t know what comes after this. 

Jin stares at you. 

“How many times have you done this mission?”

Your nails dig into your palms. You look away.  

Quietly. “I don’t know anymore.” 

Jin feels a stab in his chest. 

All this time it wasn’t prediction or intuition. It was repetition. 

You lived this before. Again. And again. And again. 

His throat feels tight. 

“How many times have you died?” 

You shake your head. 

Jin’s voice hardens. 

“How many times have I died?” 

Silence. 

Jin understands now. The reason you won’t answer…is because the number is too high. 

His composure finally cracks. 

Not because of the loop. Not because of the impossible reality standing before him. 

But because you carried all of it alone. 

Your eyes burn seeing the devastation on his face. Somehow, in every lifetime, despair finds the two of you. 

Carefully, you reach for his hand and lace your fingers through his. 

“It’s ok.” You try to smile. “Eventually, you get used to it.”

Jin’s brows furrow deeply.  

“What?” 

“After enough times… you just learn to keep going.” 

His gaze could cut you. 

“You think this is something you should get used to?”

Your lips quiver. 

“Well, what other choice do I have? Every time I think it’s finally over…I wake up again.”

You take a shaky breath.

“I tried to stop. I tried to give up.”

Tears slip down your cheeks.

“But how could I stop when…” You look at him like it hurts. “When in every lifetime…I loved you.” 

Something inside Jin breaks. 

He pulls you into him immediately. A hand presses your head against his shoulder. The other wraps around your back, pulling you impossibly close. He’s trying to gather every inch of you. Every version of you.

And for the first time, in who knows how long, you stop thinking about the past. About the future. About all the possible endings waiting for you.

Instead, you stay in the present, weeping in his arms. 

“You should’ve told me.”

Jin’s voice stutters like it’s hard to breathe

“I would’ve carried it with you.” 

He buries his head against your hair. 

“This time…You won’t be alone.”  ____

You arrive at the Diner just in time. 

You walk into the door to find Ritsu seated in one of the booths. He doesn’t even look up from his watch to greet you. You slide into the seat opposite to him. 

“3:30 PM.” 

“Hey Ritsu. Nice to see you too.” 

He finally lowers his wrist and looks at you.

“I believe I've already talked to you about punctuality.” 

You groan. 

“Have mercy. I got here on time, didn’t I?” 

He shakes his head. 

“On time is not early enough.” 

You sigh. “Sorry.” 

“As my business partner, I expect much more from you.” 

“Ok, ok. I’ll do better.” 

Normally that would be enough. But he seems a bit more upset than usual. 

“Are you aware that today is not the first instance of this behavior?”

He opens his notebook. Uh-oh. Not the notebook. 

“June 17th.” He flips to a page. “Scheduled meeting: 11:00 AM. Actual arrival: 11:00 AM.”

“...That’s on time.” 

He ignores you.

“Next. June 12th. Scheduled meeting: 1:00 PM. Arrival: 1:02 PM.” 

He points to another date. “June 4th...” And another. “May 28th...” 

“Ritsu–” 

“And in every instance,” he taps at the red slashes on his notebook, "your delay was caused by time spent with the transfer student.” 

You blink. 

“...Tomoya?” 

He finally looks up at you. 

“Yes. Based on your behavioral model, you’ve been spending upwards to 7-8 hours with him per week excluding class hours. Which is unacceptable!” 

His fingers point to the sky. 

“I do not approve of the amount of unpaid labor you’ve been performing for that man.”

“Unpaid labor? It’s nothing like that.”

He pauses. 

“Weren’t you assigned by the institute to keep an eye on him?” 

“Well yeah, but that’s not the only reason.” 

His expression tightens. He clasps his fingers together in front of him. 

“...Explain.”  

“I don’t mind helping him.” He still looks puzzled at your simple statement. “I enjoy spending time with him.” 

Ritsu freezes. 

“...Enjoy?” 

You nod. 

He looks away. And scoffs. 

How ridiculous is that? As if that’s a good metric. 

“Personal enjoyment should not influence scheduling decisions.”

You stare.

“...But Ritsu. I enjoy spending time with you too.” His shoulders stiffen. “If I didn’t, I wouldn’t keep meeting up with you like this.” 

He should feel offended. You just undermined this whole business partner thing (the schedules, meetings, agreements) to simple affection.

But he isn’t. In fact, his cheeks feel very hot all of a sudden. 

He clears his throat. 

“A-Anyways. If you continue neglecting your responsibilities as my business partner, I’ll have to draft a contractual agreement with you.” His grip tightens around the notebook. “I should always be your highest priority.” 

Silence. His eyes widen. And yours does too.

He corrects himself immediately. “As in, the future of Sinostra should be your highest priority.” 

You smile. 

“Ok Ritsu.” ____

Haku had planned the entire day for your birthday. A flower waiting at your doorstep. A cafe by the sea for brunch. Shopping afterwards. And if your gaze lingered on something for more than a second, it ended up in his hands instead. 

“You don’t have to buy that,” you protest for the 10th time. 

Haku just smiled. “Anything for you, princess.”  ____

And now you’re at a bench, overlooking the ocean. 

The horizon burns gold and pink, infecting its color on everything it touches. Waves brush against the shore rhythmically. 

The entire world feels warm and right. 

“You’re taking another picture?” 

“Obviously.” 

“You’ve taken so many today.” 

“Of course! I have to.” You start swiping through your gallery. 

The flowers. Food. A few selfies. Haku wearing a goofy pair of sunglasses. 

“I want to remember everything properly.” 

For the first time today, he doesn’t have a quick reply. 

The two of you fall silent. 

And after a long moment, almost too quietly to hear, Haku murmurs: “I know I’m being selfish…but sometimes, I wish you’d just forget about me.” 

Your heart stops. 

The wind continues.  The sea continues.  But your mind goes blank.

Because this is the first time. 

The first time he said what he truly meant. 

The first time he dropped the mask to show what’s underneath. 

But it was devastating. 

You wait for him to laugh. To tell you it’s a joke. To wave it off. 

Instead, he stands abruptly. 

“Alright then,” he says, stretching his arms behind his head. “Shall we walk along the beach before heading back?” He says it so casually. As if he didn’t shatter something inside you. 

“Uh, yeah. Ok.”

Still dazed, you reach for the shopping bags. Haku gets there first.

“A princess shouldn’t carry things on her birthday, remember?” 

Then he starts walking ahead. 

You follow slowly behind him, waves brushing against your feet. 

You’re so cruel. Asking me to forget you…  And then, treating me so gently.

The sunset layers his skin with a warm gold.

You can’t help but think how similar he is to that sunset.

Beautiful. Yet temporary. 

Something that’ll soon disappear beneath the horizon. 

Your hand slips into your pocket. Your fingers curl around your phone. 

If he’s going to say things like that…Then you’ll remember him yourself. Every smile. Every tease. Every fleeting moment. 

You lift the camera.  Frame him carefully with the sunset. 

Then Haku turns around. 

Snap. 

His smile turns into a look of amusement. 

You quickly hide your phone behind your back. 

“Princess,” he grins slowly, “did you just take a picture of me?” 

“N-No.” 

“Oh?” He tilts his head. “So you were just holding your phone directly at me for fun?” 

“I was taking a picture of the sunset.” 

“Really?” 

He walks toward you. 

“Then let me see.” 

You immediately step back. 

“No.” 

He laughs as he closes the distance again. 

“Suspicious.” 

“Haku–”

“Come on. It’s just the sunset.” 

Finally, heat rushes to your face. 

“Fine! I took one! Just one though.” 

His eyes curve mischievously.

“And why is that?” 

You open your mouth, ready to joke back. At least…you try. 

“So I can remember that smug face of yours.” 

But the teasing dies in your throat.  Your eyes sting unexpectedly. 

“So that…” Your grip tightens around the phone. “So that I’ll never forget.” 

Haku stills. 

The breeze passes between you. The waves still tease your feet. But the air around him feels completely different from before.

He laughs quietly–but it sounds wrong. 

“...Is this a confession I hear?” 

“I’m being serious.” 

The smile on his face fades little by little. Until it's replaced with thin lips. His shadow falls over you. His hand settles on your shoulders.

“Then...can I be serious too?” 

Something about his voice terrifies you.

You shake your head but he continues anyway. 

“Anomoalies. Ghouls. Darkwick. You were never supposed to become involved in any of this.” 

“Stop.” 

“If someday there’s a chance to return to your old life…” You try pulling away, but his grip tightens, holding you in place. “Take it.” 

He leans down, forcing your eyes to meet his.

There’s no playfulness. No teasing. No masks. 

Just sincerity so raw it hurts to look. 

“Please.” 

Your chest aches. Your eyes well. 

His words echo through your mind once more. 

“I know I’m being selfish…but sometimes, I wish you’d just forget about me.” 

How could I forget you when I…

“You’re right,” you whisper with a shaky breath. “You are selfish. Really selfish. You drag me all the way out here. Give me the best birthday...And then tell me to forget you.” 

Haku’s brows furrow. 

“I’m—” 

“…But so am I.” 

He freezes. 

“Even if I reincarnated someday,” your voice trembles. “Even if you blew the match and my memories disappeared.” 

You hold his wrist. 

“I’m still going to find my way back to you.” 

The ocean swallows the silence between you.

This time, you choose to meet his eyes. Determined and glossed over with tears.

“Haku. I’m not going to forget about you…So don’t say things like that.” 

For a moment, he simply stares at you. You can see it. The contradiction within him. Wanting to say the perfect thing and yet not wanting say anything at all.

Then something in his expression softens completely. 

He pulls you toward him. And wraps his arms around you. 

He sighs. 

“We really are both stubborn, huh?” he murmurs. 

You laugh weakly into his chest. 

“Whose fault is that?” 

“Mmm. Good question.”

He finally lets you go, but before turning away, he ruffles your hair gently. 

“Sorry. I shouldn’t have mentioned that on your birthday,” he says with a crooked smile. “Kinda depressing.” 

“It’s ok.” 

He studies your still solemn expression. Then bumps his shoulder into yours as the two of you continue walking.

“Can’t forget this handsome face, huh?” 

You chuckle quietly. 

“Handsome? Pretty sure I said smug.” 

“How cruel. Y'know, back at the shrine, I was called the face genius."

"And who lived there? Like 3 people?"

Haku gasps in fake offense.

The two of you carry on with your usual banter.

This guy has been glued to you like a parasite ever since he transferred.

So what? He’s new to the school. Aren’t there any other NPCs that can show him around? 

You don’t notice Leo glaring holes at you. 

“Oh. Just a sec.” 

You slip out of his fingers to take the call.

Now that pisses him off even more. 

“Oh, you can’t find the classroom?” 

Leo scoffs. "He doesn't even know that?" he mumbles to himself.

“You know where the convenience store is?” He rolls his eyes. “Keep walking past–”

Your phone disappears. 

“Huh?” 

It’s in Leo’s hand. 

“Leo, what are you–” 

He lifts it up to his ear. 

“Hello~ Tomoya was it?” 

“Leo!” 

“MC is busy right now spending time with me. Leo Kurosagi.” 

You try to grab the phone, but he simply dodges your attempt. 

“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t bother us.” His voice drops to a alluring tone, “We’re doing something very important right now.” 

Click. He hangs up. 

“Leo!” 

“What? I was being polite.” 

“That's not the point!” 

The phone rings again. Tomoya…again. 

Leo groans.

“Ugh. Seriously? Does he call you every other minute?” 

He clicks the red button.

"Hey!"

“You know, I haven’t had five uninterrupted minutes with you all week.” 

“Leo. Give it back.” 

But he just smiles. That stupid smile. 

“Then come get it.” 

You bolt. He dodges.  You jump. He lifts it higher. 

He’s clearly enjoying this. 

You make one last desperate reach.

Miss. Of course, he doesn’t let it happen. 

Instead he catches you. Wrapping his arm around your waist.  Till you’re flat against him. 

“What the–” 

You try to pull away and push against his chest, but he doesn’t budge. 

“Leo, I’m not playing your stupid games!” 

"That's too bad."

He points the phone slightly behind him. 

“Smile, honor roll.” 

“Huh?” 

Your stomach twists. He’s planning something. 

His face comes closer and closer.  

Your eyes widen as his nose touches yours.  

Your lips tingles from the warmth of his breath. 

Snap. 

He lets you go, causing you to stumble backward, frozen in shock. 

He fidgets with your phone some more. 

“Ok. And send.” 

That snaps you out of it. 

“Leo…what did you do?” 

“Just set some boundaries for you.” 

He hands the phone back. Already open.  To a chat. With Tomoya. 

A message from you. The picture Leo just took. 

From that angle, it looks like you’re kissing. 

Your soul leaves your body.  You try to delete it.

Too late. Read. Tomoya has already seen it. 

Seething. Slowly, you look up. Only to see the perpetrator smiling. He gives you a wink. “You’re welcome.” 

“Leo…” Your hands clench into fists. “You are so dead.” ____

You stand outside his room and take a deep breath. You’re just dragging out the inevitable, contemplating whether to run when–

“Fico. She's here.” One of his attendants yell. 

“Let her in.” 

You facepalm. Maybe dying won’t be so bad. 

With no choice, you push open the heavy door.

Romeo stands in the middle of the room, his back facing you. You already know he's fuming. 

“I’m sorry for being late…again.” 

Romeo doesn’t respond for a few seconds, letting you simmer in the uncomfortable silence.  

“Hey, BB.” 

“...Yes?” 

“What did I say I was going to do if you wasted my time again?” 

His calm voice is somehow scarier than when he’s yelling. 

You swallow. There’s no right answer for this one. 

“So tell me...what’s your excuse today?” 

You hesitate

“...I was helping Tomoya with–”

Romeo spins around. 

His steps are just as calm.  

And yet your survival instincts immediately activate. 

One step. Another.

You back up into the wall. 

You hold your breath. 

Bam. 

You jump as his hand slams the door behind you. 

He leans down. Way too close.  

You can see every detail of his beautiful face. Unfortunately, right now it’s also terrifying. 

His eyes narrow. 

“...Weren’t you with him last time too?” 

“Y-Yes.” 

"And the time before that?"

"...Yes."

His expression turns deadly serious.

"BB."

"Yes?"

"What do I hate most in this world?"

Your brows furrow. "...Incompetent people?"

"What else?"

"...Dry skin?"

Romeo shakes his head. As if he doesn't have a myriad of things he hates.

"It's people not knowing their place." His voice is low and leveled. "So tell that IST to lay off."

"...IST?"

He sighs. "Invasive Species Transfer, obviously."

You blink.

"R-Right."

You stare. He stares. Then he looks away first.

He lifts his hand off the door. But stays just as close.

“What could possibly be more important than being on time for me?” 

“Well, we were–”

“I don’t want to hear it.” 

“But you asked.”

“It’s a hypothetical, you idiot!” He clicks his tongue. “The answer should be ‘nothing’!” 

Your mouth opens. Closes. Opens. And closes again before you say something you’ll regret. 

“Not only are late. But then you mention another guy in front of me,” he murmurs. “Do you fear nothing, BB?”  

“...I’m actually quite intimidated right now,” you squeak. 

Romeo huffs. It sounded like a laugh. 

“You should be.” He grabs your chin and tugs you slightly closer. “Because next time you’re late, I’ll actually punish you.” 

“P-Punish?” 

“Don’t ask dumb questions you don’t want answers to.” 

He turns around dramatically. 

“Now get to work.”