Rivals to lovers

You were running late to school, trying your best to not trip over air as you ran past the crowds.

Your alarm clock didn't ring, causing you to wake up late. It was your first day at your new school so you were quite nervous.

Due to the fact you weren't looking in front of you, You accidentally stumbled across of a hard, toned chest. causing you to fall down on the ground.

you look up to find a pair of raging turquoise eyes, piercing through your figure.

"Watch where you are fucking going, You damned brat!" Yuichiro spoke up, trying his best not to lash out on you.

His twin brother, Muichiro, placed a hand on his shoulder before blankly looking at him, "C'mon Yuichiro. let's not waste our time on a useless no body." He spoke calmly before walking into their school, urging his brother to follow after him.

They were the popular, Rich twins. and you just got in their bad side. Good luck, New student.

The following day, Yuichiro lays in wait with new impatience, eager to set his renewed plan into motion. When he catches sight of you making your way across the school grounds alone after class, a wicked smile curls his lips.

"There's our quarry," he mutters, nudging Muichiro beside him. Together they stride from the shadows, descending upon your solitary figure.

Yuichiro sweeps in front, blocking your path with arms crossed insolently over his chest. "Fancy meeting you here alone, little fox," he purrs, predatory gaze roaming your face. "Tell me - do you enjoy games of chase, I wonder? My brother and I were hoping to test your cleverness with a game of ours..."

His grin widens as Muichiro drifts to your back

Yuichiro lets out a bark of laughter at your bold response. "Favorites, are we now?" he chuckles, glancing sideways at his brother. "Muichiro does seem taken with your fire, little mouse. Very well - we accept your challenge. But let us make this game... more interesting."

His eyes glint hungrily. "If you succeed in evading us until sundown, a reward of your choosing shall be yours. But should we be the ones to catch you first..." Leaning down, he breathes the next words against your ear in a low murmur.

"Then you will grant us each a favor in return. No restrictions - your will becomes ours for the claiming. What say you, clever fox? Do we have terms of play?"

He draws back, smir

Yuichiro exchanges an amused look with his brother, surprise flickering across his face at your bold question.

"My, you don't lack courage, do you little mouse?" he chuckles. Stepping closer, he lifts a hand to gently grasp your chin, tilting your face up to meet his gaze as his smirk turns wicked.

"As for what I would claim as my favor... I think a private performance would do quite nicely. You've piqued my interest, and I do enjoy unravelling puzzles. I'd want nothing barred as I explore just what sorts of sounds I can draw from those tempting lips..."

His thumb strokes slowly along your bottom lip. "Whether in pleasure...or pain," he whispers darkly against your mouth.

Releasing you then, he steps back with a toothy

Muichiro watches the exchange silently, observing with subtle interest. At your challenging words, Yuichiro throws his head back and laughs wickedly.

"Such bold words, little mouse! You've stirred my blood for the chase." Stepping closer, he tilts your chin up once more to meet your gaze, fiery grin turning predatory.

"Very well then - let the game commence. But I promise when I catch you..." Leaning down, he nips sharply at your earlobe, eliciting a gasp. "...you'll be singing a very different tune," he purrs darkly.

With that, he draws back and releases you with a mocking bow. "Consider this your head start, clever fox. Run while you can - my brother and I will enjoy the hunt."

Turning on his

Yuichiro's eyes flash with hungryChallenge as your taunt reaches his ears. Without a word, he turns and locks gazes with his brother, a feral grin passing between them.

"It would seem our little fox has claws after all," Yuichiro chuckles darkly. "This may prove an amusing game indeed."

In a blink, the twins seem to shimmer and disappear. An eerie echoing laugh fills the air from all around, sending a chill down your spine.

"Faster than you seem, clever mouse. But we've only just begun to play..."

The words materialize beside your ear, husky and ominous, before vanishing once more.

The game is afoot. Stay on your toes, little fox - these predators will use every trick to turn the tables. But their

Muichiro stands apart from his twin, surveying the surroundings with a detached yet focused gaze. At your approach, his impassive eyes slide to meet yours, lingering with subtle curiosity.

"You've eluded us this long, little fox. Bold move to come to me alone," he remarks coolly.

As you begin to close the distance, a flicker of interest crosses his features. Allowing your nearness, his eyes trace slowly over your form, lingering in a way that makes heat pool low in your belly.

When you reach to caress his chest, his hands catch yours in a gentle yet immovable grip. Leaning down to your ear, his silky tones send a shiver through you.

"Yuichiro will not be pleased if I claim my prize without him. Perhaps another favor can

Muichiro meets your eyes calmly, giving no reaction to the blade pressed to his chest.

"Well played, little fox. It seems I underestimated your cunning." A ghost of a smile touches his lips.

"However, do not forget who the true predators are. You may have bested me for now..."

His palm rises to close warmly over your hand on the hilt. Slowly, deliberately, he increases the pressure until you are forced to release your grip. The blade slips soundlessly back into its sheath.

Leaning close, his silky breath caresses your ear. "Run, little mouse. You've earned another head start in our game. But this hunt is far from over..."

With that, he draws back and melts into the shadows as if he were never there.

The twins lie still, senses drifting in the haze between waking and oblivion.

Yuichiro is the first to stir, a low snarl rumbling deep in his chest. "That little vixen...she bested us both."

Beside him, Muichiro's eyelids flutter open, gaze sharpening at his twin's words. Memories of the night's games rise to the surface of his mind. A rare flicker of approval alights within his usual impassivity.

"She plays a cunning game. Our mouse has claws to draw blood when cornered." He rises in a single smooth motion, glancing down at Yuichiro with a glint in his eye. "Tomorrow she has promised us more sport. I look forward to seeing what tricks she has learned."

Yuichiro pushes

Yuichiro eyes you predatorily as you stride into the school.

"You've had your fun little mouse, but now the foxes are ready to play again."

Beside him, Muichiro watches your approach through hooded lids. "Your skills have earned our respect, little vixen. But do not forget who holds the power in this game."

Yuichiro slinks forward until you are caged between their powerful forms. Leaning down until his lips brush your ear, his husky whisper sends shivers through you.

"Tonight, you will come to our den. And we will show you what true pleasure is, little fox."

Muichiro's cool fingertips graze your cheek, tilting your chin to meet his hooded gaze. "Resist if you must,

Yuichiro lets out a low growl as you turn to leave with the dog boy. "Insolent little wench. She'll pay for her defiance."

Beside him, Muichiro's usual impassivity hardens into something cold and merciless. "Ino will not protect her forever. When she crawls beneath our gates tonight seeking pleasure, we will bend her stubborn spirit to our will."

His turquoise eyes drill into yours, sending a shiver down your spine even from a distance. "You intrigue me little fox, but your games end at dusk. Come willing, or I will force your submission myself."

With that final threat hanging in the air, the twins turn as one and disappear into the shadows of the corridor. For now the hunt is paused, but darkness is falling. And

Inosuke grunts in response, tightly gripping the straps of his mask. "Those damn twins are all brawn and no brains. They only know how to assert dominance through violence and intimidation."

His animal eyes gleam with something close to approval as he gazes at you. "But you, you're smarter than them. You don't just match their strength, you outwit them at every turn."

A toothy grin spreads across his face. "I say let 'em keep underestimating you. Then when they least expect it, BAM!" He mimes an uppercut. "You can show them once and for all who's really the top demon around here."

Inosuke's words stir your blood. You've danced rings around the twins for long enough. Perhaps the time has come to

Muichiro considered your question, absently tracing patterns on the garden wall. "My brother is ruled by brash instinct, ever seeking dominance through force of will. But true power comes from mastery of both self and other."

He turned, pale eyes gleaming with subtle intelligence. "Submit in body, and he will be satisfied. But make him earn your spirit's surrender through patience and care, not harshness. When his fury ebbs, suggest a game - one that allows his passion full expression within boundaries of your design."

Reaching out, he tucked an errant lock of hair behind your ear, fingers lingering. "Yuichiro respects strength and skill. Offer these through challenge, yet coated in honeyed charms. He will pursue your heart as avidly as your flesh, and you will tame the wildness

Inosuke nods enthusiastically. "Keh, those brothers are all muscle between the ears. They think just because they're strong, everyone should bow down to them."

A savage grin spreads across his face. "I can't wait to see the looks on their faces when you've got them dancing to your tune instead!" He mimes a puppeteer manipulating strings.

A gleam enters your eyes as a devious plan begins to form. When dusk falls, you'll pay the twins a little visit...but you won't be seeking submission. No, tonight you will seize the reins of power for yourself.

"Trust me Inosuke, by the time I'm done with them, Yuichiro and Muichiro won't know whether they're coming or going." You give a sly smile. "A little dis

You slip silently into the twins' lair, remaining hidden among the shadows as you observe the chaos unfurling before you.

Yuichiro and Muichiro are engaged in their usual squabbling, but something seems...off. Their movements appear disjointed, unfocused, as if they're struggling simply to coordinate their limbs.

Snatches of their argument drift to you. "—can't believe you drank all the sake!" "—not the one guzzling it like water, bastard!" They lunge clumsily at each other, grappling in an ungainly tangle on the floor.

A smile tugs at your lips. It seems your special "brew" is taking effect. After doctoring their drinks with a potion of your own concoction, the twins have been reduced to unsteady,

The soft chuckle echoes through the twins' lair, catching their attention. Both Yuichiro and Muichiro jerk their heads up to scan the room with unfocused eyes.

"Who's there?!" Yuichiro slurs angrily. He tries to push himself up but only succeeds in falling back down in a tangled heap with his brother.

Muichiro's pale brow furrows. "Reveal yourself, coward!" He calls out, voice raspy from the effects of your potion.

You step gracefully from the shadows, your pose elegant and shoulders back with confidence. Your silky voice rings out. "Now now, is that any way to greet a guest?"

Twin pairs of eyes narrow indignantly upon recognizing you. "You..." Yuichiro growls. "What have you done to us

The twins glare at you, lips curled into furious snarls. But beneath the anger, you detect a growing unease in their unfocused gazes.

Yuichiro struggles to push himself up on shaking arms. "You'll pay for this, bitch. No one makes a fool of us and gets away with it!"

"Silence, brother." Muichiro's usual composure is fractured, a sheen of sweat on his pale brow. His eyes lock with yours, twin turquoise orbs glowing with a feral light. "It seems we...underestimated you. What is it you want from us?"

You tilt your head, considering. A teasing smile tugs at your lips as you circle the incapacitated twins, letting the anticipation build. Leaning down, you whisper in Muichiro's

The twins exchange a look of veiled disgust and disbelief. To apologize and submit would destroy what little pride and dominance they have left in their weakened state.

"You must be joking," Yuichiro spits. "We'll never bow to the likes of—"

Muichiro silences him with a glare. His eyes float back to you, calculating. After a tense moment, he sighs softly. "Very well. If it will make you leave us in peace..."

Steeling himself, Muichiro grits out through clenched teeth, "We...apologize. For our behavior upon your arrival."

Yuichiro lets out an incoherent noise of protest, but Muichiro shoots him a warning look. He subsides with an angry grumble.

A smile of satisfaction curves your lips. "

The twins glare daggers at you as you lift their chins, humiliation and vengeance burning in their eyes. But they are helpless to do anything in their weakened state.

When you vanish with that echoing laugh, Yuichiro explodes in a furious yell. "Come back here, coward! I'll end you for this insult!"

But you are long gone. Muichiro closes his eyes wearily. "Save your energy, brother. For now we regroup and plan our retaliation in private."

The twins slowly drag themselves up on unsteady legs, leaning heavily on each other for support. They stagger away into the shadows of their lair, pride shattered but the fire of hatred and vengeance stoked ever brighter in their hearts.

Your taunt of seeing them at school tomorrow rings cruelly in their minds. They

The next morning, you walk through the school gates alongside Tanjiro, Inosuke, Zenitsu and Giyuu.

As you pass through the bustling crowds, hushed whispers and pointing fingers follow your group. It seems word has already spread about yesterday's confrontation with the terrifying twins. Students give your little fellowship a wide berth, eyeing you all with a mix of fear, curiosity and awe.

Reaching your locker, you feel two heated glares drilling into your back. Slowly turning, you meet the livid twin gazes of Yuichiro and Muichiro across the hallway.

Their pride has been restored somewhat after a night's rest, though remnants of yesterday's ordeal linger in their pale, shadowed features. A silent challenge passes between you, promising this is far from over.

In hushed whispers, you relay the previous night's events to your trusted friends gathered around your locker.

"After I left them, Yuichiro was raging like a wild beast. But Muichiro played it cool as ever - told him to save his energy for getting payback later."

Zenitsu squeaks and hides behind Tanjiro. "P-payback? Those guys are scary enough already! Now they've got a vendetta..."

Inosuke scoffs loudly. "Bah, I ain't scared of no twins! Let 'em try something, I'll bash their faces in!"

Giyuu stays silent but his calculating gaze moves between you and the twins staring daggers across the hall. You continue your story in an ominous tone.

"I have a feeling they won't waste

You sigh wearily as you glance back at the seething twins. "Those two just don't get it, no matter what I do. Every fight we start, every competition between us, the result is always the same. I win and they lose."

Inosuke appears confused by your logic. "So why do they keep challengin' ya if they never win? Seems pretty dumb to me."

Tanjiro nods sagely. "Some people cannot accept defeat gracefully, no matter the frequency. For the twins, pride comes before reason."

Zenitsu squeaks again, eyeing Yuichiro and Muichiro fearfully. "D-do you think they'll ever learn to leave you alone?"

Giyuu responds stoically without looking at any of you. "Only when they understand through repeated

You shrug indifferently. "Their bark is definitely worse than their bite. All this raging and grandstanding is just hot air in the end."

Tanjiro looks troubled. "Still, it's unwise to dismiss them completely. A cornered beast is most dangerous, even if their attacks have lacked teeth so far."

Inosuke snorts derisively. "Who cares about their silly pride anyway? We should make them suffer for all their empty threats against you!"

Zenitsu appears alarmed by Inosuke's suggestion. "W-wait, let's not do anything rash! Maybe if we all just avoid each other..."

You interrupt with a wry smirk. "Don't worry. I'll handle those two buffoons if they try anything." Giving the seething twins one last cool glance

You flash your friends a warm, confident smile. "No use wasting another thought on those blockheads. Let's get to class - knowledge is more valuable than foolish pride."

Tanjiro beams, always heartened by displays of empathy. "Well said. True strength lies not in one's enemies, but in the bonds we share with our friends."

Inosuke huffs but seems calmed by your reassurance. Zenitsu gulps and nods hastily in agreement.

As you turn to head inside, Giyuu gives the faintest approving nod. "Wise words. Come - we must not be late."

With one last dismissive glance at the fuming twins, you enter the classroom surrounded by trusted allies. Their petty threats no longer darken your focus on the lessons ahead. For now, the company

During recess, you notice Yuichiro stalking over with a venomous gleam in his eyes. Before he can even open his mouth, Giyuu silently materializes behind him, looming with quiet warning. Yuichiro starts, hesitating under Giyuu's impassive gaze.

You smile gratefully at Giyuu. "Nice save there. I'd hate to ruin these new shoes so early in the semester." Giyuu just nods, already walking ahead to your next class.

As you follow, Inosuke makes a show of cracking his knuckles behind Yuichiro. "Better scram, girly-boy! Wouldn't want to mess up that pretty face before gym class..."

Yuichiro shoots him a murderous look but wisely backs off for now. You shake your

In gym class, you notice Muichiro's aloof gaze lingering on you far more than usual. When laps are assigned, he approaches with an unreadable smile.

"I hope you're prepared to eat my dust, new blood. There's a reason I hold the men's record for this course."

You cock your head with an innocent smile. "Is that so? Forgive me if I don't quake in my shoes yet. I hear the Lady Shinobu holds the overall record, after all."

At this, Muichiro's smirk wavers ever so slightly. Without another word, he takes his position at the starting line.

When the race begins, his legs pump furiously as expected - but you effortlessly shadow his pace with lithe strides. By the final stretch, Shinobu has

I smile demurely. "That was closer than expected. It seems I've found a worthy competitor."

Before Muichiro can respond, my friends swoop in. Tanjiro hands me a towel with a significant look. "Easy there. No need to add fuel to the fire."

Inosuke nods vigorously. "This boar can smell trouble from a mile away. Best leave it be for now."

Zenitsu gulps, eyeing Muichiro nervously. "W-what he said! D-don't provoke the beast~"

Giyuu places a hand on my shoulder. "Your talents speak for themselves. Save your breath for better things."

I take a grateful sip of water. "Wise as always, Giyuu. I suppose one race isn't enough to decide

I laugh lightly. "Of course, of course. You know me too well - I would never intentionally cause trouble."

My friends exchange dubious looks but know better than to dispute me. The matter is dropped as class proceeds to basketball.

When teams are picked, Muichiro and I wind up face to face at center court. He smirks tauntingly but I simply smile back serenely.

At the whistle, we leap - and I tap the ball deftly past him. The crowd hoots as I make my shot uncontested. Turning, I call sweetly, "Better luck next time!"

From then on, we play fiercely but fair. Though he guards me closely, I evade his traps with creative passes and elegant footwork and help lead my team to victory.

After,

As the game intensifies, I pass strategically to direct Muichiro's focus away from me. When he shadows Giyuu closely, I call for the ball.

Giyuu rebounds and passes back smoothly. In that split second distraction, I launch for a shot - but Muichiro reacts lightning-quick to challenge.

We leap together, battling fiercely for the rebound. His hand brushes the ball and for a heart-pounding moment, possession is unclear. Then my fingertips graze fabric and I wheel, landing in a low crouch with the ball firmly in grip.

The buzzer sounds off my shot as the crowd erupts. Chest heaving, I look up to see intense admiration and frustration warring in Muichiro's turquoise glare.

Rising, I approach with an outst

"I rise up, walking over to Muichiro with an outstretched hand and smile." "Good game. You almost had me there - I wasn't expecting such quick reflexes. Maybe next time you'll be the one walking away with the win."

My expression is open and friendly, showing no trace of arrogance or gloating over my victory. While we may be rivals, there is no reason for poor sportsmanship. A little healthy competition can bring out the best in opponents.

From the corner of my eye, I see his twin Yuichiro watching us intently. But my focus remains on Muichiro, awaiting his response. Will he accept the offered handshake, or turn aside in scorn? Much could be learned from how he chooses to proceed.

Muichiro's eyes widen faintly in surprise as he accepts my handshake. His grip is firm but not crushing, an acknowledgement of strength met in strength.

Before more can be said, the crowd sweeps me away in a wave of congratulations. I'm buffeted through the doors by cheering friends offering high-fives and hair ruffles. Their praise and admiration is flattering, yet somewhere at the edge of sight lingers a thoughtful turquoise gaze.

Amid the clamor, I sneak a discreet wink for Muichiro over my shoulder. Then I turn fully to my celebrating friends with a radiant smile, basking in their joy yet wondering what thoughts now turn behind that cool facade. Our rivalry may have only just begun - and I find myself eager to learn what challenges, and insights, the future may

As my friends and I chat animatedly about the game, I notice Muichiro lingering on the edges of the crowd alone. Stepping away from the others, I approach with an easy grin.

"Enjoying the victory analysis? I have to say, your defense was top-notch today. It's always more satisfying when the competition is fierce."

He seems surprised by my casual conversation, but answers evenly. We discuss favorite teams and games, finding unexpected common ground. Muichiro may seem aloof, but there is keen intellect and passion beneath the surface.

All too soon, Yuichiro stalks over with a ominous look. Sensing the tension, I make my farewells and depart with my friends, turning for one last glance.

Muichiro stands calm in the face of his brother's probable i

As I turn to walk away with my friends, I can't help casting one last glance back at the twins. Muichiro stands stoically while Yuichiro seems to be angrily berating him about something.

Not wanting to eavesdrop but reluctant to leave Muichiro to face his brother's wrath alone, I turn and call out brightly with an innocent wave, "See you tomorrow, Muichiro!"

With any luck, my public acknowledgement will given him some moral support and remind Yuichiro that others are watching. Muichiro's composed nod is almost imperceptible from this distance. Then I spin around with a bounce in my step to catch up to my friends, chattering merrily as if nothing is amiss.

Yet somewhere beneath the cheer, a seed of concern has been planted. Muichiro

Muichiro, why have you come here so early? Not that I mind the company, but it seems urgent if you're rousing me from sleep at this hour."

I clutch my robe tightly, suddenly self-conscious of my nightclothes beneath. Following his gaze down to my bare legs, I realize with a flush how informal I must appear. Hastily shrugging on a coat, I wrap it securely around myself and wait for his explanation.

His pale eyes regard me steadily. "I apologize for disturbing you, but I wanted to speak without Yuichiro's interference. May we walk?"

Intrigued and concerned by this secretive request, I nod. "Give me a moment to dress appropriately. Make yourself comfortable while you wait."

Slipping into warmer clothes, I ponder his mysterious words. What could

"Very well, lead the way," I reply softly. Slipping on my shoes, I follow Muichiro out into the quiet night.

We walk in silence at first, the crunch of fallen leaves beneath our feet the only sound. I'm patient, sensing he has much weighing on his mind, and will speak when ready. The cool air is refreshing after waking so abruptly.

Eventually, Muichiro begins without preamble. "You were kind to me earlier. I...am not accustomed to such treatment." A rare show of vulnerability from one usually so composed.

My expression grows sympathetic. "You seemed like you could use a friend. I hope I didn't overstep."

He considers this thoughtfully. "No. Your actions confuse me, but were not unwelcome." High praise indeed, coming from Muichiro

"I would not be opposed to spending time with you and your friends, if you are all agreeable," Muichiro replies contemplatively.

Catching my smile, the faintest gleam of interest enters his usually impassive eyes. It seems my offer has piqued his curiosity, if not warmed his guarded heart.

"We tend to keep to ourselves, Yuichiro and I. But I find your company...not unpleasant thus far." High praise from one as reserved as he. "A change of environment could prove insightful."

I beam, thrilled at the prospect of integrating this interesting loner into my social circle. "Then it's settled! I'll introduce you all properly tomorrow."

A ghost of a smile touches Muichiro's lips at my enthusiasm. Perhaps behind his stoic mask lies a

"The Super Bowl, you say?" Muichiro considers thoughtfully. "I am unfamiliar with this event, but would be willing to learn more."

His rare show of openness to new experiences lifts my spirits. "It's America's biggest football game. A real spectacle - lots of commercials, halftime show, food and fun with friends."

I gaze at him hopefully. "We'd be happy to explain the rules as we watch. And you'd be doing me a favor by joining, since I still don't fully understand the sport myself."

A barely perceptible smirk tugs at Muichiro's lips, revealing he sees through my flattery. But he gives a small nod of acquiescence.

"Very well, I accept your invitation. What time shall I arrive?"

Delight spreads through me

Muichiro's pale eyes widen fractionally as your arms envelop him in an unexpected hug. His body goes rigid at the sudden contact, unused to such familiar affection.

For a moment he stands stiffly, at a loss. Then, almost reluctantly, his long fingers lightly brush your back in a shy, hesitant approximation of an embrace in return.

"I...am not accustomed to such displays," he mutters, a hint of pink dusting his porcelain cheeks as you withdraw. His cool grey gaze searches yours, naked confusion and curiosity reflected within.

"But your enthusiasm seems genuine. I will endeavor to...understand, for a friend." Friend. Such a foreign concept to one long accustomed to solitude.

A small, tender smile curves my lips at his halting words. "I'm glad. See you

Throughout the day, my mind drifts as excitation for the evening ahead builds like a storm tide. I find it difficult to focus on lessons, too preoccupied anticipating introducing Muichiro to my friends.

When the final bell rings, I eagerly gather my group and head to meet him. To my relief, Muichiro greets me with his usual calm demeanor, betraying no signs of recoiling from our prior contact.

I proudly present my companions, who warmly include him in their antics on the way to the game. Though reticent at first, even Muichiro's lips slowly curve watching our high jinks.

As the match kicks off and cheers erupt, I glance over joyfully. Has this small taste of comradery begun to thaw his cold exterior? His pale eyes fix attentively

As the game progresses, my enthusiasm knows no bounds. I cheer loudly with each play, yelling myself hoarse along with the roar of the rowdy crowd.

When our team scores, I leap up in exultation, fists pumping the air. Caught up in wild celebration, I fail to notice the jumbotron has focused its lens on my unbridled excitement.

Only as deafening screams redouble do I realize with dawning horror that my grinning face now fills the massive screen. Blood rushes hotly to my cheeks as a deep blush floods my features.

Timidly, I wave with an embarrassed laugh. Around me, my friends hoot and catcall, adding to my mortification. But when I glance at Muichiro shyly through my fingers, I catch the barest upturn of his lips

The rest of the game passes in a joyous blur. On our way out, I can't stop giggling about my brief moment of fame on the jumbotron, blushing fiercely.

Euphoric from the win, we decide to continue the celebration at a club nearby. The music and laughter flow freely as do the drinks, and soon many in my group are feeling quite loose and lively in their inebriation.

But I, ever excitable, outdo them all. Glass after glass, I toss them back cheerfully, yet the alcohol hits me hard. My speech slurs badly and I find walking a near impossible task, leaning heavily on whoever is near.

Through it all, Muichiro remains sober and watches me with concern. When I've had my fill, he swiftly and competently sees me

As we prepare to leave, the room spins dizzyingly and my legs wobble unsteadily. Suddenly the floor rushes up to meet me as I trip, but strong arms catch me before I fall.

Muichiro smoothly sweeps me into his steady embrace without so much as a stumble. His pale face swims before my bleary vision, the only fixed point in a wavering world.

Silently, he shoulders my weight and guides my faltering steps out into the cool night. I nestle against his firm chest, soothed by his sure hold. Before I know it, we've arrived at my door and he lowers me gently.

His concerned gaze assesses me through the haze. "Get some rest," he murmurs, soft yet assured. His touch lingering on my cheek, I

A quiet huff of amusement escapes Muichiro's lips at my drunken mutterings. His pale eyes glint with subtle mirth as he gazes down at my inebriated form.

"So it seems the drink has made you bold," he remarks wryly. I chuckle again, unable to stop the silly words slipping out in my stupor. His strong arms still support me easily, their hardness evident even through layers of clothing.

Impulsive heat blooms low in my belly at their restrained power. Clumsily, I reach up to trace their firm outline, marveling at how easily he had swept me up before. My fingers linger on his hard bicep, dancing lightly over corded muscle.

His skin is cool yet alive beneath my touch. Leaning in close, I whisper

Muichiro says nothing as my eyes flutter shut and consciousness slips away. Gently, he scoops me fully into his arms once more and turns towards my home.

His swift strides carry me up the path without jostling my limp form. Reaching the door, he maneuvers deftly to turn the handle without disturbing my dormant state.

Silently, he brings me inside and lays me down with delicate care upon my bed. I do not stir. For a long moment, Muichiro stands vigil, his cool gaze sweeping over my sleeping face.

Then he reaches out, slender fingers brushing aside an errant lock of hair with a softness belying his usual reserve. His lingering touch trails softly along my cheek.

Without a word, he withdraws and turns to take his leave. But

Even in the depths of sleep, it seems the drink has loosened my tongue. Muichiro pauses at my quiet muttering, glancing back with one eyebrow subtly arched.

"Your fanciful dreams speak quite highly of my arms, it seems." His faint whisper is tinged with dry amusement. One side of his lips twitches upwards ever so slightly at my smiling slurs.

Stepping closer once more, he bends low over my still form. His breath ghosts feather-light against my ear as he leans in to murmur "Perhaps when your head has cleared, you'll recall this night and the strength you found so...appealing."

His cool fingers brush my cheek in a fleeting caress, lingering paths my skin tingles to remember. Then he draws back, pale eyes drinking in my slumbering

I awaken to a throbbing headache, dry mouth and hazy memories of the previous night. Rolling over with a groan, fragments of the party swim blurrily in my mind.

A knock sounds at the door and Muichiro lets himself in at my invitation, taking in my disheveled state with a glance. "The drink seems to have left its mark," he observes tonelessly, though his eyes glint with quiet amusement.

Accepting the water and painkillers he offers, I sigh. "I don't recall much after a few too many shots. Did you see me home?" His gaze remains placid, but a ghost of a smile tugs at his lips recalling something I've forgotten.

"Indeed. You were...quite complimentary of my abilities to catch you, should you fall again."

Muichiro regards me coolly, revealing nothing.

"You muttered something about finding my arms appealing in your inebriated stupor." His bland tone gives no clue as to his thoughts on the matter.

I flush, mortified, hoping the dim lighting hides my reddening cheeks. "I apologize for any unseemly remarks while incapacitated. The drink loosens my tongue more than is proper, it seems."

He grants a faint shrug. "No harm done. Though you may be pleased to know your dreams seemed...favorable, regarding my strength."

My flush deepens at the implication. Muichiro's impassive mask betrays nothing, yet his eyes glint with a hint of private amusement at my obvious embarrassment.

"In any case, you appeared unharmed

Muichiro says nothing, merely watching my obvious discomfiture with a trace of subtle entertainment glimmering faintly in his pale eyes.

I bury my burning face in my hands with a mortified groan. "Please tell me no one else heard my drunken ramblings..."

When he remains silent, I peek up warily to find his enigmatic gaze trained on me. "Yuichiro may have overheard something about a certain appeal and ease of catches, but paid it no further mind."

My stomach plummets at the notion of Yuichiro's inevitable teasing should he learn of my inebriated slip. Muichiro's mouth quirks almost imperceptibly. "Fear not. I saw no reason to share the details of your admission with him or others. Consider it...a

At my unintentional muttered comment, Muichiro arches a pale brow. "Relocating seems an extreme response, does it not? No one aside from Yuichiro and myself heard your words, and he cares little for such things."

His even tone gives nothing away, but I detect the faintest glint of amusement in his stunning eyes. A flush creeps up my neck once more. "I—apologize, I didn't mean to say that aloud."

"In any case," he continues placidly, "running would only invite speculation. Better to face the day with dignity." His words carry faint wisdom, though my mortification still simmers hotly.

Taking a long breath, I meet his gaze steadily. "You're...right. Hiding would do no good. I'll endure

Muichiro considers me thoughtfully, revealing nothing. After a quiet moment, he offers a subtle nod.

"You have my word that no one will hear of this from my lips." His promise rings sincere, though his impassive demeanor gives no further clue as to his own thoughts on the matter.

I exhale slowly in relief. "Thank you, Muichiro. I...appreciate your discretion." His quiet nod is all the acknowledgement I receive.

A brief, slightly awkward silence falls before he rises fluidly. "I'll take my leave now, unless you require anything further." I shake my head mutely, embarrassment still simmering beneath the surface.

Pausing at the door, Muichiro spares me a glance over his shoulder. "Fret not overmuch. All will be

Muichiro only offers a subtle nod in response to my thanks.

"Think nothing of it." His cool tone, as always, reveals little. But in his pale eyes I catch a glimmer of understanding, though whether regarding my mortification or something deeper, I cannot say.

He turns to depart once more, the fluid grace of his movements betraying his inherent poise. Yet at the door he lingers, glancing back at me with an enigmatic gaze.

"Take heart - this will pass, as all things do. Your secrets are safe with me."

With that quietly reassuring promise, he exits, leaving me to ponder his cryptic words and gracious discretion. A flutter of gratitude and something more stir in my chest, mingling with lingering embarrassment. I can only hope the memory will fade in time,