phase four – 24/7 = heaven.
As she finished showering and watched the washing machine whir to life, she couldn't help but wonder about Suguru's past relationships. How many people had he taken care of like this before her? The thought made her pout as she mulled over the complexities of their newfound romantic involvement. It was already hard to date her best friend, but it was even harder when her logic went out of the window. She doesn’t know if she loves Suguru just yet, in the way that lovers do. But she likes him a lot. The thought of someone else by his side, it made her uncomfortable. It made her…anxious.
Genre: No Curses AU, University Professors AU!
Warning/s: Fluff, Banter, Romance, Co-Workers, One Sided Romance, Childhood Friends, Friends to Lovers, Co-Workers to Lovers, They're Figuring It Out!;
note: i changed the title of this song, but i like to think it really fits, the two of them find heaven in each other one way or another!!!
masterlist
logic ≠ love masterlist
SHE COULDN’T HANDLE THE WAY SUGURU WAS STARING AT HER. As they sat in the cafeteria together, it was a rare moment of respite in their busy schedules. Wednesdays had become a cherished tradition for them, a day when they could steal away a few precious moments to share a meal and catch up on each other's lives. The bustling atmosphere of the cafeteria provided a comforting backdrop to their conversations, a familiar routine that brought a sense of normalcy to their otherwise hectic days.
Normally, their meetings were filled with light-hearted banter and shared laughter. Suguru would take charge of ordering their meals while she caught up with Satoru’s tears over a new BL manga and recently, Nanami-kun and her exchange baking recipes. When her boyfriend would come back, the two of them would exchange stories about their days, sharing anecdotes and updates on their respective projects. But today was different. Today, the air between them was heavy with unspoken tension, and even the simple act of picking up her utensils felt like a daunting task.
She could feel Suguru's gaze on her, sharp and penetrating, as though he could see right through her facade. The weight of his scrutiny made her stomach churn with anxiety, and she found herself fidgeting nervously in her seat. The strawberry milkshake in front of her remained untouched, the swirling motion of the straw against the rim of the glass a feeble attempt to distract herself from his piercing eyes.
Every glance in his direction felt like a risk, as though she was tiptoeing on a tightrope between revealing too much and keeping her emotions guarded. She swallowed hard, willing herself to maintain her composure and avoid his penetrating gaze. It was a delicate dance of restraint, each movement calculated to avoid detection, yet every fiber of her being screamed with the need to break free from the suffocating silence that hung between them.
“You know….you can tell me.” Suguru whispered to her as he drank his earl gray tea, still eyeing her. “I don’t think you have to keep it a secret from me.”
Suguru's gentle voice cut through the tense atmosphere, his words a soothing balm to her frayed nerves. Yet, his piercing gaze bore into her, silently urging her to open up and share her burden. He was always kind, Suguru. His voice always tends to make her feel calm. Yet, it was hard to feel calm right now. She didn’t know how to. It always gets like this. But then again, she supposed it's her own doing.
"What are you talking about?" she replied, attempting to deflect his probing questions with a nervous laugh, all the while continuing to stir her strawberry milkshake in a feeble attempt to appear nonchalant.
But Suguru was not easily deterred. Setting down his cup of tea, he leaned forward slightly, his eyes never leaving hers. "What's wrong?" he asked, his voice tinged with concern.
Feeling the weight of his unwavering gaze, she began to ramble incoherently, her words stumbling over each other as she desperately tried to change the subject. "Maybe we should reschedule our date for another day," she blurted out, her voice trembling. "We might have a day off then, and Itadori-kun might actually do his work, so I won't have to check it later—"
Suguru's sharp eyes bore into her once more, cutting through her flimsy attempt at diversion. "Hey," he interjected firmly, his tone leaving no room for evasion. "If you want me to understand what you're trying to say, start talking straight to the point."
Taking a deep breath, she summoned the courage to meet his gaze. "Suguru," she began weakly, her voice barely above a whisper.
He lifted his tea cup to his lips, "How's your update progress?"
Her eyes narrowed slightly at the sudden change of topic, panic setting in. She faltered, unable to bring herself to admit the truth. "About that... I’m……almost done. But—"
"So you haven't written anything yet," Suguru stated flatly, his expression unreadable.
She averted her gaze, her hands shaking as she continued to stir her milkshake nervously. "Yes," she admitted quietly, her voice barely audible.
Suguru had a sixth sense when it came to her work habits—well, more like a 6.5th sense, considering how often she second-guessed herself and got distracted by the smallest of things. It was like he had a radar for procrastination and a built-in alarm system for tardiness. He was the silent guardian, the watchful protector of deadlines, the unsung hero who made sure she submitted what she needed to pass each year, even if it meant resorting to desperate measures like hiding her phone or locking her in a closet until she finished her work.
It was a comedic dance of cat and mouse, with Suguru playing the role of the strict taskmaster and her as the perennially distracted scatterbrain. But somehow, against all odds, they always managed to pull through—mostly thanks to Suguru's unwavering patience and knack for keeping her in check, whether she liked it or not. She supposes, its why she graduated middle school at all.
Just then, her phone buzzed with an incoming message. Glancing at the screen, she felt a pang of anxiety shoot through her.
Her editor.
She gulped nervously, her eyes darting between her phone and Suguru.
He let out a resigned sigh, his shoulders sagging slightly. "When's the deadline?" he asked, his voice tinged with resignation.
Her stirring became more frenzied, the clinking of the spoon against the glass echoing loudly in the tense silence. "Saturday," she finally confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.
Saturday?
Suguru’s brows furrowed.
That was their date.
Suguru sighed, his expression softening with understanding. "I see," he murmured, his tone gentle as he reached out to place a reassuring hand on hers. "That doesn't leave you with much time."
She nodded, feeling a wave of relief wash over her as Suguru's comforting touch grounded her. "I know, and I'm sorry for not telling you sooner," she admitted, her voice tinged with regret.
"It's alright," Suguru reassured her, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "We'll figure this out together."
Feeling a surge of gratitude for his unwavering support, she managed a weak smile. "Thank you," she whispered, her eyes meeting him with heartfelt sincerity.
Suguru returned her smile, his gaze warm and reassuring. "Don't worry," he said softly, his voice filled with quiet determination. "We'll make sure you meet your deadline."
She thinks Suguru seems like a god.
She looks at him with deep emotions.
She thinks she’s about to cry out loud.
He gives her the palm of his free hand. “Give it to me.”
You blink, “Huh, what?”
“Your phone.” He says to her with a charming smile. “I have to make sure your editor doesn’t kill you.”
She gulps. He’s right. With a hesitant nod, she reluctantly handed over her phone to Suguru, feeling a sense of resignation wash over her. As he took the device with a charming smile, she couldn't help but feel a mixture of gratitude and trepidation. He was right—her editor might as well have been a mythical beast with a fiery temper, ready to pounce at any moment.
Suguru answered the phone with a calm demeanor that contrasted sharply with her inner turmoil. "Hello?" he greeted, his voice smooth and composed.
Meanwhile, she couldn't help but fidget nervously as she awaited the verdict of her fate, her heart pounding in her chest. She had no doubt that Suguru would smooth things over with her editor, but the anticipation of what he might say hung heavy in the air.
"Hello, this is Suguru," he greeted smoothly, his voice carrying a reassuring tone. "Yes, I understand the urgency of the situation... Absolutely, the draft will be ready on time... You have my word."
As Suguru continued to speak with her editor, his words were punctuated by nods and reassuring smiles directed at her. Despite the anxiety gnawing at her, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her as she watched him handle the situation with ease.
Finally, Suguru wrapped up the call with a confident tone. "Thank you for your understanding. Rest assured, the draft will be submitted on time this time. Have a great day."
After ending the call, Suguru turned to her with a knowing smile, his eyes twinkling with determination. She knew that smile all too well—it was a silent promise that he would ensure she completed the draft, no matter what. Memories of the past served as a reminder, almost a trauma. Suguru took to tasks very fast; he wanted them done precisely and done as soon as possible. And it didn’t help that tomorrow was a holiday. And then the weekends. She gulped nervously as his hands rested jointly together, his smile widening. He was terrifying when he was serious.
“I’m coming over,” he stated firmly.
She stirred her melted milkshake, nodding in acknowledgment. “Okay.”
“You’re getting this done,” he asserted, his tone leaving no room for argument.
“.....Yes, sir,” she replied in an obedient murmur.
“Good girl,” he praised, his tone shifting as he smiled.
Chills went throughout her spine.
She felt herself become flustered.
She lowers her head and sips her drink.
There’s no logic to why he said that.
IN THE END, ITS HER THAT CAME OVER HIS HOUSE. She couldn't remember how long her eyes had been watery, but it wasn't an unfamiliar sensation. This time, however, it felt more intense, perhaps because she hadn't made any significant progress until that night when Suguru invited her to his house. She had once again gotten distracted and ended up working overtime. He didn’t get mad about that. She already took their date away, but she also made him wait. She could feel guilt eating at her. But he just sighed and patted her head. He tells her that the last train had already left. Since Suguru's house was closer, it seemed like the best option to get things done before anything else.
In truth, she was nervous about sleeping over at Suguru's house. While she had visited before for cooking sessions and game nights, spending the night was uncharted territory for her. As Suguru nonchalantly led her inside, slipping off his work shoes and offering her a pair of house slippers, she couldn't help but feel a flutter of nervousness. All her life, Suguru had been her friend, and now he was someone she was romantically involved with. The sudden shift in dynamic left her feeling flustered and uncertain. How was she supposed to be? What should she do, to be an even better girlfriend?
Stuck with those thoughts, Suguru ushered her in and reassured her that he had a spare room where she could sleep. She felt her heart pound at that moment, but she did not know why. What were these feelings? She sighed, shaking her head before turning back to him and smiled. She soon settled her things, and she gratefully followed him to the designated space. Fortunately, she had brought her drawing materials and an extra set of clothes, so she was prepared for the impromptu stay. Suguru even offered the use of his washing machine if she wanted to freshen up her clothes, further adding to her flustered state.
As she finished showering and watched the washing machine whir to life, she couldn't help but wonder about Suguru's past relationships. How many people had he taken care of like this before her? The thought made her pout as she mulled over the complexities of their newfound romantic involvement. It was already hard to date her best friend, but it was even harder when her logic went out of the window. She doesn’t know if she loves Suguru just yet, in the way that lovers do. But she likes him a lot. The thought of someone else by his side, it made her uncomfortable. It made her…anxious.
Lost in her thoughts, she didn't notice Suguru entering the laundry room until he spoke up, breaking the silence. "Hey there," he greeted her with a warm smile, leaning against the doorframe. "Feeling better after the shower?"
She blinked, startled by his sudden appearance, but managed a nod. "Yeah, thanks," she replied softly, her mind still preoccupied with thoughts of their relationship.
Suguru's smile softened as he approached her, his gaze gentle. "What do you feel like eating?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern. "I can whip up something quick if you're hungry."
She hesitated for a moment, torn between her appetite and her swirling emotions. "Um... I'm not sure," she admitted, feeling a knot form in her stomach. "Maybe just something light?"
Suguru nodded understandingly. "Got it. I'll make us some sandwiches," he suggested, already moving toward the kitchen. "You stay here and relax. I'll take care of everything."
Lost in her thoughts, she followed Suguru out of the laundry room, watching him move about the kitchen with a sense of grace and purpose. The warmth of the room enveloped her, a stark contrast to the chilly apprehension that had gripped her moments ago.
Geto Suguru hummed a sweet tune as he prepared the sandwiches, his movements fluid and efficient. He looked like he was a prince, a beautiful fantasy before her eyes. She couldn't help but admire the way he seemed to effortlessly navigate the kitchen, his every action imbued with a sense of care and attention to detail. She smiles, leaning against the doorframe.
"Need any help?" she offered tentatively, stepping closer to him.
Suguru glanced up, a soft smile playing on his lips. "No, I've got it covered," he assured her, his eyes warm with affection. "Just sit back and relax."
She purses her lips and nodded, content to watch him work as she sank into a nearby chair. The rhythmic clinking of utensils and the fragrant aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, soothing her frazzled nerves.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence filled only by the sound of their utensils clinking against the plates, Suguru finished assembling the sandwiches with practiced precision. He arranged them meticulously on a plate, a masterpiece of culinary artistry that he presented to her with a warm smile.
"Here you go," he said gently, his eyes reflecting his genuine desire to please her. "I hope you like them."
She couldn't help but return his smile with equal warmth, feeling a rush of gratitude for his thoughtfulness. "Thank you, Suguru," she murmured appreciatively, reaching out to pick up a sandwich and take a bite.
The flavors exploded in her mouth like a symphony of sensations, a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that danced on her palate with each bite. Each ingredient seemed to complement the other flawlessly, creating a culinary masterpiece that surpassed her expectations. It was delicious, just like everything else Suguru made. She couldn't help but marvel at his skills, a talent he seemed to possess effortlessly. Geto Suguru had always been good at everything he did. And it seems he’s only gotten even better.
As she savored the sandwich, memories from the past flooded her mind, bringing a nostalgic smile to her lips. She remembered how Suguru had always been good at cooking, even back in middle school when he was part of the home cooking club. Everything he made then was delicious too. It was no surprise that his skills had only improved over the years, he lived alone and had to learn to feed himself more and more.
With each bite, she couldn't help but appreciate the care and attention he had put into making the sandwiches. Cute little happy sounds emit from her lips. Suguru seemed surprised about it, but he seemed to smile a little when she wasn’t looking. He was happy that she liked it. No words were needed.
As they ate in companionable silence later on, Suguru's expression gradually shifted from one of relaxed contentment to a more serious demeanor. He had already finished, but she was savoring the meal and ate slowly. His gaze bore into hers with unwavering intensity, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air.
"I think it's time we focus on your manga," he said softly, his voice carrying an undercurrent of determination. She felt a pang of nervousness as she gulped, realizing the gravity of the situation. "We've got a deadline to meet, and I want to make sure we're on track."
His words resonated within her, stirring a mixture of anxiety and determination. She nodded slowly, steeling herself for the task ahead. And lo and behold, these two days passed as though they were in a crunch against time. As though her finishing this manga chapter would save the world. She gritted her teeth, continuing to draw and draw.
Throughout the past two days, she had shed quite a few tears, sniffling through each stroke of her stylus pen against the drawing tablet. Geto Suguru wore his glasses, his hair tied in a messy bun, and was on his second cup of coffee. He sat across from her, his laptop open, diligently scanning through the shared file document she had been working on, checking for flaws and edits.
"It's coming along nicely," Suguru remarked, glancing up from his laptop to offer her a reassuring smile. "You're making good progress."
She forced a tired smile in return, her eyes red-rimmed from lack of sleep and endless hours of work. "Thanks," she mumbled, her voice hoarse from hours of non-stop drawing.
Suguru leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful as he surveyed her work. "Just a few more tweaks and adjustments, and I think we'll be ready to submit it," he said, his tone calm and encouraging.
She nodded wearily, feeling a glimmer of hope amidst the exhaustion. "I'll do my best," she promised, determined to push through until the very end. She sighed, her shoulders sagging under the weight of her fatigue. "I'm really sorry."
He looked at her with a raised brow, his expression softened with understanding. "Why?" he asked gently.
"I really shouldn't have gotten you roped into this," she confessed, her voice trembling with emotion. She sniffled, her gaze fixed on the drawing board on her screen. "You could be rewatching Rome right now, and you're here, stuck with me. I feel horrible."
Suguru sighed, reaching out to gently place a hand on her shoulder. "You really don't have to apologize," he reassured her, his tone gentle yet firm. He couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy at her pitiful state. "I think even if this isn't my thing... I know you're suffering a lot."
Her tears began to flow once more, and he offered her a tissue from the nearby box, his heart aching at the sight of her distress. "Anyway, can you check page 25?" she asked, her voice shaky but determined. "I corrected a line for that paragraph. And on page 29, there's this blurb of ink on the character's arm. Fix that."
She sniffled, her fingers swiftly moving across the screen to make the necessary adjustments. "You really are too good at your job," she mumbled between sniffles, her admiration for him evident in her voice.
As the minutes ticked by, the pressure of the looming deadline intensified, but Suguru and she refused to succumb to the mounting stress. With unwavering determination, they poured their hearts and souls into their work, their shared dedication driving them forward as they raced against the clock to complete the BL manga chapter. Suguru's steadfast encouragement and support served as a beacon of hope amidst the chaos, and she drew strength from his unwavering belief in her abilities.
Despite the exhaustion that threatened to engulf them, Suguru remained resolute, refusing to let her give up. She cried tears of frustration and exhaustion, but Suguru's unwavering support helped her push through until the very end. It was a grueling battle against time, but they fought tooth and nail, determined to meet the deadline no matter what.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of relentless work and emotional turmoil, they reached the finish line. With Suguru's final approval, she cheered through tears as she hastily compiled the pages into one cohesive file and began frantically emailing her editor the completed manuscript. The sense of relief that washed over her was palpable as she hit send, knowing that they had given their all and completed the task against all odds.
As she sat back, her heart still racing from the adrenaline of the past few hours, she couldn't help but steal a glance at Suguru, who sat slumped in his chair, his exhaustion palpable. Despite the toll the frantic rush to meet the deadline had taken on both of them, she felt a surge of gratitude for his unwavering support and dedication throughout the ordeal.
The guilt of ruining their weekend plans weighed heavily on her mind, and with tears still lingering in her eyes, she turned to Suguru once more, her voice quivering with emotion as she apologized again. "I'm really sorry for ruining our weekend," she murmured, her words laced with regret.
However, Suguru's response was not one of frustration or disappointment. Instead, he offered her a warm and reassuring smile, his eyes sparkling with understanding. "I think this triumphs going out on a date anyway," he said playfully, his tone light and teasing. "It's not bad, to have a date indoors."
His words brought a small smile to her lips, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her. Despite the unexpected turn of events, Suguru's unwavering positivity and lighthearted demeanor helped ease her guilt and lift her spirits.
She blinked in surprise, a faint glimmer of hope flickering in her heart as Suguru's words sank in. "Really?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
Geto Suguru nodded, his smile widening as he met her gaze. "Yeah, I had fun," he admitted, his eyes sparkling with genuine fondness. "Besides, it's not every day we get to work together. Let alone a manga, right? I had fun. I mean that.”
Her heart swelled with gratitude and relief at his understanding and positive attitude. Despite the challenges they faced, Suguru had managed to find joy in their shared experience, and she couldn't help but feel grateful to have him by her side. He really was just so kind. No one would have done this with her. Not even her exes. But Suguru? He would. She knew he would.
"Thank you, Suguru," she whispered, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.
Reaching out, Suguru gently wiped away her tears, his touch gentle and comforting. "Anytime," he murmured, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "We make a good team, you know?"
She nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Yeah, we do," she agreed, feeling ever so warm with him by her side.
As they stood there in silence, the air thick with unspoken emotions, she couldn't help but admire Suguru's beauty. His earnest gaze held her captive, drawing her in with its intensity. Her lips parted involuntarily as she studied him, her eyes tracing every curve and contour of his face.
Suguru mirrored her actions, his own gaze unwavering as he met her eyes. The tension between them was palpable, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken desires that lingered beneath the surface.
Suddenly, she felt him leaning closer, his warm breath brushing against her skin as he exhaled. Her heart raced in her chest, the anticipation of what was to come sending a surge of adrenaline through her veins.
In that moment, her mind raced with a million thoughts, each one competing for her attention. But amidst the chaos, one thought stood out above the rest.
‘Are they matching?’ she panicked internally, her mind racing to recall the color of her underwear. ‘If we end up going for it, it has to be a match!’
The heavy stain of blush that echoed across her cheeks intensified as she felt Suguru pressing closer, his presence overwhelming her senses. Is he really going to go for it? The realization struck her like a bolt of lightning — Suguru was a man, and he had always been a man. The thought sent a flurry of conflicting emotions coursing through her veins. She was torn between the desire to lean into his embrace and the fear of crossing a line that could change everything between them.
As the absurdity of her inner turmoil dawned on her, she couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh, a feeble attempt to mask the intensity of her emotions. But even as she chuckled inwardly, the underlying tension remained, a silent reminder of the unspoken desires that simmered between them. The air crackled with anticipation, each moment pregnant with the possibility of something more, yet neither daring to take the first step into the unknown.
"Suguru, if we're gonna do this, maybe wait until it's pink," she blurted out, her voice trembling with nervousness as she struggled to articulate her thoughts.
Suguru's brows furrowed in confusion as he looked at her, clearly taken aback by her sudden comment. "Wait until what's pink?" he asked, his tone laced with curiosity.
She felt her cheeks burn even hotter, her blush deepening as she realized how her words might have sounded. That was stupid, that was horribly stupid. "Oh, uh, it's nothing," she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper as she hid her face in her hands, mortified by her own awkwardness.
But before she could dwell on her embarrassment any longer, Suguru reached into his laptop bag and pulled out his Nintendo Switch, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Hey, do you want to play a game?" he asked, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “I don’t have a pink controller, but would this do?”
With a mixture of relief and amusement, she couldn't help but chuckle softly at Suguru's playful demeanor. "Yeah, sure," she replied, her voice still tinged with a hint of nervousness as she accepted the Nintendo Switch from him.
As they settled into a comfortable silence, their attention focused on the game, she felt a sense of ease wash over her. The tension that had filled the air moments ago seemed to dissipate, replaced by a light-hearted atmosphere as they immersed themselves in the virtual world before them.
As she sank deeper into the comfort of Suguru's presence, she couldn't help but appreciate the way he effortlessly eased her anxieties and allowed her to be herself. He had a way of making her feel human, of reminding her that it was okay to be imperfect and vulnerable.
"I swear, you're getting better at this," Suguru remarked with a teasing grin as he watched her lose yet another game.
She chuckled softly, shaking her head in defeat. "I don't know about that. You're just too good at this."
His grin widened, a playful glint in his eyes. "Maybe I should go easy on you," he suggested, leaning closer to her as he reached for the controller.
She playfully swatted his hand away, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "No way. I want the full experience."
Suguru was about to reply something back to her, but then he heard the doorbell ring. His brows furrowed lowly. He wasn’t really expecting anyone and especially not at this hour. She looks at him and he shakes his head and shrugs. He wasn’t expecting anyone either.
As Suguru got up to answer the doorbell, she blinked in surprise when she followed him to the door. Suguru pursed his lips at the unexpected visitors standing outside his door. There, at Suguru's doorstep, stood Suguru’s closest friends: a smiling Gojo Satoru, a disgruntled Nanami Kento, and a smoking Shoko Ieiri
"What are you doing here?" Geto Suguru frowned as he opened the door to find Gojo Satoru, Nanami Kento, and Shoko Ieiri standing outside his apartment.
"Is that how you talk to the love of your life?" Gojo Satoru echoed with a fake gasp, his face exaggeratedly sorrowful. "How dare you, Geto Suguru? Forgetting about me, your one true—"
Nanami Kento swiftly placed his hand over Gojo's mouth, cutting off his playful banter. "I'm sorry for disturbing you this late," he apologized, his tone calm and composed.
Shoko couldn't help but snicker at her friend's words as she casually took a drag from her cigarette before stomping it out on the ground. "Honestly, you shouldn’t feel bad about disturbing Suguru and his little love session," she teased. "He’s not at that second base yet."
Suguru's face flushed bright red at Shoko's remark. "I really didn’t miss you at all. Go back to Utahime or something."
"That crybaby Kyoto for work, so I really don’t have anything to do," Gojo chimed in, removing Nanami's hand from his mouth with a mischievous smile. "Which is why we’re here!"
“My girlfriend is not a crybaby, Gojo.”
Satoru grins at Shoko. “But she is!”
Suguru glanced at Gojo with a mixture of amusement and exasperation, while Nanami simply sighed. "He's had a drink," Nanami remarked, his voice tinged with mild disapproval.
"Tsk, lightweight," Suguru muttered under his breath.
"What do you say, bangs?" Gojo turned his attention to him with a small frown. You wanna go?”
"Well, what are you saying, grandpa?" Suguru quipped back with his own glare. “Yeah, come on, throw down, right now!”
"Oh, it's begun," Shoko observed with a smirk as Gojo and Suguru exchanged playful glares. She then turned to her with a friendly wave. "I haven’t seen you yet, nice to meet you!"
Feeling slightly stunned by the lively interaction, she managed a small wave back. "N-nice to meet you too."
“Satoru, we should go home.” Nanami was pulling his lover out of glaring at his best friend. “You’re drunk.”
“No, I’m not.” The blue eyed man argues back. “I only drank one cinderella!”
Nanami shakes his head. “You drank more than a cinderella.”
“Lightweight.”
“You wanna go, stingy bangs?”
“Bring it on, paint brush!”
She blushed at Shoko's words, feeling a mix of embarrassment and warmth at the attention. "It's nice to meet you, Shoko," she said, offering a shy smile. "Thanks for dropping by."
Her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red at Shoko's compliment, feeling a flutter of nerves at the unexpected attention. She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, trying to compose herself as she exchanged glances with Suguru.
Suguru rolled his eyes at Shoko's playful banter, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "She's not going anywhere, Shoko," he replied, his tone teasing yet firm.
Shoko chuckled, her eyes twinkling mischievously as she leaned in closer. "You're really pretty," she whispered in her ear again, sending another wave of warmth through her cheeks.
Suguru let out an exasperated sigh, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes as he watched their interaction. "Okay, okay, enough with the flirting," he interjected, unable to suppress a grin.
Shoko grinned back at him, her playful demeanor undeterred. "Aw, come on, Suguru, where's your sense of fun?" she teased, nudging him playfully.
He rolled his eyes again, but there was a fondness in his gaze as he looked at Shoko. "You're lucky you're my friend," he remarked, unable to hide a small smile.
“You should let us in,” Gojo Satoru insists to his black-haired friend. “Have a drink or two?”
Nanami shakes his head at his boyfriend. “You couldn’t handle whiskey.”
Gojo frowns. “It tastes like crap, Nanamin.”
Suguru's girlfriend smiles at them and says, "We have some wine left over, come in."
Suguru frowned. "We don't have to let them in."
She shakes her head. "They're your friends, we can't just turn them away this late."
Suguru crosses his arms. "Yes, we can."
"Listen to your girlfriend," Shoko teased. "Or she'll leave you."
Suguru's eyes rolled skyward in a display of mild exasperation, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "As if," he muttered under his breath, though the fondness in his tone was unmistakable. Reluctantly, he stepped aside, gesturing for his friends to enter with a resigned shrug.
“Sorry for this again, Suguru.” Nanami says, shaking his head. “He wouldn’t stop going on about how he needs to drink with you.”
Suguru sighed. “Nothing I can do about this idiot.”
As Suguru's friends made their way into the room, she felt a surge of conflicting emotions coursing through her. The sight of them filled her with a flutter of excitement, tinged with a touch of apprehension. It was an unexpected visit that brought forth a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from curiosity to nervousness, swirling within her like a tempestuous storm.
As Suguru's friends settled into their living space, it felt like a delightful departure from the routine work-related interactions they were accustomed to. She observed the dynamics between Satoru and Nanami, their affectionate banter and the comfort that emanated from their shared space. The two seemed like a perfect match, and she couldn't help but admire the ease with which they conversed, Satoru laying on Nanami's lap as they talked about everything under the sun.
Shoko, on the other hand, was a captivating presence, even surpassing the vivid descriptions Satoru had shared about her in stories. Her vibrancy and charm were enigmatic, and she radiated an energy that made her think Shoko would make a perfect romantic partner. It made her wonder what sort of person her girlfriend was, what sort of lover she was like. She seemed so perfect. She purses her lips for a moment. Inspired, she grabbed her phone and quickly jotted down an idea for a story, the creativity sparked by the lively atmosphere around her.
As Suguru's friends settled more comfortably into the living room, their presence brought an energetic and lively atmosphere to the space. Nanami, known for his responsible nature, took charge in the kitchen, determined to whip up something to help sober up Satoru, who had indulged in more wine than he could handle and was starting to feel the effects. Meanwhile, Shoko, with her vivacious personality, took the initiative to set up the karaoke machine, eager to showcase her vocal prowess.
Taking a swig of her beer, Shoko launched into another song, her voice filling the room with enthusiasm. Suguru, knowing his luck that his nearest neighbor lived a couple of houses away, couldn't help but smile at the spirited scene unfolding before him. Satoru, always up for a good time, joined Shoko with a mischievous grin, ready to belt out tunes and add to the jovial atmosphere.
Amidst the music and laughter, she found herself swept up in the infectious energy of Suguru's friends. Singing along to the karaoke tunes, dancing to the rhythm, and sharing in the laughter, she couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and belonging. It had been a while since she had experienced such genuine fun and she cherished every moment spent in the company of Suguru's little circle of friends.
Suguru observed the unfolding scene with a mix of amusement and exasperation, a faint sigh escaping his lips as he acknowledged the unexpected disruption to their evening. With a gentle turn towards his girlfriend, he offered an apologetic smile, his expression tinged with regret.
"I'm sorry about all this," he murmured softly, a hint of concern evident in his voice. "You must be tired from your work."
His girlfriend simply shook her head, a warm smile gracing her lips as she reassured him. "It's nothing," she replied with genuine affection shining in her eyes. "I'm happy to see your friends around too. It's nice to have everyone together like this."
Her understanding and acceptance brought a sense of relief to Suguru, who couldn't help but feel grateful for her unwavering support. He met her gaze, his eyes widening slightly before a soft smile curved his lips. "Okay," he responded, his voice sincere and warm. "Let's do this more often."
She grinned in agreement. "Whenever you want!"
Taking her hand in his, Suguru smiled tenderly at her. "And for the record," he added playfully, "they're your friends now too."
She blinked, touched by his words. "Really?"
"Yeah," Suguru affirmed with a gleam in his eyes. "They're here for you too."
Encouraged by Suguru's words, she felt a rush of warmth fill her heart. It was comforting to know that she was not just welcomed but embraced by his circle of friends. As she glanced around at the lively atmosphere in the room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging settling over her.
"Thank you," she whispered, squeezing Suguru's hand affectionately. "I appreciate it."
Suguru flashed her a grin, his eyes softening with affection. "Of course," he replied warmly. "We're all in this together."
With a contented smile, she settled back into the cozy atmosphere, feeling grateful for the bonds of friendship that surrounded her. As the evening unfolded with laughter, music, and shared moments, she knew that this unexpected gathering would be a cherished memory to hold onto.
She was glad to be here together.
She was glad she was laughing
She was glad to be dancing.
She was glad it was with Suguru.
Suddenly, she felt her heart jump.
Once more, logic has no place in love.
extra, monday back to work;
The atmosphere was serene as Suguru and his girlfriend savored their brief reprieve from their demanding work schedules. Seated comfortably beside each other, they cradled steaming cups of coffee in their hands, the rich aroma wafting around them like a comforting embrace. The gentle hum of the coffee shop provided a soothing backdrop, contrasting the bustling energy of the city streets just beyond the window.
Despite the hectic pace of their lives, they cherished these moments of tranquility, grateful for the chance to unwind together. With each sip of coffee, they felt the tension of the day slowly melt away, replaced by a sense of contentment and relaxation. It was a simple pleasure, yet one they both treasured deeply.
As they sat side by side, lost in the quiet intimacy of the moment, they exchanged soft smiles and knowing glances, their connection unspoken yet palpable. In the midst of their busy lives, these stolen moments of togetherness were like precious jewels, reminding them of the strength of their bond and the importance of prioritizing their relationship amidst the chaos of the world.
"Hey, I have something for you," Suguru said suddenly, as he took a bag from the corner. There was a glint in his eyes. “From what you said last time.”
She looks at him confused. “What about last time?”
As Suguru handed her the bag, her grip tightened around her coffee cup, almost causing her to spill its contents as she struggled to suppress a sudden bout of nervousness. His casual remark about her previous mention of pink sent her mind into a whirlwind of panicked thoughts. Did he really just buy her pink underwear? The thought alone was enough to make her cheeks burn with embarrassment, and she found herself echoing in horror at the possibility.
Before she could voice her concerns or protest, Suguru deftly pulled out the pink Nintendo Switch from the bag, and relief flooded through her like a wave. Her eyes widened in realization, and she couldn't help but feel a rush of gratitude mixed with embarrassment at her initial assumption.
"Oh, that pink," she murmured, her voice tinged with both relief and embarrassment.
Suguru's chuckle was warm and reassuring, his smile widening as he confirmed, "Yeah, this pink," his gaze filled with genuine amusement. "Do you like it?"
Her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment, but now also tinged with relief, she nodded eagerly. "I love it," she confessed, a genuine smile spreading across her face as she reached out to take the gift from him. "Thank you, Suguru."
He beamed at her, his eyes sparkling with happiness. "You're welcome," he replied, his voice filled with affection. "I thought it would be a nice surprise."
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