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mysicklove-main · 10 months

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Parings: Yandere! Rengoku x Fem! Reader

Word Count: 14.3k (Part 1/3)

Warnings: This chpt is pretty chill so, overprotectiveness, slight possessiveness, vague meanings, rengoku personality does 180s, character injury, minor character death, gore (demon eating human and reader gets impaled)

Summary: Meeting the one you have idolized for years is a once in a lifetime experience. So, you live it up, baking him all the treats in the world. When you finally befriend him, you believe that everything is going great. But he keeps saying strange things, and is acting like he isn't leaving by the end of the week...

𝐅𝐈𝐂 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

Growing up, you have always idolized demon slayers. Your father was one, and he told you and your brother everything about them from a young age. Sure, it may have scared the daylights out of you, but at least you were forever prepared for the real world.

He had planned to teach both of you the ways of a slayer, but he passed early into your childhood. With your mom passing at birth, it was only you and your older brother. The two of you made do with the loss.

Instead of following in your father’s footsteps, the two of you lived a simple life. The both of you live in a small cottage, just on the outskirts of a village. You woke up early every morning to sell fresh baked goods to the villagers, while your brother traveled west, aiding the sickly, and making money through donations. He always came back after one week of being gone.

When the two of you are together, you always are reminiscing over the stories your father once told. Most of the time referring back to how he met the Hashiras.

By god, you idolized them. You have always dreamed of meeting them like your father did. He described them as the most skilled people on the planet. The protectors of the human world. His words couldn’t help but draw you in. You wanted to know everything about them. How they trained, how they spoke, how they lived.

You daydream all the time about meeting any of them.

Specifically, the son of the man who once saved your father from death. Who granted him an extra three years with you. You have fond memories of how your father used to mention how strong the boy was from such a young age. The boy who was built to protect.

You dreamed of meeting him. You were a plain girl who lived a normal life, so you couldn’t even fathom the thought of being your age and fighting off demons. The thought of him drew you in and you vowed to someday find him.

You knew what he looked like. Your father went into detail about the child. The boy who looks like the flame. Fiery hair and eyes.

You shiver in glee like you always do when you think of your idol. He has to be your age by now, maybe a little older. You wonder what he is like, of course, he has to be unbelievably strong, but was he arrogant because of it? Or was he kind? You didn't care, you just want to see him. Talk to him. Just one time. That's all you needed.

“Hey, Y/N!” Your brother calls as you begin your journey toward the village. You turn, to see him in front of the house, his travel backpack on, and waving at you.

You frown. “You're not leaving right?” You respond, and the waving arm hesitates. He had just got home yesterday, he usually stays for a week before leaving.

“I have to! I just got word that someone needs my help.”

You sigh but nod. He always was so kind. “You'll come back? In a week?”

He grins at you, that bright smile he inherited from your father. You wish yours was as bright as his. That's part of the reason he was loved by all. “Always. I'll be back in a week’s time. Be good without me!”

You throw up a hand, waving him goodbye. “I will! Be safe!” You call and he smiles in return, before turning his back on you and beginning his journey.

You sigh when he disappears, sensing something amiss, but brush it off. Your worries always got the best of you, and you needed to focus.

Alas, you begin to walk forward and toward the village.

You are greeted by your regulars, and many of the elderly come up to you to complain about how big you are getting. You always have to remind them that you are not a child anymore, but nevertheless, they never seem to get it.

The villagers have always been kind to you, and you were forever grateful. With the lack of parents, it was nice to have someone to turn to for affection.

Currently, you were walking around and greeting the villagers, with your hands completely full of fresh goods. A handful of people approached you and paid their dues, with a warm smile. The business was going well, and you were having a nice time chatting with the villagers.

You see a dark hooded figure in the distance, walking quickly toward you. Politely, you make your way to the other side of the road to avoid the stranger. You slightly nod to yourself and continue forward.

Suddenly, at a couple steps away they switch back into your lane and run completely into you. Their shoulder knocks into yours and you wince. Black gloved hands move quickly and you can see them snatch the money in your pocket. You can’t seem to do anything, because the force of his shoulder has sent you falling backward.

You land on your backside with a groan and watch all of your baked goods tumble across the pavement. Immediately you look up toward the stranger, but he was gone. So, you turn back toward the ground and try to scoop up any of the pastries you can.

They are all ruined. You try not to let it get to you, but it hits you hard. You sit on your knees on the hard pavement and clench your fists, trying not to cry. All that time you spent baking and selling was for nothing. Just for some thief to steal your hard work from you.

A shadow stands in front of you, but you ignore it, too focused on yourself to deal with another kind villager. You don’t want to lash out at them.

A booming male voice says, “Are you alright?”

You jump at the sheer power of the stranger’s call but continue to keep your head down. Tears were now pooling in your eyes and you quickly wipe them away. “I'm okay. It's fine, you can go now,” You mumble, but the shadow doesn't move.

“How could I leave a maiden in need?” He continues, still abnormally loud. You shake your head and sigh, before grabbing the remaining pastries and putting them back in their holder. When you begin to stand up, you feel a strong arm, grab onto yours and help ease your way up.

You finally look up to take in the man’s appearance and your eyes widen. Eyes and hair of a flame. A fire kimono. A sword connected to his side.

This was him. The man you have wanted to meet your entire life. It had to be.

Your mouth hangs open as your mind blanks. He frowns slightly. “Are you alright, ma’am?”

“Its…It’s you,” You say breathlessly, not caring at the moment how strange you may sound.

He frowns even more at your vague statement. “Oh! Do you know me?” His voice causes some heads to turn, but he seems to ignore it, almost used to the stares.

You blink at him. You are at a loss for words. He was here. You didn’t actually think this would happen. It was supposed to be just a dream.

A couple of seconds go by.

He instead changes the subject at your silence. “Well! I see that you dropped these.” He points to the now dirty danishes. “How upsetting! I wanted to buy some. Will you make more?”

This seems to snap you back into reality and you begin to ramble nervously. “Oh…Yeah. A thief knocked me over and took my money. Just my luck, huh? But i'll be back tomorrow with fresh ones.” You're blushing. You didn’t say or do anything embarrassing, but the fact that you are finally in his presence is making you squirm.

He smiles and you tear your eyes away from him, a wobbly smile pulling at your face. “Great! I'll buy the whole bunch in advance!” He hands you a huge stack of money and you gape at him. He just handed you two days worth of cash.

“Sir, this is way too much!” You splutter, beginning to hand him back the money. He just laughs in return. His huge body tilts back with the booming noise.

“Nonsense! It's to compensate for what the thief did to you.”

“Are you sure sir? You don't have to do that.”

“I want to. As long as you promise to make more of those danishes!”

His kindness makes you beam and the words slip out of you before you could stop them. “You are so generous, sir. As expected of such a high-rank demon slayer!”

You knew you sounded like a total fangirl, clutching your fists with sparkles in your eyes, but you didn’t care. The fact that you weren’t freaking out right now was impressive.

He cocks his head to the side, the soft smile never falling. “You know who I am?”

“Of course, I know who you are! The flame harisha. One of the strongest demon slayers out there. I am a huge fan, sir!” You grin up at him, setting the ruined danishes aside, and he lets out another powerful laugh.

He didn't seem as shocked that you knew about demons as you thought he was going to be. Or maybe he was just hiding it pretty well. “I didn't know I had fans!”

You hum with a frantic nod. “If everyone knew what you did for us, you would have millions of fans!”

He places a hand on your shoulder and you buzz with happiness. “You are too kind, ma’am. But please don't give me so much praise! I am only doing my job.”

You shake your head, “You’re being way too humble! You have no idea how great you are.” You pause, coming back to reality. You don't want to annoy the slayer with your useless rambling, he was a busy man.

You sigh and instead, bow. “Thank you for everything. I won’t take up your time.” Your voice is quieter and more controlled but still expresses your immense gratitude.

You grab your stuff and head home with a gleeful look in your eyes before he could even say anything.

A second goes by and you begin to daydream about the types of danishes you are going to make for him. Suddenly, you feel a presence, so you turn to your side to see him walking beside you, a small content smile on his face. You almost jump, his movements were so silent, how did he catch up with you so fast?

When he notices you take in his appearance he turns to you and grins. “You’ll be back tomorrow, right? I must dine on some of your baked goods!”

You match his intensity with a wide smile. “Of course. I wouldn’t lie to you, sir!”

“Please, call me Rengoku.”

“Of course, Mr. Rengoku!” You are buzzing again. Two conversations you have had with him and now you know his name. You couldn’t wait to tell your brother all about this.

“Great! I’ll see you tomorrow…” He pauses, turning toward you, hinting for you to continue.

“Y/N.”

“Tomorrow then, Miss Y/N. Stay safe!” And just like he appeared, he disappeared in a matter of seconds, while you are stuck red in the face from your idol saying your very own name.

You could die happy.

You woke up extra early the next morning. The goods had to be absolutely perfect. You were determined for him to like them. You even used some frosting to draw little orange flames on them. You hoped he didn’t think they were lame. It’s definitely a very good possibility he did.

When the sun rose, you grabbed your iteams and quickly headed down the hill. The quicker you got there, the better. You didn’t want them to get cold.

The town was extra busy that day. More people greeted you on the streets and you had to apologize to many that you weren’t selling today. After all, he bought every single one.

Your head hung high and you were practically skipping around the town, beaming at anyone and everyone.

You don’t seem to notice the small curb in front of you. You run into it, and screech when you begin to fall forward, not knowing what to do. You could drop your danishes and save yourself from pain, or you could move the basket up and brace yourself for a harsh fall straight to the face.

You weren’t about to let Rengoku’s desserts get ruined.

Just as you were about to hit the floor you stop. You feel a hand on your shoulder, as you stare face to face with the ground. You clutch the pastries. “Miss Y/N, its a pleasure seeing you here!” The familiar voice calls and you turn red out of sheer embarrassment at the situation you are in.

He pulls you back with just one hand and you have to physically restrain yourself from fangirling. He held your entire weight with one hand like it was no big deal.

You quickly turn around, trying to ignore the fuming of your face, and hold out the pastries to him. “Here! I hope you like them!” You exclaim while pulling the lid off to show him the decorated buns. You take in a deep breath and wait.

His eyes seem to sparkle when he takes in the frosting and you take this as a good sign. He smiles wide and grabs one of the goods. Without a second thought, he plops the entire thing into his mouth.

He chews in silence, and you could almost hear your heartbeat pound as you wait for his thoughts.

With a swallow, his eyes fall back to you, and he says, “Tasty!”

You beam instantly, matching his wide smile. “You think so?”

“I know so. These are one of the most delicious baked goods I have ever had!” The gleeful buzzing is back, you knew that your baking was good, but to hear it from his mouth was such a gift.

He puts both hands on both of your shoulders and you freeze at the touch, internally freaking out. “Come with me, Miss Y/N. Let us eat them together!” He exclaims, before snatching the goods from your hands with one hand and pulling you behind him with the other. You don’t have room for protest.

He leads you to the edge of the town and plops himself on a curb behind a small restaurant, and faces the hill you live on. You sit next to him, and he doesn’t seem to care about personal space, because almost instantly he is crowding yours.

You’re going to have to get used to this, you can’t freak out anymore than this.

He opens the box again and hands you one of the goods, but you pull away. “Those are for you, Mr. Rengoku. I can’t take something you bought!”

But, to your dismay, he grabs your hands, places a baked good into them, and shuts his fingers over yours. “Eat!”

You weren’t going to ignore his demand, so you pick up the bun and begin to nibble on it. He stares, waiting for a reaction. You smile hesitantly, “It’s good!”

“Right!” He exclaims before placing another danish into his mouth, with another loud, “Tasty!”

You begin to laugh at his antics. The way he yells, the way he dragged you away like it was nothing, and simply how enthusiastic he seemed to be. He was a strange man, but you couldnt help but like him even more.

He looks at you as he chews, while you throw your head back in a laugh. “Is there something funny?” He asks, glancing around the area. It was just the two of you.

“You are just so…so human!”

He mimics your smile, even if he is totally lost at your vague statement. “Well, I'd hope so!” He says before taking another huge bite.

Your smile softens as you stare at the food in your hands. “It’s just, I thought you would be different, you know? A Hashira, shouldn't you be super serious or arrogant?”

He swallows his bite and looks out toward the hill. His voice comes out softer, “You idolize me too much Miss Y/N. I am nothing but a man who must protect the weaker people of this world.”

“But do you want to? You aren’t forcing yourself to do this because of your father, right?” He turns to you with slightly wider eyes and blinks. The two of you remain in silence for a couple of seconds.

But then he grins, with the tilt of his head. He places a massive hand on the top of your head and you freeze. “Not to worry, Miss Y/N. I love what I do. I wouldn't change it for the world,” He says, slightly ruffling up your hair.

Another couple of seconds go by as you think of what to say. But he speaks up before you do. “You knew my father?” The man prompts, turning his attention directly on you. It makes you nervous, his watchful eyes seem to take in your every move.

You press on either way, tearing your eyes away so you can focus. “No, but he saved my father about ten years ago. So, I am forever indebted to the Rengoku family. I cannot thank you enough, Mr. Rengoku. Even if it wasn’t you who saved my father, you and your family have protected so many people. Saved so many. It's incredible, really, you're incredible,” You hum and he continues to stare.

You continue, you have been waiting to tell someone this, specifically him, so you couldn’t stop the rambling. “All of the Hashira are. For years I’ve daydreamed about meeting them. You specifically.” You glance up at him and quickly look back down in embarrassment when you see his small smile. “I've always idolized you all. It’s strange to think, we are the same species, but you are someone who risks their lives daily to kill demons, why I sell pastries to keep food on the table. It’s kinda embarrassing when you think about it…” You trail off, taking another bite of the good to keep yourself distracted.

Seconds go by and you begin to get uncomfortable. You turn toward him to meet his watchful stare. His fiery eyes seem to look through you. “I’m sorry, did I make you uncomfortable? I said way too much, please just enjoy the bun, I'll be quiet, I promise!”

He sets the danish down and your eyes follow it with a slight frown. He forcefully grabs your hands and you quickly look up shocked at the sudden touch. “Thank you for the kind words!” He yells and you cringe slightly at the volume. “But like I said yesterday, we are just fulfilling our duty. You are not indebted to anything. And Miss Y/N please don’t think that way! You don’t have to kill demons to be great, you know. Being this good of a baker is way more important than someone like me!”

The way he says it throws you off. It all sounds so genuine like he truly believes that what you are doing is important. He definitely knows how to make someone feel special. “T-Thank you, Mr. Rengoku!”

He smiles wide. “Please, call me Kyojuro! I think we are going to be friends, Y/N!”

You are taken aback. You didn’t think you would ever be friends with someone like him. It makes you grin. “You really think so?”

“Yes! Besides how else am I going personalized fresh goods from a pretty lady?” He says, gently letting go of your hands so he can point to the wobbly icing drawing of a flame located on the center of the bun.

Your face fumes, both from embarrassment at his compliment and the ridiculous decoration. You wave your hands in front of your face. “It’s nothing! You deserve much more sir—Kyojuro.”

“Nonsense! How could anyone deserve something so magnificent!” He declares, loud and full of pride.

It made another small laugh slip through your lips. It was endearing to see how passionate he was about the smallest things. He was unreasonably kind to you.

He grins with a small hum, when he sees you smile, before shoving another bun into his mouth.

“Tasty!”

And just like that, you made friends with a Hashira.

The two of you were quick to get closer to one another. I mean it was simple really, you interviewed him on his entire life story, while he happily explained. You bring him goods every day, and no matter how much you reassure him it’s fine, he always insists on paying you the full amount.

But nevertheless, you have been avoiding the question that hangs in the air. Why are you here?

You don't want to know. There has to be a demon near or else he would never come to this small town. You fear that when you ask that question it’s going to spur his leave. It’s been four days now. He has to be on his way soon.

You've grown attached even in this short period of time. He has to have that effect on others; you wouldnt believe him if he said otherwise. He was the type of person who people couldn’t help but be drawn to. It made you feel possessively good that he was spending time with you rather than the other villagers.

A shoulder bumps into you while you are lost in your daydream. You flinch back and into Kyojuro. He glances down at you and then snaps his gaze back to the man that knocked into you. In less than a heartbeat, the Hashira steps in front of you and grabs onto the jacket of the stranger. You could barely even process what was happening.

“Sir, I’d ask for you to apologize. You’ve disrespected a lady,” His voice is tight, but the Hashira smiles at the man. It makes you gulp.

You realized quickly that Kyojuro is…overprotective. It made sense though, his whole job is to protect people, but these were humans he was protecting you from. And most of the time they weren’t even doing anything amiss. Simple things like, a salesman having a snarky tone at you, a man trying to flirt with you for your service, a small child almost tripping you, or now, someone who accidentally bumped into you.

He never gets truly upset, the smile is still plastered on his face, but the tone is always sharp, dangerous even. His voice was powerful naturally, so to hear it shift was intimidating.

You grab onto his arm before the man could speak. “It’s fine, Kyojuro. It was my fault, I wasn’t paying attention.” You turn to the man and quickly bow in apologies.

His gaze sharpens, and you see his eyebrows begin to furrow at your actions. He didn’t seem to like this.

The man remains in his grasp. “Hey, you can let him go now,” You say, moving your hands to his fingers to try to coax them open.

His eyes remain locked on the man who was now struggling in his hold. “Apologize, sir.”

“Kyojuro, I said-”

He cuts you off, his loud voice cutting your train of thought short. “He touched you, so he must make up for it.” He smiles at you, but this time it doesn’t feel the same as it usually does. The malice in his voice is unhidden.

“I’m sorry! Can you just let me go you crazy bastard!” The man complains, grabbing at the Hashira’s wrist to pull himself away.

In an instant, Rengoku drops him, and the man scampers away, mumbling curses underneath his breath.

You sigh, your gaze following the man that beginning to disappear into the crowd. When you turn back around, Rengoku is staring at you, the familiar small smile on his face. “Was that really necessary?” You whine.

He huffs a small laugh, before placing a hand on your head. Something he seems to do as a sign of affection. “Of course it was! I can't let you be treated that way!”

His usual smile is back and you find comfort in it. In these moments he was always different, but he always snapped back to usual not long after. So, you tend not to dwell on them.

“Whatever you say, Kyojuro,” You hum, before changing the subject. “C’mon, let's head back to my place, I wanna teach you something!”

He pauses, eyes slightly widening. He has never been to your place before. The two of you tended to stay in the village, spending daylight hours with one other. You have never asked him over, and at this time. It was almost evening.

It made him concerned. Do you invite other men over to your place? He knew you idolized him, but if you had met Tengen or Giyuu first, would you have invited them over as well? It made him feel strange to think about it. You were too accepting, you should be more cautious of inviting people over. The two of you only met a couple of days ago.

“You don’t have to go if you don't want to…” You say, your voice unsure at his original silence.

He snaps back to reality, and blinks at you a couple of times, before grinning wide. “I would love to go!” He bellows, causing heads to turn.

You’re used to it by this point, so you grab his hand and lead him up the mountain.

He looks massive in your small cottage. It wasn't just his height. It was his overall frame that made him look so out of place. It wasnt built for a Hashira to live in.

You decided not to comment on it, you didn’t want to hurt his feelings. Besides, a demon slayer needs a frame like that. It was rather intimidating.

You lead him into the kitchen, pulling him away from the shrine dedicated to your parents. He didn’t comment on it, instead bowing low and letting himself be dragged.

You begin to pull out your baking materials, while he stands and watches, occasionally asking if you need any help, to which you deny with a hum.

Finally, once settled you dramatically slam your first on the table, and look up at him with a smile. His eyes follow your fist in a confused, but delighted stare. “I am going to teach you how to bake!” You exclaim, hands thrusting into the air with excitement.

His eyes light up. “Tasty!”

You in turn roll your eyes, the smile still plastered on your face. “That's the goal. I hope that you can make your own goods when…you know.”

His eyes soften, and his voice drops. “I leave?”

“Yeah.”

He walks over to you, and he uses his hand to lightly trace the area near your temple, bending down slightly to meet your gaze. “Don't worry about that for now. We've got time.”

Your mind travels back to that question.

Why are you here?

You ignore the recurring thought. It never seems to leave you alone. It wasn’t worth thinking about it. You were here with your idol, and that should be enough for you. Just meeting him should have been enough. You found yourself getting greedy.

You nod into the touch, blushing slightly, when he pulls away with a hum. You never got used to how physically affectionate he was.

He seemed to think nothing of it, constantly brushing his hand against your body. You’ve thought it was an accident at first, when his hands lingered on your hips for a second too long, or when his hands seem to twitch when they graze yours. But when he led you through a crowd with a hand on your back, it made you realize how touchy he must be.

You didn’t mind of course. If he was showing any affection toward you, it had to be a blessing. Demon slayers would kill to talk to a Hashira, nevertheless, be friends with one.

“So where do we begin?” Rengoku prompts, rubbing his hands together as to prepare them for heavy work.

You laugh, cutting your thoughts off, and begin the lesson.

It turns out he is horrible at baking. For all of the talents he was gifted with, the kitchen was not one of them.

He tried, truly he did, his face is covered with flour, and whenever you asked if he needed help, he pretended that he was doing completely fine. It was cute, really.

But, after twenty minutes of struggling to follow your commands, you saw him begin to get frustrated. His brows were pinched as he tried to knead the dough, way too hard than usual. His fingers dug into it, and you heard his noises of annoyance under his breath.

You walk over to him and stand next to him, before reaching over to put your hands on his. “Gently, Kyojuro. Like this.” You murmur, before guiding the both of your hands to knead the dough, gently this time.

His hands are much larger than yours, and you struggled to move them, but he went completely lax under your hands. He lets you lead them into the repetitive motion, while you mumble instructions.

His silence becomes deafening. Rengoku isnt one to stop talking, especially in situations like these.

You glance up at him, to see that he is staring at you. His eyes are opened wide, his mouth curled up in a small content smile. “What?” You muse, automatically removing your hands from his. His smile drops when they leave.

“That's the first time you touched me.”

“What? No, it’s not, I feel like the two of us are always somehow touching one way or another.”

He barks a laugh, shaking his head. “Yeah, but I always initiated them. You touched me, Y/N!”

You turn red. “Am I not allowed to?” You say, trying not to let the embarrassment get to you.

“Of course not! Please, feel free to touch me at any time and anywhere!”

“Don’t say it like that!”

“What? I am merely speaking the truth. I enjoy it immensely when you touch me, Y/N!” Your hand covers his mouth before he could get anything else out. He blinks at you, before closing his eyes with a wide smile. Probably grateful you were touching him again.

What he was saying was true. You tried to keep a little bit of space between the two of you. Even if he enjoys physical contact, you didn’t want to catch him on a bad time and have him snap on you. Honestly, you don't want to do something that may make him upset, because the idea you have of him in your mind would be tarnished. You like how you see him now.

“Are you done now?” He nods frantically under your hand. You pull away and he beams at you. It was rare to see him not smiling honestly.

He turns back to the dough, a determined look on his face. “Alright, I believe I can do this! Gently this time!”

You nod and stand close to him as he begins to try to knead the dough.

Too soft. Way too softly. It looked like he was afraid to touch it. You sigh. “Kyojuro, I don't think this is going to work.”

His body snaps over to you, his eyes wide and looking a little panicked. “What’s not going to work?” He splutters.

It was the first time he didn’t look like a Hashira in your eyes. He looked like a regular man, who also have their fears and worries. But you have no idea what he seems to be worried about.

You place a hand on his lower arm and tilt your head to the side in a soft grin. His eyes flicker to it, and his body seems to jolt at the touch. He focuses his stare on you. “You baking. I think you should stick to demon-slaying, hmm?”

“But how am I supposed to eat these delicious goods?”

You pause, using your other finger to tap your chin. “You could visit me from time to time and I can make them for you.”

He stares at you, a small frown on his face. He seems to do this a lot, you’ve taken notice too. The staring. It’s like he goes into a whole different world when he looks at you. Sometimes he would speak on what he was thinking about, others he would change the subject.

It seemed that he felt like talking today. Even if the results shocked you so. “Or you could live with me!” He exclaims so loud you swear you saw your porcelain cups shiver.

You blink at him. He smiles in return, and grabs both of your hands, cupping them in his own. “What?”

“I said, you could live with me!”

You shake your head, eyes flickering to your hands in his hold. “No, I know what you said, but what are you talking about? I can’t just pick up and move in with a guy I just met, simply because you like my danishes.”

His smile falters. “It will be more than just you baking for me, I promise Y/N. Besides, we met four days ago and we seem to get along perfectly! Do you not trust me?”

“Of course I trust you, you are a Hashira after all. The world has to trust you.” He doesn't seem to like this answer. His smile drops completely now, and his eyebrows slightly furrow. You gulp, not wanting him to be upset at you. “I mean–It's just that I can’t leave my brother alone! I have to stay here and watch the house when he is gone!”

He drops your hands, the smile returning. “Of course! The brother. You are so kind, Y/N, really.” His hand lands back on your head, ruffling the lose strands. His voice seems to be just barely strained, and the grip on your head is a tad bit harsher than usual. Not enough to hurt, but enough to notice the difference.

It’s not that you don’t want to go with him. It would be a dream come true to live with a Hashira. But you weren’t dumb. You knew that underneath the kimono and the blade by his side, he is still a man. A strong one at that.

The thought made the image of him in your head start to blur once more. You are getting too close to him, and although it was nice to be his friend, when he leaves you don’t want to think of him any differently.

You focus on the task at hand. You fix your hair quickly, while he laughs gently. You beam back at him. “Well, lets finish teaching you how to bake!”

“Right!”

Tomorrow your task was to pick up necessities from the village next door. Stuff like flour, cloth, string, baking supplies, and maybe, if you made enough this week, a new pair of shoes. You go on these trips once every three weeks. They took about the whole day, as it was about a five-ish mile walk and you needed to visit many different shops.

So, you couldn’t see Rengoku tomorrow. The thought made you a little sad, but the two of you had seen each other for five days in a row. You didn’t want him to get sick of you anyways.

The two of you sat on the bank of the nearest river. Him filling up the containers for you, even when you tried to stop him, reassuring you that you could do it by yourself. He didn’t listen of course.

It’s silent between the two of you, instead listening to the sounds of the river passing by. His leg is touching yours. You don’t know if it’s purposeful or not. “I’m leaving tomorrow,” You hum, trying to start up a conversation.

Silence. Your eyes flicker to him. He stares at the ground, eyes wide, and darting back and forth along the grass, as if trying to process something. His hand grips his kimono. “Where?” He breathes, after a couple more seconds of thick tension.

You try to laugh it off, confused by the mood shift, and his eyes snap toward you. Recently, he has gotten more…serious. It made you even more afraid that he was beginning to not like you. “Where?” He questions again, his voice louder this time.

“To the next village over. Need some supplies. It will only take a day,” You reason, and you swear you could see his body begin to relax.

And suddenly, as if nothing happened, he turns to you with a grin on his face. “Of course! We shall go together!”

You blink at him, the thoughts of him getting sick of you resurfacing. Besides, he had a mission to do, you know he did, whether he told you or not. “I appreciate that, Kyojuro, but I kinda wanna do this alone.”

His grin falls in a heartbeat, and his eyes become wide again. Similar to how he looked yesterday. Panicked. “Are you sick of me?”

“What? No! Of course not. How could I ever get sick of you?”

He huffs, turning toward you. “Then we go together!”

“But,” You continue, causing his smile to drop. “I think it’s a good idea for us to spend some time apart. We’ve only just recently met, and we have spent every day together.”

“That’s true! But we are enjoying it, are we not?”

“Well yeah, but we may not…soon.”

“Why?” He begins to move closer to you. You can almost feel his breath on your skin. The proximity makes you shiver.

“Because…Because I don’t know! That’s just how it works.”

“I will not enjoy spending time with you, Y/N. I hope the same for you.” He says that now, but you don’t believe him truly. It’s human nature for one to need alone time. It was strange that someone like him who works alone most of the time doesn’t understand it.

Your head is scrambling for something else to say, and without meaning to you tell him what you have been wanting to know for so long. “Kyojuro, what are you even doing here?”

He falters at this and your own eyes widen. You didn’t mean for it to come out like that. “I’m sorry–I meant, It’s just…are you on a mission out here?”

He smiles at you, his gaze soft, like you say anything, and still, he wouldn’t be mad at you. “Yes. There is a group of demons near the woods. I’m here to end them!”

His story sounds plausible, but you weren’t stupid, he was a Hashira. This mission should have ended after at most two days. And not only that, you haven’t heard of any people going missing. Was he saving them and taking his time to kill the demons?

Rengoku wouldn’t do that. The flame Hashira would never leave demons walking on this world willingly. He must be planning a strategy to kill them. He must be.

But you’ve heard stories of how his father took down hundreds with little to no trouble. Was Rengoku weaker than you thought?

You couldn’t stand the thought of the glorified picture in your head being damaged.

So, you nod. “Well, you should probably stay here to protect the villagers in case something goes amiss?”

“Don’t you worry, my Y/N! Demons don’t come out in the day! The villagers will be completely fine with my absence. Please let me come along! I will not be a nuisance!”

He seems adamant about him coming, and you didn’t want to be a bother. So, with one last sigh, you nod and give in. Besides, you wouldn’t ever be sick of him, and you couldn’t help but cling to the idea that maybe he wouldn’t be either.

The Hashira accompanied you on your journey the next day, grinning the entire time while carrying your bags.

Two days have passed by. You’ve been with him for six days in a row now, and honestly, you’ve never been better. You were wrong about the idea of getting sick of him. Nothing about him steered you away.

In fact, you believe that you have started to have a crush on the Hashira.

Not that you would ever admit it. It was a ridiculous idea, but you couldn’t help but fall for him. It wasn’t even him being a Hashira that drew you in now, it was his personality. Sure, he would always make you feel safe and protected from harm, but it was the way he smiled at you that made your heart flutter. The way he was always so polite, and treated you with the utmost respect.

You haven’t experienced many people like him, so like a moth to the flame, you began to fantasize about what it would be like to be with him.

But, it was naive of you. He was bound to leave soon. A group of demons has ought to be killed soon. If not, his master would surely call upon him soon.

You were growing too attached to him. It was weird to think about how you would have to start doing everything alone again. How silent everything is going to be again.

If you went with him, what would life be like for you?

You throw the thought out. You couldn’t leave your brother alone, he’s all you had left. The two of you needed each other to survive.

“I feel jealous of whoever you are thinking about, Y/N,” Rengoku calls from behind his shoulder, as he helps you put away some dishes. He turns to you with a smile on his face.

You laugh lightly, beginning to get used to his teasing. “Aw, too bad you’ll never know.”

He sets the dish down and begins walking over to you, with a small smirk and raised eyebrow. You don’t move. He approaches you, much too closely as usual, and you try to refrain from blushing. “What?”

“And if I make you tell me?” He questions, eyes staring deeply into yours.

“Hmmm, how?”

His smile widens at your tone. “I have some ideas!”

You laugh at this and jab a finger into his chest. “You, my Hashira, wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

He blinks at you. “You know just what to say to make a man blush!” He exclaims, the familiar loudness returning. It was true, his face seemed to have a twinge of pink.

It took you a second to understand. You didn’t mean it like that. The “my Hashira” was only supposed to tease him in turn. It made you fume from embarrassment. You begin to scramble to explain yourself, but he places his large hand on your head again.

His voice goes softer. “But my flame, that isn’t true. Please don’t doubt me. I wouldn’t hesitate to end someone if anyone hurts you. It’s my job to protect you.”

The seriousness in his voice makes you uneasy. “A demon right? Not a human?” You question, sounding way more nervous than you should be. The way he said it made you really think about how strong he truly is. Without a second thought, he could kill you or anyone if he wanted to.

This thought confused you. Rengoku would never hurt you, nor any human, why does the thought seem to leave a chill down your spine? How are you having these thoughts, when not even a minute ago you were thinking about potentially leaving with him?

He stares at you, the smile not leaving his face. “Exactly,” He says, and then removes his hand from your head, to turn back to the dishes. He was always booming with confidence, why did he sound so doubtful?

Why are you questioning a Hashira’s morals?

You have to get your mind off the subject. It was making things complicated and you were allowing paranoia to get the best of you.

You creep up next to him, grabbing the clay cup from his hands, and away. “Kyojuro, do you remember the time I showed you how to bake?”

He turns to you with a wide smile, eyes lighting up. “Of course! They were delicious!” Well, yours were. His didn’t turn out as well. You gave up on teaching him how to bake correctly, and he didn’t seem to mind at all.

“Well, you must pay a price for my knowledge,” You hum, turning your back towards him to hide your smile.

“Not to worry, I will pay for all the ingredients!”

You roll your eyes at the offering. “A different price. I did you a service, now you have to do me one.”

Footsteps approach you rapidly, and suddenly his chest is against your back. You jump at the feeling and crane your head to look up at him.

Two bright eyes stare down at you, blinking owlishly. His hands fall to your shoulder, and his smile is different this time. It seems more like a smirk, rather than a grin. But still, you could tell that the man was practically gleaming. “What type of service, Y/N?”

His low voice startles you, and you flush at the noise. As on instinct you jump away from his hold and turn toward him. “Not that type of service!” You scramble out, trying and failing to keep your cool.

He laughs at this, and you clench your fists in embarrassment. “I apologize, I was teasing you, Y/N!” When you don’t respond, he continues, tone lighter than before. “I am at your beck and call, what do you need from me?”

“I would like for you to teach me some basic self-defense mechanisms.”

His eyes sharpen in an instant, the laugh in his voice gone. “Why? I will protect you.”

You frown at him, not expecting this reaction. “When you leave, Kyo.”

“You don’t need to protect yourself, I said this earlier. I will not let anything touch you. It’s my duty.”

“When you leave,” You repeat when he doesn’t get the memo. He’s acting like he could protect you even when is gone for his next mission.

His eyebrows furrow and his voice comes out flat. “Do you want me to leave?”

It feels like an accusation.

“What? No, but its inevitable.”

He grabs onto your hands and holds them tightly. It feels more than a regular friendship hold, it seemed desperate, but you were too engrossed in the situation to even think about that. “It doesn’t have to be that way.”

You try to pull away, but he holds them in place. Your voice goes softer, almost as if you were soothing a small child. “I can’t go with you, Kyojuro and you know that. My brother needs me.”

His smile drops in an instant and his face turns cold. “Fine. I’ll teach you. Let’s go outside.” The swordsman says cooly, dropping your hands and beginning to walk toward the door of your house.

Regret fills your veins. You have never seen him upset at you, and you have no understanding of what you did was wrong. He should know that the two of you living together was strange. Unless he was asking for marriage? But that doesn’t seem right, he hasn’t made any romantic moves on you and he would need your brother’s blessing to even be considered.

Or was it asking him to train you that made him upset? But that also didn’t make any sense. Wouldnt he want you to be more protected? Learning basic self-defense is something that everyone should know, and could possibly save your life.

He was so confusing. In one second he’s smiling at you with stars in his eyes, and in the next, he seems to be a completely different person.

Who was he, really?

You scramble toward the door.

He stands in front of you, back facing you. His figure stands tall, and his hair gently falls on the top of his shoulder. Even from far away, he oozes with power.

You tip-toe your way over to him, gulping when his eyes flash to you the second your feet land on the pathway. You smile awkwardly at him, and he in return nods his head with a huff. He turns around to face you. The two of you stand in front of one another in silence.

You begin to apologize, the strange mood was not something you intended, but he cuts you off. “To begin, take out the knife in your pocket.”

You flinch, staring at him in shock. You never told him about the knife you store in case of emergencies. It’s hidden beneath enough fabric that nobody could feel it on you even if they patted you down.

He watches you begin to scramble for an explanation and laughs. The powerful noise throws his head back, with the return of the smile. Another strange shift in his personality. But you don’t mind it at the moment. The cold shoulder he gave you worried you. The laugh makes you feel more at ease immediately, almost forgetting completely about the knife.

“I saw a glimpse of it when you reached for the top shelf!”

A simple explanation. Obviously, it had to be, you were being dramatic, Rengoku would never do anything weird. So, you just nod at him and reach into the cloth to pull out the steel blade.

It was nothing fancy, but your father gifted it to you when you were younger, so you treasured it deeply.

“Great job, Y/N! Now attack me,” He beams, stepping a couple of feet away to give you running room.

You blink at him, trying to ignore the borderline embarrassing encouragement. He said it like you actually did something great. “What?”

“You heard me! Attack me! Pretend I am the thief from a couple of days back!” You do what he says without much hesitation. You asked to be trained, and he knows exactly how to do it. Besides, he was a trained swordsman it’s not like you were going to actually land a blow on him.

You charge at him and swing the knife up toward his shoulder. As expected, he dodged immediately. He now stands behind you. “Again!”

You shift your feet toward him, clenching your teeth as you take another strike, this time aiming for his neck. Like before, he seems to disappear. An arm grabs onto your wrist. He quickly moves your hand positioning on the blade, huffing when satisfied. “That was great Y/N!”

You nod your head, ready for some pointers or any sort of criticism. But Rengoku just stands a couple feet away, and waits for another attack. You grip the knife, and try a different strategy, instead aiming for his feet. It’s useless, he jumps away. “Creative!”

You huff from the exertion and glare at him. Frustrated at the lack of advice, you speak up. “You are supposed to be teaching me.”

He flashes you a grin. “I am!”

“No, you’re not. Your toying with me. How am I supposed to get any better?”

“I actually think you are great at self-defense! And with me around you will never be in danger. I think its time to head inside for the night!”

When he turns to walk away, you jump in front of him, clutching the base of the knife. “Kyo, this is training for when you are gone.”

His eyes flicker to the blade, and for a moment, his voice is flat. “If you want to continue, keep swinging at me.” You obey his command and try to slam your arm into his shoulder. He continues, voice now expressing more of his emotions, “Why do you keep bringing that up? We will deal with that later!”

You scan the area for where he landed after the dodge. “Your mission is bound to end soon. I know how these things work, my father told me about it. You will leave and it will be soon.”

With a swipe to his collarbone, he jumps back behind you, and you feel his hand caress your neck. You shiver at the soft touch of his calloused fingers. His breath is right next to your ear. “Are you forcing me away?”

You clench your teeth at this and try to turn to him, but he has already moved. “Why do you keep saying these things?”

“Because it sounds like you want me to leave. Is that it, Y/N? You’re sick of me already?”

Another swing, you're so worked up that you don’t even care where to aim at.

“No! My god Kyojuro, you are acting so strange!” In an instant, you feel the blade come in contact with flesh and you freeze. Your heartbeat picks up, eyes wide, as you stare at the Hashira.

Blood drips from his hand and feel yourself pale. Your pulse picks up when the Hashira eyes for the first time during this training leave yours. He hisses out in pain and you watch his eyes widen at the wound.

“Oh. Ow.”

You immediately rush over to him to make sure he was alright. You grip his hand, mind trying to grasp anything your brother has taught you. You half drag him to your cottage, dropping the knife midway. He follows behind you silently, holding his hand up to try to slow the bleeding.

You push him into the nearest chair, and scramble toward the first aid kit your brother left.

When you return, he’s staring at you silently, like he is waiting for some sort of reaction. You pay no mind to it, trying to stay focused on the task at hand.

You kneel down in front of him and he jumps, grabbing onto the chair with the other hand. You glance at him with a raised eyebrow, before grabbing his hand and beginning to clean the wound. “I'm sorry. I should have been paying attention. I didn't mean to.”

“Hmm. It really hurts.” His tone comes out whinier than you have ever heard before and you begin to really panic. He was a demon slayer, he must get hurt all the time, and if this was hurting him, then it must have been a sensitive spot.

When you pour alcohol on the injury, he hisses and you place a hand on his leg to try to comfort him. You feel his gaze on you, as you hold back tears, the guilt tearing ruthlessly at you. “I’m sorry. What can I do to make it up to you?”

A smile begins to resurface and you feel better almost instantly. “No more lessons?!” he says, placing the other hand on your head again.

Why was he so insistent on you not being able to protect yourself? Wouldnt he feel better knowing that you can be safe on your own?

Maybe he has some sort of traumatic past for self-defense that you don’t know about? You don’t know much about him, so that does sound like a reasonable answer.

“Of course! I promise I won't ask again.”

He beams down at you and your heart begins to pound, like it has been the past couple of days. “Great!”

You nod at him, and his eyes flicker to the hand still placed on his leg. You immediately pull away from him, embarrassed, but he grabs it before you can fully remove it. “One more request.”

You try your best not to blush, as he places the hand back on his leg, and begins to rub his thumb over the back of it. His voice softens, and his stare is unwavering. “You have to dote on me. I’m injured, so you can't leave my side until I have healed.”

You blink slowly, but nod your head automatically. It was his dominant hand that was injured, so he may struggle with basic tasks. Plus, you didn't mind not leaving his side. It’s not like the two of you have not been glued to one another since you met. It wouldnt be that big of a change. “Of course! I'll take care of everything. You don’t have to lift a finger. I’m sorry again, Kyojuro.”

He smiles, with a tilt of the head and picks up your hand, giving it a gentle, but affectionate squeeze. “Nonsense! But Y/N, I need you to promise not to leave my side. Do you understand?”

The intensity in his words makes you hesitate. “Until you are healed?”

His words become more frantic, and the grip on your hand tightens. He refuses to look away from you, the bright eyes seeming to peer into you. “Yes. Can you promise me?”

You had no idea why he was so insistent about this right now, but you give in immediately under his stare. “I promise I won't leave your side.”

He stands up, pulling you up effortlessly with him.“Good! Now, don't you think its time for bed!”

You pause for a second, completely forgetting about the fact that he was spending the night. At night he was off slaying demons, or so you assumed, so you never really saw him past sundown. You glance at the hand and sigh, he must have to stop because of you. You ignore the ache in your heart. You already apologized, it was the best you could do.

“Sure. You can sleep on my brother’s cot. He isn’t here.”

He uses your hand to pull your forward, so you had to look directly up at him. You are used to the forwardness, so when you collide with his chest, you don't even question it. “You just promised,” He says with a cocked head.

“But you won’t need any help when you're sleeping!”

He throws his head back in a laugh. “You never know! Besides, I think–” He hisses out and his eyes fall back to the injury. Your own eyes widen and quickly cup the injured hand, worry plastered on your face.

You are quick to reply, not wanting to make it harder for him. “Okay. I'll bring the cot into my room!” You scramble out, before heading into your brother's room and beginning to drag it over.

He starts to walk toward you, as to help you, but he stops midway. He glances at his hand, and then sighs gently, fidgeting as he watches you move the cot by yourself.

Once finished you turn to him with a small smile. “I am going to get ready for bed. I can lend you my brother’s sleep attire?”

“It’s okay! I have clothes under my kimono that I wear to bed.” He says, already peeling himself from the top layer of clothing. You slam the door shut immediately, and you hear the booming laugh from behind the door.

As you head back to wash your face, your mind travels back to the incident. No matter how you think about it, it was strange. He dogged every single one of your attacks without even a hint of a challenge. It was like he wasnt even taking you seriously.

So how did you land a blow? You were just a regular girl and he was a trained Hashira, ready to defend himself at any moment.

Was this on purpose?

But Rengoku wouldn’t do anything sly. He was always kind to you, and a Hashira. Hashira’s don’t trick people, they protect them from people who scheme.

He must have been distracted from the whole self-defense thing. You should really stop doubting his morals.

Out of the corner of your eye, you see a slightly burnt piece of paper on the floor. About the size of a letter.

Immediately, you wander over to it, confused because you haven't received a letter in a while. Plus, you would have read it before and why was it opened?

When you bend down to pick it up, a hand lands on your shoulder. You jump back in shock, to see a shadowed figure.

You know it’s Rengoku, even in the darkness, his figure is very much defined. But the presence still makes you unnerved. Maybe it’s the fact that you can’t see his smiling face in the darkness. “Kyo?”

His voice is flat. “C’mon, Y/N. Let's go to sleep.”

Your eyes flicker toward the paper on the floor. “Sure, one second I just need to–”

“In the morning. Please? I can’t go to sleep if you aren't there.” You feel the brush of the bandages on the back of your neck. It makes you shiver, and remember his injury. You clench your fist for a second, but sigh and turn around.

He was right, it will be there tomorrow, and besides it would be hard to read at this time anyways. “Right.”

As the two of you lay next to one another, his non-wounded hand brushing over your face, you make small talk. The two of you whisper in the dark and laugh over nothing important.

He tells you stories of the demons he slayed, and you unconsciously lean even closer to hear them. He is powerful, and kind, and smart, its overwhelming that someone like him is next to you.

You see a hint of a smile in the darkness. “What are you thinking about?”

“You are so cool Kyojuro.”

His body rumbles with a laugh, quieter than usual since its late and the house is silent. “You praise me too much.”

He leans closer, and the two of you are only a couple of inches apart now. “It’s true. Do you know what I give to be like someone like you?”

The face petting stops for a moment. “I don’t like that idea. It’s too dangerous out there for you. I like the thought of coming home to you, with fresh goods in your hands. Safe and away from any threats”

Your face heats up at the words. He makes it sound so romantic, and to be honest, you don’t mind the idea. But your brother should be home any day now. “I can’t live with you. You know this.”

He hums at you. “What if I told you I have fallen for you?” He murmurs, his voice low and soft. His calloused fingers return to tracing your face.

Your heartbeat picks up, and he must have noticed, because he chuckles lightly. “You like me?” You say, eyes wide, wishing desperately to see his face better in this moment.

“Is that outlandish?”

You look away, instead focusing on the shadows of your fingers. “Well…I don’t know. I’m just surprised.”

“I thought my intentions were clear. Please forgive me, if I confused you.”

It made sense that he was pursuing you. All the stares and the adoring touches. You just didn’t want to think of the possibility of someone as amazing as him liking you. Didn’t want to think of the fact the two of you won’t work out. “No, you didn't, it's fine. I actually like you too…But you are leaving.”

“Come with me. Live with me. I will treat you well. We can be happy together.”

At this point, the two of you were going in circles. You have had this conversation multiple times, and still, he doesn’t seem adamant about giving up. “I won’t leave my brother alone.”

He rolls himself on top of you, most likely annoyed that you weren’t looking at him anymore. He rests his body on his forearm, and his hair brushes your face. His voice is in a hoarse whisper. “You are too kind, Y/N. Think about yourself for once.”

You try your best to ignore the position. His body seems to engulf your own, and it makes you feel unreasonably small, but you’re unwilling to back down. “You know I can't do that. You know what it is like to have a sibling.”

His eyes become wider, and more desperate looking. You can’t meet his stare. “What if he was gone? You would come with me, right?”

Your head snaps back to him, and you look at him in shock. “Why would you say something like that?” You seem to hiss out.

At your tone, he becomes meeker, as if he was hiding into himself. He rubs his forehead against yours, with a hint of a whine in his throat. “Do you even like me?”

You immediately regret what you said, and instead begin to grow concerned. You have never seen him sound so upset before. “I do. I promise I do!”

His head falls into your neck, and his body begins to tremble. “You're causing me so much pain, my flame,” he whines and you begin to internally freak out.

Rengoku was never one to get his emotions involved. He was always upbeat with you, and the fact that he was so hurt over this must mean something big to him.

You place your hand on the back of his head, to try to get him to calm down. He was your idol, and now crush, you didn’t want to see him hurt, but you love your brother.

“If my brother found somewhere to live and be happy with, I would go with you. But he isn’t looking for a wife currently. So, I can't. I would love to, but I can't. I’m sorry, Kyo.”

In a heartbeat, his mood switches. He pulls his head out of your neck and begins grinning from above you. He rubs his nose onto yours, and you on instinct scrunch it up in surprise. “You want to. That's all I need. You want to live with me. Thank you. Thank you, so much!”

He rolls the two of you over so now the both of you are on your cot, with your head on his chest. You smile lightly at him, glad whatever you said finally made him calm down.

His non-dominant hand rests on the back of your head, and you blush, finally taking in a new position. His body expels warmth, and you find comfort in it.

Savorying the last amount of time you have with him to the fullest. It’s getting harder to ignore the ache in your chest whenever you think about him leaving.

Slumber begins to take a hold of you, and you listen to the rhythmic sound of the man’s heartbeat.

A couple of minutes go by, and you hear a whisper near your ear. “My flame?”

You hum and try to hold back a smile. “I like the nickname.”

He chuckles, and your body shakes from the force of it. “Me too. But Y/N, make sure you come back to me. Always. Do you understand?”

You yawn, in your half-sleep state, but mumble out a, “Okay.”

He sighs, and he continues to pet your hair affectionately. “Good. Goodnight. Sleep well, Y/N. Tomorrow is going to be an eventful day.”

But you couldnt hear his warning. You had already fallen asleep the second after you agreed to his strange request.

You are awoken at 2:50 AM the next day by frantic whispers and aggressive shaking to your body. You blink a couple of times and flinch at the harsh light in your face.

Your pupils begin to constrict to the light, and your eyes scan the figure in front of you. Your brother was shaking you awake, with panicked eyes and a lantern in his hands. “What are you doing here? You were supposed to leave!”

He drags you from the cot, and you stumble forward. Your mind finally begins to awake, and you regain consciousness of the situation at hand. “Brother? What’s happening? Are you okay?”

He grabs your hand and pulls you through the small house, scrambling through cupboards looking for something. When he pulls out your father’s sword, you gulp.

He heads back over to you and begins to drag you away. “Didn’t you get the letter? You are supposed to be heading east by now!”

“What’s happening?” You reason again, voice louder and more panicked. He turns to you, and you jump at his appearance, finally able to see him clearly. His hair is a mess, he’s slightly trembling, and he looks like he hasn’t slept in days.

He grabs onto your both shoulders, and his voice coming out frantic. “A demon. Or maybe multiple. I got messages that people have been disappearing from towns, and some of their….remains have been scattered around villages. It’s traveling from village to village, and yesterday it hit the town where we get our goods. Five innocents are gone and our village should be next. Tonight.”

You stare at him, eyes wide in shock. “Why are you here? You shouldn't have come!”

“I was going to grab fathers sword. We need some sort of protection while we wait until the demon slayer’s corpse comes.” He doesn’t know how to use it, he's a healer, and neither do you, but it was better than nothing. Especially if the two of you were without a home until everything clears up.

“Grab your knife. Everything going to be okay. Just trust me. Everything is going to be fine,” He mumbles, seemingly trying to comfort himself more than you. He begins to drag you toward the door and you begin to reach in your pocket for your father’s knife.

It wasnt there. You lost it when you cut Rengoku.

Your eyes widen when you finally realize his disappearance. You turn around and quickly scan the room before your brother pulls you completely outside.

“Kyo-” A hand covers your mouth immediately.

Your brother looks at you in pure fear, and you feel your own bubbling up at his gaze. “Quiet. We have to be as silent as we can. It could be near,” He whispers at you, and you nod from behind his hand.

Your eyes dart around the area for the demon slayer. But he is nowhere to be found. He’s probably out looking for it by now.

But he’s injured. Is it really okay for him to be fighting in his state?

Your brother removes his hand from your mouth and begins to drag you forward, a sword in one hand and your hand in the other. You gulp and follow him in the darkness.

A couple of minutes go by and the two of you haven’t said a word. The both of you had heard eerie noises, and you swear you heard a woman’s scream far off in the distance.

Your mind flashes back to all of the villagers you have gotten close to. It was better not to think about it. Rengoku should be there soon.

The two of you took the path into the woods. It was not the normal path to take when heading eastward, but it was safer. You both knew the woods well, and the chances are the demon is raiding the village. That’s what they have targeted the last couple of days at least.

Suddenly, you hear a growl to the right of you guys. Your brother freezes, and you run into the back of him. Your heartbeat picks up, and the hair on your neck rises. Your brother is trembling in front of you.

You turn to noise to see three bright yellow eyes staring at the two of you. A deathly aura creeps on the two of you, and it’s pin-drop silent.

Your brother grabs you by the shoulders and pushes you forward yelling out, “Run!”

As on instinct, you turn back to him to pull him with you, but he’s gone. As if he vanished into thin air. The eyes disappeared as well.

A mass amount of dread and fear weighs on top of you, as you begin frantically scanning the woods. Your heartbeat is pounding in your chest and you’re shaking out of your wits. “Brother? Brother, where are you!”

Tears begin to form in your waterline, and you begin running, searching desperately for any trace of him. In the back of your mind you know your not going to be able to do anything, but it doesn’t stop you from trying.

You wish Rengoku was here. He would be able to find your brother in a heartbeat, but he was most likely in the village. Where the demon should have been. But it doesn’t stop you from calling his name desperately for help.

Which is exactly how you attracted your very own demon. Your brother told you to be quiet, and you should have listened better. Fear made you naive.

It was standing in front of you, its eyes seemingly pinning you down. It was smiling at you, showing off its razor-sharp teeth, and you take a step back. You were trembling, alone, and defenseless against the demon.

“What’s a young girl like you doing out here alone?” The voice was high in pitch and shrill. A step toward you.

You don't respond, eyes darting around for an exit, while the demon continues to laugh and move forward, closer toward you.

You turn around and run. You dont have many choices in this situation and you rather take a chance than be a sitting duck.

It didn’t work, but you knew it wouldn’t. The demon grabs at your leg and pulls you back toward him. You fall forward onto the ground and hiss at the feeling of rock digging into your skin. You are being pulled backward, and the clawed hand on your ankle makes you shiver.

“I think I will take my time with you,” The being coos, licking a stripe up the back of your leg.

Tears stream down your cheek as try to kick it off, to no avail. It’s going to tear your limps apart and eat you. Your brother is not going to be saved, and your family line is going to end.

With your last plea, you begin to scream. Loud enough to most likely alert every living being in the forest. Even the demon hisses out in annoyance.

Suddenly, there is a flash of orange and red. A flame.

You hear the plop of a sliced head a second later, and the slicing sound of the demon’s arm being physically removed from your leg. You cringe at the sound, but relief immediately floods your veins.

You turn your head to the side to see Rengoku, slightly frowning in concentration while he sheathes his sword. When he catches your eye, he smiles, and the comforting action makes the tears continue to flow.

He's holding you in an instant, crouched on one knee while wrapping his arms around your figure. His eyes are wide with slight panic, and his grip on you is tight. In any other situations, it may have been overbearing, but you craved the warmth.

His voice is hoarse and seemed to have a waver in it. “I was so scared, my flame when I couldn't find you. I thought you really left me. Or something worse had happened to you. The thought makes me feel ill. Tell me, why were you in the woods? You weren't supposed to be in the woods!”

You take a couple of deep breaths to calm yourself down, while he runs his hands up and down your body as if reassuring himself that you are actually there. “We were trying to–” You freeze, eyes widening and immediately squirming in his grasp. “My brother. We have to find my brother! A demon has him!”

His hold on you doesn’t let go, and your movement is futile. He stares into the distance as if almost entranced by something. He doesn’t say anything for a long second, but when he does, his voice seems to be in a whisper. “Does it now?”

You don’t pay attention to the tone, too distracted by the thought of your brother being on the verge of death. “Yes! So we have to go. Kyo, we don't have time!”

He hums, and the grip on you loosens, allowing you to stand up, and away from him. He stands in front of you, calm and composed while staring at you. You, on the other hand, are scanning the woods frantically trying to figure out where the demon is and failing miserably.

“Let’s go this way,” You say with uncertainty, pointing to the direction where you had last seen him. When you take a step forward, a hand grips your wrist, and you make eye contact with his owl-like eyes.

“You will stay. I will find him for you. It’s too dangerous for you.” The statement is unwavering as if it was a command to you, with no room for question.

“But-”

“Don't be afraid, my flame. I will place you in a tree, safe and hidden from harm.” He didn’t understand that you did not care for your own safety, it was your brother that you were concentrated with.

You turn to him with pleading eyes. The idea of you sitting here while your brother could be getting murdered, makes you feel sick. You need to be there for him the second Rengoku saves him. “Please, I won't get in the way! I can help, please just don’t leave me behind.”

His eyes widen at the statement, and he grips onto your shoulders with both hands. “I would never leave you behind. Never in a thousand years. But I am not the type of person to put the one I care about in danger. You will sit on a branch until I grab you. Safe from harm.”

He scoops you up with ease, and you jump with slight surprise. Then, he walks over to the nearest tree. “Please?” You plead for the last time, and he smiles at you.

“Everything will be fine, my love. After tonight, everything will be perfect. Just let me do this.” He murmurs and you sigh, and allow him to do whatever must be done.

He walks up to the nearest tree and eyes it, before making a small huffing sound. Then he holds you in one arm and jumps. Way higher than a normal man would be able to you, and your eyes widen in shock.

He grabs onto a branch and pulls the two of you up, while you continue to stare at the fact that he is doing this effortlessly with one hand. He sets you down onto the branch, with your back leaning on the trunk for support.

You glance down and gulp. It was way higher than you expected, but Rengoku didn’t seem to notice it. He is balanced on the branch with ease and instead is focused solely on you. “You will be okay, do not fret. If anything goes amiss, shout for me and I will come running.”

You nod your head and he smiles softly. He begins to turn around but pauses when you grip his kimono. “You will save him right?”

He blinks at you and sightly frowns. “Everything will be alright.”

You believed him.

You were an idiot. An idiot for believing him. An idiot for jumping out of the tree in the first place.

Not long after Rengoku left you, you heard your brothers scream.

You acted on pure instinct. You moved within a second, trying to climb down the tree. The Hashira made it seem easier than it was to maneuver on the tree. You slipped and fell.

You hissed when you landed on the floor. Very much close to breaking your legs, but you got lucky. You stand up and try to ignore the pain shooting up your spine. Then, you turn toward where you heard the noise.

It was during your sprint you realized you made a mistake. What were you going to do against a demon? How are you going to help your brother? He was the one medically trained, not you. Aren’t you just going to make things worse? You could be killed too.

But you were too deep in it now. Tree trunks turn into a blur as you continue to run, your legs throbbing with every step.

You notice a figure and stop immediately. When you catch your breath and notice who it is, you cover your mouth. Your father’s sword lays next to the curled-up body. There was so much blood, he was barely recognizable.

But you couldn't keep your eyes trained on your loved one. Crouching above him was a demon, chewing.

Nausea hits you like a train and you’re forced to take a step back. You dont have it in you to scream for help. Would Rengoku even get here in time?

Where is he? What was he doing all this time? He told you everything is going to be fine, why is your brother laying in a pool of his own blood?

You continue to stare, the fear making you immobile. You take in the demon. It was strange, nothing like the one you had last saw. It was trembling before the body, as if afraid of something. It’s letting out disgusting wavering whines and cries, between each bite.

Your thoughts are cut short.

A shiver runs up your spine, and you freeze. You see the hair on your arms begin to raise, and your breath catches. Your eyes flicker back to the body, and the demon hasn’t moved.

A nail as sharp as a dagger, trails its way up your arm, and you begin to tremble. You feel the power the demon emits, and it is different from the one before.

You shouldn't have moved. You shouldn't have left the tree.

You hear the horrific noise before you can feel it. Your eyes flicker to the space right above your hip, to see the long fingernail peering out. Through you. And in an instant, you hear the squelching noise, and the finger is gone.

Like a dog lapping a bone, you hear the demon lick its finger clean and shiver.

You hear frantic, nervous mumbles behind you. “Just a taste is fine. It’s alright if I have just a taste. I didn’t kill her, just wanted to try it…” The being that made your skin crawl, sounded absolutely petrified. You didn’t know of what, and you didn’t want to find out.

But, you didn’t have time to ponder. Your kimono is turning a deep red, and you feel the blood beginning to drip down to your legs. You fall to your knees with wide eyes, not knowing what to do. If you don’t wrap it, you are sure to bleed out within minutes.

The demon behind you panics, frantically telling himself that you aren’t going to die and everything is fine. But you’ve tuned it out.

You look up toward your brother again and freeze. Just a couple feet to the right of the two figures was a man leaning against a tree. The fiery hair that you could pinpoint in a crowd makes him recognizable in less than a second.

Rengoku was watching your brother get devoured with a blank stare.

The loss of blood had to make you see things. Or maybe it was the fear. Something had to be wrong with you. He would never do such a thing.

You clutch at your side with your hand. “Kyo?” You mumble, and his head snaps toward you, somehow hearing the call. He removes himself from the tree in an instant, and he stares at you with wide frantic eyes. You’ve never seen him look so petrified.

In a blink of the eyes, and a flash of a flame you hear the demon behind you getting beheaded. “She isn’t dead! You promised! I was–” Another slicing sound and silence.

He’s by your side in the next second. He’s tearing off his kimono in an instant. “What are you doing here? Y/N, you're not supposed to be here! Fuck, the bleeding.” He’s tearing apart the cloth with his teeth, and wrapping it around your torso. You don't notice the shaking of his hands.

You feel dizzy and weak, from the mix of the bleeding out and all the other beatings you sustained. You can’t focus on his words, you are staring at your brother.

You miss the panic of his words. The way he trembles in front of you. “It's going to be okay. Don’t worry, I will take care of everything. It'll be okay.”

The demon has scrambled off, and it was just his mutilated body left behind and the sword. Tears well up in your eyes, and your brother’s now lifeless eyes stare into yours.

You point to him and Rengoku follows your finger. Your words are soft, broken. “Help him. Please.”

But he ignores you. You're being lifted again, the callused hand putting a decent amount of pressure on the wound. He leads you back to your house, while your left staring at the body left in the grass.

You're exhausted, you can't fight him. For the last time, you plead, “Help him.” before closing your eyes and slumping against his body.

“It's going to be alright, my flame. I won't let anything happen to you. I will protect you now.”

491 notes · View notes

chrollohearttags · 9 months

Text

commissions corner • on the menu

working food service isn’t always easy, less known, managing an entire restaurant. But when the new delivery man assigned to your store starts frequenting..you feel a newfound love for your workplace. Especially when an unexpected storm traps you two together one night. Leaving you guys to get acquainted and keep each other entertained.

content warning: black!fem reader, delivery man!rengoku, fluff and banter, humor, alcohol use, office sex, thunderstorms and hurricane mentions, sexual tension b/w reader and Kyo, squirting, intense kissing, praise kink, oral sex (m and f receiving), backshots, nipple play, cumshot, back scratching

word count: 8.4K

📝: this is a commission from @tranzpurent and I cannot thank them enough for allowing and trusting me to write this piece. Thank you so much for your patience and support. I hope it was well worth the wait. I had a lot of fun writing for my love Rengoku.

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“Number 52! Order’s ready!” “Guys, check those fryers and get that shake to drive thru. Thanks!”

all commands and commentary that (y/n) found yourself spouting off only a few hours into your shift. Things that were all in a day’s work for a busy manager at a bustling fast food chain. Ensuring that not only were status quos met but the needs of both customers and employees alike done the same. Admittedly, it was both a physically and mentally taxing position but one you performed exceptionally well..so much so, that you were overseeing an entire store by yourself after only a year of getting hired. Your tenacity and strong work ethic were something not only to be admired but studied as well. Even so, the job has drained you a great deal and it was hard to keep it together. So much on your plate with seemingly little time to accomplish it. Finding yourself oftentimes overwhelmed and even contemplating quitting..

that was until he came along!

the man with a boisterous laugh and a burly chest..muscular and stocky with vibrant, reddish blonde hair. His eyes dark yet gleaming with joy at all times. And a smile that could light an entire city block if need be..his name?

“Good morning crew! How are we doing?”

Kyojuro Rengoku, the new delivery man for your store and quite frankly, the highlight to your very hectic days. Always coming in with that same bubbly, boisterous personality. It could be the most insane shift with customers coming in by the droves, being difficult and by the time he left, everyone would be in a much better mood. Laughing and in much higher spirits, and today was no different..it had been quite busy for the morning rush and you typically didn’t work today but your shift manager had fallen ill with the flu so you decided to come fill in. And you were glad that you had because the first thing he did once he made it over the corridor of the entrance with his dolly and stack of boxes; filled to the brim with buns, lettuce and all the other ingredients you went through in a day, was greet you. “And good morning to you as well, miss (Y/N). You’re not usually here on Wednesdays. What happened?” To which you’d proceed to explain away as you mixed up a drink from behind the counter. You most certainly applied the servitude leadership approach and that’s why he respected you so much. Rather than just barking orders or micromanaging, you were right beside your crew, ensuring that things remained in order. It was something about a hard working woman that he found very attractive. It wasn’t a fact that he tried to hide either. Everyone who worked there could tell that this man was feeling you heavily..but for the sake of professionalism, you’d ignore it!

“I see, well it’s always a good day when I get to see that gorgeous face so I’m not mad about it.” Chewing faintly on his gum as he smiled at you with those perfectly straight pearly whites. Retrieving his iPad from underneath his arm, he’d hold it out for you to complete the confirmation and sign over for your inventory. Instantly becoming flustered but playing it off. “Kyo, you’re too kind, my dear. Thanks for the delivery, I definitely needed this..” handing him the tablet back before playfully pinching his cheek. Which made the lovely driver flush red. It was so blatantly obvious just how smitten this man was. He truly adored seeing you when the chance arose! For now, he had to depart and finish up his other duties for the day but you were certain that you’d be running into him yet again. Little did you know just how correct you were…it was as you were watching him leave, waving goodbye did you turn and notice that your entire crew was staring and snickering. “Ooh, Miss (Y/N). Look at you.” One of your employees blurted out, causing the entire staff to burst into laughter. They thought it was so cute to see their stoic manager acting like a crushing schoolgirl. Nonetheless, you’d usher them back to work and to mind their own business!

“You all are so nosy! Since everybody’s got so much time on their hands, let’s knock out some of these cleaning tasks before the lunch rush.” Earning a collective groan from the entire crew. But they knew better than to disagree with you. That was a wrath none of them wanted to face. But as fate would have it, you guys would be crossing paths yet again in a very unexpected way…

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the rather hectic workday continued on as per usual..your store seeing record profits during the lunch and dinner rushes; all directly due in part to some new menu item that was added and your team’s efficiency. Evening had fell cast over the city, along with dark clouds and scary thunder. It was cause for concern, that was for sure..truth be told, you didn’t know if you should keep operations going for the night or call it quits early. Those were the decisions you had to make as a manager sometimes. That was the beauty of being in charge. You had already gone back home during a short break to grab some food and a change of clothing; putting on something a tad bit more casual than your uniform.

“Oh wow, did you hear that?!”

“Yeah, that doesn’t sound good..”

but your mind would become all but made up for you when everyone’s phones in the vicinity began buzzing with severe weather alerts. And the store television flashed with a breaking news warning and the meteorologist casting a report on how severe the storm was and what to expect as the nighttime grew near. There were talks of possible tornadoes, flooding, lightning and all things akin to a hurricane. It was insane. Being the type of leader that you were as the lobby and drive thru both had become desolate, you’d turn to your subordinates and make the call:

“Well, you guys heard the man. I doubt anyone’s gonna be out in this weather so let’s go ahead and call it a night. I don’t want any of you being trapped here and can’t get home. Before it gets too crazy, go ahead and shut things down, get to your vehicles…if anyone needs a ride, go ahead and make arrangements now. If not, I’ll be happy to take you.”

as determined and strong willed as you could be, the one thing you never played about was your staff. They meant the world to you and in instances like these, you’d go up to bat against corporate themselves to protect and keep them safe. Never in a million years would money or profit goals come before your people. There was obviously something terribly dangerous looming in the skies and the last thing any of them needed was to be stuck behind a register or on a grill instead of home with their families, who’d probably be worried sick the entire time. Not something you’d ever want them to have to deal with. Either way, they were incredibly grateful that you’d be so generous and compassionate of your team. “Thank you, Ms. (L/N)!” “Yeah, you’re amazing.” But there was no gratitude needed. Those burgers and this store would be just fine without being open give or take a few hours. Those greedy jerks sitting up at the top brass would most certainly survive. You’d even take it out of your own pay if it became that big of an issue but even so, they didn’t hesitate to start making preparations; switching the illuminated ‘open’ sign to a dull dark and flipping the one on the door to close. They’d begin wiping down tables and breaking apart important machines to clean them properly because if it was as nasty as they claimed it would be, who knew how long operations would be ceased. It wasn’t uncommon during the peak storm season to lose three or four days of business because the streets were so flooded with ten inches of water or power was out for an entire block. In the event of that happening and because you were giving them an early release, they’d sanitize that store top to bottom, leaving you without one single complaint or issue. Giving everything one final walkthrough after about an hour of nonstop work to get things in order, you’d find them all lined up at the door like a gaggle of kids on the last day of school.

“Alright, things look good. Go ahead and get home. I’ll text the work group chat in a bit to make sure everyone’s made it.” Filling your team with warmth because they didn’t know too many managers, if any with such a kind heart and concern for her people. Most of these bosses were absolute nightmares to work for, and yet, you were always so sweet to them. Even when you were fussing or putting up the facade that you were angry. They always knew better. “What about you, miss (y/n)? Are you leaving soon? We could wait with you.” One of your most trusted employees would utter and the others followed suit. But there was no need for that. You’d be in tow right behind them. “Nah, I’m good. I gotta shoot these people a couple of emails and do some number crunching so that they don’t get all fussy in case we can’t open for a few days. I’ll be fine. I’ll be right behind you guys. Promise.” They knew you were a strong willed woman so they tried no to worry so much. But little did you or anyone else know that you wouldn’t be alone for long. As an unexpected guest would find themselves stumbling up to the doors of the fast food restaurant..

“Drive safe everyone. Have a good night.” Earning you a collective wave and thanks from your close knit work family.

once everyone had dispersed from the parking lot and left you by your lonesome, you’d do exactly as promised and retreat towards the back area of the restaurant where your office resided. A little past the kitchen area and through two double doors until you were in the solitary confines of your work space. Faint glimmers of lightning caught in your peripheral view as you passed the windows. Finally, you’d settle into your seat behind the computer screen and begin typing away. Working right through the storm and any other other distractions. You’d type away at your keyboard, drumming up some of the aforementioned emails and looking over profits for the past few days. Managers were always required to report said numbers to the higher brass just to make certain that they were meeting the status quo expected of the store. Granted, you guys always surpassed your set goal so it shouldn’t have been an issue if you needed to close down for a few days because of the weather. As you composed note after note, alternating between the screen and the papers sitting next to you, you couldn’t help but to notice that it was beginning to pick up outside. That heavy rain beating against the roof and exterior of the weathered building. It wasn’t the first nor last time you’d be sure to experience a natural disaster whilst working here. Either way, you were thankful to not be in the midst of the torrential downpour. Sitting cozy in the office as you typed away and nursed a cup of coffee. However, you’d soon realize that someone wasn’t so lucky. Someone you knew quite well….in a split second, for no reason other than mere coincidence, you’d find yourself looking up to take a peek at the security feed on the flat screen monitor next to the other one. It was then that you’d spot something..or someone rather through the rain littered lens. Initially, you began to freak out a bit, wondering if someone was attempting to rob you guys after hours. Which was incredibly dumb because their security system was top of the line. Any intruders would be dealt with accordingly. But that wasn’t the case here. Instead, you’d get up from your seat and begin trekking towards the front of the store because honestly, you’d recognize that face anywhere. The second you made it to the entrance way, you’d take the key in your hand and twist the lock open before greeting them:

“Kyojuro?! What’re you doing here?”

you were absolutely bewildered as to why your delivery driver was standing in front of your store at this time of night and in the middle of such a nasty storm nonetheless. It was far too dangerous for him to be out here. But he had a reasonable explanation for the surprise ‘visit’. But first, you’d close the door behind the both of you and try to get him some warmth. “We might have a couple towels or an old outfit back here in the back. Come on.” Immediately switching into a motherly mode, as you had done several times for your staff. It wasn’t uncommon for one of your employees to fall sick or even have an accident and to avoid them being embarrassed or having to go into a store for a change of clothes, you’d keep extra outfits, cloth, towels and first aid items in case something happened. You’d then send them home for some much needed rest. It seems like they’d come in handy today! Whisking the fiery haired, wide eyed Kyo towards the back, where you guys’ makeshift locker room resided and let him get himself cleaned up from the drenched garments he was wearing. But as fate would have it, out of this rain would come a sliver of sunshine..in the way you least expected…

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“Thank you again, miss (L/N). I really appreciate you letting me come in. And for all of this. I won’t get you in any trouble, will I?” a question you’d answer with only a snort as you walked towards him with a warm cup of coffee and another blanket. He had managed to find a decent pair of sweats and a t-shirt after rummaging through the locker that housed it all. A towel drying his soaked hair and some new, unopened socks to warm his feet. He truly couldn’t believe how well prepared you were! But even more so that you were willing to help him despite it possibly being a violation.

“Please. If they have a problem with me helping someone in need, they can have this damn job. Besides, we’re in a category three hurricane warning. We have full permission to use this as a safe haven if anyone needs it. Don’t you worry that handsome little head of yours. It’s all good.” In lieu of your hospitality, you’d also offer him some food; some salads and extra meals that would possibly have to be thrown out anyways but if you were crafty enough, you could sneak it to him. As he got settled into somewhat comfortability, you’d join him for a seat back at your desk as he sat on the couch and ask him what was going on. It was then that he’d confess the reason behind him being here so late. He’d go on to explain that he was finishing up the last of his deliveries for the evening when he got an alert for the weather. It had been raining on and off with the skies remaining dark but he didn’t think too much of it. His boss added another three drops on his route at the last minute and he wasn’t the type to decline so he went ahead despite the warning. It was at his last location that the rain would start to become insanely heavy. As he’s coming down the almost desolate highway, he hears a very rough sound and feels the turbulence. It’s then that he discovers that his back tire is almost blown out. So by nothing other than pure coincidence and his angels working overtime, he found his way into the parking lot of the fast food chain and waited for help. However, the vehicle service company said they couldn’t make it out due to the harsh conditions. Had it not been for you, he’d been stuck waiting in the rain inside of that van. Hearing that broke your heart and filled you with rage.

“Is he crazy?! Sending you on an extra delivery during this? I swear that man pisses me off sometimes. Well I’m just glad you’re safe, Kyo. Seriously. That could’ve been awful had it popped while you were driving.”

“I’m saying. I’m glad you were here..I don’t know what I would’ve done without your help. By the way, this coffee is amazing..best one I’ve ever had.” earning him a warm smile in return as you smashed away at your keys. “Thank you, glad you like it..” and the caffeinated beverage wasn’t the only thing. However, the two of you talked; engaging in idle chit chat and just making conversation. He’d keep you awake and on task as you sifted through emails and exchanged messages with your higher ups. Ensuring that you had made well over expected profits and that you were playing it by ear in terms of when your resume operations. Things were going good…“I swear, your employees don’t know how lucky they are to have a boss like you. Mine’s a nice guy, real kind but sometimes, he overestimates things and it leaves us in a jam. I’m just blessed you were here.”

but your heartfelt moment was short lived when suddenly, a loud roar of thunder and lightning cracked across the sky and the power suddenly blanked! Leaving both you and him in the dark. “Kyo?” “Right here, miss (L/N). You okay?” Shouting out, followed by the flicker of your phone light. You spotted him shortly after, hoisting the light up around the office to see if there were any breakers or generators, possibly even a candle if need be. He was sort of an all around handyman, skilled in various different trades including electrical work, mechanics and more. You were happy it was someone like him stuck with you. But you’d soon learn that not even the best of skills would help this predicament..

“Got a knife or screwdriver?” His intention was to pry the metal box attached to the wall open and try to flip the switches but to no avail..nothing. It seemed that the power had surged for the entire city and lord only knew how long that would take to remedy and with the sounds of thunder growing louder by the second, it was best that he didn’t try to play electrician and instead, wait it out. For now, the two of you were trapped and there was no way to really leave at the moment. Sure, the two of you could take your car but you wouldn’t be surprised if the streets weren’t already flooded with at least two feet of fallen water. Just then, only forty five minutes after they had departed, your staff was blowing up the group chat; chiming in to let you know that they were all safe. Of course, they wanted the same response for their lovely manager. However, you couldn’t lie to them and say that you too were in the comfort of your own home. Rather: “had some more paperwork to finish. But I’ll be heading out soon. Don’t worry, I’m not alone though.” Which would either cause much needed relief or extreme panic. But you assured them all that you were more than fine. Even with power out everywhere. They accepted the answer and just asked that you kept them posted. If need be, they’d come looking and you certainly didn’t put it past them. With Kyojuro there, you were certain there was no need to feel anything less than protected. You just knew they’d never let you hear the end of it you confessed who was by your so you’d implore them all to preserve their batteries and stop pestering you..bidding them a goodnight for now.

“They must really care about you. Sound like good kids.” and that was an understatement! “Yeah, they’re a pain in the ass sometimes but I couldn’t live without any of them. They make this job worth it, that’s for sure.” (Y/N) was like a big sister and anyone making you uncomfortable or potentially hurting you was an enemy. It wasn’t uncommon for some prick of a customer to come starting shit and one of your male subordinates stepping in to handle it. They didn’t play about you in the slightest but they certainly were not alone. It was obvious that there was a bit of a bright side to this whole situation, especially for Kyo. Being granted the alone time he’d always so desperately craved with the beautiful manager. He had been far too afraid to ask for months now. Regardless of his boisterous, bold personality, he lacked any confidence when it came to the women he liked. The first time he saw you, he was a stumbling mess. This absolute vision of beauty smiling at him from behind the counter. It was a miracle that he was holding it together right now. Even after all this time. Watching you sway in that sundress you had changed into was a problem in itself. The thoughts crossing his mind were unbecoming of his normal demeanor.

“Looks like we’re gonna be trapped here for a while, huh?”

suddenly, he’d begin to shuffle in his seat, clearing his throat as he tried not to daydream and think about what was really on his mind. “Y-yeah! I’m sure you’d rather be anywhere besides stuck here with me though.” But he couldn’t have been further from the truth. You were happy to have someone like him..you lived alone and don’t have many friends in this city so had you made it home, you would’ve been holed up in your bedroom, curled under a blanket all by yourself. Shuffling over to the locker in the corner, you’d simply chuckle and retrieve something that had been housed there for almost a year. And what better time than to break it out now?!

“It’s not so bad..especially when you have provisions.” It was then that he lit up. A bottle of 1974 Sauvignon, gifted to you by corporate after winning Manager of the Year. You had been saving it for a special occasion and soon, the two of you would be riding out this storm in more ways than one..

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“No! And he drove through it?! What the hell is his problem?”

“You tell me. I swear Uzui has done some things that could’ve gotten us killed, less known, fired. It’s a miracle I survived my route with him. And he says I’m the crazy one.”

only minutes after popping that cork out and finding some leftover cups from the drive thru, you and Kyojuro poured up two hefty glasses of the sweet wine and nursed sips between your conversation. Topics that ranged from how your daily routine here at the restaurant to how his deranged coworkers and friends have talked him into pulling dumb stunts while on the job. Needless to say, the two of you led very interesting work lives and as exciting as they may have been, you knew little of each other’s personal affairs. Which in hindsight, was no big deal. As you had never really interacted outside of here but he wanted to know more about the woman who ran this place better than any ship captain could. You told him how you moved to this area a couple years ago after college. Ended up being hired as the manager here and had been ever since. You didn’t have any kids or long term partners. Family was a couple hours away and you didn’t have a lot of friends here. For the most part, you’d just work, go home and repeat the cycle. Going to the grocery store or out for the occasional drink but that was it. “Not very interesting, I know..but I’m a homebody so I don’t mind it too much…” confessing as you took another swig of your drink. Even after hearing your rather mundane story, he was still perked up and all smiles listening to you talk. He didn’t care, he still found it interesting..still found you just as fascinating and most certainly couldn’t understand how a beautiful girl like you didn’t have anyone in your life, ready to snatch you up. “What about you? I’m sure a guy like you is always having fun. Probably got a ton of girls on your line too..” side eyeing as if you were fishing for the appropriate answer. But of course, he’d cop the plea and claim that he too didn’t socialize much. His main niche was going out and trying different restaurants but he’d mostly do it alone, as his best friend was busy with women a lot of the time. Saying that it was Uzui who was the true ladies man. He had been here his entire life and maybe only had one girlfriend and one or two hookups on his end. Kyojuro’s true problem was his confidence. He honestly didn’t believe that he was as attractive as he was. Which blew your mind because he was so handsome! Muscular, stocky build, gorgeous smile and he was so cute..

“I usually just end up getting stuck with the girl he doesn’t want and she’ll be nice but not really my type, y’know?”

“Really? Then what is your type?”

it was then that things would find themselves truly intensifying, as you asked him the one question that would surely send the twenty five year old driver into a tailspin. Flushing red all around his face, he’d begin to stumble over his words..glancing down at the floor before answering. “Well uh—the thing is..” he couldn’t find the strength to admit that you were his type. You were the only woman in this godforsaken city that he’d had eyes for. He wanted you so badly, he could taste it and if he admitted that, he had no idea how you’d respond. But if he were ever going to get his chance..now, while you two were all alone with no distractions..he’d come clean! Downing the remainder of that liquid courage, Kyojuro took a giant gulp before turning to you and uttering:

“M-my type…is you, Miss (y/n).” And at that exact moment, your eyes went wide as two half dollars..making you audibly gasp. You honestly couldn’t believe it. Your staff had been saying for months that you were the sole object of his affection but you paid them no mind. The signs were there though and you chose to ignore them. However, neither of you could run from the truth now. He was going to lay it all out and whatever the consequences were that followed, then he’d deal with it but he had to let you know exactly how he felt about you. Scooting closer, he’d place a hand on your thigh and stare you dead into your eyes. He couldn’t be scared anymore. He remembered all of the pep talks his friends gave him about showing a woman he wasn’t afraid. Regardless of how intimidated he was..he had to lay it all out. “I’ve been stuck on you since the day we first met..you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on. The way you run this place with so much compassion and care. You even took me in here, knowing it could get you in serious trouble. The way you treat everybody with respect. Even when you’re mad, you never degrade your staff and you’re always looking out for everyone else. You always look so gorgeous, whether it’s in that uniform or like now…you’re so perfect and I know, I don’t stand a snowball’s chance in hell with a woman like you but I just know I’d treat you right if you let—

it was in the midst of his tangent that you found yourself unable to take it. Never had a man spoken about you in such a way and you couldn’t let him think for another second that he didn’t deserve you. So as he rambled on, you’d cusp Kyo’s chin and pull him towards you in a deep, searing kiss. Shoving your tongue into his mouth and all..cupping the sides of his face as you made out. Moaning against his lips and all. It wasn’t until he was practically on top of you did it come to a halt. “Miss (y/n)…”

But you were in no mood to talk. You wanted him. You wanted him to prove right then and there, just how badly he wanted you! After that, it was obvious how both of you felt. There was no need for a lot of words to be exchanged. Your body languages told it all..the tension surging through both of you had reached its boiling point and you couldn’t take it. So the two of you would lie right there on that couch together, arms cradled around his back and legs parted as they coiled his waist. Things were getting hot and heavy; the storm served as a perfect background to this moment and before long, the two of you were working each other out of your clothes. Whether this was a direct result of the liquor or just the desire that had been burning for months, you didn’t want it to stop and rather, fanned the flames! Running your hand up that chiseled back, raising the hem of that shirt, you’d press your hands to his bare skin..soaking him in. It had been quite a while since you had physical contact with someone like this. Your ex was sort of a bore so you hoped that he wouldn’t disappoint. So far, you seem not to have that problem. Smacking your lips together; sensual, slow pecks being exchanged..trails of saliva pooling from each of your mouths as your tongues danced and twirled around. When your eyes finally met, they were sated with lust. Practically pooling over and it was obvious what both of you wanted.

“You’re so gorgeous..I just can’t—I knew you were so damn fine under that uniform.”

“Kyo…”

the words spilling from your mouths along with sharp breaths. There was no question of how either of you felt..it was written all over your faces and embedded in your body language. Without so much as a second thought, you’d begin to strip each other of your clothing; your fingertips raising the hem of his borrowed t-shirt and his sliding the top of your strapless sundress down..allowing it to pool and ruffle around your tummy. Your perfectly round, supple tits spilling out and eliciting pure excitement on Kyo’s face. A living, breathing goddess right here underneath him? He couldn’t even fathom the thought of that. But as he snapped back into reality, he’d make his next move..honing in on your delectable breasts and massaging those erect nipples between his thumbs. “Do you know how long I’ve wanted you?…sometimes, I wondered if you’d even notice me..” confessing as he bent down to gently flick his tongue around those puffy, brown buds. Suckling at them amid his speech. He’d go on to dote on your entire being..saying how beautiful you were, how sexy that body was and what he wanted to do; running his hands along the curvature of your hips. The warmth of his breath and bodily fluids coating your areolae and little did he know it was all turning you on. “But I swear I’ll make sure you never forget when I’m done.” However, he’d soon make it his mission to find out just how much when that free hand snaked upward to the inner corner of your right thigh before parting it from your left and he’d tease around that sopping cunt. Shocked that there was no trace of any panties but pleased about it nonetheless. Whilst still tending to your ample tits, he’d start to rub on that juicy little slit. Starting from the mound until he parted those plump lips and made contact with your clit, which was sensitive to the touch.

“Sundress…no panties on…it’s like you know my weakness.”

“Well you have it now…show me you know what to do with me. We have all night.”

and with that declaration, he still wasted no time in proving himself to be a formidable lover for his longtime crush. He wanted to be certain that from this point forward, you’d think of him at every opportunity..that he’d be on your mind the way you resided on his. Dreaming of the moments you could be reunited again. He wanted you to imagine doing all those dirty things in his absence until he could bring them to fruition once more. Alas, he’d begin to shuffle downward..reluctantly detaching his lips from your breasts before placing soft kisses across the lower part of your belly. That freshly waxed mound was laden with slick, as was your slit but he had plans to get it all much wetter than that. Those few fingers that had been lying dormant there, he’d suddenly moved inside of that tight entrance, which had been spasming on nothing more than air, waiting to be filled. Now having adjusted himself flat on to the couch, legs propped on the arm, Kyojuro would begin to eat you out. Nose stuffed deep between the folds of that cunt, throbbing as he flicked his tongue around and fucked you with his fingers. The divine sweetness of your nectar had him reeling..hooked on that scent and flavor only a few minutes in. He couldn’t stop drinking it even if he tried. You’d find yourself clawing at the leather cushions before eventually tangling your fingers through his hair and bucking yourself against his tongue. Lapping up those juices as they fell and slathered his chin. Covering the corners of his mouth and setting freshly on his taste buds..he couldn’t get enough and when you began to cream on those digits, he was practically feral.

“Ahh! Fuck…Kyo..you’re gonna make me come, baby! Don’t stop, please..”

never in his life had he heard a woman utter those words so sweetly. Begging him to please you and he was happy to serve. He derived his pleasure from seeing you obtain yours..so much so, that when you neared your peak, he’d reach down and start stroking himself to the sounds of your moans. All he could drum up were muffled grunts and sloppy lapping noises but you were using him as you saw fit and he would let you ride that face until you reached bliss. “Are you going to come, sweetheart? For me?” Just then, those light hazel eyes met your gaze and he’d smirk before spitting down onto those folds and sucking your clit as if it were the sweetest piece of candy he’d ever tasted. At the moment, you could do nothing more than gasp and let out loud cries, gasping for air and grasping for stability. No man had ever eaten your pussy like this..and you were certain they would never come close!

“Then come in my mouth..don’t hold back either.”

just then, you’d feel that impending pressure that had swelled in the out of your stomach come billowing out after he pressed a hand to your stomach and pumped those fingers. “Oh God!” You’d begin to shake and tremble, flailing around on that sofa as you flooded his mouth with your squirt. Having been the first time he’d ever made a woman do that, he was excited..he couldn’t believe you’d made such a mess! “Damn! Are you okay?” he’d blurt out, only to be pulled into yet another burning kiss by you, as you were now hooked on him!

“Fuck me…”

“Don’t have to tell me twice..”

uttering the two words through breathy moans. It was obvious that you were not much in the way of waiting and he had no plans to keep you in that state. So in swift fashion, Kyo readjusted the both of you, pinning your legs back and spreading them wide open. Those thick thighs being met with the soft kneading of his palms and a string of his spit onto your folds. After that, he’d start to ease that shaft across them, sweet talking and guiding you through it. And in a matter of moments…

“Oh shit.” Collectively escaped your mouths when he slid in. The reaction hit the two of you at the same time. It was a sensation unlike any he had ever felt before; he wasn’t a virgin by any means but being with you made him feel like it was his first time. Wet, warm and so damn tight..he couldn’t take it. In fact, he’d have to place a hand to the arm of the couch behind you just to gather his bearings. In return, you’d wrap your legs around his waist and allow him to press his entire body weight against your frame. He wasn’t to be undone though..that thick length had you clawing at his arm without so much as a single thrust. You couldn’t wait for him to stretch you out.. “…are you okay? Can I start moving?” To which you’d respond with a nod and beg for him to go; as you couldn’t take him sitting still any longer. With limbs and bodies intertwined, Kyo began to buck his hips forward and fuck you the way you deserved. The way he had so long craved to do..dreaming of the two of you being together, coming home after a long day’s work. Both of you spent but somehow, he’d find the strength to run you a warm bath, give you a massage and then make passionate love to you underneath flickering candlelight. Although it wasn’t that exact situation, this was more than enough for him. Especially when he’d begin to speed up and you’d dig your nails into his back, begging for more. “You feel so good, miss (y/n). Oh God, you’re perfect. Everything about you is..” as he’d continue feeding you those deep strokes, you’d begin to cream all over his shaft, making a mess of him and the couch. But it wasn’t just the movements that had you so aroused. It was the intense stare..the way he spoke life into you; telling you how pretty you were and how amazing you felt. How blessed he was to have the opportunity to be with you….all of it was so affirming and such a turn on. It was the sensual kisses that had your tongues intertwined and pressed deep within your mouths. You had never felt so safe during sex. Despite the ironic circumstances. Clawing your nails into his back, (y/n) coiled a hand around the back of his neck and mumbled into his ear.

“Don’t stop, Kyo. Please, baby. Keep going..”

“I’ll do whatever you want, sweetheart…’is y—your dick now. All yours..”

something about hearing those words reassured you. You knew he wasn’t bluffing about his feelings. That he truly did want you. Eventually, those thrusts increased to a speed where he was hitting your exact spot; breaking through those sensitive bundles of nerves. Unable to keep your legs parted, Kyo took the liberty of pinning them backwards for himself and folding you up. “That’s it..right there! You’re hitting my fucking spot….fucking this pussy s’ good!” When you’d release that loud cry and then proceed to rub on your clit, you could feel him twitching inside of you. That’s when he’d really get into it; doubling over you with the rhythm of his hips swaying in a fluid motion. You’d press at his abs but he’d gently swipe them out of the way, really getting into it. It was insane how intense it was! He was like a man on a mission..a mission to prove he was the only one you needed. Leaving you to pose the question: “Oh my—shit! Why are you fucking me like this? Oh my God!” With that sundress pulled up around your waist, he’d shuffle it to expose the bottom half of your stomach and the bulging in the pit of it. Something about putting it in your stomach on the first try was so satisfying to him. “You take me so good, baby. You take this dick so nice, I can’t help but want to give you all of it.” Marking your forehead with a kiss as he brushed your hairline with his palm. Afraid that if he looked you in the eye, he’d bust right then and there. Instead, he’d toss his head back and keep going. Swirling his thumb over your sensitive bud until eventually, you’d find yourself profusely shaking and clawing at him. Tapping out essentially…because as he realized it, you were only mere seconds from climaxing! “Right there, right there!” Repeating the words in a rapid cadence as he pounded your pussy. “Come for me, beautiful! Let it go, let me have it, please.” And on that declaration, you’d allow your body to go limp and every bit of your juices to spray his impeccable, chiseled abs. You’d wet him up and needless to say, he wasn’t going anywhere after that display of waterworks! Making a woman squirt and at that caliber, he couldn’t believe it. Still pulsating as you spasmed on air, you wanted your turn to please him. So as your legs wobbled uncontrollably, he’d tap that cock against your folds to drum out the remainder and smack the back of your thighs to quell you. “Fuck..that was beautiful.” But you were determined to evoke the same reaction from him. Glaring at him with your lip tucked between your teeth, you’d reach to rub on him. “Something you want, miss (y/n)? What’s on your mind?” And you’d make it very obvious..

“Let me suck that dick..clean you off a little.” Revealing with your palm gently clutching his shaft..he was sensitive so you’d probably make him come with only a few gentle licks but you still wanted to return the favor for all of the pleasure he had given you. Helping you onto the floor, he’d sprawl his legs out and allow you to move in between his legs. He didn’t need to tell you what to do or guide you along. Instead, he’d stretch his arms out to the back of the couch and let you do your thing. Placing your hands onto his thighs, you’d flick your tongue up and down his tip, popping it in and out of your mouth. Soon, you’d have the entirety of his cock drenched in your saliva. Along with your pretty face; not giving a damn how sloppy you got. Kyo had, beyond the shadow of a doubt, never felt this good before in his life. The way you so delicately sucked and slurped on his shaft…looking into his eyes as you did so. Cradling his balls into your palms and gently squeezing for a little more sensation. He could barely contain himself! It certainly didn’t help matters any when you began to shake your ass while doing so..barely peeking out from underneath that hem. Fortunately, you’d help him reach his peak soon enough when you began jerking him off and engulfing his sack with your entire mouth. Alternating between the two; deep throating him one moment and massaging him the next. You could tell just by the way he twitched in the back of your throat that he was close. And if that wasn’t sufficient enough, his grunts and sharp breathing signified it all.

“Gonna come—fuck!” You didn’t say a word, only proceeding to suck him dry and before long, he had spurted all over your face and tits..coating both in the warm pearlescent cream. He couldn’t believe that he had released or had that much housed inside of him. It had been quite a while since he’d been with anyone so he really couldn’t help himself. But before he could apologize for defiling your features , he’d see a smile creep across your face. Even licking the remnants of him from your lips. “Tastes good.” And he knew from that moment on, he’d never find another woman quite like you! “Come here.” Pulling you up with a hand coiling your throat, your lips would connect for yet another kiss and deeply at that. You both still had a little left in the tank, even after going hot and heavy for a while now. But he had to see that ass in action…and he could tell that you were still hungry for more. Which may have been due in part to the alcohol in your system..wine tended to have that effect. So he’d promptly get you back onto the couch where he positioned you on all fours, putting that ass straight in the air with your back arched. Still stroking that sensitive member, Kyojuro made a wild request of you and you’d happily oblige. “Put your ass in my face, baby. Bounce it for me.” You knew he was quirky and strange sometimes but a freak too? You were going to have to keep him around. But even so, you’d allow him to bury both his tongue and face in between your backside as you clapped those cheeks against him. Releasing a loud gasp and whimper when you felt that tongue delving between your folds again and momentarily around your puckering hole. “Mmmphm! Fuck..that feels so good.” You couldn’t tell if it were the liquor or just how he got down, but either way, you were two seconds from falling in love. Giving you two heavy handed slaps on your bottom, he’d retract and instantly tug you back by the waist as he eased back in. Squelching noises arising throughout the room, soon followed by the sounds of clapping flesh. He didn’t even bother to take things slow. You were acclimated to his shape and it was obvious you were far past the point of not knowing each other's bodies. At the risk of not wanting to mess with your hair, he’d opt for your throat instead and begin to drill you from behind. Fingers clutched around that esophagus as you begged for more. “Fuck me, Kyo! Keep fucking me just like that!..” “Yeah? Like that, baby?” Both of your teeth gritted in pure ecstasy. In and out of that now sore cunt at rapid speed, you’d begin to feel him press into the pit of your stomach..leaving you completely unraveled. Tapping on the couch arm, you’d end up collapsing flat onto the sofa, where he’d resume the rest of those backshots with a hand placed into the small of your back and in a plank-like position. This man was going to be the death of you! But it would seem that he too was on his last leg and not before long, you’d hear the sound of him inhaling. He was reaching his limit as were you so you’d make the decision to come together. “Same time, okay?” “Okay!” Reaching that consensus, he’d desperately count down from three and when he reached the final number, it was as if something inside of you both just cracked…that final orgasm hitting you both like a freight train. For a moment, you couldn’t hear or see a thing. Just pure silence and blackness before coming back to. Pulling out just in the nick of time, he’d splatter your back with his last nut. Completely spent and worn out, (y/n) and Kyo fell lazily into one another’s arms and into more intimate kissing. You could stare into those eyes forever and he felt the same. The realization of what had transpired sank in and the two of you just began laughing.

“You know, you really are something else, miss (y/n)..” “I could say the same for you, Mr. Kyo.” Knowing that if anyone were to catch you right now, it might result in a bit of trouble. But as the storm raged outside and the power still hadn’t returned, it was apparent that wasn’t going to happen any time soon. So instead, you’d lie in each other's arms and try to come down from those highs. He’d gently and lovingly stroke your face, as if you were the most beautiful thing he’d ever spotted. “You know, I gotta be honest…I didn’t think you’d like me, miss (y/n). Girls like you? Way out of my league. To which you’d merely giggle and place another kiss atop his cheek. This man had no idea just how attractive he was. “You should have more faith in yourself, Kyo. Because you just so happen to be my type too, sweetheart.” Bopping the tip of his nose, which made him light up with excitement. It was safe to say that he’d be making many more stops at this old fast food joint. Whether it was work related or other, he’d be up for whatever was being served.

as long as you were on the menu.

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