Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

day 1: anniversary (Zayne/MC)
day 2: pet sitting (Shinobu & Ushi)
day 3: in vino veritas (Jinshi/Maomao)
day 4: set in another time (Phainon/Mydei)
day 5: early morning walks (Kensato/Reader)
day 6: late night talks (Caleb/MC)
day 7: moving day (Kiyoko/Tanaka)
day 8: cursed (Guizhong/Zhongli)
day 9: coming home (Wriothesley/Reader)
day 10: set up by friends (Himuro/Fuyutsuki)
day 11: double or nothing (Beidou/Ningguang)
day 12: heatwave (Ivan/Till)
day 13: hosting a holiday event (Luxiem)
day 14: lost together (Enna & Millie)
day 15: "this looks fun" (undecided)
day 16: pillows, plushies, blankets (Hakuji/Koyuki)
day 17: buying a costume (Sakamoto family)
day 18: is this seat taken? (undecided)
day 19: risky rescue mission (itafushikugi)
day 20: fake relationship (Aventurine/Ratio)
day 21: pumpkin carving (Ineffa & Aino)
day 22: polar opposites (Kinich/Mualani)
day 23: group hug (Karasuno 3rd years)
day 24: letters (Xingqiu/Hu Tao)
day 25: cold hands (Flins/Reader)
day 26: co-parenting a pet (Shima/Mitsumi)
day 27: is that my hoodie? (undecided)
day 28: bookshop (undecided)
day 29: sharing earphones (Kaminari/Jirou)
day 30: stay? (Kaveh/Al-Haitham)

Chapter Text

Nimble fingers brush her bangs away, sunlight now shining directly at her eyes. The light leaves an impression on her eyelids, slowly burning an uncomfortable feeling until it becomes unbearable to close her eyes. She grumbles ready to scold Zayne or Mela for teasing her in her sleep before a pair of lips swoops in to kiss her gently.

Definitely not Mela.

“Sweetie, wake up.” Ah, that voice of his. It lacks the gravelly texture that his usual morning voice has. It must've been a while since he woke up. “Good morning, happy 13th anniversary.”

Her eyes flick open. “Huh?”

Zayne chuckles, chest moving with each sound that leaves his mouth. Time has worn his sharp features from years ago, but he aged like fine wine. White streaks now dotted his hair, thin lines forming by the sides of his mouth. Many years ago, she joked that Zayne would still look the same 10 years later from his lack of facial expressions, something celebrities work hard to always school their expression yet comes natural for him. 

“It's our 13th anniversary, my love. Or have you forgotten?” He caresses her cheek, mirth dancing in his eyes. His words shot adrenaline into her veins. She sat up, slight panic evident in her body. “God, no, how could I forget? I'm sorry, I was just sleepy.” She groans, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

“It's alright, I was just teasing.” Zayne leans in, pressing a kiss to her temple. “Breakfast is ready. Our personal chef had woken up earlier than usual to prepare a surprise for us. Though, it seems that I may or may not ruin her surprise by waking up earlier than planned.” He stands up from the bed, offering a hand to his half-awake wife. With his help, she manages to stagger out of bed. Cold morning air no longer nipped at her skin. She checks the time right as she passes by; 9 AM. Well, it is the weekend.

“The slumbering dragon has awakened, Mela.” Zayne teases as he passes by the empty frame leading towards the kitchen. A thirteen year old girl stands by the counter as she pours honey over a stack of fluffy pancakes. Her Dad's love for sweets passed down onto his daughter, one that she cultivates to her uncanny talent for making any sweet foods. If it weren’t for school, both of her parents would’ve asked her to make them her special fluffy pancakes every morning.

“Morning, Mom.” The girl greets her parents with that same, sweet smile her Mom has. “I was just finishing up the pancakes.”

“Mmm, take your time, sweetie.” She smiles, senses slowly rousing awake at the delicious smell of food. Mela quickly scoops a vanilla ice cream on top of each serving of pancake, then dotting them with some blueberries. She swiftly takes both plates, serving them up to her parents already waiting by the table.

“You’re not eating with us?” She pulls the plate closer to her side, eyeing her daughter. Mela shrugs with indifference, “I got hungry while making the first batch and ended up eating that one. So I made a new one for the two of you.”

The couple took a piece of pancake and stuffed it in their mouths at the same time. A second later, both of their shoulders visibly relaxed. “I don’t think I’m ever getting tired of this.” Zayne comments, patting his daughter’s hair a few times before focusing back on his food. His wife agrees, nodding vigorously.

Mela sits quietly, watching as her parents enjoy their breakfast heartily while talking about their plans for today. Even after over a decade, they remain solid and unmoving, bounded by the love they have towards each other. She simply smiles at the thought, silently praying for all the best things in this world befitting to the best Mom and Dad in the world.

Chapter Text

Rule number one when joining the Arataki Gang: Always expect the unexpected.

Okay, no, that’s technically rule number two since the number one rule is to be loyal and have each other’s backs, but it’s just as important. The higher your position is, the more likely you’d encounter the unexpected.

And Shinobu? Well, she’s grown numb from the unexpected.

Someone knocks by her door by morning. From the sounds of it, no, it’s not mail nor is it mischievous children knocking on strangers’ doors before running off. She drags her feet all the way to the front door and harshly opens it.

Of course. It’s Genta. And Ushi.

“Let me guess,” she sighs as she pinches her nose bridge, “Boss got into trouble again and none of our members are able to take care of Ushi in the meantime?” Her voice was laced with venom, one that made Genta’s previously relaxed posture tense up. He nods guiltily, “T– The others are busy looking for other jobs in the meantime, and my Mother is sick right now, so I can’t—”

“Yeah, yeah, I get it.” Shinobu cuts him off, opening her door wider. “It’s not your fault. Put him in, will you?”

Genta complies, ushering Ushi (hehe) in before bidding goodbye to the Deputy Leader.

It wasn’t the first time Ushi had to be dropped by her place. She was the most reliable of the bunch, and though most of the time she’d have others take care of Ushi whenever his owner left him to have fun in jail, there were times where she had to step in. 

After making sure Ushi was properly taken care of by his owner prior to the incident, Shinobu could finally feel herself relaxing. Ushi strolled around the small abode, gently knocking his head at certain items he was curious about. The small bull made little to no change to her daily life, except for moments when he’d grunt and moo while ramming his head towards the door. Which unfortunately, was now.

Shinobu huffs, “Okay, okay. Wait for me to change, alright?”

Once she’s changed into something a bit more comfortable, the two of them set out into the city. Ushi walked ahead of her, excitement evident. Shinobu noticed some eyes on them, probably wondering why the Arataki Gang’s bull isn’t with his obnoxious buddy. She decides not to care. She would’ve thought the same if she was an outsider.

When her eyes returned to the small bull in front of her, he was already way ahead. Panic rose in her. No matter what, she’s fond of the bull and the last thing she wanted would be letting Ushi run into harm… Or harm others, since it is within the little bull’s capability. “Ushi!” She bolts ahead, the bull not paying attention to her cries. “Ushi, don’t run!”

Suddenly he does a turn, head ramming into a chair in a nearby restaurant.

“What was that?” 

“It… Seems to be a small bull.”

Oh. 

Shinobu felt her heart drop to her stomach.

“Lady Ayaka…”

The girl and the blond man  beside her turn to face her. “You must be the… Deputy of Arataki Gang. Shinobu, am I right?” The man’s face lights up in recognition. “I saw you sticking by Itto’s side a bunch of times.”

“Oh, yes.” His words barely registered in her mind. Fear isn’t what she would associate with Ayaka. She respects the young lady of the Kamisato Clan, and that respect takes form in viewing her and treating her as a human rather than a royal. Still, letting Ushi go loose and bumping into her chair as she’s having a rare and peaceful dinner in the city… Something clenched her stomach, but she refused to let it unnerve her too much.

Shinobu crouches down to retrieve Ushi, the bull mooing in process. “I apologize, Lady Ayaka and Thoma. I didn’t expect him to go rampant the moment I took my eyes off of him.” She bows slightly, and Ayaka seems to panic a little. She turns her head towards Thoma, in which he gives her an assuring nod. Ayaka clears her throat ever so slightly. “It’s not a problem, Shinobu. The little guy did surprise me, but it’s okay.” The edge of her lips curve upwards to a sincere smile. 

“Thank you, Lady Ayaka.”

She bids the two farewell before deciding that they've done enough sightseeing today.

With the Arataki Gang unoperating at least for today, Shinobu takes her time to immerse herself in some alone time at home. Reading books, deep cleaning the house, and even talking to Ushi, despite the vast language barrier. All he did was moo and grunt, sometimes even running off in the middle of a sentence.

I should take a nap, she thought as she plopped herself by the couch, and nap she did.

By the time the sun had begun to set by the horizon, Shinobu was already curled up by the couch with Ushi in her arms. The house was quiet, saved for Shinobu’s light snores and Ushi’s louder ones.

A figure emerges, standing by the front of Shinobu’s door; Itto.He calls out her name, but… No one replied?

“Anybody home?” Itto peeks his head through the door after several attempts of calling her out. Surprisingly her door is unlocked. Huh. This raises suspicion within Itto, senses sharpening as he descends slowly into the house. “Hello..?”

He steps into the living room, and he lets out a big sigh of relief. Ah, she's just sleeping on the couch with Ushi. 

Itto wishes he had a Kamera available right now.

Chapter Text

This is a bad, bad mistake.

The longer she stays at this party, the more Maomao thinks that she's too soft on Xiaolan. This whole thing was her friend's idea, but a little bit of pleading from her was all that it took to convince Maomao to go to a party, of all places. The place where people lose their rationality, lost in the fever of the party and alcohol, attended by just-turned-eighteen adults and legitimate adults. Chaos. Music. Chatters. Walking into a room, only to see people making out. Anyone who's been to a party would know, it was not something Maomao would willingly attend, yet here she is.

Even tonight, Xiaolan's behavior had Maomao pulling at her own hair. Her friend was so excited to go to the party, only to spend the first hour wandering around aimlessly. Maomao had planned to go home after an hour, but Xiaolan had just started finding new friends and talking with others right after the one hour mark. She didn't have the heart to go home alone and let Xiaolan be at this party, but she also hated staying here for too long. Some people (well, guys) kept trying to chat her up, though their motives were obvious. Once their eyes land on the area just below her neck, they lose interest and leave. At this point of time, she didn't care about whatever reason people stopped talking to her, what's important is that they leave her alone.

Standing around and drinking slowly became mundane, and her bladder was eventually full. Maomao starts looking for the bathroom and once she is in the vicinity of the room, she hopes she doesn't walk into something she shouldn't.

She did.

Though, maybe, she was quite glad to walk into it.

A girl clad in clothes that accentuated her curves and perfect waist had cornered a taller man to the sink. He kept pressing his back towards the sink, though there wasn't any space left for him to back off. Instant recognition zapped through Maomao's body, and something surged within her.

"You should step away from him."

Both of their movements halted. The girl looked back, a look of annoyance — less than the regular annoyance and more of that when someone hears a fly buzzing around — flashing through her face. "Fuck off."

Maomao furrows her brows. She steps forward, yanking the girl to the side before standing right between her and the man. The two kept staring at each other for a few seconds, but when the girl noticed the man she previously attempted to pursue didn't mind the protection, she scoffed and promptly left the bathroom.

Silence. Neither talked.

"Are you drunk, Jinshi?" Maomao turns her head to the man behind her. "You usually straightforwardly reject an advancement, yet now you let it escalate to physical pursuit."

"..Mmaybe..?" Jinshi mumbles, scratching his head. "I was looking for... For... Gaoshun. Yeah. Dunno where he went..."

Gaoshun? Maomao looked at Jinshi up and down, as if assessing if something really was wrong with him.

"Gaoshun didn't even come to the party.”

“...oh.”

She sighs, rubbing her temples. “Who did you even come here with?”

Jinshi mumbled something incoherent before his body cranes forward, half slumping against the shorter girl. She felt her knees almost buckle. Not from nervousness, rather from the weight that pressed on her upper half body. Maomao grunts, “Hey! Get off—”

His nose, pretty and sculpted like a marble statue, skimmed over the back of her ear, warm breath huffing into the shell of her ear. “Did you… Change your cologne? Use someone else's cologne?”

Something tightens in Maomao’s chest. “No.” Lies. Not completely. She didn't change colognes, but one of the guys who had talked to her wore a strong perfume, so strong that it stung her nose and nearly brought tears to her eyes. Jinshi didn't budge, instead pouting like a petulant child. He tucks his face into the crooks of her neck, lower lips swiping gently against the joint between her neck and shoulder. “Liar. You… You smell like a man.”

Gkh, this is bad, she thinks, he's drunk and irrational. 

“Why didn't you ask for mine?” He rambles on, sniffing around her neck, down her shoulders and arms as if trying to find the spots where she smells like another man’s perfume. “I could've given you some of mine. I would've.”

His nose stops by her wrist, opening his glazed eyes, mind hazy from the alcohol in his system. He nuzzles into Maomao’s open palm, akin to a sulking kitten, and strangely Maomao couldn't find herself pulling away, or even comment on the situation, as the matter of fact. Even when his 

“Let's get you home.” Maomao finally finds her voice as she pulls her hand away. The spot where his larger hands gently wrapped around her wrist as if afraid of breaking them felt warm. He didn't hold her hand back, letting it slip away from his grip, though he looked a little disappointed. Yet it seems the prospect of going home with her didn't completely dampen his mood as he nodded, standing up straight. 

The two walk out of the bathroom. Maomao quickly scans the crowd for Xiaolan, before dragging her friend back home. The three of them ordered an Uber, with Jinshi sitting at the front row while Maomao and Xiaolan sitting at the back, much to the man’s dismay. Within a few minutes Jinshi dozes off, lips slightly parted yet he remains silent throughout his slumber, just like a sleeping princess. 

Chapter Text

Upon the arrival of the 6th semester, the library became a place students often visit, some even making it as their second home. The usually quiet library turns packed, filled with hushed whispers of students quietly chattering amongst themselves or muttering things about their paper. Though now, in times where technology is advanced and the usage of artificial intelligence is much more common amongst students, Phainon chose not to be one of them. He believed that knowledge is obtained by learning, and asking a computer to summarize the answers for him didn’t seem like a great way to truly understand his research paper.

The librarian there was quick to remember Phainon, though not in a good way. He didn’t understand it himself, why the librarian, the grumpy Eurypon, would grunt and scoff in the presence of a diligent and rule-abiding student like him? He talks quietly, doesn’t bring drinks or food, always takes care of the books, and always returns them on time. Regardless, grumpy old Eurypon never made his life harder, and so Phainon concluded it to be the result of the mysterious misery certain people have the more they get older.

On a particular day though, when the door creaks open, Phainon didn’t hear Eurypon’s voice, or even his tired huff. Instead, he saw a man with the same hair color as the librarian leave the table just as Phainon turned his head, illuminating the man’s face. Ah, it probably is Eurypon. The old geezer probably didn’t see him.

Somewhat happy with the lack of the usual storm clouds from Eurypon, Phainon heads over to the usual rows of the books he needed. He picks a few books, some are the ones he’s been reading over and over for the past few weeks. He finds an empty desk, pull out his laptop and with a deep sigh, he begins working tirelessly.

Hours ticked by. Fatigue began pulling at his eyelids. Most of the students in the library haven’t changed; everyone was working hard on their thesis, only a small percentage of students have left. Not wanting to blind himself from staring at the laptop for too long, Phainon decides to take a walk. He packs his bag, and starts heading towards the door. 

Just then he passes by the librarian’s desk, eyes flitting over to the desk.

Ah, so it really wasn’t Eurypon.

It was a younger man, with blond hair and wine red tips, and a nose sculpted similarly to Eurypon’s. But his eyes — oh his eyes — they were soft, devoid of the misery and harshness garnered in Eurypon’s eyes. He had his eyes focused on some stack of books, checking for damage and the date of borrowing and returning the book. Before the unknown young Eurypon look-alike could spot him, Phainon tore his gaze away and set out on a walk.

Half an hour had passed, and with a less heavy heart and less tired eyes, he returned to the library. Relaxation did not stop him from working, as he returned to his table and began toiling away once more until night fell.

Tiredness finally caught up, and Phainon decided that it was time to go home. He packed his belongings, but before he left, he took a book to borrow.

Phainon stopped his tracks in front of the librarians table, where the Eurypon look-alike was still sitting prettily. Wait, prettily?

With Phainon’s arrival, the young man looked up. He’d don a pair of glasses with a thin frame, perched by his nose. The young man squinted ever so slightly at Phainon, as if examining. At the same time, Phainon too, examined the blond. Something about his demeanor had struck something deep within the empty cavern in his chest, slowly coaxing something out, like a child rubbing their thumb and index finger together while clicking their tongue, calling out to a cat. Something that had been tucked away for so long, he'd forgot it ever existed in the first place.

“Do I know you?” The question blurts put of the white-haired’s mouth before he could stop it. Eurypon look-alike sighed, not aggression or annoyance like Eurypon, just… Something else. 

“Is it because I look like Eurypon?”

Well, Phainon hadn't expected his answer to be like that.

Before Phainon could answer, he'd cut him to the chase. “Eurypon is family, unfortunately.”

From the looks of it, Eurypon seemed to be more than simply “family”. Perhaps his Father, from how much they looked similar, but of course Phainon didn't let himself say that out loud.

“Right.” Phainon gave him a tight lipped smile, before placing the book on the table, with his library ID on top of it. “I'd like to borrow this, please.”

As the blond clicked away on the computer, inputing data, Phainon worked up the courage to talk once more.

“What's your name?”

Without looking up, the blond replied, “Mydeimos. But people call me just Mydei.”

“Nice to meet you, just Mydei. I'm Phainon.” He smiled, and caught a flicker of annoyance in the blond’s eyes. But rather than Eurypon’s kind of annoyance, it was more of a relaxed kind, one that didn't prompt Phainon to stop, rather to continue on, like how one would annoy a friend. 

“Return it by next week.” Mydei places the book and ID by the table. Phainon thanked him, and before he left, he swore he saw Mydei’s ear turn pink.

Phainon left the library with a light, yet curious heart. Who was Mydei? What's he like? What does he like? Questions swirl in his head. A gust of wind whizzes past him, and a tiny piece of paper slips out of the pages of the book. His hand reaches out to catch it just in time before it disappears. He opens the slightly crumpled paper. A series of numbers, huh…

^if you have any questions. —M

Oh. It's his number.

Mydei's… Number. 

Phainon found his ears feeling like someone had burned them.

Chapter Text

You and your now husband Kenji are opposites when it comes to physical activities. He’s an athlete who exercised everyday, woke up early and made sure his diet stays balanced. Pushups, jump rope, jogging, you name it. While his dear wife could only wake up early with the help of an alarm (which sometimes doesn’t work well), barely follows the work out routine she had excitedly formed just a month ago, and only kept her diet once the weight gain was becoming obvious. Kenji never asked you to slim yourself up, which you appreciated, but he was always open and happy whenever you decided to join him working out.

The problem was, he is way too used to heavy physical activities. In contrast with you, who would prefer binge watching on the couch most days. While he was just ‘warming up’, you already felt your legs slowly lose their strength. Halfway through the workout itself, you’re on the verge of passing out. 

Kenji understood though, and slowly would adjust his schedule whenever you decided to join. Most of the time, he’d opt for some walks when you joined him. It was still impactful enough, but not too intense for you and your body. 

That morning, after tightening up your shoes and filling your water bottle, you followed him out the door. Morning walks became an easy matter for the both of you, at least for now, since you were both in Odaiba. He’d built a new house not far from his old neighborhood for the two of you and your families during holidays. Though Kenji was popular amongst the neighbors, they’ve learned to not overwhelm the both of you every time you or Kenji steps out of the house.

“Why do we have to wake up so early for a walk?” You grumbled, trying to keep up with his wider steps. Kenji notices and shortens his steps bit by bit. “Because the later you wake up, the hotter the sun gets.” He explains. “And it’s not healthy for you.” 

Though morning walks weren’t routined between the both of you yet, it had helped you increase stamina. A few months ago, a 30 minute walk was enough to wear you out. By now, it would’ve taken around an hour.

Just by the one hour mark, you grip Kenji’s sleeve, panting and wheezing. “Can we stop by the konbini? Please?”

“Tired already?” He teases, knocking your head with his knuckles a few times. But alas, he relents, and leads the both of you to a nearby konbini for drinks.

The two of you sit by a bench, taking your breath and savoring the cold drinks.

“I’ll be leaving Japan in a few weeks. Got a match back in America.” Kenji breaks the silence. It was sudden, and you almost wanted to be mad with him for dropping such a bomb out of nowhere, until you saw his face. Nervous. Maybe almost guilty. This wasn’t the first experience for him to go abroad for a match, so why now? 

“I know you think it’s ridiculous, why I’m worrying over nothing even though I’ve been travelling to several countries for matches before.” He cut you to the chase, it seems. You stay quiet, silently urging him to continue. “But… It’s my first time going as far as America since… We got married.”

That explains everything. 

“Hey,” You gently cup your hand over Kenji’s hand that was resting on the bench, “I’ll be alright here. I’ll stay safe.” 

Kenji nods, though it was clear something was still weighing him down.

“We can walk together every morning before you leave to make up for time?” 

A small laugh slips past his lips. He covers his face with one hand, shoulders shaking with mirth. “That’s not— Can you even survive?”

“Don’t underestimate me now!” You protest, pinching his arm in the process.

“Yeah, yeah. Do whatever you want.” Kenji takes one hand of yours before giving each knuckle a quick peck. He sets your hand back down again, but doesn’t let go. 

Quietness enveloped the both of you as you watch the sky slowly brighten up along with the rising sun.

Chapter Text

Caleb’s eyes slowly opened when he heard a loud thunder strike. His mind sharpens immediately and replays one name—

His bedroom door bursts open just before he could rise from his bed. A figure shrouded in blackness sprints towards his bed and invites herself in the confines of his blanket. Caleb was about to make fun of how similar she was to a cat rushing away from danger, until his hand touched hers. It was shaking, more than usual.

“Gege…” How long has it been since she called him that without that snarky or joking tone? This time her voice was tinged with fear, and it was as if time had rewinded, back to years ago when they were both small children, invited to be taken care of by an old lady.

“Mhm, Gege is here.” His voice softens, hand pressed to her back as he pulls her closer to him. She curls inwards to his chest, and Caleb feels her damp cheeks. She was shaking like a leaf. A hand of her own presses against her mouth, cries and whimpers slithering out the cracks of her fingers. She’d always been afraid of thunder and storms, but it’d been years since the last time he saw her this afraid. 

“What’s the matter, Pips? You’re panicking more than usual.” He pulls away briefly to look at her face but she grunts loudly, pressing herself closer to him. Caleb sighs before circling her body with his arms. She was silent, hesitant to answer his question — or rather, unable to. He notices how she was practically choking on her own tears, breath shuddering and eyes glazed. 

Caleb frowns. He starts rubbing her back, gently guiding her chin to look at him. “Deep breaths. Follow my lead. Okay?”

She nods, barely perceptible. 

“Deep breath in… And slowly out. Deep breath in…”

He repeats the process a few times, and she miraculously follows. It took a few tries before her breathing gradually slowed down, no longer shaking like a leaf, but still afraid. Caleb gently pats her hair, from the top of her head and down her back. “Shh… Everything’s alright. Caleb’s here for you.”

He didn’t say much afterwards. Staying there by her side, rubbing her back and hair. Only after a few minutes did she finally have found her voice to speak.

“I had a nightmare. That a storm covered the entirety of Linkon, and the center of the storm was here on Bloomshore.”

When Caleb doesn’t respond, she continues. “The house was in shambles, a mess… It was crumbling and breaking down, and heavy debris fell onto me… And I– I saw you try to help me out, but– but then something fell on your head and you passed out and—-” She took a deep sigh, tears pooling once more in her eyes. “I– I woke up. And I heard there was a storm outside, and it was al– almost as bad as it was in the nightmare. I panicked and– and I ran here…”

No wonder she was scared to death.

“That sounds terrifying.”

She nods once.

“But hey — I’m here now.” He reaches out to grab her hand, giving it a tight squeeze. “See? I’m real. Not a figment on your imagination. This Caleb is safe and sound from any storm or debris, and you are too.”

BANG! A loud crash of thunder shook the peace. She tucked her head into Caleb’s chest, feeling his steady heartbeat. With gentleness, he wraps himself around her, shielding here from the outside world that continues to terrify and hurt her. Caleb hums a familiar tune, the same song that Josephine had used to hum him to sleep on his first night here. He closes in on her ear, making sure that his lullaby can drown out the heavy rain and grumbles of thunder. Within minutes she calms down, energy drained from staying on high alert.

Slowly, he feels her breathing steady. Asleep, finally. 

Caleb squeezes his arm around her ever so slightly, just to ground himself, before shutting his eyelids once more.

Chapter Text

“Hun, wake up.” A gentle hand shakes her shoulder, stirring Kiyoko awake from her short but fulfilling slumber. She blinks the weariness away, turning her head towards the man beside her. “We’re here already, Ryuu?” She fixes her glasses, yawning in the process. Said man had a cheerful smile on his face, nodding. “Yep. At our brand new house.”

Ever since they’d start planning their marriage over a year ago, they’ve scoured everywhere for a suitable house for the both of them, and perhaps a possible child too. Finding a comfortable house sold in their price range while still saving up money was no easy feat, and the moment they had found a house resembling what they'd dreamt off, they sealed the deal with the owner. Who knows if there are other houses like this out there, and they might just lose their chance if they let it go off the hook.

The both of them stepped out of the car. The movers worked quickly, getting the boxes out of the truck. Though they hired help from the movers, not everything could fit into the truck, hence some of their belongings was brought along by the back of their car. While Ryuu helped the movers with the heavier items, Kiyoko brought in the boxes from their car, much to her husband’s dismay. He’d insist on taking care of the moving, but she refused to sit still and do nothing. 

Before moving in, they had deep cleaned the house beforehand. All the surfaces were scrubbed and dusted, corners cleaned, and curtains washed and changed. Though tiresome, the process helped them save time and energy during moving day. They worked for hours, moving in their belongings, big and small, and arranging them into their humble abode. By the time the sun no longer stung the earth with its deadly rays of light, the movers finally finished their job and bid farewell. 

It didn’t take long after finishing up, and one by one, neighbors came by to say hello and give gifts. Some brought homemade food and desserts, delivered by their shy children, while others unexpectedly — but highly welcomed — brought household supplies. Brooms, mops, floor cleaning solutions, and even washing sponges. Soon enough, their attic was dominated with supplies.

“What are we gonna do with all of this?” Ryuu scratches his head, staring at the multitude of mops lined up in the corner. “Well… At least we won’t have to worry about household supplies for a few years now.” Kiyoko shrugs.

“Anyways, I heard Daichi and the others are planning to come over. Any news from them?” Kiyoko asks just as Ryuu locks the attic door. He scratches his cheek briefly, deep in thought. “Heard from them two days ago, not sure if they’ve texted me yet or not. I haven't been on my phone since this morning. We had a busy day, don’cha think?  Ryuu shoots her a smile, a smile that had matured throughout the years but was still so uniquely his. 

Just then, the doorbell rang for the nth time that day. Ryuu rushed to open the door, and was immediately followed with boisterous laughter from him and other familiar voices. They have arrived, it seems.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t just the third years — Daichi, Suga, and Asahi — who came over. Even Yamaguchi and the ever so busy Tsukishima were there too. But the biggest surprise was–

“No way—” Ryuu’s jaw went slack, but the corner of his lips quickly rose to a wide smile. “BRO!”

“RYUU!!” Noya wiggled between Daichi and Asahi, extending both of his arms to the air. The two of them engage in a deadly round of deadlock hug, squeezing each other so tightly their voice turns into wheezes whenever they talk. 

“You two never changed, huh?” Suga separates the both of them, eventually. Ryuu simply laughs, letting his door open wide to let his friends in. 

“I’m so sorry we don’t have any food prepared with us,” Kiyoko sighs after exchanging greetings with everyone. Yamaguchi beams, “It’s alright! You guys just moved in anyways, we didn’t expect food of any kind from you guys.”

“Well yeah, but…” Ryuu rubs his neck, contemplating. “Yeah, whatever. Just tell me whenever you’re hungry. You guys okay with takeout?”

From the enthusiastic response, it was clear they were very much okay with takeout.

The rest of the day was spent catching up on their lives. Tsukishima had recently gotten into a hiatus from a wrist injury from a previous match. Yamaguchi just got a promotion. Asahi had a chance to collaborate with a famous designer for a new series. Daichi and Suga recount the mundane and serious things that happened during their jobs. 

After a fulfilling dinner consisting of takeout food, one by one leaves the house, finally leaving it empty with just Kiyoko and Ryuu. 

“It’s just us now.” Ryuu mumbles, hugging Kiyoko from behind as she just threw all the leftover food to the trash can. She smiles, placing her hand on top of Ryuu’s that rests over her abdomen. Her ring glints against the lights from the ceiling. She leans her head back, leaving a small peck on his upper cheek. “Yeah, just the two of us now.”

Chapter Text

Today could not have gotten worse.

The almighty Rex Lapis, God of Contracts, Lord of Geo — woke up as a cat. A fluffy, black feline who could only meow to voice its thoughts, much in contrast to his usual rich vocabulary, often tangling those engaging in a conversation with him and dragging the topic for extra minutes or hours with how much he talked. 

As the brave Rex Lapis ventures out of his abode to try and find an adepti to help him with his predicament, a herd of goats nearly runs over him.

Why not seek help from the God of Dust?

Gods forbid she sees him in this docile and fragile form, lest he’d never hear the end of her teasing.

His trials didn’t end there. A wild dog had taken interest in him and chased poor old Morax around the Guili Assembly before he discovered that he could jump into the rooftops to avoid the barking dog. Not only that, just as he steps down and trots around the assembly once more. A group of children squealed at the sight of him and decided to imprison him to be their plaything, not even once considering that this disgruntled cat is their ruler trapped in the wrong body and forced to comply with their wants. 

After struggling away from the rabid group of children, Morax finally spotted Marchosius’ abode. Though not an adepti, his place was the closest to reach compared to the others who prefer to live in the outskirts. Marchosius might not be able to help him immediately, but he hopes that the friendly stove god could somehow tell the other adepti. 

Yet, of course, his trials did not end. He feels a presence behind him and before he could run off, a pair of gentle hands picks him up by the torso. 

“I've never seen you around before. What's your name, little one?”

Of course.

It just had to be Guizhong.

The goddess smiles at the cat, sweet as ever, and Morax could only muster up a small meow to respond to her. “What a cute little thing, you are.” She rubs the underside of his chin, and the Lord of Geo couldn’t help but feel like he had ascended to Celestia. Is this what cats feel every time someone shows them affection? He purrs loudly, nudging his head closer to her hand, before he snaps out of his trance. Morax pulled his head away from Guizhong, and the goddess looked a little disappointed, yet still she held him in her arms. 

With the black cat who was mysteriously obedient and calm in her arms (something stray cats aren’t smart at doing, yet strangely this one was oddly comfortable), Guizhong makes her way back to her domain. Setting the cat on a nearby desk in her living space, she enters the workshop. Cat Morax meows, protesting. Why are you leaving me here? Let me join you in the workshop.

“It’s dangerous here.” She reprimands the cat lightly, in which he stubbornly stayed by her leg. Begrudgingly, Guizong lets the cat into the workshop. “Don’t go near me while I’m working, alright? I don’t want to accidentally hurt you.” She reminds the cat, which he replied with an obedient meow. Guizhong’s brows furrowed at the perfectly timed meow, as if the cat could understand her. She shrugged the matter off of her mind and continued to work. 

Morax watched as the goddess worked on a part of the ballista she was building. Though she lacked the fighting prowess as he did in his usual form, she was an excellent engineer who tinkered each day of the week, whether for fun or too come up with more defense mechanisms that could help protect the Guili Assembly. 

Night had befall upon the land when she finally wrapped it up at the workshop. Morax the cat curled up comfortably by a safe corner of the workshop. With utmost care, Guizhong picks up the sleeping cat in her arms. Morax, of course, woke up from the movement, but did not retaliate as Guizhong laid him on the bed next to her. Gods typically do not need rest, but they can will themselves to rest if they wish. 

“Good night, little one.” Guizhong taps the cat’s nose before drifting to sleep.

—-

Morax wakes up back in his human form lying in Guizhong’s bed.

Wait, who’s bed?

While the realization sunk in and before he could scurry off into thin air, Guizhong opens her eyes. He swears his heart dropped into his stomach.

“Guizh—”

“Ah… So that sweet cat was you.” 

Morax gulps. Hesitantly, he nods. “I was cursed. I’m not sure what started it, or who would dare curse a god yet only use such a harmless curse, but that was how I found myself yesterday.”

He notices the minimal distance between them. Not many things flustered him, but now, he was sure that was what he felt. Being near her, lying in a comfortable bed was tempting him to stay put, but he knew better than to follow his egotistical wants. The god slowly put some distance between them, yet he swears he saw the smallest pout coming from the goddess.

“You were better as a cat yesterday. You were cute and very obedient, and most of all you did not run your mouth like usual.” Guizhong frowns and looks away, but Morax knew better than to think she was genuinely upset. It was a tactic, a rather childish one (but somehow, he didn’t mind it) that she only uses with him seldomly, during times when her guard is down, 

“Ah, was I? Or do you just want me as an obedient pet after all?”

“None of that!” She turns back, a look of disagreement on her face. Her smile returned to her face, smiling from ear to ear. “But you enjoyed it too, didn’t you? Being held and having your chin scratched by me?”

Morax couldn’t deny that. He frowns, rising from the bed to ignore her. Guizhong giggles as he leaves the bed, ears visibly pink.

Chapter Text

Wriothesley seldom came home due to his line of work. Even before the both of you got engaged, he had a secret, personal room back in his office at Meropide. It was a simple place, a bed large enough to accommodate him, a bathroom, and a few shelves and stacked storage boxes to store books, secret files, and other things. Once he started seeing you more often, though, he requested to renovate his room. Made it bigger, with a bigger bed, a modified bathroom. He made his personal room almost like a little house, just to make you feel comfortable when you decide to come down to a dark place like this.

Of course, like most people, you were more comfortable living on land in general. You made the effort to come down to Meropide and stay there for a few nights when you’re not busy, and he’d do the same for you. When paperwork ends earlier than usual, he’d make time to come back up to Fontaine to visit you, perhaps stay for a few nights. Wriothesley does try to make sure he comes over to your place more often than you did, though it doesn’t always succeed every time. 

One night, he wraps up early and visits the upper ground. Before he went by your little apartment, he stopped by the shop to buy some bottles of Fonta like usual.

Wriothesley arrives at your apartment, and he gently knocks on the door. Surprisingly, the door wasn’t locked when he tried to open it.

“You should lock your door, you know. Who knows who could’ve burst in.” He reprimands, albeit with a more relaxed tone while he hangs his coat. You were by the couch, half asleep. Your head snaps towards him the moment his voice rings out. “Wrio? What… You didn’t tell me you were coming by tonight.”

“Sorry,” He approaches the couch and presses a gentle kiss to your head, “I was too occupied with the thought of visiting you tonight, I forgot to tell you beforehand.” He places the bag filled with bottles of Fonta on the table. “Are you sleepy already?”

You nod drowsily, leaning your head against his shoulder. “You know, before you came in, I was just thinking about how much I miss you.” You bat your lashes at him teasing, but he knew deep down it was true. Instead of wearing your usual sleeping clothes, you wore the sweater he left in your bed a few months ago and his missing pants from a few days ago. Wriothesley smiles, giving you a peck on the lips. 

Without a word, he scoops you into his arms. For a while, you think he just wants to cuddle, but he suddenly stands up, causing you to scream and hold on to him for dear life.

“Wriothesley!” You complain, lightly pulling at his hair. He merely laughs, holding you even tighter. “Oops, sorry.”

Gently, he rests you on the bed, shortly joining you after. After the covers are pulled over the both of you, he wraps his arms around you. Immediately you relax under his touch, snuggling into his chest. 

All the weight from the workload seemed to melt away as he watched your eyelids shut and breathing slowed, chest rising up and down. A hand of his rubs the back of your head as his lips murmur a soft declaration of love, one that you will never hear, but didn’t need to in order to know that he’d cherish you for the rest of his life.