Archive of Our Own ^beta

Riku sighed in frustration, hugging her arms around herself ineffectually. She knew she needed a thicker clothes, but there was nothing she could do about it now. If she could see the look on her twins face it would make her feel even worse. Risa would rub this in her face once she was done worrying about her. Usually she was the prepared one, the sister who was organised. She'd been taking care of Risa their whole life, when she had nightmares, when she was bullied, when she was shy. She'd always been more outspoken in that respect. The confidence, outgoing extroverted nature of the eldest twin compared to Risa's bubbly, oblivious and introverted nature. But things had all changed now, growing up, life experiences and more. It felt like their dynamic had been flipped on its back, Risa was supposed to be the ditzy one. But here she was making basic mistakes as a high schooler, overwhelming herself with so many responsibilities. Life was slipping through her fingers so fast she couldn't keep up. She and Risa were turning sixteen, soon to become high school students. Attending a brand new school, a change in uniforms and branching out into the world. But then would Risa want to go to the same school as her? Would they even still be in the same classes? The future was unknown and that made it worse. She and Risa may be separated for the first time in their lives. Thinking about that made her sad, they'd done everything together for the longest time.

She'd been focusing on her exams, studying in her free time. She'd fallen asleep on her desk so many times, being put to bed by Mr Saehara. Staying up late and making sure she got all her notes done. She hadn't had time to go on dates or even spend time with Daisuke despite being his girlfriend. She felt bad for not prioritising the people she cared for most. Making them feel less important in comparison. When did she get so sloppy? When did she become so forgetful and ditzy? She needed to think more like an adult, take notice of their influence and what decisions she needed to make. She had to become more serious, secondary education would be preparing them for the world, for college, for employment and the adult world. Moving past the years where she could afford to have fun and be reckless. Her life would soon be about changes and adult decisions. One day all of this would be a brief memory, she was getting closer to college, looming at her from the future. Sooner or later she would be leaving home and meeting new people, new relationships and connections. She'd be lying if she said she wasn't scared shitless about it all, growing up was terrifying.

The cool air pinched her cheeks, her breath forming like smoke from her lips in small puffs. Luckily it wasn't raining, which would have been the cherry on top given she had no umbrella either. She'd thought taking a walk would help clear her mind, unburden her thoughts. But her clothes weren't exactly thick either, she'd gone for the thickest jeans she owned and a casual T-shirt. In hindsight a jumper would have been a better idea. "Geez, when did I become the clueless one?" Riku sighed. She had a few options here that she could choose from, maybe if she took a shortcut and hurried home, it wouldn't be so bad. She could change into something warmer or make some hot tea to warm herself up. She could look back on this moment and laugh at her brief moment of stupidity. Was there a tram running around this time? She could feel her temples aching, the cold was effecting her brain.

She began to walk faster, hugging herself for added warmth, maybe if she started running she would warm up a bit. She reflected upon any classmates who may be living in the area. Didn't Niwa live nearby here? She could ask his parents or grandpa for a ride home. Or maybe she could call Mr Saehara to collect her from her location. She hated to bother them so late, as many were probably having dinner or relaxing. But then asking them for a favour was harmless, then she wouldn't have to worry about getting sick from the cold. She wouldn't have asked unless necessary after all. If she thought about doing something herself, she would just get heckled for it later. Ever since the events that took place in the past, Risa had become more protective as a result. Risa would worry relentlessly if she got sick, she would act as her shadow, the last thing she needed was Risa coddling her. She tried to think rationally, contemplating all the options she had, she rummaged in her pocket to grab her phone, scrolling through the contacts until she found Risa's name. So she could message her to let her know she would be running late. Maybe she could ask her a favour too.

She didn't hear the flutter of wings or the movement behind her in the shadows "Well, well Riku, what a coincidence, this must be fate" a familiar voice teased. Fate knew they belonged together, their hearts joined as one. He'd sensed her nearby and gone for a flight to scout the area, he'd seen a figure wandering around. Wondering if it was another thief or petty burglar lurking around. Then recognised her, making out her shape in the darkness. Instead of alerting her, he decided to have some harmless fun, he'd decided to sneak up on her and see what she was up to.

Riku panicked, her hair standing on end, the sound of his voice piercing the darkness. Shrieking loudly as she turned on her heels, her eyes widened in panic, prepared to punch whatever creep was following her home. She blushed, her eyes adjusting to the dark as she saw it was Dark, withholding her sudden strength and adrenaline. She felt her cheeks heating with embarrassment, wishing the ground would just swallow her whole in that moment. Not only had she made a fool out of herself, she'd done it in front of the worst person possible. She remembered that she was bound to this person, the magical bond that had brought them together. The feelings that would reflect their entire life. Being Dasuke's sacred maiden, the genuine object of his affections, meant that by proxy, she was Dark's sacred maiden, the love of his life. That the spirt of a thief and her socially awkward classmate were the same person. It was a strange feeling, acknowledging she was technically the lover of two different men. She'd never been the most popular girl in their class, nicknamed Risa's guard dog by everyone in their school. Boys always came to her asking for a date with Risa and more. Now having Niwa and someone as charming and infamous as Dark showering her in praise and devotion, it was a strange feeling. She swallowed, her cheeks still flushed pink "D... Dark?" she babbled.

Dark's expression softened, his eyes roaming her silently, she wasn't dressed appropriately for the weather whatsoever, he could see her fingertips were turning pink. Her lips were turning blue, she was shivering. What was she thinking? She could get really sick wandering about in the dark dressed like that. She reached out his hands gently, cupping her cheeks, his reddish purple eyes filled with concern and empathy. "You're freezing Riku" he scolded softly. He had no idea what had caused her to want to go on a night walk, but it was a good thing he showed up. Her sister would be worried sick about her, Daisuke would be beside himself with worry for her, and he'd have to check on her just to ensure nothing bad happened. Fevers were nothing to scoff at.

Riku blushed, she'd never seen this softer side of Dark, usually he was a flirtatious playboy with a cocky arrogance. Though she never would have believed it, the more she got to know him, she realised her prior assumptions were mistaken. While she had been mad about him for stealing her first kiss, that felt so long ago that it wasn't worth being angry over. Here, he was unusually gentle, caring and even protective. Realising she was spacing out, she blurted out any words she could think of "I.. um... forgot a jacket" she mumbled.

Dark softened, everyone was forgetful sometimes, but she needed to be more careful. Especially wondering alone at dark, all manner of strangers and deviants would be lurking. The idea of any harm coming to her made him feel sick, no matter how tough she tried to be she was still a girl. She was a teenager, alone at night and vulnerable. He sighed, removing his own jacket and placing it over her shoulders, pulling it over her body, so she was properly covered. The cold wouldn't affect him the same way it would Riku or Daisuke, being a magical being, his body processed things differently. Besides, he would rather she use it. He took a moment to admire her, a flutter of excitement filling him, he wanted to remember this moment. He'd be lying if he didn't get a small sense of pride seeing her wearing his clothes. Like he'd marked her in some way.

Riku blushed, his eyes were more intense than she remembered, like uncut gems. The way he was looking at her, she felt so emotionally exposed. This was the first item of clothing a boy had ever given her, it was still warm from the heat of his body, and it smelled like him too. She swallowed, repressing that small part of her brain that made her stomach tingle, refusing to admit she could be flustered so easily by a boy. She then pulled the jacket over herself, awkwardly sliding her arms into the too big sleeves. "Do you do this for all the girls?" she scoffed, thinking about all the prior courtships he'd had, including their grandma. She'd be lying if she didn't feel a twinge of jealousy, especially knowing Daisuke was a host in a long line of incarnations of the Niwa family. What girls she could be comparing herself to? Given her own Twin had once been the potential love interest, most boys didn't look twice at a tomboy like herself. Risa had always been more popular in that respect.

Dark softened, she was deflecting, too shy to admit she was secretly happy about his gesture. He knew Riku struggled with insecurity, she'd always compared herself to her younger sister. Despite her natural skills with cooking, textiles and more. They were too completely different souls despite sharing blood relations, they would never be alike in that aspect. She may have preferred sports and other hobbies, but she was nonetheless cute. Her cute bob, the way it framed her face, her intense brown eyes, and the way she wore her heart on her sleeve. All the small unique traits about her he'd memorised over the years, he could always read her emotions based on her expression. "Just you" he smiled, she was his sacred maiden after all.

Riku adjusted the clothing to fit somewhat better, though it still hung off her she felt more comfortable, shielding herself from the cold. She felt a sense of shyness forming within her, he didn't have to do this. He probably had better things to do, art items to steal, missions to achieve. She had to admit she was touched by his sincere concern "Thank you" she mumbled. It was surprising to know he had some decent qualities.

Dark smiled, he never wanted anyone else to know about this side of Riku, it was his precious secret. She had her moments of being utterly adorable, whether she was aware of it or not. The pinkish hue of her cheeks right now had to be his favourite, she looked like a strawberry. If any other boy knew about how cute she could be, he'd have to fight them off. "Are you headed to Daisuke's? or maybe back home?" he offered.

Emiko would be delighted to see her for a surprise visit, offering her tea and cake; she'd been over the moon when her son finally got a girlfriend. Teasing and doting about it unrelentingly. Daiki would welcome her warmly and probably ask to catch up, pleased his grandson had finally found his person. Daisuke would be a blushing mess but he'd be happy to see her too, rambling over words and embarrassed by his family. Kousuke would be the more mild mannered, quiet but polite, respecting their boundaries and leaving them to their business. She was always welcome in their household.

Riku shifted, when she met Daisuke's family for the first time she'd been genuinely surprised. But upon observing his parents, it was easy to see which traits he got and from whom. Admittedly while that sounded like a nice idea, she wanted to enjoy some alone time, it rarely happened these days. "Risa is over at Hiwatari's place, I'm home alone and I was going to enjoy some peace and quiet" she confessed. As much as she loved her twin, sometimes she could be a bit much. As soon as she said it, she filled with instant regret, knowing she couldn't take back the words. Then she froze, her cheeks flushing bright pink as she realised the assumption. Cupping her hand over her mouth. The offer she had just made Dark, she had never intended to but out of context it could sound like a suggestion. Oh fuck

Dark smirked, his lips curling upwards smugly like the cat who got the cream, his eyes flickering with mischief and amusement. It seemed she had become more loose tongued, not that he was complaining about it. So, Riku was by herself? Nobody to interrupt and nobody to overhear. Interesting

Riku huffed, cupping her hands over her face, she felt like such an idiot. Fuck she had walked into that one. She didn't even have to ask to know what was going on inside his head "Knock it off" she huffed. Knowing him, he probably had all manner of salacious intent on his mind, he was a known womaniser after all. But these days he had blessedly calmed down. She didn't know if she'd been the one to tame him, whether Niwa had been an influence or if he had truly changed due to her. But he wasn't the same as he used to be.

Dark chuckled, she was so adorable when she got embarrassed, the way she got frustrated with herself for being so honest. There was nothing wrong with admitting to yourself about your true feelings, it was part of being human. She was allowed to have dreams, desires and feelings, the same as anyone else. "Do you need a ride?" he offered, he could get her there in no time and she would be assured harm free, nobody could hurt her or attack her. She would be dropped off at home and merely enter the front door. He'd feel more assured seeing her off in person, then he wouldn't have to assume the worst.

Riku blushed, contemplating her options, that was a good offer and he meant it in good will. He'd come here with the genuine intent of concern for her, and it was her own internalised conflict that was the issue. She was making a bigger deal out of this than necessary, she couldn't admit that flying with Niwa made her nervous. Being so close to a boy, so intimately, having him carry her like a princess, his hand on her lower back, the other just beneath her butt, touching her in very close proximity. Being able to smell him. Ok fuck she needed to calm down. But did he have Wiz? She'd seen the pain that Niwa was in when he summoned wings by himself to save her, she knew his own wings could be strenuous to summon. The last thing she wanted to do was carry that on her conscience, she'd feel awful doing that to him. She swallowed "Sure" she mumbled.

Dark smiled, it seems she had finally made up her mind, but he could tell she was worried about him. Seeing her slowly develop a soft spot for him after years of tension and distrust was worth it. He'd slowly earned her affection and that was the most valuable treasure of all. Approaching to scoop her up into his arms, effortlessly picking her up. Making sure she was stable and secure "Hold on tight" he smiled.

Riku gripped onto Dark like a lifeline, trying to ignore the pounding in her ears and the swirling anxiety in her stomach. Trying to remember to breathe, to remind herself she was safe. While the town at night was beautiful, the varying streetlights and stars, being so high up, with a plummeting drop was hard to ignore. Gripping Dark's neck for dear life, hoping she wasn't strangling him. The last time she had been flying like this, Niwa had been the one carrying her. Holding her close to his chest, with a pair of red wings instead of black. Seeing a side of him she had never seen before. She had accepted and was slowly adjusting to his alternate life, his secret persona. But that didn't mean she didn't still have her reservations and natural fear to certain situations.

Dark kept his gaze focused ahead, watching for their location, he'd become adapted to searching around this town. Avoiding being caught, knowing every hiding place of the police. Quick escape routes and more. He knew this place like the back of his hand. It was a rare moment he actually had the time to appreciate the town in all its humble beauty.

Riku realised how hard she must have been holding on, wondering if she was squeezing him or digging in her nails. "I'm... I'm sorry if I'm hurting you" she mumbled, she wasn't aware of her own strength. She usually focused it more on her athletic capacity.

Dark softened, he had to admit he was focusing really hard right now, but the distraction wasn't a bad thing. If she could read his mind she would probably start screaming again. I mean, he was a guy after all, he had natural responses to physical touch and intimacy. Riku was clinging to him like a helpless animal, her arms wrapped around him like a vice, her breasts pressed against his chest. The smell of her shampoo softly wafting towards his nose, the soft outline of her body against his. Whether she was aware of her sexuality and seduction he had no idea, how much of an effect she had on him. She had him wrapped around her finger. If Riku showed him attention like this more often, if she followed her instincts and acted on her impulses. He would be happier, seeing her show confidence towards him. He'd happily indulge her in whatever attention she wanted. This was the best thing ever. He swallowed, hiding how flustered he felt inside, he knew Daisuke was feeling what he was. He had a feeling that the latter would have a lot to say to him later on "That's not an issue" he reassured her. The issue was he would be thinking about this for a long time after.

Was she imagining it? Or did she sense embarrassment or shyness coming from him? Like a flustered guy? "Do... do you always fly around at night?" she stammered. I mean he enacted all his thefts and heists at night, nobody ever saw him during the day. He was like a cat burglar but with wings. It was rather fitting that his name was dark since that was when he appeared most.

The most beautiful things always showed their true nature when it got dark, just like how many people had two sides to themselves. Some people were like sunshine, some people were like moonlight. He was just a creature of the night and he embraced that, he'd learned to utilise it to his advantage. "It's good for staying hidden" he chuckled, nobody really paid any attention. He could sneak around in plain sight and nobody ever noticed.

Riku shifted, swallowing her courage, when would she ever get a chance like this again? She could make memories out of this situation after all. She took a shaky breath of hesitance, willing herself to peak down at the city below her. Her eyes widened in surprised delight, below her the many beaming lights of lamps, houses and more. It was really pretty, she'd just never been able to see it from this perspective, this was a sight very few got to see. "Pretty..." she mumbled.

Dark hummed, he'd seen sights like these for generations, varying different forms of towns, cities and locations. Millennia of varying different cultures and homes, all from the history of his hosts. But sharing this with Riku was something special, a moment the two of them could share together. However, he had to say, the prettiest sight so far was Riku, the way her eyes lit up, the moonlight illuminated her face and red hair. She was so painfully cute it hurt.

Dark landed on the balcony, silently placing his feet one the marbled floor, his wings outstretched creating a shield so nobody could see them. Assuring they were stable, without chance of slipping, before lowering Riku to the ground. Riku hesitated briefly, before she carefully climbed from his arms, balancing herself on solid ground. Her heart was still pounding and adrenaline surged through her veins, but she couldn't stop the smile on her face. "Still shaky?" he teased.

Riku shifted, she didn't know how he could be so confident, most people with wings took time to learn. But he was so effortlessly cool about it all she was jealous. She could see why so many people idolised him "We don't all have naturally airborne legs" she sighed. Dark smiled, though their time together had once again been brief, he'd been over the moon to see her. These stolen moments they had meant everything to him. Slowly turning away, preparing to fly off into the night. She probably wanted to be alone, enjoying the peace of her evening.

Riku reached out, impulsively grabbing his arm before she could stop herself "Um... wait a sec" she babbled. She couldn't keep pushing Dark away, she couldn't keep acting like he and Daisuke weren't one and the same. He'd done her a service, he'd gone out of his way to get her home safely, for once he hadn't been a jerk. And technically, they were dating, she was still shy about showing him affection, but she was trying. He didn't have to run off so quick, feeling as if she didn't want him around. She knew she wasn't bubbly and girly like Risa, able to show their affection and intentions openly. But she did care about him, she did enjoy his presence. She just had a harder time expressing herself.

Dark halted, turning to her with curious eyes, she was getting braver. In the past she would have snapped at him and avoided him like the plague. In her own way she was trying to accept him. Her eyes were filled with longing and conflict, showing a more conflicted side of herself.

Riku swallowed, fuck what was she supposed to say? I don't want to be alone? Please stay with me? I've missed you. All of them sounded so cliche and needy. She was trying to be more honest but everything sounded so embarrassing. Other girls made this look so easy it was laughable. But he was still here, he was waiting patiently with gentle eyes. Remembering the way he had cupped her face earlier, cradling her cheeks in his hands like she was precious. "I um... I've been baking, eating alone is kinda boring. So... if you don't have anything better to do.." she trailed off.

He'd heard Daisuke mention that Riku was one of the best students in their cooking classes. He'd never tried anything she'd made before so this was a rare opportunity for him. What guy in their right mind would turn down their girlfriend or crush offering to let them sample their cuisine? Maybe she could give him the recipe sometime. "Are you offering me dinner plans?" Dark chuckled. If she wanted, he could stay the whole night too, keep her company.

Riku blushed, she'd never cooked for a guy before, it was different when it was just her and Risa. She could never brag about her skills with people because nobody took her seriously. Tomboys weren't supposed to have girly habits, they weren't supposed to like cute things. There were times half their male classmates forgot she was still a girl despite her style and hobbies."It's probably nothing compared to whatever you're used to eating" she huffed. Daisuke's mother was probably a way better cook than she ever hoped to be.

Once again she was berating herself, he wondered how many times Riku had been compared to her sister in the past. No wonder she had such an inferiority complex. When you were compared to your twin your whole life, it would damage your confidence immensely. "If it's anything like the cookies you've made for Daisuke before, I'm sure anything you cook will be amazing" Dark assured her.

Riku blushed, he'd tried her cooking too? But then he shared a body with Niwa so of course he had. "Well, don't stand there in the cold all night, I still have your jacket" she mumbled.

Riku stood in the kitchen, humming silently to herself as she prepped the meal. She'd always enjoyed the ritual of cooking, experimenting with flavours and making foods the people she loved may enjoy. Today she had chosen something warming for the cool weather, Sweet potato croquettes, braised pork belly in a miso honey glaze, cheese omelette and miso soup.

Dark whistled, he knew Emiko was a decent cook and she always kept Daisuke and himself well fed. Food that was good for stamina and health. No wonder Riku was so popular with them. She had so many hidden talents, in another life she would have made a decent thief herself. "Wow, you make it look so easy, Risa really is spoiled here" Dark hummed.

Riku blushed, he was hovering, watching her cook with intrigue and hunger. While she was tempted to bat him away she was happy he was so invested in her cooking. Usually Risa just pestered for when dinner would be done and rambled on nonsensically. "Well, it was just the two of us growing up. Mum and dad were never around and Mr Saehara got too old to do this himself. So I decided to learn" Riku explained.

He'd experienced a lot of women in his life, some tragic, some impressive, some cruel and some kind. The various faces who had been part of his history and growth. The two women dearest to his heart were Riku and Emiko. The woman who had given him life, and the woman whom had stolen his heart. He couldn't explain why he was drawn to Riku, she just had her own spark. "If it means I get to be treated as your guinea pig, I'm not complaining" Dark mused.

Riku couldn't help but bite back a laugh, this whole night had been so strange but not unwanted. She had to admit having a dinner party with a phantom thief wasn't the worst way to spend an evening. Maybe this could be how they bonded, would Dark like picnics? Asking him over for dinner on occasion? She felt her cheeks warm with embarrassed shyness, this did feel like a date. "Y'know.. I wouldn't hate it if.. if you... wanted to do this more often" she stammered.

Dark blinked, gazing at her curiously, sensing the dusting of a blush on Riku's cheeks. He smiled, approaching her quietly. Wrapping his arms around her waist affectionately, nuzzling her ear and humming. Hearing the soft yelp of surprise that escaped her lips as he did so. "You know, if you want to call this a date all you have to do is say so" he teased. She was so cute, unable to tell him that she liked having him around. But he liked it that way.

Riku shivered, unable to get her voice out. His voice husky in her ear, his body warm against her own. The way he held her so tenderly, the outline of him against her. His looming body. Fuck this whole night had been so strange.