Wind Breaker - Blog Posts

WAS I KIND OF WRONG??? WILL HE BE HERE NEXT WEEK??? WILL WE MEET HIM OFFICIALLY NEXT WEEK???

Okay. So! Each episode of windbreaker is about 3-4 of the manga chapters. This latest episode (s2ep3) ended with chapter 55.

Insanity incoming, as well as spoilers for non-manga readers.

So my rough estimate is that Tsubakino’s little intro will be at the end of episode 5?

Pretty sure next episode (ep4) will have sick Sakura, then after that him and Kaji’s talk. Feel like ep4 will end with Kaji’s “Everyone can see you’re terrified of rejection” bit.

Ep5 might pick up after this, (I cannot wait for Kaji’s freak out when being caught being a good senpai) then lunch at Kotoha’s which is when Sakura sees Tsubakino through the window!

Which MEANS if that’s right Tsubakino will be fully introduced in episode 6! Which would be airing on like May 8th. Which feels so far away. And the dub for that episode will be May 22nd.

Alright as s2 continues I’m being very Normal about it. So regarding the dubbbb…

I still want Ernesto Jason Liebrecht should voice Endo, if you don’t know who I mean my only reasoning is he voices Dabi in BNHA.

Tsubakino is harder for me… mostly cause he means the world to me and if it isn’t perfect I’ll die. But I have ideas. J. Michael Tatum, he has a lower voice and Tsubaki canonically has a deeper voice. (he voices Iida from BNHA, Erwin from AOT, Eneru from OP)

Seiryu Sakaki… Micah Solusod. Just kinda based on vibes. Coby (glow-up) from OP, Soul from Soul Eater, Yurio from Yuri on Ice.

Other people I think could be voices in the show, somewhere; Ian Sinclair, Daman Mills, Zeno Robinson. That’s all for now. Ta-ta.

Okay. So! Each episode of windbreaker is about 3-4 of the manga chapters. This latest episode (s2ep3) ended with chapter 55.

Insanity incoming, as well as spoilers for non-manga readers.

So my rough estimate is that Tsubakino’s little intro will be at the end of episode 5?

Pretty sure next episode (ep4) will have sick Sakura, then after that him and Kaji’s talk. Feel like ep4 will end with Kaji’s “Everyone can see you’re terrified of rejection” bit.

Ep5 might pick up after this, (I cannot wait for Kaji’s freak out when being caught being a good senpai) then lunch at Kotoha’s which is when Sakura sees Tsubakino through the window!

Which MEANS if that’s right Tsubakino will be fully introduced in episode 6! Which would be airing on like May 8th. Which feels so far away. And the dub for that episode will be May 22nd.

Windbreaker Boys + The Pet You Two Adopt

incl. Umemiya, Tsubakino, Kaji, Sakura, Suo, & Nirei

Umemiya Hajime: Dog

No surprise: you two are adopting a dog together. I'm talking: a Japanese spitz. They're smart, loyal, playful, affectionate, and white, fluffy things.

Both Umemiya and your newest family addition are the cuddliest things ever. you wake up with Umemiya wrapped around you and your fluffy baby curled up against your chest-- you're literally never moving from the bed.

Both follow behind you like shadows. You're going to the kitchen? They're coming too! Bathroom? They'll wait outside for you (not patiently). You're going outside? Family walk! You don't truly get alone time anymore.

Umemiya would have trained any pet to protect you, regardless of size or temperament. Which works, cause despite this breed's size, they are so loyal they're natural guard dogs. You have scary dog privilege with your boyfriend, and (attempted) scary dog privilege with your son.

They make the same facial expressions sometimes. You're in a bad mood, storming around the apartment? Both are silently watching you, eyes wide as they wait for a lull to come to you. They're confused? Matching little head tilts. You stand no chance against their duo puppy eyes.

During holidays, he's buying matching couples and dog sweaters to take pictures. He sends them to all his aunts and uncles around town, as well as to his brothers and Kotoha. (she pins the pictures on her fridge, but no one is allowed to ask her about them)

Having a furry child with this man makes you start thinking about what it would be like seeing him as an actual father... O.o

Tasuku Tsubakino: Bunny

First: y'all can't adopt a white rabbit because Tsubaki will be placing little kisses on its head, and the lipstick will stain.

Anyways, y'all would get a little lionhead rabbit, they rarely get to even a foot long and weigh maybe up to three pounds? Y'all have a little carrying companion for a while!

These types of bunnies can be timid when you first meet them, but once you gain their trust, they're playful, friendly, and very social little creatures. No offense to you, but I have a feeling Tsubaki is the one gaining her trust first.

Imagine the most spoiled, pampered pet you'd ever seen. Now triple that. That's the life your bunny lives with the two of you as parents. A bed in every room. Snacks and treats at her leisure. There are puzzles and toys, stairs so she can climb onto things (like your sofa), it's basically her apartment, you two just live there.

Tsubaki would get little accessories for her, and is the only one who can put them on her. Little bows on her fur near her ears, a little dress for Easter pictures, a harness and leash to take her outside on nice days.

Imagine coming home from work or school or shopping and Tsubaki is curled up on the couch, sleeping face mask on while taking a nap in the sun, the little fluff ball curled up on his chest, also fast asleep. New lock screen!

Tsubaki has a folder dedicated to pictures of you and the bunny, too, separate from the folders dedicated to just you and just the bunny. There are pictures of you cuddling her, of you brushing her fur, napping with her, just being in the same vicinity as her. Safe to say Tsubaki is (healthily) obsessed with his little family.

Kaji Ren: Betta Fish

He would be against having a pet at first; he would worry about hurting it on accident, worried it would just hate him, worried neither of you would be home enough, be able to afford all the things it needed (but he would also NOT tell you these things, you have to thank Hiragi for this information)

You do your research and drag him to a pet shop and look at the wall of fish. Nothing catches his eye until he sees the betta fish, you know the thing I mean, how they're all in little cups by themselves. That sight would definitely catch his attention. Some worker would come over, talking about the fish, and he'd be half listening.

He'd hear them talk about how people adopt these poor guys and leave them in crappy tanks, how their fins would tear if they weren't properly cared for, how they're smart fish and can even recognize their owners and he is just sold.

You two leave with a beautiful betta fish, a 6.5-gallon tank, and all the accessories needed, as well as food and even treats. Kaji would take it as a personal mission to have the best cared-for betta fish. He sets it up by himself, insisting on it, headphones on as he works.

Once the setup and initial stuff are taken care of, Kaji finds himself near the tank more often than not when he's home. It's near one end of the couch, so whenever you two are having a relaxing night in, you're always curled up near it.

Sometimes you'll find him silently watching him, eyes tracing his path as he swims around, sometimes he'll swim to the glass, and the two will just stare at each other. Silent communication. You've sent many videos and pictures to Enomoto and Kusumi.

You set the fish up on a well-planned feeding schedule, and Kaji just comes in with little fish treats behind your back. He wants the fish to be happy, even if it means pushing your food schedule a little bit.

It's a pet that you both love, but it's good for him in a way. He won't say it, nor can he explain why, but just watching him swim or float about is calming. Even better if you're curled up next to him. In those moments Kaji feels like any violence he has in his past is nothing more than a bad dream he's started to forget.

Suo Hayato: Cat

You have to stop him from adopting a tuxedo cat and naming it “Sakura”. Even if the idea was tempting.

You end up adopting a maine coon, and it’s the most pampered pet you’ve ever seen. Maine coons are great family cats; they’re friendly and gentle, sociable and playful.

Suo somehow manages to never once get scratched by this cat. Not on purpose, not on accident. Even when he’s riling the cat up or just playing with him, the cat has never once left a mark on Suo. He says he’s a cat whisperer, “Afterall— I managed to befriend Sakura-kun!”

Doesn’t matter how big your cat gets, Suo has trained him to believe he is and always will be a lap cat. You swear he also trained the cat to be the most annoying, cutest menace ever.

Doing work on your laptop? He’s laying on your keyboard, purring up a storm, eyes closed and content. You finally move him off? Suo’s hugging you from behind, somehow pulling you away to the couch to watch something and cuddle.

Your cat and him look so smug about it you know the planned it.

We’ve seen how Suo sleeps, so I can very much imagine waking up, turning and seeing the cat laid out on his chest, both fast asleep. The bigger your cat gets the more you wonder how he hasn’t suffocated your boyfriend.

He has pictures of your cat that look professionally taken, like the lighting and angles are absolutely insane. He has similar ones of you too, but he more often shows you the pictures of you that are… unflattering.

He enjoys calling your cat “your son” when you two are out and anyone asks how you two are doing. The older aunts and uncles gush over how cute your baby must be, and by this point you’re too embarrassed to correct them or Suo, whose just smiling.

Akihiko Nirei: Ferret

At first I was going to give Nirei a hamster, but then I saw a tiktok of ferrets when they get excited and knew he’d adopt one.

He’s so excited when you bring the ferret home, vibrating the whole way. You can literally see stars in his eyes.

He does so much research you’re not surprised when you get shipment after shipment of things. Long sweaters, plastic balls, noodles, boxes, food, treats, etc.

The ferret follows him around, trotting happily behind him. Once Nirei trips and nearly steps on him, and he decides to start carrying him on his shoulders all day.

The ferret loves to burrow into Nirei’s curls, and you always have to be the one to detangle his hair at night. He always says he’ll stop it, but he never does.

He starts buying shirts with pockets on his chest, large enough that your ferret can rest in them. It’s adorable to be talking to Nirei and then the little face pops up from his pocket. Scares the crap out of Sakura the first time it happens. And every time after that.

You’ve gotten used to the ferret trying to climb your pants whenever he sees you— both Nirei and the ferret get so excited when you come home. With Nirei’s thousand watt smile and the ferrets excited wiggles, how can you not look forward to going home every day?

You buy little glasses for the ferret that match Nirei’s. They last only but so long, but it was your favorite purchase for him ever.

Sakura Haruka: Hamster

First! And! Foremost! Don't let this boy read any posts about how people's hamsters have died. He will lose his sanity.

He's already so terrified cause of how tiny the hamster is, terrified someone will step on it or sneeze while holding it and it'll fly out of your hands, so any horror stories revolving around hamsters' deaths can not be seen.

Sometimes you find him just crouching down near his enclosure, watching him move, watching him eat and drink. You have to approach the scene slowly, or your boyfriend will run away and flee. There was once where the hamster was eating and you saw Sakura mimic the way his cheeks were puffed out— it’s a memory you hold close to your heart.

Sakura holds the hamster so gingerly every time he holds it. Palms cupping the little thing, eyes wide, breath is being held, hands trembling. He doesn’t blink, too scared if he looks away for even a second the hamster will fall or disappear.

As he gets more comfortable with the tiny pet, he’s so soft around it. We all know Sakura’s soft inside, but you get to see it in person. Whenever he runs up to the sides of his enclosure when Sakura’s there, he bends down and so gently scratches the hamster’s head. You’re sure if hamsters could purr, yours would be.

Once when Sakura is on the couch, watching something he lets the hamster sit on his shoulder. He burrows into his shirt and sleeps, and you’ve never seen Sakura sit so still for so long.

You don’t have to fear a horror death story for this little guy, Sakura is so paranoid and anxious about those he loves getting hurt your hamster lives for so long you start to think it’s immortal.

A/N: some are longer than others, my brain kept sparking out.

the more episodes of s2 we get the more i feel like this

TSUBAKINO IS ON HIS WAY

every glimpse I get of him in the intro/outro has me actively sobbing each time

I feel like a victorian person who just saw an ankle for the first time

I’m really so hoping with windbreaker s2 coming out the writing gods give me the drive, time, and energy to write more 🙏🏻

two screenshots that I took that mean so much to me I forgot to post about

first— look at him: he suffered so much being teased like that

SECONDLY my son is a cat… this poor boy is going through so much 😭

I’m only mildly losing my mind at Windbreaker s2ep1 (read: I’ve already watched it twice)

she’s smart, she’s protective, and she doesn’t want her little brother to know

she diverts their dad’s attention, his anger, towards her once she realized he’s literally advancing onto mitsuki— physically and verbally

odds are their dad would see hitting his child as a way to show “tough love” or “shaping them”, and judging from both reactions if this is the case it’s happened enough that neither flinch

so she brings their dad’s attention back to her, with her he seems more prone to yelling insults at her— probably because she’s a girl

she keeps her facade soft when talking to mitsuki, until he turns around and she faces off to where their father walked off

she does this intentionally, she’s smart and strategic. she knows mitsuki will protect her, but she also doesn’t want him to get hurt for or because of her. so she apologizes, she acts soft and doey eyed so it doesn’t seem suspicious when she does it, to either their dad or him. dad walks off, anger ended at her, her brothers not hurt.

i just have a lot of feelings about the kiryuu siblings now, and i am ready to file them away for character examples when i have to give reports using fictional characters in psych classes (i have had to do it 3x before and it’s always kinda fun) also as an older sister who grew up in a not great home i see a lot of younger me there

THIS IS SHATTERING…. KIRYU 😭😭😭😭😭😭

Besides, it seems that Sakura notices a change in Akari’s expression after the feud with her father 🤔 even if I have an idea what it means, I won’t be able to explain it better. I’ll just wait and see.

lowkey as an oldest sister who often turned our mom’s anger towards myself whenever my siblings got in trouble… i’d kill a man for the kiryuu siblings

i’m gonna assume and claim this is a Gojo cat plushie. Kiryuu has a Gojo cat plushie

that is all

I’m finally getting caught up on the Windbreaker manga— and I just!!!

he’s! adorable!!! he reminds me of a puppy!!!

what I wouldn’t do to protect this baby

mama a girl behind you—

how the roles have reversed sugishita

making friends 2.0

this was also my face when I saw this precious panel

i can’t tell if sakura is confused or disturbed

so many more things i’m excited to see animated!!!

Would You Fall in Love with Me Again?

Umemiya Hajime x Reader

You often heard the saying ‘time flies’ as a child, and you rarely found yourself believing it. Adulthood and the freedom you sought appeared so far away, and now, you realized how true that statement was.

It felt as if once you grew old enough to learn to balance freedom with responsibility, your aging never stopped. One moment you were a child, listening to fairy tales from your mother, and the next you were betrothed.

Your husband was a sweet man, he was kind and he made you happy. He was strong and fierce, and you, along with your country, saw and knew this. You had met at a party, hosted by some nobleman your family knew. There had been nothing romantic about it, the stories you fell asleep to spoke nothing of a man falling out of a tree mere inches in front of you.

You hadn’t even been able to feel anything other than panic— but luckily the worst he had was a sore back, and a bruised ego. Once your adrenaline had died down, the first thing you noticed was how blue his eyes were. The next was that his hair, as tangled with leaves as it was, was as white as the sugar cubes your older brother snuck for you.

That night of conversation led to more, and it felt like one day you woke up as the wife of Umemiya Hajime, the crowned ruler of Furin. Your meeting may not have been magical, but your wedding night had put stories to shame.

“Your Highness?”

You hummed, not tearing your eyes from where you were watching your daughter run around the garden, chasing a butterfly as the creature fluttered from flower to flower.

“Some of the suitors are requesting an audience with you, madame.”

Hajime had built this garden for you, every fruit grown was one of your favorites, every flower he had planted had meaning. Baby’s breath, red camellias, pink carnations, chamomile, white clovers, forget-me-nots. You had refused to ever plant anything else, the garden remained unchanged for years.

“Shall I turn them away?”

How you wished to say yes, to demand her to tell them to just leave. To take their sorry-hides and leave your kingdom, your land, your country, to never return. How you wished even more to tell them to gouge out their leering eyes, throw themselves into the sea they claimed took your husband.

Instead you stood, brushing your dress to lay flat, turning to your hear lady-in-waiting, sending her a small smile. “No, I shall see them.”

“Are you certain?”

For years men had come to your kingdom, your home, to request your hand. They acted as if the empty space in your bed was an opportunity for them, that the ring you still held onto was merely decorative. For years you turned them down, for years you held onto hope that your husband would return to you.

But men grew impatient, and your people became weary. You had to begin to entertain them, all the while your heart screamed for your husband, begged you to give him more time to return to you.

Your daughter, seeing you stand, left her butterfly hunt to rush over to you, the smile that matched her father’s painting her face. “We’re going inside now?”

You brushed her hair out of her face, the wavy curls that reminded you so much of Hajime, but the color that matched yours. Her smile was contagious, and you sent her one back, “Yes my dear. I believe you need a bath.”

At this, she made a face, cheeks puffed in an exaggerated pout. She hated bath time, she hated all the pampering she faced during and after. She was a free spirit, opting to play in the gardens. Hajime had left for war while you were pregnant, and the pair had never been able to meet, but every night since she was born you told her stories of her father. Of the man he was, the man he is.

You often woke in tears, dreams of your husband and daughter laughing in the gardens ringing in your ears. You only hoped one day they may come true.

“Now,” You turned back to your lady, “Have them gather in the foyer, refuse them any wine or ale they ask of, however. I don’t wish for any of them to be drunk when hearing what I have to offer.”

“Of course, my lady,” She bowed, heading inside, the worry in her eyes apparent.

Your daughter tugged your hand, “When can I have wine and ale?”

At this, you laughed, reaching to bring her to your chest, “Not for a long time my dear, I highly doubt you would enjoy them.”

She grumbled as the pair of your made your way inside, unknowing of the pair of eyes that tracked the two of you moving.

You had a small group of women working for you that you trusted with your life, of women you knew were faithful to you, and you alone. Years ago that number had been larger. You handed your daughter off to them, cited to have her bathed and ready for her afternoon nap, as unhappy as she was about this plan.

You took a moment for yourself, steeling the courage you needed. You held power, you could command armies worth of men should you need it, but you so often felt afraid without the comfort of your husband with you. But you refused to show this to these men. Once your main lady returned to you, you made your way where the entourage was awaiting you.

The doors opened, and whatever conversations that had been had paused. All eyes were on you, and you felt your skin crawl at the disgusting thoughts you could feel pouring towards you. But you kept your head high as you walked, making your way to the front.

You said nothing as you took your seat, refusing to stand when speaking to anyone. They didn’t deserve that, half of them hadn’t even waited for you to give birth to your daughter before showing up, seeking your hand, claiming your husband had no doubt perished at war.

“I suppose you all have waited long enough,” Was how you began speaking, pausing to allow the sneers and jeers to echo the room.

“I propose a challenge for all those still wishing for the throne, all those aiming for my hand.” Your left hand brushed your hair from your face, aiming to show how you still adorned your wedding ring, a challenge in itself.

“My husband had made many allies for us, and these allies are tough, formidable men. I have reached out to many, and have since then received my answers.” With a nod of yours, the side doors were opened, and more men filled in. For them, you stood, walking towards your husbands allies— his friends— to greet them.

“Shishitorin has been Furin’s closest allies for years, and have been a reason we have been able to hold our own against opponents who came to steal power. The only man who has ever held his own against their own leader, was my husband. No man had ever come close.”

It was a rare sight to see Togame serious, but it was even more rare to see Choji without his smile. Their letters in response had read serious, and you knew they wished to do what they could to ensure these suitors were unable to get their hands on you— or the throne.

They looked ready to kill, as did the rest of their men that arrived with them. They would play nice, as Choji stated in a letter, for you and your daughter.

“If any man can defeat their five strongest fighters, including Sir Togame and Sir Tomiyama, then they have proven themselves worthy for the throne, for the crown, and my hand.”

It appeared simple in writing, but you had been there when Furin and Shishitorin had begun their companionship. You had witnessed the blood shed, the tears, and the pain that came, and had been privileged to witness the relationship that came after. Had it not been for their strength for you to fall back on, you worry grief would have had you years ago.

“May the most worthy man win,” You nodded at the group of men, turning to nod at the guests, before taking your leave.

Murmurs broke out behind you, and for once, you heard the worry in the voices of the suitors. It filled you with a level of vindication you hadn’t known one could feel.

You knew there were very few men able to win five consecutive fights against Shishitorin’s strongest fighters, even if there was nothing on the line. But now your friends were armed with the determination to ensure your husbands place remained untouched, you felt strongly that no one would even come close to winning.

Despite the confidence you had in your friends, your heart still hammered, and you couldn’t fight the tears that filled your eyes. Silently sobbing was something you had long since mastered, you refused to appear weak in front of the men who had taken residence in your home, show fear to your daughter who looked up to you so.

You took a moment to collect yourself, eyes screwed tight as you willed the inevitable headache to leave you be. Knowing it was unavoidable, you continued down the hall, making your way to your daughter’s room. To no surprise, she wasn’t asleep.

“My dear,” You sighed dramatically, making your way to her bed, “I told you a growing girl needs ample rest.”

“I’m not tired!” The same old song and dance, truly.

“No? You woke so early this morning,” An exaggerated yawn left your mouth, “Even I find myself in need of an afternoon nap today.”

She narrowed her eyes at you, “You can nap with me, then. I guess that’s fine.”

“How gracious of you, my little princess,” You shifted to lay beside her, allowing her to move to lay so her head was on your chest, ear against your heart.

It was quiet for a bit, your fingers carding through her hair. At one point, you had thought she’d fallen asleep.

“Mama?”

You hummed, “Yes, my dear?”

“Am I ever going to meet daddy?”

It may have been less painful had she plunged a dagger into your chest, but you schooled that pain, your hand continued to brush through her hair, “You will, little princess, one day.”

“But when?”

“I don’t know,” Admitting that felt the same as admitting defeat, but you couldn’t lie to her.

She was quiet for another moment, “Do you think he’ll like me?”

That was enough to give you pause, and you moved her to look at you, noting the tears in her eyes.

“He loved you the moment I told him I was pregnant with you,” You brushed the first tear that fell away, “He often spoke to you in my belly when you moved around in the morning, he sang you lullabies every night, even before your ears had begun to form.”

You tickled the tips of her ears, her little giggles easing the ache in your chest, “He cried more than I did when he had to leave before you were born. He promised you, the day he left, he was fighting for me, and for you. He promised nothing would stop him from returning to us, that he’d destroy anything nature sent his way— every storm, every whirlpool. He’d even fight the gods should he have had to.”

“Is that where he is? Fighting gods?”

“Perhaps, or perhaps he’s commanding the storms to bring him home to us, and clouds aren’t the greatest with directions.”

She smiled, but it dimmed after a second, chewing her lip before speaking, her voice quiet, “Some of the men here said he was dead… said you were in- in denying that he was dead. They said I need a dad, that you need a King.”

The hatred you had in your heart originally swelled, and you felt anger eat at your heart, and she continued, “But I knew they were liars! I have a dad, and when he’s back they’ll have to leave!”

“That’s right,” You smiled at her, a forced feeling, “Now, my dear, a nap will do us both well.”

She laid down, her eyes fluttering shut soon after. You felt yourself drift off with her, the feeling of anger still fresh in your chest. You hadn’t realized how tired you were, until you were woken hours later. The sun had begun setting, the sky a bleeding red. Your heart was hammering, and you were holding your daughter close to your chest. Blinking blearily, you stared at the bedroom door. Why had you woken so afraid?

A muffled scream echoed throughout the building, and that gave you enough answer. Your daughter was half-awake, and you held her tight to your chest. The door was flung open, and your ladies rushed in, panicked looks on their faces.

“What is—”

“One of the men has gone mad,” One of them whispered to you, tone frantic, “The others were conspiring, ma’am, they were— they planned to—” Her eyes flickered to your daughter, but her message to you was clear as day.

The man had grown tired of waiting it seemed, perhaps some had gone to fight and lost, and they decided to act on their own accord.

“Shishitorin—”

“They took up arms against many of the suitors, but we came to find you, you two must hide,” Her eyes were frantic as she tugged at the two of you.

Your heart was hammering, your palms sweaty as you held your daughter to your chest. She had no idea what was happening, but her grip on your dress was tight.

You left your daughter’s room, taking up in a small room, one you recalled your husband saying was to only be used when necessary. Unfortunately, that necessary was here. You were all huddled close, your daughter, naturally, the most protected. You’d kill any man who entered that room before they touched her, and you would ensure if you died trying you wouldn’t be the only one.

Your dedication ladies were around you, ready to sacrifice themselves for you. But you prayed to whoever may be listening that shouldn’t happen. Hours crept by, slow as the sap that dripped in the garden during the springtime. There were screams and yells, the sound of gurgling and people choking on, what you assumed, was their own blood.

The silence that followed it all was deafening. None of you moved, no one shifted. You heard it then, a muffled call of your name. You felt the women around you tense, but you sat straight, “That’s Choji.”

Still weary, you ensured your daughter was safe in their arms before you stepped outside, clutching tight to a dagger you had grabbed on your way out the door.

“Choji?”

The shorter man looked frenzy, hair disheveled, blood on his clothes. But he was smiling— his eyes looked watery.

“Choji— are you—”

“He’s back,” He rushed to you, hands gripping your forearms, “Umemiya’s back.”

It was a blur, really, after Choji uttered those words. The night had shifted, darkness surrounding the walls of your home. Your daughter was whisked away, exhausted but placated by whatever you had said to her in a daze. You found yourself alone in your bedroom, as you had found yourself so many times before. It felt different now, and your wrapped your arms around you, an attempt of soothing yourself.

The door opened, and you couldn’t stop the wild beating of your heart. You turned only partly, looking at the man who entered. He wore your husband’s face, at least what you had assumed your husband would look like after eight years. This time of seasons, it was almost nine years.

He was taller than you recall, or perhaps it was how he held himself. His hair was longer, the ends curling almost identically to your daughter’s. His eyes, the same shade of blue as the ocean, were far sadder than you could ever remember.

“Is it really you?” Your voice was a whisper, but it echoed loud in your chambers, “I’ve often dreamt of you coming home to us, and I must admit each waking moment is more painful than the last.”

He stepped forward, and you couldn’t stop the step back, mirroring his closeness. The pain in his eyes intensified, and your resolve cracked some.

“Every time you reach to touch me I wake up, if this is another dream I’d wish to stay in it as long as I’m able.” He nodded slowly at your explanation, eyes staring at you, as if he was as afraid to look away as you were, “You look far different than you have when you’ve visited me in my dreams. You’d always great me with a smile.” Your voice cracked as you spoke.

He looked pained at this, and his shoulders tensed, looking as if he were hunching in on himself, “I’m not the same man I was when I left you.” His voice was quiet, deeper, but the same voice you wished to hear for years.

“I’m… different now, I’m afraid. War was not kind, and the journey home, my journey to you was unforgiving.” He swallowed hard, eyes pleading as he looked at you, “I’m not the man you took as your husband, and I’m afraid you won’t be able to love me as you did before.”

“Your journey took six years longer than you promised,” You all but whispered towards him, hands trembling as you fidgeted with your ring, “There was talk that you had died.”

He shook his head, “I had to come back to you, to— to our child. Nothing would have stopped me, not even death herself. She tried though,” His voice was thick, “I watched many men die, I took… so many lives. Their blood stains my hands, no matter how much I bathe.”

He looked at his palms, as if searching for the stainage.

“When I returned there were so many men here. They spoke vilely of you,” The words left his lips like poison being spat, “They spoke of your body as if it were a prize they sought after, one they would’ve taken if it were not given. Their fight with Shishitorin was a genius move on your end, my love.”

He smiled at you at that, and the tears that had been building spilled over. That smile had haunted your dreams and nightmares alike for years. And now it was here, mere feet in front of you.

“But they grew angrier. I wished to plot my arrival to be less dramatic, but the threats they spoke of. I’m only a man,” He closed his eyes, holding his breath for a moment before looking back at you, “They cannot, and will not, ever harm you. Look at you. Or speak of you again. Years ago, the blood staining our home would have had me feeling guilty, but now I see it as a means to an end. I fear my hearts turned cold, it’s closed in my time away. I fear your husband doesn’t exist anymore.”

“Doesn’t exist?” He nodded at your whispered question, a shameful look on his face.

You turned away from him, the tears still steadily falling down your cheeks. The garden, your garden, stood as pristine as it had earlier, the cherry blossom tree standing in the middle, her branches swaying peacefully in the night wind.

“If you wish to prove you’re still my husband, or worthy of being so,” Your voice was thick as you spoke, your nose stuffed, head throbbing, “Then I shall give you a task as I have the others.”

“Anything for you.” The sincerity in his voice was borderline painful.

“I wish for you to uproot the garden outside,” You didn’t turn as you spoke, “My husband planted all types of flowers years ago, said there was meaning behind them. I have never met another man who understands the language flowers hide as he, and I have done my own research.”

Truth of the matter was you had found the notes your husband scribbled years ago, lists of flowers and their meanings, which ones he felt for you and which one he swore he’d never even look at.

“Indifference. Refusal. Disappointment. Resignation. Stupidity.” You forced a mirthful chuckle, “All things I fear my husband felt for me. Towards me.”

There was silence, not even the sound of breath other than yours. For a moment, you were terrified he had left the room, and you turned.

He was crying, silent tears falling down his face as he stared at you. Anger was written in his eyes, but he didn’t move, wasn’t even looking at you anymore. His gaze had matched yours, looking at to the garden and all her loving plants.

“For you to even suggest that—” He took a breath, his cheeks red.

“Everlasting love, the flame of my heart, an oath to never forget you, promised twice, patience, a wish for you to think of me, and only of me.” His voice grew louder as he spoke, “I had wished to plant hibiscus bushes under our window, but the scent made you sick while you were pregnant, and you told me on our wedding night that roses were too simple to express our relationship.”

He turned to you, the bright fury behind his eyes unleashing a storm of emotion. “I’d have burnt any flower, any tree, any bush that even suggested I thought such awful things about you.”

You stepped towards him, your chest bubbling with anger, with sorrow, love, pain— everything you had kept in for eight years.

“And the only man who knew all this was the man I married,” You were in front of him now, his faces inches from yours, “So I suppose that means you’re still him.”

The anger wavered for a moment, before you watched his face crumble. The silent tears turned into ragged breaths, and you stood tall, the pain in your chest aching to join him.

“I fell in love with you, and I have never stopped loving you. Time, distance— nothing will ever stop those feelings. Do not come into our bedroom and state I won’t love you as much as I did all those years ago, as much as I do now.”

“I have waited eight long years, alone and worried, but as in love with you as I was when we were first married. I was waiting for my husband, for you,” You poked at his chest, the first contact you had with him for eight years, “You absolute idiot.”

You weren’t sure who broke first, but the sobs causing your breath to hiccup broke free. His arms were around you, and you were weeping into his shoulder, as he was in yours. He was as warm as you recalled all those years ago, as solid as ever. He held you, as if he was terrified you’d move too far from his reach if he gave you the space to do so. You held him back equally as tight, if not more.

“My dear, how I have missed you.” He whispered against your hair, and the warmth of his lips against your forehead brought forth a fresh wave of tears.

“I knew you’d return,” You pulled back, cupping his cheeks, staring at the man you had loved for nearly a decade and a half.

He pulled you forward, crushing you into a kiss. His lips were rough, you could almost feel every crack in his skin against your own. But you melted into his embrace like it was your first kiss all over again. It was messy, both your cheeks still wet from your tears. You held each other, lips molded into one until you both had to pull back to breath, panting in each others space.

“We have a daughter?”

You laughed, broken and whole all at once, “Yes. She acts so much like you, I nearly named her Hajimia.”

He made a face, “Please tell me she isn’t named that.”

You shook your head, “No, Fumiko.”

Hajime echoed your laughter, just as wet and unbridled as yours, “Hibiscus.”

“I told her stories of you every night,” You traced a scar on his forehead, cutting straight through his eyebrow, “She already adores you so much.”

He grabbed your hand in his, the palms rougher and more calloused, but as warm and protecting as ever. He brought your knuckles to his lips, a kiss pressed against them, “And I already adore her, I did the moment she was conceived.”

“You fought nature and men’s deadliest armies to return to her, to me,” You pressed forward, your face in his chest, the sound of his heartbeat was music to your ears, “I love you. I never stopped.”

He took a shuddering breath, “I love you.”

a/n: so I whipped this out in one sitting, sat here and wrote for like 2 hours straight. if you can’t tell I’m a little Epic obsessed. I don’t even know if this is good or not!

⋆˚｡⋆୨✧୧˚ 𝑾𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑭𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒕 ˚୨✧୧⋆｡˚⋆

⋆˚｡⋆୨✧୧˚ 𝑼𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒚𝒂 𝒙 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓 ˚୨✧୧⋆｡˚⋆

"Do you think this is enough?"

You glanced up from the plates you were setting down, all paper, you didn't want to have another incident of Sakura and Sugishita bickering and breaking anymore. Umemiya was frowning at the table littered with plates of food, almost every dish including some of the late fall and winter veggies he had been growing.

You hummed, "It's more than enough Haji," Walking over to him, you placed your arms on his shoulders, turning him to look at you, "I think we'll even be able to send everyone home with leftovers."

He smiled at that, but you could still see the underlying worry in his eyes. "I know how important this is for you, I promise you, it'll go perfectly fine."

A nagging feeling in your mind told you those were famous last words, but you brushed it off. Umemiya and Kotoha had spent countless hours cooking and planning all the food, and you and Tsubakino had gone out shopping for plates, cups, napkins, and utensils that matched the 'winter theme', and also wouldn't shatter if dropped.

Or thrown.

He sighed, arms crossed over his chest as he continued to stare at everything, as if they'd just up and disappear if he looked away, "I know some people might think it's silly but... this is more than just a meal for everyone."

You felt yourself soften as he spoke, "It's a way of seeing how far everyone here has come. How far this town has come."

You turned him to face you, cupping his jaw gently, and his eyes instantly moved to look at you, the adoration so crystal clear it still made you feel all types of vulnerable.

"And that's exactly what you're doing," You smiled at him, "Everyone can see that, feel that."

He smiled, and the look finally reached his eyes. He leaned further into your hand, eyes closing for a moment as he basked in the quiet that had settled on the roof after his fretting had calmed down. The door creaked open, not loud enough to be disturbing, but the small bubble of the two of you was put to pause.

Sugishita wandered over to the two of you, carrying a few brown bags in his arms. No doubt extra snacks and sweets from some of the townsfolks. Judging by the slight red tint to his face, he got caught being thanked in the cold far longer than he anticipated.

"Ah, man!" Hajime peered into the bags, gaze eager, "Oh! Granny Kimura sent some of her anmitsu! We'll have to hide that or else everyone's going to tear into that first."

Sugishita nodded, already looking for places to hide the bags. Entering now was Sakura, Suo next to him, looking as pleased as he always did. Judging by the pink on Sakura's face, the poor boy had been teased the entire walk here.

Unlucky for him, you thought it was downright adorable.

"Hello boys," You called out to the two, Sugishita momentarily glowering at Sakura, before wandering off to hide the sweets.

"You two are early!" Hajime called out, beaming as the two first years walked closer, Sakura looking like he'd rather be anywhere else.

"Wanted to be early enough to help if you needed us to," Suo spoke cheerfully, "Plus Sakura here was just too excited to wait."

"I was not!" The other boy yelled, voice higher pitched as he denied the accusation of being excited, and you couldn't help but laugh a bit at the dynamic of the two.

The pink on his face turned red quickly, and it didn't take a genius to figure out he was responding to the way Hajime had turned to look at you. You knew the look like the back of your hand, eyes soft, small smile on his face. Most people said Hajime wore his heart on his sleeve, and only you truly knew how true that statement could be.

"I - you - we - "

You took pity on him, feeling Hajime's arm wrap around your waist, "Why don't you two start to unwrap the plates and such? Get them set out so people can grab them as they get here."

Happy to have a task, or just happy to walk away from you two, Sakura nodded, high tailing it over to the table with all the plates and napkins and utensils. Suo smiled at the two of you.

"Nirei is on his way," He informed you two, "Kotoha cornered him to help her carry some more dishes over."

He walked over to help Sakura, the poor boy struggling with some of the plastic wrapped around the items. The door was pushed open, the blonde boy rushing in, arms carefully carrying some dishes.

He looked panicked, as if he was running late and not one of the first people to have arrived. When he saw how few people were here thus far, he let out a sigh, smiling brightly when he caught your eye.

"Kotoha says she'll be here soon! I brought the dishes that don't need to stay warm!" You could see the moment his anxiety caught back up with him, and he bowed towards Hajime, before scurrying off to his friends.

"You've got some good first years this batch," You hummed, leaning back into Hajime's hold.

You felt him chuckle, the vibrations against your back, "I couldn't have asked for better little brothers."

"Careful, if Sakura hears you say that he might blow a gasket."

He laughed loudly at that, and you couldn't help but join, hearing soft bickering stem from the now four first years, and you were glad you had invested in paper and plastic items.

No shattered dishes today.

Slowly, more people trickled in. Various extra sweets and snacks being brought from townsfolks, Kotoha finally arriving. She and Tsubakino were carrying more trays of food. The aroma of the rooftop smelled amazing, and once everyone had settled in with warm drinks, the food was uncovered.

It didn't take long for a lot of it to go, people taking piles of food and wandering to sit and talk. You finally had a free moment from helping to wander off to your boyfriend, and he moved, instantly making room for you to sit on his lap.

"So," You leaned back against his chest, accepting the warm cup of cider from him, "You still worried there isn't enough food?"

He let out a small laugh, "I'm more worried everyone's going to enter a food coma at this rate."

"It's a good thing Shishitoren agreed to keep watch for you all to do this," You muttered, mostly to yourself, "I saved them some plates of food as a thank you."

Hajime sighed, leaning so his chin was rested against your head, "What did I do to end up with someone as perfect as you?"

You were glad, for this moment, that he was behind you, cause you were sure you were blushing as much as Sakura with his words.

You shook your head in response, "You were just you," You reached up, albit a bit awkwardly, but managed to poke at his nose, "And I decided I wanted to spend my life with you."

"And I am thankful for that everyday."

Before you could respond, there was a panicked yelp, and it took you a moment to realize it came from Nirei. Looking over, you saw a spilled drink on the ground, and Sakura and Sugishita facing each other, both annoyed.

"I'm really glad we went with plastic," Was all you said, shaking your head at the two first years as they started arguing, knowing full well Higari was seconds away from pulling his trouble makers apart.

꧁✬◦°⋆⋆°◦. 𝓗𝓸𝓽 𝓒𝓸𝓬𝓸𝓪 ◦°⋆⋆°◦✬꧂

꧁✬◦°⋆⋆°◦. 𝓢𝓪𝓴𝓾𝓻𝓪 𝔁 𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭𝓮𝓻 ◦°⋆⋆°◦✬꧂

Winter had settled in rather quickly, the air still and cold. It had yet to snow, but the painful chill in the air made you think it would start sooner than later. You pulled your coat tighter, gloved fingers still warming up slowly. The wind nipped at your cheeks, at your nose, and you held the thermos in your hands, balancing it with the bag of snacks. You had someone waiting for you— you couldn’t let the weather make you late. 

The sidewalks were nearly empty, save for a few people tidying their store fronts, and the park was completely empty; save for one person sitting on one of the swings. Sakura was bundled up, clad in proper winter gear that his friends had given him, claiming them as hand-me-downs. Snowflakes clung to his hair, as he still refused to wear any hats. You understood, but you still worried about him catching a cold.

“Hey,” You called out, the frozen ground crunching under your feet.

He looked up, squinted eyes softening when he saw you. “Took you long enough,” His voice was gruff, though it lacked bite.

You rolled your eyes, holding the thermos forward like a trophy, “Hush, I come bringing gifts,” You shook the plastic bag for emphasis. 

He frowned, eyeing the items in your hands, and you could have sworn you saw his cheeks grow more pink, “I didn’t ask you to bring anything.”

“You didn’t need to,” You said, sitting in the swing next to him, “I wanted to get you something to keep you warm before you went back on patrol.”

He turned away, making a noise of disbelief, “You’re impossible…”

“And you love it,” You teased, unscrewing the top of the thermos.

He made a face, but made no move to argue with your statement. 

He took it, his fingers brushing against your glove clad ones, and even through the fabric you could feel the little tingles from where you touched. He took the lid, staring at the cocoa like it was some alien object, before bringing it up to his face, taking a small sip.

He looked almost surprised, “It’s good.” 

You smiled, feeling a little smug, “I know, it’s my specialty.”

He scoffed, no bite in the sound as the two of you sat in silence, him sipping the cocoa and you watching him. You were glad you two had gotten to a point in your relationship where silence like this wasn’t unnerving or uncomfortable, and you knew part of that showed you how far he’d come since first arriving to town. 

When you two had started dating he’d been closed off, as expected, his walls so high that you worried you’d never be able to see what was on the other side. Bit by bit, though, you climbed them, his defenses and hackles lowering as he grew to trust you more and more. Now you felt you saw parts of him no one else ever had the chance to see, and you loved every part of him, even if you loved to tease him on occassion. 

“Why’d you bring me this?” His voice was quiet, breaking through the silence as he stared down at the cocoa. 

“It’s cold,” You shrugged, thinking that was enough of an explanation.

“But… why? I mean, yeah it’s cold but,” He paused, as if trying to understand why he was even asking you this, “But you should be at home, not out here giving me hot chocolate. It’s not worth it.”

I’m not worth it, he didn’t need to say that part for you to hear it, and your heart clenched at the question. No matter how much you and his friends worked to gain his trust, to show him you all loved him, he still had such an overwhelming feeling of lonlieness attached to him.

“Because I wanted to,” You turned to him, still seated on the swing, “Because you’re my boyfriend, and you’re out patrolling when it’s below freezing, and I wanted to give you something, to show you that I was thinking of you, that I care about you.”

Because you’re worth it, to me, and always will be. 

He scoffed, but refused to turn, and you knew he was trying to hide how easily his emotions could be seen on his face, “You’re… way too good at saying crap like that.” He flailed one of his hands around, as if trying to wave away the flustered feeling, “Saying crap that…”

“What?” You kicked one leg out, nudging his foot softly, “Makes you feel all soft inside?”

“Oh shut up,” You laughed, mentally imaging a cute little cat, hackles raised as it grew flustered.

“You’re cute when you’re all flustered.”

“I’m not cute!”

“Alright, alright,” You raised your hands, fake surrender, “Whatever you say.”

He huffed, bringing the lid back up, taking another little sip, trying to hide his embarrassment behind the cocoa. His shoulders relaxed, though, the edges of his lips turning up with the faintest of smiles on his face. 

“Thank you,” He muttered, quiet, as if worried his thanks would ruin the mood, “For this. And… everything else.”

You smiled, kicking yourself on the swing a little bit, swaying gently, “Anytime, Sakura.”

You meant it too, and you didn’t have to say it, not anymore. He knew, he grew to know, that you truly adored him, that you’d brave freezing weather to bring him hot cocoa and snacks. Hell, you’d do almost anything for him.

HE'S SO PRETTY GRAH (⁄ ⁄>⁄ ▽ ⁄<⁄ ⁄)

𝖀𝖒𝖊𝖒𝖎𝖞𝖆 𝕳𝖆𝖏𝖎𝖒𝖊 𝖝 𝕽𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖊𝖗; 𝕬𝖗𝖗𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖊𝖉 𝕸𝖆𝖗𝖗𝖎𝖆𝖌𝖊 𝕻𝖙. 3

𝕻𝖆𝖗𝖙 𝕺𝖓𝖊

𝕻𝖆𝖗𝖙 𝕿𝖜𝖔

𝓐/𝓝: again, I go into writing these as blind as y'all reading them so I'm so sorry if this is rushed! >.< Also! It's been a hot second! So sorry! I had a bit of... a mental health crisis, got myself put under a bit of a 72-hour hold... but I'm here! And back! Kind of. I'm not super proud of this chapter, I'm so sorry!

It had been a few days since your arrival, since your official first meeting with the man who was to be your husband. Yet, though you assured him and Kotoha you were well rested now, that's all he remained. The man who would be your husband.

It was almost... frustrating to deal with. Your first meeting with your oldest brother's wife was at their wedding; she was beautiful, quiet in her white, lacey, dress. It was quick, you were scolded when you fidgeted in your dress, and your brother and his wife took off not long into the reception. The same thing happened when your second and third brother got married, and it wasn't until you turned thirteen you had learned what happened after a wedding such as those.

Your sister's wedding had been different, the man she had married was kind with both his words and his actions. He allowed your sister to mingle with her family, mainly you and your mother, before he introduced her to people he knew; those he did business with, his own family that had managed to show up and, looking back on it you realized now, a handful of his concubines.

Though she hadn't been taken to bed right then, the wedding was still a quick affair, and you were beginning to question why Umemiya was prolonging yours.

"You seem upset by something."

You thanked the years of etiquette practice that you didn't jump and drop your spoon, merely turning your gaze towards Kotoha who was sending an almost pitying look your way. You placed the spoon down, hands falling to your lap.

"I'm just thinking, I suppose."

Cherry meowed quietly, upset that Kotoha had stopped petting her. Your future sister-in-law continued to pamper her, studying your figure, "Is something the matter?"

"I'm just..." You bit your tongue.

You were allowed to speak freely here, so far. But you were worried that there was a line you'd accidently cross.

"Go on," Her voice was kind, reminding you, in a way, of your own mother.

"It's been about a week since I arrived here, and well," You twisted the fabric of your outfit in your hands, the clothe more comfortable to move around than the ones you grew up in, "There's been no discussion of when I shall be married to Umemiya officially. Have I... done something to offend him since arriving?"

You can only imagine how angry your father's letters will be once they begin arriving. At this rate, you had been gone for months, and he hadn't received one word of your wedding. You wouldn't be surprised if he appeared on one of his ships, demanding answers.

“No, you haven’t done anything,” Kotoha leaned towards you, gently placing her hand atop of yours, the warmth comforting, “I promise you. He’s just… working on finishing a few things.”

“And those things happen to be completed!” Umemiya’s voice was loud and boisterous, having the two of your startle where you were, turning to see him walking towards you, a large smile on his face.

“Kotoha, if I can borrow my fiancé for a moment?”

You felt your cheeks warm at the title given to you. Yes, you knew logically since you two were to be married you were his fiancé, but he said the word with so much warmth.

She looked from him to you, before nodding, telling you she’d find you later, and leaving you two alone. You weren't entirely sure what to say; he must have known you were growing rather antsy to wait, not that you would have disclosed that to his face.

If he was anything like the men you grew up with he would have exploded at you by now, reminding you that your opinions and your annoyance was of no importance to him, to know your place. Instead he smiled at you, and it was as warm and welcoming as it was the first time you ever saw him.

"I know you must hate waiting as long as you have been," He began, gently taking your hand in his and tugging you to follow him down the hall, leading you towards the entrance to the estate, "But I promise you, I think it will have been worth it."

You merely nodded, unsure of what it was he was planning. Maybe he had more business to attend to before becoming a married man? Granted, there was really only one type of business you could think of that would be affected direly due to his marital status, and though you may not know him all too well, you felt as if that wasn't within his character.

Outside the estate was an older woman, much shorter than you, accompanied by a man a few years older than you both. He was holding some type of clothe cover, allowing the older lady to gently fuss over whatever it held.

"Granny!" Umemiya paused, and you followed suit, nodding your head politely while he bowed towards her.

She turned, a serine smile on her face when she saw the pair of you, "Oh goodness! Umemiya-kun wasn't lying, you're quite beautiful young lady."

"Oh," You felt your heart skip a beat in your chest, cheeks ablaze as you thanked her, glancing towards your fiancé who didn't look ashamed at the statement.

"I know our traditions regarding weddings are rather different," He turned towards you quickly, and you felt a bit confused as to what the point he was going to make was, "So I had Kotoha and Tsubaki find different styles and ideas that were closest to Western wear that they could, and we commissioned this for you."

The lady began gently unwrapping the cloth her son, or grandson, was holding. Your knowledge of Japanese wedding kimonos was rather limited, but you knew immediately that the dress before you was not one. It was beautiful, to say the least.

It was far less showy than the dresses you had seen at all your siblings' weddings, but that was fine with you. The fabric appeared rather light, swaying in the gentle breezes that danced past. It wasn't too thick, no extra padding or extra fabric that would make your skin itch and crawl.

"It's beautiful," Was all you could muster to say, eyes wide as you stared at the dress-- at your wedding dress.

"I'm glad you like it, my dear," She quickly wrapped it back up, ushering her son to take it inside, "It was quite fun to make, I made sure the fabric was softer than the poor examples Tsubaki-chan brought me. The dresses your father sent with you were rather uncomfortable, I do hope you'll let me make more clothes for you in the future. Your children, too."

"C-Children?"

"Alright, granny!" Umemiya cut in, pointedly, but not unkindly, all while the older lady giggled rather mischievously, "We've got one more place to go to, thank you for the gown."

She waved you two off as he led you two out, hand on the small of your back as he ushered you out. The estate wasn't quite as large as the one you grew up in, but it was large none-the-less, and you two were quickly eloped in a comfortable silence. He had yet to move his hand from your back, and the touch was burning, in an unfamiliar way.

It was rather... nice.

"Thank you. For the gown. It really is beautiful."

He smiled, eyes crinkling as he chuckled, "It's your wedding as well, I wanted to incorporate some things from your culture as well."

"You didn't have to."

He shrugged in response, "But I wanted to."

He wanted to. For you. Your heart fluttered once more, your chest squeezing uncomfortably, and you quickly looked away from him, studying the cherry petals that danced in the afternoon breeze.

"I know that this marriage isn't something you had asked for," It was startling how quiet he had become, his voice lacking the boy like charm or the energy it had contained before.

"But I promise you I will do everything I can to be the best husband for you, I'll make sure your needs are always met, that you're never left unhappy or wanting." He had stopped walking at this point, and, in turn, you had stopped as well, facing him with wide eyes.

"You will have freedom here, to study and learn whatever your heart desires. You'll be able to help with decisions for the town if you so choose, your opinions and voice matter her," Your hands were in his, and you dropped your gaze to them.

They were much larger than yours, and you could feel the callouses on the palms of his hands. He worked hard, he held power over his town, but he worked with them as well as for them. You'd seen first hand these past few days how many people felt comfortable and safe coming to him with problems, requesting aid or help, and how quickly he was to ensure they received that help.

"I- I don't doubt it," Despite how certain he always seemed, you could hear the vulnerability in his voice, the desire to make sure you believed the words he was saying to you, "You... have been far kinder than most men in my life before now."

He nodded, and you glanced up, noting that, while that seemed to assure him, the sentence seemed to make him deflate a tiny bit. The melancholy look was quickly replaced, movement seeming to catch his attention. He nodded over to where he was looking, and after a moment of confusion, you looked over, curious as to what he was trying to show you.

"It's rather beautiful here," You felt your mouth open, a gasp much louder than intended falling from your lips, "Seems a rather nice place to settle down."

You were taking off down the pavement before you realized it, warm tears budding in your eyes as you ran. For how quickly you made your way to your destination, your sister had managed to drop the bag she had been holding, uncaring as it fell into the grass. You all but fell into her arms, sobs of-- what? Happiness? Sadness?

Whatever you were feeling, you were sobbing in your big sister's arms, her holding you as close as she had when you were a mere child. Her hands were combing through your hair, and you felt a few warm tears of her own fall onto your head.

"You look beautiful in your kimono, darling," You laughed, squeezing her tighter.

Some part of you was vaguely aware of Umemiya walking to join you all, greeting her husband, the pair of them allowing you two your moment as they directed where the bags should be sent to.

Finally, you pulled back, sure your face was blotchy and red in all the wrong places, "What are you doing here?"

Her hands cupped your cheeks, thumbing under your eyes as she rid you of the few tears still falling. She smiled, looking as radiant and beautiful as she always did to you.

"I'm here for your wedding, silly goose," She placed a gentle kiss on your forehead, "Your fiancé sent us letters as soon as you departed from father's, we would have been here sooner but we ran into a minor storm on the way here."

Before you could panic over that idea she shushed you, "It's all fine now. We just may have to stay a bit longer now," She winked, "Just to ensure our ship is in top shape."

"You all are welcome to stay as long as you please," Umemiya spoke, and you turned to him; he was smiling, a true smile, large and happy and warm and everything you were feeling in that moment, "We have enough room."

Your sister stepped back, thanking him, her husband moving to pick up her bag, smiling softly at you, "It's nice to see you again."

You nodded, rubbing at your nose, "You as well."

Umemiya shifted to stand a bit closer, "I hope the waiting seems worth it, I was hoping things could have worked out perfectly, but I'm not one who can control the weather. Nor do I understand making clothes, Tsubaki scolded me every time I went to check on your dress--"

You threw yourself towards him, wrapping your arms around his shoulders, having to stand on your tiptoes as you pulled him into a tight hug.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you so much." You felt as if you sounded borderline hysteric, but you couldn't bring yourself to care.

He wrapped his arms back around you, the weight on your waist oddly comforting, grounding.

"Anything for you," You pulled back after a moment, flat on your feet as you looked up to him, "I mean it."

A/N: part four will (should be) the wedding! and maybe more!

my first self-ship commission is done! >.<

thank you @nkogneatho ! it’s so freaking cute!!!

Sakura + 14

14. Assign a fashion aesthetic to this character.

I think Sakura would be best in street fashion! He’s not one who coordinates outfits or super cares? But I think once some of the others force him to go shopping and help him branch out, he’s able to put together nice outfits based around hoodies and such!

I also think he gets some inspiration from Kaji, cause he looks up to him some 🥰

I got bday money not too long ago! And got me some WBK merch! >.< It’s here!

These are from Amazon!

And this little guy is from etsy!

Wonderful person, hello!! I saw you’re doing match ups for wind breaker and I’m so in ✨✨

You! Personality and such! >> introvert with groups, extroverted 1:1, I’m usually the mom friend lol very organized and likes plans, I think I adult well and have been said to take life too seriously from time to time , I love piercings and looking at fun hair colors but I stick to things that are work acceptable (minus my ears lol)

Hobbies and special interests >> my discipline has lead me into running 😭😭 my poor knees

Any pets you have! >> none but I want cats sooo bad. Yes multiple 💕💕

Your aesthetic and/or style >> cozy vibes

Your fav shows, books, movies (other than WBK >.<) >> I like the lotr books, and self help books and romance, I’ll read anything they catches my eye. I like to watch things with happy endings 🥰

Any more general info you think is important! >> I hope this project is fun for you, no pressure if you get dozens and dozens of these!! Also pls be sure to have breaks and take care of yourself too 🤍

Hello and welcome! >.< I’m so excited to be doing this it’s so fun!

First of all you sound fun to be friends with!

Moving on!

I match you with Kiryuu!

I think he loves how when you’re 1:1 you’ve got a lot of energy. Talking and laughing, joking and flirting. It feels special to him that you’re like that with him, and almost only him! And when you’re hanging out with his friends and get more shy/introverted? He loves excuses to subtly show off by protecting you. Tsugeura, bless his soul, can be overwhelming, and Kiryuu swoops in and calms the man down, protecting your introverted heart, flashing you a soft smile and a wink.

Also I imagine he’s so supportive of you running! Does he run a lot? Not really. Does he always make sure you have water bottles for your run, and buys you cute running shoes and workout outfits? Yes! This man also loves an excuse to give you a pampering day after you come back from a run.

He also goes with you whenever you get a piercing! He’s got so many he’s a pro, so he helps with the care process after and if you’re nervous he’s there to distract you!

And his entire vibe screams cozy, gamer boyfriend! You two have the coziest cuddle sessions at his place, gaming both separately and together!

He also gives me cat dad vibes, so I imagine he’s very down for adopting many cats together!

I hope this was good for you! I love Kiryuu! >.< Sorry if this wasn’t enough/a lot! You have a great day!

Hii! I saw your post about windbreaker match ups and wanted to try it. I’ve never done these before so sorry if its a bit awkward!

I’m considered a leader figure and a mother figure personality wise. Growing up a lot of people always depended on me in a nurturing way and I’d like to think i’m very motherly?? I’m a huge dork tho… (I’ve been told) who’s very passionate about learning (literally anything new) and I’m an extroverted introvert. Just overall i’m a huge nerd who loves learning and encouraging people to learn or improve and I love taking care of the people around me! I’m a generally cheerful person who always tries her best, though I get really embarrassed if people compliment me cause I’m not really used to it

My hobbies include learning (anything), studying what teas/herbs do for the body, like an apothecary, and studying. I love learning about natural medicines. When I’m not studying/learning I love practicing martial arts. I’m constantly trying out new techniques and moves from different styles… (but my base style is a lot of kung fu, taichi, and deflection)

I don’t have pets but would really love a cat or dog! One that is fluffy (pomsky, ragdoll). I’m a cat person in general though!

I’m a dark/light academia girl and my aesthetic of clothes and style are mostly shades of browns and neutral colors. I also wear a lot of turtlenecks. I’m really into the academia style

I didn’t grow up with alot of media aside from anime, so my favorite shows all time are fairy tail and inuyasha! Movie wise I love the Kung Fu Panda movies. Books… Probably the Witch of BlackBird Pond!

I hope this wasn’t too much of a bore to read :C… Make sure to drink water and take care of yourself! Thanks for listening to my character profile lolol

AH! this is my first match-up I’m so excited! >.<

Okay! To he honest my brain immediately went “oooh Umemiya!” but then I went no… wait…

Therefore I’m matching you with Hiragi!

I think this man needs some good balancing out, someone level headed that helps him manage his younger classmates (as well as the other 3rd years), but I also think he needs someone to help him cut loose!

Your study of teas and other remedies is something that you can use and it comes in handy. You brew him teas that not only taste good but help his stressed induced pains! Next thing you know he’s cutting down on his gaskun-10! Good job!

I can also imagine Hiragi as the guy who agrees to adopt a pet because you want to, but swears up and down he won’t grow attached. Then you go to his one day and see your cat napping, cuddled on up a sleeping Hiragi’s chest.

Not attached? Sure.

I also feel like he’s the kind of boyfriend who would spar with you! Yes, he pulls his punches, but because the way you two fight is different in styles, and he doesn’t actually want to hurt you. So you show him new martial arts moves you learn, you have occasionally knocked him onto his ass, and he always feels so proud about it.

He casually brags about it whenever he can. (so all the time)

He’s also the kind of boyfriend who hears you mention a topic you’re interested in once, and next thing you know he’s bought you books about said topic, taking you to a museum or event that deals with said topic, and loves to listen to you talk about all the things you’ve learned!

I’m hoping onto the band wagon! I see others doing match-ups for Windbreaker and now I wanna join! >.<

I cannot promise they will be as good as some of my moots, but my brain is fried and I wanna write!

So send me an ask, anon or not!

General info regarding—

You! Personality and such!

Hobbies and special interests

Any pets you have!

Your aesthetic and/or style

Your fav shows, books, movies (other than WBK >.<)

Any more general info you think is important!

This all just seems so fun!

𝕎𝔹𝕂 𝔹𝕠𝕪𝕤 𝔸𝕤 ℝ𝕖𝕤𝕡𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕖𝕤 𝕋𝕠 “𝕀 𝕎𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝔸 𝔹𝕒𝕓𝕪”

Kotoha:

Tsubakino:

Sakura:

Kaji:

Also Kaji:

Tsugeura:

Nirei:

Kiryuu:

Umemiya:

Hiragi:

umemiya and kotoha both listen to chappell roan

kotoha because she’s a girl kisser

umemiya cause he likes doing the little dances

𝖀𝖒𝖊𝖒𝖎𝖞𝖆 𝕳𝖆𝖏𝖎𝖒𝖊 𝖝 𝕽𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖊𝖗; 𝕬𝖗𝖗𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖊𝖉 𝕸𝖆𝖗𝖗𝖎𝖆𝖌𝖊; 𝕻𝖙. 2

𝕻𝖆𝖗𝖙 1

Word Count: 2,643

Your husband-to-be had a level of energy and happiness you found foreign.

He was bright, and his smile seemed to never fade. You found yourself nervous in his presence, and yet, it never seemed to stem from him. You felt comfortable being near him, despite having just met him that day.

“I hope the voyage was a calm one.”

You were seated at a table across from him, drinking a warm tea— something you never had at home, it was rather delicious.

You looked up from your cup, “It was.”

Despite your two word response, he beamed in response, “That’s good! Sometimes we get bad storms at our port so I was worried, but I’m grateful that the weather seemed to agree with your arrival.”

You two were sat in a room that seemed to have entirely open walls, letting you see outside, nature just a few inches from you.

There was a garden, lush and beautiful, trees reaching high and flowers in full bloom. You had a garden at your home, tended to and cared for. But it paled in comparison to this one.

Looking at it made you feel warm— the buzz of the insects, the singing of the birds. It felt warm, it radiated… love. It was well kept, cared for deeply.

“Do you enjoy gardening?”

You turned, embarrassed at having been caught staring outside so absentmindedly.

“Oh,” Your gaze lowered back to your cup, “I’m not much of a gardener, no. My mother used to take me for walks in our garden when I was younger. I just…”

You looked back outside, the swaying of the branches almost hypnotizing, “This garden’s just… so beautiful.”

He chuckled, and you found that the sound was as warm as his smile, loud and room-filling, but rich, “Well thank you. I spend most of my free time tending to it, I’m planning on adding a vegetable section next season.”

You turned, almost shocked at the revelation that he was the one tending to the plants. He kneeled down in the dirt, standing in the hot sun for hours on end— he had no gardener?

“You… tend to the garden yourself?”

He nodded, a soft smile forming on his face, “I have a bit of help from one of my friends, you’ll meet him soon, he’s quiet, but he’s a good man. I’ve found peace in gardening, taking care of things and helping sustain life that isn’t just my own.”

The way he spoke of it; so simple but he made it sound beautiful and rewarding. Your father once yelled at one of the gardeners for coming inside with dirt on his clothes, threatening to fire him should he ever let that happen again.

And yet Umemiya, the lord of this estate; regularly went out with no regard for cleanliness or what-not. He was a strange man indeed.

“You’re free to wander in the garden whenever you may want,” He continued, taking a small sip of his tea, “And if you have a favorite flower, or vegetable you wish for me to grow, let me know and I’ll till an area just for those.”

“Oh,” The startled noise left you before you could stop it, and your cheeks warmed at the look on his face, morphing from a simple happiness to something more soft, something deeper.

“I,” Did you have a favorite flower? You had never been given flowers to know if one smelled nicer than another, never studied them enough to know symbolism in the petals.

You didn’t need to say that, the look on your face must have said enough, and he nodded, more to himself than you.

“If you think of any, please let me know.”

“I will,” You murmured, voice soft as you, for the first time since arriving, smiled genuinely at him.

For a moment he felt mildly stunned, the looks on your face thus far had been apprehensive at best, and neutral at worst. Your smile, however small it may be, was breathtaking.

“Oh!” You jumped, slightly startled at the exclamation, both your attention turning to the newcomer who was staring in.

She was young, brown hair tied neatly back, wearing a kimono that bore the same colors as Umemiya’s, but was more toned down. Umemiya lit up at the sight of her, and you briefly worried you’d have to deal with concubines or courtesans. Your sister had gotten lucky to have women with respect for her, and grew meaningful relationships with them, but you had heard horror stories from the workers back home.

“Kotoha!” He stood up, moving towards you, offering his hands to help you up.

His hands were warm, his palms were… soft. Your father had always had a rough grip, tight and demanding. It felt natural, almost, as he held your hands, helping you stand.

Umemiya introduced you to her, “She just arrived earlier!”

The woman, Kotoha, smiled at you, and you were once again struck by how kind everyone you had met here was.

“This is Kotoha,” Umemiya continued, “My little sister.”

He sounded rather proud as he introduced her, and you noticed her roll her eyes, though her fond expression didn’t fade.

“I’m glad to finally meet you,” She looked you over briefly, “Ume, have you not let her go to her room to rest?”

The question seemed to catch him off guard, and he paused, before his eyes widened as if he just realized since you had gotten off your boat, you had spent your time with him.

“Oh my,” He turned to you, “You must be exhausted, I’m so sorry! Kotoha will show you to your room, feel free to freshen up and rest.”

The smile on his face seemed never ending, as bashful as he was seeming now, and he moved to clean up the cups of tea. You stood there, brain catching up slowly as Kotoha moved, ready to show you to your room.

“Are we—”

Your voice felt loud in the room, and both turned to look at you. You cleared your throat, feeling the warmth in your cheeks grow.

“I mean… our marriage. Are we not officiating it tonight?”

They both paused in their movements, looks fading into a mixture of shock and confusion.

Umemiya spoke slowly, “You just docked from a long voyage, to an entirely different country. I imagine you need time to rest and recuperate, I hadn’t planned our ceremony for another week.”

You were the one who appeared shocked now, hands ringing in front of you, “What— why would—”

Kotoha moved, hands gently laid on your bicep, smiling comfortingly at you, “I’ll walk you to your room, we can talk on the way.”

She turned her attention to her brother, “Mizuki and Momose wanted to talk to you, I imagine they’re still talking with Hiragi.”

He opened his mouth as if to argue, but thought better of it, nodding in agreement. He bid you a goodnight, and soon it was just you and Kotoha.

She nudged you forward, “That cat I saw in your room, I assume they’re yours?”

You swallowed, allowing her to slowly steer you down the hallway, “Yes. Her name’s Cherry.”

“She’s cute,” She hummed, “Her coat reminds me of Sakura, have you met him yet?”

You racked your brain for a moment, “Oh yes, he was one of the three who escorted me here.”

She laughed quietly, but didn’t move to explain what about that was funny to her, “I imagine you have a few questions?”

“Why… does your brother want to wait?”

She hummed, “Well, like he said, you just arrived to a new place, you don’t know anyone here, we all imagine you’d be rather tired. He doesn’t want to force anymore stress onto you.”

All of your siblings had been married within hours of meeting their betrothed, the weddings had been large and loud. Even as young as you were when your oldest brother got married, you remember how tired and just… sad his wife had looked.

As if sensing your thoughts, Kotoha sighed, pausing her steps, and you followed suit, turning to look at her.

“Umemiya and I aren’t blood related,” Your eyebrows shot up at the reveal, “My parents died when I was very young, and his died when he was a bit older; mindless violence that wormed its way into our city. We were taken in by the same couple, they were kind, took in a lot of orphaned kids. He went through a lot of… dark thoughts growing up, but ultimately, he had a goal. Protect the town he loved, and protect the family he had grown to cherish. He dubbed me his little sister, and he thinks of almost everyone you’ll meet as his family.”

The story laid before you began painting your husband to be in a bright light. He’d been kind thus far, talkative and energetic, but so different than the men you had met in your household growing up.

“The point is; Ume is genuinely a nice guy. He’s giving you time to adjust, because he knows ultimately this isn’t something you had picked for yourself. He wants you to be comfortable, he wants you to grow to be happy here,” She smiled, and though they weren’t blood related, you saw the resemblance in their smiles.

Bright and welcoming, kind and gentle.

Warm.

You nodded, hesitantly, but far more comfortable now than you had felt earlier. She took that, though, and continued to lead you to your room.

“I know this is all scary,” She stopped, moving to open a door where you saw many of your stuff dropped off, Cherry meowing once she saw you, rolling over on the bed, a futon, you believed.

“But please know that everyone here will be nothing but kind and welcoming to you. No one here has a cruel bone in their body, Umemiya the least.” She smiled, “If you have any questions or need anything, you can ask anyone you run into, they’ll help you.”

She bid you a goodnight, leaving you alone in your new room. You knelt down, petting Cherry’s fur, her purrs comforting you as your mind whirled and ran.

You moved in a sort of haze, brushing your hair, changing into the sleep clothes you had brought, before snuffing out the candles in your room, burrowing into your futon, Cherry snuggling into you.

You slept for what felt like days, and yet when you opened your eyes you still felt rather groggy. The sun was rather high in the sky, indicating it was no longer morning. Cherry was seated by the window, watching the birds and butterflies float about, tail flicking.

You sat up, feeling an odd mixture of well rested and exhausted.

Your mother had warned you that the times were different and it would take a toll on you, but feeling it was different than hearing about it.

Allowing yourself more time to sit there, you worked your way through the previous events. Once you felt ready to move, you were up, haphazardly making your bed, changing into a thinner dress; the weather here was rather warm.

The hallway was empty, the floorboards beneath your feet cool. You allowed yourself time to explore, taking in the art that decorated the walls, the floral arrangements around the corners. It was so familiar but so different than what you were used to.

You found yourself back in the room from yesterday, staring out into the garden. It was just as beautiful as it was yesterday, but now, alone, you were able to study the little details more. There were nests in some of the trees, those pink flowers you had seen near the docks decorating the branches. There were sections, you realized; flowers, vegetables, what looked to be herbs. It was precariously laid out, and it took you a moment to realize there was someone in the garden. He appeared to be digging up the weeds.

His hair was rather long, down and almost messy. Even from where he was crouched over you could tell he was tall, maybe even taller than Umemiya.

He had mentioned yesterday that he had a friend who often helped with the garden, and you wondered if that was him. Part of you thought you should introduce yourself to him, he was friends with your husband-to-be, but the louder part of you told you to lay low.

Kotoha said everyone here was welcoming, and that may be true, but you were still an outsider. Perhaps their definition of welcoming would differ for you.

“Oh— good afternoon!” You turned, Umemiya strolling in, wearing a more casual outfit than he was yesterday.

He smiled, charming and light, and you found yourself feeling a bit more comfortable, smiling back at him.

“Afternoon?”

He nodded, “I wanted to let you sleep in, I figured a trip like that would have been rather exhausting.”

You hummed, not agreeing but not quite disagreeing. He continued, unfazed.

“I have a bit of free time until later this evening, would you like a tour of the grounds? I have plenty of people to introduce you to, but we can start small.”

“Oh,” You swallowed, hands suddenly sweaty.

“You can refuse if you’d rather rest still, if you’d like to bathe, Kotoha can take you to the onsen, I imagine it’s different than what you’re used to.”

Washing up did sound nice, but you also knew regardless of how much you pushed it off, you’d have to meet everyone sooner than later.

“I… later tonight. Maybe,” You hated how timid you sounded, but Umemiya was asking you questions and giving you options, giving you choices.

Those were simple things you had never been offered back home, especially by the head of your household; your father.

“I’d like to see the grounds.”

He nodded, offering you his arm.

He was patient, hesitation clearly palpable, but you took his arm. The smile you were rewarded with made your knees feel weak, a strange feeling, one not brought on by fear.

He led you into the garden, the grass still cool with dew, and the stone path warmed by the sun.

The man in the garden stood once he noticed Umemiya approaching.

“This is Sugishita, he helps me with the garden when I’m not able to get to it, so you may see him quite a bit.”

As if just noticing you, Sugishita started, before collecting himself, bowing towards you, but not saying anything. Umemiya laughed, as if it was a normal thing to witness.

“If you have any requests for the garden and I’m not around you can come to Sugishita,” The man in question nodded aggressively, before pausing.

He seemed to be having some type of internal struggle, and his cheeks turned a light shade of pink, before he turned quickly, fiddling with one of the bushes near him.

Before you could send a questioning glance towards Umemiya, Sugishita turned back around, gingerly holding his hand out towards you.

In his hand he was clutching a purple flower, one you didn’t recognize, so you assumed it wasn’t native to your home. You reached out, tentatively taking it from him. Before you could thank him, or subtly question the action, he bowed once more, before scurrying further into the garden, cheeks now red.

You looked down at the flower, the petals were thin and dainty, and it smelled rather sweet. You looked up, not surprised at the smile still adorning his face, but slightly so at the soft look.

“I see our azalea’s are growing nice and strong,” He reached out, gently taking the flower from your hand, before moving, placing it behind your ear.

He kept his movements soft and slow, as non-aggressive as he could show, before he pulled his arm back, happy with his work.

“Now, let’s continue.”

A/N: this will definitely be more than two chapters, considering you guys haven’t even gotten married yet! I have minor ideas, so it may end up being 3 or 4 parts! stay tuned! 💕

also! be so prepared for so much flower symbolism, I love flower meanings!

ρα૨ƭ σɳε

ρα૨ƭ ƭɦ૨εε

𝒯𝓈𝓊𝒷𝒶𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑜 𝓍 𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹𝑒𝓇 𝓍 𝒰𝓂𝑒𝓂𝒾𝓎𝒶

𝒜/𝒩: Completely inspired by the "After Midnight" prompt that @stunie wrote for Tsubakino x Reader. I was re-listening to the song and the "I wanna kiss your boyfriend if you don't mind" had me thinking... Umemiya.

The club lights were low, the music blaring. At this rate you couldn’t even make out the lyrics, and your once fruity drink was watered down to a sad state.

There were a decent amount of people around; dancing, laughing, drinking. Yet you never felt as alone as you did now.

Your boyfriend— your friend? Your date.

Your date had ditched you a bit ago, a rushed apology that’d he be back, an aggressive kiss to the cheek, and you smiled, unable to respond before he was gone.

Five minutes turned into ten.

Ten into twenty.

Twenty into thirty.

At this rate you’d been sitting here alone longer than you’d been there with him. You shouldn’t be surprised, he had a knack for ghosting you in the middle of a week or ditching you on a scheduled date— hang out?

“Don’t tell me he’s done it again?”

It took you a moment to process that those words were directed to you, and you looked up from where you had been counting water droplets on the cup to see Tsubaki, a pout on his lipstick covered lips.

“Tsubaki?”

He sat down next to you, throwing his hair back over his shoulder, leaning so he was pressed against you, “Did he ditch you?”

You nodded sadly, pointing to where he was stood: a group of his friends surrounding him. There were some guys you had met briefly, having the displeasure of hearing their comments about you, and some new pretty faces. Girls that were leaning on him, leaning to be closer to him. The sight didn’t even break your heart anymore, so used to this same old song.

Tsubaki clicked his tongue, eyes narrowed at the group, before he turned his gaze back to you, “I’m sorry pretty girl,” He reached forward, tucking a stray hair behind your ear, the tips of his fingers brushing the underside of your jaw with a feather like pressure, “You deserve better than him.”

You took in a shaky breath, smiling weakly at him with a shrug, “It’s… not like we’re official yet,” He frowned at the word ‘yet’ but let you continue, “So he’s just…”

He was just what? Dragging you places outside of your comfort zone just to ditch you? Flirting with other girls in front of you before telling you behind closed doors they meant nothing to him?

Tsubaki seemed to think for a second, before grinning, a sly look on his face. The music grew louder, and he leaned forward, lips so close to your ear.

“I have an idea,” He sang the sentence quietly, his warm breath tickling your skin, and you couldn’t fight the shiver that ran up your spine.

Before you could ask he was moving, standing up and grabbing your hand. He pulled you forward, helping you stumble out of your seat.

“Ah— Tsubaki! What are we—”

You glanced back at your table, not missing the watery drink you left behind, glancing further to see your movement had caught the attention of your not-so-date.

You stopped abruptly, almost tripping over yourself as Tsubaki came to a stop, giggling to himself as he helped steady you.

“Ume-chan!” You glanced around him, see Umemiya nursing a drink.

He glanced up, setting the drink down with a smile, soft eyes glancing your way. You saw a flicker of surprise before it went away.

Tsubaki moved you to stand in front of him, leaning against your back, arms wrapped around your waist, chin on your shoulder as he spoke.

“Her date ditched her,” You winced at how bluntly it was put but, it was the truth.

Umemiya frowned at that, head tilting, “The same guy?”

“The same one,” You could hear the pout in Tsubaki’s voice, and you opened your mouth, to argue or defend him, you weren’t sure, but he continued.

“He left our poor girl sitting all alone.”

“He— he didn’t— he said he’d be coming back.” Even to yourself your argument sounded weak.

Unemiya frowned, making eye contact with Tsubaki. There was a moment of silence, before the frown on his face morphed into one of a small smile.

“Ume-chan,” Tsubaki moved the two of you, pushing you closer to where Umemiya was sat, “I had a brilliant idea.”

“Oh?” He sounded amused, leaning against his palm, looking up at the two of you, “Go on.”

“Well,” He shifted, moving so he could easily make eye contact with you, “How about you accompany us instead? I promise you, you’ll have a much better time with us than you would with him.”

Your cheeks burned at the meaning behind his words, and you glanced from him to Umemiya, whose smile hadn’t faded once. His eyes were bright, despite being half-lidded as he watched the two of you silently.

“I,” You swallowed, “I don’t know…”

Truth is you did know, the moment Tsubaki had taken your hand to lead you away from the table. The moment his attention was unwaveringly on you, you were ready to leave with him, follow him anywhere. Your heart felt like it was trying to beat out of your chest.

“We won’t do anything you won’t like,” Coming from Umemiya it sounded like a promise, his voice deep and sincere, “Just say the word and we’ll stop.”

You squeaked in surprise, Tsubaki giggling from where he had blown cool air against your neck, lips hovering mere centimeters from your skin.

“You can say no, and we’ll walk you home right now,” He said, pressing a quick kiss below your ear, chast and sweet, “But if you say yes,” His voice was sweet, practically dripping with honey.

You licked your lips, anticipation and nerves bubbling in your stomach. You risked a glance back, your date, not having moved from his group, but his eyes were trained on you. He looked upset, he looked angry.

A part of you liked that; that he was angry by your attention being taken by others. But the bigger part of you didn’t care. He had abandoned you time and time again, played with your heart by avoiding placing a label on whatever it was you two were.

You turned back, feeling your heart jump when you realized Umemiya hadn’t stopped looking at you. You know your voice would leave you, so you nodded, a firm look on your face.

Tsubaki squealed in your ear, his arms tightening around you. His lips pressed against your cheek, and he peppered you with quick, little kisses, his lipstick staining your cheek as he moved closer to the edge of your lips.

In a whirlwind of movements, you found yourself sandwiched between Umemiya and Tsubaki in the booth they had been seated in. You were practically leaned back onto Ume, one of his arms resting on the back of the booth, caging you in. Tsubaki was angled to be in front of you, hand cupping your jaw, thumb brushing against your cheek bone.

“You’re so beautiful,” His little compliment came out like a sigh, “Too beautiful to be treated like that.”

You felt more than heard Umemiya chuckle, voice closer to your ear than you thought, “We’d never abandon you like that,” Tsubaki hummed in agreement, “A guy like him doesn’t deserve you.”

You swallowed, heart hammering in your chest. You didn’t respond— you don’t even know what you would have said in response.

Tsubaki leaned forward, and your eyes shut automatically, his lips pressing against yours firmly. He tasted like a mixture of cherries and vodka, his lipstick sticky and sweet. You sighed into the kiss, and he giggled, deepening it slowly.

He was warm against you, and your insides felt like they were on fire. It felt good, better than any quick kiss or fast make out session your old-date subjected you to.

By the time Tsubaki pulled back you were out of breath. Cheeks flushed and lips lightly swollen, holding the same shade of lipstick that Tsubaki wore. He smiled, thumb swiping against your bottom lip, lingering for a beat.

“Such a pretty girl…”

You couldn’t fight the whimper that left your lips, pupils blown as you stared at him. He smiled, “Better not let Ume-chan feel left out.”

You were shifted, man-handled as if you weighed almost nothing, turning to face Umemiya. His gaze was dark, eyes trained on your lips. Tsubaki was behind you, a warm and solid force, grounding you.

Umemiya hummed, “Red’s a good look on you,” Before he leaned in.

Kissing Umemiya was different. Tsubaki tasted as sweet as he kissed, lips soft and smooth. Umemiya tasted like alcohol, a deep and warm flavor that took over your senses. Kissing Tsubaki was fun and breathtaking, kissing Umemiya stole your breath.

It was no question whether he was in control of the kiss, deepening it slowly, invading all your senses slowly. Kissing him felt like an eternity, but he pulled back only a minute later, a thin line of spit connecting between your lips.

If you were any more in your senses you would have been embarrassed.

Your face felt like it was on fire, panting quietly between them. Tsubaki giggled in your ear, “Better than your ex-date, huh?”

You nodded, voice cracking as you quietly agreed, “So much better.”

A/N: i began! panicking about my writing at the end! and my brain stopped working! so i’m so sorry if it sucked! >.<

LOOK! HE’S A DICK! HE’S RUDE! BUT ALSO!

he’s the funniest mother fucker in this manga

he’s so fucking dramatic