Work Text:
So, he got evicted.
It’s fine! Really! Yuuji knew this was coming. His grandpa’s savings had to run out at some point, and his job didn’t pay enough to keep up with the bills. He’s only a barista.
But it’s fine! He’s okay.
It just kind of sucks to lose your childhood home because you’re too broke to continue paying for it. He hopes gramps isn’t disappointed about it, wherever he is now.
'New beginnings,' he told himself. Look on the bright side.
It’ll be fun! He’s moving into a new apartment with his best friend, Nobara Kugisaki. They already signed the lease and everything. He can buy all the household items and decorations he wants (though he is on a budget). This is a good thing.
He is nineteen, after all. He had to grow up and leave home at some point, even if it’s not in the typical way. Plus, Junpei is letting him crash at his house until Yuuji moves into his apartment next month, so it’s not like he’s homeless.
'Jeez, it’s hot in here.' Yuuji tugged at the edge of his hoodie, trying to get in some cool air. It’s a useless effort.
He’d worn the hoodie because it was freezing cold outside, but for some reason, the inside of this Target is a sauna.
He sighed, wiping a sweaty palm off on his jeans, then grabbed the shopping list Nobara gave him.
'Who even writes paper lists anymore?' Yuuji thought, scanning Nobara's swirly handwriting. There’s barely anything on here, and most of it isn’t even a necessity.
Wow, Nobara really sucks at moving.
'I’ll start with cups. That’s one of the things we actually need.'
He shoved the list into his back pocket, not caring if it crumpled, and began searching for the aisle of dishware.
Walking through the store was enough for him to get a sweat going. Yuuji considered taking off his hoodie, but he didn't feel like carrying it around.
Is it really that hot in here, or do I just get hot too easily?
It’s fine. He’d just get the cups and get out of here. The rest of Nobara’s list was bullshit anyway. Seriously, what the hell was an egg peeler? He wasn’t wasting his hard-earned money on that.
…Though maybe he shouldn't blame her. It took him a while to find what he was looking for. He kept getting distracted by different pieces of junk and ended up lost. It took some time for him to get back on track. It wasn't his fault; that cat-themed bed set was really cute!
It’s fine. He found what he was looking for eventually, and that’s all that matters. It’s not about the destination, but the journey. Or however that saying goes.
'Hey, this is cute!' Yuuji grinned, picking up a glass covered in different dog breeds. One of them even looked like his pomeranian, Panda. He tested the weight of it in his hand, noting that the quality feels pretty good, too.
He attempted to turn the glass over in search of a price, but his palms were still sweaty from the heat, and it… slipped. Yuuji fumbled, trying to catch it before the glass crashed to the ground, but he was unsuccessful. It shattered. Everywhere.
'Guess the quality wasn't that great after all.'
“Crap!” He exclaimed in a hushed voice, not wanting to bring more attention to himself. He crouched down, glancing around over his shoulder. There wasn't anyone around, but… that was a pretty loud noise. Someone definitely heard.
Crap. He broke something without even buying it! And he got glass everywhere. Someone is going to step on it and slip and die, and then they’re going to sue Target, and then Target is going to sue him, but he’s too broke to pay anyone anything so he’ll get arrested and go to jail for the rest of his life before he even gets the chance to finish school–
“Are you alright?” A concerned voice asks from above. He looked up, spotting the red shirt before anything else. Red shirt… Oh no. The Target employee is here to sue him.
“I’m fine! Sorry!” Yuuji squeaked, returning focus to his crime scene. In a panic, he attempted to gather all the glass shards into a pile. He only ended up hissing and yanking his hand back, a sharp pain stabbing his palm. Of course.
“Are you okay?” The employee asked again, crouching down in front of him. It’s when he took his bleeding hand and placed a kleenex over the wound that Yuuji got a look at his face.
Green. That’s the first thing he noticed. Vivid green eyes framed with, frankly, gorgeous lashes.
What the hell?
His black hair stuck out in spikes, bangs falling around his sharp features like delicate threads of silk.
Hello. Are you my guardian angel?
Yuuji shook his head to knock himself out of whatever weird delusion he had just fallen into.
“I’m so sorry,” Yuuji apologized again. “I accidentally dropped it. I’ll pay for it, I swear–”
“It’s fine. This stuff happens all the time, you don’t have to pay for anything.”
Wow, his voice was so calm and cool. It’s almost relaxing, in a way, like a nice breeze on a hot day.
'Snap out of it, Yuuji!'
“Here, come with me.” The guy… Yuuji’s eyes drifted down to his name tag… Fushiguro! Fushiguro tugged him to his feet. Yuuji replaced the former’s hand, holding the kleenex over his palm.
“Wait, huh? But the glass…” Yuuji cautiously stepped over the shards, not wanting another injury.
“It’s fine,” Fushiguro assured. “I’ll tell my manager to clean it up.”
“I broke it, so at least let me clean it…” Yuuji insisted. Fushiguro ignored him, pulling out his phone to type a message. Yuuji watched, attention captured by the way Fushiguro’s soft hair fanned around his face when he looked down at his phone.
Seriously, what is up with this guy? He should be a model! Just look at his side profile, it’s perfect! And his lips–oh, man. Someone save him. Yuuji doesn’t think he’s ever met a more attractive guy in his life.
Of course, Yuuji met someone as cool as Fushiguro by making a complete fool of himself. Only idiots break stuff in stores. Yuuji will never forget about this day for as long as he lives. He’ll be in bed late at night, trying to fall asleep, and then his brain will conjure images of this moment, laughing and mocking him. Remember when you embarrassed yourself in front of that super cool and mysterious Target employee named Fushiguro? He probably thought you were a total loser!
Yuuji will never live this down.
Fushiguro eyed him for a moment, returning his phone to his pocket.
Then, “Come on.” He repeated, gesturing with his head to follow. Yuuji felt he was about to combust.
“Ah- okay, then. If you’re sure…” He spared one last glance at the mess he had made before following Fushiguro.
He was led to the back of the Target, to a door with a big sign that read ‘EMPLOYEES ONLY’.
“Uh… are you sure I’m allowed in there?” Yuuji glanced between Fushiguro and the sign.
“Huh?” He followed Yuji’s gaze, green eyes landing on the writing. “Oh. It’s fine. My manager doesn’t really care what I do.” Fushiguro disregarded it, opening the door.
Alright then.
Yuuji sat on a beaten-up wooden chair adjacent to a small table covered in random papers. He felt like he was about to be questioned, as if he was in some scene from a movie. The atmosphere in there wasn't very relaxing… Wasn't this supposed to be a break room for employees? Maybe Yuuji is going to be sued after all…
Fushiguro dug through a cabinet above Yuuji’s head, standing awfully close. Yuuji’s face heated up faster than he could form another thought.
Wow, it sure is hot in here.
“Is it just me, or is it hot in here? You guys should turn on the AC or something,” Yuuji laughed nervously. He shrank in the chair away from Fushiguro like a turtle trying to hide in its shell.
Something about Fushiguro being so close made a strange feeling arise in his chest, almost akin to panic. His heart beat faster, and his palms began to sweat again. He wiped them off on the fabric of his jeans.
Fushiguro stepped back from the cabinet, a large plaster in his hand. Oh. Is that why he was brought here?
'So I’m not getting sued!'
“It’s freezing outside, why would we turn on the AC? It isn’t even that hot in here. The heater is only set to, like, seventy-two degrees.”
Oh. Okay. Maybe it was just Yuuji, then.
Fushiguro suddenly held out his hand expectantly. Yuuji stared down at it, confused. He furrowed his brows at it as if he would find the answer in the lines of Fushiguro’s palm.
He didn't. Yuuji looked back up at Fushiguro, who only rolled his eyes at him. Then, he reached down, grabbing Yuuji’s hand into his own.
“Your hand, you dolt. I need to put the bandage on.”
“Oh… Oh! Right! Sorry.” Yuuji smiled sheepishly, allowing Fushiguro to take his hand. The other removed the kleenex, wiping off any excess blood before unpackaging the plaster. It was carefully placed over his wound with precision, Fushiguro’s fingers soft against Yuuji’s palm. They were long and slim, with perfectly manicured nails that every so slightly grazed his skin. Yuuji shuddered when Fushiguro stepped back.
‘His hands are so handsome,’ Yuuji thought wistfully. He wore a small smile on his face, watching as Fushiguro walked over to a garbage can. He tossed in the kleenex and bandage packaging, then turned back to face Yuuji once more.
Wait, what?
Yuuji blinked rapidly, trying to force those thoughts away. What was Fushiguro doing to him? Who thinks of some stranger’s hands as handsome?
“Well, you’re all good now,” Fushiguro stated blankly, standing across from Yuuji.
It was clearly a dismissal.
Yuuji stood from the chair, but didn't immediately say goodbye. He hovered awkwardly for a moment, not wanting to leave but not having any reason to stay. Fushiguro watched him curiously, with those green, green eyes that Yuuji could easily get lost in if he wasn't careful. They were so entrancing, like a shiny emerald that Yuuji couldn't bring himself to look away from. He felt like he had been put under a spell, his thoughts muddled by Fushiguro.
Yuuji cleared his throat. “Uh, thanks for the first-aid!” He held up his bandaged hand with a smile.
Fushiguro nodded. “It’s fine. I couldn’t have you bleeding all over the store.”
“Right…” Yuuji dropped his hand. “Well, thanks anyway!”
“You’re welcome, I guess.”
Yuuji was starting to gather that Fushiguro was a pretty serious guy. He didn’t feel like the type to joke around often, and he seemed completely uninterested in any type of small talk. Yuuji wondered what Fushiguro was like under the rough exterior he put on.
There was another awkward silence, neither of them sure what to say.
Yuuji isn't always like this, he swears! Usually, he can fill any silence, no matter who he’s with. If he needs to talk enough for both of them, then he’s perfectly capable. Not everyone is a talker, and he gets that. That’s part of his charm, making people feel comfortable around him. Yuuji rarely ever feels awkward or uncomfortable when meeting someone new. It’s why he’s so great at customer service! Yuuji is a connector. He’s always been great with people.
But there was something about Fushiguro. Something that scrambled all his thoughts and left him utterly bewitched.
Fushiguro was just so cool, and beautiful, and mysterious. Of course, Yuuji was going to feel a little nervous! And maybe a little intimidated…
“Do you need help with anything else?”
Yuuji snapped out of his thoughts. Right. He had been standing here in silence for the past minute like he was a lost kid or something. He must be destined to embarrass himself in front of Fushiguro.
“No, no. Sorry.” Yuuji chuckled awkwardly. “Uh, I’ll be going now. Thanks again for your help.”
He swiftly turned on his heel and fled the room, nearly smacking his head on the doorframe in the process. He couldn't get out of that Target fast enough.
Through all his suffering, Yuuji didn’t manage to get a single thing from Nobara’s list.
Though before he left, he noticed the way the apples of Fushiguro’s cheeks had flushed a light pink. Didn’t he say it wasn’t hot in there?
“Where is my egg peeler?”
“Are you even listening to me? I had the worst day of my life!”
Nobara looked Yuuji up and down, unimpressed. “Right…”
“It was terrible! Fushiguro was so amazing, and I was so embarrassing! I can never go back to that Target, ever .” Yuuji whined, flopping down onto Kugisaki’s bed. Thankfully, her roommate wasn't here right now, so he could complain as loudly as he wanted.
“I’m telling you, Nobara. When I looked at him, it felt like time stopped. I’ve never seen anything more beautiful. It’s like my third eye opened…” Yuuji sighed dreamily.
Nobara wrinkled her nose in disgust. “Ew, you’re so gross. Stop thirsting over some guy in my dorm room.”
Yuuji frowned and sat up, glaring at her. “Whatever. You wouldn’t get it. No words could do Fushiguro justice.”
Kugisaki rolled her eyes. “Cut that out. I didn’t invite you over to listen to this crap.”
“Oh, yeah! What did you want to talk about?” Yuuji perked up, remembering Nobara had actually invited him over for a reason.
Her expression changed from one of annoyance, becoming littered with nerves. She worried at her bottom lip, sitting beside Yuuji on the edge of her bed.
“Nobara?” He tilted his head at her.
Nobara rarely got nervous around Yuuji. She simply didn't care that much about his image of her. She hasn’t since they met, really.
When Yuuji first met her, he had been pretty intimidated. (He still kind of is, but she doesn’t need to know that.) It was the first day of freshman year. Their physical education teacher had instructed them to pick teams to do relay races. He’d said something about 'class bonding' or whatever.
Anyway, Nobara had marched right up to him and demanded that he be her partner because he 'looked the fastest and she wanted to win'. She didn’t even introduce herself! Yuuji agreed only because her glare was scary, and he felt she’d beat him up if he said no. It wasn't like he had anyone else to be his partner, anyway, so what was the point in refusing?
They did win, by the way. They were partners for every activity in class after that. Eventually, they started to spend time together outside of class and became fast friends. The two of them have been best friends ever since.
Point is, in all these years, he’s only seen Nobara nervous around him a handful of times. The last time was two years ago, when she was reading the email to see if she had been accepted into her dream college. She was, just like Yuuji told her she would be a billion times.
Yuuji nudged her shoulder. “Stop biting your lip, it’s gonna bleed. What’s up with you?”
She groaned, falling backward on her bed.
“I got fired from my job.”
“What!?” Yuuji shouted, twisting to look down at her.
“Ugh, I know, okay? It’s not my fault! They said I don’t work enough hours, but like, I’m in college! What do they expect?”
Yuuji sighed, trying to stay positive. “That's dumb. What are you going to do now?”
“Well…” Nobara averted her eyes. “I have to stay in the dorms. I can’t afford to move out anymore.”
So much for staying positive.
“What? But, Nobara, it's—we already signed the lease! I can’t afford a whole apartment by myself!” He pulled her back up by her shoulders, shaking her with panic.
She pried off his hands, her eyebrows pinched together. “I know, I know. I’m sorry! But I already called, and they said I can back out of the lease as long as we find someone to replace me. You just need to find a new roommate!”
Yuuji groaned, running a hand through his hair. “I have no friends! All I have is Junpei, and he’s already got his living situation figured out!”
“You can find someone. We can look online!” Nobara pulled out her phone. Yuuji grabbed her wrist to stop her.
“I’m not going to live with some random person from the internet! Do you want me to get murdered?” He shrieked, incredulous.
“Well, we have to figure something out!”
“This is it. The end of my life.” Yuuji collapsed against her bed, burying his face in a pillow. “Junpei will get tired of me sleeping on his couch and kick me out. I’m going to become homeless and probably get beat up by another homeless person for accidentally camping on their turf or something–”
“Stop spiraling.” Nobara slapped his shoulder with the back of her hand. “We still have a month before you’re meant to move in. We can find someone in that time!”
Yuuji laid there, unmoving. This is the worst day of his life.
“Junpei, this is the worst day of my life,” Yuuji complained, leaning against the counter.
“Right…” Junpei looked over from where he was stacking cups. “So are you going to clean those counters anytime soon?”
Yuuji sighed heavily. “You’re so heartless, Junpei! Don’t you understand that I’m suffering?” He whined, still leaning his head against the counter. “I went to Target and met the love of my life, who was gorgeous by the way, seriously, he looked straight out of a painting, then I totally ruined it by being an awkward, embarrassing idiot! And then Nobara tells me I have to find a new roommate! And to top it all off, I have to work the night shift! When do I ever work the night shift!? This was supposed to be my day off!”
“You could have just told Ozawa you didn’t want to take her shift.” Junpei raised a brow. Yuuji sighed again.
“Come on, man. I’m not heartless. She had a family emergency!”
“Everyone says they have a ‘family emergency’ when they don’t want to come to work.” He deadpanned.
Yuuji scoffed. “Well, I choose to believe people are honest and good, unlike you.”
“It’s not that I don’t think people are good, I just have realistic expectations.” Junpei asserted. Yuuji watched with a frown as Junpei removed the trash bag from the garbage can.
“Well, you–”
Whatever retort Yuuji had died on his tongue when their bell chimed, signaling that someone had entered the building.
“Welcome!” Junpei called over his shoulder. Yuuji looked over, and–
Oh, no.
It’s him! Fushiguro!
Panicking, Yuuji swiftly crouched down, dropping like a rock to hide behind the counter.
Fushiguro was looking down at his phone, so he hadn’t noticed Yuuji. He’s safe.
Though he kind of wished he could see those eyes Fushiguro has…
“What the hell are you doing?” Junpei tilted his head down at Yuuji, brows furrowed.
Yuuji peered over the counter quickly before crouching back down. “That’s him!” He shrieked quietly.
“Him?”
“The guy!”
Junpei continued to look down at him with a frown, perplexed.
Yuuji tousled a rough hand through his already messy hair. “The Target guy!”
Understanding washed over Junpei’s face, his features relaxing to a more neutral state. “Oh. Well, I’m taking the trash out, so you’ve got to deal with this on your own.” Junpei shrugged and walked off.
“Junpei, no!” He tried to grab onto the other boy’s ankle before he left, but Yuuji wasn’t fast enough. Great.
Well. His gramps didn’t raise a coward.
Yuuji straightened himself out, dusting off his apron.
“Hi, how can I help you today?” Yuuji asked with the most customer-service-ish voice he could manage.
Fushiguro looked up from his phone, eyebrows raising in surprise. “Oh. It’s you.”
“Yep,” Yuuji replied, popping the ‘p’. “It’s me.” He grinned. This is fine. Here, Fushiguro is just another customer. Yuuji could handle this.
“How’s your hand?” Fushiguro asked, pocketing his phone.
“All good!” Yuuji held it up, still wearing the bandage from before. “Doesn’t even hurt anymore.”
Fushiguro nodded. “That’s good, then.” He paused, eyes drifting around Yuuji's form. “I didn’t know you worked here. I come in a lot.”
That would make sense. The Target Fushiguro works at is in the same parking lot as this café, though Yuuji had never seen him before today.
Yuuji chuckled. “Yeah, I don’t usually work the night shift, so that’s probably why.”
Fushiguro hummed. His gaze lingered on Yuuji’s face, like he was lost in thought. Yuuji flushed slightly under the attention.
Fushiguro looked kind of different at night. Almost cooler, in a way. The moonlight filtered in through the windows, illuminating his pale skin. He reminded Yuuji of a porcelain doll, with his perfect skin and pretty face.
“Is that your natural hair color?” Fushiguro suddenly asked.
Yuuji blinked in surprise. “What?”
Fushiguro’s eyes widened suddenly, as if he had just realized what he said. His cheeks became dusted with a bright pink, and he frowned, embarrassed. “Nothing, sorry. Forget I said that.” He cleared his throat. “Can I just get a black coffee?”
Wow. Fushiguro was staring at him, and then he started blushing! Yuuji didn't want to get his hopes up too high, though. Fushiguro was probably just embarrassed, not attracted to him. He was likely just curious about his hair and couldn’t help but ask. Yuuji does get questioned about his hair a lot. Pink hair isn’t something you normally see. Nobara had asked the same thing the day they met, too.
Yuuji swallowed, looking down at the tablet in front of him. “Yeah, of course. No sugar or anything?”
“No thanks.”
Yuuji looked back up at him, incredulous. “Really? Are you okay?”
Fushiguro frowned, the color on his cheeks darkening. “Whatever. Not everyone needs a bunch of sugar to enjoy a drink.”
Yuuji shrugged. “I guess so. Whatever you want, dude.” He tapped on the tablet, adding the drink to his order. “Is that all?”
Fushiguro nodded, handing over his card.
“O-kay,” Yuuji intoned, swiping it through the reader. He handed it back to Fushiguro with a smile. “It is natural, by the way.”
Fushiguro’s hand faltered before it reached his card. “What?”
“My hair. It’s natural.”
Fushiguro regained his movement, grabbing his card and slipping it back into his wallet. Their fingers brushed slightly, sending an electric shock through Yuuji’s body.
Fushiguro looked at Yuuji with a raised brow. “Really?” He asked, disbelieving.
Yuuji laughed. “Mhm! I get asked that a lot, but it’s true.”
Fushiguro shrank in on himself, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to ask. You’re probably tired of that question by now.”
Yuuji waved him off. “Nah, it’s fine. I love to talk, so I don’t mind!”
“Right. Okay, then…” Fushiguro nodded slowly. Yuuji gave another smile before stepping away to make his drink.
This actually wasn't going so bad. Yuuji didn't feel nervous at all anymore! He must find it easier to interact since he’s at work, a familiar environment.
Junpei returned just as Yuuji was finishing Fushiguro’s drink. In a last-minute decision, Yuuji wrote his name and phone number on the cup. He gave the drink to Junpei so he could hand it off, then rushed to the back room. He wasn't sure if he wanted to see Fushiguro’s reaction or not.
Yuuji is sure of one thing, though: He should start working nights more often.
Fushiguro texted him the next morning. Yuuji shrieked from Junpei’s couch when he received the notification, so loud that he scared poor Panda and sent him running off his lap.
xxx-xxx-xxxx
Hi, this is Fushiguro. Itadori?
Yep! Hi!! How are u?
Fushiguro
I’m fine. How is your hand doing?
Yuuji smiled down at his phone like a boy-crazed teenage girl, kicking his feet in the air behind him.
'Fushiguro is worried about me.'
It’s fine! The cut wasn’t that bad
Fushiguro
Did you change the bandage? It can get infected if
you leave the same one on
I know that much! I did change it (￣^￣)ゞ
Fushiguro
Alright.
Fushiguro
Do you work today?
Yeah ( ; ω ; ) from 10-6
What about u??
Yuuji watched anxiously, biting the inside of his cheek as Fushiguro’s text bubble appeared and disappeared. Over and over.
He needed to get up and dress for work soon, but he wanted to keep texting Fushiguro!
Yuuji groaned when five minutes went by with no response. He stood from the couch and began pacing around the living room, his phone still tightly gripped in his hand.
Why didn’t he reply? Does he think I’m weird? Did asking about work remind him how embarrassing I was, coming into his job and breaking their merchandise?
Yuuji nibbled on his nails nervously. Panda trailed behind him as he paced, walking at his ankles and whining quietly.
“What’s wrong with you?” Junpei asked tiredly, approaching from the hallway.
Yuuji paused, looking up at him.
“I–” Suddenly, his phone vibrated in his hand. Yuuji shrieked gleefully and tossed himself back onto the couch, excitedly opening his messages.
“You’re something else…” Junpei mumbled, walking past Yuuji toward the kitchen. Yuuji ignored him, too entranced by the words on his phone.
Fushiguro
I'm not scheduled today. Do you want to get something to eat after your shift?
Fushiguro
I have nothing to do today.
Yuuji grinned at his screen hard enough to make his face hurt. He nearly threw his phone across the room in excitement, but restrained himself. He didn't want to scare Panda again. Also, he really can’t afford to buy a new phone right now if it breaks.
I’d love to!!
Where at?
Fushiguro
There’s a ramen place near your cafe. I’ve gone a few
times, it’s pretty good.
Awesome! I love ramen♨o(>_<)o♨
Fushiguro
That’s good. See you at six.
See u!!
Yuuji spent a few minutes excitedly rolling around on the couch before Junpei forced him up to get ready for work.
This is the best day of his life.
“I can’t believe he asked you out,” Junpei drawled, mildly annoyed. “He didn’t even say it was a date and you’ve been distracted by it all day. You’ve messed up multiple orders, Yuuji. I’m saying this as your friend, not trying to be mean, but this is embarrassing.”
Yuuji waved him off, grin still beaming on his face. “Yeah, but you’re here to fix my mistakes!”
He slowly wiped off the counter where he spilled espresso, smiling down at it. He was on cloud nine. Not even Junpei’s attitude could bring him down now.
“Your face will get stuck that way.” Junpei took the cloth from him, wiping up the remainder of his mess.
“What’s wrong with that? I’ve been told my smile is charming!”
“Charming to whom?” Junpei turned away, tossing the dirtied cloth into the sink.
“Fushiguro, apparently.” Yuuji sighed happily, thinking back to Fushiguro’s texts for the thousandth time that day.
“Is it almost six yet? I can not take much more of this…” Junpei grumbled, checking the time. Yuuji only smiled harder.
“You know what? It’s only ten minutes till six. You can just leave early, Yuuji.”
“Really?” Yuuji turned to Junpei, enthusiastic.
“Yeah, go ahead.”
“Thanks, Junpei! You’re the best!” Yuuji gave him a tight hug before rushing off to the back of the café.
He quickly gathered his belongings from his locker and practically skipped out the back door. Fushiguro was already there waiting for him, leaning against the brick wall of the alley.
“Fushiguro, hey!” Yuuji gave a toothy smile, waving.
Fushiguro looked up from his phone, lips quirking into a half smile. Yuuji wants to see what his real smile looks like. Wants to see when he’s smiling hard enough that his eyes crinkle, and he can’t suppress it. He bets it’s beautiful. Everything about Fushiguro is beautiful.
“Hi. You’re out early.”
“You’re here early.” Yuuji countered, still smiling.
Fushiguro hummed. “True.”
The walk to the ramen shop is short. Yuuji spent it rambling to Fushiguro about his day, telling him about all the strange customers he encountered, up to Junpei letting him leave early. Fushiguro still had a small smile, nodding along and letting Yuuji talk.
The shop is small, likely a family-owned business. There was nobody inside but Yuuji and Fushiguro, which he was kind of grateful for. Now he didn't have to worry about talking too loudly and disturbing others! Yuuji can struggle with managing his volume in public sometimes. Especially when he’s excited.
They sat in a booth next to the only window of the building, under a dim overhead light. Some old music quietly hummed in the background. Yuuji doesn’t recognize the song, but the sound of it reminds him of the vinyls his grandfather used to play.
Yuuji sat across from Fushiguro, his leg bouncing against the red leather of the seat, nervous and excited all at once.
“This place is super cool, Fushiguro!” Yuuji’s eyes wandered around the shop, warm lighting and vintage decor, before landing back on Fushiguro’s, deep and green.
“Yeah.” He nodded in agreement. “Not a lot of people come here, so I like it.”
“Empty places usually make me kind of anxious, but it’s pretty relaxing here! It’s probably because I’m with you.” Yuuji grinned, nudging Fushiguro’s ankle with his foot.
“Smooth talker…”
Fushiguro muttered it under his breath like an insult, a flush creeping up his neck. Yuuji grinned harder.
Fushiguro acted all cool and collected on the outside, but Yuuji was slowly learning that the boy was actually pretty easy to crack open. He just had to say the right things.
He really wanted to see him smile, to make him laugh.
'Fushiguro’s laugh,' he thought dreamily, ' I can’t wait to hear it.'
“Do you like animals, Fushiguro?” Yuuji asked, noticing the small keychain on his bag. It’s a black dog, sitting with its tongue out and a red marking on its forehead. Yuuji almost giggled, but held back because he didn’t want to embarrass Fushiguro, even though his reaction would probably be pretty cute. It’s just funny to think that a serious guy like Fushiguro walked around with something as cute as a dog keychain.
Fushiguro glanced down at his bag, seeming a little embarrassed. “Yeah, I have two dogs. And I’m going to go to school to be a vet.”
“Aw! I have a dog too. His name is Panda, he’s super tiny and cute,” Yuuji pulled out his phone to find a picture. “Also, a vet? That’s super cool!”
Fushiguro glanced away, staring pointedly out the window. “It’s not anything special.” He mumbled.
“Well, I think it’s awesome,” Yuuji told him. “Oh, here! Look!” He found a picture of Panda, shoving his phone towards Fushiguro’s face. Fushiguro leaned forward on his elbows against the wooden table, getting a closer look.
“A pomeranian? He’s cute. Very fitting for you.” Fushiguro nodded, leaning back into his seat.
“How so?” Yuuji asked, pocketing his phone.
“Well, they’re known for being very active and energetic, right?”
Yuuji laughed. “Yeah, I guess they are.”
Fushiguro hummed, eyes flicking across Yuuji’s face. “So, what about you? What career do you want?”
Yuuji sighed thoughtfully. “Well, as a kid, I wasn’t really sure. I never had, like, a dream career or anything,” He began. Really, when he was younger, all he wanted to do was read manga and play in the mud outside. He’d never had big dreams or aspirations. “I spent some time after high school just working, but I didn’t feel fulfilled. My grandpa always told me to help the people I can, so I decided to try and do more with my life.” Yuuji smiled at the memory of his grandfather. He has him to thank for the motivation to actually try in life. “I’m in training now to be a fire-fighter.”
“That’s admirable, Itadori,” Fushiguro said genuinely. “That’s hard work. It’s noble of you to want to save people.”
Yuuji smiled sheepishly, a bit embarrassed by Fushiguro's praise. “Nah, you’re the noble one. You’re gonna save a bunch of animal lives!”
Fushiguro smiled a little harder at that. Yuuji relished in it.
They texted a lot. And when Yuuji says a lot, he means it.
He was actually in the midst of sending Fushiguro (who he recently learned has the first name Megumi. How cute is that?) a good morning text when he ran into him.
Yuuji went out for a run most mornings. The trail by Junpei’s house was nice, lots of pretty greenery to see and cute puppies to pet. It couldn't get any better than that.
Except it could, because now Fushiguro was here. Yuuji was now somehow feeling thankful that Panda peed on the carpet that morning, because then he had to clean it, which delayed his morning run. He was a little annoyed to leave later than usual, but it's all forgotten now that he’s looking into Fushiguro’s eyes, so gorgeous and mirroring the scenery around them.
“Fushiguro!”
“Itadori?” Fushiguro looked at him, brows raised in slight shock.
“Hey! I didn’t know you lived around here.” Yuuji jogged over, a bright smile on his face.
“Yeah… I didn’t know you did, either.”
“I don’t, really. I’m just staying with my friend until I can move into my apartment.” Yuuji crouched down in front of Fushiguro to pet the two dogs with him. They were pretty big, as tall as Yuuji when he’s crouching, with one being black and the other white. They tilted their heads at him curiously. “Your dogs are so cute, Fushiguro! What are their names?” Yuuji scritched at their heads, giggling when the white one licked a stripe against his cheek.
“That one’s Kuro, and that one’s Shiro.” Fushiguro pointed to them. Yuuji laughed at the simple names. That’s so Fushiguro, to name his dogs simply based on the color of their fur. “Where’s Panda?”
Yuuji gave the dogs one last head pat and stood to talk with Fushiguro. “He’s in time-out for peeing on Junpei’s carpet.” He said mournfully, pouting. Fushiguro chuckled lightly.
Yuuji beamed. He laughed! Kind of!
Whatever, he’s counting it. Yuuji got Fushiguro to laugh! He's seriously thinking of giving Panda a treat when he gets home. He’d clean up pee a million times over just to hear Fushiguro laugh again.
That was a bit crazy, wasn't it?
Well, Yuuji’s always been told he’s got a screw or two loose, anyway.
He grinned when Fushiguro offered for Yuuji to walk with him. As if he’d ever say no to more time with Fushiguro.
“So, how’s school going?” Yuuji asked him. Their hands brushed as they walked, the small contact warming Yuuji in the cool morning air. He might have been doing it on purpose, but Fushiguro didn’t need to know that.
“It’s alright, I guess. A bit stressful since finals are coming up. I’m just ready for winter break.” Fushiguro sighed.
“Yeah?” Yuuji smiled, flashing his teeth. “What’re you gonna do over the break?”
Fushiguro looked up at the sky in thought, squinting at the sunlight shining through the gaps of the trees.
“I’m not completely sure. My sister is coming to visit, so I’ll spend some time with her.”
“Oh? Does she live far away?”
“Yeah. She goes to college overseas.” Fushiguro said. He looked pretty proud about it, which made Yuuji smile.
“Woah! That’s super cool! Your whole family must be really smart!” Yuuji replied, voice filled with awe.
“You’re too easily impressed.” Fushiguro brushed him off, but Yuuji didn't miss the way the tips of his ears turned pink. “Do you have any siblings?” Fushiguro asked, diverting the topic from himself.
“Nope! I’m an only child. I always wanted an older brother, though.”
“Really?” Fushiguro looked surprised. “I thought you would’ve had at least one.”
“Huh, really? Do I seem like the type to have a bunch of siblings?”
“Kind of. You’re really… outgoing. I just assumed you did a lot of socializing growing up.”
Yuuji hummed, “I guess I did?” He brought a finger to his chin in thought. “I mean, kind of. The neighborhood I grew up in was pretty small, but we were all close because of that. I’d play with the neighborhood kids a lot.” He shrugged. “I dunno. I’ve always just been pretty good with people, yet I haven’t ever had many close friends. I really just have Nobara and Junpei.”
“Huh,” Fushiguro said thoughtfully. “I kinda understand. I’ve never really had any close friends either. There weren’t many kids my age in the apartment I grew up in.” He sighed. “I was never good at socializing, though. I think I can be pretty hard to talk to.”
“I don’t find it hard to talk to you,” Yuuji said honestly. “I think you’re better at it than you think.” He offered a genuine smile. Fushiguro shrugged and looked away.
“Thanks.” He mumbled.
Yeah, Yuuji really liked Fushiguro.
Yuuji stood outside Target’s automatic doors, trying to hype himself up.
‘It’s just coffee,’ he told himself. There was nothing wrong with bringing a friend coffee on his lunch break. This was normal. Fushiguro wouldn't know how desperately hard Yuuji was crushing from one cup of coffee.
Black coffee, because Yuuji remembered.
He took one more deep breath, then put on his brave face. He had to awkwardly shuffle back and forth to get the doors to activate, but once they did, he marched in, a man on a mission.
He weaved through the aisles, smiling when he finally found him. Fushiguro is crouched by a shelf, reorganizing whatever products decorate it.
He glanced over for a second, noticing someone had entered the aisle, before returning to his task. Then, Fushiguro did a quick double-take, recognizing Yuuji. He pushed himself to his feet, straightening up.
“Itadori? What’re you doing here?”
Yuuji offered up the cup. “Brought you some coffee. You said you were tired earlier, so…” He trailed off. Fushiguro’s eyes widened slightly in shock.
It's true. When they texted earlier that morning, Fushiguro had said he didn't get enough sleep last night. He stayed up late studying for one of his finals.
“That’s… thanks. You didn’t have to do that.” Fushiguro gingerly took the cup from Yuuji’s hands.
“It’s fine. I was going to come by to get something for lunch, anyway.” He shrugged, lying. Yuuji is allowed a free food item from the café every shift.
“Still, though. Thanks.”
Yuuji smiled, a bit shy. “‘Course. Don’t mention it.”
“Hm.” Fushiguro paused, thinking for a moment. Then, he walked past Yuuji, patting his shoulder. “Come with me. I’ll buy your food.”
Yuuji jogged to catch up, a huge grin spreading across his face. His shoulder warmed pleasantly from the contact.
Yuuji wasn't sure who this guy was, but he's kind of creeping him out. He’s all for friendly conversation with customers, but this was going a bit overboard. The guy hadn't even ordered yet, and he's been here for ten minutes! Yuuji couldn’t say anything about it because he’s the only customer in the building, so it’s not like he was holding up the line.
“What’s your mother’s maiden name?” He asked. Yuuji wrinkled his nose, confused. Why did he need to know all this stuff? He’d also asked Yuuji's full name, his age, where he goes to school, what he goes to school for, where he'd grown up—
It was getting a bit much.
“I’m not sure? I don’t know much about my mom.”
“She abandon you or somethin’?”
Yuuji froze, shocked by the blunt question. “Um, no. She died shortly after I was born.”
The man peered down at him from over his sunglasses, revealing a pair of piercing blue eyes.
Who wears sunglasses inside?
“Ah, well. Sorry for that. What about your dad?”
“Also dead. Are you going to order anything, or…?” Yuuji glanced between the menu and the man before him. Junpei hovered a few feet away.
“Oh, yes!” The man brightened, clapping his hands together. “I’ll take a caramel frappuccino…” Yuuji typed it into the tablet swiftly, ready to be done with this interaction. “And a black coffee.”
“Just plain?”
“Yep,” He nodded, expression pensive. “He’s weird like that. Seriously, who doesn’t add at least a little cream or something? It should be a crime!”
“Okay…” Yuuji replied slowly, eyebrows drawn together in confusion. Really, he’s been confused this entire interaction.
Junpei made the drinks quickly, wanting this guy out just as much as Yuuji.
They both watched, bewildered, as the man took his drinks and strode out of the café, humming happily.
“What a weirdo.”
Yuuji couldn’t help but nod in agreement.
“How was your shift?” Fushiguro asked.
Yuuji had caught him going into work just as he was leaving the café, so he offered to walk him the rest of the way.
“Alright. There was a weird guy that came in towards the end, though. He kept asking me a bunch of personal questions.”
“Really? Like what?” The automatic doors slid open, allowing them to step inside.
“I dunno.” Yuuji shrugged. “Stuff about–”
“Megumi!” A shrill voice interrupted him, ringing in his ears. Yuuji jumped slightly at the sudden interruption.
Fushiugro, on the other hand, just groaned and rolled his eyes. Like he was used to it.
A man with white hair and… sunglasses came into view. In his hand, he held a coffee cup. From Yuuji's café.
“You!” Yuuji exclaimed, pointing at him with an accusatory finger.
“You know him?” Fushiguro glanced between them, confused.
“Yes– No–”
“We met a bit earlier. I was just asking a few simple questions, you know? I need to make sure my Megumi is safe!” The man said innocently. His nametag read ‘Gojo, Store Manager’.
“You asked my mother’s maiden name!” Yuuji sputtered, astounded.
“Seriously, Satoru?” Fushiguro ran a hand down his face in irritation, turning to Yuuji. “I apologize for him, Itadori. Just ignore him, he’s not all right in the head.”
“Megumi! That’s so rude!” Gojo gasped, holding a hand over his heart in pain.
“Um, okay then…” Yuuji replied, unsure. “But why did your manager, like, shovel-talk me, Fushiguro? Isn’t that weird?” He asked. Yuuji didn't get why Fushiguro wasn't more concerned about this.
“He’s my son!” Gojo grinned, sharp and cat-like.
“What?”
“No, I’m not .” Fushiguro hissed, glaring at Gojo.
“Megumi! Don’t be coy! You hurt my feelings…” Gojo sighed, wiping at a fake tear.
“So you’re like… a Target nepo baby?” Yuuji tilted his head at Fushiguro.
“Wha- No. He’s not my dad!” He insisted. Yuuji is confused, but also, he’d never seen Fushiguro act like this before. He kind of totally looked really cute when he was frustrated. “He just, like… took me and my sister in and paid for our expenses and stuff.”
“So… he raised you?”
“I guess.” Fushiguro looked like it hurt him to admit.
“So he’s your dad?” The question startled a laugh out of Gojo, though Yuuji wasn’t trying to be funny. He was genuinely confused!
“No!” Fushiguro scowled.
“Okay, okay,” Yuuji held up his hands in surrender. “Not your dad. Got it.”
“Ah, we’re only teasing you, Megumi. Don’t get too worked up.” Gojo ruffled his hair fondly.
Yuuji began a protest, because he wasn’t teasing Megumi, “Actually—”
“Yuuji! Great to finally meet you!” Gojo flashed a smile, slinging an arm around his shoulders.
“We met earlier, though?”
“Semantics,” Gojo waved a dismissive hand. “Sorry if I scared ya, I’m just looking out for Megumi! Had to make sure he wasn’t dating a bad guy. You know how it is.”
“Um.” Yuuji flushed from head to toe. Dating?
“Satoru,” Fushiguro warned, voice lethal. “Get off of him.”
“Alright, fine. I’ve got work to do, anyway,” Gojo surrendered. “Don’t have too much fun without me!” He called over his shoulder, prancing off.
“Sorry again about him.” Fushiguro sighed.
Yuuji waved him off. “Nah, it’s fine. He’s… obnoxious, but not bad. I can tell he just cares. Honestly, he seems kinda cool. A little intimidating though!” He laughed, nudging Fushiguro’s shoulder with his own.
“Don’t ever tell him that. His ego is already way too high.”
Yuuji chuckled again, raising a hand to his forehead in a little fake salute. “Yes, sir.”
“Stop that.” Fushiguro swatted his shoulder, though there was a faint smile on his lips. Yuuji smiled back.
“Alright, then.” He sighed reluctantly. “I guess I’ll let you go to work now. Though I’m not sure if your manager even cares.”
“He really doesn’t.” Fushiguro agreed.
“Nepo baby.” Yuuji singsonged, teasing.
“Don’t call me that.” He rolled his eyes. “I’ll talk to you later, Itadori.”
“Okay. See you!” Yuuji waved.
As he watched the other boy walk off, Yuuji realized something.
Fushiguro didn’t say any denials about them dating.
Yuuji wanted to take Fushiguro out somewhere.
He’d been complaining about it to Junpei all day.
“I just don’t know where! I want it to be perfect!” He groaned, leaning against the café’s counter. Junpei looked down at him, impassive.
“You’re being dramatic. You guys are both sick for each other, I guarantee he won’t care where you go.”
Yuji folded his arms on the counter, burying his face. He groaned again.
He wants it to be perfect! Amazing! Show-stopping! He’ll amaze Fushiguro with an amazing location and super cool activities, and then while he’s busy being awe-struck… bam! Yuuji will swoop in, kiss him, ask him to be his boyfriend, and they’ll skip off into the sunset, living happily ever after.
But he can’t do that if he doesn’t have anything to wow Fushiguro with! All Yuuji has right now are his charms, and he's not sure if that's enough.
Junpei sighed, probably rolling his eyes, and swept his broom around Yuuji’s limp form.
“I’m telling you, Yuuji. Just be yourself.”
“Just myself isn’t going to amaze Fushiguro.” He mumbled.
Junpei scoffed. “You’re delusional if you really believe that.”
Yuuji didn’t bother replying.
“How’s the search for a roommate going?” Nobara asked, flopping next to him on Junpei’s couch.
“I… haven’t really been looking.” Yuuji admitted, glancing away sheepishly.
“What!?” Nobara tugged on his arm, forcing him to look at her. “But you’re supposed to move into the apartment next week!” She shook him.
“‘I know, okay?” Yuuji pulled his arm away. “I’ve been preoccupied with Fushiguro!”
Nobara sighed, exasperated, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Right. And how is that going?”
“It’s… I want to ask him to be my boyfriend, but I don’t know how.” He sighed, collapsing against the couch cushions.
“Just ask him,” Nobara said, like it’s the simplest thing in the world.
“Wow, thanks for your amazing advice, Nobara.” He deadpanned. “I can’t ‘just ask him’! It has to be perfect!”
“Yuuji, I seriously don’t think he’s going to care or want some big event. Just be yourself.”
“That’s what I said.” Junpei chimed in from the kitchen.
Nobara looked to Yuuji, a brow raised. “See?”
“Come on! I just want to do something cool!” He whined. “I need somewhere nice to bring him! Let me have this!”
“Okay, geez.” Nobara sighed. “Though, I still think you should be focusing on finding a roommate.”
“Don’t you think my happiness is more important?” Yuuji looked up at her with pleading eyes. She only wrinkled her nose in disgust.
“You know that look doesn’t work on me.”
He scoffed, pouting. “Whatever. It works on Junpei, though.”
“No, it doesn’t. Not anymore, anyway.” Junpei nudged Yuuji to move over, plopping next to him on the couch.
Yuuji sat between Nobara and Junpei, pouting with his arms crossed. “My friends hate me. I can’t believe this is my life.”
“I didn’t say I wouldn’t help you. Here,” Junpei held out a paper. Yuuji took it from him curiously.
“What is this?”
“A flyer. A girl came in after you went home, asking if she could put them on our windows. It’s some festival.”
“Hm.” Yuuji scanned it over. It looked like there would be food and fireworks, which were the two most important things, in his opinion. “This is actually kind of perfect. Do you think he’ll like it?” Yuuji glanced between his friends.
“Yuuji, I swear. Just do it.” Nobara kicked him.
“Ow! Don’t hit me!”
“I’m trying to knock some sense into you!”
“Violence aside, she’s right, Yuuji. Just invite him.”
Yuuji rubbed the sore spot from where Nobara kicked him, considering. It did seem like a good idea. Festivals were always cool, and there was tons of stuff to do. Plus, he might get a chance to kiss Fushiguro under the fireworks…
Yeah, that sounded pretty nice. Yuuji smiled, clutching the flyer in his hands with excitement.
“I think I will.”
Fushiguroooo!
You dont work tmrw right??
Fushiguro
No, I don’t. Why?
*image*
Want to go with me?
I think it’ll be really fun! (o^▽^o)
Fushiguro
Sure.
Fushiguro
Sounds fun
“Woah, Fushiguro, look!” Yuuji exclaimed excitedly, rushing off from Fushiguro’s side. He weaved through the people, running under the lanterns and brightly-colored festival decor.
“Itadori, wait!” Fushiguro ran after him, trying not to lose the other in the crowd.
He was out of breath by the time he caught up, panting. “Don’t just run off. There are a lot of people here.” Fushiguro glanced around, placing a hand on Yuuji’s shoulder.
“Sorry.” Yuuji smiled, sheepish. “But, look! Cat-shaped dango!” He pointed up at the food stand he’d led them to.
Fushiguro nodded in appreciation. “I’ll get some. We can eat it during the fireworks. It’s supposed to start soon, right?” He pulled out his wallet.
“Aw, come on. You don’t need to pay!” Yuuji protested. He dragged Fushiguro here in the first place. Yuuji was supposed to be the romantic one, buying him food. Not the other way around!
“It’s fine, I don’t mind.” Fushiguro brushed him off, already handing a few bills to the cashier. Yuuji huffed, but couldn't fight the pleasant feeling arising in his chest. Fushiguro was a lot kinder than he made himself out to be.
Yuuji grabbed the dango, and in a split-second decision, also grabbed onto Fushiguro’s hand. The other seemed surprised, but Yuuji managed to act casual about it. “So we don’t get lost in the crowd.” He shrugged, interlacing their fingers.
Fushiguro nodded after a moment, slow but certain. He tightened his hold on Yuuji, his hand cool against Yuuji’s warm one, their fingers slotting perfectly together. Yuuji never wants to let go.
He pulled Fushiguro along through the crowd, eventually making their way to a quieter area. They held hands the entire way, even when they broke through the crowd, hardly anyone left around.
“This seems like a good spot.” Yuuji decided, stopping at the edge of a grassy hill. They’ll get a good view of the fireworks from here for sure, and there weren't many people around!
'Perfect for an intimate moment,' Yuuji thought.
Fushiguro nodded in agreement. Sadly, he let go of Yuuji’s hand to lay out the blanket they’d brought. He tried not to feel too disappointed about it.
Yuuji sat next to Fushiguro, placing the container of dango between them. He carefully picked one stick for himself and held the other up for Fushiguro to take.
“It’s so cute. I kinda don’t wanna eat it.” Yuuji said, staring into the dango-cats' beady eyes. Fushiguro chuckled beside him, which brought a happy hum to Yuuji’s heart. He loved it when Fushiguro laughed.
Yuuji cleared his throat. “So, uh, how’ve you been?” He tried to ask smoothly, but his voice cracked at the end. He cringes.
“Good.” Fushiguro chewed on a bite of the dango thoughtfully. “I’ve been thinking of moving out soon. It’s about time I become independent from Gojo’s annoying ass.” He said bluntly. Yuuji laughed, loud and bright. Fushiguro always acted so disdainful of Gojo, but Yuuji could tell that under the annoyed front he puts up, he’s actually quite fond of the man. Fushiguro wasn't so hard to figure out once you got close.
A firework went off in the background. Fushiguro looked up to watch it.
Yuuji didn't.
He stared at Fushiguro's face, watching how the colorful sparks lit up his skin, his green eyes shining in the night. Anticipation buzzed in Yuuji's blood, spreading all throughout his body like a medication. All the emotions he was feeling were mixing, flowing right to his heart, leaving him feeling light and fuzzy.
“Have you thought about where you’re gonna go?” Yuuji asked purposefully.
Fushiguro hummed. “Not really. I’ve got to find a place that isn’t too expensive, though. I don’t have much saved up.”
Yuuji swallowed, becoming more nervous by the second. He wasn't sure if he could muster the courage to straight up ask Fushiguro out. “Well… I might know a place.” He fidgeted with his hands. Fushiguro glanced down from the sky, viridian meeting honey-brown. Stars and constellations reflect in Fushiguro's eyes, disturbed by the colorful shine of fireworks.
“Oh?” He raised a brow. Another firework illuminated the sky, creating shadows over Fushiguro’s features. His lashes fluttered underneath the colorful light, long enough to brush his cheekbones. He looks beautiful. Yuuji wants to kiss him.
“Yeah, I’ve uh…” He cleared his throat nervously, looking down at his fidgeting hands. “I’m in pretty dire need of a roommate.”
A firework went off as he said it. Fushiguro didn’t reply immediately. Yuuji wasn't even sure if he heard him, and he didn’t know if he could bring himself to repeat it.
“Yuuji,” Fushiguro said carefully. His pulse quickened at the use of his given name.
He peeked back up at Fushiguro, who was looking at him with an expression Yuuji couldn’t quite read. “...Yes?”
“Are you asking me to move in with you?”
Nerves fluttered in Yuuji’s stomach, like butterflies trapped in a cage.
“Maybe?”
“Maybe?” Fushiguro echoed.
“Okay, fine. Yes.” Yuuji looked down at his lap. “I think I maybe totally really like you, Megumi.” He forced out in a mumble.
Another firework. Yuuji couldn't tell if it was in his chest or the sky, because suddenly Fushiguro was cupping Yuuji’s jaw, forcing him to meet his eyes.
“If you’re going to confess to someone, at least look them in the eyes when you do it.” He said, then leaned in and kissed Yuuji on the lips. The butterflies in his stomach exploded, spreading warmth through his whole body. Fushiguro slid his hand from Yuuji’s jaw to the back of his head, fingers tangling in the short hair of his undercut. He used the newfound grip to tug Yuuji closer.
Yuuji reciprocated with all the enthusiasm, slotting his lips against Fushiguro’s, soft and warm. He brought his hands to rest on Fushiguro's shoulders, pushing closer. Fushiguro tasted like vanilla lip balm and cat-shaped dango. It was awesome.
Unfortunately, they had to breathe at some point. Yuuji giggled when they pulled apart, breathless and giddy.
“You’re a pretty good kisser, Fushiguro.”
“Megumi.” He corrected.
“Right, Megumi.” Yuuji nodded, a dopey smile on his face. “Then I’m Yuuji to you, now.”
“Okay, then.” Megumi brought his hand down from Yuuji’s hair, interlacing their fingers. “Yuuji, do you want to be my boyfriend?”
Yuuji laughed and slumped forward, leaning his forehead against Megumi’s shoulder. “I was supposed to ask that. You totally stole my thunder.”
Megumi hummed, bringing his free hand to thread gently through Yuuji’s hair. “Guess I beat you to it.”
Yuuji leaned back to look at Megumi’s face, still smiling. Megumi’s cheeks were flushed a pretty cherry red, and his lips kiss-swollen, less shiny now that Yuuji’s kissed all his lip balm away. “I guess you did.” He leaned in for another kiss, but Megumi pulled back. Yuuji’s pouted, confused by the rejection.
“Hey, you didn’t answer me yet.” Megumi put a hand on his chest to keep him from moving closer.
“What?” Yuuji tried to push closer again, eager to continue kissing Fushiguro. It had felt pretty good, amazing actually, he didn't want to stop!
Megumi looked down at him pointedly.
Oh. Yuuji suddenly understood.
“Oh. Right.” Yuuji grinned. “Yes, Megumi. Let’s be boyfriends.”
Megumi nodded, slowly removing his hand from Yuuji’s chest. His smile was just as bright as Yuuji’s. He wasn’t even trying to suppress it.
Yuuji wasted no time, diving right back in to kiss Megumi’s gorgeous smile.
“I told you so,” Nobara smirked, handing Yuuji the last box from her car.
She and Junpei were nice enough to lend their cars, moving Yuuji and Megumi's belongings to the new apartment. Yuuji thinks that Junpei was only so eager to help because he was glad to finally get him and Panda off his couch.
Speaking of, he should probably go up to help Megumi. He hopes Panda is being kind to Kuro and Shiro…
“Hello?” Nobara snapped her fingers in front of his face. He flinched back, blinking in surprise.
She sighed, exasperated. “God, you’re hopeless. Just take the damn box and go up to your love nest before I get sick.”
Yuuji stuck his tongue out at her. “You’re just jealous you don’t get to live with me. You really need to find a new job.”
“Shut up! You know I’m looking!” She kicked his ankle, nearly causing him to drop the box.
“Ow! Stop kicking me all the time!”
“Well, stop making me want to kick you all the time!” She retorted.
“Whatever. I’m going to go up into my nice new apartment with my awesome boyfriend, and you can go back to your dorm where you’re lonely and single.”
Nobara flipped him off as she got into her car. Yuuji laughed about it, watching her drive away. He knew she wasn’t actually mad. He'd seen her smiling through the window.
He giggled to himself, climbing up the stairs of his new apartment.
“Megumi!” He sang, kicking the door closed behind him. He placed the box in a pile with the others and traversed further into the apartment, wandering down the hallway.
He found Megumi crouched in the kitchen, offering Panda a treat. Kuro and Shiro slept behind the pomeranian.
“Were they okay?” Yuuji asked, crouching down next to Megumi.
He nodded. “Yeah. Better than I expected, actually. They get along.”
Yuuji smiled, pressing a quick kiss to Megumi’s temple. “It’s ‘cause they’ve got you as their peacekeeper. You’re like an animal whisperer, Mr. Vet.”
“Shut up,” Megumi replied, fighting back a grin.
Yuuji gave another kiss, the corner of his mouth this time, then sighed and stood reluctantly. He stretched his arms over his head, a few joints popping. “We should start unpacking while we’ve still got daylight.”
Megumi pushed himself up, giving Panda a small head scratch before he did. “Yeah. Hold on, though. I’ve got something for you.” Megumi said, turning and disappearing down the hallway. Yuuji raised an eyebrow in curiosity, looking down at the dogs as if they’d tell him the answer.
Megumi returned a few moments later, a medium-sized box in his hands. It had a small red bow on the top, made from ribbon.
“Aw, Megumi! Did you buy me a housewarming gift?” Yuuji cooed, accepting the box. “I didn’t get you anything, you should’ve told me!”
Megumi waved him off. “It’s nothing huge. I just saw it and remembered something.”
“Something?” Yuuji asked curiously.
“Just open it.”
“Alright, alright.” Yuuji laughed, setting the box down on the kitchen counter. He pulled off the top carefully, peeking inside.
There were two cups. Yuuji recognized what they were instantly, the familiar dog pattern adorning the clear glass. He set the lid down beside the box, blinking in shock. Then, he looked up at Megumi, a smile slowly growing on his face.
“Megumi, you bought me the dog cups!”
“I did.” He nodded, looking a bit flustered.
Yuuji wrapped his arms around the other tightly, lifting Megumi off the floor and spinning him around.
“Yuuji–!” Megumi’s hands fumbled around before finding purchase on his shoulders. Yuuji just laughed, attacking Megumi’s face with an onslaught of kisses. He only protested half-heartedly, weakly pushing against Yuuji's shoulders. Yuuji thinks he may have even heard a quiet giggle.
Yuuji let Megumi back down to the floor eventually, wanting to give him a proper kiss. He left his hands to linger on Megumi’s waist, leaning in to kiss him sweetly.
“Thank you,” He murmured against his boyfriend's lips. “I love them.”
Megumi smirked.
“Don’t break them this time.”