WHO THE HELL DOESN'T SUFFER FROM FOMO? — CHAPTER #57 — OH, (Y/N)! THE WOMAN THAT YOU ARE!

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Little note:
I literally don't know what got into me😭,
I got inspired at 11am like Shakespeare type of shi🔥🔥💪💪🗣️🗣️🫂🫂
(F/C) = favorite color
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"And that's everything that happened so far," you said, taking a careful sip of your tea. The warm liquid soothed your throat as you reflected on the recent events. "I honestly thought they would agree to come, but they outright refused! Now, I need to figure out how to convince them."

Daki, who was delicately stirring her tea—fresh blood, to be precise—looked up at you with a quizzical expression. "If I remember correctly, they were the ones who wanted to kill us, right?" she asked, her tone laced with curiosity.

Gyutaro, having already drained his cup, slammed it down on the table with a determined look. "Then it's perfectly fine if they don't come! I don't need peasants who might try to murder us the moment we drop our guard! In fact, it's a relief that they're not attending!" he exclaimed, his voice growing louder with each word. "I want more tea, please!"

Tanjiro, ever the peacekeeper, poured more tea (blood) for the upper moon six and tried to reason with them. "I understand your point, but the whole purpose of the party is for everyone to attend. This way, they can see that you two, along with Nezuko, aren't as bad as they think!" He served Gyutaro his drink with a calm demeanor.

Nezuko suddenly made a series of muffled sounds. "Mhmhm... mhmhmh! Mhmh? Mhmhmh," she expressed, her voice soft but insistent.

Daki and Gyutaro, nodding in agreement with her, seemed to understand perfectly. "You're totally right, Nezuko! This is our chance to show everyone that we're the good guys! It would be much better if everyone attended," Daki said, her brow furrowed in concern.

Gyutaro sighed, a hint of resignation in his voice. "You have a point... Still, I can't shake the feeling that something is going to go wrong."

Tanjiro, looking bewildered, turned to them. "Wait a minute... You two can understand Nezuko?" he asked, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise.

Daki and Gyutaro exchanged puzzled glances before responding in unison, "You can't?"

You and Tanjiro shook your heads. "We can't," you both replied. The disbelief in your voices was evident.

The five of you were gathered for a tea party, a few hours after you had received the responses to the invitations you sent out. Seeking some companionship and a break from the stress, you decided to visit Daki and Gyutaro. Tanjiro, always eager to support, tagged along. While you and Tanjiro drank actual tea, Daki and Gyutaro indulged in their preferred beverage—blood.

"Now, I'm not sure how I can convince them to go, though... ugh!" You scratched your head in frustration. "If I tell them I'd kill myself, maybe they'd feel obligated to attend?"

"Let's not go that far," Tanjiro said, placing a reassuring hand on your head and ruffling your hair gently. "Don't worry! I'm sure everything will work out alright."

Daki smiled sweetly at you and playfully booped your nose. "He's right! Who wouldn't want to attend something organized by you?"

Gyutaro nodded, arms crossed in agreement. "And if they don't want to go, then screw them. We don't need losers at the party."

"Exactly! Like they said," Tanjiro chimed in. "You're already doing so much, so don't stress over it."

"Mhm..." you hummed, still not fully convinced but appreciating their efforts to comfort you.

While you were lost in thought, Tanjiro turned to Daki and Gyutaro with a concerned expression. "Is the tea okay? I'm not sure if I made it right..."

Daki took a sip and smiled. "It's just fine. The sugar made it better. I like the sweet flavor."

"Yeah, what she said," Gyutaro added, downing more of his cup. "You're good at making tea."

"Hey, don't drink it so fast!" Daki scolded, frowning at him. "You're not getting any more, okay?"

"Leave me alone! Who are you to boss me around? I want more tea!" Gyutaro shot back, clearly annoyed.

"Tanjiro!" Daki turned to him, her tone firm. "Don't prepare him more tea! He's had enough! His greedy selfish fat ASS shouldn't consume so much!"

"Hey!" Gyutaro protested, glaring at his sister.

"A little more wouldn't hurt, I guess," Tanjiro responded gently, pouring more tea for him. Gyutaro stuck his tongue out at Daki, who growled in annoyance. "What about you, Nezuko? Are you alright?"

"Hmh!" Nezuko nodded. She was the only one not drinking or eating anything, but she didn't feel hungry at all.

"Good then!" Tanjiro chuckled, feeling content. Spending time with Nezuko and, surprisingly, with Daki and Gyutaro had become quite enjoyable. He had realized not long ago that Gyutaro and Daki were not as bad as he initially thought. They were genuinely nice now, as if the battle had never happened, or rather, as if they had truly changed for the better.

This wasn't the first time he had hung out with them. After waking up from his coma, he frequently visited his sister. Since she shared a room with these two, it was inevitable that he would interact with them. They got along quite well! He even tried inviting Inosuke and Zenitsu to join them, but it was futile since they never wanted to.

Tanjiro also noticed that the kakushi no longer guarded their room. During his first visit, two kakushi had been stationed there and were quite hostile. However, Daki's and Gyutaro's reputations had improved significantly. Shinobu had even said it was okay for them to be left alone without any guards. That was a huge step forward—a real sign of trust!

Switching back to the party, seven people had refused to attend. You decided not to bother Haganezuka and Kanamori, understanding they were very busy and Haganezuka was still furious with Tanjiro. You didn't want any conflict that day.

You were unsure about talking to Genya. You two had never interacted before, aside from him seeing you in your new uniform and getting flustered. Maybe it was best to leave him alone this time.

Determined, you decided to focus on convincing Sanemi, Muichiro, Gyomei, and Obanai to attend. You were committed to making it happen, as if your life depended on it!

"Guys! I have to go now! I had a great time!" You hugged each one of them. Tanjiro decided to stay, and you were thrilled that he got along so well with the Shabana siblings. His acceptance gave you hope—that others might be as accepting and caring as Tanjiro, and that everything would go perfectly!

"Come back soon, (Y/N)!" Daki called as you hugged. She gave you a kiss on the cheek. "I love you! And again, thanks for inviting me!"

You turned to hug Gyutaro, but he gently pushed you away and patted your head instead. "See you soon, (Y/N)." You made a mental note of how he used your name. Yay!

"Bye, bye, Nezuko!" you said, hugging her affectionately. Then, you hugged Tanjiro as usual.

"Later, Tanjiro!" you exclaimed happily.

"Later, (Y/N)!" he responded with the same enthusiasm, though his tone was sweeter than yours. He found it a bit odd how Daki had kissed you on the cheek and declared her love but brushed it off, deciding not to mention anything. He didn't know about Daki's confession of her feelings towards you or the fact that you two had kissed. In fact, no one knew about that except the Shabana siblings, Nezuko, Tamayo, and Yushiro—the good demon gang.

After leaving, you took a few minutes to put your demon slayer uniform back on. It had been a while since you'd worn it, and you missed it. The last time was during the Hashira trial, but that was only for a short period.

Now came the problem. How were you going to find these four? Where could they be? You had no idea where to start!

"Dodo, comfort me," you called for your crow, who perched on your head and gave you little pecks. Even though you didn't always see him, he was always nearby or resting on your head like a hat. With Dodo's comforting presence, you set off around the Butterfly Mansion, ready to seek out your targets!

That was until you encountered two not-so-unexpected people.

"Kanao! Aoi! How are you two doing?" you asked the two girls in front of you.

"Hi, (Y/N)," Kanao said with a smile.

"Oh, hey (Y/N)!" Aoi replied, smiling as she placed the boxes she was holding on the floor to talk to you. "I'm fine! We're just moving some stuff to another place. Nothing too extraordinary."

"That sounds boring."

"It is. Still, I never got to thank you for inviting me to the party. Though, I feel like I really don't belong there... Should I really go?"

"YES! PLEASE DON'T CANCEL ME!!" you screamed, panicking at the thought of her not wanting to go. At your reaction, Aoi looked worried, realizing you had misunderstood her.

"It's not that! I mean, I wasn't part of the battle at all, and I'm not even a demon slayer. Is it really okay for me to go?" she asked, tilting her head.

"Of course! I invited you two for a reason! It would make me sad if you didn't go!"

"If you say so, I guess." Aoi still seemed uncertain, but hearing how much you wanted her to go made her happy enough to ignore her doubts. "If I'm honest, I'm really excited. I don't think I've ever been to a party before. Right, Kanao?"

"You're right... I can't help but feel enthusiastic as well," Kanao said, fiddling with her fingers, a small blush visible on her cheeks.

"I'm super glad to hear that. I'm happy that I will be able to spend more time with both of you!" You smiled at them, and they both looked happier after your words.

"If you need any help, don't be afraid to ask me!" Aoi reminded you. "You always have a tendency of doing things on your own."

"U-Um, me too! I can help you too!" Kanao raised her hand shyly but with energy.

"Thanks, I'll keep that in mind! I'm busy right now, but I'll see you both later!" You quickly hugged them before heading off. You couldn't help but feel a bit nostalgic. It reminded you of your first interaction with them. You noticed how they had changed, even if the changes were small.

Aoi wasn't so grumpy all the time and smiled more often now, her demeanor noticeably softer and her expressions warmer. She seemed more relaxed and calm, as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders, allowing her to embrace a more serene and content version of herself.

Kanao, well, she obviously talked and expressed herself more. She showed more genuine emotions and did what she wanted out of her own devotion. You even forgot about the whole coin thing. When was the last time you saw her flipping a coin to decide something?

You could think about that later. Right now, you had to go and find the other Hashira! You didn't even know where to begin! As you walked towards the door leading outside, you suddenly encountered three people—this time, an unexpected surprise.

"Woahh, (Y/N)! Hello! What a nice surprise! Oh my god!" Mitsuri greeted you with her usual smile, though now it seemed ten times brighter than normal.

"MY LOVE! GREETINGS! WHAT A LOVELY ENCOUNTER!" Rengoku laughed loudly, rushing to hug you, only to be stopped by Tomioka.

"Wait a moment, Rengoku," Tomioka said, turning his gaze to you. "Hi, (Y/N)... Are you still wounded?"

"Oh no! I'm at my top already!" You jumped in excitement. "I'm fully recovered!"

"...That's good," he replied with his nonchalant expression. Though you were the only one who could notice this, you sensed he sounded relieved and quite content with your answer. This made your heart skip a beat.

"WOW! SUCH GOOD NEWS! I'M HAPPY TO HEAR THAT!" Rengoku ruffled your head really fast, making your hair a mess.

"Me too! I'm glad you're feeling better. That's the best thing I have heard today!" Mitsuri added. They were all genuinely happy for your recovery.

"Thank you for worrying about me! I really appreciate it!" You bowed quickly and then clasped your hands together. "Also, thank you for agreeing to come to my party! Words can't explain how happy I am that you three are a part of this!"

"Aw, (Y/N)! You don't have to thank me at all," Mitsuri giggled, feeling bashful. "I should be the one thanking you for making me a part of this!"

"NO! I SHOULD BE THE ONE THANKING YOU FOR INVITING ME!" Rengoku suddenly yelled, causing you to almost scream when he kneeled in front of you out of nowhere, gently taking one of your hands. "WHEN I RECEIVED THE INVITATION, I WAS SO HAPPY I THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO EXPLODE! MY GRATITUDE FOR THIS OCCASION IS PHENOMENAL! THANK YOU SO MUCH, MY BEAUTIFUL FLAME!" After his dramatic speech, you awkwardly laughed out of nervousness, his actions making you flustered.

"I want to thank you too," Tomioka simply said. He still wasn't great at conveying his feelings, but he was trying.

"It's really not a big deal," you brushed off, helping Rengoku stand up since you didn't want him to get dirty or anything. "I just wanted an opportunity where all of us could spend time together, you know? A fun time."

"I don't remember the last time we, the Hashira, did something casual... I'm not even sure if there was ever a first time!" Mitsuri said, her eyes drifting into the distance as she struggled to recall any such moments. The only times they had all been together were during their official meetings with the Master and their rigorous training sessions, but nothing beyond that. Tomioka nodded in agreement.

"That's right! That's exactly why I'm so eagerly passionate about this!" You could have sworn you saw stars and flames surrounding Rengoku as he spoke, but it was probably just your eyes playing tricks on you.

You were thrilled to see that everyone shared the same excitement. "Though, I'm still feeling a bit down since Sanemi, Himejima, Muichiro, and Obanai refused to come... I'm trying to track them down to convince them!"

"Huh?" Mitsuri tilted her head in confusion. "Obanai refused? When did that happen?"

"Eh?" You furrowed your brows at her reaction, feeling puzzled. "He didn't?"

"HAHAHA!" Rengoku burst into hearty laughter, clutching his stomach. "You didn't know, my love? I heard that he initially refused, but as soon as Koucho mentioned it was going to be held at Mitsuri's house, he agreed in no time at all! Such an obvious guy! ADORABLE!"

"Oh! He did? I wasn't aware of that..." Mitsuri was taken aback, clearly surprised as it was the first time she had heard this. She had just assumed Obanai had accepted the invitation from the start.

"So he's going?" you asked with genuine delight, and Rengoku nodded enthusiastically. "YAY!! I'M SO HAPPY!"

"IM HAPPY THAT YOU'RE HAPPY! YAY!" Rengoku mimicked your enthusiastic reaction with gusto. "THOUGH I MUST ASK, WHAT SHALL BE THE DRESS CODE FOR THE PARTY?"

"Dress code? Is there a dress code?" Mitsuri inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"Oh no, no! There isn't a formal dress code!" You explained briefly. "It would be best if everyone just arrived in their usual uniform. That way, in case of an emergency, we're all prepared."

"So, nothing fancy then?" Tomioka asked, seeking confirmation, and you nodded in agreement.

"I must ask something before I go!" you said, raising your voice slightly to ensure you had their full attention. "Do you know where I could find the other three? I have no idea where they might be..."

"It's quite simple," Tomioka explained, his voice steady and calm. "I think you can still catch them if you head to the location quickly. All of us Hashira were just finishing up our monthly training session together."

Wow, you thought to yourself, this might be the longest Tomioka has ever spoken to you. His voice was soothing, almost like ASMR. You found yourself enjoying the sound of it.

"HE'S RIGHT!" Rengoku chimed in, his voice booming with enthusiasm as he crossed his arms. "US THREE WERE ON OUR WAY TO KOUCHO'S ESTATE TO TAKE CARE OF SOME SMALL CUTS AND WOUNDS!"

"I'm sure at least Himejima or Sanemi must be there! Maybe you can still catch them!" Mitsuri added with hopeful eyes. You felt a surge of happiness and quickly asked for the location of the place, which was situated somewhere around the mountains. You thanked them profusely.

"Thank you, Mitsuri! I love you! I'll see you tomorrow!!" You wrapped your arms around her in a warm hug.

"Kyaa!! I love you too!!" Mitsuri squealed in delight at your declaration. Her heart raced at your affectionate words. You two would need to meet again to finalize the preparations for the party with Shinobu.

"BYE, KYOJURO!!" You jumped towards Rengoku, and he embraced you tightly, showering you with affection. He didn't miss the chance to place a quick, tender kiss on your cheek. Wow, someone's feeling quite romantic today. You decided to push the thought aside to avoid getting too flustered.

"SEE YOU SOON, (Y/N)!! DID I MENTION HOW MUCH I LOVE IT WHEN YOU CALL ME BY MY FIRST NAME?" Rengoku's voice echoed as you turned to say goodbye to Tomioka. You weren't sure whether to give him a hug or a handshake, but before you could decide, he stepped closer and gently caressed your head.

"Bye, (Y/N)..." he said softly. Since he was only facing you, you were the only one who could see the faint, sweet smile that touched his lips. Oh, the things you'd let this man do to you...

"Bye, Giyuu!" you smiled warmly at him and began running away. "See you later, everyone!!"

"WAIT! (Y/N)!! I FORGOT TO TELL YOU THAT I LOVE YOUUUUUUU!!!!" Rengoku called out, his voice fading as you distanced yourself. "I ADORE YOUUUU!!! I LOVE YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!! CAN YOU HEAR MEEEEEEEE???!!!!"

"(Y/N)!!" Mitsuri joined in with equal fervor. "I LOVE YOU SO MUCH TOO!! MWUA! MWUA!!" She began blowing kisses into the air.

"Both of you, please stop yelling..." Tomioka murmured, feeling overwhelmed by the noise. "It's too much."

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Running towards your destination, you vaguely heard someone yelling "I love you," but you brushed it off as your imagination playing tricks on you. The journey was indeed a bit long, but you managed to arrive within a few minutes. You needed a moment to catch your breath; running such a distance took a toll on you, especially since stamina wasn't exactly your strong suit. As you looked around, you realized the place was a bit barren. It was a training ground for the Hashira situated in the mountains, sparsely populated with trees to facilitate intense training. Nearby, there was a small house, likely for rest and recuperation.

You were caught off guard when you spotted only one figure standing in the distance—Himejima Gyomei. His large frame and the way he was positioned with his hands clasped in prayer sent a shiver down your spine. He was the only Hashira with whom you hadn't had a proper conversation. You had never had the opportunity to interact with him, and now, as you approached, the imposing presence he radiated made you even more nervous. You were almost certain he had already sensed your presence.

Your fingers fumbled anxiously. What should you say? Did he even know who you were? Did he remember your name? This was overwhelming! You took a deep breath and approached him, close enough for him to look down slightly.

"...H-Hi Himejima, um, I'm (L/N) (Y/N)!" you stammered, your cheeks flushing with embarrassment as you struggled to find the right words. You had to tilt your head back to meet his gaze, even though he still seemed to be looking past you. "I'm the one from the trial! You know, uh, the one who brought Upper Moon Six to our side and, um, also the one who defeated Lower Moon Five with a frying pan! H-Haha, er, in case you forgot..." Oh God, what were you even saying?!

"...Hello, (L/N). It's alright. I remember you quite clearly." His deep, gentle voice resonated with a soothing calmness. You were taken aback by his response; his voice was like a comforting balm, almost overwhelming in its warmth. The way he spoke made your heart race. Shit, you were about to cum. A whole waterfall is down there.

"O-Oh! Really? I'm glad you remember!" You said, relieved and a bit flustered. "Thank you so much! I didn't expect this to be so nerve-wracking. I came here to talk to you about something important, if you have the time, of course."

"I do have time for a conversation," he responded in his deep, measured tone. "I find myself completed with my training for today. What is it that you wish to discuss?"

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your nerves before you began. "Well, ever since I arrived at the Demon Slayer Corps, I've met many people whom I've grown very fond of, including all of the Hashiras. We all risk our lives daily and face countless demons. The Upper Moon Six joining us has been a significant boost to our resources, but I understand that not everyone has fully embraced them, as I have. I wanted to organize a party so that everyone could come together, get to know each other better, and build stronger bonds. I know that we're all incredibly busy, and we rarely have time for such gatherings."

Himejima Gyomei stood in silence, listening to you with great attention, his presence both imposing and reassuring.

"I invited you, even though we haven't had many opportunities to talk, because you're someone I genuinely admire. You're a very admirable person, and I appreciate all the efforts you make for Master Ubuyashiki and the Demon Slayer Corps. I understand that we haven't interacted much, but I would be incredibly grateful and honored if you could attend my party. Your presence would mean a lot to me, and it would truly make me happy!"

You poured your heart into your request, feeling a mixture of hope and anxiety. His silence was almost deafening, and you couldn't bear to look up at his face, fearing rejection. Was he contemplating how to refuse? The thought made your heart race with nervousness.

Suddenly, you felt a rough but surprisingly gentle hand rest on your head. Was he... giving you a head pat? You tilted your head slightly, waiting for him to speak.

...

"Namu-Amidabutsu," he intoned softly. The words were familiar, but his tone was soothing, and it made you feel oddly comforted. You blinked a few times, trying to process the gentle gesture.

"(L/N)," he continued, his voice calm and measured. "You mentioned that we haven't had many interactions, perhaps only one or two. While you may not know much about me, I have observed aspects of you that may be unfamiliar to yourself. It is clear that you possess a deep sense of empathy and kindness."

"..." His words took you by surprise, leaving you momentarily speechless. You had never expected such a profound observation from him, and the compliment caught you off guard.

"You possess an incredibly kind heart with nothing but good intentions for everyone around you. Your willingness to sacrifice yourself for the sake of others demonstrates a truly selfless determination." As he spoke, you felt your eyes growing misty, touched by his heartfelt words. "Although our beliefs diverged during your trial, we share the same core sentiment: the protection of those in need and the resolve to defeat Kibutsuji."

"You're right..." you replied, your voice trembling slightly as you tried to hold back your tears.

Gyomei's smile was warm and reassuring, reminiscent of Master Ubuyashiki's gentle demeanor. "You are admirable in ways beyond measure," he said. "It's evident that you have the best intentions for everyone, and I am grateful that we have the chance to interact with someone as precious as yourself. My reasons for declining the invitation were not due to a lack of desire to attend. Rather, I wished for everyone to be able to enjoy your party. As demon slayers, it is our duty to remain vigilant and ensure the safety of others. I believe it is important for one of us to be on guard in case of any unforeseen threats. I would prefer to assume that responsibility so the others can have a worry-free time."

You nodded in understanding, recognizing the gravity of his role and the necessity of having someone on watch. "I see. It's understandable and responsible of you. Even though I'm sad you won't be able to attend, I appreciate your explanation. I'm just relieved to know you don't harbor any ill feelings toward me."

"Hate is indeed a strong word," Gyomei said softly. "How could I harbor such feelings toward someone so kind? I assure you, there is no animosity."

You felt a blush rising to your cheeks, even though he couldn't see it. "Thank you for your kind words. It means a lot to hear that. I'm really happy we had the chance to talk. Maybe another time we can have a more relaxed conversation?"

"That would be pleasant," he responded with a gentle nod. "I look forward to it."

You gave a grateful smile, feeling uplifted despite the circumstances. "Thank you again, Himejima!!"

"Do not worry," Gyomei said with a gentle yet firm tone, "I will also try to persuade those who have not expressed interest in attending. It's important to ensure that everyone has a good time, and don't forget to enjoy yourself as well." He ruffled your hair affectionately before withdrawing his hand.

"Thanks a lot!!" you responded, feeling a surge of warmth from his kindness. "Could we perhaps meet up another time? You know... just you and me. We can do anything you like!!"

"That sounds lovely," Gyomei said with a serene smile. "I look forward to the day when that can happen." His words made you giggle, and you couldn't help but wonder why he wasn't more popular in the fandom.

"Before I go, do you know where Genya might be?" you asked, hoping to make one last attempt to invite him to the party.

"Don't worry," Gyomei assured you. "I will also speak to the Shinazugawas and Tokito. I'll make sure they know about the invitation."

"Great! Thanks so much!" You replied gratefully. "Alright, I hope you have a great day!"

"I wish you well, (L/N). See you soon," Gyomei said as you began to leave. Once you were out of sight, he turned his attention to a specific location, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I'm certain you heard everything, didn't you, Tokito?"

Nearby, Muichiro Tokito emerged from the shadows, a towel draped around his neck. His face was slightly damp from washing it, and his eyes were unfocused as if he was lost in thought. "So you knew I was here...?"

"Of course," Gyomei replied calmly.

Muichiro stepped closer, his demeanor nonchalant. "Well, I don't know what you expect me to say."

"Why don't you want to attend?" Gyomei asked, his voice imbued with a knowing tone. "I'm sure you would have a pleasant time with the others."

"I'm not interested," Muichiro responded with a hint of irritation. "It sounds like a hassle. I'd rather be patrolling."

Gyomei's gaze softened as he continued, "Are you not fond of (L/N)?"

"I..." Muichiro's response faltered as a memory surfaced—one of you and him sitting together, watching the clouds drift by. The recollection was brief but poignant, stirring an emotion he hadn't fully acknowledged. He remained silent, grappling with his own feelings.

...

Finally, he spoke. "I would like to do this again."

"What?" You asked, momentarily caught off guard by his unexpected request.

His gaze met yours with a newfound clarity. "Watch the clouds, I mean... I would like to lay down and watch the clouds again... with you..." He clarified, his voice soft and earnest.

You were taken aback, surprised by his vulnerability and genuine desire to spend more time with you. For a moment, he thought you would tease him or playfully prod at his admission, but as you looked into his eyes, he saw something sincere. "Okay." You replied, a genuine smile spreading across your face. "Let's watch the clouds again someday. I had a great time with you."

...

Muichiro stood in silence for several seconds, the weight of his thoughts apparent on his face. Finally, he spoke, his voice carrying a hint of defensiveness,

"...(L/N)? I don't even know her." With that, he turned on his heel and walked away.

Gyomei watched him go, his expression a mix of understanding and concern. He knew full well that his words were far from the truth. The subtle, almost imperceptible signs of hesitation and the fleeting look of reminiscence in his eyes spoke volumes. He was well aware that Muichiro's feelings were more complex than he let on, and that the young Hashira's reluctance to attend was not as straightforward as it seemed.

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2 days later...

You were brimming with nervous excitement. Finally, after what felt like an eternity of anticipation, THE DAY OF THE PARTY HAD ARRIVED. The preparations had been a whirlwind of activity. Yesterday, you, Shinobu, and Mitsuri had spent the entire day decking out the venue with decorations and ensuring that everything was perfect. It had been a whirlwind of activity, but you were all determined to make the party a memorable one.

Everything was in place, or at least, it was almost there. The final touches were all that remained. Today was divided into two parts. Part one involved you and Shinobu working together to prepare an array of sweets, desserts, and snacks. Part two saw Mitsuri out on the town, gathering all the alcohol and drinks needed for the festivities. Once the food was prepared, the plan was to head over to Mitsuri's house to set up everything.

Currently, you were in the kitchen with Shinobu, both of you donned in aprons. Shinobu's apron was a sweet lilac color that fell gracefully above her knees, adorned with a small butterfly motif on the right side of her chest. Your apron was (F/C), and while it lacked the cutesy flair of Shinobu's, it was functional and perfectly suited for the task at hand.

"Who would have thought that the party would come so soon?" Shinobu remarked, her eyes focused on the bowl she was mixing. The kitchen was filled with the comforting scent of baking, and the two of you were deep in the process of preparing the various recipes, making sure every detail was perfect.

"I know, right? It feels surreal! I'm so nervous I think I might vomit!" You laughed nervously while working on the dough. The anticipation was almost too much to handle.

"Please, dear, if you do, don't let it land on the desserts!" Shinobu chuckled, her laughter light and melodic. You couldn't help but blush at her comment.

"I won't," you pouted, though the embarrassment in your eyes was softened by a gentle smile. "But, honestly, I might sound a bit cringy, but I'm just so happy that almost everyone is attending. I was so worried that no one would want to come."

Shinobu paused for a moment, her eyes meeting yours with a look of genuine warmth. "It's only natural to feel nervous, but I'm sure it will all go splendidly. You've put so much effort into this, and it's bound to be a success. Not to say that also almost everyone has a soft spot for you. I don't see why they wouldn't want to attend."

"Don't exaggerate," you said, not entirely convinced by Shinobu's reassurances. "I'm just so excited to spend time with everyone! I'm sure it'll be a blast and that a lot of things will happen!"

"What kinds of things?" Shinobu asked, her curiosity piqued.

"New friendships and bonds!" You exclaimed, your eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Oh," she murmured, a hint of disappointment in her voice. "I'm sure that will happen. I mean, with alcohol involved, people might step out of their comfort zones."

"Oh right, alcohol," you remembered, suddenly aware of the implications.

"Have you ever drunk before?" Shinobu asked, her tone light and inquisitive.

"Er, not really. I think I have a high tolerance, though," you admitted, feeling a bit self-conscious. Despite being 18, you had never tasted alcohol. It was slightly embarrassing to think about. Would you get drunk easily? Would one drink be enough to send you into a stupor? How would you even know if you were drunk?

"Hmh~ Interesting," Shinobu chuckled, noticing your flushed cheeks.

"I assume you have?" you asked, genuinely intrigued.

"Of course! A lot of times, actually. Some drinks taste really good, while others are just alright," she explained, her hands deftly working with the ingredients. She didn't look up, but you could tell she was quite skilled—baking and cooking seemed like second nature to her. You were good yourself, but her talent was impressive.

"Ohh! That's cool! I hope I like it, or at least don't get drunk too quickly," you awkwardly chuckled, dreading the possibility of embarrassing yourself.

"The goal tonight is to get a little tipsy!" Shinobu laughed. "I can't wait to see Tomioka drunk! That would be hilarious! And what about Shinazugawa? Oh, I'm looking forward to it~!" Her smile took on a mischievous edge, sending a shiver down your spine. She could be quite formidable when she wanted to be.

"I'm sure they'll control themselves..." you said, though part of you was curious about seeing your favorite characters in a less composed state.

"Well, precious (Y/N), it's not every day we get a chance to relax with friends. You never know what might happen," she said, her tone whimsical as she began humming to herself. You couldn't help but laugh a little, catching her attention.

"Hahaha! Gosh, I can't wait!"

Shinobu joined in your laughter, her eyes sparkling with the same excitement. "I can't wait either~!"

——————————————————————————————

A few hours later, you and Shinobu had finally finished preparing the food. All the dishes and desserts were either cooling outside or resting in the oven. You both were exhausted from the long cooking session, considering the amount of food you had to prepare for so many guests. After removing your aprons and hanging them on some chairs near the window, you decided to take a well-deserved break in one of the nearby rooms while waiting for everything to be ready.

"Wahhh! We finished already!!" you exclaimed, flopping onto the bed and stretching your legs in the air with a sense of triumph.

"It was quite a lot of work," Shinobu sighed in relief, her arms feeling numb from all the activity. As you glanced at her, you noticed she was holding something—a dessert! It was a small cake, just the right size for two people.

"A cake?" you asked, tilting your head in curiosity. "When did you even make that?"

"Right when you weren't paying attention!" she replied with a playful smirk. "It's your favorite flavor, too! A (your favorite type of cake)!" She placed the cake on a small table near the bed and then headed back to the kitchen to retrieve a knife, forks, and plates. "Stay here! This is your reward!"

You settled yourself comfortably on the bed, but a pang of guilt struck you for not preparing something for Shinobu in return. "A reward? Shouldn't I have prepared something for you as well?"

"Sharing this cake with you is my reward~" Shinobu winked at you, leaving you alone in the room. You couldn't help but blush deeply at her words, feeling a mix of embarrassment and happiness. As you waited for her to return, you swung your feet in the air, admiring the beautifully decorated cake. It looked absolutely fantastic.

"I'm back~!" Shinobu announced as she re-entered the room, balancing the knife, forks, and plates in her hands. "I hope you didn't feel too lonely."

"Yup! You were gone for a whole minute, and I was already crying in agony," you joked, rolling your eyes with a sweet smile.

"Oh jeez," she gasped theatrically. "I shall never leave you alone again, then." Shinobu cut the cake into two slices, placing them on separate plates before sitting next to you on the bed. "Here you go!"

"Thank you!" you said, accepting the plate with a grateful smile. "Should we taste it at the same time?"

Shinobu replied with enthusiasm. "No problems for me! Eating with someone always makes things better."

You both picked up your forks and prepared to dig in, your excitement palpable. As you took the first bite, the flavors of the cake were even better than you had imagined. It was perfect. You had a small bite at first but after tasting it, your second bite was noticeable bigger. It was really good. You pondered for a moment if you should just eat the entire thing in one sitting. God, where were your manners?

You watched Shinobu with admiration as she ate her slice of cake with such delicate grace. Everything she did seemed so elegant, from the way she held her fork to the way she savored each bite. You found yourself lost in contemplation, mesmerized by her composure.

Shinobu eventually noticed your lingering gaze and tilted her head with a sly smile.

"I don't mind you looking at me, but may I ask why? Do I perhaps have something on my face?" she asked, her tone laced with playful curiosity.

"Oops," you blurted, suddenly aware of how intently you had been staring. "Was I that obvious?"

"No~," she replied with a hint of sarcasm.

"You don't have to be sarcastic," you said, feeling your cheeks warm up. "Sorry, I just got a bit distracted."

"It's alright!" Shinobu said cheerfully. "It's not like I mind being stared at by someone as cute as you."

You nearly broke your fork and choked on your cake. "Gosh, don't say that!" If she kept making comments like that, you were afraid your heart might not handle it.

"Why not?" She flashed a cheeky grin, placing her plate back on the table as she finished her slice. "Oh! Aww, is (Y/N) feeling embarrassed?"

"A little, honestly," you admitted, unable to hide your blush. Shinobu burst into laughter, her melodious giggle filling the room. Her laughter was so enchanting that you found yourself staring at her in awe.

"Who would have thought I'd be here, sharing cake with you..." Shinobu mused, a wistful tone in her voice. "It's been a while since I've had such a peaceful moment. I'm surprised at how much things have changed. I'm really glad I can enjoy these little things now."

"Really?" you asked, genuinely interested. You took a final bite of your slice of cake, savoring the delicious flavor. "You feel like things have changed?"

Shinobu's eyes twinkled with gratitude as she nodded with a gentle smile. "Of course. Ever since I've met you, I've felt less lonely." Her gaze shifted to the side as she continued, her voice tinged with a mix of surprise and vulnerability. "It's strange. We haven't known each other for very long, but it feels like everything has changed for me since meeting you. Sometimes, it seems like you understand me better than I understand myself. It sounds odd, I know, and it should be unsettling to have someone see through me so completely, but with you... it's different. I don't find it unsettling at all."

You were taken aback by her confession. Shocked might be a better word. Her words were so sincere and heartfelt that they made your eyes well up with unshed tears. Was it really true that your presence meant that much to Shinobu?

Noticing your reaction, Shinobu seemed to grow a bit flustered and tried to lighten the mood. "I didn't mean to bring things down. There's no point in dwelling on this. What matters is that I'm grateful to have you with us," she said, pausing for a moment as if to gather her thoughts. "I really am."

...

You turned to serve yourself another slice of cake, using the opportunity to discreetly wipe away the tears that had gathered at the corners of your eyes. You felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and warmth from her words. It was hard to believe that Shinobu, who always seemed so composed and poised, could be so vulnerable and open with you. It made the moment feel incredibly special.

Sensing that her earlier words might have made you uncomfortable, Shinobu quickly tried to shift the mood. "Oops, I didn't mean to make things awkward. Let's just enjoy this moment together, okay?"

She flashed you a reassuring smile and served herself a modest portion of cake. You both fell into a comfortable silence, savoring the cake and the shared experience. The happiness you felt was immense, and you weren't entirely sure if Shinobu realized just how deeply her words had affected you. After a few moments, you both resumed chatting, diving into conversations about various topics—the Hashira, Kanao, Aoi, the Kamaboko Squad, and even some light-hearted, random subjects that seemed to come up naturally.

You found yourself opening up more than usual, sharing your interests and hobbies with Shinobu. It was a rare moment for you, as you typically preferred listening to others rather than talking about yourself. However, today was different. You talked animatedly, sometimes losing track of time and leaving little space for Shinobu to interject. When you finally became aware of how much you were talking, you felt a wave of embarrassment. But Shinobu found it endearing, her amused smile showing how much she enjoyed hearing you speak.

As time passed, you both finished the cake and headed back to the kitchen to retrieve the desserts and food from the oven. After everything was prepared, you tackled the task of cleaning up the dishes and plates.

With the kitchen finally tidied up, the only thing left was to wait for the food to cool a bit more before heading to Mitsuri's house. Returning to the room where you had started, you and Shinobu decided to sit on the floor this time, leaning against the bed as you continued your conversation.

While you spoke, Shinobu rested her elbow on her knee and propped her cheek against her hand, listening intently. The sight of her in such a relaxed and engaged state was endearing. You couldn't help but admire how cute and comfortable she looked.

"So (Y/N)," Shinobu began, her voice light and curious, "have you ever had a crush?"

Your mind raced. A conversation about love, perhaps? You took a deep breath. "Well, yeah, I think I have. Although, they were all one-sided crushes."

Shinobu tilted her head, her expression inquisitive. "Could you elaborate?"

You hesitated, trying to find the right words. How could you explain that your crushes were often on fictional characters, making any real romantic involvement impossible?

"Ehh, they weren't interested in me, and I didn't make the first move, so it never went anywhere serious, you know?" You quickly shifted the focus of the conversation. "What about you?"

Shinobu seemed to ponder your question for a moment before responding. "Hmm, not much, actually."

"Really?" You raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

She nodded. "I haven't had many crushes, but I have been in relationships before." She chuckled softly at your surprised reaction. "I've had relationships, but none were particularly serious. I regret that I mostly pursued them to fill an emotional void I had. I was trying to find something meaningful, to tie myself to someone until I became fond of them, but it never really worked out. My longest relationship lasted about a month, but it was quite difficult."

You listened intently, trying to process her words. "Oh."

Shinobu sighed. "Yes, during that time, I wasn't at my best. I had just lost my sister and tried various things to avoid sinking into sadness."

"Really—"

Shinobu cut you off gently. "I do regret the sexual aspects of those relationships. It wasn't meaningful or intimate in the way I had hoped." She exhaled, her disappointment evident.

"WHAT?" You nearly choked on your own breath, astonished. "Y-Y-You've had sex before...?"

Shinobu's calm demeanor only made your surprise more intense. Of course, she was an adult, and it was entirely possible she had experienced intimacy. But hearing it directly from her was unexpected and left you momentarily speechless.

"Hmh, yeah." Shinobu said, a touch of embarrassment in her voice. "I thought maybe I could develop feelings for Tomioka, but honestly, no. I shudder just thinking about it." She shivered slightly. "I tried dating a few men, but eventually, something clicked—I realized maybe men just weren't for me. After that, I tried dating a few women, and I did find it more enjoyable, but it still didn't bring me happiness because there was no emotional connection."

"...Wow."

"That was years ago, though. I moved past that a long time ago. All of that is in the past!" She chuckled, a bit flustered. "Have you ever been in a relationship?"

"God, no..." You looked down, feeling a bit self-conscious. "It's not that it hasn't crossed my mind, but I've never really decided to pursue it. I think I'd prefer to be with someone I feel close to."

"There's nothing to be ashamed of. That's a good mindset," she said reassuringly, placing a comforting hand on your back. "Let's switch topics. So, you haven't been in a relationship before? You're single?"

"Uhh, yeah? I thought it was pretty obvious. I've been single my whole life."

"Mhm," she hummed thoughtfully. "It's hard to believe that someone like you hasn't been in a relationship before."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you're quite charming," she said, smiling. You thanked her for the compliment. You didn't see yourself as particularly charming, but it seemed that you might be wrong, given the romantic interests you'd attracted (Daki and Rengoku).

"Are you single, Shinobu?" The question might have sounded a bit forward, but given the context, you were genuinely curious. Most of the demon slayer characters' romantic lives weren't detailed, so you were interested to know. If she were in a relationship, it might make you feel a touch of envy.

"Yup!" She replied with a smile. "Serious relationships require a lot of commitment. I didn't realize it before, but I was never truly ready for them. That might be why most of my past relationships were casual or just flings."

You nodded thoughtfully. "It's nice that you realized it before it was too late. So, to confirm, no crushes right now?"

Shinobu contemplated for a moment, adjusting her position to face you directly. She mirrored your posture, making the conversation feel even more intimate. "Well, crush is a bit of an understatement for what I'm feeling right now, but yes, there is someone. Just one person at the moment."

"Ohhhh???" You exclaimed a bit too loudly, immediately slapping your hand over your mouth in surprise. Both of you were taken aback by your own enthusiasm. You had been way too obvious!

"Pff—" Shinobu stifled a laugh, clearly amused by your reaction. "(Y/N), you really do enjoy gossip, don't you?"

You rolled your eyes, trying to regain your composure. "Hear me out. How many people have managed to get you to open up so much about yourself?"

"Good point." She giggled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Then, her lips curled into a playful smile as she lowered her head slightly toward her shoulder. Her tone took on a teasing and slightly seductive quality. "If I didn't know any better, I'd think you might be interested in me."

...

...

...

Hold up.

Interested... Were you interested in Shinobu in a romantic sense?

Mhm....

Maybe?

Demon Slayer features a rich tapestry of characters, each with their own unique charm. You've always had a deep affection for many of them, but it was more of an admiration than anything else. You never envisioned yourself actually dating a fictional character. To you, they were always just characters—crushes from afar, purely fantasy. You had a crush on nearly anything fictional, from characters in books to shows and movies. Your admiration for Shinobu was intense, and you often fangirled over her like any devoted fan would. But this wasn't limited to Shinobu; you felt this way about many characters. The allure was simply because they were fictional, and in your mind, dating them was not a real possibility.

After all, how could you date someone who's not real? The entire world you found yourself in was fiction. You didn't even know what would happen when you reached the end of Demon Slayer's story—or if you could reach that point at all. Was this uncertainty influencing your indecision regarding Daki's and Rengoku's confessions?

Upon arriving in this world, you never imagined having such a profound impact. You were just another fan, among countless others. You didn't see yourself as special or uniquely significant. Was it possible that Rengoku and Daki's feelings were not about you specifically, but rather about any fan who found themselves in this world? If another person had been transmigrated here instead of you, would they have sparked the same affections in them?

Your primary task was to alter the tragic fates of the characters in the story. You didn't have the luxury of indulging in romantic distractions. The stakes were high—one misstep could unravel everything you'd worked so hard to change. The plot had already shifted significantly due to your actions. The ripple effects were immense.

Zenitsu's feelings for Nezuko were different now.

You had saved Ozaki from her grim fate.

Rui's death was at your hands, not Tanjiro's.

Rengoku had survived his battle.

Enmu was aware of your presence, which meant Muzan likely knew about you too—a grave concern.

Tanjiro had become somewhat suspicious of you, even knowing that you were from another world.

Akaza appeared to at least have glimpses of Kozuki and wanted a serious conversation with you.

Daki and Gyutaro were now allies with the Demon Slayer Corps.

Uzui remained active and in good health, having not retired.

Tamayo and Yushiro were also aware of your existence.

You were uncertain about whether the Upper Moon meeting had occurred or not.

And these were just the issues you were aware of...

...

Were you overreacting? Were you perhaps being overly cautious? Should you allow yourself to enjoy this moment, to entertain the idea of a romantic connection, or should you focus solely on your mission? Could you afford to take a step forward in this direction, or would it jeopardize everything you had achieved so far?

Did you really had to be like this? What if you're just being paranoid? Or overthinking too hard?

Should you allow yourself to enjoy this?

...To maybe take a step forward?

"I think I do... Probably?"

Shinobu's eyes widened in surprise as she nearly choked on the air. "Wait—Seriously? Hold up, sweetie. Let's clear this up before I get things all wrong! When you say 'interested,' you're talking about romance, right? Love? Kissing? Hand holding?"

The sheer confusion and disbelief on her face was almost comical. You wished you could capture the moment on camera. "Uh, yeah. I mean that." Your cheeks flushed red. "I'm not entirely sure if it's a 100%, though. I've just never really thought about it before. It's just a possibility..."

You had never really considered the idea with anyone, but perhaps it was time to face your feelings. Whether you liked it or not, this world was now part of your new reality, even if it was temporary.

"So..." Shinobu mused for a moment, her gaze thoughtful. "If I put in the effort to win your heart, would you fall for me?"

"...uhhh, what?"

"Oh, right." She seemed to realize that you might not fully grasp the situation. She shifted forward slightly, pointing at herself with a playful grin. "I've actually been in love with you for a while now. Maybe it started a few weeks after we first met? I can't quite remember."

"I—WHAT?" You choked on your breath, the shock of her revelation hitting you like a tidal wave. "HUH?!"

"Hahaha!" Shinobu burst into a lively, amused laugh.

"Don't laugh! Explain!" Your nerves were on edge, your heart racing with a mix of confusion and anxiety. "Please!?"

She rested her cheek on her hand, her gaze soft and serious. "I'm not sure what you want me to explain, though. I just love you. I'm romantically attracted to you... I've had my eye on you for quite some time."

"...This can't be real." You could hardly process what she was saying. First Rengoku, then Daki, and now Shinobu? What on earth was happening? "Are you lying?"

"I'm genuinely offended by that question. I'm very serious," she replied, her tone firm.

"You're saying you have a crush on me?" You asked, still struggling to understand.

"'Crush' doesn't quite capture it." She corrected you, her eyes locking with yours. "Love is a better word. I've found myself falling for you more deeply as the months have passed."

"...Is this a confession?"

"Yes," she confirmed.

WHATTTTTTTTT????

You touched your face, feeling the heat radiate from it. You were dizzy, overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment. Why were they so straightforward with their feelings? Why were they being so direct? You were only 18, and now you were dealing with your third confession! You were blushing furiously, feeling completely flustered.

"It was almost inevitable," Shinobu continued, her voice tender. "Somehow, you've managed to make me admire you, respect you, and fall in love with you. My feelings for you only grow stronger every day. You're so kind to me... and so special in my life." She chuckled softly. "I love you so much. It scares me because I don't know what to do with these feelings."

"..."

Were you silent, or were you SILENCED?

A whirlwind of thoughts churned in your mind, leaving you utterly speechless. The more you thought about it, the more flustered you became. Why did Shinobu have to articulate her feelings so perfectly? Why did her voice sound so gentle and sweet?

Her laughter was almost intoxicating. Was it always this captivating? Did it always sound so cheerful? Oh god, oh no.

"(Y/N)?" Shinobu asked with a teasing tone. "Why are you making that cute face?"

"I'm flustered, what else?!" You fanned yourself futilely, trying to cool down. "I'm so embarrassed. Did you prepare this or something?"

She hummed, clearly enjoying your reaction. "Nope! It all came straight from the heart!"

"Gahhh!" You sighed, your mind racing. "I'm not sure how to respond... I never really considered getting into a relationship. I'm really sorry. This is overwhelming, and I'm not sure if I can give you a proper answer yet. Again, I apologize."

Shinobu looked at you, her expression a mix of confusion and relief. "So, you're not rejecting me because you don't like me?"

You furrowed your brows, trying to clarify. "Uh, I do like you, but that's not the reason. I just don't feel ready for a commitment right now. There's a lot I need to do before I can even think about starting a relationship."

Shinobu burst out laughing, her hand covering the lower half of her face. When she finally removed her hand and met your gaze, you saw a wave of relief in her eyes. "I see... I might've misunderstood things."

"What do you mean?" you asked, still puzzled.

She paused for a moment, her eyes shifting to the floor. "You see, you're quite popular around here. I was sure that someone must've caught your eye." Her voice grew softer. "And... Well, I don't want to sound possessive or anything, but I've noticed that you've formed close bonds with others besides me. I can tell." She quickly reassured you that she didn't mean it in a negative way.

She was right. You had built close relationships with many people—Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, Nezuko, the butterfly girls, and most of the Hashira. The list seemed endless. It was a stark contrast to your previous life, where you felt more isolated.

"To be honest," Shinobu continued, her voice steady, "I'm not ready for a relationship either. My mental health, to put it simply, is still a work in progress. There are things I need to address to learn how to forgive myself. If I'm not okay, how can I ensure I'd be a good partner? I want to be in a relationship when I'm completely ready and committed."

She looked directly into your eyes, her resolve evident. You couldn't help but admire her strength and honesty. She had a valid point. You felt similarly; while Shinobu was making progress, her inner struggles were still a part of her.

"Oh! Just to clarify," she said, catching your attention again, "I'm not asking you to wait for me or anything like that. I'm not calling dibs or anything. I just wanted to admit my feelings before it's too late. You never know what the future holds..." She smiled at you warmly, then gently took both of your hands, intertwining them with hers. "I'm getting better at expressing my emotions, which is something I thought I'd never improve on. I'm glad I could share this with you. I hope you're not feeling burdened by what I've confessed."

You shook your head, feeling a weight lift off your shoulders. "Not burdened at all! Thank you so much for being honest with me."

"I'm happy to hear that," she said with a genuine smile as she let go of your hands. "So, how do you feel about me?"

"Ummmm," you stammered, the idea of Shinobu as your girlfriend suddenly flashing through your mind. Holding hands, whispering sweet nothings, kissing—

"I have the right to remain silent."

A hint of pink appeared on Shinobu's cheeks as she gazed at you with a loving look. "You're so cute. I can read you so easily. You don't have to say anything."

"Alright, thanks, bro." You were on the verge of a heart attack. "Now please, leave me alone before I die of embarrassment." Where was a mirror when you needed one? You wondered what kind of expression you were making. Since when did Demon Slayer have a romance genre?

"Mhmh~ I wonder what's going on in that pretty head of yours?" Shinobu mused, clearly enjoying your flustered state.

"You're getting really flirty here."

"Do you not like it?"

"...I do."

"I guess I have no choice but to continue," she said with a playful grin.

"..." You turned away, covering your face with your hands.

You were happy to learn that Shinobu had romantic feelings for you (just like Daki and Rengoku did), but did you truly reciprocate those feelings?

"You're spacing out again~!" Shinobu teased, poking your cheek.

"Gah—I do like you, but now I'm more confused than ever. My feelings are all over the place." Choosing between Daki, Rengoku, and Shinobu felt impossible.

She nodded in understanding. "It's alright. Want to try kissing me?"

You began coughing uncontrollably. "K-KISS YOU? I THINK I MISHEARD YOU!"

"You didn't~!" She leaned closer with a mischievous grin. "I'm down if you are."

"Wait, wait, wait, wait! Isn't this a bad idea?!"

"Bad ideas can sometimes be fun ideas!" She laughed, clearly enjoying how flustered you were. "Just to spice things up!"

"...!"

"Just trying to lighten the mood!" She chuckled. "But seriously, this isn't some declaration of us becoming lovers. It can just be a nice memory to look back on! Besides, a kiss from you would be a dream come true for me!" She mumbled something you couldn't quite catch. "It's not like I haven't daydreamed about this moment from time to time."

You nodded slowly, your thoughts racing. "I-I just don't know! I've never kissed—" Your mind flashed back to Daki. "...I haven't kissed much."

"If it doesn't bother you, it doesn't bother me," Shinobu said, her voice softening. "I personally don't think it's a bad idea. If you're nervous, it's okay. I can guide you...? Or am I just being reckless?" She blinked three times, her gaze earnest. "Am I being toxic?"

You couldn't deny it—you wanted to kiss Shinobu. The idea of experiencing intimacy with her, of exploring your feelings in that way, was tempting. Daki had been your first kiss, and though it had been reckless, it was a memorable experience. Despite your uncertainty about many things, one thing was clear:

You'd regret passing up this chance. Koucho Shinobu wanted to kiss you! There was no way you were going to let this opportunity slip by.

...

"I want to kiss you," you finally said, your voice firm.

Shinobu's eyes widened in surprise. You'd never seen her so worried and flustered. "R-Really? Don't feel pressured just because I'm super eager to kiss you! Y-You can take your time if you want! I can wait forever—I'm really good at waiting—"

"Shinobu," you interrupted with a soft giggle. "It's fine. I do want to."

Her worried expression melted into relief. She adjusted her position, shifting in front of you and slowly inching closer. Without warning, she sat on your lap, her hands gently cradling your face. She leaned in, closing the distance between your lips.

"(Y/N)," she murmured tenderly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Stop me whenever you want, okay? The last thing I want is for you to be uncomfortable."

You stayed silent, your breath catching in your throat as you looked into her eyes. Seeing Shinobu top over you, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper, left you speechless. All you could manage was a nod.

She began with a gentle kiss on your forehead, lingering for a moment as if savoring the touch. The softness of her lips made your fingers curl against the wooden floor, and your heart raced with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Next, she kissed your nose—a light peck that tickled slightly. Then she moved to your lips. It started as a soft, tentative touch, but soon her lips pressed more firmly against yours. You could taste the sweetness from the cake you had earlier. Despite your nerves, you leaned in to deepen the kiss, feeling her smile against your lips and the soft rush of her breath.

Shit. God. This wasn't your first kiss, but it was the first time you felt such intense passion. Unsure of where to place your hands, you instinctively grasped her arms, then let them slide around her waist. The warmth of the moment enveloped you as you focused on making her feel as good as she was making you feel. Your hands moved to her waist, pulling her closer. As you did, her lips parted slightly, allowing you to slip your tongue inside.

"Mh..." That earned a muffled gasp from Shinobu.

Eventually, both of you had to pull away to catch your breath. You were embarrassed by how flushed your face felt, but you were taken aback by how red Shinobu's cheeks were.

"Hah..." Shinobu covered her lips with the back of her delicate hand, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. She looked so bashful and endearing that you felt an overwhelming urge to cherish her. "I... I was trying to take control, but maybe I was too ambitious..."

She gracefully slid off your lap and sank to the floor, hiding her face with her arms. "...I thought my legs were going to give out when your tongue... ahh..." She buried her entire face in her arms, her voice muffled. "I'm not normally this timid... you're something else, you know that? Aw, this is so embarrassing... I'm usually the one teasing others."

Despite her embarrassment, a radiant smile never left her lips. If you weren't mistaken, this was the happiest you had ever seen her. She continued to whine softly as she rose and buried her face in your shoulder, which tickled you. You gently patted her head. "It's okay! I enjoyed it!"

She looked up at you with wide, hopeful eyes. "...really?"

"Yup."

"Hmhhh, was I better than your first kiss?" Her eyes sparkled with anticipation.

"No comments." You weren't about to compare your first kiss with Daki to your second kiss with Shinobu. Both had their own special qualities.

She laughed at your response, her mood visibly lifting. "I'm just kidding... I just want to say I'm glad there's a chance that we can be together." She stood up and took your hand, you clasped it warmly. With sincere eyes, she whispered, "because you're someone I don't see myself letting go."

...

You wanted to answer her, to express everything that was swirling in your mind. But just as you were about to speak, a sudden, intense sensation overwhelmed you.

...Fire?

Yes. You felt an unusual, searing heat spreading in your mouth, growing hotter by the second. Your eyes began to water, and you clutched at your neck, trying to make sense of the burning sensation.

"Wh—(Y/N)? Are you okay? What's wrong?" Shinobu's voice was filled with concern as she noticed your distress.

It felt like your mouth and throat were on fire. The heat was unbearable, almost like a fiery inferno consuming you from within. Struggling to speak, you managed to croak out, "W...Water! Bring m-me water!"

Without hesitation, Shinobu dashed to get a glass of water, returning with it in record time. You drank greedily, the cool liquid offering a much-needed relief. After several minutes of drinking, the burning subsided, and your mouth and throat finally felt normal again. "Bawwww!!" You panted, sticking your tongue out in relief. "Shinobu! Did you perhaps eat something spicy or something? My mouth was burning!"

"Spicy?" Shinobu looked puzzled. "Not at all! I even ate the cake I baked for the two of us."

"...That's weird." You replied, your voice still hoarse. You coughed again and took another sip of water.

"Mhmm, why would your mouth suddenly start feeling like that?" Shinobu tilted her head, her brows furrowed in confusion. "I've never heard of that happening before."

"If you don't know, how could I?" You said with a whiny tone, still feeling a bit shaken. The earlier sensation had been genuinely frightening.

"Well, we can check that later, but right now, we need to head to Mitsuri's house before it's too late." Shinobu's practical suggestion reminded you of the time. You were feeling better, so you agreed it was best to focus on getting ready for the party.

You both quickly prepared to head out, with just two hours remaining before the party.

———————————————————————————————

Hellouuuuuu!!!! I had so much fun writing this chapter, I think it's noticeable. I love Shinobu.

Also, remember this?

Yupp! Shinobu was the one who was bound to happen sooner or later! There's one kiss remaining!

Shout out to them for being the only one who guessed it right. LMAO. Though, I must say, nobody guessed the one who will give the unexpected kiss yet.

That being said, I'm more excited for the next two chapters!!!! I can't wait!! I'm sure you guys are going to enjoy them so much! Yiipee!!

Xoxo, azamishomie.